Costs were largely stable year-on-year at £4.9 billion, with nearly £2 billion in cost savings and reduced severance expenses offsetting increased business spending and inflation.
The bank maintained full-year guidance, including net interest income projected above £14.9 billion and a return on tangible equity exceeding 16%.
The Accelerate 2030 plan targets a return on tangible equity of about 20% and a cost-to-income ratio below 45% by 2030.
The financial sector faces pressure as left-wing politicians and trade unions renew calls for a tax on banks following Barclays' 30% profit increase in the second quarter.
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Barclays CEO CS Venkatakrishnan warned that reducing bank capital could limit lending to businesses and households, potentially harming economic growth.
