Latest news with #CWB
Yahoo
29-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
National Bank of Canada (NTIOF) Q2 2025 Earnings Call Highlights: Strong EPS Growth and ...
Earnings Per Share (EPS): $2.85, up 12% year-over-year. Return on Equity (ROE): 15.6%. CET1 Ratio: 13.4%. Quarterly Dividend Increase: Raised by $0.04. P&C Banking Net Income: $316 million, including $45 million from CWB. Wealth Management Net Income Growth: 15% year-over-year. Financial Markets Net Income: Over $500 million. Credigy Net Income: $40 million. ABA Bank Client and Deposit Growth: 33% and 21% respectively. Revenue Growth (All-Bank): 33% year-over-year. PTPP Growth (All-Bank): 45% year-over-year. Expenses Increase (Excluding CWB): 12% year-over-year. Non-Trading Net Interest Income (NII) Increase: 11% sequentially. Total Loans: $286 billion, up 22% year-over-year. Deposits (Excluding Wholesale Funding): $294 billion, up 23% year-over-year. Total PCLs: $545 million or 79 basis points. Adjusted Total PCLs: $315 million or 45 basis points. Gross Impaired Loan Ratio: 98 basis points. Warning! GuruFocus has detected 4 Warning Signs with NTIOF. Release Date: May 28, 2025 For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript. National Bank of Canada (NTIOF) reported a 12% year-over-year increase in earnings per share, reaching $2.85. The bank's return on equity was strong at 15.6%, reflecting robust financial performance. The acquisition of CWB is progressing well, with early momentum in cost and funding synergies. Wealth management saw a 15% increase in net income year-over-year, driven by strong organic growth. The bank's CET1 ratio stands at a solid 13.4%, supporting business growth and allowing for a dividend increase. Macroeconomic uncertainty, including global trade tensions and geopolitical instability, poses challenges to forecasting growth and inflation. Operating leverage was negative in the wealth management segment due to the integration of CWB's wealth business. The bank faces competitive pressures in deposit pricing, impacting net interest margins. The integration of CWB is expected to temporarily slow growth in certain segments, such as commercial loans. The bank's gross impaired loan ratio increased, driven by the CWB transaction, indicating potential credit quality concerns. Q: Why didn't National Bank of Canada update its earnings guidance despite strong Q2 results? A: Marie Gingras, CFO, explained that while they are confident in delivering mid-single-digit EPS growth for fiscal 2025, they see potential upside depending on market conditions. The strong first half provides a solid foundation, but they face a tough comparison in Q3. The successful integration of CWB is expected to create growth opportunities across Canada. Q: Can you provide more details on the AIRB transition and its impact on risk-weighted assets? A: Marie Gingras noted that while a small portfolio was migrated this quarter, the majority of the benefits from the AIRB transition are expected in 2026. A full capital plan update will be provided later in the year, likely in Q4. Q: Why isn't National Bank of Canada considering share buybacks given its strong CET1 ratio? A: Laurent Ferreira, CEO, stated that the focus is on organic growth and integrating CWB. The bank is cautious due to market uncertainty and plans to provide a capital plan update in Q4, which will include discussions on buybacks. Q: What needs to happen for revenue synergies from the CWB acquisition to materialize? A: Michael Denham, EVP, explained that revenue synergies will begin once client migrations to National Bank's systems are complete. This will allow CWB clients to access the full range of National Bank products and services, with migrations starting in the summer. Q: How did National Bank of Canada achieve such strong trading results in Q2? A: Etienne Dubuc, EVP, Financial Markets, attributed the success to an ideal trading environment with short volatility events, strong client activity, and robust issuance. The bank's defensive positioning and advanced trading technology allowed it to capitalize on market conditions. For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript. This article first appeared on GuruFocus.
Cision Canada
28-05-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
National Bank reports its results for the Second Quarter of 2025 and raises its quarterly dividend by 4 cents to $1.18 per share
The financial information reported in this document is based on the unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements for the quarter and the six-month period ended April 30, 2025 and is prepared in accordance with IAS 34 – Interim Financial Reporting as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). All amounts are presented in Canadian dollars. MONTREAL , May 28, 2025 /CNW/ - For the second quarter of 2025, National Bank is reporting net income of $896 million , down 1% from $906 million in the second quarter of 2024 and diluted earnings per share stood at $2.17 compared to $2.54 in the second quarter of 2024. Excluding specified items(1) recorded in the second quarter of 2025, notably the acquisition and integration costs related to the acquisition of Canadian Western Bank (CWB)(2), which was completed on February 3, 2025 as well as the initial provisions for credit losses on non-impaired loans acquired, adjusted net income(1) stood at $1,166 million compared to $906 million in the corresponding quarter of 2024. Adjusted diluted earnings per share(1) stood at $2.85 , up 12% from $2.54 in the second quarter of 2024. For the six-month period ended April 30, 2025 , the Bank's net income totalled $1,893 million , up 4% from $1,828 million for the corresponding period of 2024. Diluted earnings per share stood at $4.91 for the six-month period ended April 30, 2025 versus $5.13 for the corresponding period in 2024, the decrease being attributable to the common shares issued as part of the acquisition of CWB(2). Excluding specified items(1), adjusted net income(1) for the six-month period ended April 30, 2025 totalled $2,216 million , up 21% from $1,828 million for the six-month period ended April 30, 2024 , and adjusted diluted earnings per share(1) stood at $5.78 , up 13% from $5.13 for the six-month period ended April 30, 2024 . "The Bank delivered strong second quarter results, supported by solid organic growth in our business segments. We were also pleased to complete the acquisition of Canadian Western Bank during the quarter, marking a significant step forward in the acceleration of our domestic strategy and in extending the depth and reach of our banking capabilities for our clients," said Laurent Ferreira , President and Chief Executive Officer of National Bank of Canada . "In the context of continued geopolitical and geoeconomic uncertainty, our strong capital position allows us to support business growth," concluded Mr. Ferreira. Highlights (millions of Canadian dollars) Quarter ended April 30 Six months ended April 30 2025(2) 2024(3) % Change 2025(2) 2024(3) % Change Net income 896 906 (1) 1,893 1,828 4 Diluted earnings per share (dollars) $ 2.17 $ 2.54 (15) $ 4.91 $ 5.13 (4) Income before provisions for credit losses and income taxes 1,708 1,278 34 3,245 2,539 28 Return on common shareholders' equity(4) 11.9 % 16.9 % 14.0 % 17.0 % Dividend payout