UPDATE: Lamar Advertising Posts Upbeat Q2 Profit

Lamar Advertising Co

reported a 53% rise in its second-quarter profit. Lamar's quarterly profit surged to $21.3 million, or $0.22 per share, from $13.9 million, or $0.15 per share, in the year-ago period. However, analysts were expecting earnings of $0.21 per share. Its revenue climbed 6.5% to $324.7 million, while operating margin improved to 21.6% from 21.2% For the current quarter, Lamar expects revenue of $320 million to $323 million, versus analysts' estimates of $325 million. Lamar shares closed at $44.03 yesterday.