NatWest (Q2 Results): solid, buybacks pulled forward
NatWest reported a solid second quarter with an 11% rise in underlying income and upgraded financial guidance for 2026. The bank also announced plans to accelerate share buybacks, signaling confidence in its current financial health and capital position.
Why it matters
Strong performance from major banking institutions serves as a bellwether for the broader financial sector and consumer economic health.
NatWest (Q2 Results): solid, buybacks pulled forward A solid second quarter for NatWest was accompanied by upgraded guidance and accelerated plans for its next share buyback. Written by Matt Britzman Senior Equity Analyst Written by Matt Britzman Senior Equity Analyst Published Jul 31, 2026 Published Jul 31, 2026 No recommendation - No news or research item is a personal recommendation to deal. All investments can fall as well as rise in value so you could get back less than you invest.
0 % View factsheet Sign up for email updates Prices delayed by at least 15 minutes Second-quarter underlying income rose 11% to £4.4bn (£4.4bn expected). Net interest margin rose from 2.28% to 2.49% (2.51% expected).
Operating profit rose 29% to £2.3bn (£2.0bn expected), supported by strong income growth, good cost discipline and lower-than-expected impairments. Default levels remain low, and the loan book continues to perform well.
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