Daimler confirms 2018 group EBIT outlook despite mobility deal delay

FRANKFURT (Reuters) - Daimler said a proposed deal to combine its mobility services company with that of rival BMW will not close this year, forcing the carmaker to lower the outlook for its financial services division. Daimler said the delay means it will not be able to book valuation and earnings gains this year, causing the financial services division's 2018 earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) to come in significantly below prior year's level. The valuation gains are now expected to be booked in 2019, Daimler said. The carmaker further said its 2018 full year EBIT forecast on a group level remains unchanged. (Reporting by Edward Taylor; Editing by Douglas Busvine)