That programme, which had authorized up to 40 million shares, has largely been completed. The share repurchases will be made on the open market or in privately negotiated transactions. The number of shares to be purchased, and the timing of the purchases, will be based on the level of cash balances, general business conditions and other factors including alternative investment opportunities. The repurchases will be used for general corporate purposes, including the company’s share-based plans and other employee stock benefit plans.
