NatWest (RBS) has posted a slightly higher operating profit before tax for the last quarter over the same period last year as impairment charges rose.
The bank reported £2.2 billion operating profit against £2.2bn in Q3 last year, a rise of 1.9%. Over nine months, operating profit came in 13.4% higher at £6.5bn, against 5.8bn last time.
Attributable profit was £4.6bn for the nine month period, compared with £4.1bn in 2025. Revenue over the period was 9.6% higher at £13.3bn (£12.1bn).
The bank took a £277m impairment charge in the third quarter, compared with £153m at Q3 last year.
The cost-income ratio improved to 45.7% from 47.8%. Lending rose to £417.8bn, up 6.4% £25.1bn.
Chief executive Paul Thwaite, said: “NatWest Group has delivered another strong performance in the third quarter of 2026, underpinned by the activity of more than 20 million customers and the significant role we play in supporting economic growth across the UK.
“As we help more customers to save and invest, buy a home or expand their businesses, we continue to see broad-based growth in our three customer franchises, with lending, deposits and assets under management all increasing during the quarter.
“Our strategy is consistently delivering sector-leading growth and returns, with a Return on Tangible Equity of 20.2% for the year to date, supported by greater income diversification, disciplined cost management and strong capital generation.
“We are confident in the strengths we’ve created and in the opportunities we see ahead, as we continue to invest in our capabilities, deepen customer relationships and support growth across the UK.”
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