Third Quarter Performance

• Net Profit after Tax of $194.9m was 255% greater than the prior year comparable quarter.
• Earnings per share of $0.28 cents reflected an increase of 250% compared to the corresponding quarter in 2023.
• The Return on Equity was 7.1% as against 2.3% in 2023 representing an improvement of 208.7%.

Income
Total Income for the JSEG of $746.4m, represents a $232m (45.1%) increase over the corresponding quarter of 2023. The increase in Income is attributed to Cess which increased by $138.6m (249.7%) when compared to prior year. Fee Income and eCampus increased over prior year by $94.7m (22%) and $3.4m (51.5%) respectively.

Expenses
Total Expenses of $495.9m increased by $76m (18.1%) when compared to the corresponding quarter in 2023. The main expenditure contributing to the increase are as follows:
• Staff Cost was above 2023 comparatives by $14.6m (7.2%). This was due to an 8% cost of living increase and new staff hires to facilitate anticipated growth and enhanced customer service delivery.
• Advertising and Promotion was above 2023 comparatives by $8.3m (50.3%). This is mainly due to additional activities aimed at stimulating growth within the markets.
• Net impairment loss on financial asset was above prior year by $10.7m (110.4%) due to the requirements of the expected credit loss model.

Net Profit
Net Profit after Tax of $194.9m represents an increase of $140m (255%) when compared to the profit of $54.9m for the corresponding period in 2023.

Financial Position
Total JSEG Assets as at September 30, 2024, of $3,365.3m, reflects an increase of $411.8m (13.9%), when compared to holdings as at September 30, 2023, due primarily to increase in Trade and Other Receivables and Government Securities Purchased Under Resale Agreement.

Total Equity of $2,739.8m as at September 30, 2024, reflects an increase of $331.3m (13.8%) and $120.8m (4.6%) over the comparable positions at the end of September 30, 2023, and December 31, 2023, respectively.

Revenue Reserves reflect an increase of $125.3m (7.4%) over the position as at December 31,2023, which is net of $239.1m paid to shareholders as dividend and the nine months’ profit.

Market Developments & Outlook
The Third Quarter performance has been particularly good. We anticipate that as interest rates trend down and other market turbulences subside, investors and companies will be more active in the market, which will result in improved performance. We have made significant stride in our diversification strategies, and this has and will continue to support us as we cope with geo-political unrest and other uncertainties in the economy that have impacted the market.

The JSEG will continue our effort at ensuring that our governance framework is strong and our risk mitigating measures which assists in driving sustainability are robust. We remain resolute in our commitment to maximize shareholders’ wealth, through the improvement in income and the management of our expenditure while providing strong support to stakeholders and the country at large.

Marlene J Street Forrest Managing Director Jamaica Stock Exchange Group
For More Information CLICK HERE

Net profit after tax (“NPAT”) for Q4 FY24 increased by 200% to $999 million, bringing NPAT for FY 2024 to $3.9 billion, 14% ahead of 2023. The improvements achieved in Q4 FY24 reflected the effects of management’s strategy to influence improvements in operating revenue through a focus on active balance sheet management, revenue diversification and expense management, in particular the management of funding costs.

Revenue growth in Q4 FY24 was both robust and well-distributed, led by an exceptional performance in our Treasury, Trading and Brokerage business line, which accounted for 56% of total revenue. This improvement was supported by the continuation of the uptrend in net interest income which rose 3% to $164 million relative to the comparable quarter in financial year 2023.

Directionally, this performance aligned with expectations, buttressed by a pivotal shift in the monetary policy stance of the Bank of Jamaica and the US Federal Reserve, both of which reduced their benchmark policy rates by 25 and 50 basis points respectively, during the fourth quarter. While an additional 25 basis point cut was announced at the end of September, to come into effect at the beginning of October, the BOJ had communicated a shift in its policy posture during Q3 FY24, to which the market began to react via the downward repricing of liabilities, by extension, benefitting our Net interest income. The balance of risks points towards continued improvement in our net interest income as our interest-bearing liabilities reprice with a more frequent cadence.

The macroeconomic landscape has also evolved favourably. Domestic inflation has moderated, now averaging within the BoJ’s target range for the last 6 months, and a similar moderation has taken hold in the U.S.A., even as the Federal Reserve continues to signal a cautious, data-driven approach to future rate cuts. While these developments suggest a more stable financial environment prospectively, potential global risks remain. Slowing growth in key global markets, coupled with geopolitical uncertainties and the impending change in administration following the recent election in the US could introduce volatility; however, Barita’s diversified revenue streams and resilient business model position us well to navigate these headwinds.

