Business briefs

United Bankshares lowers earnings estimate

United Bankshares Inc. said merger-related expenses and otheronetime charges will reduce earnings to an estimated 29 cents pershare in the fourth quarter and $1.17 for 1998.

Analysts had estimated United would post fourth quarter earningsof 39 cents a share and 1998 earnings of $1.50 a share.United said charges include costs associated with the merger ofFed One Bancorp Inc. in the fourth quarter and George MasonBankshares Inc. in the second quarter; and costs associated withloans warehoused for a third party.The Parkersburg-based company said analysts are forecasting recordearnings for 1999. United has 79 offices in West …