In figures revealed by BT Investment Management Limited for the first nine months of the year, the company has reported a 11% slip in profits, and posted a profit figure of $12.7 Million. Also, the firm's favored measure, Cash NPAT, fell by 33% to $26.9 Million for the reported period.

BT's Funds Under Management (FUM) figures, however, did show improvement. These were now $36 Billion, 2% up from the $35.3 Billion reported for earlier this year. Although these are still $6.2 Billion lower than figures reported for the 2008 fiscal year.

Chairman Brian Scullin, although disappointed by the figures, did not fail to assert that we are all currently going through difficult financial times and such losses are more-or-less expected. "We are cautiously optimistic for the 2010 financial year", he said. "While disappointed in reporting an earnings decline, the directors are encouraged from the positive momentum created in the second half of the financial year and believe the business is well positioned for growth as the general market environment improves", Scullin added.

While the figures have been disappointing by-and-large, the company is optimistic of a better outcome in 2010. With the markets and economic situations improving, BT is looking at improved profits for the times to come.