DuPont's Earnings Rise; U.S. Sales Decline.

DuPont reported net income for the fourth quarter, ended December 31, 2006, of $871 million (94 cts/share), up compared to net income for the year-ago period of $154 million. The current quarter included a benefit of $449 million (49 cts/share) primarily due to tax benefits realized and insurance recoveries. The 2005-quarter included a significant item benefit of $28 million (3 cts/share). Sales grew 8%, to $6.3 billion, reflecting volume growth primarily from outside the U.S., higher local selling prices, and favorable currency, DuPont says. Sales in the U.S. decreased 3%, to $2.2 billion as a result of lower sales into residential construction and automotive markets. …