NS Group to report lower loss for quarter

        Newport-based NS Group Inc. late Tuesday said it will report a lower-than-expected loss for the June quarter as a result of improved operating efficiencies.

        The supplier of oil-country tubular goods for the oil and gas industry said it expects its loss for the second quarter to be in the area of 20 cents a share.

        The estimates by analysts surveyed by Thomson Financial/First Call called for a loss of 50 to 52 cents a share. NS Group's shares closed Tuesday at $8.81, up 33 cents.

        NS Group will report June quarter results July 18.
       

Seminar focuses on starting a business

       Those who wonder if they've got the right stuff to make a go of their own business can take stock at a seminar being offered by the Northern Kentucky University Small Business Development Center (SBDC).

        “Secrets to Starting a Successful Small Business” takes place from 1-3 p.m. Friday. It will focus on seven key ingredients: be prepared, know what you want, check the facts, know what it takes, explore your options, prepare a plan and learn the rules.

        The session is open to the public free of charge, thanks to underwriting by sponsor Firstar Bank. It takes place in Room 722 of NKU's Administration Center in Highland Heights. Reservations are required and can be made by calling the SBDC at (859)572-6524.
       

Huffy to purchase Gen-X Sports

        Miamisburg, Ohio-based Huffy Corp., the maker of Huffy bicycles, said it's acquiring privately held Gen-X Sports Inc. for about $54.9 million in stock and cash to boost sales and extend its business into Canada and overseas.

        Huffy will buy the Toronto-based sporting goods company for 5 million of its shares, or about $35.9 million, and $19 million in cash, the company said.

        The purchase will help Huffy increase its customer base and diversify its products, the bike maker said. Gen-X markets Tommy Armour golf and Sims snowboard products.

— Staff and wire reports

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