Lafarge surges

Lafarge is reporting that net profit in the first quarter was up substantially and ahead of its estimate. In a statement, the company said good first-quarter trends confirmed its view that markets will be good in 2007, and predicted that full-year results will exceed those of last year. Sales growth was sustained in most markets, and while volumes were down in North America, current operating profit was up due to price increases and cost cuts. Lafarge said it expects strong demand and prices for cement through 2007, but sees a slight slowdown in North America. Your comment?