OTHER NEWS - Jan. 7, 1992

Ailing Ratners Ponders Next Move: Top executives of Ratners Group met as the stock of the jewelry chain sank again on worries that dismal Christmas sales could force layoffs or a major sale of assets. The once highflying company, which owns the Kay Jewelers chain in the United States, has been hit hard by the recessions in Britain and North America. The company is to make its early January report on sales this week, and financial analysts said the results will probably be less than merry. The analysts said asset sales and other restructuring moves are all but inevitable. In London, Ratners shares fell as low as 34 cents but recovered to 40 cents, off 1 cent on the day.