Saturday, February 28, 2015

Top Forestry Stocks To Buy For 2014

Last Friday after the latest earnings report from Advanced Micro Devices, Inc (NYSE: AMD), the stock dropped some 13.7% and it dropped another 4.53% yesterday. I should mention that we have had AMD in our SmallCap Network Elite Opportunity (SCN EO) portfolio since last July and now we are back down again���just like what happened after the last earnings report.�So what happened and where do investors go from here? Here are a few highlights now that most of the dust has settled:

The Earnings Report. Advanced Micro Devices largely beat expectations when it reported earnings after the market closed on Thursday. In fact, the company swung into profit with net income of $48 million on revenue of $1.46 billion verses a�net loss of $157 million on revenue of $1.27 billion. Bulls See Steady Progress, Bears See Dire PC Situation. That was how Barron�� described the situation facing investors. Specifically, revenue from AMD's Computing Solutions segment�fell 6% from the previous quarter (albeit there was a slight increase in desktop PC shipments), but�Intel Corporation (NASDAQ: INTC)�stated in its earnings report that its�PC segment�revenue grew�3.5% from the previous quarter. That has some�observers worried about AMD losing more ground than expected to the lower-cost offerings from INTC. Moreover, CEO Rory Read�told analysts during the earnings call�(the transcript is available on Seeking Alpha here)�

As evidenced in the third quarter by consumer, notebook softness, which we expect to continue for the next several quarter as tablet adoption increases and our customer�� inventory levels remain lean.

Top 5 Solar Stocks To Own For 2015: Intellipharmaceutics International Inc.(IPCI)

Intellipharmaceutics International Inc. engages in the research, development, and manufacture of novel or generic controlled and targeted release oral solid dosage drugs. The company?s patented Hypermatrix technology is a multidimensional controlled-release drug delivery platform that can be applied to the development of various existing and new pharmaceuticals. It has a pipeline of products in various stages of development in therapeutic areas, including neurology, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal tract, pain, and infection. The company?s lead generic product under development includes generic Focalin XR (dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride), an extended-release capsule for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Intellipharmaceutics has a license and commercialization agreement with Par Pharmaceutical, Inc. for the development and commercialization of generic Focalin XR. The company also has five generic products filed with the FDA, including a gene ric of Effexor XR (venlafaxine hydrochloride), an extended-release capsule for depression; Protonix (pantoprazole sodium), a delayed-release tablet for conditions associated with gastroesophageal disease; Glucophage XR (metformin hydrochloride), an extended-release tablet for managing type 2 diabetes; Seroquel XR (quetiapine fumarate), an extended-release tablet for the treatment of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder; and Lamictal XR (lamotrigine), an extended-release tablet for the treatment of anti-convulsant for epilepsy. Its lead non-generic product under development is Rexista (oxycodone), an abuse- and alcohol-deterrent controlled-release oral oxycodone hydrochloride formulation for the relief of pain. The company also has a under late stage development product, such as Coreg CR (carvedilol phosphate), an extended-release capsule for hypertension and heart conditions. IntelliPharmaCeutics International Inc. was founded in 1998 and is based i n Toronto, Canada.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Roberto Pedone]

    A pharmaceutical player that's starting to trend within range of triggering a big breakout trade is IntelliPharmaCeutics (IPCI), which specializing in the research, development and manufacture of generic controlled-release and targeted-release oral solid dosage drugs. This stock has been on fire over the last three months, with shares up a whopping 99%.

    If you take a look at the chart for IntelliPharmaCeutics, you'll notice that this stock has been uptrending a bit over the last few weeks, with shares moving higher from its low f $3.12 to its recent high of $4.37 a share. During that uptrend, shares of IPCI have been making mostly higher lows and higher highs, which is bullish technical price action. That move has now pushed shares of IPCI within range of triggering a big breakout trade above some key overhead resistance levels.

    Traders should now look for long-biased trades in IPCI if it manages to break out some near-term overhead resistance levels at $4.37 to $4.62 a share with high volume. Look for a sustained move or close above those levels with volume that hits near or above its three-month average action of 1.31 million shares. If that breakout triggers soon, then IPCI will set up to re-test or possibly take out its 52-week high at $6.46 a share.

    Traders can look to buy IPCI off any weakness to anticipate that breakout and simply use a stop that sits right below some key near-term support levels at $3.36 or at its 50-day moving average of $3.13 a share. One could also buy IPCI off strength once it starts to take out those breakout levels with volume and then simply use a stop that sits a comfortable percentage from your entry point.

Top Forestry Stocks To Buy For 2014: Belden Inc (BDC)

Belden Inc. (Belden), incorporated on May 18, 1988, designs, manufactures and markets cable, connectivity, and networking products in markets including industrial, enterprise, and broadcast. The Company operates in three segments: the Americas segment, the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) segment and the Asia Pacific segment. The Company�� offers cable, connectivity and networking products, including power generation and distribution, data centers, oil and gas, broadcast, transportation, healthcare and industrial automation. In December 2012, Carlisle Companies Inc acquired Thermax-Raydex business from the Company. In December 2012, the Company sold Consumer Electronics Assets in China to Shenzhen Woer Heat-Shrinkable Material Co Ltd. During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company acquired Miranda Technologies Inc. (Miranda).

The categories of cable products are copper cables, including shielded and unshielded twisted pair cables, coaxial cables, and stranded cables, fiber optic cables, which transmit light signals through glass or plastic fibers and composite cables, which are combinations of multiconductor, coaxial, and fiber optic cables jacketed together or otherwise joined together to serve complex applications and provide ease of installation. Connectivity products include fiber and copper connectors for the enterprise, broadcast, broadband, and industrial markets. Networking products include Industrial Ethernet switches and related equipment and security features, fiber optic interfaces and media converters used to bridge fieldbus networks over long distances, networking infrastructure for the television broadcast, cable, satellite and IPTV industry, and load-moment indicators for mobile cranes and other load-bearing equipment.

For industrial end markets, the Company supplies cable, connectivity, and networking products for applications ranging from advanced industrial networking and robotics to traditional instrumentation and control systems. The Compa! ny�� cable products are used in discrete manufacturing and process operations involving the connection of computers, programmable controllers, robots, operator interfaces, motor drives, sensors, printers and other devices. The Company sells its industrial products primarily through value-added resellers, industrial distributors, and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). It designs, manufactures and markets Industrial Ethernet switches and related equipment, both rail-mounted and rack-mounted, for factory automation, power generation and distribution, process automation, and infrastructure projects, such as bridges, wind farms and airport runways. It also designs, manufactures and markets fiber optic interfaces and media converters. In addition, it designs, manufactures, and markets a range of industrial connectors for sensors and actuators, cord-sets, distribution boxes, and fieldbus communications. These products are used both as components of manufacturing equipment and in the installation and networking of such equipment. The Company also designs, manufactures and markets load-moment indicators. Its switches, communications equipment, connectors, and load-moment indicators are sold directly to industrial equipment OEMs and through a network of distributors and system integrators.

For enterprise end markets, the Company supplies structured cabling solutions, connectors, and networking products for the electronic and optical transmission of data, sound, and video over local- and wide- area networks. Products for this market include copper cables including 10-gigabit Ethernet technologies, fiber optic cables, connectors, wiring racks, panels, interconnecting hardware, intelligent patching devices, and cable management solutions for complete end-to-end network structured wiring systems. End-use customers include hospitals, financial institutions, governments, service providers, and data centers. Its systems are installed through a network of trained system integrators and are supplied t! hrough au! thorized distributors.

For broadcast end markets, the Company is a provider of hardware and software solutions for the television broadcast, cable, satellite and IPTV industry. Its solutions also span the full breadth of television operations, including production, playout and delivery. The Company also manufactures a variety of multiconductor and coaxial cable and connector products, which distributes audio and video signals for use in broadcast television including digital television and high definition television, broadcast radio, pre- and post-production facilities, recording studios, and public facilities such as casinos, arenas, and stadiums. Its audio/video cables are also used in connection with microphones, musical instruments, audio mixing consoles, effects equipment, speakers, paging systems, and consumer audio products.

The Company manufactures networking infrastructure products for the television broadcast, cable, satellite and IPTV industry. Its primary market channels for this broadcast, music, and entertainment products are broadcast specialty distributors and audio systems installers. It also sells directly to music OEMs and the television networks including ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC. The Company also provides specialized cables for security applications such as video surveillance systems, airport baggage screening, building access control, motion detection, public address systems, and advanced fire alarm systems. It manufactures flexible, copper-clad coaxial cable and associated connector products for the high-speed transmission of data, sound, and video (broadband) that are used for the drop section of cable television (CATV) systems and satellite direct broadcast systems.

For the broadband end market, Belden manufactures and develops connectivity solutions in several product categories: coax connector products that allow for connections from the provider network to the subscribers��devices, hardline connectors that allow service providers to dist! ribute th! eir services within a city, a town or a neighborhood and entry devices that serves to manage and remove network signal noise that could impair performance for the subscriber, and traps and filtering devices that allow service providers to control the signals that are transmitted to the subscriber.

During 2012, the Americas segment contributed approximately 64% of its consolidated revenues. This segment sells the full array of its products for the industrial, enterprise,and broadcast markets. The EMEA segment contributed approximately 19% of its consolidated revenues. This segment sells the full array of its products for the industrial, enterprise,and broadcast markets. The Asia Pacific segment contributed approximately 17% its consolidated revenues. This segment sells the full array of its products for the industrial, enterprise,and broadcast markets.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By John Seward]

    Belden Inc. (NYSE: BDC) will replace Fidelity National Inc. (NYSE: FNF) in the S&P MidCap 400 June 30, when Synergy Resources (AMEX: SYRG) will replace Belden in the S&P SmallCap 600. Fidelity is reclassifying its shares into two tracking stocks which are ineligible for S&P indexes.

  • [By Seth Jayson]

    Belden (NYSE: BDC  ) reported earnings on May 2. Here are the numbers you need to know.

    The 10-second takeaway
    For the quarter ended March 31 (Q1), Belden met expectations on revenues and beat expectations on earnings per share.

  • [By Damian Illia]

    Finally, I always like to see one of the most important financial ratios applying to stockholders, the best measure of performance for a firm's management: the return on equity. The ratio has decreased when compared to its ROE from the same quarter one year prior. Currently, a ROE of 45.9% is higher than all the 1,805 companies in the Diversified Industrials industry. Competitors such General Cable Corp. (BGC) has a very low ROE of 0.3% which is clearly not attractive. An alternative could be Belden Inc. (BDC) with a positive ROE of 24%.

