21.   But Ruchi Madan, a stock analyst with Salomon Smith Barney, said the banking company might buy back stock or bolster reserves against potential loan losses.

22.   Buying back stock reduces the number in issue and makes it easier for a company to boost dividends and earnings per share.

23.   Buying back stock reduces the number of shares held and makes it easier for companies to boost profits measured on a per-share basis.

24.   Buying back stock, Patrick says, boosts the book value per share and, in theory, should lift the price of the stock.

25.   Buy back stock?

26.   Buying back stock seemed like such a good idea.

27.   Buying back stock is more desirable than increasing dividends because dividends are taxed, York said.

28.   Buying back stock is one option.

29.   Buying back stock is so popular that some companies borrow to do it.

30.   Chrysler has said it will use the money it raises with those sales to buy back stock.