News roundup: the top stories at midday

**The top local and international news at midday:**

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**KBC Bank Ireland** reports €864 million loss, sees profit in 2016.

**AIB** launches €350 million new homes development fund.

**Davy** hires Chantal Brennan to head asset management unit.

**Zurich** posts lower-than-expected rise in profits.

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**Jameson** sales rise worldwide but hit by excise duty in Ireland.

**Pernod Ricard** cuts profit forecast on Chinese weakness.

**Petroceltic** sells stake in Algerian contract.

**Comcast** said to agree ...