The PBR1000 August 2018 Breaking News Items

The US and Mexico agreed in principle to a new trade agreement. Will Canada join them to make it the new NAFTA Trifecta?

By Larry C. Paxton

For the month of August it was mostly about trade issues again. Economic news was mostly good except for home sales. Corporate earnings were good, especially for NASDAQ companies. The Turkey lira crisis had a temporary effect. Elon Musk created a commotion when he said he might take Tesla private, then decided not to. President Trump confidants Paul Manafort and Michael Cohen plead guilty on various charges. Longtime Republican Arizona Senator John McCain dies. A new trade deal between the US and Mexico is agreed to, Canada might be part of it as well.

Here are The PBR1000 corporate and economic related breaking news items of interest with hotlinks to the sources for August 2018, starting with the last active business day

***Friday, August 31:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week and Month Ending 08/31/18:

DJIA ends week at 25,964.82, +.68% from last Friday, +2.16% MTD, +6.98% QTD, +5.04% YTD, -2.45% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends week at 8,109.54, +2.06% from last Friday, +5.71% MTD, +7.98% QTD, +17.47% YTD, +0.00% from record 8,109.69 set 08/29/18.

SPX ends week at 2,901.52, +0.93% from last Friday, +3.03% MTD, +6.74 QTD, +8.52% YTD, -0.43% from record 2,914.04 set 08/29/18.

Weekly Summary:For the week and the month it was all the Stock Market Bull. Summary:

Week 35: The Stock Market Bull wins,
YTD tally is:
The Stock Market Bull: 16 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 12 weeks
Mixed Results: 7 weeks

Month 8: The Stock Market Bull wins,
YTD tally is:
The Stock Market Bull: 5 months
The Stock Market Bear: 2 months
Mixed Results: 1 month

For Week 35 the news was mostly trade issues, especially the NAFTA negotiations, economic data was positive, corporate earnings mixed.

HCA(PBR61) to acquire nonprofit western N Carolina based Mission Health system for $1.5 billion. $HCA PR link.

Coca-Cola(PBR82) to acquire 4,000+ retail locations across Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa coffee brand platform Costa Limited from Whitbread PLC for $5.1 billion, to close in 1H19. $KO PR link.

NRG Energy(PBR271) completes sale of its interest in NRG Yield and its Renewables platform to Global Infrastructure Partners, results in $1.348 billion in cash proceeds to NRG, removes $6.7 billion of debt from its balance sheet. $NRG PR link.

JM Smucker(PBR372) completes $375 million sale of its US baking business to Brynwood Partners, includes Pillsbury®, Martha White®, Hungry Jack®, White Lily®, and Jim Dandy® brands, which generated $370 million net sales in 12 months ending 04/30/18. $SJM PR link.

Markel(PBR449) to acquire $12 billion in managed assets global insurance-linked securities manager Nephila, will continue to operate as a separate business unit, to close 4Q18, terms not disclosed. $MKL PR link.

Hess(PBR481) completes $400 million cash sale of its 50% joint venture interests in the Uticashale play in eastern Ohio to Ascent Resources – Utica. $HES PR link.

CNX Resources(PBR959) completes $400 million net cash sale of its Ohio Utica 50% joint venture assets to Ascent Resources-Utica. $CNX PR link.

Hub Group(PBR583) sells its agent-based transportation solutions provider Mode Transportation subsidiary to York Capital Management affiliate for $238.5 million, does not include the Temstar business. $HUBG PR link.

Guess?(PBR807) and short-form video platform TikTok have partnered to launch TikTok’s first branded content in the USA and first fashion branded content globally starting 09/01/18. $GES PR link.

Marriott Vacations(PBR868) completes $4.6 billion cash/stock acquisition of ILG(NASDAQ: ILG), results in an upper-upscale and luxury vacation ownership and exchange company with 100+ vacation properties worldwide and around 650,000 owners, $2.9 billion in annual revenues. $VAC PR link.

Sanmina(PBR396) CEO Bob Eulau resigns, board member since 2013 Michael Clarke unanimously elected CEO, effective 10/01/18, Executive Chairman Jure Sola to lead company during interim. $SANM PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says that on 08/30/18the US National Debt Held by the Public was $15.734 trillion, Intragovernmental Holdingswere $5.709 trillion, Total National Debt is $21.443 trillion, +0.6% from 07/31/18, +4.6% YTD, +8.1% from 08/31/17. US Treasury PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says US 7th District Preliminary July 2018 Midwest Economy Index is at +0.46, June 2018 was +0.42, May 2018 +0.58, July 2017 +0.11. ChiFed PR link.

The MNI Chicago August 2018 Business Barometer(>50 is Gaining) is at 63.6, July 2018 was 65.5, June 2018 64.1, August 201758.9. MNI/ISM-Chicago PR link.

The U of Michigan US Final August 2018 Consumer Sentiment Index is at 96.2, July 2018 was 97.9, June 2018 98.2, August 201796.8. UMichigan PR link.

The American Automobile Assn says the US Average Price Per Gallon or Regular Gas was at $2.838, -0.9% from 07/31/18, +15.9% from 08/31/17. AAA PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury 08/31/18 10 Year Note Yield closed at 2.86%, 07/31/18 was 2.96%, 06/29/18 2.85%, 08/31/17 2.12%. US Treasury PR link.

The European Union Euro/US$ Exchange Rate at the 08/31/18 close was $1.1604, -0.8% from 07/31/18, -2.7% from 08/31/17. Euro PR link.

The Gold(GCZ8 12/18) 08/31/18 closing price was $1,206.90, -2.1% from 07/31/18, -7.5% from 12/31/17, -9.0% from 08/31/17. Gold PR link.

***Thursday, August 30:

Happy Birthday to the “Oracle of Omaha,” Warren Buffett, Chairman/CEO of Berkshire Hathaway(PBR3)!

ExxonMobil(PBR2) adds 9th oil field discovery offshore Guyana, now estimates over 4 billion barrels of oil reserves available. $XOM PR link.

Microsoft(PBR31) over next 12 months to work with its US suppliers with more than 50 employees to provide those employees a minimum of 12 weeks paid parental leave for birth/adoption of a child, up to $1,000 per week. $MSFT PR link.

Intel(PBR45) to provide its next-generation Intel® Xeon® Scalable processors for the Texas Advanced Computing Center (TACC) Frontera supercomputer at The University of Texas at Austin, to be in production in summer 2019, will be 5th fastest supercomputer in the world, 3rd largest in US, largest at a any university. $INTC PR link.

Pfizer(PBR55) terminates two domagrozumab (PF-06252616) for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) studies, not meeting endpoints. $PFE PR link.

Merck(PBR73) gets US FDA approval for DELSTRIGO™ (doravirine / lamivudine / tenofovir disoproxil fumarate), a once-daily fixed-dose combination tablet as a complete regimen and PIFELTRO™ (doravirine), an NNRTI, both for the treatment of HIV-1 in appropriate patients. $MRK PR link.

Henry Schein(PBR232) anticipates settling the proposed class-action litigation, In Re Dental Supplies, expects to record a charge of $38.5 million, denies any wrongdoing. $HSIC PR link.

Stryker Corp(PBR233) to acquire nearly $300 million in annual sales complex spine and minimally invasive solutions for surgeons provider K2M Group Holdings(NASDAQ: KTWO) for $27.50/share, total equity value of about $1.4 billion. $SYK PR link.

MGM Resorts(PBR269) CityCentre venture with Infinity World Development completes sale of Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas and adjacent retail parcels for $214 million cash. $MGM PR link.

Salesforce(PBR275) to acquire wind energy 80 MW Bright Stalk Project in Illinois, enough to power 27,000 homes, puts company on track to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2022. $CRM PR link.

Campbell Soup(PBR350) to focus portfolio on Campbells Snacks and Campbells Meals and Beverages in N America, pursue divestitures in International (including Arnott’s and the Kelsen Group) and Campbell Fresh to reduce debt. $CPB PR link.

Electronic Arts(PBR500) moves launch date of Battlefield V out to 11/20/18 to continue to make some final adjustments to core gameplay. $EA PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR121) promotes Anne White to SVP and President/Lilly Oncology, effective 09/01/18, succeeds retiring Sue Mahony, PhD. $LLY PR link.

Signet Jewelers(PBR434) CFO Michele Santana will leave in 2019 after successor appointed. $SIG PR link.

Global Payments(PBR660) President/COO David Mangum to leave the company, CEO Jeff Sloan and SrEVP/CFO Cameron Bready extend employment agreement through 08/21, will assume Mangum’s primary responsibilities. $GPN PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/BEA says US Preliminary July 2018 Total Personal Income Annual Rate is at $17.617 trillion, +0.3% from June 2018, +7.3% from July 2017; July 2018 Personal Savings Rate is at 6.7%, Effective Tax Rate 11.6%. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Total 4 Week Moving Average Initial Jobless Claims Filed for Week Ending 08/25/18 was at 212,250, -2.6% from 07/21/18, -10.4% from 08/26/17; US Total 4 Week Moving Average Insured Unemployment for Week Ending 08/17/18 was at 1,731,250, -0.8% from 07/14/18, -11.3% from 08/17; US Total Uninsured Rate on 08/18/18was at 1.2%, 07/14/18 was 1.2%, 08/17 was 1.4%. USDOL PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR38) says US Average 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rate on 08/30/18 was at 4.52% with 0.5 points/fees, was 4.54% on 07/26/18, 4.55% on 06/28/18, 3.82% on 08/31/17. $FMCC PR link.

***Wednesday, August 29:

Apple(PBR4 $AAPL) has acquired Longmont, CO, based startup Akonia Holographics, focus is on making lenses for augmented reality glasses. Reuters PR link.

Facebook(PBR69) Watch video services launched in US 1 year ago now available globally. $FB PR link.

Micron Technology(PBR145) plans $3 billion in capital investment and 1,100 jobs by 2030 to increase memory production at its plant in Manassas, VA. $MU PR link.

Avnet(PBR160) increases share repurchase program by $500 million, now has $722 million available for share repurchases. $AVT PR link.

Sears(PBR169) Kmart Pharmacy unit gets 3 year Award of Accreditation from the Healthcare Quality Association on Accreditation, has also been recognized by the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI)as the national leader in drugstore customer satisfaction for the second year in a row. $SHLD PR link.

Cognizant(PBR192) opens new 50,000 sf facility in Irving, TX, to create 1,100 new jobs by 2023. $CTSH PR link.

News Corp(PBR340) Move subsidiary, operator of realtor.com®, to acquire Austin, TX, based real estate technology platform that matches qualified home buyers and sellers with real estate professionals in real time provider Opcityfor $210 million. $NWSA PR link.

ARRIS Intl(PBR409) expands share repurchase program from $350 million available on 08/01/18 to $750 million, intends to make 2/3rds of free cash flow available to shareholders through share repurchases in the future. $ARRS PR link.

Western Union(PBR475) expands digital money transfer services to Asia, Latin America and The Middle East, in over 200 countries/territories. $WU PR link.