ratio(4) 42.2 % 43.2 % 42.2 % 43.2 % Operating results – Adjusted(1) Net income – Adjusted 1,166 906 29 2,216 1,828 21 Diluted earnings per share – Adjusted (dollars) $ 2.85 $ 2.54 12 $ 5.78 $ 5.13 13 Income before provisions for credit losses and income taxes – Adjusted 1,850 1,278 45 3,460 2,539 36 As at April 30, 2025 As at October 31, 2024 CET1 capital ratio under Basel III(5) 13.4 % 13.7 % Leverage ratio under Basel III(5) 4.7 % 4.4 % (1) See the Financial Reporting Method section on pages 4 to 7 for additional information on non-GAAP financial measures. (2) On February 3, 2025, the Bank completed the acquisition of CWB. CWB's results were consolidated from the closing date, which impacted the results, balances and ratios for the quarter and the six-month period ended April 30, 2025. For additional information on the impact of the CWB acquisition, see the Acquisition section in the Report to Shareholders – Second quarter of 2025, which is available on the Bank's website at or the SEDAR+ website at . (3) Certain amounts have been adjusted to reflect the discontinuation of taxable equivalent basis reporting for revenues and income tax expense. For additional information, see the Financial Reporting Method section. (4) For details on the composition of these measures, see the Glossary section on pages 51 to 54 in the Report to Shareholders – Second Quarter 2025, which is available on the Bank's website at or the SEDAR+ website at . (5) For additional information on capital management measures, see the Financial Reporting Method section on pages 6 to 12 in the Report to Shareholders – Second Quarter 2025, which is available on the Bank's website at or the SEDAR+ website at . Personal and Commercial(1) Net income totalled $132 million in the second quarter of 2025 versus $311 million in the second quarter of 2024, a 58% decrease. Adjusted net income (2) totalled $316 million , up 2% from the corresponding quarter of 2024. in the second quarter of 2025 versus in the second quarter of 2024, a 58% decrease. Adjusted net income totalled , up 2% from the corresponding quarter of 2024. At $1,416 million , second-quarter total revenues rose $285 million or 25% year over year due to the inclusion of CWB, which represents $240 million or 21%, as well as to an increase in net interest income related to growth in loan and deposit volumes, partly offset by a lower net interest margin. , second-quarter total revenues rose or 25% year over year due to the inclusion of CWB, which represents or 21%, as well as to an increase in net interest income related to growth in loan and deposit volumes, partly offset by a lower net interest margin. Compared to a year ago, personal lending grew 11% and commercial lending grew 64%, mainly due to the inclusion of CWB loans during the second quarter of 2025. The net interest margin (3) stood at 2.30% in the second quarter of 2025, down from 2.36% in the second quarter of 2024. stood at 2.30% in the second quarter of 2025, down from 2.36% in the second quarter of 2024. Second-quarter non-interest expenses stood at $804 million , up 31% year over year, of which the inclusion of CWB drove a 25% increase. , up 31% year over year, of which the inclusion of CWB drove a 25% increase. Provisions for credit losses rose $337 million year over year, mainly due to the initial provisions for credit losses of $230 million on non-impaired loans acquired from CWB as well as provisions for credit losses on impaired loans and non-impaired loans in Personal Banking and Commercial Banking. year over year, mainly due to the initial provisions for credit losses of on non-impaired loans acquired from CWB as well as provisions for credit losses on impaired loans and non-impaired loans in Personal Banking and Commercial Banking. At 56.8%, the second-quarter efficiency ratio(3) had deteriorated compared to 54.1% in the second quarter of 2024, partly due to specified items(2) related to the acquisition of CWB. Wealth Management(1) Net income totalled $232 million in the second quarter of 2025, a 13% increase from $205 million in the corresponding quarter of 2024. in the second quarter of 2025, a 13% increase from in the corresponding quarter of 2024. Second-quarter total revenues amounted to $791 million compared to $683 million in second-quarter 2024, a $108 million or 16% increase driven mainly by growth in fee-based revenues, net interest income and the inclusion of CWB revenues. compared to in second-quarter 2024, a or 16% increase driven mainly by growth in fee-based revenues, net interest income and the inclusion of CWB revenues. Second-quarter non-interest expenses stood at $476 million versus $400 million in second-quarter 2024, a 19% increase associated with revenue growth and with the impact of the inclusion of CWB. versus in second-quarter 2024, a 19% increase associated with revenue growth and with the impact of the inclusion of CWB. At 60.2%, the second-quarter efficiency ratio(3) had deteriorated compared to 58.6% in the second quarter of 2024. Financial Markets(1) Net income totalled $501 million in the second quarter of 2025, up 56% from $322 million in the second quarter of 2024. in the second quarter of 2025, up 56% from in the second quarter of 2024. Second-quarter total revenues amounted to $1,101 million , a 62% increase that was mainly due to growth in global markets revenues. , a 62% increase that was mainly due to growth in global markets revenues. Second-quarter non-interest expenses stood at $403 million in second-quarter 2025 compared to $312 million in second-quarter 2024, an increase that was due to higher variable compensation. in second-quarter 2025 compared to in second-quarter 2024, an increase that was due to higher variable compensation. Second-quarter provisions for credit losses were $64 million compared to $11 million in the same quarter of 2024, owing to provisions for credit losses on impaired loans. compared to in the same quarter of 2024, owing to provisions for credit losses on impaired loans. At 36.6%, the efficiency ratio(3) had improved from 45.8% in the second quarter of 2024 due to the marked increase in revenues. U.S. Specialty Finance and International Net income totalled $169 million in the second quarter of 2025, up 4% from $163 million in the second quarter of 2024. in the second quarter of 2025, up 4% from in the second quarter of 2024. Second-quarter total revenues amounted to $390 million , an 11% year-over-year increase driven mainly by revenue growth at the ABA Bank subsidiary. , an 11% year-over-year increase driven mainly by revenue growth at the ABA Bank subsidiary. Non-interest expenses for the second quarter of 2025 stood at $117 million , an 8% year-over-year increase attributable to business growth at the Credigy and ABA Bank subsidiaries. , an 8% year-over-year increase attributable to business growth at the Credigy and ABA Bank subsidiaries. Second-quarter provisions for credit losses were up $22 million year over year, with the increase being attributable to both Credigy and ABA Bank. year over year, with the increase being attributable to both Credigy and ABA Bank. At 30.0%, the efficiency ratio(3) had improved from 30.9% in the second quarter of 2024. Other(1) The Other segment reported a net loss of $138 million in the second quarter of 2025 compared to a net loss