Standard Chartered PLC has announced its financial results for the first half of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026.

The company reported record operating income of $11.6 billion, a 6% increase year-on-year, or 8% when excluding the impact of the Solv India transaction. Net interest income rose 4% to $5.7 billion, while non-interest income increased 8% to $5.9 billion. The Wealth Solutions business saw a 38% surge, driven by strong growth in investment products, and the Global Banking business rose 19%, supported by robust lending activities and vibrant capital markets.

Pre-tax profit reached a record $4.8 billion, up 9% from the prior year, with earnings per share climbing 17% to 151.6 cents. The company maintains a strong capital and liquidity position, with a liquidity coverage ratio of 148% and a Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio of 14.2%. Profits from the first half were used to fund shareholder distributions and increase risk-weighted assets.

The board has declared an interim dividend of 20.4 cents per share, a 66% increase, and has initiated an additional $1 billion share buyback program. This follows a $1.5 billion share buyback executed earlier in the first half of 2026.

Group Chief Executive Bill Winters commented: "We achieved record results in the first half of 2026, with double-digit growth in both our Wealth Solutions and Global Banking businesses, highlighting our unique international network and disciplined execution. Our clients continue to trade, invest, and move capital through many of the world's most dynamic markets. With a 17% increase in earnings per share, an upgraded revenue guidance, and a new $1 billion share buyback, we are confident in our business trajectory."

For the full year 2026, the company has revised its guidance: Operating income is expected to grow at the midpoint of the 5% to 7% range on a constant currency basis, excluding major items. Net interest income is projected to see low single-digit percentage growth year-on-year. Expenses (excluding major items) are expected to be approximately $13.3 billion on a constant currency basis. The return on tangible equity is forecast to exceed 12%.