Nordea Posts 15.1% Return on Equity as Nordic Lending Growth Holds Steady

Operating profit reached EUR 1.5bn, a 4% decline compared to the same period last year, as the bank balanced volume growth with lower lending margins. Total income saw a modest 2% rise, bolstered by a 9% increase in net fee and commission income, while assets under management hit a record EUR 509bn. The bank’s credit quality remains resilient, with net loan losses totaling EUR 74m, or 7 basis points, well within the Group's long-term target.

Nordea CEO Frank Vang-Jensen highlighted that the bank's strategy is progressing, particularly in digitalizing core processes and expanding business volumes in Sweden and Norway. With a CET1 ratio of 15.8%, the bank maintains a significant capital buffer above regulatory requirements. Looking ahead, the firm confirmed its full-year 2026 outlook, targeting a return on equity exceeding 15% and a cost-to-income ratio between 44% and 45%.