Top Construction Material Companies To Invest In 2015

Top Construction Material Companies To Invest In 2015: Ply Gem Holdings Inc (PGEM)

Ply Gem Holdings, Inc. (Ply Gem Holdings), incorporated on January 23, 2004, is a manufacturer of residential exterior building products in North America. The Company operates in two segments: Siding, Fencing, and Stone and Windows and Doors. These two segments produce a product line of vinyl siding, designer accents, cellular polyvinyl chloride (PVC) trim, vinyl fencing, vinyl and composite railing, stone veneer and vinyl windows and doors used in both new construction and home repair and remodeling in the United States and Western Canada. It also manufactures vinyl and aluminum soffit and siding accessories, aluminum trim coil, wood windows, aluminum windows, vinyl and aluminum-clad windows and steel and fiberglass doors, enabling it to bundle complementary and color-matched products and accessories with its core products. The Companys subsidiaries includes including Ply Gem Industries, MWM Holding, AWC Holding Company, MHE, and Pacific Windows. On July 30, 2012, Ply Gem acquired substantially all of the assets of Greendeck Products, LLC.

Siding, Fencing, and Stone Segment

In the Siding, Fencing, and Stone segment, its principal products include vinyl siding and skirting, vinyl and aluminum soffit, aluminum trim coil, J-channels, wide crown molding, window and door trim, F-channels, H-molds, fascia, undersill trims, outside/inside corner posts, rain removal systems, injection molded designer accents, such as shakes, shingles, scallops, shutters, vents and mounts, vinyl fence, vinyl and composite railing, and stone veneer. It sells its siding and accessories under its Variform, Napco, Mastic Home Exteriors, and Cellwood brand names and under the Georgia-Pacific brand name through a private label program. It also sells its Providence line of vinyl siding and accessories to Lowes under its Durabuilt private label brand name. Its vinyl and vinyl-composite fencing and railing products ! are sold under its Kroy and K roy Express brand names. Ply Gem Holdings stone veneer produ! cts are sold under its United Stone Veneer brand name.

The Company sells the siding and accessories to specialty distributors (one-step distribution) and to wholesale distributors (two-step distribution). Its specialty distributors sell directly to remodeling contractors and builders. Its wholesale distributors sell to retail home centers and lumberyards who, in turn, sell to remodeling contractors, builders and consumers. In the specialty channel, it has developed a network of approximately 800 independent distributors, serving over 22,000 contractors and builders nationwide.

Windows and Doors Segment

In the Windows and Doors segment, its principal products include vinyl, aluminum, wood and clad-wood windows and patio doors, and steel, wood, and fiberglass entry doors that serve both the new home construction and the repair and remodeling sectors in the United States and Western Canada. Its products in its Windows and Doors segment are sold under the Ply Gem Windows, Great Lakes Mastic by Ply Gem, and Ply Gem Canada brands.

The Company competes with Alsco, Gentek, U.S. Fence, Homeland, Westech, Bufftech, Royal, Azek., Eldorado Stone, Coronado Stone, Jeld-Wen, Simonton, Pella and Andersen, MI Home Products, Atrium, Weathershield, Milgard, Jeld-Wen, Gienow, All Weather and Loewen.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Lisa Levin]

  Ply Gem Holdings (NYSE: PGEM) shares reached a new 52-week low of $11.48 after the company reported wider-than-expected Q4 loss and issued a weak Q1 revenue forecast.

• [By Traders Reserve]

  There hasnt been a January effect rally in shares of Ply Gem (PGEM). In fact, it has been quite the opposite. Shares are down a whopping 25% during the month. For a stock I rated as on of the Top 10 Sizzling Stocks, such a move is painful, but not disastrous. Sizzling Stocks are meant to be held for the dur! ation of ! the year and we have 11 months to go. Small-cap stocks like Ply Gem can move sharply one direction or the other.

• [By Matt Jarzemsky]

  Installed Building Products debut follows mixed performance from shares of some newly public building-products companies. Through Tuesday, siding manufacturer Ply Gem Holdings Inc.(PGEM)s shares were down 39% from the offer price in its $381 May debut. Wood-products maker Boise Cascade Co.(BCC) was up 46% from its $284 million February IPO.

source from Top Penny Stocks For 2015:http://www.seekpennystocks.com/top-construction-material-companies-to-invest-in-2015.html

Best Gas Companies To Invest In Right Now

DreamWorks Animation (NASDAQ: DWA  ) is betting on a speedy snail to win the race at the local movie house next weekend. Turbo, the computer-rendered film about a snail that is bestowed with supernatural speed and goes on the auto racing circuit, opens on Wednesday.

It's a new property for the studio that has quickly flipped hot originals into sequels. Shrek, Madagascar, and Kung Fu Panda have all spawned animated sequels. How to Train Your Dragon 2 hits theaters next summer.

There's big money in animation if you know what you're doing. Until the studio's Rise of the Guardians resulted in a financial loss late last year, DreamWorks Animation had rattled off 17 consecutive profitable computer-generated films.

It won't just be DreamWorks Animation hoping that Turbo is a big hit with young families in a few days. In an interesting development, Netflix (NASDAQ: NFLX  ) has secured the rights to Turbo F.A.S.T. -- a show based on the characters from the movie. The series will begin streaming exclusively on Netflix come December.

Top 10 Telecom Stocks To Invest In Right Now: Royal Dutch Shell PLC (RDS.A)

Royal Dutch Shell plc (Shell), incorporated on February 5, 2002, is an independent oil and gas company. The Company owns, directly or indirectly, investments in the numerous companies constituting Shell. Shell is engaged worldwide in the principal aspects of the oil and gas industry and also has interests in chemicals and other energy-related businesses. The Company operates in three segments: Upstream, Downstream and Corporate. Upstream combines the operating segments Upstream International and Upstream Americas, which are engaged in searching for and recovering crude oil and natural gas; the liquefaction and transportation of gas; the extraction of bitumen from oil sands that is converted into synthetic crude oil, and wind energy. Downstream is engaged in manufacturing; distribution and marketing activities for oil products and chemicals, in alternative energy (excluding wind), and carbon dioxide (CO2) management. Corporate represents the key support functions, comprising holdings and treasury, headquarters, central functions and Shell�� self-insurance activities. In October 2011, the Company bought a marine terminal on Canada's Pacific Coast as a possible site for a liquefied natural gas export terminal. In January 2012, the Company's 50% owned, Australia Arrow Energy Holdings Pty Ltd acquired all of the shares in Bow Energy Ltd. In January 2014, Royal Dutch Shell plc completed the acquisition of Repsol S.A.'s liquefied natural gas (LNG) portfolio outside North America.

Upstream International manages the Upstream businesses outside the Americas. It searches for and recovers crude oil and natural gas, liquefies and transports gas, and operates the upstream and midstream infrastructure necessary to deliver oil and gas to market. Upstream International also manages Shell�� entire liquefied petroleum gas (LNG) business, gas to liquids (GTL) and the wind business in Europe. Its activities are organized primarily within geographical units, although there are some activities that are mana! ged across the businesses or provided through support units.

Upstream Americas manages the Upstream businesses in North and South America. It searches for and recovers crude oil and natural gas, transports gas and operates the upstream and midstream infrastructure necessary to deliver oil and gas to market. Upstream Americas also extracts bitumen from oil sands that is converted into synthetic crude oil. Additionally, it manages the United States-based wind business. It comprises operations organized into business-wide managed activities and supporting activities.

Downstream manages Shell�� manufacturing, distribution and marketing activities for oil products and chemicals. These activities are organized into globally managed classes of business, although some are managed regionally or provided through support units. Manufacturing and supply includes refining, supply and shipping of crude oil. Marketing sells a range of products including fuels, lubricants, bitumen and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for home, transport and industrial use. Chemicals produces and markets petrochemicals for industrial customers, including the raw materials for plastics, coatings and detergents. Downstream also trades Shell�� flow of hydrocarbons and other energy-related products, supplies the Downstream businesses, markets gas and power and provides shipping services. Downstream additionally oversees Shell�� interests in alternative energy (including biofuels, and excluding wind) and CO2 management.

Projects and Technology manages the delivery of Shell�� major projects and drives the research and innovation to create technology solutions. It provides technical services and technology capability covering both Upstream and Downstream activities. It is also responsible for providing functional leadership across Shell in the areas of health, safety and environment, and contracting and procurement.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By GuruFocus]

  Royal Dutch Shell PLC (RDS.A) Reached the 52-Week Low of $64.92

  The prices of Royal Dutch Shell PLC (RDS.A) shares have declined to close to the 52-week low of $64.92, which is 15.3% off the 52-week high of $73.96. Royal Dutch Shell PLC is owned by 20 Gurus we are tracking. Among them, nine have added to their positions during the past quarter. Six reduced their positions.

Best Gas Companies To Invest In Right Now: Hydrocarb Energy Corp (HECC)

Hydrocarb Energy Corp., formerly Duma Energy Corp., incorporated on April 12, 2005, is a natural resource exploration and production company engaged in the exploration, acquisition and development of oil and gas properties in the United States. The Company maintains an aggregate of approximately 395 gross (217 net) developed acres and approximately 6,120 gross (4,456 net) undeveloped acres, pursuant to leases or acquisitions. Of that acreage, it maintains approximately 176 gross (132 net) developed acres in Louisiana, 219 gross (85 net) developed acres in Texas, 4,614 gross (3,123 net) undeveloped acres in Illinois, 160 gross (150 net) undeveloped acres in Louisiana, and 1,346 gross (1,183 net) undeveloped acres in Texas. The interest holding properties of the Company include The Welder Lease (Barge Canal), Texas; South Delhi/Big Creek Field, Louisiana; The Holt Lease; The Strahan Lease; Janssen Lease, Texas; Koliba Lease, Texas, and Illinois. As of July 31, 2010, the Company had a total of six gross (five net) producing oil wells and one gas well. In December 2013, the Company announced that it has completed the acquisition of Hydrocarb Corporation.

The Welder Lease (Barge Canal), Texas

The Company owns a 100% working interest (90% after payout) and a 72.5% net revenue interest (65.25% after payout) in approximately 81 acres of an oil and gas lease (the Welder Lease). This lease is located in Calhoun County, Texas. Effective January 1, 2010, it acquired the remaining 10% working in the Welder Leases from Treydan Corporation and owned 100% of the working interest. As of July 31, 2010, two wells were producing gas and oil from the property. The wells were operated using a gas lift system. A third well was utilized for salt water disposal. The wells have additional proven non-producing zones behind pipe. The Company focuses to develop the proved developed non-producing (PDNP) zones as producing horizons deplete.