Raytheon(PBR112) promotes Roy Azevedo to President/Space and Airborne Systems, effective 09/01/18, succeeds Richard R. Yuse who will serve in an advisory role until his retirement on 12/31/18. $RTN PR link.

Tesla(PBR250 $TSLA) Chief People Officer Gabrielle Toledano is on a leave of absence to spend time with family, HR team sharing her responsibilities. MarketWatch PR link.

Netflix(PBR251) hires Vernā Myers to newly created role of VP/Inclusion Strategy. $NFLX PR link.

NCR(PBR414) hires Andre Fernandez as CFO, succeeds retiring Bob Fishman. $NCR PR link.

Graphic Packaging(PBR547) hires Paul McCann as SVP/Supply Chain. $GPK PR link.

Nordstrom(PBR179) appoints current Board member and Chairman/CEO of Intuit(PBR497), who will become its Executive Chairman on 01/01/19, Brad Smith to Nordstrom Chairman, effective 11/01/18, to succeed Phil Satre, who will remain on the Board. $JWN PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says US 2nd Estimate 2Q18 Real Gross Domestic Product Annual Rate is at +4.2%, $20.412 trillion, +1.9% from 1Q18, +5.4% from 2Q17. USDOC PR link.

The US Energy Information Administrationsays US Crude Oil Stockpile on 08/24/18 was at 405.8 billion barrels of oil, +0.2% from 07/20/18, -11.4% from 08/25/17. EIA PR link.

The US International Trade Commission rules that uncoated groundwood paper from Canadadoes not injure US industry, strikes down tariffs. USITC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce to provide targeted relief from quotas imposed under Section 232 on steel from South Korea, Argentina, and Brazil, and aluminum from Argentina per proclamation signed by President Trump. USDOC PR link.

***Tuesday, August 28:

Amazon(PBR8) Prime Book Box now available to all US Prime Members, subscription delivers curated children’s books every 1, 2, or 3 months, $22.99/box, savings up to 35% from list price. $AMZN PR link.

Starbucks(PBR124) and Switzerland based Nestle close deal granting Nestlé the perpetual rights to market Starbucks Consumer Packaged Goods and Foodservice products globally, outside of the company’s coffee shops. $SBUX PR link.

Sears(PBR169) expands its program from 47 stores to nationwide, including Hawaii and Alaska, that provides full-service tire installation and balancing for customers who purchase any brand of tires—including DieHard—on Amazon(PBR8 $AMZN). $SHLD PR link.

PVH(PBR318) enters European market with launch of IZOD brand in Spain, Germany, the Netherlands and Scandinavia for Fall 2018. $PVH PR link.

DSW(PBR731) in 2Q18 report says for Canadamarket it will focus on its largest retail banners, Shoe Company, Shoe Warehouse and DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, will exit its full price, mall-based Town Shoes banner, which operates 38 locations, mostly by the end of the fiscal year, expects $215 million in revenues/year from Canadian segment. $DSW PR link.

Vectren(PBR756) shareholders approve $72/share, $6 billion acquisition by CenterPoint Energy(PBR297), to close no later than 1Q19. $VVC PR link.

Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR765) to acquire Aspen Insurance Holdings Limited(NYSE: AHL) for $42.75/share, $2.6 billion cash, to close 1H19. $APO PR link.

Cleveland-Cliffs(PBR811) completes sale of its Asia Pacific Iron Ore assets to Mineral Resources, results in $230 million contribution to net income, completes multi-year transformation back to its roots as a supplier of high-grade iron units to the Great Lakes steel industry. $CLF PR link.

Marriott Vacations(PBR868) $4.7 billion cash/stock acquisition of ILG(NASDAQ: ILG)approved by shareholders at separate special meetings, to close 09/01/18. $VAC PR link.

Barnes & Noble(PBR616 $BKS) former CEO Demos Parneros sues, claims he was fired without justification. MarketWatch PR link.

Tailored Brands((PBR674) CEO Doug Ewert to retire on 09/30/18, Non-Executive Chairman Dinesh Lathi appointed Executive Chairman, effective immediately, President/COO Bruce Thorn resigns, effective 08/31/18, to pursue another opportunity. $TLRD PR link.

Gilead Sciences(PBR108) hires Laura Hamill as EVP/Worldwide Commercial Operations. $GILD PR link.

AutoZone(PBR267) SVP/Supply Chain Rod Halsell to retire on 11/10/18, been with company since 1985. $AZO PR link.

Motorola Solutions(PBR425) EVP/Products & Solutions Bruce Brda to retire, effective 03/31/19, John Molloy made EVP/Products & Solutions, effective immediately, appoints Kelly S. Mark as EVP/Services & Software, appoints Rajan S. Naik as SVP/Chief Strategy & Innovation Officer, expands role of Cynthia M. Yazdi to include Regional Marketing worldwide and SVP/Chief of Staff to the Chairman/CEO, Marketing and Communications. $MSI PR link.

Greenbrier(PBR840) EVP/CFO Lorie Tekorius appointed EVP/COO, Adrian Downes promoted to Acting CFO. $GBX PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond says US Fifth District August 2018 Manufacturing Index(Annualized) is at 24%, indicating optimism and expecting continued growth in coming months, July 2018 was 20%, June 201821%, August 2017 14%. RichmondFed PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond says US Fifth District August 2018 Service Sector Revenue Index(Annualized) is at 31%, indicating optimism and expecting growth to continue in the next six months, July 2018 was 23%, June 2018 19%, August 2017 22%. RichmondFed PR link.

The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller US June 2018 National Home Price Index(01/2000=100)is at 204.48, May 2018 was 202.91, April 2018201.00, June 2017 192.47. Case-Shiller PR link.

The Conference Board says the US Preliminary August 2018 Consumer Confidence Index(1985=100) is at 133.4, Revised July 2018 127.9, highest level since October 2000 (Index, 135.8), suggests solid economic growth for the remainder of 2018. TCB PR link.

Pitney Bowes(PBR632) Parcel Shipping Indexreports that parcel shipping generated USD $279 billion in revenue in 2017, an increase of 11% over 2016, parcel volume globally grew 17% in 2017 to 74.4 billion parcels, up from 63.6 billion in 2016, expects global shipping volume to surpass 100 billion parcels in 2020 in aggregate across the 13 countries reviewed. $PBI PR link.

***Monday, August 27:

Phillips 66(PBR22) in partnership with Ryze Renewables, which will construct plants in Renoand Las Vegas, NV, to manufacture high-cetane renewable diesel fuel from agricultural oils and animal fats using a patented hydrogenation technology that is more efficient than current conversion processes, to supply the plants with feedstock and move 100 percent of the 11,000 barrels/day renewable product from the plants to customers in West Coast markets. $PSX PR link.

Allstate(PBR75) to acquire employee identity protection to more than 1 million employees and their family members at over 1,400 firms, including more than 100 of the Fortune 500 companies provider InfoArmor for $525 million cash by end of 2018. $ALL PR link.

AbbVie(PBR102) gets US FDA approval forIMBRUVICA® (ibrutinib) plus rituximab (RITUXAN®) for the treatment of adult patients with Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia (WM), a rare and incurable type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL); ninth FDA approval for IMBRUVICA in less than five years since its initial approval. $ABBV PR link.

FirstEnergy(PBR208) has entered into a definitive settlement agreement in the Chapter 11 proceedings of FirstEnergy Solutions (FES), its subsidiaries and FirstEnergy Nuclear Operating Company (FENOC), that would address all potential claims among the settling parties and other creditors of FES and FENOC. $FE PR link.

Berry Global(PBR386) completes acquisition of $145 million sales/12 months through 07/31/18 380 employees across 5 US manufacturing facilities Laddawn, a manufacturer of blown polyethylene bags and films with a unique-to-industry e-Commerce sales platform. $BERY PR link.

AMD(PBR487) announces the Radeon™ Pro V340 graphics card, a high-performance dual-GPU Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) solution purpose-built to power and accelerate the most demanding datacenter visualization workloads, including CAD, design, Desktop as a Service (DaaS) and rendering, to be available in 4Q18. $AMD PR link.

ServiceMaster(PBR716) board approves spin-off of FrontDoor, the parent of American Home Shield, to start trading as NASDAQ: FTDR on 10/01/18, ServiceMaster shareholders will own >80%. $SERV PR link.

Weyerhaeuser(PBR382) President/CEO Doyle Simons to retire, SVP/Timberlands Devin Stockfish to become President/CEO on 01/01/19, SVP/Woodlands Adrian Blocker to become SVP/Timberlands, Keith O’Rear to become SVP/Woodlands. $WY PR link.

Performance Food(PBR168) EVP/PFG and President and CEO/Performance Foodservice Dave Flitman leaving, CEO assumes interim responsibilities as successor search starts. $PFGC PR link.

Netflix(PBR251) hires Rachel Whetstone as Chief Communications Officer. $NFLX PR link.

AMD(PBR487) promotes Saeid Moshkelani to SVP/General Manager, Client Compute Group, succeeds leaving Jim Anderson. $AMD PR link.

Kennametal(PBR857) hires Dr. Carlonda Reilly, PhD, as VP/Chief Technology Officer, effective 09/06/18, succeeds Dr. Robert Clemens who is retiring in 01/19. $KMT PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says US Preliminary July 2018 Natl Activity Indexis at +0.13, indicates moderate economic growth, June 2018 was +0.48, May 2018 -0.46, July 2017 -0.18. ChiFed PR link.

The US Dept of Agriculture provides details of $4.7 billion, $3.26 billion for soybeans, to be paid to US farmers impacted by unjustified trade retaliation. USDA PR link.

***Friday, August 24:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 08/24/18:

DJIA ends week at 25,790.35, +0.47% from last Friday, +1.48% MTD, +6.26% QTD, +4.33% YTD, -3.10% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends week at record 7,945.98, +1.66% from last Friday, +3.57% MTD, +5.80% QTD, +15.10% YTD, +0.00% from record 7,945.98 set 08/24/18.

SPX ends week at record 2,874.69, +0.86% from last Friday, +2.07% MTD, +5.75 QTD, +7.52% YTD, +0.00% from record 2,874.69 set 08/24/18.

Weekly Summary: After 2 weeks of mixed results the Stock Market Bull wins Week 34outright and now leads the Stock Market Bearwith 15 to 12 weekly wins, with 7 weeks being mixed results. Monday and Tuesday were all Stock Market Bull as corporate earnings reports were strong, there was optimism as the US & China negotiated on trade, and there were limited economic updates. Then late Tuesdaypresidential confidants Paul Manafort was found guilty on multiple charges and Michael Cohenadmitted guilt to financial mismanagement charges. On Wednesday the Stock Market Bear appeared amid the resulting political chaos, existing home sales were disappointing, and the FOMC minutes showed that while the economy is robust, trade issues could cause a problem. Thursday the Fed started its Jackson Hole meeting with some uncertainty, energy & financial stocks took a hit, the US/China trade negotiations ended with no results, Hurricane Lane was bearing down on Hawaii, so it was another Stock Market Bear day. The week could go either way, depending on what happened on Friday. Fed chairman Jerome Powell gave some convincing reassurances about the economy and planned actions. Both the NASDAQ and S&P500 responded by establishing new record highs, the DJIA had a very good day, and at the end of the dramatic week the Stock Market Bull stood tall, proud, and victorious.

