1.   Analysts expected a drop in inventories.

2.   Analysts had expected a drop in inventories.

3.   Analysts said the drop was expected.

4.   And a drop in American stock index futures, which trade during the night, indicated traders expected further drops in the United States.

5.   But because that was record-breaking year, a drop was expected, Ridings said.

6.   But because that was a record-breaking year, a drop was expected, Ridings said.

7.   But given the news, a sharp drop had been expected by some traders.

8.   But media outlets, expecting heavy drops in advertising, argue that lowered ticket prices should lead to reduced rights fees.

9.   But some analysts expect a drop in October.

10.   Connecticut customers can expect a drop in rates, company officials said, although the amount is not yet clear.