Rio Tinto 2026 half year results
| Stock | RIO Tinto Ltd (RIO.ASX) |
|---|---|
| Release Time | 29 Jul 2026, 8:26 a.m. |
| Price Sensitive | Yes |
Rio Tinto Reports Strong H1 2026 Financial Performance
- 28% increase in underlying EBITDA
- 75% rise in free cash flow
- 3% increase in copper equivalent production
- $3.4 billion interim ordinary dividend, up 43%
Rio Tinto's first half of 2026 saw significant improvements across key financial metrics. The company reported a 28% increase in underlying EBITDA to $14.8 billion, a 75% rise in free cash flow to $3.8 billion, and a 3% increase in copper equivalent production. These results were underpinned by strong operational performance, particularly in copper, aluminium, and lithium, which contributed over 50% of underlying EBITDA. Additionally, the company declared a $3.4 billion interim ordinary dividend, up 43% from the previous year. Despite tragic safety incidents, Rio Tinto remains committed to enhancing safety and productivity, with a target to reach an annualized run-rate of $1.8 billion in productivity benefits by year-end. The company also outlined its strategic focus on sustainability and decarbonization, aiming to reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 50% by 2030.
2026 production guidance maintained; effective tax rate lowered to ~25%
Rio Tinto expects to continue delivering strong financial performance, supported by operational excellence and strategic investments in growth projects.