HSBC reports a 23% rise in first-half profit, reaching about $19.5 billion, and restarts share buybacks. Multiple outlets say the bank declares a $0.10 dividend and authorises a buyback programme of up to $1 billion, described as a quarterly resumption in one report. The reported profit increase is attributed to stronger earnings from banking operations, including growth in net interest income and higher fee and other income. Coverage also points to support from wealth management and insurance activities, particularly in Hong Kong, as part of the performance drivers. While some articles reference results in U.S. dollar terms and others in pounds, all accounts agree on the direction and magnitude of the profit increase and the associated capital actions. The reports collectively portray HSBC’s first-half results as boosted by both interest-related income and fee-generating business lines, leading the bank to restart repurchases and maintain a dividend payout.