With the various initiatives and a complete portfolio in two wheelers, the company is now in a better position to reverse the declining trend in sales and to report improved results.

INDUSTRY:

The year witnessed a decline of 5% in the two-wheeler industry consequent to restricted availability of retail finance, high interest rates and stringent norms exercised by financiers. The economy segment of the motorcycle category was severely hit and suffered maximum decline of 19%.

COMPANY FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE:

During the year ended March 2008, while the company recorded overall two wheeler sales of
12.77 lakh units, motorcycles recorded sales of 6.10 lakh units compared to 9.23 lakh units over the previous period. Till the launch of the TVS Flame towards the end of the year, the company was absent in the executive segment, which accounts for over fifty percent of the motorcycle market. TVS Motor Company’s motorcycle portfolio was largely dependent on the entry level StaR range of products and non-availability of retail finance had a severe impact on sales.

TVS Motor Company recorded total revenue of Rs. 3291 crores for the year ended March 2008 compared to 3920 crores recorded during corresponding previous year. Profit before tax during the year ended March 2008 stood at Rs. 35.37 crores as against Rs. 90.85 crores recorded in the corresponding period last year. Profit after tax stood at Rs. 31.77 crores as against Rs. 66.60 crores recorded last year.

NEW PRODUCTS LAUNCHED DURING 2007-08

During the year the company launched products in the economy, executive and premium segments of the motorcycle market and improved its portfolio. The company also launched the TVS King, making its debut in the three-wheeler industry in India. Among the products launched are the 125cc TVS Flame, which is one of the most stylishly designed products from the TVS stable. TVS also launched the Star City with an enhanced engine capacity of 110cc, Apache RTR with a 160cc engine.

FUTURE OUTLOOK – COMPANY PLANS AND PRODUCT LAUNCHES

The high inflation and restricted availability of retail finance will continue to affect the prospects of the two-wheeler industry. However, the company will have the benefit of all the new products launched towards the end of 2007 –08. This will help the company to reverse the declining trend in sales and to report improved results. The company can also leverage the capacity created at its HP plant and its entry into the three-wheeler industry.

The Company continues its rigorous focus on its costs through an effective deployment system. Value engineering and aggressive global sourcing projects are being pursued to reduce material costs and also to partially neutralize input material cost increases.

Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) is practiced in all the plants to ensure significant improvement in productivity and reduction in manufacturing cost. During 2007-08 Hosur Plant & Mysore plant were awarded the TPM excellence certificate by the Japanese Institute of Plant Management (JIPM).

During the year 2008 – 2009, the company has planned a slew of new launches:

TVS Scooty Electric, Scooty Wimbledon Collection & All New Scooty Variant :

In April 2008, the company launched the TVS Scooty Electric, announcing its entry into the electric two-wheeler market. The product has been well received in the market.

As part of the agreement with the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC), the company launched two excitingly designed, limited edition scooters, inspired by contemporary, classic and sporty imagery of ‘the Spirit of Wimbledon’.

The company will further strengthen its presence in the scooters segment with the introduction of an all-new variant of Scooty which will offer next generation features and styling to customers.

Apache RTR Fuel Injection:

The company will launch an upgrade of Apache, a 160 cc motorcycle and introduce fuel injection technology for the first time in the 160 cc category. This high performance motorcycle offers superior performance of a fuel injected 160cc engine and introduces data logging for the first time in the category.

Futuristic technology, contemporary styling and superior quality will continue to be the focus for all new products.

Four Stroke Three Wheelers:

The company plans to introduce four-stroke versions of its three-wheeler in Petrol, LPG and CNG versions for domestic and export markets during 2008-09.

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS

Exports witnessed a steep growth of 32 % as compared to 28 % in the previous year, recording sales of 136,000 units in comparison to 103,000 units in 2006-07. The company increased its export footprint to more than 50 countries during the financial year. Exports will continue to be a major focus area of the company.

PT TVS INDONESIA:

PT TVS Motor Company, Indonesia, a subsidiary of TVS Motor Company developed the

TVS Neo 110cc, a product engineered exclusively for the Indonesian market that has received extremely satisfactory response from customers. Apache RTR, launched during the last fiscal year has also caught the fancy of Indonesian customers. The company has already established a network of 25 dealers and plans to add another 125 dealers during 2008 –09.

AWARDS

The company won several awards during the financial year ’07-’08. The result of continuous improvements in quality and engineering was evident in the company winning five prestigious awards at the Auto Expo 2008. The Apache RTR 160 bagged three awards including Performance Bike of the Year by NDTV Bike Awards, Bike of the Year up to 160cc by Overdrive and Design of the year by NDTV Bike Awards. The TVS Scooty Pep+ won the TNS Voice of the Customer Award as the No.1 Scooterette by Autocar CNBC Awards. TVS Motor Company’s concept bike named ‘Qube’ was chosen as the Concept Bike of the Year by Overdrive.

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

“Once again, the enormous model diversity of our eight brands has proved itself in an ever more difficult market environment. Both for the month of May and for the period January to May, demand for our cars has developed significantly better than the total industry on European markets, where overall demand is weakening,” said Detlef Wittig, Executive Vice President, Group Sales and Marketing, commenting on the Group’s delivery figures.

In Europe, the Group delivered 1.55 million vehicles (+2.0 percent) to customers, while the Group’s eight brands sold 432,700 vehicles (+4.1 percent) in Germany.

In Western Europe(excluding Germany), 886,000 vehicles were delivered to customers (-2.5 percent), while 229,500 vehicles were delivered to customers in Central and Eastern Europe, an increase of 18.6 percent compared with the same period last year.

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

The Volkswagen brand, the Group’s highest volume brand, delivered 1.57 million vehicles(+6.7 percent) from January to May. Audi delivered 426,200 vehicles (+1.5 percent) and Skoda delivered 301,500 vehicles (+18.4 percent). Seat delivered 170,100 vehicles(-5.9 percent). Deliveries by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles totaled 216,400 units, a rise of 13.4 percent. Bentley delivered 4,000 models to customers, Bugatti 25 andLamborghini 1,100.

During the month, the company’s motorcycle sales posted 10% growth recording 54,717 units in comparison to 49,651 units recorded in May 2007. The recently launched variant of Apache RTR has contributed handsomely to the growth of motorcycle sales of the company, reporting 60% growth in its segment over the last year. This motorcycle sports new aerodynamic tank scoops, which add to the visual appeal and coerces direct airflow on to the engine to keep it cool. The company has also introduced data logging for the first time in the country in the new Apache RTR.

Exports continued its upward growth trend, recording a record increase of approximately 43% registering 14,071 units of two wheelers in May 2008 as against 9,849 units in the corresponding period of the previous year.

The company will introduce two new scooters, designs of which will be inspired by the spirit of Wimbledon to coincide with the forthcoming Wimbledon season, TVS Motor Company having signed up with the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) as a licensee. The much awaited the launch of the Fuel Injection variant of the Apache RTR will take place during this month. Innovative technology, elegant design and excellent ride dynamics make the Apache RTR EFI a new showcase of technology.

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

The Board of Dabur Pharma Ltd. (NSE: DABURPHARM, BSE: 532545) met today to consider the audited financial results of the company for the quarter & fiscal ended 31st March 2008.

FY 08 Highlights

· Consolidated Revenues at Rs. 2783 million in FY08 as against Rs. 3267 million in FY 07

· Consolidated PAT at Rs.986 million in FY 08 as against Rs.197 million in FY 07

The company’s overall sales during 07-08 were lower than last year on account of the divesture of non-oncology business to Alembic in March ’07. However, on a like to like basis, the oncology business recorded a sales growth of over 11% on a consolidated basis and 5% on a standalone basis.

The year also saw the Company’s Oncology Formulations business growth at a robust 30%. The Bulk Actives business, however, saw a decrease in overall sales compared to last year on account of increased captive consumption for the formulations business.

Commenting on the results, Mr. Ajay Kumar Vij, CEO, Dabur Pharma Limited, said “FY 2007-08 has been a good year for the company. It was the first full year of operations as a pure oncology player and the focus has started yielding positive results which is clearly visible in the excellent Oncology Formulations growth. This coupled with the major investments that we have been making in research and international market development will ensure that the growth momentum is aptly maintained well into the future.”

He further mentioned that the approval of indigenously developed “Nanoxel” (Nanoparticles Paclitaxel) for additional indications by the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) is an excellent example of how the company’s commitment towards research is bearing fruit.

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

ABOUT DABUR PHARMA

Dabur Pharma Ltd. is committed to the discovery, development and marketing of drugs that fight cancer. Dedicated to its mission of making cancer therapy available to more and more people, it has been expanding ever since inception. The Company is the leader in the Indian Oncology market and it offers a complete range of products in this segment spanning across Injectables, Orals, Intermediates and APIs and is present in over 40 countries.

