JPMorgan profit boosted by higher interest rates

Reuters 

(Reuters) - & Co reported higher-than-expected quarterly profit on Friday as gains from higher interest rates and a growth in loans helped the offset weakness in bond trading revenue.

The largest U.S. by assets, whose results are often seen as a barometer of the economy, has benefited from a tax windfall and a strong economy that has led to higher interest rates and kept loan defaults in check.

Average core loans was up 6 percent in the third quarter even as higher rates crimped borrowing in areas such as mortgage loans.

Markets and investor services revenue, which includes revenue from trading bonds and stocks, was up just 1 percent, as financial markets were hit by escalating trade war between and and worries about slowing global growth.

"The U.S. and the global economy continue to show strength, despite increasing economic and geopolitical uncertainties, which at some point in the future may have negative effects on the economy," said.

Overall, JPMorgan's total revenue increased 5.2 percent to $27.82 billion, as the lender's diverse business mix helped it weather the ups and downs of the trading business. All four of its four main businesses recorded a rise in revenue.

The bank's net income rose to $8.38 billion, or $2.34 per share, from $6.73 billion, or $1.76 per share in the year ago period. Analysts had expected earnings of $2.25 per share, according to I/B/E/S data from

Net interest income rose 7 percent to $14.1 billion as the raised rates four times since the third quarter of last year, bringing it to 2.25 percent.

Smaller rivals and are also scheduled to report quarterly results later in the day.

(Reporting by in Bengaluru; Editing by Saumyadeb Chakrabarty)

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

First Published: Fri, October 12 2018. 16:45 IST