HASBRO Expects Growth in 2009

We recently reported here that HASBRO, Inc. (HAS NYSE) was holding a special webcast via its Corporate Information Webpage regarding a meeting between HASBRO officials and stock securities analysts. Today the webcast was held and we got to hear what HASBRO expects for 2009.

In the webcast HASBRO backed its projection of increase over 2008's earnings in 2009, despite recent economic troubles that have hit the market overall. HASBRO Executives admitted that predicting how the financial woes of the market would affect them is difficult, but maintain that key brands the company holds, such as TRANSFORMERS, STAR WARS and GI JOE, we'll help them maintain an edge in the market.

"We've never seen a situation quite like this," CEO Brian Goldner said. However, he added: "We feel we can be very competitve in this marketplace."

HASBRO expects sales in China and surrounding markets to increase at a faster rate than the US and Europe next year. The company also plans on increasing dividends on shares or stepping up stock repurchases.

With major theatrical releases planned for two of the toy makers key franchises, increase in 2009 seems more than likely.

Share prices were $25.58, down $0.81 or 3.1% at the time of posting.

HASBRO will make the webcast available for replay soon. You can hear it through Windows Media Player or Real Player here.