The Profit after Tax of MIL for the FY 2007-2008 was Rs.1572.44 lakhs, up from Rs. 1353.52 lakhs for FY 2006-2007, witnessing a marked increase of 16.71%.

The earning per share was Rs. 14.67 in FY 2006-2007, up from Rs. 12.58 in 2006-2007, marking a rise of 16.61 %. The company has also proposed a dividend of 25 %, which is unchanged from last year.

The PAT for the 4th quarter of FY 2007-08 grew to 449.01 lakhs from 273.00 lakhs in FY 2006-07 showing an increase of 64.47%.

Mr. N.K Minda, Managing Director, Minda Industries Limited, says “The last year was a tough one for the entire auto sector and we are not an exception. Though we were able to maintain our topline, the profitability has increased due to various cost cutting measures and increased thrust on productivity”.

Elaborating on the scenario in the current year he said, “The increasing cost of raw materials is a constant source of worry and coupled with high oil prices we feel that the current year is going to be challenging. However the effect of our expansion in the last two years, in capacities and product portfolio, should be visible in the current year which will be the first full year of operation for Batteries, Blow Moulding and our Pantnagar Facility”.

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

Forward looking Statement from the Management:

The company has started receiving outsourcing orders from overseas car manufacturers and is confidentof executing these challenging orders. In order to meet theforeign OEM requirements, Minda IndustriesLimited isseriously pursuing overseas acquisitionsto expandits footprintand acquire a larger global customer base.

About Minda Industries Limited:

Minda Industries Limited (MIL) designs, develops and manufactures switches for 2/3 wheelers and off-road vehicles. It also manufactures lighting and batteries for automobiles (2/3 & 4 wheelers). MIL has also entered into Blow Moulding for which it is setting up a plant at Bidadi near Bangalore in Karnataka, in Technical Agreement with Kyoraku of Japan. MIL is a Rs. 3961 million (US $ 95 million) company and is on a rapid expansion spree. It is geared to take on global competition and is spreading its wings into the ASEAN market where it has already established itself. It is on its way to becoming the favoured vendor for 2/3 wheeler switches and Lighting globally.

Minda Industries has its manufacturing plants in Manesar, Baddi, Pune, Aurangabad, Pantnagar and Bidadi and has over 2800 employees. NK Minda Group also has a manufacturing facility in Indonesia, looking after the ASEAN market.

About NK Minda Group

NK Minda Group is India's foremost manufacturer of a range of automotive components. The Group has an annual turnover of US $ 238 million (over Rs.1000 Crore) and is a leading supplier to Original Equipment Manufacturers.

The NK Minda Group product profile comprises of Switches for 2 / 3 wheelers, switches for 4 wheelers, Lighting, Horns, Batteries, Alternate Fuel kits, Mirrors, Blow Molding, Electronic Starter Motors & Alternators and Electronic BCU’s. NK Minda Group has joined hands with global leaders to constantly fine-tune its offerings and has some of the most reputed automotive component manufacturers as its joint-venture partners. These include Tokai Rika Co. Ltd., Japan; Fiamm S.p.A, Italy; Valeo, France and Kyoraku, Japan.

During the month, the company's motorcycle sales stood at 58,202 units in comparison to 53,499 units recorded in April 2007. In the scooter segment, TVS Scooty recorded 19,034 units inApril 2008 in comparison to 18,798 units in the corresponding period the previous year.

Exports continued its upward growth trend, recording an increase of approximately 41.49% registering 10,213 units of two wheelers inApril 2008 as against 7,231 units in the corresponding period of the previous year.

In keeping with its intention to introduce seasonal limited editions every year, TVS Motor Company has signed up with the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) as a licensee and will bring out two limited edition scooters, designs of which will be inspired by the spirit of Wimbledon. These scooters will appeal to women with sporty attitude and will be launched to coincide with forthcoming the Wimbledon season.

The company will further strengthen its premium segment with the launch of the Fuel Injection variant of the Apache RTR. Innovative technology, elegant design and excellent ride dynamics make the Apache RTR EFI a new showcase of technology. This bike offers riders the instant thrill with the superior performance of a fuel injected 160cc engine. It will be the first time that the company is offering fuel injection technology in the 160 cc category.

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

For further media information kindly contact :
Anuj Sharma Email anuj.sharma@fourthestateindia.com
Fourth Estate Ph +91 11 41015633, 2696 0937, 26534193

Commenting on the success of Jabra in the Indian market, Mr Shaz Khan, President – Asia Pacific, GN said, “The response to our headsets has been overwhelming. We started with a target of ensuring our presence in over 1500 POS which today stands at 1675+ POS. Mobile headset business has achieved over 200% volume growth in 2007, contributed largely by organized retail format. We have strengthened our India presence through appointment of dedicated sales team and are now targeting presence of the Jabra brand in over 2200 POS by year end.”

“I am happy to share with you that we have very recently tied-up with Essar Telecom Retail’s ‘The Mobilestore’ which is further going to strengthen our retail presence,” added Khan.

The world leader in headsets solution today also showcased the partial range of its Bluetooth headsets that it is going to introduce in the Indian market this year. This includes BT5010 and BT5020 in the medium priced segment, BT8010 and BT8040 in the premium priced segment, BT3030 in the music segment and BT2010 and BT2020 in the entry level segment.

Mr Khan also presented a glimpse into high-premium headsets by showcasing the Titanium plated, JX20 Pura that has been designed by world famous Jacob Jensen studio – the designers behind the runaway success Bluetooth headset JX10 Cara Gold Limited Edition and Stainless Steel Editions.

GN today has nearly 20% marketshare in the global Bluetooth headset segment through its brand Jabra and has garnered nearly 35% marketshare in the contact center and office segment.

Jabra products today world over are reckoned as one of the most popular and best selling corded, Bluetooth and wireless headsets that have won not just numerous awards but have also won the trust of its customers across different segments. GN is also recognized as one of the largest OEM suppliers of Bluetooth headsets to a number of prestigious mobile handset brands.

“Today we have one of the largest ranges of products across segments that straddle all price points and offer consumers cutting edge technology that not only deliver crystal clear voice-clarity but also new age ergonomic designs. Our range ensures that the Indian consumer has access to a range that not only appeals to their sensory experience but also suits their wallets,” said Khan.

“The APAC region will see the fastest growth rate in adoption of Bluetooth headsets in India in the coming 5 years. The Indian Bluetooth headset market is expected to grow at CAGR 74% as against 48% of China. Further more the Indian market is expected to surpass the combined market size of the Australian continent in the next 3 years alone”, Source IMS Survey, April 2007

Headsets today have evolved to become a category within themselves as against being simply categorized as part of the accessories market. Established branded mobile handset players are today actively looking at making headsets part of their package offering to customers.

GN is leading the hands-free charge and consumers are taking to the new technologies quickly and in ever increasing numbers. According to IMS Research, the worldwide market for Bluetooth headsets in 2007 was approximately 74 million units which is expected to reach 144 million mark by 2010.

Jabra manufactured 29 million headsets in 2007 which works out to around 50 units every minute of the year, or roughly half the total number sold.

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

Mega TV has an impressive line up of knowledge based entertainment programmes, music shows, family dramas and films along with news at national level. The channel targets wider audience including youth, women and family.

Jayanthi Thangabalu, Managing Director – Mega TV commented, “Our effort is directed towards making Mega TV, the ultimate in news, views & entertainment and we have set for ourselves certain lofty goals that distinguish our news and entertainment programmes apart; WASP3D solution has a crucial role to play in creating that differentiation through consistent look & feel, better content packaging and presentation.”

Speaking at the occasion, Tushar Kothari, Director & Co-founder – Beehive Systems commented, “Our team is truly excited about this association and we are confident that our cutting-edge 3D graphic solution will assist Mega TV to capture more eyeballs than their competition.”

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

ABOUT Mega TV

MEGA TV is a Chennai based News & Entertainment channel, coming out with a distinct vision to ensure purposeful and positive entertainment to the Tamil Community living all around the world, has been carrying test transmission from August 20th.

The channel was officially launched in August 2007

To know more visit www.megatv.in

ABOUT WASP3D

WASP3D is a networked workflow based Real-time 3D Graphics solution developed specifically for television stations and post-production houses for speedy creation spectacular 3D graphics, content management and its on-air playout. WASP3D is based on futuristic Microsoft DirectX© technology offering real-time graphics rendering that reduces cycle time from design to on-air playout. It is an all-in-one, comprehensive Real-time 3D Graphics solution that can address complex graphics requirements in various application areas including business, elections, news, sports, weather, virtual sets and simulations.

