Sky Network reports strong first-half growth

Sky Network Television has reported a strong first-half result, with growth in revenue, earnings, and profit.

The company's revenue increased by 3.7% to $392.7 million, driven by strong performance in Sky Sport Now, advertising, and broadband.

Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) saw a growth of 11.1% to $81.7m, while net profit after tax (NPAT) rose by 10.5% to $29m.

As a result of the positive performance, Sky has increased its interim dividend to 7 cents per share, fully imputed.

The full-year dividend guidance has also been raised to at least 17.5 cents per share.

In addition, the company announced a new share buyback programme of up to $15m.

Sky's chief executive, Sophie Moloney, attributed the strong result to the company's focus on execution, while chairman Philip Bowman highlighted the benefits for customers, employees, and investors.