The PBR1000 May 2015 Breaking News Recap!

June 3, 2015 by
ID-100259380 Strategy World-Stuart Miles

A Key The PBR1000 Growth Strategy in May 2015
Was The Use Of Mergers and Acquisitions.
What Will Be The Long Term Results?

 

By Larry C. Paxton

After the falling apart of the Comcast(PBR44)/Time Warner Cable(PBR125) merger in April, May 2015 saw a new, but not unexpected, Charter Communications(PBR320)/Time Warner Cable(PBR93) deal for $78 billion. It will be interesting to see what conditions are required for that deal to occur. But May 2015 was also a significant month for other over $10 billion dollar deals, like Avago Technology/Broadcom(PBR313), Pfizer(PBR53)/Hospira(PBR570), and Danaher(PBR139)/Pall Corp(PBR708). It was also a sad month that saw the collapse of Radio Shack(PBR619) as it goes through the bankruptcy process.

The US economy continues to give mixed signals. When the Federal Reserve will start to raise interest rates continues to be a topic of much discussion and conjecture.

The C-level suite had a lot of action as well. With active mergers and acquisitions, and mixed annual and quarterly results, this is not a big surprise.

Following are The PBR1000 and economic related news items of note for May 2015 starting with the last active day.

Friday, May 29:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 18,010.68, -1.21% from last Friday, +0.95% MTD, +1.32% QTD, +1.05% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,070.03, -0.38% from last Friday, +2.60% MTD, +3.45% QTD, +7.05% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,107.39, -0.88% from last Friday, +1.05% MTD, +1.91% QTD, +2.36% YTD.

Raytheon(PBR118) completes $1.9 billion investment for 80% ownership in venture with Vista Equity Partners’ Websense unit to provide cyber security services. $RTN PR link.

Dollar Tree(PBR329) to sell 330 Family Dollar(PBR252) stores to private equity fund firm Sycamore Partners, contingent on completion of acquisition. $DLTR PR link.

Harman Intl(PBR448) completes acquisition of Denmark based high end car audio systems provider Bang & Olufsen, terms not disclosed. $HAR PR link.

Harris Corp(PBR469) completes acquisition of global aerospace, defense, information & other technologies Exelis(PBR487) for $23.75/share, $4.75 billion. $HRS PR link.

Brown Shoe(PBR770) rebranding, now known as Caleres(PBR770) per 04/16/15 announcement. $CAL PR link.

Equinix(PBR852) agrees to acquire UK based data centers provider Telecity for $3.6B. MarketWatch article link.

American Express(PBR86) announces unexpected death of its president, Ed Gilligan. $AXP PR link.

International Flavors & Fragrances(PBR677) hires Alison Cornell as EVP/CFO, effective 07/08/15. $IFF article link.

The US Dept of Commerce in 2nd estimate says 1st Quarter 2015 GDP grew at a -0.7%, $17.665 trillion annual rate. USDOC PR link.

Thursday, May 28:
JPMorgan Chase(PBR20) expected to lay off more than 5,000 by next year. MarketWatch article link.

Energy Transfer Equity(PBR55) to do 2-1 stock split on 07/24/15. $ETE PR link.

Broadcom(PBR313) to be acquired by Singapore based analog semiconductor devices provider Avago Technologies(NASDAQ: AVGO) for $37 billion cash/stock. $BRCM PR link.

Crown Castle(PBR670) completes sale of Australian subsidiary to investment group headed by Macquarie Infrastructure(PBR1086) for $1.6 billion. $CCI PR link.

Alliance One Intl(PBR804) to do 1-for-10 reverse stock split effective 06/29/15. $AOI PR link.

Tesla(PBR887), Southern Co(PBR160) partner in utility-scale battery-storage projects. MarketWatch article link.

Freddie Mac(PBR33) reports that the average 30 year fixed mortgage rate is at 3.87%, fees/points at 0.6. Freddie Mac PR link.

