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Sagicor Group Jamaica Performed Well In 2019, Producing Profits Attributable To Stockholders Of $15.65 Billion, Or $4.01 Per Share, A 10% Improvement Over 2018 – Zacca

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Sagicor Group Jamaica Limited (SGJ or the Group) performed well in 2019, producing profits attributable to stockholders of $15.65 billion, equivalent to $4.01 per share, a 10% improvement over the prior year. Stockholders’ equity reached $91.25 billion, a 23% growth for the year, after distributing dividends of $1.44 per share.

In addition to strong generic growth across our major business lines, we expanded our investment in Property and Casualty Insurance with the acquisition of a 60% interest in Advantage General Insurance company Limited (AGI).

Our 2019 operations also include activities for a full year relating to the Sagicor X-Fund Group (“X-Fund”) of which we took effective control and consolidated into SGJ from the 4th quarter of 2018 and TravelCash Jamaica Limited (TravelCash) which was acquired effective December 1, 2018.

Net profit attributable to stockholders for Q4 2019 was $4.79 billion as against $5.41 billion for Q4 2018. The Q4 2018 results included a significant “one-time” gain of $1.52 billion on the consolidation of X-Fund.

In addition, 2019 results include higher losses from Playa Hotel & Resorts (Playa), an associated company.

FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

Overall, the Group generated good results in an environment of low-interest rates, a somewhat volatile J$/US$ exchange rate, and vibrant equity markets, especially the Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE).

Consolidated full-year profit attributable to stockholders was $15.65 billion, a 10% increase over the prior year.

Earnings per stock unit were $4.01 compared to $3.65 in 2018.

The annualized return on stockholders’ equity was 19% as against 20% for 2018, and we distributed dividends of $5.62 billion to stockholders during 2019, compared to $4.69 billion in 2018 ($1.44 per share as against $1.20 in 2018).

The market capitalization of SGJ at December 2019 was $304.44 billion, up 96% on December 2018.

Total Group Assets at December 2019 were $456.00 billion up from $394.13 billion as at December 2018. Assets grew organically except for the acquisition of AGI on September 30, 2019, and a $2.91 billion recorded as Right-of- use assets from properties being leased under IFRS 16.

Total assets under management, as at December 2019, including Group Assets, Pension Funds’ assets managed on behalf of clients and Unit Trusts, were $892.04 billion, a 17% increase over the December 2018 amount of $761.07 billion.

Group Consolidated Revenue for the year of $92.67 billion was 31% more than the $70.66 billion for 2018, in part influenced by the X-Fund consolidation from October 2018, the acquisition of TravelCash from December 2018 and the acquisition of AGI on 30 September 2019. In 2018 we recorded large investment credit losses that did not repeat at the same level in 2019.

Net premium income of $46.51 billion, which accounted for 50% of revenue, was 17% up on 2018. A 14% increase when excluding premiums from AGI. Net investment income of $16.85 billion, before capital gains and losses, was 7% better than last year despite interest rates trending down in Jamaica.

The Group earned substantial gains from trading and capital appreciation of $10.94 billion in 2019 (of which $4.50 billion relates to stockholders) compared to $4.19 billion in 2018.

The JSE’s main index grew by 34% during the year. The fee-based income of $13.90 billion grew by 22% mainly from the expansion of our Payments channels and from increased corporate financing deals.

By the end of December 2019, the value of the J$ to the US$ declined by 3.5% with wider fluctuations at points throughout the year. The Group benefited from FX trading gains and picked-up unrealized gains from the revaluation of foreign currency denominated assets, net of liabilities.

Total benefits and expenses of $71.87 billion were 33% more than the $54.07 billion for 2018, due to, a) Higher Actuarial Liabilities emanating mainly from the growth of the inforce Insurance business and lower interest rates. b) Increased policy benefits, including death claims, health claims, annuity payments, surrenders and withdrawals from Segregated policy funds, as portfolios grew. P&C claims for the last quarter of 2019 relating to AGI are also included in Net Benefits costs. c) Consolidated administration expenses, including depreciation and amortization of software, of $22.63 billion was 20% higher than in 2018. Excluding the effect of acquisitions and consolidation of X-Fund, the increase was 12%. Despite this, we maintained the Group efficiency ratio of administrative expenses to total revenue, a key measure of expense management, at 31% as it was in 2018.

Individual Insurance: This segment continued its strong profitability performance contributing $5.37 billion to the Group for the year, a 13% improvement. Net premium income for the Individual Insurance lines of business of $26.47 billion was 11% higher than the comparative 2018, driven by very strong new business in both Jamaica and Cayman, and improved conservation of the inforce block of policies which grew by 7% to almost 600,000 policies. Meaningful capital gains were also earned in this segment during the year. Benefits accrued or paid to policyholders of $12.27 billion were higher than in 2018 as the business expanded. The increase in actuarial liabilities was much higher than last year due to our growth and lower interest rates while releases for mortality experience, expenses and other efficiencies were lower this year. Key performance indicators in this segment continue to trend positively, including market share.

Employee Benefits Segment: revenue of $27.23 billion was 15% ahead of 2018 as a result of good premium income growth across all lines. New business annualized premium income was well over the 2018 levels. Claims cost grew with the business but the ratio of claims to premium income was much higher in 2019. The increase in actuarial liabilities was up on prior year as the business grew and interest rates were lower. However, the segment profit outcome was $4.29 billion, up 5% from 2018.

Commercial Banking: Sagicor Bank contributed net profit of $3.04 billion which was 7% more than in 2018. Revenues of $13.86 billion were 12% more than prior-year, reflecting business expansion, trading gains and improved credit losses. Fee-based income was 10% more than in 2018 as our Payments channels continued to grow. Total assets of $142.48 billion were 16% above the December 2018 amount. Loans and advances, net of provision for loan losses, were $84.66 billion, 23% higher than the December 2018 balance. Customer deposit liabilities of $107.25 billion were up 16% on last year.

Investment Banking: There was significant business growth in this segment, especially in the Corporate Finance area. By year-end, on-balance sheet assets of $94.85 billion were up 12%, revenue of $6.65 billion was more than in 2018 by 44% and profits of $2.89 billion, excluding the share of AGI earnings, grew by 40%. AGI was acquired at the end of September and made a positive contribution to Sagicor’s earnings after all associated acquisition costs. In December 2019, Regulatory approvals were obtained for the establishment of Sagicor Investments Cayman. This new entity will facilitate geographic expansion of our investments and wealth management business in 2020 and beyond.

OUTLOOK

The current economic environment is characterised by low-interest rates, moderate inflation and modest economic growth. The improvement in the Government of Jamaica’s fiscal position has created space for higher levels of capital expenditure, mostly geared towards infrastructure.

The extent of the current threat posed by the novel Coronavirus is still being assessed locally and globally. Future uncertainties also include upcoming elections in Jamaica and the United States as well as the unfolding of BREXIT. Given our economy’s exposure to tourism, while cautiously optimistic about the future, we are taking a conservative view of the potential impact of the Coronavirus and managing our businesses accordingly, especially with regard to the welfare of our team members and our customers.

Christopher Zacca President & CEO Sagicor Group Jamaica Limited. Extracted and edited from SAGICOR GROUP JAMAICA LIMITED
Audited Group Results YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2019

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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.

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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.

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