Virtu Financial posts 19% revenue rise but lower Q2 2026 profit as costs climb

Virtu Financial (NYSE:VIRT) reported second‑quarter 2026 results showing total revenue of $1.19 billion, up 19 % year‑over‑year. Net income fell 2.7 % to $284.9 million, with diluted EPS slipping to $1.63 from $1.65 a year earlier. Operating expenses rose almost 30 %, narrowing the profit margin to 23.9 % from 29.3 %.

Trading income increased 31 % to $856.7 million, driven primarily by market‑making activities, which generated $1.01 billion of revenue—about 85 % of total sales. Execution Services revenue declined 19 % to $173.5 million. The board declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.24 per share, payable on 15 September 2026.

Aaron Simons, who succeeded co‑founder Douglas Cifu as chief executive, highlighted the strong growth in market making and commissions, while noting the impact of higher costs on margins.