  • [By Rich Duprey]

    Signal transmission specialist�Belden� (NYSE: BDC  ) �announced yesterday�its second-quarter dividend of $0.05 per share, the same rate it has paid since 2004 when it first began making a payout.

Top Forestry Stocks To Buy For 2014: Atmel Corporation(ATML)

Atmel Corporation designs, develops, manufactures, and sells semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) products. The company?s Microcontrollers segment provides various proprietary and standard microcontrollers, such as Atmel?s capacitive touch products, including maXTouch and QTouch, AVR 8-bit and 32-bit products, ARM-based products, and Atmel?s 8051 8-bit products. Its Nonvolatile Memories segment offers serial interface electrically erasable programmable read-only memory and serial interface flash memory products; and parallel interface flash memories, as well as parallel interface electrically erasable programmable read-only memory and erasable programmable read-only memory devices. The company?s Radio Frequency and Automotive segment provides products designed for the automotive industry, including automobile electronics, networking and access systems, and engine, lighting, and entertainment components. This segment produces and sells wireless and wired devices for in dustrial, consumer, and automotive applications; and offers foundry services, which produce radio frequency products for the mobile telecommunications market. Its Application Specific Integrated Circuit segment provides custom application specific ICs designed to meet specialized single-customer requirements of high performance devices in a range of specific applications. This segment provides products that provide hardware security for embedded digital systems; and products with military and aerospace applications, as well as develops application specific standard products for space applications, power management, and secure crypto memory products. The company sells its products directly to original equipment manufacturers; and indirectly through a network of distributors. It has operations in the United States, Asia, Europe, South Africa, and Central and South America. Atmel Corporation was founded in 1984 and is headquartered in San Jose, California.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By GuruFocus]

    George Soros (Trades, Portfolio) just reported his first quarter portfolio. He buys Citrix Systems Inc, Baker Hughes Inc, Comcast Corp, Spansion Inc, etc during the 3-months ended 03/31/2014, according to the most recent filings of his investment company, Soros Fund Management LLC. As of 03/31/2014, Soros Fund Management LLC owns 305 stocks with a total value of $10.1 billion. These are the details of the buys and sells.New Purchases: BHI, CODE, CTRP, CLI, AVB, COMM, CNQ, AGO, AUY, ATML, ASH, BXMT, CSTM, AEM, CMA, ARE, CHKP, AUQ, BEAV, CX, ADSK, AALCP, BLK, AIG, BIIB, ADEP, AMRI, ARWR, ATHX, BALT, BCRX, BEAT, CFX, CLFD, CUR, CODE,Added Positions: CTXS, CMCSA, CNP, ALTR, BRCD, CBS, CRM, CHTR, CCJ, CIEN, BIDU, ALLE, ABT, CDNS, ACT,Reduced Positions: AAPL, CCI, AMT, ABBV, AAL, BITA, AL, ANGI, ARIA, CBST, BA, BIRT, EXAR,Sold Out: C, BAC, CRI, AMZN, AGN, CF, BRCM, COTY, BMY, AMCX, CAR, A, ADBE, AFL,For the details of George Soros (Trades, Portfolio)'s stock buys and sells, go to http://www.gurufocus.com/StockBuy.php?GuruName=George+SorosThis is the sector weightings of his portfolio:Technology18.9%Energy14%Healthcare8.3%Consumer Defensive8.2%Communication Services8.1%Consumer Cyclical5.4%Industrials5.1%Basic Materials4.9%Financial Services2.5%Real Estate1.9%Utilities0.5%These are the top 5 holdings of George Soros (Trades, Portfolio)1. Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd (TEVA) - 10,310,041 shares, 5.4% of the total portfolio. Shares added by 10.67%2. Herbalife Ltd (HLF) - 4,901,337 shares, 2.8% of the total portfolio. Shares added by 52.9%3. EQT Corp (EQT) - 2,573,814 shares, 2.5% of the total portfolio. Shares added by 3.27%4. Adecoagro SA (AGRO) - 25,915,076 shares, 2.1% of the total portfolio.5. Halliburton Co (HAL) - 3,596,353 shares, 2.1% of the total portfolio. Shares reduced by 20.73%New Purchase: Baker Hughes Inc (BHI)George Soros (Trades, Portfolio) initiated holdings in Baker Hughes Inc. His purchase prices were between $51.82 and $65.27, with an estimated

  • [By Ali Berri]

    Atmel (NASDAQ: ATML) shares tumbled 7.50 percent to $7.96 after the company reported in-line Q2 earnings. Bank of America downgraded Atmel from Buy to Neutral.

  • [By Selena Maranjian]

    Among holdings in which Gotham Asset Management increased its stake was Atmel (NASDAQ: ATML  ) , which makes touchscreen controllers. The stock recently hit a 52-week high, but it has been posting shrinking revenue and earnings lately. The company is plumping up its profit margins by cutting costs, has a growing backlog, and expects improving business conditions. Some see the stock as undervalued, with its forward P/E near 14.

Top Forestry Stocks To Buy For 2014: Deutsche Bank AG (SBND)

Deutsche Bank AG is a global investment bank. The Company offers a variety of investment, financial and related products and services to private individuals, corporate entities and institutional clients around the world. The Company operates through such divisions as: Private and Business Clients, Asset and Wealth Management, Corporate Banking and Securities, Global Transaction Banking and Non-Core Operations Unit. Deutsche Bank AG is active domestically and in various countries, through the network of numerous branches. In February 2014, the Company and its related bodies corporate ceases to a share holder in the capital of the Company. Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Donald van Deventer]

    Long-duration Treasury Exchange-Traded Funds: (TLH), , (IEF), (DTYL), (DLBL), (ILTB), (TENZ), (ITE), (TLO), (EDV), (VGIT), (VGLT), (TMF), (TYD), (LBND), (UBT), (UST), (TMV), (TYO), (DSTJ), (DSXJ), (SBND), (PST), (DTYS), (DLBS), (TBF), (TTT), (TYNS), (TYBS), (TBX).

Top Forestry Stocks To Buy For 2014: FactSet Research Systems Inc. (FDS)

FactSet Research Systems Inc. provides financial and economic information to investment community worldwide. FactSet offers fundamental financial data on various companies, analytical applications, and client services to the portfolio managers, research and performance analysts, risk managers, marketing professionals, sell-side equity research professionals, investment bankers, and fixed income professionals. The company?s applications provide users access to company analysis, multicompany comparisons, industry analysis, company screening, portfolio analysis, predictive risk measurements, alphatesting, portfolio optimization and simulation, news and quotes, and tools to value and analyze fixed income securities and portfolios. FactSet combines commercial databases, including content regarding companies and securities from various markets into a single online platform of information and analytics. The company?s solutions for investment management professionals include analy zing market, sector, and fundamental series; offering applications for portfolio attribution, risk management, and quantitative analysis; building quant models and calculating risk; analyzing the nuances of the debt-driven market; viewing event transcripts and corporate event calendars; researching and analyzing companies, benchmarks, debt instruments, and economic series; integrating the client?s own data, such as portfolio holdings and research notes; and creating reports and presentations. FactSet?s solutions for investment banking professionals comprise creating models and presentations; tracking market performance and headlines; providing deal analytic and corporate governance servies; researching on public and private companies; auditing financials underlying SEC filings and annual reports; and providing access to reports via wireless handheld device. The company was founded in 1978 and is headquartered in Norwalk, Connecticut.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Cory Renauer]

    Last year, Gilead endured its fair share of criticism when it acquired Pharmasset -- the previous owner of sofosbuvir -- for $11.2 billion. According to FactSet Research Systems, (FDS) annual sales of sofosbuvir could reach $6.42 billion by 2017, easily making it the company's biggest seller.

  • [By Monica Gerson]

    Wall Street expects FactSet Research Systems (NYSE: FDS) to report its Q4 earnings at $1.21 per share on revenue of $218.93 million. FactSet Research shares rose 0.49% to $112.80 in after-hours trading.

  • [By Lauren Pollock]

    FactSet Research Systems Inc.'s(FDS) fiscal first-quarter profit rose 4.8% as an increase in its client count offset charges from the company’s acquisition of a financial data service company. The company gave a cautious earnings view for the current quarter.

  • [By Holly LaFon] et researches global market trends and develops analytical tools for investors. Of all of GuruFocus��5-star predictable companies, it has the highest return on assets at 27%. ROA has been increasing over the past several years. The average return on assets for the software industry for the trailing 12 months is 13.07%.

    In 2011, the company�� total assets increased to $657 million from $645 the prior year. Its net income increased to $171 million from $150.

    The All-in-One Screener is a fully customizable stock-searching tool just introduced by GuruFocus. Search for stocks according to your own set of requirements here.

Friday, February 27, 2015

Best Tech Stocks To Own For 2014

The biotech industry is a marvel among traders and investors because it can double your investment, or halve it, based on a single clinical study. Millions, sometimes billions, of research dollars are poured into developing new drugs and bringing these therapies to market -- $49 billion throughout the entire industry last year, according to PhRMA. However, a vast majority of drugs discovered in the laboratory setting will never see the light of day.

Source: Idaho National Laboratory, Flickr.

Based on data from Medscape, only about one in every 5,000 to 10,000 researched drugs in preclinical trials will be approved by the Food and Drug Administration. This means there's quite the premium given to biotech stocks because of solid clinical data, and quite the haircut when it doesn't pan out.

5 Best China Stocks To Own For 2015: Zygo Corporation(ZIGO)

Zygo Corporation designs, develops, and manufactures ultra-high precision measurement solutions to enhance its customers? manufacturing yields, and optical sub-systems and components for original equipment manufacturer and end-user applications in the Americas, the Far East, and Europe. It operates in two segments, Metrology Solutions and Optical Systems. The Metrology Solutions segment offers 3-Dimensional surface metrology products, precision positioning systems, and custom engineered solutions that are used to measure surface characteristics and critical parameters, including topography and roughness, shape, dimension, thickness, optical characteristics, and defects. This segment primarily provides NewView Series 3D Optical Profilers for fuel injector components; ZeGage to measure and visualize various materials, including rubber, paper, metal, plastic, and ceramics; VeriFire Asphere system that provides high resolution 3-Dimensional surface metrology for aspheric shap ed surfaces; VeriFire Systems, which are optical systems; GPI and VeriFire systems for the defense/aerospace market; and semiconductor products. It serves automotive, consumer electronics, medical, aerospace, military, materials research, optics, flat panel displays, and semiconductor industries. The Optical Systems segment manufactures high precision optical components and electro-optical systems used in the semiconductor, defense, life-sciences, and research markets. It offers defense-related products comprising lenses, windows, freeform optics and assemblies, and meter class optical components; life-science products, such as laser eye correction, dental 3D imaging, and genomic analysis instruments; and custom components and assemblies used in the manufacture of semiconductor chips. The company markets its products through direct sales force, as well as through independent agents and distributors. Zygo Corporation was founded in 1970 and is headquartered in Middlefield, Co nnecticut.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Monica Gerson]

    Zygo (NASDAQ: ZIGO) shares gained 31.06% to touch a new 52-week high of $19.24 after Ametek (NYSE: AME) announced its plans to buy Zygo for about $364 million.

