| Thu 8 Nov 2007, 9:00 | | OML - Old Mutual Plc - Trading Update For The Nine |
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OML
OLOML
OML - Old Mutual Plc - Trading Update For The Nine Months Ended
30 September 2007
Old Mutual plc
ISIN CODE: GB0007389926
JSE SHARE CODE: OML
NSX SHARE CODE: OLM
ISSUER CODE: OLOML
TRADING UPDATE FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2007
Good investment performance continuing to attract assets
- Net client cash flows (NCCF) GBP17.0 billion, 10% of opening funds under
management (FUM) on an annualised basis
- Funds under management up 14% to GBP270.4 billion during unsettled market
conditions
- Life APE sales up 13%* to GBP1,294 million (up 19% at constant exchange
rates)
- UK up 20%*: good single premium business backed by strong net cash
inflows
- Nordic sales picking up, slower overall following tax changes
- ELAM up 12%*: strong contribution from Central Europe
- SA retail up 15%*: increased distribution channels
- US up 43%*: excellent offshore sales
- Mutual fund sales of GBP6,192 million: strong US and ELAM growth offset
by declines in South Africa and UK
- Value of new business up 9%* to GBP191 million
- Estimated EEV per share 176p at 31 October 2007
Jim Sutcliffe, Chief Executive, commented:
"Old Mutual has delivered good investment performance during the period and
GBP17 billion of net inflows from clients, continuing to grow assets under
management despite the turbulence in world financial markets. Sales have been
buoyant overall, with particular strength in the UK and US where the
performance was supported by impressive variable annuity sales from Bermuda."
* For the nine months to 30 September 2007, with comparisons to the nine
months to 30 September 2006
Enquiries
Investor Relations
Aleida van Herel UK +44 (0)20 7002
7287
Deward Serfontein SA +27 (0)21 509 8709
Media
James Crampton UK +44 (0)20 7002
7133
Nad Pillay SA +27 (0)21 504 8026
College Hill (UK)
Tony Friend UK +44 (0)20 7457
2020
Notes to Editors:
A conference call for analysts and investors will take place at 8.30 a.m. (UK
time), 9.30 a.m. (Central European Time) and 10:30 a.m. (South African time)
today. Analysts and investors who wish to participate in the conference call
should dial the following numbers:
UK (toll-free) 0800 694 0257
Sweden (toll-free) 0200 890 171
South Africa (toll-free) 0800 980 759
International +44 (0) 1452 555 566
A replay facility will be available until 22 November 2007 on the following
numbers, access code 22669724#
UK (freephone) 0800 953 1533
US (toll-free) 1866 247 4222
International +44 (0) 1452 550 000
Copies of this update together with high-resolution images (at
http://oldmutual.com) and biographical details of the Executive Directors of
Old Mutual plc are available in electronic format to download from the
Company`s website.
A Financial Disclosure Supplement relating to the Company`s nine month trading
update can be found on the website. This contains a summary of key financial
data for the first nine months of 2007 and 2006.
Forward-looking statements
This announcement contains forward-looking statements with respect to certain
of Old Mutual plc`s plans and its current goals and expectations relating to
its future financial condition, performance and results. By their nature, all
forward-looking statements involve risk and uncertainty because they relate to
future events and circumstances that are beyond Old Mutual plc`s control,
including, among other things, UK domestic and global economic and business
conditions, market-related risks such as fluctuations in interest rates and
exchange rates, policies and actions of regulatory authorities, the impact of
competition, inflation, deflation, the timing and impact of other
uncertainties or of future acquisitions or combinations within relevant
industries, as well as the impact of tax and other legislation and other
regulations in territories where Old Mutual plc or its affiliates operate.
As a result, Old Mutual plc`s actual future financial condition, performance
and results may differ materially from the plans, goals and expectations set
forth in Old Mutual plc`s forward-looking statements. Old Mutual plc
undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in
this announcement or any other forward-looking statements that it may make.
