Standard Chartered (STAN) Q1 2026 earnings summary

Executive summary

• Record Q1 2026 income of $5.9 billion, up 9% year-over-year, driven by double-digit growth in Wealth Solutions (+32%) and Global Banking (+19%).

• Profit before tax rose 17% to $2.5 billion, with EPS up 31% to 74.2 cents and return on tangible equity at 17.4%.

• Record net new money in Wealth Solutions of $18 billion, equivalent to 16% annualized AUM growth.

• Strong capital and liquidity positions maintained, with CET1 ratio at 13.4% and liquidity coverage at 151%.

• Credit quality remains resilient despite geopolitical risks, with overlays taken for Middle East conflict.

Financial highlights

• Non-interest income rose 16% year-over-year, now 51% of group income.

• Net interest income increased 1% to $2.9 billion, but declined quarter-on-quarter due to lower rates, especially HIBOR.

• Operating expenses increased 1% year-over-year, offset by efficiency savings from Fit for Growth.

• Credit impairment charge of $296 million, including $190 million in overlays for Middle East risks.

• Customer loans and deposits both grew 3% sequentially; total assets up 11% year-over-year to $973 billion.

Outlook and guidance

• 2026 guidance unchanged: operating income growth expected at the lower end of 5–7% range at constant currency.

• Net interest income and expenses expected to be broadly flat year-over-year at constant currency, excluding notable items.

• Statutory return on tangible equity target for 2026 remains above 12%.

• Medium-term financial framework to be provided at investor event in May.