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JMMB Group Profits Up 83%, Hitting Over J$7B

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JMMB Group reported J$7.1 billion in net profit, for the financial year ending March 31, 2020, which reflects an 83% uptick in the regional financial entity’s profit, when compared to the prior year. Additionally, the Group posted net operating revenue of J$21.6 billion, which is an increase of 19%, year-over-year; as a result of growth in core business operations and organic growth in its portfolio.

In commenting on the company’s solid track record, JMMB Group CEO, Keith Duncan, outlined that as the company operates in unprecedented times, JMMB Group will continue to seek to leverage opportunities to provide shareholder value and offer clients financial solutions suited to their needs. “The JMMB Group performance in the last financial year is in line with our target growth over this strategic period, and reflects our commitment to our goals, even as we remain optimistic that our local economy will rebound, as we see other countries in the Caribbean also reopening their economies and the respective governments putting in place policies and other measures to mitigate against any further economic, social and health fallout.” Adding, “We are proud of the tremendous work that the JMMB Group team has done over the financial year, to enable organic and inorganic growth across the region, while seeking to further embed financial partnership, maximize operational efficiencies and streamline our processes. The year ahead will present challenges, but as possibility thinkers we are confident in our abilities to respond, reassess, rebound and reinforce the solid financial foundation that we have put in place.”

The company’s recently released audited financial results showed that the Group’s performance was largely driven by growth in its core business operations, namely: net interest income, net gains on securities trading; foreign exchange trading gains; fees and commission income and other fees earned from managing clients’ funds. Net interest income also grew by 5%, totaling J$9.28 billion, as a result of the solid growth in loan and investment portfolios. Net gains on securities traded saw a commendable growth of 51%, to J$6.17 billion, which was largely attributable to the improved appetite for emerging market assets, and the company taking advantage of market opportunities. Foreign exchange trading gains saw growth of J$410.4 million, or 17%, amounting to J$2.81 billion, as a result of increased trading activity and growth in the regional markets, over the period. Additionally, fees and commission income had a significant uptick of 48%, amounting to J$2.11 billion; this was spurred by capital markets operations, across the JMMB Group. Others fees earned from managing clients’ funds grew by 24%, contributing J$1.41 billion to the Group’s earnings, as a result of growth in managed funds and collective investment schemes. The JMMB Group also reeled in J$195.2 million in the share of profit of associate, Sagicor Financial Company Limited (SFC). JMMB Group announced the acquisition of 22.5% of Sagicor Financial Company Limited (SFC), in December 2019, which gives the Group diversification and the opportunity to participate in the future growth of the market leader in the Caribbean’s insurance, pension, and asset management sectors.

Even as the Group maintains its commitment to managing its operational efficiencies, by streamlining its processes, procedures, and information technology platforms, combined with efforts to leverage synergies across the Group; the company saw an increase of 23% in its operating expenses, year-over-year. This increase in expenses was primarily driven by the costs associated with the continued build-out of commercial banking activities including the rolling-out of standardization of our banking platform across the region, expansion of JMMB Express Finance, in Trinidad & Tobago over the year, and staff and professional costs. Project-related activities, centered on process optimization and IT infrastructure, as a way to further leverage efficiencies, also attributed to the increased operational expenses. In the process of rolling out standardization of our banking platform across the region,

At the end of the 2019/20 financial year, the JMMB Group’s asset base totaled J$400.22 billion, an increase of J$80.18 million, or a 25% increase, compared to the start of the financial year. This increase is attributable to a larger loan portfolio, as well as investments in associated company, SFC.

JMMB Group Built on Solid Financial Foundation

JMMB Group chief financial officer (CFO), Patrick Ellis, in disclosing further details of JMMB Group’s financial position, reiterated that “JMMB Group is built on a solid financial foundation, as evidenced by its positive core earnings, continued growth and a diversified strategy.“ This, he adds, will enable the company to be resilient in the challenging economic climate, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Group CFO further outlined, “we remain adequately capitalized, exceeding regulatory capital requirements, with a substantial increase in shareholders’ equity of J$41.18 billion, or 32%.” The regional financial entity’s shareholders’ equity was bolstered by the Group’s additional public offer (APO), in November 2019, which raised J$12.4 billion, the largest APO of its kind, in Jamaica. This transaction will further facilitate the Group’s expansion and diversification strategy, through acquisitions and the addition of new business lines.

JMMB Group’s Strategic Response to ‘New Normal and Reality’
In light of the ‘new normal’ that has been created by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Group has also sought to respond by delivering value to its clients, and ensuring their protection, in addition to easing the financial burdens of the most vulnerable clients who may be threatened by the economic fallout of COVID-19. As such, the financial conglomerate in extending a lifeline, in April 2020, aimed to cushion possible blows to select businesses and individuals impacted, primarily those in the tourism and hospitality sectors, transportation and entertainment. The entity provided financial lifelines in the form of moratoriums, extended credit facilities, and the maintenance of its pre-existing ‘no late payment policy’ on loans.

