Aflac Says Economy Remains Fragile (AFL)

Insurance giant Aflac

said today during their Q3 earnings conference call they are confident Aflac Japan will exceed 2010 sales goal, though "the US economy remains fragile and we must be prepared." During the call Aflac executives spoke about a possible share repurchase program of up 3 million shares in Q4 and 6-12 million in 2011. Aflac

shares surged this morning to the 57 level before settling back into the 56.10 range. Aflac says Q3 profit margin came in at 17.7% vs 17.5% in Quarter 3.