Conti to Raise 2004 Share Dividend?

According to German media publications, Continental AG is considering paying a higher dividend at the end of the current financial year. Chairman Manfred Wennemer told a European business magazine that because of growing earnings an increase would be possible. At the end of September Wennemer said that this year’s earnings per share (EPS) will be at least on the 2003 level of 0.52 euros. At the same time he confirmed the rather positive earning predictions for the financial year saying that 2004 will be ended with an operating profit of 855 million euros on 31 December.