UK Banks Brace for Budget Tax Decisions Amid Profit Reports
Major banks anticipate robust earnings despite falling interest rates and potential tax hikes in the upcoming budget.
- Britain's major banks, including Lloyds, Barclays, and NatWest, are set to release third-quarter results showing resilient profits despite recent interest rate reductions.
- Analysts expect Lloyds' profits to dip slightly, while Barclays and NatWest are projected to report modest profit increases compared to last year.
- Speculation surrounds the potential for increased taxation on banks in the Labour government's upcoming budget, as Chancellor Rachel Reeves aims to address public finances.
- Lower interest rates have led to increased competition in the mortgage market, impacting net interest margins and income for banks.
- Despite economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions, lending activity shows signs of improvement, with expectations of further recovery post-budget announcement.