HDFC Bank, India's leading private sector lender, delivered a positive performance for the January-March quarter (Q4) of FY2024. The bank reported a 37.05% year-on-year (YoY) jump in its standalone net profit, reaching Rs 16,511.85 crore. This strong performance was driven by a combination of factors, including healthy growth in core areas and a significant one-time gain.

Net Interest Income and Revenue Rise

HDFC Bank's core banking business showed positive signs. Net interest income, which reflects the difference between interest earned and interest expended, grew by 24.51% YoY to Rs 29,076.82 crore. This indicates the bank's efficiency in managing its loan portfolio and generating income from interest.

Overall revenue for the quarter witnessed a significant rise of 47.3% YoY to Rs 47,240 crore. This growth can be partially attributed to a one-time transaction gain of Rs 7,340 crore from the sale of HDFC Bank's stake in its subsidiary, HDFC Credila Financial Services Ltd.

Healthy Profitability and Expenses

On a consolidated basis, which combines the bank's results with its subsidiaries, net profit grew by 39.92% YoY to Rs 17,622.38 crore. Other income, excluding interest income, also witnessed a substantial increase, rising from Rs 8,730 crore in Q4 FY2023 to Rs 18,170 crore in Q4 FY2024.

Operating expenses for the quarter did increase by 33.5% YoY to Rs 17,970 crore. However, this increase can be partially attributed to a one-time staff ex-gratia provision of Rs 715 crore.

Credit Quality and Shareholder Rewards

Despite the operating expense rise, HDFC Bank maintained a healthy credit quality. The bank's Gross Non-Performing Assets (GNPA) ratio, which indicates the percentage of bad loans, improved from the previous quarter and stood at 1.24%. This highlights the bank's effective risk management practices.

Adding to the positive news for investors, HDFC Bank declared a dividend of Rs 19.50 per equity share. This translates to a significant payout for shareholders who have held stock in the bank.

HDFC Bank's Q4 performance demonstrates the bank's resilience and growth potential. The strong core business performance combined with the strategic stake sale has resulted in a positive outcome for the quarter. While operating expenses have risen, the bank's credit quality remains healthy. The significant dividend payout further strengthens the bank's position as an attractive investment option.

The coming quarters will be interesting to watch as HDFC Bank navigates the post-merger landscape with its parent company, HDFC Ltd. The combined entity is expected to be a dominant player in the Indian financial sector.