South African executive Fani Titi leads Investec to record $1.2-billion profit

Feyisayo Ajayi -

Key Points: 

  • Investec Group reports a record profit of $1.21 billion for 2024, marking a 14.33% increase from the previous year.
  • Strong financial results were driven by a 4.98% rise in revenue, reaching $2.65 billion, amid challenging economic conditions.
  • Fani Titi credits strategic initiatives and disciplined execution for the impressive performance and continued value delivery to shareholders.

Investec Group, the Anglo-South African international banking and wealth management conglomerate led by South African executive Fani Titi, has reported a record profit of $1.21 billion (£954.2 million) for the full year 2024.

This marks a significant increase of 14.33 percent from the previous year’s $1 billion (£817.4 million). The impressive performance was driven by a 4.98-percent year-over-year rise in revenue, reaching £2.09 billion ($2.65 billion), reflecting robust performance amid challenging economic landscapes.

Strong financial results across operating segments

Investec’s annual report showcases robust growth across its operating segments, with client acquisition strategies contributing to the overall success. Interest income rose by 29.39 percent to £4.12 billion ($5.21 billion) in 2024. This increase in interest income was partially offset by a rise in interest expenses, which climbed to £2.79 billion ($3.52 billion) from £1.92 billion ($2.43 billion) in the prior year.

Net interest income saw a modest 5.63 percent rise to £1.34 billion ($1.69 billion) from £1.27 billion ($1.6 billion). Operating income grew by 42.80 percent from £1.91 billion ($2.42 billion) to £2.05 billion ($2.59 billion) in 2024. Operating profit exhibited a healthy rise, reaching £839.1 million ($1.1 billion) compared to £739.5 million ($934.87 million) in the previous year. 

Earnings attributable to shareholders surged by 16.92 percent to £941 million ($1.19 billion) from £804.9 million ($1.02 billion) in 2023, while total comprehensive income rose by 65.11 percent to £791.1 million ($1 billion).

Fani Titi highlights strategic initiatives

Group CEO Fani Titi attributed the success to strategic initiatives and disciplined execution across the Group’s businesses. “Our performance this year underscores the strength and resilience of our diversified business model. We have been able to navigate challenging market conditions effectively while continuing to deliver value to our shareholders,” Titi said.

He emphasized the importance of innovation and client-centric strategies, stating, “We are focused on maintaining our momentum by investing in technology and enhancing our client offerings. Our goal is to build on this year’s success and drive sustainable growth in the years to come.”

Despite a slight decline of 2.19 percent in its total assets, which fell to £56.63 billion ($71.54 billion) in 2024 from £57.89 billion ($73.14 billion) in 2023, Investec demonstrated resilience and growth. This decrease in assets did not overshadow the strong operational and financial achievements amid challenging market conditions.

Commitment to sustained growth

Fani Titi’s leadership since 2018, underscored by his notable stake in the company valued at R18.36 million ($1.01 million), representing 0.02 percent ownership, reflects his confidence in the group’s growth potential. His investment solidifies his position as one of South Africa’s top executives.

As Investec continues to navigate the evolving financial landscape, it remains well-positioned to deliver sustained growth and value to its shareholders. The group aims to leverage its strong financial foundation and strategic initiatives to continue delivering robust returns.