South Delhi/Big Creek Field, Louisiana

! On August 24, 2006, the Company entered into an assignment of oil and gas interests purchase agreement with Energy Program Accompany, LLC (the EPA Purchase Agreement). At the time of the acquisition, one of four wells on the Holt lease and the one well on the Strahan lease were producing assets. The lease consists of the Holt Lease, the Strahan Lease and the McKay Lease (no longer owned). The Company owns a 97% working interest and an 81.25% net revenue interest in approximately 136 acres in Franklin Parish, Louisiana (the Holt Lease). As of July 31, 2010, the Company produced oil from the Holt No.�� 10 and 22 wells. The Holt No. 4 and 24 wells were off-line pending workover or offset drilling. The Holt No. 15 well was utilized as a salt water disposal well. Pursuant to the EPA Purchase Agreement, we acquired a 100% working interest and an 81.25% net revenue interest in approximately 40 acres in Richland Parish, Louisiana (the Strahan Lease). As of July 31, 2010, it produced oil from the Strahan No. 1 well. As of July 31, 2010, the Janssen A-1 well produced between 250-300 mcf gas per day and approximately six barrels per day of condensate.

Koliba Lease, Texas

The Koliba Lease property is located near the Company�� Welder lease and has one shut-in oil/gas well. The well previously produced 30 one stock tank barrel (Bbls) oil per day plus water. The well is in close proximity to the Company�� Welder gas sales line and salt water disposal system. The Koliba No. 2 well was drilled June 2010 and found to be slightly down-dip from the No.1 well. The Company elected to plug the No. 2.

Illinois

During the fiscal year ended July 31, 2010, the Company entered into numerous oil and gas leases in Jefferson and other counties in Illinois. As of July 31, 2010, these leases total approximately 2,994 gross acres, pursuant to which the Company has a working interest of 100% and a net revenue interest of 87.5%. It has an additional 1,620 gross acres under lea! se in Ill! inois.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Bryan Murphy]

  The experts have spoken, and investors would do well to listen (and read between the lines). While Hydrocarb Energy Corp. (OTCBB:HECC) may not be poised to become the next Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:XOM), it is poised to follow in the footsteps of Tullow Oil Plc (OTCMKTS:TUWOY) [long story - more on that below]. Perhaps more bullish than anything right now, however, is that other, independent observers are starting to take notice, and think HECC shares could be worth nearly three times as much as where they're trading now within the foreseeable future.

Best Gas Companies To Invest In Right Now: ConocoPhillips(COP)

ConocoPhillips operates as an integrated energy company worldwide. The company?s Exploration and Production (E&P) segment explores for, produces, transports, and markets crude oil, bitumen, natural gas, liquefied natural gas, and natural gas liquids. Its Midstream segment gathers, processes, and markets natural gas; and fractionates and markets natural gas liquids in the United States and Trinidad. The company?s Refining and Marketing (R&M) segment purchases, refines, markets, and transports crude oil and petroleum products, such as gasolines, distillates, and aviation fuels. Its Chemicals segment manufactures and markets petrochemicals and plastics. This segment offers olefins and polyolefins, including ethylene, propylene, and other olefin products; aromatics products, such as benzene, styrene, paraxylene, and cyclohexane, as well as polystyrene and styrene-butadiene copolymers; and various specialty chemical products comprising organosulfur chemicals, solvents, catalyst s, drilling chemicals, mining chemicals, and engineering plastics and compounds. The company?s Emerging Businesses segment develops new technologies and businesses. It focuses on power generation; and technologies related to conventional and nonconventional hydrocarbon recovery, refining, alternative energy, biofuels, and the environment. This segment also offers E-Gas, a gasification technology producing high-value synthetic gas. ConocoPhillips was founded in 1917 and is based in Houston, Texas.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Jonathan Yates]

  That has pushed the price of major oil companies such as ConocoPhillips (NYSE: COP), Chevron (NYSE: CVX) and Occidental Petroleum (NYSE: OXY) lower in response. There are three main reasons why investors should look upon these falling prices as an opportunity to buy oil company stocks at a discount for the long-term.

• [By The Value Investor]

  Perhaps the future bodes well, just like it has done for other companies which have been spun off. Shares of Phillips 66 (PSX), which represents the refining business of former ConocoPhillips (COP), have already doubled since their spin-off in spring of 2012.

• [By Geoffrey Seiler]

  Where ConocoPhillips (COP) remains similar to its former super-major peers is that its portfolio of assets is very diversified, consisting of onshore and offshore positions, along with LNG operations, a presence in the Canadian oil sands, and it operates worldwide.

• [By Teresa Rivas]

  Other oil majors like Exxon (XOM) and ConocoPhillips (COP) are also up today.

  Update: Reuters is reporting that Chevron� is considering bid for stake in a Brazil offshore oil prospect (via Briefing.com).

Best Gas Companies To Invest In Right Now: Twin Butte Energy Ltd (TBTEF.PK)

Twin Butte Energy Ltd. (Twin Butte) is a Canada-based junior oil and gas exploration and production company. The Company is engaged in the acquisition of, exploration for and the development and production of petroleum and natural gas properties in Western Canada. During the year ended December 31, 2011, it drilled a total of 125 (80.9 net) wells. Its Frog Lake property is located approximately 75 kilometers northwest of Lloydminster with lands. Its Freemont area is located 60 kilometers southeast of Lloydminster. During 2011, Twin Butte drilled 11 gross wells in Plains region. Production from its west central Alberta region was approximately 1,545 barrels of oil equivalent per day during 2011. Production from its Deep Basin region was approximately 593 barrels of oil equivalent per day during 2011. Effective September 30, 2013, the Company disposed a non-core, west central Alberta, gas asset. In November 2013, the Company acquired Black Shire Energy Inc. Advisors' Opinion:

• [By MLP Trader]

  Here are the current top five companies in the list:

  CompanySymbolEV/BOEPD/NetbackPrice/NAVEV/DACFPinecrest(PNCGF.PK)53564%4.0XLightstream(LSTMF.PK)131753%4.5XNovus(NOVUF.PK)133290%4.1XZargon(ZARFF.PK)138664%5.6XTwin Butte(TBTEF.PK)155885%5.5X

  Of the larger companies, one that remains obstinately near the top of the list is Lightstream . Lightstream trades at 40% of its book value and a whopping 13.4% yield.

Top 5 Managed Healthcare Companies To Invest In Right Now

The U.S. housing market appears to be on the mend. Home prices are rising, and many of the banks have greatly�benefited�from a more confident American consumer.�

Although some banks experienced a boom in the mortgage origination business on the heels of record low interest rates, other banks may stand to benefit as toxic assets slowly regain some value.

In this video, Motley Fool banking analysts David Hanson and Matt Koppenheffer tell investors which bank that isn't a major player in the origination market but still may be smiling as home prices march higher.

Should investors be treading carefully, or jumping on an opportunity to buy the big banks? To help figure out whether Citigroup deserves a spot on your watchlist, read our premium research report on the bank today.�We'll fill you in on both reasons to buy and reasons to sell Citigroup, and what areas that Citigroup�investors need to watch going forward.�Click here now�for instant access to our best expert's take on Citigroup.

Top Undervalued Stocks To Buy For 2015: RealNetworks Inc.(RNWK)

RealNetworks, Inc. provides network-delivered digital media products and services to manage, play, and share digital media in the United States, Europe, and internationally. It develops and markets software products and services that enable the creation, distribution, and consumption of digital media, including audio and video. The company?s Core Products segment develops and provides software as a service (SaaS) services, including ring-back tone, music-on-demand, video-on-demand, and messaging services for mobile carriers; and e-commerce services, such as business intelligence, subscriber management, and billing for carrier customers. It also licenses Helix server software that allows companies and institutions to broadcast live and on-demand audio, video, and other multimedia programming to users over the Internet. In addition, this segment provides professional and systems integration services; and SuperPass, a subscription service, which provides consumers with acces s to a range of digital entertainment content. Its Emerging Products segment offers RealPlayer, a media player software, which include features and services that enable consumers to discover, play, download, manage, and edit digital video. The company?s Games segment is involved in developing, publishing, licensing, and distributing casual games, such as board, card, puzzle, word, and hidden-object games for PC?s, social networks, mobile handsets, and smartphones through digital download, online subscription play, third-party portals, social networks, and mobile devices. It distributes games principally in North America, Europe, and Latin America through the company?s own Websites, which are operated under the GameHouse, Zylom, and Atrativa brands, and through Websites owned or managed by third parties. RealNetworks, Inc. was founded in 1994 and is headquartered in Seattle, Washington.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Carol Hymowitz]

  CEOs who aren�� comfortable around technology and digital trends will have difficulty setting strategy for the future, said Dawn Lepore, former CEO of Drugstore.com and a director at AOL Inc., TJX Cos. (TJX) and RealNetworks Inc. (RNWK)

Top 5 Managed Healthcare Companies To Invest In Right Now: Cheniere Energy Partners LP (CQP)

Citigroup Funding Inc. offers debt instruments that include commercial papers, medium-term notes and structured equity-linked and credit-linked notes. Citigroup Funding, Inc. is based in United States. Citigroup Funding Inc. operates as a subsidiary of Citigroup, Inc.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Eric Volkman]

  Cheniere Energy (NYSEMKT: LNG  ) and closely related Cheniere Energy Partners (NYSEMKT: CQP  ) have released their Q1 results, and the news is sure to disappoint investors. For the former, its quarterly revenue was just under $66 million, down from the $70 million the company posted in the same period the previous year. Attributable net loss widened considerably, to $117 million ($0.54 per diluted share) from Q1 2012's shortfall of $56 million ($0.43).

• [By Robert Rapier]

  Cheniere Energy�(NYSE: LNG) created the�Cheniere Energy Partners�(NYSE: CQP) master limited partnership to own assets such as its Sabine Pass LNG export terminal under construction on the Louisiana/Texas border, as well as another LNG terminal in Corpus Christi. Cheniere has signed up a number of customers in Asia and in Europe to take advantage of the price differentials, and was first to obtain approval from both the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). The Sabine Pass facility is expected to be in service by late 2015 or early 2016.