Best Tech Stocks To Own For 2014: Provectus Pharmaceuticals Inc (PVCT)

Provectus Pharmaceuticals, Inc., incorporated on May 1, 1978, is a development-stage pharmaceutical company that is primarily engaged in developing ethical pharmaceuticals for oncology and dermatology indications. The Company develops and focuses to license or market and sells its two prescription drug candidates, PV-10 and PH-10. The Company has transferred all its intellectual property related to over the counter (OTC) products and non-core technologies to its subsidiaries and designated, such subsidiaries as non-core to its primary business of developing its oncology and dermatology prescription drug candidates. The Company focuses on developing its prescription drug candidates PV-10 and PH-10. The Company is developing PV-10 for treatment of several life threatening cancers, including metastatic melanoma, liver cancer, and breast cancer. The Company is developing PH-10 to provide minimally invasive treatment of chronic severe skin afflictions such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, a type of eczema. All of the Company's prescription drug candidates are in either the pre-clinical or clinical trial stage.

PV-10

As of December 31, 2011, the Company is developing PV-10, a sterile injectible form of rose bengal disodium (Rose Bengal), for direct injection into tumors. Its PV-10 is retained in diseased or damaged tissue but dissipates from healthy tissue. The Company had conducted Phase I and Phase IIstudies of PV-10 for the treatment of metastatic melanoma, and Phase I studies of PV-10 for the treatment of liver and breast cancers.

PH-10

The Company�� prescription drug candidate PH-10 is an aqueous hydrogel formulation of Rose Bengal for topical administration to the skin. The Company is developing PH-10 for the treatment of cutaneous skin disorders, specifically psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. In August 2011, the Company completed follow-up of all Phase IIc patients.

Over-the-Counter Pharmaceuticals

The Company had desi! gnated its subsidiary that holds its OTC products, GloveAid and Pure-ific, Pure-Stick, Pure N Clear as non-core. The Company�� GloveAid is a hand cream with both antiperspirant and antibacterial properties, for the comfort of users��hands during and after the wearing of disposable gloves. Its Pure-ific line of products includes two quick-drying sprays, Pure-ific and Pure-ific Kids, that immediately kill up to 99.9% of germs on skin and prevent regrowth for six hours. Pure-ific products prevent the spread of germs and thus complement its other OTC products designed to treat irritated skin or skin conditions, such as acne, eczema, dandruff and fungal infections. Its Pure-ific sprays have been designed with convenience in mind and are targeted towards mothers, travelers, and anyone concerned about the spread of sickness-causing germs.

The Company�� acne products Pure-Stick and Pure N Clear work by decreasing the production of fats, oils and sweat that create an environment conducive to unchecked growth of bacteria. Secondly, the products also act to reduce the number bacteria already present. The Pure-Stick and Pure N Clear are applied topically to affected areas there are no safety concerns with healthy skin.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Jake L'Ecuyer]

    Provectus Biopharmaceuticals (NYSE: PVCT) was also down, falling 3.02 percent to $3.01, letting out some air after the company's opening on the NYSE Friday.

  • [By Luke Jacobi]

    Provectus Biopharmaceuticals (NYSE: PVCT) was also down, falling 3.38 percent to $3.01, letting out some air after the company's opening on the NYSE Friday.

Best Tech Stocks To Own For 2014: Tellabs Inc.(TLAB)

Tellabs, Inc. designs, develops, and supports telecommunications networking products for communication service providers in the United States and internationally. Its products and services enable customers to deliver wireless and wireline voice, data, and video services to business and residential customers. The company operates through three segments: Broadband, Transport, and Services. The Broadband segment provides access products that enable service providers to deliver bundled voice, video, and high-speed Internet/data services over copper or fiber networks; managed access products, which deliver wireless and business services primarily outside of North America; and data products, including packet-switched products that enable wireless and wireline carriers to deliver mobile voice and Internet services, and wireline business services to their customers. The Transport segment enables service providers to manage network bandwidth by adding capacity needed; and wireline and wireless providers to support metro networks, mobile services, and business services for enterprises, as well as triple-play voice, video, and data services for residential consumers. The Services segment delivers deployment, training, support, and professional services, which support various phases of the network, such as planning, building, and operating. Tellabs, Inc. serves primarily communication services providers, including local exchange carriers; wireline and wireless service providers; multiple system operators; competitive service providers; distributors; original equipment manufacturers; system integrators; and government agencies. The company sells its products and services through its direct sales and sales support personnel, value-added resellers, independent sales representatives, distributors, and public and private network providers. Tellabs, Inc. was founded in 1974 and is headquartered in Naperville, Illinois.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By SA Pro Top Ideas]

    Stock Movers and Great Calls
    Alpha-Rich long and short ideas regularly move stocks and identify stocks that are about to move. Some notable recent calls subscribers had early access to:

    Saidal Mohmand argued Wednesday that Tellabs (TLAB) was a strong assets play on the verge of a turnaround. The stock is +5.9% since. Read article » On June 13, Stephen Lin said that Ellie Mae's (ELLI) dominant position could mean 45% upside. Shares are +30.7% since. Read article »

    To Come Today
    Don't forget to check your SA Pro dashboard later today for the latest Alpha-Rich ideas, including a REIT with strong management and many catalysts. Any thoughts to share on the latest Alpha-Rich ideas? Leave a comment here. Have a great weekend.

    SA Pro Editors
    …............

    The SA Pro team is Eli Hoffmann (Editor in Chief), Rachael Granby (Editorial Product Manager), Daniel Shvartsman, Samir Patel, Michael McDonald, and Jeffrey Fischer (Senior Pro Editors). You can reach us at pro-editors@seekingalpha.com.

Best Tech Stocks To Own For 2014: Coherent Inc.(COHR)

Coherent, Inc. provides photonics-based solutions for a range of commercial and scientific research applications worldwide. The company engages in designing, manufacturing, servicing, and marketing lasers, laser tools, precision optics, and related accessories. Its products are used in a range of applications, including microelectronics, scientific research and government programs, original equipment manufacturer components and instrumentation, and materials processing markets. The company markets its products primarily through a direct sales force, as well as through independent representatives. Coherent, Inc. was founded in 1966 and is headquartered in Santa Clara, California.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Brian Stoffel]

    Rofin-Sinar (NASDAQ: RSTI  ) , Coherent (NASDAQ: COHR  ) , Newport (NASDAQ: NEWP  ) , and JDS Uniphase (NASDAQ: JDSU  ) all offer fiber-optic lasers as well.

  • [By Evan Niu, CFA]

    What: Shares of Coherent (NASDAQ: COHR  ) ran higher by as much as 16% after the company reported fiscal second-quarter earnings.

    So what: Revenue in the quarter added up to $200.1 million, with adjusted earnings per share of $0.84. Both headline figures were ahead of consensus forecasts, which were perched at $198.2 million in sales and an adjusted profit of $0.80 per share. CEO John Ambroseo said demand in Coherent's commercial end markets improved, resulting in record bookings for materials processing.

  • [By Brian Stoffel]

    For decades, the standard technology in the laser industry has been the carbon-based laser. In reality, these lasers are still commonly used, and sold in bulk by the likes of Rofin-Sinar (NASDAQ: RSTI  ) and Coherent (NASDAQ: COHR  ) . They are used largely for precision cutting of large pieces of metal.

Best Tech Stocks To Own For 2014: Prosensa Holding NV (RNA)

Prosensa Holding N.V., formerly Prosensa Holding B.V., is a biotechnology company engaged in the discovery and development of ribonucleic acid-modulating (RNA)-modulating, therapeutics for the treatment of genetic disorders. The Company�� primary focus is on rare neuromuscular and neurodegenerative disorders with a large unmet medical need, including Duchenne muscular dystrophy, myotonic dystrophy and Huntington�� disease. The Company�� clinical portfolio of RNA-based product candidates is focused on the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). The Company�� platform technology allows the development of RNA-modulating therapeutics that either interferes with splicing (exon skipping, exon inclusion, or splice mutation correction), remove mutant RNA, or block RNA expression, for different indications.

DMD is a rare, severe muscle wasting disease that occurs in up to 1 in 3,500 male births. It is commonly diagnosed between the ages of three to five, when boys begin to show signs of impaired motor development. PRO044, the Company�� product candidate, addresses a separate sub-population of DMD patients. The Company developed PRO044 using its exon-skipping technology to generate a product candidate with the same mechanism of action that is used by drisapersen.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Bryan Murphy]

    Anybody who knows at least something about Prosensa Holding NV (NASDAQ:RNA) will at least know the stock turned into a disaster a few weeks ago, plunging from a close of $24.00 on September 19th to a close of $7.14 on September 20th, thanks to the failure of its MS drug drisapersen, which was jointly developed with GlaxoSmithKline plc (NYSE:GSK). Such is the life of a company with only one drug anywhere close to being approved; drisapersen was in Phase 3 trials - RNA shares could have just as easily gained 70% rather than lost 70% had the drug worked.

