Suncorp Group Limited yesterday posted a strong first-half top line growth of 2.5 per cent, unveiled during its half-year results announcement.Nevertheless, the financial services conglomerate reported that this translated to a net profit after tax of A$452 million for the six months to 31 December 2017, down 15.8 per cent on the prior corresponding period. The company explained this as "due to the impact of natural hazards and timing of investments, including the 'Business Improvement Program' and increased regulatory costs." Michael Cameron, Suncorp CEO and managing director, said the delivery of what is expected to be a three-year, company-wide improvement program is crucial. The BIP will deliver net benefits of $10 million, $195 million and $329 million over FY18, FY19 and FY20 respectively, and will drive the Group's operating cost base back to $2.7 billion in FY19.Beyond taking cost out of the business, the program is focused on improving customer experience and embedding a culture of "continuous improvement", Cameron said."It is supporting the digitisation of customer experiences, as well as the optimisation of our sales and services channels, redesigning of the claims supply chain, smarter procurement and continued streamlining of the business," he said.The banking division contributed again. The combined Banking and Wealth division delivered an NPAT of $197 million for the half, down 5.3 per cent on HY17, with good top line growth, offset by investment in the business improvement program. "Growth in the bank throughout the half was very strong, which continues the momentum from last year," Cameron said."In the first half … the bank achieved 8.7 per cent lending growth, well above system growth," he said.Net interest margin of 1.86 per cent remained strong, supported by asset repricing and efficient funding."Suncorp continues to maintain disciplined lending practices and new business credit quality was strong over the period. Impairment losses of $13 million, representing four basis points, remain well below the long?run range."The Board has determined a fully franked interim dividend of 33 cents per share, representing a dividend payout ratio of 90.1 per cent of cash earnings. This is well above Suncorp's historical interim ratios, and is consistent with the commitment to shareholders for this financial year.After payment of the dividend, the franking account balance will be $158 million. The Group is well capitalised with $381 million in CET1 capital held above its operating targets. Suncorp still intends to return excess capital to its shareholders. Total operating expenses increased 3.3 per cent, excluding the Business Improvement Program, and 5.7 per cent when the net investment is included in the program.