For us, the main paragraph of interest is -
The Board has decided that it would be in the Group's best interests not to declare a dividend on Ordinary Shares for 2016. The Board believes in balancing returns to shareholders with investment to support future growth, while at the same time preserving strong capital ratios. While the Group has made good progress on the actions that we believe will drive a sustainable improvement in financial returns, the turnaround of the profitability of the Group is at a relatively early stage and a number of economic and regulatory uncertainties remain. The Board recognises the importance of dividends to shareholders and will keep the matter under close review.
Another disappointment after PSON & COB recently, and probably IRV next week, especially as 12 months ago the following was stated after STAN did not pay a final dividend for 2015 (they had paid an interim)
The Board recognises the importance of dividends to shareholders, and believes in balancing returns with investment in the franchise to support future growth, while preserving strong capital ratios. The size of any future ordinary dividends will be a function of future earnings and our capital position relative to regulatory and market expectations. Subject to these factors, the Board intends to declare a dividend on Ordinary Shares in respect of the 2016 financial year.
(from 2015 results - http://www.investegate.co.uk/standard-c ... 15028453P/)
Vive la diversification !
Mike