Aviva

Aviva reports a 24% rise in operating profit for H1 2026 to £1.3bn and operating earnings per share up 10%; IFRS return on equity is 20.3%. The integration of Direct Line is already delivering cost and capital synergies and has significantly improved combined ratios, while capital returns to the holding rose 47% to £1.5bn. Net inflows in wealth management grew 32% to £7.6bn; the interim dividend increases 7% to 14 pence. Aviva confirms an outlook of around 11% growth in operating earnings per share for 2026 but warns of risks from solvency, competitive pressure and major loss events. » Altro su de.investing.com

Amanda Blanc has reshaped Aviva by selling non-core businesses, returning about £10 billion to shareholders and refocusing on the U.K., Canada and Ireland. Growth strategy includes the £3.7 billion Direct Line acquisition, re‑entry to Lloyd's and bolstering wealth advice after buying Succession Wealth, with wealth set to become ~10% of earnings. Analysts expect H1 operating profit near £1.3 billion, but investors remain watchful over fund performance, motor‑insurance risks from autonomous vehicles and the insurer's evolving profile. » Altro su cnbc.com

Direct Line Insurance Group has been delisted from the London Stock Exchange following its acquisition by Aviva plc. The transaction was carried out through a court-approved scheme of arrangement and included a cash and share offer for all of Direct Line's share capital. With the delisting, Aviva's takeover of Direct Line is now complete. » Altro su de.investing.com