Aviva announces 1 per cent increase in profit
Last week, sources told Reuters that Aviva is considering selling its Asia business at a valuation of more than $2 billion (£1.64 billion), following a review of the business due by the end of September.
Britain’s second-largest insurer, which employs hundreds of people in Yorkshire said operating profit rose to 1.45 billion pounds in the first half of the year from 1.44 billion pounds a year earlier, a slightly better performance than the 1.43 billion pounds predicted in a company-supplied analyst forecast.
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Hide AdMaurice Tulloch, Chief Executive Officer, said: “Aviva has strong foundations to build upon but there is much to do to improve our performance.
“Our performance is mixed, with operating earnings per share up 2%. We have delivered strong general insurance results with
a combined ratio of 95.9%. In life insurance and asset management, operating profits declined due to challenging market
conditions and the absence of a longevity reserve release.
“In June we announced a plan to improve Aviva’s performance and deliver an excellent experience for our customers. We have made
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Hide Ada quick start; separating management of our life and general insurance businesses in the UK and bringing together UK Digital and
UK General Insurance.
“Our financial position remains strong with a capital surplus of £11.8 billion and £2.3 billion of cash at group. Maintaining such
a healthy capital surplus is important as we continue to reduce our debt levels and safely navigate uncertain market conditions.
Aviva is ready and resilient.
“In line with our progressive dividend policy, the Board of Directors has increased the interim dividend by 3% to 9.50 pence per share.
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Hide Ad“I am working with the Board to refresh Aviva’s strategy and we have decided to review the strategic options for our Asian businesses.
Aviva’s businesses in Asia have excellent growth and earnings potential and we are considering a range of options to help these
businesses reach their potential.
“I am confident that our combination of excellent insurance skills, a strong balance sheet and world class distribution and partners
provide a strong foundation for Aviva’s future success.”