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Westpac Records Slight Profit Drop Amid Geopolitical Risk Concerns

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

In a cautious signal to the market, Westpac has recorded a marginal decline in its half-year profit, posting a $3.45 billion result, down by one per cent compared to previous figures.

This financial outcome marks the first under the direction of their new CEO, Anthony Miller, who commenced his role in December last year.

Westpac has flagged geopolitical unpredictability as a significant ongoing risk, reflecting a challenging environment for the financial sector.

Miller highlighted the bank's strong performance in business and institutional banking as a positive offset to other pressures. A noteworthy rise of 14 per cent in Australian business lending and a 15 per cent increase in institutional lending were key contributors to their results. This elevation underscores Westpac's strategic shift towards strengthening its business banking division.

The bank also noted a reduction in the impacts from inflation and high interest rates, as evidenced by falling credit impairment charges and a drop in stressed exposures, currently sitting at a low 1.36 per cent. This indicates a measure of resilience among Westpac's customers, who have navigated through substantial cost-of-living challenges in recent years.

With other major banks yet to report, Westpac's release sets a cautiously optimistic tone in the current economic climate. Keeping a forward-looking approach, Anthony Miller stated the bank’s intention to collaborate with the government on crucial issues such as housing provision and cash access sustainability, aiming to bolster competition and national growth.

Shareholders will receive an interim dividend of 76 cents, marking a moment of stability in an otherwise unpredictable financial landscape.

Published:Monday, 5th May 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

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Finance News

October 2025 Sees Decline in Personal Insolvencies

05 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

In October 2025, Australia witnessed a notable decrease in personal insolvencies, with the Australian Financial Security Authority (AFSA) reporting 1,116 new cases. This marks a decline from 1,169 in September 2025 and an increase from 1,009 in October 2024. The breakdown includes 601 bankruptcies, 498 debt agreements, and 17 personal insolvency agreements. Additionally, 16 new temporary debt protections were recorded, offering individuals a 21-day respite from unsecured creditor enforcement to seek advice or consider insolvency options. - read more

RBA's October 2025 Review Highlights Australia's Financial Resilience

05 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has released its October 2025 Financial Stability Review, providing a comprehensive assessment of the nation's financial system amid global uncertainties. The report underscores that Australia's financial institutions are well-positioned to navigate potential challenges, with households, businesses, and banks demonstrating resilience. - read more

RBA Advises Caution in Lending Practices Amid Improved Borrower Finances

05 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has issued a cautionary note to financial institutions, advising them to maintain prudent lending practices despite improvements in borrower financial health. Recent data indicates that the proportion of mortgage holders spending more than they earn has decreased to approximately 3%, down from 5% in mid-2024. This improvement is attributed to factors such as tax cuts and easing inflation. - read more

Australian Borrowers Turn to Refinancing Amidst Rising Mortgage Arrears

28 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Recent data indicates a notable increase in mortgage refinancing across Australia, driven by borrowers seeking improved loan terms in response to escalating arrears, particularly among substantial loans. This trend underscores the financial pressures many Australians are currently facing. - read more

Australia's Private Debt Market Hits $224 Billion Milestone

28 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Australia's private debt market has experienced significant growth, with assets under management reaching A$224 billion-a 9% increase from the previous year. This milestone reflects a consistent shift in capital deployment within the Australian lending market, signaling a new chapter of innovation and flexibility. - read more

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