Dollar General(PBR153) promotes COO Todd Vasos to CEO, effective 06/03/15, Rick Dreiling to remain Chairman. $DG PR link.

Hawaiian Airlines(PBR849) promotes Shannon Okinaka to EVP/CFO. $HA PR link.

Wednesday, May 27:
Ford Motor(PBR8) recalls 423,000 vehicles for potential intermittent loss of electrical power steering assist while driving. $F PR link.

CA Technologies(PBR520) to acquire Agile software development & services provider Rally Software(NYSE: RALY) for $19.50/share, $480 million. $CA PR link.

Dealerships are ‘quietly supporting’ Tesla’s(PBR887) Elon Musk MarketWatch article link.

City National Corp(PBR1045) stockholders approve merger with Royal Bank of Canada for $5.4 billion cash/stock, expected to close in 4th quarter. $CYN PR link.

Carnival Corp(PBR176) hires Jim Heaney as SVP/CFO, effective 06/22/15, reports to President Christine Duffy. $CCL PR link.

Domino’s Pizza(PBR927) names Chief Marketing Officer, Chief Digital Officer, USA VP Strategy, VP Team USA. $DPZ PR link.

Obamacare to add billions in insurance overhead costs, study says. MarketWatch article link.

Tuesday, May 26:
Amazon(PBR37) to create more than 6,000 jobs at its US fulfillment centers. $AMZN PR link.

Amazon(PBR37) changes tax practices in Europe. MarketWatch article link.

EMC Corp(PBR119) to acquire privately held managed cloud services company Virtustream for $1.2 billion. $EMC PR link.

AbbVie(PBR142) completes $21 billion acquisition of hematology oncology Imbruvica developer Pharmacyclics(NASDAQ: PCYC). $ABBV PR link.

Hormel Foods(PBR294) to acquire privately held natural/organic meat processor Applegate Farms for $775 million, expected to close in 60 days. $HRL PR link.

Reynolds American(PBR316) & Lorillard(PBR357) get FTC approval for merger, federal court case is final major hurdle. $RAI PR link.

Charter Communications(PBR320) to acquire Time Warner Cable(PBR125) for $78.7 billion stock/cash. $CHTR PR link.

Priceline(PBR365) to invest an additional $250 million in China online travel service Ctrip(NASDAQ: CTRP), will then have a 10.5% of a maximum allowable 15% stake. $PCLN PR link.

Brunswick(PBR577) completes sale of its Bowling Products unit to private investment firm BlueArc Capital Management, terms not disclosed. $BC PR link.

Apple(PBR4) names Jony Ive chief design officer. MarketWatch article link.

Anthem(PBR40) EVP/President Commercial/Specialty Business Division Ken Goulet retiring this summer. $ANTM PR link.

C.H. Robinson(PBR211) hires Andrew Clarke as CFO, effective 06/01/15, reports to president/CEO John Wiehoff. $CHRW PR link.

SeaWorld(PBR1002) Chief Accounting Officer Marc Swanson appointed Interim CFO effective 06/01/15 upon announcement by Jim Heaney that he is returning to the cruise industry. $SEAS PR link.

The US Dept of HUD reports that April New Single-Family Houses Sales were at a 517,000 annual rate, +6.8% over March, +26.1% over April 2014 HUD PR link.

Monday, May 25:
US Memorial Day Observed.
US Stock Exchanges Closed.

Friday, May 22:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 18,232.02, -0.22% from last Friday, +2.19% MTD, +2.56% QTD, +2.29% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,089.36, +0.81% from last Friday, +2.99% MTD, +3.85% QTD, +7.46% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,126.06, +0.16% from last Friday, +1.95% MTD, +2.81% QTD, +3.26% YTD.

Amgen(PBR144) terminating participation with AstraZeneca(NYSE:AZN) to co-develop & commercialize brodalumab for plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis. $AMGN PR link.

