Tobacco Giant's Outlook Brightens

Source from:  Courier-journal.com November 16, 2008 11/17/2008

Reynolds American's third-quarter profit fell 41 percent to $211 million due to hefty restructuring and trademark charges. But the results topped expectations as the parent of R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. was able to raise prices to offset consumption declines. Reynolds American's third-quarter profit fell 41 percent to $211 million due to hefty restructuring and trademark charges. But the results topped expectations as the parent of R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. was able to raise prices to offset consumption declines. Chief Executive Susan Ivey said the quarter prompted the maker of Camel cigarettes to raise its full-year outlook. It now forecasts 2008 adjusted earnings growth in the low single digits, rather than flat results. Susan Ivey, chairman/CEO. 2007 compensation: $9.5 million. Employees: 7,100. 52-week stock high/low: $72/$37.21. Debt/capital percentage (lower is better): 37.7 percent; industry: 33.9 percent. Revenue growth: 0.4 percent; industry: 3.4 percent. Net margin (higher is better): 9.3 percent; industry: 10.1 percent. Return on equity: 18.5 percent; industry, 18.5 percent. Enditem