Specialist bank Investec announced in a trading statement on Thursday that it expects to report a strong performance for the 2005 financial year, with profit rising by at least 30 percent.

The group informed shareholders that earnings per share (before exceptional items and goodwill amortisation) for the year to March 2005 are likely to be in the region of 135 pence to 143 pence compared to the 103.8 pence realised a year earlier.

With operating fundamentals showing positive trends and strong performances across all the key business areas and geographies, the group said it looks forward to 2006 with confidence.

Group results for the period under review are set to be released on May 19.

Shares in Investec rose 1.3 percent to end at 181.32 rand on the JSE on Thursday.

SA COMPANIES & BUSINESS INFO Trying to find your way around South Africa's corporate landscape? Looking for a info on a particular company or sector? After the latest business, financial or market news? Here's a quick directory of links to get you started.

MORE BUSINESS NEWS Construction charter seen by August Large trade deficit needed for growth Harmony sells 14% stake in ARM Empowerment deal lifts EOH revenue Credit body supports bill Old Mutual unveils R7.2bn BEE deal Black interests buy 11.5% of Nedcor Pleasing results for Pick ‘n Pay Jasco's turnaround continues Cashbuild rallies on trading update