Friday, May 15, 2026

DBS and OCBC Draw Positive Views, but UOB Outlook Tempered by Provisions in Q3

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DBS and OCBC
Singapore’s three largest banks posted mixed third-quarter results last week. PHOTO: LIANHE ZAOBAO

DBS and OCBC Post Strong Results, UOB Faces Provisions Hit

DBS and OCBC performed well in their third-quarter results. DBS posted stable revenues, while OCBC saw robust non-interest income growth. However, UOB’s earnings took a hit from higher loan provisions. Analysts remain cautious about UOB’s performance, but both DBS and OCBC received positive reviews.

DBS and OCBC Perform Well

DBS and OCBC showed solid results despite a challenging environment. DBS recorded a net interest income (NII) of $3.58 billion, driven by strong deposits and hedging strategies. NIM dropped from 2.11% to 1.96%, but the bank remains confident about its future. Similarly, OCBC’s non-interest income rose 15% year-on-year to $1.57 billion, supporting its net profit of $1.98 billion.

Both banks maintained resilience through strong deposit growth and well-executed hedging strategies. Despite declining interest rates, DBS and OCBC are navigating the challenges well, thanks to their diverse income sources.

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UOB Faces Provisions Hit, But Outlook Improves

UOB’s third-quarter earnings were affected by a $1 billion rise in credit provisions. The bank increased provisions to prepare for ongoing economic challenges, resulting in a sharp jump in credit costs. Despite this, UOB’s management remains optimistic about a rebound in 2026.

RHB analysts predict that UOB’s credit costs will normalize, dropping from 134 basis points to around 25-30 basis points. The bank’s strong provision buffers should help smooth earnings in the future, and analysts have kept a “neutral” rating on the stock. UOB’s dividend payout remains unaffected, signaling confidence in its financial position.

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