Today, WASP3D has over 300 installations at leading Television broadcasters, across 40 countries globally. WASP3D has a state-of-the-art delivery center in India, with sales offices in India and Europe; the company employs over 100 highly qualified professionals worldwide.

To know more visit www.wasp3d.com

WASP3D is the registered trademark of Beehive Systems Pvt. Ltd. All other product or service names may be registered trademarks or trademarks, and are the property of their respective owners.

The privately-held company has radically increased its client’s base in both enterprise level organizations as well as new-gen start-ups. The company is focused to serve clients in diverse verticals like Media, Entertainment & Publication, Mobile & Wireless, Software Product companies and Jewelry manufacturing companies.

New client engagements are from leading companies in their respective verticals. A Leading Publisher has engaged Diaspark for its one of its most ambitious Digital initiatives. The application touches several domains including Social Networking, Ecommerce, Web based services and is expected to be a breakthrough application in the market. Based on Web 2.0 and SOA, Diaspark will be responsible for the entire life cycle of product from Ideation, Design, and Development to Deployment. All projects are slated to kick off in April 1st week and requisite team leaders from India would be joining their counterpart US tech teams.

In wireless practice, The PillphoneTM ; a mobile application designed, developed, tested and ported by Diaspark makes headlines by becoming the first ever health care application approved by the FDA and launched on VerizonTM deck. Verizon wireless customers can now get medication information and dosing reminders with the pill phone application on their phones. Diaspark has also secured new business from established companies to develop applications on emerging iPhone & Android platforms.

With our business development team’s aggressive sales efforts, recent participation in CTIA 2008 has been very successful and we hope to repeat the same in the BREW 2008 conference in May End.

Vipin Bhardwaj, President, Diaspark Inc. said,“ We always ensure that we work as a partner with our clients and provide them the best of engineering services on emerging technologies. As a company, we follow a philosophy of constantly upgrading skills of our engineers so that we can quickly adapt and provide uninterrupted services to our clients on new-age paradigms. We take pride in stating that Diaspark is always regarded as the first name to reckon whenever our clients wish to execute projects on emerging technologies. We have opened the year on an excellent note and will strive to continue the same performance throughout the year.”

Diaspark focuses on serving its clients with superior technological skills. We are currently focused on WCF, WF, Adobe Flex, Silver Light, MOSS 2007, BI, CS and have significant strengths and experience with J2EE and .NET 3.0 implementations.

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

Founded in 1995 in the US, Diaspark Inc. is a SEI-CMMI Level 3 IT Services and Solutions Company with offices in New York, New Jersey & Chicago and global development centre in India.

Diaspark’s services portfolio includes Custom enterprise software development, application re-engineering and migration, mobile applications, software development outsourcing & IT consulting. Diaspark’s product offering includes Diaspark Jewel; an ERP software for jewelry companies. Diaspark’s possesses domain expertise in providing digital enterprise solutions to Media, Entertainment & Publication companies.

Diaspark has 650+ global employees with brilliant communication, presentation and technology skills. Diaspark is a Microsoft Certified Gold Partner, Qualcomm Certified BREW Developer and Java Certified Developer.

With a consistent 40% year-on-year growth, Diaspark is a reliable name to reckon in mid market IT Services & Solutions space.

“We are pleased with Seagate’s solid operational and financial performance in the quarter driven by continued strong global demand for storage products,” said Bill Watkins, Seagate CEO. “Further, we delivered strong year-over-year revenue and earnings growth in the third quarter. We continue to believe that there is significant opportunity in the notebook and retail markets – two areas where the company recently has not performed to expectation. We expect to see improved performance in these areas in the June quarter and through the calendar year.”

Adjustments made to GAAP net income and diluted net income per share can be found with the financial statements included with this press release. Additional information relating to the financial results for the third fiscal quarter of 2008 can be found online at seagate.com.

Business Outlook

For the June quarter, Seagate expects to report revenue of $2.85 - $3.0 billion, and GAAP diluted net income per share of $0.37 - $0.41. Excluding approximately $21 million of purchased intangibles amortization and other charges associated with past closed acquisitions, non-GAAP diluted net income per share for the June quarter is expected to fall within the range of $0.41 - $0.45.

This guidance does not include the impact of any future acquisitions, stock repurchases or restructuring activities the company may undertake.

Dividend and Stock Repurchase

The company has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.12 per share to be paid on or before May 16, 2008 to all common shareholders of record as of May 2, 2008.

During the quarter ended March 28, 2008, the company purchased 36 million of its common shares at an average price of $21.79. Additionally, through April 14, under a 10b5-1 qualified stock repurchase plan, Seagate has purchased 9.1 million shares at an average cost of $21.36. The company has authorization to purchase approximately $2.0 billion of additional shares under the current stock repurchase program.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements related to the company’s future operating and financial performance, including expected revenue, net income and diluted earnings per share (presented on a GAAP basis as well as on a non-GAAP adjusted basis), price and product competition, customer demand for our products, and general market conditions. These forward-looking statements are based on information available to Seagate as of the date of this press release. Current expectations, forecasts and assumptions involve a number of risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by these forward-looking statements. Such risks, uncertainties, and other factors may be beyond the company's control. In particular, such risks and uncertainties include the impact of the variable demand and the aggressive pricing environment for disc drives, particularly in view of current economic conditions; dependence on Seagate’s ability to successfully qualify, manufacture and sell its disc drive products in increasing volumes on a cost-effective basis and with acceptable quality, particularly the new disc drive products with lower cost structures; the impact of competitive product announcements and possible excess industry supply with respect to particular disc drive products; and market conditions and alternative cash imperatives which could impact our ability to repurchase stock. Information concerning risk, uncertainties and other factors that could cause results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements is contained in the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on August 27, 2007 and in the company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q as filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on January 30, 2008, which statements are incorporated into this press release by reference. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing the company's views as of any subsequent date and Seagate undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date they were made.

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

Seagate is the worldwide leader in the design, manufacture and marketing of hard disc drives, providing products for a wide-range of applications, including Enterprise, Desktop, Mobile Computing, Consumer Electronics and Branded Solutions. Seagate’s business model leverages technology leadership and world-class manufacturing to deliver industry-leading innovation and quality to its global customers, with the goal of being the low cost producer in all markets in which it participates. The company is committed to providing award-winning products, customer support and reliability to meet the world’s growing demand for information storage. Seagate can be found around the globe and at www.seagate.com.

In the period April 2007 – March 2008 the company despatched a total of 63.39 lakh tonnes, a rise of 31.95% over the period April 2006 – March 2007, when it had despatched 48.04 lakh tonnes.

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

Sales for 2007 came in at EUR 6.61 billion, down 4.8 percent from the prior-year figure of EUR 6.94 billion. After adjusting for currency and portfolio effects of 9.8 percent, however, sales growth was 5.0 percent. The decline in sales resulted partly from the divestment of the Lustran Polymers business unit. The same applies to the drop in Group net income from EUR 197 million in 2006 to EUR 112 million last year, which was due primarily to the exceptional charges related to this divestment. “We withdrew from this highly cyclical business at exactly the right time,” commented Heitmann. “Lustran Polymers was heavily dependent on petrochemical raw materials, the prices of which were highly volatile. LANXESS can now present itself as a flexible and very solid specialty chemicals group at the core of the chemical industry with considerably increased earning power.” Net financial debt declined further from EUR 511 million to EUR 460 million.

Significant dividend increase

In light of the growth in earnings, LANXESS plans to significantly raise the dividend for 2007. “The fact that LANXESS is already able to pay a respectable dividend after only three years underscores our newly gained earning power. In this way we want our stockholders to tangibly participate in the company’s success,” said Heitmann. The Board of Management and the Supervisory Board of LANXESS AG will propose to the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting on May 29, 2008 that the dividend for 2007 be raised to EUR 1.00 per share, compared with the EUR 0.25 per share paid for 2006.

Outlook for 2008: continuing on a path of growth

“Our stated goal for 2008 is to achieve further growth based on our improved competitiveness,” said Heitmann, explaining that the soon-to be-completed acquisition of a majority interest in Brazilian company Petroflex should contribute to this. The acquisition, which is expected to close in the second quarter of 2008, will place LANXESS among the leading specialty chemicals companies and synthetic rubber producers in Latin America, too.

In light of the ongoing uncertainty regarding the effects of the U.S. subprime crisis, LANXESS anticipates regional differences in the pace of economic growth, with the slowdown in the United States likely to be offset by the growth momentum of customer industries in Asia, Latin America and eastern Europe. LANXESS continues to rigorously

implement its growth strategy, particularly in Asia. The company is currently embarked on growth projects with a total volume of up to EUR 800 million. In 2008, it plans to spend between EUR 330 million and EUR 350 million to replace or expand facilities.

