The Globe and Mail reports in its Friday edition that CIBC posted higher-than-expected profits for its fiscal third quarter ended July 31, and lower provisions for credit losses when compared with the second quarter helped increase profits. The Globe's James Bradshaw writes that risk officers at the big banks are easing the pace at which they are earmarking money against possible future defaults. CIBC added modestly to its performing loan provisions -- the money set aside to cover loans that are still being paid back but could run into trouble in future -- to account for the unpredictability of trade policy. Many businesses that are clients of the big banks are still taking a wait-and-see approach, hoping for more clarity before making big spending decisions that would require borrowing. The Canadian and U.S. economies have shown resilience, though momentum has slowed. Corporate lending and investment banking revenues also saw large increases in the third quarter as more companies seek advice on mergers, or help raising equity or debt. CIBC's trading revenue was up 29 per cent year-over-year, to $572-million, while corporate and investment banking revenue was up 34 per cent, with fee-based revenues leading the way.