Driven by marked advances in the Exclusive Synthesis and Biotechno-logy businesses, Group operating income increased by 20% to CHF 223 million. This improvement, combined with the impact of the share buy-back program completed in January 2001, pushed earnings per share 26% above the prior year to CHF 27.80. The sale of businesses designated as discontinuing is progressing well, with gross proceeds in excess of CHF 1 billion expected by year-end.
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