H&R; Block to Offer Online Trading

H&R; Block Inc., the world’s largest tax preparation company, said it will offer online trading and some mortgage services as part of its Internet operations. The Kansas City, Mo.-based company also will expand the number of its U.S. financial services centers, which offer mortgage services, investment advice and tax preparation, for a total of 94 this year. E-Loan Inc. is working with H&R; Block on providing mortgage rates for its online service. H&R; Block has been buying accounting, mortgage and other financial services companies to diversify its earnings. The company typically reports a profit only in its fiscal fourth quarter ended in April, after most U.S. residents have filed their income tax returns. H&R; Block shares closed off 13 cents at $47.50 on the NYSE.

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