Top 5 Managed Healthcare Companies To Invest In Right Now: C.R. Bard Inc. (BCR)

C. R. Bard, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, engages in the design, manufacture, packaging, distribution, and sale of medical, surgical, diagnostic, and patient care devices worldwide. It offers vascular, urology, oncology, and surgical specialty products. The company?s vascular products include percutaneous transluminal angioplasty catheters, chronic total occlusions catheters, guidewires, introducers, and accessories; peripheral vascular stents and stent grafts, vena cava filters, and biopsy devices; electrophysiology products, such as electrophysiology laboratory systems and diagnostic, therapeutic, and temporary pacing electrode catheters; and fabrics, meshes, and implantable vascular grafts. Its urology products comprise infection control Foley catheters to reduce the rate of urinary tract infections; surgical slings to treat stress urinary incontinence; fecal incontinence products; natural and synthetic devices to treat pelvic floor and vaginal prolapse; brachyt herapy services, devices, and radioactive seeds to treat prostate cancer; intermittent urinary drainage catheters, and urine monitoring and collection systems; ureteral stents; specialty devices for ureteroscopic procedures and stone removal; and catheter stabilization devices. The company?s oncology products consist of specialty vascular access catheters and ports, vascular access ultrasound devices, dialysis access catheters, and enteral feeding devices to treat and manage various cancers, and other diseases and disorders. Its surgical specialty products include implanted patches and fixation systems for hernia and other soft tissue repairs; irrigation devices for orthopedic, laparoscopic, and gynecological procedures; and products for topical hemostasis. C. R. Bard sells its products directly and through distributors to hospitals, individual health care professionals, extended care facilities, and alternate site facilities. The company was founded in 1907 and is based in Murray Hill, New Jersey.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Sure Dividend]

  Health care will be necessary until we find a cure for everything. There is a less than infinitesimal chance of us finding a cure for everything in the next several decades. The following companies are Dividend Aristocrats whose revenue is generated primarily in the health care sector:

  HCP, Inc. (HCP) AbbVie (ABBV) Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) Abbott Laboratories (ABT) Walgreen (WAG) Medtronic (MDT) Becton Dickinson (BDX) Cardinal Health (CAH) C.R. Bard (BCR)

  Not to be outdone by the food and beverage industry (or perhaps due to negative health effects from the food and beverage industry), the health care industry counts nine Dividend Aristocrats in its ranks. They operate in more diverse lines of business than the food companies. HCP is a REIT that focuses on health care properties. C.R. Bard, Medtronic, and Becton Dickinson manufacture and distribute health care devices and supplies. Abbott Laboratories and Johnson & Johnson (and to a lesser extent, Cardinal Health) are well-diversified health care businesses. AbbVie was recently spun-off from Abbott Laboratories (notice the vaguely similar names), and is a pharmaceutical company.

• [By ovenerio]

  In the medical devices business (83% of FY 13 sales), the company competes with good health care companies such as Johnson & Johnson (JNJ), C.R. Bard (BCR) and ConMed (CNMD).

• [By Maria Armental and Anna Prior]

  C.R. Bard Inc.(BCR) said its board raised the medical-device maker’s quarterly dividend by 4.8% and authorized the repurchase of up to an additional $500 million of its stock.

Top 5 Managed Healthcare Companies To Invest In Right Now: Etablissementen Fr Colruyt NV (COLR)

Etablissementen Fr Colruyt NV, also known as Colruyt Group, is a Belgian company primarily engaged in retail and wholesale of food products. The Company's retail trade division includes the direct supply of products to retail customers operating through brands Colruyt, DreamBaby, BIO-planet, DreamLand and ColliShop, among others. The Company supplies to wholesalers and affiliated independent merchants in Belgium, France and Luxembourg. It also provides printing solutions (photo Fuji Colruyt). Colruyt Group also has a corporate activities division, which combines support services, processes and systems and central administration, among others. Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Tom Stoukas]

  Colruyt SA (COLR) fell 4 percent to 42.31 euros. Belgium�� largest discount food retailer forecast full-year net income of about 369 million euros ($498 million) compared with analysts�� estimates of 381.2 million euros.

Best Clean Energy Companies To Invest In Right Now

RENO, Nev. (AP) -- Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL  ) said it will pay for construction of an 18-megawatt photovoltaic solar plant in northern�Nevada�to provide power for a data center the technology giant plans east of Reno.

The Fort Churchill Solar Array, to be built in Yerington, was included in a filing Monday by NV Energy (NYSE: NVE  ) with the Public Utilities Commission.

Apple announced plans last year to build the data center. The solar generating plant would be located in Lyon County, south of that facility. The solar plant proposal must be approved by state regulators, a process that could take several months.

In a statement, Apple said the solar project would provide renewable energy for the data center and add clean energy to the power grid.

"All of Apple's data centers use 100 percent renewable energy and we are on track to meet that goal in our new Reno data center using the latest in high-efficiency concentrating solar panels," the company said.

Top US Stocks To Buy For 2015: IBERIABANK Corporation (IBKC)

IBERIABANK Corporation operates as the holding company for IBERIABANK that provides commercial and retail banking products and services in the United States. It offers a range of commercial, consumer, mortgage, and private banking products and services; cash management services; deposit and annuity products; and investment brokerage services. The company, through its subsidiaries, also engages in financial services-related activities, including brokerage services and sales of variable annuities, life, health, dental, and accident insurance products. In addition, it offers various title insurance and loan closing services for residential and commercial customers; family residential mortgage loans; equity research, institutional sales and trading, and corporate finance services; and wealth management and trust services to high net worth individuals, pension funds, corporations, and trusts, as well as invests in an aircraft and purchased tax credits. As of February 25, 2013, the company had 278 combined offices, including 184 bank branch offices in Louisiana, Arkansas, Florida, Alabama, Tennessee, and Texas; 21 title insurance offices in Arkansas and Louisiana; and mortgage representatives in 62 locations in 12 states. IBERIABANK Corporation was founded in 1887 and is headquartered in Lafayette, Louisiana.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Dividends4Life]

  Fair Value: In calculating fair value, I consider the NPV MMA Differential Fair Value along with these four calculations of fair value, see page 2 of the linked PDF for a detailed description:
  
  1. Avg. High Yield Price
  2. 20-Year DCF Price
  3. Avg. P/E Price
  4. Graham Number
  
  CTBI is trading at a premium to all four valuations above. The stock is trading at a 53.5% premium to its calculated fair value of $29.43. CTBI did not earn any Stars in this section.
  
  Dividend Analytical Data: In this section there are three possible Stars and three key metrics, see page 2 of the linked PDF for a detailed description:
  
  1. Free Cash Flow Payout
  2. Debt To Total Capital
  3. Key Metrics
  4. Dividend Growth Rate
  5. Years of Div. Growth
  6. Rolling 4-yr Div. > 15%
  
  CTBI earned one Star in this section for 1.) above. A Star was earned since the Free Cash Flow payout ratio was less than 60% and there were no negative Free Cash Flows over the last 10 years. The company has paid a cash dividend to shareholders every year since 1988 and has increased its dividend payments for 33 consecutive years.
  
  Dividend Income vs. MMA: Why would you assume the equity risk and invest in a dividend stock if you could earn a better return in a much less risky money market account (MMA) or Treasury bond? This section compares the earning ability of this stock with a high yield MMA. Two items are considered in this section, see page 2 of the linked PDF for a detailed description:
  
  1. NPV MMA Diff.
  2. Years to > MMA
  
  The negative NPV MMA Diff. means that on a NPV basis the dividend earnings from an investment in CTBI would be less than a similar amount invested in MMA earning a 20-year average rate of 3.41%. If CTBI grows its dividend at 1.5% per year, it will never equal a MMA yielding an estimated 20-year average rate of 3.41%.
  
  Memberships and Peers: CTBI is, a member of the Broad Dividend Achieve

Best Clean Energy Companies To Invest In Right Now: Community Trust Bancorp Inc.(CTBI)

Community Trust Bancorp, Inc. operates as the holding company for Community Trust Bank, Inc. that provides various banking products and services. It accepts various deposit product that include checking accounts, regular and term savings accounts and savings certificates, commercial demand deposit accounts, individual retirement accounts and Keogh plans, non interest bearing deposits, NOW accounts, money market deposits, savings accounts, and certificates of deposit and other time deposits. The company?s loan portfolio comprises residential and commercial real estate loans; commercial loans; commercial, construction, mortgage, and personal loans; and lease-financing, lines of credit, revolving lines of credit, term loans, and other specialized loans, including asset-based financing. It also provides full service securities brokerage services; annuity and life insurance products; trust services; debit cards; cash management services to corporate and individual customers; l etters of credit; safe deposit boxes; and funds transfer services. In addition, the company acts as a trustee of personal trusts, an executor of estates, trustee for employee benefit trusts, registrar, transfer agent, paying agent for bond and stock issues; and depositor for securities, as well as provides full service brokerage services. Community Trust operates 80 banking locations in eastern, northeastern, central, and south central Kentucky; southern West Virginia; and northeastern Tennessee, as well as 5 trust offices across Kentucky. The company was founded in 1903 and is headquartered in Pikeville, Kentucky.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Dividends4Life]

  Fair Value: In calculating fair value, I consider the NPV MMA Differential Fair Value along with these four calculations of fair value, see page 2 of the linked PDF for a detailed description:
  
  1. Avg. High Yield Price
  2. 20-Year DCF Price
  3. Avg. P/E Price
  4. Graham Number
  
  NUE is trading at a premium to all four valuations above. The stock is trading at a 85.8% premium to its calculated fair value of $28.51. NUE did not earn any Stars in this section.
  
  Dividend Analytical Data: In this section there are three possible Stars and three key metrics, see page 2 of the linked PDF for a detailed description:
  
  1. Free Cash Flow Payout
  2. Debt To Total Capital
  3. Key Metrics
  4. Dividend Growth Rate
  5. Years of Div. Growth
  6. Rolling 4-yr Div. > 15%
  
  NUE earned one Star in this section for 2.) above. The stock earned a Star as a result of its most recent Debt to Total Capital being less than 45%. The company has paid a cash dividend to shareholders every year since 1973 and has increased its dividend payments for 40 consecutive years.
  
  Dividend Income vs. MMA: Why would you assume the equity risk and invest in a dividend stock if you could earn a better return in a much less risky money market account (MMA) or Treasury bond? This section compares the earning ability of this stock with a high yield MMA. Two items are considered in this section, see page 2 of the linked PDF for a detailed description:
  
  1. NPV MMA Diff.
  2. Years to > MMA
  
  The negative NPV MMA Diff. means that on a NPV basis the dividend earnings from an investment in NUE would be less than a similar amount invested in MMA earning a 20-year average rate of 3.68%. If NUE grows its dividend at 0.7% per year, it will never equal a MMA yielding an estimated 20-year average rate of 3.68%.
  
  Memberships and Peers: NUE is a member of the S&P 500, a Dividend Aristocrat, a member of the Broad Dividend Achievers

• [By Dividends4Life]

  Fair Value: In calculating fair value, I consider the NPV MMA Differential Fair Value along with these four calculations of fair value, see page 2 of the linked PDF for a detailed description:
  
  1. Avg. High Yield Price
  2. 20-Year DCF Price
  3. Avg. P/E Price
  4. Graham Number
  
  HRL is trading at a premium to all four valuations above. The stock is trading at a 27.6% premium to its calculated fair value of $35.92. HRL did not earn any Stars in this section.
  
