TODAY'S HEADLINES | OCT. 26, 2011

SCANA profit rose 4% in Q3

The Cayce-based gas and electric utility company said the increase in earnings for the third quarter was primarily attributable to improved margin from electric base rate increases, which were partially offset by higher interest expense and share dilution.

Profits increase for Southern First Bancshares

Greenville-based Southern First Bancshares Inc. reported net income available to common shareholders of $197,000 for the third quarter, up from $55,000 in the prior-year quarter. Loan balances, interest margin and nonperforming assets all showed improvement during the quarter.

FedEx projects 10% increase in holiday shipments

The cargo hauler expects Dec. 12 to be the surge date and busiest day in the company’s history.

The Doc Depot to expand in Barnwell County

The medical document retrieval service will expand existing operations in Barnwell County, investing $250,000 with the expectation of generating 50 new jobs.