6 APRIL 1929, Page 32

It is satisfactory to notice the steady progress made by

the Bank of Scotland, not merely as regards growth in Deposits and net profits, but also in general activity. There was a small increase for the past year in the net profit, and while the final dividend of 18 per cent. per annum is the same as a year ago, the interim dividend was also at the same rate this year as compared with only 16 per cent. per annum for the first half of the previous year, so that the entire dividend for the year is 18 per cent. against 17 per cent. In spite of this increase, there is a slight advance in the amount carried forward after again placing £125,000 to the Reserve, and £30,000 to Rank Premises. The most striking feature in the balance sheet is the increase in Advances of abmit £3,000,000. * * * *