The Wall Street Journal-20080215-Earning-s Digest -- Leisure- Marriott International Inc-

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Earning's Digest -- Leisure: Marriott International Inc.

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Marriott International Inc. posted a 20% drop in fourth-quarter profit on losses from a discontinued synthetic-fuel business. The Bethesda, Md., hotel owner and operator had strong revenue growth, especially in its luxury brands. The company lowered its view for 2008 amid the slowing economy and little, if any, profit-margin growth in North America. Marriott, which operates properties under its namesake, Renaissance, Courtyard and Ritz-Carlton brands said results included a loss of 16 cents a share from its synthetic-fuel business, an energy tax-credit program Marriott shut down Dec. 28 after a steep rise in oil prices last year. The company said strong international economic growth continues to drive global travel. Marriott shares were up 22 cents, or 0.6%, to $35.12 in 4 p.m New York Stock Exchange composite trading.