  Dividend Analytical Data: In this section there are three possible Stars and three key metrics, see page 2 of the linked PDF for a detailed description:
  
  1. Free Cash Flow Payout
  2. Debt To Total Capital
  3. Key Metrics
  4. Dividend Growth Rate
  5. Years of Div. Growth
  6. Rolling 4-yr Div. > 15%
  
  HRL earned one Star in this section for 2.) above. The stock earned a Star as a result of its most recent Debt to Total Capital being less than 45%. The company has paid a cash dividend to shareholders every year since 1928 and has increased its dividend payments for 48 consecutive years.
  
  Dividend Income vs. MMA: Why would you assume the equity risk and invest in a dividend stock if you could earn a better return in a much less risky money market account (MMA) or Treasury bond? This section compares the earning ability of this stock with a high yield MMA. Two items are considered in this section, see page 2 of the linked PDF for a detailed description:
  
  1. NPV MMA Diff.
  2. Years to > MMA
  
  HRL earned a Star in this section for its NPV MMA Diff. of the $984. This amount is in excess of the $500 target I look for in a stock that has increased dividends as long as HRL has. If HRL grows its dividend at 13.2% per year, it will take 7 years to equal a MMA yielding an estimated 20-year average rate of 3.68%.
  
  Memberships and Peers: HRL is a member of the S&P 500, a Dividend Aristocrat, a member of the Broad Dividend Achiever

• [By Dividends4Life]

  Linked here is a detailed quantitative analysis of Community Trust Bank Corp. (CTBI). Below are some highlights from the above linked analysis:
  
  Company Description: Community Trust Bank Corp. owns and operates Community Trust Bank, Inc. of Pikeville, KY, which provides commercial banking services in Kentucky and West Virginia; and a trust company.

• [By Dividends4Life]

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Best Clean Energy Companies To Invest In Right Now: DDR Corp (DDR)

DDR Corp.(DDR), incorporated on November 20, 1992, is a self-administered and self-managed real estate investment trust. The Company is engaged in the business of acquiring, owning, developing, redeveloping, expanding, leasing and managing shopping centers. In addition, the Company engages in the origination and acquisition of loans and debt securities, which are generally collateralized directly or indirectly by shopping centers. As of December 31, 2012, the Company�� portfolio consisted of 452 shopping centers , including 206 shopping centers owned through unconsolidated joint ventures and three shopping centers that are otherwise consolidated by the Company in which the Company had an economic interest. These properties consist of shopping centers, lifestyle centers and enclosed malls owned in the United States, Puerto Rico and Brazil. As of December 31, 2012, the Company owned more than 115 million total square feet of gross leasable area (GLA), which includes all of its aforementioned properties. In October 2013, the Company acquired a portfolio of 30 prime power centers from its existing joint venture with Blackstone Real Estate Partners VII L.P. (Blackstone).

The Company owns more than 1,500 acres of undeveloped land, including an interest in land in Canada and Russia. As December 31, 2012, the Company had 14 assets under development and/or redevelopment (consisting of 11 wholly-owned shopping centers and three joint venture shopping centers). As of December 31, 2012, the aggregate occupancy of the Company�� operating shopping center portfolio in which the Company has an economic interest was 91.5%. As of December 31, 2012, the Company had 14 assets under development and/or redevelopment consisting of 11 wholly-owned shopping centers and three joint venture shopping centers.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Maria Armental and Anna Prior]

  American Realty Capital Properties Inc.(ARCP) said it had finalized a deal to sell its multitenant shopping center portfolio for $1.975 billion in cash to a joint venture including a Blackstone affiliate and DDR Corp.(DDR)

• [By Dividend King]

  Earnings per share came in at $0.35 while competitors DDR Corp. (DDR) and Kimco Realty Corporation (KIM) reported earnings per share of -$0.56 and $0.27, respectively. With a price to earnings ratio of 123.57, it is clear investors are expecting higher growth from this stock than its competitors, whose price to earnings ratio are twice as half. I think it will not take very long for the stock to appreciate in value at a much higher rate due to higher revenue, good investor and market sentiment towards the stock, and an improved real estate market.

Best Clean Energy Companies To Invest In Right Now: Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Inc (MSO)

Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (MSO), incorporated on May 7, 1996, is an integrated media and merchandising company providing consumers with lifestyle content and products. The Company operates in three segments: Publishing, Broadcasting, Merchandising, Publishing and Broadcasting. The media and merchandise it creates generally consists of cooking and entertaining, holiday and celebrations, crafts, home, weddings, organizing, office products and accessories, gardening and outdoor living, and pets (grooming, apparel, feeding and health). In December 2012, the Company ceased its Everyday Food publication. In January 2013, the Company discontinued publication of Whole Living.

Publishing

During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company�� Publishing segment accounted for 62% of its total revenues, consisting of operations related to magazine and book publishing and digital distribution, principally through its marthastewart.com. Revenues from magazine and digital advertising represented approximately 63% of the segment�� revenues during 2012, while circulation revenues represented approximately 34% of the segment�� revenues. As of December 31, 2012, the Company�� Everyday Food publication is being issued as an occasional insert to Martha Stewart Living subscribers.

Martha Stewart Living, its flagship magazine, is the foundation of its publishing business. The Company As of December 31, 2012, it published Martha Stewart Living on a monthly basis with a rate base of 2.05 million. The magazine primarily focused to the college-educated woman between the ages of 25 and 54 who owns her residence. Martha Stewart Living offers lifestyle ideas. Martha Stewart Weddings, a quarterly publication, targets the upscale bride and serves. Martha Stewart Weddings is distributed primarily through newsstands.

Martha Stewart Living, its flagship magazine, is the foundation of its publishing business. The Company As of December 31, 2012, it published Martha ! Stewart Living on a monthly basis with a rate base of 2.05 million. The magazine primarily focused to the college-educated woman between the ages of 25 and 54 who owns her residence. Martha Stewart Living offers lifestyle ideas. Martha Stewart Weddings, a quarterly publication, targets the upscale bride and serves. Martha Stewart Weddings is distributed primarily through newsstands.

The marthastewart.com Website is its digital properties, offering a range of continually updated articles, recipes and videos developed from several Martha Stewart brands, including its magazine properties. The Website provides several lifestyle categories: food, entertaining, holidays, home and garden, crafts and pets. The Website also serves as a gateway to its other properties, including marthastewartweddings.com and emerils.com. The Company produces digital editions available through Barnes & Noble's Nook, Amazon's Kindle Fire and through the Zinio platform. During 2012, it built a custom storefront in Apple's iTunes, which allows it to sell subscriptions and single copies of its magazines, only for Apple's iPad products. The Company produces iPad versions of Martha Stewart Living and Martha Stewart Weddings, the latter of which was launched during 2012. During 2012, it launched the Craft Studio app available on Apple iTunes.

Merchandising

The Merchandising segment consists of the Company�� operations related to the design and branding of merchandise and related collateral and packaging materials that are distributed by its retail and manufacturing partners in exchange for royalty income. The Company�� merchandising segment contributed 29% of its total revenues during 2012. The segment consists of operations related to the design of merchandise and related packaging, collateral and advertising materials, and the licensing of various trademarks, in connection with retail programs conducted through a number of retailers and manufacturers. The Company�� Martha Stewart Living prog! ram at Th! e Home Depot is available at all of The Home Depot�� stores in the United States and Canada, as well as on www.homedepot.com and Home Decorators Collection catalog, online and retail stores. The Martha Stewart Living program at The Home Depot consists of a range of home decor, paint, storage and organization products, outdoor furniture, window treatments, kitchen cabinetry, countertops, carpet and seasonal holiday decor.

The Company�� Martha Stewart Collection at Macy�� is available at the approximately 650 Macy�� stores in the United States that offer home products, as well on www.macys.com. The Martha Stewart Collection line consists of a range of home goods, including bed and bath textiles, house wares, food preparation and other kitchen items, tabletop and holiday decorating items. Martha Stewart Crafts, a paper-based crafting program, consists of tools, embellishments, paper/albums, and other seasonal products. Martha Stewart Pets line consists of a range of pet accessories, including apparel, collars, leashes, bedding, grooming supplies and toys. The Martha Stewart Home Office line is sold at Staples in the United States and United Kingdom, on www.staples.com, and at Officeworks in Australia. The line consists of a range of home office products, including surface organization, journals, portable filing, pantry organization and the line of bags and totes.

Emerilware products by T-FAL consist of small kitchen appliances available at department stores and specialty retail outlets across the United States, as well as through the Home Shopping Network. Emerilware by All-Clad consists of lines of gourmet cookware and barbeque tools available at department stores and specialty retail outlets across the United States, as well as through the Home Shopping Network. Emeril Lagasse introduced with B&G Foods, Emeril�� Original is a line of seasonings, salad dressings, basting sauces and marinades, mustards, salsas, pasta sauces, pepper sauces, spice rubs, cooking sprays and ! stocks av! ailable at supermarkets and specialty markets across the United States, as well as through the Home Shopping Network. Emeril�� Gourmet Coffee with Timothy�� World Coffee is a single-cup coffee program consisting of flavored coffees inspired by Emeril Lagasse. The program is available in department and specialty stores nationwide, as well as in certain national hotel chains.

Emeril's Red Marble Steaks with Allen Brothers is a line of hand-selected, aged steaks. The line is available through catalog, online and the Home Shopping Network. During 2012, it launched Emeril by Snapware, which is branded food storage, on the Home Shopping Network.

Broadcasting

The Broadcasting segment consists of the Company's television production operations and its satellite radio operations. The Company�� Broadcasting business segment accounted for 9% of its total revenues during 2012. During 2012, the Company restructured the Broadcasting segment, which included the termination of its live audience television production operations. Emeril Lagasse also provides various television services for us. During 2012, Emeril Lagasse hosted a new show, Emeril's Florida, on the Cooking Channel. During 2012, it produced two seasons of a new weekly half-hour series, Martha Stewart�� Cooking School.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Jonathan Berr]

  If Daniel Dienst is the answer to Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia’s (MSO) problems, the domestic diva’s�media empire may be in far worse shape than investors have feared.

• [By Dan Caplinger]

  The big news for Macy's this quarter has all come from its lawsuit with J.C. Penney (NYSE: JCP  ) , in which Macy's argued that Penney shouldn't be allowed to sell a line of home goods from Martha Stewart Living (NYSE: MSO  ) because of a prior contract Macy's had with the home-good producer. Late last month, an appeals court rejected Macy's request to issue a preliminary injunction, instead allowing Penney to sell its JCP Everyday line while the broader lawsuit between Macy's and Penney is outstanding. Both sides finished making their cases on April 23, and with a deadline of May 31 for parties to submit post-trial filings, it'll be a while before Macy's makes its closing arguments and the judge renders a verdict.

