Viant warns of wider 4Q loss

Viant (Nasdaq: VIAN) sees a fourth quarter loss up to twice as large as analysts predicted.

After market close Thursday, the Internet consultant said it expects to lose 6 to 8 cents per share in the fourth quarter, before restructuring charges. First Call's survey of 15 analysts predicted a loss of 4 cents per share for the quarter ending Dec. 29.

Shares of Viant traded at 3.25 in afterhours activity on the Island electronic communications network, following the warning. Viant fell 0.09375 to 3.4375 in Thursday's regular trading ahead of the news.

Viant now sees revenue ranging between $27 million and $28 million. New 2001 financial targets will be issued in February when final fourth quarter results are scheduled for release, the company said.

First Call consensus currently calls for 2001 earnings of 11 cents per share for Viant.

This is the second warning in as many quarters for Viant. The company issued a third quarter caution in late August.

Viant plans to record a fourth quarter charge of $5 million to $7 million to pay for a previously announced reorganization.>