The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
Westpac, Australia's oldest banking institution, announced a quarterly net profit of $1.7 billion, marking a 9% decline compared to the average of the previous two quarters.
Despite this decline, the bank remains profitable due to increased consumer deposits and lending activity over the year.
Alongside its financial results for the first quarter, Westpac highlighted a potential rise in unemployment, expecting it to reach 4.5% by mid-year, up from the current 4%. The economic environment remains challenging, with high cost-of-living pressures and subdued business demand affecting both consumers and businesses.
CEO Anthony Miller expressed concerns over economic challenges but noted positive signs, such as easing inflation. He suggested that this could lead to the Reserve Bank of Australia lowering the cash rate, providing some relief to households and potentially boosting business activity. Miller emphasised the bank's readiness to support customers facing financial strain.
In terms of loans, Westpac's lending activity has increased by 5% to a total of $820 billion, while deposits have grown by over 6% to $688 billion. The bank is also seeing an improvement in mortgage repayment health, with delinquent mortgages reducing slightly from $5.35 billion in September to $5.1 billion by December.
The bank's performance is a critical indicator of the broader Australian economy's health. Westpac's profitability and financial standing suggest stability, though concerns about rising unemployment and household financial pressures underline ongoing economic vulnerabilities. Furthermore, any potential interest rate changes by the Reserve Bank of Australia could have far-reaching implications for both consumers and the housing market.
Australia's economic climate remains uncertain. The projected rise in unemployment could temper consumer spending and business investment, affecting financial performance across various sectors. Expert insights will focus on monitoring inflation trends and policy changes, particularly interest rate adjustments, which might influence future financial strategies for both consumers and businesses. Investors will also be watching Westpac's share price performance closely following a notable dip post-results, despite a strong annual uptick of 33%.
Published:Tuesday, 18th Feb 2025 Source: Paige Estritori
Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.
National Australia Bank (NAB) has reported a significant 7% year-on-year growth in its business lending portfolio, bringing the total to $336.2 billion. This growth underscores NAB's commitment to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Australia. - read more
The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has announced a substantial 12% increase in its business lending portfolio, reaching $168 billion in the first half of 2026. This growth rate exceeds the bank's compound annual growth rate of 10.7%, indicating a strong performance in the business lending sector. - read more
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has raised the official cash rate by 0.25 percentage points to 3.85%, marking the first increase in over two years. This decision, driven by persistent inflationary pressures, has significant implications for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the country. - read more
The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has reported a significant 12% increase in its business lending portfolio, reaching $168 billion by December 2025. This growth underscores the bank's commitment to supporting Australian businesses and reflects a broader economic confidence among enterprises. - read more
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has raised the official cash rate by 0.25 percentage points to 3.85%, marking the first increase in over two years. This decision, driven by persistent inflationary pressures, has significant implications for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the country. - read more
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced the implementation of a new policy aimed at mitigating financial risks associated with high debt-to-income (DTI) home loans. Effective from 1 February 2026, authorised deposit-taking institutions (ADIs) are required to limit the issuance of new mortgage loans with DTI ratios of six times or more to no more than 20% of their total new lending. - read more
In a significant move to bolster support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Australia, Renown Lending has announced an expansion of its funding pool from $250 million to $400 million. This substantial increase aims to provide fast and flexible financing solutions to businesses nationwide, addressing the growing demand for accessible funding options. - read more
In the entrepreneurial world, securing the right type of financing can be the catalyst for substantial business growth and success. Commercial property financing in Australia encompasses a range of options tailored to meet the diverse needs of businesses, each with its own set of advantages and intricacies. This article delves into the heart of strategic financing, providing Aussie entrepreneurs with guidance on navigating this vital aspect of their business ventures. - read more
Starting a business often requires a substantial amount of capital, which many new business owners may not have readily available. Business loans can provide the necessary funding to help get your startup off the ground, from purchasing equipment to hiring staff and everything in between. - read more
In the dynamic world of business, navigating credit challenges is a reality for many Australian business owners. These challenges can stem from various sources, including unpaid customer invoices, unexpected expenses, or the complexities of managing cash flow. Such hurdles often come at inopportune moments, leading to recurring stress for entrepreneurs trying to maintain a stable financial standing. - read more
When it comes to starting or expanding a business in Australia, securing funding is often a top priority. However, traditional funding options, such as bank loans or government grants, can be difficult to obtain for small businesses. - read more
Cash flow is the lifeblood of any business, signifying the money that flows in and out of your operations. It's essential for covering daily expenses, paying employees, and capitalizing on growth opportunities. Maintaining a healthy cash flow ensures that a business can meet its obligations and invest in its future. - read more
Your credit score is a crucial factor that lenders examine when you apply for a loan. It acts as a numerical representation of your creditworthiness, helping lenders to determine the risk involved in offering you a loan. Essentially, it helps them predict your ability to repay the loan based on your past financial behaviour. - read more
Financial planning plays a crucial role when businesses are poised for growth. As enterprises expand, a well-crafted financial plan acts as a guiding framework to navigate the complexities that come with scaling operations. This plan helps in ensuring that resources are meticulously allocated and potential financial hurdles are effectively managed. - read more
Need Help Finding a Loan?
All finance quotes are provided free (via our secure server) and without
obligation. We respect your
privacy.
Knowledgebase
Capital Market: A financial market in which long-term debt or equity-backed securities are bought and sold.