Great Eastern Holdings reported a 43 per cent jump in net profit attributable to shareholders to S$849.5 million for the six months ended Jun 30, 2026, lifted by a firmer insurance operating performance and improved investment returns during the second quarter.
The board declared an interim one-tier tax-exempt dividend of 35 Singapore cents per share, payable on 28 Aug 2026. The payout is 17 per cent higher than the final dividend for FY2025 and aligns with the group’s policy of twice-yearly distributions that track sustainable profit growth.
Total weighted new sales (TWNS) increased 15 per cent YoY to S$813.2 million, underpinned by sustained demand in Singapore. New business embedded value (NBEV) expanded 28 per cent YoY to S$405.3 million, outpacing sales growth thanks to a shift toward higher-margin products and continued focus on value creation.
Segmental details were not disclosed, but management said earnings growth was driven chiefly by higher insurance operating profit, steady emergence of in-force profits and favourable underwriting experience. A rebound in investment performance during the second quarter further enhanced overall profitability.
Capital adequacy ratios at the group’s insurance subsidiaries remained comfortably above regulatory minima. Management reiterated its commitment to prudently managing risk and maintaining a diversified business mix while continuing disciplined operational execution.
Group chief executive officer Greg Hingston said the core insurance franchise posted “healthy” operating results, with stronger investment markets in the second quarter providing an additional lift. He noted that a balanced portfolio and ongoing cost discipline underpinned the half-year outcome. Hingston added that the company will keep focusing on value-accretive product strategy and productivity gains across distribution channels to sustain growth momentum amid an evolving market landscape.
Looking ahead, the group intends to adhere to its dividend framework of stable and progressively rising payouts, subject to business conditions, and aims not to reduce dividend amounts barring unforeseen circumstances.