Results Of The Icelandic Securities Depository

ISD's total operating income was ISK 162 m and operating expenses ISK 92 m for the period January-June 2006, making profit on operations for the first half-year around ISK 70 m. After taking financial items and tax into consideration, profit for the period was ISK 64 m.

Performance during the first half of 2006 was considerably better than forecasted. The improved performance is primarily the result of higher operating income than anticipated in the budget. Operating costs were in accordance with expectations for the first six months.

The trading volume in the first half of the year is unprecedented. There are indications that brisk trading will continue and it is evident that the turnover in 2006 will be much higher than ever before. Some new listings may also be expected in coming months. Moreover, there is increasing interest in remote membership and healthy growth in the sale of information. The outlook is thus good.