11.   Its books division showed strong growth as costs were cut.

12.   Although inflation was edging down, the great expectation then was that strong economic growth would inevitably generate a destructive rise in the inflation rate.

13.   Also today, IBM Chairman Louis Gerstner told analysts the company is seeing strong sales growth in services, chips and storage products.

14.   American Brands Inc. reported a better-than-expected earnings in the fourth quarter on strong sales growth.

15.   Although many investors expect a rate increase in the next six months, signs of strong growth might advance the day when the Fed moves to stave off inflation.

16.   America Online Inc. reported record first-quarter profit and revenue Tuesday, surpassing Wall Street estimates, on strong growth in membership, advertising and electronic commerce.

17.   AMERICA ONLINE POSTS GAIN America Online reported strong growth in subscribers as it posted quarterly earnings that matched Wall Street expectations.

18.   American manufacturers said business fell for the fourth time in five months in September, another sign that the economy is struggling to resume strong growth.

19.   American industry is pouring extraordinary sums of money into research and development in an effort to nurture strong growth, private and federal officials are reporting.

20.   Analysts expect New York-based Equitable Cos. to show strong growth from its sales of annuities.