Interim div 11.9 pence/share, up 7% (Il Sole 24 Ore Radiocor) - London, 14 Aug - The UK insurer Aviva said that in the first half net profit rose to 654 million pounds from 415 million a year earlier as the operating profit grew 14% to 875 million pounds.

Insurance, wealth and retirement sales were up 12% to 19.7 billion pounds and general insurance premiums increased 15% 6.005 million pounds.

The Solvency II shareholder cover ratio was 205% The company announced an interim dividend per share of 11.9 pence, up 7% from a year earlier.

'We remain very positive about Aviva's prospects. Trading conditions across the UK, Ireland and Canada, are excellent.

And the UK market, our largest, is highly attractive and growing. We see many reasons to invest here, including greater economic stability and political certainty. This encouraging backdrop - and Aviva's continued strong financial performance - means we are increasingly confident we can deliver even more for our customers and shareholders,' said Amanda Blanc, the CEO.

The company targets an operating profit of 2 billion pounds by 2026.

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(RADIOCOR) 14-08-24 08:45:29 (0175) 5 NNNN