TORONTO, August 24, 2023 —
Royal Bank of Canada11 (RY on TSX and NYSE) today reported net income of $3.9 billion for the quarter ended July 31, 2023, up $295 million or 8% from the prior year. Diluted EPS was $2.73, up 9% over the same period. Adjusted net income7 and adjusted EPS7 of
$4.0 billion and $2.84, respectively, were both up 11% from the prior year.
Results this quarter reflected higher provisions for credit losses, with a PCL on loans ratio of 29 bps. Results benefitted from lower taxes reflecting a favourable shift in earnings mix.
Pre-provision, pre-tax earnings7 of $5.2 billion were up $353 million or 7% from a year ago, mainly due to higher revenue in Capital Markets reflecting higher revenue in Corporate and Investment Banking, including the impact of loan underwriting markdowns in the prior period, as well as in Global Markets. Higher net interest income driven by higher interest rates and strong volume growth in Canadian Banking also contributed to the increase.
These factors were partially offset by higher staff-related expenses, mainly due to higher salaries as well as higher variable and stock-based compensation, and higher professional fees. Ongoing technology investments and higher discretionary costs to support strong client-driven growth also
contributed to higher expenses.
Compared to last quarter, net income was up 6% reflecting higher results in Personal & Commercial Banking and Insurance. Capital Markets results were relatively flat. These factors were partially offset by lower results in Wealth Management. Adjusted net income7 was up 7% over the same period.
Pre-provision, pre-tax earnings7 were up 5% as higher revenue more than offset expense growth.
The number of full-time equivalent (FTE) employees was down 1% from last quarter, and we expect to further reduce FTE by approximately 1-2% next quarter.
Our capital position remains robust, with a CET1 ratio of 14.1%, supporting solid volume growth and $1.9 billion in common share dividends. We also have a strong average LCR of 134%
Despite a complex operating environment, our Q3 results exemplify RBC’s ability to consistently deliver solid revenue and volume growth underpinned by prudent risk management. We remain focused on executing on our cost reduction strategy while leveraging our strong balance sheet and diversified business model to support our growth and bring long-term value to our clients, communities and shareholders.” – Dave McKay, President and Chief Executive Officer of Royal Bank of Canada