Operating Performance
Barita generated net operating revenues of $10.0 billion for FY24, representing an increase of 10% or $901 million relative to FY23. The increase was broadly distributed across our various business lines, with income from the treasury, trading and brokerage and investment banking business lines being the largest contributor.

Net profit was $3.9 billion for FY24, rising 14% relative to FY23. The resulting earnings per share (“EPS”) was $3.24, up 14%.

Quarterly Performance
For the quarter ended September 30, 2024, Barita registered revenue of $3.0 billion, $1.2 billion or 72% higher than Q4 FY23, driven by a material uplift in the Treasury, Trading and Brokerage business line during the quarter. In the quarter, Barita produced NPAT of $999 million, $667 million (200%) higher than the prior year. This resulted from the aforementioned higher operating revenue, partially offset by a 26% or $346 million increase in operating expenses. Profit before taxation amounted to $1.3 billion, which was an improvement of $888 million or 207% relative to the prior year.

Shareholders’ equity closed the period at $35.5 billion, an increase of $71 million, marginally higher than the $35.4 billion outturn at the end of FY23. This was driven by an improvement of $734 million in the fair value reserve, offsetting the decline in retained earnings due to dividends declared and paid during the year. Our capital levels remain resilient, with capital adequacy of 25.45% compared to the FSC’s early warning level of 14%.

Investment Strategy & Capital Management: Our Outlook
The outlook for monetary policy continues to evolve over the course of the fourth quarter of FY24, transitioning from the tightening cycle that has dominated the past two years. Both the Bank of Jamaica (BoJ) and the Federal Reserve, along with other major Central Banks, have reduced their policy rates amidst a sustained moderation in inflation. This shift is expected to lay the groundwork for a more favourable investment environment in the coming quarters.

In the United States, recent economic indicators suggest that the cooling effect of tight monetary conditions has begun to take hold. Core PCE inflation has moderated to 2.7% from a pandemic peak of 5.7% in February 2022. Unemployment remained low at 4.1% in September but has attracted more focus from policymakers at the Federal Reserve given the upward trend since the beginning of 2024. The U.S. economy delivered solid GDP growth of 3.0% in the second quarter of 2024, exceeding expectations, but leading indicators continue to suggest potential weakness ahead. Against this backdrop, the Fed opted for a 50-basis point rate cut in September 2024, bringing the federal funds target range to 4.75%-5.00%. Markets have since priced in the expectation of further rate cuts as inflation trends towards the Fed’s 2% target.

Locally, Jamaica has seen similar progress. Annual headline inflation in Jamaica stood at 5.7% as of September 2024, back within the BoJ’s target range following the uptick in August to 6.5% due to the impact of Hurricane Beryl. Moreover, the BoJ’s recent cumulative reduction of its policy rate by 50 basis points to 6.50% during the quarter, reflects growing confidence that average inflation will remain within the target range in the near term, supported by stable domestic demand, a relatively stable exchange rate, and the continued moderation of global commodity prices. Jamaica’s economy remains resilient, albeit with moderating growth in key goods-producing and service sectors.

Looking ahead, we anticipate a further shift toward more expansionary monetary conditions, both locally and globally, which will likely enhance our ability to optimize our balance sheet and improve the net interest margin. As funding costs stabilize and earning assets continue to reprice upward, we expect to see a positive impact on our financial performance. Additionally, more favourable market conditions should provide increased opportunities for trading gains, and we foresee a gradual acceleration in deal-making activity, further boosting revenue growth.

However, we remain cognizant of the risks that persist in the global macroeconomic environment. Slowing growth in key global markets, coupled with geopolitical uncertainties and the impending election in the world’s largest economy, may introduce volatility that could impact our investment activities. Despite these headwinds, we continue to prioritize the diversification of our revenue streams, particularly through our alternative investment platform, which includes our real estate ventures that are poised to deliver significant returns in the medium to long term.

In this context, prudent capital management remains central to our strategy. We will continue to ensure strict compliance with regulatory requirements while maintaining the flexibility to capitalize on emerging opportunities. Through these efforts, we are confident in our ability to navigate the evolving economic landscape and deliver sustained value to our shareholders.