Best Clean Energy Companies To Invest In Right Now: North American Palladium Ltd (PAL)

North American Palladium Ltd. (NAP) is a precious metals producer that has been operating its flagship Lac des Iles mine (LDI) located in Ontario, Canada. The Company is in the business of exploring and mining palladium, platinum, gold and certain base metals. The Company�� 100%-owned subsidiary is the Lac des Iles Mines Ltd. (LDI).

The Company�� Lac des Iles (LDI) palladium mine is a palladium producer. The mine is located approximately 85 kilometers northwest of the city of Thunder Bay in Ontario, Canada, and consists of open pit and underground mining operations and a 15,000 ton per day mill.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Dan Caplinger]

  4. Platinum-group metals
  Platinum and palladium both fell sharply, losing 5% and 6% of their value, respectively. Those losses weren't as extreme as gold's, but they nevertheless represented a drop to levels not seen since late last year. The two major miners producing the white metals, Stillwater Mining (NYSE: SWC  ) and North American Palladium (NYSEMKT: PAL  ) , both lost more than 10% on the day.

• [By James E. Brumley]

  Are you a gambling man (or gambling woman, as the case may be)? Then now may be the right time to place a bet on North American Palladium Ltd (NYSEMKT:PAL) ... the micro cap precious metals miner that has watched its stock fall from just under $2.00 in early February to a low of 44 cents yesterday. That's a 78% drubbing, for those of you who are counting, with a big chunk of that loss coming yesterday when PAL shares lost 28% of their value on the heels of two... shall we say "less than flattering" articles about the company were posted? Yet, sometimes the very best trades are ideas that never looked good on paper.

Best Clean Energy Companies To Invest In Right Now: Glatfelter (GLT)

P. H. Glatfelter Company manufactures and sells specialty papers and fiber-based engineered materials in the United States and internationally. It offers carbonless and forms papers for credit card receipts, multi-part forms, security papers, and other end-user applications; book publishing papers for the production of hardbound books and other book publishing needs; envelope and converting papers for the direct mail market, shopping bags, and other converting applications; and engineered products for digital imaging, transfer, casting, release, postal, playing card, and other niche specialty applications. The company also provides food and beverage paper used for tea bags and single serve coffee products; metallized products used in the labeling of beer bottles, innerliners, gift wrap, self-adhesive labels, and other consumer products applications; and composite laminates papers used in production of decorative laminates, furniture, and flooring applications, as well as a line of paper products used in batteries, medical masks, and other engineered applications. In addition, it offers airlaid non-woven fabric-like materials used in feminine hygiene products, adult incontinence products, cleaning pads and wipes, food pads, napkins and tablecloths, and baby wipes. The company markets its products directly, as well as through wholesale paper merchants, brokers, and agents. P. H. Glatfelter Company was founded in 1864 and is headquartered in York, Pennsylvania.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Marc Bastow]

  Specialty papers and and fiber-based materials manufacturer P.H. Glatfelter (GLT) raised its quarterly dividend 10% to 11 cents per share, payable May 1 to shareholders of record as of April 3.
  GLT Dividend Yield: 1.44%

• [By Eric Volkman]

  Glatfelter (NYSE: GLT  ) has a new asset in its portfolio. The company announced it has finalized the acquisition of Germany-based Dresden Papier, which according to the American firm is "the leading global supplier of nonwoven wallpaper base materials."

Top Biotech Companies To Invest In 2014

Popular Posts: 6 Biotechnology Stocks to Buy Now5 Pharmaceutical Stocks to Buy Now16 Oil and Gas Stocks to Sell Now Recent Posts: 6 Biotechnology Stocks to Buy Now 21 Commercial Banking Stocks to Buy Now 7 Insurance Stocks to Buy Now View All Posts

The grades of six Biotechnology stocks are on the rise this week on Portfolio Grader. Each of these stocks is rated an “A” (“strong buy”) or “B” overall (“buy”).

This week, ARIAD Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:) is showing significant improvement as the company’s rating hops from a C (“hold”) to a B (“buy”). ARIAD Pharmaceuticals is an oncology company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialization of medicines for cancer patients. .

Hot Warren Buffett Companies To Invest In 2015: Regulus Therapeutics Inc (RGLS)

Regulus Therapeutics Inc., incorporated on September 5, 2007, is a biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing microRNAs to treat a range of diseases. microRNAs are naturally occurring ribonucleic acid (RNA), molecules that play a critical role in regulating key biological pathways. The Company uses its microRNA product platform to develop chemically modified, single-stranded oligonucleotides that the Company calls anti-miRs. As of December 31, 2012, the Company�� operations included acquiring and in-licensing intellectual property rights, developing its microRNA, undertaking basic research around microRNA targets and conducting preclinical studies for its initial programs.

The Company is developing RG-101 for the treatment of HCV and is advancing other microRNA therapeutics toward clinical development in several areas, including oncology, fibrosis and metabolic diseases. The Company intends to focus its resources on product opportunities in therapeutic areas where development and commercialization activities are appropriate for its size and financial resources, which the Company anticipates will include niche indications and orphan diseases.

The Company competes with Groove Biopharma, Inc., miRagen Therapeutics, Inc., Mirna Therapeutics, Inc., and Santaris Pharma A/S.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Sean Williams]

  What: Shares of Regulus Therapeutics (NASDAQ: RGLS  ) , a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of therapies utilizing its proprietary microRNA product platform, saw its shares skyrocket as much as 127% at one point today after announcing the interim results for its human proof-of-concept trial for its early stage hepatitis C drug RG-101.

• [By Sean Williams]

  A blast to the past
  It's occasionally very difficult to value biotech stocks, because of the wide range of outcomes possible given their pipelines. Other times, as in the case with Regulus Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: RGLS  ) , I bang my head against a table and wonder what the heck investors are thinking.

• [By Sean Williams]

  Regulus Therapeutics (NASDAQ: RGLS  )
  Since presenting at the Deutsche Bank Healthcare Conference two weeks ago, shares of Regulus Therapeutics have been absolutely on fire. A mixture of ASCO and IPO fever have revived the love for newer issues, and having big name pharmaceutical companies gobbling up a majority of its IPO'd shares certainly helps its cause.

• [By WWW.DAILYFINANCE.COM]

  sixflags.com Plenty of stocks go up and down in any given week. The gainers inspire us to keep investing. The decliners keep greed in check while reminding us about the risks of the equity markets. Let's go over some of last week's best and worst performers. Regulus Therapeutics (RGLS) -- Up 161 percent last week Last week's biggest winner was a biotech upstart that got welcome news on a potential hepatitis C treatment. Regulus Therapeutics is showing that patients receiving a single injection of its drug are reporting lower viral loads a month later. There are still plenty of regulatory hurdles to clear, but it's certainly encouraging. Select Comfort (SCSS) -- Up 21 percent last week Shares of Select Comfort moved higher after it announced blowout quarterly results. The company behind the Sleep Number air-chambered mattresses saw net sales and earnings per share climb 23 percent and 22 percent, respectively. Select Comfort's strong performance was fueled by an impressive 16 percent spike in comparable-store sales. The favorable momentum is going to linger: Select Comfort is boosting its guidance for the entire year. Six Flags (SIX) -- Up 16 percent last week It was a summer of thrills at Six Flags. Shares of the regional amusement park operator rose like a coaster on a chain lift after it announced better-than-expected revenue growth. Revenue increased 7 percent on a combination of a slight uptick in attendance, higher admission prices, and guests spending more once inside the park. The report was encouraging enough for Six Flags to boost its dividend. The stock is now yielding a hearty 5.3 percent. Boulder Brands (BDBD) -- Down 31 percent last week Shares of Boulder Brands lost nearly a third of their value after the food company behind Smart Balance buttery spreads and EVOL frozen entrees warned of a soft holiday quarter. It now foresees net sales of $132 million to $137 million for the fourth quarter. We would be looking at a sequential dip from

Top Biotech Companies To Invest In 2014: Imprimis Pharmaceuticals Inc (IMMY)

Imprimis Pharmaceuticals Inc. is a specialty pharmaceutical company developing non-invasive, topically delivered products. The Company�� Transdel cream formulation technology is designed to facilitate the effective penetration of a variety of products through the tough skin barrier. Ketotransdel, the Company�� lead pain product, utilizes the Transdel platform technology to deliver the active drug, ketoprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), through the skin directly into the underlying tissues where the drug exerts its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Ketotransdel consists of a transdermal formulation of ketoprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), and its Transdel drug delivery system and is being developed for the treatment of acute pain. In July 2013, it acquired intellectual property for IPI-120 from Buderer Drug Company.

Ketotransdel penetrates the skin barrier to reach the targeted underlying tissues where it exerts its localized anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect. Transdel is the Company�� transdermal cream drug delivery platform. It consists of a cream that enables transdermal penetration of drugs avoiding first pass metabolism by the liver and minimizing systemic exposure. The Transdel drug delivery system facilitates the effective dissolution and delivery of a drug across the skin barrier to reach targeted underlying tissues.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By John Udovich]

  The start of 2014 shows that biotech is still a hot area with the sector along with small cap biotech stocks like AMAG Pharmaceuticals, Inc (NASDAQ: AMAG), Mast Therapeutics Inc (NYSEMKT: MSTX), Cell Therapeutics Inc (NASDAQ: CTIC), Imprimis Pharmaceuticals Inc (NASDAQ: IMMY) and TNI BioTech (OTCMKTS: TNIB) producing news or returns�plus Auspex Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: ASPX), Cara Therapeutics (NASDAQ: CARA), Egalet (NASDAQ: EGLT), Flexion Therapeutics (NASDAQ: FLXN) and Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical (NASDAQ: RARE) are among the (many�� planned biotech IPOs that have recently been announced publicly:

• [By John Udovich]

  So far this year, Rexahn Pharmaceuticals, Inc (NYSEMKT: RNN), Imprimis Pharmaceuticals Inc (NASDAQ: IMMY) and Arrowhead Research Corp (NASDAQ: ARWR) are up 186.3%, 157.2% and 142.5%, respectively, since the start of the year���making them the best performing small cap biotech stocks for 2014. But given their lackluster performance over the past few years, what is the secret behind their phenomenal 2014 rise and will they keep rising? For starters, none of these small caps have really produced anything in the way of blockbuster news:

Top Biotech Companies To Invest In 2014: Cubist Pharmaceuticals Inc.(CBST)

