National Australia Bank Limited reported earnings results for the first half ended March 2013. For the period, the company reported net interest income decreased by AUD 100 million or 1.5%. Cash earnings increased by AUD 87 million or 3.1% compared to the March 2012 half year. Net profit attributable to owners of the company increased by AUD 468 million or 22.8% compared to the March 2012 half year as a result of strong performances in Wholesale Banking and Personal Banking, combined with charges for the impairment of goodwill and capitalised software in the UK during the March 2012 half year not recurring in the current period. Net operating income was AUD 9,250 million against AUD 9,108 million a year ago. Underlying profit was AUD 5,274 million against AUD 5,156 million a year ago. Cash earnings before tax, IoRE, distributions and non-controlling interest were AUD 4,182 million against AUD 4,025 million a year ago. Cash earnings were AUD 2,915 million against AUD 2,828 million a year ago. Cash earnings per diluted share were 123.7 cents against 125.1 cents diluted per share a year ago. Cash return on equity (ROE) was 14.7% against 15.0% a year ago.

Bank of New Zealand announced earnings results for the half year ended March 31, 2013. For the year, the company reported net interest income of NZD 778 million against NZD 747 million a year ago. Total operating income was NZD 889 million against NZD 904 million a year ago. Total operating profit before income tax expense was NZD 407 million against NZD 488 million a year ago. Net profit attributable to holders of the company was NZD 298 million against NZD 352 million a year ago.

National Australia Bank Limited declared interim dividend for March 2013 of 93 cents per share. This represents a dividend payout ratio of 74.7% for the March 2013 half year on a cash earnings basis. The dividend payment is 100% franked and will be paid on July 16, 2013. Shares will be quoted ex-dividend on May 30, 2013. The record date for determining entitlements to the 2013 interim dividend is June 5, 2013.