Danske Bank UK Financial Results – H1 2026

Half-year results

Julie-Ann Haines, CEO of Danske Bank UK, said:
“It is a privilege to begin my tenure as Danske Bank’s new UK chief executive at a time when the
bank is performing so well. We have a strong foundation to build on, allowing us to focus on
customer experience and support, while also shaping the bank’s future direction.

“During the first half of the year we recorded a profit before tax of £135.4 million, with income
driven by lending and deposit growth in a steady interest rate environment. Lending to customers
increased by 10% year-on-year and customer deposits grew by 6%.
“In the first six months of the year we supported the Northern Ireland business community with
over £400 million in business lending approvals. Notable transactions included providing growth
funding for local enterprises Andras House hotel group, Armagh Dental Clinic, Donnelly Group,
Andrew Ingredients, Alpha Housing, Apex Housing Association and Clanmil Housing Group.
“We also welcomed around 900 small businesses to Danske Bank, with many attracted by the
two years of fee-free banking available with our Small Business Digital Account. The account is a
strong option for customers who want the flexibility to self-serve, and it has been awarded a
five-star rating by Moneyfacts for its digital-first design and essential banking features.
“When it comes to everyday banking in Northern Ireland, we welcomed around 7,000 new
personal current account customers in the first half of the year. Over 30% of these new
customers are under 18, and I am pleased to share that Danske Bank now offers current
accounts to children from age 8. Our fee-free Discovery account gives young people a safe and
practical way to learn how to manage their money, with a contactless debit card, online banking,
ability to spend abroad and parental controls for those under 16.
“We also continue to strongly support homebuyers throughout Northern Ireland and across the
UK. In the first six months of the year, we approved over £600 million in total mortgage lending, an
increase of around 20% year on year. Given uncertainty about the path of interest rates,
customers are understandably focused on affordability. Our mortgage teams are on hand to
provide clear guidance, flexible options and timely support for those coming to the end of fixed-rate
deals or re-entering the market.
“I am very proud of the work my new colleagues have done to support customers in the first half of
the year and am grateful for the continued trust that our customers place in us.
“As we look to the future, my priority will be to build on these strong foundations and to lead the
bank’s continued growth and delivery for the benefit of customers and the wider economy.”