Report of Foreign Private Issuer

 

Pursuant to Rule 13a-16 or 15d-16 of

the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

 

10 August 2017

 

 

 Form 6-K

 

The Royal Bank of Scotland Group plc

 

 

Gogarburn

PO Box 1000

Edinburgh EH12 1HQ

Scotland

United Kingdom

 

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

 

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover of Form 20-F or Form 40-F.

 

Form 20-F  X                                              Form 40-F     

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1):__

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(7):__

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant by furnishing the information contained in this Form is also thereby furnishing the information to the Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

Yes                                                                 No  X  

 

If "Yes" is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to

the registrant in connection with Rule 12g3-2(b): 82-             

 

This report on Form 6-K shall be deemed incorporated by reference into the company’s Registration Statement on Form F-3 (File Nos. 333-203157 and 333-203157-01) and to be a part thereof from the date on which this report is filed, to the extent not superseded by documents or reports subsequently filed or furnished.

 


 

 

The Royal Bank of Scotland Group plc

Interim Results 2017

Contents

Page

Forward-looking statements

2

Introduction

4

Presentation of information

4

Condensed consolidated income statement (unaudited) 

6

Condensed consolidated balance sheet (unaudited) 

7

Highlights

8

Segmental income statement reconciliations

17

Analysis of results

20

Segment performance

30

Statutory results

 

Condensed consolidated income statement (unaudited) 

68

Condensed consolidated statement of comprehensive income (unaudited) 

69

Condensed consolidated balance sheet (unaudited) 

70

Condensed consolidated statement of changes in equity (unaudited) 

71

Condensed consolidated cash flow (unaudited) 

73

Notes

74

Risk factors

114

Statement of directors’ responsibilities

117

 

 

Additional information

 

Share information

118

Other financial data

119

Appendix 1 – Capital and risk management

 

Signature page

 

 

1 

 


 

 

Forward-looking statements

 

Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements

Certain sections in this document contain ‘forward-looking statements’ as that term is defined in the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, such as statements that include the words ‘expect’, ‘estimate’, ‘project’, ‘anticipate’, ‘commit’, ‘believe’, ‘should’, ‘intend’, ‘plan’, ‘could’, ‘probability’, ‘risk’, ‘Value-at-Risk (VaR)’, ‘target’, ‘goal’, ‘objective’, ‘may’, ‘endeavour’, ‘outlook’, ‘optimistic’, ‘prospects’ and similar expressions or variations on these expressions.

 

In particular, this document includes forward-looking statements relating, but not limited to: future profitability and performance, including financial performance targets such as return on tangible equity; cost savings and targets, including cost:income ratios; litigation and government and regulatory investigations, including the timing and financial and other impacts thereof; structural reform and the implementation of the UK ring-fencing regime; the implementation of RBS’s transformation programme, including the further restructuring of the NatWest Markets business; the satisfaction of the Group’s residual EU State Aid obligations; the continuation of RBS’s balance sheet reduction programme, including the reduction of risk-weighted assets (RWAs) and the timing thereof; capital and strategic plans and targets; capital, liquidity and leverage ratios and requirements, including CET1 Ratio, RWA equivalents (RWAe), Pillar 2 and other regulatory buffer requirements, minimum requirement for own funds and eligible liabilities, and other funding plans; funding and credit risk profile; capitalisation; portfolios; net interest margin; customer loan and income growth; the level and extent of future impairments and write-downs, including with respect to goodwill; restructuring and remediation costs and charges; future pension contributions; RBS’s exposure to political risks, operational risk, conduct risk, cyber and IT risk and credit rating risk and to various types of market risks, including as interest rate risk, foreign exchange rate risk and commodity and equity price risk; customer experience including our Net Promotor Score (NPS); employee engagement and gender balance in leadership positions.

 

Limitations inherent to forward-looking statements

These statements are based on current plans, estimates, targets and projections, and are subject to significant inherent risks, uncertainties and other factors, both external and relating to the Group’s strategy or operations, which may result in the Group being unable to achieve the current targets, predictions, expectations and other anticipated outcomes expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. In addition certain of these disclosures are dependent on choices relying on key model characteristics and assumptions and are subject to various limitations, including assumptions and estimates made by management. By their nature, certain of these disclosures are only estimates and, as a result, actual future gains and losses could differ materially from those that have been estimated. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date we make them and we expressly disclaim any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in the Group’s expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

 

Important factors that could affect the actual outcome of the forward-looking statements

We caution you that a large number of important factors could adversely affect our results or our ability to implement our strategy, cause us to fail to meet our targets, predictions, expectations and other anticipated outcomes or affect the accuracy of forward-looking statements we describe in this document, including in the risk factors and other uncertainties set out in the Group’s 2016 Annual Report on Form 20-F and other materials filed with, or furnished to, the US Securities and Exchange Commission, and other risk factors and uncertainties discussed in this document. These include the significant risks for RBS presented by the outcomes of the legal, regulatory and governmental actions and investigations that RBS is or may be subject to (including active civil and criminal investigations) and any resulting material adverse effect on RBS of unfavourable outcomes and the timing thereof (including where resolved by settlement); economic, regulatory and political risks, including as may result from the uncertainty arising from the vote to leave in the EU Referendum and from the outcome of general elections in the UK and changes in government policies; RBS’s ability to satisfy its residual EU State Aid obligations and the timing thereof; RBS’s ability to successfully implement the significant and complex restructuring required to be undertaken in order to implement the UK ring-fencing regime and related costs; RBS’s ability to successfully implement the various initiatives that are comprised in its transformation programme, particularly the proposed further restructuring of the NatWest Markets business, the balance sheet reduction programme and its significant cost-saving initiatives and whether RBS will be a viable, competitive, customer focused and profitable bank especially after its restructuring and the implementation of the UK ring-fencing regime; the exposure of RBS to cyber-attacks and its ability to defend against such attacks; RBS’s ability to achieve its capital and leverage requirements or targets which will depend in part on RBS’s success in reducing the size of its business and future profitability as well as developments which may impact its CET1 capital including additional litigation or conduct costs, additional pension contributions, further impairments or accounting changes; ineffective management of capital or changes to regulatory requirements relating to capital adequacy and liquidity or failure to pass mandatory stress tests; RBS’s ability to access sufficient sources of capital, liquidity and funding when required; changes in the credit ratings of RBS, RBS entities or the UK government; declining revenues resulting from lower customer retention and revenue generation in light of RBS’s strategic refocus on the UK; as well as increasing competition from new incumbents and disruptive technologies.

2 

 


 

 

Forward-looking statements

 

In addition, there are other risks and uncertainties that could adversely affect our results, ability to implement our strategy, cause us to fail to meet our targets or the accuracy of forward-looking statements in this document. These include operational risks that are inherent to RBS’s business and will increase as a result of RBS’s significant restructuring initiatives being concurrently implemented; the potential negative impact on RBS’s business of global economic and financial market conditions and other global risks, including risks arising out of geopolitical events and political developments; the impact of a prolonged period of low interest rates or unanticipated turbulence in interest rates, yield curves, foreign currency exchange rates, credit spreads, bond prices, commodity prices, equity prices; basis, volatility and correlation risks; the extent of future write-downs and impairment charges caused by depressed asset valuations; deteriorations in borrower and counterparty credit quality; heightened regulatory and governmental scrutiny and the increasingly regulated environment in which RBS operates as well as divergences in regulatory requirements in the jurisdictions in which RBS operates; the risks relating to RBS’s IT systems or a failure to protect itself and its customers against cyber threats, reputational risks; risks relating to increased pension liabilities and the impact of pension risk on RBS’s capital position; risks relating to the failure to embed and maintain a robust conduct and risk culture across the organisation or if its risk management framework is ineffective; RBS’s ability to attract and retain qualified personnel; limitations on, or additional requirements imposed on, RBS’s activities as a result of HM Treasury’s investment in RBS; the value and effectiveness of any credit protection purchased by RBS; risks relating to the reliance on valuation, capital and stress test models and any inaccuracies resulting therefrom or failure to accurately reflect changes in the micro and macroeconomic environment in which RBS operates, risks relating to changes in applicable accounting policies or rules which may impact the preparation of RBS’s financial statements or adversely impact its capital position; the impact of the recovery and resolution framework and other prudential rules to which RBS is subject; the recoverability of deferred tax assets by the Group; and the success of RBS in managing the risks involved in the foregoing.

 

The forward-looking statements contained in this document speak only as at the date hereof, and RBS does not assume or undertake any obligation or responsibility to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

 

The information, statements and opinions contained in this document do not constitute a public offer under any applicable legislation or an offer to sell or solicit of any offer to buy any securities or financial instruments or any advice or recommendation with respect to such securities or other financial instruments.

3 

 


 

 

Introduction

 

Presentation of information

In this document, ‘RBSG plc’ or the ‘parent company’ refers to The Royal Bank of Scotland Group plc, and ‘RBS’ or the ‘Group’ refers to RBSG plc and its subsidiaries.

Statutory results

Financial information contained in this document does not constitute statutory accounts within the meaning of section 434 of the Companies Act 2006 (‘the Act’). The statutory accounts for the year ended 31 December 2016 have been filed with the Registrar of Companies. The report of the auditor on those statutory accounts was unqualified, did not draw attention to any matters by way of emphasis and did not contain a statement under section 498(2) or (3) of the Act.

 

In this document Williams & Glyn refers to the business formerly intended to be divested as a separate legal entity, which continues to be reported as a separate operating segment. 

 

The unaudited condensed consolidated income statement, condensed consolidated statement of comprehensive income, consolidated balance sheet, consolidated statement of changes in equity, condensed consolidated cashflow and related notes presented on pages 68 to 113 inclusive are presented on a statutory basis as described above.

 

Non-GAAP financial information

RBS prepares its financial statements in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB which constitutes a body of generally accepted accounting principles (‘GAAP’). This document contains a number of non-GAAP (or non-IFRS) financial measures. A non-GAAP financial measure is defined as one that measures historical or future financial performance, financial position or cash flows but which excludes or includes amounts that would not be so adjusted in the most comparable GAAP measure.

 

The non-GAAP measures used in this document generally exclude certain items which management believe are not representative of the underlying performance of the business and which distort period-on-period comparison. These measures are used internally by management, in conjunction with IFRS financial measures, to measure performance and make decisions regarding the future direction of the business. Management believes these non-GAAP measures, when provided in combination with reported IFRS results, provide helpful supplementary information for investors. These adjusted measures, derived from the reported results are non-IFRS financial measures but are not a substitute to IFRS reported measures.

 

The main non-GAAP measures used in this document include:

‘Adjusted’ measures of financial performance, principally operating profit, operating expenses, total income and other performance measures before: own credit adjustments; gain or loss on redemption of own debt; strategic disposals, restructuring costs and litigation and conduct costs;

Certain performance ratios based on the adjusted performance measures described above, including the adjusted cost:income ratio (calculated using adjusted operating income and costs), adjusted return on equity ratio (calculated using adjusted operating profit) and the 2017 cost saving progress and targets (calculated using operating expenses excluding litigation and conduct costs, restructuring costs, the operating costs of Williams & Glyn and the VAT recoveries);

Personal & Business Banking (PBB) franchise results, combining the reportable segments of UK Personal & Business Banking (UK PBB) and Ulster Bank RoI, Commercial & Private Banking (CPB) franchise results, combining the reportable segments of Commercial Banking, Private Banking and RBS International (RBSI) and ‘core businesses’ results combining PBB, CPB and NatWest Markets results which are presented to provide investors with a summary of the Group’s business performance.

Reconciliations of these non-GAAP measures to the closest equivalent GAAP measure are presented throughout this document and on pages 17 to 19.

4 

 


 

 

Introduction

 

Key operating indicators

This document includes a number of operational metrics which management believes may be helpful to investors in understanding the Group’s business, including the Groups position against its own targets. These metrics include performance, funding and credit metrics such as ‘return on tangible equity’ and related RWA equivalents incorporating the effect of capital deductions (RWAes), total assets excluding derivatives (funded assets) and net interest margin (NIM) adjusted for items designated at fair value through profit or loss (non-statutory NIM), cost:income ratio, loan:deposit ratio and REIL/impairment provision ratios. These are internal metrics used to measure business performance.

 

Capital and liquidity measures

Certain liquidity and capital measures and ratios are presented in this document as management believes they are helpful for investors’ understanding of the liquidity and capital profile of the business and the Group’s position against its own targets and applicable regulatory requirements. Some of these measures are used by management for risk management purposes and may not yet required to be disclosed by a government, governmental authority or self-regulatory organisation. As a result, the basis of calculation of these measures may not be the same as that used by the Group’s peers. These capital and liquidity measures and ratios include: the liquidity coverage ratio, stressed outflow coverage and net stable funding ratio.

 

Recent developments

Preference share redemption

RBSG has given notice to holders of preference shares and similar securities as follows:

 

4 August 2017 - the redemption on 3 December 2017 of the Non-cumulative Sterling Preference Shares Series 1 (ADS ISIN: XS0121856859). The redemption of these debt accounted Preference Shares is to be paid out of the distributable reserves of RBSG and will reduce subordinated liabilities by approximately £15 million;

7 August 2017 - the redemption on 4 September 2017 of series F (ADS CUSIP: 780097804 ADS ISIN: US7800978048), series H (ADS CUSIP: 780097879; ADS ISIN: US7800978790), and series L (ADS CUSIP: 780097788; ADS ISIN: US7800977883) Non-cumulative Dollar Preference Shares and the redemption on 3 December 2017 of the Non-cumulative Series 1 Dollar Preference Shares (ADS CUSIP: 780097AE1; ADS ISIN: US780097AE13). The redemption of these debt accounted Preference Shares is to be paid out of the distributable reserves of RBSG and will reduce subordinated liabilities by approximately £0.93 billion (sterling equivalent); and

7 August 2017 - the redemption on 5 October 2017 of the outstanding CAD600,000,000 Fixed/Floating Undated Callable StepUp Tier 1 Notes (the "CAD Tier 1 Notes") (ISIN: CA780097AT83 / CUSIP: 780097AT8 / Common Code: 032385311) and the outstanding $1,600,000,000 Fixed Rate/Floating Rate Preferred Capital Securities (the "USD Capital Securities") (ISIN: US780097AS09 /XS0323865047 / CUSIP: 780097AS0 / Common Code: 32386504). The redemption of these securities will reduce the additional paid-in equity of RBSG by approximately £0.43 billion (sterling equivalent).

 

 

Payment Protection Insurance (PPI)

As previously disclosed, on 2 March 2017, the FCA published Policy Statement 17/3, its final rules and guidance on PPI complaint handling.  The Policy Statement made clear the FCA’s intention to implement a two year PPI complaints deadline with effect from 29 August 2017, bringing an end to new PPI complaints in August 2019.

 

In June 2017, the claims management company ‘We Fight Any Claim’ issued judicial review proceedings challenging elements of the FCA’s Policy Statement, including the proposed 2019 deadline. On 4 August 2017, the claim was dismissed. 

 

 

5 

 


 

 

Condensed consolidated income statement for the period ended 30 June 2017 (unaudited)

 

  

Half year ended

  

30 June

30 June

2017 

2016 

  

£m 

£m 

  

  

  

Interest receivable

5,462 

5,692 

Interest payable

(990)

(1,359)

Net interest income (1) 

4,472 

4,333 

  

  

  

Fees and commissions receivable

1,666 

1,676 

Fees and commissions payable

(448)

(392)

Income from trading activities

884 

(17)

Loss on redemption of own debt

(7)

(130)

Other operating income

352 

594 

Non-interest income

2,447 

1,731 

  

  

  

Total income

6,919 

6,064 

  

  

  

Staff costs

(2,447)

(2,695)

Premises and equipment

(678)

(652)

Other administrative expenses

(1,208)

(2,139)

Depreciation and amortisation

(511)

(354)

Write down of other intangible assets

(8)

(89)

  

  

  

Operating expenses

(4,852)

(5,929)

  

  

  

Profit before impairment losses

2,067 

135 

Impairment losses

(116)

(409)

  

  

  

Operating profit/(loss) before tax

1,951 

(274)

Tax charge

(727)

(340)

  

  

  

Profit/(loss) for the period

1,224 

(614)

  

  

  

Attributable to:

  

  

Non-controlling interests

29 

30 

Preference share and other dividends

256 

208 

Dividend access share

1,193 

Ordinary shareholders

939 

(2,045)

  

  

  

  

1,224 

(614)

Earnings/(loss) per ordinary share (EPS)

  

  

Basic earnings/(loss) per ordinary share (2)

7.9p

(17.6p)

 

For further information see Statutory results on pages 68 to 113.

 

 

 

Notes:

(1)

Negative interest on loans and advances is classed as interest payable. Negative interest on customer deposits classed as interest receivable. HY 2016 has been

re-presented accordingly.

(2)

There is no dilutive impact in any period.

 

6 

 


 

 

Condensed consolidated balance sheet as at 30 June 2017 (unaudited)

 

  

30 June

31 December

2017

2016 

  

£m 

£m

  

  

  

Assets

  

  

Cash and balances at central banks

86,807 

74,250 

Net loans and advances to banks

20,685 

17,278 

Reverse repurchase agreements and stock borrowing

14,847 

12,860 

Loans and advances to banks

35,532 

30,138 

Net loans and advances to customers

326,059 

323,023 

Reverse repurchase agreements and stock borrowing

25,183 

28,927 

Loans and advances to customers

351,242 

351,950 

Debt securities

86,169 

72,522 

Equity shares

518 

703 

Settlement balances

12,091 

5,526 

Derivatives

193,531 

246,981 

Intangible assets

6,467 

6,480 

Property, plant and equipment

4,823 

4,590 

Deferred tax

1,677 

1,803 

Prepayments, accrued income and other assets

3,797 

3,713 

  

  

  

Total assets

782,654 

798,656 

  

  

  

Liabilities

  

  

Bank deposits

38,965 

33,317 

Repurchase agreements and stock lending

5,183 

5,239 

Deposits by banks

44,148 

38,556 

Customer deposits

359,882 

353,872 

Repurchase agreements and stock lending

37,855 

27,096 

Customer accounts

397,737 

380,968 

Debt securities in issue

31,997 

27,245 

Settlement balances

11,379 

3,645 

Short positions

29,862 

22,077 

Derivatives

184,161 

236,475 

Provisions for liabilities and charges

11,227 

12,836 

Accruals and other liabilities

6,603 

7,006 

Retirement benefit liabilities

182 

363 

Deferred tax

585 

662 

Subordinated liabilities

14,724 

19,419 

  

  

  

Total liabilities

732,605 

749,252 

  

  

  

Equity

  

  

Non-controlling interests

844 

795 

Owners’ equity*

  

  

  Called up share capital

11,876 

11,823 

  Reserves

37,329 

36,786 

  

  

  

Total equity

50,049 

49,404 

  

  

  

Total liabilities and equity

782,654 

798,656 

  

  

  

*Owners’ equity attributable to:

  

  

Ordinary shareholders

42,149 

41,462 

Other equity owners

7,056 

7,147 

  

  

  

  

49,205 

48,609 

 

For further information see Statutory results on pages 68 to 113.

7 

 


 

 

Highlights

 

RBS reported an operating profit before tax of £1,951 million for H1 2017 and a profit(1)  attributable to ordinary shareholders of £939 million. An operating profit before tax of £1,238 million and profit attributable to ordinary shareholders of £680 million were reported in Q2 2017.

 

Across our Personal & Business Banking (PBB), Commercial & Private Banking (CPB) and NatWest Markets (NWM) businesses(1), RBS reported an operating profit before tax of £2,102 million, an increase of £706 million, or 50% compared with H1 2016. Adjusted operating profit before tax of £2,678 million(1), increased by £608 million, or 29% compared with H1 2016.

 

Key points

In H1 2017, RBS reported a profit attributable to ordinary shareholders of £939 million, 5.6% return on tangible equity, and increased operating profit before tax by 50.6% across its PBB, CPB and NatWest Markets businesses compared with H1 2016.  Adjusted operating profit before tax across its core PBB, CPB and NatWest Markets businesses increased by 29.4%(1) compared with H1 2016. The CET1 ratio remains ahead of target at 14.8%, a 140 basis points increase in the first half. In addition, RBS has made good progress against its stated ambition for the year, as set out in the full year result’s announcement in February 2017. Across our core businesses we committed to grow income, cut costs and use less capital, and have made substantive progress against each:

Core businesses income increased by £305 million, or 5.1% compared with H1 2016. Adjusted core businesses income increased by £496 million(1), or 8.6%, compared with H1 2016. NatWest Markets income increased by 14% to £932 million and adjusted income(1) by 43.9% to £980 million, navigating markets well compared to a more difficult H1 2016. Across PBB and CPB income increased by 3.7% and adjusted income by 3.8%(1) supported by increased lending;

Core businesses operating expenses reduced by £185 million or 4.4% compared with H1 2016. Adjusted core businesses operating expenses reduced by £151 million(1), or 4.2%, compared with H1 2016. This represents 25% (31% on an adjusted basis) of our overall cost reduction(2) in H1 2017 and we retain our expectation that around half of the full year reduction will be across the core businesses. The cost:income ratio(6) improved from 97.7% to 69.8% and the adjusted cost:income ratio(1,6) across the core businesses improved from 61.6% to 54.3%; and

Across the core business RWAs reduced by £12.6 billion(1) to £177.2 billion in H1 2017. Excluding volume growth, RWAs reduced by £8.6 billion in H1 2017 and we remain committed to achieving a reduction of at least £20 billion by the end of 2018.

 

In addition, we committed to continue to make progress on resolving our legacy issues and have made significant progress in the first half:

Capital Resolution RWAs reduced by £7.9 billion in H1 2017 to £26.6 billion and, excluding RBS’s stake in Alawwal Bank (£7.4 billion at 30 June 2017), are now in the £15-£20 billion range we guided to for the end of 2017;

In H1 2017, settlement was reached with the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) in the US and we also incurred a further provision in relation to settling the 2008 rights issue shareholder litigation; and

On 26 July, it was announced that an alternative remedies package, in respect of RBS’s remaining State Aid obligation regarding Williams & Glyn, has now been agreed in principle between HM Treasury (HMT) and the EC Commissioner responsible for competition.

 

For footnotes refer to page 12.

8 

 


 

 

Highlights

 

H1 2017 RBS Performance Summary

RBS reported a profit attributable to ordinary shareholders of £939 million for H1 2017 compared with an attributable  loss of £2,045 million in H1 2016 which included payment of the final Dividend Access Share (DAS) dividend of £1,193 million. 

Income of £6,919 million was £855 million, or 14.1%, higher than in H1 2016 reflecting strong income growth across the PBB, CPB and NatWest Markets businesses and a £154 million gain in respect of IFRS volatility, compared with a loss of £668 million in H1 2016.  Adjusted income of £6,843 million(4) was £1,294 million, or 23.3%, higher than H1 2016.

The net interest margin (NIM) was stable on H1 2016 at 2.18%. A 9 basis point reduction across PBB and CPB, associated with asset margin pressure and higher liquidity requirements, has been broadly offset by the benefit of a reduction in low yielding Capital Resolution and centrally held assets, down from 12% of total interest earning assets to 5%.

Operating expenses reduced by £1,077 million, or 18.2%. Excluding VAT recoveries of £51 million in H1 2017 and £227 million in H1 2016, adjusted operating expenses(6)  reduced by £494 million, or 11.7%, compared with H1 2016. The cost:income ratio(6) improved from 97.7% to 69.8%. The adjusted cost:income ratio(4,5,6) for H1 2017 was 53.1% compared with 71.4% in H1 2016.

Restructuring costs were £790 million in H1 2017, an increase of £160 million compared with H1 2016, and included a charge of £217 million relating to the reduction of our property portfolio.

Litigation and conduct costs of £396 million include a £151 million charge in respect of the settlement with the FHFA and a £25 million charge relating to the settlement of the UK 2008 rights issue shareholder litigation.

A net impairment loss of £116 million, 7 basis points of gross customer loans, compared with a loss of £409 million in H1 2016, with the reduction principally reflecting a £264 million shipping impairment in H1 2016. REIL represented 2.8% of gross customer loans compared with 3.5% at 30 June 2016 and 2.9% at 31 March 2017.

A gain of £156 million was recognised in relation to the disposal of RBS’s stake in Vocalink.

PBB and CPB net loans and advances have increased by 4.1% on an annualised basis in H1 2017 principally driven by mortgage growth within UK PBB.

H1 2017 lending growth has been achieved while remaining within our risk appetite. Personal mortgage lending represented 49% of net loans and advances, compared with 47% as at 31 December 2016, whilst personal unsecured and commercial real estate were flat over the first half at 4% and 8% respectively. Overall LTV across our mortgage portfolio was stable at 58%.  

 

PBB, CPB and NatWest Markets operating performance

Across our three customer facing businesses, PBB, CPB and NatWest Markets, operating profit of £2,102 million(1) was £706 million, or 50.6%, higher than H1 2016. Adjusted operating profit of £2,678(1) million was £608 million, or 29.4%, higher than H1 2016.

UK PBB operating profit of £1,097 million was £564 million, or 105.8% higher than H1 2016. Adjusted operating profit of £1,270 million(1) was £205 million, or 19.2%, higher than H1 2016. Total income of £2,755 million was £140 million, or 5.4%, higher driven by increased lending, with net loans and advances 9.9% higher at £138.5 billion.    

Ulster Bank RoI operating profit of £11 million was £3 million, or 37.5%, higher than in H1 2016 principally reflecting lower operating expenses. Adjusted profit of £90 million(1) was £32 million, or 26.2%, lower than H1 2016 principally reflecting a lower net impairment release and reduced income on free funds. 

Commercial Banking operating profit of £660 million was £48 million, or 7.8%, higher than H1 2016, primarily reflecting reduced expenses associated with lower headcount and an intangible asset write-down in H1 2016. Adjusted operating profit of £781 million(1) was £118 million, or 17.8%, higher than H1 2016. In addition income was £51 million, or 3.0%, higher at £1,750 million driven by customer deposit growth and re-pricing benefits across lending and deposits.

     

 

For footnotes refer to page 12.

9 

 


 

 

Highlights

 

PBB, CPB and NatWest Markets operating performance (continued)

Private Banking operating profit of £82 million was £31 million, or 60.8%, higher than H1 2016, driven by a £46 million, or 16.5%, reduction in operating expenses principally reflecting cost reduction initiatives. Adjusted operating profit of £96 million(1)  was £23 million, or 31.5%, higher than H1 2016.

RBS International operating profit of £96 million reduced by £7 million, or 6.6%, compared with H1 2016, driven by a £23 million, or 32.4%, increase in operating expenses principally reflecting increased regulatory costs in relation to ring-fencing. RBS international adjusted operating profit of £100 million(1) reduced by £6 million, or 5.7%, compared with H1 2016.

NatWest Markets operating profit of £156 million compared with £89 million in H1 2016. An adjusted operating profit(1) of £341 million compared with £41 million in H1 2016. Total income of £932 million was £114 million, or 13.9%, higher than in H1 2016. Adjusted income  of £980 million(1) was £299 million, or 43.9%, higher than H1 2016.

 

Capital Resolution, Williams & Glyn and Central items operating performance

Capital Resolution operating loss of £563 million was £350 million lower that in H1 2016, principally due to a net impairment release compared with a loss in H1 2016 and lower adjusted operating expenses(1). Operating expenses increased by £61 million to £539 million, principally reflecting increased restructuring costs and litigation and conduct costs. Adjusted operating loss of £135 million(1) was £848 million lower than H1 2016 principally reflecting materially lower disposal losses and impairment charges in H1 2017 and a £282 million, or 68.0%, reduction in adjusted operating expenses to £133 million. RWAs of £26.6 billion were £15.7 billion, or 37.1%, lower than H1 2016.

Williams & Glyn operating profit increased by £82 million to £234 million driven by reduced operating expenses, reflecting a substantial reduction in headcount.  Adjusted operating profit increased by £37 million(1), or 18.8%, to £234 million driven by a £39 million, or 19.8%.

Central items operating profit of £178 million compared with a loss of £909 million in H1 2016. Adjusted operating profit  of £284 million(1), compared with a loss of £128 million in H1 2016, and included a £51 million VAT recovery (H1 2016 - £227 million) a £154 million gain in respect of IFRS volatility (H1 2016 - £668 million loss).

 

Q2 2017 RBS Performance Summary

A profit attributable to ordinary shareholders £680 million compared with a loss of £1,077 million in Q2 2016 and a profit of £259 million in Q1 2017. The Q2 2016 loss included litigation and conduct costs of £1,284 million.  

An operating profit of £1,238 million compared with an operating loss of £695 million in Q2 2016 and an operating profit of £713 million in Q1 2017. An adjusted operating profit of £1,690 million(3) was £974 million higher than Q2 2016 and was £319 million above Q1 2017 principally reflecting an IFRS volatility gain of £172 million, compared with a loss of £18 million in Q1 2017.

Across our three customer facing businesses, PBB, CPB and NatWest Markets, operating profit of £1,181 million was £798 million higher than Q2 2016. Adjusted operating profit (of £1,352 million(1) was £305 million, or 29.1%, higher than Q2 2016.

Q2 2017 NIM of 2.13% was 8 basis points lower than Q2 2016 principally reflecting the impact of asset margin pressure and mix impacts across the core businesses. Compared with Q1 2017, NIM reduced by 11 basis points to 2.13%, with the majority of the reduction driven by a conscious build-up in liquidity as we manage for litigation and conduct costs, including FHFA, and accelerate MREL and other wholesale funding plans into H1 2017. In addition, conditions in the UK mortgage market have become more competitive, contributing to a 9 basis point reduction in UK PBB NIM.

Net loans and advances across PBB and CPB increased by £1.8 billion in the quarter to £277.7 (7)  billion driven by mortgage growth in UK PBB.

 

For footnotes refer to page 12.

10 

 


 

 

Highlights

 

Building a stronger RBS

RBS is progressing with its plan to build a strong, simple, fair bank for customers and shareholders.

The CET1 ratio remains ahead of our 13% target at 14.8%, a 140 basis point increase on Q4 2016 driven by a £12.8 billion reduction in RWAs and the £939 million attributable profit.

RWAs decreased by £12.8 billion compared with Q4 2016 principally reflecting £7.9 billion of disposals and run-off in Capital Resolution and planned RWA reductions in the core businesses. Excluding volume growth, core RWAs reduced by £8.6 billion comprising £0.7 billion in PBB, £4.4 billion in CPB and £3.5 billion in NatWest Markets.

During H1 2017, RBS has issued a Sterling equivalent of £3.6 billion (€1.5 billion and $3.0 billion) of senior holding company (RBSG) debt which it expects to be eligible to meet its ‘Minimum Requirement for Own Funds and Eligible Liabilities’ (MREL). Total estimated ‘Loss Absorbing Capital’ (LAC) is now £54.9 billion, or 25.5% of RWAs. In addition, RBS successfully completed its first covered bond issuance in over five years comprising €1.25 billion 7 year and £1.25 billion three year tranches.

During H1 2017, RBS successfully redeemed £4.1 billion Sterling equivalent of legacy capital securities through calls and repurchase. RBS has decided not to exercise the current call option on the non-cumulative US Dollar preference share series U and Euro Preference Shares Series 3. RBS has instead prioritised calling nine other legacy Tier 1 instruments with higher economic benefit. Further details are available in the Capital, liquidity and funding risk section on page 2.

Leverage ratio was stable on Q4 2016 at 5.1%.

Risk elements in lending (REIL) of £9.3 billion were £1.0 billion lower than 31 December 2016 and represented 2.8% of gross customer loans, compared with 3.1% at 31 December 2016 and 3.5% as at 30 June 2016. Excluding REIL in Capital Resolution and Ulster Bank RoI, REIL were £4.0 billion or 1.3% of the respective gross customer loans.

As at 30 June 2017, there has been no material change to the surplus ratio of assets to liabilities in the Main Scheme of The Royal Bank of Scotland Group Pension Fund which at 31 December was c.115% under IAS valuation principles.

RBS has continued to utilise the Bank of England’s Term Funding Scheme with £9 billion drawn since 31 December 2016, taking total RBS participation to £14 billion as at 30 June 2017.

On 15 June 2017, Moody’s announced that they had upgraded their senior debt rating of The Royal Bank of Scotland Group plc (RBS Group) by one notch to Baa3 from Ba1. As a result, all three ratings agencies have now given RBS Group an investment grade senior debt rating.

 

Building the number one bank for customer service, trust and advocacy in the UK

RBS continued to deliver strong support for both household and business customers. Within UK PBB, gross new mortgage lending was £14.5 billion, with market share of new mortgages at approximately 12% supporting growth in stock share to approximately 9.1%, up from 8.8% at 31 December 2016. Positive momentum continued across business banking lending with net balances up 4%, excluding transfers of £0.6 billion from Commercial Banking as at 30 June 2017, compared with H1 2016.  

RBS continued to enhance the capability of its mobile app, with a corresponding increase in customer usage. We now have 5.0 million customers regularly using the app, up 19% on FY 2016. In the final month of H1 2017 customers logged into the app an average of 58 times a second and sent close to ten million payments. RBS remains the only UK bank to allow customers to use the app to withdraw money from a cash machine without needing to carry a debit card, with customers now using the ‘Get Cash’ service over 200,000 times a month.

We continued to improve our product and service delivery channels to support our lending and income growth targets. In mortgages, while in the past a mortgage renewal would have required an appointment at a branch or a phone call, Royal Bank and NatWest customers can now renew online in a matter of minutes, with close to 19,000 customers renewing online in H1 2017. In addition, for new customers we have piloted a paperless mortgage process which has cut the time taken to issue a firm offer in half, to around ten days.

During H1 2017, RBS launched NatWest Invest, our new digital investment service, which offers NatWest personal and private customers the opportunity to select their own investment online, from a range of five personal portfolio funds.

NatWest Markets has reviewed ways to minimise disruption to the business and continue to serve its customers well in the event of any loss of EU passporting. Should the outcome of the current EU separation negotiations make it necessary, NatWest Markets is ensuring our existing RBS N.V. banking licence in the Netherlands is operationally ready.

 

For footnotes refer to following page.

 

11 

 


 

 

Highlights

 

Notes:

(1)

Refer to the income statement reconciliations on page 17.

(2)

Total operating expenses excluding restructuring costs (H1 2017 - £790 million and H1 2016 - £630 million), litigation and conduct costs (H1 2017 - £396 million and H1 2016 - £1,315 million) and VAT recoveries (H1 2017 - £51 million and H1 2016 - £227 million).

(3)

Operating profit before tax excluding own credit adjustments (H1 2017 - £73 million loss; Q2 2017 - £44 million loss; H1 2016 - £450 million gain; Q1 2017 - £29 million loss; Q2 2016 - £194 million gain), redemption of own debt (H1 2017 - £7 million loss; Q2 2017 - £9 million loss; H1 2016 - £130 million loss; Q1 2017 - £2 million gain; Q2 2016 - £130 million loss), strategic disposals (H1 2017 - £156 million gain; Q2 2017 - £156 million gain; H1 2016 - £195 million gain; Q1 2017 - nil; Q2 2016 - £201 million gain), restructuring costs (H1 2017 - £790 million; Q2 2017 - £213 million; H1 2016 - £630 million; Q1 2017 - £577 million; Q2 2016 - £392 million), and litigation and conduct costs (H1 2017 - £396 million; Q2 2017 - £342 million; H1 2016 - £1,315 million; Q1 2017 - £54 million; Q2 2016 - £1,284 million).

(4)

Total income excluding own credit adjustments (H1 2017 - £73 million loss; Q2 2017 - £44 million loss; H1 2016 - £450 million gain; Q1 2017 - £29 million loss; Q2 2016 - £194 million gain), redemption of own debt (H1 2017 - £7 million loss; Q2 2017 - £9 million loss; H1 2016 - £130 million loss; Q1 2017 - £2 million gain; Q2 2016 - £130 million loss) and strategic disposals (H1 2017 - £156 million gain; Q2 2017 - £156 million gain; H1 2016 - £195 million gain; Q1 2017 - nil; Q2 2016 - £201 million gain)

(5)

Total operating expenses excluding restructuring costs (H1 2017 - £790 million; Q2 2017 - £213 million; H1 2016 - £630 million; Q1 2017 - £577 million; Q2 2016 - £392 million), and litigation and conduct costs (H1 2017 - £396 million; Q2 2017 - £342 million; H1 2016 - £1,315 million; Q1 2017 - £54 million; Q2 2016 - £1,284 million).

(6)

Operating lease depreciation included in income (H1 2017 - £72 million; Q2 2017 - £36 million, H1 2016 - £76 million; Q1 2017 - £36 million and Q2 2016 - £38 million).

(7)

Refer to the segmental performance section on pages 30 to 31.

12 

 


 

 

Highlights

 

Customer

RBS remains committed to achieving its target of being number one bank for customer service, trust and advocacy by 2020.

 

We use independent surveys to measure our customers’ experience and track our progress against our goal in each of our markets.

 

Net Promoter Score (NPS)

Customers are asked how likely they would be to recommend their bank to a friend or colleague, and respond based on a 0-10 scale with 10 indicating ‘extremely likely’ and 0 indicating ‘not at all likely’.  Customers scoring 0 to 6 are termed detractors and customers scoring 9 to 10 are termed promoters. NPS is established by subtracting the proportion of detractors from the proportion of promoters.

 

The table below lists all of the businesses for which we have an NPS. Commercial Banking NPS is up 4 points from H1 2016 at 22, statistically ahead of the rest of the Commercial Banking market. We still have significant work to do to improve customer experience across some of our other businesses and brands.  

 

                 

 

 

Q2 2016

Q1 2017

Q2 2017

Personal Banking

NatWest (England & Wales)(1)

12

15

13

Royal Bank of Scotland (Scotland)(1)

(7)

(13)

(21)

Ulster Bank (Northern Ireland)(2)

(16)

(15)

(8)

Ulster Bank (Republic of Ireland)(2)

(11)

(8)

(5)

Business Banking

NatWest (England & Wales)(3)

4

(3)

(8)

Royal Bank of Scotland (Scotland)(3)

(4)

(7)

(12)

Business & Commercial

Ulster Bank (Northern Ireland)(4)

3

(6)

(5)

Ulster Bank (Republic of Ireland)(5)

N/A

N/A

13

Commercial Banking(6)

18

21

22

 

13 

 


 

 

Highlights

 

Customer Trust

We also use independent experts to measure our customers’ trust in the bank. Each quarter we ask customers to what extent they trust or distrust their bank to do the right thing. The score is a net measure of those customers that trust their bank (a lot or somewhat) minus those that distrust their bank (a lot or somewhat).

 

Customer trust in NatWest in England & Wales continues to improve and has exceeded its 2017 target of 57. Trust in RBS in Scotland has improved since last year, but is behind target trajectory. This is primarily due to ongoing reputational and legacy issues that the bank continues to work to resolve.

 

 

 

Q2 2016

Q1 2017

Q2 2017

Customer trust(7)

NatWest (England & Wales)

48

55

58

Royal Bank of Scotland (Scotland)

23

28

27

 

Notes:

(1)

Source: GfK FRS 6 month rolling data. Latest base sizes: NatWest (England & Wales) (3365) Royal Bank of Scotland (Scotland) (510). Based on the question: "How likely is it that you would recommend (brand) to a relative, friend or colleague in the next 12 months for current account banking?“ Base: Claimed main banked current account customers.

(2)

Source: Coyne Research 12 month rolling data. Latest base sizes: Ulster Bank NI (309) Ulster Bank RoI (273) Question: “Please indicate to what extent you would be likely to recommend (brand) to your friends or family using a scale of 0 to 10 where 0 is not at all likely and 10 is extremely likely”.   

(3)

Source: Charterhouse Research Business Banking Survey, YE Q2 2017.  Based on interviews with businesses with an annual turnover up to £2 million. Latest base sizes: NatWest England & Wales (1228), RBS Scotland (401). Question: “How likely would you be to recommend (bank)”. Base: Claimed main bank. Data weighted by region and turnover to be representative of businesses in Great Britain.

(4)

Source: Charterhouse Research Business Banking Survey, YE Q2 2017.  Based on interviews with businesses with an annual turnover up to £1 billion. Base size: 383. Question: “How likely would you be to recommend (bank)”. Base: Claimed main bank. Data weighted by region and turnover to be representative of businesses in Northern Ireland.

(5)

Source: Red C SME survey based on interviews with businesses with an estimated annual turnover of €2-25m (6-monthly study only).  Latest sample size: Ulster Bank (252).

(6)

Source: Charterhouse Research Business Banking Survey, YE Q2 2017.  Commercial £2m+ in GB (RBSG sample size, excluding don’t knows: 913).  Question: “How likely would you be to recommend (bank)”. Base: Claimed main bank. Data weighted by region and turnover to be representative of businesses in Great Britain.

(7)

Source: Populus. Latest quarter’s data. Measured as a net of those that trust RBS/NatWest to do the right thing, less those that do not. Latest base sizes: NatWest,

England & Wales (942), RBS Scotland (206).

 

 

14 

 


 

 

Highlights

 

Capital reorganisation

Following a resolution at the parent company’s 2017 Annual General Meeting, on 15 June 2017 we announced completion of the legal capital reduction process to cancel the share premium account and capital redemption reserve whose combined balances were £30.3 billion. As a result, the parent company’s retained earnings increased by an equal amount. There has been no change in the interests of ordinary and preference shareholders.

 

IFRS 9 (1) 

 

RBS continues to work towards the implementation of IFRS 9 on 1 January 2018.  In terms of shareholders equity, RBS’s current estimate of the opening balance sheet adjustment, if applied on 1 July 2017, is to increase credit impairment provisions by £0.5 billion before tax.  Separately, there is an increase in asset values of £1.0 billion before tax in respect of changes on classification and measurement.  This results in a net increase in shareholders equity, after tax, of £0.4 billion.  As at end Q2 2017, this would have equated to an increase in tangible net asset value per share of approximately 3 pence per share

In terms of CET1 capital, under the current rules, the increase in credit impairment provisions is fully offset by a reduction in the regulatory expected loss deduction, so is anticipated  to have no CET1 capital impact.  The increase in asset values of £1.0 billion noted above is partially offset by tax and an expected additional prudential valuation deduction driving an overall increase in CET1 capital of some £0.6 billion.  As at end Q2 2017, this would have equated to an increase in the CET1 ratio of approximately 30 basis points.

RBS will continue to calibrate and refine its models and methodologies during 2017 and 2018 which may impact IFRS 9 at adoption on 1 January 2018; changes will also follow from disposals, changes in the portfolio composition, economic or credit conditions. For further information on the implementation of IFRS 9 refer to pages 397 to 401 of the 2016 Annual Report on Form 20-F.

 

Progress on 2017 targets

RBS remains committed to achieving its priority targets for 2017. 

 

Strategy goal

2017 target

Q2 2017 Progress

Strength and sustainability

Maintain bank CET1 ratio of 13%

CET1 ratio of 14.8%; up 70 basis points from Q1 2017 and 140 basis points from Q4 2016

Customer experience

Significantly increase NPS or maintain No.1 in chosen customer segments

Our Commercial Banking franchise remains a clear market leader. We still have significant work to do to improve customer experience across some of our other businesses and brands

Simplifying the bank

Reduce operating expenses by at least £750 million (2)

Operating expenses down £494 (3) million, or 11.7%, excluding VAT recoveries; 66% of the total full year target

Supporting growth

Net 3% growth on total PBB and CPB loans to customers

Net customer loans in PBB and CPB are up 4.1% on an annualised basis for the year to date; 69% of the total full year target

Employee engagement

Improve employee engagement

Employee engagement improved by 4 points in H1 2017

 

Notes:

(1)

The expectations and trends discussed in this section represent management’s current expectations and are subject to change, including as a result of the factors described in this document and in the “Risk Factors” on pages 509 to 578 of the 2016 Annual Report on form 20-F. These statements constitute forward-looking statements; refer to Forward-looking statements in this announcement.

(2)

Cost saving target and progress 2017 calculated using operating expenses excluding restructuring costs, litigation and conduct costs, write down of goodwill and VAT recoveries.

(3)

Total operating expenses excluding restructuring costs (H1 2017 - £790 million and H1 2016 - £630 million), litigation and conduct costs (H1 2017 - £396 million and H1 2016 - £1,315 million) and VAT recoveries (H1 2017 - £51 million and H1 2016 - £227 million).

 

15 

 


 

 

Highlights

 

Williams & Glyn

On 26 July, RBS announced that it had been informed by HM Treasury (HMT) that, following the consultation process carried out by the European Commission (EC) and a market testing exercise carried out by HMT, an alternative remedies package has now been agreed in principle between HMT and the EC Commissioner responsible for competition.     

This revised package is focused on the following two remedies to promote competition in the market for banking services to small and medium enterprises (“SMEs”) in the UK.

 

A £425 million Capability and Innovation Fund, to be administered by an independent body, that will grant funding to a range of competitors in the UK banking and financial technology sectors; and

 

 

An Incentivised Switching Scheme which will provide £275 million of funding for eligible challenger banks to help them incentivise SME customers of the business previously described as Williams & Glyn to switch their accounts and loans from RBS paid in the form of “dowries” to the receiving bank. An additional £75 million will be made available by RBS to cover customers’ costs of switching.

 

This revised package will be submitted to the EC’s College of Commissioners for approval and if agreed will form the basis of a new term sheet in relation to RBS’s remaining State Aid commitments. It is expected to come into effect during H2 2017, upon which RBS will no longer be obliged to achieve separation and divestment of the business previously described as Williams & Glyn by 31 December 2017.

A £750 million provision was recognised in RBS’s 2016 Annual Results in relation to the previously proposed package of measures. An incremental charge of £50 million has been recognised in Q2 2017 in relation to the revised package and its implementation costs, taking the total provision to £800 million.

RBS will incur running costs for the duration of the scheme, which are estimated at around £35 million and will be substantially incurred before the end of 2019. Furthermore, under the terms of the revised package, should the uptake within the Incentivised Switching Scheme not be sufficient, RBS could be required to make a further contribution, capped at £50 million.

 

 

Outlook (1)

We retain the 2017 full year financial guidance and medium term financial outlook we provided in the 2016 Annual Results document. In addition, and subject to providing substantially for remaining significant legacy issues in 2017, our expectation remains that we will be profitable in 2018.

Excluding RBS’s stake in Alawwal Bank, we now expect that Capital Resolution RWAs will be at the lower end of our previous £15-£20 billion guidance for end 2017. We anticipate that Capital Resolution disposal losses will be substantially higher in H2 2017, at around £0.7 billion.

In Q3 2017 we expect to recognise a debt sale gain of approximately £160 million in UK PBB.

 

 

 

 

Note:

(1)       The targets, expectations and trends discussed in this section represent management’s current expectations and are subject to change, including as a result of the factors described in this document and in the “Risk Factors” on pages 509 to 578 of the 2016 Annual Report on Form 20-F. These statements constitute forward-looking statements; refer to Forward-looking statements in this announcement.