Cigna(PBR66) $96.18/share equivalent, $67 billion cash/stock deal, includes $15 billion debt, acquisition of Express Scripts(PBR25) gets approval by shareholders at both companies. $CI PR link, $ESRX PR link.

United Continental(PBR77) transferring its stock exchange listing to The Nasdaq Global Select Market(NASDAQ) from The New York Stock Exchange(NYSE) starting 09/07/18, keeps ticker symbol UAL. $UAL PR link.

Tesla(PBR250) independent directors say Elon Musk, after considering all factors, believes the better path is to no longer pursue a transaction for taking Tesla private, after Special Committeediscussions committee has been dissolved, and Board is fully supportive of Elon. TSLA. $UAL PR link.

Univar(PBR337) and Ireland, based public global Kerry Ingredients & Flavors launch taste agreement to distribute its taste portfolio in the UK, Ireland, Spain and Portugal. $UNVR PR link.

Scientific Games(PBR699) and Caesars Entertainment(PBR518 $CZR) launch sports betting in newly regulated Mississippi. $SGMS PR link.

Enbridge Energy Partners(PBR798) major stockholder Enbridge, Inc(NYSE $ENB) to acquire Spectra Energy Partners(NYSE: SEP)for $3.3 billion all stock, to close 4Q18. $SEP PR link.

Roper Technologies(PBR530) COO Neil Hunn to become President/CEO, effective 09/01/18, succeeds Brian Jellison who remains Executive Chairman. $ROP PR link.

Sprint(PBR87) promotes Deeanne King to Chief Human Resources Officer, succeeds leaving Ismat Aziz. $S PR link.

The Federal Reserve transcript from Chairman Jerome Powell’s Jackson Hole meeting speech regarding “Monetary Policy in a Changing Economy.” TheFED PR link.

***Thursday, August 23:

Kroger(PBR17) to phase out single-use plastic bags and transition to reusable bags across its Family of Stores by 2025, Seattle based QFCretail division to be first, to do phase out by end of 2019. $KR PR link.

Cognizant(PBR192) to acquire privately held one of the largest independent Salesforce(PBR275) Platinum consulting partners in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region with operations across Australia and India, having implemented over 1,500 Salesforce projects, SaaSfocus, terms not disclosed. $CTSH PR link.

Conagra Brands(PBR346) $68/share, $10.9 billion cash/stock, includes net debt, acquisition of Pinnacle Foods(PBR694) says the expiration of the waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act has passed, still need Pinnacle Foods stockholders approval, to close by end of 2018. $CAG PR link.

Fortune Brands(PBR491) to acquire 475 employees $200 million in revenues/2017 Meridian, ID, based manufacturer of outdoor performance materials used primarily in decking, railing and fencing products Fiberon for about $470 million. $FBHS PR link.

Penn Natl Gaming(PBR691) gets Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission approval for $32.47/share, $2.8 billion cash/stock acquisition of owner/operator of 16 gaming and entertainment facilities Pinnacle Entertainment(NASDAQ:PNK), 12th approval, expects to close transaction in early 4Q18. $PENN PR link.

BOK Financial(PBR926) has all regulatory approvals for $23.02/share, $977 million stock/cash acquisition of Denver based with operations in Colorado and Arizona, $3.8 billion in assets CoBiz Financial(NASDAQ:COBZ), CoBiz stockholders to vote on acquisition on 09/27/18, to close in 4Q18. $BOKF PR link.

Intuit(PBR497) Chairman/President/CEO Brad Smith to step down as CEO at end of 2018, become Executive Chairman, EVP/General Manager-Small Business/Self-Employed Group Sasan Goodarzi to become CEO on 01/01/19; Chief Technology Officer Tayloe Stansbury to step down 01/01/19, to be succeeded by Marianna Tessel, SVP/Chief product Development Officer-Small Business and Self-Employed Group. $INTU PR link.

MEDNAX(PBR648) hires Stephen D. Farber as EVP, effective 08/27/18, will also become CFO in 11/18, to succeed retiring Vivian Lopez-Blanco. $MD PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says US Preliminary July 2018 Total New Family Homes Sold Annual Rate is at 627,000, -1.7% from June 2018, +12.8% from July 2017; July 2018 Median Sales Price is at $328,700, +6.0% from June 2018, +1.8% from July 2017; July 2018 Houses Available at 309,000, +2.0% from June 2018, +12.0% from July 2017; July 2018 Months Supply Available at 5.9. HUD PR link.

***Wednesday, August 22:

Walmart(PBR1) and Rakuten Kobo launch Walmart eBooks, including an audiobook subscription for $9.99/mo. $WMT PR link.

AT&T(PBR9) completes acquisition of privately held San Mateo, CA, based cybersecurity threat intelligence provider AlienVault, terms not disclosed. $T PR link.

AT&T(PBR9) WarnerMedia’s Turner Sportsunit secures worldwide media distribution rights for pay-per-view $9 million winner- take-all golf match between Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, “The Match” to be held over Thanksgiving weekend, hosted by MGM Resorts(PBR269) in Las Vegas, NV, at Shadow Creek. $T PR link.

Fannie Mae(PBR20 $FNMA) and FreddieMac(PBR38 $FMCC) to conclude single-family rental pilot programs for investors per the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA). FHFA PR link.

Comcast(PBR33) extends its $19.30/share, $34 billion tender offer for UK based Sky plc to 09/12/18, 1PM London time, currently at 0.21% shares acceptance level. $CMCSA PR link.

Lowe’s(PBR40) to close all 99 Orchard Supply Hardware stores, which are located in California, Oregon and Florida, as well as the distribution facility that services those stores by the end of fiscal 2018. $LOW PR link.

Delta(PBR68) expanding its number and locations of trans-Atlantic flights for summer 2019. $DAL PR link.

Hartford Financial(PBR167) to acquire Stamford, CT, based 30 locations 820 employees globally The Navigators Group(NASDAQ:NAVG), a global specialty underwriter, for $70/share, $2.1 billion cash, to close 1H19. $HIG PR link.

Nordstrom(PBR179) authorizes new up to $1.5 billion share repurchase program, no expiration date, replaces existing program which has $327 million balance. $JWN PR link.

Darden Restaurants(PBR342)’s Olive Gardenunit offering 8 weeks and 52 weeks Never Ending Pasta Pass for $100 and $300, limited amounts available, signup is 08/23/18 2PM Eastern. $AAL PR link.

Scientific Games(PBR699) gets 5 year extension plus 5 1 year optional extensions of its Louisiana Lottery Instant Games contract. $SGMS PR link.

Prologis(PBR763) completes $8.4 billion stock-for-stock deal, includes debt, of logistics real estate company DCT Industrial Trust(NYSE: DCT). $PLD PR link.

Lowe’s(PBR40) hires as David M. Denton as EVP/CFO, to join in 2H18 after CVS Health(PBR7), where he is currently EVP/CFO, completes acquisition of Aetna(PBR48), will succeed retiring Marshall A. Croom. $LOW PR link.

Lockheed(PBR57) promotes Michele Evans to EVP/Aeronautics, effective 10/01/18, succeeds retiring Orlando Carvalho. $LMT PR link.

United Continental(PBR77) acting CFO Gerry Laderman now officially EVP/CFO. $UAL PR link.

PG&E(PBR163) announces interim organizational change while conducting a new COO search, personnel changes announced. $PCG PR link.

Tutor Perini(PBR521) hires Wendy Hallgren as EVP/General Counsel. $TPC PR link.

Worthington Industries(PBR633)President/COO Mark Russell is retiring, CFO Andy Rose to add President role, Geoff Gilmore named VP/COO. $WOR PR link.

The Federal Open Market Committee releases minutes from its 07/31-08/01/18 meeting, discussions show that members view economy as strong, concern for international trade tensions, indicate probable funds rate increase at 09/18 meeting, wait-and-see for future rate changes. FOMC PR link.

The Natl Assn of Realtors says US July 2018 Total Existing Home Sales Annual Rate is at 5,340,000, -0.7% from June 2018, -1.5% from July 2017; July 2018 Median Price is $269,600, -2.6% from June 2018, +4.5% from July 2017. NAR PR link.

***Tuesday, August 21:

JPMorgan Chase(PBR26 $JPM) to launch a free stock trading service next week.MarketWatch PR link.

American Airlines(PBR64) expands Europeanfootprint and modifies Asia service. $AAL PR link.

Marriott Intl(PBR120) merging Starwood Preferred Guest rewards system into its Marriott Rewards, which includes Ritz-Carlton Rewards, will have one rewards system for all 29 brands and 6,700 hotels, expands benefits. $MAR PR link.

Kohl’s(PBR149) in strategic partnership with Authentic Brands Group for its Nine Westfootwear, handbags and outerwear, and will debut a new women’s apparel collection, oriented towards women and millenials, scheduled for 07/19. $KSS PR link.

Allergan(PBR174) gets US FDA Complete Response Letter for ulipristal acetate (UPA)for the treatment of abnormal uterine bleeding in women with uterine fibroids, requesting additional information, cited safety concerns regarding ESMYA post-marketing reports outside the US. $AGN PR link.

Gap Inc(PBR175)’s Old Navy unit to bring its online Plus sizes collection into 75 stores; customers can now order the Plus line from any store and receive free shipping. $GPS PR link.

WABCO(PBR675) opens new main 124,000 sf research and development center in Hanover, Germany, to employ 420+. $WBC PR link.

Annaly Capital(PBR784) gets regulatory approvals to acquire MTGE Investment Corp(Nasdaq:MTGE), plans to close transaction on 09/07/18. $NLY PR link.

Alliance One Intl(PBR915) shareholders approve name change to Pyxus International, to start using name 09/12/18, new stock symbol NYSE: PYX, President/CEO Pieter Sikkel adds Chairman role, succeeds Mark Kehaya, who remains on the board. $AOI PR link.

AIG(PBR58) hires John Repko as EVP/Chief Information Officer, effective 09/04/18, succeeds leaving Martha Gallo. $AIG PR link.

Coty(PBR364) EVP/Global CFO Patrice de Talhouët leaving to pursue another opportunity, will stay through mid 09/18 and assist with transition thereafter, new CFO search starts. $COTY PR link.

***Monday, August 20:

Walmart(PBR1) to phase out paint removal products with the chemicals methylene chloride and N-Methylpyrrolidone (NMP) from its stores in the US, Canada, Mexico, Central America and www.walmart.com by 02/19. $WMT PR link.

Walmart(PBR1) completes $16 billion for an initial stake of approximately 77% in India e-commerce provider Flipkart, includes $2 billion of new equity funding. $WMT PR link.

