United Capital interim dividend took centre stage on Monday as United Capital Plc announced a N5.4 billion interim dividend for shareholders following a robust financial performance in the first half of 2026 that saw profit before tax jump by 80 per cent.
The investment banking and financial services group said its Board of Directors approved an interim dividend of 30 kobo per ordinary share of 50 kobo each, amounting to N5.4 billion, subject to applicable withholding tax.
The company recorded gross earnings of N37.49 billion for the six months ended June 30, 2026, representing a 58 per cent increase from N23.76 billion in the corresponding period of 2025.
Profit before tax rose to N24.78 billion, up from N13.79 billion a year earlier, while profit after tax climbed 77 per cent to N21.10 billion from N11.89 billion. Earnings per share also increased to 234 kobo from 132 kobo in the same period last year.
Commenting on the results, Group Chief Executive Officer, Peter Ashade, said the company’s performance reflected disciplined execution of its strategic priorities despite a dynamic operating environment.
“I am delighted to announce that United Capital Group has once again delivered an exceptional financial performance in the first half of 2026. This impressive performance is a result of the disciplined execution of our strategic priorities, resilience of our robust and diversified business model, prudent risk management, and our unwavering commitment to consistently create sustainable value despite the dynamic operating environment,” Ashade said.
Ashade said the interim dividend underscores the company’s commitment to creating sustainable value for shareholders while maintaining strong financial performance.
He added that the company remains focused on sustaining its growth trajectory in the second half of the year by strengthening its retail business, expanding its footprint across Africa, enhancing customer value propositions and reinforcing its leadership position in the financial services industry.
The company said shareholders’ funds increased by 25 per cent year-to-date to N187.09 billion, reflecting the strength of its balance sheet and capital position. Managed funds also rose to N1.04 trillion, compared with N993.64 billion at the end of 2025.
United Capital attributed its earnings growth to stronger performance across its key business segments.
According to the company, fee and commission income increased by 26 per cent year-on-year, while net investment income grew by 45 per cent. Net trading income recorded one of the strongest performances during the period, surging by 1,083 per cent, while net gains on financial assets measured at fair value through profit or loss increased by 132 per cent.
Net operating income rose 55 per cent to N33.05 billion, although operating expenses also increased by 37 per cent to N14.53 billion amid business expansion.
While total assets declined by 7 per cent to N1.64 trillion, the company said the movement was largely due to a 20 per cent reduction in investment securities, partly offset by a 40 per cent increase in cash and cash equivalents.
