Global Crossing Forecasts Sales

Global Crossing Ltd. said sales, including revenue that won’t be booked until later periods, will be $7.1 billion to $7.2 billion this year as the phone- and data-network operator sells service in more areas. The sales estimate is Global Crossing’s first for 2001. The company in August said revenue in 2000 would total about $5.37 billion, including acquisitions. The Hamilton, Bermuda-based firm will sell services in new regions in Europe, Hong Kong and South America by the second half, Chief Executive Thomas Casey said. Global Crossing also said it signed a five-year, $150-million contract with El Segundo-based Computer Sciences Corp. Computer Sciences will use Global Crossing’s network to connect to client offices. Global Crossing shares rose 56 cents to close at $19.50 on the New York Stock Exchange. Computer Sciences fell $1.63 to close $55.94, also on the Big Board.