KUALA LUMPUR (May 29): Hong Leong Financial Group Bhd's (HLFG) net profit rose 33% to RM418.75 million in the third quarter ended March 31, 2017 (3QFY17) from RM315.07 million a year earlier on higher net interest, non-interest and Islamic banking income.

HLFG said in statements to Bursa Malaysia today revenue climbed to RM1.23 billion from RM1.03 billion.

The group declared a dividend of 25 sen per share for 3QFY17, payable on June 23.

HLFG also registered stronger 9MFY17 results. Net profit was up at RM1.25 billion from RM965.4 million a year earlier. Revenue increased to RM3.76 billion from RM3.34 billion.

Its president and chief executive officer Tan Kong Khoon said: "Business growth remains intact and more importantly our core businesses continue to show strong credit and liquidity risk metrics which are important in these times."

HLFG's operating units comprise Hong Leong Bank Bhd, Hong Leong Capital Bhd and HLA Holdings Group. Hong Leong Capital undertakes investment banking and fund management operations while HLA is in the insurance business.

Hong Leong Bank and Hong Leong Capital also reported their 3QFY17 and 9MFY17 results to Bursa Malaysia today.

Hong Leong Bank said 3QFY17 net profit rose to RM569.54 million from RM497.83 million a year earlier. Revenue was higher at RM1.12 billion versus RM1 billion.

It said 9MFY17 net profit climbed to RM1.66 billion from RM1.34 billion a year earlier. Revenue was higher at RM3.4 billion compared to RM3.1 billion.

Meanwhile, Hong Leong Capital said 3QFY17 net profit rose to RM26.04 million from RM17.13 million. Revenue was higher at RM81.62 million compared to RM58.71 million.

Its 9MFY17 net profit climbed to RM69.14 million from RM55.05 million, while revenue was higher at RM228.87 million versus RM189.84 million.