GROUP RESULTS
Group Highlights (GBPm) Q3 YTD Q3 YTD % Change
2007 2006
Life assurance sales (APE) 1,294 1,145 13%
Europe 808 708 14%
South Africa 248 255 (3%)
US 238 182 31%
Other - - -
Unit trust / mutual fund sales 6,192 6,274 (1%)
Europe 3,343 3,608 (7%)
South Africa 801 1,019 (21%)
US 1,570 1,213 29%
Other 478 434 10%
Value of new business 191 176 9%
Europe 97 99 (2%)
South Africa 42 40 5%
US 52 37 41%
Other - - -
Net Client Cash Flows (GBPbn) 17.0 16.2 5%
Europe 4.1 4.6 (11%)
South Africa (1.2) (0.3) n/a
US 14.1 10.9 29%
Other - 1.0 n/a
(GBPbn) Q3 2007 FY 2006 % Change
Funds under management 270.4 237.1 14%
Europe 59.1 51.2 15%
South Africa 41.0 40.1 2%
US 163.7 140.0 17%
Other 6.6 5.8 14%
During the nine months to 30 September 2007 ("the period"), Old Mutual has
experienced strong life APE sales and positive net client cash flows in most
of its businesses compared with the nine months to 30 September 2006 ("the
comparative period").
Investment performance drives net client cash flows
Net client cash flows continued to be positive overall during the third
quarter, driven by good investment performance in the US in particular, where
87% of our clients received returns in excess of their benchmarks on a
trailing three year basis. Funds under management had grown to GBP270.4
billion by the end of the period. This was particularly gratifying given that
it was achieved during a period of market volatility caused by the tightening
of credit conditions during August.
Sales
Life APE sales were strong at US Life (primarily as a result of sales from
Bermuda) and Old Mutual South Africa (OMSA) performed particularly well in the
Retail Life segment. Both our UK and ELAM businesses produced solid results
and we were pleased that Nordic life sales, after a slow start to the year,
were higher in the third quarter than in the equivalent months in 2006. Unit
trust sales overall were consistent with 2006 levels with good performance at
US Asset Management and ELAM, but some weakness caused by market conditions in
the UK and Nordic. On a constant currency basis unit trust sales were up 3%.
Total gross premiums from our increasingly significant Asia Pacific businesses
are double that of the comparative period.
Skandia synergies and developments
We have continued to invest to deliver our targeted synergies from Skandia
including launching Selestia Investment Solutions, our new integrated
investment platform in the UK as well as investing in IT in Sweden. During the
period, we announced the rollout of a new Skandia logo clearly identifying it
as part of the Old Mutual Group by changing the colour to green. In October
2007 we launched Skandia Investment Group (SIG), a new global investment
management function which will be one of the world`s largest MultiManager
investment businesses. It will manage combined assets of around GBP60 billion
across a variety of MultiManager and open-architecture investment solutions.
Value of new business growing
Life margins were higher in the US and South Africa, and slightly lower across
Europe. The value of new business was up 9% in total, and on a constant
currency basis was up 15%.
Nedbank and Mutual & Federal
Nedbank has progressed well and for the end of the period exceeded its
longstanding 20% return on equity target for 2007. It is continuing to invest
in its retail franchise. Impairments are rising, but are within normal
tolerances. Mutual & Federal produced better results in the latter part of the
period and is seeing the corrective actions implemented now taking effect.
Other Matters
Our GBP350 million share buyback programme was announced at the beginning of
October 2007 and we have so far repurchased approximately 28.5 million shares
through the London and Johannesburg markets at a total sterling equivalent
cost of GBP49 million.
The Group EEV per share as at 31 October 2007 has been estimated at
approximately 176p. This is based on the Group EEV per share calculated as at
30 June 2007 rolled forward to allow for the earnings run rate, foreign
exchange movements and changes in the share price of the listed subsidiaries.
UNITED KINGDOM AND OFFSHORE
Another good quarter from Skandia UK
Our industry-leading open-architecture platform, which enables a wide range of
investment choices for IFAs and clients, continued to boost sales and net
client cash flows. New business margins were 10% as a result of the operating
leverage delivered by a 20% increase in life sales over the comparative period
(with increased scale benefits and a shift towards single premium retail
pension business) and a 15% increase in funds under management to GBP41.5
billion since 31 December 2006. During the period we launched Selestia
Investment Solutions, the combination of Old Mutual`s Selestia platform and
Skandia MultiFUNDs, giving financial advisers a single, easy-to-understand
market proposition. This is well positioned to harness the market`s demand for
simplicity, flexibility and choice.
Net client cash flows were GBP3.2 billion for the period, representing 12% of
opening funds under management on an annualised basis. Good inflows, combined
with favourable market movements during the period, have driven a significant
increase in funds under management since the beginning of the year. In the
third quarter, however, volatile markets affected investment performance, but
this was partially offset by positive net client cash flows.
