Global broker and risk management firm Arthur J Gallagher has booked a 27% rise in fourth-quarter profit to post year-end earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation of $US428.4 million ($400 million).

Full-year profits rose 18% in 2011 on the back of increased revenues of $US2.1 billion ($1.9 billion), up 18%.

The result exceeded market expectations and analysts have now projected a 30% rise in growth in 2012 following the group’s 10% rise last year.

Chairman and CEO Pat Gallagher says the company finished the year with strong momentum, particularly in the brokerage operation.

Fourth-quarter revenues grew 20% to $US558 million ($521 million), driven by a 13% increase in risk management and 22% increase in brokerage revenues.