Exelis(PBR487) shareholders approve acquisition by Harris Corp(PBR469) for $23.75/share, $4.75 billion cash/stock, expected to close on 05/29/15. $ENR PR link.

Energizer Holdings(PBR527) adopts limited duration shareholder rights plan in preparation for Personal Care Division spin-off. $ENR PR link.

Arch Coal(PBR671) receives continued listing standard notice from NYSE; taking steps to regain compliance with minimum share price standard. $ACI PR link.

ITT Educational(PBR1078) issues statement: ‘Day in Court Long Overdue for ITT Tech.’ $ESI PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that April Employee Avg Current Earnings were $24.87/hr, +2.2% from April 2014, $858.02/wk. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the April Consumer Price Index was +0.1% over March, -0.2% over the last 12 months. USDOL PR link.

Thursday, May 21:
CVS Health(PBR13) to acquire long term care facilities pharmacy provider Omnicare(PBR408) for $98/share, $12.7 billion cash. $CVS PR link.

QUALCOMM(PBR104) initiates accelerated $5 billion share repurchase program with two financial institutions. $QCOM PR link.

Spectrum Brands(PBR529) completes acquisition of HRG Group(PBR412) Armored AutoGroup unit for $1.4 billion cash. $SPB PR link.

Graham Holdings(PBR610) sells the African American emphasis TheRoot.com to a division of Univision Interactive Media. $GHI PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) acquires Midwest based retail insurance broker James R Weir Insurance Agency. $AJG PR link.

Chico’s FAS(PBR748) President/CEO David Dyer retiring in Spring 2016, search firm retained to find a successor. $CHS PR link.

Nortek(PBR822) CFO Almon Hall to retire at year end 2015, search among internal/external candidates begins. $NTK PR link.

Lumber Liquidators(PBR1093) founder Thomas Sullivan named Acting CEO upon the unexpected resignation of Robert Lynch. $LL PR link.

The National Assn of Realtors reports that April Existing Home Sales were at a 5.04 million annual rate, -3.3% from Marc, +6.1% from April 2014 NAR PR link.

Wednesday, May 20:
JPMorgan Chase(PBR20) announces settlements with the US Dept of Justice & the Federal Reserve related to foreign exchange activities $JPM PR link.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR39) to file 10 new drugs by 2019, each with the potential to generate more than $1 billion in revenues. $JNJ PR link.

Scotts Miracle-Gro(PBR701) pays $300 million to Monsanto(PBR173) for RoundUp brand extension into new lawn & garden categories & geographies. $SMG PR link.

Owens & Minor(PBR285) hires P Cody Phipps as President/CEO, effective 07/01/15, succeeds retiring James Bierman. $OMI PR link.

The Federal Open Market Committee releases its April meeting minutes, still wait & see on interest rates, based on employment, inflation rates. FOMC PR link.

Tuesday, May 19:
Computer Sciences Corp(PBR209) to split into 2 public companies, Global Commercial & US Public Sector, will pay special dividend of $10.50/share upon closing, expected by October. $CSC PR link.

Big Lots(PBR450) hires “Rocky” Robins, Jr, as General Counsel/Corporate Secretary, reports to President/CEO David Campisi. $BIG PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR33) in its May Economic and Housing Market Outlook sees interest rate volatility, higher home prices, slower growth. $FMCC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that April Private Housing Starts were at an annual rate of 1,135,000, +20.2% from March, +9.2% from April 2014. USDOC PR link.

Monday, May 18:
Apple(PBR4) buys high-precision GPS firm Coherent Navigation. BetaNews article link.

Archer-Daniels-Midland(PBR28) growing sweetener business in central & western China with acquisition of privately held Meiweiyuan Biotechnology. $ADM PR link.

Starbucks(PBR164) & Spotify to connect music streaming service to stores, rewards members, & users. $SBUX PR link.

Hertz(PBR249) to raise car-rental rates. MarketWatch article link.

