Clarkson reports record first-half profit and raises interim dividend

Clarkson PLC (LON:CKN) has announced unaudited Interim results for the six months ended 30 June 2026.

Summary

·     Underlying profit before taxation* of £61.5m (2025: £39.4m)

·     Underlying basic earnings per share* of 147.6p (2025: 98.6p)

·     Strong balance sheet, with £154.6m of free cash resources* (30 June 2025: £206.2m)

·     Increased interim dividend of 35p per share (2025: 33p per share) – 24^th consecutive year of dividend increases

·     Record first half profit generated from strong trading conditions, and accentuated by turbulence in the Strait of Hormuz

·     Full year outturn now expected to be materially ahead of market expectations following an exceptional first half performance

·     The Board does not currently expect the Group’s performance to be second-half weighted as would otherwise be the case

* Classed as an Alternative Performance Measure (‘APM’). See ‘Other information’ at the end of this announcement for further information.

Andi Case, Chief Executive Officer, commented:

“Clarksons delivered a record first half performance, reflecting both the investment into our underlying business and the exceptional volatility caused by the disruption to global trade from global conflict including the situation in the Strait of Hormuz. We expect the full year performance of the Group to be materially ahead of market expectations.

“I am extremely proud of our colleagues across the Group, whose exceptional hard work, commitment and client focus have made this performance possible. In a world that remains increasingly complex, our scale, breadth of expertise, market intelligence and global reach mean we are very well positioned to support clients with the best advice, whatever the market conditions. We look forward with confidence.”