Singapore, 7 August 2026 – Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation Limited ("OCBC") reported a record net profit of SGD4.19 billion ($3.27 billion) for the first half of 2026 ("1H26"), up 13% from the previous year ("1H25").

Total income grew 11% to SGD8.00 billion ($6.25 billion), underpinned by record non-interest income which more than compensated for the decline in net interest income amid softer interest rates. Non-interest income rose 36%, lifted by record highs across fees, trading and insurance income. Cost-to-income ratio ("CIR") improved year-on-year to 38.5%. Loans and deposits continued to grow, reflecting sustained momentum across the franchise. Asset quality remained healthy with non-performing loan ("NPL") ratio stable at 0.9%, while allowance coverage for non-performing assets ("NPAs") was 163%. The group maintained a strong capital and liquidity profile, supporting growth and resilience. Annualised earnings per share was higher at SGD1.86 ($1.45), with ROE higher at 13.7%.

For the first half of 2026, the Board has declared an interim ordinary dividend of 47 cents, up 15% or 6 cents from a year ago. This represents a payout ratio of 50% of 1H26 group net profit. The group remains committed to completing its previously announced SGD2.5 billion ($1.95 billion) capital return by FY26.

Message from group chief executive officer, Tan Teck Long

"Our first half 2026 results reflected strong momentum across our diversified franchise, with group net profit rising 13% year-on-year to a record SGD4.19 billion ($3.27 billion). Total income grew 11% year-on-year to SGD8.00 billion ($6.25 billion), underpinned by strong performance across our Banking, Wealth Management and Insurance businesses as we continued to execute our Next Frontier strategy.

We achieved record non-interest income of over SGD3.51 billion ($2.74 billion), which more than offset lower net interest income amid a softer interest rate environment. Wealth management income continued to perform strongly, rising 27% to a record SGD3.29 billion ($2.57 billion).

Even as customer loans grew 11% year-on-year on a constant currency basis, asset quality remained sound, with our NPL ratio stable at 0.9%.

Looking ahead, global conditions remain uncertain amid geopolitical tensions and elevated inflation risks. Much of the near-term outlook will depend on the easing of Asia's energy crunch brought about by the war in the Middle East. Meanwhile, AI and related technology sectors continue to register strong growth.

With our strong capital, funding and liquidity position, diversified income streams and disciplined risk management, we are well positioned to navigate uncertainties and tap the growth sectors to deliver sustainable long-term value."

Re-disseminated by The Asian Banker