Senwes Integrated Reports Senwes 2018/2019 Interim Results | Page 5

BUSINESS REVIEW 5 BUSINESS REVIEW OVERVIEW The land debate, together with political uncertainty, had a negative im- pact on the business confidence of the industry and producers de- creased their investment and spending in the sector. Senwes did not escape this and the impact is clearly visible in respect of the clients’ spending on agri-equipment. Add to this a build-up of maize surpluses over the past two seasons and below-average pre-season rainfall, then the challenges faced for the current season are much bigger. A profit after tax of R156,5 million was realised, which is 6,8% higher than the previous year. Normalised headline earnings increased by 0,7% to 98,5c per share. The balance sheet, despite the higher credit book, performed well and the own capital ratio of 42% (2017: 36%) is well within the set caveat of 35% - 45%. senwes interim results 31 october 2018