Kotak reported consolidated F1Q10 earnings of Rs2.6bn, up 72% YoY and 22% QoQ.
Growth during the quarter was driven by a rebound in capital market-related businesses. PBT for these businesses increased 93% YoY and 206% QoQ.
Credit issues continued with gross NPL levels rising – up 100 bps during the quarter to 3.4%. Most of the increase was concentrated in the small value personal loan segment.
Banking business trends remained muted with NII progression still weak and the bank choosing to re-focus the loan book toward lower yielding corporate loans. Tier I increased to 18.3% from 16% in the previous quarter.
Kotak management has been proactive in managing asset quality through moderation in growth and has a strong balance sheet with high Tier 1. Also, market-related businesses should continue contributing to earnings as capital market activity picks up further.
FY10 EPS is expected to be Rs 28.