CBA half-year results: profit lifts, dividend grows, tech spend ramps up

The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) share price is in focus after its half-year profit climbed 5% to $5.41 billion, and the bank announced an interim fully franked dividend of $2.35 per share.

What did Commonwealth Bank of Australia report?

• Statutory net profit after tax (NPAT): $5,412 million, up 5% from 1H25
• Cash NPAT: $5,445 million, up 6% on the prior year
• Pre-provision profit: $8,131 million, up 5%
• Interim dividend: $2.35 per share, fully franked, up 4%
• Net interest margin: 2.04%, steady on an underlying basis
• Return on equity (ROE): 13.8%, up 10 basis points

What else do investors need to know?

CBA grew its lending and deposit volumes in core businesses, helping offset a squeeze on margins from competition and higher operating expenses, particularly as investments in technology continued. The bank’s credit quality strengthened, with loan impairment expense down to $319 million and home loan arrears falling during the half.

The balance sheet remains robust, with a Common Equity Tier 1 capital ratio at 12.3%—well above regulatory minimums. Deposit funding accounted for 79% of total funding, while liquidity and funding ratios exceeded required levels. The bank also provided over $25 billion in business loans and returned $4.4 billion to shareholders.

What’s next for Commonwealth Bank of Australia?

Looking ahead, the bank notes that economic growth picked up, led by consumer demand and investment in AI and energy infrastructure. However, capacity constraints could keep inflation above target, putting upward pressure on interest rates. Commonwealth Bank plans to keep supporting customers, accelerate its technology modernisation, and bolster capabilities in areas like generative AI and cyber security.

The leadership remains positive on Australia’s economic outlook, with a commitment to balancing customer support, digital innovation, and capital strength to drive long-term value for shareholders and communities.

Commonwealth Bank of Australia share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, CBA shares have declined 2%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 5% over the same period.

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