Skandia UK continued to deliver good new business growth. The first nine
months of 2007 were characterised by buoyant net client cash flows and ongoing
recognition from our distributors for our award-winning platform. However unit
trust sales (excluding institutional investment business) were down against
the comparative period, as a result of uncertainty in markets since the end of
the first quarter. Institutional mutual fund business was significantly down
in the period, with no recurrence of the exceptional business volumes
experienced in the third quarter of 2006. Market share increased from 5.0% in
the prior year to 5.4% on a whole of the market basis.
Life sales on an APE basis were GBP569 million, driven by particularly strong
UK single premium sales of GBP430 million and the continued impact of the "A-
Day" pension changes. International covered business increased to GBP205
million during the period, benefiting from strong institutional portfolio bond
sales into the UK in the first part of the year. A significant tail-off
following a tax change in the UK pre-budget statement has been offset by
higher regular premium business in the latter part of the period. The value of
new business improved by 28% to GBP59 million against the comparative period
due to strong sales growth and mix of business across our core products.
Skandia Investment Management Limited`s (SIML) risk-controlled products have
continued to deliver excellent absolute returns, with SIML`s Aggressive,
Balanced and Cautious funds up 89%, 73% and 46% respectively since launch in
February 2003. The Global Property Securities Fund has remained Skandia`s best
selling fund throughout 2007. Together with the launch of the Best Ideas
funds, including the new UK Strategic Best Ideas Fund in September 2007, this
has driven improved sales, generating direct subscriptions in excess of GBP309
million for the period. Global Best Ideas Fund has delivered 30% since launch
in June 2006 and is top decile in the IMA Active Managed Sector.
Skandia welcomes the FSA`s Retail Distribution Review which provides the
industry with an excellent opportunity to debate the developments taking place
in the market and drive forward best practice. Proposals that promote
increased transparency and place value on financial advice are a positive
development and should be embraced by advisers. We believe consumers will
benefit from increased choice and clarity of the service they receive and
Skandia is well placed to continue to build on the rapid growth of its
platforms.
NORDIC
Sales starting to recover in Sweden
The negative trend in life sales APE has turned around during the third
quarter, with sales on an APE basis up 12% over the third quarter in 2006. The
improved quarter performance in Sweden, up 8%, is due to continued focus on
sales activities (impacting both internal and external sales channels),
providing a more attractive investment offering as well as some pricing
adjustments. However, life sales on an APE basis for the nine month period
were still 5% down on the comparative period as a result of weaker performance
in Sweden earlier in the year. The tax advantages of the Swedish
Kapitalpension product were removed from 1 February 2007 following a change in
regulations. This negatively impacted sales as Kapitalpension products
accounted for 10% of sales in 2006. New sales growth in Denmark continued
strongly, up 30% as a result of a general increase in the Danish life market
as well as good performance of the new Skandia Match product. The third
quarter of 2007 was the best quarter ever for our Danish business.
Life new business margin was 14% compared to 27% for the comparative period.
The decline can be attributed to a change in arrangements between Skandia and
Skandia Liv, negative operating leverage from lower sales, increased
competition in the Swedish market and a changing mix of business as a result
of the high margin Kapitalpension product no longer being sold.
Funds under management increased during the period to SEK117.8 billion due to
continued positive net client cash flows and good fund performance. Negative
market movements in recent months have slowed down fund growth, but closing
funds under management were still up 10% over 31 December 2006. Funds under
management include an adjustment to the opening balance of SEK3.2 billion with
SkandiaBanken Norway and pension savings (IPS) in SkandiaBanken Sweden now
included.
Lending at SkandiaBanken increased to SEK51.3 billion, up 20% on the
comparative period, mainly due to strong mortgage lending in Norway and
Sweden. The deposits increase of 12% to SEK50.2 billion related to saving
accounts in both Norway and Sweden. The number of bank customers in Sweden and
Norway has increased 3% over the past 12 months. SkandiaBanken`s savings
offering has been strengthened by widening the fund range and introducing
discounted share trading.
Our Danish banking operations were divested during the third quarter to
strengthen profitability and to bring focus to the remaining businesses.
On 23 October 2007 we announced the sale of SkandiaBanken Bilfinans, the
vehicle financing business, to DnB NOR. SkandiaBanken Bilfinans provides
lending and leasing credits in co-operation with general agents and car
dealerships in Sweden and Norway. The business today comprises some 115,000
customer contracts and includes an aggregate credit portfolio of approximately
SEK13 billion. The sale is part of SkandiaBanken`s focus on being a market-
leading direct bank in Sweden and Norway. The total consideration of the
transaction is SEK2.3 billion and the sale is expected to be complete in early
2008. Completion of the deal is subject to regulatory approvals in Sweden and
Norway. In the first half of the year, the profits on this business were
SEK63.2 million.
