In the following question, an incomplete statement followed by fillers is given. Pick out the best filler to complete the incomplete statement, correctly and meaningfully.
After the merger, the company’s profits saw a significant______________

A merger often results in cost-cutting measures, which typically lead to improved profitability.

(1) decrease due to internal restructuring – possible, but the context does not suggest a downturn.

(2) plateau, with no noticeable change – contradicts the idea of a significant change.

(3) improvement as a result of cost-cutting measures – logical and common outcome in such scenarios.

(4) increase in the number of products launched – doesn’t directly connect to profits.