United Utilities H1 Operating Profit Rises

United Utilities Group PLC UUGRY reported a gain in its operating profit for the six months to September 30. United Utilities reported an operating profit of 340.5 million pounds ($534.25 million), compared to GBP338.3 million, in the year-ago period. Its pretax profit slipped to GBP204.7 million versus GBP333.6 million. Underlying profit before taxation rose to 221.2 million pounds from 214.4 million pounds, while underlying profit after taxation gained by 8 million pounds to 176 million pounds in the period. The company's revenue climbed to GBP859.4 million from GBP845.7 million. The company also lifted its interim dividend to 12.56 pence per share, versus 12.01 pence paid in the year-ago period. United Utilities shares gained 0.33% to close at $28.73 yesterday.