This underscores the Group’s partnership with its clients to safeguard their sustainability throughout this period, especially given the fact that some of these small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are major contributors to the economy.

Keith Duncan, in sharing on the strategic outlook of the Group, outlined, “The JMMB Group has the financial foundation to withstand this new economic reality, with a strategic plan that will see us continually reassessing and re-imagining new opportunities to expand and grow our revenue and diversify our income stream; even as we seek to further strengthen our business model to remain resilient in the ‘new normal’.” Adding, “Our teams will remain focused on continuously optimizing key processes, systematically improving the ease of doing business with the Group, and normalizing the use of technology and digital channels to drive client and team member contact and engagement.” As such, JMMB Group has sought to enhance its online transaction platform, JMMB Moneyline, including introducing beta-testing of its real-time stock trading feature, among other add-ons.

“We remain hopeful and confident in the sustainability of the Group and expect to continue seeing realized value for all our shareholders, clients, and team members, as we explore accretive business development opportunities to grow our return on equity and expand our footprint,” said Duncan.

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Prestige Holdings Enjoyed A Strong Performance For First Quarter Of Fiscal 2024.

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Christian E. Mouttet Chairman for Prestige Holdings has released the following Consolidated Unaudited Results for the Three Months Ended 29 February 2024

I am pleased to report that Prestige Holdings enjoyed a strong performance for the First Quarter of fiscal 2024. Group sales increased by 10% to $341 million from $309 million in the prior year, which resulted in a Profit Before Tax of $15.3 million compared to a profit of $11.6 million for the same period in 2023, a 32% increase. Profit After Tax, attributable to shareholders, increased by 25% from $7.8 million to $9.8 million. Cash flow from operations was $26.9 million and we ended the quarter with $100 million in cash having reduced total borrowings by $5.8 million. During the period we remodelled 2 restaurants and ended the period with 134 restaurants.

All brands posted solid performances during the quarter, with our Subway and Pizza Hut results driven by improved operations, efficiencies and strong demand for our innovative menu items and value offerings. Top line sales were impacted by the opening of five new Starbucks restaurants at Brentwood, Aranguez, O’Meara, St. Augustine and Amazonia Mall, Guyana, when compared to the First Quarter of 2023.

I am extremely pleased to report that KFC recently achieved a significant milestone of serving 150,000 Harvest Meals. The Harvest Meal Programme, which has been active for two years, is designed to provide unsold KFC food to participating NGOs in Trinidad and Tobago. This unsold food is carefully packaged and transported, following accepted global food safety protocols, and is then repurposed into delicious meals and served to the less fortunate. We are very happy to have the opportunity to positively impact the communities in which we operate by partnering with NGOs to provide meals to those in need.

As mentioned in my previous report, significant investment is planned in this financial year for new store development, including Guyana, as well as the remodelling of existing assets in Trinidad and Tobago. We expect these developments, as well as our continued brand initiatives, to continue to deliver positive results.
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GraceKennedy’s Strategic Spur Tree Spices Acquisition: Positioning For Growth

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GraceKennedy Limited’s recent acquisition of an increased stake in Spur Tree Spices (Jamaica) Limited has positioned it as the second-largest shareholder in the company. With an estimated 338,410,375 shares now under its belt, based on Spur Tree’s issued share count of 1,676,959,244 ordinary shares, GraceKennedy solidifies its influence in Jamaica’s culinary landscape.

Continued Expansion through M&A

This transaction marks the latest in GraceKennedy’s series of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activities, reflecting the company’s aggressive growth strategy. Following its acquisitions of Scotia Insurance Caribbean Limited and Unibev Limited in 2023, as well as doubling its interest in Catherine’s Peak Bottling Company Limited to 70% in February 2023, GraceKennedy demonstrates its commitment to diversification and market expansion.

Spur Tree’s Strategic Evolution

Meanwhile, Spur Tree Spices is undergoing a strategic transformation, expanding beyond spices and seasonings to become a full-fledged food brand. With plans to launch more than two dozen new products on May 1 and a brand refresh to reflect its new focus, Spur Tree is poised for a significant market repositioning.

Diversification and Innovation

In the upcoming quarter, Spur Tree Spices is set to unveil an array of innovative products, including their much-anticipated line of dried spices. This strategic move represents the company’s foray into new categories and a substantial expansion of its product offerings. By diversifying its portfolio, Spur Tree aims to capture a broader consumer base and solidify its position as a leading player in the culinary industry.

Implications of the Acquisition

GraceKennedy’s increased stake in Spur Tree Spices not only strengthens its position in the spice market but also opens doors for collaboration and synergies between the two entities. As GraceKennedy continues to expand its presence through strategic acquisitions, it can leverage Spur Tree’s innovative product line-up to bolster its offerings and tap into new market segments.

GraceKennedy Limited’s acquisition of a significant stake in Spur Tree Spices marks a strategic milestone for both companies. With GraceKennedy’s growing influence and Spur Tree’s strategic evolution, the stage is set for a dynamic partnership that promises innovation, growth, and market leadership. As they navigate the evolving landscape of Jamaica’s culinary industry, GraceKennedy and Spur Tree Spices are poised to redefine the future of food, one spice at a time.

