NM Rothschild & Sons, the UK investment banking arm of Rothschild & Co, reported an 18 per cent drop in pre-tax profits to £84.9mn in 2025 despite revenues rising. Global advisory fees increased 8 per cent to £456.7mn, but expenses jumped 12 per cent due to higher variable compensation linked to strong revenue performance.

The bank advised on major deals including Czech billionaire Daniel Křetínský's £5.3bn purchase of Royal Mail and KKR's £4.8bn takeover of Spectris. With 945 staff, average pay reached £312,000 including bonuses, while total remuneration hit £294.9mn.

Led by chief executive Robert Leitão, the 1811-founded boutique expects dealmaking momentum to continue into H1 2026. Recent mandates include advising Associated British Foods on demerging Primark. Rothschild & Co declined to comment.