Celera Genomics Easily Tops Analysts' Estimates

Celera Genomics (CRA Quote) posted a narrower-than-expected loss in the latest third quarter, as revenue doubled from the same period a year ago.

The company, which analyzes and distributes genomic and medical information, lost $29.1 million, or 48 cents a share, in the quarter. According to Thomson Financial/First Call, analysts were looking for a loss of 57 cents. Celera lost $24.1 million, or 45 cents a share, in last year's third quarter. The latest quarter includes a noncash charge of $10.9 million, or 17 cents a share, primarily related to the acquisition of Paracel.

Celera's revenue for the third quarter ended March 31 rose to $23.4 million from $11.1 million in the same period a year ago.

Shares of Celera, one of two operating groups of Applera, gained 25 cents, or 0.7% to $36.85 in recent New York Stock Exchange trading.

The other operating company, Applied Biosystems (ABI Quote), reported third-quarter earnings of 26 cents a share, unchanged from the prior year and in line with Wall Street's consensus forecast. Applied said revenue rose 19% to $439.8 million.

Applied lost 55 cents, or 1.9%, to $28.95 on the Big Board.