(Telecompaper) Optus posted a net profit for the quarter ended 30 June of AUD 167 million, up 8 percent from AUD 155 million in the year-ago quarter. Operating revenues slipped 5 percent to AUD 2.12 billion from AUD 2.24 billion in the year-ago period. In Mobile, revenues fell 6 percent due to the continuing effect of the mandated reduction in mobile termination rates, decreased equipment sales as device subsidies were reduced, and higher service credits associated with device repayment plans. However, operating expenses for the quarter dropped 9 percent to AUD 1.56 billion, driven by lower selling and administrative costs. EBITDA went up 5 percent to AUD 572 million from AUD 545 million and EBITDA margin increased 2.6 percentage points to 27 percent. Separately, parent SingTel announced it has completed the strategic review of the Optus Satellite business. Based on this review, SingTel says it is committed to growing and investing in the satellite business.