We have continued to focus on improving operational efficiency and aggressive
marketing activities in the Nordic business. The investment programme has
reduced adjusted operating profit for the period and this is expected to
continue during the fourth quarter in line with previous market guidance. The
improvement of our unit-linked product offering is underway and will be
launched towards the end of 2007. Furthermore SkandiaBanken`s savings offering
has been strengthened by widening the fund range.
EUROPE AND LATIN AMERICA (ELAM)
Solid sales
In ELAM, strong performance in Central European markets, particularly in
Poland where our positioning continues to be strong in a fast growing market
was partially offset by lower sales in Southern Europe, most notably in Italy.
Regular premium sales for the period were 17% ahead of the comparative period
on an APE basis, while single premium sales were 7% ahead. Overall, life sales
of EUR204 million on an APE basis are up 12% over the comparative period.
Mutual fund sales of EUR1,988 million were up 26% over the comparative period
with strong contributions from our discretionary asset manager, Skandia Global
Funds (particularly in Latin America and Taiwan) and our Latin American
pensions business (particularly in Mexico and Colombia). Average margins on
mutual fund business improved as funds placed in the low margin institutional
asset management business in Spain have been replaced by funds in the higher
margin discretionary asset management businesses. This led to an improved
adjusted operating result for the mutual fund portion of the business.
Net client cash flows of EUR1.2 billion for the period were 15% of opening
funds under management on an annualised basis. Market movements for ELAM were
positive for the first six months of the year but experienced a downturn
during July and August in line with markets across the world. By the end of
the third quarter, markets had staged a partial recovery and, together with
further net fund inflows of EUR0.4 billion, funds under management were
broadly flat compared to the start of the third quarter.
As reported at the 2007 interim results, the Italian business has been
experiencing higher surrender activity. This results from products sold five
years ago that are now approaching the end of the surrender penalty period. We
have reassessed and updated the surrender assumptions in Italy and external
acquisition costs will now be amortised over a shorter timeframe. The
financial advisory market in Italy, our predominant distribution channel,
continues to see consolidation and strategic stake building.
VNB of EUR35 million for the period was flat against the comparative period.
This is due to a higher contribution from less developed markets being offset
by an increased investment in sales resource in Europe. The latter creates a
time lag factor with sales volume expected to increase in later periods.
Poland continues to grow strongly and is now a significant contributor to both
new sales and ELAM`s overall result. This reflects the efforts put into this
business over recent years, with particular emphasis on growing distribution.
We continue to grow market share in France. Sales on an APE basis were flat in
the first half due to a strong tax-driven market in the first half of 2006,
but we saw new business sales grow strongly in the third quarter. This was
partly due to our sales segmentation project and further investment in e-tools
for distributors. We made a significant investment in distribution in our
Latin American and European markets during the period, and this sees us well
placed to capture the growth in those markets.
SOUTH AFRICA - LIFE AND ASSET MANAGEMENT
Continued retail sales performance
Sales through our growing retail distribution channels in South Africa were
strong and we launched a number of new funds into the institutional market
from our investment boutiques. This structure is progressing well and we are
very pleased at our overall investment performance. It will take time for the
market to appreciate fully the benefits of this model, but the innovation
emerging from our asset management boutiques in the form of new offerings is
beginning to attract new flows.
Our stated intention to migrate from Traditional to New Era products in the
life business has continued and the returns on the shareholders` funds backing
the business`s capital requirements have been excellent.
Funds under management, at R476.2 billion, grew by 5% relative to the position
at 31 December 2006. Good investment returns were partially offset by negative
net client cash flows which were a negative R11.5 billion compared to R1.6
billion net inflow in the comparative period. This was mainly because of
significant net outflows from institutional clients, notably from two multi-
managers.
Life sales on an APE basis of R3,362 million continue to be strong, up 15% on
the comparative period. This performance was driven mainly by the productivity
of our direct sales force and the expansion of the numbers of sales people in
our Mass Market business. Recurring premium sales grew strongly with
relatively moderate single premium sales performance.