Anthem(PBR30) in arrangement with Walmart(1 $WMT) to launch in 01/19 for consumers who are enrolled in Anthem’s affiliated Medicare Advantage (MA) plans to use OTC plan allowances to purchase OTC medications and health-related items, such as first aid supplies, support braces, and pain relievers at Walmart’s 4,700 stores and on Walmart.com. $ANTM PR link.

PepsiCo(PBR44) to acquire #1 sparkling water brand in volume in the world and the leading manufacturer and distributor of sparkling water makers SodaStream Internationa(NASDAQ / TLV: SODA) for $144.00/share cash, a 30% premium on 30 day weighted average, $3.2 billion cash, to close by 01/19. $PEP PR link.

Merck(PBR73) gets US FDA approval for an expanded label for KEYTRUDA®, its anti-PD-1 therapy, in combination with pemetrexed (ALIMTA®) and platinum chemotherapy for the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic nonsquamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). $MRK PR link.

Tyson Foods(PBR76) to acquire West Chester, PA, based 11,000 employees, $2.5 billion in revenues/year global chicken, beef, fish and pork supplier Keystone Foods from Marfrig Global Foods for $2.16 billion cash, to close mid FY 2019. $TSN PR link.

ConocoPhillips(PBR86) gets settlement agreement with Petróleos de Venezuela, S.A. (PDVSA), the Venezuelan state-owned oil company, to recover approximately $2 billion, the full amount awarded to ConocoPhillips by an arbitral tribunal constituted under the rules of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), plus interest through the payment period, $500 million in 90 days, balance in quarterly payments over 4.5 years. $COP PR link.

Tenet Healthcare(PBR141) completes sale of Aspen Healthcare Ltd., which operates nine healthcare facilities in the UK, to NMC Healthcare UK, no longer has facilities in the UK. $THC PR link.

JCPenney(PBR229) expands partnership with NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal in an all-new, exclusive big & tall brand, Shaquille O’Neal XLG, available in 350 stores and online at JCPenney.com on 09/13/18. $JCP PR link.

Brookdale Senior Living(PBR522) to sell its Manhattan, NY, neighborhood Brookdale Battery Park independent living community for approximately $194 million to Ventas(PBR635 $VTR), to manage the community under a separate management agreement. $BKD PR link.

ServiceMaster(PBR716) completes $1 billion in financial transactions prior to Frontdoor spin-off. $SERV PR link.

Annaly Capital(PBR784) extends exchange offer of $19.65/share cash and stock, $900 million, to acquire MTGE Investment Corp(Nasdaq:MTGE), new date is 09/07/18, 7:00AM Eastern time, extended to allow the parties to satisfy the remaining conditions. $BMY PR link.

Greenbrier(PBR840) and Watco to discontinue their GBW Railcar Services (GBW) railcar repair joint venture formed in 2014, was intended to address booming demand for tank cars in oil by rail service, including tank car retrofits, a market that never fully materialized, 12 shops return to Greenbrier. $GBX PR link.

TEGNA(PBR876) to acquire the local stations WTOL, the CBS affiliate in Toledo, OH, and KWES, the NBC affiliate in Odessa-Midland, TX, for $105 million in cash from Gray Television. $TGNA PR link.

Fitbit(PBR931) launches Charge 3, features an elevated, premium swimproof design with a touchscreen display, 15+ goal-based exercise modes, smart features to stay connected to what matters most, up to 7 days of battery life, and its most advanced sensor and algorithm technology in a tracker, available for presale at Fitbit.com for $149.95 USD, with global retail availability starting 10/18. $FIT PR link.

SL Green Realty(PBR950) sells its 48.9% interest in 753,000 sf 3 Columbus Circle in NYC to 51.1% owner The Moinian Group, to net $223 million for SLG, to close 4Q18. $SLG PR link.

Parker Hannifin(PBR245) Asia Pacific Group President Kurt A. Keller to retire after 38 years with company, to promote Michael Wee as successor on 09/01/18. $PH PR link.

Cincinnati Financial(PBR466) lead subsidiary Cincinnati Insurance Chief Insurance Officer and EVP Jacob F. Scherer, Jr, to retire in 08/19, 3 leadership changes announced to be effective 01/01/19. $CINF PR link.

Murphy Oil(PBR833) restructures management team, Eric M. Hambly elected EVP/Onshore, Tom Mireles elected SVP/Technical Services, Mike McFadyen to transition to EVP/Offshore, Gene Coleman to transition to EVP/Exploration & Business Development, Maria Martinez elected VP/Human Resources & Administration. $MUR PR link.

***Friday, August 17:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 08/17/18:

DJIA ends week at 25,669.32, +1.41% from last Friday, +1.00% MTD, +5.76% QTD, +3.84% YTD, -3.56% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends week at 7,816.33, -0.29% from last Friday, +1.88% MTD, +4.07% QTD, +13.22% YTD, -1.46% from record 7,932.24 set 07/25/18.

SPX ends week at 2,850.13, +0.59% from last Friday, +1.20% MTD, +4.85 QTD, +6.60% YTD, -0.79% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

Weekly Summary: The week started out like the previous week ended, with continued drama about the decline of the Turkish lira and concerns about possible international impacts, which triggered a downturn in the financial sector. This was compounded by continued US trade tensions. The Stock Market Bear was pretty pleased about himself on Wednesday afternoon. But as the week progressed some key companies had better than expected quarterly reports, economic data was mostly positive, and at the end of the week China had sent a low level delegation to Washington DC to discuss reopening trade talks, so the Stock Market Bull prevailed on the last two days of the week. It was not enough, however, to overcome losses in the NASDAQ, so the week ends with a Stock Market Bull 2-1 mixed finish. Through Week 33 the Stock Market Bull continues to hold a slight edge with 14 weekly wins, the Stock Market Bear has 12, and 7 weeks have been mixed results.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR139) gets US FDA approval for Opdivo® (nivolumab) as first new medication in nearly 20 years for certain patients with previously treated small cell lung cancer. $BMY PR link.

CBRE(PBR202) to reorganize into 3 global businesses effective 01/01/19: Advisory Services, to be headed by Mike Lafitte as Global CEO; Global Workplace Solutions, William Concannon to continue to serve as Global CEO; and Real Estate Investments, to be headed by Daniel Queenan as Global CEO, other executives named to report to Global CEOs. $CBRE PR link.

Regeneron(PBR459) gets US FDA approval for EYLEA® (aflibercept) Injection in patients with wet age-related macular degeneration. $REGN PR link.

Skyworks(PBR620) completes $405 million plus up to $20 million for milestone achievements over next 12 months acquisition of private fabless semiconductor smart interface supplier Avnera. $SWKS PR link.

Briggs & Stratton(PBR900) to consolidate warehouses into two new US distribution centers in Germantown, WI(700,000 sf) and Auburn, AL(400,000 sf), both to be operational in spring 2019. $BGG PR link.

Tesla(PBR250 $TSLA) Chairman/CEO Elon Musk says past year has been ‘excruciating.’ NY Times PR link.

Southern Co(PBR119) promotes Jim Hudson to EVP/Chief External and Public Affairs Officer and Jeff Peoples to EVP/Chief Administrative Officer. $SO PR link.

Anadarko(PBR246) EVP/ Law and Chief Administrative Officer Robert K. Reeves to retire by 12/31/18. $APC PR link.

The Conference Board says the US Preliminary July 2018 Leading Economic Index(2016=100) is at 110.7, suggests the US economy will continue expanding at a solid pace for the remainder of this year, June 2018 was 110.0, May 2018 109.4. TCB PR link.

The U of Michigan US Preliminary August 2018 Consumer Sentiment Index is at 95.3(“dominating weakness reflected much less favorable assessments of buying conditions, mainly due to less favorable perceptions of market prices.”), July 2018 was 97.9, June 201898.2, August 2017 96.8. UMichigan PR link.

***Thursday, August 16:

Kroger(PBR17) and Nuro announce Scottsdale, AZ, as the city for the self-driving grocery delivery pilot, $5.95 delivery fee, no minimum, Nuro to use self-driving Toyota Priusfleet and will introduce its custom R1 driverless vehicle this fall. $KR PR link.

Boeing(PBR29) to acquire El Segundo, CA, based 260 employees, agile, flight-proven small-satellite solutions provider Millennium Space Systems, to close 3Q18, terms not disclosed. $BA PR link.

CBRE(PBR202) acquires San Antonio, TX, commercial real estate operations of Peloton, combined manage/lease 20+ million sf of commercial space in San Antonio. $CBRE PR link.

Celanese(PBR442) increases prices for engineered materials polymer products due to continued increases in raw material costs globally as well as the US Trade Representative’s implementation of a 25% tariff on PBT and PET products imported into the US from China. $CE PR link.

AMC Entertainment(PBR504) now has 260,000+ AMC Stubs A-List members since start 7 weeks ago, 1,000,000+ theatre attendance. $AMC PR link.

CACI Intl(PBR558) completes $84 million acquisition of the Systems Engineering and Acquisition Support Services Business Unitsupporting the US Navy from General Dynamics(PBR90) managed affiliate CSRA. $CACI PR link.

Cenveo(PBR927) gets US Bankruptcy Courtchapter 11 plan of reorganization approval, debt to be restructured from $1.1 billion to $325 million, will emerge as privately held company in a few weeks. $CVOVQ PR link.

Wendy’s(PBR985) sells its 12.3% ownership interest in Inspire Brands (owner of Arby’s®, Buffalo Wild Wings®, and R Taco®) for $450 million, a 38% premium on previous valuation, authorizes new up to $100 million share repurchase program, expires 12/27/19, is in addition to previous $175 million authorization which has a $93 million balance. $WEN PR link.

Hershey(PBR368) SVP/CFO Patricia Little to retire in spring 2019, CFO since 2015, search for new CFO starts. $HSY PR link.

Regions Financial(PBR446) promotes Kate Danella as EVP/Strategic Planning and Corporate Development. $RF PR link.

Symantec(PBR585) receives 5 nominees for board from investor Starboard Value, board nominating committee evaluating nominations, 2018 annual meeting date not yet established. $SYMC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says US Preliminary July 2018 Private Housing Building Permits Annual Rate is at 1,311,000, +1.5% from June 2018, +4.2% from July 2017. USDOC PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphiasays the US 3rd District August 2018 Manufacturing Business Outlook Survey Indicator is at 11.9, all the broad indicators remained positive but fell from their readings in July and expectations for the next six months remained optimistic, July 2018 was at 25.7, June 2018 19.9, August 2017 22.1. PhillyFed PR link.

***Wednesday, August 15:

Walmart(PBR1) and TV personality Ellen DeGeneres partner on new fashion line, EV1, focus on denim, over 60 items, $30 or less, available at Walmart.com on 09/10/18, to be in 2,300+ stores. $WMT PR link.

Best Buy(PBR65) to acquire provider of connected health and personal emergency response services to the aging population, with more than 900,000 paying subscribers $300+ million in profitable annual revenues GreatCallfor $800 million cash. $BBY PR link.

Kimberly-Clark(PBR155) to increase net selling prices in the mid-to-high single digits on average across a majority of its North America consumer products businesses in 4Q18 & 1Q19 to help offset significant commodity cost inflation. $KMB PR link.

