By Chong Pooi Koon
The largest lender in the country based on market value, and among the most profitable in the region, believes it can maintain its strong earnings momentum and last year's record profit.
"We expect 2009 to be extremely challenging. However, the past few years of building size and market share coupled with the strengthened asset quality will keep us resilient in the face of challenges," co-chairman Tan Sri Thong Yaw Hong told the 3,600 share-holders who attended an annual general meeting in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.
Public Bank's net profit increased 22 per cent to a record RM2.58 billion last year as it earned more from loans and other non-interest income.
"Shareholders can expect the liberal dividend payout to continue in future, barring unforeseen circumstances," chairman Tan Sri Dr Teh Hong Piow promised.
Still, the prospect of a deeper recession worldwide and a worsening domestic economy could make it more challenging to meet its target of 15 per cent loan growth this year, chief operating officer Leong Kwok Nyem told reporters later.
The latest 50 basis points cut in the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) will trim two to three basis points off its net interest margin, but is not expected to have a significant impact on its profits, Leong added.
Public Bank's core net interest margin, or the difference between what it earned on loans and paid for funds, stands at 2.4 per cent currently.
Leong said that the lower Statutory Reserve Requirement, or zero-interest deposit placed with Bank Negara Malaysia, helps to offset the impact of margin squeeze.
Falling deposit rates also helps, while its large portfolio of car loans - which locks in fixed rates for years - gives the lender an edge.
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