Unit trust sales were down 6% with caution among multi-managers over portfolio
manager changes and short-term investment performance on certain core funds
(Dynamic Floor and Enhanced Income funds). The new Stable Growth Fund, an
alternative to the Dynamic Floor Fund, was launched in July 2007 and has had
good early sales. We have also seen a switch to platforms that receive fee
rebates from underlying unit trust funds, and these platforms tend to drive
flows to related asset managers rather than independent asset managers.
The value of new business was R527 million for the period, 24% up on R425
million for the comparative period with improved margins. This was primarily
driven by a higher proportion of risk business and good expense management in
the Mass Affluent segment, leading to lower distribution costs.
Mass Market
Retail Mass sales were up 25% on the equivalent period in 2006, continuing the
strong rate of growth seen in 2006. The result reflects the continued focus on
growing the sales force, which at 30 September 2007 was 14% higher than at the
beginning of the year. Sales force productivity has remained sound, despite
the effects of the protracted public servants strike, which impacted a key
customer base. Sales through the broker channel were nearly double (up 97%)
those achieved in the comparative period.
The value of new business was 14% higher than for the comparative period, with
the new business APE margin lower (28% versus 31% for the comparative period),
reflecting the higher proportion of lower margin savings business sold during
the period. We have responded by implementing changes to adviser remuneration
and increasing minimum premiums for savings business to change the mix back
towards risk business. These measures, implemented in August 2007, are
beginning to take effect. We have designed new savings products to be launched
in 2008 (to coincide with the new commission regime), with a focus on giving
better value to clients and acceptable returns.
Retail Affluent
Total Retail Affluent life sales were 11% higher, but unit trust sales were
somewhat lower than the comparative period. Disappointing performance in 2006
in some of our funds and concerns over several investment staff losses led to
a significant slow down in unit trust sales, particularly from multi-managers.
This has impacted net client cash flows, which were negative R1.9 billion.
Life recurring premium sales were 18% higher, driven by continued good risk
business, leveraged from enhancements to our Greenlight risk product range and
good credit life sales, reflecting the extension of personal credit through
Nedbank. Recurring premium Max Investment savings business (both life and non-
life wrappers) performed well, with significant growth of the non-life
recurring option but from a relatively low base.
Single premium investment sales were relatively flat as a result of residual
concerns over the investment business restructuring and significant reductions
in competitors` fees which attracted flows at lower margins. These effects
were offset by improved investment performance, the new Absolute Return fund
launch and enhancements to the fixed bond rates of the life product. Single
premium sales of the offshore investment
product through Old Mutual International continued to accelerate and were 49%
up on the comparative period.
Life VNB at R285 million was 82% higher than the comparative period, with the
new business APE margin improving from 9% in the comparative period to 15%.
This was as a result of an increased proportion of higher margin risk business
being sold, as well as good expense management and the improvement brought
about by distribution expenses being spread over higher recurring premium
volumes, and improved efficiency in the distribution channels.
Bancassurance sales through Nedbank continued to grow and were up 25% on the
comparative period. The launch of a new, low cost, simple savings product
through Nedbank branches was very well received. Credit life sales slowed
following the introduction of the National Credit Act, but were offset by the
new savings and risk product flows.
Corporate
There is a strong focus on activities to improve future flows. The emphasis on
building strong relationships with corporate clients through the key account
management process continues and an increased emphasis on managing the
relationship with investment consultants has been implemented.
Corporate life sales were slightly higher driven by strong risk sales,
particularly in the third quarter. Single premium sales were lower and were
affected by the timing of deals.
The life new business margin (post-tax) reduced as a result of the change in
mix and, in particular, the relatively lower with-profit annuity sales and
higher Symmetry (multimanager) volumes. There was also a reduction in with-
profit annuity margins during the period. Net client cash flows in the
Corporate market were better than the comparative period as a result of
significantly better than expected termination experience. We have had R0.9
billion in terminations during the period versus R6.2 billion in the
comparative period, which included R4.6 billion Guaranteed Income Contracts
(GICs). The smoothed bonus products have declared high bonuses which has
encouraged retention as has the increased focus on managing the relationship
with long-standing clients.
Old Mutual Investment Group South Africa (OMIGSA)
The implementation of the boutique structure in OMIGSA is on track.
Appointments have been made for all roles where staff losses were incurred
after the launch of this structure at the beginning of the year. The focus is
now on stabilising the structure and increasing investors` confidence in
individual boutique investment philosophies.
