Among the earnings stories for Thursday, Oct. 18, from AP Business News:
_ Nucor Corp.'s third-quarter net income plunged 39 percent on lower sales and prices as demand for steel fell in the sluggish global economy.
_ Timeshare company Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corp. reported a slim profit on higher revenue in the third quarter and raised its forecast for the year on strength in its North American operations.
_ Alliance Data Systems Corp., which manages loyalty and rewards programs for retailers and others, posted a 27 percent increase in third-quarter earnings, led by growth in its private label business.