Analyze the sentiment of this statement extracted from a financial news article. Provide your answer as either negative, positive, or neutral.
Text: In the first half of 2008 , the Bank 's operating profit fell to EUR 11.8 mn from EUR 18.9 mn , while net interest income increased to EUR 20.9 mn from EUR 18.8 mn in the first half of 2007 .
Answer:
negative