The Reuters (NSDQ: RTRSY) acquisition can’t come soon enough. Thomson (NYSE: TOC) reported full-year 2007 operating profit was up four percent to $1.3 billion on 11 percent better revenue of $7.3 billion, but operating profit in the final quarter dropped to three percent despite 10 percent better revenues of $2 billion. On an underlying basis in that period, however, profit was up eight percent.
After a DOJ ruling on the merger was pushed back to coincide with the EC’s decision prior to March 10, Thomson is still putting out eager messages, expecting verdicts – including one from the Canadian Competition Bureau – “in the next few weeks“. CEO Richard J. Harrington: