Standard Chartered Q1 Profits Rise 11% to $1.36 Billion, Maintains Guidance

Standard Chartered reported a significant rise in first-quarter 2025 profits, surpassing analyst expectations and driven by robust growth in its wealth management and global markets divisions. The bank's pre-tax profit increased to just over $2.1 billion, with earnings per share climbing and operating income also up compared to the previous year. Wealth management attracted substantial new money, particularly in key markets such as Nigeria, reinforcing the bank's regional ambitions. Despite ongoing global economic uncertainty, including the impact of U.S. trade tariffs, the bank maintained its guidance for future growth and continues to invest strategically, including a major cost-saving initiative called 'Fit for Growth.' Standard Chartered also highlighted its commitment to returning value to shareholders, following a previously announced $1.5 billion share buyback. Overall, the bank remains confident in its outlook, aiming for steady income growth through 2026.