Israel's Bank Leumi reported a 30% rise in third quarter net profit, earning 2.29 billion shekels ($614 million), and plans to return nearly 1 billion shekels to shareholders. The bank will pay 917 million shekels, or 40% of net profit, to shareholders through a cash dividend and share buyback. Leumi's loan growth was 7.1% in the quarter. Israeli banks have faced criticism for benefiting from higher interest rates while living costs rise. The Bank of Israel has warned of rate hikes if inflation remains high.