Highlights:
Severe Asian recession impacts earnings and investment values
Results:
Six months ended 30th June (unaudited)
US$m
Profit after taxation, outside interests and preference dividends
1998 $109
1997 $172
Change -37%
Net profit excluding non-recurring items
1998 $107
1997 $127
Change -16%
Earnings US¢
Diluted earnings per share
1998 11.89¢
1997 20.25¢
Change -41%
Diluted earnings per share excluding non-recurring items
1998 11.76¢
1997 15.50¢
Change -24%
Dividends per ordinary share
1998 4.60¢
1997 4.60¢
Change -%
"The recession in Asia will continue to impact the performance of our underlying business for some time. Nevertheless, they remain soundly financed and well able to withstand the current economic turmoil."
Henry Keswick, Chairman
17th September, 1998