The Andersons(PBR428) purchases Kay Flo Industries’ Plant Nutrient Group, sells 200,000 tons of liquid fertilizers. $ANDE PR link.

Ascena Retail(PBR493) to acquire women’s specialty fashion retail company ANN(PBR775) for $47/share, $2 billion. $ASNA PR link.

Endo International(PBR741) to acquire private generics company Par Pharmaceutical from TPG for $8.05 billion. $ENDP PR link.

GrafTech(PBR1056) to be acquired by Brookfield Asset Management(NYSE: BAM) for a tender offer of $5.05/share, $695 million. $GTI PR link.

Amgen(PBR144) hires Jon Graham as SVP, General Counsel/Secretary, effective 07/13/15, succeeds retiring David Scott, reports to Chairman/CEO Robert Bradway. $AMGN PR link.

C.H. Robinson(PBR211) promotes Mike Short to President, Global Forwarding division, reports to CEO John Wiehoff. $CHRW PR link.

Friday, May 15:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 18,272.56, +0.45% from last Friday, +2.42% MTD, +2.79% QTD, +2.52% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,048.29, +0.89% from last Friday, +2.16% MTD, +3.01% QTD, +6.59% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,122.73(R), +0.31% from last Friday, +1.78% MTD, +2.65% QTD, +3.10% YTD.

TRW Automotive(PBR154) acquisition by Germany auto supplier ZF Friedrichshafen AG for around $11 billion is completed.

Molina Healthcare(PBR375) to acquire Medicaid and MIChild assets of HealthPlus in the State of Michigan. $MOH PR link.

General Dynamics(PBR91) Gulfstream Aerospace unit President Larry Flynn retiring on 06/30/15, Mark Burns to become President. $GD PR link.

The US Federal Reserve System G17 report says that April Industrial Production decreased 0.3%, 5th consecutive monthly loss. USFRS PR link.

Thursday, May 14:
eBay(PBR170) PayPal unit to trade as NASDAQ: PYPL, its original symbol before being acquired by eBay, upon spinoff later this year. PayPal article link.

The Mosaic Co(PBR265) authorizes $1.5 billion shares repurchase program, $500 million fast tracked. $MOS PR link.

Crown Castle(PBR670) selling Australian subsidiary to investment group headed by Macquarie Infrastructure(PBR1086) for $1.6 billion. $CCI PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the April Producer Price Index fell 0.4%, last 12 mos final demand fell 1.3%. USDOL PR link.

Wednesday, May 13:
Hospira(PBR570) shareholders approve acquisition by Pfizer(PBR53) for $90/share, $17 billion, expects to close in 2nd half 2015. $HSP PR link.

Delta Air Lines(PBR78) authorizes new $5 billion shares repurchase program to be completed by 12/31/17. $DAL PR link.

Danaher(PBR139) to acquire filtration, separation, & purification products & services provider Pall Corp(PBR708) for $127.20/share, $13.8 billion. $DHR PR link.

Danaher(PBR139) to split into two public companies, a science/technology firm, & a diversified industrial growth company. $DHR PR link.

Southwest Airlines(PBR150) announces $1.5 billion shares repurchase program. $LUV PR link.

Precision Castparts(PBR275) authorizes additional $2 billion shares repurchase program through 06/30/17. $PCP PR link.

Owens-Illinois(PBR356) to acquire largest food & beverage glass container provider in Mexico, Vitro, for $2.15 billion cash. $OI PR link.

Williams Cos(PBR361) to acquire all public equity of natural gas products/services company Williams Partners(NYSE: WPZ) in $13.8 billion stock deal. $WMB PR link.

RadioShack(PBR619) brand name & customer data auctioned off to Standard General for $26.2 million. Dallas Morning News article link.

AIG(PBR41) promotes Brian Schreiber to new position of Chief Strategy Officer, reports to President/CEO Peter Hancock. $AIG PR link.

