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PRIVACY
Professional Services

Aviva profits soar ahead of Direct Line merger after CMA gives takeover green light

The insurance giant said its operating profit jumped 22 per cent to just over £1bn in the six months to June 30, up from £875m a year earlier

A sign for Aviva offices(Image: Philip Toscano/PA Wire)

Aviva has reported a substantial profit surge for the first half of the year following robust performance across its wealth and insurance operations.

The firm's operating profit soared 22 per cent to just over £1bn – surpassing the £875m achieved in the first half of 2024, as reported by .

This follows Aviva's completion of its £3.7bn acquisition of competitor Direct Line on July 1 after securing approval from the Competitions and Market Authority (CMA).

The CMA's approval came following an internal assessment examining whether the merger might result in "a substantial lessening of competition". The regulator concluded the deal would not impair the º£½ÇÊÓÆµ insurance sector.

Aviva confirmed its integration is "progressing quickly" and plans to reveal further details on the Direct Line merger and its effect on Group objectives at an 'In Focus' event in November.

The insurer noted that 66 per cent of its operating profit derives from capital-light businesses, which are units requiring less capital to operate and expand. It anticipates the acquisition will push this figure beyond 70 per cent.

Aviva shares climbed more than four per cent at market opening to 686.00. The stock has risen nearly 45 per cent year-to-date.

Adam Vettese, market analyst at eToro, commented: "These results reaffirm Aviva's status as a well capitalised, diversified insurer offering an attractive yield supported by a clear strategy and strong execution.