SoFi CEO enters prepaid forward contract on 1.5 million shares
Investing.com -- Royal Bank of Canada (TSX:RY) shares surged 5.9% in Toronto trade Wednesday after the country’s largest bank posted stronger-than-expected third-quarter earnings and revenue. The results follow upbeat reports from other Canadian lenders earlier this month, reinforcing investor confidence in the stability and profitability of the Big Six banks.
Net income for the third quarter ended July 31 rose 21% from a year earlier to C$5.4 billion, with diluted earnings per share up to C$3.75, exceeding analyst expectations of C$3.32. Adjusted diluted EPS came in at C$3.84, an 18% increase year over year, while revenue climbed to C$16.99 billion, ahead of the C$16.02 billion consensus estimate.
“This quarter’s record results demonstrate RBC’s relentless, long-term focus on our clients and our commitment to delivering on the bold growth ambitions we laid out at our recent Investor Day,” said Dave McKay, Royal Bank’s President and CEO. “We saw strong growth across each of our business segments reflecting the strength of our diversified business model, solid capital position, investments in technology and talent, and disciplined approach to risk and expense management.”
Pre-provision, pre-tax earnings jumped 29% from a year ago to C$7.8 billion, fueled largely by strength in Capital Markets and Personal & Commercial Banking. While higher variable compensation and technology investments moderated some of the gains, all major business segments posted growth, with insurance earnings up 45% and Wealth Management up 15%.
Credit quality metrics showed mixed developments. Royal Bank reported a total provision for credit losses (PCL) of C$881 million, up 34% from the same period last year but down 38% sequentially, reflecting stabilizing conditions and favorable macroeconomic forecasts.
The bank’s capital position remained robust despite share buybacks and loan growth, with a Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio of 13.2%, unchanged from the previous quarter and well above regulatory requirements. Liquidity metrics eased modestly but remained strong, with the average liquidity coverage ratio (LCR) at 129% and the net stable funding ratio (NSFR) at 114%.
McKay credited the bank’s workforce for navigating a complex operating landscape. “Thanks to the incredible efforts of Team RBC, we’re creating value and driving premium performance through the cycle, as we work to stay ahead of our clients’ expectations in a rapidly changing economy and world,” he said.
Royal Bank’s strong quarter adds to momentum in the Canadian banking sector following solid results from Scotiabank and Bank of Montreal earlier in the week. With RBC holding the largest market capitalization among Canadian lenders, its earnings set an optimistic tone as investors weigh the sector’s resilience amid evolving global financial conditions.