Desempenho econômico e financeiro: uma análise dos balanços patrimoniais e demonstrações de resultados do Itaú Unibanco S.A.

Abstract

The Brazilian financial system has undergone significant transformations in recent years, driven by technological advances, the digitalization of services, and the growing presence of fintechs. These factors have intensified competition and required traditional institutions to achieve greater efficiency, innovation, and adaptability. In this dynamic environment, Itaú Unibanco S.A., the largest private bank in Latin America, holds a prominent position and exerts a decisive influence on the financial market, making the analysis of its economic and financial performance particularly relevant. This study aims to analyze the behavior of the economic and financial performance of Itaú Unibanco S.A. based on the results presented in its financiais statements over the last three years. The research adopts a quantitative and qualitative approach, with a comparative and descriptive nature, grounded in documentary analysis and using economic and financial data from Itaú Unibanco S.A. The study compares the bank’s performance indicators over time through vertical and horizontal analysis, as well as the evaluation of profitability, liquidity, capital structure, and operational efficiency. Data collection involved balance sheets, income statements, and annual reports, in addition to academic articles that supported the selection of indicators and the analytical criteria. The analyzed period covers the years from 2022 to 2024, marked by economic instability, presidential elections, and the post-pandemic context. Banks play a central role in financial intermediation and in the provision of credit, investments, products, and services, which reinforces the importance of monitoring the performance of a market-leading institution that serves as a benchmark for others. An examination of Itaú’s results between 2022 and 2024 shows that the institution sought to strengthen its credit portfolio and expand service revenues, maintaining high levels of profitability even in a context of high inflation, economic volatility, and constantly evolving customer demands. The analysis of financial indicators indicates that although low liquidity is common in the banking sector, it is offset by current and general liquidity ratios above 1, demonstrating the bank’s ability to meet its obligations. Despite the high level of leverage, indebtedness remains under control, reflecting a coherent funding strategy. Assets show consistent growth, driven by credit operations and an increase in long- term securities, while liabilities reveal a decline in short-term deposits and an expansion of long-term deposits, signaling customer confidence in the institution. Finally, the income statement reveals a recovery in financial intermediation revenues in the post-pandemic period; however, service fee income has gained greater relevance, demonstrating diversification in revenue generation. Overall, the data indicate that the bank is profitable, financially sound, and has a robust structure with the capacity to honor its obligations.