ING net profits jump 27 pct. to over €1.3 billion

Dutch bank ING saw its net profits increase to 1.35 billion euros in the third quarter, an increase of 27 percent compared to the same quarter last year. The bank's total income rose by 9 percent to 4.4 billion euros, ING announced on Thursday, ANP reports.

ING granted more loans to consumers and businesses and took in more savings. ING's loans increased by 3.6 billion euros and on balance attracted 2 billion euros in savings. Despite the low interest rates, the bank got "healthy" margins on its loans.

The bank's costs declined slightly and the capital buffer strengthened. ING also strengthened its position as a challenger to larger players on foreign markets, including Germany, France and Italy.

CEO Ralph Hamers is optimistic about the future after such a solid quarter. "We see no indications that we can not continue the growth", he said to the news wire.