Bloomberg ING Groep NV reported second quarter profit that beat analyst estimates as it set aside less money for soured loans. Net income of €2.16 billion ($2.36 billion) in the second quarter compared with expectations for profit of €1.72 billion, the bank said. ING added €98 million to its loan loss provisions in the quarter, well below the €383 million ...

BLOOMBERG The Bank of England (BOE) raised interest rates to a new 15-year high, warning that its fight against inflation may require tighter borrowing conditions for a prolonged period. The UK central bank lifted its key rate a quarter point to 5.25%, a smaller hike than the half-point increase delivered in June. Investors and economists had expected the move and ...

BLOOMBERG Next Plc raised its guidance for the second time in recent months after wet weather and sticky inflation failed to deter shoppers from buying fashion. Full-price sales in the second quarter rose nearly 7% on last year, according to the company’s earnings report. That has driven Next to increase its forecast for profit before tax by £10 million ($12.7 ...