Ramsdens Holdings Expects FY26 Profit Up to 35 Million Pounds as Gold Trading Surges
Ramsdens Holdings PLC (LSE:RFX) confirmed that full-year profit before tax for FY26 is expected to reach between 32 million pounds and 35 million pounds, matching upgraded guidance issued earlier in the year. The financial services provider and retailer reported solid performance across its core divisions during the twelve months ended 30 September 2026.
Higher gold prices and increased purchasing volumes pushed gross profit in the precious metals division to approximately 36 million pounds, double the 18 million pounds recorded in FY25. Pawnbroking loan balances grew to 15.9 million pounds from 11.5 million pounds, while jewellery retail profits rose roughly 20 percent. Ramsdens also expanded its footprint by opening 10 new stores, bringing its UK network to 179 locations.
Investors will watch the progress of the proposed takeover by Chess Bidco Limited, an indirect subsidiary of FirstCash Holdings, Inc. The recommended cash acquisition remains under review by the UK Competition and Markets Authority. Operationally, Ramsdens is preparing to open additional store locations in Leicester and St Helens as it enters FY27.
Key points
- Ramsdens Holdings expects FY26 profit before tax of 32 million to 35 million pounds, in line with revised July guidance.
- Precious metals gross profit doubled to around 36 million pounds, supported by a 45% increase in average gold prices.
- The pawnbroking loan book expanded to 15.9 million pounds at year-end, up from 11.5 million pounds in FY25.
- Store growth continued with 10 new sites opened in FY26, bringing the overall UK branch network to 179.
- The pending acquisition by FirstCash Holdings subsidiary Bidco remains subject to regulatory approval.
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What is Ramsdens Holdings FY26 profit expectation?
Ramsdens Holdings expects pre-tax profit for FY26 to be between 32 million pounds and 35 million pounds, in line with its upgraded guidance from July 2026.
How did high gold prices affect Ramsdens performance?
A 45% rise in average gold prices helped double gross profit in Ramsdens precious metals unit to around 36 million pounds in FY26, compared to 18 million pounds in FY25.
What is the status of the acquisition of Ramsdens Holdings?
Ramsdens agreed to a recommended cash acquisition by Chess Bidco Limited, a subsidiary of FirstCash Holdings, Inc. The takeover remains subject to approval by the UK Competition and Markets Authority.