of $95 million in the same quarter of 2024, owing to the CWB acquisition and integration charges, which are considered specified items(2), partly offset by a higher contribution from Treasury activities and the inclusion of CWB revenues in the second quarter of 2025. Capital Management(1) As at April 30, 2025 , the Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) capital ratio under Basel III (4) stood at 13.4%, down from 13.7% as at October 31, 2024 . The decrease is mainly explained by the growth in the risk-weighted assets partly due to the inclusion of CWB. , the Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) capital ratio under Basel III stood at 13.4%, down from 13.7% as at . The decrease is mainly explained by the growth in the risk-weighted assets partly due to the inclusion of CWB. As at April 30, 2025 , the Basel III(4) leverage ratio was 4.7%, up from 4.4% as at October 31, 2024 . Dividends On May 27, 2025 , the Board of Directors declared regular dividends on the various series of first preferred shares and a dividend of $1.18 per common share, up 4 cents or 3.4%, payable on August 1, 2025 to shareholders of record on June 30, 2025 . (1) On February 3, 2025, the Bank completed the acquisition of CWB. CWB's results were consolidated from the closing date, which impacted the results, balances and ratios for the quarter and six-month period ended April 30, 2025. For additional information on the impact of the CWB acquisition, see the Acquisition section in the Report to Shareholders – Second quarter of 2025, which is available on the Bank's website at or the SEDAR+ website at . (2) See the Financial Reporting Method section on pages 4 to 7 for additional information on non-GAAP financial measures. (3) For details on the composition of these measures, see the Glossary section on pages 51 to 54 in the Report to Shareholders – Second Quarter 2025, which is available on the Bank's website at or the SEDAR+ website at . (4) For additional information on capital management measures, see the Financial Reporting Method section on pages 6 to 12 in the Report to Shareholders – Second Quarter 2025, which is available on the Bank's website at or the SEDAR+ website at . Acquisition Canadian Western Bank (CWB) Acquisition On February 3, 2025 , the Bank completed the acquisition of CWB, a diversified financial services institution based in Edmonton, Alberta , in which the Bank had already been holding a 5.9% equity interest. This transaction will enable the Bank to accelerate its growth across Canada . The business combination brings together two complementary Canadian banks with growing businesses, thereby enhancing customer service by offering a full range of products and services nationwide, with a regionally focused service model. The total consideration transferred of $6.8 billion included $5.3 billion for 100% of the common shares of CWB acquired by way of a share exchange at an exchange ratio of 0.450 of a common share of the National Bank for each CWB common share, other than those held by the National Bank, $1 .4 billion for the settlement of pre-existing relationships and $0.1 billion for the issuance of replacement share-based payment award. The fair value of the Bank's common shares issued was determined on the basis of the share price on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) at closing on January 31, 2025 being a price of $128.99 per share. At acquisition date, the Bank obtained a 100% interest in the CWB voting shares and the 5.9% previously held interest was remeasured to its fair value of $0 .3 billion. The non-controlling interest in CWB recognized at acquisition date was measured at a fair value of $0.6 billion and represents CWB's preferred shares and Limited Recourse Capital Notes (LRCN) outstanding on that date. Total purchase consideration amounted to $7.7 billion . Based on the estimated fair values, the preliminary purchase price allocation, including goodwill, assigns $45.4 billion to assets and $37.7 billion to liabilities at acquisition date. The estimated goodwill of $1.6 billion reflects the expected expense synergies from our Personal and Commercial and Wealth Management banking services operations, expected funding synergies, and the expected growth from the product and service platform at a national scale. Goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes. For additional information on the impact of the CWB acquisition, see the Acquisition section in the Report to Shareholders – Second quarter of 2025, which is available on the Bank's website at or the SEDAR+ website at . Financial Reporting Method The Bank's Consolidated Financial Statements are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards, as issued by the IASB and represent Canadian GAAP. Effective November 1, 2024 , the Bank discontinued taxable equivalent basis (TEB) reporting for revenues and income taxes. Using the TEB method is less relevant since the introduction of the Pillar 2 rules (global minimum tax) during the first quarter of 2025 and Bill C-59 in relation to the taxation of certain Canadian dividends during fiscal 2024. This change has no impact on net income previously disclosed. Data for the 2024 periods were adjusted to reflect this change. On February 3, 2025 , the Bank completed the acquisition of CWB. CWB's results were consolidated from the closing date, which impacted the results, balances and ratios for the quarter and six-month period ended April 30, 2025 in the Personal and Commercial, Wealth Management, and Financial Markets segments and in the Other heading of segment disclosures. For additional information on the impact of the CWB acquisition, see the Acquisition section in the Report to Shareholders – Second quarter of 2025, which is available on the Bank's website at or the SEDAR+ website at . Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures The Bank uses a number of financial measures when assessing its results and measuring overall performance. Some of these financial measures are not calculated in accordance with GAAP. Regulation 52-112 Respecting Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Disclosure (Regulation 52-112) prescribes disclosure requirements that apply to the following measures used by the Bank: non-GAAP financial measures; non-GAAP ratios; supplementary financial measures; capital management measures. Non-GAAP Financial Measures The Bank uses non-GAAP financial measures that do not have standardized meanings under GAAP and that therefore may not be comparable to similar measures used by other companies. Presenting non-GAAP financial measures helps readers to better understand how management analyzes results, shows the impacts of specified items on the results of the reported periods, and allows readers to better assess results without the specified items if they consider such items not to be reflective of the underlying performance of the Bank's operations. The key non-GAAP financial measures used by the Bank to analyze its results are described below, and a quantitative reconciliation of these measures is presented in the tables in the Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures section on pages 5 to 7. It should be noted that, for the quarter and the six-month period ended April 30, 2025 , as part of the CWB transaction, several