Barclays Plc increased its 2007 write-down on the value of risky assets to 1.6 billion pounds ($3.1 billion) but reported profits came in broadly as analysts expected.

A worldwide operator and franchisor of a range of value and luxury hotels and related lodging facilities, Marriott International Inc., posted that its fourth quarter earnings fell 20% as it took a hit from the closure of its synthetic fuel business, offsetting overseas gains.

Advanced Medical Optics Inc reported the increase of its quarterly net loss, caused by higher costs and acquisition-related charges.

The largest provider of private mortgage insurance in the United States MGIC Investment Corp. posted a $1.47 billion fourth-quarter loss on higher home delinquencies and payouts. It is also looking for ways to boost its capital.

The U.S. automotive company General Motors is reporting its largest annual loss.

Weyerhaeuser Co announced that its fourth-quarter profit fell as its wood products business was hurt by the slump in the U.S. housing market, though adjusted earnings still beat Wall Street expectations.

The largest maker of telecommunication equipment in the world, Alcatel-Lucent SA, announced the quarterly loss of 2.58 billion euros ($3.74 billion). The loss became the biggest that the company had since its creation in 2006. Alcatel also scrapped the dividend when it cut the value of its wireless network unit.

As long as the housing market begins to recover, Freddie Mac’s losses from the mortgage crisis may reach their lowest point by the end of the current year.

Moody's Corp, which performs financial research and analysis on commercial and government entities, announced that its fourth-quarter profit fell, as credit market turmoil reduced ratings for complex debt.

The largest U.S. homebuilder DR Horton Inc. announced its third consecutive quarterly loss as demand for new homes deteriorated.

Scandinavian airline operator SAS AB on Wednesday said it swung to a net loss in the fourth quarter, mainly due to the grounding of its turboprop fleet after a number of crash landings.

GMAC Financial Services, formerly known as General Motors Acceptance Corporation, announced losses in the fourth quarter because of homeowners’ efforts to keep up with mortgage payments.