Prudential PLC (LSE: PRU) delivered a robust set of first-half results, reporting stronger earnings, new business growth, and increased shareholder returns for the six months ended June 30.
Adjusted operating profit before tax rose 9% at constant exchange rates to $1.81 billion, reflecting continued momentum across the insurer’s core markets in Asia and Africa.
Adjusted operating profit after tax advanced 10% to $1.52 billion, while adjusted earnings per share improved 17% to 58.4 cents over the same period.
The Asia and Africa-focused insurer reported an 8% increase in new business profit to $1.38 billion, underlining continued demand for life and health insurance products across its key growth markets.
New business margin strengthened by 2 percentage points to 40%, signaling improved pricing discipline and a more favourable product mix across Prudential’s portfolio.
Operating free surplus generated from in-force insurance and asset management activities climbed 15% to $1.79 billion, providing the company with a strong capital foundation heading into the second half.
Shareholders are set to benefit from a 15% increase in Prudential’s first interim dividend, which rises to 8.88 cents per share following the strong first-half performance.
The company also unveiled an additional share buyback of approximately $300 million, supplementing the $1.2 billion repurchase programme it had previously announced.
Prudential reaffirmed its full-year 2026 guidance for double-digit growth in new business profit, operating free surplus generation, and adjusted earnings per share across its network of markets.
The insurer also continues to expect double-digit growth in dividend per share, reinforcing its commitment to consistent and growing returns for shareholders throughout the year.
Prudential serves more than 17 million customers across markets including Greater China, ASEAN countries, India, and selected African economies, operating as a multinational financial services group focused on life, health, and retirement solutions.
The company’s performance reflects sustained consumer demand for insurance and financial protection products in high-growth regions, where ageing populations and rising middle classes continue to drive long-term structural opportunity.
