Global broker Aon’s first-quarter net profit grew 25% to $US325 million (350 million) on a strong performance from its insurance and reinsurance broking operations.

The revenue from fees and commissions grew 1% to $US1.98 billion ($2.13 billion) in the three months to March 31.

International revenue gained 1% to $US881 million ($948.7 million), driven by growth in emerging markets and Asia and solid management of the renewal book portfolio in continental Europe. 

“Our first-quarter results reflect a solid start to the year, with double-digit earnings growth, highlighted by strong performance across risk solutions and effective capital management,” President and CEO Greg Case said.

Retail brokerage revenue grew 1% to $US1.57 billion ($1.69 billion). 

Americas brokerage revenue increased 2% to $US698 million ($751.65 million), driven by new business generation in US retail and strong management of the renewal book portfolio across Latin America and Canada.

Reinsurance brokerage revenue increased 2% to $US409 million ($440.43 million) on growth in capital markets transactions, advisory business and treaty placements.

Overall, Aon – which also incorporates a human resources consulting arm – recorded a 1% rise in revenue to $US2.9 billion ($3.12 billion).