BUSINESS BRIEFING / ENERGY
Times Wire Reports
Sempra Energy, owner of the largest U.S. natural gas utility, said profit would rise to at least $5 a share in 2010, exceeding analyst estimates.
Sempra said it expected 2009 profit of $4.35 to $4.60 a share. The San Diego company was expected to earn $4.93 a share in 2010 excluding costs and one-time gains, according to a Bloomberg survey.
Sempra shares rose $2.13, or 4.9%, to $45.06.
