NatWest share price falls as oil shock hits UK banks; Reeves update and BoE in focus

NatWest posted a 24% jump in annual profit for 2025 and raised its 2028 return target on Friday, stepping up its move into wealth management following the Evelyn Partners deal. The British bank rolled out plans for a £750 million share buyback in the first half of 2026. Assets under management and administration climbed 20% to £58.5 billion, not counting the Evelyn acquisition. “We are raising our ambition and sharpening our strategic focus, with stretching new targets in place,” said chief executive Paul Thwaite.