Gap Inc(PBR175) expands its This Way Aheadjob opportunities program for 16-24 year olds from low income communities, to go from from 15 cities to 53 cities globally, includes new national partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America. $GPS PR link.

First Data(PBR243) and Wells Fargo(PBR27)extend their merchant services joint venture agreement to 12/31/24. $FDC PR link.

Constellation Brands(PBR334) to acquire $4 billion in stock resulting in around a 38% ownership stake in Canadian cannabis company Canopy Growth(TSX: WEED, NYSE: CGC). $STZ PR link.

Vail Resorts(PBR874) completes $64 million acquisition of Stevens Pass Resort in Washington from an affiliate of Oz Real Estate. $MTN PR link.

Terex(PBR556) President/CEO John Garrison elected to also be Chairman, succeeds David Sachs who now becomes Lead Director. $TEX PR link.

Anadarko(PBR246) promotes Amanda M. McMillian to EVP/General Counsel. $APC PR link.

Graphic Packaging(PBR547) EVP/Mills Division Al Nichols to retire on 09/15/18 after 29 years with the company, Mike Farrell appointed successor. $GPK PR link.

Tailored Brands(PBR674) hires Richard Hansen as SVP/Strategy & Analytics. $TLRD PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary 2Q18 Business Sector Labor Productivity Ouput/Hour was +3.6%, 1Q18 was +0.6%, 4Q17 -1.1%, 2Q17 +1.6%. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says US Preliminary July 2018 Industrial Production % of Capacity in Use was at 78.1%, June 2018 was 78.1%, May 2018 77.5%, July 2017 76.1%. USFed PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary June 2018 Total Manufacturers/Retail/Wholesale Sales were $1.452 trillion, +0.3% from May 2018, +8.2% from June 2017. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Advance July 2018 Total Retail Sales were $507.5 billion, +0.5% from June 2018, +6.4% from July 2017. USDOC PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York says the Empire State August 2018 General Business Conditions Index is at 25.6, July 2018 was 22.6, June 2018 25.0, August 201724.2, firms stepped up their capital spending plans and were fairly optimistic about the six-month outlook. NYFed PR link.

The Natl Assn of Home Builders/Wells Fargo US Preliminary August 2018 Housing Market Composite Index is at 67, July 2018 was 68, June 2018 68, August 2017 67. NAHB/WF PR link.

***Tuesday, August 14:

Kroger(PBR17)‘s new online store introduces Our Brands to international customers, will initially test with select Simple Truth® items through Alibaba and its more than half a billion Chinese consumers. $KR PR link.

Intel(PBR45) shares more details and mitigation information on security threats about a recently identified speculative execution side-channel method called L1 Terminal Fault. $INTC PR link.

Coca-Cola(PBR82) to acquire a minority ownership stake, with path to ownership, in sports performance and hydration drinks provider BODYARMOR which will have access to Coca-Cola bottling system to meet growth of consumer demand, terms not disclosed. $KO PR link.

Capital One(PBR93) introduces newest Savor card, features unlimited 4% cash back on dining and entertainment, 2% at grocery stores, and 1% on all other purchases, $95 annual fee waived in first year. $COF PR link.

Sears(PBR169) CEO Edward Lampert proposes his ESL Investments fund acquire the Kenmore brand for $400 million. $SHLD PR link.

Devon Energy(PBR209) to sell approximately 2,500 oil-equivalent barrels per day 9,600 net acres of non-core Delaware Basin acreage in Ward and Reeves County, TX, to Carrizo Oil and Gas for $215 million, to close 4Q18. $DVN PR link.

Tesla(PBR250) board forms special committee to evaluate potential going private transaction, Chairman/CEO Elon Musk’s previous communications about possibly doing so. $TSLA PR link.

Advance Auto Parts(PBR305) authorizes new $600 million share repurchase program, replaces $500 million program authorized in 2012, had $415 million balance remaining. $AAP PR link.

Genworth Financial(PBR336) and China Oceanwide extend merger agreement a sixth time, deadline is now 12/01/18, awaiting regulatory approvals. $GNW PR link.

Allegheny Technologies(PBR640)President/CEO Richard Harshman to be succeeded by EVP Robert S. Wetherbee on 01/01/19, Harshman to be Executive Chairman until his retirement on 05/09/19, Lead Independent Director Diane C. Creel to become Chairman at that time. $ATI PR link.

Gilead Sciences(PBR108) promotes Gregg Alton to the newly created role of Chief Patient Officer, Diana Brainard, MD, promoted to SVP/HIV and Emerging Viral Infections, and Andrew Cheng, MD, PhD, Chief Medical Officer, is leaving. $GILD PR link.

Electronic Arts(PBR500) Chief Design Officer Patrick Söderlund is leaving, effective 10/30/18. $EA PR link.

Kennametal(PBR857) hires Damon Audia as VP/CFO, effective 09/24/18, to succeed retiring Jan Kees van Gaalen. $KMT PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary July 2018 Total Imports Prices were +0.0%, June 2018 was -0.1%, May 2018 +0.9%, July 2017 -0.2%; US Preliminary July 2018 Total Export Prices were -0.5%, June 2018 was +0.2%, May 2018 +0.7%, July 2017 +0.5%; July 2018 Total All Imports Year-to-Year is +4.8%, Total All Exports Year-to-Year +4.3%. USDOL PR link.

CoreLogic says US May 2018 Housing Loans 30 Or More Days Delinquent were at 4.2%, lowest in 12 years, areas hit by natural disasters have seen increases, April 2018 was 4.2%, March 2018 4.3%, May 2017 4.5%; May 2018 Percent of Homes in Foreclosure was 0.5%, April 2018 was 0.6%, March 2018 0.6%, May 2017 0.7%. CoreLogic PR link.

The Natl Federation of Independent Businesssays US July 2018 Small Business Optimism Index is at 107.9, second highest in 45 year history, 108.0 record was in July 1983. NFIB President and CEO Juanita Duggan says, “Expansion continues to be a priority for small businesses who show no signs of slowing as they anticipate more sales and better business conditions.” NFIB PR link.

***Monday, August 13:

Icahn Enterprises(PBR128) Chairman Icahn issues statement saying that in light of the ISSand Glass Lewis recommendations in favor of the Cigna(PBR66 $CI)/Express Scripts(PBR25 $ESRX) transaction and the significant stockholder overlap between the two companies, IEP has informed the SEC that it no longer intends to solicit proxies to vote against the transaction. $IEP PR link.

Mylan(PBR247) gets US FDA approval and 180 days exclusive marketing for Tadalafil TabletsUSP, 20 mg, the first generic of Eli Lilly(PBR121)’s Adcirca®, for treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension to improve exercise ability, $510 million market. $MYL PR link.

VF Corp(PBR249) to separate into two independent, publicly traded companies: VF Corporation, a global apparel and footwear powerhouse, and a yet-to-be named company which will hold VF’s Jeans(Wrangler® and Lee® brands) and VF Outlet businesses in the denim category, to be completed in 1H19. $VFC PR link.

Tesla(PBR250)‘s Chairman/CEO Elon Musk provides a blog post to provide an update on taking Tesla private, his conversations with the Saudi Arabian sovereign wealth fund. $TSLA PR link.

Office Depot(PBR281) piloting an integrated coworking space within its Los Gatos, CA, retail location, to provide Tech Services Kiosks in 141 stores across Florida, Georgia and Texasby end of 08/18. $ODP PR link.

NVIDIA(PBR296) launches the NVIDIA Turing™ GPU architecture, features new RT Cores to accelerate ray tracing and new Tensor Cores for AI inferencing which, together for the first time, make real-time ray tracing possible. $NVDA PR link.

Essendant(PBR507) reconfirms it is still in favor of combining with General Parts(PBR191)’s S.P. Richards unit, has not received a proposal from Staples since 08/03/18 signing of confidentiality agreement. $ESND PR link.

Symantec(PBR585) gets compliance notice from NASDAQ for not filing quarterly 10-Q, has also received a notice for not filing annual 10-K, has submitted a plan, must file by 11/26/18 to be in compliance. $SYMC PR link.

Brink’s(PBR669) completes $520 million cash acquisition of Hunt Valley, MD, based 5,400 employees 78 locations Dunbar Armored, the fourth largest US cash management company. $BCO PR link.

KKR(PBR679) to acquire a 60% stake in Mumbai, India, based global management, collection, transport and processing of hazardous, municipal, biomedical and e-waste, as well as the recycling of paper, plastic and chemicals, as well as renewable energy generation provider Ramky Enviro Engineers Limited for $530 million. $KKR PR link.

Netflix(PBR251) CFO David Wells to step down upon appointment of successor. $NFLX PR link.

Advance Auto Parts(PBR305) Interim CFO Jeff Shepherd promoted to EVP/CFO, hires Reuben E. Slone to be EVP/Supply Chain, 10/03/18. $AAP PR link.

Tractor Supply(PBR379) promotes Steve Barbarick to President/COO and Rob Mills to EVP/Chief Technology, Digital Commerce and Strategy Officer. $TSCO PR link.

RH(PBR797) CFO Karen Boone stepping down for family reasons, Ryno Blignaut hired as President, Chief Financial and Administrative Officer. $RH PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of New Yorkreleases its US July 2018 Survey of Consumer Expectations, says US consumers expect higher growth in taxes but lower growth in medical care costs. Wage growth expectations retreated somewhat, and consumers were less optimistic about stock price growth. NYFed PR link.

***Friday, August 10:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 08/10/18:

DJIA ends week at 25,313.14, -0.59% from last Friday, -0.40% MTD, +4.29% QTD, +2.40% YTD, -4.90% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends week at 7,839.11, +0.35% from last Friday, +2.18% MTD, +4.38% QTD, +13.55% YTD, -1.17% from record 7,932.24 set 07/25/18.

SPX ends week at 2,833.28, -0.25% from last Friday, +0.60% MTD, +4.23 QTD, +5.97% YTD, -1.38% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

Weekly Summary:Through Wednesday the Stock Market Bull looked like he was going to have a pretty easy week. But then the Stock Market Bear made a quiet appearance on Thursday. On Friday, with the help of the global markets reacting severely to the collapse of the Turkish lira, the Stock Market Bear had a big day, but not enough to overcome the gains in the NASDAQ for the week, resulting in a mixed week overall. At the end of Week 32 the tally stands with the Stock Market Bull at 14 weekly wins, the Stock Market Bear 12, and 6 mixed results weeks.

Microsoft(PBR31) CEO Nadella Satya sells 328,000 of his shares at $109.4396/share, $35.9 million, has a balance of 778,596 shares remaining. $MSFT PR link.

Facebook(PBR69) has new requirements for people who manage Pages with a large US audience, requiring them to secure their account with two-factor authentication and confirm their primary country location, will make it harder for people to administer a Page using a fake or compromised account. $FB PR link.

Newell Brands(PBR194) to sell its $115 million in revenues/2017 manufacturer of hair styling tools and accessories Goody Products to private equity firm ACON Investments, to close within 30 days, terms not disclosed. $NWL PR link.

