Total revenue for the year from continuing operations jumped to GBP10.4 billion (GBP6.2 billion). Profit attributable to equity holders shot up to GBP909 million (GBP570 million). In addition, headline earnings per share improved to GBP16.5p per share (GBP14.1p per share).
Dividend The directors of Old Mutual plc have declared a second interim dividend for the year ended 31 December 2017 of GBP3.57p per share, which will be paid on Monday, 30 April 2018.
Company outlook The global economy is recovering which provides a positive backdrop for all of our businesses. In our key market of South Africa, we expect sentiment and confidence to improve following the appointment of the new South African president and we expect improved GDP growth in the coming year. In the UK, while there remains uncertainty over the outcome of the Brexit negotiations, the economy continues to grow. Global markets have performed strongly which combined with geopolitical developments, means that there are downside risks to our businesses.
Full outlooks for the three underlying businesses are given in their respective business review sections of the annual report and accounts. The following are extracts of current trading commentaries from each:
OML's outlook: The OML Group's continuing operations have started the year on a positive note. Results from operations are trading in line with expectations since the 2017 year end. Nedbank reported its annual results on Friday 2 March 2018, and further details are available on its website.
Quilter: Quilter has continued to trade in line with expectations since the year end. Overall, we continue to remain confident in Quilter's prospects and it is anticipated that the next trading update will be for the first quarter of 2018, which is expected to be published in April 2018.
The managed separation process has already delivered significant value through the reduction in plc debt and in central costs. We believe that further value will be delivered once the managed separation is completed through the following developments: * The removal of the conglomerate discount * GBP95 million of savings in central costs * Continued improvement in the performance of underlying businesses * Each business accessing its natural shareholder base and achieving appropriate valuations * Each business accountable to its shareholders for returns and cash generation from capital employed * And will have its local regulator as its lead regulator
Old Mutual plc's next update will be at our Annual General Meeting on 30 April 2018.