The shareholders were briefed that for the year 2019, the Bank recorded a solid growth in terms of both balance sheet size and income. Despite a generally difficult year for the economy, the bank's net mark-up / interest income closed 18.5 percent higher YoY at Rs 71.9 billion (2018: Rs 60.7 billion). The bank also earned non-mark-up / interest earning of Rs 36.2 billion.

Accordingly, total income of the Bank closed at Rs 108.1 billion i.e. 11.5 percent higher than Rs 96.9 billion of 2018. In 2019, total expenses for the year amounted to Rs 65.7 billion against Rs 55.7 billion for the year 2018. This amount however included a total of Rs 7.3 billion of provision related to extraordinary HR related costs.

Reflecting the general trend of deterioration in asset quality observed across the industry in 2019, NBP also experienced an11.5 percent increase in non-performing loans. While provision charge amounted to Rs 14.3 billion, profit before tax closed at Rs. 28.0 billion, being 5.7 percent lower YoY. The bank has consequently focused on strengthening its balance sheet through this provisioning and through building contingency buffers for a total of Rs 21.6 billion. Due to retrospective applicability of super tax in 2019, the bank's tax burden amounted to Rs 12.2 billion, resulting in PAT of Rs 15.8 billion.

During 2019, total assets of the bank increased by 11.6 percent to Rs 3,124.4 billion, from Rs 2,798.6 billion a year before. Gross advances increased by 8.7 percent to Rs 1,151.3 billion, investment (at cost) closed 12.1 percent up at Rs 1,417.6 billion, and deposits grew by 9.3 percent to Rs 2,198.0 billion.

The Bank is facing contingencies related to pension benefits of its retired employees, and has filed a review petition where a final decision is still awaited. The financial impact of the subject case has not been included in the instant financial statements as the Bank looks forward to a favourable outcome of the case.

The CEO apprised the share holders that the bank is constantly monitoring the situation regarding the swift spread of the COVID-19. Amid the pandemic, the bank is taking all necessary steps to ensure the well being of its employees and customers and at the same time prevent any potential business impact to the economy.

The shareholders unanimously approved the Annual Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2019 along with all other items on the Agenda of the meeting.-PR

Copyright Business Recorder, 2020