A firm reports operating income before tax in its income statement of $73.4 million on sales of $667.3 million. After net interest expense of $20.5 million and taxes of $18.3 million, its net income is $34.6 million. The following items were included as part of operating income:
Start-up cost for new venture $4.3 million
Merger-related charge $13.4 million
Gains on disposal of plant $3.9 million
The firm also reports a currency translation gain of $8.9 million as part of other comprehensive income. Calculate the firm's core operating income (after tax) and core percentage profit margin. The firm's marginal tax rate is 39 percent.