  • [By John Udovich]

    It should also be mentioned that earlier in the week, GlaxoSmithKline plc (NYSE: GSK) returned full rights of Duchenne muscular dystrophy drug drisapersen to their partner�Prosensa Holding NV (NASDAQ: RNA) and that news sent shares down 12.48% on�Monday. Moreover,�Prosensa Holding also sank some 70% last fall when Drisapersen failed a phase 3 trial by missing a primary endpoint measuring for how far patients could walk over the course of six minutes (the improvement�wasn't significantly better than the placebo).�However, Prosensa Holding also rose 24.37% yesterday after announcing�initial findings from further analyses from the aggregate data for drisapersen, with the CEO saying:

  • [By Garrett Cook]

    Prosensa Holding N.V. (NASDAQ: RNA) shares were also up, gaining 8.20 percent to $13.00 on the FDA requirement of additional data from Sarepta on Eteplirsen. Prosensa Holding is also looking to provide a drug to treat Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

  • [By Sean Williams]

    Shares of Sarepta climbed to a 52-week high of $55.61 in September shortly after an experimental rival drug, drisapersen, developed by Prosensa (NASDAQ: RNA  ) and GlaxoSmithKline (NYSE: GSK  ) , missed its primary end point by a mile in late-stage trials. However, Sarepta also tanked just weeks later after the Food and Drug Administration decided against supporting an accelerated drug approval for eteplirsen; the agency would not make the connection that increased dystrophin production led to its remarkable trial results.�Also, given the recent failure of drisapersen in a phase 3 study, the FDA felt it pertinent that Sarepta engage in a broader study. Shares ultimately dipped as low as $12.12.�

Best Tech Stocks To Own For 2014: STMicroelectronics N.V.(STM)

STMicroelectronics N.V., an independent semiconductor company, engages in the design, development, manufacture, and marketing of a range of semiconductor integrated circuits and discrete devices. Its products include discrete and standard commodity components, application-specific integrated circuits, custom devices and semi-custom devices, and application-specific standard products for analog, digital, and mixed-signal applications. The company also offers subsystems and modules for the telecommunications, automotive, and industrial markets comprising mobile phone accessories, battery chargers, ISDN power supplies, and in-vehicle equipment for electronic toll payment, as well as provides Smartcard products. Its products are used in various microelectronic applications consisting of automotive products, computer peripherals, telecommunications systems, consumer products, industrial automation, and control systems. The company sells its products through distributors and ret ailers. STMicroelectronics N.V. was founded in 1987 and is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Seth Jayson]

    STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM  ) reported earnings on July 22. Here are the numbers you need to know.

    The 10-second takeaway
    For the quarter ended June 29 (Q2), STMicroelectronics met expectations on revenues and missed expectations on earnings per share.

  • [By ICRAOnline]

    Revenue for the last quarter stood at $73.4 million, up 27.9% from the year-ago quarter. This was primarily driven by the growth in memory technology licensing, coupled with impressive performance of its security technology licensing business. During the quarter, Rambus also signed new licensing agreements with tech giant Samsung Electronics, Micron Technology (MU), STMicroelectronics (STM), LSI Semiconductor (LSI) and SK Hynix. However, the company�� LED lighting business failed to make any significant contribution.

  • [By Lee Jackson]

    STMicroelectronics NV (NYSE: STM) supplies most set-top box chips for Scientific�Atlanta, and also sells chips for disk drives that end up in DVRs; but still has less than a 10% exposure. The consensus target for the stock is $11. Investors do receive an outstanding 4.0% dividend from the company.

  • [By Tyler Laundon]

    Analog Devices (ADI) is one of the largest semiconductor companies in the motion-sensing space, with a market cap of $15.87 billion. STM Electronics (STM) is a slightly smaller manufacturer; its market cap is $7.6 billion.

Saturday, February 21, 2015

Top European Stocks For 2015

Top European Stocks For 2015: TotalFinaElf S.A.(TOT)

TOTAL S.A., together with its subsidiaries, operates as an integrated oil and gas company worldwide. The company operates through three segments: Upstream, Downstream, and Chemicals. The Upstream segment engages in the exploration, development, and production of oil and natural gas. It also involves in the transportation, trade, and marketing of natural gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG), as well as in LNG re-gasification and natural gas storage operations. In addition, this segment engages in the shipping and trade of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG); power generation from gas-fired power plants, nuclear, or renewable energies; production, trade, and marketing of coal, as well as in solar power systems and technology operations. As of December 31, 2010, it had combined proved reserves of 10,695 Mboe of oil and gas. The Downstream segment involves in refining, marketing, trading, and shipping crude oil and petroleum products. It also produces a range of specialty products, s uch as lubricants, LPG, jet fuel, special fluids, bitumen, marine fuels, and petrochemical feedstock. This segment holds interests in 24 refineries located in Europe, the United States, the French West Indies, Africa, and China, as well as operates a network of 17,490 service stations. The Chemicals segment produces base chemicals, including petrochemicals and fertilizers, as well as engages in rubber processing, resins, adhesives, and electroplating activities. TOTAL S.A. was founded in 1924 and is based in Paris, France.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Ben Levisohn]

    HSBC’s Gordon Gray and team think it’s time to start buying big oil companies like Total (TOT), Chevron (CVX) and BP (BP). In a report released yesterday, they explained why:

  • [By Ben Levisohn]

    While Gheit and Amadeo don’t name names, BP’s peers are few: Ex! xonMobil (XOM), Royal Dutch Shell (RDS.A), Total (TOT) and Chevron (CVX). Each has a market cap higher than BP’s $127 billion.

  • [By Jonas Elmerraji]

    We'll start things out with a name that may come as a surprise, Total SA (TOT). Yes, the energy sector has gotten shellacked in recent months, and Total has been no exception: this $133 billion French oil and gas company is down almost 20% in the last six months. But while Total is down, it's not out yet – this stock looks ready for a reversal thanks to a classic technical price pattern.

    Total is currently forming a "cup and handle pattern". The cup and handle is formed by a cup-shaped rounding bottom in shares that's followed up by a short-duration channel down. The buy signal comes on a move through the pattern's price ceiling at $60. A move through $60 tells us that buyers are squarely in control in IBM.

  • source from Top Stocks For 2015:http://www.topstocksblog.com/top-european-stocks-for-2015-4.html

Friday, February 20, 2015

Best Oil Service Stocks To Buy For 2015

Best Oil Service Stocks To Buy For 2015: Manning & Napier Inc (MN)

Manning & Napier, Inc., incorporated on June 22, 2011, is an independent investment management firm. The Company provides a range of investment solutions through separately managed accounts, mutual funds and collective investment trust funds. The Company offers equity and fixed income portfolios as well as a range of blended asset portfolios, such as life cycle funds, that use a mix of stocks and bonds. The Company focuses on building an internal organization of specialists to provide additional consultative services beyond investment management. Effective June 2014, Manning & Napier Inc acquired 2100 Xenon Group LLC.

The Company serves clients, including individuals and institutions, which include 401(k) plans, pension plans, Taft-Hartley plans, and endowments and foundations. The Companys operations are based principally in the United States. The Companys operating subsidiaries include Manning & Napier Advisors, LLC, Exeter Advisors, LLC, Manning & Nap ier Investor Services, Inc., Manning & Napier Alternative Opportunities, LLC and Exeter Trust Company.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Michael Hamlett Jr.]

    Manning and Napier Inc. (MN) is an investment management firm involved in providing financial solutions for individual and institutional clients. Since 1970, MN has been offering portfolios with different asset classes, such as equity and fixed income, to clients with various accounts including seperately managed accounts, 401(k) plans, pension plans, endowments, and even foundations. For these services, clients pay a fee, and this is the way MN generates revenue.

  • source from Top Penny Stocks For 2015:http://www.seekpennystocks.com/best-oil-service-stocks-to-buy-for-2015-2.html

Tuesday, February 17, 2015

Hot Retail Companies To Watch For 2015

Hot Retail Companies To Watch For 2015: Pier 1 Imports Inc (PIR)

Pier 1 Imports, Inc. (Pier 1 Imports), incorporated in April 30, 1986, is a global importer of imported decorative home furnishings and gifts. As of March 2, 2013, the Company had 1,062 stores in the United States and Canada. During the fiscal year ended March 2, 2013 (fiscal 2013), the Company opened 22 new Pier 1 Imports stores and closed 12 stores. The Company operates regional distribution center facilities in or near Baltimore, Maryland; Columbus, Ohio; Fort Worth, Texas; Ontario, California; Savannah, Georgia, and Tacoma, Washington. The specialty retail operations of the Company consist of retail stores and e-Commerce operations conducting business under the name Pier 1 Imports, which sell a range of furniture, decorative home furnishings, dining and kitchen goods, candles, gifts and other specialty items for the home.

As of March 2, 2013, the Company operated 982 Pier 1 Imports stores in the United States and 80 Pier 1 Imports stores in Canada. During fiscal 2013, the Company supplied merchandise and licensed the Pier 1 Imports name to Grupo Sanborns, which sold Pier 1 Imports merchandise primarily in a store within a store format in 49 Sears Mexico stores and one store in El Salvador. The stores consist of freestanding units located near shopping centers or malls and in-line positions in major shopping centers. Pier 1 Imports operates in all major United States metropolitan areas and many of the primary smaller markets.

Decorative Accessories

This merchandise group constitutes the range of category of merchandise in Pier 1 Imports sales mix. These items are imported primarily from Asian and European countries, as well as some domestic sources. This merchandise group includes decorative accents, lamps, vases, dried and artificial flowers, baskets, ceramics, dinnerware, bath and fragrance products, candles, seasonal and gift items.

Furniture

This merchand! ise group cons ists of furniture and furniture cushions to be used in living, dining, office, kitchen and bedroom areas, sunrooms and on patios. Also included in this group are wall decorations and mirrors. These goods are imported from a variety of countries such as Vietnam, Malaysia, Brazil, Thailand, China, the Philippines, India and Indonesia, and are also obtained from domestic sources. This merchandise group is made of metal or handcrafted natural materials, including rattan, pine, beech, rubberwood and selected hardwoods with either natural, stained, painted or upholstered finishes.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Dan Caplinger]

    Bed Bath & Beyond stands to benefit from the upturn in the housing market that we've seen recently. Already, rival Williams-Sonoma (NYSE: WSM  ) , which operates the higher-end Pottery Barn home-furnishings chain, reported extremely strong sales, with its West Elm division showing the strongest results. With Pier 1 (NYSE: PIR  ) also having shown signs of benefiting from the booming market, Bed Bath & Beyond should finally enjoy some macroeconomic tailwinds to support its results.

  • [By Teresa Rivas]

    Pier One Imports (PIR) was jumping 3% Tuesday after an upgrade from Barclays.

    Analysts Alan Rifkin and Sam Reid upgraded the stock to Overweight from Equal Weight, and boosted their target price by $4, to $23, writing that the stock has suffered perfect storm of one-time operational headwinds that has masked its potential long-term performance.

    They write that this year should finally bring the payoff of years of significant investment in personnel and technology, and more normalized sales and margins will replace its previous high levels of capital expenditure.

