[Satellite TODAY 08-20-10] AsiaSat saw its 2010 first half-year profits and revenues increase more than 20 percent, according to the operator’s latest financial results issued Aug. 19.
     AsiaSat’s first-half revenues were $88.9 million in 2010 compared to $70.1 million in 2009, a 30 percent increase. Profits jumped from $32.6 million to $39.2 million, driven by growth in its SpeedCast subsidiary. The VSAT services and broadband provider generated revenues of $12.2 million in the first six months of 2010, beating its 2009 standings by 34 percent.
    AsiaSat’s CEO, Bill Wade told Satellite News in June that he plans on leveraging new growth opportunities and expand into new business areas. The company recently set up a joint venture with EchoStar to offer a DTH platform in Taiwan. “I also think we are in a good position to take advantage of some acquisitions in the market place and participate in the industry consolidation in Asia. People have been talking about consolidation in Asia for a long time. The climate has not been conducive for it, mainly from a political standpoint, but I think the region is looking more attractive now, so we are looking at potential targets,” he said.