Woodside first-quarter sales increase 22%

Woodside Petroleum Ltd, Australia's second-largest oil and gas producer, said first-quarter sales rose 22 percent as the effect of higher prices outweighed a drop in production.

Thomson Reuters to focus on integration in Big Apple

Thomson Corp, which completed its $15.9 billion purchase of Reuters Group Plc yesterday, faces the most work merging operations in New York, said Tom Glocer, who will lead the combined company.

IN BRIEF (Page 16)

Business International

Multimedia phones boost LG's earnings

LG Electronics Inc, the best performing stock among the world's major mobilephone makers, reported its second-highest profit in almost four years, driven by sales of its touch-screen Viewty and Voyager handsets.

Nokia stock drop reversal hangs on profit surprise

Nokia Oyj shareholders say a rebound from the stock's worst quarter in almost four years depends on Chief Executive Officer Olli-Pekka Kallasvuo beating earnings estimates for the fourth straight time.

March inflation in Europe up 3.6%

European inflation accelerated more than initially estimated in March as energy prices increased and the cost of foods including rice and dairy products rose at a record pace.

Business International

Delta to acquire Northwest for $3.63b

Delta Air Lines Inc, one year removed from bankruptcy, agreed to buy Northwest Airlines Corp in a $3.63 billion stock deal that would create the world's largest carrier and may unleash more industry consolidation.

Tesco profit beats estimates

Tesco Plc, the UK's biggest supermarket company, said annual profit rose 12 percent, beating analysts' estimates, as higher revenue in Asia and eastern Europe offset slowing UK sales of clothes and appliances.

Toyota, VW sales drop in Europe

Toyota Motor Corp, PSA Peugeot Citroen and Volkswagen AG led the biggest drop in European car sales in more than four years as economic concerns held back buying and an early Easter cut the number of selling days.

Business International