Agrium Expects to Be Near Top End of Guidance Range

Agrium

announced Monday that it expects its first half earnings will be near or at the top end of its previously released guidance range of $5.50 to $6.10 diluted earnings per share on continuing operations (near or at the top end of its second quarter guidance range of $4.18 to $4.78 diluted earnings per share on continuing operations). The guidance excludes hedging gains or losses and share-based payments expense in our first quarter actual results and estimated second quarter results. "These impressive first half earnings are due to excellent results across our crop input business. The outlook remains very positive, supported by the strong global grain prices and a balanced-to-tight international nutrient supply demand situation. Agrium's strategic investment across the crop input value chain continues to benefit from the strength in these underlying fundamentals," said Mike Wilson, Agrium President and CEO.