acquisition-related items have been excluded from results since, in the opinion of management, they do not reflect the underlying performance of the Bank's operations, in particular, acquisition and integration charges, amortization of intangible assets related to the CWB acquisition and initial provisions for credit losses on non-impaired loans acquired from CWB. In addition, for the six-month period ended April 30, 2025, the amortization of subscription receipt issuance costs, the gain resulting from the remeasurement at fair value of the CWB common shares previously held by the Bank and the loss resulting from the impact of managing fair value changes were excluded from the results. For the quarter and the six-month period ended April 30, 2024 , no specified items had been excluded from results. For additional information on non-GAAP financial measures, non-GAAP ratios, supplementary financial measures, and capital management measures, see the Financial Reporting Method section and the Glossary section, on pages 6 to 12 and 51 to 54, respectively, of the Report to Shareholders – Second quarter of 2025, which is available on the Bank's website at or the SEDAR+ website at . Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures Presentation of Results – Adjusted (millions of Canadian dollars) Quarter ended April 30 2025(1) 2024(2) Personal and Commercial Wealth Management Financial Markets USSF&I Other Total Total Operating results Net interest income 1,146 230 (505) 356 (22) 1,205 635 Non-interest income 270 561 1,606 34 (26) 2,445 2,115 Total revenues 1,416 791 1,101 390 (48) 3,650 2,750 Non-interest expenses 804 476 403 117 142 1,942 1,472 Income before provisions for credit losses and income taxes 612 315 698 273 (190) 1,708 1,278 Provisions for credit losses 426 (1) 64 59 (3) 545 138 Income before income taxes (recovery) 186 316 634 214 (187) 1,163 1,140 Income taxes (recovery) 54 84 133 45 (49) 267 234 Net income 132 232 501 169 (138) 896 906 Items that have an impact on results Non-interest expenses CWB acquisition and integration charges(3) 1 3 − − 114 118 − Amortization of intangible assets related to the CWB acquisition(4) 23 1 − − − 24 − Impact on non-interest expenses 24 4 − − 114 142 − Provisions for credit losses Initial provisions for credit losses on non-impaired loans acquired from CWB(5) 230 − − − − 230 − Impact on provisions for credit losses 230 − − − − 230 − Income taxes Income taxes on the CWB acquisition and integration charges(3) − (1) − − (31) (32) − Income taxes on the amortization of intangible assets related to the CWB acquisition(4) (6) − − − − (6) − Income taxes on initial provisions for credit losses on non-impaired loans acquired from CWB(5) (64) − − − − (64) − Impact on income taxes (70) (1) − − (31) (102) − Impact on net income (184) (3) − − (83) (270) − Operating results – Adjusted Net interest income – Adjusted 1,146 230 (505) 356 (22) 1,205 635 Non-interest income – Adjusted 270 561 1,606 34 (26) 2,445 2,115 Total revenues – Adjusted 1,416 791 1,101 390 (48) 3,650 2,750 Non-interest expenses – Adjusted 780 472 403 117 28 1,800 1,472 Income before provisions for credit losses and income taxes – Adjusted 636 319 698 273 (76) 1,850 1,278 Provisions for credit losses – Adjusted 196 (1) 64 59 (3) 315 138 Income before income taxes (recovery) – Adjusted 440 320 634 214 (73) 1,535 1,140 Income taxes (recovery) – Adjusted 124 85 133 45 (18) 369 234 Net income – Adjusted 316 235 501 169 (55) 1,166 906 (1) On February 3, 2025, the Bank completed the acquisition of CWB. CWB's results were consolidated from the closing date, which impacted the results, balances and ratios for the quarter ended April 30, 2025. For additional information on the impact of the CWB acquisition, see the Acquisition section in the Report to Shareholders – Second quarter of 2025, which is available on the Bank's website at or the SEDAR+ website at . (2) Certain amounts have been adjusted to reflect the discontinuation of taxable equivalent basis reporting for revenues and income taxes. (3) During the quarter ended April 30, 2025, the Bank recorded acquisition and integration charges of $118 million ($86 million net of income taxes) related to the CWB transaction. (4) During the quarter ended April 30, 2025, the Bank recorded an amount of $24 million ($18 million net of income taxes) to reflect the amortization of intangible assets related to the CWB acquisition. (5) During the quarter ended April 30, 2025, the Bank recorded initial provisions for credit losses on non-impaired loans acquired from CWB of $230 million ($166 million net of income taxes). (millions of Canadian dollars) Six months ended April 30 2025(1) 2024(2) Personal and Commercial Wealth Management Financial Markets USSF&I Other Total Total Operating results Net interest income 2,090 457 (1,014) 726 (82) 2,177 1,386 Non-interest income 530 1,110 3,022 69 (75) 4,656 4,074 Total revenues 2,620 1,567 2,008 795 (157) 6,833 5,460 Non-interest expenses 1,445 917 770 240 216 3,588 2,921 Income before provisions for credit losses and income taxes 1,175 650 1,238 555 (373) 3,245 2,539 Provisions for credit losses 588 1 100 110 − 799 258 Income before income taxes (recovery) 587 649 1,138 445 (373) 2,446 2,281 Income taxes (recovery) 165 175 220 93 (100) 553 453 Net income 422 474 918 352 (273) 1,893 1,828 Items that have an impact on results Net interest income Amortization of the subscription receipt issuance costs(3) − − − − (28) (28) − Impact on net interest income − − − − (28) (28) − Non-interest income Gain on the fair value remeasurement of an equity interest(4) − − − − 4 4 − Management of the fair value changes related to the CWB acquisition(5) − − − − (23) (23) − Impact on non-interest income − − − − (19) (19) − Non-interest expenses CWB acquisition and integration charges(6) 1 3 − − 140 144 − Amortization of intangible assets related to the CWB acquisition(7) 23 1 − − − 24 − Impact on non-interest expenses 24 4 − − 140 168 − Provisions for credit losses Initial provisions for credit losses on non-impaired loans acquired from CWB(8) 230 − − − − 230 − Impact on provisions for credit losses 230 − − − − 230 − Income taxes Income taxes on the amortization of the subscription receipt issuance costs(3) − − − − (8) (8) − Income taxes on the gain on the fair value remeasurement of an equity interest(4) − − − − 1 1 − Income taxes on management of the fair value changes related to the CWB acquisition(5) − − − − (6) (6) − Income taxes on the CWB acquisition and integration charges(6) − (1) − − (38) (39) − Income taxes on the amortization of intangible assets related to the CWB acquisition(7) (6) − − − − (6) − Income taxes on initial provisions for credit losses on non- impaired loans acquired from CWB(8) (64) − − − − (64) − Impact on income taxes (70) (1) − − (51) (122) − Impact on net income (184) (3) − − (136) (323) − Operating results – Adjusted Net interest income – Adjusted 2,090 457 (1,014) 726 (54) 2,205 1,386 Non-interest income – Adjusted 530 1,110 3,022 69 (56) 4,675 4,074 Total revenues – Adjusted 2,620 1,567 2,008 795 (110) 6,880 5,460 Non-interest expenses – Adjusted 1,421 913 770 240 76 3,420 2,921 Income before provisions for credit losses and income taxes – Adjusted 1,199 654 1,238 555 (186) 3,460 2,539 Provisions for credit losses – Adjusted 358 1 100 110 − 