 

16 

 


 

 

Segmental income statement reconciliations

  

PBB

  

CPB

  

  

  

  

Central

  

  

  

Ulster

  

Commercial

Private

RBS

  

NatWest

Capital

Williams

 items &

Total

  

UK PBB

Bank RoI

  

Banking

Banking

International

  

Markets

Resolution

& Glyn

other  

RBS

Half year ended 30 June 2017

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

Income statement

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total income - statutory

2,755 

293 

  

1,750 

321 

195 

  

932 

(102)

417 

358 

6,919 

Own credit adjustments

  

  

48 

22 

73 

Loss on redemption of own debt

  

  

Strategic disposals

  

  

(156)

(156)

Total income - adjusted

2,755 

296 

  

1,750 

321 

195 

  

980 

(80)

417 

209 

6,843 

Operating expenses - statutory

(1,586)

(293)

  

(996)

(232)

(94)

  

(775)

(539)

(158)

(179)

(4,852)

Restructuring costs  - direct

23 

24 

  

40 

  

30 

130 

543 

790 

Restructuring costs  - indirect

137 

19 

  

77 

14 

  

73 

(328)

Litigation and conduct costs

13 

33 

  

  

34 

272 

40 

396 

Operating expenses - adjusted

(1,413)

(217)

  

(875)

(218)

(90)

  

(638)

(133)

(158)

76 

(3,666)

Impairment (losses)/releases

(72)

11 

  

(94)

(7)

(5)

  

(1)

78 

(25)

(1)

(116)

Operating profit/(loss) - statutory

1,097 

11 

  

660 

82 

96 

  

156 

(563)

234 

178 

1,951 

Operating profit/(loss) - adjusted

1,270 

90 

  

781 

96 

100 

  

341 

(135)

234 

284 

3,061 

Additional information

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Return on equity (1) 

27.8%

0.8%

  

8.2%

7.7%

13.1%

  

2.3%

nm

22.2%

nm

5.6%

Return on equity     - adjusted (1,2) 

32.4%

6.8%

  

10.1%

9.3%

13.7%

  

7.2%

nm

22.2%

nm

11.5%

Cost:income ratio (3) 

57.6%

100.0%

  

55.1%

72.3%

48.2%

  

83.2%

nm

37.9%

nm

69.8%

Cost:income ratio - adjusted (2,3) 

51.3%

73.3%

  

47.9%

67.9%

46.2%

  

65.1%

nm

37.9%

nm

53.1%

Half year ended 30 June 2016

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Income statement

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total income - statutory

2,615 

293 

  

1,699 

331 

185 

  

818 

(172)

411 

(116)

6,064 

Own credit adjustments

(3)

  

  

(137)

(184)

(126)

(450)

Loss on redemption of own debt

  

  

130 

130 

Strategic disposals

  

  

51 

(246)

(195)

Total income - adjusted

2,615 

290 

  

1,699 

331 

185 

  

681 

(305)

411 

(358)

5,549 

Operating expenses - statutory

(2,042)

(312)

  

(984)

(278)

(71)

  

(729)

(478)

(242)

(793)

(5,929)

Restructuring costs  - direct

51 

24 

  

  

10 

12 

45 

485 

630 

Restructuring costs  - indirect

60 

  

40 

19 

  

23 

25 

(170)

Litigation and conduct costs

421 

92 

  

10 

  

56 

26 

708 

1,315 

Operating expenses - adjusted

(1,510)

(195)

  

(933)

(256)

(68)

  

(640)

(415)

(197)

230 

(3,984)

Impairment (losses)/releases

(40)

27 

  

(103)

(2)

(11)

  

(263)

(17)

(409)

Operating profit/(loss) - statutory

533 

  

612 

51 

103 

  

89 

(913)

152 

(909)

(274)

Operating profit/(loss) - adjusted

1,065 

122 

  

663 

73 

106 

  

41 

(983)

197 

(128)

1,156 

Additional information

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Return on equity (1) 

11.9%

0.6%

  

8.1%

5.1%

15.4%

  

0.8%

nm

14.3%

nm

(10.3%)

Return on equity  - adjusted (1,2) 

25.5%

9.3%

  

8.9%

7.6%

15.9%

  

(0.5%)

nm

18.6%

nm

(3.2%)

Cost:income ratio (3) 

78.1%

106.5%

  

56.1%

84.0%

38.4%

  

89.1%

nm

58.9%

nm

97.7%

Cost:income ratio - adjusted (2,3) 

57.7%

67.2%

  

53.0%

77.3%

36.8%

  

94.0%

nm

47.9%

nm

71.4%

17 

 


 

 

 

Segmental income statement reconciliations

  

PBB

  

CPB

  

  

  

  

Central

  

  

  

Ulster

  

Commercial

Private

RBS

  

NatWest

Capital

Williams

 items &

Total

  

UK PBB

Bank RoI

  

Banking

Banking

International

  

Markets

Resolution

& Glyn

other  

RBS

Quarter ended 30 June 2017

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

Income statement

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total income - statutory

1,378 

148 

  

885 

161 

97 

  

444 

(43)

211 

426 

3,707 

Own credit adjustments

  

  

28 

15 

(1)

44 

Loss on redemption of own debt

  

  

Strategic disposals

  

  

(156)

(156)

Total income  - adjusted

1,378 

150 

  

885 

161 

97 

  

472 

(28)

211 

278 

3,604 

Operating expenses - statutory

(735)

(151)

  

(446)

(108)

(48)

  

(355)

(378)

(74)

(104)

(2,399)

Restructuring costs  - direct

  

  

10 

60 

134 

213 

Restructuring costs  - indirect

26 

  

17 

  

25 

(12)

(64)

Litigation and conduct costs

33 

  

  

266 

30 

342 

Operating expenses - adjusted

(697)

(109)

  

(427)

(105)

(47)

  

(317)

(64)

(74)

(4)

(1,844)

Impairment (losses)/releases

(40)

(13)

  

(33)

(4)

  

(1)

33 

(14)

(70)

Operating profit/(loss) - statutory

603 

(16)

  

406 

49 

51 

  

88 

(388)

123 

322 

1,238 

Operating profit/(loss) - adjusted

641 

28 

  

425 

52 

52 

  

154 

(59)

123 

274 

1,690 

Additional information

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Return on equity (1) 

30.8%

(2.4%)

  

10.7%

9.6%

14.0%

  

2.9%

nm

23.5%

nm

8.0%

Return on equity  - adjusted (1,2) 

32.8%

4.3%

  

11.4%

10.3%

14.3%

  

6.6%

nm

23.5%

nm

12.9%

Cost:income ratio (3) 

53.3%

102.0%

  

48.3%

67.1%

49.5%

  

80.0%

nm

35.1%

nm

64.4%

Cost :ncome ratio - adjusted (2,3) 

50.6%

72.7%

  

46.1%

65.2%

48.5%

  

67.2%

nm

35.1%

nm

50.7%

Quarter ended 31 March 2017

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Income statement

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total income - statutory

1,377 

145 

  

865 

160 

98 

  

488 

(59)

206 

(68)

3,212 

Own credit adjustments

  

  

20 

29 

Gain on redemption of own debt

  

  

(2)

(2)

Total income  - adjusted

1,377 

146 

  

865 

160 

98 

  

508 

(52)

206 

(69)

3,239 

Operating expenses - statutory

(851)

(142)

  

(550)

(124)

(46)

  

(420)

(161)

(84)

(75)

(2,453)

Restructuring costs  - direct

20 

19 

  

39 

  

20 

70 

409 

577 

Restructuring costs  - indirect

111 

15 

  

60 

11 

  

48 

16 

(264)

Litigation and conduct costs

  

  

31 

10 

54 

Operating expenses - adjusted

(716)

(108)

  

(448)

(113)

(43)

  

(321)

(69)

(84)

80 

(1,822)

Impairment (losses)/releases

(32)

24 

  

(61)

(3)

(7)

  

45 

(11)

(1)

(46)

Operating profit/(loss) - statutory

494 

27 

  

254 

33 

45 

  

68 

(175)

111 

(144)

713 

Operating profit/(loss) - adjusted

629 

62 

  

356 

44 

48 

  

187 

(76)

111 

10 

1,371 

Additional information

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Return on equity (1) 

24.8%

4.0%

  

5.7%

6.0%

12.0%

  

1.7%

nm

20.9%

nm

3.1%

Return on equity  - adjusted (1,2) 

32.0%

9.3%

  

8.9%

8.6%

13.0%

  

7.9%

nm

20.9%

nm

9.7%

Cost:income ratio (3) 

61.8%

97.9%

  

62.0%

77.5%

46.9%

  

86.1%

nm

40.8%

nm

76.1%

Cost:income ratio - adjusted (2,3) 

52.0%

74.0%

  

49.7%

70.6%

43.9%

  

63.2%

nm

40.8%

nm

55.8%

18 

 


 

 

 

Segmental income statement reconciliations

  

PBB

  

CPB

  

  

  

  

Central

  

  

  

Ulster

  

Commercial

Private

RBS

  

NatWest

Capital

Williams

 items &

Total

  

UK PBB

Bank RoI

  

Banking

Banking

International

  

Markets

Resolution

& Glyn

other  

RBS

Quarter ended 30 June 2016

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Income statement

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total income - statutory

1,340 

135 

  

846 

166 

95 

  

477 

(325)

206 

60 

3,000 

Own credit adjustments

  

  

(73)

(76)

(45)

(194)

Loss on redemption of own debt

  

  

130 

130 

Strategic disposals

  

  

45 

(246)

(201)

Total income  - adjusted

1,340 

135 

  

846 

166 

95 

  

404 

(356)

206 

(101)

2,735 

Operating expenses - statutory

(1,292)

(202)

  

(546)

(125)

(35)

  

(368)

(220)

(124)

(597)

(3,509)

Restructuring costs - direct

38 

18 

  

  

10 

25 

295 

392 

Restructuring costs - indirect

51 

  

41 

  

11 

16 

(125)

Litigation and conduct costs

421 

92 

  

  

38 

16 

707 

1,284 

Operating expenses - adjusted

(782)

(91)

  

(497)

(119)

(33)

  

(309)

(183)

(99)

280 

(1,833)

Impairment (losses)/releases

(24)

14 

  

(89)

(9)

  

(67)

(11)

(186)

Operating profit/(loss) - statutory

24 

(53)

  

211 

41 

51 

  

109 

(612)

71 

(537)

(695)

Operating profit/(loss) - adjusted

534 

58 

  

260 

47 

53 

  

95 

(606)

96 

179 

716 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Additional information

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Return on equity (1) 

(0.4%)

(8.2%)

  

4.9%

8.6%

15.0%

  

4.3%

nm

13.3%

nm

(11.0%)

Return on equity  - adjusted (1,2) 

24.2%

9.0%

  

6.6%

9.9%

15.7%

  

3.5%

nm

18.0%

nm

3.2%

Cost income ratio (3) 

96.4%

149.6%

  

63.0%

75.3%

36.8%

  

77.1%

nm

60.2%

nm

117.2%

Cost income ratio - adjusted (2,3) 

58.4%

67.4%

  

57.0%

71.7%

34.7%

  

76.5%

nm

48.1%

nm

66.6%

 

Notes:

(1)

RBS’s CET1 target is 13% but for the purposes of computing segmental return on equity (ROE), to better reflect the differential drivers of capital usage, segmental operating profit after tax and adjusted for preference dividends is divided by notional equity allocated at different rates of 14% (Ulster Bank RoI - 11% prior to Q1 2017), 11% (Commercial Banking), 14% (Private Banking - 15% prior to Q1 2017), 12% (RBS International) and 15% for all other segments, of the monthly average of segmental risk-weighted assets incorporating the effect of capital deductions (RWAes). RBS Return on equity is calculated using profit for the period attributable to ordinary shareholders.

(2)

Excluding own credit adjustments, (loss)/gain on redemption of own debt, strategic disposals, restructuring costs and litigation and conduct costs.

(3)

Operating lease depreciation included in income (H1 2017 - £72 million; Q2 2017 - £36 million; H1 2016 – £76 millions; Q1 2017 - £36 million and Q2 2016 - £38 million).

19 

 


 

 

Analysis of results

 

  

Half year ended

  

Quarter ended

  

30 June

30 June

  

30 June

31 March

30 June

  

2017 

2016 

  

2017 

2017 

2016 

Net interest income

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net interest income

  

  

  

  

  

  

RBS

4,472 

4,333 

  

2,238 

2,234 

2,177 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - UK Personal & Business Banking

2,231 

2,109 

  

1,120 

1,111 

1,090 

  - Ulster Bank RoI

206 

198 

  

101 

105 

93 

  - Commercial Banking

1,141 

1,067 

  

574 

567 

531 

  - Private Banking

226 

226 

  

114 

112 

113 

  - RBS International

161 

151 

  

81 

80 

76 

  - NatWest Markets

42 

43 

  

13 

29 

24 

  - Capital Resolution

24 

168 

  

(9)

33 

82 

  - Williams & Glyn

333 

324 

  

168 

165 

162 

  - Central items & other

108 

47 

  

76 

32 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Average interest-earning assets (IEA)

  

  

  

  

  

  

RBS

413,588 

399,640 

  

421,980 

405,107 

396,008 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - UK Personal & Business Banking

151,659 

138,192 

  

153,714 

149,581 

140,591 

  - Ulster Bank RoI

24,858 

24,233 

  

25,288 

24,424 

24,288 

  - Commercial Banking

131,807 

117,312 

  

132,719 

130,885 

119,768 

  - Private Banking

18,068 

16,441 

  

18,533 

17,597 

16,622 

  - RBS International

23,997 

21,436 

  

25,034 

22,949 

21,798 

  - NatWest Markets

17,021 

11,745 

  

16,853 

17,192 

11,923 

  - Capital Resolution

15,959 

29,962 

  

15,156 

16,771 

29,157 

  - Williams & Glyn

25,334 

23,764 

  

25,495 

25,170 

24,172 

  - Central items & other

4,885 

16,555 

  

9,188 

538 

7,689 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Yields, spreads and margins of the banking business

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Gross yield on interest-earning assets

  

  

  

  

  

  

  of the banking business (1,2) 

2.63%

2.85%

  

2.56%

2.70%

2.87%

Cost of interest-bearing liabilities of banking business (1) 

(0.68%)

(1.03%)

  

(0.66%)

(0.70%)

(1.02%)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Interest spread of the banking business (1,3) 

1.95%

1.82%

  

1.90%

2.00%

1.85%

Benefit from interest-free funds

0.23%

0.36%

  

0.23%

0.24%

0.36%

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net interest margin (4) 

  

  

  

  

  

  

RBS

2.18%

2.18%

  

2.13%

2.24%

2.21%

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - UK Personal & Business Banking

2.97%

3.07%

  

2.92%

3.01%

3.12%

  - Ulster Bank RoI

1.67%

1.64%

  

1.60%

1.74%

1.54%

  - Commercial Banking

1.75%

1.83%

  

1.73%

1.76%

1.78%

  - Private Banking

2.52%

2.76%

  

2.47%

2.58%

2.73%

  - RBS International

1.35%

1.42%

  

1.30%

1.41%

1.40%

  - NatWest Markets

0.50%

0.74%

  

0.31%

0.68%

0.81%

  - Capital Resolution

0.30%

1.13%

  

(0.24%)

0.80%

1.13%

  - Williams & Glyn

2.65%

2.74%

  

2.64%

2.66%

2.70%

 

For the notes to this table refer to the following page.  

20 

 


 

 

Analysis of results

 

 

  

Half year ended

  

Quarter ended

  

30 June

30 June

  

30 June

31 March

30 June

Third party customer rates (5)

2017 

2016 

  

2017 

2017 

2016 

Third party customer asset rate

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - UK Personal & Business Banking

3.54%

3.96%

  

3.50%

3.57%

3.96%

  - Ulster Bank RoI (6)

2.37%

2.20%

  

2.28%

2.47%

2.07%

  - Commercial Banking

2.66%

2.85%

  

2.65%

2.67%

2.82%

  - Private Banking

2.70%

3.00%

  

2.68%

2.71%

2.97%

  - RBS International

2.73%

3.14%

  

2.72%

2.75%

3.02%

Third party customer funding rate

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - UK Personal & Business Banking

(0.18%)

(0.54%)

  

(0.18%)

(0.17%)

(0.46%)

  - Ulster Bank RoI (6)

(0.36%)

(0.56%)

  

(0.31%)

(0.40%)

(0.53%)

  - Commercial Banking

(0.13%)

(0.36%)

  

(0.11%)

(0.14%)

(0.36%)

  - Private Banking

(0.07%)

(0.22%)

  

(0.07%)

(0.07%)

(0.20%)

  - RBS International

(0.02%)

(0.18%)

  

(0.01%)

(0.03%)

(0.13%)

 

Notes:                                                                                                                                           

(1)

For the purpose of calculating gross yields and interest spread, interest receivable has been decreased by £77 million (Q2 2017 - £42 million; Q1 2017 - £35 million) and interest payable has decreased by £77 million (Q2 2017 - £42 million; Q1 2017 – £35 million) in respect of negative interest relating to both financial assets and financial liabilities that attracted negative interest.

(2)

Gross yield is the interest earned on average interest-earning assets as a percentage of average interest-earning assets.

(3)

Interest spread is the difference between the gross yield and interest paid on average interest-bearing liabilities as a percentage of average interest-bearing liabilities.

(4)

Net interest margin is net interest income as a percentage of average interest-earning assets.

(5)

Net interest margin includes Treasury allocations and interest on intercompany borrowings, which are excluded from third party customer rates.

(6)

Ulster Bank Ireland DAC manages its funding and liquidity requirements locally. Its liquid asset portfolios and non-customer related funding sources are included within its net interest margin, but excluded from its third party asset and liability rates.

 

21 

 


 

 

Analysis of results

 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Half year ended

  

Half year ended

  

30 June 2017

  

30 June 2016

  

Average

  

  

  

Average

  

  

  

balance

Interest

Rate

  

balance

Interest

Rate

Average balance sheet

£m

£m

%

  

£m

£m

%

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Assets

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Loans and advances to banks

70,191 

81 

0.23 

  

66,179 

115 

0.35 

Loans and advances to customers

296,421 

5,114 

3.48 

  

287,575 

5,364 

3.75 

Debt securities

46,976 

190 

0.82 

  

45,886 

177 

0.78 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Interest-earning assets

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - banking business (1,2) 

413,588 

5,385 

2.63 

  

399,640 

5,656 

2.85 

  - trading business (3) 

116,600 

  

  

  

132,839 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Non-interest earning assets

235,625 

  

  

  

339,014 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total assets

765,813 

  

  

  

871,493 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Memo: Funded assets

539,196 

  

  

  

535,848 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Liabilities

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Deposits by banks

16,905 

31 

0.37 

  

4,437 

12 

0.54 

Customer accounts

226,600 

290 

0.26 

  

233,165 

575 

0.50 

Debt securities in issue

21,817 

254 

2.35 

  

18,022 

298 

3.33 

Subordinated liabilities

15,012 

317 

4.26 

  

19,130 

442 

4.65 

Internal funding of trading business

(9,776)

21 

(0.43)

  

(17,508)

(4)

0.05 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Interest-bearing liabilities

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - banking business (1,2) 

270,557 

913 

0.68 

  

257,246 

1,323 

1.03 

  - trading business (3) 

126,164 

  

  

  

141,714 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Non-interest-bearing liabilities

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - demand deposits

99,029 

  

  

  

84,660 

  

  

  - other liabilities

220,310 

  

  

  

333,459 

  

  

Owners’ equity

49,753 

  

  

  

54,414 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total liabilities and owners’ equity

765,813 

  

  

  

871,493 

  

  

 

Notes:

(1)

For the purpose of calculating gross yields and interest spread, interest receivable has been decreased by £77 million (H1 2016 - £36 million) and interest payable has decreased by £77 million (H1 2016 - £36 million) in respect of negative interest relating to both financial assets and financial liabilities that attracted negative interest.

(2)

Interest income includes amounts (unwind of discount) recognised on impaired loans and receivables. The average balances of such loans are included in average loans and advances to banks and loans and advances to customers.

(3)

Interest receivable and interest payable on trading assets and liabilities are included in income from trading activities.

 

22 

 


 

 

Analysis of results

 

Key points

Net interest income of £4,472 million increased by £139 million, or 3.2%, compared with H1 2016 principally reflecting higher volumes in UK PBB, up £122 million or 5.8%, and increased deposit volumes and re-pricing benefits in Commercial Banking, up £74 million or 6.9%. Partially offsetting, Capital Resolution reduced by £144 million in line with the planned shrinkage of the balance sheet.

The net interest margin (NIM) was stable on H1 2016 at 2.18%. A 9 basis point reduction across PBB and CPB, associated with asset margin pressure and higher liquidity requirements, has been broadly offset by the benefit of a reduction in low yielding Capital Resolution and centrally held assets, down from 12% of total interest earning assets to 5%.

 

UK PBB declined by 10 basis points to 2.97% driven by lower mortgage margins and reduced current account hedge yield, partially offset by savings re-pricing benefits from actions taken in 2016.

 

 

Ulster Bank RoI NIM of 1.67% was 3 basis points higher than H1 2016 reflecting a combination of improved deposit and loan margins, one off income adjustments in H1 2017 and deleveraging measures in 2016 which have reduced the concentration of low yielding non-performing loans.

 

 

In Commercial Banking, active re-pricing of assets and deposits has been offset by wider asset margin pressure in a lower rate environment causing net interest margin to fall by 8 basis points to 1.75%.      

 

 

Private Banking fell 24 basis points to 2.52% reflecting the competitive market and lower rate environment.

 

 

RBS International NIM of 1.35% was 7 basis points lower as margin pressures outweigh mitigating pricing actions.

 

Structural hedges of £126 billion generated a benefit of £651 million through net interest income for H1 2017.

Compared with Q1 2017, NIM reduced by 11 basis points to 2.13%, with the majority of the reduction driven by a conscious build-up in liquidity as we manage for litigation and conduct costs, including FHFA, and accelerate MREL and other wholesale funding plans into H1 2017. In addition, conditions in the UK mortgage market have become more competitive, contributing to a 9 basis point reduction in UK PBB NIM. Front book mortgage NIM was around 40 basis points lower than the back book. SVR balances were around 11% of total mortgage balances, broadly in line with Q1 2017.

NIM was 8 basis points lower than Q2 2016 principally reflecting asset margin pressure and mix impacts across the core businesses.

   

23 

 


 

 

Analysis of results

 

The following table reconciles adjusted non-interest income (a non-GAAP financial measure) to the statutory basis.

  

Half year ended

  

Quarter ended

  

30 June

30 June

  

30 June

31 March

30 June

  

2017 

2016 

  

2017 

2017 

2016 

Non-interest income

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net fees and commissions - statutory basis

1,218 

1,284 

  

613 

605 

630 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Income from trading activities

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - adjusted basis (1) 

957 

(267)

  

529 

428 

(157)

  - own credit adjustments

(73)

250 

  

(44)

(29)

102 

Statutory basis

884 

(17)

  

485 

399 

(55)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Own credit adjustments (2)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - adjusted basis

(73)

450 

  

(44)

(29)

194 

  - income from trading activities

73 

(250)

  

44 

29 

(102)

  - other operating income

(200)

  

(92)

Statutory basis

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

(Loss)/gain on redemption of own debt

(7)

(130)

  

(9)

(130)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Strategic disposals (2)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - adjusted basis

156 

195 

  

156 

201 

  - other operating income

(156)

(195)

  

(156)

(201)

Statutory basis

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Other operating income

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - adjusted basis (1) 

196 

199 

  

224 

(28)

85 

  - own credit adjustments

200 

  

92 

  - strategic disposals

156 

195 

  

156 

201 

Statutory basis

352 

594 

  

380 

(28)

378 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total non-interest income - adjusted basis (1) 

2,447 

1,731 

  

1,469 

978 

823 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total non-interest income - statutory basis

2,447 

1,731 

  

1,469 

978 

823 

 

Notes:

(1)

Adjusted basis is calculated as total income before own credit adjustments, (loss)/gain on redemption of own debt and strategic disposals.

(2)

Items reallocated to other expense lines, not reconciling items.

 

Key points

·

Non-interest income of £2,447 million increased by £716 million, or 41.4%, compared with H1 2016.

 

Across PBB and CPB, non-interest income reduced by £23 million, or 1.7%, to £1,349 million.

 

NatWest Markets non-interest income increased by £115 million, or 14.8%, to £890 million reflecting strong underlying income growth partially offset by a £185 million adverse movement in own credit adjustment.  

 

Capital Resolution non-interest income was a loss of £126 million compared with £340 million in H1 2016, which included a £330 million funding valuation adjustment. An own credit adjustment loss of £22 million compared with a gain of £184 million in H1 2016.  

 

Central items non-interest income was a gain of £250 million compared with a loss of £163 million largely reflecting a £154 million gain in respect of IFRS volatility compared with a £668 million loss in H1 2016.

·

Income from trading activities increased by £901 million compared with H1 2016 largely reflecting a £154 million IFRS volatility gain, compared with a £668 million loss in H1 2016, increased NatWest Markets income and a £330 million funding valuation adjustment in Capital Resolution in H1 2016 partially offset against an adverse movement in own credit adjustments of £323 million.

24 

 


 

 

Analysis of results

 

The following table reconciles adjusted operating expenses (a non-GAAP financial measure) to the statutory basis.

  

Half year ended

  

Quarter ended

  

30 June

30 June

  

30 June

31 March

30 June

  

2017 

2016 

  

2017 

2017 

2016 

Operating expenses

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Staff costs

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - adjusted basis (1)

(2,041)

(2,329)

  

(1,017)

(1,024)

(1,127)

  - restructuring costs

(406)

(366)

  

(115)

(291)

(245)

Statutory basis

(2,447)

(2,695)

  

(1,132)

(1,315)

(1,372)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Premises and equipment

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - adjusted basis (1)

(602)

(630)

  

(292)

(310)

(315)

  - restructuring costs

(76)

(22)

  

(9)

(67)

(13)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Statutory basis

(678)

(652)

  

(301)

(377)

(328)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Other administrative expenses

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - adjusted basis (1)

(678)

(625)

  

(358)

(320)

(179)

  - litigation and conduct costs

(396)

(1,315)

  

(342)

(54)

(1,284)

  - restructuring costs

(134)

(199)

  

(89)

(45)

(101)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Statutory basis

(1,208)

(2,139)

  

(789)

(419)

(1,564)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Restructuring costs (2) 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - adjusted basis

(790)

(630)

  

(213)

(577)

(392)

  - staff costs

406 

366 

  

115 

291 

245 

  - premises and equipment

76 

22 

  

67 

13 

  - other administrative expenses

134 

199 

  

89 

45 

101 

  - depreciation and amortisation

174 

  

174 

  - write down of other intangible assets

41 

  

31 

Statutory basis

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Litigation and conduct costs (2) 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - adjusted basis

(396)

(1,315)

  

(342)

(54)

(1,284)

  - other administrative expenses

396 

1,315 

  

342 

54 

1,284 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Statutory basis

  

Administrative expenses - adjusted basis

(4,507)

(5,529)

  

(2,222)

(2,285)

(3,297)

Administrative expenses - statutory basis

(4,333)

(5,486)

  

(2,222)

(2,111)

(3,264)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Depreciation and amortisation

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - adjusted basis (1)

(337)

(352)

  

(169)

(168)

(174)

  - restructuring costs

(174)

(2)

  

(174)

(2)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Statutory basis

(511)

(354)

  

(169)

(342)

(176)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Write down of other intangible assets

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - adjusted basis (1)

(8)

(48)

  

(8)

(38)

  - write down of other intangible assets

48 

  

38 

Statutory basis

(8)

  

(8)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Write-down of goodwill and other intangible assets

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - adjusted basis (1) 

  

  - write off of other intangible assets

(48)

  

(38)

  - restructuring costs

(41)

  

(31)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Statutory basis

(89)

  

(69)

Operating expenses - adjusted basis

(4,852)

(5,929)

  

(2,399)

(2,453)

(3,509)

Operating expenses - statutory basis

(4,852)

(5,929)

  

(2,399)

(2,453)

(3,509)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Notes:

(1)

Adjusted basis is calculated as operating expenses before restructuring costs and litigation and conduct costs.

(2)

Items reallocated to other expense lines, not reconciling items.

25 

 


 

 

Analysis of results

 

Key points

·

Total operating expenses of £4,852 million were £1,077 million, or 18.2%, lower than H1 2016 reflecting a £919 million reduction in litigation and conduct costs a £288 million reduction in staff costs, partially offset by a £160 million increase in restructuring costs. Adjusted operating expenses(1) reduced by £318 million, or 8.0%, primarily as a result of a £288 million reduction in staff costs.

·

Excluding VAT recoveries of £51 million in H1 2017 and £227 million in H1 2016, adjusted operating expenses(1)    reduced by £494 million, or 11.7%, compared with H1 2016 and we remain on track to achieve a £750 million reduction for the full year. The core businesses accounted for £151 million, or 31%(1) excluding the VAT recovery, of the reduction with the remainder largely in Capital Resolution, down £282 million or 68.0%.

·

Staff costs of £2,447 million, were £248 million, or 9.2%, lower than H1 2016 underpinned by a 14,200, or 15.9%, reduction in headcount partially offset by a £40 million increase in restructuring costs.

·

Total restructuring costs of £790 million included an £217 million charge relating to the reduction in our property portfolio, a £134 million charge in Capital Resolution, primarily in respect of Asia-Pacific restructuring, a £73 million net settlement relating to the RBS Netherlands pension scheme and a £50 million provision in respect of the revised package of remedies regarding Williams & Glyn.

·

Litigation and conduct costs of £396 million included a £151 million charge in respect of settlement with the FHFA and a £25 million charge relating to the settlement of the UK 2008 rights issue shareholder litigation.

·

Q2 2017 operating expenses decreased by £54 million, principally reflecting a decrease in restructuring costs of £364 million offset against a £288 million increase in litigation and conduct costs. Adjusted operating expenses(1)    increased by £22 million compared with Q1 2017 principally reflecting the £51 million VAT release in the previous quarter. Across the core businesses, adjusted operating expenses(1) reduced by £47 million.

 

Note:

(1)

Refer to the income statement reconciliations on page 17.

26 

 


 

 

Analysis of results

 

  

Half year ended

  

Quarter ended

  

30 June

30 June

  

30 June

31 March

30 June

2017

2016

  

2017

2017

2016

Impairment losses/(releases)

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Loan impairment losses/(releases)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - individually assessed

50 

358 

  

42 

172 

  - collectively assessed

103 

43 

  

65 

38 

27 

  - latent

(1)

11 

  

(5)

(10)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total loan impairment losses

152 

412 

  

68 

84 

189 

Securities

(36)

(3)

  

(38)

(3)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total impairment losses

116 

409 

  

70 

46 

186 

 

  

  

  

  

  

30 June 

31 March 

31 December 

Credit metrics (1) 

2017 

2017 

2016 

  

  

  

  

Gross customer loans

£330,004m

£330,843m

£327,478m

Loan impairment provisions

£3,945m

£4,110m

£4,455m

Risk elements in lending (REIL)

£9,296m

£9,726m

£10,310m

Provisions as a % of REIL

42%

42%

43%

REIL as a % of gross customer loans

2.8%

2.9%

3.1%

Provisions as a % of gross customer loans

1.2%

1.2%

1.4%

 

Note:

(1)

Includes disposal groups and excludes reverse repos.

 

Key points 

·

A net impairment loss of £116 million, 7 basis points of gross customer loans, compared with a loss of £409 million in H1 2016.

·

Capital Resolution reported a net impairment release of £78 million in H1 2017 compared with a loss of £263 million in H1 2016 which included a £264 million charge in respect of the shipping portfolio.

·

Across the core businesses, net impairment losses increased by £39 million to £168 million, 11 basis points of gross customer loans, compared with H1 2016. UK PBB net impairment losses increased by £32 million to £72 million, 10 basis points of gross customer loans, largely reflecting a reduction in impairment releases. Ulster Bank RoI reported a net impairment release of £11 million compared with £27 million in H1 2016. Commercial Banking net impairment losses of £94 million, 19 basis points of gross customer loans, compared with a loss of £103 million in H1 2016.  

·

REIL reduced by £2,493 million, compared with H1 2016, to £9,296 million reflecting Capital Resolution run-down and a portfolio sale in Ulster Bank RoI, partially offset by an increase in the shipping portfolio, foreign exchange movements and the implementation of a revised mortgage methodology in Ulster Bank RoI. REIL represented 2.8% of gross customer loans compared with 3.5% at 30 June 2016 and 3.1% at 31 December 2016.

·

REIL in  Capital Resolution was £1.8 billion and Ulster Bank RoI was £3.5 billion, with the remaining, REIL of £4.0 billion, representing 1.3% of the respective gross customer loans.

 

27 

 


 

 

Analysis of results

 

Capital and leverage ratios

  

  

 

End-point CRR basis (1) 

  

30 June 

31 December 

  

2017 

2016 

Risk asset ratios

  

  

  

CET1

14.8 

13.4 

Tier 1

16.7 

15.2 

Total

20.0 

19.2 

Capital

£m

£m

  

  

  

Tangible equity

35,682 

34,982 

  

  

  

Expected loss less impairment provisions

(1,226)

(1,371)

Prudential valuation adjustment

(854)

(532)

Deferred tax assets

(877)

(906)

Own credit adjustments

(142)

(304)

Pension fund assets

(186)

(208)

Cash flow hedging reserve

(575)

(1,030)

Other deductions

52 

(8)

  

  

  

Total deductions

(3,808)

(4,359)

  

  

  

CET1 capital

31,874 

30,623 

AT1 capital

4,041 

4,041 

  

  

  

Tier 1 capital

35,915 

34,664 

Tier 2 capital

7,107 

9,161 

  

  

  

Total regulatory capital

43,022 

43,825 

Risk-weighted assets

  

  

Credit risk

  

  

  - non-counterparty

157,300 

162,200 

  - counterparty

17,800 

22,900 

Market risk

16,500 

17,400 

Operational risk

23,800 

25,700 

  

  

  

Total RWAs

215,400 

228,200 

Leverage (2) 

  

  

Cash and balances at central banks

86,800 

74,200 

Derivatives

193,500 

247,000 

Loans and advances

346,800 

340,300 

Reverse repos

40,000 

41,800 

Other assets

115,600 

95,400 

  

  

  

Total assets

782,700 

798,700 

Derivatives

  

  

  - netting and variation margin

(193,400)

(241,700)

  - potential future exposures

56,700 

65,300 

Securities financing transactions gross up

1,900 

2,300 

Undrawn commitments

53,100 

58,600 

Regulatory deductions and other adjustments

800 

100 

CRR leverage exposure

701,800 

683,300 

Tier 1 capital

35,915 

34,664 

CRR leverage ratio %

5.1 

5.1 

UK leverage exposure (3)

618,700 

614,600 

UK leverage ratio % (3)

5.8 

5.6 

       

 

28 

 


 

 

Analysis of results

 

Capital and leverage ratios

  

  

 

Notes:

(1)

CRR as implemented by the PRA in the UK, with effect from 1 January 2014. All regulatory adjustments and deductions to CET1 have been applied in full with the exception of unrealised gains on available-for-sale securities which have been included from 2015 under the PRA transitional basis.

(2)

Based on end-point CRR Tier 1 capital and leverage exposure under the CRR Delegated Act.

(3)

Based on end-point CRR Tier 1 capital and UK leverage exposures reflecting the post EU referendum measures announced by the Bank of England in the third quarter of 2016.

29 

 


 

 

Segment performance

  

Half year ended 30 June 2017

  

PBB

  

CPB

  

  

  

  

Central

  

  

  

Ulster

  

Commercial

Private

RBS

  

NatWest

Capital

Williams

 items &

Total

  

UK PBB

Bank RoI

  

Banking

Banking

International

  

Markets

Resolution

& Glyn (1)

other (2)

RBS

  

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

Income statement

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net interest income

2,231 

206 

  

1,141 

226 

161 

  

42 

24 

333 

108 

4,472 

Other non-interest income

524 

90 

  

609 

95 

34 

  

938 

(104)

84 

101 

2,371 

Total income - adjusted (3) 

2,755 

296 

  

1,750 

321 

195 

  

980 

(80)

417 

209 

6,843 

Own credit adjustments

(3)

  

  

(48)

(22)

(73)

Loss on redemption of own debt

  

  

(7)

(7)

Strategic disposals

  

  

156 

156 

Total income

2,755 

293 

  

1,750 

321 

195 

  

932 

(102)

417 

358 

6,919 

Direct expenses - staff costs

(329)

(96)

  

(245)

(74)

(23)

  

(297)

(26)

(96)

(855)

(2,041)

                           - other costs

(121)

(24)

  

(111)

(12)

(7)

  

(99)

(19)

(20)

(1,212)

(1,625)

Indirect expenses

(963)

(97)

  

(519)

(132)

(60)

  

(242)

(88)

(42)

2,143 

Operating expenses - adjusted (4)

(1,413)

(217)

  

(875)

(218)

(90)

  

(638)

(133)

(158)

76 

(3,666)

Restructuring costs  - direct

(23)

(24)

  

(40)

  

(30)

(130)

(543)

(790)

                                 - indirect

(137)

(19)

  

(77)

(14)

(4)

  

(73)

(4)

328 

Litigation and conduct costs

(13)

(33)

  

(4)

  

(34)

(272)

(40)

(396)

Operating expenses

(1,586)

(293)

  

(996)

(232)

(94)

  

(775)

(539)

(158)

(179)

(4,852)

Operating profit/(loss) before impairment (losses)/releases

1,169 

--

  

754 

89 

101 

  

157 

(641)

259 

179 

2,067 

Impairment (losses)/releases

(72)

11 

  

(94)

(7)

(5)

  

(1)

78 

(25)

(1)

(116)

Operating profit/(loss)

1,097 

11 

  

660 

82 

96 

  

156 

(563)

234 

178 

1,951 

Operating profit/(loss) - adjusted (3,4)

1,270 

90 

  

781 

96 

100 

  

341 

(135)

234 

284 

3,061 

Additional information

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Return on equity (5)

27.8%

0.8%

  

8.2%

7.7%

13.1%

  

2.3%

nm

22.2%

nm

5.6%

Return on equity - adjusted (3,4,5)

32.4%

6.8%

  

10.1%

9.3%

13.7%

  

7.2%

nm

22.2%

nm

11.5%

Cost:income ratio (6)

57.6%

100.0%

  

55.1%

72.3%

48.2%

  

83.2%

nm

37.9%

nm

69.8%

Cost:income ratio - adjusted (3,4,6)

51.3%

73.3%

  

47.9%

67.9%

46.2%

  

65.1%

nm

37.9%

nm

53.1%

Total assets (£bn)

161.6 

24.9 

  

151.9 

19.6 

24.7 

  

230.9 

102.2 

26.0 

40.9 

782.7 

Funded assets (£bn) (7)

161.6 

24.8 

  

151.9 

19.6 

24.7 

  

117.0 

24.7 

26.0 

38.8 

589.1 

Net loans and advances to customers (£bn) 

138.5 

19.5 

  

98.1 

12.8 

8.8 

  

17.7 

10.1 

20.4 

0.2 

326.1 

Risk elements in lending (£bn)

1.8 

3.5 

  

1.6 

0.1 

0.1 

  

-  

1.8 

0.3 

0.1 

9.3 

Impairment provisions (£bn)

(1.2)

(1.2)

  

(0.7)

-  

-  

  

-  

(0.6)

(0.2)

-  

(3.9)

Customer deposits (£bn)

149.8 

16.9 

  

100.9 

26.1 

25.5 

  

8.1 

7.2 

24.9 

0.5 

359.9 

Risk-weighted assets (RWAs) (£bn)

32.9 

18.0 

  

76.2 

9.0 

9.4 

  

31.7 

26.6 

9.4 

2.2 

215.4 

RWA equivalent (£bn) (5)

35.8 

19.1 

  

79.5 

9.0 

9.4 

  

33.4 

31.7 

9.9 

2.5 

230.3 

Employee numbers (FTEs - thousands) (8)

17.7 

2.9 

  

5.2 

1.7 

0.8 

  

5.5 

0.2 

4.1 

36.9 

75.0 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

For the notes to this table refer to page 34. nm = not meaningful

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

30 

 


 

 

 

Segment performance

  

Quarter ended 30 June 2017

  

PBB

  

CPB

  

  

  

  

Central

  

  

  

Ulster

  

Commercial

Private

RBS

  

NatWest

Capital

Williams

 items &

Total

  

UK PBB

Bank RoI

  

Banking

Banking

International

  

Markets

Resolution

& Glyn (1) 

other (2) 

RBS

  

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

Income statement

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net interest income

1,120 

101 

  

574 

114 

81 

  

13 

(9)

168 

76 

2,238 

Other non-interest income

258 

49 

  

311 

47 

16 

  

459 

(19)

43 

202 

1,366 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total income adjusted (3) 

1,378 

150 

  

885 

161 

97 

  

472 

(28)

211 

278 

3,604 

Own credit adjustments

(2)

  

  

(28)

(15)

(44)

Loss on redemption of own debt

  

  

(9)

(9)

Strategic disposals

  

  

156 

156 

Total income

1,378 

148 

  

885 

161 

97 

  

444 

(43)

211 

426 

3,707 

Direct expenses - staff costs

(166)

(47)

  

(120)

(36)

(11)

  

(142)

(10)

(43)

(442)

(1,017)

                           - other costs

(57)

(12)

  

(56)

(5)

(4)

  

(48)

(10)

(9)

(626)

(827)

Indirect expenses

(474)

(50)

  

(251)

(64)

(32)

  

(127)

(44)

(22)

1,064 

Operating expenses  - adjusted (4)

(697)

(109)

  

(427)

(105)

(47)

  

(317)

(64)

(74)

(4)

(1,844)

Restructuring costs   - direct

(3)

(5)

  

(1)

  

(10)

(60)

(134)

(213)

Restructuring costs   - indirect

(26)

(4)

  

(17)

(3)

(1)

  

(25)

12 

64 

Litigation and conduct costs

(9)

(33)

  

(1)

  

(3)

(266)

(30)

(342)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating expenses

(735)

(151)

  

(446)

(108)

(48)

  

(355)

(378)

(74)

(104)

(2,399)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating profit/(loss) before impairment (losses)/releases

643 

(3)

  

439 

53 

49 

  

89 

(421)

137 

322 

1,308 

Impairment (losses)/releases

(40)

(13)

  

(33)

(4)

  

(1)

33 

(14)

(70)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating profit/(loss)

603 

(16)

  

406 

49 

51 

  

88 

(388)

123 

322 

1,238 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating profit/(loss) - adjusted (3,4)

641 

28 

  

425 

52 

52 

  

154 

(59)

123 

274 

1,690 

Additional information

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Return on equity (5)

30.8%

(2.4%)

  

10.7%

9.6%

14.0%

  

2.9%

nm

23.5%

nm

8.0%

Return on equity - adjusted (3,4,5)

32.8%

4.3%

  

11.4%

10.3%

14.3%

  

6.6%

nm

23.5%

nm

12.9%

Cost:income ratio (6) 

53.3%

102.0%

  

48.3%

67.1%

49.5%

  

80.0%

nm

35.1%

nm

64.4%

Cost:income ratio - adjusted (3,4,6)

50.6%

72.7%

  

46.1%

65.2%

48.5%

  

67.2%

nm

35.1%

nm

50.7%

Total assets (£bn)

161.6 

24.9 

  

151.9 

19.6 

24.7 

  

230.9 

102.2 

26.0 

40.9 

782.7 

Funded assets (£bn) (7) 

161.6 

24.8 

  

151.9 

19.6 

24.7 

  

117.0 

24.7 

26.0 

38.8 

589.1 

Net loans and advances to customers (£bn)

138.5 

19.5 

  

98.1 

12.8 

8.8 

  

17.7 

10.1 

20.4 

0.2 

326.1 

Risk elements in lending (£bn)

1.8 

3.5 

  

1.6 

0.1 

0.1 

  

1.8 

0.3 

0.1 

9.3 

Impairment provisions (£bn)

(1.2)

(1.2)

  

(0.7)

  

(0.6)

(0.2)

(3.9)

Customer deposits (£bn)

149.8 

16.9 

  

100.9 

26.1 

25.5 

  

8.1 

7.2 

24.9 

0.5 

359.9 

Risk-weighted assets (RWAs) (£bn)

32.9 

18.0 

  

76.2 

9.0 

9.4 

  

31.7 

26.6 

9.4 

2.2 

215.4 

RWA equivalent (£bn) (5) 

35.8 

19.1 

  

79.5 

9.0 

9.4 

  

33.4 

31.7 

9.9 

2.5 

230.3 

Employee numbers (FTEs - thousands) (8)

17.7 

2.9 

  

5.2 

1.7 

0.8 

  

5.5 

0.2 

4.1 

36.9 

75.0 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

For the notes to this table refer to page 34. nm = not meaningful.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

31 

 


 

 

 

Segment performance

  

Half year ended 30 June 2016

  

PBB

  

CPB

  

  

  

  

Central

  

  

  

Ulster

  

Commercial

Private

RBS

  

NatWest

Capital

Williams

items &

Total

  

UK PBB

Bank RoI

  

Banking

Banking

International

  

Markets

Resolution

& Glyn (1) 

other (2)

RBS

  

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Income statement

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net interest income

2,109 

198 

  

1,067 

226 

151 

  

43 

168 

324 

47 

4,333 

Other non-interest income

506 

92 

  

632 

105 

34 

  

638 

(473)

87 

(405)

1,216 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total income - adjusted (3)

2,615 

290 

  

1,699 

331 

185 

  

681 

(305)

411 

(358)

5,549 

Own credit adjustments

  

  

137 

184 

126 

450 

Loss on redemption of own debt

  

  

(130)

(130)

Strategic disposals

  

  

(51)

246 

195 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total income

2,615 

293 

  

1,699 

331 

185 

  

818 

(172)

411 

(116)

6,064 

Direct expenses - staff costs

(361)

(97)

  

(265)

(77)

(22)

  

(131)

(62)

(125)

(1,189)

(2,329)

                           - other costs

(162)

(13)

  

(111)

(23)

(8)

  

(21)

(64)

(33)

(1,220)

(1,655)

Indirect expenses

(987)

(85)

  

(557)

(156)

(38)

  

(488)

(289)

(39)

2,639 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating expenses - adjusted (4)  

(1,510)

(195)

  

(933)

(256)

(68)

  

(640)

(415)

(197)

230 

(3,984)

Restructuring costs - direct

(51)

(24)

  

(1)

(1)

(1)

  

(10)

(12)

(45)

(485)

(630)

                                - indirect

(60)

(1)

  

(40)

(19)

(2)

  

(23)

(25)

170 

Litigation and conduct costs

(421)

(92)

  

(10)

(2)

  

(56)

(26)

(708)

(1,315)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating expenses

(2,042)

(312)

  

(984)

(278)

(71)

  

(729)

(478)

(242)

(793)

(5,929)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating profit/(loss) before impairment (losses)/releases

573 

(19)

  

715 

53 

114 

  

89 

(650)

169 

(909)

135 

Impairment (losses)/releases

(40)

27 

  

(103)

(2)

(11)

  

(263)

(17)

(409)

Operating profit/(loss)

533 

  

612 

51 

103 

  

89 

(913)

152 

(909)

(274)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating profit/(loss) - adjusted (3,4)

1,065 

122 

  

663 

73 

106 

  

41 

(983)

197 

(128)

1,156 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Additional information

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Return on equity (5)

11.9%

0.6%

  

8.1%

5.1%

15.4%

  

0.8%

nm

14.3%

nm

(10.3%)

Return on equity - adjusted (3,4,5) 

25.5%

9.3%

  

8.9%

7.6%

15.9%

  

(0.5%)

nm

18.6%

nm

(3.2%)

Cost:income ratio (6)

78.1%

106.5%

  

56.1%

84.0%

38.4%

  

89.1%

nm

58.9%

nm

97.7%

Cost:income ratio - adjusted (3,4,6) 

57.7%

67.2%

  

53.0%

77.3%

36.8%

  

94.0%

nm

47.9%

nm

71.4%

Total assets (£bn)

151.2 

24.3 

  

146.3 

17.8 

24.6 

  

284.0 

208.0 

24.9 

20.5 

901.6 

Funded assets (£bn) (7) 

151.2 

24.1 

  

146.3 

17.7 

24.6 

  

125.6 

44.7 

24.9 

16.5 

575.6 

Net loans and advances to customers (£bn)

126.0 

18.9 

  

99.2 

11.8 

8.5 

  

21.6 

19.9 

20.3 

0.4 

326.6 

Risk elements in lending (£bn)

2.3 

4.3 

  

2.2 

0.1 

0.1 

  

2.4 

0.4 

11.8 

Impairment provisions (£bn)

(1.5)

(2.5)

  

(1.0)

  

(1.1)

(0.3)

(0.1)

(6.5)

Customer deposits (£bn)

140.4 

14.7 

  

96.7 

25.4 

24.1 

  

8.3 

18.8 

23.9 

3.5 

355.8 

Risk-weighted assets (RWAs) (£bn)

37.0 

20.9 

  

77.5 

8.1 

9.6 

  

36.7 

42.3 

9.9 

3.2 

245.2 

RWA equivalent (£bn) (5) 

41.3 

20.8 

  

81.5 

8.1 

9.6 

  

37.2 

43.2 

10.4 

3.3 

255.4 

Employee numbers (FTEs - thousands)

20.0 

3.2 

  

5.9 

1.8 

0.7 

  

1.3 

0.9 

5.2 

50.2 

89.2 

For the notes to this table please refer to page 34. nm = not meaningful.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

32 

 


 

 

 

Segment performance

  

Quarter ended 31 March 2017

  

PBB

  

CPB

  

  

  

  

Central

  

  

  

Ulster

  

Commercial

Private

RBS

  

NatWest

Capital

Williams

items &

Total

  

UK PBB

Bank RoI

  

Banking

Banking

International

  

Markets

Resolution

& Glyn (1)

other (2)

RBS

  

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Income statement

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net interest income

1,111 

105 

  

567 

112 

80 

  

29 

33 

165 

32 

2,234 

Other non-interest income

266 

41 

  

298 

48 

18 

  

479 

(85)

41 

(101)

1,005 

Total income - adjusted (3) 

1,377 

146 

  

865 

160 

98 

  

508 

(52)

206 

(69)

3,239 

Own credit adjustments

(1)

  

  

(20)

(7)

(1)

(29)

Gain on redemption of own debt

  

  

Total income

1,377 

145 

  

865 

160 

98 

  

488 

(59)

206 

(68)

3,212 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Direct expenses  - staff costs

(163)

(49)

  

(125)

(38)

(12)

  

(155)

(16)

(53)

(413)

(1,024)

                            - other costs

(64)

(12)

  

(55)

(7)

(3)

  

(51)

(9)

(11)

(586)

(798)

Indirect expenses

(489)

(47)

  

(268)

(68)

(28)

  

(115)

(44)

(20)

1,079 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating expenses - adjusted (4)

(716)

(108)

  

(448)

(113)

(43)

  

(321)

(69)

(84)

80 

(1,822)

Restructuring costs - direct

(20)

(19)

  

(39)

  

(20)

(70)

(409)

(577)

Restructuring costs - indirect

(111)

(15)

  

(60)

(11)

(3)

  

(48)

(16)

264 

Litigation and conduct costs

(4)

  

(3)

  

(31)

(6)

(10)

(54)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating expenses

(851)

(142)

  

(550)

(124)

(46)

  

(420)

(161)

(84)

(75)

(2,453)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating profit/(loss) before impairment (losses)/releases

526 

  

315 

36 

52 

  

68 

(220)

122 

(143)

759 

Impairment (losses)/releases

(32)

24 

  

(61)

(3)

(7)

  

45 

(11)

(1)

(46)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating profit/(loss)

494 

27 

  

254 

33 

45 

  

68 

(175)

111 

(144)

713 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating profit/(loss) - adjusted (3,4) 

629 

62 

  

356 

44 

48 

  

187 

(76)

111 

10 

1,371 

Additional information

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Return on equity (5) 

24.8%

4.0%

  

5.7%

6.0%

12.0%

  

1.7%

nm

20.9%

nm

3.1%

Return on equity - adjusted (3,4,5) 

32.0%

9.3%

  

8.9%

8.6%

13.0%

  

7.9%

nm

20.9%

nm

9.7%

Cost:income ratio (6) 

61.8%

97.9%

  

62.0%

77.5%

46.9%

  

86.1%

nm

40.8%

nm

76.1%

Cost:income ratio - adjusted (3,6)

52.0%

74.0%

  

49.7%

70.6%

43.9%

  

63.2%

nm

40.8%

nm

55.8%

Total assets (£bn)

159.1 

24.7 

  

153.3 

18.1 

25.1 

  

225.3 

119.2 

25.8 

32.7 

783.3 

Funded assets (£bn) (7) 

159.1 

24.6 

  

153.3 

18.1 

25.1 

  

113.9 

29.2 

25.8 

30.1 

579.2 

Net loans and advances to customers (£bn)

135.8 

19.0 

  

99.7 

12.5 

8.9 

  

17.9 

12.3 

20.6 

326.7 

Risk elements in lending (£bn)

1.9 

3.5 

  

1.7 

0.1 

0.1 

  

2.1 

0.3 

9.7 

Impairment provisions (£bn)

(1.2)

(1.1)

  

(0.8)

  

(0.7)

(0.2)

(0.1)

(4.1)

Customer deposits (£bn)

146.3 

16.6 

  

97.2 

25.7 

25.3 

  

8.0 

7.6 

24.0 

0.8 

351.5 

Risk-weighted assets (RWAs) (£bn)

32.7 

17.7 

  

77.8 

8.7 

9.5 

  

34.1 

30.5 

9.7 

1.0 

221.7 

RWA equivalent (£bn) (5) 

35.7 

18.9 

  

81.8 

8.7 

9.5 

  

36.0 

32.7 

10.2 

1.2 

234.7 

Employee numbers (FTEs - thousands) (8) 

18.2 

3.1 

  

5.4 

1.7 

0.8 

  

5.7 

0.3 

4.3 

36.7 

76.2 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

For the notes to this table refer to following page 34. nm = not meaningful.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

33 

 


 

 

 

Segment performance

  

Quarter ended 30 June 2016

  

PBB

  

CPB

  

  

  

  

Central

  

  

  

Ulster

  

Commercial

Private

RBS

  

NatWest

Capital

Williams

items &

Total

  

UK PBB

Bank RoI

  

Banking

Banking

International

  

Markets

Resolution

& Glyn (1)

other (2)

RBS

  

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

Income statement

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net interest income

1,090 

93 

  

531 

113 

76 

  

24 

82 

162 

2,177 

Other non-interest income

250 

42 

  

315 

53 

19 

  

380 

(438)

44 

(107)

558 

Total income - adjusted (3)

1,340 

135 

  

846 

166 

95 

  

404 

(356)

206 

(101)

2,735 

Own credit adjustments

  

  

73 

76 

45 

194 

Loss on redemption of own debt

  

  

(130)

(130)

Strategic disposal

  

  

(45)

246 

201 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total income

1,340 

135 

  

846 

166 

95 

  

477 

(325)

206 

60 

3,000 

Direct expenses  - staff costs

(180)

(46)

  

(134)

(37)

(12)

  

(64)

(17)

(63)

(574)

(1,127)

                             - other costs

(99)

(2)

  

(62)

(9)

(3)

  

(7)

(31)

(18)

(475)

(706)

Indirect expenses

(503)

(43)

  

(301)

(73)

(18)

  

(238)

(135)

(18)

1,329 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating expenses - adjusted (4)

(782)

(91)

  

(497)

(119)

(33)

  

(309)

(183)

(99)

280 

(1,833)

Restructuring costs - direct

(38)

(18)

  

(1)

  

(10)

(5)

(25)

(295)

(392)

Restructuring costs - indirect

(51)

(1)

  

(41)

(4)

(1)

  

(11)

(16)

125 

Litigation and conduct costs

(421)

(92)

  

(8)

(2)

  

(38)

(16)

(707)

(1,284)

Operating expenses

(1,292)

(202)

  

(546)

(125)

(35)

  

(368)

(220)

(124)

(597)

(3,509)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating profit/(loss) before impairment (losses)/releases

48 

(67)

  

300 

41 

60 

  

109 

(545)

82 

(537)

(509)

Impairment (losses)/releases

(24)

14 

  

(89)

(9)

  

(67)

(11)

(186)

Operating profit/(loss)

24 

(53)

  

211 

41 

51 

  

109 

(612)

71 

(537)

(695)

Operating profit/(loss) - adjusted (3,4)

534 

58 

  

260 

47 

53 

  

95 

(606)

96 

179 

716 

Additional information

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Return on equity (5)

(0.4%)

(8.2%)

  

4.9%

8.6%

15.0%

  

4.3%

nm

13.3%

nm

(11.0%)

Return on equity - adjusted (3,4,5)

24.2%

9.0%

  

6.6%

9.9%

15.7%

  

3.5%

nm

18.0%

nm

3.2%

Cost:income ratio (6) 

96.4%

149.6%

  

63.0%

75.3%

36.8%

  

77.1%

nm

60.2%

nm

117.2%

Cost:income ratio - adjusted (3,4,6)

58.4%

67.4%

  

57.0%

71.7%

34.7%

  

76.5%

nm

48.1%

nm

66.6%

Total assets (£bn)

151.2 

24.3 

  

146.3 

17.8 

24.6 

  

284.0 

208.0 

24.9 

20.5 

901.6 

Funded assets (£bn) (7)

151.2 

24.1 

  

146.3 

17.7 

24.6 

  

125.6 

44.7 

24.9 

16.5 

575.6 

Net loans and advances to customers (£bn)

126.0 

18.9 

  

99.2 

11.8 

8.5 

  

21.6 

19.9 

20.3 

0.4 

326.6 

Risk elements in lending (£bn)

2.3 

4.3 

  

2.2 

0.1 

0.1 

  

2.4 

0.4 

11.8 

Impairment provisions (£bn)

(1.5)

(2.5)

  

(1.0)

  

(1.1)

(0.3)

(0.1)

(6.5)

Customer deposits (£bn)

140.4 

14.7 

  

96.7 

25.4 

24.1 

  

8.3 

18.8 

23.9 

3.5 

355.8 

Risk-weighted assets (RWAs) (£bn)

37.0 

20.9 

  

77.5 

8.1 

9.6 

  

36.7 

42.3 

9.9 

3.2 

245.2 

RWA equivalent (£bn) (5)

41.3 

20.8 

  

81.5 

8.1 

9.6 

  

37.2 

43.2 

10.4 

3.3 

255.4 

Employee numbers (FTEs - thousands)

20.0 

3.2 

  

5.9 

1.8 

0.7 

  

1.3 

0.9 

5.2 

50.2 

89.2 

Notes:

(1)

Williams & Glyn refers to the business formerly intended to be divested as a separate legal entity and comprises RBS England and Wales branch-based businesses, along with certain small and medium enterprises and corporate activities across the UK. During the period presented W&G has not operated as a separate legal entity.  