Williams Cos(PBR343) completes $10.5 billion all stock acquisition of Williams Partners(NYSE: WPZ). $WMB PR link.

YUM!(PBR458) authorizes up to $2 billion in share repurchases, is in addition to $329 million available from previous authorizations. $YUM PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR519) increases share authorization program to $750 million, has used $232 million from previous authorization, has $518 million balance available. $CZR PR link.

Public Storage(PBR752) acquires six newer or remodeled storage locations in Downtown Minneapolis and in nearby popular cities, has added 50 locations in Minnesota in last decade. $PSA PR link.

Marathon Petroleum(PBR37) SVP/Supply, Distribution, and Planning C. Michael Palmer to retire, effective 01/01/19, has been named EVP, assisting in the integration of MPC and Andeavor(PBR82) upon closing of the pending merger. $MPC PR link.

Marathon Petroleum(PBR37) announces additional executives leading combined company after closing Andeavor(PBR82) transaction. $MPC PR link.

DISH(PBR198) SVP/CFO & Principal Financial Officer Steven Swain leaving effective 08/22/18, Paul Orban designated to be Principal Financial Officer on 08/22/18. $DISH PR link.

Brookdale Senior Living(PBR523) hires Steven Swain as EVP/CFO, effective 09/04/18, succeeds Interim CFO Teresa Sparks. $BKD PR link.

GATX(PBR969) announces 6 leadership changes, including EVP/CFO Robert Lyons being EVP & President/Rail North America, and EVP & President/Rail North America becoming EVP/CFO. $GATX PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US July 2018 Total Receipts were $225.3 billion, Total Outlays $302.1, Total Deficit $76.9 billion, July 2017 Total Deficit was $42.9 billion, Total Deficit Fiscal YTD 2018(10 Months) is $684.0 billion, Total Deficit Fiscal YTD 2017(10 Months) was $566.0 billion. U Treasury PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US July 2018 Consumer Price Index changed by +0.2%, June 2018 was +0.1%, May 2018 +0.2%, Last 12 Months(Unadjusted) +2.9%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary July 2018 Current Average Earnings Per Houris at $27.05, Average Hours Worked Per Weekat 34.4, for Current Average Earnings Per Week at $933.23, -0.0% from June 2018, +3.0% from July 2017. USDOL PR link.

***Thursday, August 9:

The PBR1000 July 2018 Snapshot 15 Summary: The Top 5 By Market Capitalization(Rank, Company, PBR Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, Market Capitalization on 07/31/18):

1. Apple(PBR4 $AAPL), $933 billion
2. Amazon(PBR8 $AMZN), $868 billion
3. Alphabet(PBR21 $GOOG), $852 billion
4. Microsoft(PBR31 $MSFT), $809 billion
5. Berkshire Hathaway(PBR3 $BRKB), $495 billion

Range: $933 billion to $0.00 billion
Total The PBR1000 Market Capitalization:$27.059 trillion
Average: $27.059 billion
Median: $8.38 billion

Click here to get the full list of The PBR1000!

Humana(PBR54) completes exit of commercial long-term care insurance business in sale of its 29,300 members KMG wholly owned subsidiary to Continental General Insurance Company, to record a net loss of $400 million. $HUM PR link.

Tyson Foods(PBR75) selling its 400+ employees Green Bay, WI, based pizza crust business to a private equity firm Peak Rock Capital affiliate, part of plan to focus on protein business, terms not disclosed. $TSN PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR125) reaches a mutually agreed $93 million licensing settlement with the Taiwan Fair Trade Commission, will also drive certain commercial initiatives in Taiwan over the next five years for the benefit of the mobile and semiconductor ecosystem. $QCOM PR link.

JCPenney(PBR229) to open baby shops in 500 stores on 08/30/18, expanding baby categories and assortment. $JCP PR link.

Campbell Soup(PBR348 $CPB) activist investor Dan Loeb’s Third Point has $686.4 million 5.65% stake, says only justifiable outcome of strategic review of options is to sell the company.MarketWatch PR link.

Campbell Soup(PBR348) responds to Dan Loeb’s Third Point 13D filings, says it looks forward to sharing strategic plan at 08/30/18 annual shareholders meeting. $CPB PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR441) acquires Ottawa, Ontario, CAN, based employee benefits and retirement consulting services Leystone Insurance & Financial, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

Perrigo(PBR513) to separate its Prescription Pharmaceuticals (Rx) generics business as a spin-off, sale or merger by 2H19, to focus on consumers businesses. $PRGO PR link.

Brunswick(PBR535) completes $910 million cash acquisition of privately held Menomonee Falls, WI, based Power Products – Global Marine & Mobile electrical products business, includes 11 brands, $233 million in annual revenues. $BC PR link.

Chipotle(PBR538) doing limited testing in select US markets of an Applewood Smoked Baconbowl, Build Your Own Nachos, $2 tacos and a drink after 8PM, adding regular sized chips and a fountain drink to an entree order for $3. $CMG PR link.

USG Corp(PBR680) sets 09/26/18 for special stockholders meeting to vote on $44/share, $7.7 billion cash acquisition by Germany based Gebr. Knauf KG, to close in early 2019 if approved. $USG PR link.

Sinclair Broadcast(PBR744) gets termination notice of its $43.50/share, $3.9 billion cash/stock, plus assumption of $2.7 billion of debt Merger Agreement from Tribune Media(NYSE: TRCO), says lawsuit filed by TRCO is without merit, has withdrawn with prejudice its FCC applications to acquire TRCO. $SBGI PR link.

Sinclair Broadcast(PBR744) authorizes an additional up to $1 billion share repurchase program, $89 million still available from previous program, no expiration date. $SBGI PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary July 2018 Total Monthly Final Demand Producer Price Index is at +0.0%, June 2018was +0.3%, May 2018 +0.5%, July 2017 +0.1%, Total Last 12 Months(Unadjusted) +3.3%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary June 2018 Total Wholesale Saleswere at $506.6 billion, -0.1% from May 2018, +10.2% from June 2017; June 2018 Total Wholesale Inventories were at $632.4 billion, +0.1% from May 2018, +5.1% from June 2017, June 2018 Total Inventory/Sales Ratio was 1.25, May 2018 was 1.25, June 2017 1.31. USDOC PR link.

***Wednesday, August 8:

The July 2018 Snapshot 13 Summary: The PBR1000 Top 5 Stock Performers since 12/30/16)(19 Months)(Rank, Company, PBR Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 07/31/18 Stock Price, % Increase from 12/30/16):

1. Weight Watchers(PBR976 $WTW), $89.53, +682%
2. Systemax(PBR982 $SYX), $44.72, +410%
3. Square(PBR835 $SQ), $64.65, +374%
4. BlueLinx(PBR885 $BXC), $34.07, +356%
5. RH(PBR795 $RH), $135.86, +343%

Range: +682% to -99%
Number of Companies at 0% or Better:680/995
Average: +22.36%
Median: +14.15%
US Stock Exchanges: DJIA +28.60%, NASDAQ +42.52%, SPX +25.79%

Tomorrow: The PBR1000 Top 5 By Market Capitalization.

CVS Health(PBR7) rolls out telehealth app as part of its Minute Clinic service using Teladoc (NYSE: TDOC) for 24/7 access for minor medical conditions. $CVS PR link.

Ford(PBR10) celebrates production of 10,000,000th Mustang, a high-tech, 460 horsepower 2019 Wimbledon White GT V8 six-speed convertible saluting VIN 001 – the first serialized 1964.5 Ford Mustang that featured a 164 horsepower, three-speed V8. $F PR link.

Ford(PBR10) China introduces new mid-size Territory SUV aimed at SUV buyers in emerging, fast-growing cities, to be available in early 2019. $F PR link.

Blackstone(PBR385) completes acquisition of Shiller Park, IL, based 9,000 employees across 1,500 venues and 49 branch offices global events provider PSAV, terms not disclosed. $BX PR link.

GE(PBR18) Capital to sell its GE Energy Financial Services’ Project Finance Debt Business, valued at around $2.6 billion, to Starwood Property Trust. $GE PR link.

Rite Aid(PBR132) merger with privately held food store chain Albertson’s has been terminated by mutual agreement, 08/09/18 special meeting cancelled, no termination payments are to be made. $RAD PR link.

Mylan(PBR247)‘s Board feels US public markets continue to underappreciate and undervalue its global diversified business, has formed a strategic review committee and is actively evaluating a wide range of alternatives to unlock the true value of their one-of-a-kind platform, no timetable set. $MYL PR link.

Sempra Energy(PBR261) forms Sempra North American Infrastructure as a new operating group for its North American infrastructure businesses, names Carlos Ruiz Sacristán chairman and CEO of the group. $SRE PR link.

Cinemark(PBR705) Movie Club surpasses 350,000 subscription members representing over 1,000 members per theatre. $CNK PR link.

Greenbrier(PBR839) acquires 68% majority interest in Turkey based railcar manufacturer and provider of railcar repair and parts services Rayvag Vagon Sanayi ve Ticaret, terms not disclosed, Turkish government plans to expand rail lines, proposing to invest more than $23.5 billion toward rail infrastructure projects through 2023. $GBX PR link.

Dun & Bradstreet(PBR907) to be acquired by investor group led by CC Capital, Cannae Holdings and Thomas H. Lee Partners, for $145.00/share, $6.9 billion cash, includes $1.5 billion net debt and net pension obligations, to close within 6 months. $DNB PR link.

Avon Products(PBR467) hires Jose Vicente Marino as EVP and General Manager/Brazil, Avon’s largest business, effective 09/17/18. $AVP PR link.

Carpenter Technology(PBR897) to promote Tim Lain to VP/CFO, effective 09/14/18, succeeds departing Damon Audia. $CRS PR link.

***Tuesday, August 7:

The July 2018 Snapshot 12 Summary: The PBR1000 Top 5 Stock Performers YTD(7 Months)(Rank, Company, PBR Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 07/31/18 Stock Price, % Increase from 12/29/17):

1. BlueLinx(PBR885 $BXC), $34.07, +249%
2. Fossil(PBR732 $FOSL), $26.20, +237%
3. Tenet Health(PBR141 $THC), $37.63, +148%
4. Weight Watchers(PBR976 $WTW), $89.53, +102%
5. Genesis Health(PBR484 $GEN), $1.51, +99%

Range: +249% to -96%
Number of Companies at 0% or Better:547/1,000
Average: +2.62%
Median: +2.03%
US Stock Exchanges: DJIA +2.82%, NASDAQ +11.13%, SPX +5.34%

Tomorrow: The PBR1000 Top 5 Stock Performers since 12/30/16(19 Months).

AT&T(PBR9) acquires joint venture partner The Chernin Group’s controlling interest in Otter Media, has a global audience of more than 93 million unique monthly consumers, on pace to deliver over 75 billion video views in 2018. $T PR link.

Kroger(PBR17) exploring strategic alternatives, including a potential sale, of its 800 employees Turkey Hill manufacturing/distribution business producing popular iced teas, fruit drinks, milk, frozen dairy treats and a variety of ice creams. $KR PR link.

