Anixter shares jump on profit

GLENVIEW -- Anixter International Inc., a distributor of communications and specialty wire and cable products, had the biggest gain in more than seven years in U.S. trading after the company reported earnings that topped analysts' estimates. Net income for the fourth quarter was $70.5 million, or $1.69 a share, the company said Tuesday. Sales rose 15 percent to $1.49 billion. Anixter gained $10.55, or 18 percent, to $68.85 for the biggest advance since March 2000.