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ANSA McAL Group Announces Formation Of Joint Venture Company, Globus ANSA Private Limited, With Globus Spirits Limited In India.

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A. Norman Sabga Executive Chairman of the ANSA McAL Group of Companies has announced the formation of the joint venture company, Globus ANSA Private Limited, with Globus Spirits Limited in India.

In a release posted on the Trinidad and Tobago Stock Exchange ANSA McAL confirmed that with effect from 4th April 2024, ANSA McAL Limited (“ANSA McAL”) entered into a joint venture agreement with Globus Spirits Limited (“GSL”) to establish Globus ANSA Private Limited (“GAPL”).

Each party will hold fifty percent (50%) of the issued and allotted ordinary share capital of GAPL.

“This collaboration signifies a new era in the Indian alcoholic beverages industry, driving innovation and growth, ‘

“Globus ANSA Private Limited will specialise in manufacturing and distributing alcoholic beverages across the Indian subcontinent, leveraging the strength of both ANSA McAL and Globus Spirits Limited,” said Mr. Shekhar Swarup, Managing Director for Globus Spirits Limited. “This collaboration signifies a new era in the Indian alcoholic beverages industry, driving innovation and growth, ‘he stated

 

 

 

Globus Spirits Ltd is one of the leading players in the Alcohol industry in North India distributing brands in the Consumer Segment including:
• GR8 Times.
• Rajputana.
• Globus Spirits Dry Gin.
• White. Lace.
• Governors’ Reserve Red.
• Governors’ Reserve Blue.
• Oakton.
• Laffaire. Napoleon.

Trinidad and Tobago conglomerate ANSA McAL Group has over 142 years of rich history representing many world-renowned brands, including some of their own home-grown successes. The partnership marks a significant milestone in ANSA McAL Group’s journey, merging cultures and expertise to revolutionise the beer industry in India, with their icon Carib brand and leading the charge.

Norman Sabga Executive Chairman of the ANSA McAL Group of Companies, highlighted the immense opportunities in India and their commitment to delivering unparalleled value through this partnership.

“We are confident that our collaboration will allow us to seize the growing demand for high quality beverages by captivating palates with our distinctive products” he said

ANSA McAL is now poised to be an equal Shareholder of GAPL, an Indian company which
would produce, market, sell, distribute and retail beer and other beverages.

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Jamaica Broilers Group Reporting Strong Top and Bottom Line Performance for January 2024 Quarter

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Christopher E. Levy Group President & CEO of Jamaica Broilers Group Limited now release the following unaudited financial results for the quarter ended January 27, 2024, which have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

The Group produced a net profit attributable to shareholders of $1.3 billion, for the quarter ended January 27, 2024. The operations of the Group continue to be strong, and our gross margins are consistent with expectations.

Quarterly Group revenues amounted to $23.6 billion, a 4% increase above the $22.7 billion achieved in the corresponding quarter.

Our gross profit for the quarter was $5.9 billion, a 7% increase above the $5.5 billion achieved in the corresponding quarter in the prior year.

Jamaica Operations reported a segment result of $5.9 billion which was $448 million or 8% above last year’s segment result. Total revenue for our Jamaica Operations showed an increase of 2% over the prior year nine-month period. This increase was primarily driven by the growth in the sale and export of poultry and implementation of cost containment efforts.

Our US Operations reported a segment result of $3 billion which was $226 million or 8% above last year’s segment result. This increase was driven by increased volumes of poultry meat and eggs, as well as the implementation of cost management initiatives.
Total revenue for the US Operations increased by 3% over the prior year nine-month period.

We have begun to realise additional volumes through the US operations, which has resulted in increased financing requirements primarily around working capital.

For More Information CLICK HERE

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Main Event Reporting Net Profit Of JA$100M For Quarter Ended January 2024

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Solomon Sharpe Chief Executive Officer of Main Event Entertainment Group Limited has released the following unaudited financial statements for the quarter ended January 31, 2024 (Q1).

The company continues to have solid results in an increasingly competitive and largely difficult environment. The company’s performance was anchored by diversifying our client base through strategic targeting and efficient management of our operations.

The company reported net profit of $100.254M for the quarter ended January 31, 2024, representing a decline of 15% or $17.695M relative to the corresponding period of 2023. Consequently, earnings per share decreased by 15% to $0.33 per share.

Total revenues for the quarter ended January 31, 2024 declined by $59.235M to $567.752M, reflecting a decrease of 9% over the corresponding period. This was mainly due to a one-off event for one of our major clients which is not likely to reoccur in subsequent periods.

The company was strategic in its efforts to protect the margins and the gross profit for the quarter was $315.822M compared to the $312.611M earned in 2023. This demonstrates the company’s ability to be alert and responsive to market conditions. Gross margins improved to 56%, up from 50% in the corresponding period.

The company continues to generate revenues from activities requiring reduced external support.

For more information CLICK HERE

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