Ford Motor Improves

Ford Motor Company(F) reported better than expected earnings for Q1.The Michigan automaker showed an increase of .05/share versus an estimate of -.16/share.Revenue was 39.4 million U.S. versus an estimate of 38.5.Strong profits came from its European and South American operations.CEO Alan Mulally attributes the success to Ford's aggressive restructuring program and increased market share from its new products.In recognition of the good report,billionaire investor Kirk Kerkorian's Tracinda Corporation is seeking a greater stake in Ford.Tracinda is offering 8.50/share for 20 million more shares of Ford common stock.Ford welcomed this confidence in it.This purchase would raise Tracinda's ownership of Ford to about 5.6%.