Summary
American Express Company (AXP) reported strong financial results for the first quarter of 2024, with net income increasing by 34% year-over-year to $2.4 billion, and diluted earnings per share rising 39% to $3.33. This performance was driven by robust revenue growth, with total revenues net of interest expense up 11% to $15.8 billion. The company saw broad-based increases in billed business across its U.S. Consumer Services and International Card Services segments, which grew 8% and 11% respectively (13% FX-adjusted). Net interest income also saw a significant increase of 26%, primarily due to growth in revolving loan balances and higher interest rates. The company maintained a strong credit profile, with net write-off and delinquency rates described as best-in-class, supported by its premium customer base and disciplined risk management. Provisions for credit losses increased primarily due to higher net write-offs, though this was partially offset by a lower net reserve build. American Express continued to return capital to shareholders, with $1.6 billion returned through share repurchases and dividends, including a 17% increase in its quarterly common stock dividend. The company also announced an agreement to sell its subsidiary Accertify Inc., anticipating a significant pre-tax gain upon closing in the second quarter of 2024.
Financial Highlights
38 data points| Revenue | $9.34B |
| Interest Expense | $2.01B |
| Net Income | $2.44B |
| EPS (Basic) | $3.34 |
| EPS (Diluted) | $3.33 |
| Shares Outstanding (Basic) | 721.00M |
| Shares Outstanding (Diluted) | 722.00M |
Key Highlights
- 1Net income increased 34% to $2.4 billion, with diluted EPS up 39% to $3.33.
- 2Total revenues net of interest expense grew 11% to $15.8 billion.
- 3Billed business increased 6% overall, with strong growth in U.S. Consumer Services (8%) and International Card Services (11%).
- 4Net interest income rose 26%, driven by higher loan balances and interest rates.
- 5Provisions for credit losses increased 20% due to higher net write-offs, but credit quality metrics remain strong.
- 6Returned $1.6 billion to shareholders via share repurchases ($1.1 billion) and dividends ($0.5 billion), increasing the quarterly dividend by 17%.
- 7Agreement reached to sell fraud prevention solutions provider Accertify Inc., expecting a significant pre-tax gain.