Prudential PLC reported strong first-half 2026 results, with new business profit up 8%, earnings per share up 17%, and free surplus generation up 15%. The company also increased its first interim dividend per share by 15% and expanded its new business margin by 2 percentage points to 40%. Embedded value per share reached USD15.27 or GBP11.50, and return on embedded value stood at 15%, with potential to improve by 2 to 3 percentage points. Prudential launched a combined $1.2 billion share buyback in January, with an additional GBP 0.3 billion added from capital market actions, and plans to invest between $300 million and $350 million in its capital investment program in 2026. The company's Hong Kong business has been repositioned, with domestic business now generating 50% of new business profit and growing 22%, while the overall Hong Kong persistency remains at 99%. Despite challenges such as a high comparator base in the second half and margin pressure in Mainland China, Prudential remains confident in delivering double-digit growth for 2026 and achieving its 2027 financial objectives.
Prudential plcStrong H1 earnings, dividend increase, and share buyback signal financial strength.
Prudential Financial, Inc.