Standard Chartered’s 2025 profit jumps 16% buoyed by wealth management growth
South China Morning Post
by Enoch YiuFebruary 24, 2026
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Standard Chartered Bank reported a 16% increase in underlying pre-tax profit for 2025, reaching US$7.9 billion compared to US$6.8 billion in the previous year. This growth was driven by strong performance in its wealth management division, which helped offset rising bad debt linked to Hong Kong's commercial real estate downturn. The bank’s earnings per share rose to US$2.297, matching analysts’ expectations. Standard Chartered also announced a 49 US cents final dividend for the year, bringing the total dividends to 61 US cents, up from 37 US cents in 2024. Additionally, the bank plans to allocate US$1.5 billion for share buybacks this year, following a similar spend in 2024.
The London-based lender, which generates much of its revenue from Asia, highlighted its resilience in the face of economic challenges. CEO Bill Winters emphasized the supportive business environment and robust growth in key markets, attributing success to structural shifts in global trade and investment. These trends align with the bank’s strengths in serving cross-border and affluent banking needs. The positive outlook was reflected in the stock market, where shares rose 1.3% to HK$194.5 before the earnings announcement.
Standard Chartered’s performance underscores its ability to navigate a complex financial landscape. While challenges such as rising bad debt remain, the bank’s focus on wealth management and strategic initiatives has bolstered its profitability. This growth is particularly significant in the context of Hong Kong’s economic struggles and the broader Asian market dynamics. The bank’s commitment to shareholder returns through dividends and share buybacks also signals confidence in its future prospects.
For readers interested in global business and finance, Standard Chartered’s success highlights the importance of adaptability and strategic positioning in the banking sector. As the global economy continues to evolve, institutions like Standard Chartered that can leverage cross-border opportunities and maintain strong financial fundamentals are likely to thrive. The bank’s ability to generate robust profits despite headwinds also underscores its resilience and positions it as a key player in Asia’s financial landscape.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/24/2026