It reported an increase of 202 percent in impairment charges to R7.68 billion in its results for the six months to end June 2020. Nedbank said the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic since December had proved worse than the first wave. The lender added it continued to be vigilant and remained on high alert while observing Covid-19 health protocols. "As a purpose-led organisation, our primary focus remains on ensuring the health and safety of our stakeholders, including staff and clients, and serving and supporting clients in good standing in managing their finances through this difficult period and in so doing providing support to the economy," the group said. Nedbank said it remained resilient and prepared to respond and manage the emerging risks as well as monitoring the impact of lockdown restriction on its clients and the economy as it navigates the challenges of the pandemic. The group welcomed the easing of the lockdown to level 1 on March 1.