LANXESS is again striving for operational sales growth in 2008 and remains confident that the earnings targets previously set for 2009 can now be achieved a year earlier. The Group’s EBITDA margin should be in line with the industry average in 2008, a year earlier than originally planned. All business units should generate an EBITDA margin pre

exceptional of more than 5 percent from 2008 onward. A further goal is to maintain the company’s investment grade rating.

This forecast is supported by the company’s good start to 2008, a year in which LANXESS has announced its intention to implement further selling price increases.

LANXESS will narrow its earnings guidance for 2008 when the first quarter results are published.

2007 business results by segment

In 2007 LANXESS significantly raised its central controlling parameter, EBITDA pre exceptionals, despite negative currency effects and the absence of earnings contributions from the divested business units. Over the year as a whole, LANXESS succeeded in passing along all raw material cost increases to customers.

The Performance Polymers segment, which combines LANXESS’s activities in the area of synthetic rubber and plastics production, achieved a continuously positive performance and was able to pass on what were in some cases sharp increases in raw material costs. Sales of the segment grew by 4.2 percent to EUR 2.68 billion (2006: EUR 2.57 billion) on the back of solid price and volume increases in all business units. EBITDA pre exceptionals advanced by approximately 11 percent to EUR 376 million (2006: EUR 340 million). Additional production capacities in the Butyl Rubber and Semi-Crystalline Products business units and the recomissioning of a production line in the Polybutadiene Rubber business unit met with good demand. The EBITDA margin pre exceptionals moved ahead by 0.8 percentage points to 14.0 (2006:13.2) percent.

The Advanced Intermediates segment registered solid demand in its Basic Chemicals and Fine Chemicals business units. Segment sales rose by 5.6 percent to EUR 1.20 billion (2006: EUR 1.14 billion). The Basic Chemicals business unit posted strong growth in volumes in the agricultural and other businesses, and raised prices slightly. In the Saltigo business unit, pharmaceutical and agrochemical intermediates showed the strongest growth. The realignment initiated there had a positive impact on earnings. EBITDA pre exceptionals came in at the previous year’s high level of at EUR 174 million. The corresponding segment margin fell only slightly, dipping by 0.8 percentage points to

14.5 percent.

Earnings in Performance Chemicals improved significantly on the strength of the portfolio adjustments. Sales in this segment were down 10.7 percent from the prior year, to EUR 1.97 billion (2006: EUR 2.20 billion), because of portfolio changes and negative currency effects. Adjusted for the 3.2 percent negative currency effects and a 9.7 percent decrease due to the divestment of the Paper and Textile Processing Chemicals business units, sales rose 2.2 percent year on year. The Leather and RheinChemie business units benefited from a favorable market environment in the Asia-Pacific region. The Inorganic Pigments business unit recorded pleasing sales growth in the EMEA region, especially in central and eastern Europe. This made up for the lower demand from the U.S. construction industry. EBITDA pre exceptionals for the Performance Chemicals segment edged down by 2.1 percent to EUR 285 million (2006: EUR 291 million), reflecting the absence of earnings contributions from the divested Textile Processing Chemicals business unit. By contrast, the EBITDA margin pre exceptionals showed a tangible increase of 1.3 percentage points to 14.5 percent following this divestment and operational improvements in the segment.

Reporting for the Engineering Plastics segment will be discontinued after 2007. The last remaining business unit in that segment, Lustran Polymers, was placed into INEOS ABS, a company formed together with INEOS, and accordingly deconsolidated effective September 30, 2007. The business operations of the new company are managed by

INEOS.

Fourth quarter 2007 results

LANXESS recorded operational business growth in all segments in the fourth quarter of 2007. Sales, at EUR 1.47 billion (2006: EUR 1.67 billion), showed a 12.1 percent decline. After adjusting for currency and portfolio effects, however, sales growth was 7.6 percent. EBITDA pre exceptionals climbed by 8.6 percent to EUR 114 million (2006: EUR 105 million).

Table (EUR million, changes in percent)

Q4

2006

Q4

2007

CHANGE

FULL YEAR 2006

FULL YEAR 2007

CHANGE

Sales

1,666

1,465

-12.1

6,944

6,608

-4.8

EBIT

39

5

-87.2

376

215

-42.8

EBIT pre exceptional

38

51

+34.2

421

472

+12.1

EBITDA

113

67

-40.7

638

513

-19.6

EBITDA pre exceptional

105

114

+8.6

675

719

+6.5

Net Income

2

5

+150.0

197

112

-43.1

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by LANXESS AG management. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.

Information for editors:

All LANXESS news releases and accompanying photo, video and audio material can be found on http://press.lanxess.com

Today's announcement demonstrates the industry's continued acceptance of Microchip's PIC microcontrollers as the high-performance, cost-effective solution for embedded-control designs, and provides further evidence of the Company's continued strong growth throughout.

"The shipment of our six billionth PIC microcontroller is a remarkable achievement, and shipping it to a customer in Mexico is even more satisfying as we continue to see widespread adoption of our broad embedded-control portfolio throughout Latin America," said Microchip's president and CEO Steve Sanghi.

According to Sanghi, going from five to six billion in a year is a significant accomplishment for Microchip, as the Company continues to gain worldwide market share. "We have reached this milestone because customers like Mabe recognize the value in our flexible PIC microcontroller architectures, the fact that we have the industry's strongest migration path, our easy-to-use MPLAB development systems, our comprehensive sales support, and our dependable supply performance."

A Microchip customer for over 10 years, Mabe is one of the largest producers of white-good appliances in the Americas - with over 22,000 employees spread across Canada, Mexico, Columbia, Ecuador, Argentina and Brazil. Mabe has won numerous awards, including the National Prize of Technology in 2003, which was presented by Mexican President, Vicente Fox. The company uses a broad line of embedded-control solutions from Microchip, including PIC microcontrollers.

"Our longstanding relationship with Microchip Technology has been beneficial to both parties, and we are proud to be the recipient of their six billionth PIC microcontroller," said Engineer Jose Berrondo, Mabe's Vice President of Technology and Products. "The exceptional development tools and support from Microchip helped speed our product development and qualification time."

Microchip serves more than 60,000 customers in over 65 countries, has shipped nearly 600,000 development tools to date, and partners with more than 130 global third-party tool manufacturers.

Microchip has a broad portfolio of nearly 500 8-, 16- and 32-bit PIC microcontrollers, and is the only company to support all of its microcontrollers and DSCs under a single integrated development environment - the free MPLAB IDE. The six billionth PIC MCU shipped, PIC12F635-I/P, highlights the strengths of the PIC MCU architecture, with its on-chip precision internal oscillator, A/D converter, analog comparator, 1.75 Kbytes of Flash program memory, and in-circuit programming in an 8-pin DIP package.

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

Microchip Customer Support

Microchip is committed to supporting its customers by helping design engineers develop products faster and more efficiently. Customers can access four main service areas at http://www.microchip.com/. The Support area provides a fast way to get questions answered; the Sample area offers free evaluation samples of any Microchip device; microchipDIRECT provides 24-hour pricing, ordering, inventory and credit for convenient purchasing of all Microchip devices and development tools; finally, the Training area educates customers through webinars, sign-ups for local seminar and workshop courses, and information about the annual MASTERs events held throughout the world.

About Microchip Technology

Microchip Technology Inc. (NASDAQ: MCHP) is a leading provider of microcontroller and analog semiconductors, providing low-risk product development, lower total system cost and faster time to market for thousands of diverse customer applications worldwide. Headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, Microchip offers outstanding technical support along with dependable delivery and quality. For more information, visit the Microchip website at http://www.microchip.com/.

In the period April 2007 – February 2008 the company despatched a total of 55.85 lakh tonnes, a rise of 28.89% over the period April 2006 – February 2007, when it had despatched 43.33 lakh tonnes.

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

For further information contact:
Mr. Kaushik Ray - Media Inc
Tel: 0-98311 58883 / 033-2280 2202
E-mail: kaushik-mediainc@radiantad.com

Divyajot Ahluwalia, Regional Business Manager, Europe – WASP3D said, “Having the right partner to market your product is crucial to success of any organization, full credit to Computorium for leading this project.” “We are truly excited about our association with Turk TV & Kanal A and look forward to an enduring relationship.”

WASP3D has grown significantly in Europe over past couple of years with leading broadcasters like Antena 1&3, CNBCe, Dogan TV Radyo, RTV Utrecht and wTVisionas its customers.

