United Tech confirms 2008 profit forecast

BOSTON, March 3 (Reuters) - Diversified U.S. manufacturer United Technologies Corp (UTX.N) said on Monday that its proposed $40-per-share bid for Diebold Inc (DBD.N) would not affect its 2008 profit forecast.

United Tech, the world's largest maker of elevators and air conditioners, said it still expects to post profit per share of $4.65 to $4.85 this year. Analysts, on average, look for $4.86, according to Reuters Estimates.

United Tech disclosed its bid for Diebold, a maker of automatic teller machines, on Sunday. (Reporting by Scott Malone, editing by Gerald E. McCormick)