BSkyB hikes dividend despite fall in profits
The group said adjusted operating costs fell to £595 million for the six months to 31 December, down from £647m a year earlier, on revenues 7.6 per cent higher at £3.75 billion.
Chief executive Jeremy Darroch said costs were driven higher by a £108 million “step up” in charges under its new deal to show English Premier League football games, while marketing costs jumped 13 per cent to £613m.
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Hide AdThe marketing push saw the number of Sky customers taking a high-definition package rise above five million.
Shareholders will receive an interim dividend of 12p a share on 22 April, up from 11p a year ago.