Date:20/01/2005 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2005/01/20/stories/2005012002350200.htm

Back Merck net dips 7 pc in Q4

Our Bureau

Mumbai , Jan. 19

MERCK Ltd has registered a seven per cent dip in net profit at Rs 18.25 crore for the or fourth quarter (Q4) ended December 31, 2004.

This stands compared to net profit of Rs 19.66 crore for the corresponding period last year.

Total income (net of excise) has increased from Rs 96.08 crore in Q4 last year to Rs 99.27 crore for the corresponding period this year, the company told BSE.

The company has posted a net profit of Rs 70.99 crore for the year ended December 31, 2004, compared to Rs 39.63 crore for the financial year ended December 31, 2003.

Total Income (net of excise) has increased from Rs 374.83 crore in 2003 to Rs 390.41 crore for the year ended December 31, 2004.

Meanwhile, the company also said that its board of directors had recommended the payment of dividend at Rs 10 per equity share for the year ended December 31, 2004.