What moved the NAB share price today?

An unaudited Q1 profit of about A$2.0 billion, up 16% year on year, beat expectations and showed stronger lending with fewer distressed borrowers. That combination improved earnings confidence and credit outlook, lifting sentiment for Australian banks and pushing the NAB share price higher as traders priced in better profitability and lower risk.

Are NAB’s Q1 gains sustainable through 2026?

Sustainability depends on margins, arrears, and competition. If net interest income holds, arrears stay benign, and mortgage pricing pressure is manageable, earnings should remain resilient. Watch the May update for detail on volumes, deposit mix, and costs. Macro drivers like RBA policy and funding spreads will also influence trajectory and the NAB share price.

Which technical levels matter after today’s jump?

On the upside, monitor the Bollinger upper band near A$46.51 and the 52-week high at A$47.25. On the downside, the Bollinger middle around A$43.71 and Keltner middle near A$44.08 are initial supports. Momentum is positive, but using ATR of about A$0.87 for risk sizing can help manage swings in the NAB share price.

Is NAB attractive for income investors now?

NAB offers a trailing dividend yield near 3.75% with a payout ratio around 71.5%. That is competitive for large-cap banks if earnings and capital stay solid. Income seekers should still consider rate paths, funding costs, and mortgage competition, all of which could affect future distributions and the NAB share price over 2026.

Global Market Insights

NAB.AX Stock Today: February 18 – $2B Q1 Profit Lifts Shares 4%

ByDanny Kontos February 18, 2026

The NAB share price jumped about 4% on 18 February after National Australia Bank (NAB.AX) posted an unaudited Q1 profit of about A$2.0 billion, up 16% year on year. Mortgage and business lending growth, alongside fewer borrowers in distress, powered the result. The beat put Australian financials in focus and helped lift the ASX 200 today in early trade. We unpack the drivers behind the rally, key technical levels to watch, and how NAB Q1 2026 results frame valuation, income appeal, and near-term catalysts for investors.