NatWest Group plc - Annual General Meeting Statements
NatWest Group plc held its Annual General Meeting on April 28, 2026. The Chair, Rick Haythornthwaite, and Group CEO, Paul Thwaite, presented statements highlighting the company's performance and strategy. Key points include the return to full private ownership in May 2025, a focus on becoming simpler, stronger, and more customer-focused, and positive momentum entering 2026. The company reported strong financial results for the past year, with income of Β£16.4 billion and operating profits of Β£7.7 billion, alongside an attractive return on tangible equity of 19.2%. Dividends per share increased by 51% to 32.5p, supplemented by Β£1.5 billion in share buybacks. Strategic priorities include disciplined growth, bank-wide simplification through technology and AI, and active risk and balance sheet management. The acquisition of Evelyn Partners was mentioned as a key step to enhance financial planning and wealth management services. The leadership emphasized confidence in the company's strategy, financial position, and its role in supporting UK economic growth, despite near-term challenges and global uncertainties.