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

ABOUT WASP3D

WASP3D is a networked workflow based Real-time 3D Graphics solution developed specifically for television stations and post-production houses for speedy creation spectacular 3D graphics, content management and its on-air playout. WASP3D is based on futuristic Microsoft DirectX© technology offering real-time graphics rendering that reduces cycle time from design to on-air playout. It is an all-in-one, comprehensive Real-time 3D Graphics solution that can address complex graphics requirements in various application areas including business, elections, news, sports, weather, virtual sets and simulations.

Today, WASP3D has over 300 installations at leading Television broadcasters, across 40 countries globally. WASP3D has a state-of-the-art delivery center in India, with sales offices in India and Europe; the company employs over 100 highly qualified professionals worldwide.

To know more visit www.wasp3d.com

WASP3D is the registered trademark of Beehive Systems Ltd. All other product or service names may be registered trademarks or trademarks, and are the property of their respective owners.

“The outstanding sales figures for 2007 are an important step on the path to reaching our ambitious corporate goals. We were able to grow in all sales regions and we will continue to maintain our fast pace in 2008,” says Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG.

“Our growth in China is particularly remarkable: we’re the first premium carmaker to sell more than 100,000 cars here,” stresses Ralph Weyler, Member of the Board of Management of AUDI AG for Marketing and Sales. “We were able to further develop our position as a premium brand in growth markets as well as in the saturated markets of Europe and the US.”

In Europe (including Germany), Audi delivered 686,480 cars during 2007, or 4.3 percent more than the previous year. Great Britain was the biggest European export market for Audi: the premium brand from Ingolstadt increased its sales here by 17.1 percent.

In America, Audi gained 4.5 percent for the year as a whole, with 115,629 cars sold. Of this number, 93,506 cars were sold in the US, a gain of 3.8 percent. In the Asia-Pacific region, Audi was able to increase sales by 20.5 percent. China (including Hong Kong) was the biggest export market in 2007 for the company from Ingolstadt. From January to December, Audi sold 101,996 cars here – 24.8 percent more than during the previous year.

The region of Africa and the Near and Middle East also developed into an important growth region. Sales figures grew here by 12.8 percent, in the Middle East alone rose by 38.2 percent.

Market share in Germany grew from 7.6 percent to 7.9 percent when compared with the previous year; Audi thus achieved the highest share in domestic competition in the company’s history. On December 7, German dealers began selling the highly anticipated Audi A4 sedan, which has already won numerous comparison tests and awards since premiering at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. The new generation of the highest-volume Audi model promises to provide the Ingolstadt-based company with strong momentum in the new year.

AUDI AG will present the complete results for the 2007 business year at its Annual Press Conference on March 11, 2008 in Ingolstadt.

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

For further information, please contact:

Bettina Bernhardt, General Manager Press, Audi India
Phone: 022 4070 0249, E-mail: bettina.bernhardt@audi.de

Gaurav Sinha, Integral PR, New Delhi
Phone: 098182 89907, gaurav@integralpr.com

Vishesh Verma, Integral PR, Mumbai
Phone: 98193 33317, vishesh@integralpr.com

WatchGuard® Technologies, a global provider of network security solutions, today announced unprecedented financial results for the close of its fiscal 2007 year, culminating in record revenues, four consecutive quarters of increasing revenue growth, cash-positive profitability, accelerating unit sales and market share growth.

“2007 was an exceptional year for WatchGuard and specifically Q4 was a record-breaking quarter – the highest quarterly revenue in the company’s history,” said Joe Wang, CEO at WatchGuard. “Significantly improved execution coupled with investments in our business, technology, and regional markets around the globe have resulted in record numbers, success across market segments and geographies, and have laid the groundwork for continued growth in 2008.”

Financial Highlights

For 2007, WatchGuard consistently grew top line revenue, with each quarter exceeding the previous. Financial highlights include:

· Year-over-year Q4 revenue growth of 17 percent;

· Accelerated revenue growth through 2007, with all four quarters having year-on-year growth exceeding each previous quarter;

· Profitability for all four quarters in 2007;

· Increased global sales of WatchGuard Firebox® X network security appliances with high-end appliance sales growing significantly, double of sales a year ago;

· Dramatic growth of WatchGuard LiveSecurity® attach and renewal rates.

“WatchGuard gained solidly in all areas, with strong regional growth in Europe, Asia Pacific and North America,” said Bob Chamberlain, CFO at WatchGuard. “With this momentum, WatchGuard expects continued sales growth of our award-winning network security solutions, and greater penetration among enterprise and key verticals, such as education, healthcare and retail.”

Business Highlights

The year also marked several noteworthy developments, market and business improvements at the company. Notably, these include:

· New executive management and aggressive engineering, sales and marketing talent recruitment;

· Capture of leading market share positions for UTM and VPN network security appliances;

· Increasing adoption among mid-market and enterprise customers;

· Robust worldwide channel expansion resulting in multiple awards and industry recognition for WatchGuard as a “best seller,” “most likely to buy,” and “reader’s choice.”

Technology Highlights

WatchGuard effectuated a variety of substantive product and technology innovations that invigorated and catalyzed product sales. Highlights of the company’s technology developments include:

· WatchGuard Firebox X appliance performance improvements firmly positioning them as price/performance market leaders

· Product enhancements to command a greater lead in reliability and enhanced multi-function network security capability;

· Improved capabilities to block spam, viruses, malware, phishing and other e-mail and network attacks;

· Improving power consumption, making WatchGuard Firebox X appliances “greenest in the industry.”

Wang concludes, “WatchGuard is poised to build upon its financial, business and technology momentum and turn 2008 into a stellar year. With new market, product and channel developments on the horizon, WatchGuard is well positioned to meet and exceed next generation security demands for businesses around the world.”

The India Growth Story

§ WatchGuard achieved significant quarterly growth.

§ Q4 2007 witnessed 70% growth over Q4 2006

§ Q4 2007 isaround 17% over Q3 2007

§ Watchguard built new partnerships and alliances and almost 50% of the revenue is now through the new partners.

§ Opened new offices, doubled the team size.

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

About WatchGuard Technologies, Inc.

Since 1996, WatchGuard® Technologies, Inc. has been the advanced technology leader of network security solutions, providing mission-critical security to hundreds of thousands of businesses worldwide. The WatchGuard Firebox® X family of wired and wireless unified threat management appliances provide extensible network security, in-depth analysis, and unparalleled network visibility, management and control. WatchGuard products are backed by WatchGuard LiveSecurity® Service, an innovative support, maintenance, and education program. WatchGuard is headquartered in Seattle and has offices serving North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Latin America. To learn more, visit http://www.watchguard.com/.

There is truly something for everyone, with discounts on a variety of books ranging from Fiction (Bestseller author David Baldacci’s page turner – The Collectors at only Rs. 199) to Photography (Celebrated photographer Mirella Ferrera’s gorgeous and informative -Peoples of the World at 72% off), Health (Yoga guru BKS Iyengar’s holistic guide - Yoga: The Path to Holistic Healing at 40% off) and many more. (A few more tempting offers on the following pages)

To add to the excitement, Crossword Book Rewards members also enjoy an exclusive 10%* discount on regular books throughout the sale period. (* Conditions apply)

The sale is on at* 14 stores across Mumbai: at Kemps Corner, Juhu, Chembur, Inorbit Mall - Malad, Hiranandani Gardens – Powai, Bandra – Turner Road, Shivaji Park, Imax – Wadala, HPCL Petrol Station – Sion, Mulund-Nirmal Lifestyles Mall, Hypercity- Malad and at Shoppers’ Stop stores in – Andheri, Bandra and Kandivili

*4 stores in Delhi: Shoppers Stop-Rajouri Garden, Select Citywalk-Saket, Pacific Mall-Ghaziabad & MGF (Shoppers Stop) –Saket,

*Icon-Indira Nager & Commerce @ Mantri (Shoppers Stop) – Bannerghatta Road in Bangalore

*Kuppu Arcade-T. Nagar & KRM Center (Above Shoppers Stop)-Chetpet in Chennai

*Shoppers Stop-Begumpet & City Center-Banjara Hills in Hyderabad

*Millennium Petrol Pump-Waltair Park in Vishakhapatnam

- thus making it even easier to pick up your favourite books at these fabulous prices!

Some more tempting offers at the Crossword Sale

The Collectors

By David Baldacci

Genre: Fiction

Cover Price: Rs. 295

Our Price: Rs. 199

People are dropping dead in Washington, D.C., and the Camel Club must unravel a secret that threatens to bring America to its knees. In "The Collectors”, Baldacci once again demonstrates why he is one of the world's favorite writers.

Half of a Yellow Sun

By Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Genre: Fiction

Cover Price: Rs. 250

Our Price: Rs. 199

In her masterly, haunting novel, Chimam Adichie recreates a seminal moment in modern African history: Biafra's impassioned struggle to establish an independent republic in Nigeria during the 1960s.

