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Swedbank AB (SWDBF) Q1 2025 Earnings Call Highlights: Strong Return on Equity Amid Market Challenges

In This Article:

  • Return on Equity: 15.2% for the first quarter.

  • Earnings Per Share: SEK7.26 for the first quarter.

  • Net Interest Income: Declined by SEK785 million due to lower market rates, fewer days in the quarter, and FX effects.

  • Cost-to-Income Ratio: 0.35 for the first quarter.

  • Credit Impairment Reversals: SEK140 million during the first quarter.

  • Capital Buffer: 4.5 percentage points above the requirement.

  • Loan Portfolio Increase: SEK9 billion, excluding negative FX effect.

  • Corporate Lending in Sweden: Increased by SEK10 billion, excluding FX.

  • Mortgage Volumes in Sweden: Decreased by SEK2 billion during the quarter.

  • Customer Deposits Increase: SEK6 billion, excluding FX.

  • Total Expenses: Decreased by SEK625 million, amounting to SEK6.1 billion.

  • CET1 Capital Ratio: 19.7% with a buffer of around 450 basis points above the requirement.

Release Date: April 29, 2025

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.

Positive Points

  • Swedbank AB (SWDBF) reported a strong return on equity of 15.2% and earnings per share of SEK7.26 for the first quarter.

  • The bank maintains a robust capital position with a buffer of 4.5 percentage points, and Moody's upgraded its credit rating post-quarter.

  • Swedbank AB (SWDBF) is the leader in mortgages across its home markets and continues to maintain its position despite tough competition.

  • The bank's focus on sustainability is evident, with a growing Sustainable Asset Register and successful issuance of green bonds.

  • Investments in technology and processes have improved customer service, with significant reductions in waiting times for phone inquiries.

Negative Points

  • Net interest income declined due to lower market rates, fewer days in the quarter, and currency effects.

  • Net commission income decreased, impacted by falling stock prices and seasonally lower activity in the car business.

  • Corporate lending decreased slightly in the Baltic market, although demand for sustainable loans remains stable.

  • The bank faces increased uncertainty due to geopolitical tensions and economic conflicts, impacting client behavior and risk appetite.

  • Swedbank AB (SWDBF) is dealing with sector-specific taxes in its Baltic markets, which could impact its business strategy and profitability.

Q & A Highlights

Q: Could you elaborate on the potential for reducing FTEs in the group functions section, given the decline in Swedish banking? A: Jens Henriksson, CEO: We continuously work on this, but it's challenging due to new regulations requiring significant resources. In Swedish banking, we've changed our work approach, improving efficiency and customer service.