Mark Myers, Chairman Barita Investments Limited (“Barita” or “the Group”)

For More Information CLICK HERE

This quarter, Visual Vibe’s strong performance has been instrumental, reinforcing its pivotal role within Kintyre Holdings’ portfolio. Additionally, we are now unlocking value from our strategic investments in key properties, which are contributing positively to our income and strengthening our position as a dynamic investment holding company committed to delivering sustained value to our shareholders.

Change of Name & Purpose of the Business
At our Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in October 2024, the company officially rebranded from iCreate Limited to Kintyre Holdings (JA) Limited. This name change reflects our shift in purpose to an investment holding company, better aligning with our broader business strategy.

We are transitioning from a digital and creative training company to a diversified investment holding company.

This rebranding reflects our expanded focus across various sectors and strategic ventures, marking a significant shift in our corporate trajectory. Additionally, our purpose has been updated to reflect this new direction, positioning Kintyre Holdings as an investment holding company designed to foster sustainable growth across industries.

Financial Overview
Kintyre Holdings achieved strong growth in Q3 2024, driven by strategic investments and Visual Vibe’s expanding success in addition to gains from our investment assets.

Operational efficiency has improved, contributing to robust financial performance.

The Group is positioned for steady growth and profitability. Quarterly revenue reached $56.6 million, a 59.3% increase over Q3 2023, with year-to-date revenue at $128.4 million, up 57.5% year-over-year.

• REVENUE: Q3 2024 revenue reached JMD 55.1 million, up 59.3% from Q3 2023. Year-to-date revenue stands at JMD 123.4 million, showing a 57.5% increase over the same period in 2023, driven by strong performance in digital advertising.

• OPERATING PROFIT: Q3 2024 operating profit rose by 718.9%, from a loss of JMD 4.2M to a profit of JMD 26.2M. Year-to-date improved by 126.3%, from a
loss of JMD 126.4M to a profit of J$33.3M, driven by operational improvements and non-occurrence of one-off acquisition costs in 2023.

• Visual Vibe Operating Profit YTD 2024 vs YTD 2023: Year to date, Visual Vibe has posted a 46.8% increase in Operating Profits, bolstered by expanding its
network and introducing new advertising products like the backpack billboards and indoor digital screens.

• NET PROFIT: The Net profit for the parent company (Kintyre Holdings) Q3 2024 was JMD 21.4 million, an improvement from the loss of JMD 13.9 million recorded in Q3 2023.

• Year-to-date Net Profit stands at JMD 20.4 million, representing a significant improvement from the net loss of JMD 150.1 million in 2023. The positive shift in
net profit is attributed to the increased revenue from the DOOH advertising segment, greater control over operating expenses. YTD 2023 also had one-off acquisition related costs that weighed heavily on Net Profits.

• BALANCE SHEET: Total assets stood at JMD 564.7 million, down 19% year-over year, due to a reduction in goodwill and investments in assets. Total liabilities decreased by 40% to JMD 225.6 million, strengthening the company’s financial position.

Strategic Partnerships & New Business Initiatives
• New strategic partnerships for indoor advertising have been secured across the island, positioning Visual Vibe as a major player in the digital out-of-home advertising space.

• In addition, Kintyre Holdings has successfully partnered with SportsMax as their official out-of-home advertising partner for the 2024 Olympics. We showcased live streams of key races on our Hope Road, Spanish Town, and North Parade screens, reaching a wide audience and positioning our brand prominently during this high-profile event.
Physical and Technology Upgrades

• Visual Vibe upgraded its Manor Park screen to the latest technology, enhancing content quality and engagement.

• Yello Partnership: iCreate partnered with Yello to support SMEs by developing an affordable option for outdoor advertising, making high impact marketing accessible to smaller businesses across the region.

Impact of Hurricane Beryl
• Hurricane Beryl caused electrical outages and screen damage in remote areas, but we collaborated with JPS to use our screens for critical updates on rehabilitation efforts. This partnership minimized the storm’s impact and highlighted Visual Vibe’s role in community support during crises.

OUTLOOK
As we approach Q4 2024, Kintyre Holdings is focused on maintaining the growth momentum achieved in Q3. We are expanding our offerings, particularly through iCreate Institute’s new educational products, which will enhance our training services in the growing digital economy.

This expansion aligns with the increasing demand for innovative and agile upskilling
solutions.

Looking ahead, Kintyre Holdings is committed to operational efficiency, optimizing our assets, and driving cost-effective growth. We will continue to focus on executing our long-term strategy, ensuring profitability, and exploring new opportunities in key sectors to further strengthen our market position.

