Westpac half-year profit declines amid increased investment, stable dividends

** Westpac Banking Corporation (NZX:WBC) reported a net profit after tax of AUD 3.3 billion for the first half of 2025, a 4% decrease compared to the same period last year, attributing the decline to increased investment in technology and personnel despite gains in net interest income. The bank emphasized its focus on strengthening the franchise through customer service and strategic business decisions, highlighted by a 9% increase in consumer deposits to AUD 351 billion and 14% jump in business lending to AUD 105.8 billion. Despite the profit downturn, Westpac announced a fully franked interim dividend of 76 cents per share and confirmed they will pursue their stock buyback program. The bank's CET1 capital ratio was 12.24%, comfortably exceeding regulatory requirements. The economic outlook presented points to continuing global economic challenges but stability for the Australia and New Zealand markets, with Westpac dedicated to supporting its stakeholders amid the uncertainties. Westpac will be holding a call with shareholders to discuss these results, which are intended to support long-term value creation.