UK-based bank Close Brothers Group plc (CBG.L) reported higher profit attributable to shareholders of 58.8 million pounds in the first half, versus the prior-year figure of 50.5 million pounds, with operating pre-tax profit growing year-over-year to 77.3 million pounds, from 66.8 million pounds. On a per share basis, first-half earnings amounted to 39.7 pence, compared with 34.3 pence in the prior-year period.
Excluding exceptional items and amortisation of intangible assets on acquisition, half-yearly adjusted operating profit totaled 79.8 million pounds, a 26% increase from last year's 63.2 million pounds, resulting in a 31% growth in adjusted basic earnings per share to 41.8 pence, from 31.9 pence a year ago, reflecting a strong performance in Banking, modestly lower profitability in Securities and a small profit in Asset Management.
Six-month net interest income of 146.9 million pounds, was higher than 130.6 million pounds reported a year before.
Looking forward, in Banking, Close Brothers continue to see solid prospects for loan book growth and anticipate a similar performance in the second half, while Asset Management continues to make progress and remains on track. In addition, the board has declared an interim dividend of 15.0 pence per share, up 7%, reflecting the strong profit growth in the period.
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June 05, 2026 16:18 ET A busy week for economic news flow saw a slew of reports being released that reflected the trends in the U.S. labor market. In Europe, economic growth and inflation data gained attention as the European Central Bank and Bank of England head for policy session later in the month. In Asia, the monetary policy session of the Indian central bank was in focus as the country, a major oil importer, reels under the pressures of a weaker rupee and rising inflation.