(2)

Central items include unallocated transactions which principally comprise volatile items under IFRS and balances in relation to international private banking for Q1 2016.

(3)

Excluding own credit adjustments, (loss)/gain on redemption of own debt and strategic disposals.

(4)

Excluding restructuring costs and litigation and conduct costs.

(5)

RBS’s CET 1 target is 13% but for the purposes of computing segmental return on equity (ROE), to better reflect the differential drivers of capital usage, segmental operating profit after tax and adjusted for preference dividends is divided by notional equity allocated at different rates of 14% (Ulster Bank RoI - 11% prior to Q1 2017), 11% (Commercial Banking), 14% (Private Banking - 15% prior to Q1 2017), 12% (RBS International) and 15% for all other segments, of the monthly average of segmental risk-weighted assets incorporating the effect of capital deductions (RWAes). RBS Return on equity is calculated using profit for the period attributable to ordinary shareholders. Core business adjusted (2,3) return on equity was 14.1% (Return on equity for Personal & Business Banking (PBB), Commercial & Private Banking (CPB) and NatWest Markets combined).

(6)

Operating lease depreciation included in income (H1 2017 - £72 million; Q2 2017 - £36 million; H1 2016 - £76 million; Q1 2017 - £36 million; and Q2 2016 - £38 million).

(7)

Funded assets exclude derivative assets.

(8)

On 1 January 2017 4.5 thousand employees on a FTE basis were transferred from Central items to NatWest Markets in preparation for ring-fencing.

 

34 

 


 

 

UK Personal & Business Banking

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Half year ended

  

Quarter ended

  

30 June

30 June

  

30 June

31 March

30 June

  

2017

2016

  

2017

2017

2016

Income statement

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net interest income

2,231 

2,109 

  

1,120 

1,111 

1,090 

Net fees and commissions

493 

498 

  

246 

247 

243 

Other non-interest income

31 

  

12 

19 

Non-interest income

524 

506 

  

258 

266 

250 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total income

2,755 

2,615 

  

1,378 

1,377 

1,340 

Direct expenses

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - staff costs

(329)

(361)

  

(166)

(163)

(180)

  - other costs

(121)

(162)

  

(57)

(64)

(99)

Indirect expenses

(963)

(987)

  

(474)

(489)

(503)

Restructuring costs

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - direct

(23)

(51)

  

(3)

(20)

(38)

  - indirect

(137)

(60)

  

(26)

(111)

(51)

Litigation and conduct costs

(13)

(421)

  

(9)

(4)

(421)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating expenses

(1,586)

(2,042)

  

(735)

(851)

(1,292)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Profit before impairment losses

1,169 

573 

  

643 

526 

48 

Impairment losses

(72)

(40)

  

(40)

(32)

(24)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating profit

1,097 

533 

  

603 

494 

24 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating expenses - adjusted (1) 

(1,413)

(1,510)

  

(697)

(716)

(782)

Operating profit - adjusted (1) 

1,270 

1,065 

  

641 

629 

534 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Analysis of income by product

  

  

  

  

  

  

Personal advances

452 

413 

  

227 

225 

209 

Personal deposits

401 

363 

  

197 

204 

195 

Mortgages

1,195 

1,137 

  

605 

590 

573 

Cards

270 

316 

  

133 

137 

174 

Business banking

393 

370 

  

199 

194 

188 

Other

44 

16 

  

17 

27 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total income

2,755 

2,615 

  

1,378 

1,377 

1,340 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Analysis of impairments by sector

  

  

  

  

  

  

Personal advances

70 

20 

  

42 

28 

14 

Mortgages

(32)

18 

  

(14)

(18)

14 

Business banking

  

Cards

27 

  

20 

(5)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total impairment losses

72 

40 

  

40 

32 

24 

 

Note:

(1)

Excluding restructuring costs and litigation and conduct costs.

 

35 

 


 

 

 

UK Personal & Business Banking

 

  

Half year ended

  

Quarter ended

  

30 June

30 June

  

30 June

31 March

30 June

Performance ratios

2017

2016 

  

2017

2017

2016 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Return on equity (1)

27.8%

11.9%

  

30.8%

24.8%

(0.4%)

Return on equity - adjusted (1,2) 

32.4%

25.5%

  

32.8%

32.0%

24.2%

Net interest margin

2.97%

3.07%

  

2.92%

3.01%

3.12%

Cost:income ratio

57.6%

78.1%

  

53.3%

61.8%

96.4%

Cost:income ratio - adjusted (2) 

51.3%

57.7%

  

50.6%

52.0%

58.4%

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

30 June

31 March

  

  

31 December

  

  

2017

2017 

  

2016 

Capital and balance sheet

£bn

£bn

Change

  

£bn

Change

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Loans and advances to customers (gross)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - personal advances

6.2 

6.1 

2%

  

6.0 

3%

  - mortgages

123.0 

120.6 

2%

  

117.1 

5%

  - business banking

6.8 

6.6 

3%

  

6.4 

6%

  - cards

3.7 

3.7 

  

3.9 

(5%)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total loans and advances to customers (gross)

139.7 

137.0 

2%

  

133.4 

5%

Loan impairment provisions

(1.2)

(1.2)

  

(1.3)

(8%)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net loans and advances to customers

138.5 

135.8 

2%

  

132.1 

5%

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total assets

161.6 

159.1 

2%

  

155.6 

4%

Funded assets

161.6 

159.1 

2%

  

155.6 

4%

Risk elements in lending

1.8 

1.9 

(5%)

  

2.0 

(10%)

Provision coverage (3)

63%

64%

(100bp)

  

65%

(200bp)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Customer deposits

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - personal current accounts

44.4 

43.5 

2%

  

42.1 

5%

  - personal savings

81.8 

80.4 

2%

  

81.4 

  - business banking

23.6 

22.4 

5%

  

22.3 

6%

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total customer deposits

149.8 

146.3 

2%

  

145.8 

3%

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Assets under management (excluding deposits)

4.5 

4.3 

5%

  

4.2 

7%

Loan:deposit ratio (excluding repos)

92%

93%

(100bp)

  

91%

100bp

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Risk-weighted assets

  

  

  

  

  

  

 - credit risk (non-counterparty)

25.0 

24.8 

1%

  

24.8 

1%

 - operational risk

7.9 

7.9 

  

7.9 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total risk-weighted assets

32.9 

32.7 

1%

  

32.7 

1%

               

 

 

Notes:

(1)

Return on equity is based on segmental operating profit after tax adjusted for preference share dividends divided by average notional equity (based on 15% of the monthly average of segmental risk-weighted assets incorporating the effect of capital deductions (RWAes)), assuming 28% tax rate.

(2)

Excluding restructuring costs and litigation and conduct costs.

(3)

Provision coverage represents loan impairment provisions as a percentage of risk elements in lending.

 

36 

 


 

 

UK Personal & Business Banking

 

Key points

UK PBB increased total income by £140 million, or 5.4%, compared with H1 2016 supported by a 9.9% increase in net loans and advances, which more than offset margin contraction. Operating expenses decreased by £456 million, or 22.3%, reflecting reduced headcount and lower back-office operations costs. Adjusted operating expenses(1) decreased by £97 million, or 6.4%, compared with H1 2016. A net impairment charge of £72 million, 10 basis points of gross customer loans, reflects continued benign credit conditions. Compared with FY 2016, RWAs have reduced by £0.4 billion, excluding volume growth.   

 

Serving our customers

UK PBB continues to invest in our digital channel offering and now has 4.52 million customers regularly using our mobile app, 8% higher than December 2016. Further enhancements were made during H1 2017, along with the introduction of a ‘TechXpert’ in every branch to support customers in the use of digital banking tools. NatWest was awarded Best Banking App at the British Bank Awards in 2017 and we continue to receive very positive customer feedback.

UK PBB continued to deliver strong support to personal customers with gross new mortgage lending of £14.5 billion in H1 2017, broadly in line with H1 2016. We continued to drive improvements in our customer mortgage experience with NatWest Intermediary Solutions named Best Overall Lender at the 2017 Mortgage Advice Bureau Awards. Personal unsecured loans also saw balance growth of 6% compared with H1 2016 supported by an improved customer experience, with increased mobile functionality and simplified application processing resulting in digital loan sales growth of 23% compared with H1 2016. Our overall personal unsecured risk appetite remains consistent with H1 2016, with new business quality broadly stable on H1 2016.

The Reward proposition continued to grow with more than 1,350,000 customer accounts, 17% higher than December 2016. We repositioned the Reward account proposition from 26 June 2017, including the introduction of minimum customer criteria, to maintain acceptable returns in a continuing lower interest rate environment.

Our free Financial Health Check continues to provide personal and business customers with advice on their financial position and what options are open to them, including adoption of digital banking. More than 660,000 Financial Health Checks have been completed in H1 2017.   

Our business banking segment continues to deliver customer improvements with an enhanced digital offering and a simplified new lending process for loans up to £35,000, delivering same day loan approval and supporting ongoing productivity improvements. Our business banking risk appetite remains consistent with H1 2016 with new business quality broadly stable on H1 2016.

NatWest personal banking NPS was stable over the first half at 13, although we recognise that significant work is required to improve customer experience across Royal Bank of Scotland personal banking and business banking.

 

Financial performance

H1 2017 compared with H1 2016

Operating profit was £1,097 million compared with £533 million in H1 2016. The increase was driven by £140 million higher income, a £97 million reduction in direct and indirect expenses and a £408 million reduction in litigation and conduct charges, partially offset by a £49 million increase in restructuring costs and a £32 million higher impairment charge.

Income of £2,755 million was £140 million, or 5.4%, higher than H1 2016. Net interest income increased by £122 million, or 5.8%, principally reflecting strong balance growth and savings re-pricing benefits. Net interest margin declined by 10 basis points to 2.97% driven by lower mortgage margins, asset mix and reduced current account hedge yield, partially offset by savings re-pricing benefits from actions taken in 2016.

Operating expenses decreased by £456 million, or 22.3%, to £1,586 million, compared with H1 2016, primarily as a result of a £408 million reduction in litigation and conduct costs, supported by a net FSCS levy release of £4 million compared with a £42 million charge in H1 2016. Direct staff costs were £32 million, or 8.9%, lower with headcount 12% lower. Indirect expenses were £24 million lower with ongoing customer service operations £30 million lower following process and productivity improvements, partly offset by increased technology infrastructure costs. Adjusted operating expenses(1) decreased by £97 million, or 6.4%, to £1,413 million compared with H1 2016.

A restructuring charge of £160 million included a £92 million charge for property exits taken in Q1 2017 as we rationalised our back office property location strategy and branch distribution network.

 

Note:

(1)

Refer to Income statement reconciliations on page 17.

37 

 


 

 

UK Personal & Business Banking

 

The net impairment charge of £72 million, or 10 basis points of gross customer loans, reflects continued benign credit conditions and compared with a £40 million charge in H1 2016.  In H1 2017 we continued to see provision releases in mortgages and business banking, however, there were minimal personal unsecured releases in H1 2017 compared with H1 2016.  Defaults in H1 2017 remained at very low levels across all portfolios compared to historic levels, although a little higher than in H1 2016.

Net loans and advances increased by £12.5 billion, or 9.9%, to £138.5 billion as UK PBB continued to deliver support for both personal and business customers. Gross new mortgage lending in H1 2017 was £14.5 billion with market share of new mortgages at approximately 11.9% resulting in stock share of approximately 9.1% at 30 June 2017 compared with 8.8% at 31 December 2016 and 8.6% at 30 June 2016. Positive momentum continued across business banking lending with net balances up 4% compared with 30 June 2016, in addition to transfers of £0.6 billion from Commercial Banking.

Customer deposits increased by £9.4 billion, or 6.7%, to £149.8 billion, driven by strong personal current account growth.

RWAs of £32.9 billion reduced by £4.1 billion, or 11.1%, compared with H1 2016 primarily due to recalibration improvements in mortgage risk parameter models and overall improved credit quality, partially offset by loan growth.

 

Q2 2017 compared with Q1 2017

Operating profit increased by £109 million compared with Q1 2017 principally driven by lower restructuring costs. Adjusted operating profit(1) increased by £12 million to £641 million.

Net interest margin decreased by 9 basis points to 2.92% driven by asset mix, lower mortgage new business margins and reduced current account hedge income.

Compared with Q1 2017, non-interest income decreased by £8 million principally reflecting a £7 million debt sale profit in the previous quarter.

An impairment charge of £40 million was £8 million higher than Q1 2017 mainly due to lower portfolio provision releases. Default levels remained stable.

 

Q2 2017 compared with Q2 2016

Operating profit increased by £579 million compared with Q2 2016 primarily due to a reduction in litigation and conduct costs. Adjusted operating profit(1) increased by £107 million, or 20.0%, to £641 million.

Net interest income increased by £30 million, or 2.8%, compared with Q2 2016 driven by strong balance growth partially offset by reduced net interest margin. Net interest margin decreased 20 basis points driven by reduced mortgage margins and lower deposit hedge income, partially offset by savings re-pricing benefits.

 

Note:

(1)

Refer to Income statement reconciliations on page 17.

 

38 

 


 

 

Ulster Bank RoI (£ Sterling)

  

Half year ended

  

Quarter ended

  

30 June

30 June

  

30 June

31 March

30 June

  

2017

2016 

  

2017

2017

2016

Income statement

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net interest income

206  

198  

  

101  

105  

93  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net fees and commissions

47 

42  

  

26  

21  

21  

Other non-interest income

43 

50  

  

23  

20  

21  

Own credit adjustment

(3)

3  

  

(2)

(1)

-  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Non-interest income

87  

95  

  

47  

40  

42  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total income

293  

293  

  

148  

145  

135  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Direct expenses  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - staff costs

(96)

(97)

  

(47)

(49)

(46)

  - other costs

(24)

(13)

  

(12)

(12)

(2)

Indirect expenses

(97)

(85)

  

(50)

(47)

(43)

Restructuring costs

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - direct

(24)

(24)

  

(5)

(19)

(18)

  - indirect

(19)

(1)

  

(4)

(15)

(1)

Litigation and conduct costs

(33)

(92)

  

(33)

-  

(92)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating expenses

(293)

(312)

  

(151)

(142)

(202)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating (loss)/profit before impairment releases/(losses)

-  

(19)

  

(3)

3  

(67)

Impairment releases/(losses)

11  

27  

  

(13)

24  

14  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating profit/(loss)

11  

8  

  

(16)

27  

(53)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total income - adjusted (1)

296  

290 

  

150 

146  

135  

Operating expenses - adjusted (2)

(217)

(195)

  

(109)

(108)

(91)

Operating profit - adjusted (1,2)

90  

122 

  

28 

62  

58  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Average exchange rate - £/€

1.163  

1.284 

  

1.163  

1.162  

1.270  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Analysis of income by business

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Corporate

88 

99 

  

43 

45 

43 

 

Retail

204 

195 

  

104 

100 

95 

 

Other

(1)

  

(3)

 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Total income

293 

293 

  

148 

145 

135 

 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Analysis of impairments by sector

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Mortgages

(1)

  

15 

(14)

(2)

 

Commercial real estate

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

  - investment

(5)

  

 

  - development

(6)

(7)

  

(3)

(3)

(5)

 

Other lending

(8)

(14)

  

(9)

(7)

 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Total impairment (releases)/losses

(11)

(27)

  

13 

(24)

(14)

 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

39 

 


 

 

Ulster Bank RoI (£ Sterling)

 

Performance ratios

  

  

  

  

  

  

Return on equity (3) 

0.8%

0.6%

  

(2.4%)

4.0%

(8.2%)

Return on equity - adjusted (1,2,3)

6.8%

9.3%

  

4.3%

9.3%

9.0%

Net interest margin

1.67%

1.64%

  

1.60%

1.74%

1.54%

Cost:income ratio

100.0%

106.5%

  

102.0%

97.9%

149.6%

Cost:income ratio - adjusted (1,2)

73.3%

67.2%

  

72.7%

74.0%

67.4%

 

Notes:

(1)

Excluding own credit adjustments.

(2)

Excluding restructuring costs and litigation and conduct costs.

(3)

Return on equity is based on segmental operating profit after tax adjusted for preference share dividends divided by average notional equity (based on 14% (11% prior to Q1 2017) of the monthly average of segmental risk-weighted assets incorporating the effect of capital deductions (RWAes)), assuming 15% tax rate up to and including FY 2016, nil tax thereafter.

40 

 


 

 

Ulster Bank RoI (£ Sterling)

 

  

  

  

  

  

30 June

31 March

  

  

31 December

  

2017

2017 

  

2016 

Capital and balance sheet

£bn

£bn

Change

  

£bn

Change

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Loans and advances to customers (gross)

  

  

  

  

  

  

Mortgages

15.4 

15.0 

3%

  

15.3 

1%

Commercial real estate

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - investment

0.8 

0.8 

  

0.7 

14%

  - development

0.2 

0.2 

  

0.2 

Other lending

4.3 

4.1 

5%

  

3.9 

10%

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total loans and advances to customers (gross)

20.7 

20.1 

3%

  

20.1 

3%

Loan impairment provisions

  

  

  

  

  

  

 - mortgages

(0.9)

(0.9)

  

(0.9)

 - commercial real estate

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - investment

(0.1)

(100%)

  

-

  - development

  

-

Other lending

(0.3)

(0.1)

200%

  

(0.3)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total loan impairment provisions

(1.2)

(1.1)

9%

  

(1.2)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net loans and advances to customers

19.5 

19.0 

3%

  

18.9 

3%

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total assets

24.9 

24.7 

1%

  

24.1 

3%

Funded assets

24.8 

24.6 

1%

  

24.0 

3%

Risk elements in lending

  

  

  

  

  

  

 - mortgages

3.2 

3.1 

3%

  

3.1 

3%

 - commercial real estate

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - investment

0.1 

(100%)

  

-

  - development

  

-

Other lending

0.3 

0.3 

  

0.4 

(25%)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total risk elements in lending

3.5 

3.5 

  

3.5 

Provision coverage (1) 

33%

33%

  

34%

(100bp)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Customer deposits

16.9 

16.6 

2%

  

16.1 

5%

Loan:deposit ratio (excluding repos)

115%

114%

100bp

  

117%

(200bp)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Risk-weighted assets  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - credit risk

  

  

  

  

  

  

   - non-counterparty

17.0 

16.7 

2%

  

16.9 

1%

   - counterparty

0.1 

0.1 

  

0.1 

  - operational risk

0.9 

0.9 

  

1.1 

(18%)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total risk-weighted assets

18.0 

17.7 

2%

  

18.1 

(1%)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Spot exchange rate - £/€

1.138 

1.171 

  

  

1.168 

  

 

Note:

(1)

Provision coverage represents loan impairment provisions as a percentage of risk elements in lending.

41 

 


 

 

Ulster Bank RoI (€ Euro)

  

Half year ended

  

Quarter ended

  

30 June

30 June

  

30 June

31 March

30 June

  

2017

2016 

  

2017

2017

2016

Income statement

€m

€m

  

€m

€m

€m

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net interest income

240 

254  

  

118 

122 

118  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net fees and commissions

55 

54  

  

31 

24 

27  

Other non-interest income

50 

65  

  

27 

23 

27  

Own credit adjustment

(4)

4  

  

(3)

(1)

-  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Non-interest income

101 

123  

  

55  

46 

54  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total income

341 

377  

  

173  

168  

172  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Direct expenses  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - staff costs

(112)

(124)

  

(55)

(57)

(58)

  - other costs

(29)

(18)

  

(16)

(13)

(3)

Indirect expenses

(113)

(110)

  

(58)

(55)

(55)

Restructuring costs

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - direct

(27)

(31)

  

(5)

(22)

(23)

  - indirect

(22)

(1)

  

(5)

(17)

(1)

Litigation and conduct costs

(39)

(118)

  

(39)

-  

(118)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating expenses

(342)

(402)

  

(178)

(164)

(258)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating (loss)/profit before impairment releases/(losses)

(1)

(25)

  

(5)

4  

(86)

Impairment releases/(losses)

13 

34 

  

(15)

28  

17  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating profit/(loss)

12 

  

(20)

32  

(69)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total income - adjusted (1)

345 

373 

  

176 

169 

172  

Operating expenses - adjusted (2)

(254)

(252)

  

(129)

(125)

(116)

Operating profit - adjusted (1,2)

104 

155 

  

32 

72 

73  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Analysis of income by business

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Corporate

102 

128 

  

50 

52 

55 

 

Retail

237 

251 

  

121 

116 

121 

 

Other

(2)

  

(4)

 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Total income

341 

377 

  

173 

168 

172 

 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Analysis of impairments by sector

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Mortgages

(1)

  

17 

(16)

(3)

 

Commercial real estate

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

  - investment

(6)

  

 

  - development

(6)

(8)

  

(3)

(3)

(6)

 

Other lending

(11)

(19)

  

(12)

(8)

 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Total impairment (releases)/losses

(13)

(34)

  

15 

(28)

(17)

 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Performance ratios

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Return on equity (3) 

0.8%

0.6%

  

(2.4%)

4.0%

(8.2%)

 

Return on equity - adjusted (1,2,3)

6.8%

9.3%

  

4.3%

9.3%

9.0%

 

Net interest margin

1.67%

1.64%

  

1.60%

1.74%

1.54%

 

Cost:income ratio

100.0%

106.5%

  

102.0%

97.9%

149.6%

 

Cost:income ratio - adjusted (1,2)

73.3%

67.2%

  

72.7%

74.0%

67.4%

 

 

Notes:

(1)

Excluding own credit adjustments.

(2)

Excluding restructuring costs and litigation and conduct costs.

(3)

Return on equity is based on segmental operating profit after tax adjusted for preference share dividends divided by average notional equity (based on 14% (11% prior to Q1 2017) of the monthly average of segmental risk-weighted assets incorporating the effect of capital deductions (RWAes)), assuming 15% tax rate up to and including FY 2016, nil tax thereafter.

42 

 


 

 

Ulster Bank RoI (€ Euro)

 

  

  

  

  

  

30 June

31 March

  

  

31 December

  

2017

2017 

  

2016 

Capital and balance sheet

€bn

€bn

Change

  

€bn

Change

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Loans and advances to customers (gross)

  

  

  

  

  

  

 - mortgages

17.5 

17.6 

(1%)

  

17.9 

(2%)

 - commercial real estate

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - investment

0.9 

0.9 

  

0.8 

13%

  - development

0.2 

0.2 

  

0.3 

(33%)

Other lending

4.9 

4.8 

2%

  

4.5 

9%

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total loans and advances to customers (gross)

23.5 

23.5 

  

23.5 

Loan impairment provisions

  

  

  

  

  

  

 - mortgages

(1.0)

(1.0)

  

(1.1)

(9%)

 - commercial real estate

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - investment

(0.1)

(100%)

  

-

  - development

  

-

Other lending

(0.3)

(0.2)

50%

  

(0.3)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total loan impairment provisions

(1.3)

(1.3)

  

(1.4)

(7%)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net loans and advances to customers

22.2 

22.2 

  

22.1 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total assets

28.3 

28.9 

(2%)

  

28.2 

Funded assets

28.2 

28.8 

(2%)

  

28.0 

1%

Risk elements in lending

  

  

  

  

  

  

 - mortgages

3.6 

3.7 

(3%)

  

3.7 

(3%)

 - commercial real estate

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - investment

0.1 

(100%)

  

-

  - development

  

-

Other lending

0.4 

0.2 

100%

  

0.4 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total risk elements in lending

4.0 

4.0 

  

4.1 

(2%)

Provision coverage (1)

33%

33%

  

34%

(100bp)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Customer deposits

19.3 

19.4 

(1%)

  

18.8 

3%

Loan:deposit ratio (excluding repos)

115%

114%

100bp

  

117%

(200bp)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Risk-weighted assets

  

  

  

  

  

  

 - credit risk

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - non-counterparty

19.3 

19.6 

(2%)

  

19.7 

(2%)

  - counterparty

0.1 

0.1 

  

0.1 

 - operational risk

1.1 

1.1 

  

1.3 

(15%)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total risk-weighted assets

20.5 

20.8 

(1%)

  

21.1 

(3%)

 

Note:

(1)

Provision coverage represents loan impairment provisions as a percentage of risk elements in lending.

 

43 

 


 

 

Ulster Bank RoI (£ Sterling/€ Euro)

 

Key points

Ulster Bank RoI (Ulster Bank) continued to support the Irish economy with an 11% increase in gross new lending compared with H1 2016. In addition, investment in technology combined with process improvements has driven further cost efficiencies. We continue to reposition capital, with RWAs in the tracker mortgage portfolio down by 18.7% (22.5% in Euro terms) and REILs down by 18.6% (23.1% in Euro terms) compared with H1 2016.

 

Serving our customers

New lending increased 11% on prior year levels supported by successful home mover advertising campaigns, competitive rates for low LTV and high value mortgage customers and an improved customer proposition for personal and commercial customers.

Ulster Bank has narrowed the gap to number one in the market for customer trust and advocacy as evidenced by the Retail Personal NPS score of (5) this quarter, the highest score in 5 years and 6 points improved on prior year. Since 2016, scores have improved for SME business customers too, up from 8 to 13(1)

Investment in the digital platform has focused on providing enhancements that make it easier for customers to bank with us. Ulster Bank was amongst the first banks in Ireland to introduce Apple Pay and Android Pay in H1 2017 with registrations exceeding expectations.

Ulster Bank expanded it’s partnership with the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI) to offer working capital finance to agricultural businesses at a lower interest rate of 2.95% and over more flexible terms, contributing to the ongoing financial sustainability of farming enterprises.

Ulster Bank launched ‘Business Achievers’ in June 2017, a business portal and networking hub designed to connect business owners and entrepreneurs to industry thought leaders, generate new business opportunities and deliver solid and supportive connections.

The deposit rating and outlook for Ulster Bank Ireland DAC was upgraded by Moody’s rating agency in June 2017, re-affirming the positive progress made in transforming the business and reducing the volume of legacy non-performing assets.

 

Financial performance

H1 2017 compared with H1 2016

An operating profit of £11 million (€12 million) compared with £8 million (€9 million) in H1 2016. An adjusted operating profit(2) of £90 million (€104 million) was £32 million (€51 million) lower than H1 2016, reflecting reduced income on free funds and lower net impairment releases. The core business is performing ahead of expectations, however comparisons to prior year performance are impacted by a number of one-off items in both H1 2016 and H1 2017.

A profit of £29 million (€37 million) relating to asset disposals was recognised in H1 2016, of which £8 million (€10 million) was reported in income.

Total income of £293 million remained stable on prior year, while adjusted income(2) of £296 million was £6 million, or 2.1%, higher than H1 2016. However both of these movements were due to the strengthening of the Euro. In Euro terms, total income of €341 million was €36 million, or 9.5%, lower than H1 2016.  Adjusted income(2) of €345 million was €28 million, or 7.5%, lower than H1 2016. In Euro terms, excluding the €10 million asset disposal gain in H1 2016 and €38 million reduction in income on free funds, income increased by €20 million, primarily due to the benefit of one off income adjustments in H1 2017 of €15 million, combined with higher lending income and reduced funding costs. Partially offsetting this was a €7 million reduction in FX income associated with an interim adjustment to the pricing of FX transactions between Ulster Bank and NatWest markets, pending completion of a detailed pricing review. Net interest margin of 1.67% was 3 basis points higher than H1 2016, reflecting a combination of improved deposit and loan margins, one off income adjustments in H1 2017 and successful deleveraging measures in 2016 which have reduced the concentration of low yielding non performing loans.

 

 

Notes:

(1)

Source: Red C SME survey based on interviews with businesses with an estimated annual turnover of €2-25m (6-monthly study only).  Latest sample size: Ulster Bank (252).

(2)

Refer to income statement reconciliations on page 17.

44 

 


 

 

Ulster Bank RoI (£ Sterling/€ Euro)

 

Operating expenses of £293 million (€342 million) were 6.1% (15.0%) lower than H1 2016. Adjusted operating expenses(1) of £217 million (€254 million) were 11.3% (0.8%) higher than H1 2016 primarily due to £15 million (€19 million) of one-off accrual releases in H1 2016, compared with £10 million (€12 million) of releases in H1 2017, and a £4 million (€5 million) reduction in costs recharged to other business segments. This was partially offset by continued progress in the delivery of cost saving initiatives as evidenced by a 9.4% reduction in headcount and 9.7% reduction in staff costs, in Euro terms, compared with H1 2016.

Restructuring costs increased by £18 million (€17 million), or 72.0% (53.1%), primarily driven by announcements in Q1 2017 to invest in and restructure the bank, including the closure of 22 branches, 11 of which were completed in Q2 2017.

Ulster Bank recognised a £33 million (€39 million) conduct and litigation provision in Q2 2017 for remediation and project costs associated with legacy business issues where errors may have occurred. This was identified as part of a review of the wider personal and commercial loan portfolio extending from the tracker mortgage examination programme.

A net impairment release of £11 million (€13 million) compared with a £27 million (€34 million) release in H1 2016. The decrease was driven by a combination of material gains associated with asset disposals in H1 2016 and refinements to the mortgage provision models in H1 2017, which led to a one off impairment charge in Q2 2017. REILs were £0.8 billion (€1.2 billion), or 18.6% (23.1%), lower than H1 2016 reflecting a combination of asset sales and credit quality improvements.

Ulster Bank added a further £1.1 billion (€1.3 billion) of gross new lending in the first half of the year, up 11% compared with H1 2016.

Effective liquidity management contributed to a £2.2 billion (€1.8 billion), or 15.0% (10.3%), increase in customer deposit balances compared to H1 2016 and supported a 14 percentage point reduction in loan:deposit ratio to 115%.

RWAs of £18 billion (€20.5 billion) reduced by £2.9 billion (€4.4 billion), or 13.9% (17.7%), compared with H1 2016. Q2 2017 represented the 9th consecutive quarter of decreasing RWAs, in Euro terms, supported by asset sales, refinements to the mortgage modelling approach and an improvement in the macro economic environment. RWAs on the tracker mortgage portfolio reduced by £1.5 billion (€2.2 billion), or 18.7% (22.5%), compared with H1 2016, to £6.5 billion (€7.4 billion) in H1 2017.

 

Q2 2017 compared with Q1 2017

An operating loss of £16 million (€20 million) compared with a profit of £27 million (€32 million) in Q1 2017.

An impairment charge of £13 million (€15 million), compared with a release of £24 million (€28 million) in Q1 2017, and included a net charge associated with a model refinement on the mortgage portfolio partly offset by improvements in credit metrics.

Restructuring costs decreased by £25 million (€29 million) to £9 million (€10 million) in Q2 2017. The charge in Q1 reflected announcements made to invest in and restructure the bank, including the closure of 22 branches, 11 of which were completed in Q2 2017.

Ulster Bank recognised a £33 million (€39 million) conduct and litigation provision in Q2 2017 for remediation and project costs associated with legacy business issues where errors may have occurred.

Net interest margin reduced by 14 basis points to 1.60% primarily driven by one off releases in Q1 2017.

 

Q2 2017 compared with Q2 2016

An operating loss of £16 million (€20 million) decreased by £37 million (€49 million) compared with Q2 2016 primarily due to a £59 million (€79 million) reduction in litigation and conduct costs partly offset by reduced income on free funds and a net impairment charge in Q2 2017 compared with a release in Q2 2016.

Operating expenses decreased by £51 million (€80 million), or 25.2% (31.0%). Adjusted operating expenses(1) increased by £18 million (€13 million), or 19.8% (11.2%), driven by £15 million (€19 million) of accrual releases in Q2 2016, compared with £3 million (€4 million) in Q2 2017, a reduction in costs recharged to other business segments and an increase in the RoI bank levy.

Note:

(1)

Refer to income statement reconciliations on page 17.

45 

 


 

 

 

Commercial Banking

  

Half year ended

  

Quarter ended

  

30 June

30 June

  

30 June

31 March

30 June

2017 

2016

  

2017 

2017 

2016

Income statement

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net interest income

1,141 

1,067 

  

574 

567 

531 

Net fees and commissions

516 

523 

  

261 

255 

261 

Other non-interest income

93 

109 

  

50 

43 

54 

Non-interest income

609 

632 

  

311 

298 

315 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total income

1,750 

1,699 

  

885 

865 

846 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Direct expenses

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - staff costs

(245)

(265)

  

(120)

(125)

(134)

  - operating lease depreciation

(72)

(70)

  

(36)

(36)

(35)

  - other costs

(39)

(41)

  

(20)

(19)

(27)

Indirect expenses

(519)

(557)

  

(251)

(268)

(301)

Restructuring costs

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - direct

(40)

(1)

  

(1)

(39)

  - indirect

(77)

(40)

  

(17)

(60)

(41)

Litigation and conduct costs

(4)

(10)

  

(1)

(3)

(8)

Operating expenses

(996)

(984)

  

(446)

(550)

(546)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating profit before impairment losses

754 

715 

  

439 

315 

300 

Impairment losses

(94)

(103)

  

(33)

(61)

(89)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating profit

660 

612 

  

406 

254 

211 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating expenses - adjusted (1)

(875)

(933)

  

(427)

(448)

(497)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating profit - adjusted (1) 

781 

663 

  

425 

356 

260 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Analysis of income by business

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commercial lending

961 

900 

  

493 

468 

464 

 

Deposits

248 

249 

  

125 

123 

124 

 

Asset and invoice finance

335 

356 

  

164 

171 

179 

 

Other

206 

194 

  

103 

103 

79 

 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Total income

1,750 

1,699 

  

885 

865 

846 

 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Analysis of impairments by sector

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Commercial real estate

(1)

  

(3)

 

Asset and invoice finance

28 

13 

  

12 

16 

10 

 

Private sector services (education, health, etc)

14 

  

16 

(2)

 

Banks and financial institutions

  

 

Wholesale and retail trade repairs

11 

(1)

  

(4)

 

Hotels and restaurants

(1)

  

(1)

(1)

 

Manufacturing

  

 

Construction

  

 

Other

35 

81 

  

32 

74 

 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Total impairment losses

94 

103 

  

33 

61 

89 

 

                       

 

Note:

(1)

Excluding restructuring costs and litigation and conduct costs.

46 

 


 

 

 

Commercial Banking

 

  

Half year ended

  

Quarter ended

  

30 June

30 June

  

30 June

31 March

30 June

Performance ratios

2017

2016 

  

2017

2017

2016 

Return on equity (1) 

8.2%

8.1%

  

10.7%

5.7%

4.9%

Return on equity - adjusted (1,2) 

10.1%

8.9%

  

11.4%

8.9%

6.6%

Net interest margin

1.75%

1.83%

  

1.73%

1.76%

1.78%

Cost:income ratio (3) 

55.1%

56.1%

  

48.3%

62.0%

63.0%

Cost:income ratio - adjusted (2,3)

47.9%

53.0%

  

46.1%

49.7%

57.0%

 

  

30 June

31 March

  

  

31 December

  

2017

2017 

  

2016 

Capital and balance sheet

£bn

£bn

  

Change

£bn

Change

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Loans and advances to customers (gross)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - Commercial real estate

16.8 

17.1 

  

(2%)

16.9 

(1%)

  - Asset and invoice finance

15.1 

14.2 

  

6%

14.1 

7%

  - Private sector services (education, health etc)

7.0 

6.8 

  

3%

6.9 

1%

  - Banks and financial institutions

7.7 

8.9 

  

(13%)

8.9 

(13%)

  - Wholesale and retail trade repairs

7.9 

8.3 

  

(5%)

8.4 

(6%)

  - Hotels and restaurants

3.7 

3.9 

  

(5%)

3.7 

  - Manufacturing

5.9 

6.3 

  

(6%)

6.6 

(11%)

  - Construction

2.1 

2.2 

  

(5%)

2.1 

  - Other

32.6 

32.8 

  

(1%)

33.3 

(2%)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total loans and advances to customers (gross)

98.8 

100.5 

  

(2%)

100.9 

(2%)

Loan impairment provisions

(0.7)

(0.8)

  

(13%)

(0.8)

(13%)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net loans and advances to customers

98.1 

99.7 

  

(2%)

100.1 

(2%)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total assets

151.9 

153.3 

  

(1%)

150.5 

1%

Funded assets

151.9 

153.3 

  

(1%)

150.5 

1%

Risk elements in lending

1.6 

1.7 

  

(6%)

1.9 

(16%)

Provision coverage (4) 

45%

43%

  

200bp

43%

200bp

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Customer deposits

100.9 

97.2 

  

4%

97.9 

3%

Loan:deposit ratio (excluding repos)

97%

103%

  

(600bp)

102%

(500bp)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Risk-weighted assets

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - Credit risk (non-counterparty)

69.8 

71.4 

  

(2%)

72.0 

(3%)

  - Operational risk

6.4 

6.4 

  

6.5 

(2%)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total risk-weighted assets

76.2 

77.8 

  

(2%)

78.5 

(3%)

 

Notes:

(1)

Return on equity is based on segmental operating profit after tax adjusted for preference dividends divided by average notional equity (based on 11% of the monthly average of segmental risk-weighted assets incorporating the effect of capital deductions (RWAes)), assuming 28% tax rate.

(2)

Excluding restructuring costs and litigation and conduct costs.

(3)

Operating lease depreciation included in income.

(4)

Provision coverage represents loan impairment provisions as a percentage of risk elements in lending.

 

47 

 


 

 

Commercial Banking

 

Key points

Commercial Banking income increased by £51 million, or 3.0%, compared with H1 2016 partially offset against increased operating expenses of £12 million, or 1.2%, driving return on equity of 8.2% compared with 8.1% in H1 2016. Adjusted operating expenses(1) reduced by £58 million, or 6.2%, supported by a 700 reduction in front office headcount, driving an adjusted return on equity(1) of 10.1%, an increase of 1.2% compared to H1 2016.  As we manage the book for value, net loans and advances reduced by 1.1% compared with H1 2016 as growth in targeted segments has been more than offset by active reductions in those areas with lower returns. RWAs from lower returning business have reduced by a gross £4.2 billion since December 2016.

 

Serving our customers

RBS is the leading bank for Commercial and Corporate customers in the UK. Commercial Banking provides comprehensive banking and financing services to ~49,000 customers. We provide financing through a range of products including invoice finance, asset finance and leasing, risk management capability through our partnership with NatWest Markets and we help our customers monitor and move their money efficiently. We provide sector and transaction expertise through market-leading brands such as NatWest, Royal Bank of Scotland, Lombard and Mentor.

Our NatWest brand has the number one NPS in England and Wales(2). This reflects the positive steps we are taking to improve customer experience; making banking with us easier, less time consuming and adding real value to every interaction. Our strategy will continue to focus on end-to-end business performance aimed at improving customer service, trust and advocacy.

Overall net lending volumes have reduced since H1 2016, however, we have successfully achieved growth during H1 2017 in target segments, including 6% annualised growth in the core SME and Commercial book. The transformation of our lending proposition means 62% of lending decisions can be communicated in five days, and we have further simplified the new lending process for loans less than £25,000 through the launch of digital self-serve account opening for SMEs. In addition, Lombard has been named 'Best Leasing & Asset Finance Provider' at the Business Moneyfacts Awards for a ninth time.

Our Bankline online digital platform, now used by 90% of our active customer base and with 400,000 payments processed daily, has been independently rated as market leading for digital customer experience, and we are now launching an upgraded version. During the first half we launched the ClearSpend mobile app, helping corporate card customers exercise better control and oversight of spending on company accounts. We also continued the build out of Esme, our digital 24/7 online lending platform and progressed development of a range of new modular business solutions to expand and improve our customer offering.

We continue to provide enhanced support for UK entrepreneurs through our award-winning E-Spark partnership, supporting 1,736 companies to secure £151 million investment and created 3,152 jobs since inception, and now have nationwide coverage with 12 hubs in England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland.  

Financial performance

H1 2017 compared with H1 2016

Operating profit of £660 million in H1 2017 compared with £612 million in H1 2016 reflecting higher income offset against higher restructuring costs. Adjusted operating profit(1) of £781 million was £118 million, or 17.8%, higher than H1 2016 reflecting lower adjusted operating expenses and higher income.   

Total income increased by £51 million, or 3.0%, to £1,750 million driven by increased deposit volumes and re-pricing benefits, partially offset by margin pressure. Active re-pricing of assets and deposits has been offset by wider asset margin pressure in a lower rate environment causing net interest margin to fall by 8 basis points to 1.75%.      

Operating expenses increased by £12 million, or 1.2%, compared with H1 2016. Adjusted operating expenses(1) of £875 million were £58 million, or 6.2%, lower than H1 2016, principally reflecting the impact of a 700 reduction in headcount to 5,200 and a £25 million intangible asset write-down in H1 2016.

Net impairment losses of £94 million, 19 basis points of gross customer loans, were £9 million lower than H1 2016.   

Net loans and advances decreased by £1.1 billion to £98.1 billion, compared with H1 2016. Whilst overall net lending volumes have reduced since H1 2016, we have successfully achieved growth during H1 2017 in target segments, including 6% annualised growth in the core SME and Commercial book.

RWAs of £76.2 billion reduced by £1.3 billion, or 1.7%, compared with H1 2016 as planned reductions in exposures with weak returns have been offset by lending growth in some segments.

Note:

(1)

Refer to Income statement reconciliations on page 17.

 

48 

 


 

 

Commercial Banking

 

Q2 2017 compared with Q1 2017

Operating profit of £406 million was £152 million higher than Q1 2017, principally reflecting lower restructuring costs and lower impairment losses. Adjusted operating profit of £425 million was £69 million higher than Q1 2017 reflecting lower impairment losses, lower adjusted operating expenses and higher income.

Total income increased by £20 million, or 2.3%, to £885 million compared with Q1 2017. Net interest margin reduced by 3 basis point to 1.73% due to continuing asset margin pressure.

Operating expenses decreased by £104 million or 18.9%, compared with Q1 2017 principally reflecting lower restructuring costs. Adjusted operating expenses(1) decreased by £21 million, or 4.7%, to £427 million as headcount continued to be reduced and discretionary expenditure remained tightly controlled.

Net impairment losses of £33 million, 13 basis points of gross customer loans, were £28 million lower than Q1 2017 with one specific impairment charge of £12 million in the quarter.   

 

 

Q2 2017 compared with Q2 2016

Operating profit of £406 million was £195 million higher than Q2 2016 due to lower restructuring costs and reduced headcount. Adjusted operating profit(1)  of £425 million was £165 million, or 63.5%, higher than Q2 2016 due to lower adjusted expenses, lower impairment losses and higher income.  

Total income of £885 million was £39 million, or 4.6%, higher than Q2 2016 reflecting deposit volume growth and re-pricing actions.   

Operating expenses decreased by £100 million, or 18.3%, compared with Q2 2016 primarily reflecting lower restructuring costs, reduced headcount and a £25 million intangible asset write-down in Q2 2016. Adjusted operating expenses(1) decreased by £70 million, or 14.1%, to £427 million.

 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

(1)

Refer to Income statement reconciliations on page 17.

(2)

Source: Charterhouse Research Business Banking Survey, YE Q2 2017. Commercial £2m+ in England & Wales (NatWest sample size, excluding don’t knows: 606).  Question: “How likely would you be to recommend (bank)”. Base: Claimed main bank. Data weighted by region and turnover to be representative of businesses in Great Britain.

49 

 


 

 

Private Banking

 

  

Half year ended

  

Quarter ended

  

30 June

30 June

  

30 June

31 March

30 June

2017

2016

  

2017

2017

2016

Income statement

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net interest income

226 

226 

  

114 

112 

113 

Net fees and commissions

83 

94 

  

41 

42 

48 

Other non-interest income

12 

11 

  

Non-interest income

95 

105 

  

47 

48 

53 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total income

321 

331 

  

161 

160 

166 

Direct expenses

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - staff costs

(74)

(77)

  

(36)

(38)

(37)

  - other costs

(12)

(23)

  

(5)

(7)

(9)

Indirect expenses

(132)

(156)

  

(64)

(68)

(73)

Restructuring costs

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - direct

(1)

  

  - indirect

(14)

(19)

  

(3)

(11)

(4)

Litigation and conduct costs

(2)

  

(2)

Operating expenses

(232)

(278)

  

(108)

(124)

(125)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating profit before impairment losses

89 

53 

  

53 

36 

41 

Impairment losses

(7)

(2)

  

(4)

(3)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating profit

82 

51 

  

49 

33 

41 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating expenses - adjusted (1) 

(218)

(256)

  

(105)

(113)

(119)

Operating profit - adjusted (1)

96 

73 

  

52 

44 

47 

 

Analysis of income by business

  

  

  

  

  

  

Investments

51  

50 

  

26  

25 

22 

Banking

270  

281 

  

135  

135 

144 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total income

321  

331 

  

161  

160 

166 

 

Performance ratios

  

  

  

  

  

  

Return on equity (2) 

7.7%

5.1%

  

9.6%

6.0%

8.6%

Return on equity - adjusted (1,2) 

9.3%

7.6%

  

10.3%

8.6%

9.9%

Net interest margin

2.52%

2.76%

  

2.47%

2.58%

2.73%

Cost:income ratio

72.3%

84.0%

  

67.1%

77.5%

75.3%

Cost:income ratio - adjusted (1) 

67.9%

77.3%

  

65.2%

70.6%

71.7%

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Notes:

(1)

Excluding restructuring costs and litigation and conduct costs.

(2)

 

Return on equity is based on segmental operating profit after tax adjusted for preference dividends divided by average notional equity (based on 14% (15% prior to Q1 2017) of the monthly average of segmental risk-weighted assets incorporating the effect of capital deductions (RWAes)), assuming 28% tax rate.

50 

 


 

 

 

Private Banking

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

30 June

31 March

  

  

31 December

  

2017

2017 

  

2016 

Capital and balance sheet

£bn

£bn

  

Change

£bn

Change

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Loans and advances to customers (gross)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - Personal

2.2 

2.2 

  

2.3 

(4%)

  - Mortgages

7.7 

7.4 

  

4%

7.0 

10%

  - Other

2.9 

2.9 

  

2.9 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total loans and advances to customers (gross)

12.8 

12.5 

  

2%

12.2 

5%

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total assets

19.6 

18.1 

  

8%

18.6 

5%

Funded assets

19.6 

18.1 

  

8%

18.5 

6%

Assets under management (1) 

17.9 

17.8 

  

1%

17.0 

5%

Risk elements in lending

0.1 

0.1 

  

0.1 

Provision coverage (2)

43%

29%

  

1,400bp

30%

1,300bp

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Customer deposits

26.1 

25.7 

  

2%

26.6 

(2%)

Loan:deposit ratio (excluding repos)

49%

49%

  

-

46%

300bp

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Risk-weighted assets

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - Credit risk (non-counterparty)

8.0 

7.7 

  

4%

7.5 

7%

  - Operational risk

1.0 

1.0 

  

1.1 

(9%)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total risk-weighted assets

9.0 

8.7 

  

3%

8.6 

5%

 

Notes:

(1)

Comprises assets under management, assets under custody and investment cash.

(2)

Provision coverage represents loan impairment provisions as a percentage of risk elements in lending.

