Challenging times
The company recorded revenue of R4,4 billion and trading profit of R930 million for the year ended 31 March 2004.
- Revenue of R4.4bn and trading profit of R930m
- Headline earnings down 6% to R521m (flat growth at constant exchange rates)
- Headline earnings per share down 7% to R1.51 per share
- Attributable earnings per share down 15% to R1.02 per share
- Effective tax rate on headline profit before tax of 27%,
- Dividend maintained at 67 cents per share
- Gearing has improved from 68% to 51%
This was achieved in challenging market conditions, which included the impact of the stronger rand and weaker dollar on the group's international earnings.
Headline earnings a share fell 7% to R1.51.
Group Chief Executive Rael Gordon reported that core businesses remained profitable and continued to generate strong cash flows. As a result, the annual dividend had been maintained at 67cents per share. This represents a dividend yield of 7% at the current share price.
"While we saw a decline in earnings from last year, we believe the numbers mask many notable successes and developments in the business."
Gordon said the group had strengthened its international balance sheet, repaying more than R600m of international debt. South African Reserve Bank approval has been obtained to transfer a further R 370 Million from South Africa.
Investment Solutions achieved considerable growth in assets under management and strong performances also came from the South African Risk Services and the UK Financial Services businesses.
Progress had been made on enhancing corporate governance across the group, and transformation within the African business. The effect of share options on the accounts has been disclosed for the first time.
