Investec full-year profit climbs 9.1%

Investec, a leading financial services group, has announced a 9.1% increase in full-year profit, showcasing the success of its strategic moves and strong client focus. Nishlan Samujh, Finance Director at Investec, discussed the company's performance and future outlook in an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa's Zanele Morrison. Samujh attributed the positive results to Investec's ability to navigate a complex global environment by staying close to clients and remaining agile in volatile markets. One of the key strategies that propelled Investec's growth was the consolidation of its Investec wealth and investment business with Rathbones in the UK. This merger resulted in the creation of the largest discretionary fund manager in the UK market with assets under management of nearly £108 billion. Additionally, the decision to sell off assets like Burnstone and the Budd Group holdings was part of a broader strategy to streamline operations, free up capital, and focus on core businesses. The company's performance was further boosted by high interest rates, allowing Investec to leverage its defensive balance sheet and see improvements in its lending book. Looking ahead, Investec plans to continue investing in expanding client propositions, modernizing platforms, and enhancing market reach. The company remains committed to putting clients at the center of its operations and delivering value through a combination of technological innovation and personalized service. Addressing future growth prospects, Samujh emphasized Investec's ongoing efforts to deploy multiple growth strategies in the UK and South African markets. The company aims to deepen its engagement with clients, capture market share, and maintain steady earnings growth. Despite challenges like credit loss impairments, Investec remains confident in its ability to navigate the evolving financial landscape and deliver sustainable results. In conclusion, Investec's impressive financial performance reflects the success of its client-centric approach, strategic investments, and operational efficiency. With a clear focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, Investec is well-positioned to continue its growth trajectory and create long-term value for shareholders.