    Given that the stock is off more than 20% in the past year, they also write that the selloff has gone too far, and it is a compelling buying opportunity at current levels, which represent a meaningful discount to peers. A! lthough t! he company just reported an upbeat fourth quarter last week, they expect the current first quarter to be a catalyst for the stock, as it will provide an opportunity for management to begin to demonstrate this renewed momentum.

    More from their note:

    Supporting top-line growth, we note: (1) E-comm investments have likely peaked; accelerating e-comm growth (to 10% in 2015) should be highly supportive of both top-line (and EBIT). We do not believe forward valuation fully reflects this. (2) A sequential acceleration in comps is highly likely. We are looking for 5% comps for 2014 (vs. 2.4% in 2013), which should yield productivity per square foot of ~$215. (3) PIRs merchandising strategy remains on track. We think differentiation relative to peer offerings is an underappreciated positive. (4) PIR should benefit from attractive housing industry fundamentals in 2014-15. Collectively, these four growth engines should support both occupancy and SG&A leverage. We also note that (5) the accelerated buyback underscores managements conviction in an operating performance rebound. After repurchasing 5% of total shares in the fi

  • [By Peter Graham]

    The Q3 2014 earnings report for large caphomedecor retailer Bed Bath & Beyond Inc (NASDAQ: BBBY), a potential peer of other furniture or home d茅cor retailers like mid capWilliams-Sonoma, Inc (NYSE: WSM) and small caps Restoration Hardware Holdings Inc (NYSE: RH) and Pier 1 Imports Inc (NYSE: PIR), is scheduled for after the market closes on Thursday (January 8th).Aside from the Bed Bath & Beyondearnings report, it should be said that Williams-Sonoma, Inc reported Q3 2014 earnings on November 19th (they beat expectations when revenues grew 8.7% to $1.143 billion and EPS increased 17.2% to $0.68); Restoration Hardware Holdings Inc reported Q3 2014 earnings on December 10th (revenues increased 22% to $484.7 million and adjusted net income increased 56% to $20.3 million); and Pier 1 Imports Inc reported Q3 2015 earnings on December 1! 8th (sale! s were up 4.1% to $484.5 million and net income was $17.9 million verses $26.8 million).

  • [By Chris Hill]

    In this installment of Investor Beat, Charly and Jason explain why they're keeping a close eye on shares of Pier 1 Imports (NYSE: PIR  ) and Kroger (NYSE: KR  ) .

  • source from Top Stocks To Buy For 2015:http://www.topstocksforum.com/hot-retail-companies-to-watch-for-2015.html

Best High Tech Stocks To Watch For 2015

Best High Tech Stocks To Watch For 2015: Pinnacle Entertainment Inc.(PNK)

Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. owns, develops, and operates casinos, and related hospitality and entertainment facilities in the United States. It operates casinos, such as L'Auberge du Lac in Lake Charles, Louisiana; River City Casino and Lumiere Place in St. Louis, Missouri; Boomtown New Orleans in New Orleans, Louisiana; Belterra Casino Resort in Vevay, Indiana; Boomtown Bossier City in Bossier City, Louisiana; and Boomtown Reno in Reno, Nevada. The company also operates River Downs racetrack in southeast Cincinnati, Ohio. As of May 26, 2011, it operated seven casinos and one racetrack. The company was formerly known as Hollywood Park, Inc. and changed its name to Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. in February 2000. Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. was founded in 1935 and is based in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Grace L. Williams]

    First up is Pinnacle Entertainment (PNK). CEO Anthony Michaal Sanfilippo bought 23,000 shares of the Las Vegas-based gaming company for $505,800. InsiderScore notes this is his first purchase in nearly two years and writes, After shares retreated more than 15% from a six-year high and with an activist hedge fund pushing the casino operator to spin off its real estate into a REIT, Sanfilippo stepped up with his first purchase. [He put] a fresh $500,000 into the stock at a price two times his cost basis of previous buys.

  • source from Top Penny Stocks For 2015:http://www.seekpennystocks.com/best-high-tech-stocks-to-watch-for-2015-2.html

Monday, February 16, 2015

Top Food Stocks To Invest In 2015

Top Food Stocks To Invest In 2015: Barry Callebaut AG (BARN)

Barry Callebaut AG is a Switzerland-based producer of cocoa, chocolate and confectionery products. The Company's manufacturing process involves all stages of the cocoa and chocolate value chain from the sourcing of raw materials to the delivery of the finished products. The Company operates three geographical segments, including Europe, Americas and Asia-Pacific, as well as its business segment Global Sourcing & Cocoa. The Global Sourcing & Cocoa business segment is responsible for the procurement of ingredients for chocolate production, including mainly cocoa, as well as sugar, dairy and nuts as common ingredients, as well as the Company's cocoa processing business. The Company serves the food industry, from industrial food manufacturers to professional or artisanal users of chocolate. The Company operates more than 50 chocolate and cocoa factories, and is present in over 30 countries. Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Sofia Horta e Costa]

    Elan Corp. jumped 8.4 percent in Dublin after authorizing the process of its sale. Hochtief AG gained the most in four months after the German builder said it will buy as much as 260 million euros ($346 million) of its own shares. Michelin & Cie, Europe's largest tiremaker, added 4.7 percent after data on its website showed tire demand surged in Brazil last month. Barry Callebaut AG (BARN) lost 3.4 percent after the maker of bulk chocolate sold about $302 million of new shares.

  • source from Top Stocks For 2015:http://www.topstocksblog.com/top-food-stocks-to-invest-in-2015-2.html

Sunday, February 15, 2015

Best Oil Stocks To Invest In Right Now

Best Oil Stocks To Invest In Right Now: Total SA (FP)

Total SA is a France-based integrated international oil and gas company. It is an integrated international oil and gas company and a chemicals manufacturer. Total engages in all aspects of the petroleum industry, including Upstream operations (oil exploration and production, together with activities related to natural gas), Refining & Chemicals (refining, petrochemicals, speciality chemicals, crude oil trading and shipping) and Marketing & Services (focused on the supply and sale of petroleum products, together with activities related to renewable energy). In April 12, 2013, it inaugurated the partnership with Veolia Environnement SA the Osilub plant. In July 2013, it sold its TIGF (Transport et Infrastructures Gaz France), gas transport and storage business. In September 2013, it announced the transfer to The National Gas Company of Trinidad &Tobago of all of its E&P assets in Trinidad through the sale of Total E&P Trinidad B.V and Elf Exploration Trinidad B.V. Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Sofia Horta e Costa]

    Lloyds dropped 3.5 percent after the U.K. government sold a 3.2 billion-pound ($5.1 billion) stake in the lender. Continental and Galp Energia SGPS SA fell at least 2.5 percent as investors sold shares in the companies. Total SA (FP) retreated 1.3 percent following a report that Groupe Bruxelles Lambert SA may dispose of its 4 percent stake in the French oil producer.

  • [By Namitha Jagadeesh]

    Telecom Italia (TIT) SpA gained 1.7 percent as Telefonica SA agreed to increase its stake in the phone operator. Nokia Oyj added 2.4 percent after a U.S. judge found that HTC Corp. violated two of its patents. Total (FP) SA climbed 2.6 percent after Barclays Plc raised its rating on the oil producer. Burckhardt Compression Holding AG slid 7.3 percent after saying fiscal first-half net income will decline from the year-earlier period.

  • source from Top Penny Stocks For 2015:http://www.seekpennystocks.com/best-oil-stocks-to-invest-in-right-now.html

Friday, February 13, 2015

New Rental Securitization Deal Likely Heralds Double Dip in Housing

Editor's Note: This morning, JPMorgan Chase, Deutsche Bank, and Credit Suisse will begin pitching the first-ever bond backed by U.S. home rental cashflows - a $500 million trade for Blackstone, a huge private equity firm. The road show begins with investor meetings in New York, and then moves on to Boston and Los Angeles before wrapping on Friday. This is a game-changing event, according to Shah. We wanted to share his analysis with you today, as the banks make their pitch, because of this deal's massive implications...

Today, in New York, investors will be pitched the first-ever REO-to-rental securitization deal. The $500 million deal bundles foreclosed single-family homes, "real-estate-owned" by Blackstone Group L.P. (NYSE: BX) , into securities that pass-through rental payments to investors.

The new securitization of rental properties comes at a time when home prices have rebounded dramatically across the country. But rather than confirming a bull market in housing, the "trade," as Reuters calls the transaction, likely heralds a coming double dip.

The upward trajectory of housing prices, fueled by private equity companies and hedge funds' cash purchases, now faces institutional liquidity demands - and their potential exit.

Here's what the Blackstone deal is all about, why its structure is problematic, how the ratings agencies will view it, and what it portends for the future.

This is a very big deal...

A New Way to Cash In on Housing Inventory

Blackstone Group, the world's largest private equity company, has since 2009 spent approximately $7.5 billion buying close to 40,000 foreclosed single-family homes across the U.S. While Blackstone is the largest owner of single-family homes purchased to rent, they are by no means the only institution heavily invested in this "trade."

Hedge funds and private equity companies stepped into the depressed housing market as banks and other institutions looked to offload huge inventories of foreclosed homes while mortgage lending standards and the Great Recession boosted interest in the rental market.

Blackstone's Invitation Homes unit rents out its properties that, according to sources familiar with Blackstone's purchases in areas such as Tampa and Phoenix, are typically three-bedroom, two-and-one-half bath homes averaging approximately 1,900 square feet.

The Invitation Homes 2013-SFR-1 securitization deal is structured as a real estate mortgage investment conduit (REMIC). REMICs are the preferred structure of mortgage-backed-securities (MBS) and collateralized debt obligations (CDO).

REMICs offer tax advantages, and they define mortgage-backed securities' offerings and "permitted investments" - including cash flow investments, qualified reserve assets, and foreclosure property - as a sale of assets. This effectively removes the loans from the originating lender's balance sheet, as opposed to debt financing, in which loans and property remain as balance sheet assets.

Now, here's where things get interesting.

REMICs Are Legal Pyramid Schemes

There's a lot to a REMIC, but suffice it to say that, as a type of special-purpose vehicle structure, if their AAA ratings (which many "vintage" MBSs and CDOs once proudly waived at investors) are downgraded, they can easily be put into another trust, sliced into at least two parts, and have a substantial portion of the "re-REMIC's" securities again rated AAA.

What's interesting about the Invitation Homes securities is their one purported AAA rating.

