Stocks in US broker Arthur J Gallagher reached a 52-week high last week after its 2010 results beat market estimates.

The company announced total revenues for its broking, risk management and corporate businesses rose 8% to $US1.86 billion ($1.84 billion) for the year to December 31, 2010.

In the fourth quarter of 2010 total revenues rose 6% to $US459.1 million ($453.3 million), up from $US435.1 million ($429.6 million) for the same period in 2009.

Brokerage earnings increased 10% on 2009 to $US135.5 million ($133.8 million) for the full year, the company said.

“For the year, we continued to grow and hold our margins during a period that was marked by soft rates and poor economic conditions,” CEO Pat Gallagher said. “We ended 2010 with strong momentum and believe we are well positioned for 2011.”