ASA International Group PLC

ASA International Group reported a 70% year-over-year rise in first-half net profit to $45.6 million, with underlying profit up 42% to $34.3 million, and raised its interim dividend 43% to $0.069 per share. The microfinance lender's client base exceeded 2.7 million, and its loan portfolio reached $600 million, up 18% reported and 24% at constant currency. East Africa led growth, though PAR 30 rose slightly to 2.4% amid challenges in Uganda, Ghana, and the Philippines. The company has effectively completed its India exit and plans to enter the Democratic Republic of Congo early next year. ASA International expects full-year underlying profit to meet or slightly exceed the $70.2 million consensus.