Cubist Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a biopharmaceutical company, focuses on the research, development, and commercialization of pharmaceutical products that address unmet medical needs in the acute care environment. The company markets CUBICIN (daptomycin for injection), a once-daily, bactericidal, intravenous, antibiotic with activity against gram-positive organisms, including methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus. Its clinical development product pipeline consists of CXA-201, which is in the phase III clinical trial for patients with complicated urinary tract infections; and in phase II clinical trial for patients with complicated abdominal infections. The company is also developing CXA-201 for the treatment of hospital acquired pneumonia. In addition, its product under development comprises CB-183,315, an oral, bactericidal lipopeptide with in vitro bactericidal activity against C. difficile, for the treatment of clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD). Further , the company?s pre-clinical programs include therapies to treat various bacterial infections and agents to treat acute pain. Additionally, it promotes MERREM I.V. (meropenem for injection), a carbapenem class intravenous antibiotic, in the United States under a commercial services agreement with AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals, LP; and DIFICID as the treatment for CDAD in adults under the co-promotion agreement with Optimer Pharmaceuticals, Inc. The company also has collaborations with Forma Therapeutics, Inc. to discover and develop antibacterial compounds; an agreement with the Broad Institute to transform natural products discovery; a collaboration with Hydra Biosciences, Inc., to develop ion channel drugs; and a collaboration agreement with Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc., for the development and commercialization of Alnylam's RNAi therapeutics as a therapy for the treatment of respiratory syncytial virus. The company was founded in 1992 and is headquartered in Lexington, Mas sachusetts.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Rich Bieglmeier]

  Cubist Pharmaceuticals Inc. (CBST) share price is the beneficiary of an upgrade yesterday. Leerink Swann analyst Marko Kozul believes the biotech is headed to $76.

• [By Jake Keator]

  Shares of Cubist Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: CBST  ) exploded upward on Friday, finishing up over 9%. The company reported strong second-quarter results Thursday, beating average analyst estimates for both revenue and EPS. Total net revenues were $258.8 million, up 12.2% over Q2 2012, while non-GAAP diluted EPS was $0.42. Average analyst estimates were $254.73 million for revenue and EPS of $0.38.

Top Biotech Companies To Invest In 2014: Chimerix Inc (CMRX)

Chimerix, Inc., incorporated on April, 07, 2000, is a biopharmaceutical company committed to the discovery, development and commercialization of novel, oral antiviral therapeutics that are designed to transform patient care in areas of high unmet medical need. Its lipid technology has given rise to two clinical-stage compounds, CMX001 and CMX157, which have demonstrated the potential for enhanced antiviral activity and safety in convenient, orally administered dosing regimens.

CMX001 is an orally administered drug that utilizes its lipid technology to deliver intracellular concentrations of a potent antiviral compound, cidofovir-diphosphate (CDV-PP). Following oral dosing, CMX001 is absorbed through the gut, remains intact in the plasma, and is readily taken up by and delivered into cells. Once inside cells, CMX001 is converted into CDV-PP, which acts as an alternative substrate in a replicating virus. CMX001 is similar to the drug cidofovir in that both drugs are converted into CDV-PP once inside cells. Although cidofovir is approved for administration in an intravenous formulation, Vistide, it requires a plasma concentration to deliver a therapeutic level of cidofovir into cells and its use is limited due to the risk of kidney damage.

CMX157, Its second clinical stage compound, is an oral nucleotide compound in Phase 1 development for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. In July 2012, the Company granted Merck an exclusive worldwide license to develop and commercialize CMX157 for all human uses. Merck is responsible for all development and marketing activities for CMX157 on a worldwide basis.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Ben Levisohn]

  Biotech companies that are most likely to benefit because they are “Ahead in clinical development and/or have established relationships with [the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, or] BARDA which may facilitate getting a contract” include GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), NewLink Genetics (NLNK), Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) and Chimerix (CMRX). Kantor includes Tekmira�(TKMR) and Sarepta (SRPT) among “companies with viable programs” that are “moving forward and likely to attract additional funding.”

Top Biotech Companies To Invest In 2014: Applied Nanotech Holdings Inc (APNT)

Applied Nanotech Holdings, Inc., incorporated on May 22, 1989, is engaged in nanotechnology research and development business. The Company's nanotechnology research involves performing contract research and development services for others to develop products and materials for new applications, and then leveraging this research by applying it to other similar applications in other industries. The Company also develops intellectual property (IP) around its products and technologies. The Company develops five technology platforms: nanosensor technology; nanocomposites, based on carbon nanotube composites; thermal management materials; nanoelectronics applications, and electron emission activities, primarily in the display area. The Company's electron emission IP is divided into display activities and non-display activities. Applied Nanotech Holdings, Inc. is the parent company. Applied Nanotech, Inc. (ANI) is a subsidiary of ANHI. During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company formed EZDiagnostix, Inc., (EZDX).

Sensors

The Company develops sensors based on ion mobility sensor technology and differential mobility spectroscopy. The Company is involved in projects to develop Mercaptan and Methane sensors for uses in the natural gas industry. The Company is also applying this technology to other applications, including agricultural pathology, wound care, and breath analysis. The Company develops hydrogen sensor for use in the measurement of hydrogen in power transformer products. The Company develops carbon monoxide sensor that can last for 10,000 hours on a single battery. The Company's carbon nanotube technology is for use in biosensors. Sensors based on carbon nanotubes or other nanomaterials can be used to detect chemical, organic, or biological warfare agents, as well as explosives, hydrogen, ammonia and numerous other chemicals.

Nanocomposites

The Company is in the advanced stages of development of nanomaterials using carbon nanotube (CNT) and! other composites. Epoxies are used in industries with worldwide markets, with applications, including adhesives, paints, coatings, and composites. In addition to epoxy resins, the Company develops other types of resins, including polyesters and vinyl esters. Vinyl esters are used in a variety of industrial applications, including storage tanks, piping, and construction. The Company develops a process for coating nylon pellets with CNTs to improves electrical conductivity. Nylon 6 with improved electrical conductivity can be used for its anti-static qualities, electrostatic discharge, and electromagnetic/RF shielding.

Thermal Management

The Company markets thermal management material called CarbAl. CarbAl provides a passive thermal management solution for temperature control issues that plague electronics manufacturers. CarbAl is a carbon based metal nanocomposite comprised of 80% carbonaceous matrix and a dispersed metal component of 20% aluminum. The Company also develops a simplified version of CarbAl based on graphite.

Conductive Inks

The Company develops aluminum and silver inks and pastes that is ideal for use in the production of solar cells. The Company also develops aluminum paste that can be used in current solar cell production.

The Company competes with Zyvex Performance Materials, GSI Creos, Amroy Europe, Ltd., DuPont and Ferro

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Anuchit Nguyen]

  India�� S&P BSE Sensex rose, holding at a three-year high, amid better-than-estimated corporate earnings. Engineering company Larsen & Toubro Ltd. (LT) rallied to a three-month high and Asian Paints Ltd. (APNT) surged about 6 percent after reporting profit that beat forecasts.

Top Biotech Companies To Invest In 2014: Durata Therapeutics Inc (DRTX)

Durata Therapeutics, Inc., incorporated on November 4, 2009, is a pharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of therapeutics for patients with infectious diseases and acute illnesses. The Company enroll and dose patients in two global Phase III clinical trials with its product candidate, dalbavancin, for the treatment of patients with acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections (abSSSI). Dalbavancin is an intravenous antibiotic product candidate designed for once-weekly dosing. In addition to abSSSI, the Company focuses on the development of dalbavancin for additional indications, including osteomyelitis, diabetic foot infection and pneumonia.

As of December 31, 2011, Dalbavancin had already completed three Phase III clinical trials, in which more than 1,000 patients in total received dalbavancin. Dalbavancin achieved its primary efficacy endpoint of non-inferiority in each of these three completed Phase III clinical trials when compared to linezolid, cefazolin or vancomycin, three of the standard-of-care agents for uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections (uSSSI), and complicated skin and skin structure infections (cSSSI). Its two ongoing Phase III clinical trials are designed to compare dalbavancin to vancomycin, with an option to switch to oral linezolid, under the new FDA draft guidance.

The Company competes with Pfizer, Cubist Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Theravance, Inc., Forest Laboratories, Inc., Sanofi-Aventis Ltd., The Medicines Company, Trius Therapeutics, Inc., Cempra, Inc., Rib-X Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Paratek Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Nabriva Therapeutics AG, Tetraphase Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Furiex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Bob's Stocks]

  Durata Therapeutics (DRTX) is developing Dalbavancin, a once a week, intravenous antibiotic product candidate, for the treatment of patients with acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections, or ABSSSI. The company is expected to file a NDA (New Drug Application) at any moment and MAA (Marketing Authorization Application) at the end of 2013.

• [By Lisa Levin]

  Durata Therapeutics (NASDAQ: DRTX) shares climbed 5.30% to $14.18. The volume of Durata Therapeutics shares traded was 861% higher than normal. The FDA Advisory Committee unanimously recommended the approval of Durata's Dalvance.

Top Bank Stocks To Watch Right Now

The M&A chatter over Time Warner Cable, Inc. (NYSE: TWC) has gained momentum recently as press reports have suggested Charter Communications (NASDAQ: CHTR) was lining up financing from banks to fund a bid for Time Warner Cable.

Separately, some reports suggested Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ: CMCSA) was TWC's preferred suitor while others indicated Comcast and Charter were discussing a joint bid for TWC, in which they would carve up the company, and take the markets complementary to their existing footprints. The potential takeover scenario pushed shares of TWC 37 percent higher this year.

[Related -Comcast Corporation (CMCSA): Is Housing Finally Helping Video, Data Subscriber Additions?]

The Charter acquisition of TWC is most likely and, to a certain extent, the reports regarding Comcast's interest could be an effort to get a higher price.

Top 10 Life Sciences Stocks To Own Right Now: Umpqua Holdings Corp (UMPQ)

Umpqua Holdings Corporation (Umpqua) is a financial holding company. Umpqua has two principal operating subsidiaries, Umpqua Bank (the Bank) and Umpqua Investments, Inc. (Umpqua Investments). The Bank is primarily engaged in the business of commercial and retail banking and the delivery of retail brokerage services. The Bank provides a range of banking, wealth management, mortgage banking and other financial services to corporate, institutional and individual customers. Umpqua Investments is a broker-dealer and investment advisor with offices in Portland, Lake Oswego, Medford, Oregon, and in many Umpqua Bank stores. Umpqua Investments offers a range of investment products and services, including stocks, fixed income securities (municipal, corporate, and government bonds, Certificate of Deposits (CDs), and money market instruments), mutual funds, annuities, options, retirement planning, money management services and life insurance. In December 2011, the Bank launched a commercial real estate division. In November 2012, the Company acquired Circle Bancorp, parent company of Circle Bank. In July 2013, Umpqua Holdings Corp completed its acquisition of Financial Pacific Holding Corp.

