SYDNEY, 11 February 2026 – Shares in the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) have surged today following the release of a record-breaking half-year financial report that exceeded market expectations. The nation’s largest lender reported a significant lift in cash earnings, driven by robust growth in its lending and deposit portfolios, triggering the stock’s strongest single-day performance in five years.
CBA Half-Year Results: Record Profits and Dividend Growth
In its 1H26 results released this morning, Commonwealth Bank posted a statutory net profit of $5.41 billion, representing a 6% increase in cash earnings compared to the previous period. The result was bolstered by a 6% rise in revenue from ordinary activities, which reached $15 billion for the half-year ended 31 December 2025.
Chief Executive Officer Matt Comyn highlighted the bank’s resilience in a competitive landscape, noting that growth in business loans and flagship home lending products helped offset ongoing margin pressures. Investors reacted positively to the bank’s improved credit quality and its decision to increase the interim dividend to $2.35 per share.
Market Performance and Share Price Action
Following the announcement, CBA shares jumped as investors digested the “mammoth” profit figures. This rally follows a period of volatility; only yesterday, 10 February 2026, the stock had dipped 0.72% to close at $158.74. Today’s surge has pushed the price significantly higher, with some analysts noting the bank is trading at a premium compared to its peers.
| Metric | Value / Detail |
|---|---|
| 1H26 Cash Profit | $5.41 Billion (Up 6%) |
| Interim Dividend (Declared Feb 2026) | $2.35 per share |
| Trailing Dividend Yield | 3.06% |
| Previous Close (10 Feb 2026) | $158.74 |
| ASX Ticker | CBA |
Analyst Outlook and Sector Impact
The results have set a positive tone for the Australian reporting season. While some brokers previously expressed concerns regarding CBA’s high Price-to-Earnings (PE) ratio and “material overvaluation,” the 1H26 earnings beat has provided a fresh catalyst for the stock. However, the bank continues to navigate a high-tech spending environment, with significant capital allocated to digital infrastructure and security to maintain its market-leading position.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the CBA dividend for the first half of 2026?
Commonwealth Bank declared an interim dividend of $2.35 per share following its half-year results on 11 February 2026. This is an increase from previous periods, reflecting the bank’s strong cash position.
Why did CBA shares jump today?
The share price rose sharply because the bank’s first-half profit of $5.41 billion exceeded analyst estimates. Strong growth in business lending and a 6% rise in revenue were the primary drivers of the positive market sentiment.
What is the current dividend yield for CBA?
Based on recent data, CBA maintains a trailing dividend yield of approximately 3.06%. The forward yield may adjust as the market prices in the newly announced $2.35 interim payment.
How has the RBA interest rate environment affected CBA?
While higher interest rates generally support bank margins, CBA has faced intense competition for home loans and deposits. However, the latest results suggest the bank has successfully managed these pressures through increased volume and disciplined cost management.