OSB Group

OSB Group reported a pre-tax profit of £187m for H1 2026 (−3%), undiluted EPS of £0.384 (+3%) and net interest income of £340m (+1%). Management cut its 2026 net interest margin forecast from around 225 to 215–220 basis points and lowered the tangible return on equity target to about 12.5%. The stock fell roughly 12.7% and is trading near its 52‑week low, weighed down by intense competition for deposits and persistently expensive refinancing costs, while OSB is holding liquidity for platform migrations. » More on de.investing.com

OSB Group has admitted 2,038,162 ordinary shares, issued between 17 March and 11 May under employee share schemes, to trading on the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange. The admission was via the existing block-listing facility; the new shares are fully fungible with existing ordinary shares (ISIN GB00BLDRH360). After admission, the total number of issued ordinary shares increases to 347,296,004; a further 2,141,504 shares from the block admission have not yet been issued. A prospectus was not required for the admission and the announcement was made in accordance with the applicable listing rules. » More on de.investing.com

Shares in OSB Group slid about 3.6% and rival Paragon fell after reports the chancellor is considering a one-year rent freeze for private landlords to limit cost-of-living impacts from the Iran war. The Treasury declined to comment on speculation and ministers said a freeze was not being actively considered, while industry groups warned rent controls would damage investment amid already tight supply. The move would add to recent regulatory changes including the Renters’ Rights Act, which tightens tenant protections and limits rent increases. » More on theguardian.com

OSB Group announces a share buyback programme to distribute up to £100 million. Up to 37,035,134 ordinary shares may be purchased through Jefferies on the London Stock Exchange or other recognised trading venues. Repurchases will be made within applicable market rules until no later than 6 March 2027, and repurchased shares are to be cancelled to reduce the share capital. The programme is in line with the distribution policy for excess capital and will be published daily following transactions. » More on de.investing.com

OSB Group has lowered its common equity tier 1 (CET1) target from 14% to 13–13.5% and plans phased capital releases of more than £100m, including a £100m share buyback programme. The bank said it achieved its 2025 target with a net interest margin (NIM) of 228 basis points and confirmed a 2026 ROTE forecast in the low‑to‑mid‑teens with an expected NIM of around 225 basis points. OSB expects Basel 3.1 to hit its capital ratio by about 130 basis points from 2027 and is maintaining discussions with regulators about internal rating models. » More on de.investing.com