Given First Cash’s proven ability to simultaneously generate 20% to 25% earnings growth and strong levels of free cash flow, the Board continues to believe that future share repurchases through a new authorization are potentially an excellent use of capital that should enhance shareholder value over the long-term. In looking ahead to 2008 and beyond, the Company continues to target earnings growth of 20% to 25% from continuing operations, which includes the significant investment and start-up expenses associated with the Company’s aggressive expansion program which are expensed as incurred. Rick Wessel, Chief Executive Officer, commented on the stock repurchases, reaffirmation of 2007 guidance and the initiation of 2008 earnings guidance, “These actions reflect the confidence of management and the Board of Directors in the Company’s success and continued prospects for long-term growth. Forward-looking statements in this release include, without limitation, the Company’s expectations of earnings per share, earnings growth, regulatory developments, expansion strategies, store and dealership openings, store closings and related costs, future liquidity, cash flows, credit loss provisions, debt repayments, consumer demand for the Company’s products and services, competition, and other performance results. Such factors are difficult to predict and many are beyond the control of the Company and may include changes in regional, national or international economic conditions, changes in consumer borrowing and repayment behaviors, changes in credit markets, credit losses, changes or increases in competition, the ability to locate, open and staff new stores and dealerships, the availability or access to sources of inventory, inclement weather, the ability to successfully integrate acquisitions, the ability to retain key management personnel, the ability to operate with limited regulation as a credit services organization in Texas, new legislative initiatives or governmental regulations (or changes to existing laws and regulations) affecting short-term loan/payday advance businesses, credit services organizations, pawn businesses and buy-here/pay-here automotive businesses in both the U. Read More