Virtual pets provide lift

Liquid crystal display maker Kessel International Holdings said strong demand for virtual pets bolstered net profit by 30 per cent to $30.23 million for the six months to September. The company recorded a $1.87 million exceptional gain from the interest income of its $77.8 million initial public offering in October. Operating profit before exceptional items rose 22.4 per cent to $29.21 million and turnover jumped 21.4 per cent to $269.37 million.