The deal is expected to be rated by Kroll, Morningstar, and Moody's. Moody's may bestow the coveted AAA investment-grade rating on the issue, because homes in the portfolio have been secured by individual mortgage liens - as opposed to an equity pledge by the property-owning special purpose vehicle (SPV).

Any AAA rating is even more interesting, given one senior structured-credit portfolio manager's comments to Reuters on rating the first-ever REO-to-rental deal. He said, "Almost every ratings agency out there came out with criteria reports or commentaries this year saying an inaugural deal cannot get to Triple A. They said it would be Single A at most. It doesn't make sense, the agencies drew that line in the sand; they're on the record."

And, most interesting of all is that the REMIC structure allows issuers to re-REMIC thousands of downgraded REMIC-structured MBS pools into larger pools and again slice them into at least two tranches whereby lower tranches subordinate prime tranches, giving them a AAA rating yet again.

While that looks like - and essentially is - a kind of pyramiding, it is legal and sanctified.

This is because re-REMICing allows banks and other financial institutions to hold formerly downgraded securities (that they otherwise would have to account for as impaired or sell at a loss) as - presto change-o! - AAA-rated securities with significantly lower reserve requirements. It's not that re-REMICs don't then get downgraded - they do - but the game can be played over and over.

That's another reason the Invitation Homes deal is structured as a REMIC: It can always be re-REMIC'd.

No one expected Blackstone to pony up billions in cash from its institutional investors - including a $2.1 billion loan syndicated by the Invitation Homes lead underwriter Deutsche Bank - and not find a way to monetize its holdings. Blackstone's equity is leveraged by debt - very cheap debt thanks to the Federal Reserve's quantitative easing program.

Before costs for fixing up homes, insurance, taxes, and vacancies, Blackstone's new deal probably translates into rents that yield 6% to 8%. And, on a leveraged basis, it could yield Blackstone a return in the low teens - perhaps well above 20% - if portfolio homes appreciate handsomely.

But don't count on that.

Are the Rats Leaving the Sinking Ship?

Other players in the game have already exited the "trade," citing too much cheap money chasing the same trade, bidding up home prices to unsustainable levels along the way.

Och-Ziff Capital Management, a $32 billion hedge fund - and one of the first entrants into the buy-to-rent market - exited the whole business last October.

Carrington Mortgage Holdings, a division of Carrington Capital, is paring back its expectations and purchases.

Citing the influx of institutional money-chasing deals that are bringing down net returns, Carrington Mortgage's Executive Vice President Rick Sharga recently said, "It's not surprising that some investors may have overestimated rental returns. If you're an investor getting into this cold you were probably making assumptions based on models rather than experience."

Meanwhile Carrington's CEO Bruce Rose, one of the pioneers in bringing hedge funds like Oaktree Capital Management in as partners, is now saying, "We just don't see the returns there that are adequate to incentivize us to continue to invest."

And as recently as last June, Colony American Homes, another big player in the REO to rental space, pulled its IPO based on lackluster demand for its share offering.

Now that institutional buyers have bid up foreclosed homes and, in what amounts to a short-squeeze, ratcheted up home prices around the country, the questions to ask are: Is the recovery sustainable? Can home prices firm up at current levels and go higher? Is there underlying demand to support the rise in prices caused by institutional demand pull?

The short answer: Probably not.

With regard to "growth being propelled by institutional money," Fitch Ratings' analyst Suzanne Mistretta says, "The question is how much the change in prices really reflects market demand, rather than one-off market shifts that may not be around in a couple of years."

In a couple of years?

Institutional buyers are looking for the exit doors now.

With FICO scores dropping from foreclosure proceedings, high structural unemployment, and no meaningful jobs growth on the horizon, REO-to-rental business models had better model factors like tenants' employment prospects and desire to maintain - even if they stop paying rent - properties where they have no skin in the game.

It's not inconceivable that some of the $10 billion in REO-to-rental deals estimated to be in the pipeline over the next 18 months could see significant credit events causing their ratings to be lowered, especially if they are AAA to start with. We've seen that movie before and we know how it ends.

What makes me believe the rebound in home prices is unsustainable is that the once-popular, easy-money loan programs like exotic interest-only loans, negative amortizing loans, Pay Option adjustable-rate mortgages, and all the rest of the loan products that made buying a home possible are gone. And in their place are the tried and true, old-fashioned, fixed-rate 15- and 30-year maturity, plain-vanilla mortgage loans. And most of those require 20% down and are doled out grudgingly - at best.

There are far more negative questions than optimism on the housing horizon: Where's the new mortgage money going to come from? How hard will it become to get a mortgage? What if Fannie and Freddie are dismembered?

As Yogi Berra famously said, "When you reach the fork in the road, you take it."

I'm taking the path of least resistance and lining up my negative bets. It's almost time again.

Hot Supermarket Companies To Watch In Right Now

Hot Supermarket Companies To Watch In Right Now: TriQuint Semiconductor Inc.(TQNT)

TriQuint Semiconductor, Inc. provides radio frequency (RF) solutions and technology for communications, defense, and aerospace companies worldwide. The company designs, develops, and manufactures RF solutions with gallium arsenide (GaAs), gallium nitride, bipolar high electron mobility transistor, surface acoustic wave (SAW), temperature compensated surface acoustic wave, bulk acoustic wave (BAW), copper flip, and wafer level packaging technologies. The company offers an array of filtering, switching, and amplification products for RF, microwave, and millimeter-wave applications. It sells electronic components for mobile phones, including transmit modules, RF filters, power amplifiers and power amplifier modules, duplexers, switches, other RF devices, and integrated products to mobile device manufacturers. The company also offers signal amplification and filtering products, including a portfolio of GaAs microwave monolithic integrated circuits and transistors, and SAW and BAW filter components that support the transfer of voice, data, and video across wireless or wired infrastructure. Its network products comprise millimeter wave power amplifiers, frequency converters, and voltage controlled oscillators. In addition, the company provides defense and aerospace devices, including packaged products, die-level integrated circuits (ICs), microwave monolithic ICs, and multi-chip modules to military contractors serving the U.S. government for use in various communications and phased array radar programs, such as ship-based, airborne, and battlefield systems, as well as sat-com, electronic warfare, and guidance applications. Further, TriQuint Semiconductor, Inc. offers foundry services. The company sells its products through independent manufacturers? representatives, independent distributors, and direct sales staff. TriQuint Semiconductor, Inc. was founded in 1981 and is headquartered in Hillsboro, Oregon.

! Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By kcpl]

    Apple (AAPL) supplier TriQuint Semiconductor (TQNT) has been zooming this year with the stock up almost 60%. TriQuints share price received a boost after it announced a merger with RF Micro Devices (RFMD). Now, TriQuint is expected to release its first-quarter earnings report in April 23. Lets take a look at whats expected of the company and if it can sound out a good outlook.

  • [By Nate Pile]

    Steve Halpern: So, for your specific recommendations in the semiconductor sector, you've initially taken positions in TriQuint Semiconductor (TQNT), Cirrus Logic (CRUS), and NVIDIA (NVDA). Could you tell us about those positions and the strategy that you're using with them?

  • [By FinanceGuru]

    After reporting losses and falling short of estimates in the past year or so, TriQuint Semiconductor's (TQNT) last reported quarter and guidance did please investors. In the last six months, the stock has surged more than 65% as investors seem to be very hopeful that the much awaited turnaround is here and the company will soon be delivering profits. Let's analyze what's going to help the radio frequency chip manufacturer to deliver in the future.

  • [By Timothy Green]

    RF Micro Devices (NASDAQ: RFMD  ) and TriQuint Semiconductor (NASDAQ: TQNT  ) are merging into a new company, called Qorvo, with the deal set to close on Dec. 31. This year has been a great one for RF Micro, with the stock price soaring on the back of rising revenue and profits, and the merger promises both synergies and advantages from increased scale.

  • source from Top Penny Stocks For 2015:http://www.seekpennystocks.com/hot-supermarket-companies-to-watch-in-right-now.html

Thursday, February 12, 2015

5 Best Up And Coming Stocks To Watch For 2014

If you could build your own mutual fund, what would it include?

Andrew Rogers heads a firm that allows advisors to do just that. The CEO of Gemini Fund Services says it helps with all aspects of starting a pooled investment product as well as converting existing funds.

Rogers is seeing three areas of growth, all involving alternative investments. The first is a big uptick in interest in “the hedge fund to mutual fund conversion,” particularly with so-called multi-strategy products.

“The JOBS Act now allows hedge funds to advertise,” he notes. “This is ultimately, I think, a good thing because they can now promote their performance, and advisors can show clients how well certain strategies that they now have access to are performing.”

The second area of growth involves the ongoing (and increasingly desperate) search for yield with minimal accompanying interest-rate risk. It’s driving interest in hedged fixed-income, long/short fixed-income and REIT and real estate products, he adds.

Top 10 Chemical Stocks For 2015: Nuveen Insured California Premium Income Municipal Fund II In (NCL)

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., through its subsidiaries, operates as a cruise line operator, offering cruise experiences for travelers with various itineraries in North America, the Mediterranean, the Baltic, Central America, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. The company offers cruises ranging in length from 1 day to 3 weeks. As of December 31, 2012, it operated 11 ships offering cruises in Alaska, the Bahamas, Bermuda, the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, Mexico, New England, Central and South America, North Africa, and Scandinavia. The company was formerly known as NCL Corporation Ltd. and changed its name on January 24, 2013. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. was founded in 1966 and is headquartered in Miami, Florida.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Rick Munarriz]

    Carnival stock is trading closer to its 52-week low than its high, and the same can't be said of rivals Royal Caribbean (NYSE: RCL  ) and NCL (NYSE: NCL  ) .�

  • [By Rick Munarriz]

    Royal Caribbean,�NCL (NYSE: NCL  ) , and ship spa services provider Steiner Leisure (NASDAQ: STNR  ) all hit new 52-week highs earlier this month. Unlike Carnival (NYSE: CCL  ) -- which has been sluggish in light of several mishaps at sea since last year -- everyone seemed to view the negative instances as Carnival-specific events. Now Royal Caribbean's fire may lead folks to question booking on any cruise line in the near future.

