FBH.L Regulatory News (FBH)

26 Jun 2006 08:00

FBD Holdings PLC26 June 2006 PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT FBD HOLDINGS PLC ("FBD" or the "the Group") PRE-CLOSE TRADING STATEMENT FOR HALF YEAR TO 30TH JUNE 2006 FBD Holdings plc has maintained its trading momentum in the year to date and ison course to achieve its operating profit target for the half year to 30th June2006. Our Insurance Underwriting performance is somewhat ahead of budget. Policygrowth has continued to be strong and premium income levels are budget positive. Claims and other costs are running at anticipated levels. As regards income from other activities, our Property, Hotel, Leisure andFinancial Services businesses are performing to expectations. The downturn incapital markets in recent times has impacted adversely on returns from ourCapital Fund. Profit before tax will benefit substantially from the recent sale of land at LaCala, Mijas, Spain, as reported in our announcement of 22nd June 2006. Thedecline in capital markets, referred to above, has had a negative effect onour short term fluctuations in investment returns, and consequently on pre-taxprofit. In relation to full year operating earnings, we remain comfortable with marketexpectations. The Group's interim results are scheduled to be announced on Wednesday, 6thSeptember 2006. Ends 26th June 2006 For Reference: Telephone No FBD Philip Fitzsimons Chief Executive 00 - 353 - 1 - 4093208 Andrew Langford Finance Director 00 - 353 - 1 - 4093208 Murray Consultants Joe Murray 00 - 353 - 1 - 4980300 This announcement has been issued through the Companies Announcement Service of The Irish Stock Exchange This information is provided by RNS The company news service from the London Stock Exchange