UPDATE: Actavis Tops Q4 Views

Actavis Plc (NYSE: ACT) reported upbeat earnings for the fourth quarter.The Parsippany, New Jersey-based company posted a quarterly net loss of $732.9 million, or $2.76 per share, versus a year-ago loss of $148.4 million, or $0.86 per share. On an adjusted basis, Actavis' earnings climbed 23% to $3.91 per share. Its net revenue climbed 46% to $4.06 billion. However, analysts were expecting earnings of $3.67 per share on revenue of $3.84 billion.Revenue at the company's North American brands jumped 188% to $1.8 billion North American Generics & International net revenue rose 1% to $1.78 billion for the quarter. Sales at its Anda distribution segment climbed 16% to $443.3 million.Adjusted EBITDA rose 80% to $1.5 billion.As of December 31, 2014, the company had cash and marketable securities of $251 million."Our fourth quarter results demonstrate our laser-like commitment to drive strong growth and sustainable value creation across our businesses, while simultaneously executing transformative business development initiatives," said Brent Saunders, CEO and President of Actavis.Actavis expects full-year earnings in the range of $16.30 to $17.30 per share on revenue of around $15 billion.Actavis shares rose 0.54% to close at $286.90 yesterday.