Close Brothers saw assets under management rise 4 per cent to £9.7 billion ($16.4 billion) for the five months to 30 June. Year-to-date, assets under management have increased 7 per cent.

Close Brothers saw assets under management rise 4 per cent to £9.7 billion ($16.4 billion) for the five months to 30 June. Year-to-date, assets under management have increased 7 per cent.

In a trading update ahead of its 2014 financial year end, the firm said that the loan book had increased 8 per cent to £5.2 billion over the five months and up 12 per cent year to date, reflecting improved demand particularly in property and motor finance.  

Volumes at Winterflood, the group's broking arm, were stronger although this was offset by a small reduction in income per bargain, reflecting increased trading in lower margin stocks.

The firm said that overall the group's outlook remains unchanged and it expects to report another strong performance for the full year.

Close Brothers will be releasing its full year results for the twelve months ending 31 July on 23 September.