OMIGSA investment performance continues to be satisfactory. Overall, 78% and
68% of funds outperformed their benchmarks over one and three years
respectively to 30 September 2007. For the peer cogniscent institutional
funds, 91% and 45% of mandates were above the industry mean over one and three
years. 79% and 71% of institutional mandates outperformed their benchmarks
over these same periods. The Macro Strategy Investments boutique`s Profile
Balanced Fund was ranked second over one year, fourth over three years and
third over five years ended 30 September 2007 in the Alexander Forbes Large
Manager Watch (global) survey.
83% of the thirteen unit trust funds, representing 44% of unit trust assets,
were first and second quartile performers over one year, 82% over three years
and 88% over five years ended 30 September 2007. 98% of the life funds
outperformed their benchmarks over one year and three years ended 30 September
2007 demonstrating consistent performance on these assets.
During the period, Marriot Income Specialists` launched the Marriot
International Income Growth Fund, OMIGSA Property launched Triangle, an
industry defining direct property fund and Umbono Fund Managers launched the
RAFI 40 Index Fund.
BANKING - NEDBANK GROUP (NEDBANK)
On track to deliver 2007 targets
The full text of Nedbank`s trading update for the nine months ended 30
September 2007, released on 8 November 2007, can be accessed on Nedbank`s
website, http//www.nedbankgroup.co.za
Nedbank showed continued positive momentum into the third quarter in an
environment where South African banks remained largely unaffected by the
volatility and risk aversion that have characterised international financial
markets since the start of the US sub-prime crisis. Growth in Nedbank`s
wholesale businesses remains good, with retail earnings growth slowing as this
sector feels the impact of increasing interest rates, rising household
indebtedness and ongoing pressure on margins, particularly in the home loans
area. Nedbank Capital`s earnings improved in the third quarter after a
disappointing first half.
Headline earnings increased by 31% to R4,211 million for the period from
R3,216 million for the comparative period, with headline earnings per share
increasing by 32% to 1,059 cents for the period from 801 cents for the
comparative period. Diluted headline earnings per share increased by 31% to
1,021 cents from 782 cents in the comparative period. Attributable income grew
by 25% to R4,248 million from R3,394 million in the comparative period.
Nedbank achieved a return on average ordinary shareholders` equity of 21.2%,
an improvement from the 18.6% reported for the comparative period, and ahead
of the 2007 target of 20% set during 2004. Net interest income grew 30% from
R7,928 million to R10,288 million for the period, underpinned by a 31% growth
in average interest-earning banking assets over the comparative period.
The margin for the period was 3.94%, down from 3.96% for the comparative
period, but up from the 3.90% for the period to 30 June 2007. Similar to
trends reported at the 2007 interim results, the margin reflects ongoing
competition for assets and pressure on deposit pricing as the sector has had
to source a higher proportion of funding from the wholesale deposit market,
offset by the endowment benefits of interest rate increases.
The impairments charge rose by 56% to R1,646 million from R1,055 million for
the comparative period. In line with expectations, the credit loss ratio
increased marginally from 0.63% for the period to 30 June 2007 to 0.64% for
the full nine months. This increase reflects higher impairment levels for
Nedbank Retail and Imperial Bank, while the credit loss ratios in Nedbank
Capital and Nedbank Corporate are below normalised levels and have continued
to benefit from further recoveries, which are unlikely to be sustained into
the future.
Non Interest Revenue (NIR) grew by 13% to R7,518 million for the period from
R6,660 million for the comparative period with commission and fee income 16%
higher, benefiting from good transactional banking and bancassurance volumes.
As reported at the 2007 interim results, NIR growth was adversely affected by
disappointing trading income in Nedbank Capital. Trading income for the period
amounted to R878 million, down from R1,111 million in the comparative period
(Nedbank experienced record trading in the first quarter of 2006).
Expenses increased by 16% to R9,714 million over the comparative period of
R8,369 million, driven mainly by a 18% growth in staff expenses as additional
employees were appointed in the client-facing and collections areas and an
increase in marketing spend of 21%.
The `jaws` ratio remained positive, with total revenue growth of 22% being 6%
above expense growth of 16%, resulting in an improvement of the cost-to-income
ratio from 57.4% for the comparative period to 54.6%.
With the majority of Nedbank`s non-core asset disposal programme completed,
income after taxation from non-trading and capital items declined from R178
million in the comparative period to R37 million. Total assets at R490 billion
are an annualised 21% higher than at 31 December 2006. Advances increased by
R56 billion (25% annualised) and average interest-earning banking assets
increased by an annualised 31%.