The Mosaic Co(PBR265) to promote EVP/COO Joc O’Rourke to President/CEO on 08/05/15, succeeds James Prokopanko, who is retiring. $MOS PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that April Retail & Food Services Sales were $436.8 billion, same as March, 0.9% higher than April 2014. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says April Import Prices fell 0.3%, -10.7% last 12 mos; Export Prices fell 0.7%, -6.3% last 12 mos. USDOL PR link.

Tuesday, May 12:
Verizon(PBR15) to acquire digital content/advertising company AOL(PBR812) for $50/share, $4.4 billion. $VZ PR link.

American Express(PBR86) authorizes 150 million shares buyback program, replaces previous program. $AXP PR link.

ConAgra Foods(PBR149) has acquired Concord, NH, based 60 employee natural & organic frozen meals maker Blake’s All Natural Foods, terms not disclosed. $CAG PR link.

ITT Educational(PBR1078) disputes SEC suit filed today regarding accounting irregularities. $ESI PR link.

ITT Educational(PBR1078), CEO Modany & CFO Fitzpatrick sued by SEC on fraud charges for accounting irregularities. SEC PR link.

FMC Technologies(PBR350) promotes EVP/COO Doug Pferdehirt to President, John Gremp keeps Chairman/CEO responsibilities. $FTI PR link.

Calpine Corp(PBR391) hires Trey Griggs III as EVP/Chief Commercial Officer, effective 06/01/15, reports to President/CEO Thad Hill. $CPN PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says end of March Job Openings were at 4.99 million, was 5.14 million at the end of February. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury reports that the US Government April Receipts were at $471.8 billion, Surplus of $156.7 billion, Fiscal YTD Deficit now $282.8 billion. Treasury PR link.

Monday, May 11:
General Electric(PBR9) says it is open to concessions to get the European Union to okay the pending $13.5 billion deal for France based Alstom. MarketWatch article link.

Noble Energy(PBR467) enters Eagle Ford & Permian oil fields through acquisition of Rosetta Resources(NASDAQ: ROSE) for $2.1 billion in stock. $NBL PR link.

Comcast(PBR44) hires Carlyle Group(PBR528) executive Mike Cavanaugh to become CFO this summer. $CMCSA PR link.

Cameron Intl(PBR269) Pres/COO R Scott Rowe to become CEO on 10/05/15, Chairman/CEO Jack Moore to remain Chairman. $CAM PR link.

Tempur Sealy(PBR783) appoints COO Tim Yaggi as Interim CEO, elects Frank Doyle as Chairman. $TPX PR link.

Panera Bread(PBR794) hires former Darden(PBR393) Pres/COO Drew Madsen as President, former McDonald’s(PBR96) exec Ken Koziol as EVP. $PNRA PR link.

The US Dept of Interior conditionally approves Royal Dutch Shell Arctic drilling plan. MarketWatch article link.

Friday, May 8:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 18,191.11, +0.93% from last Friday, +1.97% MTD, +2.33% QTD, +2.06% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,003.55, -0.04% from last Friday, +1.26% MTD, +2.09% QTD, +5.65% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,116.10, +0.37% from last Friday, +1.47% MTD, +2.33% QTD, +2.78% YTD.

Walmart(PBR1) Canada to acquire & renovate 13 former Target(PBR38) Canada stores, add 4,900 jobs. $WMT PR link.

Swiss based crop protection & seeds company Syngenta rejects Monsanto’s(PBR173) unsolicitied CHF449/share offer, says undervalued. Syngenta PR link.

Monsanto(PBR173) makes unsolicited offer for Swiss based crop protection & seeds company Syngenta for CHF449/share. $MON PR link.

Priceline(PBR365) announces acquisition of real-time hotel analytics firm PriceMatch. $PCLN PR link.

RadioShack(PBR619) name & intellectual property up for auction on Monday, 05/11/15. MarketWatch article link.

