HSBC Holdings (HSBA), the global banking group, reported second quarter pre tax profit up 60% to $10.10bn, ahead of expectations of $9.51bn. Revenue increased 16% to $19.10bn, beating forecasts of $18.57bn, supported by stronger net interest income and one off gains. The bank declared a 10c interim dividend, announced a share buyback of up to $1bn, and maintained its 17% return on tangible equity target.