21.   National Australia Bank Asia said yesterday it anticipates double-digit growth in its home mortgages by the end of the year.

22.   The bank does not anticipate strong growth in its loan portfolio this year.

23.   The company forecast higher net profit this year and said it anticipated longer-term growth.

24.   The consequences on economic growth are not as clear cut because negative growth is anticipated this year with or without a petrol tax increase.