Share research

Barclays (Q1 Update): broadly in-line

Barclays’ first quarter delivered a small income beat, but higher costs and impairments kept profits in line with expectations.
Barclays - error could cost up to 450 million, buyback delayed

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Prices delayed by at least 15 minutes

Barclays reported a 6% rise in first quarter total income to £8.2bn (£8.1bn expected).

Profit before tax rose 3% to £2.8bn (£2.8bn expected), as income growth was partially offset by higher costs and increased impairment charges.

Credit impairment charges rose to £823mn (£838mn expected), reflecting a £228mn single-name charge in the Investment Bank, with underlying default rates remaining broadly in line with expectations.

Capital levels fell slightly, with the CET1 ratio easing from 14.3% to 14.1% (14.2% expected), or 13.9% including a new £500mn buyback announced today.

Guidance for 2026 was reiterated, pointing to total income of £31bn (£31.1bn expected). Barclays still expects to return more than £15bn to shareholders over 2026-28.

The shares fell 2.9% in early trading.

Our view

HL view to follow.

Barclays key facts

All ratios are sourced from LSEG Datastream, based on previous day’s closing values. Please remember yields are variable and not a reliable indicator of future income. Keep in mind key figures shouldn’t be looked at on their own – it’s important to understand the big picture.

This article is original Hargreaves Lansdown content, published by Hargreaves Lansdown. It was correct as at the date of publication, and our views may have changed since then. Unless otherwise stated estimates, including prospective yields, are a consensus of analyst forecasts provided by LSEG. These estimates are not a reliable indicator of future performance. Yields are variable and not guaranteed. Investments rise and fall in value so investors could make a loss.

This article is not advice or a recommendation to buy, sell or hold any investment. No view is given on the present or future value or price of any investment, and investors should form their own view on any proposed investment.

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Written by
Matt-Britzman
Matt Britzman
Senior Equity Analyst

Matt is a Senior Equity Analyst on the share research team, providing up-to-date research and analysis on individual companies and wider sectors. He is a CFA Charterholder and also holds the Investment Management Certificate.

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Article history
Published: 28th April 2026