NatWest Q3 2026 slides: 21.6% ROTE leads UK banks despite share drop

NatWest Group reported Q3 2026 results on October 30, revealing sector-leading returns and continued momentum across its core businesses. However, investor enthusiasm waned as shares dropped 9% in regular trading. The bank delivered a return on tangible equity of 21.6% for the quarter, solidifying its position as the highest-returning large UK bank for the fourth consecutive year.

The bank's assets and liabilities grew by 14.2% year-over-year, with customer loans expanding 7.7% to £418 billion and deposits rising 4.3% to £453 billion. The bank reported income of £13.3 billion for the nine-month period, up 9.3% year-over-year, while operating expenses grew modestly by 4.8% to £6.2 billion. Despite these strong financials, investors remain concerned about future margin sustainability and cost pressures.