569 258 Income before income taxes (recovery) – Adjusted 841 653 1,138 445 (186) 2,891 2,281 Income taxes (recovery) – Adjusted 235 176 220 93 (49) 675 453 Net income – Adjusted 606 477 918 352 (137) 2,216 1,828 (1) On February 3, 2025, the Bank completed the acquisition of CWB. CWB's results were consolidated from the closing date, which impacted the results, balances and ratios for the six-month period ended April 30, 2025. For additional information on the impact of the CWB acquisition, see the Acquisition section in the Report to Shareholders – Second quarter of 2025, which is available on the Bank's website at or the SEDAR+ website at . (2) Certain amounts have been adjusted to reflect the discontinuation of taxable equivalent basis reporting for revenues and income taxes. (3) During the six-month period ended April 30, 2025, the Bank recorded an amount of $28 million ($20 million net of income taxes) to reflect the amortization of the issuance costs of the subscription receipts issued as part of the agreement to acquire CWB (for additional information, see Notes 8 and 10 to the unaudited interim condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in the Report to Shareholders – Second quarter of 2025, which is available on the Bank's website at or the SEDAR+ website at ). (4) During the six-month period ended April 30, 2025, the Bank recorded a gain of $4 million ($3 million net of income taxes) upon the remeasurement at fair value of the interest already held in CWB as at January 31, 2025. (5) During the six-month period ended April 30, 2025, the Bank recorded a mark-to-market loss of $23 million ($17 million net of income taxes) on interest rate swaps used to manage the fair value changes of CWB's assets and liabilities that resulted in volatility of goodwill and capital on closing of the transaction. (6) During the six-month period ended April 30, 2025, the Bank recorded acquisition and integration charges of $144 million ($105 million net of income taxes) related to the CWB transaction. (7) During the six-month period ended April 30, 2025, the Bank recorded an amount of $24 million ($18 million net of income taxes) to reflect the amortization of intangible assets related to the CWB acquisition. (8) During the six-month period ended April 30, 2025, the Bank recorded initial provisions for credit losses on non-impaired loans acquired from CWB of $230 million ($166 million net of income taxes). Presentation of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share – Adjusted (Canadian dollars) Quarter ended April 30 Six months ended April 30 2025(1) 2024 % Change 2025(1) 2024 % Change Basic earnings per share $ 2.19 $ 2.56 (14) $ 4.96 $ 5.18 (4) Amortization of the subscription receipt issuance costs(2) − − 0.05 − Gain on the fair value remeasurement of an equity interest(3) − − (0.01) − Management of the fair value changes related to the CWB acquisition(4) − − 0.05 − CWB acquisition and integration charges(5) 0.22 − 0.29 − Amortization of intangible assets related to the CWB acquisition(6) 0.04 − 0.05 − Initial provisions for credit losses on non-impaired loans acquired from CWB(7) 0.43 − 0.45 − Basic earnings per share – Adjusted $ 2.88 $ 2.56 13 $ 5.84 $ 5.18 13 Diluted earnings per share $ 2.17 $ 2.54 (15) $ 4.91 $ 5.13 (4) Amortization of the subscription receipt issuance costs(2) − − 0.05 − Gain on the fair value remeasurement of an equity interest(3) − − (0.01) − Management of the fair value changes related to the CWB acquisition(4) − − 0.05 − CWB acquisition and integration charges(5) 0.22 − 0.28 − Amortization of intangible assets related to the CWB acquisition(6) 0.04 − 0.05 − Initial provisions for credit losses on non-impaired loans acquired from CWB(7) 0.42 − 0.45 − Diluted earnings per share – Adjusted $ 2.85 $ 2.54 12 $ 5.78 $ 5.13 13 (1) On February 3, 2025, the Bank completed the acquisition of CWB. CWB's results were consolidated from the closing date, which impacted the results, balances and ratios for the quarter and the six-month period ended April 30, 2025. For additional information on the impact of the CWB acquisition, see the Acquisition section in the Report to Shareholders – Second quarter of 2025, which is available on the Bank's website at or the SEDAR+ website at . (2) During the six-month period ended April 30, 2025, the Bank recorded an amount of $28 million ($20 million net of income taxes) to reflect the amortization of the issuance costs of the subscription receipts issued as part of the agreement to acquire CWB (for additional information, see Notes 8 and 10 to the unaudited interim condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in the Report to Shareholders – Second quarter of 2025, which is available on the Bank's website at or the SEDAR+ website at ). (3) During the six-month period ended April 30, 2025, the Bank recorded a gain of $4 million ($3 million net of income taxes) upon the remeasurement at fair value of the interest already held in CWB as at January 31, 2025. (4) During the six-month period ended April 30, 2025, the Bank recorded a mark-to-market loss of $23 million ($17 million net of income taxes) on interest rate swaps used to manage the fair value changes of CWB's assets and liabilities that resulted in volatility of goodwill and capital on closing of the transaction. (5) During the quarter ended April 30, 2025, the Bank recorded acquisition and integration charges of $118 million ($86 million net of income taxes) related to the CWB transaction. For the six-month period ended April 30, 2025, these charges were $144 million ($105 million net of income taxes). (6) During the quarter and the six-month period ended April 30, 2025, the Bank recorded an amount of $24 million ($18 million net of income taxes) to reflect the amortization of intangible assets related to the CWB acquisition. (7) During the quarter and the six-month period ended April 30, 2025, the Bank recorded initial provisions for credit losses on non-impaired loans acquired from CWB of $230 million ($166 million net of income taxes). Highlights (millions of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts) Quarter ended April 30 Six months ended April 30 2025(1) 2024(2) % Change 2025(1) 2024(2) % Change Operating results Total revenues 3,650 2,750 33 6,833 5,460 25 Income before provisions for credit losses and income taxes 1,708 1,278 34 3,245 2,539 28 Net income 896 906 (1) 1,893 1,828 4 Return on common shareholders' equity(3) 11.9 % 16.9 % 14.0 % 17.0 % Operating leverage(3) 0.8 % 4.3 % 2.3 % 2.9 % Efficiency ratio(3) 53.2 % 53.5 % 52.5 % 53.5 % Earnings per share Basic $ 2.19 $ 2.56 (14) $ 4.96 $ 5.18 (4) Diluted $ 2.17 $ 2.54 (15) $ 4.91 $ 5.13 (4) Operating results – Adjusted(4) Total revenues – Adjusted(4) 3,650 2,750 33 6,880 5,460 26 Income before provisions for credit losses and income taxes – Adjusted(4) 1,850 1,278 45 3,460 2,539 36 Net income – Adjusted(4) 1,166 906 29 2,216 1,828 21 Return on common shareholders' equity – Adjusted(5) 15.6 % 16.9 % 16.5 % 17.0 % Operating leverage – Adjusted(5) 10.4 % 4.3 % 8.9 % 2.9 % Efficiency ratio – Adjusted(5) 49.3 % 53.5 % 49.7 % 53.5 % Diluted earnings per share – Adjusted(4) $ 2.85 $ 2.54 12 $ 5.78 $ 5.13 13 Common share information Dividends declared $ 1.14 $ 1.06 8 $ 2.28 $ 2.12 8 Book value(3) $ 76.13 $ 62.28 $ 76.13 $ 62.28 Share