SDL acquisition drives first half profits

Information management firm SDL reported growth in the first half but warned its customers were cautious due to the ongoing financial crisis.The firm said revenue had risen 20% to £133.6m as expected, with over the half the gain due to its purchase of marketing firm Alterian.Pre-tax profits were up 4% to £16.4m with earnings per ordinary share rising 2% to 15.63p.SDL said its services division grew 14% but its technology arm was flat."The global macro-economic outlook remains uncertain with the structural weakness in Europe remaining unresolved," said Executive Chairman Mark Lancaster."This in turn has created a degree of caution in some of the markets we operate in," he added. "Despite this we do see growth opportunities in both the USA and Asia."