 

51 

 


 

 

Private Banking

 

Key points

Private Banking operating profit of £82 million was £31 million, or 60.8%, higher than H1 2016, driving an increase in return on equity from 5.1% to 7.7%. Adjusted operating profit(1) increased by £23 million, or 31.5%, compared with H1 2016, driving an increase in adjusted return on equity(1) from 7.6% to 9.3%. Operating expenses decreased by £46 million, or 16.5%, compared to H1 2016. A £38 million, or 14.8%, decrease in adjusted operating expenses(1)  was supported by a 5.6% reduction in front office headcount. Net loans and advances increased by 8.5% to £12.8 billion and assets under management increased by 14.0% to £17.9 billion compared with H1 2016, adjusting for a change in accounting treatment of certain customer deposits.

 

Serving our customers

Our Private Banking business offers high net-worth clients private banking, wealth planning and investment management services through Coutts and Adam & Company. Significant progress has been made in re-focusing the business on deep and lasting customer relationships and we continue to drive forward with its goal of being the leading UK private bank and wealth manager.

Strong loan growth, driven by UK mortgages, has been supported by new products and a proactive pricing strategy to gain market share. The addition of market-leading multi-currency functionality to the Coutts Debit Card, allowing clients to access their funds globally without incurring any charges, is driving greater client engagement.

Our funds have achieved top quartile returns across one, three and five year time frames, and Coutts Invest was successfully rolled out to eligible clients in the first half of the year providing a cost effective, self select investment solution.

 

Financial performance

H1 2017 compared with H1 2016

Operating profit increased by £31 million, or 60.8%, to £82 million compared with H1 2016 principally reflecting lower restructuring costs, partially offset by lower income. Adjusted operating profit(1) of £96 million was £23 million, or 31.5%, higher than H1 2016 principally reflecting lower adjusted operating expenses(1), partially offset by lower income. Return on equity of 7.7% compared with 5.1% in H1 2016 and an adjusted return on equity(1)  of 9.3% compared with 7.6% in H1 2016.

Total income of £321 million decreased by £10 million, or 3.0%, compared with H1 2016 largely due to lower margins and lower advice fees. Net interest margin fell 24 basis points to 2.52% reflecting the competitive market and lower rate environment.

Operating expenses decreased by £46 million, or 16.5%, compared to H1 2016. Adjusted operating expenses(1)  of £218 million decreased by £38 million, or 14.8%, compared with H1 2016 largely reflecting management actions to reduce costs. Staff costs reduced by £3 million, or 3.9%, reflecting a 5.6% reduction in front office headcount.

Net loans and advances of £12.8 billion were £1.0 billion, or 8.5%, higher than H1 2016 principally driven by growth in mortgages. Assets under management of £17.9 billion were £3.3 billion, or 22.6%, higher than H1 2016, reflecting both organic growth and favourable market conditions. Investment cash balances were included in assets under management for the first time in Q3 2016. Excluding this, growth was £2.2 billion.   

RWAs of £9.0 billion were £0.9 billion, or 11.1%, higher than H1 2016, primarily due to increased mortgage lending.

 

Note:

(1)

Refer to Income statement reconciliations on page 17.

 

 

 

 

52 

 


 

 

Private Banking

 

Q2 2017 compared with Q1 2017

Operating profit was £16 million, or 48.5%, higher than Q1 2017 reflecting lower operating expenses. Adjusted operating profit(1) of £52 million was £8 million, or 18.2%, higher than Q1 2017. Return on equity of 9.6% compared with 6.0% in Q1 2017 and adjusted return on equity(1) of 10.3% compared with 8.6% in Q1 2017.

Total income of £161 million increased by £1 million on Q1 2017 as higher asset volumes more than offset a reduced net interest margin, down 11 basis points to 2.47% primarily reflecting the competitive market and low rate environment.

Operating expenses reduced by £16 million, or 12.9%, reflecting management actions to reduce operational costs. Adjusted operating expenses(1) reduced by £8 million, or 7.1%, to £105 million compared with Q1 2017. Cost:income ratios was 67.1% compared with 77.5% in Q1 2017. An adjusted cost:income ratio(1) of 65.2% compared with 70.6% in Q1 2017.

 

Q2 2017 compared with Q2 2016

Operating profit increased by £8 million, or 19.5%, to £49 million compared with Q1 2017. Adjusted operating profit(1) increased by £5 million, or 10.6%, to £52 million. Return on equity of 9.6% compared with 8.6% in Q2 2016 and an adjusted return on equity(1) of 10.3% compared with 9.9% in Q2 2016.

Total income of £161 million was £5 million, or 3.0%, lower than Q2 2016 reflecting reduced fee income.

Operating expenses decreased by £17 million, or 13.6% to £108 million, principally reflecting the impact of a 100 reduction in headcount to 1,700. Adjusted  expenses(1) decreased by £14 million, or 11.8%, to £105 million.

 

 

 

 

 

Note:

(1)

Refer to Income statement reconciliations on page 17.

 

53 

 


 

 

RBS International

  

Half year ended

  

Quarter ended

  

30 June

30 June

  

30 June

31 March

30 June

2017

2016

  

2017

2017

2016

Income statement

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net interest income

161 

151 

  

81 

80 

76 

Net fees and commissions

22 

25 

  

10 

12 

14 

Other non-interest income

12 

  

Non-interest income

34 

34 

  

16 

18 

19 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total income

195 

185 

  

97 

98 

95 

Direct expenses

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - staff costs

(23)

(22)

  

(11)

(12)

(12)

  - other costs

(7)

(8)

  

(4)

(3)

(3)

Indirect expenses

(60)

(38)

  

(32)

(28)

(18)

Restructuring costs

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - direct

(1)

  

(1)

  - indirect

(4)

(2)

  

(1)

(3)

(1)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating expenses

(94)

(71)

  

(48)

(46)

(35)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating profit before impairment (losses)/releases

101 

114 

  

49 

52 

60 

Impairment (losses)/releases

(5)

(11)

  

(7)

(9)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating profit

96 

103 

  

51 

45 

51 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating expenses - adjusted (1)

(90)

(68)

  

(47)

(43)

(33)

Operating profit - adjusted (1) 

100 

106 

  

52 

48 

53 

 

Performance ratios

  

  

  

  

  

  

Return on equity (2) 

13.1%

15.4%

  

14.0%

12.0%

15.0%

Return on equity - adjusted (1,2) 

13.7%

15.9%

  

14.3%

13.0%

15.7%

Net interest margin

1.35%

1.42%

  

1.30%

1.41%

1.40%

Cost:income ratio

48.2%

38.4%

  

49.5%

46.9%

36.8%

Cost:income ratio - adjusted (1) 

46.2%

36.8%

  

48.5%

43.9%

34.7%

 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

30 June

31 March

  

  

31 December

  

2017

2017 

  

2016 

Capital and balance sheet

£bn

£bn

  

Change

£bn

Change

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Loans and advances to customers (gross)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - Corporate

6.1 

6.3 

  

(3%)

6.2 

(2%)

  - Mortgages

2.7 

2.6 

  

4%

2.6 

4%

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total loans and advances to customers (gross)

8.8 

8.9 

  

(1%)

8.8 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total assets

24.7 

25.1 

  

(2%)

23.4 

6%

Funded assets

24.7 

25.1 

  

(2%)

23.4 

6%

Risk elements in lending

0.1 

0.1 

  

0.1 

Provision coverage (3)

40%

54%

  

(1,400bp)

35%

500bp

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Customer deposits

25.5 

25.3 

  

1%

25.2 

1%

Loan:deposit ratio (excluding repos)

34%

35%

  

(100bp)

35%

(100bp)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Risk-weighted assets

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - Credit risk (non-counterparty)

8.7 

8.8 

  

(1%)

8.8 

(1%)

  - Operational risk

0.7 

0.7 

  

0.7 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total risk-weighted assets

9.4 

9.5 

  

(1%)

9.5 

(1%)

 

Notes:

(1)

Excluding restructuring costs.

(2)

Return on equity is based on segmental operating profit after tax adjusted for preference dividends divided by average notional equity (based on 12% of the monthly average of segmental risk-weighted assets incorporating the effect of capital deductions (RWAes)), assuming 10% tax rate.

(3)

Provision coverage represents loan impairment provisions as a percentage of risk elements in lending.

54 

 


 

 

RBS International

 

Key points

RBS International (RBSI) income increased by £10 million, or 5.4%, compared with H1 2016 reflecting increased lending and deposit volumes. Operating expenses increased by £23 million, or 32.4%, as the business absorbs additional regulatory costs and invests for the future as RBSI prepares to be a bank outside the ring-fence.  Adjusted operating expenses(1) increased by £22 million, or 32.4%, to £90 million. Despite this, return on equity remained robust at 13.1% and adjusted return on equity(1) remained robust at 13.7%.

 

Serving our customers

RBSI continues to deliver strong support to retail, commercial, corporate and financial institution customers in Jersey, Guernsey, Isle of Man, Gibraltar and Luxembourg by leveraging a strong multi-currency banking platform combined with a comprehensive product suite.

We are shaping the future of the business, which will become the key hub for Funds sector customers. We have received regulatory approval for our London branch, which marks an important milestone in ensuring we are compliant with ring-fencing legislation.

We continue to deliver strong support to our personal customers, including gross new mortgage lending of £235 million in H1 2017, representing 9% of our total mortgage book.

86% of our non-personal customers use our digital banking platform and we are investing in enhancing the digital customer experience further in 2017 and into 2018.  We are expanding our product suite by launching a new notice deposit account in July 2017.

 

Financial performance

H1 2017 compared with H1 2016

Operating profit of £96 million was £7 million, or 6.8%, lower than H1 2016 due to higher operating expenses, partially offset by higher income.

Total income of £195 million was £10 million, or 5.4%, higher than H1 2016 principally reflecting increased volumes. Net interest margin of 1.35% was 7 basis points lower as margin pressures outweigh mitigating pricing actions.

Operating expenses increased £23 million, or 32.4% principally reflecting increased regulatory costs related to becoming a bank outside of the ring-fence. Adjusted operating expenses(1) increased by £22 million, or 32.4%, to £90 million.

Net loans and advances increased by £0.3 billion, or 3.5%, compared with H1 2016 to £8.8 billion reflecting underlying business growth and foreign exchange movements.

Customer deposits increased by £1.4 billion, or 5.8%, to £25.5 billion principally reflecting increase call volumes in the Funds sector.

 

Q2 2017 compared with Q1 2017

Operating profit of £51 million was £6 million, or 13.3% higher than Q1 2017, reflecting lower impairments, partially offset by higher operating expenses. Adjusted operating profit(1) of £52 million was £4 million, or 8.3%, higher than Q1 2017.

 

 

Note:

(1)

Refer to Income statement reconciliations on page 17.

 

 

55 

 


 

 

RBS International

 

Q2 2017 compared with Q2 2016

Operating profit of £51 million was in line with Q2 2016. Adjusted operating profit(1) of £52 million reduced by £1 million, or 1.9%, compared with Q2 2016, reflecting higher adjusted expenses(1).

Total income increased by £2 million, or 2.1%, to £97 million as increased lending volumes more than offset margin pressures.

Operating expenses of £48 million were £13 million, or 37.1%, higher than Q2 2016, reflecting increased regulatory costs related to becoming a bank outside the ring-fence. Adjusted operating expenses(1) of £47 million were £14 million, or 42.4%, higher than Q2 2016.

Note:

(1)

Refer to Income statement reconciliations on page 17.

 

 

56 

 


 

 

NatWest Markets

 

  

Half year ended

  

Quarter ended

  

30 June

30 June

  

30 June

31 March

30 June

2017 

2016 

  

2017 

2017 

2016 

Income statement

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net interest income from banking activities

42 

43 

  

13 

29 

24 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net fees and commissions

27 

17 

  

11 

16 

Income from trading activities

908 

620 

  

445 

463 

374 

Own credit adjustments

(48)

137 

  

(28)

(20)

73 

Other operating income

  

-  

-  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Non-interest income

890 

775 

  

431 

459 

453 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total income

932 

818 

  

444 

488 

477 

Direct expenses

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - staff costs

(297)

(131)

  

(142)

(155)

(64)

  - other costs

(99)

(21)

  

(48)

(51)

(7)

Indirect expenses

(242)

(488)

  

(127)

(115)

(238)

Restructuring costs

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - direct

(30)

(10)

  

(10)

(20)

(10)

  - indirect

(73)

(23)

  

(25)

(48)

(11)

Litigation and conduct costs

(34)

(56)

  

(3)

(31)

(38)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating expenses

(775)

(729)

  

(355)

(420)

(368)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating profit before impairment losses

157 

89 

  

89 

68 

109 

Impairment losses

(1)

-  

  

(1)

-  

-  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating profit

156 

89 

  

88 

68 

109 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total income - adjusted (1)

980 

681 

  

472 

508 

404 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating expenses - adjusted (2)

(638)

(640)

  

(317)

(321)

(309)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating profit - adjusted (1,2) 

341 

41 

  

154 

187 

95 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Analysis of income by product

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Rates

612 

385 

  

287 

325 

264 

 

Currencies

256 

266 

  

128 

128 

122 

 

Financing

187 

91 

  

99 

88 

49 

 

Other

(75)

(61)

  

(42)

(33)

(31)

 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Total excluding own credit adjustments

980 

681 

  

472 

508 

404 

 

Own credit adjustments

(48)

137 

  

(28)

(20)

73 

 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Total income

932 

818 

  

444 

488 

477 

 

                   

 

Notes:

(1)

Excluding restructuring costs and litigation and conduct costs.

(2)

Excluding own credit adjustments.

57 

 


 

 

 

NatWest Markets

 

  

Half year ended

  

Quarter ended

  

30 June

30 June

  

30 June

31 March

30 June

Performance ratios

2017 

2016 

  

2017 

2017 

2016 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Return on equity (1) 

2.3%

0.8%

  

2.9%

1.7%

4.3%

Return on equity - adjusted (1,2) 

7.2%

(0.5%)

  

6.6%

7.9%

3.5%

Net interest margin

0.50%

0.74%

  

0.31%

0.68%

0.81%

Cost:income ratio

83.2%

89.1%

  

80.0%

86.1%

77.1%

Cost:income ratio - adjusted (1) 

65.1%

94.0%

  

67.2%

63.2%

76.5%

 

  

30 June

31 March

  

  

31 December

  

2017

2017 

  

2016 

Capital and balance sheet

£bn

£bn

  

Change

£bn

Change

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Loans and advances to customers (gross) (3)

17.7 

17.9 

  

(1%)

17.4 

2%

Loans and advances to banks (4)

4.4 

4.9 

  

(10%)

3.3 

33%

Reverse repos

36.8 

40.8 

  

(10%)

38.6 

(5%)

Securities

28.3 

25.4 

  

11%

22.0 

29%

Cash and eligible bills

17.0 

15.0 

  

13%

13.4 

27%

Other

12.8 

9.9 

  

29%

6.2 

106%

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total assets

230.9 

225.3 

  

2%

240.0 

(4%)

Funded assets

117.0 

113.9 

  

3%

100.9 

16%

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Customer deposits (excluding repos)

8.1 

8.0 

  

1%

8.4 

(4%)

Bank deposits (excluding repos)

7.5 

7.8 

  

(4%)

9.8 

(23%)

Repos

31.6 

30.7 

  

3%

27.3 

16%

Debt securities in issue

5.9 

6.0 

  

(2%)

5.4 

9%

Loan:deposit ratio (excluding repos)

219%

224%

  

(500bp)

208%

1,100bp

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Risk-weighted assets

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - credit risk

  

  

  

  

  

  

     - non-counterparty

5.8 

5.3 

  

9%

5.5 

5%

     - counterparty

11.0 

13.1 

  

(16%)

14.1 

(22%)

  - market risk

11.4 

12.2 

  

(7%)

11.6 

(2%)

  - operational risk

3.5 

3.5 

  

4.0 

(13%)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total risk-weighted assets

31.7 

34.1 

  

(7%)

35.2 

(10%)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Notes:

(1)

Return on equity is based on segmental operating profit after tax adjusted for preference dividends divided by average notional equity (based on 15% of the monthly average of segmental risk-weighted assets incorporating the effect of capital deductions (RWAes)), assuming 28% tax rate.

(2)

Excluding own credit adjustments, restructuring costs and litigation and conduct costs.

(3)

Excludes reverse repos.

(4)

Excluding reverse repos and disposal groups.

 

58 

 


 

 

NatWest Markets

 

Key points

NatWest Markets total income, which includes own credit adjustments, increased by £114 million, or 13.9%, to £932 million in H1 2017. Adjusted income increased by £299 million(1), or 43.9%, to £980 million. This reflected high levels of customer activity and an improved Q1 2017 trading environment compared to a particularly difficult Q1 2016. Although customer activity eased somewhat in Q2 2017, NatWest Markets continued to navigate the more challenging markets well. Operating expenses increased by £46 million, or 6.3%, to £775 million primarily due to an increase in restructuring costs RWAs of £31.7 billion were £5.0 billion lower than H1 2016 and reduced by £3.5 billion in the first half.

 

Serving our customers

NatWest Markets continued to focus on customers:

Leveraging its global hubs the business has led major capital raising transactions in the UK, Europe and the US for both corporate customers and financial institutions.

NatWest Markets continues to simplify processes and invest in improving the customer experience. The Agile Markets platform, for example, provides customers with both simple and complex financial markets trading, analysis and post-trade functionality.

     

 

 

Financial performance

H1 2017 compared with H1 2016

Operating profit was £156 million compared with £89 million in H1 2016, driven by higher income, partially offset by increased restructuring costs. H1 2017 adjusted operating profit was £341 million compared with £41 million in H1 2016 reflecting higher adjusted income.

Total income, which includes own credit adjustments, increased by £114 million to £932 million in H1 2017. Adjusted income increased by £299 million(1), or 43.9%, to £980 million. This reflected high levels of customer activity and an improved Q1 2017 trading environment compared to a particularly difficult Q1 2016. Although customer activity eased somewhat in Q2 2017, NatWest Markets continued to navigate the more challenging markets well. Income from Financing doubled to £187 million, reflecting an improved performance across all areas of the business and the impact of the difficult market conditions seen in H1 2016.

Operating expenses increased  by £46 million, or 6.3%, to £775 million, primarily due to an increase in restructuring costs of £70 million. Adjusted operating expenses  were stable at £638 million(1) as the impact of investment spend previously capitalised in H1 2016 was offset by ongoing cost reductions. The majority of NatWest Markets Functions and Services staff have now been aligned directly to NatWest Markets, with employee numbers now reported within NatWest Markets and the associated costs through direct expenses.  

Total assets excluding derivatives (funded assets) decreased by £8.6 billion, or 6.8%, to £117.0 billion. H1 2016 included a spike in funded assets due to heightened customer activity and the impact of the rapid depreciation in sterling following the EU referendum.

RWAs decreased by £5.0 billion to £31.7 billion compared with H1 2016. The reduction primarily reflects lower levels of counterparty and market risk, due to both a spike immediately after the EU referendum in H1 2016 as well as further counterparty and market risk reductions, through mitigation activities and business initiatives, since H1 2016.

 

Note:

(1)

Refer to Income statement reconciliations on page 17.

 

 

59 

 


 

 

NatWest Markets

 

Q2 2017 compared with Q1 2017

Operating profit was £88 million compared with £68 million in Q1 2017, with the increase reflecting lower expenses partially offset by lower income. Adjusted operating profit was £154 million compared with £187 million in Q1 2017.

Total income decreased by £44 million to £444 million as customer activity eased following a particularly strong Q1 2017. Adjusted income reduced by £36 million(1) to £472 million

Total expenses decreased by £65 million to £355 million, reflecting lower restructuring costs and lower litigation and conduct costs.

RWAs reduced by £2.4 billion to £31.7 billion due to a lower level of counterparty and market risk during Q2 2017 compared with Q1 2017.

 

Q2 2017 compared with Q2 2016

Operating profit was £88 million compared with £109 million in Q2 2016 principally reflecting lower income. Adjusted operating profit was £154 million(1) compared with £95 million in Q2 2016, driven by higher adjusted income, partially offset by higher adjusted expenses.

Total income decreased by £33 million to £444 million primarily reflecting a loss on own credit adjustments of £28 million compared with a gain of £73 million in Q2 2016. Adjusted income(1)  improved by £68 million, or 16.8%, to £472 million primarily reflecting improvements in Financing and Rates, with income up £50 million and £23 million respectively.

Operating expenses decreased by £13 million, or 3.5%, primarily reflecting a reduction in litigation and conduct costs, offset by an increase in restructuring costs. Adjusted operating expenses  increased by £8 million(1), or 2.6%, reflecting the impact of investment spend previously capitalised in Q2 2016.

 

Note:

(1)

Refer to Income statement reconciliations on page 17.

 

 

60 

 


 

 

Capital Resolution

  

Half year ended

  

Quarter ended

30 June 

30 June 

  

30 June 

31 March 

30 June 

 

2017 

2016 

  

2017 

2017 

2016 

Income statement

£m 

£m 

  

£m 

£m 

£m 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net interest income

24 

168 

  

(9)

33 

82 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net fees and commissions

14 

54 

  

24 

Income from trading activities

(163)

(552)

  

(87)

(76)

(478)

Other operating income

45 

25 

  

61 

(16)

16 

Own credit adjustments

(22)

184 

  

(15)

(7)

76 

Strategic disposals

(51)

  

(45)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Non-interest income

(126)

(340)

  

(34)

(92)

(407)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total income

(102)

(172)

  

(43)

(59)

(325)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Direct expenses

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - staff costs

(26)

(62)

  

(10)

(16)

(17)

  - operating lease depreciation

(6)

  

(3)

  - other costs

(19)

(58)

  

(10)

(9)

(28)

Indirect expenses

(88)

(289)

  

(44)

(44)

(135)

Restructuring costs

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - direct

(130)

(12)

  

(60)

(70)

(5)

  - indirect

(4)

(25)

  

12 

(16)

(16)

Litigation and conduct costs

(272)

(26)

  

(266)

(6)

(16)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating expenses

(539)

(478)

  

(378)

(161)

(220)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating loss before impairment releases/(losses)

(641)

(650)

  

(421)

(220)

(545)

Impairment releases/(losses)

78 

(263)

  

33 

45 

(67)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating loss

(563)

(913)

  

(388)

(175)

(612)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total income - adjusted (1)

(80)

(305)

  

(28)

(52)

(356)

Operating expenses - adjusted (2)

(133)

(415)

  

(64)

(69)

(183)

Operating loss - adjusted (1,2)

(135)

(983)

  

(59)

(76)

(606)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Analysis of income by portfolio

  

  

  

  

  

  

Portfolio and GTS

36  

75  

  

20  

16  

23  

Shipping

7  

31  

  

2  

5  

15  

Markets

(7)

(389)

  

(23)

16  

(360)

Other

(13)

31  

  

26  

(39)

23  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Income excluding disposals and own credit adjustments

23  

(252)

  

25  

(2)

(299)

Disposal (losses)

(103)

(104)

  

(53)

(50)

(102)

Own credit adjustments

(22)

184  

  

(15)

(7)

76  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total

(102)

(172)

  

(43)

(59)

(325)

 

Notes:

(1)

Excluding own credit adjustments and strategic disposals.

(2)

Excluding restructuring costs and litigation and conduct costs.

 

 

 

61 

 


 

 

 

Capital Resolution

 

  

30 June 

31 March 

  

  

31 December 

  

2017 

2017 

  

  

2016 

  

Capital and balance sheet

£bn 

£bn 

  

Change

£bn 

Change

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Loans and advances to customers (gross)  

10.7 

13.0 

  

(18%)

13.6 

(21%)

Loan impairment provisions

(0.6)

(0.7)

  

(14%)

(0.8)

(25%)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net loans and advances to customers (1) 

10.1 

12.3 

  

(18%)

12.8 

(21%)

Net loans and advances to banks

4.9 

5.0 

  

(2%)

4.6 

7%

Total assets

102.2 

119.2 

  

(14%)

132.5 

(23%)

Funded assets

24.7 

29.2 

  

(15%)

27.6 

(11%)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Risk elements in lending

1.8 

2.1 

  

(14%)

2.3 

(22%)

Provision coverage (2) 

33%

33%

  

-

35%

(200bp)

Risk-weighted assets

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - Credit risk

  

  

  

  

  

  

    - non-counterparty

15.0 

17.1 

  

(12%)

18.2 

(18%)

    - counterparty

6.7 

7.6 

  

(12%)

8.7 

(23%)

  - Market risk

3.1 

4.0 

  

(23%)

4.8 

(35%)

  - Operational risk

1.8 

1.8 

  

2.8 

(36%)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total risk-weighted assets

26.6 

30.5 

  

(13%)

34.5 

(23%)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Analysis of RWAs by portfolio

  

  

  

  

  

  

Portfolio and GTS

2.3 

2.8 

  

(18%)

3.2 

(28%)

Shipping

1.6 

2.4 

  

(33%)

2.8 

(43%)

Markets

11.6 

14.0 

  

(17%)

15.8 

(27%)

Alawwal Bank

7.4 

7.8 

  

(5%)

7.9 

(6%)

Other

1.9 

1.7 

  

12%

2.0 

(5%)

Total credit and market risk RWAs

24.8 

28.7 

  

(14%)

31.7 

(22%)

Operational risk

1.8 

1.8 

  

2.8 

(36%)

Total RWAs

26.6 

30.5 

  

(13%)

34.5 

(23%)

 

Notes:

(1)

Excludes disposal groups.

(2)

Provision coverage represents loan impairment provisions as a percentage of risk elements in lending.

62 

 


 

 

Capital Resolution

 

Capital Resolution continues to run down and dispose of non-strategic portfolios and remove risk from the balance sheet and the first half of the year saw good progress with RWAs falling by £7.9 billion to £26.6 billion. Excluding RBS’s stake in Alawwal Bank (£7.4 billion at 30 June 2017), RWAs are now in the £15-£20 billion range we guided to for the end of 2017.

 

Financial performance

H1 2017 compared with H1 2016

RWAs reduced by £15.7 billion to £26.6 billion and total assets excluding derivatives (funded assets) fell to £24.7 billion, a reduction of £20.0 billion, mainly reflecting disposal activity.

An operating loss of £563 million in H1 2017, compared with a loss of £913 million in H1 2016, principally due to a net impairment release compared with a loss in H1 2016, and lower adjusted operating expenses(1). The adjusted operating loss(1) in H1 2017 was £135 million compared with a loss of £983 million in H1 2016. H1 2016 included a £330 million incremental funding valuation adjustment and a £264 million impairment loss in respect of the shipping portfolio.

Income disposal losses in H1 2017 were £103 million compared with £104 million in H1 2016. Expected future losses on uncollateralised derivatives have driven £0.4 billion of the increase in the prudential valuation adjustment capital deduction in Q2 2017.

Operating expenses increased by £61 million, or 12.8%, to £539 million, principally reflecting increased restructuring costs and litigation and conduct costs Adjusted operating expenses(1) fell by 68.0% to £133 million principally reflecting the impact of a 673 reduction in headcount to 209.

A net impairment release of £78 million was recorded in the first half of the year. The H1 2016 charge of £263 million comprised charges relating to a number of shipping assets (£264 million).

 

Q2 2017 compared with Q1 2017

RWAs reduced by £3.9 billion to £26.6 billion reflecting disposal activity.

Total assets excluding derivatives (funded assets) reduced by £4.5 billion to £24.7 billion reflecting disposal activity across all portfolios.

Operating losses increased by £213 million to £388 million, principally reflecting increased litigation and conduct charges. An adjusted operating loss(1) of £59 million compared with a loss of £76 million in Q1 2017.

Income disposal losses in Q2 2017 were £53 million compared with £50 million in Q1 2017.

Operating expenses increased by £217 million to £378 million, principally reflecting increased litigation and conduct costs. Adjusted operating expenses(1) reduced by £5 million to £64 million.

 

Q2 2017 compared with Q2 2016

An operating loss of £388 million in Q2 2017, compared with a loss of £612 million in Q2 2016, reflecting a £220 million funding valuation adjustment in Q2 2016, lower adjusted operating expenses(1) and lower impairments. An adjusted operating loss(1) of £59 million compared with a loss of £606 million in Q2 2016.

Operating expenses increased by £158 million to £378 million, principally reflecting increased restructuring costs, litigation and conduct costs. Adjusted operating expenses(1) fell by £119 million, or 65.0%, principally reflecting the impact of a 673 reduction in headcount.

Note:

(1)

Refer to Income statement reconciliations on page 17.

 

 

63 

 


 

 

Williams & Glyn

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Half year ended

  

Quarter ended

  

30 June

30 June

  

30 June

31 March

30 June

  

2017

2016

  

2017

2017

2016

Income statement (1) 

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net interest income

333 

324 

  

168 

165 

162 

Net fees and commissions

75 

79 

  

39 

36 

39 

Other non-interest income

  

Non-interest income

84 

87 

  

43 

41 

44 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total income

417 

411 

  

211 

206 

206 

Direct expenses

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - staff costs

(96)

(125)

  

(43)

(53)

(63)

  - other costs

(20)

(33)

  

(9)

(11)

(18)

Indirect expenses

(42)

(39)

  

(22)

(20)

(18)

Restructuring costs

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - direct

(45)

  

(25)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating expenses

(158)

(242)

  

(74)

(84)

(124)

Profit before impairment losses

259 

169 

  

137 

122 

82 

Impairment losses

(25)

(17)

  

(14)

(11)

(11)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating profit

234 

152 

  

123 

111 

71 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Operating expenses - adjusted (2) 

(158)

(197)

  

(74)

(84)

(99)

Operating profit - adjusted (2) 

234 

197 

  

123 

111 

96 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Analysis of income by product

  

  

  

  

  

  

Retail

242 

231 

  

123 

119 

116 

Commercial

175 

180 

  

88 

87 

90 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total income

417 

411 

  

211 

206 

206 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Analysis of impairments by sector

  

  

  

  

  

  

Retail

15 

10 

  

Commercial

10 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total impairment losses

25 

17 

  

14 

11 

11 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Performance ratios

  

  

  

  

  

  

Return on equity (3)

22.2%

14.3%

  

23.5%

20.9%

13.3%

Return on equity - adjusted (2,3)

22.2%

18.6%

  

23.5%

20.9%

18.0%

Net interest margin

2.65%

2.74%

  

2.64%

2.66%

2.70%

Cost:income ratio

37.9%

58.9%

  

35.1%

40.8%

60.2%

Cost:income ratio - adjusted (2) 

37.9%

47.9%

  

35.1%

40.8%

48.1%

Notes;

 

(1)

Williams & Glyn refers to the business formerly intended to be divested as a separate legal entity and comprises RBS England and Wales branch-based businesses, along with certain small and medium enterprises and corporate activities across the UK. During the period presented W&G has not operated as a separate legal entity.

(2)

Excluding restructuring costs.

(3)

Return on equity is based on segmental operating profit after tax adjusted for preference share dividends divided by average notional equity (based on 15% of the monthly average of segmental risk-weighted assets incorporating the effect of capital deductions (RWAes)), assuming 28% tax rate.

 

64 

 


 

 

Williams & Glyn

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

30 June

31 March

  

  

31 December

  

2017

2017 

  

2016 

Capital and balance sheet (1) 

£bn

£bn

  

Change

£bn

Change

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Loans and advances to customers (gross)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - Retail

12.3 

12.3 

  

12.3 

  - Commercial

8.3 

8.5 

  

(2%)

8.5 

(2%)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total loans and advances to customers (gross)

20.6 

20.8 

  

(1%)

20.8 

(1%)

Loan impairment provisions

(0.2)

(0.2)

  

(0.2)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net loans and advances to customers

20.4 

20.6 

  

(1%)

20.6 

(1%)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total assets

26.0 

25.8 

  

1%

25.8 

1%

Funded assets

26.0 

25.8 

  

1%

25.8 

1%

Risk elements in lending

0.3 

0.3 

  

0.4 

(25%)

Provision coverage (2) 

64%

64%

  

65%

(100bp)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Customer deposits (excluding repos)

24.9 

24.0 

  

4%

24.2 

3%

Loan:deposit ratio (excluding repos)

82%

86%

  

(400bp)

85%

(300bp)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Risk-weighted assets

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - Credit risk (non-counterparty)

8.0 

8.3 

  

(4%)

8.2 

(2%)

  - Operational risk

1.4 

1.4 

  

1.4 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total risk-weighted assets

9.4 

9.7 

  

(3%)

9.6 

(2%)

 

Notes:

(1)

Williams & Glyn refers to the business formerly intended to be divested as a separate legal entity and comprises RBS England and Wales branch-based businesses, along with certain small and medium enterprises and corporate activities across the UK. During the period presented W&G has not operated as a separate legal entity.

(2)

Provision coverage represents loan impairment provisions as a percentage of risk elements in lending.

 

65 

 


 

 

Williams & Glyn

 

Key points

Williams and Glyn (W&G) reported an increase of £82 million, or 53.9% in operating profits to £234 million compared with H1 2016, largely reflecting 34.7% reduction in operating expenses with net impairments remaining benign. Adjusted operating profits(1) increased by £37 million, or 18.8%, to £234 million compared with H1 2016. In our full year 2017 reporting we will no longer report Williams & Glyn as a separate segment, but include within UK PBB.

 

Williams & Glyn refers to the business formerly intended to be divested as a separate legal entity and principally comprises RBS England and Wales branch-based businesses, along with certain small and medium enterprises and corporate activities across the UK.

 

Serving our customers

In H1 2017 the W&G business continued to perform well. Gross lending across the portfolio was stable at £20.6 billion compared with H1 2016, with gross mortgage lending increasing by £0.3 billion, or 2.3%, to £11 billion.

Financial performance

H1 2017 compared with H1 2016

Operating profit increased by £82 million to £234 million compared with H1 2016 driven by reduced operating expenses. Adjusted operating profit(1) increased by £37 million, or 18.8%, to £234 million.

Total income increased by £6 million, or 1.5%, to £417 million largely reflecting increased lending, with net interest income increasing by £9 million, or 2.8%, to £333 million. 

Operating expenses reduced by £84 million, or 34.7%, to £158 million driven by reduced restructuring costs and staff costs, reflecting a substantial reduction in headcount, down by c.1,100 to 4,100 FTEs by the end of H1 2017. Adjusted operating expenses(1) reduced by £39 million, or 19.8%, to £158 million.

Net impairment losses increased by £8 million, or 47.1%, to £25 million compared with H1 2016, with the prior year benefitting from releases in the retail business.

Q2 2017 compared with Q1 2017

Operating profit increased by £12 million, or 10.8%, to £123 million compared with Q1 2017 driven by a £10 million, or 11.9%, reduction in  operating expenses, principally reflecting lower staff costs.

Q2 2017 compared with Q2 2016

Operating profit increased by £52 million, or 73.2%, compared with Q2 2016 driven by a reduction in restructuring costs and a £29 million, or 35.8%, reduction in direct expenses associated with the reduction in FTEs. Adjusted operating profit(1) increased by £27 million, or 28.1%, compared with Q2 2016.

Note:

(1)

Refer to Income statement reconciliations on page 17.

 

66 

 


 

 

Central items

 

  

Half year ended

  

Quarter ended

  

30 June

30 June

  

30 June

31 March

30 June

2017

2016

  

2017

2017

2016

  

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Central items not allocated

178 

(909)

  

322 

(144)

(537)

 

Funding and operating costs have been allocated to operating segments based on direct service usage, the requirement for market funding and other appropriate drivers where services span more than one segment.

 

Residual unallocated items relate to volatile corporate items that do not naturally reside within a segment.

 

Key points

·

Central items not allocated represented a gain of £178 million in H1 2017, compared with a £909 million charge in H1 2016, and included litigation and conduct costs of £40 million (H1 2016 - £708 million charge). Treasury funding costs were a gain of £132 million, compared with a charge of £382 million in H1 2016 (volatile items under IFRS: H1 2017 - £154 million gain, H1 2016 - £668 million charge).  In addition, we recognised a VAT recovery of £51 million (H1 2016 – £227 million) and a £156 million gain on the sale of our stake in Vocalink (H1 2016 - £246 million gain on sale of Visa Europe).

·

Central items not allocated represented a gain of £322 million in Q2 2017 and included a £172 million gain in respect of volatile items under IFRS and a £156 million gain on the sale of our stake in Vocalink.

 

67 

 


 

 

Condensed consolidated income statement for the period ended 30 June 2017 (unaudited)

 

  

Half year ended

  

30 June

30 June

2017 

2016 

  

£m 

£m 

  

  

  

Interest receivable

5,462 

5,692 

Interest payable

(990)

(1,359)

Net interest income (1) 

4,472 

4,333 

  

  

  

Fees and commissions receivable

1,666 

1,676 

Fees and commissions payable

(448)

(392)

Income from trading activities

884 

(17)

Loss on redemption of own debt

(7)

(130)

Other operating income

352 

594 

Non-interest income

2,447 

1,731 

  

  

  

Total income

6,919 

6,064 

  

  

  

Staff costs

(2,447)

(2,695)

Premises and equipment

(678)

(652)

Other administrative expenses

(1,208)

(2,139)

Depreciation and amortisation

(511)

(354)

Write down of other intangible assets

(8)

(89)

  

  

  

Operating expenses

(4,852)

(5,929)

  

  

  

Profit before impairment losses

2,067 

135 

Impairment losses

(116)

(409)

  

  

  

Operating profit/(loss) before tax

1,951 

(274)

Tax charge

(727)

(340)

  

  

  

Profit/(loss) for the period

1,224 

(614)

  

  

  

Attributable to:

  

  

Non-controlling interests

29 

30 

Preference share and other dividends

256 

208 

Dividend access share

1,193 

Ordinary shareholders

939 

(2,045)

  

  

  

  

1,224 

(614)

Earnings/(loss) per ordinary share (EPS)

  

  

Basic earnings/(loss) per ordinary share (2)

7.9p

(17.6p)

 

Notes:

(1)

Negative interest on loans and advances is classed as interest payable. Negative interest on customer deposits classed as interest receivable. HY 2016 has been

re-presented accordingly.

(2)

There is no dilutive impact in any period.

 

68 

 


 

 

Condensed consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the period ended 30 June 2017 (unaudited) 

 

  

Half year ended

  

30 June

30 June

2017 

2016 

  

£m 

£m 

  

  

  

Profit/(loss) for the period

1,224 

(614)

  

  

  

Items that do not qualify for reclassification

  

  

Loss on remeasurement of retirement benefit schemes

(26)

(995)

Loss on fair value of credit in financial liabilities designated at fair value

  

  

  through profit or loss due to own credit risk

(77)

Tax

(8)

273 

  

  

  

  

(111)

(722)

  

  

  

Items that do qualify for reclassification

  

  

Available-for-sale financial assets

29 

(95)

Cash flow hedges

(611)

1,581 

Currency translation

103 

1,071 

Tax

161 

(360)

  

  

  

  

(318)

2,197 

  

  

  

Other comprehensive (loss)/income after tax

(429)

1,475 

  

  

  

Total comprehensive income for the period

795 

861 

  

  

  

Total comprehensive income is attributable to

  

  

Non-controlling interests

49 

125 

Preference shareholders

85 

113 

Paid-in equity holders

171 

95 

Dividend access share

1,193 

Ordinary shareholders

490 

(665)

  

  

  

  

795 

861 

 

69 

 


 

 

Condensed consolidated balance sheet as at 30 June 2017 (unaudited)

 

  

30 June

31 December

2017

2016 

  

£m 

£m

  

  

  

Assets

  

  

Cash and balances at central banks

86,807 

74,250 

Net loans and advances to banks

20,685 

17,278 

Reverse repurchase agreements and stock borrowing

14,847 

12,860 

Loans and advances to banks

35,532 

30,138 

Net loans and advances to customers

326,059 

323,023 

Reverse repurchase agreements and stock borrowing

25,183 

28,927 

Loans and advances to customers

351,242 

351,950 

Debt securities

86,169 

72,522 

Equity shares

518 

703 

Settlement balances

12,091 

5,526 

Derivatives

193,531 

246,981 

Intangible assets

6,467 

6,480 

Property, plant and equipment

4,823 

4,590 

Deferred tax

1,677 

1,803 

Prepayments, accrued income and other assets

3,797 

3,713 

  

  

  

Total assets

782,654 

798,656 

  

  

  

Liabilities

  

  

Bank deposits

38,965 

33,317 

Repurchase agreements and stock lending

5,183 

5,239 

Deposits by banks

44,148 

38,556 

Customer deposits

359,882 

353,872 

Repurchase agreements and stock lending

37,855 

27,096 

Customer accounts

397,737 

380,968 

Debt securities in issue

31,997 

27,245 

Settlement balances

11,379 

3,645 

Short positions

29,862 

22,077 

Derivatives

184,161 

236,475 

Provisions for liabilities and charges

11,227 

12,836 

Accruals and other liabilities

6,603 

7,006 

Retirement benefit liabilities

182 

363 

Deferred tax

585 

662 

Subordinated liabilities

14,724 

19,419 

  

  

  

Total liabilities

732,605 

749,252 

  

  

  

Equity

  

  

Non-controlling interests

844 

795 

Owners’ equity*

  

  

  Called up share capital

11,876 

11,823 

  Reserves

37,329 

36,786 

  

  

  

Total equity

50,049 

49,404 

  

  

  

Total liabilities and equity

782,654 

798,656 

  

  

  

*Owners’ equity attributable to:

  

  

Ordinary shareholders

42,149 

41,462 

Other equity owners

7,056 

7,147 

  

  

  

  

49,205 

48,609 

 

70 

 


 

 

Condensed consolidated statement of changes in equity for the period ended 30 June 2017 (unaudited) 

 

  

Half year ended

  

30 June

30 June

2017

2016

£m

£m

  

  

  

Called-up share capital

  

  

At beginning of period

11,823 

11,625 

Ordinary shares issued

53 

131 

  

  

  

At end of period

11,876 

11,756 

  

  

  

Paid-in equity

  

  

At beginning of period

4,582 

2,646 

Redeemed/reclassified (1) 

(91)

(110)

  

  

  

At end of period

4,491 

2,536 

  

  

  

Share premium account

  

  

At beginning of period

25,693 

25,425 

Ordinary shares issued

96 

203 

Capital reduction (2) 

  

(25,789)

  

  

  

At end of period

25,628 

  

  

  

Merger reserve

  

  

At the beginning and end of period

  

10,881 

10,881 

  

  

  

Available-for-sale reserve

  

  

At beginning of period

238 

307 

Unrealised gains

100 

189 

Realised gains

(71)

(284)

Tax

(8)

20 

  

  

  

At end of period

259 

232 

  

  

  

Cash flow hedging reserve

  

  

At beginning of period

1,030 

458 

Amount recognised in equity

(240)

2,139 

Amount transferred from equity to earnings

(371)

(558)

Tax

156 

(436)

  

  

  

At end of period

575 

1,603 

  

  

  

  

Foreign exchange reserve

  

  

At beginning of period

2,888 

1,674 

Retranslation of net assets

124 

1,232 

Foreign currency losses on hedges of net assets

(8)

(277)

Tax

13 

56 

Recycled to profit or loss on disposal of businesses (3) 

(33)

21 

  

  

  

At end of period

2,984 

2,706 

  

  

  

  

Capital redemption reserve

  

  

At the beginning and end of period

4,542 

4,542 

Capital reduction (2) 

  

(4,542)

At end of period

  

4,542 

  

  

  

  

For the notes to this table refer to the following page.

  

  

71 

 


 

 

 

Condensed consolidated statement of changes in equity for the period ended 30 June 2017  (unaudited) 

 

  

Half year ended

  

30 June

30 June

2017

2016

  

£m

£m

  

  

  

Retained earnings

  

  

At beginning of period

(12,936)

(4,020)

Profit/(loss) attributable to ordinary shareholders and other equity owners

  

  

  - continuing operations

1,195 

(644)

Equity preference dividends paid

(85)

(113)

Paid-in equity dividends paid, net of tax

(171)

(95)

Capital reduction (2) 

30,331 

Dividend access share dividend

(1,193)

Loss on remeasurement of retirement benefit schemes

  

  

  - gross

(26)

(995)

  - tax

(20)

273 

Changes in fair value of credit in financial liabilities designated at fair value through profit

  

  

  - gross

(77)

  - tax

12 

Shares issued under employee share schemes

(5)

(7)

Share-based payments

  

  

  - gross

(34)

(26)

Redemption/reclassification of paid-in equity

(21)

  

  

  

At end of period

18,184 

(6,841)

  

  

  

Own shares held

  

  

At beginning of period

(132)

(107)

Shares utilised for employee share schemes

156 

34 

Own shares acquired

(69)

(63)

  

  

  

At end of period

(45)

(136)

  

  

  

Owners’ equity at end of period

49,205 

52,907 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Non-controlling interests

  

  

At beginning of period

795 

716 

Currency translation adjustments and other movements

20 

95 

Profit attributable to non-controlling interests

  

  

  - continuing operations

29 

30 

Equity withdrawn and disposals

(21)

  

  

  

At end of period

844 

820 

  

  

  

Total equity at end of period

50,049 

53,727 

  

  

  

Total equity is attributable to:

  

  

Non-controlling interests

844 

820 

Preference shareholders

2,565 

3,305 

Paid-in equity holders

4,491 

2,536 

Ordinary shareholders

42,149 

47,066 

  

  

  

  

50,049 

53,727 

 

Notes:

(1)

Paid-in equity reclassified to liabilities as a result of the call of RBS Capital Trust D in March 2017 (redeemed in June 2017) and the call of RBS Capital Trust C in May 2016 (redeemed in July 2016).

(2)

On 15 June 2017, the Court of Session approved a reduction of the parent company’s capital so that the amounts which stood to the credit of share premium account and capital redemption reserve were transferred to retained earnings.

(3)

No tax impact.

 

72 

 


 

 

Condensed consolidated cash flow statement for the period ended 30 June 2017 (unaudited) 

 

  

Half year ended

  

30 June

30 June

  

2017 

2016 

  

£m

£m

  

  

  

Operating activities

  

  

Operating profit/(loss) before tax

1,951 

(274)

Adjustments for non-cash items

(2,181)

(9,822)

  

  

  

Net cash outflow from trading activities

(230)

(10,096)

Changes in operating assets and liabilities

30,797 

987 

  

  

  

Net cash flows from operating activities before tax

30,567 

(9,109)

Income taxes paid

(248)

(130)

  

  

  

Net cash flows from operating activities

30,319 

(9,239)

  

  

  

Net cash flows from investing activities

(6,319)

(2,157)

  

  

  

Net cash flows from financing activities

(4,814)

(4,194)

  

  

  

Effects of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

(64)

6,676 

  

  

  

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

19,122 

(8,914)

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

98,570 

103,592 

  

  

  

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

117,692 

94,678 

  

  

  

 

73 

 


 

 

 

Notes

 

1. Basis of preparation

The Group’s condensed consolidated financial statements (as defined on page 4) have been prepared in accordance with the Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the Financial Conduct Authority and IAS 34 ‘Interim Financial Reporting’. They should be read in conjunction with the Group’s 2016 Annual Report on Form 20-F which were prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and interpretations issued by the IFRS Interpretations Committee of the IASB as adopted by the European Union (EU) (together IFRS).

 

Accounting policies

Ahead of adopting IFRS 9 Financial Instruments from 1 January 2018 RBS has adopted the provisions in respect of the presentation of gains and losses on financial liabilities designated as at fair value through profit or loss from 1 January 2017.  Accordingly, a loss of £77 million has been reported in the consolidated statement of other comprehensive income instead of in the consolidated income statement. Comparatives have not been restated, however, in H1 2016 a gain of £200 million was included in the consolidated income statement. Own credit adjustments on financial liabilities held for trading will continue to be recognised in the consolidated income statement, a loss of £73 million was reported in H1 2017 (H1 2016 – gain of £250 million).

 

Apart from the above RBS’s principal accounting policies are as set out on pages 385 to 394 of the 2016 Annual Report on Form 20-F. Other amendments to IFRS effective for 2017 have not had a material effect on RBS’s H1 2017 results.

 

Critical accounting policies and key sources of estimation uncertainty

The judgements and assumptions that are considered to be the most important to the portrayal of RBS’s financial condition are those relating to goodwill, provisions for liabilities, deferred tax, loan impairment provisions and fair value of financial instruments. These critical accounting policies and judgements are described on pages 394 to 396 of RBS’s 2016 Annual Report on Form 20-F. The risk factors are set out on pages 509 to 578.

 

Going concern

The Group’s business activities and financial position, and the factors likely to affect its future development and performance are discussed on pages 8 to 113. The risk factors which could materially affect the Group’s future results are described on pages 114 to 116.

 

Having reviewed RBS’s forecasts, projections and other relevant evidence, the directors have a reasonable expectation that RBS will continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Accordingly, the results for the half year ended 30 June 2017 have been prepared on a going concern basis.

74 

 


 

 

Notes

 

2. Analysis of income, expenses and impairment losses

 

  

  

  

Half year ended

  

30 June

30 June

  

2017

2016

  

£m

£m

  

  

  

Loans and advances to customers

5,152 

5,364 

Loans and advances to banks

120 

151 

Debt securities

190 

177 

  

  

  

Interest receivable

5,462 

5,692 

  

  

  

Customer accounts

328 

575 

Deposits by banks

70 

48 

Debt securities in issue

254 

298 

Subordinated liabilities

317 

442 

Internal funding of trading businesses

21 

(4)

  

  

  

Interest payable

990 

1,359 

  

  

  

Net interest income

4,472 

4,333 

  

  

  

Fees and commissions receivable

  

  

  - payment services

405 

434 

  - credit and debit card fees

331 

314 

  - lending (credit facilities)

529 

516 

  - brokerage

88 

86 

  - investment management

121 

121 

  - trade finance

88 

102 

  - other

104 

103 

  

  

  

Fees and commissions receivable

1,666 

1,676 

Fees and commissions payable

(448)

(392)

  

  

  

Net fees and commissions

1,218 

1,284 

  

  

  

Foreign exchange

228 

570 

Interest rate

652 

(628)

Credit

58 

(181)

Own credit adjustments

(73)

250 

Other

19 

(28)

Income from trading activities

884 

(17)

  

  

  

Loss on redemption of own debt

(7)

(130)

  

  

  

Operating lease and other rental income

142 

139 

Changes in the fair value of own debt designated as at fair value through profit or loss

  

  

  attributable to own credit risk

200 

Other changes in the fair value of financial assets and liabilities designated as at fair

  

  

  value through profit or loss and related derivatives

41 

(90)

Changes in fair value of investment properties

(10)

(9)

Profit on sale of securities

33 

34 

Profit on sale of property plant equipment

18 

Profit on sale of subsidiaries and associates

206 

224 

Loss on disposal or settlement loans and receivables

(150)

(14)

Share of profits of associated undertakings

60 

68 

Other income

27 

24 

Other operating income

352 

594 

Total non-interest income

2,447 

1,731 

Total income

6,919 

6,064 

 

75 

 


 

 

 

Notes

 

2. Analysis of income, expenses and impairment losses

 

  

Half year ended

  

30 June

30 June

2017

2016 

  

£m

£m

  

  

  

Staff costs

(2,447)

(2,695)

Premises and equipment

(678)

(652)

Other (1) 

(1,208)

(2,139)

  

  

  

Administrative expenses

(4,333)

(5,486)

Depreciation and amortisation

(511)

(354)

Write down of other intangible assets

(8)

(89)

  

  

  

Operating expenses

(4,852)

(5,929)

  

  

  

Loan impairment losses

(152)

(412)

Securities

36 

  

  

  

Impairment losses

(116)

(409)

 

Note:

(1)

Includes costs relating to customer redress, residential mortgage back securities, litigation and other regulatory – refer to Note 3 for further details.

