British American Tobacco Posts Rise In Profit

British American Tobacco PLC BTI posted an increase in its profit for the six months to June 30. BAT's net profit for the period climbed to 1.93 billion pounds ($3 billion), from GBP1.87 billion in the year-ago period, missing analysts' estimates of GBP1.97 billion. Its revenue rose to GBP7.45 billion versus GBP7.44 billion, missing analysts' estimates of GBP7.61 billion. BAT recommended an interim dividend of 42.2 pence per share, versus 38.1 pence last year. BAT shares closed at $102.41 yesterday.