Asian Paints net up 5% at Rs 224 cr

Asian Paints has posted a five per cent rise in net profit at Rs 224 crore (Rs 212 crore) for the quarter ended September 30. Income from operations rose 16.2 per cent to Rs 2,146 crore from Rs 1,848 crore. The board of directors has recommended an interim dividend of Rs 9.50 per share. Total expenses were up 16 per cent at Rs 1,838 crore from Rs 1,586 crore. Employee benefit expenses were 15 per cent higher at Rs 98 crore.