Friends First has announced a rise in profits of over 40 per cent for 2003 in a statement that showed profits after tax rising to €20 million.
Sales at the life assurance unit, on an annual premium equivalent basis, fell 13 per cent to €79.8 million, but this was better than the average market downturn of 23 per cent. Overall its market share to 7.1 per cent from 6.3 per cent. New lending rose to to €206 million.
"The substantial increase in group profits was achieved in difficult financial markets by focusing on profitable business lines and by implementing an ongoing efficiency programme," this morning's statement said.
It added that cost-cutting lifted life sales margins to 15 per cent from 8.6 per cent.
