Bank of Ireland profits meet market forecasts

WHILE profits at Bank of Ireland met market forecasts, the shares fell 5% to €10.86 in early trading.

By mid afternoon, they had recovered somewhat, but still ended the day down 20 cent at €11.20.

Results for the half-year to September 30 show profits on ordinary activities before exceptional items rose 9.7% to €602 million for the period, and they were ahead by a more modest 8.8% to €580m when the exceptionals are deducted.