Tempur Sealy(PBR783) stockholders do not re-elect Chairman P Andrews McLane, President/CEO Mark Sarvary, & Director Christopher Masto to board. $TPX PR link.

The US Dept of Labor in April Employment Situation reports that 148.5 million people were employed at the end of April, 8.5 million unemployed, 5.4% unemployment rate. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says March Wholesale Sales were at $441.6B, -0.2% from February, -4.0% from March 2014. USDOC PR link.

Thursday, May 7:
Starbucks(PBR164) moving Ethos Water production from California to Pennsylvania because of drought. $SBUXL PR link.

Biogen(PBR358) authorizes $5 billion shares repurchase program with no expiration date. $BIIB PR link.

Asbury Automotive(PBR449) has acquired $70 million/yr Atlanta, GA, based Capital City Nissan, to be renamed Nalley Nissan Atlanta. $ABG PR link.

Alaska Air(PBR459) to be Gevo’s(NASDAQ: GEVO) commercial launch partner for renewable alcohol-based jet fuel. $ALK PR link.

SunEdison(PBR888) to acquire 7 renewable energy portfolios & corporate platforms In Brazil, China, India, Peru, Chile, South Africa, & Uruguay. $SUNE PR link.

Lumber Liquidators(PBR1093) provides update on laminate flooring sourced from China. $LL PR link.

Walt Disney(PBR54) promotes Leslie Ferraro to President, Disney Consumer Products, reports to Chairman/CEO Robert Iger & COO Thomas Staggs. $DIS PR link.

Church & Dwight(PBR645) to promote COO/CFO Matt Farrell to CEO, effective 01/01/16, upon retirement of James Craigie, who will continue to serve as non-executive Chairman. $CHD PR link.

The US Federal Reserve in its G19 report says 1st Quarter 2015 Consumer Credit was up at a 5.5% annual rate. FRB PR link.

Wednesday, May 6:
Whole Foods(PBR195) announces plans to open new brand stores in 2016 geared towards millenial shoppers. $WFM PR link.

Discover Financial(PBR281) selling its Diners Club Italia & Diner Club Card transaction processor Dinit to Swiss private bank Corner Bank. $DFS PR link.

Starwood Hotels(PBR405) plans to add 50 hotels by 2019 in the Middle East. $HOT PR link.

Wendy’s(PBR777) to sell non-core bakery business, on track to sell 540 corporate restaurants to franchisees. $WEN PR link.

Alexion Pharmaceuticals(PBR986) to acquire rare diseases therapies developer Synageva BioPharma(NASDAQ: GEVA) for $230/share, $8.4 billion net cash. $ALXN PR link.

AGL Resources(PBR507) appoints EVP/CFO Andrew Evans to President/COO. Elizabeth Reese promoted to EVP/CFO. $GAS PR link.

Dynegy(PBR1000) extends employment agreement with President/CEO Robert Flexon through April 2018. $DYN PR link.

Atmel(PBR1013) CEO Steven Laub to retire as of 08/31/15, search for internal/external candidates starts. $ATML PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the 1st Quarter Labor Productivity Annual Rate was -1.9%, output -0.2%, hours worked +1.7%. USDOL PR link.

Tuesday, May 5:
Archer-Daniels-Midland(PBR28) to acquire full ownership of strategically located Black Sea export terminals. $ADM PR link.

Wells Fargo(PBR29) is sued by the City of Los Angeles for opening unauthorized accounts. $WFC PR link.

HCA(PBR76) approves $1 billion shares buyback program, 3 year capital plan upped to $7.7 billion. $HCA PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) to open 4 30,000 sf Backstage pilot off-price stores in metro New York City in the fall of 2015. $M PR link.

Sprint(PBR162) reports 1.2 million net additions in 4th quarter 2014 compared to net losses of 383,000 in 4th quarter 2013. $S PR link.

