Jefferies books record banking revenues

Jefferies Group Inc. announced record quarterly investment banking revenues, according to a statement released today. The New York-based company’s first-quarter banking revenues were a record $170.1 million compared to $127.7 million for the first quarter of 2006. Net revenues were $418.8 million, compared to $415.4 million for the first quarter of 2006. Net earnings were a $62.3 million, compared to $58.4 million for the first quarter of 2006. Earnings per share (diluted) were $0.42, compared to $0.41 for the first quarter of 2006. "This was the strongest investment banking quarter in Jefferies' history and our second best overall trading quarter ever, “said Richard B. Handler, chairman and chief executive officer of Jefferies, in a statement.