The Company offers a Switch Kit, which allows a customer to open a primary checking account with Umpqua Bank in less than 10 minutes. Other avenues, through which customers can access its products, include its Website equipped with an e-switchkit, which includes Internet banking through umpqua.online, mobile banking, and its 24-hour telephone voice response system. Umpqua Private Bank serves high net worth individuals with liquid investable assets by providing customized financial solutions and offerings. Umpqua private bank works collaboratively with the Bank�� affiliate retail brokerage Umpqua Investments and with the independent capital management firm Ferguson Wellman Capital Management. Umpqua Investments provides a range of brokerage services, including equity and fixed income products, mutual funds, annui! ties, options, retirement planning and money management services. Additionally, Umpqua Investments offers life insurance policies. At December 31, 2011, Umpqua Investments had 41Series seven-licensed financial advisors serving clients at three stand-alone retail brokerage offices and Investment Opportunity Centers located in many Bank stores.

Lending Activities

Umpqua offers loans for business and commercial customers, including accounts receivable and inventory financing, equipment loans, international trade, real estate construction loans and permanent financing and SBA program financing, as well as capital markets and treasury management. Additionally, it offers designed loan products for small businesses through its Small Business Lending Center. It also has a business banking division to increase lending to small and mid-sized businesses. The Company is also engaged in initiatives that continue to diversify the loan portfolio, including a focus on commercial and industrial loans in addition to financing owner-occupied properties.

Real estate loans are available for construction, purchase and refinancing of residential owner-occupied and rental properties. Borrowers can choose from a variety of fixed and adjustable rate options and terms. It sells residential real estate loans that originate into the secondary market. It also supports the Home Affordable Refinance Program and Home Affordable Modification Program. The Bank also provide loans to individual borrowers for a variety of purposes, including secured and unsecured personal loans, home equity and personal lines of credit and motor vehicle loans. The Bank makes both secured and unsecured loans to individuals and businesses. During 2011, its commercial real estate, commercial, residential, and consumer and other represented approximately 64%, 25%, 10%, and 1%, respectively, of the total non-covered loan and lease portfolio.

Source of Funds

The Company offers an array of deposit p! roducts, ! including non-interest-bearing checking accounts, interest-bearing checking and savings accounts, money market accounts and certificates of deposit. These accounts earn interest at rates established by management based on market factors. It also offers a seniors program to customers over fifty years old, which includes an array of banking services and other amenities, such as purchase discounts, vacation trips and seminars.

Investment Activities

As of December 31, 2011, Umpqua's portfolio of investments securities included securities issued by United States Treasury and agencies, and residential mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations. It also includes obligations of states and political subdivisions, other debt securities, and investments in mutual funds and other equity securities.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Roberto Pedone]

  Umpqua (UMPQ) is engaged in the business of commercial and retail banking and the delivery of retail brokerage services. This stock closed up 5% at $17.11 in Monday's trading session.

  Monday's Volume: 2.16 million
  
  Three-Month Average Volume: 686,781
  
  Volume % Change: 235%

  From a technical perspective, UMPQ ripped sharply higher here right off its 50-day moving average of $16.51 with strong upside volume. This move is quickly pushing shares of UMPQ within range of triggering a big breakout trade. That trade will hit if UMPQ manages to take out Monday's intraday high of $17.46 and then once it clears its 52-week high at $17.48 with high volume.

  Traders should now look for long-biased trades in UMPQ as long as it's trending above its 50-day at $16.51 or above more near-term support at $16 and then once it sustains a move or close above those breakout levels with volume that's near or above 686,781 shares. If that breakout hits soon, then UMPQ will set up to enter new 52-week-high territory above, which is bullish technical price action. Some possible upside targets off that breakout are $20 to $23.

Top Bank Stocks To Watch Right Now: Bank Of Montreal (BMO)

Bank of Montreal, together with its subsidiaries, provides a range of retail banking, wealth management, and investment banking products and solutions in North America and internationally. It offers personal banking products and services to consumers and small businesses, including deposit and investment services, mortgages, consumer credit, small business lending, and other banking services; and commercial banking products and services to small business, medium-sized enterprise, and mid-market banking clients comprising lending, deposits, treasury management, and risk management services. The company also offers cards and payments services; investment and wealth advisory services; self-directed investing services; private banking services to high net worth and ultra-high net worth clients; investment fund solutions across a range of channels; pension plans; investment management services; and creditor insurance, and life insurance and annuity products and services. In add ition, it provides capital markets products and services, including equity and debt underwriting, corporate lending and project financing, mergers and acquisitions, restructurings and recapitalizations, balance sheet management, liquidity management, merchant banking, securitization, foreign exchange, derivatives, debt and equity research, and institutional sales and trading to corporate, institutional, and government clients. As of October 31, 2010, Bank of Montreal operated and maintained approximately 1,230 bank branches in Canada and the United States. The company was founded in 1817 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Alyssa Oursler]

  Head north of the border and you’ll come across Bank of Montreal (BMO), our final safe income pick. If you were impressed by Chevron’s century of dividend payments, consider this: BMO has been rewarding loyal shareholders since 1829. For perspective, remember that the U.S. was just over 50 years old at that time.

Top Bank Stocks To Watch Right Now: Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Ltd (ANEWF)

Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited (ANZ) provides a range of banking and financial products and services to retail, small business, corporate and institutional clients. The Company conducts its operations in Australia, New Zealand and the Asia Pacific region. It also operates in a range of other countries, including the United Kingdom and the United States. The Company operates on a divisional structure with Australia, International and Institutional Banking (IIB), New Zealand, and Global Wealth and Private Banking. As of September 30, 2012, the Company had 1,337 branches and other points of representation worldwide, excluding automatic teller machines (ATMs). In September 2012, it sold its remaining shareholding in Visa Inc. In May 2013, the Company ceased to be substantial holder in respect of ING Private Equity Access Limited. Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Daniel Inman]

  In Sydney, Australia and New Zealand Banking Group (AU:ANZ) � (ANEWF) �rose 2.1% after reporting a forecast-beating fiscal 2013 cash profit, as well as a dividend that was higher than expected.

• [By MARKETWATCH]

  LOS ANGELES (MarketWatch) -- Australian stocks edged lower Thursday, as a mostly soft lead from the U.S. markets helped weigh on the S&P/ASX 200 (AU:XJO) , which lost 0.2% to 5,306.40. Mining stocks moved mostly lower as a rising dollar depressed some key commodity prices overnight, with Oz Minerals Ltd. (AU:OZL) (OZMLF) down 1%, Fortescue Metals Group Ltd. (AU:FMG) (FSUMF) off 1.5%, and Newcrest Mining Ltd. (AU:NCM) (NCMGF) 1.1% lower. The big four banks all started lower as well, with Australia & New Zealand Banking Group (AU:ANZ) (ANEWF) and Commonwealth Bank of Australia (AU:CBA) (CBAUF) down 0.2% each, while National Australia Bank Ltd. (AU:NAB) (NAUBF) lost 0.4%, and Westpac Banking Corp. (AU:WBC) (WEBNF) fell 0.5%. Retailers were mixed ahead of retail-sales data due out later in the day, as Harvey Norman Holdings Ltd. (AU:HVN) (HNORY) fell 0.5% and Myer Holdings Ltd. (AU:MYR) lost 0.7%, while David Jones Ltd.

Top Bank Stocks To Watch Right Now: BNP Paribas SA (BNP)

BNP Paribas SA is a France-based bank group with four core businesses: Retail Banking, Corporate & Investment Banking, Investment Solutions and Other Activities. Retail Banking comprises the French retail banking division, Banca Nazionale del Lavoro in Italy, BeLux Retail Banking, Europe-Mediterranean, all BNP Paribas Group retail banking businesses out of Euro Zone: in the United States, in Asia, in the Mediterranean Basin and Africa, in Turkey, Central and Eastern Europe, personal finance and equipment solutions. The Corporate & Investment Banking business provides to its clients financing, advisory and capital markets services. The Investment Solutions division offers private banking, asset management, securities services, real estate and insurance services. In November 2013, the Company launched 'Hello Bank!', a mobile, digital bank operating in France, Belgium and Germany. Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Namitha Jagadeesh]

  BNP Paribas SA (BNP), Societe Generale SA (GLE) and Credit Agricole SA (ACA), France�� largest banks by market value, reported second-quarter profit that exceeded analysts��estimates. Paris-based Societe Generale, which said income more than doubled from a year earlier, trades at 10.8 times projected earnings, 64 percent below its 2009 high. Credit Agricole trades at 8.6 times projected profit and BNP Paribas at 10.7 times, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.

Top 10 Solar Stocks To Buy Right Now

“No industry stays static over time. Change is inevitable,” said Commissioner John Norris of the Federal Energy Regulatory Energy Commission in a prepared statement delivered during testimony before a Congressional subcommittee on Dec. 5, 2013.

“Having said that,” continued Mr. Norris, “the energy sector and the electric sector in particular experienced only modest, incremental change for much of the last century…That time of incremental change is clearly over.”

According to data compiled by Reuters, US power companies have shut or converted about 16,000 megawatts (MW) of coal-fired power plants since 2009. Another 45,000 MW will be shut or converted over the next couple decades, on the way to as much as 60,000 MW to 100,000 MW of power generation eventually closed down across the US.

The combination of technological advancement, the shale revolution and policy choices at the federal level are making natural gas and renewable sources such as wind, solar and hydro more economic relative to coal-fired power.

Top 5 Energy Companies To Own In Right Now: DAQQ New Energy Corp.(DQ)

Daqo New Energy Corp., together with its subsidiaries, manufactures and sells polysilicon in China. The company sells its polysilicon to photovoltaic product manufacturers for use in the processing of ingots, wafers, cells and modules for solar power solutions. It also produces and sells mono-crystalline and multi-crystalline modules to photovoltaic system integrators and distributors in China and internationally under its Daqo brand. The company was formerly known as Mega Stand International Limited and changed its name to Daqo New Energy Corp. in August 2009. Daqo New Energy Corp. was founded in 2006 and is headquartered Wanzhou, the People?s Republic of China.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Garrett Cook]

  Energy shares dropped around 0.22 percent in today’s trading. Top decliners in the sector included Daqo New Energy (NYSE: DQ), PDC Energy (NASDAQ: PDCE), and YPF SA (NYSE: YPF).

