Empresaria said revenue had grown strongly in 2006, and was ahead of expectations in January 2007.

Revenue for the year to 31 December was about £75m, with net fee income about £22m. In the UK, construction and other businesses were especially strong. The Board expects profits for the year to be in line with current market expectations.

Chief executive Miles Hunt said: “The good performance of the Group at the end of 2006 and strong start to the current year sets the scene for a promising result in our existing operations for the remainder of the year. The establishment of a new company in Malaysia demonstrates our continuing commitment to expansion in growing international markets, both by investment in start up businesses and through acquisition.”