Robert Walters (RWA: LSE), the international recruitment firm, has provided a positive trading update for the second quarter ending 30 June 2017. Group net fee income increased by 16% in constant currency (CC) to £86.3 million, compared to £69.3 million during the same period last year.

"The group has delivered another record performance in the second quarter again benefiting from our international footprint and the breadth of recruitment solutions we provide,” Robert Walters, Chief Executive, said. "Net fee income for the first six months of the year is up 18% and the Board is confident that profit before tax for the full year will be ahead of current market expectations."

Robert Walters reported broad-based growth across permanent, contract and interim recruitment. It also reported that 72% of the Group's net fee income derived from its international businesses.

Broken down by region, UK net fee income was up 13% in both reported and constant currency while activity was strongest across financial services, commerce and IT recruitment in London. Resource Solutions continued to grow its client portfolio across the region.  While Brexit was blamed for weakness in the months following the referendum, the UK business has continued to be strong throughout the second quarter.

In Europe, net fee income was up 19% in constant currency with the Spain delivering a standout performance with net fee income in excess of 70%.

Asia Pacific net fee income up 10% in constant currency. Meanwhile, Other International (North America, Brazil, the Middle East and South Africa) net fee income up 86% in constant currency with the strongest growth delivered by the North America region.

The Group will publish its half year results on 26 July 2017.

In trading today Robert Walters Plc traded at £449.85, up 5.85% on the day and 3.43% below its 52-week high of £465.83, set on 13 April 2017.