• [By Garrett Cook]

  Energy shares dropped around 0.22 percent in today’s trading. Top decliners in the sector included Daqo New Energy (NYSE: DQ), PDC Energy (NASDAQ: PDCE), and YPF SA (NYSE: YPF).

• [By Lisa Levin]

  Daqo New Energy (NYSE: DQ) shares gained 12.78% to $33.58 on quarterly results.

  SINA (NASDAQ: SINA) rose 7.26% to $51.29 after the company reported upbeat quarterly results.

• [By Ali Berri]

  In trading on Friday, energy shares were relative leaders, up on the day by about 0.42 percent. Meanwhile, top gainers in the sector included Daqo New Energy (NYSE: DQ), up 9.4 percent, and Goodrich Petroleum (NYSE: GDP), up 6.2 percent.
  

Top 10 Solar Stocks To Buy Right Now: Peabody Energy Corporation(BTU)

Peabody Energy Corporation engages in the mining of coal. It mines, prepares, and sells thermal coal to electric utilities and metallurgical coal to industrial customers. The company owns interests in 30 coal mining operations located in the United States and Australia, as well as owns joint venture interest in a Venezuela mine. It is also involved in marketing, brokering, and trading coal. In addition, the company develops a mine-mouth coal-fueled generating plant; and Btu Conversion projects that are designed to convert coal to natural gas or transportation fuels; and clean coal technologies. As of December 31, 2011, it had 9 billion tons of proven and probable coal reserves. The company was founded in 1883 and is headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Dan Caplinger]

  Cold like coal
  Similar trends pushed coal producer Peabody Energy (NYSE: BTU  ) down 45%. Coal producers have faced a number of challenges lately. Low natural-gas prices have made coal less desirable as a fuel for power production and other bulk needs, and an adverse regulatory environment in the U.S. has pushed most coal producers to turn to the export markets as their best source of potential demand. Yet as China's economy has slowed, Peabody in particular reaps less benefit from its strategically located reserves in Western Australia. Unless natural gas recovers all of its losses and makes coal more attractive, Peabody could continue to see pressure.

Top 10 Solar Stocks To Buy Right Now: First Solar Inc.(FSLR)

First Solar, Inc. manufactures and sells solar modules using a thin-film semiconductor technology. It also designs, constructs, and sells photovoltaic solar power systems. The company?s solar modules employ a thin layer of semiconductor material to convert sunlight into electricity. Its integrated solar power systems activities include the project development; engineering, procurement, and construction services; operating and maintenance services; and project finance. The company sells solar modules to project developers, system integrators, and operators of renewable energy projects; and solar power systems to investor owned utilities, independent power developers and producers, and commercial and industrial companies, as well as other system owners. It operates in the United States, Germany, France, Canada, and internationally. The company was formerly known as First Solar Holdings, Inc. and changed its name to First Solar, Inc. in 2006. First Solar was founded in 1999 a nd is headquartered in Tempe, Arizona.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Sue Chang and Ben Eisen]

  First Solar Inc. (FSLR) �shares rose 8.7%. The solar systems company said earlier this week that it reached a deal to build a 250-megawatt AC solar power plant in Riverside County, Calif., for a subsidiary of NextEra Energy Resources LLC. The financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed.

• [By Travis Hoium]

  First Solar (NASDAQ: FSLR  ) asked for another infusion of cash this week, and with one of the best balance sheets in solar, it's reasonable to wonder why the company needs more money from investors. It ended last quarter with $1.3 billion in cash, restricted cash, and securities, and just $562.2 million�in long-term debt, better than every other publicly traded company in solar.

• [By John Divine]

  First Solar (NASDAQ: FSLR  ) has done a superb job at underperformance the past few days. Not only was it yesterday's worst performer, losing more than 7%, but investors also thought Tuesday's stumble wasn't brutal enough and further sold off shares to the tune of 10.8% today. Wall Street had good reason to be bearish: The solar-energy company plans to raise additional capital by diluting current shareholders with an 8.5 million-share secondary offering.�

• [By Charley Blaine]

  First Solar (NASDAQ: FSLR) shot up 14.92 percent to $57.81, after the company reported upbeat third-quarter results and lifted its full-year earnings forecast.

Top 10 Solar Stocks To Buy Right Now: Renesola Ltd.(SOL)

ReneSola Ltd, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the manufacture and sale of solar wafers and solar power products. It offers virgin polysilicons, monocrystalline and multicrystalline solar wafers, and photovoltaic cells and modules. The company also provides cell and module processing services. Its products are used in a range of residential, commercial, industrial, and other solar power generation systems. The company sells its solar wafers primarily to solar cell and module manufacturers. It principally operates in Mainland China, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Korea, India, Australia, Germany, Italy, Spain, Belgium, France, the Czech Republic, and the United States. The company was founded in 2003 and is based in Jiashan, the People?s Republic of China.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Travis Hoium]

  There will be winners, though. Shares of polysilicon maker Renewable Energy fell 7% in trading immediately after the announcement because the company will likely see either lower prices or lower demand. But shares of GCL Poly, who manufactures in China and is the biggest polysilicon maker in the world, jumped 4% on Friday after the news was announced.�Renesola� (NYSE: SOL  ) and LDK Solar� (NYSE: LDK  ) also have lots of unused polysilicon capacity that will likely experience more demand because of the move. The question is if they have sufficient quality to supply the industry.

Top 10 Solar Stocks To Buy Right Now: Canadian Solar Inc.(CSIQ)

Canadian Solar Inc. engages in the design, development, manufacture, and sale of solar power products in Canada and internationally. The company offers solar cell and solar module products that convert sunlight into electricity for various uses. Its products include a range of standard solar modules for use in a range of residential, commercial, and industrial solar power generation systems. The company also designs and produces specialty solar modules and products consisting of customized modules that its customers incorporate into their products, such as solar-powered bus stop lighting; and specialty products, such as portable solar home systems and solar-powered car battery chargers. In addition, it sells solar system kits, a package consisting of solar modules produced by it and third party supplied components, such as inverters, racking system, and other accessories, as well as implements solar power development projects. The company sells its products under the Canad ian Solar brand name. Canadian Solar Inc. offers its standard solar modules through a direct sales force and sales agents primarily to distributors, system integrators, and original equipment manufacturer customers, as well as to solar projects; and specialty solar modules and products to the automotive, telecommunications, and light-emitting diode lighting sectors. The company was founded in 2001 and is based in Kitchener, Canada.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Travis Hoium]

  What's more important for the industry is that capacity expansion in China has stopped and it appears behavior is changing. It's no longer just about adding capacity; we've now changed focus to balance sheets and systems. For an example of how important projects have become we can look at Canadian Solar's (NASDAQ: CSIQ  ) earnings announcement just yesterday that touted 400 MW of projects in Canada. Even Chinese companies are beginning to see the value in building and selling energy over just selling modules. �

Top 10 Solar Stocks To Buy Right Now: Ascent Solar Technologies Inc.(ASTI)

Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc., a development stage company, focuses on commercializing flexible photovoltaic (PV) modules using its proprietary technology. The company intends to manufacture roll-format PV modules that use copper-indium-gallium-diselenide (CIGS) on a plastic substrate. Its proprietary manufacturing process deposits multiple layers of materials, including a thin-film of CIGS semiconductor material on a plastic substrate and laser patterns the layers to create interconnected PV cells or PV modules through monolithic integration process. The company would serve the building applied photovoltaic (BAPV) and building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) market, as well as specialty markets, such as defense, portable power, transportation, electronic integrated photovoltaic, and space and near-space. It has a strategic relationship with Norsk Hydro Produksjon AS to access customers in the BIPV/BAPV markets worldwide. Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc. was founded in 200 5 and is based in Thornton, Colorado.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By John Udovich]

  Solar stocks have not exactly given buy and hold investors a smooth ride, but small cap�GT Advanced Technologies Inc (NASDAQ: GTAT) could be an interesting materials play on the solar sector���meaning its worth taking a closer look at the stock along with potential peers like Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc (NASDAQ: ASTI) and STR Holdings, Inc (NYSE: STRI) plus solar ETF Guggenheim Solar ETF (NYSEARCA: TAN). I should mention that just last week, we added GT Advanced Technologies to our�SmallCap Network Elite Opportunity (SCN EO) portfolio for both�fundamentals and technical reasons and we are already up almost 9%.

Top 10 Solar Stocks To Buy Right Now: LDK Solar Co. Ltd.(LDK)

LDK Solar Co., Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, engages in the design, development, manufacture, and marketing of photovoltaic (PV) products; and development of power plant projects. It offers solar-grade and semiconductor-grade polysilicon; and multicrystalline and monocrystalline solar wafers to the manufacturers of solar cells and solar modules. The company also provides wafer processing services to monocrystalline and multicrystalline solar cell and module manufacturers; and sells silicon materials, such as ingots and polysilicon scraps. In addition, it engages in the production and sale of solar cells and modules to developers, distributors, and system integrators; and design and development of solar power projects in Europe, the United States, and China, as well as provides engineering, procurement, and construction services. LDK Solar Co., Ltd. operates in Europe, the Asia Pacific, and North America. The company was founded in 2005 and is based in Xinyu City, t he People?s Republic of China.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Jonathan Yates]

  For investors looking to profit from shorting stocks in the sector, JA Solar Holdings (NASDAQ: JASO) and LDK Solar (NYSE: LDK) are both vulnerable. For those looking to go long, Exxon Mobil (NYSE: XOM) is very strong in natural gas, which is expected to increase its market share, according to a recent report from the Department of Energy.

• [By Wall Street Strategies]

  Naturally the news is a big positive for the industry, with Chinese solar names like Yingli (YGE), Trina (TSL), Canadian Solar (CSIQ) -- which is actually Chinese despite its name -- JinkoSolar (JKS), JA Solar (JASO), and LDK Solar (LDK) each up more than 10% at midday. The Guggenheim Solar ETF (TAN), which tracks several global solar companies, was up 8%, breaking to a new 52-week high.

• [By Aaron Levitt]

  For many solar stocks — like LDK Solar (LDK) — Europe has been the traditional hot-spot for module sales. However, as austerity has gripped the region, PV subsidies have fallen by the wayside. That�� caused many solar stocks to hurt pretty hard since the financial crisis. For CSIQ, the focus has moved from Europe to new demand drivers in Japan and China.

• [By Paul Ausick]

  Chinese solar companies are a different story. Many manufacture their own silicon wafers and sell silicon to other makers. Trina Solar Ltd. (NYSE: TSL), LDK Solar Co. Ltd. (NYSE: LDK), JA Solar Holdings Co. Ltd. (NASDAQ: JASO) and Canadian Solar Inc. (NASDAQ: CSIQ) all manufacture and sell solar ingots, wafers or cells.