SThree posts 68% rise in first-half pre-tax profit

13th Jul 2015 08:55

(ShareCast News) - SThree posted a 68% rise in first-half pre-tax profit as strong growth in information and communications technology and Life Sciences offset weakness in its energy division.Pre-tax profit for the half year ended 31 May came in at £13.8m from £8.2m in 2014, on revenue of £403.6m, up 18% from £341.7m.Basic earnings per share rose 55% to 7.3p, while the interim dividend was unchanged at 4.7p.The company said its Americas business, which grew by 34% year-on-year, remains one of its most exciting growth opportunities, as it continues to expand and diversify its sector offering in the US.Chief executive officer Gary Elden said: "Looking ahead, the trading environment remains positive in the majority of our territories."While the outlook for Energy remains challenging and foreign exchange continues to be a headwind, we are confident that there are good growth opportunities available to us across the geographies and sectors we serve in the seasonally more important second half."At 0840 BST, SThree shares were up 1% at 374.40p.