German industrial gases company Linde AG (LIN.AG) Friday
confirmed its 2012 outlook after second quarter net profit beat
analysts' expectations, due to rising demand for gas in especially
emerging economies as well as the implementation of its High
Performance Organization program.
MAIN FACTS:
-Linde still expects an increase in revenue and operating profit
in 2012.
-The company says its global footprint and balanced spread
across different sectors enabled it to compensate for faltering
demand in some markets and currency weaknesses.
-If Linde can complete the intended acquisition of the US
homecare company Lincare Holdings Inc. (LNCR) as planned, "we
expect to generate group operating profit of at least 4 billion
euros ($4.92) in the 2013 financial year, one year earlier than
previously announced," Chief Executive Officer Wolfgang Reitzle
said.
-However, Linde expects to reach its 14% target for return on
capital employed in 2015, one year later than planned.
-Second quarter group revenue rose 6.4% on the year to EUR3.67
billion, while net profit increased to EUR304, up 7.8% on the
year.
-Operating profit increased 6.1% to EUR847 million, and earnings
before interest and taxes rose 5.3% to EUR497 million.
-Second quarter earnings per share came in at EUR1.77, up 7.3%
on the year.
-Write to the Frankfurt Bureau at
djnews.frankfurt@dowjones.com
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