 

3. Provisions for liabilities and charges

 

  

Payment

Other

Residential

Litigation

  

  

  

protection

 customer 

mortgage

and other

  

  

  

insurance

 redress (1) 

backed securities

regulatory

Other (2)

Total

  

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

At 1 January 2017

1,253 

1,105 

6,752 

1,918 

1,808 

12,836 

Currency translation and other movements

(1)

(114)

(13)

10 

(118)

Charge to income statement

32 

204 

236 

Releases to income statement

(2)

(3)

(39)

(44)

Provisions utilised

(78)

(99)

(950)

(164)

(1,291)

At 31 March 2017

1,175 

1,003 

6,638 

984 

1,819 

11,619 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Currency translation and other movements

(237)

(17)

38 

(211)

Charge to income statement

55 

222 

59 

371 

707 

Releases to income statement

(38)

(4)

(96)

(138)

Provisions utilised

(81)

(114)

(44)

(113)

(398)

(750)

At 30 June 2017

1,094 

911 

6,579 

909 

1,734 

11,227 

 

 

Note:

(1)

Closing provision primarily relates to investment advice and packaged accounts.

(2)

The Group recognised a £750 million provision in 2016 as a consequence of the announcement that HM Treasury is seeking a revised package of remedies that would conclude its remaining State Aid commitments. An additional charge of £50 million was taken in the second quarter of 2017 following further revisions to the package, taking the total provision to £800 million.

 

 

76 

 


 

 

Notes

 

3. Provisions for liabilities and charges (continued) 

  

Payment Protection Insurance (PPI)

The cumulative charge in respect of PPI is £4.9 billion, of which £3.8 billion (78%) in redress and expenses had been utilised by 30 June 2017. Of the £4.9 billion cumulative charge, £4.5 billion relates to redress and £0.4 billion to administrative expenses.

 

The table below shows the sensitivity of the provision to changes in the principal assumptions (all other assumptions remaining the same).

 

 

 

Sensitivity

 

Actual to date 

Current 

 assumption 

Change in 

assumption 

Consequential 

change in 

provision 

Assumption

£m 

 

 

 

 

 

Single premium book past business review take-up rate

58%

59%

+/-5

+/-60

Uphold rate (1) 

90%

91%

+/-5

+/-40

Average redress

£1,688

£1,679

+/-5

+/-35

 

Note:

(1)

Uphold rate excludes claims where no PPI policy was held.

 

Interest payable on successful complaints has been included in the provision as has the estimated cost of administration. There are uncertainties as to the eventual cost of redress which will depend on actual complaint volumes, take-up and uphold rates and average redress costs. Assumptions relating to these are inherently uncertain and the ultimate financial impact may be different from the amount provided. We continue to monitor the position closely and refresh the underlying assumptions. Background information in relation to PPI claims is given in Note 12.

 

Residential mortgage backed securities (RMBS)

RBS has reached a settlement with the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) as conservator of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, to resolve claims by FHFA in relation to RBS's issuance and underwriting of approximately US$32 billion (£25 billion) of RMBS in the US. As part of the settlement, FHFA's outstanding litigation against RBS relating to those securities has been withdrawn.

 

Under the settlement, RBS has paid FHFA US$5.5 billion (£4.2 billion), of which US$754 million (£581 million) has been reimbursed to RBS under indemnification agreements with third parties. The cost to RBS (net of the indemnity mentioned above) of US$4.75 billion (£3.65 billion) is largely covered by existing provisions. An incremental charge of US$196 million (£151 million) was recorded in Q2 2017 in relation to the FHFA case. RBS held a provision of US$8.5 billion (£6.6 billion) against RMBS litigations and investigations at 30 June 2017, of which $4.75 billion (£3.7 billion) related to the FHFA case that has now been resolved. For further information refer to Note 12.

 

Litigation and other regulatory

RBS is party to certain legal proceedings and regulatory and governmental investigations and continues to co-operate with a number of regulators. All such matters are periodically reassessed with the assistance of external professional advisers, where appropriate, to determine the likelihood of RBS incurring a liability and to evaluate the extent to which a reliable estimate of any liability can be made.

77 

 


 

 

Notes

 

4. Loan impairment provisions and risk elements in lending

Operating profit/(loss) is stated after net loan impairment charge of £152 million for the half year ended 30 June 2017 (H1 2016 - £412 million losses). The balance sheet loan impairment provisions decreased in the half year ended 30 June 2017 from £4,455 million to £3,945 million and the movements thereon were:

  

Half year ended

  

30 June

  

30 June

2017 

2016 

  

£m

  

£m

  

  

  

  

At beginning of period

4,455 

  

7,119 

Currency translation and other adjustments

  

458 

Amounts written-off

(732)

  

(1,532)

Recoveries of amounts previously written-off

112 

  

57 

Charges to income statement

152 

  

412 

Unwind of discount (recognised in interest income)

(46)

  

(58)

At end of period

3,945 

  

6,456 

 

As at 30 June 2017 there were no provisions for loans and advances to banks (30 June 2016 – nil).

 

Risk elements in lending (REIL) comprise impaired loans and accruing loans past due 90 days or more as to principal or interest. Impaired loans are all loans (including loans subject to forbearance) for which an impairment provision has been established; for collectively assessed loans, impairment loss provisions are not allocated to individual loans and the entire portfolio is included in impaired loans. Accruing loans past due 90 days or more comprise loans past due 90 days where no impairment loss is expected.

 

REIL decreased by £1,014 million in the half year ended 30 June 2017 to £9,296 million and the movements thereon were:

  

Half year ended

  

30 June

  

30 June

2017 

2016 

  

£m

  

£m

  

  

  

  

At beginning of period

10,310 

  

12,137 

Currency translation and other adjustments

46 

  

832 

Additions

1,535 

  

2,193 

Transfers (1) 

(59)

  

(108)

Transfer to performing book

(391)

  

(519)

Repayments and disposals

(1,413)

  

(1,214)

Amounts written-off

(732)

  

(1,532)

  

  

  

  

At end of period

9,296 

  

11,789 

 

Note:

(1)

Represents transfers between REIL and potential problem loans.

 

Provision coverage of REIL was 42% at 30 June 2017 (30 June 2016 - 55%).

 

78 

 


 

 

Notes

 

5. Tax

The actual tax charge differs from the expected tax charge computed by applying the standard UK corporation tax rate of 19.25% (2016 - 20.00%), as analysed below.

 

  

Half year ended

  

30 June

30 June

2017

2016

  

£m

£m

  

  

  

Profit/(loss) before tax

1,951 

(274)

  

  

  

Expected tax (charge)/credit

(376)

55 

Losses and temporary differences in period where no

  

  

  deferred tax asset recognised

(156)

(107)

Foreign profits taxed at other rates

72 

32 

Items not allowed for tax

  

  

  - losses on disposals and write-downs

(59)

(13)

  - UK bank levy

(20)

(24)

  - regulatory and legal actions

(21)

(216)

  - other disallowable items

(34)

(45)

Non-taxable items

62 

59 

Taxable foreign exchange movements

(10)

Losses brought forward and utilised

Banking surcharge

(199)

(86)

Adjustments in respect of prior periods

(8)

  

  

  

Actual tax charge

(727)

(340)

 

At 30 June 2017, the Group has recognised a deferred tax asset of £1,677 million (31 December 2016 - £1,803 million) and a deferred tax liability of £585 million (31 December 2016 - £662 million). These include amounts recognised in respect of UK trading losses of £725 million (31 December 2016 - £801 million). Under UK tax legislation, these UK losses can be carried forward indefinitely to be utilised against profits arising in the future. The Group has considered the carrying value of this asset as at 30 June 2017 and concluded that it is recoverable based on future profit projections.

 

6. Profit attributable to non-controlling interests

  

  

  

  

Half year ended

  

30 June

30 June

2017

2016

  

£m

£m

  

  

  

RFS Holdings BV Consortium Members

27 

28 

Other

  

  

  

Profit attributable to non-controlling interests

29 

30 

 

7. Dividends

In the context of macro-prudential policy discussions, the Board decided to partially neutralise any impact on CET1 capital of coupon and dividend payments for 2017 and 2016. £300 million of new ordinary shares were allotted and issued during the course of 2016 and £150 million of new ordinary shares have been allotted and issued in H1 2017. The Board intends to issue £300 million of new ordinary shares in total during 2017 to achieve this aim.

79 

 


 

 

Notes

 

8. Earnings per ordinary share

  

Half year ended

  

30 June

30 June

2017

2016

  

  

  

Earnings

  

  

  

  

  

Profit/(loss) attributable to ordinary shareholders (£m)

939 

(2,045)

  

  

  

Weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding

  

  

  during the period (millions)

11,817 

11,639 

Effect of dilutive share options and convertible securities (millions)

80 

41 

  

  

  

Diluted weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding

  

  

  during the period (millions)

11,897 

11,680 

  

  

  

Basic earnings/(loss) per ordinary share

7.9p

(17.6p)

Restructuring costs

5.9p

4.0p

Litigation and conduct costs

3.4p

11.3p

Own credit adjustments

0.5p

(3.0p)

Loss on redemption of own debt

0.0p

1.0p

Strategic disposals

(1.3p)

(1.2p)

  

  

  

Adjusted earnings/(loss) per ordinary share

16.4p

(5.5p)

  

  

  

Basic earnings/(loss) per ordinary share

7.9p

(17.6p)

 

Note:

(1)

There is no dilutive impact in any period.

 

80 

 


 

 

Notes

 

9. Segmental analysis

The business is organised into the following franchises and reportable segments:

Personal & Business Banking (PBB), comprising two reportable segments, UK Personal & Business Banking (UK PBB) and Ulster Bank RoI;

 

 

Commercial & Private Banking (CPB), which comprises three reportable segments: Commercial Banking, Private Banking and RBS International (RBSI);

 

 

NatWest Markets (NWM), which is a single reportable segment;

 

 

Capital Resolution which consists of non-strategic markets, portfolios and banking assets;

 

 

Williams & Glyn (W&G) which is a single reportable segment; and

 

 

Central items & other which comprises corporate functions.

 

Analysis of operating profit\(loss)

The following tables provide a segmental analysis of operating profit/(loss) by main income statement captions.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net

Non-

  

  

Impairment

  

interest

interest

Total

Operating

(losses)/

Operating

income

income

income

expenses

releases

profit/(loss)

Half year ended 30 June 2017

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

UK Personal & Business Banking

2,231 

524 

2,755 

(1,586)

(72)

1,097 

Ulster Bank RoI

206 

87 

293 

(293)

11 

11 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Personal & Business Banking

2,437 

611 

3,048 

(1,879)

(61)

1,108 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Commercial Banking

1,141 

609 

1,750 

(996)

(94)

660 

Private Banking

226 

95 

321 

(232)

(7)

82 

RBS International

161 

34 

195 

(94)

(5)

96 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Commercial & Private Banking

1,528 

738 

2,266 

(1,322)

(106)

838 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

NatWest Markets

42 

890 

932 

(775)

(1)

156 

Capital Resolution

24 

(126)

(102)

(539)

78 

(563)

Williams & Glyn

333 

84 

417 

(158)

(25)

234 

Central items & other

108 

250 

358 

(179)

(1)

178 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total

4,472 

2,447 

6,919 

(4,852)

(116)

1,951 

Half year ended 30 June 2016

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

UK Personal & Business Banking

2,109 

506 

2,615 

(2,042)

(40)

533 

Ulster Bank RoI

198 

95 

293 

(312)

27 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Personal & Business Banking

2,307 

601 

2,908 

(2,354)

(13)

541 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Commercial Banking

1,067 

632 

1,699 

(984)

(103)

612 

Private Banking

226 

105 

331 

(278)

(2)

51 

RBS International

151 

34 

185 

(71)

(11)

103 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Commercial & Private Banking

1,444 

771 

2,215 

(1,333)

(116)

766 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

NatWest Markets

43 

775 

818 

(729)

89 

Capital Resolution

168 

(340)

(172)

(478)

(263)

(913)

Williams & Glyn

324 

87 

411 

(242)

(17)

152 

Central items & other

47 

(163)

(116)

(793)

(909)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total

4,333 

1,731 

6,064 

(5,929)

(409)

(274)

81 

 


 

 

 

Notes

 

9. Segmental analysis (continued) 

 

Total revenue

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Half year ended

  

30 June 2017

  

30 June 2016

  

  

Inter

  

  

  

Inter

  

  

External

segment

Total

  

External

segment

Total

  

£m

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

UK Personal & Business Banking

3,154 

17 

3,171 

  

3,114 

27 

3,141 

Ulster Bank RoI

330 

(1)

329 

  

328 

329 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Personal & Business Banking

3,484 

16 

3,500 

  

3,442 

28 

3,470 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Commercial Banking

1,767 

30 

1,797 

  

1,817 

33 

1,850 

Private Banking

273 

70 

343 

  

285 

92 

377 

RBS International

156 

62 

218 

  

151 

79 

230 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Commercial & Private Banking

2,196 

162 

2,358 

  

2,253 

204 

2,457 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

NatWest Markets

1,113 

135 

1,248 

  

961 

351 

1,312 

Capital Resolution

(21)

322 

301 

  

(51)

644 

593 

Williams & Glyn

435 

435 

  

455 

455 

Central items & other

1,150 

(635)

515 

  

755 

(1,227)

(472)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total

8,357 

8,357 

  

7,815 

7,815 

 

Total assets and liabilities

  

30 June 2017

  

31 December 2016

Assets

Liabilities

  

Assets

Liabilities

  

£m 

£m 

  

£m 

£m 

  

  

  

  

  

  

UK Personal & Business Banking

161,595 

152,645 

  

155,551 

148,811 

Ulster Bank RoI

24,854 

19,264 

  

24,111 

19,299 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Personal & Business Banking

186,449 

171,909 

  

179,662 

168,110 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Commercial Banking

151,939 

107,794 

  

150,453 

104,441 

Private Banking

19,600 

26,196 

  

18,758 

26,673 

RBS International

24,735 

25,641 

  

23,240 

25,280 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Commercial & Private Banking

196,274 

159,631 

  

192,451 

156,394 

  

  

  

  

  

  

NatWest Markets

230,939 

211,781 

  

239,963 

222,494 

Capital Resolution

102,239 

88,423 

  

132,533 

117,977 

Williams & Glyn

25,965 

24,949 

  

25,806 

24,229 

Central items & other

40,788 

75,912 

  

28,241 

60,048 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total

782,654 

732,605 

  

798,656 

749,252 

 

82 

 


 

 

Notes

 

10. Financial instruments: classification

 

The following tables analyse financial assets and liabilities in accordance with the categories of financial instruments in IAS 39. Assets and liabilities outside the scope of IAS 39 are shown within other assets and liabilities.

 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Other

  

HFT (1,2) 

DFV (3) 

AFS (4)

LAR (5) 

HTM (6)

assets

Total 

Assets

£m 

£m 

£m 

£m 

£m 

£m 

£m 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Cash and balances at central banks

86,807 

  

86,807 

Loans and advances to banks

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - reverse repos

11,444 

3,403 

  

14,847 

  - other

8,290 

12,395 

  

20,685 

Loans and advances to customers

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - reverse repos

25,183 

  

25,183 

  - other

16,300 

332 

309,427 

  

326,059 

Debt securities

34,866 

42,857 

3,898 

4,548 

  

86,169 

Equity shares

47 

112 

359 

  

518 

Settlement balances

  

12,091 

  

  

12,091 

Derivatives

193,531 

  

  

  

  

  

193,531 

Other assets

16,764 

16,764 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

30 June 2017

289,661 

444 

43,216 

428,021 

4,548 

16,764 

782,654 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Cash and balances at central banks

74,250 

  

74,250 

Loans and advances to banks

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - reverse repos

11,120 

1,740 

  

12,860 

  - other

6,780 

10,498 

  

17,278 

Loans and advances to customers

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - reverse repos

26,586 

2,341 

  

28,927 

  - other

17,504 

82 

305,437 

  

323,023 

Debt securities

24,504 

27 

39,254 

3,968 

4,769 

  

72,522 

Equity shares

166 

172 

365 

  

703 

Settlement balances

  

5,526 

  

  

5,526 

Derivatives

246,981 

  

  

  

  

  

246,981 

Other assets

16,586 

16,586 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

31 December 2016

333,641 

281 

39,619 

403,760 

4,769 

16,586 

798,656 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

For the notes to this table refer to the following page.

83 

 


 

 

Notes

 

10. Financial instruments: classification (continued) 

 

  

  

  

Amortised

Other

  

HFT (1,2)

DFV (3)

cost

liabilities

Total 

Liabilities

£m 

£m 

£m 

£m 

£m 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Deposits by banks

  

  

  

  

  

  - repos

2,841 

2,342 

  

5,183 

  - other

16,050 

22,915 

  

38,965 

Customer accounts

  

  

  

  

  

  - repos

28,772 

9,083 

  

37,855 

  - other

11,542 

1,127 

347,213 

  

359,882 

Debt securities in issue

1,354 

3,919 

26,724 

  

31,997 

Settlement balances

11,379 

  

11,379 

Short positions

29,862 

  

  

29,862 

Derivatives

184,161 

  

  

  

184,161 

Subordinated liabilities

900 

13,824 

  

14,724 

Other liabilities

1,938 

16,659 

18,597 

  

  

  

  

  

  

30 June 2017

274,582 

5,946 

435,418 

16,659 

732,605 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Deposits by banks

  

  

  

  

  

  - repos

4,125 

1,114 

  

5,239 

  - other

20,756 

12,561 

  

33,317 

Customer accounts

  

  

  

  

  

  - repos

23,186 

3,910 

  

27,096 

  - other

12,778 

1,506 

339,588 

  

353,872 

Debt securities in issue

1,614 

4,621 

21,010 

  

27,245 

Settlement balances

3,645 

  

3,645 

Short positions

22,077 

  

  

22,077 

Derivatives

236,475 

  

  

  

236,475 

Subordinated liabilities

955 

18,464 

  

19,419 

Other liabilities

2,010 

18,857 

20,867 

  

  

  

  

  

  

31 December 2016

321,011 

7,082 

402,302 

18,857 

749,252 

 

Notes:

(1)

Includes derivative assets held for hedging purposes (under IAS 39) of £3,621 million (31 December 2016 - £4,789 million) and derivative liabilities held for hedging purposes (under IAS 39) of £3,621 million (31 December 2016 - £4,057 million).

(2)

Held-for-trading.

(3)

Designated as at fair value.

(4)

Available-for-sale.

(5)

Loans and receivables.

(6)

Held-to-maturity.

 

There were no other reclassifications in either the half year ended 30 June 2017 or the year ended 31 December 2016.

84 

 


 

 

 

Notes

 

10. Financial instruments: valuation

 

Own credit

The own credit adjustments (OCA) recorded on held-for-trading (HFT) and designated at fair value through profit or loss (DFV) debt securities in issue, subordinated liabilities and derivative liabilities are set out below. The cumulative adjustments below represent reductions/(increases) to the balance sheet liability amounts.

Own credit adjustment (1) 

Debt securities

Subordinated 

  

  

in issue (2) 

liabilities 

  

  

HFT 

DFV 

DFV 

Derivatives 

Total (3)

£m 

£m 

£m 

£m 

£m 

  

  

  

  

  

  

30 June 2017

(50)

(22)

150 

87 

31 December 2016

(34)

(6)

196 

81 

237 

30 June 2016

82 

283 

135 

501 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Carrying values of underlying liabilities

£bn 

£bn 

£bn 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

30 June 2017

1.4 

3.9 

0.9 

  

  

31 December 2016

1.6 

4.6 

1.0 

  

  

30 June 2016

3.4 

5.4 

0.9 

  

  

 

Notes:

(1)

The OCA does not alter cash flows and is not used for performance management.

(2)

Includes wholesale and retail note issuances.

(3)

The reserve movement between periods will not equate to the reported profit or loss or other comprehensive income related to own credit. RBS has early adopted the provisions within IFRS 9 Financial Instruments in respect of the presentation of gains and losses on financial liabilities designated at fair value through profit and loss from 1 January 2017. For further information refer to Note 1. The balance sheet reserve is stated by converting underlying currency balances at spot rates for each period, whereas the income statement includes intra-period foreign exchange sell-offs.

(4)

The cumulative adjustment for debt securities in issue is opposite to that for subordinated liabilities: debt securities in issue were issued relatively recently at wider than current spreads, whilst many of the subordinated liabilities were issued before the financial crisis at significantly tighter spreads.

 

 

Key points

·

The cumulative OCA decrease during H1 2017 was mainly due to the tightening of RBS issuance spreads. The OCA on senior debt is determined by reference to secondary debt issuance spreads; the 5 year spreads tightened by 32 basis points to 30 basis points at 30 June 2017 (31 December 2016 – 62 basis points).

 

 

·

RBS 5 year subordinated debt spreads tightened by 68 basis points to 213 basis points at 30 June 2017 (31 December 2016 – 281 basis points).

·

RBS 5 year CDS credit spreads tightened by 44 basis points to 81 basis points at 30 June 2017 (31 December 2016 – 125 basis points) resulting in lower own credit reserve on derivatives.

 

85 

 


 

 

Notes

 

10. Financial instruments: carried at fair value - valuation hierarchy

Disclosures relating to the control environment, valuation techniques and related aspects pertaining to financial instruments measured at fair value are included in the 2016 Annual Report and Accounts. Valuation, sensitivity methodologies and inputs are consistent with those described in the 2016 Annual Report on Form 20-F. Note 9 – Financial instruments valuation.

 

The tables below show financial instruments carried at fair value on the balance sheet by valuation hierarchy - level 1, level 2 and level 3 and valuation sensitivities for level 3 balances.

  

  

  

  

  

  

Level 3 sensitivity

  

Level 1 

Level 2 

Level 3 

Total 

  

Favourable 

Unfavourable 

30 June 2017

£bn 

£bn 

£bn 

£bn 

  

£m 

£m 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Assets

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Loans and advances

61.1 

0.4 

61.5 

  

20 

Debt securities

63.4 

13.4 

0.9 

77.7 

  

30 

(20)

  - of which AFS

36.1 

6.6 

0.2 

42.9 

  

10 

(10)

Equity shares

0.1 

0.4 

0.5 

  

40 

(40)

  - of which AFS

0.1 

0.3 

0.4 

  

30 

(30)

Derivatives

191.4 

2.2 

193.6 

  

210 

(220)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

63.4 

266.0 

3.9 

333.3 

  

300 

(280)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Proportion

19.0%

79.8%

1.2%

100%

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

31 December 2016

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Assets

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Loans and advances

61.5 

0.6 

62.1 

  

50 

(50)

Debt securities

53.8 

9.2 

0.8 

63.8 

  

70 

(20)

  - of which AFS

35.1 

4.0 

0.1 

39.2 

  

20 

(10)

Equity shares

0.1 

0.2 

0.4 

0.7 

  

40 

(50)

  - of which AFS

0.1 

0.3 

0.4 

  

30 

(40)

Derivatives

244.2 

2.7 

246.9 

  

200 

(200)

  

53.9 

315.1 

4.5 

373.5 

  

360 

(320)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Proportion

14.4%

84.4%

1.2%

100%

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

For the notes to this table refer to the following page.

  

  

  

  

  

  

86 

 


 

 

Notes

 

10. Financial instruments carried at fair value - valuation hierarchy (continued) 

 

30 June 2017

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Liabilities

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Deposits

60.2 

60.2 

  

10 

(10)

Debt securities in issue

4.8 

0.5 

5.3 

  

30 

(30)

Short positions

26.4 

3.5 

29.9 

  

Derivatives

182.2 

2.0 

184.2 

  

130 

(130)

Subordinated liabilities

0.9 

0.9 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

26.4 

251.6 

2.5 

280.5 

  

170 

(170)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Proportion

9.4%

89.7%

0.9%

100%

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

31 December 2016

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Liabilities

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Deposits

62.0 

0.4 

62.4 

  

10 

(20)

Debt securities in issue

5.6 

0.6 

6.2 

  

40 

(40)

Short positions

19.7 

2.4 

22.1 

  

Derivatives

234.4 

2.0 

236.4 

  

120 

(120)

Subordinated liabilities

1.0 

1.0 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

19.7 

305.4 

3.0 

328.1 

  

170 

(180)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Proportion

6.0%

93.1%

0.9%

100%

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

 

Notes:

(1)

Level 1: valued using unadjusted quoted prices in active markets, for identical financial instruments. Examples include G10 government securities, listed equity shares, certain exchange-traded derivatives and certain US agency securities.

Level 2: valued using techniques based significantly on observable market data. Instruments in this category are valued using:

(a) quoted prices for similar instruments or identical instruments in markets which are not considered to be active; or

(b) valuation techniques where all the inputs that have a significant effect on the valuations are directly or indirectly based on observable market data.

Level 2 instruments included non-G10 government securities, most government agency securities, investment-grade corporate bonds, certain mortgage products, most bank loans, repos and reverse repos, less liquid listed equities, state and municipal obligations, most notes issued, and certain money market securities and loan commitments and most OTC derivatives.

Level 3 instruments in this category have been valued using a valuation technique where at least one input which could have a significant effect on the instrument’s valuation, is not based on observable market data. Level 3  instruments primarily include cash instruments which trade infrequently, certain syndicated mortgage loans, certain emerging markets instruments, unlisted equity shares, certain residual interests in securitisations, asset-backed products and less liquid debt securities, certain structured debt securities in issue, and OTC derivatives where valuation depends upon unobservable inputs such as certain credit and exotic derivatives. No gain or loss is recognised on the initial recognition of a financial instrument valued using a technique incorporating significant unobservable data.

(2)

Transfers between levels are deemed to have occurred at the beginning of the quarter in which the instruments were transferred. There were no significant transfers between level 1 and level 2.

(3)

For an analyses of debt securities and derivatives refer to Appendix 1 - Capital and risk management - Credit risk.

 

 

87 

 


 

 

Notes

 

10. Financial instruments carried at fair value - valuation hierarchy (continued) 

 

Movement in level 3 portfolios

 

  

Half year ended 2017

  

Half year ended 2016

  

FVTPL

AFS

Total

Total

  

FVTPL

AFS

Total

Total

  

assets (2)

assets

assets

liabilities

  

assets (2) 

assets

assets

liabilities

  

£m

£m

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

£m

At 1 January

4,111 

426 

4,537 

2,997 

  

3,152 

765 

3,917 

2,716 

Amount recorded in the income statement (1) 

(410)

(409)

(204)

  

332 

333 

634 

Amount recorded in the statement of

  

  comprehensive income

(15)

(15)

  

47 

47 

Level 3 transfers in

255 

266 

521 

292 

  

705 

27 

732 

592 

Level 3 transfers out

(404)

(404)

(418)

  

(369)

(28)

(397)

(422)

Issuances

  

22 

Purchases

810 

811 

269 

  

493 

11 

504 

406 

Settlements

(96)

(96)

(117)

  

(393)

(393)

(362)

Sales

(876)

(156)

(1,032)

(323)

  

(344)

(204)

(548)

(16)

Foreign exchange and other adjustments

(17)

(1)

(18)

  

12 

19 

43 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

At 30 June

3,373 

522 

3,895 

2,505 

  

3,591 

626 

4,217 

3,613 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Amounts recorded in the income statement in

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  respect of balances held at year end

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - unrealised

(96)

(96)

629 

  

267 

269 

364 

  - realised

148 

148 

(262)

  

193 

(188)

(85)

 

Notes:

(1)

Net losses on HFT instruments of £197 million (H1 2016 - £285 million losses) were recorded in income from trading activities in continuing operations. Net losses on other instruments of £8 million (H1 2016 - £16 million losses) were recorded in other operating income and interest income as appropriate in continuing operations.

(2)

Fair value through profit or loss comprises held-for-trading predominantly and designated at fair value through profit and loss.     

 

88 

 


 

 

Notes

 

10. Financial instruments: Fair value of financial instruments not carried at fair value

The following table shows the carrying value and fair value of financial instruments carried at amortised cost on the balance sheet.

 

  

30 June 2017

  

31 December 2016

  

Carrying 

  

  

Carrying 

  

  

value 

Fair value 

  

value 

Fair value 

  

£bn 

£bn 

  

£bn 

£bn 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Financial assets

  

  

  

  

  

Loans and advances to banks

14.7 

14.7 

  

11.4 

11.5 

Loans and advances to customers

309.4 

306.3 

  

307.8 

306.0 

Debt securities

8.4 

8.6 

  

8.7 

8.8 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Financial liabilities

  

  

  

  

  

Deposits by banks

20.5 

20.2 

  

9.4 

9.5 

Customer accounts

47.3 

47.3 

  

35.1 

35.2 

Debt securities in issue

26.7 

28.0 

  

21.0 

21.6 

Subordinated liabilities

13.8 

14.5 

  

18.5 

18.5 

 

The fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Quoted market values are used where available; otherwise, fair values have been estimated based on discounted expected future cash flows and other valuation techniques. These techniques involve uncertainties and require assumptions and judgments covering prepayments, credit risk and discount rates. Furthermore, there is a wide range of potential valuation techniques. Changes in these assumptions would affect estimated fair values. The fair values reported would not necessarily be realised in an immediate sale or settlement.

 

The table above excludes short-term financial instruments for which fair value approximates to carrying value: cash and balances at central banks, items in the course of collection from and transmission to other banks, settlement balances, demand deposits and notes in circulation. These are excluded from the table above.

89 

 


 

 

Notes

 

11. Contingent liabilities and commitments

 

  

  

30 June

31 December

  

2017 

2016 

  

£m

£m

  

  

  

Guarantees and assets pledged as collateral security

7,490 

7,867 

Other contingent liabilities

3,398 

4,179 

Standby facilities, credit lines and other commitments

132,605 

138,645 

  

  

  

Contingent liabilities and commitments

143,493 

150,691 

 

Contingent liabilities arise in the normal course of RBS’s business; credit exposure is subject to the bank’s normal controls. The amounts shown do not, and are not intended to, provide any indication of RBS’s expectation of future losses.

 

12. Litigation, investigations and reviews

The Royal Bank of Scotland Group plc (the “company” or RBSG) and certain members of the Group are party to legal proceedings and the subject of investigation and other regulatory and governmental action (“Matters”) in the United Kingdom (UK), the United States (US), the European Union (EU) and other jurisdictions.

 

RBS recognises a provision for a liability in relation to these Matters when it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle an obligation resulting from past events, and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation. While the outcome of these Matters is inherently uncertain, the directors believe that, based on the information available to them, appropriate provisions have been made in respect of the Matters as at 30 June 2017 (refer to Note 3).

 

In many proceedings and investigations, it is not possible to determine whether any loss is probable or to estimate reliably the amount of any loss, either as a direct consequence of the relevant proceedings and investigations or as a result of adverse impacts or restrictions on RBS’s reputation, businesses and operations. Numerous legal and factual issues may need to be resolved, including through potentially lengthy discovery and document production exercises and determination of important factual matters, and by addressing novel or unsettled legal questions relevant to the proceedings in question, before a liability can reasonably be estimated for any claim. RBS cannot predict if, how, or when such claims will be resolved or what the eventual settlement, damages, fine, penalty or other relief, if any, may be, particularly for claims that are at an early stage in their development or where claimants seek substantial or indeterminate damages.

 

In respect of certain matters described below, we have established a provision and in certain of those matters, we have indicated that we have established a provision. RBS generally does not disclose information about the establishment or existence of a provision for a particular matter where disclosure of the information can be expected to prejudice seriously RBS’s position in the matter.

 

There are situations where RBS may pursue an approach that in some instances leads to a settlement agreement. This may occur in order to avoid the expense, management distraction or reputational implications of continuing to contest liability, or in order to take account of the risks inherent in defending claims or investigations even for those matters for which RBS believes it has credible defences and should prevail on the merits. The uncertainties inherent in all such matters affect the amount and timing of any potential outflows for both matters with respect to which provisions have been established and other contingent liabilities.

 

The future outflow of resources in respect of any matter may ultimately prove to be substantially greater than or less than the aggregate provision that RBS has recognised. Where (and as far as) liability cannot be reasonably estimated, no provision has been recognised.

90 

 


 

 

Notes

 

12. Litigation, investigations and reviews (continued) 

Other than those discussed below, no member of the Group is or has been involved in governmental, legal or regulatory proceedings (including those which are pending or threatened) that are expected to be material, individually or in aggregate. RBS expects that in future periods additional provisions, settlement amounts, and customer redress payments will be necessary, in amounts that are expected to be substantial in some instances.  

 

For a discussion of certain risks associated with the Group’s litigation, investigations and reviews, see the Risk Factor relating to legal, regulatory and governmental actions and investigations set out in RBS’s 2016 Annual Report on Form 20-F on page 509.

  

Litigation

UK 2008 rights issue shareholder litigation

Between March and July 2013, claims were issued in the High Court of Justice of England and Wales by sets of current and former shareholders, against RBSG (and in one of those claims, also against certain former individual officers and directors) alleging that untrue and misleading statements and/or improper omissions, in breach of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, were made in connection with the rights issue announced by RBS on 22 April 2008. In July 2013 these and other similar threatened claims were consolidated by the Court via a Group Litigation Order. RBS’s defence to the claims was filed on 13 December 2013. Since then, further High Court claims have been issued against RBS under the Group Litigation Order. Prior to the partial settlement described below, the aggregate value of the shares subscribed for at 200 pence per share by all of the then claimant shareholders was approximately £4 billion.

 

In December 2016 RBS concluded full and final settlements with four of the five shareholder groups representing 78 per cent of the claims by value. Further full and final settlements, without any admission of liability, have since been reached and RBS has now concluded the action with over 98 per cent of the claimants.

 

The aggregate settlement figure available is £900 million and is subject to validation of claims. RBS has increased its total provision to £900 million in relation to this matter.

 

The Court directed that any claimant choosing not to enter the settlement should, by 28 July 2017, issue an application to restore the proceedings. In the event that any claimant is subsequently permitted to continue with the proceedings, they would be defended by RBS on the grounds previously set out. RBS is not aware of any such application having been made.

 

Residential mortgage-backed securities (RMBS) litigation in the US

RBS companies have been named as defendants in their various roles as issuer, depositor and/or underwriter in a number of claims in the US that relate to the securitisation and securities underwriting businesses. These cases include actions by individual purchasers of securities and a purported class action suit.

 

In general, plaintiffs in these actions claim that certain disclosures made in connection with the relevant offerings of RMBS contained materially false or misleading statements and/or omissions regarding the underwriting standards pursuant to which the mortgage loans underlying the securities were issued.

 

In September 2011, the US Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) as conservator for the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac), filed a lawsuit against RBS in the United States District Court for the District of Connecticut, relating to approximately US$32 billion of RMBS for which RBS entities acted as sponsor/depositor and/or lead underwriter or co-lead underwriter. On 12 July 2017, RBS announced the settlement of this matter. Pursuant to the settlement agreement, RBS has paid FHFA US$5.5 billion, and FHFA has withdrawn its claims relating to the securities at issue in the case. Of that settlement amount, US$754 million has been reimbursed to RBS under indemnification agreements with third parties. The net cost to RBS of the settlement was largely covered by existing provisions. An incremental charge of US$196 million (£151 million) was recorded in relation to this matter.

91 

 


 

 

Notes

 

12. Litigation, investigations and reviews (continued) 

RBS Securities Inc. remains a defendant in a separate, unresolved FHFA lawsuit relating to RMBS issued by Nomura Holding America Inc. (Nomura) and subsidiaries, which is the subject of an appeal. On 11 May 2015, following a trial, the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York issued a written decision in favour of FHFA on its claims against Nomura and RBS Securities Inc., finding, as relevant to RBS, that the offering documents for four Nomura-issued RMBS for which RBS Securities Inc. served as an underwriter, relating to US$1.4 billion in original principal balance, contained materially misleading statements about the mortgage loans that backed the securitisations, in violation of the Securities Act and Virginia securities law.

 

RBS Securities Inc. estimates that its net exposure under the Court’s judgment is approximately US$383 million, which consists of the difference between the amount of the judgment against RBS Securities Inc. (US$636 million) and the estimated market value of the four RMBS that FHFA would return to RBS Securities Inc. pursuant to the judgment, plus the costs and attorney’s fees that will be due to FHFA if the judgment is upheld. The estimated net exposure in this matter is covered by an existing provision.

 

The Court has stayed the judgment pending the result of the appeal that the defendants are taking to the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, though post-judgment interest on the judgment amount will accrue while the appeal is pending. RBS Securities Inc. intends to pursue a contractual claim for indemnification against Nomura with respect to any losses it suffers as a result of this matter.

 

RBS companies are also defendants in a purported RMBS class action entitled New Jersey Carpenters Health Fund v. Novastar Mortgage Inc. et al., which remains pending in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York. RBS has settled this matter for US$55.3 million, which has been paid into escrow pending court approval of the settlement. 

 

In addition to the above, the remaining RMBS lawsuits against RBS companies consist of cases filed by the Federal Home Loan Banks of Boston and Seattle and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation that together involve the issuance of less than US$1 billion of RMBS issued primarily from 2005 to 2007.

 

As at 30 June 2017, the total aggregate of provisions in relation to certain of the RMBS litigation matters (described immediately above) and RMBS and other securitised products investigations (set out under “Investigations and reviews” on page 98) was £6.6 billion ($8.5 billion), of which £3.7 billion ($4.75 billion) related to the FHFA case that has now been resolved. The duration and outcome of these investigations and litigation matters remain uncertain, including in respect of whether settlements for all or any of such matters may be reached. 

 

Further substantial provisions and costs may be recognised and, depending on the final outcome, other adverse consequences may occur.

 

With respect to certain of the RMBS claims described above, RBS has or will have contractual claims to indemnification from the issuers of the securities (where an RBS company is underwriter) and/or the underlying mortgage originator (where an RBS company is issuer). The amount and extent of any recovery on an indemnification claim, however, is uncertain and subject to a number of factors, including the ongoing creditworthiness of the indemnifying party, a number of whom are or may be insolvent.

 

London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR)

Certain members of the Group have been named as defendants in a number of class actions and individual claims filed in the US with respect to the setting of LIBOR and certain other benchmark interest rates. The complaints are substantially similar and allege that certain members of the Group and other panel banks individually and collectively violated various federal laws, including the US commodities and antitrust laws, and state statutory and common law, as well as contracts, by manipulating LIBOR and prices of LIBOR-based derivatives in various markets through various means.

92 

 


 

 

Notes

 

12. Litigation, investigations and reviews (continued) 

Most of the USD LIBOR-related actions in which RBS companies are defendants, including all purported class actions relating to USD LIBOR, were transferred to a coordinated proceeding in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.

 

In the coordinated proceeding, consolidated class action complaints were filed on behalf of (1) exchange-based purchaser plaintiffs, (2) over-the-counter purchaser plaintiffs, and (3) corporate debt purchaser plaintiffs. Over 35 other USD LIBOR-related actions naming RBS as a defendant, including purported class actions on behalf of lenders and mortgage borrowers, were also made part of the coordinated proceeding. 

 

In a series of orders issued in 2013 and 2014, the district court overseeing the coordinated USD proceeding dismissed class plaintiffs' antitrust claims and claims under RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act), but declined to dismiss (a) certain Commodity Exchange Act claims on behalf of persons who transacted in Eurodollar futures contracts and options on futures contracts on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (on the theory that defendants' alleged persistent suppression of USD LIBOR caused loss to plaintiffs), and (b) certain contract and unjust enrichment claims on behalf of over-the-counter purchaser plaintiffs who transacted directly with a defendant.  On 23 May 2016, the district court’s dismissal of plaintiffs’ antitrust claims was vacated by the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, which held that plaintiffs have adequately pled antitrust injury and an antitrust conspiracy, but remanded to the lower court for further consideration on the question of whether plaintiffs possess the requisite antitrust standing to proceed with antitrust claims.

 

In a decision issued on 20 December 2016, the district court held that it lacks personal jurisdiction over RBS with respect to certain claims asserted in the coordinated proceeding. Following that decision, RBS is dismissed from each of the USD LIBOR-related class actions in the coordinated proceeding, subject to appeal, although certain non-class cases on behalf of particular plaintiffs remain pending.

 

On 10 March 2017, the US Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), on behalf of 39 failed US banks, issued a claim in the High Court of Justice of England and Wales against RBS, other LIBOR panel banks and the British Bankers’ Association, alleging collusion with respect to the setting of USD LIBOR. The action alleges that the defendants breached English and European competition law as well as asserting common law claims of fraud under US law.  The FDIC previously asserted many of the same US law USD LIBOR-related claims against RBS and others in a lawsuit pending in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, though most of the claims in that case have been dismissed as a result of a series of rulings by that court. 

 

Certain members of the Group have also been named as defendants in two class actions relating to JPY LIBOR and Euroyen TIBOR, both pending before the same judge in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York. In the first case, relating to Euroyen TIBOR futures contracts, the court dismissed plaintiffs’ antitrust claims on 28 March 2014, but declined to dismiss their claims under the Commodity Exchange Act for price manipulation, which are proceeding in the discovery phase. In the second case, relating to other derivatives allegedly tied to JPY LIBOR and Euroyen TIBOR, the court dismissed the case on 10 March 2017 on the ground that the plaintiffs lack standing. Plaintiffs have commenced an appeal of that decision.

 

Certain members of the Group have also been named as defendants in class actions relating to (i) Euribor, (ii) Swiss Franc LIBOR (iii) Pound sterling LIBOR, (iv) the Singapore Interbank Offered Rate and Singapore Swap Offer Rate, and (v) the Australian Bank Bill Swap Reference Rate, all of which are pending before other judges in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.  On 21 February 2017, the court in the action relating to Euribor dismissed all claims alleged against RBS for lack of personal jurisdiction. The other matters described in this paragraph are subject to motions to dismiss that are currently pending.

 

Details of LIBOR investigations involving RBS are set out under ‘‘Investigations and reviews’’ on page 99.

 

93 

 


 

 

Notes

 

12. Litigation, investigations and reviews (continued) 

ISDAFIX antitrust litigation

Beginning in September 2014, The Royal Bank of Scotland plc (RBS plc) and a number of other financial institutions were named as defendants in several purported class action complaints (subsequently consolidated into one complaint) in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York alleging manipulation of USD ISDAFIX rates In 2015, RBS plc reached an agreement to settle this matter for US$50 million, and that settlement received preliminary approval from the Court on 11 May 2016. The settlement amount has been paid into escrow pending the final court approval of the settlement.

 

FX antitrust litigation

In 2015, Group companies settled a consolidated antitrust class action (the “consolidated action”), pending in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, asserting claims on behalf of persons who entered into (a) over-the-counter foreign exchange (FX) spot transactions, forwards, swaps, futures, options or other FX transactions the trading or settlement of which is related in any way to FX rates, or (b) exchange-traded FX instruments. Following the Court’s preliminary approval of the settlement on 15 December 2015, RBS paid the total settlement amount (US$255 million) into escrow pending final court approval of the settlement.

 

On 24 March 2017, the court dismissed a second FX-related antitrust class action, holding that the alleged class of “consumers and end-user businesses” lacked standing to pursue antitrust claims. The plaintiffs in that case have since filed an amended complaint, which is subject to a renewed motion to dismiss.  

 

A third FX-related class action, asserting Employee Retirement Income Security Act claims on behalf of employee benefit plans that engaged in FX transactions, including claims based on alleged non-collusive FX-related conduct, was dismissed on 20 September 2016 on the ground that the plaintiffs failed to plead that the defendants had ERISA-based fiduciary duties to the plaintiffs. The plaintiffs’ appeal of this dismissal remains pending.

 

Beginning in September 2016, several class action complaints were filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York asserting claims on behalf of “indirect purchasers” of FX instruments.  The plaintiffs define “indirect purchasers” as persons who were indirectly affected by FX instruments that others entered into directly with defendant banks or on exchanges.  It is alleged that certain RBS companies and other defendant banks caused damages to the “indirect purchasers” by conspiring to restrain trade in the FX spot market.  The plaintiffs have asserted claims under federal and state antitrust laws. RBS and the other defendants anticipate making a motion to dismiss the claims asserted in these actions after the plaintiffs file a single, consolidated complaint.  

 

On 12 July 2017, a class action complaint was filed against RBS companies in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.  The complaint alleges that RBS breached contracts with counterparties by rejecting FX orders placed over electronic trading platforms through the application of a function referred to as “Last Look”, and that the rejected orders were later filled at prices less favourable to putative class members.  The complaint contains claims for breach of contract and unjust enrichment.

 

In September 2015, certain members of the Group, as well as a number of other financial institutions, were named as defendants in two purported class actions filed in Ontario and Quebec on behalf of persons in Canada who entered into foreign exchange transactions or who invested in funds that entered into foreign exchange transactions. The plaintiffs allege that the defendants violated the Canadian Competition Act by conspiring to manipulate the prices of currency trades. RBS has settled these matters for approximately CAD 13 million. The settlement amount has been paid into escrow pending court approval of the settlement.

 

Certain other foreign exchange transaction related claims have been or may be threatened against RBS in other jurisdictions. RBS cannot predict whether any of these claims will be pursued, but expects that several may.

 

94 

 


 

 

Notes

 

12. Litigation, investigations and reviews (continued) 

US Treasury securities antitrust litigation

Beginning in July 2015, numerous class action antitrust complaints were filed in US federal courts against a number of primary dealers of US Treasury securities, including RBS Securities Inc.  The complaints allege that the defendants rigged the US Treasury securities auction bidding process to deflate prices at which they bought such securities and colluded to increase the prices at which they sold such securities to plaintiffs.  The complaints assert claims under the US antitrust laws and the Commodity Exchange Act on behalf of persons who transacted in US Treasury securities or derivatives based on such instruments, including futures and options. On 8 December 2015, all pending matters were transferred to the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York for coordinated or consolidated pre-trial proceedings. RBS anticipates making a motion to dismiss these claims.

 

Swaps antitrust litigation

Beginning in November 2015, RBS plc and other members of the Group, as well as a number of other interest rate swap dealers, were named as defendants in a number of class action antitrust complaints filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York and the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. The complaints, filed on behalf of persons who entered into interest rate swaps with the defendants, allege that the defendants violated the US antitrust laws by restraining competition in the market for interest rate swaps through various means and thereby caused inflated bid-ask spreads for interest rate swaps, to the alleged detriment of the plaintiff class.  

 

In addition, two complaints containing similar allegations of collusion were filed in United States District Court for the Southern District of New York on behalf of TeraExchange and Javelin, who allege that they would have successfully established exchange-like trading of interest rate swaps if the defendant dealers had not unlawfully conspired to prevent that from happening through boycotts and other means, in violation of the U.S. antitrust laws. On 2 June 2016, all of these matters were transferred to the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York for coordinated or consolidated pretrial proceedings. 

 

On 28 July 2017, the Court overseeing the above matters dismissed all claims against RBS companies relating to the 2008 - 2012 time period, but declined to dismiss certain antitrust and unjust enrichment claims covering the 2013 - 2016 time period, which will now proceed to the discovery phase.

 

On 8 June 2017, TeraExchange filed another complaint against RBS and others in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, this time relating to credit default swaps instead of interest rate swaps.  TeraExchange alleges it would have established exchange-like trading of credit default swap if the defendant dealers had not engaged in an unlawful antitrust conspiracy.  RBS anticipates making a motion to dismiss the complaint in this matter.

 

Madoff

In December 2010, Irving Picard, as trustee for the bankruptcy estates of Bernard L. Madoff and Bernard L. Madoff Investment Securities LLC., filed a clawback claim against The Royal Bank of Scotland N.V. (RBS N.V.) in the New York bankruptcy court. In the operative complaint, filed in August 2012, the trustee seeks to recover US$75.8 million in redemptions that RBS N.V. allegedly received from certain Madoff feeder funds and US$162.1 million that RBS N.V. allegedly received from its swap counterparties at a time when RBS N.V. allegedly ‘knew or should have known of Madoff’s possible fraud’. The Trustee alleges that those transfers were preferences or fraudulent conveyances under the US bankruptcy code and New York law and he asserts the purported right to claw them back for the benefit of Madoff’s estate. RBS N.V. made a motion to dismiss in this case on the ground that many of the transfers at issue were extraterritorial to the United States and therefore not subject to the fraudulent conveyance statute upon which the trustee’s claim is based, but the bankruptcy court denied that motion on 22 November 2016. RBS N.V. is seeking to appeal that decision. A further claim by the trustee against RBS N.V., for clawback of an additional US$21.8 million, was filed in October 2011. With respect to that claim, the bankruptcy court granted RBS N.V.’s motion to dismiss on extraterritorial grounds, and the trustee has commenced an appeal of that decision.

 

Thornburg adversary proceeding

RBS Securities Inc. and certain other RBS  companies, as well as several other financial institutions, are defendants in an adversary proceeding filed in the US bankruptcy court in Maryland by the trustee for TMST, Inc. (formerly known as Thornburg Mortgage, Inc.). The trustee seeks recovery of transfers made under certain restructuring agreements as, among other things, avoidable fraudulent and preferential conveyances and transfers. On 25 September 2014, the Court largely denied the defendants' motion to dismiss this matter and, as a result, discovery is ongoing.

95 

 


 

 

Notes

 

12. Litigation, investigations and reviews (continued) 

CPDO litigation

Claims were served on RBS N.V. in England, the Netherlands and Australia, relating to the sale of a type of structured financial product known as a constant proportion debt obligation (CPDO). The claims in England and the Netherlands have been settled and in April 2017, the court approved settlement of the remaining claim in Australia.

 

Interest rate hedging products litigation

RBS is dealing with a large number of active litigation claims in relation to the sale of interest rate hedging products (IRHPs). In general claimants allege that the relevant interest rate hedging products were mis-sold to them, with some also alleging RBS made misrepresentations in relation to LIBOR. Claims have been brought by customers who were considered under the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) redress programme, as well as customers who were outside of the scope of that programme, which was closed to new entrants on 31 March 2015. RBS encouraged those customers that were eligible to seek redress under the FCA redress programme to participate in that programme. RBS remains exposed to potential claims from customers who were either ineligible to be considered for redress or who are dissatisfied with their redress offers.

 

Property Alliance Group (PAG) v The Royal Bank of Scotland plc was the leading case before the English High Court involving both IRHP mis-selling and LIBOR misconduct allegations. The amount claimed was approximately £33 million and the trial ended in October 2016. On 21 December 2016 the Court dismissed all of PAG’s claims. PAG has been granted leave to appeal that decision by the Court of Appeal. The decision (subject to the appeal by PAG) may have significance to other similar LIBOR-related cases currently pending in the English courts, some of which involve substantial amounts. The case of Wall v RBS plc, which concerns certain similar allegations to those in PAG, is currently scheduled to go to trial in October 2017. The sum claimed is between £114 million and £669 million.

