Strong half-year results from Australia's CSL

Along with celebrating its 100th anniversary, Australian biotech firm CSL Limited (ASX: CSL) saw its shares rise 1.5% to A$106.00, after it posted record net profit after tax (NPAT) of $719 million (all figures US dollars) for the first-half fiscal year to December 31, up 4% on a reported basis when compared to the prior comparable period (PCP), and ahead of analysts’ estimates.

Earnings per share (EPS) grew 9%. After excluding financials relating to the recently acquired Novartis influenza vaccines business, underlying NPAT grew 7% and EPS grew 9%, at constant currency, the company noted.

Total sales for the period were $3,056 million, up 11% on PCP. Underlying sales were up 9% at constant currency. NPAT at $719 million was up 4% on PCP. Underlying NPAT was up 7% at constant currency. Earnings per share were $1.55, up 6% on PCP