price High $ 127.44 $ 114.68 $ 140.76 $ 114.68 Low $ 107.01 $ 101.24 $ 107.01 $ 86.50 Close $ 121.08 $ 110.54 $ 121.08 $ 110.54 Number of common shares (thousands) 391,322 340,056 391,322 340,056 Market capitalization 47,381 37,590 47,381 37,590 (millions of Canadian dollars) As at April 30, 2025(1) As at October 31, 2024 % Change Balance sheet and off-balance-sheet Total assets 536,194 462,226 16 Loans, net of allowances 285,728 243,032 18 Deposits 387,974 333,545 16 Equity attributable to common shareholders 29,790 22,400 33 Assets under administration(3) 825,523 766,082 8 Assets under management(3) 170,469 155,900 9 Regulatory ratios under Basel III(6) Capital ratios Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) 13.4 % 13.7 % Tier 1 15.1 % 15.9 % Total 16.9 % 17.0 % Leverage ratio 4.7 % 4.4 % TLAC ratio(6) 28.2 % 31.2 % TLAC leverage ratio(6) 8.8 % 8.6 % Liquidity coverage ratio (LCR)(6) 166 % 150 % Net stable funding ratio (NSFR)(6) 127 % 122 % Other information Number of employees – Worldwide (full-time equivalent) 32,371 29,196 11 Number of branches in Canada 395 368 7 Number of banking machines in Canada 965 940 3 (1) On February 3, 2025, the Bank completed the acquisition of CWB. CWB's results were consolidated from the closing date, which impacted the results, balances and ratios for the quarter and the six-month period ended April 30, 2025. For additional information on the impact of the CWB acquisition, see the Acquisition section in the Report to Shareholders – Second quarter of 2025, which is available on the Bank's website at or the SEDAR+ website at . (2) Certain amounts have been adjusted to reflect the discontinuation of taxable equivalent basis reporting for revenues and income taxes. (3) For details on the composition of these measures, see the Glossary section on pages 51 to 54 in the Report to Shareholders – Second Quarter 2025, which is available on the Bank's website at or the SEDAR+ website at . (4) See the Financial Reporting Method section on pages 4 to 7 for additional information on non-GAAP financial measures. (5) For additional information on non-GAAP ratios, see the Financial Reporting Method section on pages 6 to 12 in the Report to Shareholders – Second Quarter 2025, which is available on the Bank's website at or the SEDAR+ website at . (6) For additional information on capital management measures, see the Financial Reporting Method section on pages 6 to 12 in the Report to Shareholders – Second Quarter 2025, which is available on the Bank's website at or the SEDAR+ website at . Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this document are forward-looking statements. These statements are made in accordance with applicable securities legislation in Canada and the United States . The forward-looking statements in this document may include, but are not limited to, statements in the messages from management, as well as other statements about the economy, market changes, the Bank's objectives, outlook, and priorities for fiscal 2025 and beyond, the strategies or actions that the Bank will take to achieve them, expectations for the Bank's financial condition and operations, the regulatory environment in which it operates, the potential impacts of increased geopolitical uncertainty on the Bank and its clients, its environmental, social, and governance targets and commitments, the impacts and benefits of the acquisition of Canadian Western Bank (CWB), and certain risks to which the Bank is exposed. The Bank may also make forward-looking statements in other documents and regulatory filings, as well as orally. These forward-looking statements are typically identified by verbs or words such as "outlook", "believe", "foresee", "forecast", "anticipate", "estimate", "project", "expect", "intend" and "plan", the use of future or conditional forms, notably verbs such as "will", "may", "should", "could" or "would", as well as similar terms and expressions. These forward-looking statements are intended to assist the security holders of the Bank in understanding the Bank's financial position and results of operations as at the dates indicated and for the periods then ended, as well as the Bank's vision, strategic objectives, and performance targets, and may not be appropriate for other purposes. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates, assumptions and intentions that the Bank deems reasonable as at the date thereof and are subject to inherent uncertainty and risks, many of which are beyond the Bank's control. There is a strong possibility that the Bank's express or implied predictions, forecasts, projections, expectations, or conclusions will not prove to be accurate, that its assumptions will not be confirmed, and that its vision, strategic objectives, and performance targets will not be achieved. The Bank cautions investors that these forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and that actual events or results may differ materially from these statements due to a number of factors. Therefore, the Bank recommends that readers not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, as a number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations, estimates, or intentions expressed in these forward-looking statements. Investors and others who rely on the Bank's forward-looking statements should carefully consider the factors listed below as well as other uncertainties and potential events and the risks they entail. Except as required by law, the Bank does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, by it or on its behalf. Assumptions about the performance of the Canadian and U.S. economies in 2025, in particular in the context of increased geopolitical uncertainty, and how that performance will affect the Bank's business are among the factors considered in setting the Bank's strategic priorities and objectives, including allowances for credit losses. These assumptions appear in the 2024 Annual Report in the Economic Review and Outlook section and, for each business segment, in the Economic and Market Review sections of the 2024 Annual Report and the Economic Review and Outlook section of the Report to Shareholders for the second quarter of 2025 and may be updated in the quarterly reports to shareholders filed thereafter. The forward-looking statements made in this document are based on a number of assumptions and their future outcome is subject to a variety of risk factors, many of which are beyond the Bank's control and the impacts of which are difficult to predict. These risk factors include, among others, the general economic environment and business and financial market conditions in Canada , the United States , and the other countries where the Bank operates, including recession risk; geopolitical and sociopolitical uncertainty; the measures affecting trade relations between Canada and its partners, including the imposition of tariffs and any measures taken in response to such tariffs, as well as the possible impacts on our clients, our operations and, more generally, the economy; exchange rate and interest rate fluctuations; inflation; global supply chain disruptions; higher funding costs and greater market volatility; changes to fiscal, monetary, and other public policies; regulatory oversight and changes to regulations that affect the Bank's