As a result of the total 300 basis points (six consecutive quarters of 50
basis points) increase in interest rates prior to 30 September 2007, consumer
asset growth has started to slow. Following the further 50 basis points
increase in October 2007 the bank anticipates a continued slowing of asset
growth and an increase in impairment charges, more specifically for Retail
advances. While Business Banking conditions remain robust, it is anticipated
that the interest rate increases will slow advances growth in the small and
medium business sectors, which are also likely to start seeing increases in
impairments levels. However conditions remain favourable for the corporate
banking environment as a result of substantial infrastructure spend by both
the private and public sectors.
Nedbank remains well positioned for the transition to Basel II on 1 January
2008.
Nedbank Retail`s strategy to expand its retail footprint across South Africa
remains a key focus and Nedbank has invested a further R44 million since June
2007. This includes opening an additional 23 outlets and upgrading and
increasing its ATM network from 1,361 in June to 1,465 ATMs in September 2007.
On 25 October 2007, the Nedbank Group announced that Nedbank Limited (Nedbank)
would acquire Old Mutual`s 50% interest in Old Mutual Bank, which operates as
a division of Nedbank. The current joint venture arrangement will be replaced
by a broader group strategy whereby Nedbank will acquire Old Mutual`s share of
the joint venture, but will continue to offer intermediary and broker-friendly
products through its own branch network. This will enable some branch
rationalisation and a broader distribution network for these products.
GENERAL INSURANCE - MUTUAL & FEDERAL
Solid performance
The full text of Mutual & Federal`s trading update for the nine months ended
30 September 2007, released on 8 November 2007, can be accessed on Mutual &
Federal`s website, http//www.mf.co.za
Mutual & Federal maintained positive results despite ongoing high levels of
competition in the insurance market and has been successful in increasing
premiums in an attempt to return all portfolios to satisfactory levels of
profit.
The underwriting results for the period were significantly influenced by a
sharp increase in the frequency and severity of industrial and commercial fire
claims in the second quarter, whilst the motor account continued to be
negatively impacted by continued high levels of accidents and escalating
repair costs.
Gross premiums grew by 9% during the period benefiting from rate increases,
underwriting interventions and the cancellation of unprofitable blocks of
business.
Mutual & Federal generated an underwriting surplus of R298 million, up 25%
from the surplus of R238 million in the comparative period. The combined ratio
(the ratio of claims, commissions and expenses to net earned premiums)
decreased to 94.9% (95.6% in the comparative period), mainly as a result of a
reduction in the claims ratio (excluding Risk Finance business) from 64.0% to
63.5%. This reduction includes the release of R72 million (R62 million in the
comparative period) from technical reserves following further refinements of
estimation methods. Whilst the trading environment remains extremely
competitive, management are confident that the various corrective measures
will lead to a general improvement in underwriting results.
The solvency ratio has increased from 44% to 49% following strong growth in
the value of listed equities in the period.
Following the resignation of Bruce Campbell, from 16 August 2007 Keith
Kennedy, previously Executive General Manager: Business Services, has been
appointed Managing Director.
US LIFE
Continuing strong offshore variable annuity sales add to diversity of earnings
Excellent sales through Old Mutual Bermuda, our offshore variable annuity
business unit, represented 51% of APE sales in the US Life business. With
strong demand for fixed indexed annuities also being felt, we were able to
produce (on an APE basis), sales of USD473 million, a 43% increase over the
comparative period.
We now have a diverse mix of product offerings, including variable annuities,
fixed indexed annuities, term life and universal life. Offshore sales through
Old Mutual Bermuda increased by 187% to USD239 million (APE) versus the
comparative period. The increase in sales is due to a new product launch in
April 2007 as well as new distribution agreements in Asia. Bermuda now
represents 21% of our total funds under management. Universal Life (UL) sales
are up over the comparative period by 36% as part of a shift from a term-
focused distribution to a unit-linked-focused distribution.
Funds under management of USD23.3 billion at 30 September 2007 were up 5% from
31 December 2006 primarily due to strong sales, which were partially offset by
surrenders on the Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuities block of business.
The new business margin of 22.0% was above our longer-term expectations
primarily driven by the volume of variable annuity business. The overall
business continues to benefit from good investment performance, wider style
capabilities and enhanced distribution. Our coordinated retail distribution
strategy has made good progress.
Old Mutual has very limited direct exposure to sub-prime debt and this helped
it weather the market turbulence during August. Profits from the US Life
business are in line with our expectations, with better than expected sales
and margins being offset by increased hedging costs, reflecting increased
market volatility.
