Mid-sized Federal Bank’s fourth quarter performance had mixed signs of what lies ahead. While the lender reported strong operating metrics, the potential pressure on asset quality due to covid-19 pandemic should give investors reason to worry.
First the good news. The bank’s operating performance was strong with pre-provisioning operating profit growing by 27%. This is notable since operating profit growth was in low single digits for the past two quarters.
The bank has increased provisions which brought down its net bad loan ratio from a year ago period. Further, Federal Bank also set aside ₹93 crore towards specific risks expected from covid-19 pandemic.