business; the Bank's ability to successfully integrate CWB and the undisclosed costs or liability associated with the acquisition; climate change, including physical risks and risks related to the transition to a low-carbon economy; the Bank's ability to meet stakeholder expectations on environmental and social issues, the need for active and continued stakeholder engagement; the availability of comprehensive and high-quality information from customers and other third parties, including greenhouse gas emissions; the ability of the Bank to develop indicators to effectively monitor progress; the development and deployment of new technologies and sustainable products; the ability of the Bank to identify climate-related opportunities as well as to assess and manage climate-related risks; significant changes in consumer behaviour; the housing situation, real estate market, and household indebtedness in Canada ; the Bank's ability to achieve its key short-term priorities and long-term strategies; the timely development and launch of new products and services; the ability of the Bank to recruit and retain key personnel; technological innovation, including open banking and the use of artificial intelligence; heightened competition from established companies and from competitors offering non-traditional services; model risk; changes in the performance and creditworthiness of the Bank's clients and counterparties; the Bank's exposure to significant regulatory issues or litigation; changes made to the accounting policies used by the Bank to report its financial position, including the uncertainty related to assumptions and significant accounting estimates; changes to tax legislation in the countries where the Bank operates; changes to capital and liquidity guidelines as well as to the instructions related to the presentation and interpretation thereof; changes to the credit ratings assigned to the Bank by financial and extra-financial rating agencies; potential disruptions to key suppliers of goods and services to the Bank; third-party risk, including failure by third parties to fulfil their obligations to the Bank; the potential impacts of disruptions to the Bank's information technology systems due to cyberattacks and theft or disclosure of data, including personal information and identity theft; the risk of fraudulent activity; and possible impacts of major events on the economy, market conditions, or the Bank's outlook, including international conflicts, natural disasters, public health crises, and the measures taken in response to these events; and the ability of the Bank to anticipate and successfully manage risks arising from all of the foregoing factors. The foregoing list of risk factors is not exhaustive, and the forward-looking statements made in this document are also subject to credit risk, market risk, liquidity and funding risk, operational risk, regulatory compliance risk, reputation risk, strategic risk, and social and environmental risk as well as certain emerging risks or risks deemed significant. Additional information about these factors is provided in the Risk Management section of the 2024 Annual Report as well as in the Risk Management section of the Report to Shareholders for the second quarter of 2025 and may be updated in the quarterly reports to shareholders filed thereafter. Disclosure of the Second Quarter 2025 Results Conference Call A conference call for analysts and institutional investors will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. EDT . at . Access by telephone in listen-only mode: 1-800-806-5484 or 416-340-2217. The access code is 4131060#. A recording of the conference call can be heard until August 28, 2025 by dialing 1-800-408-3053 or 905-694-9451. The access code is 8760078#. Webcast The conference call will be webcast live at A recording of the webcast will also be available on National Bank's website after the call. Financial Documents The Report to Shareholders (which includes the quarterly Consolidated Financial Statements) is available at all times on National Bank's website at (which includes the quarterly Consolidated Financial Statements) is available at all times on National Bank's website at The Report to Shareholders, the Supplementary Financial Information, the Supplementary Regulatory Capital and Pillar 3 Disclosure, and a slide presentation will be available on the Investor Relations page of National Bank's website on the morning of the day of the conference call. SOURCE National Bank of Canada For more information: Marianne Ratté, Vice-President and Head - Investor Relations, [email protected]; Jean-François Cadieux, Assistant Vice-President, Public Affairs, [email protected]
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
TD Bank's better-than-expected quarter points to possible earnings upside for other banks: Analyst
Toronto-Dominion Bank's ( better than expected second-quarter earnings, which have prompted a number of analysts to hike their price targets, could point to 'better than forecast' earnings for the other major Canadian banks, one analyst says. TD's adjusted second-quarter earnings of CAD$1.97 per share, announced Thursday, beat consensus estimates of $1.76. In a note to investors, Jefferies Financial Group analyst John Aiken wrote that the earnings beat was powered by TD's provisions for credit losses (PCLs) — money set aside to cover bad loans — which came in below expectations. 'While there are likely some idiosyncratic issues to TD's earnings (notably its U.S. retail bank), we believe that the laterals to the other Canadian banks' earnings are positive,' Aiken wrote. If other banks have similar PCL results, Aiken added, it could lead to 'better than forecast earnings for the group.' Aiken raised his price target for TD shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange from $90 to $103, with a chorus of investment banks making similar adjustments based on improved earnings estimates. TD shares closed at $92.41 on the TSX Thursday, up $2.91, or 3.24 per cent, on the day, and rose around 0.25 per cent as of 9:45 a.m. Friday. Aiken wrote that within TD's Canadian personal and commercial banking business, 'the modest but still positive loan growth' should probably be mirrored among the other Canadian banks, 'while margins could garner varied performances." Jefferies expects particular strength at Royal Bank of Canada ( and National Bank of Canada ( due to their respective recent acquisitions of HSBC and Canadian Western Bank (CWB). The CWB deal might also give 'a modest bump' to National Bank's wealth management performance, Aiken says, while RBC is likely to outperform the other banks on that measure. 'Robust margins' in TD's U.S. banking division might be unique, Aiken writes, but Jefferies nonetheless projects that 'the stable loan performance could bode well for the Canadian banks with U.S. retail and commercial banking operations, including CIBC's U.S. Commercial Banking and Wealth Management and Royal's City National platforms.' Jefferies also forecasts dividend increases at RBC (projected to rise 2.7 per cent), National Bank (projected up 2.6 per cent) and BMO (projected up 2.6 per cent). John MacFarlane is a senior reporter at Yahoo Finance Canada. Follow him on Twitter @jmacf. Download the Yahoo Finance app, available for Apple and Android.
