Legal and General Share Price Falls Over 6%
Legal and General’s share price fell by a little over 6% on March 11, 2026, closing at 242p. This decline comes as the company reported mixed financial results, with its share price now approximately 14% below its highs for the year.
The company’s core operating profit for 2025 was reported at £1.62 billion, reflecting a 6% increase year on year. However, this figure fell short of the consensus forecast of £1.65 billion, raising concerns among investors regarding the company’s growth trajectory.
In addition to the profit figures, Legal and General’s full-year Solvency II coverage ratio came in at 210%, which was also below the expected ratio of 219%. This shortfall in financial metrics may have contributed to the negative market reaction.
Despite these challenges, Legal and General announced a 2% increase in its dividend, raising it to 21.79p per share. The dividend yield now stands at about 9% on a trailing basis, which may provide some reassurance to investors looking for income in a volatile market.
Furthermore, the company revealed a significant £1.2 billion share buyback program, which is expected to enhance shareholder value. This move indicates the company’s confidence in its long-term prospects, even as it navigates short-term challenges.
Core operating earnings per share (EPS) for 2025 were reported at 20.93p, with a trailing price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 11.6. These figures suggest that while the company is generating profits, the market’s valuation of its shares may not fully reflect its earnings potential.
Legal and General has consistently increased its dividend per share, signaling a commitment to returning value to shareholders. However, the recent decline in share price may prompt analysts to reassess their outlook on the company’s performance moving forward.
As observers digest these results, the focus will likely remain on how Legal and General addresses its solvency ratios and whether it can meet or exceed profit expectations in the coming quarters. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the potential impact of these financial results on future share price movements.