The Namesake

By Jhumpa Lahiri

Genre: Fiction

Cover Price: Rs. 295

Our Price: Rs. 249

Spanning three decades and crossing continents, Jhumpa Lahiri's first novel is a triumph of humane story-telling. Elegant, subtle and moving, "The Namesake" is for everyone who loved the clarity, sympathy and grace of Lahiri's Pulitzer Prize-winning debut story collection, "Interpreter of Maladies".

The Ultimate Craft Book for Kids

Genre: Children

Cover Price: Rs. 395

Our Price: Rs. 299

Hundreds of ideas for hand-crafted models, toys, useful gifts and games

Lizzie McGuire (3 in 1 Series)

Genre: Children

Cover Price: Rs. 225

Our Price: Rs. 175

Lizzie and her friends from junior high are up to their usual hilarious tricks (and mishaps) in Lizzie for President, The Orchids Gumbo Poker Club, The Rise and Fall of Kate Empire, Lizzie Goes Wild and Head Over Heels.

Knowledge Masters: Set of 13 books

Genre: Children

Cover Price: Rs. 2275

Our Price: Rs. 1299

Where does electricity come from? How do aeroplanes fly? Help your children discover the answers to these questions and more with the complete set of Knowledge Masters. The books are packed with informative text, colorful illustrations and recommended websites for further investigation.

The Concise Larousse Gastronomique

Genre: Cookery

Cover Price: Rs. 795

Our Price: Rs. 599

Originally created by Prosper Montagne and published in 1938, "The Concise Larousse Gastronomique" serves as a source of information for the enthusiastic cook and serious gastronome alike. The encyclopaedia covers nearly every ingredient and cooking style in history.

1000 Paintings of Genius

Genre: Art

Cover Price: Rs. 1900

Our Price: Rs. 899

There are paintings that captured the feeling of an era and those that signaled the beginning of a new one. Works of art that were immediately recognized for their genius, and others that were at first met with resistance.

Common Sense Business

By Ken Blanchard

Genre: Management

Cover Price: Rs. 295

Our Price: Rs. 199

A guide on how to manage a small business through every phase of its life cycle draws on the author's own professional experiences of overseeing the rise, fall, and return of his company.

Maverick!

By Ricardo Semler

Genre: Management

Cover Price: Rs. 475

Our Price: Rs. 149

This is the international bestseller that tells how Semler tore up the rule books - no formality - a minimum of meetings, memos and approvals. Learn Ricardo's secrets and let some of the Semco magic rub off on you and your company.

The Origin of Brands

By Al & Laura Ries

Genre: Management

Cover Price: Rs. 399

Our Price: Rs. 299

An examination of the process of brand building shares case studies for a number of successful products, analyzing marketing methods that demonstrate effective brand divergence, in a guide that argues against current marketing trends.

Peoples of the World

By Mirella Ferrera

Genre: Photography

Cover Price: Rs. 3600

Our Price: Rs. 999

Supported by a series of exceptional photographs and maps, this book is divided into five sections that correspond roughly to continental areas, and then subdivided by cultural area.

The Illustrated History of the World: 10 volume set

Genre: History

Cover Price: Rs. 9995

Our Price: Rs. 3995

This 10 volume set covers the time period from prehistory to 1997. It is notable for its many time lines, charts, maps, drawings, illustrations, and photographs, which complement the text and bring it to life.

Awaken the Giant Within

By Anthony Robbins

Genre: Self-Help

Cover Price: Rs. 425

Our Price: Rs. 299

Anthony Robbins provides a step-by-step program teaching the fundamental lessons of self-mastery that will enable you to discover your true purpose, take control of your life and harness the forces that shape your destiny.

Yoga: The Path to Holistic Healing

By BKS Iyengar

Genre: Health

Cover Price: Rs. 1670

Our Price: Rs. 995

In Yoga: The Path to Holistic Health, 82-year-old Yogacharya B.K.S. Iyengar, one of the world's leading yoga teachers, offers detailed instructions for postures of all levels of difficulty, illustrated by color photos and accompanied by helpful explanations of their health benefits.

Garfield 3 in 1 set

By Jim Davis

Genre: Humor

Cover Price: Rs. 395

Our Price: Rs. 316

Garfield's treasury of Sunday comic strips showcases the feisty Fat Cat in all his glory and gluttony.

Kitchens: The Hub of the Home

By Terence Conran

Genre: Interiors

Cover Price: Rs. 995

Our Price: Rs. 799

In Kitchens, Terence Conran explores the expanded role of this room today and its central importance in our homes. There are chapters on planning your room as well a section on basic elements which provides a comprehensive directory for the fundamental elements of kitchen design.

Conversations with God (Set of 3 books)

By Neale Donald Walsch

Genre: Religion

Cover Price: Rs. 695

Our Price: Rs. 486

Conversations with God, Book 1 was the start of Neale Donald Walsch's ongoing dialogue with God. The trilogy contains the most essential truths and lessons for spiritual seekers, and these books are the bestselling of all the author's works.

100 Wonders of India

Genre: India

Cover Price: Rs. 795

Our Price: Rs. 595

India is a continent within a continent with an astounding 5000-year-old history and vast multitude of landscapes that include the world’s highest mountains, great rivers, long coastlines, deserts and dense forests. In this book each legacy, man-made and natural, is described with details of history and brought to life with vivid colour images.

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

About Crossword:

Crossword is India’s leading bookstore chain, which has pioneered the lifestyle bookstore concept in India. Its innovative approach to book retailing and its achievements has received wide acclaim in India and has won the ‘Reid & Taylor Award for Best Retailer of the year – Leisure & Specialty’ at the India Retail Summit 2005. 'Retailer of the Year Award - Leisure (Books, Music and Gifts Category) at the Images Retail Awards 2007 and 2005'. Businessworld rated Crossword as the '6th Most Respected Retailer in the country' for the year 2006; the only bookstore to feature in the top ten. Launched in 1992, Crossword currently has 45 stores across 13 cities in the country in Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Nagpur, Ghaziabad, Hyderabad, Jaipur, New Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Pune, Vadodara & Vishakhapatnam. Crossword Bookstores Ltd. is a wholly owned subsidiary Company of Shopper’s Stop Ltd – India’s leading department store chain.

For the six months ended December 28, 2007 Seagate reported revenue of $6.7 billion, GAAP net income of $758 million, and diluted net income per share of $1.37. GAAP net income and diluted net income per share includes approximately $61 million of purchased intangibles amortization and other charges associated with the Maxtor, EVault and MetaLINCs acquisitions and also a net gain from asset sales of approximately $15 million. Excluding these items, non-GAAP net income and diluted net income per share were $804 million and $1.45. Included in both GAAP and non-GAAP results are restructuring charges of approximately $32 million or approximately $0.06 per share.

“Seagate’s strong financial performance in the quarter reflects the company’s solid business model and expanded product portfolio, which positioned us well in a favorable industry environment characterized by seasonal strength across all storage markets and continued growth in global demand,” said Bill Watkins, Seagate chief executive officer. “During the quarter, Seagate achieved record shipments and experienced some capacity constraints, underscoring the phenomenal growth of digital content in both the consumer and commercial markets. Based on unit demand across all categories, we entered the March quarter in a position of strength. The storage industry remains one of the world’s most important and exciting industries. We are confident Seagate’s vision, technology, and operational excellence will drive us to continued strong financial and operating performance in the March quarter and double-digit year-over-year growth.”

Adjustments made to GAAP net income and diluted net income per share can be found following the financial statements included with this press release. Additional information relating to the financial results for the second fiscal quarter of 2008 can be found online at seagate.com.

Business Outlook

For the March quarter, Seagate expects to report revenue of $3.2 - $3.3 billion, and GAAP diluted net income per share of $0.57 - $0.61. Excluding approximately $27 million of purchased intangibles amortization and other charges associated with past closed acquisitions, including MetaLINCS, non-GAAP diluted net income per share for the March quarter is expected to fall within the range of $0.62 - $0.66. At the mid-point, this guidance represents a 15% revenue increase year-over-year and a 36% non-GAAP diluted earnings per share increase year-over-year.

This guidance does not include the impact of any future acquisitions, stock repurchases or restructuring activities the company may undertake.

Dividend and Stock Repurchase

The company has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.10 per share to be paid on or before February 15, 2008 to all common shareholders of record as of February 1, 2008.

During the quarter ended December 28, 2007, the company repurchased approximately 9.3 million of its common shares related to its share repurchase plan. The average price of the shares delivered to the company in the December quarter was $27.00. The company has authorization to purchase approximately $474 million of additional shares under the current stock repurchase program and the company anticipates utilizing the remaining authorization within the March quarter.