Cigna(PBR66) reiterates support for $96.18/share equivalent, $67 billion cash/stock deal, includes $15 billion debt, acquisition of Express Scripts(PBR25) in response to letter from minority shareholder Carl Icahn who opposes deal. $CI PR link.

21st Century Fox(PBR101) publishes official $18.30/share it does no already own bid for UKbased Sky plc. $FOX PR link.

Stanley Black & Decker(PBR222) to acquire high quality, performance-driven heavy equipment attachment tools for off-highway applications manufacturer International Equipment Solutions Attachments Group for $690 million cash. $SWK PR link.

Tesla(PBR250)‘s Chairman/CEO Elon Musk sends email to employees explaining why he is strongly considering a transition into a private company like his SpaceX venture, to sell shares at $420, a 20% premium, would encourage shareholders and employees to be investors. $TSLA PR link.

CSX(PBR256) transitions from a headquarters-centric to a decentralized by function organization, announces 4 leadership appointments reporting to EVP/Operations. $CSX PR link.

Group 1 Automotive(PBR263) acquires Honda of Slidell in Slidell, LA, and Fernandez Honda in San Antonio, TX, together to generate around $125 million in annual revenues, terms not disclosed. $GPI PR link.

MGM Resorts(PBR269) and 50/50 partner sell Grand Victoria Casino in Elgin, IL, to Eldorado Resorts for $327.5 million cash, receives $162 million. $MGM PR link.

Intl Flavors & Fragrances(PBR652)$106.25/share, $7.1 billion cash/stock acquisition of global flavors and natural fine ingredients producer with 70,000 products and 30,000+ customers Frutarom (TASE:FRUT), gets Frutarom shareholders approval, to close in 4Q18. $IFF PR link.

Louisiana-Pacific Corp(PBR743) authorizes up to $150 million share repurchase program. $LPX PR link.

Sinclair Broadcast(PBR744) launching a new over-the-top advertising platform exclusively focused on OTT advertising through its CompulseOTT division, will offer advertisers commercials in :15 and :30 second lengths on leading OTT distribution platforms such as Roku, AppleTV, gaming consoles, SmartTV’s and streaming sticks. $SBGI PR link.

Salesforce(PBR275) COO Keith Block promoted to Co-CEO, Marc Benioff is Chairman/Co-CEO. $CRM PR link.

Lowe’s(PBR40) hires Donald E. Frieson as EVP/Supply Chain. $LOW PR link.

Merck(PBR73) hires Steven C. Mizell as Chief Human Relations Officer, effective in 10/18, to succeed Mirian M. Graddick-Weir who retires 11/30/18. $MRK PR link.

General Dynamics(PBR90) to promote Christopher Marzilli to be EVP/Information Technology and Mission Systems, effective 01/01/19, succeeds retiring S. Daniel Johnson. $GD PR link.

Travelers Cos(PBR98) EVP/CFO Jay S. Benet to step down, effective 09/01/18, will be Vice Chairman of the Board, successor is Daniel S. Frey. $TRV PR link.

WellTower(PBR405) promotes Shankh Mitra to EVP and Chief Investment Officer, other appointments announced, has new structure for corporate finance and asset management. $WELL PR link.

Crocs(PBR1000), in 2Q18 report, says EVP/CFO Carrie Teffner to resign, effective 04/01/19, becomes EVP/Finance & Strategic Projects on 08/24/18 when Anne Mehlman joins to be successor EVP/CFO. $CROX PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary June 2018 Total Job Openings were at 6,663,000, +0.1% from May 2018, +8.8% from June 2017. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says US Preliminary June 2018 Total Consumer Revolving Credit Debt is at $1.039 trillion, Total Consumer Non-Revolving Credit Debt is at $2.869 trillion, Total Consumer Credit Debt is at $3.908 trillion, +0.3% from May 2018, +2.0% from December 2017(6 months), +4.7% from June 2017. USFed PR link.

FannieMae(PBR20) says the US July 2018 Home Purchase Sentiment Index is at 86.5, June 2018 was 90.7, May 2018 92.3, July 201786.8, “Fewer Americans think it is a good time to buy/sell a home as home prices and inventory constraints limit trade-up options.” $FNMA PR link.

The PurdueU/CME Group says the US July 2018 Ag Economy Composite Index is at 117, June 2018 was 143, May 2018 141, July 2017139, index falls sharply on price weakness and trade war concerns. PurdueU/CME Group PR link.

KKR(PBR674) releases “China: A Visit to the Epicenter,” a review of China economics, trade issues, especially with the US. $KKR PR link.

***Monday, August 6:

The July 2018 Snapshot 11 Summary: The PBR1000 Top 5 Month Stock Performers(Rank, Company, PBR Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 07/31/18 Stock Price, % Increase from 06/29/18):

1. iHeartRadio(PBR440 $IHRTQ), $0.46, +84%
2. SuperValu(PBR204 $SVU), $32.32, +58%
3. World Fuel(PBR84 $INT), $27.83, +36%
4. Travel Centers of America(PBR450 $TA), $4.65, +33%
5. LifePoint Health(PBR377 $LPNT), $64.80, +33%

Range: +84% to -43%
Number of Companies at 0% or Better:683/1,000
Average: +2.21%
Median: +2.55%

Tomorrow: The PBR1000 Top 5 Stock Performers YTD.

Click here to find out more about The PBR1000!

Cisco(PBR60) to receive $400 million from Arista Networks to resolve all outstanding litigation between the companies. $CSCO PR link.

Facebook(PBR69 $FB) denies seeking financial-transaction data from banks.MarketWatch PR link.

Praxair(PBR254 $PX) acquisition by Germanybased Linde AG may require more divestitures per indications from the US Federal Trade Commission. Linde AG PR link.

Avis Budget(PBR319) in multi-year deal with Lyft to provide cars for Lyft drivers, program to become available in next few months. $MAN PR link.

Regeneron(PBR459) to acquire $100 million in shares at $238.10/share in bluebird bio, Inc. (NASDAQ: BLUE) for a collaboration to apply their respective technology platforms to the discovery, development and commercialization of novel immune cell therapies for cancer. $REGN PR link.

Bemis(PBR583) to be acquired by Australiabased Amcor Limited (ASX: AMC) in $57.75/share, $6.8 billion all stock transaction, to close 1Q19. $BMS PR link.

Skyworks(PBR621) to acquire private fabless semiconductor smart interface supplier Avnerafor $405 million plus up to $20 million for milestone achievements over next 12 months, to close in 09/18. $SWKS PR link.

Varian Medical(PBR753) acquires privately-held humediQ Global GmbH, the manufacturer of IDENTIFY, an automated patient identification, positioning and motion management system for radiation therapy. $VAR PR link.

Columbia Sportswear(PBR788) adds up to an additional $200 million for share repurchase program, balance is now $259.7 million. $COLM PR link.

Vornado(PBR852) completes sale of its 49.5% interests in the 666 Fifth Avenue Office Condominium to an affiliate of its partner, the Kushner Companies, net proceeds to Vornado will be $120 million, will retain ownership of 666 Fifth Avenue Retail Condominium. $VNO PR link.

SeaWorld(PBR984) 2Q18 report says 1H18 attendance up 0.8 million, 8.0% from 1H17, to 9.6 million guests, 1H18 revenues up $49 million, 8.7%, to $609.1 million. $SEAS PR link.

PepsiCo(PBR43) Chairman/CEO Indra Nooyi to step down as CEO effective 10/03/18, remain Chairman until early 2019, President Ramon Laguarta to be CEO successor. $PEP PR link.

Manpower(PBR137) President/COO Darryl Green to retire, effective 08/31/18, for family reasons, no successor planned, Chairman/CEO Jonas Prising to assume responsibilities. $MAN PR link.

Granite Construction(PBR706) hires M. Craig Hall as SVP/General Counsel, Corporate Compliance Officer and Secretary. $GVA PR link.

***Friday, August 3:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 08/03/18:

DJIA ends week at 25,462.58, +0.05% from last Friday, +0.19% MTD, +4.91% QTD, +3.01% YTD, -4.34% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends week at 7,812.02, +0.96% from last Friday, +1.83 MTD, +4.02 QTD, +13.16% YTD, -1.52% from record 7,932.24 set 07/25/18.

SPX ends week at 2,840.35, +0.76% from last Friday, +0.85% MTD, +4.49 QTD, +6.24% YTD, -1.13% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

Weekly Summary: The Stock Market Bear took a big lead at the start of the week, but the Stock Market Bull took over from there and ended up with the win for Week 31, the result of a report of a strong US economy by the Federal Open Market Committee, good earnings reports overall, but balanced by continuing trade tensions and a somewhat mixed jobs report. With the win the Stock Market Bull now has 14 weekly wins, the Stock Market Bear 12, and 5 weeks have had mixed results.

Marathon Petroleum(PBR37)‘s $35.6 billion acquisition of Andeavor(PBR82) to be voted on by shareholders of both organizations on 09/24/18, expects to close on 10/01/18. $MPC PR link.

Manpower(PBR137) authorizes up to 6 million share repurchase program, is in addition to current program which has 1.8 million shares balance remaining. $MAN PR link.

Biogen(PBR237) authorizes new $3.5 billion share repurchase program with no expiration date. $BIIB PR link.

Boyd Gaming(PBR800) opens sports books at its two Mississippi properties – IP Casino Resort Spa in Biloxi, and Sam’s Town Hotel & Gambling Hall in Tunica — following the receipt of final approval from the Mississippi Gaming Commission, Boyd Gaming’s first sports books outside of the state of Nevada. $BYD PR link.

Adtalem Education(PBR888) moving Ross University School of Medicine medical sciences campus from Hurricane Mariadamaged Dominica to Bridgetown, Barbados, to start with 01/19 semester. $ATGE PR link.

Discover Financial(PBR253) Chairman/CEO David Nelms to step down as CEO on 10/01/18, become Executive Chairman until he retires in early 2019, President/COO Roger Hochschild to be President/CEO effective 10/01/18. $DFS PR link.

GNC(PBR790) board unanimously approves the appointment of CEO Ken Martindale to the additional role of Chairman, effective immediately, succeeds Bob Moran, who will assume the role of Lead Independent Director. $GNC PR link.

Ascena Retail(PBR408) promotes Andrew Clark to President/Loft brand and Julie Rosen to President/Ann Taylor and Lou & Grey brands. $ASNA PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US July 2018 Labor Force Employed was 155,965,000, +389,000 from June 2018, +2,454,000 from July 2017, July 2018 Unemployed at 6,280,000, -284,000 from June 2018, -676,000 from July 2017, July 2018 Unemployment Rate at 3.9%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says US Preliminary June 2018 Total Exports were $213.8 billion, Total Imports $260.1 billion, Total Deficit $46.3 billion, Total Deficit YTD(6 months) $291.2 billion, Total Deficit YTD June 2017(6 months) was $271.5 billion. USDOC PR link.

