Farmers Group Inc.’s income rose 25% to...

Farmers Group Inc.’s income rose 25% to $71.3 million in its first quarter, compared to $56.8 million in the comparable period last year, the Los Angeles-based home and auto insurer reported. The company said the gain was due to growth in premium revenue, lower tax rates and expense controls. Farmers is the target of a takeover attempt by Batus Inc.