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

Seagate is the worldwide leader in the design, manufacture and marketing of hard disc drives, providing products for a wide-range of applications, including Enterprise, Desktop, Mobile Computing, Consumer Electronics and Branded Solutions. Seagate’s business model leverages technology leadership and world-class manufacturing to deliver industry-leading innovation and quality to its global customers, and to be the low cost producer in all markets in which it participates. The company is committed to providing award-winning products, customer support and reliability to meet the world’s growing demand for information storage. Seagate can be found around the globe and at www.seagate.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements related to the company’s future operating and financial performance, including expected revenue, net income and diluted earnings per share (presented on a GAAP basis as well as on a non-GAAP adjusted basis), price and product competition, customer demand for our products, and general market conditions. These forward-looking statements are based on information available to Seagate as of the date of this press release. Current expectations, forecasts and assumptions involve a number of risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by these forward-looking statements. Such risks, uncertainties, and other factors may be beyond the company's control. In particular, such risks and uncertainties include the impact of the variable demand and the aggressive pricing environment for disc drives; dependence on Seagate’s ability to successfully qualify, manufacture and sell its disc drive products in increasing volumes on a cost-effective basis and with acceptable quality, particularly the new disc drive products with lower cost structures; the impact of competitive product announcements and possible excess industry supply with respect to particular disc drive products; and market conditions and alternative cash and imperatives which could impact our ability to repurchase our stock. Information concerning risk, uncertainties and other factors that could cause results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements is contained in the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on August 27, 2007 and in the company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q as filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on October 29, 2007 which statements are incorporated into this press release by reference. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing the company's views as of any subsequent date and Seagate undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date they were made.

A growing market, IDC forecasts the Web Security market to grow from $1.2 billion in 2006 to $2.3 billion in 2011. Websense’s market share is more than the combined total market share of the next two largest Web security vendors.

According to the study, “Worldwide Web Security 2007-2011 Forecast and 2006 Vendor Shares” (Excerpt from IDC #210034, December 2007) by IDC Analyst Brian Burke, the demand and interest in Web security solutions is being fueled by corporate concerns about Internet threats that have become increasingly complex. Some of the key Web security trends identified by IDC include Web 2.0 technologies, blended Web-based threats and data loss prevention.

continue to play a critical role in protecting organizations from emerging threats.”

In the study, IDC reports that today’s enterprises require a more holistic and integrated approach for Internet security—or what IDC calls a “Web security ecosystem” to combat emerging Web-based threats. IDC identified three areas in particular that vendors need to address: Web 2.0 – which includes collaborative technologies such as networking sites and wikis; blended malware – attackers are increasingly using blended malware from multiple threat vectors such as email and the Web to exploit vulnerabilities; and data loss prevention—as Web 2.0 environments open up networks for increased risk of data loss.

Websense is the only vendor that provides a combination of solutions to protect organizations from emerging Web security threats and address all three key areas of concern identified by IDC in the report: e-mail security, Web security and data loss prevention.

Customers worldwide look to Websense for protection from Web-based threats. Websense also announced today that long-time Websense Enterprise® customer Central Coast Community Healthcare has upgraded to and deployed Websense Web Security Suite™ software to protect the organization’s content and confidential patient data, users and network from emerging Web security threats.

“Websense was the first to forecast that the Web would become the largest threat vector and that hackers would increasingly use the Web to launch attacks for financial gain. We built Web security solutions to protect our customers worldwide,” said Leo Cole, vice president of marketing, Websense. “As the Web security leader, we are addressing today’s biggest security challenges, which include the proliferation of Web 2.0 technologies and protecting confidential data for our customers around the world.”

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

Websense, Inc. (NASDAQ: WBSN) protects more than 42 million employees from external and internal computer security threats. Using a combination of preemptive ThreatSeeker™ malicious content identification and categorization technology and information leak prevention technology, Websense helps make computing safe and productive. Distributed through its global network of channel partners, Websense software helpsorganizations block malicious code, prevent the loss of confidential information and manage Internet and wireless access. For more information, visit www.websense.com.

The aforementioned 31 lakhs fully convertible warrants will be allotted at an exercise price Rs.107/-, which is in accordance with SEBI (Disclosure & Investor Protection) Guidelines, 2000. Presently the promoters are holding 43.65% of Equity shares of the Company and after conversion of all these warrants their total shareholding in the Company will be 51.40%.

The Company had recently announced plans to substantially increase capacity in a phased development program. In the first phase to be completed over the next 12 months, Cosmo Films plans to increase capacity by 45000 MT from the present 66000 MT to reach 115000 MT of BOPP, used in the food packaging and printing industry. The next phase would see the Company adding another 45000 MT.

The proceeds of the preferential issue are intended to finance the expansion in terms of capital investments and long-term working capital requirements. “We are bullish about the market opportunity in both domestic and export markets as shown by our aggressive expansion plans. The proceeds of the preferential issue would enable us to fund our capacity enhancement,” said Ashok Jaipuria, founder and Chairman of Cosmo Films,

The size of the market for flexible packaging in India is currently estimated to be around 150,000 MT and is growing at over 15% per annum. The export potential is also substantial. Cosmo Films is already the largest exporter from India of BOPP films. According to a recent study by KPMG, the Food Processing industry (one of the main users of the BOPP films) is poised for major growth, given an increasing inflow of foreign direct investment in the sector. It estimates that this segment will grow faster as compared to the home and personal care segment, the report added. Incidentally, exports of processed foods (which bring in higher realisation thanks to value addition) have increased to e13.8 billion in 2006-07 compared to e 4.7 billion in 2002-03.

Talking of the Company’s market, Jaipuria added, “We are ideally positioned to take full advantage of the emerging opportunity. Our quality and product portfolio are the most versatile and even today, our products support most of the well known processed food brands. As they grow to take advantage of the domestic and global opportunity, and to cater to the global brands that are planning on entering India, Cosmo Films will be ready with the installed capacities to meet the demand.”

Apart from BOPP film, Cosmo Films has also lately been in the market of Thermal Laminating Films .For this product, the Company has a capacity of 18000 TPA, which is being increased to 25000 TPA by March 2008. With a tradition of innovation and technology advancement, Como had during the last year introduced two new products – Scratch Resistant Films for thermal lamination in flexible packaging, and BOPP based Metalised Thermal Laminating Films for building insulation. The two products have been received well in the export markets and recently received the PFFCA STAR 2007 award, given by the Paper, Film and Foil Convertors’ Association of India for innovative development in the categories of flexible packaging applications and non-packaging applications respectively.

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

About Cosmo Films:

Cosmo Films established in 1980, was the first unit in the country to take up the manufacture of BOPP films. Since inception, the Company has maintained market leadership and also continues to be the largest BOPP film exporter from the Country. In the area of thermal lamination films Cosmo Film products are exported to Europe and US, and globally it is the second largest manufacturer of thermal lamination film.

Cosmo Films presently has plants in Aurangabad (Maharashtra) and Vadodara (Gujarat). Apart from ISO 9000 and ISO 14001, Cosmo is also the only Indian company to be accredited with American Institute of Baking as well as British Retail consortium certification for safety and hygiene of food related products. With a turnover of Rs. 535 crore, the Company’s products are associated with leading FMCG Brands for providing cost-effective innovative packaging solutions to enhance their value.

In a survey by “FORBES” in 2003 Cosmo has been recognized one of the best 200 companies out of 19000 listed companies with revenue of less than 1 Billion US$ outside US.

In 2006, global benzene production stood at 39.12 million tons, an increase of 3.5% over previous year whereas its capacity increased by 1.5 million tons to 44.8 million tons. During the same period, about 38.9 million tons of benzene was consumed globally, out of which Asia consumed around 14.7 million tons, holding a share of 40% in total global consumption. North America’s consumption, the second largest consumer, declined by 1% in 2006 and amounted to 10.1 million tons

Global caprolactum production amounted to 4.07 million tons in 2006, with more than 40% produced in West Europe and North America (1.8 million tons). Asia, the largest producer of caprolactum, produced around 1.46 million tons making up 36% of the total global production. USA and Benelux are the major producing countries.

The “Nylon Chain Report: 2007” contains 138 pages packed with up-to-date statistics covering the entire value chain starting from benzene, followed by the intermediate (Caprolactum), down to nylon yarn and fibers. The Report consists of tabulations and graphical presentation of trends, statistics of demand and supply in the nylon chain across countries along with an objective analysis of the behavior of individual segments of the value chain. Major investments and capacity shut down have also been briefly captured. In addition to the above, the report also covers times series on production, imports, exports and apparent consumption for the period 1998 to 2006. Processes description, end use and derivatives along with the latest producer-wise capacity are added feature of this report.

You may view the detailed Table of Contents of the report here: Report TOC

To get the complete report and analyzed information on the Nylon chain industry please contact us at sales@ynfx.com or call us at (91) (22) 66291050.

