HEADLINERS
TALK GIANT PROFITS RISE
Southern Cross Broadcasting has revealed a 32.6% increase in profits bringing the interim profit to $26.1 million. For the first two months of this year SCB are sitting 10% higher in revenue than for the same time last year, although in dollars banked this is being driven not by radio but by their regional Channel Ten affiliate, income is now up to $39.4 million. Radio operating income has increased by 44%, sitting at $7.75 million. Overall there is disappointment with 2UE's continuing downward spiral with SCB managing director Tony Bell describing their performance as 'okay' although he did add 'our other radio stations performed exceptionally well'. When quizzed on the forthcoming FM auctions in Sydney and Brisbane Mr Bell added fuel to the fire with a 'no comment'. Speculation is growing that SCB will attempt to bid for the Sydney and Brisbane licenses as well as the Melbourne which will be auctioned later this year. 27FEB2004