Boom for Nielsen's 'Buy' Division

Nielsen has reported a 10% rise in revenue to $1.4 billion for the second quarter, the result of a 14% increase in its Buy consumer purchase behavior segment and a 4% increase in its Watch media research arm.

Net income for the second quarter was $69m, compared with $74m in the second quarter of 2010, but adjusted net income for Q2 2011 increased to $155m, compared with $68m in the prior year period.

For the six months ended June 2011, revenues increased 9% to $2.7 billion, driven by a 12% increase in the Buy segment, a 5% rise in the Watch division, and an 8% increase in the firm's Expositions business.

Net loss for the first half of 2011 was $112m (H1 2010: $117m), because of charges associated with the IPO (initial public offering) which raised about $2.1bn.

Adjusted net income for the first half of 2011 increased to $219m, compared to $84m in the first half of 2010.

CEO David Calhoun commented: 'Nielsen's second quarter results reflect solid operating and financial performance across the company. We continue to see robust growth driven by our investments in developing markets, and are pleased with progress on key initiatives that benefit our clients and enrich our understanding of what consumers buy and watch on a global basis.'

Web site: www.nielsen.com .