The Institute for Supply Management says the US July 2018 Non-Manufacturing Index(>50%=Economy Growing) is at 55.7%, represents continued growth in the non-manufacturing sector at a slower rate, June 2018 was 59.1%, May 2018 58.6%, July 201753.9%. ISM PR link.

IHS Markit says the US July 2018 Composite PMI Output Index is at 55.7, a 3 month low but remains strong, June 2018 was 56.2, May 201856.6, July 2017 54.6. IHS Market PR link.

***Thursday, August 2:

Apple(PBR4 $AAPL) closes at $207.39/share, with 4.92 billion outstanding shares closes with a market capitalization of $1.020 trillion, first US company to accomplish that milestone.

Comcast(PBR33) and Amazon(PBR8) to launch Prime Video on Comcast’s Xfinity X1later in 2018. $CMCSA PR link.

Cisco(PBR60) to acquire privately held Ann Arbor, MI, based unified access security and multi-factor authentication delivered through the cloud provider Duo Security for $2.35 billion cash. $CSCO PR link.

Macy’s(PBR113) launches exclusive limited-edition fall capsule, Zoe by Rachel Zoe, , ready-to-wear collection for the multi-hyphenate woman. $M PR link.

Boston Scientific(PBR315) completes $220 million cash up front plus up to $50 million for milestone achievements acquisition of privately held Claret Medical, developer of the Sentinel® Cerebral Embolic Protection System used to protect the brain during certain interventional procedures, predominately in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). $BSX PR link.

YUM!(PBR458)’s Taco Bell unit has opened 3 Urban In-Line and 3 Cantina restaurants in NYC boroughs, plans to add 3 more Cantina restaurants by end of 2018, plans to have 9,000 restaurants globally by 2022, 1,000 of them outside the US. $YUM PR link.

Post Holdings(PBR494) retains 60.5% equity and receives $875 million cash in partnership with Thomas H. Lee Partners in 8th Avenue Food & Provisions which will manage Post’s private brands business, to close in 10/18. $POST PR link.

Sealed Air(PBR540) acquires privately held fabricator of foam, corrugated, molded pulp and wood packaging solutions $125 million in sales/2017 260 employees, Pflugerville, TX,based AFP. $SEE PR link.

Global Payments(PBR656) to acquire cloud-based software as a service (SaaS) solutions to small-to-medium sized ambulatory physician practices in the US provider AdvancedMD from Marlin Equity Partners for $700 million cash. $GPN PR link.

Boyd Gaming(PBR800) and FanDuel Groupenter into strategic partnership to pursue sports betting and online gaming opportunities across the US. $BYD PR link.

Nu Skin(PBR821) increases share repurchase program to $500 million, had $92 million balance. $NUS PR link.

Square(PBR835) opens up its hardware to developers for the first time, introduces Square Reader SDK toolkit. $SQ PR link.

Greenbrier(PBR839) announced new orders totaling 5,000 diversified railcar units valued at $425+ million received during the first two months of 4Q18 that began on 06/01/18. $GBX PR link.

Take-Two Interactive(PBR898) in 2Q18 report says its Grand Theft Auto V is approaching 100 million units sold. $TTWO PR link.

ITT Corp(PBR770) President/CEO Denise Ramos to retire on 03/01/19, be an advisor after 12/31/18, Luca Savi named President/COO, will become President/CEO on 01/01/19. $ITT PR link.

Endo Intl(PBR643) hires Laure Park as SVP/Investor Relations and Corporate Affairs. $ENDP PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary June 2018 Total Manufacturers New Durable Goods Orders were $251.5 billion, New Non-Durable Goods Orders$$250.2 billion, Total New Goods Orders$501.7 billion, +0.7% from May 2018, +6.1% from June 2017. USDOC PR link.

***Wednesday, August 1:

Wells Fargo(PBR27) to pay $2.09 billion to resolve a previously disclosed investigation by the US Dept of Justice regarding claims related to certain 2005–07 residential mortgage-backed securities activities. $WFC PR link.

Boeing(PBR29) to open the new Boeing Aerospace & Autonomy Center in Cambridge, MA, first major tenant of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s (MIT) new mixed-use district in Kendall Square, leasing 100,000 sf, focus on designing, building and flying autonomous aircraft and developing enabling technologies. $BAC PR link.

HP Inc(PBR56) to acquire UK based office equipment dealer (OED) and Europe’s largest independent provider of print, outsourced services, and document and process technology Apogee Corporation for around $500 million, to close by 12/31/18. $HPQ PR link.

Facebook(PBR69 $FB) says WhatsApp will start making money next year. MarketWatch PR link.

Energy Transfer Equity(PBR72) to acquire Energy Transfer Partners(NYSE: ETP) in simplification transaction. $ETE PR link.

Sprint(PBR87) reports 57,000 total net wireless additions in 1Q18 ending 06/30/18, 54,567,000 total end of period connections, had 53,698,000 1Q17. $S PR link.

Starbucks(PBR124) in partnership with Alibaba(NYSE: BABA) to provide Starbucks online ordering and delivery services in Beijing and Shanghai in 09/18, to expand to 30 Chinese cities and 2,000 stores by end of 2018. $SBUX PR link.

BlackRock(PBR231) completes acquisition of $9 billion in of committed client capital 80+ team members Los Angeles, CA, based Tennenbaum Capital Partners, terms not disclosed. $BLK PR link.

ADP(PBR234) acquires Chicago, IL, based global payroll management services provider Celergo, terms not disclosed. $ADP PR link.

Tesla(PBR250) releases 2Q18 shareholders letter, has achieved 5,000 Model 3production/week, forecasting 50-55,000 units in 3Q18, expects to achieve profitability by year end. $TSLA PR link.

Entergy(PBR264) to sell the subsidiaries that own the Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station in Plymouth, MA, and the Palisades Power Plant in Covert, MI, after their shutdowns and reactor defuelings, to a Holtec International subsidiary for accelerated decommissioning. $ETR PR link.

Molson Coors(PBR265) Canada and Canadian cannabis producer, The Hydropothecary Corporation (“HEXO”) (TSX: HEXO), to form a joint venture to develop non-alcoholic, cannabis-infused beverages for the Canadian market following legalization. $TAP PR link.

HanesBrands(PBR416) and Target(PBR39) will not renew their contract for an exclusive line of C9 by Champion activewear apparel when the current contract expires at the end of 01/20, did $380 million in last 12 months, HBI says impact will be minimal because of growth in other areas. $HBI PR link.

Citizens Financial(PBR418) completes acquisition of Franklin American Mortgage, triples the size of Citizens’ off-balance sheet mortgage servicing portfolio from $21.6 billion to approximately $65.3 billion, with a total servicing portfolio of approximately $83.1 billion. $CFG PR link.

NVR(PBR426) authorizes $300 million share repurchase program. $NVR PR link.

Chipotle(PBR538) has record digital sales day with its promotion of free guacomole on National Avocado Day, used 700,000 avocados, 200,000 than the average day. $CMG PR link.

CNO Financial(PBR564) Bankers Life unit to cede all of its legacy (prior to 2003) comprehensive and nursing home long-term care policies (with statutory reserves of approximately $2.7 billion) through 100% indemnity coinsurance. to pay $825 million to Wilton Reassurance Company to take policies. $CNO PR link.

Valmont(PBR739) acquires operational assets of Derit Infrastructure Pvt. Ltd., a manufacturing facility in India’s Gujarat state, with production capabilities for steel lattice structures for power transmission, wireless communication, and renewable generation, and a provider of zinc galvanizing services, terms not disclosed. $VMI PR link.

The Cheesecake Factory(PBR827) begins exclusive national delivery agreement with DoorDash. $CAKE PR link.

Popular(PBR844) completes $1.7 bill cash acquisition of Wells Fargo(PBR27)’s auto finance business in Puerto Rico. $BPOP PR link.

Fitbit(BR931) says new Versa smartwatchoutsold Samsung, Garmin and Fossil(PBR732)smartwatches combined, sold 2.7 million devices in 2Q18 vs 3.4 million in 2Q17. $FIT PR link.

Griffon Corp(PBR948) authorizes an additional $50 million for share repurchases, balance available is $58.3 million. $GFF PR link.

Facebook(PBR69) Chief Security Officer Alex Stamos leaving on 08/17/18, taking teaching and research positions at Stanford. $FB PR link.

Becton Dickinson(PBR241) names Simon Campion as EVP and President/Interventional segment, effective 09/04/18. $BDX PR link.

Juniper Networks(PBR509) hires Pierre-Paul Allard as EVP/Chief Customer Officer. $JNPR PR link.

Aerojet Rocketdyne(PBR878) hires Jim Maser as SVP/Space Business Unit. $AJRD PR link.

Vitamin Shoppe(PBR995) hires David Mock as EVP/Chief Merchandising & Chief Marketing Officer. $VSI PR link.

The Federal Open Market Committee finishes its meeting, issues statement saying economic activity has been rising at a strong rate, keeps federal funds rate at 1.75-2.00% for now. FOMC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary June 2018 Total All Construction Annual Rate is at $1.317 trillion, -1.1% from May 2018, +7.4% from June 2017. USDOC PR link.

ADP(PBR234) says US Preliminary July 2018 Change in National Employment was +219,000, +21.0% from June 2018, +7.9% from July 2017; Small Businesses were +52,000, Mid-Sized +119,000, Large +48,000; Goods Producing Sector +42,000, Services Sector+177,000. $ADP PR link.

The Institute for Supply Management says US July 2018 Manufacturing PMI Index is at 58.1%, reflects continued expanding business strength, June 2018 was 60.2%, May 201858.7%, July 2017 56.5%. ISM PR link.

The IHS Markit US July 2018 Manufacturing PMI is at 55.3, says business confidence remained strongly positive, June 2018 was 55.4, May 2018 56.4, July 2017 53.3. IHS Markit PR link.

Automotive News says US Estimated July 2018 New Light Vehicles Units Sold was at 1,364,961, -3.7% from July 2017; Average Transaction Price was $31,561(JD Power), Average Incentive Outlay $3,754(ALG), Total Light Vehicles Sold YTD at 9,982,617, +1.1% from July 2017. Automotive News PR link.

***Tuesday, July 31:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Month of July Ending 07/31/18:

DJIA ends July 2018 at 25,415.19, -0.14% from last Friday, +4.71% MTD/QTD, +2.82% YTD, -4.51% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends July 2018 at 7,671.79, -0.85% from last Friday, +2.15% MTD/QTD, +11.13% YTD, -3.28% from record 7,932.24 set 07/25/18.

SPX ends July 2018 at 2,816.29, -0.09% from last Friday, +3.60% MTD/QTD, +5.34% YTD, -1.97% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

July 2018 Summary: The month was marked by trade tensions and threatened tariffs, but eased down towards the end of the month. The US economy continues to show good strength as indicated by the 4.1% GDP growth rateannounced at the end of the month. However, the technology sector struggled with cybersecurity and identity issues. In the end the Stock Market Bull clearly had a strong month across the major US stock exchanges and now leads the Stock Market Bear 4 months to 2 months with 1 month mixed through July.

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