Busch Moves Ahead

Brewer Anheuser-Busch, in what is likely to be one of its final independent quarters, beat Wall Street's earnings estimates on increased sales of its main brands and the successful launch of Bud Light Lime. At midday Wednesday, Anheuser-Busch (nyse: ) reported increased sales and profits in the second quarter, ended June 30, and the board increased its regular quarterly dividend, just days after it agreed to be acquired by Belgian brewer InBev. Geared up for the positive report, investors traded Anheuser-Busch shares up just 0.1%, or 5 cents, to $67.30, Wednesday afternoon. In the latest quarter, U.S. beer segment sales rose 4.5%, due to a 0.5% increase in volume and a 3.2% increase in revenue per barrel, which resulted from price hikes and increased sales of high-priced beers. The company said it plans to raise prices again... [read full story]