ADM Q2 Profits Up 24 Percent

Archer Daniels Midland Co., the Decatur-based food processor and ethanol producer says that despite the economic downturn profits for the second quarter ended Dec. 31 rose 24% to $585 million, or 91 cents per share, up from $473 million, or 73 cents per share, a year ago. Revenue rose to $16.67 billion from $16.5 billion a year earlier the company said. Strong performances came from the oilseed processing and agricultural services sectors, whilst the company's ethanol side took a hit from tighter margins.