 

In addition to claims alleging that IRHPs were mis-sold, RBS has received a number of claims involving allegations that it breached a legal duty of care in its conduct of the FCA redress programme. These claims have been brought by customers who are dissatisfied with redress offers made to them through the FCA redress programme. The claims followed a preliminary decision against another UK bank. RBS has since been successful in opposing an application by a customer to amend its pleadings to include similar claims against RBS, on the basis that the bank does not owe a legal duty of care to customers in carrying out the FCA review. An appeal of that decision was dismissed in July 2017.  

 

Tax dispute

HMRC issued a tax assessment in 2012 against RBS for approximately £86 million regarding a value-added-tax (“VAT”) matter in relation to the trading of European Union Allowances (“EUAs”) by an RBS joint venture subsidiary in 2009. RBS has commenced legal proceedings before the First-tier Tribunal (Tax), a specialist tax tribunal, challenging the assessment (the “Tax Dispute”). In the event that the assessment is upheld, interest and costs would be payable, and a penalty of up to 100 per cent of the VAT held to have been legitimately denied by HMRC could also be levied. Separately, RBS is a named defendant in proceedings before the High Court brought in 2015 by ten companies (all in liquidation) (the “Liquidated Companies”) and their respective liquidators (together, “the Claimants”). The Liquidated Companies previously traded in EUAs in 2009 and are alleged to be defaulting traders within (or otherwise connected to) the EUA supply chains forming the subject of the Tax Dispute. The Claimants are claiming approximately £80 million plus interest and costs by alleging that RBS dishonestly assisted the directors of the Liquidated Companies in the breach of their statutory duties and/or knowingly participated in the carrying on of the business of the Liquidated Companies with intent to defraud creditors. The trial in that matter is currently scheduled to start in June 2018.

 

96 

 


 

 

Notes

 

12. Litigation, investigations and reviews (continued) 

Weiss v. National Westminster Bank Plc (NatWest)

NatWest is defending a lawsuit filed by a number of US nationals (or their estates, survivors, or heirs) who were victims of terrorist attacks in Israel. The plaintiffs allege that NatWest is liable for damages arising from those attacks pursuant to the US Anti-terrorism Act because NatWest previously maintained bank accounts and transferred funds for the Palestine Relief & Development Fund, an organisation which plaintiffs allege solicited funds for Hamas, the alleged perpetrator of the attacks. On 28 March 2013, the trial court (the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York) granted summary judgment in favour of NatWest on the issue of scienter, but on 22 September 2014, that summary judgment ruling was vacated by the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. The appeals court returned the case to the trial court for consideration of NatWest's other asserted grounds for summary judgment and, if necessary, for trial. On 31 March 2016, the trial court denied a motion by NatWest to dismiss the case in which NatWest had argued that the court lacked personal jurisdiction over NatWest. NatWest has since asserted other grounds for summary judgment that the trial court has not previously ruled upon.

 

Anti-Terrorism Act litigation against RBS N.V.

RBS N.V. and certain other financial institutions (HSBC, Barclays, Standard Chartered, Credit Suisse, Bank Saderat, and Commerzbank) are defendants in an action first commenced in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York in November 2014 by a number of US nationals (or their estates, survivors, or heirs), most of whom are or were US military personnel, who were killed or injured in more than 90 attacks in Iraq between 2004 and 2011.

 

The attacks were allegedly perpetrated by Hezbollah and certain Iraqi terror cells allegedly funded by the Islamic Republic of Iran. According to the plaintiffs’ allegations, RBS N.V. and the other defendants are liable for damages arising from the attacks because they allegedly conspired with Iran and certain Iranian banks to assist Iran in transferring money to Hezbollah and the Iraqi terror cells, in violation of the US Anti- terrorism Act, by agreeing to engage in "stripping" of transactions initiated by the Iranian banks so that the Iranian nexus to the transactions would not be detected. Since commencing this matter, the plaintiffs have amended the complaint twice. The second amended complaint is subject to a motion to dismiss that defendants filed on 14 September 2016.

 

On 2 November 2016, additional plaintiffs commenced a different action in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Illinois against the same defendants (including RBS N.V.), as well as Deutsche Bank. The allegations are substantially similar to the allegations contained in the complaint described above. The plaintiffs are a number of US military personnel (or their estates, survivors, or heirs) who were killed or injured in 21 attacks in Iraq between 2006 and 2011. In April 2017, this case was transferred to the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York, where it has been stayed pending further order of the court.

 

Investigations and reviews

RBS’s businesses and financial condition can be affected by the actions of various governmental and regulatory authorities in the UK, the US, the EU and elsewhere. RBS has engaged, and will continue to engage, in discussions with relevant governmental and regulatory authorities, including in the UK, the US, the EU and elsewhere, on an ongoing and regular basis, and in response to informal and formal inquiries or investigations, regarding operational, systems and control evaluations and issues including those related to compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including consumer protection, business conduct, competition/anti-trust, anti-bribery, anti-money laundering and sanctions regimes.

 

The NatWest Markets (formerly CIB) segment in particular has been providing information regarding a variety of matters, including, for example, the setting of benchmark rates and related derivatives trading, conduct in the foreign exchange market, and various issues relating to the issuance, underwriting, and sales and trading of fixed-income securities, including structured products and government securities.

 

Any matters discussed or identified during such discussions and inquiries may result in, among other things, further inquiry or investigation, other action being taken by governmental and regulatory authorities, increased costs being incurred by RBS, remediation of systems and controls, public or private censure, restriction of RBS’s business activities and/or fines. Any of the events or circumstances mentioned in this paragraph or below could have a material adverse effect on RBS, its business, authorisations and licences, reputation, results of operations or the price of securities issued by it.

97 

 


 

 

Notes

 

12. Litigation, investigations and reviews (continued) 

RBS is co-operating fully with the investigations and reviews described below.

 

RMBS and other securitised products investigations

In the US, RBS is involved in reviews, investigations and proceedings (both formal and informal) by federal and state governmental law enforcement and other agencies and self-regulatory organisations, including the US Department of Justice (DOJ) and various other members of the Residential Mortgage-Backed Securities Working Group (RMBS Working Group) of the Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force (including several state attorneys general, including those mentioned below), relating to, among other things, issuance, underwriting and trading in RMBS and other mortgage-backed securities, collateralised debt obligations (CDOs), collateralised loan obligations (CLOs) and synthetic products.

 

In connection with these inquiries, Group companies have received requests for information and subpoenas seeking information about, among other things, the structuring of CDOs, financing to loan originators, purchase of whole loans, sponsorship and underwriting of securitisations, due diligence, representations and warranties, communications with ratings agencies, disclosure to investors, document deficiencies, trading activities and practices and repurchase requests.

 

These ongoing matters include, among others, active civil and criminal investigations by the DOJ, relating primarily to due diligence on and disclosure related to loans purchased for, or otherwise included in, securitisations and related disclosures.

 

Ongoing investigations into the same or similar issues by several state attorneys general are at various stages, with those of the New York and California attorneys general being further progressed than the others.

 

As at 30 June 2017, the total aggregate of provisions in relation to certain of the RMBS investigations (described immediately above) and RMBS litigation matters (set out under “Litigation” on page 91) was £6.6 billion ($8.5 billion), of which £3.7 billion ($4.75 billion) related to the FHFA case that has now been resolved. RBS continues to cooperate with the DOJ in its civil and criminal investigations of RMBS matters and with several state attorneys general in their investigations. The duration and outcome of these investigations and RMBS litigation matters remain uncertain, including in respect of whether settlements for all or any of such matters may be reached.  Further substantial provisions and costs may be recognised and, depending on the final outcome, other adverse consequences may occur as described above and in the Risk Factor relating to legal, regulatory and governmental actions and investigations set out in RBS’s 2016 Annual Report on Form 20-F on page 509. 

 

RBSSI has also been responding to an ongoing criminal investigation by the United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut relating to alleged misrepresentations in the trading of various forms of asset-backed securities, including RMBS, commercial mortgage-backed securities, CDOs, and CLOs. In March and December 2015, two former RBSSI traders entered guilty pleas in the United States District Court for the District of Connecticut, each to one count of conspiracy to commit securities fraud while employed at RBSSI. RBSSI is in advanced discussions to resolve the matter.  

 

US mortgages - loan repurchase matters

RBS’s NatWest Markets business in North America was a purchaser of non-agency residential mortgages in the secondary market, and an issuer and underwriter of non-agency RMBS.

 

In issuing RMBS, NatWest Markets in some circumstances made representations and warranties regarding the characteristics of the underlying loans. As a result, NatWest Markets may be, or may have been, contractually required to repurchase such loans or indemnify certain parties against losses for certain breaches of such representations and warranties. Depending on the extent to which such loan repurchase related claims are pursued against and not rebutted by NatWest Markets on timeliness or other grounds, the aggregate potential impact on RBS, if any, may be material.  

 

98 

 


 

 

Notes

 

12. Litigation, investigations and reviews (continued) 

LIBOR and other trading rates

From February 2013 to December 2016, RBS entered into settlements with various governmental authorities in relation to investigations into submissions, communications and procedures around the setting of LIBOR and other interest rates and interest rate trading, which, among other things, required RBS to pay significant penalties. As part of these resolutions, RBS made certain undertakings regarding benchmark interest rates, including the undertakings contained in its February 2013 resolution with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission.  RBS continues to co-operate with investigations and requests for information by various other governmental and regulatory authorities, including in the UK, US and APAC.

 

On 3 February 2017, it was announced that RBS and the CFTC entered into a civil settlement resolving the CFTC’s investigation of ISDAFIX and related trading activities. As part of the settlement, RBS has paid a penalty of US$85 million and agreed to certain undertakings.

 

Foreign exchange related investigations

In November 2014, RBS plc reached a settlement with the FCA and the CFTC in relation to investigations into failings in RBSG’s FX businesses within its NatWest Markets segment. RBS plc agreed to pay penalties of £217 million to the FCA and US$290 million to the CFTC to resolve the investigations. The fines were paid on 19 November 2014.

 

On 20 May 2015, RBS plc announced that it had reached settlements with the DOJ and the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (Federal Reserve) in relation to investigations into its FX business within its NatWest Markets segment. RBS plc paid a penalty of US$274 million to the Federal Reserve and agreed to pay a penalty of US$395 million to the DOJ to resolve the investigations.

 

As part of its plea agreement with the DOJ, RBS plc pled guilty in the United States District Court for the District of Connecticut to a one-count information charging an antitrust conspiracy. RBS plc admitted that it knowingly, through one of its euro/US dollar currency traders, joined and participated in a conspiracy to eliminate competition in the purchase and sale of the euro/US dollar currency pair exchanged in the FX spot market.

 

The charged conspiracy occurred between as early as December 2007 to at least April 2010. On 5 January 2017, the United States District Court for the District of Connecticut imposed a sentence on RBS plc consisting of the US$395 million criminal fine previously agreed with the DOJ and a term of probation, which among other things, prohibits RBS plc from committing another crime in violation of US law or engaging in the FX trading practices that form the basis for the charged crime and requires RBS plc to implement a compliance program designed to prevent and detect the unlawful conduct at issue and to strengthen its compliance and internal controls as required by other regulators (including the FCA and the CFTC). A violation of the terms of probation could lead to the imposition of additional penalties. Subsequent to the sentencing, RBS plc paid the criminal fine, which had been covered by an existing provision.

 

RBS plc and RBS Securities Inc. have also entered into a cease and desist order with the Federal Reserve relating to FX and other designated market activities (the FX Order). In the FX Order, which is publicly available and will remain in effect until terminated by the Federal Reserve, RBS plc and RBS Securities Inc. agreed to take certain remedial actions with respect to FX activities and certain other designated market activities, including the creation of an enhanced written internal controls and compliance program, an improved compliance risk management program, and an enhanced internal audit program. RBS plc and RBS Securities Inc. are obligated to implement and comply with these programs as approved by the Federal Reserve, and are also required to conduct, on an annual basis, a review of applicable compliance policies and procedures and a risk-focused sampling of key controls.

 

RBS is co-operating with investigations and responding to inquiries from other governmental and regulatory (including competition) authorities on similar issues relating to failings in its FX business within its NatWest Markets segment. The timing and amount of financial penalties with respect to any further settlements and related litigation risks and collateral consequences remain uncertain and may well be material.

 

99 

 


 

 

Notes

 

12. Litigation, investigations and reviews (continued) 

Interest rate hedging products (IRHP) redress programme

Since 2013, RBS and other banks have been undertaking a redress exercise and past business review in relation to the sale of interest rate hedging products to some small and medium sized businesses classified as retail clients or private customers under FSA rules. This exercise was scrutinised by an independent reviewer, KPMG (appointed as a Skilled Person under section 166 of the Financial Services and Markets Act), and overseen by the FCA. RBS has reached agreement with KPMG in relation to redress determinations for all in scope customers, as well as the majority of the consequential loss claims received. 

 

RBS provisions in relation to the above redress exercises total £1.5 billion to date for these matters, virtually all of which had been utilised at 30 June 2017.

 

Judicial Review of Skilled Person’s role in IRHP review

RBS has been named as an interested party in a number of claims for judicial review of KPMG’s decisions as Skilled Person in RBS’s previously disclosed IRHP redress programme. This follows a similar claim from a customer of another UK bank, also against KPMG.

 

All of these claims were stayed pending the outcome of the other bank’s case. The trial in that case was heard on 25 January 2016. The court decided in favour of KPMG, finding that (1) KPMG is not a body amenable to judicial review in respect of its role as Skilled Person in this matter; and (2) that there was no unfairness by the other bank in the procedure adopted. The claimant has been granted permission to appeal that decision, and the appeal hearing is scheduled to take place in December 2017.

  

The majority of the claims that name RBS as an interested party have been discontinued but there are still several cases which remain stayed pending the outcome of the appeal in the other bank’s case. If the appeal court finds that a section 166-appointed Skilled Person is susceptible to judicial review, these remaining claims against RBS may then proceed to full hearing to assess the fairness of KPMG’s role in the redress programme in those particular cases. If deemed unfair, this could have a consequential impact on the reasonableness of the methodology applied to reviewed and settled IRHP files generally. As there remains some uncertainty, it is not practicable reliably to estimate the impact of this matter, if any, on RBS which may be material.

 

Investment advice review

In February 2013, the FSA announced the results of a mystery shopping review it undertook into the investment advice offered by banks and building societies to retail clients. As a result of that review the FSA announced that firms involved were cooperative and agreed to take immediate action. RBS was one of the firms involved.

 

The action required included a review of the training provided to advisers, considering whether changes are necessary to both advice processes and controls for new business, and undertaking a past business review to identify any historic poor advice (and where breaches of regulatory requirements are identified, to put this right for customers).

 

Subsequent to the FSA announcing the results of its mystery shopping review, the FCA has required RBS to carry out a past business review and customer contact exercise on a sample of historic customers that received investment advice on certain lump sum products through the UK Financial Planning channel of the UK Personal & Business Banking (UK PBB) segment of RBS, which includes RBS plc and NatWest, during the period from March 2012 until December 2012.

 

This review was conducted under section 166 of the Financial Services and Markets Act, under which a Skilled Person was appointed to carry out the exercise. Redress has been paid to certain customers in this sample group. Following discussions with the FCA after issue of the draft section 166 report, RBS agreed with the FCA that it would carry out a wider review/remediation exercise relating to certain investment, insurance and pension sales from 1 January 2011 to 1 April 2015. RBS started writing to the relevant customers during 2016 and redress payments have also commenced. The project is due to finish in Q4 2017. In addition, RBS agreed with the FCA that it would carry out a remediation exercise, for a specific customer segment who were sold a particular structured product, in response to concerns raised by the FCA with regard to (a) the target market for the product and (b) how the product may have been described to customers by certain advisers. Redress has been paid to certain customers who took out the structured product.

100 

 


 

 

Notes

 

12. Litigation, investigations and reviews (continued) 

RBS provisions in relation to investment advice total £201 million to date for these matters, of which £80 million had been utilised at 30 June 2017.

 

Packaged accounts

As a result of an uplift in packaged current account complaints, RBS proactively put in place dedicated resources in 2013 to investigate and resolve complaints on an individual basis. RBS has made gross provisions totalling £409 million to date for this matter.

 

The FCA conducted a thematic review of packaged bank accounts across the UK from October 2014 to April 2016, the results of which were published in October 2016. RBS is taking into consideration and, where relevant, addressing the findings from this review.

 

FCA review of RBS’s treatment of SMEs

In November 2013, a report by Lawrence Tomlinson, entrepreneur in residence at the UK Government’s Department for Business Innovation and Skills, was published (“Tomlinson Report”). The Tomlinson Report was critical of RBS’s treatment of SMEs.

 

The Tomlinson Report was passed to the PRA and FCA. Shortly thereafter, the FCA appointed an independent Skilled Person under section 166 of the Financial Services and Markets Act to review the allegations in the Tomlinson Report. The Skilled Person’s review was focused on RBS’s UK small and medium sized business customers with credit exposures of up to £20 million whose relationship was managed within RBS’s Global Restructuring  Group or within similar units within RBS’s Corporate Banking Division that were focused on customers in financial difficulties. In the period 2008 to 2013 RBS was one of the leading providers of credit to the UK SME sector.

 

Separately, in November 2013, RBS instructed the law firm Clifford Chance to conduct an independent review of the principal allegation made in the Tomlinson Report: RBS was alleged to be culpable of systematic and institutional behaviour in artificially distressing otherwise viable businesses and, through that, putting businesses into insolvency. Clifford Chance published its report on 17 April 2014 and, while it made certain recommendations to enhance customer experience and transparency of pricing, it concluded that there was no evidence to support the principal allegation.

 

A separate independent review of the principal allegation, led by Mason Hayes & Curran, Solicitors, was conducted in the Republic of Ireland. The report was published in December 2014 and found no evidence to support the principal allegation. 

 

The Skilled Person review focused on the allegations made in the Tomlinson Report and certain observations made by Sir Andrew Large in his 2013 Independent Lending Review, and was broader in scope than the reviews undertaken by Clifford Chance and Mason, Hayes & Curran which are referred to above. The Skilled Person delivered the draft findings from its review to the FCA in March 2016. RBS was then given the opportunity to consider and respond to those draft findings before the Skilled Person delivered its final report to the FCA during September 2016.

 

On 8 November 2016, the FCA published an update on its review. In response, RBS announced steps that will impact SME customers in the UK and the Republic of Ireland that were in GRG between 2008 and 2013. These steps are (i) an automatic refund of certain complex fees; and (ii) a new complaints process, overseen by an Independent Third Party. These steps have been developed with the involvement of the FCA which agreed that they are appropriate for RBS to take.

 

RBS estimates the costs associated with the new complaints review process and the automatic refund of complex fees to be approximately £400 million, which was recognised as a provision in 2016. This includes operational costs together with the cost of refunded complex fees and the additional estimated redress costs arising from the new complaints process.

101 

 


 

 

Notes

 

12. Litigation, investigations and reviews (continued) 

The FCA announced in November 2016 that its review is continuing. RBS continues to cooperate fully with the review.

 

FCA investigation into RBS plc’s compliance with the Money Laundering Regulations 2007

On 21 July 2017, the FCA notified RBS that it is undertaking an investigation into RBS plc’s compliance with the Money Laundering Regulations 2007 in relation to certain customers.  RBS is cooperating with the investigation.

 

Multilateral interchange fees

On 11 September 2014, the Court of Justice upheld earlier decisions by the EU Commission and the General Court that MasterCard’s multilateral interchange fee (MIF) arrangements for cross border payment card transactions with MasterCard and Maestro branded consumer credit and debit cards in the EEA are in breach of competition law.

 

In April 2013, the EC announced it was opening a new investigation into interchange fees payable in respect of payments made in the EEA by MasterCard cardholders from non-EEA countries. The EC’s case is ongoing.

 

On 8 June 2015, a regulation on interchange fees for card payments entered into force. The regulation requires the capping of both cross-border and domestic MIF rates for debit and credit consumer cards. The regulation also sets out other reforms including to the Honour All Cards Rule which require merchants to accept all cards with the same level of MIF but not cards with different MIF levels.

 

On 6 May 2015, the Competition & Markets Authority (CMA), announced that it had closed the investigations into domestic interchange fees on the grounds of administrative priorities.

 

Whilst there are no recent developments on the above to report, there remains uncertainty around the outcomes of the ongoing EC investigation, and the impact of the regulation, and they may have a material adverse effect on the structure and operation of four party card payment schemes in general and, therefore, on RBS’s business in this sector.

 

Payment Protection Insurance (PPI)

Since 2011, RBS has been implementing a policy statement agreed with the FCA for the handling of complaints about the mis-selling of PPI. RBS is also monitoring developments following the UK Supreme Court’s decision in the case of Plevin v Paragon Personal Finance Ltd in November 2014. That decision was that the sale of a single premium PPI policy could create an ‘unfair relationship’ under s.140A of the Consumer Credit Act 1974 (the ‘Consumer Credit Act’) because the premium contained a particularly high level of undisclosed commission.

 

The Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) has confirmed on its website that unfair relationship provisions in the Consumer Credit Act and the Plevin judgment are ’potentially relevant considerations’ in some of the PPI complaints referred to FOS.

 

On 26 November 2015, the FCA issued Consultation Paper 15/39, in which it set out proposed rules and guidance for how firms should handle PPI complaints fairly in light of the Plevin decision and how the FOS should consider relevant PPI complaints. The Consultation Paper also contained proposals for the introduction in 2018 on a date to be confirmed of a deadline for submission of PPI complaints. RBS submitted its response to the Consultation Paper on 26 February 2016.

 

The proposals in the Consultation Paper included an FCA-led communications campaign to raise awareness of the deadline and to prompt those who intend to complain to act ahead of the deadline.

 

Following feedback received on its Consultation Paper, on 2 August 2016, the FCA issued a further Consultation Paper (CP 16/20) on certain aspects of the proposed rules and guidance. As a result of this second Consultation Paper, it was expected that the complaint deadline would be end of June 2019 rather than 2018 as proposed in the initial Consultation Paper. The BBA and RBS submitted responses to the Consultation Paper on 11 October 2016.  

 

Following feedback received on its second Consultation Paper (CP16/20), on 9 December 2016, the FCA issued a statement explaining that it was carefully considering the issues raised and would make a further announcement before 31 March 2017.

102 

 


 

 

Notes

 

12. Litigation, investigations and reviews (continued) 

On 2 March 2017, the FCA published Policy Statement 17/3, its final rules and guidance on PPI complaint handling.  The Policy Statement made clear the FCA’s intention to implement a two year PPI complaints deadline with effect from 29 August 2017, bringing an end to new PPI complaints in August 2019. New rules for the handling of Plevin  complaints will also come into force on 29 August 2017. The proposals in the Policy Statement are largely as previously anticipated.

 

In June 2017, the claims management company ‘We Fight Any Claim’ issued judicial review proceedings challenging elements of the FCA’s Policy Statement, including the proposed 2019 deadline.

 

RBS has made provisions totalling £4.9 billion to date for PPI claims, including an additional provision of £601 million in 2016, in response to the anticipated further delay in guidance. Of the £4.9 billion cumulative provision, £3.8 billion had been utilised by 30 June 2017. RBS does not currently anticipate that an additional provision for PPI will be required.

 

UK retail banking

In November 2014, the CMA announced its decision to proceed with a market investigation reference (MIR) into retail banking, which would cover PCA and SME banking. On 9 August 2016, the CMA published its final report. The CMA concluded that there are a number of competition concerns in the provision of PCAs, business current accounts and SME lending, particularly around low levels of customers searching and switching, resulting in banks not being put under enough competitive pressure, and new products and new banks not attracting customers quickly enough. The final report sets out remedies to address these concerns. These include remedies making it easier for customers to compare products, ensure customers benefit from technological advantages around open banking, improve the current account switching service and provide PCA overdraft customers with greater control over their charges along with additional measures targeted at SME customers.

 

On 2 February 2017 the CMA published the Retail Banking Market Investigation Order 2017 which is the primary legal framework setting out the obligations for the implementation of the majority of remedies, including an implementation deadline for each.  Other remedies are to be delivered via undertakings signed by Bacs and recommendations to be taken forward by other regulators (including the FCA).

 

At this stage there remains uncertainty around the financial impact of the remedies once implemented, and so it is not practicable to estimate the potential impact on RBS, which may be material.

 

FCA Wholesale Sector Competition Review

In February 2015, the FCA launched a market study into investment and corporate banking. In October 2016 the FCA published its final report. It found that whilst many clients feel well served by primary capital market services there were some areas where improvements could be made to encourage competition, particularly for smaller clients. It set out a package of remedies, including prohibiting the use of restrictive contractual clauses and ending league table misrepresentation by asking league table providers to review their recognition criteria. The FCA has announced that the prohibition on restrictive contractual clauses is to take effect from 3 January 2018.

 

In November 2015, the FCA also announced that a market study would be undertaken into asset management. In November 2016, the FCA published the interim report which indicated that price competition is weak and expressed concerns around the lack of transparency on the objectives, and appropriate benchmarks, for reporting fund performance. On 28 June 2017, the FCA published the final report which was broadly in line with the interim report and sets out an extensive package of remedies which include providing further protection to investors and driving competitive pressure on asset managers.

 

Some uncertainty remains around the financial impact of the remedies once implemented and so it is not practicable reliably to estimate the potential impact on RBS. However, at this stage, this impact is not expected to be material.

 

FCA Mortgages Market Study

In December 2016, the FCA launched a market study into the provision of mortgages. The FCA has announced that it intends to publish an interim report in summer 2017 with the final report expected in Q1 2018.

103 

 


 

 

Notes

 

12. Litigation, investigations and reviews (continued) 

At this stage, as there is considerable uncertainty around the outcome of this market study, it is not practicable reliably to estimate the aggregate impact, if any, on RBS which may be material.

 

FCA Strategic Review of Retail Banking Models

On 11 May 2017 the FCA announced a two phase strategic review of retail banking models, The FCA will use the review to understand how these models operate, including how ‘free if in credit’ banking is paid for and the impact of changes such as increased use of digital channels and reduced branch usage.

 

Phase 1 will allow the FCA to enhance its understanding of existing models and how these impact competition and conduct. Phase 2 will evaluate the impacts of economic, technological, social and regulatory factors on these models. A project update is expected in Q2 2018 outlining the FCA’s preliminary conclusions from Phase 1.

 

At this early stage, as there is considerable uncertainty around the outcome of this review, it is not practicable reliably to estimate the aggregate impact, if any, on RBS, which in due course may be material.

 

Governance and risk management consent order

In July 2011, RBS agreed with the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, the New York State Banking Department, the Connecticut Department of Banking, and the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation to enter into a consent Cease and Desist Order (Governance Order) (which is publicly available) to address deficiencies related to governance, risk management and compliance systems and controls in the US branches of RBS plc and RBS N.V. branches (the US Branches).

 

 In the Governance Order, RBS agreed to create the following written plans or programmes:

 

Key points

a plan to strengthen board and senior management oversight of the corporate governance, management, risk management, and operations of RBS’s US operations on an enterprise-wide and business line basis;

an enterprise-wide risk management programme for RBS’s US operations;

a plan to oversee compliance by RBS’s US operations with all applicable US laws, rules, regulations, and supervisory guidance;

a Bank Secrecy Act/anti-money laundering compliance programme for the US Branches on a consolidated basis;

a plan to improve the US Branches’ compliance with all applicable provisions of the Bank Secrecy Act and its rules and regulations as well as the requirements of Regulation K of the Federal Reserve;

a customer due diligence programme designed to ensure reasonably the identification and timely, accurate, and complete reporting by the US Branches of all known or suspected violations of law or suspicious transactions to law enforcement and supervisory authorities, as required by applicable suspicious activity reporting laws and regulations; and

a plan designed to enhance the US Branches’ compliance with Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) requirements.

 

The Governance Order identified specific items to be addressed, considered, and included in each proposed plan or programme. RBS also agreed in the Governance Order to adopt and implement the plans and programmes after approval by the regulators, to comply fully with the plans and programmes thereafter, and to submit to the regulators periodic written progress reports regarding compliance with the Governance Order.

 

RBS has created, submitted, and adopted plans and/or programmes to address each of the areas identified above. In connection with RBS’s efforts to implement these plans and programmes, it has, among other things, made investments in technology, hired and trained additional personnel, and revised compliance, risk management, and other policies and procedures for RBS’s US operations. RBS continues to test the effectiveness of the remediation efforts it has undertaken to ensure they are sustainable and meet regulators' expectations. Furthermore, RBS continues to work closely with the regulators in its efforts to fulfil its obligations under the Governance Order, which will remain in effect until terminated by the regulators.

 

104 

 


 

 

Notes

 

12. Litigation, investigations and reviews (continued) 

RBS may be subject to formal and informal supervisory actions and may be required by its US banking supervisors to take further actions and implement additional remedial measures with respect to these and additional matters. RBS’s activities in the US may be subject to significant limitations and/or conditions.

 

US dollar processing consent order

In December 2013 RBS  and RBS plc agreed a settlement with the Federal Reserve, the New York State Department of Financial Services (DFS), and the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) with respect to RBS plc’s historical compliance with US economic sanction regulations outside the US. As part of the settlement, RBS  and RBS plc entered into a consent Cease and Desist Order with the Federal Reserve (US Dollar Processing Order), which remains in effect until terminated by the Federal Reserve. The US Dollar Processing Order (which is publicly available) indicated, among other things, that RBS and RBS plc lacked adequate risk management and legal review policies and procedures to ensure that activities conducted outside the US comply with applicable OFAC regulations.

 

RBS agreed to create an OFAC compliance programme to ensure compliance with OFAC regulations by RBS’s  global business lines outside the US, and to adopt, implement, and comply with the programme. Prior to and in connection with the US Dollar Processing Order, RBS has made investments in technology, hired and trained personnel, and revised compliance, risk management, and other policies and procedures.  

 

Under the US Dollar Processing Order (as part of the OFAC compliance programme) RBS was required to appoint an independent consultant to conduct an annual review of OFAC compliance policies and procedures and their implementation and an appropriate risk-focused sampling of US dollar payments. RBS appointed the independent consultant and their reports were submitted to the authorities on 14 June 2015. The independent consultant review examined a significant number of sanctions alerts and no reportable issues were identified.

 

Pursuant to the US Dollar Processing Order, the authorities requested a second annual review to be conducted by an independent consultant. The second review was conducted by the independent consultant and reports were submitted to the authorities on 30 September 2016. In line with the first review, and following examination of a significant number of sanctions alerts, the independent consultant did not identify any reportable issues. The authorities have requested a third annual review to be conducted and independent consultant reports are expected to be issued during Q4 2017. In addition, pursuant to requirements of the US Dollar Processing Order, RBS has provided the required written submissions, including quarterly updates, in a timely manner, and RBS continues to participate in a constructive dialogue with the authorities.

 

US/Swiss tax programme

In August 2013, the DOJ announced a programme for Swiss banks (the Programme) which provides Swiss banks with an opportunity to obtain resolution, through non-prosecution agreements or non-target letters, of the DOJ’s investigations of the role that Swiss banks played in concealing the assets of US tax payers in offshore accounts (US related accounts). In December 2013, Coutts & Co Ltd., a member of the Group incorporated in Switzerland, notified the DOJ that it intended to participate in the Programme. 

 

As required by the Programme, Coutts & Co Ltd. subsequently conducted a review of its US related accounts and presented the results of the review to the DOJ. On 23 December 2015, Coutts & Co Ltd. entered into a non-prosecution agreement (the NPA) in which Coutts & Co Ltd. paid a US$78.5 million penalty and acknowledged responsibility for certain conduct set forth in a statement of facts accompanying the agreement.  Under the NPA, which has a term of four years, Coutts & Co Ltd. is required, among other things, to provide certain information, cooperate with DOJ’s investigations, and commit no U.S. federal offences.  If Coutts & Co Ltd. abides by the NPA, the DOJ will not prosecute it for certain tax-related and monetary transaction offenses in connection with US related accounts.     

105 

 


 

 

Notes

 

12. Litigation, investigations and reviews (continued) 

Enforcement proceedings and investigations in relation to Coutts & Co Ltd

The Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) has been taking enforcement proceedings against Coutts & Co Ltd, a member of RBS incorporated in Switzerland, with regard to certain client accounts held with Coutts & Co Ltd relating to allegations in connection with the Malaysian sovereign wealth fund 1MDB. On 2 February 2017, FINMA announced that Coutts & Co Ltd had breached money laundering regulations by failing to carry out adequate background checks into business relationships and transactions associated with 1MDB. FINMA accordingly required Coutts & Co Ltd to disgorge profits of CHF 6.5 million.

 

Coutts & Co Ltd is also cooperating with investigations and enquiries from authorities in other jurisdictions in relation to the same subject matter. In this context, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS)’s supervisory examination of Coutts & Co Ltd’s Singapore branch revealed breaches of anti-money laundering requirements. MAS imposed on Coutts & Co Ltd financial penalties amounting to SGD 2.4 million in December 2016. The outcomes of other proceedings, investigations and enquiries are uncertain but may include financial consequences and/or regulatory sanctions.

 

Regulator requests concerning certain historic Russian transactions

Recent media coverage has highlighted an alleged money laundering scheme involving Russian entities between 2010 and 2014. Allegedly certain European banks, including RBS and 16 other UK based financial institutions, and certain US banks, were involved in processing certain transactions associated with this scheme. In common with other banks, RBS is responding to requests for information from the FCA, PRA and regulators in other jurisdictions.

 

Review and investigation of treatment of tracker mortgage customers in Ulster Bank Ireland DAC (formerly Ulster Bank Ireland Limited)

On 22 December 2015, the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) announced that it had written to a number of lenders requiring them to put in place a robust plan and framework to review the treatment of customers who have been sold mortgages with a tracker interest rate or with a tracker interest rate entitlement. The CBI stated that the intended purpose of the review was to identify any cases where customers’ contractual rights under the terms of their mortgage agreements were not fully honoured, or where lenders did not fully comply with various regulatory requirements and standards regarding disclosure and transparency for customers. The CBI has required Ulster Bank Ireland DAC (UBI DAC), a member of RBS, incorporated in the Republic of Ireland, to participate in this review and UBI DAC is co-operating with the CBI in this regard. RBS made a provision totalling EUR 211 million in 2016 for this matter.

  

Separately, on 15 April 2016, the CBI notified UBI DAC that it was also commencing an investigation under its Administrative Sanctions Procedure into suspected breaches of the Consumer Protection Code 2006 during the period 4 August 2006 to 30 June 2008 in relation to certain customers who switched from tracker mortgages to fixed rate mortgages.

106 

 


 

 

Notes

 

13. Related party transactions

 

UK Government

The UK Government and bodies controlled or jointly controlled by the UK Government and bodies over which it has significant influence are related parties of the Group. The Group enters into transactions with many of these bodies on an arm’s length basis.

 

Bank of England facilities

In the ordinary course of business, the Group may from time to time access market-wide facilities provided by the Bank of England.

 

The Group’s other transactions with the UK Government include the payment of taxes, principally UK corporation tax and value added tax; national insurance contributions; local authority rates; and regulatory fees and levies (including the bank levy and FSCS levies).

 

Other related parties

(a) In their roles as providers of finance, Group companies provide development and other types of capital support to businesses. These investments are made in the normal course of business and on arm's length terms. In some instances, the investment may extend to ownership or control over 20% or more of the voting rights of the investee company. However, these investments are not considered to give rise to transactions of a materiality requiring disclosure under IAS 24.

 

(b) The Group recharges The Royal Bank of Scotland Group Pension Fund with the cost of administration services incurred by it. The amounts involved are not material to the Group.

 

Full details of the Group’s related party transactions for the year ended 31 December 2016 are included in the 2016 Annual Report on Form 20-F.

 

14. Post balance sheet events

Other than matters disclosed, there have been no further significant events between 30 June 2017 and the date of approval of this announcement.

 

15. Date of approval

This announcement was approved by the Board of Directors on 3 August 2017.

107 

 


 

 

Notes

 

16. Consolidating financial information

The Royal Bank of Scotland plc ('RBS plc') is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Royal Bank of Scotland Group plc ('RBSG plc') and is able to offer and sell certain securities in the US from time to time pursuant to a registration statement on Form F-3 filed with the SEC with a full and unconditional guarantee from RBSG plc.

 

RBS plc utilises an exception provided in Rule 3-10 of Regulation S-X, and therefore does not file its financial statements with the SEC. In accordance with the requirements to qualify for the exception, presented below is condensed consolidating financial information for:

·

RBSG plc on a stand-alone basis as guarantor;

·

RBS plc on a stand-alone basis as issuer;

·

Non-guarantor Subsidiaries of RBSG plc and RBS plc on a combined basis ('Subsidiaries');

·

Consolidation adjustments; and

·

RBSG plc consolidated amounts ('RBSG Group').

 

Under IAS 27, RBSG plc and RBS plc account for investments in their subsidiary undertakings at cost less impairment. Rule 3-10 of Regulation S-X requires a company to account for its investments in subsidiary undertakings using the equity method, which would increase the results for the period of RBSG plc and RBS plc in the information below by £1,146 million and £712 million respectively for the half year ended 30 June 2017 (£376 million and £415 million decrease for the half year ended 30 June 2016).

The net assets of RBSG plc and RBS plc in the information below would also be decreased by £5,363 million and £9,479 million respectively at 30 June 2017 (decreased £6,108 million and £10,119 million respectively at 31 December 2016).

As part of implementing the legislation following the recommendations of the Independent Commission on Banking a number of business transfers have been completed. The transfer of the RBS plc’s PBB, CPB, W&G and Capital Resolution shipping businesses and certain parts of Central items due to be included in the ring-fenced bank to subsidiaries of NatWest Holdings is planned for Q2 2018.  It will be followed by a transfer of NatWest Holdings to RBSG. Accordingly, all of the activities of RBS plc to be undertaken by NatWest Holdings and its subsidiaries are classified within disposal groups at 30 June 2017 and presented as discontinued operations, with comparatives represented.       

 

 

Income Statement

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Consolidation

RBS

  

RBSG plc

RBS plc

Subsidiaries

adjustments

Group

For the six months ended 30 June 2017

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

Net interest income

105 

(199)

3,063 

1,503 

4,472 

Non-interest income

37 

1,120 

864 

426 

2,447 

Total income

142 

921 

3,927 

1,929 

6,919 

Operating expenses

(78)

(720)

(1,753)

(2,301)

(4,852)

Impairment releases/(losses)

22 

(91)

(47)

(116)

Operating profit/(loss) before tax

64 

223 

2,083 

(419)

1,951 

Tax charge

(19)

(60)

(441)

(207)

(727)

Profit/(loss) from continuing operations

45 

163 

1,642 

(626)

1,224 

Profit/(loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax

294 

(1)

(293)

Profit/(loss) for the period

45 

457 

1,641 

(919)

1,224 

  

 

 

 

 

 

Attributable to:

 

 

 

 

 

Non-controlling interests

-

27 

29 

Preference shareholders

85 

85 

Paid-in equity holders

167 

171 

Ordinary shareholders

(207)

457 

1,639 

(950)

939 

  

45 

457 

1,641 

(919)

1,224 

108 

 


 

 

 

Notes (unaudited) 

 

16. Consolidating financial information (continued) 

 

Statement of comprehensive income

  

  

  

Consolidation

RBSG

  

RBSG plc

RBS plc

Subsidiaries

adjustments

Group

For the six months ended 30 June 2017

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

Profit/(loss) for the period

45 

457 

1,641 

(919)

1,224 

Items that do not qualify for reclassification

 

 

 

 

 

Loss on remeasurement of retirement benefit schemes

-

(26)

(26)

Loss on fair value of credit in financial liabilities designated at fair value through profit or loss due to own credit risk

 

 

(45)

 

(32)

 

 

(77)

Tax

(13)

(8)

  

(58)

(53)

(111)

Items that do qualify for reclassification

 

 

 

 

 

Available-for-sale financial assets

30 

(312)

311 

29 

Cash flow hedges

(111)

(224)

(2)

(274)

(611)

Currency translation

(46)

313 

(164)

103 

Tax

21 

52 

16 

72 

161 

 

(90) 

(188)

15 

(55)

(318)

Other comprehensive loss after tax

(90) 

(246)

(38)

(55)

(429)

Total comprehensive (loss)/income for the period

(45) 

211 

1,603 

(974)

795 

  

 

 

 

 

 

Total comprehensive (loss)/income attributable to:

 

 

 

 

 

Non-controlling interests

49 

49 

Preference shareholders

85 

85 

Paid-in equity holders

167 

171 

Ordinary shareholders

(297)

211 

1,603 

(1,027)

490 

  

(45)

211 

1,603 

(974)

795 

 

Income Statement

  

  

  

Consolidation 

RBSG

  

RBSG plc

RBS plc  

Subsidiaries

adjustments

Group

For the six months ended 30 June 2016

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

Net interest income

181 

(317)

2,932 

1,537 

4,333 

Non-interest income

232 

1,515 

(3,467)

3,451 

1,731 

Total income

413 

1,198 

(535)

4,988 

6,064 

Operating expenses

(728)

(744)

(2,314)

(2,143)

(5,929)

Impairment release/(losses)

(18)

(399)

(409)

Operating (loss)/profit before tax

(315)

462 

(2,867)

2,446 

(274)

Tax credit/(charge)

39 

(200)

(391)

212 

(340)

(Loss)/profit from continuing operations

(276)

262 

(3,258)

2,658 

(614)

Profit/(loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax

45 

-

(45)

-

(Loss)/profit for the period

(276)

307 

(3,258)

2,613 

(614)

  

  

  

  

  

  

Attributable to:

  

  

  

  

  

Non-controlling interests

28 

30 

Preference shareholders

113 

23 

(23)

113 

Paid-in equity holders

87 

95 

Dividend access share

1,193 

1,193 

Ordinary shareholders

(1,669)

284 

(3,260)

2,600 

(2,045)

  

(276)

307 

(3,258)

2,613 

(614)

                 

109 

 


 

 

 

Notes (unaudited) 

 

16. Consolidating financial information (continued) 

 

Statement of comprehensive income

  

  

  

Consolidation

RBSG

  

RBSG plc

RBS plc

Subsidiaries

adjustments

Group

For the six months ended 30 June 2016

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

(Loss)/profit for the period

(276)

307 

(3,258)

2,613 

(614)

Items that do not qualify for reclassification

 

 

 

 

 

Loss on remeasurement of retirement benefit schemes

(995)

(995)

Tax

273 

273 

 

-

-

(722)

-

(722)

Items that do qualify for reclassification

  

  

  

  

  

Available-for-sale financial assets

(68)

(40)

13 

(95)

Cash flow hedges

100 

463 

1,017 

1,581 

Currency translation

(67)

673 

465 

1,071 

Tax

(21)

(115)

18 

(242)

(360)

 

79

213

652

1,253

2,197

Other comprehensive income/(loss) after tax

79 

213 

(70)

1,253 

1,475 

Total comprehensive (loss)/income for the period

(197)

520 

(3,328)

3,866 

861 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total comprehensive (loss)/income attributable to:

  

  

  

  

  

Non-controlling interests

69 

56 

125 

Preference shareholders

113 

23 

(23)

113 

Paid-in equity holders

87 

95 

Dividend access share

1,193 

1,193 

Ordinary shareholders

(1,590)

497 

(3,397)

3,825 

(665)

  

(197)

520 

(3,328)

3,866 

861 

 

110 

 


 

 

 

Notes (unaudited) 

 

16. Consolidating financial information (continued) 

 

Balance Sheet

  

  

  

Consolidation

RBSG

  

RBSG plc

RBS plc

Subsidiaries

adjustments

Group

At 30 June 2017

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and balances at central banks

81,846 

2,505 

2,456 

86,807 

Loans and advances to banks

18,164 

38,644 

132,942 

(154,218)

35,532 

Loans and advances to customers

10,105 

72,264 

225,764 

43,109 

351,242 

Debt securities

214 

77,547 

17,917 

(9,509)

86,169 

Equity shares

162 

327 

26 

518 

Investments in Group undertakings

46,997 

576 

1,214 

(48,787)

Settlement balances

11,587 

2,505 

(2,001)

12,091 

Derivatives

251 

197,577 

5,045 

(9,342)

193,531 

Intangible assets

512 

5,955 

6,467 

Property, plant and equipment

3,401 

1,418 

4,823  

Deferred tax

1,524 

153 

1,677 

Prepayments, accrued income and other assets

84 

833 

2,212 

451 

3,580 

Assets of disposal groups

122,269 

186 

(122,238)

217 

Total assets

75,818 

603,309 

396,054 

(292,527)

782,654 

  

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

Deposits by banks

962 

143,593 

57,456 

(157,863)

44,148 

Customer accounts

58,452 

287,154 

52,131 

397,737 

Debt securities in issue

9,858 

22,096 

280 

(237)

31,997 

Settlement balances

10,329 

3,069 

(2,019)

11,379 

Short positions

27,507 

2,581 

(226)

29,862 

Derivatives

284 

187,769 

5,183 

(9,075)

184,161 

Provisions for liabilities and charges

274 

2,368 

6,544 

2,041

11,227 

Accruals and other liabilities

46 

891 

4,375 

1,278 

6,590 

Retirement benefit liabilities

53 

85 

44 

182 

Deferred tax

22 

25 

683 

(145)

585 

Subordinated liabilities

9,804 

13,556 

2,414 

(11,050)

14,724 

Liabilities of disposal groups

‑ 

90,587 

13 

(90,587)

13 

Total liabilities

21,250 

557,226 

369,837 

(215,708)

732,605 

  

 

 

 

 

 

Non-controlling interests

141 

703 

844 

Owners’ equity

54,568 

46,083 

26,076 

(77,522)

49,205 

Total equity

54,568 

46,083 

26,217 

(76,819)

50,049 

Total liabilities and equity

75,818 

603,309 

396,054 

(292,527)

782,654 

 

 

 

 

111 

 


 

 

 

 

Notes (unaudited) 

 

16. Consolidating financial information (continued) 

 

Balance Sheet

  

  

  

Consolidation

RBSG

  

RBSG plc

RBS plc

Subsidiaries

adjustments

Group

At 31 December 2016

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

Assets

  

  

  

  

  

Cash and balances at central banks

70,615 

3,635 

74,250 

Loans and advances to banks

28,867 

39,018 

129,665 

(167,412)

30,138 

Loans and advances to customers

97 

160,191 

218,966 

(27,304)

351,950 

Debt securities

398 

67,669 

16,041 

(11,586)

72,522 

Equity shares

‑ 

298 

1,342 

(937)

703 

Investments in Group undertakings

44,608 

35,169 

2,122 

(81,899)

Settlement balances

4,707 

1,647 

(828)

5,526 

Derivatives

373 

251,476 

6,312 

(11,180)

246,981 

Intangible assets

521 

566 

5,393 

6,480 

Property, plant and equipment

1,523 

3,071 

(4)

4,590 

Deferred tax

272 

1,660 

(129)

1,803 

Prepayments, accrued income and other assets

70 

1,563 

2,414 

(347)

3,700 

Assets of disposal groups

‑ 

591 

13 

(591)

13 

Total assets

74,413 

633,613 

387,454 

(296,824)

798,656 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Liabilities

  

  

  

  

  

Deposits by banks

944 

139,288 

50,930 

(152,606)

38,556 

Customer accounts

142,218 

278,228 

(39,478)

380,968 

Debt securities in issue

6,832 

18,881 

3,934 

(2,402)

27,245 

Settlement balances

‑ 

2,774 

1,699 

(828)

3,645 

Short positions

17,590 

4,591 

(104)

22,077 

Derivatives

260 

240,898 

6,497 

(11,180)

236,475 

Provisions for liabilities and charges

875 

4,884 

7,077 

12,836 

Accruals and other liabilities

73 

3,269 

3,785 

(136)

6,991 

Retirement benefit liabilities

65 

293 

363 

Deferred tax

44 

701 

(83)

662 

Subordinated liabilities

10,668 

17,870 

2,789 

(11,908)

19,419 

Liabilities of disposal groups

15 

15 

Total liabilities

19,696 

587,737 

360,539 

(218,720)

749,252 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non-controlling interests

483 

312 

795 

Owners' equity

54,717 

45,876 

26,432 

(78,416)

48,609 

Total equity

54,717 

45,876 

26,915 

(78,104)

49,404 

Total liabilities and equity

74,413 

633,613 

387,454 

(296,824)

798,656 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

112 

 


 

 

Notes (unaudited) 

 

16. Consolidating financial information (continued) 

 

Cash flow statement

  

  

  

  

  

  

RBSG

  

  

Consolidation

RBSG

  

plc

RBS plc

Subsidiaries

adjustments

Group

For the six months ended 30 June 2017

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

Net cash flows from operating activities

2,245 

18,024 

10,724 

(674)

30,319 

Net cash flows from investing activities

(2,179)

(1,781)

3,531 

(5,890)

(6,319)

Net cash flows from financing activities

(716)

(4,032)

(820)

754 

(4,814)

Effects of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

 

(9)

 

 

(566)

 

504 

 

(64)

Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents

(659)

12,218 

12,869 

(5,306)

19,122 

Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January 2017

1,195 

99,073 

89,431 

(91,129)

98,570 

Cash and cash equivalents at 30 June 2017

536 

111,291 

102,300 

(96,435)

117,692 

  

  

  

  

  

  

For the six months ended 30 June 2016

  

  

  

  

  

Net cash flows from operating activities

(2,320)

(10,456)

(158)

3,695 

(9,239)

Net cash flows from investing activities

1,996 

(1,190)

(2,519)

(444)

(2,157)

Net cash flows from financing activities

(1,500)

(7,523)

(1,162)

5,991 

(4,194)

Effects of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

106 

6,173 

2,903 

(2,506)

6,676 

Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents

(1,718)

(12,996)

(936)

6,736 

(8,914)

Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January 2016

3,006 

106,613 

95,403 

(101,430)

103,592 

Cash and cash equivalents at 30 June 2016

1,288 

93,617 

94,467 

(94,694)

94,678 

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Trust preferred securities

The Group has issued trust preferred securities through trusts 100% owned by the Group (through partnership interests held by RBSG Capital Corporation and RBS) which meet the definition of a finance subsidiary in Regulation S-X, Rule 3-10. The securities represent undivided beneficial interests in the assets of the trusts, which consist of partnership preferred securities representing non-cumulative perpetual preferred limited partnership interests issued by Delaware limited partnerships. The Royal Bank of Scotland Group plc has provided subordinated guarantees for the benefit of the holders of the trust preferred securities and the partnership preferred securities. Under the terms of the guarantees, the Group has fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a subordinated basis, payments on such trust preferred securities and partnership preferred securities, to the extent they are due to be paid and have not been paid by, or on behalf of the trusts and the partnerships, as the case may be. Following implementation of IFRS 10 the trusts are no longer consolidated by the Group, for those securities that were classified as subordinated liabilities, the Group’s outstanding instruments with the trusts are classified as subordinated liabilities.

