Insurance brokerage Hub International Ltd. is reporting strong earnings growth for its most recent quarter.

Total revenue for the fourth quarter ended Dec. 31, 2001 increased by $28.5 million or 116% to $53 million compared to $24.5 million for the quarter ended Dec 31, 2000. (All figures in U.S. dollars.)

Of this increase, $26.1 million was attributable to acquisitions and reflects the inclusion of the results of each brokerage acquired during the last 12 months. Excluding the effects of acquisitions, total revenue increased $2.4 million, which was mainly attributable to growth in commission income due.

Net earnings for the quarter increased by $2.4 million or 400% to $3 million compared to $0.6 million in 2000 as a result of the acquisitions and organic growth

Diluted earnings per share increased by 11¢ to 14¢ per share compared to the quarter in 2000. Net earnings for the year increased by 64% to $10 million, compared to $6.1 million in 2000.

Hub International is a North American insurance brokerage providing a broad array of property and casualty, life and health, employee benefits, investment and risk management products and services.