5 Best Up And Coming Stocks To Watch For 2014: AtriCure Inc.(ATRC)

AtriCure, Inc., a medical device company, develops, manufactures, and sells cardiac surgical ablation systems designed to create precise lesions, or scars, in cardiac tissue. Its primary product line includes isolator synergy bipolar radio-frequency ablation clamps for open-heart procedures and minimally invasive procedures; ablation and sensing unit, a compact power generator that delivers bipolar radio-frequency (RF) energy; AtriCure switch box, a compact switch box providing the technology needed for the dual pulsing electrodes, and the ability to connect and toggle between multiple RF devices; isolator multifunctional pen, a disposable RF device enabling surgeons to toggle back and forth between temporary pacing, sensing, and stimulation and ablation; and coolrail linear ablation device, a disposable linear RF ablation device, which allows physicians to create an expanded cardiac ablation lesion set during minimally invasive procedures. The company also offers cryoabla tion system, which consists of various reusable and disposable devices, including the Frigitronics CCS-200 product line for cardiac ablation; and Cryo1, a disposable cryoablation device, as well as AtriClip system, which is designed to exclude the left atrial appendage by implanting the device during concomitant open surgical procedures from the outside of the heart. In addition, it sells enabling technologies, including Lumitip dissector to separate tissues to provide access to key anatomical structures targeted for ablation; and MicroPace ORLab system, a stimulating, mapping, and recording system enabling physicians to confirm the ablation lines being created are forming electrical barriers or lines of block. The company sells its medical devices to hospitals and medical centers in the United States and internationally. AtriCure, Inc. is headquartered in West Chester, Ohio.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By John Udovich]

    Small cap heart stocks Sunshine Heart Inc (NASDAQ: SSH), Abiomed, Inc (NASDAQ: ABMD) and AtriCure Inc (NASDAQ: ATRC) each find different ways go to the heart of the problem for cardiac�patients and have all been good performers for investors this year. After all and according to statistics collected by the CDC, heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women as about 600,000 people die of heart disease in the United States every year���accounting�for 1 in every 4 deaths. Moreover, roughly 715,000 Americans have a heart attack every year and�ff these, 525,000 are a first heart attack and 190,000 happen to people who have already had one. In other words, there is a big market for the following small cap heart stocks to address:

5 Best Up And Coming Stocks To Watch For 2014: CNinsure Inc.(CISG)

CNinsure Inc., together with its subsidiaries, provides insurance brokerage and agency services, and insurance claims adjusting services in the People?s Republic of China. The company offers property, casualty, and life insurance products underwritten by domestic and foreign insurance companies operating in China. Its property and casualty insurance products include automobile, individual accident, commercial property, homeowner, cargo, hull, liability, and construction insurance; and life insurance products comprise individual whole life insurance, term life insurance, education annuity, and health insurance, as well as universal insurance and group life insurance. The company also offers insurance claims adjusting services, which include pre-underwriting survey, claims adjusting, disposal of residual value, loading and unloading supervision, and consulting services, as well as damage assessment, survey, authentication, and loss estimation to insurance companies and the i nsured; and value-added services to its customers in conjunction with distributing automobile insurance products. As of April 15, 2010, its distribution and service network consisted of 49 insurance agencies, 3 insurance brokerages, and 4 claims adjusting firms, with 571 sales and service outlets. The company was founded in 1998 and is headquartered in Guangzhou, the People?s Republic of China.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Monica Gerson]

    CNinsure (NASDAQ: CISG) is projected to post its Q4 earnings at $0.10 per share.

    Ferrellgas Partners LP (NYSE: FGP) is expected to report its Q2 earnings at $0.85 per share on revenue of $722.07 million.

  • [By Jake L'Ecuyer]

    Financial sector was the leading decliner in the US market today. Top losers in the sector included GSV Capital (NASDAQ: GSVC), off 9.3 percent, and Cninsure (NASDAQ: CISG), down around 6.6 percent.

  • [By Laura Brodbeck]

    Monday

    Earnings Releases Expected:  CNinsure (NASDAQ: CISG), Adept Technology (NASDAQ: ADEP), OSI Systems (NASDAQ: OSIS) Economic Releases Expected: U.S. new home sales, U.S. services PMI, German Ifo business climate index

    Tuesday

  • [By John Udovich]

    China is set to ease the one child policy, something that could benefit Chinese stocks in general but be especially beneficial to insurance stocks like China Life Insurance Company Ltd (NYSE: LFC) and CNinsure Inc (NASDAQ: CISG) plus health care stocks like Mindray Medical International Ltd�(NYSE: MR) and Concord Medical Services Hldg Ltd (NYSE: CCM). First, let�� be clear that China is NOT abolishing the one child policy as the changes will merely�allow married couples to have two children if one spouse is an only child plus it will be up to China�� 34 province-level administrations to revise�their laws and put the new policy into effect. Moreover, China�� family-planning bureaucracy employs more than 500,000 full-time workers and six million part-time workers all the way down to the village level to�collect billions of dollars in fines and these bureaucrats have fought for years against policy changes���meaning they could throw up roadblocks if not placated. With that said, the insurance and health care sectors are two sectors with publicly Chinese stocks that look set to�take advantage of the coming changes.

5 Best Up And Coming Stocks To Watch For 2014: Heritage-Crystal Clean Inc.(HCCI)

Heritage-Crystal Clean, Inc. provides industrial and hazardous waste services to small and mid-sized customers in the United States. Its services comprise parts cleaning, containerized waste management, used oil collection and re-refining, and vacuum truck services. The company provides its parts cleaning services by offering parts cleaning equipment and chemicals to remove oil and grease, and other contaminants from engine parts and machine parts requiring cleaning. It also offers containerized waste management services by collecting drums, pails, boxes, and other containers of hazardous and non-hazardous waste materials from its customers. The company provides its vacuum truck services for the removal of mixtures of oil, water, and sediment from wastewater pretreatment devices. In addition, Heritage-Crystal Clean, Inc. provides bulk used oil collection services; and customer visit and accumulated oil removal services. As of December 31, 2011, the company operated 94 used oil collection trucks. Its customers include businesses involved in vehicle maintenance operations, such as car dealerships, automotive repair shops, and trucking firms, as well as small manufacturers comprising metal product fabricators and printers. The company operates a network of 67 branch facilities. Heritage-Crystal Clean, Inc. was incorporated in 2007 and is headquartered in Elgin, Illinois.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Seth Jayson]

    Calling all cash flows
    When you are trying to buy the market's best stocks, it's worth checking up on your companies' free cash flow once a quarter or so, to see whether it bears any relationship to the net income in the headlines. That's what we do with this series. Today, we're checking in on Heritage-Crystal Clean (Nasdaq: HCCI  ) , whose recent revenue and earnings are plotted below.

  • [By Seth Jayson]

    When judging a company's prospects, how quickly it turns cash outflows into cash inflows can be just as important as how much profit it's booking in the accounting fantasy world we call "earnings." This is one of the first metrics I check when I'm hunting for the market's best stocks. Today, we'll see how it applies to Heritage-Crystal Clean (Nasdaq: HCCI  ) .

Wednesday, February 11, 2015

Top 10 Quality Stocks To Own For 2015

Top 10 Quality Stocks To Own For 2015: View Systems Inc (VSYM)

View Systems, Inc. (View Systems), incorporated on July 25, 2003, develops, produces and markets computer software and hardware systems for security and surveillance applications. The Company has penetrated four market segments for this product: correctional facilities, judicial facilities, probation offices and federal facilities in the Mid-Atlantic States, the West Coast and the South. The Companys products and services include ViewScan Concealed Weapons Detection System, Multi-Mission Mobil Video (MMV), ViewMaxx Digital Video System, Additional Applications and Integration of ViewScan and ViewMaxx, the MINI, Network Services, FiberXpress, Inc., Visisys Ltd. and Training and Service Programs.

ViewScan Concealed Weapons Detection System

ViewScan is sold under the name Secure Scan, is a walk-through concealed weapons detector, which uses data sensing technology to pinpoint the location, size and number of concealed weapons. This walk-through po rtal is controlled by a master processing board and a personal computer based unit which receives magnetic and video information and combines it in a manner that allows the suspected location of the weapon to be stored electronically and referenced. ViewScan products are distributed in three basic configurations; stand-alone units, portable units and integrated door systems. ViewScan is designed to overcome the traditional shortcomings of electromagnetic induction scanners.

Multi-Mission Mobil Video

The MMV is a lightweight, wireless camera system housed in a tough, waterproof body. The camera system sends back real-time images to a computer or video monitor at the command post located outside the exclusion zone or containment area. The MMV also uses an Extension Link which is a separate transmitter and receiving system that increases the operating range of the MMV.

The Company has incorporated a video encryption feature tha! t allows fir st responders to transmit on-scene video to the command post without the data being intercepted by unwanted parties. The MMV is fully deployed by one person in a stand-alone configuration in less than 10 minutes. The system is battery operated and can operate for eight continuous hours using one set of spare camera batteries.

ViewMaxx Digital Video System

ViewMaxx is a high-resolution, digital video recording and real-time monitoring system. This system can be scaled to meet a specific customer's needs by using anywhere from one camera up to 32 surveillance cameras per each ViewMaxx unit. The system uses a video capture card recording which translates closed-circuit television analog video data (a format normally used by broadcasters for national television programs) to a computer readable digital format to be stored on direct access digital disk devices rather than the conventional television format of video tape. ViewMaxx offers programmable recor ding features that can eliminate the unnecessary storage of non-critical image data.

Additional Applications and Integration of ViewScan and ViewMaxx

The Company offers integration of other products with ViewScan or ViewMaxx. Its product can be interfaced with ViewScan and/or ViewMaxx to limit individual access to an area. ViewScan and/or ViewMaxx can be coupled with magnetic door locks to restrict access to a particular area. It also offers a central monitoring or video command center for ViewScan or ViewMaxx products.

The MINI

The MINI (Mobile Intelligent Network Informer) is a portable, wireless watchdog communication device that checks for intrusion into uninhabited areas such as foreclosed houses, storage spaces and vacation homes. The MINI senses motion and sends text messages to a user's cell phone. Property and remote assets may be guarded by this device that requires no plug-in electricity, no physical phone line a nd no monitoring service. The MINI runs on! batterie! s and one configuration of the system can even send a photo of the intruder to the user's cell phone. Camera settings can be controlled and changed via short message service (SMS) commands. It licenses the MINI from its manufacturer and acts as a distributor.

Network Services

View Systems Inc. Network Services group supplied integrated electronic security and control systems. It supplied for commercial and industrial applications throughout the Mid Atlantic area.

FiberXpress, Inc.

FiberXpress, Inc. sells specialist data network related products. It sells its products through its Internet Website.

Visisys Ltd.

