Ahli United Bank B.S.C. reported consolidated earnings results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2017. For the quarter, the company reported interest income of USD 317,263,000 compared to USD 316,704,000 a year ago. Given the continuing weak operating environment, AUB focused on optimizing its balance sheet management strategy resulting in an increase in net interest income by 1.4% to USD 204,119,000 from USD 201,284,000 a year ago. Operating income was USD 273,229,000 compared to USD 278,708,000 a year ago. Net operating income was 261,011,000 compared to USD 270,654,000 a year ago. Profit before tax of USD 186,518,000 compared to USD 193,514,000 a year ago. Net profit attributable to owners of the bank of USD 159,425,000 or 2.1 cents per basic and diluted share compared to USD 154,605,000 or 2.1 cents per basic and diluted share for the last year. Net cash used in operating activities of USD 43,219,000 compared to net cash from operating activities of USD 107,549,000 a year ago. The group's return on average equity (ROAE) for the first quarter of 2017, increased to 17.0%, compared to 16.9% achieved in the first quarter of 2016. Return on average assets also increased to 2.2% for the first quarter of 2017, compared to 2.0% achieved in the first quarter of 2016.