ball Q208_Transcript

- Ball Corporation reported second quarter earnings that were higher than the previous year's record earnings, despite some challenges. Earnings per share increased in both the quarter and first half of 2008 compared to 2007. - Beverage can volumes remained strong in Europe and China but were lower in North America compared to the previous year. However, earnings from aerospace, food and household, and Brazil offset some of the lower beverage can earnings. - Management expects full-year free cash flow of $300 million and net debt to be less than $2.3 billion by year-end, indicating strong second half cash flow. The company also remains on track to purchase $300 million in stock for the full year.