Karnataka Bank reports record net profit of ₹400.33 crore for Q1 FY25

Karnataka Bank Limited has announced a record-breaking net profit of ₹400.33 crore for the first quarter of FY25, marking a significant increase from ₹370.70 crore reported in the same period last year. This 7.99% year-on-year growth underscores the bank’s strong financial performance and operational efficiency.

Exceptional Financial Performance

For the quarter ending June 30, 2024, Karnataka Bank achieved its highest business turnover to date, reaching ₹1,75,619 crore. This represents a remarkable 17.10% increase from ₹1,49,971 crore reported in Q1 FY24. The bank’s aggregate deposits also saw a substantial rise, standing at ₹1,00,164 crore, up from ₹86,960 crore in the previous year, reflecting a growth rate of 15.18%. Gross advances surged to ₹75,455 crore, compared to ₹63,012 crore, marking an impressive 19.75% increase.

The bank’s operating profit for the quarter was ₹558.59 crore, and its net interest income was ₹903.36 crore. These figures highlight Karnataka Bank’s robust financial health and effective management of its resources.

Improving Asset Quality

Karnataka Bank’s book quality showed steady improvement, with gross non-performing assets (NPAs) declining to 3.54% at the end of Q1 FY25, down from 3.68% in Q1 FY24. However, net NPAs (NNPAs) increased slightly to 1.66% from 1.43% in the previous year. Despite this, the bank’s capital adequacy ratio improved to 17.64%, up from 17.00% at the end of Q1 FY24, reflecting a solid capital position and regulatory compliance.

Strategic Advancements and Future Outlook

Shri Srikrishnan H, Managing Director & CEO of Karnataka Bank, highlighted the bank’s achievements, noting the significant milestones reached in business turnover, aggregate deposits, and gross advances. He attributed this success to ongoing digital and technological advancements, brand repositioning, and centralisation of operations. Shri Srikrishnan emphasized the bank’s commitment to enhancing its digital platforms, introducing new products, and strengthening its team to drive future success.

Shri Sekhar Rao, Executive Director of Karnataka Bank, praised the bank’s financial performance amidst market volatility. He pointed out that the bank’s strategic focus on digital transformation, customer service, and new product launches is beginning to bear fruit. He affirmed the bank’s dedication to robust risk management and regulatory compliance while aiming to further revitalise the brand and enhance its digital presence throughout the year.

Our take

Karnataka Bank’s impressive results are a testament to its strategic vision and effective execution. The bank’s ability to achieve significant growth in business turnover and deposits, while maintaining a strong capital adequacy ratio, positions it well for continued success. The improvement in asset quality and the bank’s forward-looking strategies reflect its resilience and adaptability in a dynamic financial landscape.