The business remains on track to return cash in 2007.
Our overall US advertising strategy was launched at the intermediary level and
was built on our theme of innovation. Our proposition, "The thinking is new,
the name is Old Mutual", has resonated in the marketplace. Later this year we
will launch our consumer campaign with a focus on making Old Mutual a
recognised name in the US financial services marketplace.
US ASSET MANAGEMENT
Continued growth in assets through strong cash flow and leading investment
performance
Our US asset management business continues to deliver excellent net client
cash flows, attracting USD26 billion in the period, driven in particular by
strong flows at Analytic, Acadian, Dwight and Rogge. Cash flows, positive
markets and investment performance, and the acquisition of Ashfield Capital
Partners in February enabled us to grow our funds under management from
USD272.6 billion at 31 December 2006 to USD330.2 billion at 30 September 2007.
We are also seeing a diversification of our client base, with a significant
proportion of our net cash flows coming from investors outside the US.
Net client cash flow reflects the strong long term investment performance of
our affiliates. At 30 September 2007, 87% of assets had outperformed their
benchmarks over three years. 88% of assets were ranked above the median of
their peer group over the comparative period.
Our retail initiative is making progress, with Old Mutual Capital`s mutual
fund sales increasing 24% to USD1,175 million from the comparative period.
OMAM (UK) unit trust sales increased 54% to USD1,949 million from the
comparative period (USD1,263 million), benefiting from our investment made
during 2006 to enhance the product offering and distribution capabilities of
the business. In the third quarter, three of the Asset Allocation funds
managed by our affiliates marked their three-year anniversaries and were
awarded four and five star rankings by Morningstar. We have also recently
gained regulatory approval to restructure our Asset Allocation funds into a
"Fund of Funds" structure enhancing our flexibility as well as helping to
achieve scale in many of our single strategy funds.
OMAM has been a pioneer in the market for 130/30 and similar strategies, which
seek to further enhance the alpha our affiliates produce. This is fast-growing
area for institutional and retail investors, and these products typically
command higher fees. Five of our affiliates (Acadian Asset Management,
Analytic Investors, Thompson, Siegel & Walmsley, Thomson, Horstmann & Bryant,
and Dwight Asset Management Company) manage assets in this market. Acadian and
Analytic in particular have established excellent five-year track records.
OTHER
Australia
Operations in Skandia Group Australia include retail mutual funds and
institutional investment funds. After breaking even for the first time in
2006, the business continues to be profitable. At 30 September 2007, funds
under management were AUD15.0 billion (GBP6.6 billion) up 6% from AUD14.2
billion (GBP5.8 billion) at 31 December 2006. This was made up of
institutional funds of AUD9.1 billion and retail funds of AUD5.9 billion.
Integration of the institutional business, acquired late 2006, is now
substantially complete and on track to generate the expected synergies.
China
Skandia:BSAM, our 50:50 joint venture with the Beijing State-owned Asset
Management Company (BSAM), is now in its third full year of operation and
continues to show strong sales growth. The business sells unit-linked products
and has licences to operate in Beijing, Shanghai and Jiangsu Province
(Nanjing). We now have approval to open a branch in Guangdong Province and we
hope to open sub-branches in Wuxi and Nantong in Jiangsu Province, before the
end of 2007. Despite its recent entry into the market, of the 24 foreign owned
joint venture insurance companies in China, Skandia:BSAM had the eighth
largest gross premium flows (up 2 places compared to 2006). Gross premium
income for the period totalled RMB1.6 billion (GBP103 million), an increase of
329% over the comparative period and almost triple Gross Premium Income for
2006.
India
Kotak Mahindra Old Mutual Life Insurance Ltd (KMOM), our joint venture with
the Kotak Mahindra Group, in which we have a 26% stake, continues to show
steady progress. The business now operates in 55 cities and 85 locations
across India. Gross premiums for the six months (since its 31 March year end)
were INR3.6 billion (GBP44 million) against INR2.3 billion (GBP28 million) for
the comparative period. In September we agreed to boost the venture with a
capital injection of INR1.5 billion (approximately GBP19 million) in order to
extend its office network to 150 locations and increase its workforce by 35%
by its year end.
Jim Sutcliffe
Chief Executive
8 November 2007
Sponsor
Merrill Lynch
Date: 08/11/2007 09:00:13 Produced by the JSE SENS Department.
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