Atul Lele Business Quotations

Funds management has been a standout, but is as expected, given the strong investment markets. Business lending is also strong and has slightly offset weakness in Westpac's home-lending segment.

We would certainly favor any disposal of Virgin Blue. They're still not getting many benefits because the oil price is high and the labor market's still restricting any real leverage of the business model.

The result was ahead of our expectations. Business lending has driven growth and buoyed their earnings.