London Stock Exchange plc today reports results for the six months ended 30 September 2003.

Highlights:

• Turnover in line with same period last year at £119.6 million
  
• Operating profit (before exceptional items and goodwill amortisation) up three per cent to £41.7 million
  
• Earnings per share up four per cent to 11.5 pence per share
  
• Adjusted earnings per share up three per cent to 10.8 pence per share
  
• Interim dividend up eight per cent to 1.4 pence per share

Commenting on the six months ended 30 September 2003, Chris Gibson-Smith, Chairman of the Exchange, said:

"The Exchange has produced a satisfactory half year performance. In continuing difficult market conditions for the Exchange we have increased earnings and are recommending an eight per cent increase in the interim dividend. Although the outlook continues to be challenging, the Board is confident that the Exchange’s performance will remain resilient.”

Clara Furse, Chief Executive, said:

"These first half results demonstrate the ability of the Exchange to deliver an improved performance despite tough conditions in our markets. Cost control has helped to underpin earnings while investment has continued to develop the business, with recent initiatives now starting to contribute to turnover.”

Further information is available from:

London Stock Exchange	John Wallace - Media	020 7797 1222
	Paul Froud - Investor Relations	020 7797 3322
	Ruth Anagnos - Investor Relations	020 7797 3322
Finsbury	James Murgatroyd	020 7251 3801
	Melanie Gerlis	020 7251 3801

To view the full announcement click here. PDF (129Kb)

To view the Interim Report click here. PDF (609Kb)

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