31.   Investors expect RWE AG, a diversified utility, to improve its earnings.

32.   It sold the Hartman unit as part of a restructuring designed to reduce debt and improve earnings.

33.   Kurland, former head of the equity research department, was brought into the money management group to improve earnings and increase assets.

34.   Koenigs said company expects to improve earnings as the benefits of reorganization kick in and the company takes advantage of new technology to widen its customer base.

35.   Lower rates tend to boost stocks and improve company earnings as it becomes easier for them to borrow.

36.   Lyondell has been seeking to cut costs and improve earnings by entering into joint ventures with other chemical makers.

37.   Lower interest rates can boost consumer spending and improve company earnings.

38.   Lower interest rates spur economic growth, decrease company borrowing costs and improve earnings.

39.   Melville, which operates such chains as CVS drugstores and KayBee Toys, has been pressured by shareholders to improve earnings.

40.   Mexican shares soared to their highest level in six weeks as an unexpected decline in interest rates boosted the prospects for increased economic growth and improved company earnings.