WPP Reports 53% Jump In First-Half Net Profit, Lifts Dividend Payout

WPP PLC WPPGY reported a 53% surge in its first-half net profit. WPP's net profit for the period rose to 230.7 million pounds ($380.7 million), from 150.8 million pounds. Its revenue climbed 6.1% to 4,71 billion pounds. WPP's comparable sales jumped 5.4% in the US and 5.1% in the UK. WPP also raised its dividend payout by 25% to 7.46 pence per share. WPP shares gained 3.49% to close at $49.16 yesterday.