41.   Both companies have raised prices and cut spending this year in reaction to the stormy business climate.

42.   Both companies normally raise beer prices in tandem and announce their annual increase in late February or early March.

43.   Both deals serve to give retail investors greater access to initial public offerings, in which companies raise money by selling an ownership stake to the general public.

44.   Bulter said the company raised prices last fall but declined to say by how much.

45.   But clearly, any cash the company can raise frees up money it can invest in Iran.

46.   But in a perfect world you want to see the company continually raise the bar.

47.   But intense competition has made it hard for companies to raise prices, forcing them to absorb higher wage rates by improving productivity or biting into their profits.

48.   But some investment managers say the new market could make it easier for Japanese companies to raise money from investors, thereby stimulating the Japanese market and the economy.

49.   But some companies may raise prices much more while others hold the line, again creating opportunities for smart shoppers.

50.   CEI Managing Director Martin Ruete said this week that the company is raising capital for investments and possible acquisitions.