Anglo Irish Bank expects another strong year's trading in 2001. Chairman Mr Tony O'Brien said that, despite signs of some "economic turbulence" in Ireland and the UK, he was satisfied the bank faced another buoyant year.

"Trading on all fronts is well above the same period last year and is tracking our stretching targets."

Addressing shareholders at the bank's a.g.m. in Dublin yesterday, Mr O'Brien noted the excellent progress made by Anglo Irish Bank in 2000 and stressed that its successful strategy remained in place.

Last year Anglo Irish Bank profits grew by 50 per cent to €133 million with earnings per share up 38 per cent. Yesterday its shares hit an all-time high of €3.40, with brokers forecasting continued strength at the bank. Shareholders will receive a 20 per cent increase in their total dividend to 8.7 cents per share.