During the year ended December 31, 2011, there were no revenues from this partnership. The Company's partnership with Visisys, Ltd. has been terminated.

Training and Service Programs

The Company offers support service s for our products, which includes on site consulting/planning with customer architect and engineers; installation and technical support; installation and technical support, and cand. The Company's family of products offers government and law enforcement agencies, commercial security professionals, private businesses and residential consumers an enhanced surveillance and detection capacity. Its ViewScan products and technology can be used where there is a temporary requirement for real-time weapons detection devices in areas where a permanent installation is prohibitive or impractical.

A primary market for the Company's ViewScan portal is federal and state government courthouses, county and municipal buildings, and correctional facilities. The Company has installed its ViewScan weapons detection products in a variety of court house situations. The MMV product's market includes National Guard units and first response agencies such as fire, police, SWAT, and homel and security response teams.

The Company competes with Ranger Security Scanners, Inc., Garrett! Electron! ics, Inc., CEIA SpA, Sensormatic Corporation, NICE Systems, Ltd. and Integral Systems.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By John Udovich]

    Small cap security stocks Analogic Corporation (NASDAQ: ALOG), OSI Systems, Inc (NASDAQ: OSIS) and View Systems Inc (OTCBB: VSYM) all aid Big Brother to keep us safe with security inspection systems intended for airports and other publicplaces rather than equipment to just spy on us. Moreover, the security inspection systems market is global and massive as its not just about detecting potential hijackers at airports as such systems can be used to fight or prevent crime. With that thought in mind, here is a look at three small cap security inspection system stocks:

  • [By James E. Brumley]

    On the surface, the press release in and of itself may seem benign ... almost innocuous. When you start to proverbially put two and two together, however, this morning's news from View Systems Inc. (OTCBB:VSYM) could actually be early notice that things are about to change for the young, small company. By digging deeper into the details, it becomes clear that VSYM could become in Brazil what TASER International, Inc. (NASDAQ:TASR) and OSI Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:OSIS) have become in the United States - security icons. View Systems shareholders could be on the same bullish receiving end of things that OSIS and TASR shareholders were on when each of those companies were experiencing a growth spurt a few years back.

  • source from Top Stocks To Buy For 2015:http://www.topstocksforum.com/top-10-quality-stocks-to-own-for-2015-3.html

Monday, February 9, 2015

Hot Financial Companies To Own For 2014

U.S. securities regulators issued a proposal requiring private venues including dark pools to release more data, including weekly volume reports and disclosures on how much trading of each stock they handle.

The rules, if approved by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, would shed light on operators that have historically faced no obligation to publicly report their market share, so information has either been self-reported or estimated by analysts. The shift applies to dark pools and venues known as alternative trading systems, not the transactions broker-dealers handle within their walls via a process called internalization.

The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, the private-sector overseer of U.S. brokerages, announced the proposed rules in a filing dated yesterday. If approved, Finra would start releasing data to the public on a two- or four-week delay depending on the stock. The decision comes as the SEC prepares to publicly release its reports on U.S. trading amid criticism regulators haven�� kept up with changes in modern markets.

Top Prefered Stocks To Own For 2015: Golub Capital BDC Inc (GBDC)

Golub Capital BDC, Inc. (Golub Capital BDC), incorporated on November 9, 2009, is an externally managed, closed-end, non-diversified management investment company. The Company's investment objective is to generate current income and capital appreciation by investing primarily in senior secured, one stop, second lien, subordinated loans of, and warrants and minority equity securities in, United States middle market companies. The Company seeks to create a diverse portfolio that includes senior secured, one stop, second lien and subordinated loans and warrants and minority equity securities by primarily investing in the securities of United States middle market companies. The Company's investment activities are managed by the Company's investment adviser, GC Advisors LLC (GC Advisors).

The Company seeks to generate risk-adjusted net returns by assembling a diversified portfolio of investments across a broad range of industries and private equity investors. The Company seeks to create a diverse portfolio that includes senior secured, one stop, second lien and subordinated loans and warrants and minority equity securities by primarily investing on average, in the securities of United States middle market companies. The Company primarily targets United States middle markets companies controlled by private equity investors that require capital for growth, acquisitions, recapitalizations, refinancings and leveraged buyouts. The Company may also make opportunistic loans to independently owned and publicly held middle market companies. The Company focuses on senior secured loans and one stops investments, given the principal protection from the first lien security interest associated with such loans.

Senior Secured Loans

The Company structures these investments as senior secured loans. The Company obtains security interests in the assets of the portfolio company that serve as collateral in support of the repayment of such loans. This collateral may take the form of! first-priority liens on the assets of the portfolio company borrower. The Company's senior secured loans may provide for moderate loan amortization in the early years of the loan, with the majority of the amortization deferred until loan maturity.

One Stop Loans

The Company structures its one stop loans as senior secured loans. The Company obtains security interests in the assets of the portfolio company that serve as collateral in support of the repayment of these loans. This collateral may take the form of first-priority liens on the assets of the portfolio company. One stop loans typically provide for moderate loan amortization in the initial years of the facility, with the majority of the amortization deferred until loan maturity. One stop loans generally allow the borrower to make a lump sum payment of principal at the end of the loan term, and there is a risk of loss if the borrower is unable to pay the lump sum or refinance the amount owed at maturity.

Second Lien Loans

The Company structures these investments as junior, secured loans. The Company obtains security interests in the assets of the portfolio company that serve as collateral in support of the repayment of such loans. This collateral may take the form of second priority liens on the assets of a portfolio company. Second lien loans typically provide for moderate loan amortization in the initial years of the facility, with the majority of the amortization deferred until loan maturity.

Subordinated Loans

1The Company structures these investments as unsecured, subordinated loans that provide for relatively high, fixed interests rates that provide the Company with interest income. These loans typically have interest-only payments (often representing a combination of cash pay and payment-in-kind, or PIK, interest) with amortization of principal deferred until loan maturity.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Monica Gerson]

    Golub Capital BDC (NASDAQ: GBDC) dipped 2.88% to $17.89 in pre-market trading after the company announced a public offering of 3.5 million shares of its common stock.

  • [By GuruFocus]

    SVP and CFO Michael D James bought 2,500 shares of GMAN stock on 12/17/2013 at the average price of 7.1. Michael D James owns at least 69,158 shares after this. The price of the stock has increased by 6.9% since.

    Golub Capital BDC, Inc. (GBDC): CEO, 10% Owner David Golub Bought 5,000 Shares

    CEO, 10% Owner of Golub Capital BDC, Inc. (GBDC) David Golub bought 5,000 shares on 12/23/2013 at an average price of $18.71. Golub Capital BDC, Inc. was formed in November 2009. Golub Capital Bdc, Inc. has a market cap of $810.256 million; its shares were traded at around $18.71 with a P/E ratio of 13.90 and P/S ratio of 7.70. The dividend yield of Golub Capital Bdc, Inc. stocks is 6.84%.

  • [By Jordan Wathen]

    Alas, Eliasek's second comment about making sure the assets are qualifying rules out a senior secured lending program -- a strategy employed by competitors including Golub Capital� (NASDAQ: GBDC  ) and Ares Capital� (NASDAQ: ARCC  ) .

Hot Financial Companies To Own For 2014: Franklin Universal Trust (FT)

Franklin Universal Trust (the Fund) is a diversified, closed-end investment company. The Fund�� primary investment objective is to provide high current income consistent with preservation of capital. Its secondary objective is growth of income through dividend increases and capital appreciation. The Fund invests primarily in two asset classes: high-yield bonds and utility stocks.

The Fund invests in sectors, such as non-energy minerals, utilities, commercial services, communications, consumer durables, consumer non-durables, electronic technology, industrial services, process industries, technology services and transportation. The Fund may invest in the Franklin Institutional Fiduciary Trust Money Market Portfolio (the Sweep Money Fund), an open-end investment company managed by its investment manager. The Fund may invest in restricted securities. The Fund�� investment manager is Franklin Advisers Inc. Its administrative manager is Franklin Templeton Services, LLC.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Canadian Value]

    (FT): Russia's central bank has warned that Russia's consumer lending sector threatens the country's "financial stability", the same day that it revoked the licence of Master Bank, a midsized retail lender.

Hot Financial Companies To Own For 2014: ProAssurance Corporation(PRA)

ProAssurance Corporation, through its subsidiaries, provides medical and other professional liability insurance products to health care service, legal service, and other professional service providers in the United States. It primarily offers its products to physicians, dentists, chiropractors, optometrists, and allied health professionals. The company markets its products through an internal sales force, as well as independent agents. ProAssurance Corporation was founded in 1976 and is based in Birmingham, Alabama.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Rich Duprey]

    Specialty insurance company�ProAssurance� (NYSE: PRA  ) �announced yesterday�its second-quarter dividend of $0.25 per share, the same rate it's paid since it initiated a payout in 2011.

  • [By Lauren Pollock]

    ProAssurance Corp.(PRA) agreed to acquire Eastern Insurance Holdings Inc.(EIHI) for about $205 million, expanding the insurance company’s casualty insurance offerings. Eastern Insurance is a domestic casualty insurance group specializing in workers’ compensation products and services, among other things. ProAssurance plans to pay $24.50 in cash for each outstanding Eastern share, a 16% premium over Monday’s closing price.

Hot Financial Companies To Own For 2014: ING Groep NV (INGA)

ING Groep N.V. (ING) is a global financial institution offering banking, investments, life insurance and retirement services to meet the needs of the customers. The Company�� segments include banking and insurance. Banking segment includes retail Netherlands, retail Belgium, ING direct, retail central Europe (CE), retail Asia, commercial banking (excluding real estate), ING real estate and corporate line banking. Insurance segment includes insurance Benelux, insurance central and rest of Europe (CRE), insurance United States (US), Insurance US closed block VA, insurance Asia/Pacific, ING investment management (IM) and corporate line insurance. In November 2013, the Company completed the sale of ING Hipotecaria to Banco Santander (Mexico), S.A. In December 2013, the Company completed the sale of its 33.3% interest in China Merchants Fund to its joint venture partners China Merchants Bank Co Ltd and China Merchants Securities Co Ltd, and divested ING Life Korea to MBK Partners. Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Sofia Horta e Costa]

    ING (INGA), which received a 10 billion-euro government bailout in 2008, gained 5.1 percent to 8.26 euros. Underlying pretax profit for the banking unit rose 14 percent to 1.15 billion euros in the second quarter as the interest margin improved and cost cuts paid off, the biggest Dutch financial-services company said.