The Rising Influence of Rising Affluence

[DewDiligence]

DuPont’s ag business logs a strong quarter:

http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303553204579348311700774956

The agricultural segment, DuPont's largest in terms of revenue, posted an operating profit of $88 million for the fourth quarter. The period usually brings a loss for the division because farmers aren't yet starting to purchase products for their next growing season. Earlier direct shipments of seed to farmers in North America, along with strong sales of corn seed to Brazilian customers, helped lift revenue from agriculture products 18% to $1.8 billion.

Insecticide sales were brisk in Latin America, according to Ms. Kullman, due to "heavy insect pressure" confronting farmers in the region.

Fundamentals in the agricultural business, where DuPont sells a range of genetically modified and conventionally bred seeds through its Pioneer division, remain healthy, though many farmers may face lower income this year, DuPont executives said on a conference call with analysts and investors.