Summary
Results ahead of expectations
Underlying profit before taxation increases by 35% and underlying earnings per share increases by 37%
Continued increases in transaction volumes across broking division
Dividend increased for twelfth consecutive year to 60p
Solid balance sheet, including £92.3m of net funds
10% increase in the forward order book for 2015 to US$110m
Completion of acquisition of RS Platou ASA (Platou) in February 2015
Andi Case, Chief Executive, commented:
"Once again our proven strategy has enabled us to exceed expectations and generate strong results with a 35% increase in underlying profit before taxation.
"We have continued to expand and develop our unique offering into a fully integrated business and I am extremely excited that the acquisition of Platou not only brings together two great teams, but transforms the strength and depth of our offering and further enhances the best in class service we deliver to our global clients.
"Shipping and offshore is a multi-cyclical business and once again we face extremely challenging conditions in some markets. We continue to see a flight to quality and believe that our extended tool box underpinned by our strong balance sheet ensures we are best placed for long-term growth.
"We are delighted to maintain our progressive dividend policy for a twelfth year and we remain focused on shareholder returns."
