Rio Tinto 2026 half year results

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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
Key Points
  • 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%
Full Summary

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.

Guidance

2026 production guidance maintained; effective tax rate lowered to ~25%

Outlook

Rio Tinto expects to continue delivering strong financial performance, supported by operational excellence and strategic investments in growth projects.