National Grid Posts Rise In H1 Profit, Lifts Dividend

National Grid PLC

posted a rise in its profit for the first half and lifted the dividend. National Grid's revenue for the period fell to GBP6.08 billion, from GBP6.31 billion, in the year-ago period. Its adjusted pretax profit climbed to GBP1.15 billion from GBP953 million, while diluted EPS rose to 28.7 pence from 21.8 pence. National Grid raised its dividend to 14.49 pence from 13.93 pence. National Grid shares closed at $54.55 yesterday.