Standard Chartered has raised its 2026 income outlook after reporting record financial results for the first half of the year, driven by growth in its Wealth Solutions and Global Banking businesses.
The international banking group recorded operating income of $11.6 billion during the period, while profit before tax increased by 9% to $4.8 billion. Earnings per share also grew by 17% compared with the previous period.
Bill Winters, group chief executive of Standard Chartered, said the bank’s performance reflected growth across key business areas.
“We delivered a record first-half performance in 2026, with double-digit growth in Wealth Solutions and Global Banking. Our performance demonstrates the strength of our differentiated international network and the disciplined execution of our strategy.
“Clients continue to turn to us to facilitate trade, investment and wealth flows across the world’s most dynamic markets.”
Winters said the bank’s decision to raise its income guidance and introduce a $1 billion share buyback programme showed confidence in its future performance.
The bank’s Group Chief Financial Officer, Manus Costello, said Standard Chartered would continue to invest in improving its operations while maintaining control over costs and capital.
“We are continuing to invest in building a simpler, faster and more connected bank while remaining disciplined on costs and capital. These strengths give us confidence in our ability to deliver exceptional growth and sustainably higher returns.”
Standard Chartered maintained a strong balance sheet during the period, with its Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio standing at 14.2%.
The bank’s board also approved an interim dividend of 20.4 cents per share, a 66% increase from the previous year.
Following the performance, Standard Chartered now expects operating income growth in 2026 to come in around the middle of its 5–7% target range at constant currency.
The bank said its full financial results for the first half and second quarter ended 30 June 2026 are available through its Investor Relations platform.
