Movers: NDS Group, H&R Block, France Telecom, Mesa Air, Del Monte

NDS Group PLC confirms that it has received a takeover proposal from News Corp. and two newly incorporated companies formed by funds advised by Permira Advisers for $60 per share per ADS. S&P downgrades to hold from strong buy. RBC Capital reiterates outperform. H&R Block posts $2.11, vs. $1.81 a year ago, fourth quarter EPS from continuing operations on 11% revenue rise. It sees fiscal year 2009 EPS from continuing operations of $1.60-$1.70. The company raises annual dividend 5.3%, and sets $2 billion stock buyback for fiscal years 2009-2012. France Telecom announces it has decided not to submit a firm offer to TeliaSonera's shareholders. The parties were unable to agree financial conditions. Cheuvreux upgrades to Selected List from outperform following the TeliaSonera announcement. MBIA Inc. is down 0.46 to 3.71 after WSJ... [read full story]