Hardman & Co analyst interview | Banks

Q&A on Arbuthnot Banking Group (ARBB) | 2023 results, strategic choices paying dividends

Arbuthnot Banking Group (LON:ARBB) is the topic of conversation when Hardman & Co analyst Mark Thomas joins DirectorsTalk Interviews.

Mark discusses his recent research note highlighting Arbuthnot’s successful financial year, noting a significant increase in pre-tax profit, operating income and net assets, alongside improvements in earnings per share and dividends. Mark explains how Arbuthnot has strategically positioned itself to thrive in a rising rate environment by adjusting the duration of its securities and increasing fixed-rate SME finance, preparing it for potential rate declines. He touches on the progress made in Arbuthnot's SME financing franchises, with notable profit increases and loan book growth.

Despite a challenging macroeconomic landscape, the bank’s cautious approach has ensured sustained high credit quality with minimal impairments. The discussion also addresses concerns about net interest margins and inflationary pressures on costs, with an emphasis on the conservative management of the bank’s lending practices to mitigate credit risks.

Arbuthnot Banking Group is a holding company for Arbuthnot Latham & Co.; it offers carefully crafted expert private and commercial banking services alongside wealth planning advice from Chartered Wealth Planners and discretionary investment management.

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