ASX 200 Live: Westpac dividend misses expectations, CSL reaffirms guidance, Reliance flags US tariff impact

Market Index
2025.05.04 22:55
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Westpac's 1H25 results show a net profit after tax of $3.5bn, down 1%, with a disappointing interim dividend of 76 cents per share, missing expectations of 82 cents. The group's net interest margin also fell short at 1.88%. Meanwhile, the S&P 500 continues to rise, driven by easing trade tensions, stable consumer spending, and a strong jobs report, with ASX 200 futures indicating a positive opening.

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Westpac 1H25 dividend and margins miss

[8:55 am] Westpac reported a mixed 1H25 result. Here are the key numbers from the result:

  • Net profit after tax (ex-items) down 1% to $3.5bn, in-line with market expectations

  • CET1 ratio of 12.2%, in-line with market expectations

  • Earnings per share flat year-on-year at 101 cents vs 98 cents UBSe (3.0% beat)

  • Interim dividend of 76 cents per share vs. 82 cents UBSe (7.3% miss)

  • Group NIM down 1 bp to 1.88% vs. 1.94% UBSe (6 bp miss)

The result is a net negative, given the weaker-than-expected dividend and net interest margins. These are the two most important metrics for banks, and will likely offset the strength Westpac has shown in its balance sheet and resilient credit impairment metrics.

What's driving stocks higher?

[8:40 am] The S&P 500 recorded its ninth straight gain overnight. The momentum was largely driven by:

  • De-escalation of trade tensions, with further relief for US auto-related tariffs, China said late in the week it is weighing a response to recent US overtures on trade talks and constructive talks between the US and Japan

  • Stable consumer spending trades highlighted by Amazon, Visa and Mastercard earnings

  • Strong US jobs report, with nonfarm payrolls up 177,000 month-on-month (vs. 130,000 consensus) and unemployment rate steady at 4.2%, in-line with market expectations

Good morning!

[8:30 am] The market continues to run hot – S&P/ASX 200 futures are pointing towards a 32pt gain (+0.38%) at the open after a strong lead from Wall Street.

If you’re new to the blog – catch up quick via today’s Morning Wrap.

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