21.   Most analysts had expected flat earnings.

22.   Most analysts, by contrast, had expected improved earnings.

23.   Nomura, however, expects earnings to be hit well into its next year, which starts next month, Suzuki said today.

24.   Novato-based Broderbund earlier this month warned investors that it expects disappointing earnings in the current quarter.

25.   Over the next five years, the company said it expects earnings to more than double.

26.   PPL said at the time of the offering that it expected no earnings from operations for at least five years.

27.   Revenue picked up again toward the end of the quarter and the company expects higher earnings in the fourth quarter.

28.   Several of the key banks have already reported stronger than expected earnings, including Banco de Bogota, Banco de Colombia and Banco Industrial Colombiano.

29.   Some investors expected higher earnings.

30.   STOCKS RISE ON DIVIDEND PROSPECTS Stocks rose on prospects for higher dividends and stronger than expected earnings.