Pension Costs May Prompt Dow Charge

Dow Chemical Co. may take a charge of as much as $1 billion related to pension costs this year, Bear Stearns & Co. analyst Frank Mitsch said after meeting with executives at the Midland, Mich.-based company.

In a filing Oct. 30 with the Securities and Exchange Commission, Dow said it was considering lowering its expectations for the performance of investments after market declines. Dow also said it might have extra expenses to meet pension payments.

Dow shares lost 34 cents to $28.98 on the NYSE.