113 

 


 

 

Summary risk factors

 

Summary of our principal risks and uncertainties (Not within the scope of EY’s review report)

Set out below is a summary of certain risks which could adversely affect the Group; it should be read in conjunction with the Capital and risk management section of the 2016 Annual Report on Form 20-F. This summary should not be regarded as a complete and comprehensive statement of all potential risks and uncertainties. A fuller description of these and other risk factors is included on pages 509 to 578 of the Group’s Form 20-F which should be read together with the Group’s other public disclosures.

 

The Group is subject to a number of legal, regulatory and governmental actions and investigations. Unfavourable outcomes in such actions and investigations could have a material adverse effect on the Group’s operations, operating results, reputation, financial position and future prospects.

The Group is subject to political risks, including economic, regulatory and political uncertainty arising from the vote to leave in the referendum on the UK’s membership of the European Union (EU Referendum) and more generally arising from the outcome of general elections in the UK and changes in government policies, including as a shareholder, which could adversely impact the Group’s business, results of operations, financial condition and prospects.

Changes to the prudential regulatory framework for banks and investment banks within the EU may require additional structural changes to the Group’s operations, including for example, as a result of potential changes in the prudential regulatory framework for banks and investment banks within the EU or if the Group is no longer able to rely on the passporting framework for financial services applicable in the EU,  which may affect current restructuring plans and have a material adverse effect on the Group.

The Group is in the process of seeking to satisfy its commitments arising as a result of the receipt of State Aid in December 2008. The process to amend the Group’s State Aid obligations in respect of Williams & Glyn may not ultimately amend such obligations or the revised obligations may be more onerous than those currently being discussed.

Implementation of the ring-fencing regime in the UK which began in 2015 and must be completed before 1 January 2019 will result in material structural changes to the Group’s business. The steps required to implement the UK ring-fencing regime are extraordinarily complex and entail significant costs and operational, legal and execution risks, which risks may be exacerbated by the Group’s other ongoing restructuring efforts. There is no certainty that the Group will be able to complete the legal restructuring and migration of customers by the 1 January 2019 deadline or in accordance with future rules and the consequences of non-compliance are currently uncertain.

The Group has been, and will remain, in a period of major restructuring through to 2019, which carries significant execution and operational risks, and the Group may not be a viable, competitive, customer-focused and profitable bank as a result. The Group’s ability to meet the targets and expectations which accompany the Group’s transformation programme, including with respect to its return to profitability and the timing thereof,  are subject to various internal and external risks and are based on a number of key assumptions and judgments any of which may prove to be inaccurate.

Operational risks are inherent in the Group’s businesses and these risks are heightened as the Group implements its transformation programme, including significant cost reductions, the UK ring-fencing regime and compliance with its State Aid obligations, against the backdrop of legal and regulatory changes.

The Group is exposed to cyberattacks and a failure to prevent or defend against such attacks could have a material adverse effect on the Group’s operations, results of operations or reputation. 

The Group’s business performance and financial position could be adversely affected if its capital is not managed effectively or if it is unable to meet its capital targets. Effective management of the Group’s capital is critical to its ability to operate its businesses, comply with its regulatory obligations, pursue its strategy of returning to stand-alone strength, resume dividend payments on its ordinary shares and maintain discretionary payments.

Failure by the Group to comply with regulatory capital and leverage requirements may result in intervention by its regulators and loss of investor confidence, and may have a material adverse effect on its results of operations, financial condition and reputation and may result in distribution restrictions and adversely impact existing shareholders.

114 

 


 

 

Summary risk factors

 

Failure by the Group to comply with its capital requirements or to maintain sufficient distributable reserves may result in the application of restrictions on its ability to make discretionary distributions, including the payment of dividends to its ordinary shareholders and coupons on certain capital instruments.

The Group is subject to stress tests mandated by its regulators in the UK and in Europe which may result in additional capital requirements or management actions which, in turn, may impact the Group’s financial condition, results of operations and investor confidence or result in restrictions on distributions.

As a result of extensive reforms being implemented relating to the resolution of financial institutions within the UK, the EU and globally, material additional requirements will arise to ensure that financial institutions maintain sufficient loss-absorbing capacity. Such changes to the funding and regulatory capital framework may require the Group to meet higher capital levels than the Group anticipated within its strategic plans and affect the Group’s funding costs.

The Group’s borrowing costs, its access to the debt capital markets and its liquidity depend significantly on its credit ratings and, to a lesser extent, on the rating of the UK Government.  

The Group’s ability to meet its obligations including its funding commitments depends on the Group’s ability to access sources of liquidity and funding. If the Group is unable to raise funds through deposits and/or in the capital markets, its liquidity position could be adversely affected or it may result in higher funding costs which may impact the Group’s margins and profitability.

The Group’s businesses and performance can be negatively affected by actual or perceived economic conditions in the UK and globally and other global risks, including risks arising out of geopolitical events and political developments and the Group will be increasingly impacted by developments in the UK as its operations become increasingly concentrated in the UK.

Changes in interest rates or foreign exchange rates have significantly affected and will continue to affect the Group’s business and results of operations. A continued period of low interest rates and yield curves and spreads may affect the interest rate margin realised between lending and borrowing costs, the effect of which may be heightened during periods of liquidity stress.

The Group’s earnings and financial condition have been, and its future earnings and financial condition may continue to be, materially affected by depressed asset valuations resulting from poor market conditions.

The financial performance of the Group has been, and may continue to be, materially affected by customer and counterparty credit quality and deterioration in credit quality could arise due to prevailing economic and market conditions and legal and regulatory developments.

The Group’s operations are highly dependent on its IT systems. A failure of the Group’s IT systems, including as a result of the lack of, or untimely investments, could adversely affect its operations, competitive position and investor and customer confidence and expose the Group to regulatory sanctions.

The Group’s businesses are subject to substantial regulation and oversight. Significant regulatory developments and increased scrutiny by the Group’s key regulators has had and is likely to continue to increase compliance and conduct risks and could have a material adverse effect on how the Group conducts its business and on its results of operations and financial condition.

The Group is subject to pension risks and may be required to make additional contributions to cover pension funding deficits as a result of degraded economic conditions or as a result of the restructuring of its pension schemes in relation to the implementation of the UK ring-fencing regime.

Pension risk and changes to the Group’s funding of its pension schemes may have a significant impact on the Group’s capital position.

The Group relies on valuation, capital and stress test models to conduct its business, assess its risk exposure and anticipate capital and funding requirements. Failure of these models to provide accurate results or accurately reflect changes in the micro- and macroeconomic environment in which the Group operates or findings of deficiencies by the Group’s regulators resulting in increased regulatory capital requirements could have a material adverse effect on the Group’s business, capital and results.

The reported results of the Group are sensitive to the accounting policies, assumptions and estimates that underlie the preparation of its financial statements. Its results in future periods may be affected by changes to applicable accounting rules and standards.

The Group’s operations entail inherent reputational risk, i.e., the risk of brand damage and/or financial loss due to a failure to meet stakeholders’ expectations of the Group’s conduct, performance and business profile.

115 

 


 

 

Summary risk factors

 

The Group is exposed to conduct risk which may adversely impact the Group or its employees and may result in conduct having a detrimental impact on the Group’s customers or counterparties.

The Group may be adversely impacted if its risk management is not effective and there may be significant challenges in maintaining the effectiveness of the Group’s risk management framework as a result of the number of strategic and restructuring initiatives being carried out by the RBS Group simultaneously.

A failure by the Group to embed a strong risk culture across the organisation could adversely affect the Group’s ability to achieve its strategic objective.

The Group’s business and results of operations may be adversely affected by increasing competitive pressures and technology disruption in the markets in which it operates.

The Group operates in markets that are subject to intense scrutiny by the competition authorities and its business and results of operations could be materially affected by competition rulings and other government measures.

As a result of the commercial and regulatory environment in which it operates, the Group may be unable to attract or retain senior management (including members of the board) and other skilled personnel of the appropriate qualification and competence. The Group may also suffer if it does not maintain good employee relations.

HM Treasury (or UKFI on its behalf) may be able to exercise a significant degree of influence over the Group and any further offer or sale of its interests may affect the price of securities issued by the Group.

The Group is committed to executing the run-down and sale of certain businesses, portfolios and assets forming part of the businesses and activities being exited by the Group. Failure by the Group to do so on commercially favourable terms could have a material adverse effect on the Group’s operations, operating results, financial position and reputation.

The value or effectiveness of any credit protection that the Group has purchased depends on the value of the underlying assets and the financial condition of the insurers and counterparties.

The Group and its subsidiaries are subject to a new and evolving framework on recovery and resolution, the impact of which remains uncertain, and which may result in additional compliance challenges and costs.

The Group may become subject to the application of stabilisation or resolution powers in certain significant stress situations, which may result in various actions being taken in relation to the Group and any securities of the Group, including the write-off, write-down or conversion of the Group’s securities.

In the UK and in other jurisdictions, the Group is responsible for contributing to compensation schemes in respect of banks and other authorised financial services firms that are unable to meet their obligations to customers.

The Group’s results could be adversely affected in the event of goodwill impairment.

Recent and anticipated changes in the tax legislation in the UK are likely to result in increased tax payments by the Group and may impact the recoverability of certain deferred tax assets recognised by the Group.

 

116 

 


 

 

 Statement of directors’ responsibilities

 

We, the directors listed below, confirm that to the best of our knowledge:

 

·

the condensed financial statements have been prepared in accordance with IAS 34 'Interim Financial Reporting';

 

 

·

the interim management report includes a fair review of the information required by DTR 4.2.7R (indication of important events during the first six months and description of principal risks and uncertainties for the remaining six months of the year); and

 

 

·

the interim management report includes a fair review of the information required by DTR 4.2.8R (disclosure of related parties' transactions and changes therein).

 

By order of the Board

 

 

 

 

Howard Davies

Ross McEwan

Ewen Stevenson

Chairman

Chief Executive

Chief Financial Officer

 

3 August 2017

 

 

 

Board of directors

 

Chairman

Executive directors

Non-executive directors

Howard Davies

Ross McEwan

Ewen Stevenson

 

 

Sandy Crombie  

Frank Dangeard

Alison Davis

Morten Friis

Robert Gillespie

John Hughes

Penny Hughes

Yasmin Jetha

Brendan Nelson

Sheila Noakes

Mike Rogers

Mark Seligman

 

117 

 


 

 

Additional information

 

Share information

 

30 June 

2017 

31 March 

2017 

31 December 

2016 

 

 

 

 

Ordinary share price

247.2p

242.1p 

224.6p 

 

 

 

 

Number of ordinary shares in issue

11,876m

11,842m 

11,823m 

 

 

Other financial data

The following table shows RBS’s issued and fully paid share capital, owners’ equity and indebtedness on a consolidated basis in accordance with IFRS as at 30 June 2017.

 

As at 
30 June 

 2017 

 

£m 

 

 

Share capital - allotted, called up and fully paid

 

Ordinary shares of £1

11,876

Retained income and other reserves

37,329

 

 

Owners’ equity

49,205

 

 

RBS indebtedness

 

Subordinated liabilities

14,724

Debt securities in issue

31,997

 

 

Total indebtedness

46,721

 

 

Total capitalisation and indebtedness

95,926

 

Under IFRS, certain preference shares are classified as debt and are included in subordinated liabilities in the table above.

RBSG has given notice to holders of preference shares and similar securities as follows:

 

-          4 August 2017 - the redemption on 3 December 2017 of the Non-cumulative Sterling Preference Shares Series 1 (ADS ISIN: XS0121856859). The redemption of these debt accounted Preference Shares is to be paid out of the distributable reserves of RBSG and will reduce subordinated liabilities by approximately £15 million.

-          7 August 2017 - the redemption on 4 September 2017 of series F (ADS CUSIP: 780097804 ADS ISIN: US7800978048), series H (ADS CUSIP: 780097879; ADS ISIN: US7800978790), and series L (ADS CUSIP: 780097788; ADS ISIN: US7800977883) Non-cumulative Dollar Preference Shares and the redemption on 3 December 2017 of the Non-cumulative Series 1 Dollar Preference Shares (ADS CUSIP: 780097AE1; ADS ISIN: US780097AE13). The redemption of these debt accounted Preference Shares is to be paid out of the distributable reserves of RBSG and will reduce subordinated liabilities by approximately £0.93 billion (equivalent).

-          7 August 2017 - the redemption on 5 October 2017 of the outstanding CAD600,000,000 Fixed/Floating Undated Callable StepUp Tier 1 Notes (the "CAD Tier 1 Notes") (ISIN: CA780097AT83 / CUSIP: 780097AT8 / Common Code: 032385311) and the outstanding $1,600,000,000 Fixed Rate/Floating Rate Preferred Capital Securities (the "USD Capital Securities") (ISIN: US780097AS09 /XS0323865047 / CUSIP: 780097AS0 / Common Code: 32386504). The redemption of these securities will reduce the additional paid-in equity of RBSG by approximately £0.43 billion (equivalent).

 

Other than the details above the information in the table above has not changed materially since 30 June 2017.

 

 

 

 

 

118 

 


 

 

Additional information

 

Other financial data (continued) 

 

 

 

Year ended 31 December

 

Half year ended 

30 June 

2017 (1) 

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Return on average total assets (2) 

0.2%

(0.8%)

(0.2%)

(0.3%)

(0.7%)

(0.4%)

Return on average ordinary shareholders’ equity (3) 

4.7%

(15.3%)

(4.0%)

(6.5%)

(14.7%)

(8.9%)

Average total equity as a percentage

  of average total assets

6.5%

6.2%

6.0%

5.8% 

5.5%

5.2%

Ratio of earnings to combined fixed

  charges  and preference share dividends (4,5) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  - including interest on deposits

2.31

(0.45)

0.17

1.52 

(0.51)

0.13 

  - excluding interest on deposits

3.73

(2.13)

(1.17)

2.61 

(5.12)

(3.73)

Ratio of earnings to fixed charges only (4,5) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  - including interest on deposits

2.88

(0.53)

0.19

1.67 

(0.55)

0.13 

  - excluding interest on deposits

6.36

(3.25)

(1.60)

3.58 

(6.95)

(4.80)

 

Notes:

(1)

Based on unaudited numbers.

(2)

Return on average total assets represents loss attributable to ordinary shareholders as a percentage of average total assets.

(3)

Return on average ordinary shareholders' equity represents loss attributable to ordinary shareholders expressed as a percentage of average ordinary shareholders' equity.

(4)

For this purpose, earnings consist of income before tax and non-controlling interests, plus fixed charges less the unremitted income of associated undertakings (share of profits less dividends received). Fixed charges consist of total interest expense, including or excluding interest on deposits and debt securities in issue, as appropriate, and the proportion of rental expense deemed representative of the interest factor (one third of total rental expenses).

(5)

The earnings for the years ended 31 December 2016, 2015, 2013 and 2012 were inadequate to cover total fixed charges and preference share dividends. The coverage deficiency for total fixed charges and preference share dividends for the years ended 31 December 2016, 2015, 2013 and 2012 was £4,586 million, £3,088 million, £9,247 million and £6,353 million respectively. The coverage deficiency for fixed charges for the years ended 31 December 2016, 2015, 2013 and 2012 was £4,082 million, £2,703 million, £8,849 million and £6,052 million respectively.

 

119 

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Appendix 1

 

 

 

Capital and risk management

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

                                                                                                                                                   

 

 

Page

Presentation of information

1

Capital, liquidity and funding risk

Key developments

2

Management of legacy securities

3

Minimum capital requirements

3

Capital flow statement and resources

4

Loss absorbing capital

6

Risk-weighted assets

7

Key liquidity metrics

8

Liquidity portfolio

8

Funding sources

9

Credit risk

Management basis:

 

  Portfolio summary

10

  Personal portfolios

12

  Mortgage lending

13

  Commercial real estate

15

  Shipping

17

Balance sheet analysis:

 

  Loans, provisions and related credit metrics: segmental analysis

18

  REIL and provisions: segmental analysis

19

  Loans, provisions and related credit metrics: sector analysis

20

  Debt securities and AFS reserves

22

  Derivatives and valuation reserves

24

Market risk

Key developments

25

Non-trading portfolios

25

  Value-at-risk

25

  Sensitivity of projected net interest earnings

26

  Structural hedging

27

  Foreign exchange risk

28

Trading portfolios

29

Other risks

Operational risk

30

Conduct & regulatory risk

30

           

 

Presentation of information

Except as otherwise indicated, information in the Capital and risk management appendix is within the scope of the independent review report by Ernst & Young LLP. Unless otherwise indicated, disclosures in this section include disposal groups in the relevant exposures.

 

For a description of framework, governance, methodology and basis of preparation for each of the risks presented in the appendix, refer to the 2016 Annual Report on Form 20-F Capital and risk management.

1 

 


 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Capital, liquidity and funding risk

Capital risk is the risk that the Group has insufficient capital and other loss absorbing debt instruments to operate effectively including meeting minimum regulatory requirements, operating within Board approved risk appetite and supporting its strategic goals. Liquidity risk is the risk that RBS cannot meet its actual or potential obligations when they fall due. Funding risk is the risk that RBS cannot maintain a diversified, stable and cost effective funding base.

 

Key developments (Not within the scope of EY’s review report)

·          RBS continued to align its capital and funding structure towards meeting future regulatory requirements during the first half of 2017, while supporting the lending growth of its core franchises.

·          The CET1 ratio remains ahead of the 13% target at 14.8%, a 140 basis point increase on the 2016 year end driven by £939 million attributable profit and planned RWA reductions in Capital Resolution, NatWest Markets and Commercial Banking.

·          The securities to be called in Q3 2017 (see Management of legacy securities) reduced the transitional Tier 1 and Total capital ratios by 60 and 90 basis points respectively. The end-point Tier 1 and Total ratios were unaffected by the calls as these securities are not CRR eligible.

·          CRR leverage ratio was unchanged at 5.1%. UK leverage ratio improved from 5.6% to 5.8% reflecting higher central bank balances which are excluded from the UK framework.

·          In the first half of 2017, RBS issued £7.1 billion of new securities:

o         RBSG plc issued £3.6 billion (€1.5 billion and $3.0 billion) of MREL-eligible senior debt, bringing the total issuance in 2016 and 2017 to date to £7.8 billion;

o         RBS plc issued £1.25 billion and €1.25 billion covered bonds, the first such issuance for RBS since 2012. The covered bonds help diversify the funding profile of the bank; and

o         RBS plc issued £1.1 billion of senior unsecured notes to support the future standalone operations of NatWest Markets plc.

·          RBS continued to participate in the Bank of England’s Term Funding Scheme (TFS), with £9 billion drawn during Q1 2017. Total participation under the scheme was £14 billion.

·          Funding activity was supported by tightening of spreads for issuances, reflecting improving markets and recognition of RBS’s strategic progress in de-risking. RBS also benefitted from Moody’s upgrading RBSG plc’s senior debt rating to investment grade.

·          The first half of 2017 included £4.1 billion of redemptions and maturities of capital securities. This included £3.1 billion of legacy Tier 1 and 2 securities, and £0.3 billion from the tender of certain Tier 2 securities of RBS N.V.

·          Additionally, senior unsecured debt securities of £2.6 billion were redeemed or matured in H1 2017, reflecting the continued run-off of legacy funding.

·          In May 2017, the Bank of England published indicative data on the minimum amount of loss-absorbing resources for the larger UK banks comprising MREL plus buffers. RBS is expected to require loss-absorbing resources of 24.0% of RWAs by 1 January 2020, rising to 27.8% by 1 January 2022. Total loss absorbing capital, including the benefit of legacy securities, was 25.5% of RWAs at 30 June 2017.

·          The current estimated headroom over the fully phased maximum distributable amount trigger in 2019 is 2.4%, based on the target CET1 ratio of 13.0% and minimum capital requirements of 10.6% (see below). This remains subject to change.

·          The liquidity portfolio increased by £14 billion in H1 2017 to £178 billion, mainly within primary liquidity which increased by £16 billion to £111 billion. This build up in liquidity is driven by TFS participation, increased deposits in the franchises, and Treasury issuance, offset by lending growth, funding maturities and calls of securities.

·          The rise in primary liquidity resulted in higher liquidity coverage ratio (LCR) and stressed outflow coverage (SOC) of 145%1 and 180% respectively. The increase in LCR reflected preparations for the  settlement of litigation and conduct costs, including FHFA, and the rise in regulatory requirements from 90% to 100% by 1 January 2018.

·          The net stable funding ratio rose to 123%, above the minimum target of 100%. This primarily reflected growth in the customer deposit base, partially offset by lending growth.

 

(1)        The LCR and the SOC ratio above exclude the impact of the FHFA litigation settlement announced on 12 July 2017. The estimated impact of the settlement on both the LCR and SOC ratio is a 6% reduction to 139% and 174% respectively. The settlement will also reduce the liquidity portfolio by approximately £3.65 billion. There is minimal impact on the NSFR as the settlement was broadly in line with provision.

2 

 


 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

  

Capital, liquidity and funding risk (Not within the scope of EY’s review report)

Management of legacy securities

RBS continues to manage its capital stack for value, including considerations of regulatory value, relative funding cost and rating agency considerations.

 

RBS has decided not to exercise the current call option on the non-cumulative US dollar preference share series U and euro preference shares series 3. These equity accounted ‘non-step’ securities with combined nominal value of £0.8 billion(1)  can provide transitional Tier 1 and Tier 2 benefit through to the end of the CRR grandfathering period in 2021. The CET1 impact from foreign currency translation of approximately £370 million(2) that would be realised upon redemption  is not considered to be economical compared with the securities’ ongoing regulatory value and relative coupon cost. RBS has instead decided to prioritise calling other legacy Tier 1 instruments which provide higher economic benefit.

 

RBS intends to redeem Canadian dollar and US dollar fixed/floating rate Tier 1 securities with combined nominal value of £0.4 billion(3) in October 2017, with formal notice in line with the call period which opens 6 August 2017. As these equity accounted securities contain an incentive to redeem, they are not expected to provide transitional Tier 1 or MREL value following their ‘step-up’ in October 2017. This redemption will lead to a CET1 reduction of approximately £260 million(2) from foreign currency translation and deferred coupon payments in Q3 2017(4).

 

RBS also intend to redeem seven debt accounted Tier 1 securities with nominal value of £1.5 billion(5) over the next few months in line with their relevant terms. Redemption of these securities does not involve a CET1 impact from foreign currency translation and provides coupon savings ranging up to approximately 9%.

 

 

Notes:

(1)

US780097AU54, XS0323734961 note nominal value reflects balance sheet notional, based on exchange rate at time of issue.

(2)

Based on exchange rates as at 30 June 2017.

(3)

CA780097AT83, US780097AS09, note nominal value reflects balance sheet notional, based on exchange rate at time of issue.

(4)

Reflects satisfaction of forgone coupon payments during the two year EC imposed moratorium, specific to these cumulative instruments.

(5)

US780097AE13, US6385398820, US7800978790, XS0121856859, US7800977883, US7800978048 and XS0159056208.

 

Minimum capital requirements

The Group is subject to minimum requirements in relation to the amount of capital it must hold in relation to its RWAs. The table below summarises the minimum ratios of capital to RWAs that the Group is expected to have to meet once all currently adopted regulation is fully implemented by 1 January 2019.

 

Minimum requirements

Type

CET1

Total Tier 1

Total capital

System wide

Pillar 1 minimum requirements

  4.5%

  6.0% 

  8.0%

 

Capital conservation buffer

  2.5%

  2.5%

  2.5%

 

UK countercyclical capital buffer

  0.5%

  0.5%

  0.5%

 

G-SIB buffer

  1.0%

  1.0%

  1.0%

Bank specific

Pillar 2A

  2.1%

  2.9%

  3.8%

Total (excluding PRA buffer)

 

10.6%

12.9%

15.8%

 

 

 

 

 

Capital ratios at 30 June 2017

 

14.8%

16.7%

20.0%

 

Notes: Refer to page 236 of the 2016 Annual Report on form 20-F, updated for UK countercyclical buffer change in June 2017:

(1)

The Bank of England’s Financial Policy Committee (FPC) increased the UK countercyclical capital buffer rate from 0.0% to 0.5%, with effect from June 2018; the rate may increase to 1.0% with effect from November 2018. The estimated own funds requirement impact for the Group, based on the countercyclical buffer rate of 0.5% and 30 June 2017 exposures, was £708 million.

(2)

The FPC and PRA launched a joint consultation, to exclude claims on central banks from the UK leverage ratio framework so as not to restrict the ability to draw on central bank liquidity facilities. The proposal also increases the minimum UK leverage ratio requirement from 3.0% to 3.25%. The CRR leverage ratio requirements, which include central bank claims, are not impacted by the proposal.

 

3 

 


 

 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Capital, liquidity and funding risk: Capital flow statement (Not within the scope of EY’s review report)

Refer to Analysis of results - Capital and leverage for information on Capital, RWAs and leverage and the Pillar 3 supplement for capital and leverage relating to significant subsidiaries and also CRR templates. The table below analyses the movement in end-point CRR CET1, AT1 and Tier 2 capital for the half year ended 30 June 2017.

 

  

CET1

AT1

Tier 2

Total

Capital flow statement

£m

£m

£m

£m

  

  

  

  

  

At 1 January 2017

30,623 

4,041 

9,161 

43,825 

Profit for the period

939 

939 

Own credit

162 

162 

Share capital and reserve movements in respect of employee share schemes

117 

117 

Ordinary shares issued

80 

80 

Foreign exchange reserve

96 

96 

Available-for-sale reserves

21 

21 

Goodwill and intangibles deduction

13 

13 

Deferred tax assets

29 

29 

Prudential valuation adjustments

(322)

(322)

Expected loss over impairment provisions

145 

145 

Net dated subordinated debt/grandfathered instruments

(1,820)

(1,820)

Foreign exchange movements

(234)

(234)

Other movements

(29)

(29)

  

  

  

  

  

At 30 June 2017

31,874 

4,041 

7,107 

43,022 

 

4 

 


 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

End-point CRR basis (1) 

  

PRA transitional basis (1) 

  

30 June

31 December

  

30 June

31 December

  

2017 

2016 

  

2017 

2016 

  

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

Shareholders' equity (excluding

  

  

  

  

  

  non-controlling interests)

  

  

  

  

  

Shareholders' equity

49,205 

48,609 

  

49,205 

48,609 

Preference shares - equity

(2,565)

(2,565)

  

(2,565)

(2,565)

Other equity instruments

(4,491)

(4,582)

  

(4,491)

(4,582)

  

42,149 

41,462 

  

42,149 

41,462 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Regulatory adjustments and deductions

  

  

  

  

  

Own credit

(142)

(304)

  

(142)

(304)

Defined benefit pension fund adjustment

(186)

(208)

  

(186)

(208)

Cash flow hedging reserve

(575)

(1,030)

  

(575)

(1,030)

Deferred tax assets

(877)

(906)

  

(877)

(906)

Prudential valuation adjustments

(854)

(532)

  

(854)

(532)

Goodwill and other intangible assets

(6,467)

(6,480)

  

(6,467)

(6,480)

Expected losses less impairments

(1,226)

(1,371)

  

(1,226)

(1,371)

Other regulatory adjustments

52 

(8)

  

52 

(8)

  

(10,275)

(10,839)

  

(10,275)

(10,839)

  

  

  

  

  

  

CET1 capital

31,874 

30,623 

  

31,874 

30,623 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Additional Tier 1 (AT1) capital

  

  

  

  

  

Eligible AT1

4,041 

4,041 

  

4,041 

4,041 

Qualifying instruments and related

  

  

  

  

  

  share premium subject to phase out

  

3,450 

5,416 

Qualifying instruments issued by

  

  

  

  

  

  subsidiaries and held by third parties

  

140 

339 

  

  

  

  

  

  

AT1 capital

4,041 

4,041 

  

7,631 

9,796 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Tier 1 capital

35,915 

34,664 

  

39,505 

40,419 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Qualifying Tier 2 capital

  

  

  

  

  

Qualifying instruments and related

  

  

  

  

  

  share premium

6,608 

6,893 

  

6,745 

7,066 

Qualifying instruments issued by

  

  

  

  

  

  subsidiaries and held by third parties

499 

2,268 

  

2,101 

4,818 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Tier 2 capital

7,107 

9,161 

  

8,846 

11,884 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total regulatory capital

43,022 

43,825 

  

48,351 

52,303 

 

Capital metrics (Not within the scope of EY's review report)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total risk-weighted assets (£m)

215,400 

228,200 

  

215,400 

228,200 

Risk asset ratios

  

  

  

  

  

CET1(%)

14.8 

13.4 

  

14.8 

13.4 

Tier 1 (%)

16.7 

15.2 

  

18.3 

17.7 

Total (%)

20.0 

19.2 

  

22.4 

22.9 

 

Note:

(1)

Capital Requirements Regulation (CRR) as implemented by the Prudential Regulation Authority in the UK, with effect from 1 January 2014. All regulatory adjustments and deductions to CET1 have been applied in full for the end-point CRR basis with the exception of unrealised gains on AFS securities which has been included from 2015 for the PRA transitional basis.

5 

 


 

 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Capital, liquidity and funding risk: Loss absorbing capital (Not within the scope of EY’s review report)

 

The following table illustrates the components of estimated loss absorbing capital (LAC) in RBSG plc and operating subsidiaries and includes external issuances only. The table is prepared on a transitional basis, including the benefit of regulatory capital instruments issued from operating companies, to the extent they meet the MREL criteria. Regulatory and LAC values exclude instruments intended to be redeemed (see Management of legacy securities) as at 30 June 2017. These securities will be derecognised from the balance sheet on the date of redemption.

  

30 June 2017

  

31 December 2016

  

  

Balance

  

  

  

  

Balance

  

  

  

Par

sheet

Regulatory

LAC

  

Par

sheet

Regulatory

LAC

  

value (1) 

value

value (2) 

value (3) 

  

value (1)

value

value (2) 

value (3)

  

£bn

£bn

£bn

£bn

  

£bn

£bn

£bn

£bn

CET1 capital (4) 

31.9 

31.9 

31.9 

31.9 

  

30.6 

30.6 

30.6 

30.6 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Tier 1 capital: end-point

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

   CRR compliant AT1

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

of which: RBSG (holdco)

4.0 

4.0 

4.0 

4.0 

  

4.0 

4.0 

4.0 

4.0 

of which: RBSG operating

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  subsidiaries (opcos)

  

  

4.0 

4.0 

4.0 

4.0 

  

4.0 

4.0 

4.0 

4.0 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Tier 1 capital: non end-point

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

   CRR compliant

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

of which: holdco

5.3 

5.4 

3.5 

2.7 

  

5.5 

5.6 

5.5 

4.0 

of which: opcos

0.3 

0.3 

0.1 

0.1 

  

0.3 

0.3 

0.3 

0.3 

  

5.6 

5.7 

3.6 

2.8 

  

5.8 

5.9 

5.8 

4.3 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Tier 2 capital: end-point

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

    CRR compliant

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

of which: holdco

6.7 

6.8 

6.6 

5.1 

  

6.9 

7.0 

6.9 

5.3 

of which: opcos

2.3 

2.4 

0.7 

0.5 

  

6.0 

6.4 

4.0 

5.6 

  

9.0 

9.2 

7.3 

5.6 

  

12.9 

13.4 

10.9 

10.9 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Tier 2 capital: non end-point

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

   CRR compliant

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

of which: holdco

0.4 

0.4 

0.1 

0.1 

  

0.4 

0.4 

0.2 

0.1 

of which: opcos

2.1 

2.4 

1.8 

2.0 

  

2.5 

2.7 

2.1 

2.1 

  

2.5 

2.8 

1.9 

2.1 

  

2.9 

3.1 

2.3 

2.2 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Senior unsecured debt

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

    securities issued by:

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

RBSG holdco

9.9 

9.9 

8.5 

  

6.9 

6.8 

5.0 

RBSG opcos

15.6 

15.8 

  

14.8 

15.0 

  

25.5 

25.7 

8.5 

  

21.7 

21.8 

5.0 

Total

78.5 

79.3 

48.7 

54.9 

  

77.9 

78.8 

53.6 

57.0 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

RWAs

  

  

  

215.4 

  

  

  

  

228.2 

Leverage exposure

  

  

  

701.8 

  

  

  

  

683.3 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

LAC as a ratio of RWAs (4) 

  

  

  

25.5%

  

  

  

  

24.9%

LAC as a ratio of leverage

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

   exposure

  

  

  

7.8%

  

  

  

  

8.3%

 

Notes:

(1)

Par value reflects the nominal value of securities issued.

(2)

Regulatory capital instruments issued from operating companies are included in the transitional LAC calculation, to the extent they meet the MREL criteria.

(3)

LAC value reflects RBS’s interpretation of the Bank of England’s policy statement on the minimum requirements for own funds and eligible liabilities (MREL), published in November 2016. MREL policy and requirements remain subject to further potential development, as such RBS estimated position remains subject to potential change. Liabilities excluded from LAC include instruments with less than one year remaining to maturity, structured debt, operating company senior debt, and other instruments that do not meet the MREL criteria. Includes Tier 1 and Tier 2 securities prior to incentive to redeem.

(4)

Corresponding shareholders’ equity was £49.2 billion (31 December 2016 - £48.6 billion).

(5)

Regulatory amounts reported for AT1, Tier 1 and Tier 2 instruments are before grandfathering and other restrictions imposed by CRR.

 

Major movements in the first half of the year included the issue of £3.6 billion equivalent senior securities from RBSG plc and the redemption of approximately £3.1 billion equivalent Tier 2 securities, primarily within RBS plc.

6 

 


 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Capital, liquidity and funding risk: Risk-weighted assets (Not within the scope of EY’s review report)

The tables below analyse the movement in RWAs on the end-point CRR basis during the half year, by key drivers.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Non-counterparty

Counterparty

  

Operational

  

  

credit risk

credit risk

Market risk

risk

Total

  

£bn

£bn 

£bn 

£bn

£bn 

  

  

  

  

  

  

At 1 January 2017

162.2 

22.9 

17.4 

25.7 

228.2 

Foreign exchange movement

(0.5)

(0.2)

(0.7)

Business movements

(2.6)

(4.9)

(0.9)

(1.9)

(10.3)

Risk parameter changes

(1.8)

(1.8)

  

  

  

  

  

  

At 30 June 2017

157.3 

17.8 

16.5 

23.8 

215.4 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

The table below analyses segmental RWAs.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Ulster

  

  

  

  

  

  

Central

  

  

  

Bank

Commercial

Private

  

  

Capital

  

items

  

  

UK PBB

RoI

Banking

Banking

RBSI

NWM

Resolution

W&G

& other

Total

  

£bn

£bn

£bn

£bn

£bn

£bn

£bn

£bn

£bn

£bn

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

At 1 January 2017

32.7 

18.1 

78.5 

8.6 

9.5 

35.2 

34.5 

9.6 

1.5 

228.2 

Foreign exchange movement

0.4 

(0.2)

(0.3)

(0.5)

(0.1)

(0.7)

Business movements

0.8 

(1.0)

0.4 

(0.1)

(3.2)

(7.8)

(0.2)

0.8 

(10.3)

Risk parameter changes (1) 

(0.6)

(0.5)

(1.1)

0.4 

(1.8)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

At 30 June 2017

32.9 

18.0 

76.2 

9.0 

9.4 

31.7 

26.6 

9.4 

2.2 

215.4 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Credit risk

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - non-counterparty

25.0 

17.0 

69.8 

8.0 

8.7 

5.8 

15.0 

8.0 

157.3 

  - counterparty

0.1 

11.0 

6.7 

17.8 

Market risk

11.4 

3.1 

2.0 

16.5 

Operational risk

7.9 

0.9 

6.4 

1.0 

0.7 

3.5 

1.8 

1.4 

0.2 

23.8 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

At 30 June 2017

32.9 

18.0 

76.2 

9.0 

9.4 

31.7 

26.6 

9.4 

2.2 

215.4 

                               

 

Note:

(1)                   Risk parameter changes relate to charges in credit quality metrics of customers and counterparties such as probability of default (PD) and loss given default (LGD).

 

RWAs decreased by £12.8 billion in H1 2017, of which £7.9 billion was in Capital Resolution. 

The reduction in Capital Resolution reflected continuing exit strategy with the main changes in Markets (£4.2 billion) and Shipping (£1.2 billion) portfolios.

Risk metric improvements in Commercial Banking and planned reduction of exposures with weak returns reduced RWAs by £2.3 billion. Increased lending has led to higher RWAs in Private Banking.

In both UK PBB and Ulster Bank RoI, the RWA decrease resulting from recalibration improvements in mortgage risk parameter models and improved credit quality, were offset by the impact of lending growth and foreign currency movements respectively.

NatWest Markets RWAs decreased by £3.5 billion driven by business optimisations, maturities and lower exposures. 

The increase in Central items is driven by higher foreign currency forward positions held in Treasury in anticipation of conduct settlement and calling of equity instruments in Q3 2017.

The operational risk recalculation resulted in a £1.9 billion RWA decrease.

7 

 


 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Capital, liquidity and funding risk: Key liquidity metrics (Not within the scope of EY’s review report)  

The table below sets out the key liquidity and related metrics monitored by RBS.

 

  

30 June

31 March

31 December

2017 

2017 

2016 

  

  

  

  

Liquidity portfolio

£178bn

£160bn

£164bn

Liquidity coverage ratio (LCR) (1)

145%

129%

123%

Stressed outflow coverage (SOC) (1) 

180%

146%

139%

Net stable funding ratio (NSFR) (1) 

123%

120%

121%

Loan:deposit ratio

91%

93%

91%

 

Note: Refer to page 259 of the 2016 Annual Report on form 20-F.

(1)

The metrics stated exclude the impact of the litigation settlement with FHFA, as announced on 12 July 2017. The estimated impact of the settlement on both the LCR and SOC ratio is a 6% reduction to 139% and 174% respectively. The settlement will also reduce the liquidity portfolio by approximately £3.65 billion. There is minimal impact on the NSFR as the settlement was broadly in line with provision.

 

Liquidity portfolio

The table below shows the liquidity portfolio by product, liquidity value and by carrying value. Liquidity value is lower than carrying value as it is stated after discounts applied by the Bank of England and other central banks to instruments, within the secondary liquidity portfolio, eligible for discounting.

 

  

Liquidity value

  

Period end

  

Average - H1 2017

  

UK DoLSub (1) 

Other 

Total 

  

UK DoLSub

Total

30 June 2017

£m 

£m 

£m 

  

£m 

£m 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Cash and balances at central banks

79,909 

2,724 

82,633 

  

71,144 

74,072 

Government and US agency bonds

  

  

  

  

  

  

  AAA rated

3,994 

1,251 

5,245 

  

4,236 

5,988 

  AA- to AA+

21,822 

1,533 

23,355 

  

19,652 

20,533 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

25,816 

2,784 

28,600 

  

23,888 

26,521 

Primary liquidity

105,725 

5,508 

111,233 

  

95,032 

100,593 

Secondary liquidity (2)

66,112 

574 

66,686 

  

58,804 

59,417 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total liquidity value

171,837 

6,082 

177,919 

  

153,836 

160,010 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total carrying value

196,786 

6,243 

203,029 

  

  

  

 

31 December 2016

  

  

  

  

Average - FY 2016

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Cash and balances at central banks

66,598 

2,542 

69,140 

  

56,772 

59,489 

Government and US agency bonds

  

  

  

  

  

  

  AAA rated

3,936 

1,331 

5,267 

  

3,692 

4,539 

  AA- to AA+

19,348 

1,244 

20,592 

  

18,757 

21,106 

  Below AA

237 

237 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

23,284 

2,812 

26,096 

  

22,449 

25,645 

Primary liquidity

89,882 

5,354 

95,236 

  

79,221 

85,134 

Secondary liquidity (2) 

68,007 

683 

68,690 

  

65,588 

66,774 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total liquidity value

157,889 

6,037 

163,926 

  

144,809 

151,908 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total carrying value

184,136 

6,209 

190,345 

  

  

  

 

Notes:

(1)

The PRA regulated UK DoLSub comprising RBS’s five licensed deposit-taking UK banks: The Royal Bank of Scotland plc, National Westminster Bank Plc, Ulster Bank Limited, Coutts & Company and Adam & Company PLC. In addition, certain of RBS’s significant operating subsidiaries - Ulster Bank Ireland DAC and RBS N.V. - hold managed portfolios that comply with local regulations that may differ from PRA rules.

(2)

Comprises assets eligible for discounting at the Bank of England and other central banks.

 

8 

 


 

 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Capital, liquidity and funding risk: Funding sources

The composition of RBS’s balance sheet is a function of the broad array of product offerings and diverse markets served by its core businesses. The structural composition of the balance sheet is augmented as needed through active management of both asset and liability portfolios. The objective of these activities is to optimise the liquidity profile, while ensuring adequate coverage of all cash requirements under extreme stress conditions.

The table below shows the carrying values of the principal funding sources, based on contractual maturity.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

30 June 2017

  

31 December 2016

  

Short-term 

Long-term 

  

  

Short-term 

Long-term 

  

  

less than 

more than 

Total 

  

less than 

more than 

Total 

1 year 

1 year 

1 year 

1 year 

  

£m 

£m 

£m 

  

£m 

£m 

£m 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Deposits by banks

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

 Derivative cash collateral

16,016 

16,016 

  

20,674 

20,674 

 Other deposits (1) 

7,045 

15,904 

22,949 

  

6,130 

6,513 

12,643 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

23,061 

15,904 

38,965 

  

26,804 

6,513 

33,317 

Debt securities in issue

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

 Certificates of deposit

4,884 

4,884 

  

3,205 

3,208 

 Medium-term notes

2,635 

18,189 

20,824 

  

3,388 

15,233 

18,621 

 Covered bonds

975 

5,314 

6,289 

  

96 

3,839 

3,935 

 Securitisations  

  

1,481 

1,481 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

8,494 

23,503 

31,997 

  

6,689 

20,556 

27,245 

Subordinated liabilities

2,140 

12,584 

14,724 

  

1,062 

18,357 

19,419 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Notes issued

10,634 

36,087 

46,721 

  

7,751 

38,913 

46,664 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Wholesale funding

33,695 

51,991 

85,686 

  

34,555 

45,426 

79,981 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Customer deposits

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

 Derivative cash collateral (2) 

10,480 

10,480 

  

11,487 

11,487 

 Financial institution deposits

51,130 

533 

51,663 

  

52,292 

668 

52,960 

 Personal deposits

166,759 

1,696 

168,455 

  

162,958 

1,877 

164,835 

 Corporate deposits

128,320 

964 

129,284 

  

123,495 

1,095 

124,590 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total customer deposits

356,689 

3,193 

359,882 

  

350,232 

3,640 

353,872 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total funding excluding repos

390,384 

55,184 

445,568 

  

384,787 

49,066 

433,853 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total repos

43,038 

43,038 

  

32,335 

32,335 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total funding including repos

433,422 

55,184 

488,606 

  

417,122 

49,066 

466,188 

 

Notes:

(1)

Includes £14.0 billion (31 December 2016 - £5.0 billion) relating to TFS participation and £1.8 billion (31 December 2016 - £1.3 billion) relating to RBS’s participation in central bank financing operations under the European Central Bank’s Targeted Long Term Refinancing Operations.

(2)

Cash collateral includes £8,995 million (31 December 2016 - £10,002 million) from financial institutions.

 

 

 

9 

 


 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Credit risk

Credit risk is the risk of financial loss due to the failure of a customer or counterparty to meet its obligation to settle outstanding amounts.

 

Credit risk: Management basis: Portfolio summary (Not within the scope of EY’s review report)

The table below summarises current and potential exposure, net of provisions and after risk transfer, by sector and asset quality.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Portfolio and asset quality as a percentage

  

Exposure (£m)

  

of total current exposure

  

  

Wholesale (1) 

  

  

  

Wholesale (1) 

  

30 June 2017

  

Banks and

  

  

  

  

  

Banks and

  

  

  

Personal

other FIs

Sovereign (2)

Other

Total

  

Personal

other FIs

Sovereign (2)

Other

Total

AQ1-AQ4

119,079 

41,270 

135,677 

45,727 

341,753 

  

25%

9%

28%

10%

72%

AQ5-AQ8

47,883 

3,381 

107 

70,913 

122,284 

  

10%

1%

14%

25%

AQ9

2,437 

509 

594 

3,542 

  

1%

1%

AQ10

3,644 

65 

2,851 

6,560 

  

1%

1%

2%

Total current exposure

173,043 

45,225 

135,786 

120,085 

474,139 

  

37%

10%

28%

25%

100%

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total potential exposure

179,350 

78,604 

136,694 

180,910 

575,558 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Risk of Credit Loss (3) 

456 

459 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Flow into forbearance (4)

367 

12 

1,165 

1,544 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Of which: Performing

172 

12 

763 

947 

  

  

  

  

  

  

                Non-performing

195 

402 

597 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Provisions

2,124 

54 

1,767 

3,945 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

31 December 2016

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

AQ1-AQ4

111,899 

42,903 

118,049 

49,121 

321,972 

  

24%

9%

26%

11%

70%

AQ5-AQ8

47,992 

4,392 

135 

72,340 

124,859 

  

10%

1%

16%

27%

AQ9

2,622 

32 

591 

3,249 

  

1%

1%

AQ10

3,693 

355 

3,465 

7,513 

  

1%

1%

2%

Total current exposure

166,206 

47,682 

118,188 

125,517 

457,593 

  

36%

10%

26%

28%

100%

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total potential exposure

172,607 

84,300 

119,056 

185,291 

561,254 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Risk of Credit Loss (3) 

851 

856 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Flow into forbearance (4)

834 

3,232 

4,072 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Of which: Performing

447 

1,782 

2,232 

  

  

  

  

  

  

                Non-performing

387 

1,450 

1,840 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Provisions

2,192 

58 

2,204 

4,455 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Period-on-period movements

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Current exposure movement - increase/(decrease)

6,837 

(2,457)

17,598 

(5,432)

16,546 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Current exposure - constant currency basis

166,598 

47,428 

118,777 

125,137 

457,940 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Foreign exchange impact - increase/(decrease)

392 

(254)

589 

(380)

347 

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Notes:

(1)

Includes SME customers managed in UK PBB Business Banking who are assigned a sector under RBS’s sector concentration framework.

(2)

Includes exposure to central governments, central banks and sub-sovereigns such as local authorities.

(3)

Excludes Private Banking, Lombard and Invoice Finance exposures which are not material in context of the Risk of Credit Loss portfolio.

(4)

Completed during the period.

 

10 

 


 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Credit risk: Management basis: Portfolio summary (continued) (Not within the scope of EY’s review report)

RBS’s approach to lending is governed by a comprehensive credit risk appetite framework which is closely monitored and actions are taken to adapt lending criteria as appropriate. Measured by RBS’s asset quality scale, as at 30 June 2017, 72% of total current exposure was rated in the AQ1-AQ4 bands, equating to an indicative investment grade rating of BBB- or above (31 December 2016 - 70%). Across the Personal lending exposure, 69% was in the AQ1-AQ4 category (31 December 2016 - 67%). The loan-to-value (LTV) ratio of the mortgage portfolio was maintained at 58%. 

Underwriting standards are monitored on an ongoing basis to ensure that they remain adequate in the current market environment. The UK unsecured lending portfolio remained stable during the period with no material changes to asset quality.

The increase in current exposure in the Personal portfolio was mainly driven by growth in UK mortgage lending, which was within risk appetite. For further information, refer to page 12.

The marginal increase in current exposure across the Wholesale portfolio reflected increases in the Sovereign sector, resulting from liquidity management activities. This was offset by decreases in the Banks & Other FIs portfolio, which reflected fluctuations in exposure to traded products as a result of moves in market rates and by decreases in Transport - particularly Shipping - in line with the exit strategy for this sector.

Decreases in exposures classified as Risk of Credit Loss - as well as reductions in flows into forbearance - were driven by the stabilisation of sub-sector areas within the Shipping sector that had been historically weaker. For further information, refer to page 17.

Credit quality in both the Wholesale and Personal portfolios was largely unchanged due to relatively stable market conditions.

The reduction in defaulted exposure (AQ10) and provisions in the Wholesale portfolio was largely driven by write-offs and asset disposals across a number of sectors.

AQ10 exposure in the Personal portfolio (including mortgages) remained broadly stable during the period.

 

11 

 


 

 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Credit risk: Management basis: Personal portfolios  

Personal portfolio (Not within the scope of EY’s review report)

The table below, and all disclosures in this section are based on current exposure (net of provisions and after risk transfer).

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

30 June 2017

  

31 December 2016

  

  

Ulster

  

  

  

  

  

  

Ulster

  

  

  

  

  

UK

 Bank 

Private

  

  

  

  

UK

 Bank 

Private

  

  

  

  

PBB

RoI

 Banking (1) 

RBSI

W&G

Total

  

PBB

RoI

 Banking (1) 

RBSI

W&G

Total

  

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

Mortgages

122,883 

14,475 

7,859 

2,681 

10,932 

158,830 

  

117,040 

14,396 

7,168 

2,637 

10,856 

152,097 

Period on period movement

5,843 

79 

691 

44 

76 

6,733 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Of which:

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Interest only variable rate

10,946 

308 

4,029 

652 

1,241 

17,176 

  

11,694 

349 

3,625 

692 

1,317 

17,677 

Interest only fixed rate

11,504 

2,459 

93 

1,201 

15,261 

  

11,132 

2,290 

81 

1,186 

14,696 

Mixed (capital and

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  interest only)

5,348 

65 

21 

678 

6,112 

  

5,316 

75 

23 

687 

6,101 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Buy-to-let

16,829 

1,538 

927 

911 

1,514 

21,719 

  

16,678 

1,777 

770 

881 

1,427 

21,533 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Provisions

144 

917 

32 

22 

1,122 

  

151 

919 

27 

23 

1,122 

REIL

742 

3,175 

16 

94 

95 

4,122 

  

736 

3,144 

23 

84 

101 

4,088 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Other lending (2)

8,956 

333 

1,562 

64 

987 

11,902 

  

8,962 

291 

1,730 

64 

958 

12,005 

Period on period

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  movement

(6)

42 

(168)

29 

(103)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Provisions

779 

45 

18 

103 

946 

  

834 

48 

18 

113 

1,014 

REIL

777 

46 

43 

107 

977 

  

860 

50 

61 

117 

1,093 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total lending

131,839 

14,808 

9,421 

2,745 

11,919 

170,732 

  

126,002 

14,687 

8,898 

2,701 

11,814 

164,102 

Period on period movement

5,837 

121 

523 

44 

105 

6,630 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Mortgage LTV ratios (3)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  - Total portfolio

57%

73%

54%

57%

54%

58%

  

56%

76%

56%

57%

54%

58%

  - Performing

57%

69%

54%

56%

54%

58%

  

56%

72%

56%

55%

53%

57%

  - Non-performing

59%

92%

56%

110%

54%

78%

  

60%

94%

68%

117%

56%

77%

 

Notes:

(1)

Includes mortgages used as collateral for commercial activity.

(2)

Excludes partnership equity loans and commercial real estate lending to personal customers.

(3)

Weighted by current exposure gross of provisions.