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

YarnsandFibers.com is leading provider of Textile Market Intelligence and Market Development. The YnFx member community comprises of Yarn Manufacturers, Spinners, Weavers, Traders, Knitters, from across 150 countries. We regularly publish in-depth reports, daily global textile news and press releases on the Textile Industry. You may contact us at +91 22 66291050 to know more about the company and activities.

"We are enjoying good support from suppliers for 24 top selling brands of consumer durables and our outlook is very strong,” commented Goel. “Our business has been helped by the Internet penetration in the country, which continues to grow at a pace of 40% every year. Consumer durables sales are posting double-digit growth, projected to be $32 billion in 2011. Indians bought $120 million worth consumer durables from the Internet, during 2006; and, it is projected to grow 200% by the end of 2007.”

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

SyberPlace.com is an online retailer for consumer durables in India, addressing a market opportunity of Rs. 128,000 crore with a business goal of 3% share: Rs. 4,000 crore sales in 2011, targeting 1% penetration in a customer base of more than 20 crore PC internet users and 20 crore mobile internet users. The company is makingan investment of Rs. 200 crore in technology, to provide the customers an unparalleled shopping experience. They have retained a leading retail technology provider experienced with some of the largest US fashion brand retailers – The Gap Inc., Victoria’s Secret, The Limited, etc.

The company has established a supply chain, logistics, and services for 24 top selling brands in consumer durables: LG, Samsung, Onida, Philips, Panasonic, Haier, HP, Acer, Lenovo, Toshiba, Cannon, Olympus, Nokia, Motorola, Sony Ericson, Whirlpool, etc. This supply chain provides the company with 27 categories of products.

Between 1998 and 2006 polyester capacity was seen almost doubling of which a major portion came up in Asia. Today, almost 85% of staple fiber capacity and 89.5% of the PFY capacity is in Asia. China, the largest manufacturer of polyester produced approximately accounts for almost 55% of global polyester capacity. India, Indonesia, South Korea and Taiwan are the other major producers of polyester in Asia. Outside Asia USA and Turkey are the only dominant producers

Consumption of polyester staple fiber has been seen increasing at an annual growth rate of 5.3% between 2000 and 2006. In 2006, it increased 11.4% to 11.3 million tons whereas supply increased simultaneously by 10.3% to 11.30 million tons. In the next six years upto 2012 an average production growth rate of 3.5% is expected in Asia, while a slower growth rate is projected in industrialized polyester fiber-consuming nations, at far lower volumes.

The “Polyester Chain Report: 2007” contains 305 pages packed with up-to-date statistics on the entire value chain beginning from propylene further to intermediate – Paraxylene to Polyester Fibre/Filament. The Report presents tabulation and graphical presentation of trends and status of demand and supply in polyester chain across countries. Objective description on the behaviour of individual segment of the value chain is also presented analytically. Major investments and capacity shut down are captured briefly. It covers times series on production, imports, exports and apparent consumption for the period 1998 to 2006. Processes description, end use and derivatives along with the latest producer-wise capacity are added feature of this report.

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

YarnsandFibers.com is leading provider of Textile Market Intelligence and Market Development. The YnFx member community comprises of Yarn Manufacturers, Spinners, Weavers, Traders, Knitters, from across 150 countries. We regularly publish in-depth reports, daily global textile news and press releases on the Textile Industry. You may contact us at +91 22 66291050 to know more about the company and activities.

Year on Year (H-1) : During H-1, revenue grew by 55 % to Rs 112.35 crores, while net profit (excl. Investment Income) increased by 2.2 % to Rs 29.87 Crores from Rs 29.22 Crores in H-1 of 2006-07. Throughput increased by 45 % to 171,446 TEUs.

Q-2 vs Q-1 : Revenue grew by 31 % to Rs 64.03 Crores from Rs 48.32 crores, while net profit increased by 2 % to Rs 18.88 Crores from Rs 18.58 crores in the previous quarter. Throughput increased by 11 % from 81,169 TEUs to 90,277 TEUs despite strong competition, which, however, had some adverse effect on the margins.

Due to the commencement of operations at the Punjab Conware CFS and deployment of 2 rakes by Gateway Rail Freight Ltd., both the income from operations and expenditure on staff costs, transportation, labour charges, fees on Operations & Management of Punjab Conware CFS and depreciation have increased significantly in the quarter ended September 30, 2007, as compared to the quarter ended 30 June 2007.

Interim Dividend : GDL has declared interim dividend of 15% for the financial year 2007-08. GDL had a bonus issue in the ratio of 1 equity share for every 4 equity shares held in the Company in August 2007.

Deployment of funds in Business : As the surplus funds were deployed on CAPEX on new businesses, viz., Rail, CFS & Cold Chain Logistics, investment income in H-1 declined to Rs 7.59 crores against Rs 11.62 Crores in H-1 of 2006-07. Consequently, overall net Profit (inc. investment Income) decreased to Rs 37.46 Crores against Rs 40.84 Crores in H-1 of 2006-07. The fully diluted earnings per share (EPS) in Q-2 was Rs 1.63.

Second CFS at JNP : “Our second CFS (Punjab Conware) is now operational and will help us consolidate our leadership position in the JNP CFS market in providing comprehensive services to the EXIM trade in this area”.

Container Rail Business : “We have acquired and deployed two of our own container trains presently in the domestic route. Another ten rakes have been ordered, which are expected to be received by March 2008, in stages”, said Mr Gopinath Pillai, Chairman, GDL

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

GDL is a Container logistics company with Pan-India presence providing Container Freight Station (CFS) / Inland Container Depot (ICD) services. GDL operates two large CFSs at JNP, an ICD at Garhi Harsaru, near Gurgaon and CFSs at Chennai & Vizag. GDL has recently started operating its own container trains and has also entered the cold chain logistics business through its subsidiary, Snowman Frozen Foods Limited, a JV with Mitsubishi Group.

Newton with its offices in Mumbai ,Delhi ,Hyderabad ,Bangalore, Kolkatta and Ahmedabad have done over 2000 installations all over India and specialize in solving technical and extremely complicated problems into a software solutions. As the construction industry has moved into computerization for their drafting and presentations for their clients, Newton has regularly updated and moulded their software with the change in the technology.

Currently Newton has staff strength of 80 and is planning to recruit 100 more shortly and is also planning to develop additional verticals in other core engineering areas. The company is fast expanding in other major cities of India and is in a phase of expanding in six more countries in the coming year besides growing in India.

Newton has a specific focus on CAD , engineering & related areas making it pioneers in various sectors of engineering .It has developed a-state-of-the-art solutions for converting Autocad Drawings into Steel and RCC quantities of Residential & commercial buildings. Apart from Civil Architectural Newton has also branched out to other engineering software development .

These software help to control the cost of Construction tremendously & have revolutionized the way in which the project estimation & actual working is done .Constant upgradations from time to time and continuous feedback from an extensive clients base from across India has resulted in these state of the art packages.

Newton has added major utilities for large SEZs and infrastructural projects. Newton has recently launched a web based Project monitoring software called as “esite”. This software helps control purchase orders, stock at Site and Site control from the head office .This helps the builder in monitoring major tasks from the head office.

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

About Newton Software Pvt. Ltd

Newton was founded in the year 1992 with a purpose of focusing on Civil Engineering /Architectural Software. We are pioneers in Civil Engineering /Architectural Software all over India. We cater to the requirement of Civil Engineering/Architectural Software & allied Solutions anywhere in India has made us one of the fastest growing Organization in this field. Newton as an Organization lays stress on continuous development systematic & planned growth in every aspect, with high level of innovations. As a part of the relentless drive towards perfection, Newton as a Web Enable its operations and has an Internet that connects all over the Newton nodes for faster and efficient service. Newton as an organization is a leader in terms of setting new trends in the Civil Engineering/Architectural Software and niche technology business.

Newton was founded in the year 1992 with a purpose of focusing on Civil Engineering /Architectural Software. We are pioneers in Civil Engineering /Architectural Software & allied Solutions anywhere in India & shortly branching abroad .This has made us one of the fastest growing Organization in this field. Apart from Civil Architectural Newton has also branched out to medical and electronic related software development. Newton believes in propagating its Sale through its existing clientele

Newton Software headquartered in Pune has its offices in Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Bangalore and Kolkata and currently have over 80 + staff working with them and are planning to recruit 100+ shortly.

Insurance Care Direct’s national call centers are quite a force to reckon with, but coupled with a hosted dialer and lead response management technologies from InsideSales.com and you have a team that is scratching a new high mark on the wall.

“Our reps have tripled individual sales productivity since implementing multiple dialer solutions from InsideSales.c