Yahoo
19-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
A Forever Dividend Pick: 29.4% Upside in This Canadian Stock
Written by Christopher Liew, CFA at The Motley Fool Canada Tariff announcements by the Trump administration, including on and off implementations, continue to unsettle stock markets. The S&P/TSX Composite Index remains in negative territory year-to-date (-2.2%) but is doing better than the S&P 500 Index (-10.3%) on Wall Street. On April 16, 2025, the Bank of Canada paused its rate-cutting cycle and held its policy rate at 2.8%. In a press conference, BOC governor Tiff Macklem said, 'The dramatic protectionist shift in U.S. trade policy and the chaotic delivery have increased uncertainty, roiled financial markets, diminished global growth prospects and raised inflation expectations.' 'We still do not know what tariffs will be imposed, whether they'll be reduced or escalated, or how long all of this will last,' Macklem added. Meanwhile, investors must react but avoid panic selling. If you're an income-focused investor, stick to an established, time-tested sector like banking. National Bank of Canada (TSX:NA), the country's sixth-largest financial institution, is a forever dividend pick. The Big Bank carries a 'hold' rating from market analysts. Based on their price targets of $133 (average) and $149 (high) in 12 months, the upside potential is between 15.5% and 29.4%. If you invest today ($115.12 per share), NA pays an attractive and solid 4% dividend. Also, your investment portfolio needs high-quality, sustainable dividend-paying players in the current market conditions. Given NA's payout ratio of 40.1%, the quarterly dividends should be sustainable. Long-term growth is on the horizon following NA's acquisition of the Canadian Western Bank. This $44.8 billion bank now has a distinct advantage in Western Canada and Quebec and will leverage CWB's regional expertise. The commercial bank would also have a more substantial presence in BC and Alberta. Barry Schwartz, chief investment officer and portfolio manager at Baskin Wealth Management, sees National Bank as a 'terrific operator' in mergers and acquisitions. He said in a BNN Bloomberg interview that previous acquisitions have been home runs. CWB has underperformed in recent years, and NA could turn things around. Integration activities have begun in February 2025. Laurent Ferreira, CEO of NA, said the combined organization will offer customers expanded products and services nationally while maintaining regional expertise. Credit rating agency Fitch Ratings said the capital levels for Canadian banks remain strong at the close of Q1 fiscal 2025. Besides reinstating share buyback programs, the banks continue looking for opportunities to deploy capital further. In the three months ending January 31, 2025, net income increased 8% to $997 million compared to Q1 fiscal 2024. However, the provision for credit losses (PCL) rose 111.7% year-over-year to $242 million. Ferreira said, 'The Bank generated strong first quarter financial results, reflecting solid execution across business segments and our diversified earnings power.' The financial markets and wealth management segments saw their quarterly income rise 35% and 22% to $417 million and $242 million, respectively, from a year ago. The CWB deal should accelerate domestic growth and extend the depth of NA's banking capabilities. National Bank of Canada is a 'buy-and-hold' stock for seasoned investors and beginners. You have a dependable passive income provider with rock-solid dividends and visible growth prospects. The post A Forever Dividend Pick: 29.4% Upside in This Canadian Stock appeared first on The Motley Fool Canada. Before you buy stock in National Bank of Canada, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor Canada analyst team just identified what they believe are the Top Stocks for 2025 and Beyond for investors to buy now… and National Bank of Canada wasn't one of them. The Top Stocks that made the cut could potentially produce monster returns in the coming years. Consider MercadoLibre, which we first recommended on January 8, 2014 ... if you invested $1,000 in the 'eBay of Latin America' at the time of our recommendation, you'd have $20,697.16!* Stock Advisor Canada provides investors with an easy-to-follow blueprint for success, including guidance on building a portfolio, regular updates from analysts, and two new stock picks each month – one from Canada and one from the U.S. The Stock Advisor Canada service has outperformed the return of S&P/TSX Composite Index by 29 percentage points since 2013*. See the Top Stocks * Returns as of 3/20/25 More reading Best Canadian Stocks to Buy in 2025 Market Volatility Toolkit 4 Secrets of TFSA Millionaires Beginner Investors: 4 Top Canadian Stocks to Buy for 2025 5 Years From Now, You'll Probably Wish You Grabbed These Stocks Subscribe to Motley Fool Canada on YouTube Fool contributor Christopher Liew has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. 2025 Sign in to access your portfolio
CBC
14-04-2025
- General
- CBC
'I feel pretty badass': Indigenous women dive into welding at Aurora College
Social Sharing A new welding workshop at Aurora College in Fort Smith, N.W.T., is giving Indigenous women hands-on training and a boost of confidence in a field traditionally dominated by men. The WeldHER+ Workshop, which is running April 7-17, is tuition-free and designed specifically for Indigenous women. Participants say it's opening doors to careers they never imagined, and building a sense of belonging in the skilled trades. "I was shy to get into this course until I found out it was for women," said Dora Hansen, one of five participants. The program is part of the Canadian Welding Bureau's (CWB) Women of Steel initiative. It includes 54 hours of training, introductory welding and joining skills, access to safety certification and exposure to industry-recognized standards like CWB structural testing. Hansen said she joined the course because it seemed like a good opportunity. But it turned out to be more than that. "I feel pretty badass," Hansen said. "My favorite part was yesterday, when I started not only getting the hang of welding, but actually perfecting my lines and being more consistent." She is now encouraging other women to overcome their hesitation if they want to get into the trade. She said participants are proving that women can succeed in trades traditionally dominated by men. "I'm actually kind of proud of my work, and I'm not nervous to do it anymore," she said. "You feel so accomplished." For instructor Richard Bird, a Red Seal welder and carpenter who typically teaches shop class at Paul William Kaeser High School, the growth he's seen in just a few days is remarkable. "From no welding experience to doing some pretty good welds, it's amazing to see," he said. "Some of them are amazing welders, and they love it." Bird said women bring a unique enthusiasm and potential to welding and he believes there is an essential need for women in the field. He said it's not just welcome, but valuable. He was also very proud that some participants see welding as a potential career. "Right now is the best time to be in trades. There are so many opportunities," he said. Hansen said she plans to return to school this fall to upgrade her courses in preparation for welding classes being reintroduced to Fort Smith in 2026. Raine Simba is another participant who wants to pursue welding as a career – after thinking it would be an interesting course to take while visiting the community. She said the experience has been so intense that "no words could describe it." Her favourite part has been overcoming the challenges she first experienced, like feeling claustrophobic behind the welding helmet. Simba said focusing on her breathing, keeping a slow pace, and concentrating on the task helped her with that initial hurdle. "Once you actually get focused into it, it all goes away," she said. "It's just so much fun." Simba also likes that the workshop challenges gender stereotypes and hopes that it changes the way people see women in trades. "Women can do anything," she said. "Men tell you what you can't and can do, it's so dumb. It's not just based on gender labels." Simba said the experience has changed her life, and she hopes the workshop encourages more women to consider welding and the trades. She said it just takes baby steps and a little courage.
