Up
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.NATIONAL Westminster Bank shares rose 10 per cent last week after analysts raised their recommendation on Britain's third-largest bank following surprisingly strong first-half profits. The shares rose to 1,173 even as the FT-SE 100 index dropped more than 4 per cent.
NatWest said first-half pre-tax profit rose 49 per cent to pounds 967m due mainly to strong gains in UK banking and in the asset management division.
The bank has reduced the number of its branches and has improved its processing facilities to generate more income while reducing costs.
Return on equity rose to 18.1 per cent from 12.5 per cent a year earlier.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments