Wyndham Worldwide (WYN) swung to a stronger-than-expected profit during the fourth quarter and tripled its dividend on Wednesday, sending the hotel operator’s stock 4% higher.

 

The owner of Ramada and Days Inn said it earned $73 million, or 40 cents a share, during the fourth quarter, compared to a loss of $1.36 billion, or $7.63 a share, in the year-earlier period. The 2008 results were hurt by a one-time charge.

 

Revenue rose slightly from $911 million a year ago to $913 million last quarter.

 

Analysts had projected EPS of 37 cents and revenue of $855.72 in revenue.

 

The markets cheered as Wyndham boosted its dividend from 4 cents a share to 12 cents. The company also announced plans to resume its $200 million common stock repurchase program.

 

Looking ahead, Wyndham sees 2010 revenue of $3.5 billion to $3.9 billion, compared to consensus calls from analysts for $3.61 billion.

 

Shareholders didn’t appear to be fazed by the cautious forecast, bidding Wyndham’s stock up 4.24% to $22.12.