 

The overall risk profile of the Personal portfolio, and its performance against credit risk appetite, remained stable during H1 2017.

The increase in total lending was driven by growth in mortgage lending within UK PBB.

Although new mortgage lending was broadly in line with 2016, the increased lending was offset by repayments in H1 2017. The portfolio is closely monitored and risk appetite is regularly reviewed to ensure it remains appropriate for market conditions. Underwriting standards were maintained during the period.

The majority of the mortgage growth was in the owner-occupied portfolio. In line with market trends, new mortgages in the buy-to-let portfolio decreased as tax and regulatory changes in the UK affected borrower activity.

The mortgage portfolio LTV ratio remained largely stable with marginal improvement in Ulster Bank RoI reflecting house price recovery and lower LTV ratios on new lending.

The value of mortgages subject to forbearance decreased marginally. This reflected the relatively low-interest-rate environment in the UK, as well as RBS’s focus on the ability of customers to repay in a sustainable manner over the term of the facility.

The proportion of owner-occupied mortgages by value on interest only and mixed terms (capital and interest only) remained broadly stable.

Unsecured personal lending remained flat during H1 2017 despite an upward trend in the wider UK market. This  reflected a continued focus on client quality and affordability. Asset quality remained broadly stable.

 

12 

 


 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Credit risk: Management basis: Mortgage lending

New mortgage lending (Not within the scope of EY’s review report)

The amounts below are based on a current exposure basis (net of provisions and after risk transfer).

  

  

  

UK

Ulster

Private

RBS

  

  

  

PBB

 Bank RoI

 Banking 

 International 

W&G

Total

As of and for six months ended 30 June 2017

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

Gross new mortgage lending (1)

 14,194 

 392 

 1,157 

 229 

 926 

 16,898 

Of which:

  

  

  

  

  

  

Interest only variable rate

 207 

 2 

 626 

 15 

 28 

 878 

Interest only fixed rate

 949 

 - 

 531 

 21 

 66 

 1,567 

Mixed (capital and interest only)

 402 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 39 

 441 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Owner occupied

13,187 

384 

990 

 142 

852 

15,555 

Average LTV by weighted average

70%

74%

63%

72%

70%

70%

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Buy-to-let

1,008 

167 

 87 

74 

1,344 

Average LTV by weighted average

62%

57%

55%

62%

62%

61%

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

(1)     Excludes additional lending to existing customers.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

As of and for the year ended 31 December 2016

  

  

  

  

  

  

Gross new mortgage lending  

 29,027 

 893 

 3,291 

 470 

 2,156 

 35,837 

Of which:

  

  

  

  

  

  

Interest only variable rate

 912 

 - 

 1,766 

 37 

 121 

 2,836 

Interest only fixed rate

 2,705 

 - 

 917 

 32 

 184 

 3,838 

Mixed (capital and interest only)

 751 

 - 

 - 

 3 

 50 

 804 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Owner occupied

25,086 

876 

2,819 

300 

1,833 

30,914 

Average LTV by weighted average

71%

74%

55%

69%

70%

70%

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Buy-to-let

3,941 

17 

472 

170 

323 

4,923 

Average LTV by weighted average

62%

59%

54%

62%

62%

61%

 

Personal portfolios forbearance

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

UK

Ulster

Private

RBS

  

  

  

PBB

 Bank RoI

 Banking 

 International 

W&G

Total

As of and for six months ended 30 June 2017

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

Forbearance flow

227 

66 

38 

33 

367 

Forbearance stock  

1,237 

3,411 

41 

30 

171 

4,890 

Forbearance stock: arrears

  

  

  

  

  

  

  Current

716 

1,802 

35 

18 

104 

2,675 

  1-3 months in arrears

302 

461 

40 

805 

  > 3 months in arrears

219 

1,148 

11 

27 

1,410 

Provisions against forbearance stock

46 

789 

845 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Forbearance type: (1)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  Long-term arrangement (2) 

677 

1,132 

39 

26 

107 

1,981 

  Short-term arrangement (3)

817 

2,280 

104 

3,207 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

As of and for the year ended 31 December 2016

  

  

  

  

  

  

Forbearance flow

406 

316 

49 

10 

53 

834 

Forbearance stock  

1,290 

3,709 

65 

43 

177 

5,284 

Forbearance stock: arrears

  

  

  

  

  

  

  Current

790 

2,077 

65 

29 

107 

3,068 

  1-3 months in arrears

286 

473 

41 

802 

  > 3 months in arrears

214 

1,159 

12 

29 

1,414 

Provisions against forbearance stock

51 

790 

850 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Forbearance type: (1)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  Long-term arrangement (2) 

701 

1,249 

63 

37 

111 

2,161 

  Short-term arrangement (3)

860 

2,460 

110 

3,438 

 

Notes:

(1)

Can include multiple arrangements.

(2)

Capitalisation term extensions, economic concessions.

(3)

Payment concessions, amortising payments of outstanding balances, payment holidays and temporary interest arrangements.

13 

 


 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Credit risk: Management basis: Mortgage lending (continued)   

Mortgage LTV distribution

The amounts below are based on a current exposure basis (net of provisions and after risk transfer).

 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Weighted

  

  

  

  

50%

80%

100%

  

Total with

Average

  

  

LTV ratio value (1) 

<=50%

<=80%

<=100%

<=150%

>150%

LTVs

LTV

Other

Total

30 June 2017

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

%

£m

£m

RBSG

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

AQ1-AQ8

55,890 

75,434 

19,169 

1,728 

119 

152,340 

57%

901 

153,241 

AQ9

338 

780 

472 

450 

2,048 

80%

2,054 

AQ10

940 

1,394 

529 

604 

39 

3,506 

78%

29 

3,535 

  

57,168 

77,608 

20,170 

2,782 

166 

157,894 

58%

936 

158,830 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

of which:

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

UK PBB

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

AQ1-AQ8

44,341 

60,122 

15,350 

358 

49 

120,220 

57%

722 

120,942 

AQ9

71 

278 

82 

441 

67%

446 

AQ10

554 

760 

135 

22 

1,476 

59%

19 

1,495 

  

44,966 

61,160 

15,567 

388 

56 

122,137 

57%

746 

122,883 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

of which:

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Ulster Bank RoI

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

AQ1-AQ8

3,148 

4,590 

2,191 

1,336 

15 

11,280 

67%

11,280 

AQ9

237 

445 

376 

439 

1,503 

84%

1,503 

AQ10

268 

474 

362 

564 

24 

1,692 

92%

1,692 

  

3,653 

5,509 

2,929 

2,339 

45 

14,475 

73%

14,475 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

31 December 2016

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

RBSG

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

AQ1-AQ8

54,334 

71,240 

17,311 

2,212 

92 

145,189 

57%

943 

146,132 

AQ9

335 

760 

492 

636 

13 

2,236 

87%

2,242 

AQ10

904 

1,461 

545 

728 

57 

3,695 

77%

28 

3,723 

  

55,573 

73,461 

18,348 

3,576 

162 

151,120 

58%

977 

152,097 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

of which:

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

UK PBB

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

AQ1-AQ8

43,261 

56,955 

13,652 

391 

52 

114,311 

56%

701 

115,012 

AQ9

71 

265 

95 

10 

444 

68%

448 

AQ10

548 

819 

164 

25 

1,561 

60%

19 

1,580 

  

43,880 

58,039 

13,911 

426 

60 

116,316 

56%

724 

117,040 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

of which:

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Ulster Bank RoI

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

AQ1-AQ8

2,844 

4,133 

2,185 

1,766 

14 

10,942 

70%

10,942 

AQ9

237 

417 

372 

614 

1,648 

88%

1,648 

AQ10

252 

461 

355 

691 

47 

1,806 

94%

1,806 

  

3,333 

5,011 

2,912 

3,071 

69 

14,396 

76%

14,396 

 

Note:

(1)

LTV is calculated on a current exposure basis, gross of provisions.

 

14 

 


 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Credit risk: Management basis: Commercial real estate (CRE)  

Summary (Not within the scope of EY’s review report)

The CRE portfolio comprises exposures to entities involved in the development of, or investment in, commercial and residential properties (including house builders but excluding housing associations, construction and building materials).

 

The portfolio is tightly controlled. A dedicated CRE portfolio controls team is responsible for the oversight of portfolio strategy, credit risk appetite and policies, as well as valuations and environmental frameworks. The sector is reviewed regularly at senior executive committees. Reviews include portfolio credit quality, capital consumption and control frameworks.

 

The table below and all the disclosures in this section provide analyses of the lending exposure in the CRE portfolio on a current exposure basis (net of provisions and after risk transfer).

 

 

  

30 June 2017

  

31 December 2016

  

UK

RoI

Other

Total

  

UK

RoI

Other

Total

By geography and sub-sector (1) 

£m

£m

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

£m

Investment

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Residential

3,854 

227 

40 

4,121 

  

3,762 

70 

37 

3,869 

Office

3,199 

205 

572 

3,976 

  

3,173 

129 

574 

3,876 

Retail

4,853 

49 

88 

4,990 

  

4,802 

50 

56 

4,908 

Industrial

2,602 

24 

54 

2,680 

  

2,657 

30 

53 

2,740 

Mixed/other

5,837 

212 

270 

6,319 

  

6,141 

250 

235 

6,626 

  

20,345 

717 

1,024 

22,086 

  

20,535 

529 

955 

22,019 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Development

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Residential

3,194 

136 

15 

3,345 

  

3,127 

133 

44 

3,304 

Office

93 

96 

  

149 

26 

175 

Retail

140 

140 

  

168 

170 

Industrial

29 

31 

  

39 

13 

55 

Mixed/other

120 

19 

141 

  

11 

20 

31 

  

3,576 

158 

19 

3,753 

  

3,494 

182 

59 

3,735 

Total

23,921 

875 

1,043 

25,839 

  

24,029 

711 

1,014 

25,754 

 

Note:

(1)

Geography splits are based on country of collateral risk.

 

The majority of CRE exposure is managed by Commercial Banking.

The economic outlook for the sector remained uncertain in the first half of 2017. Accordingly, tightened underwriting standards were maintained, with no loosening of risk appetite in any asset class or sub-sector.

CRE values fell after the result of the EU referendum in June 2016 but have since stabilised and have even staged a partial recovery in some sub-sectors. Office and Retail values remain slightly below pre-referendum levels while Industrial values have exceeded them. Rental values have risen gradually across most business space markets, although there is a broad split between the South and the rest of the UK. Rental values remain weak across much of the Retail sub-sector, notably town-centre shopping centres and retail units outside of the South. In contrast, out-of-town shopping centres and London retail units are still delivering moderate levels of rental growth.

The go-forward strategy for CRE is in line with the wider Ulster Bank RoI strategy to support the Irish economy, with some controlled growth of the balance sheet over the coming years.

 

15 

 


 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Credit risk: Management basis: Commercial real estate (CRE) (continued)

  

  

  

  

Commercial Banking UK investment portfolio by UK region (Not within the scope of EY's review report)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

30 June 2017

  

31 December 2016

UK region  

£m

%

  

£m

%

  

  

  

  

  

  

Greater London

3,903 

28 

  

3,816 

27 

Multiple locations

3,074 

22 

  

2,976 

22 

South East

1,794 

13 

  

1,650 

12 

Midlands

1,654 

12 

  

1,767 

13 

North

1,590 

11 

  

1,635 

12 

Scotland

991 

  

1,006 

Rest of UK

929 

  

915 

 

Loan-to-value ratio

 

  

30 June 2017

  

31 December 2016

  

AQ1-AQ9

AQ10

Total

  

AQ1-AQ9

AQ10

Total

LTV ratio by value

£m

 £m 

£m

  

£m

 £m 

£m

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

<= 50%

10,476 

46 

10,522 

  

10,695 

53 

10,748 

> 50% and <= 70%

6,828 

129 

6,957 

  

6,508 

120 

6,628 

> 70% and <= 90%

723 

91 

814 

  

773 

124 

897 

> 90% and <= 100%

152 

17 

169 

  

130 

41 

171 

> 100% and <= 110%

52 

20 

72 

  

74 

24 

98 

> 110% and <= 130%

53 

347 

400 

  

136 

357 

493 

> 130% and <= 150%

45 

21 

66 

  

82 

28 

110 

> 150%

73 

48 

121 

  

108 

61 

169 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total with LTVs

18,402 

719 

19,121 

  

18,506 

808 

19,314 

Total portfolio average LTV (1) 

48%

119%

51%

  

48%

113%

51%

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Other (2)

2,532 

431 

2,963 

  

2,358 

349 

2,707 

Development (3)

3,603 

152 

3,755 

  

3,553 

180 

3,733 

  

24,537 

1,302 

25,839 

  

24,417 

1,337 

25,754 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Notes:

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

(1)  Weighted average by current exposure gross of provisions.

(2)  Relates predominantly to Business Banking and unsecured corporate lending

  

  

(3)  Relates to the development of commercial and residential properties. LTV is not a meaningful measure for this type of lending activity.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

Asset quality (Not within the scope of EY's review report)

  

  

  

  

  

  

30 June 2017

31 December 2016

  

£m 

£m 

AQ1-AQ4

7,927 

7,671 

AQ5-AQ8

16,517 

16,638 

AQ9

94 

108 

AQ10

1,301 

1,337 

Total

25,839 

25,754 

  

  

  

Forbearance flow

238 

524 

Risk of Credit Loss

49 

50 

Provision (including latent)

445 

544 

 

·          During H1 2017, the credit quality of the portfolio continued to improve as legacy issues were resolved. The majority of the provisions related to legacy assets managed in Commercial Banking and Capital Resolution.

16 

 


 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Credit risk: Management basis: Shipping (Not within the scope of EY’s review report)

Exposure to the Shipping sector, on both a current exposure and potential exposure basis, net of provisions and after risk transfer, is summarised below.

 

  

30 June 2017

  

31 December 2016

  

Current

Potential

  

Current

Potential

  

exposure

exposure

  

exposure

exposure

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

AQ1-AQ4

1,321 

1,731 

  

1,504 

1,910 

AQ5-AQ8

1,118 

1,213 

  

2,158 

2,287 

AQ9

  

24 

24 

AQ10

634 

640 

  

867 

952 

Total

3,073 

3,584 

  

4,553 

5,173 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Forbearance flow

19 

  

  

723 

  

Risk of Credit Loss

54 

  

  

362 

  

Provision

227 

  

  

394 

  

 

·          The majority of the credit exposure to Shipping is managed in Capital Resolution and relates to loans or finance leases secured by ocean-going vessels. RBS has a strategy to exit the ship finance portfolio. However, there is also exposure outside Capital Resolution. This is principally related to Ports, Shipbuilding and Inland Water Transport.

·          The key component of the AQ1-AQ4 exposure banding is a portfolio of long-dated finance leases, financing ships to investment-grade oil majors and shipping companies. These assets are generally illiquid in nature. Capital Resolution seeks to exit these positions as opportunities arise.

·          The most significant movement in exposure during H1 2017 was in the AQ5-AQ8 banding where the bulk of the ship finance debt portfolio lies. The reduction in exposure was mainly due to asset disposals resulting from the exit strategy.

·          Continued progress in managing down the defaulted portfolio resulted in lower AQ10 exposure, with very few new transfers into this banding during H1 2017. 

·          The weakness in the dry bulk and container shipping markets generated a high level of forbearance activity in 2016. However, a recovery in those markets - particularly in dry bulk - during H1 2017 limited the flow into forbearance. Fewer forbearance concessions were granted and these related to smaller exposures. However, there is £413 million of forbearance in process, which has not yet reached legal completion. The market recovery - as well as clients, in general, continuing to support their shipping investments in terms of maintaining debt service and security cover covenants - allowed RBS to remove a number of transactions from Risk of Credit Loss status during the first half of the year. 

17 

 


 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Credit risk: Balance sheet analysis

Loans, provisions and related credit metrics: segmental analysis

The tables below show gross loans and advances (excluding reverse repos) and related credit metrics, movements in risk elements in lending (REIL) and impairment provisions by reportable segment.

 

  

  

  

Credit metrics

  

  

  

Gross loans to

REIL

Provisions

REIL as a %

  

Provisions

YTD

  

of gross

Provisions

as a % of

Impairment

YTD

loans to

as a %

gross loans

losses/

Amounts

Banks

Customers

customers

of REIL

to customers

(releases)

written-off

30 June 2017

£m

£m

£m

£m

%

%

%

£m

£m

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

UK PBB

657 

139,658 

1,845 

1,171 

1.3 

63 

0.8 

72 

264 

Ulster Bank RoI

2,704 

20,634 

3,499 

1,157 

17.0 

33 

5.6 

(11)

45 

Commercial Banking

835 

98,842 

1,623 

722 

1.6 

44 

0.7 

94 

212 

Private Banking

95 

12,858 

84 

36 

0.7 

43 

0.3 

RBS International

125 

8,815 

106 

43 

1.2 

41 

0.5 

NatWest Markets

4,408 

17,744 

nm

Capital Resolution

4,916 

10,679 

1,791 

591 

16.8 

33 

5.5 

(42)

160 

W&G

20,656 

347 

222 

1.7 

64 

1.1 

25 

47 

Central items & other

6,957 

118 

0.8 

100 

0.8 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

20,697 

330,004 

9,296 

3,945 

2.8 

42 

1.2 

152 

732 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

31 December 2016

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

UK PBB

504 

133,399 

1,992 

1,292 

1.5 

65 

1.0 

83 

453 

Ulster Bank RoI

2,418 

20,130 

3,513 

1,200 

17.5 

34 

6.0 

(113)

2,057 

Commercial Banking

582 

100,914 

1,946 

845 

1.9 

43 

0.8 

206 

577 

Private Banking

111 

12,188 

105 

31 

0.9 

30 

0.3 

(3)

RBS International

18 

8,812 

109 

38 

1.2 

35 

0.4 

10 

NatWest Markets

3,313 

17,419 

nm

Capital Resolution

4,558 

13,569 

2,264 

802 

16.7 

35 

5.9 

312 

509 

W&G

20,791 

380 

245 

1.8 

64 

1.2 

42 

68 

Central items & other

5,787 

256 

0.4 

100 

0.4 

22 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

17,291 

327,478 

10,310 

4,455 

3.1 

43 

1.4 

537 

3,695 

 

Note:

(1)       REIL comprise impaired loans and accruing loans past due 90 days or more as to principal or interest. Impaired loans are all loans (including loans subject to forbearance) which carries an impairment provision. For collectively-assessed loans, impairment loss provisions are not allocated to individual loans and the entire portfolio is included in impaired loans. Accruing loans past due 90 days or more comprise loans past due 90 days where no impairment loss is expected.

 

 

Customer loans: Growth in UK PBB mortgages, primarily through intermediary channels, and Private Banking mortgage growth were partially offset by a Commercial Banking reduction in exposures with lower returns.

Lower REIL, provisions and related credit metrics across all core franchises was due to improved asset-quality, with further reductions in Capital Resolution due to disposal activity.

Loan impairment losses and write-offs in the first half of 2017 were £152 million and £732 million respectively, of which £105 million and £226 million related to Personal unsecured portfolio. There were also write-offs of £132 million in the transport and storage sector, predominantly relating to shipping.

 

18 

 


 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Credit risk: Balance sheet analysis (continued) 

REIL and provisions: segmental analysis

The tables below show movements in risk elements in lending (REIL) and impairment provisions.

 

  

  

Ulster

  

  

  

  

  

  

Central

30 June

31 December

  

UK

Bank

Commercial

Private

RBS

NatWest

Capital

  

items

2017 

2016 

REIL

PBB

RoI

Banking

Banking

International

Markets

Resolution

W&G

& other

Total

Total

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

At beginning of the reporting period

1,992 

3,513 

1,946 

105 

109 

2,264 

380 

10,310 

12,157 

Currency translation and other adjustments

89 

(2)

(47)

46 

1,013 

Additions

547 

288 

447 

23 

25 

93 

98 

14 

1,535 

5,306 

Transfers between REIL and potential problem loans

(39)

(17)

(11)

(59)

(166)

Transfer to performing book

(128)

(105)

(119)

(10)

(28)

(1)

(391)

(960)

Repayments and disposals

(263)

(241)

(445)

(25)

(22)

(359)

(45)

(13)

(1,413)

(3,345)

Amounts written-off

(264)

(45)

(212)

(2)

(1)

(160)

(47)

(1)

(732)

(3,695)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

At end of the reporting period

1,845 

3,499 

1,623 

84 

106 

1,791 

347 

9,296 

10,310 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Provisions

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

At beginning of the reporting period

1,292 

1,200 

845 

31 

38 

802 

245 

4,455 

7,139 

Inter segment transfers

-

(3)

-

-

-

(4)

Currency translation and other adjustments

(1)

18 

(7)

-

-

(8)

480 

Amounts written-off

(264)

(45)

(212)

(2)

(1)

-

(160)

(47)

(1)

(732)

(3,697)

Recoveries of amounts previously written-off

85 

10 

-

-

-

-

112 

109 

Charges/(releases) to income statement

72 

(11)

94 

(42)

25 

152 

537 

Unwind of discount

(17)

(12)

(5)

-

-

-

(10)

(2)

-

(46)

(113)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

At end of the reporting period

1,171 

1,157 

722 

36 

43 

591 

222 

3,945 

4,455 

 

19 

 


 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Credit risk: Balance sheet analysis (continued) 

Loans, provisions and related credit metrics: sector analysis

The tables below show gross loans and advances to banks and customers (excluding reverse repos) and related credit metrics by sector and geography based on the location of lending office.

  

  

Credit metrics

  

  

  

REIL

  

  

  

  

  

as a % of

Provisions

Provisions

Impairment

  

  

Gross

  

  

gross

as a %

as a % of

losses/

Amounts

  

loans

REIL

Provisions

 loans 

of REIL

 gross loans

(releases)

written-off

30 June 2017

£m

£m

£m

%

%

%

£m

£m

Central and local government

5,097 

Finance

33,154 

62 

47 

0.2 

76 

0.1 

Personal - mortgages (1) 

159,976 

4,121 

1,023 

2.6 

25 

0.6 

(14)

21 

               - unsecured

14,132 

1,000 

822 

7.1 

82 

5.8 

105 

226 

Property

34,657 

1,243 

399 

3.6 

32 

1.2 

(12)

83 

Construction

4,168 

240 

130 

5.8 

54 

3.1 

16 

of which: commercial real estate

26,252 

1,208 

413 

4.6 

34 

1.6 

(12)

85 

Manufacturing

9,291 

172 

96 

1.9 

56 

1.0 

18 

12 

Finance leases and

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  instalment credit

12,667 

129 

80 

1.0 

62 

0.6 

Retail, wholesale and

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  repairs

11,960 

226 

153 

1.9 

68 

1.3 

29 

59 

Transport and storage

4,866 

967 

254 

19.9 

26 

5.2 

(17)

132 

Health, education and

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  leisure

11,266 

315 

118 

2.8 

37 

1.0 

20 

31 

Hotels and restaurants

6,068 

186 

80 

3.1 

43 

1.3 

31 

Utilities

3,995 

72 

36 

1.8 

50 

0.9 

(10)

Other

18,707 

562 

306 

3.0 

54 

1.6 

13 

104 

Latent

-

-

401 

(1)

Total customers

330,004 

9,296 

3,945 

2.8 

42 

1.2 

152 

732 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Of which:

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

UK

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Personal  - mortgages

144,063 

946 

149 

0.7 

16 

0.1 

(23)

11 

                - unsecured

13,735 

953 

778 

6.9 

82 

5.7 

103 

217 

Property and construction

37,641 

1,406 

457 

3.7 

33 

1.2 

83 

Other

112,265 

2,386 

978 

2.1 

41 

0.9 

68 

366 

Latent

328 

11 

Total

307,704 

5,691 

2,690 

1.8 

47 

0.9 

160 

677 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Europe

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Personal  - mortgages

15,617 

3,175 

874 

20.3 

28 

5.6 

                - unsecured

394 

47 

43 

11.9 

91 

10.9 

Property and construction

1,178 

73 

67 

6.2 

92 

5.7 

(3)

16 

Other

4,083 

247 

140 

6.0 

57 

3.4 

(10)

20 

Latent

73 

(12)

Total

21,272 

3,542 

1,197 

16.7 

34 

5.6 

(16)

48 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total banks

20,697 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Note:

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

(1)        Mortgages are reported in sectors other than personal mortgages by certain businesses based on the nature of the relationship with the customer.

  

20 

 


 

 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Credit risk: Balance sheet analysis (continued) 

Loans, provisions and related credit metrics: sector analysis (continued)

 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Credit metrics

  

  

  

  

  

  

REIL

  

Provisions

  

  

  

  

  

  

as a % of

Provisions

as a % of

Impairment

  

  

Gross

  

  

gross

as a %

 gross  

losses/

Amounts

  

loans

REIL

Provisions

 loans 

of REIL

loans

(releases)

written-off

31 December 2016

£m

£m

£m

%

%

%

£m

£m

Central and local government

6,091 

100 

Finance

33,083 

61 

51 

0.2 

84 

0.2 

(2)

17 

Personal - mortgages (1) 

153,319 

4,091 

1,019 

2.7 

25 

0.7 

222 

290 

               - unsecured

14,492 

1,113 

900 

7.7 

81 

6.2 

138 

396 

Property

34,756 

1,370 

489 

3.9 

36 

1.4 

(162)

1,485 

Construction

4,247 

264 

137 

6.2 

52 

3.2 

153 

of which: commercial real estate

26,265 

1,407 

511 

5.4 

36 

1.9 

(184)

1,483 

Manufacturing

9,609 

173 

90 

1.8 

52 

0.9 

13 

90 

Finance leases and instalment credit

12,269 

139 

79 

1.1 

57 

0.6 

12 

Retail, wholesale and repairs

12,823 

283 

182 

2.2 

64 

1.4 

39 

169 

Transport and storage

6,428 

1,388 

422 

21.6 

30 

6.6 

419 

301 

Health, education and leisure

11,526 

381 

129 

3.3 

34 

1.1 

75 

Hotels and restaurants

6,079 

211 

107 

3.5 

51 

1.8 

13 

116 

Utilities

3,938 

95 

50 

2.4 

53 

1.3 

(20)

Other

18,818 

740 

399 

3.9 

54 

2.1 

68 

587 

Latent

400 

(216)

Total customers

327,478 

10,310 

4,455 

3.1 

43 

1.4 

537 

3,695 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Of which:

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

UK

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Personal  - mortgages

137,427 

943 

143 

0.7 

15 

0.1 

(4)

                - unsecured

14,198 

1,060 

853 

7.5 

80 

6.0 

132 

362 

Property and construction

37,942 

1,543 

537 

4.1 

35 

1.4 

(98)

676 

Other

115,833 

3,133 

1,299 

2.7 

41 

1.1 

666 

629 

Latent

318 

(12)

Total

305,400 

6,679 

3,150 

2.2 

47 

1.0 

684 

1,670 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Europe

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Personal  - mortgages

15,548 

3,144 

872 

20.2 

28 

5.6 

226 

287 

                - unsecured

265 

52 

46 

19.6 

88 

17.4 

11 

Property and construction

1,055 

85 

84 

8.1 

99 

8.0 

(56)

933 

Other

3,920 

279 

165 

7.1 

59 

4.2 

(156)

665 

Latent

83 

(204)

Total

20,788 

3,560 

1,250 

17.1 

35 

6.0 

(185)

1,896 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total banks

17,291 

 

Note:

(1)                   Mortgages are reported in sectors other than personal mortgages by certain businesses based on the nature of the relationship with the customer.

21 

 


 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Credit risk: Balance sheet analysis (continued) 

Debt securities and AFS reserves

The table below shows debt securities by issuer and IAS 39 measurement classifications. The Other Financial Institutions category includes US government sponsored agencies and securitisation entities, the latter principally relating to asset-backed securities (ABS). Ratings are based on the lowest of Standard & Poor’s, Moody’s and Fitch. 

  

Central and local government

Banks

Other

Corporate

Total

  

  

Financial

  

Of which

UK

US

Other

Institutions

  

ABS

30 June 2017

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

  

£m

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Held-for-trading (HFT)

3,629 

5,924 

19,849 

1,897 

2,926 

641 

34,866 

  

887 

Designated as at fair value

  

Available-for-sale (AFS)

15,449 

8,286 

12,795 

2,201 

4,018 

108 

42,857 

  

2,019 

Loans and receivables

19 

1,118 

2,615 

146 

3,898 

  

3,733 

Held-to-maturity (HTM)

4,548 

4,548 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total

23,626 

14,229 

32,644 

5,216 

9,559 

895 

86,169 

  

6,639 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Short positions (HFT)

(4,542)

(3,443)

(20,268)

(456)

(971)

(180)

(29,860)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Ratings

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

AAA

10,130 

2,386 

6,352 

15 

18,883 

  

4,003 

AA to AA+

23,626 

14,229 

5,153 

593 

673 

60 

44,334 

  

279 

A to AA-

11,387 

266 

1,544 

236 

13,433 

  

808 

BBB- to A-

5,466 

1,437 

437 

218 

7,558 

  

1,187 

Non-investment grade

508 

149 

300 

108 

1,065 

  

233 

Unrated

385 

253 

258 

896 

  

129 

Available-for-sale

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

AFS reserves (gross of tax)

123 

12 

122 

123 

(1)

383 

  

Gross unrealised gains

682 

99 

359 

34 

1,183 

  

11 

Gross unrealised losses

(42)

(42)

(24)

(3)

(9)

(2)

(122)

  

(1)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

31 December 2016

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Held-for-trading

2,615 

4,133 

14,087 

821 

2,299 

549 

24,504 

  

886 

Designated as at fair value

25 

27 

  

Available-for-sale

10,581 

6,953 

15,678 

1,852 

4,072 

118 

39,254 

  

2,263 

Loans and receivables

3,774 

194 

3,968 

  

3,814 

Held-to-maturity

4,769 

4,769 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total

17,965 

11,086 

29,790 

2,673 

10,147 

861 

72,522 

  

6,963 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Short positions (HFT)

(2,644)

(4,989)

(13,346)

(334)

(640)

(121)

(22,074)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Ratings

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

AAA

11,478 

1,610 

6,024 

36 

19,148 

  

3,993 

AA to AA+

17,965 

11,086 

5,533 

481 

720 

34 

35,819 

  

244 

A to AA-

9,727 

238 

2,128 

150 

12,243 

  

1,627 

BBB- to A-

2,737 

155 

698 

378 

3,968 

  

645 

Non-investment grade

315 

69 

458 

31 

873 

  

381 

Unrated

120 

119 

232 

471 

  

73 

Available-for-sale

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

AFS reserves (gross of tax)

79 

(66)

190 

144 

(6)

346 

  

46 

Gross unrealised gains

768 

56 

504 

93 

1,431 

  

75 

Gross unrealised losses

(16)

(123)

(13)

(1)

(43)

(2)

(198)

  

(32)

 

22 

 


 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Credit risk: Balance sheet analysis (continued) 

 

·

Held-for-trading: Assets and short positions increased largely due to trading activity in NatWest Markets, including trading in Japanese government and eurozone bonds. Higher UK gilt balances reflected market-making activity and client flow trading.

·

Available-for-sale: The increase in UK government securities reflected liquidity portfolio management, as gilts offered higher capital adjusted returns relative to central bank cash balances. Reductions in other government securities, principally euro, reflected lower collateral requirements.

23 

 


 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Credit risk: Balance sheet analysis (continued) 

Derivatives and valuation reserves

The table below shows derivatives by type of contract. The master netting agreements and collateral shown below do not result in a net presentation on the balance sheet under IFRS.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

30 June 2017

  

31 December 2016

  

Notional

Assets

Liabilities

  

Notional

Assets

Liabilities

  

£bn

£m

£m

  

£bn

£m

£m

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Interest rate (5) 

17,383 

139,219 

126,605 

  

17,973 

170,524 

158,485 

Exchange rate

4,146 

53,586 

56,938 

  

4,451 

75,442 

77,148 

Credit

30 

475 

425 

  

42 

682 

557 

Equity and commodity

251 

193 

  

25 

333 

285 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Balance sheet

21,568 

193,531 

184,161 

  

22,491 

246,981 

236,475 

Counterparty mark-to-market netting

  

(153,703)

(153,703)

  

  

(197,288)

(197,288)

Cash collateral

  

(23,249)

(20,484)

  

  

(28,742)

(20,417)

Securities collateral

  

(6,522)

(4,312)

  

  

(8,435)

(11,048)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net exposure

  

10,057 

5,662 

  

  

12,516 

7,722 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Banks (1)

  

712 

831 

  

  

1,260 

1,339 

Other financial institutions (2) 

  

2,924 

2,185 

  

  

3,090 

2,897 

Corporate (3)

  

5,631 

2,533 

  

  

7,348 

3,393 

Government (4)

  

790 

113 

  

  

818 

93 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net exposure

  

10,057 

5,662 

  

  

12,516 

7,722 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

UK

  

5,827 

2,309 

  

  

7,065 

3,009 

Europe

  

2,620 

2,412 

  

  

3,466 

3,215 

US

  

853 

535 

  

  

930 

673 

RoW

  

757 

406 

  

  

1,055 

825 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Net exposure

  

10,057 

5,662 

  

  

12,516 

7,722 

 

Valuation reserves

£m

  

£m

  

  

  

  

  

  

Funding valuation adjustments (FVA)

736 

  

936 

  

Credit valuation adjustments (CVA)

454 

  

618 

  

Bid-offer reserves

327 

  

334 

  

Product and deal specific

554 

  

643 

  

  

  

  

  

  

Valuation reserves

2,071 

  

2,531 

  

 

Notes:

(1)

Transactions with certain counterparties with whom RBS has netting arrangements but collateral is not posted on a daily basis: certain transactions with specific terms that may not fall within netting and collateral arrangements; derivative positions in certain jurisdictions, for example China, where the collateral arrangements are not deemed to be legally enforceable.

(2)

Transactions with securitisation vehicles and funds where collateral posting is contingent on RBS’s external rating.

(3)

Predominantly large corporate with whom RBS may have netting arrangements in place, but operational capability does not support collateral posting.

(4)

Sovereigns and supranational entities with one way collateral arrangements in their favour.

(5)

The notional amount of interest rate derivatives include £11,045 billion (31 December 2016 - £9,724 billion) in respect of contracts cleared through central clearing counterparties. The associated derivatives assets and liabilities including variation margin reflected IFRS offset of £29 billion (31 December 2016 - £51 billion) and £29 billion (31 December 2016 - £51 billion) respectively.

(6)

Valuation reserves reflect adjustments to mid-market valuations to cover bid-offer spread, liquidity and credit risk.

 

·

The decrease in foreign exchange derivative fair values reflected the US dollar weakening against the yen, the euro and sterling during the period. The interest rate derivative decrease in fair values reflected the upward movement in euro and sterling yields.

·

Foreign exchange notional reductions were driven by maturities, buyouts and foreign exchange retranslation. Interest rate notionals also declined as participation in tear-up cycles and Capital Resolution wind-downs more than offset new trading activity in NatWest Markets.

·

Overall exposure was an asset position broadly flat from the prior year.

·

FVA reduced during H1 2017. This reflected a reduction in exposure due to market moves together with an increase in funding costs included in the discount rate applied to derivative cash flows.

·

The reduction in CVA resulted from a reduction in exposure due to market moves, together with tightening credit spreads and trade close-outs.

·

Product and deal-specific reserves decreased primarily due to trade close-outs and novations.

 

24 

 


 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Market risk

Market risk is the risk of losses arising from fluctuations in interest rates, credit spreads, foreign currency rates, equity prices, commodity prices and other factors, such as market volatilities, that may lead to a reduction in earnings, economic value or both.

 

Key developments (Not within the scope of EY’s review report)

During H1 2017, revised non-traded and traded market risk appetite metrics were approved by the Board and cascaded to the franchises.

 

 

Political events during the half-year, notably elections in the UK, France and the Netherlands, resulted in periods of market volatility. UK and European interest rates remained at historically low levels, although the US Federal Reserve began raising interest rates. Both non-traded and traded market risk remained within set appetite throughout H1 2017.

 

 

Non-traded market risk VaR peaked at £83.1 million, mainly driven by an increase in the proportion of bonds held within Treasury’s liquidity portfolio, which was aimed at investing surplus cash, rather than meeting increased liquidity requirements. The appreciation of foreign currency bonds within this portfolio, primarily US and German sovereign debt, also contributed.

 

 

Traded VaR increased on an average basis compared to both H1 2016 and H2 2016. In H1 2016, traded VaR was at a reduced level as a result of concerns over the stability of the financial sector. The traded VaR level normalised in H2 2016, followed by a marginal increase in H1 2017.

 

Non-trading portfolios

Value-at-risk

The following table presents 1-day internal banking book VaR at a 99% confidence level, analysed by type of risk.

 

  

Half year ended

  

30 June 2017

  

30 June 2016

  

31 December 2016

  

  

  

  

Period

  

  

  

  

Period

  

  

  

  

Period

  

Average

Max

Min

end

  

Average

Max

Min

end

  

Average

Max

Min

end

  

£m

£m

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

£m

  

£m

£m

£m

£m

Interest rate

8.6 

12.6 

6.3 

7.6 

  

7.5 

10.1 

6.1 

6.2 

  

11.8 

19.3 

4.7 

18.0 

Euro

3.2 

4.1 

2.3 

2.3 

  

3.0 

3.5 

2.1 

3.1 

  

3.1 

3.8 

2.1 

3.8 

Sterling

7.7 

13.8 

5.0 

5.1 

  

7.0 

10.9 

4.8 

4.8 

  

13.4 

23.7 

5.0 

20.6 

US dollar

3.1 

4.9 

2.1 

4.9 

  

2.9 

4.7 

1.6 

1.6 

  

2.9 

4.3 

1.7 

2.1 

Other

1.1 

1.1 

1.0 

1.0 

  

2.1 

2.4 

1.8 

1.8 

  

1.4 

1.8 

1.1 

1.1 

Credit spread

70.0 

82.4 

62.0 

62.0 

  

50.9 

57.8 

41.6 

57.8 

  

63.5 

66.6 

61.3 

62.9 

Structural FX rate

10.3 

11.4 

9.3 

11.4 

  

11.8 

15.5 

10.7 

15.5 

  

15.1 

19.6 

10.5 

10.5 

Pipeline risk

0.8 

1.1 

0.6 

0.9 

  

0.8 

1.2 

0.2 

0.8 

  

0.4 

0.5 

0.3 

0.5 

Diversification (1)

(18.8)

  

  

(27.0)

  

(20.6)

  

  

(20.6)

  

(27.0)

  

  

(20.2)

Total

70.9 

83.1 

54.9 

54.9 

  

50.4 

59.7 

41.5 

59.7 

  

63.8 

71.7 

60.0 

71.7 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Note:

(1)

RBS benefits from diversification as it reduces risk by allocating positions across various financial instrument types, currencies and markets. The extent of the diversification benefit depends on the correlation between the assets and risk factors in the portfolio at a particular time. The diversification factor is the sum of the VaR on individual risk types less the total portfolio VaR.

 

 

On an average basis, total non-traded VaR increased during H1 2017 compared to both H1 2016 and H2 2016 due to the increase in the proportion of bonds held within Treasury’s liquidity portfolio, as explained above

On a period-end basis, total non-traded VaR decreased, driven by credit spread VaR, which fell due to a change in the source of the market data used for the VaR model.

25 

 


 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Market risk: Non-trading portfolios (continued) 

 

Sensitivity of projected net interest earnings (Not within the scope of EY’s review report)

The following table shows the sensitivity of net interest earnings, over the next 12 months, to an immediate upward or downward change of 25 and 100 basis points to all interest rates. All yield curves are expected to move in parallel, except for interest rates that are assumed to floor at zero per cent or, for euro rates, at the current negative rate. The result of the scenario is compared to a base-case scenario using market-implied levels of future interest rates at 30 June 2017.

 

The main driver of earnings sensitivity relates to interest rate pass-through assumptions on customer products. The scenario also captures the impact of the reinvestment of maturing structural hedges at higher or lower rates than the base-case earnings sensitivity. As the forward-looking horizon is limited to one year, the impact of maturing structural hedges being reinvested at higher or lower rates is relatively low.

 

The scenario results should not be considered predictive of future performance. They assume no management or customer response to changes in the interest rate environment. The analysis is also limited to interest earnings rather than non-interest earnings.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Euro 

Sterling 

US dollar 

Other 

Total 

30 June 2017

£m 

£m 

£m 

£m 

£m 

  

  

  

  

  

  

+25 basis point shift in yield curves

16 

176 

15 

208 

-25 basis point shift in yield curves

(4)

(273)

(10)

(3)

(290)

+100 basis point shift in yield curves

60 

620 

57 

739 

-100 basis point shift in yield curves

(5)

(480)

(55)

(7)

(547)

  

  

  

  

  

  

30 June 2016

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

+25 basis point shift in yield curves

49 

16 

68 

-25 basis point shift in yield curves

(125)

(16)

(140)

+100 basis point shift in yield curves

(20)

393 

65 

11 

449 

-100 basis point shift in yield curves

(298)

(46)

(341)

  

  

  

  

  

  

31 December 2016

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

+25 basis point shift in yield curves

79 

11 

96 

-25 basis point shift in yield curves

(1)

(222)

(11)

(2)

(236)

+100 basis point shift in yield curves

436 

42 

13 

500 

-100 basis point shift in yield curves

(2)

(337)

(30)

(9)

(378)

 

·

Interest income sensitivity increased in H1 2017 across all scenarios.

·

Changes in assumed pass-through rates on customer products as well as the impact of Treasury activity were the main drivers of the increase in positive sensitivity to higher rates at 30 June 2017 compared with 31 December 2016.

·

Higher market implied levels of future interest rates at 30 June 2017 compared with 31 December 2016 were a significant driver of the more adverse sensitivity to lower interest rates at 30 June 2017. Wholesale market interest rates fell further in the downward 100 basis-point scenario before they hit an assumed zero per cent floor.  As customer deposit rates are much less affected by downward interest-rate shifts, profit margins compress. Although the sensitivity was more adverse, the higher market curve also resulted in a higher base-case income forecast. Therefore the absolute level of income may be unaffected.

 

26 

 


 

 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Market risk: Non-trading portfolios (continued) 

Structural hedging (Not within the scope of EY’s review report)

RBS has the benefit of a significant pool of stable, non and low interest bearing liabilities, principally comprising equity and money transmission accounts. These balances are usually hedged, either by investing directly in longer-term fixed rate assets or by the use of interest rate swaps, in order to provide a consistent and predictable revenue stream.

 

After hedging RBS’s net interest rate exposure externally, Treasury allocates income to products or equity in structural hedges by reference to the relevant interest rate swap curve. Over time, the hedging programme has built up a portfolio of interest rate swaps that provide a basis for stable income attribution. The programme aims to track a time series of medium-term swap rates, but the yield will be affected by changes in product volumes and RBS’s capital composition.

 

The table below presents the incremental income allocation (above 3-month LIBOR), the average notional and the overall yield (including 3-month LIBOR) associated with the product and equity hedges managed by Treasury.

 

 

 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Half year ended

  

30 June 2017

  

30 June 2016

  

31 December 2016

  

Incremental

Average

Overall

  

Incremental

Average

Overall

  

Incremental

Average

Overall

income

notional

yield

  

income

notional

yield

  

income

notional

yield

  

£m 

£bn

%

  

£m 

£bn

%

  

£m 

£bn

%

Equity structural hedging

317 

28 

2.48 

  

310 

35 

2.35 

  

323 

32 

2.41 

Product structural hedging

334 

98 

1.04 

  

315 

87 

1.28 

  

320 

93 

1.13 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total

651 

126 

1.36 

  

625 

122 

1.59 

  

643 

125 

1.47 

 

The table below presents the incremental income associated with product structural hedges at segment level. These relate to the main UK banking businesses except Private Banking and RBS International.

 

  

  

  

  

  

Half year ended

Net interest earnings - impact of product structural hedging

30 June

30 June

31 December

2017 

2016 

2016 

£m 

£m 

£m 

  

  

  

  

UK Personal & Business Banking

191 

170 

176 

Commercial Banking

116 

118 

117 

Capital Resolution

Williams & Glyn

25 

21 

23 

  

  

  

  

Total

334 

315 

320 

 

 

·        

Interest rates remained low across H1 2017, with a significant upward shift only occurring the last few days of the period. As a result, the overall yield (including 3-month LIBOR) fell compared to 31 December 2016, reflecting the combined impact of lower equity hedges and maturing hedges being reinvested at lower market rates.

·        

The fall in the average notional of the equity hedge primarily reflected the decline in the equity base resulting from the provision for various investigations and litigation matters.

·        

The increase in the average notional of the product hedge reflected growth in current account balances.

·        

As at 30 June 2017, the 10-year and 5-year sterling swap rates were 1.27% and 0.91% respectively. The market rate matching the amortising structure of the sterling proportion of the total structural hedge was 0.83%.

 

27 

 


 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Foreign exchange risk

The table below shows structural foreign currency exposures.

 

  

  

  

Net

  

Structural

  

  

  

Net

  

investments

  

foreign currency

  

Residual

  

investments

  

in foreign

Net

 exposures 

  

structural

in foreign

  

operations

 investment 

pre-economic

Economic

foreign currency

 operations 

NCI (1) 

excluding NCI

 hedges 

 hedges 

 hedges (2) 

 exposures 

30 June 2017

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

£m

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

US dollar

(878)

(878)

1,239 

361 

(361)

Euro

6,795 

114 

6,681 

(518)

6,163 

(2,203)

3,960 

Other non-sterling

3,007 

668 

2,339 

(1,267)

1,072 

(485)

587 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

8,924 

782 

8,142 

(546)

7,596 

(3,049)

4,547 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

31 December 2016

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

US dollar

(595)

(595)

(28)

(623)

(623)

Euro

6,085 

(4)

6,089 

(582)

5,507 

(2,289)

3,218 

Other non-sterling

3,366 

761 

2,605 

(1,491)

1,114 

(625)

489 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

8,856 

757 

8,099 

(2,101)

5,998 

(2,914)

3,084 

 

Notes:

(1)

Non-controlling interests (NCI) represents the structural foreign exchange exposure not attributable to owners equity.

(2)

Economic hedges mainly represent US dollar and euro preference shares in issue that are treated as equity under IFRS and do not qualify as hedges for accounting purposes. They provide an offset to structural foreign exchange exposures to the extent that there are net assets in overseas operations available.

 

·       

Following the recognition of further RMBS provisions in US subsidiaries in Q1 2017, hedges of US dollar exposure to RMBS were documented as net investment hedges. This was the main driver of the increase in reported structural foreign currency exposures during H1 2017.

·       

Changes in foreign currency exchange rates affect equity in proportion to the structural foreign currency exposures. For example, a 5% strengthening or weakening in foreign currencies against sterling would respectively result in a gain or loss of £0.4 billion in equity.

 

28 

 


 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Trading portfolios

Traded internal VaR

The table below presents the internal value-at-risk (VaR) for trading portfolios split by type of market risk exposure. The internal traded 99% one-day VaR captures trading book positions for all products, locations and legal entities.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Half year ended

  

30 June 2017

  

30 June 2016

  

31 December 2016

  

  

  

  

Period

  

  

  

  

Period

  

  

  

  

Period

  

Average

Max

Min

end

  

Average 

Max

Min

end

  

Average

Max

Min

end

Traded VaR (1-day 99%)

£m 

£m 

£m 

£m 

  

£m 

£m 

£m 

£m 

  

£m 

£m 

£m 

£m 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

General interest rate (1) 

14.6 

24.5 

8.8 

11.3 

  

12.3 

22.3 

7.8 

10.2 

  

12.6 

19.3 

7.8 

16.9 

Specific interest rate (2) 

11.1 

14.3 

8.8 

9.9 

  

8.4 

12.5 

5.8 

9.7 

  

10.6 

13.7 

8.0 

9.7 

Currency

4.7 

7.9 

2.5 

5.0 

  

4.0 

9.0 

1.0 

4.3 

  

5.2 

14.3 

2.4 

5.4 

Equity

1.2 

1.9 

0.6 

1.3 

  

0.5 

2.1 

0.2 

0.5 

  

0.6 

2.0 

0.3 

1.9 

Commodity

0.4 

1.3 

0.1 

0.5 

  

0.6 

1.7 

0.2 

0.8 

  

0.8 

2.4 

0.2 

0.3 

Diversification (3)

(12.2)

  

  

(12.5)

  

(10.4)

  

  

(9.6)

  

(11.1)

  

  

(10.4)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Total

19.8 

25.2 

13.9 

15.5 

  

15.4 

27.3 

9.9 

15.9 

  

18.7 

29.3 

13.2 

23.8 

 

Note:

(1)

General interest rate risk arises from the impact of changes in interest rates and volatilities on cash instruments and derivatives. This includes interest rate tenor basis risk and cross-currency basis risk.

(2)

Specific interest rate risk arises from the impact of changes in the credit spreads of sovereign bonds, corporate bonds, securitised products and credit derivatives.

(3)

RBS benefits from diversification as it reduces risk by allocating positions across various financial instrument types, currencies and markets. The extent of the diversification benefit depends on the correlation between the assets and risk factors in the portfolio at a particular time. The diversification factor is the sum of the VaR on individual risk types less the total portfolio VaR.

 

Traded VaR fluctuated throughout H1 2017, reflecting political developments, market events, customer flows and other macroeconomic factors. Throughout the period, the VaR was managed within risk appetite.

On an average basis, traded VaR in H1 2017 increased marginally compared to H2 2016, mainly due to refinements to the VaR methodology used for certain credit products. Average traded VaR also increased more significantly compared to H1 2016 as the risk profile in the earlier period had been reduced compared to normal levels due to concerns over the stability of the financial sector.

 

29 

 


 

 

Appendix 1 Capital and risk management

 

Other risks (Not within the scope of EY’s review report)

Key developments

Operational risk

A single RBS-wide Risk & Control Assessment methodology was established in 2016. By the end of H1 2017, approximately 120 assessments had been completed across RBS. These were designed to reflect the end-to-end customer journeys of the most material products, processes and services as well as to enable a consistent, holistic view of RBS’s key risks and their mitigation

Cyber security and associated risks remain an industry concern. In May and June 2017, organisations around the world - including a number of UK entities - were subjected to two separate high-profile cyber attacks. However, there were no associated impacts on RBS. In both cases, reviews were carried out in order to improve and develop RBS’s cyber risk management and defence strategy.

 

Conduct & regulatory risk

The FCA has announced a strategic review of business models in the retail banking sector. The review is expected to consider the full range of personal banking products and services, as well as SME banking. The FCA expects to produce a project update in H1 2018, explaining its preliminary analysis and conclusions.

The remediation of PPI continued, with the FCA publishing its rules and guidance on the PPI complaints deadline and how firms should deal with Plevin complaints. The FCA confirmed it will implement a two-year deadline along with Plevin rules from 29 August 2017.

 

30 

 


 

 

SIGNATURE

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorised.

 

 

 

 

The Royal Bank of Scotland Group plc

Registrant

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Richard Fisher

Richard Fisher

Chief Accountant

10 August 2017