Standard Life Reports Upbeat Profit

Standard Life PLC SLFPF reported a 44% surge in its first-half profit. Standard Life's operating profit jumped to GBP262 million, from GBP182 million, in the year-earlier period, versus analysts' estimates of GBP198 million. Its net profit climbed 9% to GBP199 million. Standard Life announced its plans to pay an interim dividend of 4.6 pence per share, up from 4.35 pence, in the year-ago period. Standard Life shares gained 1.85% to close at $2.75 yesterday.