SANOFI-AVENTIS RAISES FORECAST ON MERGER SAVINGS

Sanofi-Aventis, the French pharmaceuticals group, raised its full-year forecast as it accelerated merger savings in the first half and profits were better than expected. The group, created by Sanofi-Synthelabo's takeover of Aventis last August, said it now expected full-year adjusted earnings per share of 20 per cent, compared with previous guidance of 18 per cent. Adjusted pro forma net income in the second quarter rose 26 per cent to €1.55bn ($1.89bn) as the group realised the cost savings benefits of its merger faster than expected.

MSN Money (http://news.moneycentral.msn.com/provider/providerarticle.asp?feed=FT&Date=20050831&ID=5075502)