2024
Sustained Revenue Growth and Profitability:
• Target a 20% revenue increase in the second half of 2024 through expanded digital advertising and increased enrollments at iCreate Institute.
• Reach a net profit margin of 20% by optimizing operations and focusing on high margin business lines.

Expansion of Digital Advertising Network:
• Add 10 new indoor locations to our Digital Out-Of-Home (DOOH) network, leveraging partnerships that have been secured

Digital Transformation of iCreate Institute:
• Launch new courses and upgrade the learning management system to boost enrollment and enhance the student experience.

Strengthening Customer and Partner Relationships:
• Deepen existing partnerships, secure three new strategic partnerships, and achieve a 90% customer satisfaction rate by year-end.

Operational Efficiency and Cost Management:
• Reduce administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue from 60% to 50% by streamlining processes and adopting new technologies.

Corporate Social Responsibility and Community Engagement:
• Focus on creative talent development, digital literacy, sustainable business practices and promoting charitable causes.

Risk Management and Strategic Flexibility:
• Continue monitoring market trends, adjusting strategies as needed, and maintaining robust risk management to ensure stability and growth.

Tyrone Wilson Executive Chairman Kintyre Holdings (JA) Limited

For More Information CLICK HERE

Edward Alexander Executive Chairman of tTech Limited announced that Simply Secure Limited increased its shareholding in tTech to 69.1%, representing 73,229,223 shares. The increased shareholding includes the purchase of 20,719,366 shares from Norman Chen and G. Christopher Reckord. The acquiring entity, Simply Secure Limited, is owned by Kevin Gordon and Rob Mayo-Smith. Messrs. Gordon and Mayo-Smith are also the owners of Simply Secure LLC, a Managed Security Services Provider based in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

The increased shareholding puts Simply Secure Limited over the 50% ownership threshold of the issued and outstanding ordinary shares of the company, requiring Simply Secure to extend an offer to all remaining tTech shareholders to purchase their shares subject to approval from the regulators. The tTech board will also provide an opinion on their view of the fairness of the offer price.

Norman Chen,

G. Christopher Reckord.

Following the sale of their shares, Messrs. Chen and Reckord will be resigning as Directors of tTech.

Chairman of the tTech Board, Edward Alexander, stated, “I would like to thank Norman and Chris for their service to tTech. Their contribution as executives and directors has enabled much of the success that tTech has enjoyed to date. We now look forward to the continued growth that is expected through the increased ownership in the company by Simply Secure.”

Income
LASCO Financial Services Limited (LFSL) is reporting consolidated income of $1.083 Billion for the first six months of the 2024-2025 Financial year. This represents a 6.0 % decrease or $67.4 million less income, when compared with the corresponding 2023-2024 period.

Expenses
Consolidated expenses for the quarter totaled $1.003 Billion, a reduction of 1% or $7.8 million.

Operating Profit for the period is $79.5 million, $59.5M less than previous comparative period.
Administrative expenses declined by $30.1 million, a result of the ongoing efforts to control expenses, whereas Selling and Promotions increased by $22.0 million reflecting increased marketing support to launch our MoneyGram Direct to Card service.

Half year Profit after Tax for the period is $9.2 million, a significant fall off from the comparative 2023- 2024 period, which was $56.0 million.

Three Months Results
During our second quarter, LFSL faced several headwinds. Firstly, in July, there was business disruption due to Hurricane Beryl which impacted our ability to provide service to our customers and also impacting our customers’ ability to access our service, particularly in the South Coast of the country. We are however grateful for the committed agents who were able to do limited business under very difficult circumstances to open to the public. Just as we were recovering from the impact of the hurricane, we were further impacted by the events which led to MoneyGram International proactively taking their systems offline to contain and remediate unauthorized activity. There was a full shutdown of transactions for 5 days which significantly impacted our earnings from Remittance, Cambio and Card services. Since the restoration of services, transactions have progressively improved but not normalized.

The revenue for the Quarter is $546.2 million and a loss of $8.6 million compared with $575.9 million and $37.2 million for revenues and profit respectively for the comparative period.

Management continuously assesses its opportunities for growth and cost savings and within the second quarter we closed an underperforming branch to reduce operational costs and we are directing our focus on our new service which will result in improved margins and will be beneficial to our bottom line.

Jacinth A. Hall-Tracey Managing Director LASCO Financial Services Limited (LFSL)

For More Information CLICK HERE