Willis Group has reported an increase in revenue, but says profit fell 17% to $US297 million ($313 million) in the nine months to September 30, driven by costs from extinguishing debt.

Commissions and fees grew 5% to $US2.72 billion ($2.87 billion), while investment income fell 21% to $US11 million ($11.6 million).

The group reported a $US27 million ($28.46 million) loss for the three months to September 30 after a $US60 million ($63.23 million) loss from the debt refinancing.

CEO Dominic Casserley says all businesses made a positive contribution to the result and the refinancing has strengthened the balance sheet.

The international segment reported revenue of $US766 million ($807.29 million) for the nine months, up 4% on the corresponding period last year. Willis says Asian operations grew in the high double digits and Australasia increased in the low double digits.

Total revenue increased 5% to $US2.74 billion ($2.89 billion).

Willis Global, which includes Willis Re, earned revenue of $US941 million ($991.72 million), up 6%.