The Estée Lauder Companies has posted stronger first-quarter sales. Profits rose modestly, but earnings per share topped analyst expectations.

Net profits for the quarter increased 0.4 percent to $300.7 million from $299.5 million a year earlier. Earnings per diluted share were flat at 76 cents. Stock proces rose by 2.6 percent, up to $73.21.

ELC’s quarterly dividend also rose to 20 cents per share, up from 18 cents.