By Dominic Chopping


STOCKHOLM--Investor AB posted a higher total shareholder return for the first quarter as its holdings in listed companies such as Saab generated strong returns while its unlisted investments benefited from expansion, profit growth and positive currency impact.

The company said Thursday that the total shareholder return for the period stood at 15%, compared with 9% in the prior-year's period.

Investor AB's net asset value per share rose to 257 Swedish kronor ($23.49) at the end of March from SEK234 at the end of December. On an adjusted basis, NAV per share stood at SEK299, while net profit attributable to shareholders rose to SEK67.03 billion in the first quarter from SEK32.85 billion a year earlier as the value of its investments rose sharply.

Investor AB said the global economy continued to hold up relatively well in the quarter, but the extent and speed of interest rate cuts is widely debated.

At the same time, consumers remain under pressure and the complex geopolitical landscape has become even more uncertain given the recent developments in the Middle East.

"In this environment, we continue to focus on capturing growth opportunities, improving efficiency and further strengthening operational resilience in our companies," departing Chief Executive Johan Forssell said.

Investor AB is the investment vehicle of Sweden's prominent Wallenberg family.


Write to Dominic Chopping at dominic.chopping@wsj.com


(END) Dow Jones Newswires

04-18-24 0251ET