ECM Libra Financial Group Bhd has returned to profitability in the fourth quarter of its financial year, thanks to higher net brokerage, investment and trading income.

Net profit for the quarter ended January 31 stood at RM13.1 million, from a RM3.6 million net loss a year ago.

However, revenue grew by almost 200 per cent to RM46.8 million compared to RM16.2 million a year ago.

ECM Libra attributed its improved performance during the quarter due to a higher net brokerage and investment and trading income of RM11.7 million and RM15.4 million, from RM8.4 million and RM5.8 million respectively in the third quarter.

ECM Libra told Bursa Malaysia yesterday that the group's fundamental and balance sheet remain strong and is expected to show strong performance in the financial year ending January 31 2011.

The group's full-year net profit increased to RM40.8 million against RM5 million in financial year 2009. Revenue surged 81 per cent at RM134 million compared with RM74 million a year ago.