KARACHI: MCB Bank Limited (MCB) unveiled its 1QCY19 ended March 31, 2019 consolidated net earnings at PKR 5.01 billion translating into earning per share (EPS) of PKR4.21 versus profit of PKR 4.71 billiond and EPS of PKR 3.97 recorded during the same quarter last year, exhibiting a rise of 6% YoY.[the_ad id=”32940″]The earnings arrived above market expectation mainly due to lower than estimated tax charge for the quarter.

Interest income of the bank rose 55% YoY at PKR 29.34 billion in 1QCY19. However, interest expense also surged 98% YoY, thereby restricting expansion in bank’s net interest income (NII) to 26% YoY.

Non-funded income (NFI) of the bank declined 15% YoY in 1QCY1 9 due to significant reduction in capital gains. However, operating expenses of the bank reduced 6% YoY during the quarter, thereby providing support to bank’s net earnings.

Tax expense for the bank arrived at PKR 4.04 billion, with effective tax rate at 45%.