Margin focus may play role in tanker

Northrop Grumman's threat to pull out of bidding for the tanker program, which would leave Boeing as the sole bidder, may resonate with investors who want new CEO Wes Bush to ensure profitability at the third largest U.S. defense contractor. Bloomberg writes about some of the factors, including profit margins, that will come into play for Northrop when the Pentagon releases final requirements for the $35 billion contract next month. (Source: Bloomberg, 01/29/10) Gulf Coast note: Northrop Grumman and teammate EADS want to build the tankers in Mobile, Ala.