Earnings Roundup: Lowe's, Global Sources

Among the earnings stories for Monday, Aug. 17, from AP Financial News:

NEW YORK (AP) — No. 2 home-improvement retailer Lowe's Cos. on Monday said second-quarter earnings fell 19 percent on weaker-than-expected sales, adding fresh fuel to doubts about the ability and willingness of consumers to lead the U.S. economy out of recession.

NEW YORK (AP) — Global Sources Ltd., which produces marketing Web sites and trade shows in China, says its second-quarter earnings dropped 39 percent, with exports from China and other Asian countries remaining sluggish.

WASHINGTON (AP) — China Architectural Engineering Inc. said Monday its second quarter profit fell 66 percent, but expressed a more positive outlook of business conditions.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Paint and coatings maker Valspar Corp. said Monday its fiscal third-quarter profit rose 38 percent, even as sales fell because it was able to cut costs.

NEW YORK (AP) — China-Biotics Inc., which develops and sells probiotic dietary supplements, said Monday its profit climbed 78 percent in the fiscal first quarter, due to better sales of new products, and greater demand and prices for additives.