Shares in the London Stock Exchange were up on the FTSE 250 in morning trading after the group reported a rise in pre-tax profit in the year ended 31 March.

Total income in the period rose seven per cent to £674.9 million, while pre-tax profit increased 65 per cent to £238.2 million.

The group said it would be raising its final dividend 12.5 per cent to 18.0 pence per share, taking the total dividend up 9.8 per cent to 26.8 pence per share.

Xavier Rolet, Chief Executive of London Stock Exchange, said, "We have made good progress. The 22 per cent increase in adjusted operating profit underlines our improved financial performance and we have taken significant steps in delivering on our growth strategy.

"We continue to operate in a highly dynamic and evolving global industry. Enhancing our competitiveness and improving customer service remain key priorities. We are also fully focused on pursuing a range of growth opportunities which will remain pivotal to further progress in the year ahead."

By 08:30 shares in the London Stock Exchange were up 3.18 per cent on the FTSE 250 to 845.00 pence per share.