Pitney Bowes(PBR579) to acquire global ecommerce solutions company Borderfree for $14/share, $395 million cash in aggregate. $PBI PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) acquires Toronto, ON, based McDowall Associates Human Resource Consultants. $AJG PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) acquires Calgary, AB, based employee benefits provider Vital Benefits. http://bit.ly/1c3JR6M$AJG PR link.

Occidental Petroleum(PBR107) promotes Vicki Hollub to President of Worldwide Oil & Gas operations, to succeed Stephen Chazen as CEO after a transition period. $OXY PR link.

Micron Technology(PBR166) hires Ernie Maddock as CFO & VP of Finance effective 06/01/15. $MU PR link.

Hubbell(PBR646) appoints Kevin A. Poyck, Rodd R. Ruland and Darrin S. Wegman Group Presidents for its Lighting, Construction and Energy, and Commercial and Industrial businesses, respectively, effective June 1, 2015, all report to Chairman/President/CEO David Nord. $HUBA PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that March US International Trade Exports were at $187.8 billion, Imports $239.2 billion, for a deficit of $51.4 billion, February deficit was $35.9 billion. USDOC PR link.

Monday, May 4:
Comcast(PBR44) plans to use $6.75 billion in 2015 for shares repurchase program. $CMCSA PR link.

Google(PBR46) acquires Timeful to develop scheduling apps for its products. $GOOGL PR link.

McDonald’s(PBR96) to restructure on 07/01/15 into 4 business units: US, International Lead, High-Growth, & Foundational Markets. $MCD PR link.

Coach(PBR490) completes acquisition of women’s luxury footwear designer & manufacturer Stuart Weitzman from private equity firm Sycamore Partners for up to $574 million cash. $COH PR link.

Patterson Cos(PBR563) to acquire production distribution company Animal Health International for $1.1 billion cash. $PDCO PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) acquires Charlotte, NC, based credit union executive compensation consulting services firm Burns-Fazzi, Brock & Associates. $AJG PR link.

Ciena Corp(PBR870) to acquire network management software developer Cyan(NYSE: CYNI) for $400 million. $CIEN PR link.

Corinthian Colleges(PBR974) files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Reuters article link.

Cisco Systems(PBR58) SVP Worldwide Operations Chuck Robbins to become CEO 07/26/15; Chairman/CEO John Chambers to become Executive Chairman. $CSCO PR link.

Chesapeake Energy(PBR152) hires Frank Patterson as EVP Exploration, Land & Subsurface Technology, reports to CEO Doug Lawler. $CHK PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) hires Sean Connelly as Global Chief Information Officer. $AJG PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that March New Orders for Manufactured Goods were at $476.5 billion, +2.1% from February, 1st increase in 7 months. USDOC PR link.

Friday, May 1:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 18,024.06, -0.31% from last Friday, +1.03% MTD, +1.39% QTD, +1.13% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,005.39, -1.70% from last Friday, +1.29% MTD, +2.13% QTD, +5.69% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,108.29, -0.44% from last Friday, +1.09% MTD, +1.95% QTD, +2.40% YTD.

The PBR1000 April 2015 Breaking News Recap is at: Link.

Arrow Electronics(PBR129) completes acquisition of Taiwan based $500 million/yr Asian electronic component distributor ATM Electronic Corp. $ARW PR link.

Harley-Davidson(PBR417) President/COO Matt Levatich now President/CEO. $HOG PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) acquires Kansas City, MO, national healthcare human resources consulting company Integrated Healthcare Strategies. $AJG PR link.

International Flavors & Fragrances(PBR677) completes acquisition of flavors technologies company Henry H. Ottens Manufacturing. $IFF PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says March US Construction Annual Spending Rate at $966.6B, -0.6% from Feb, +2.0% from March 2014. USDOC PR link.

 

(The PBR1000 is the premiere comparative data and reporting service covering over 1,000 of the largest publicly held companies with principle or administration headquarters in the US. These companies generate over $13 trillion in annual worldwide revenues, more than all other companies in the US combined. These are the key drivers in the US and world economies. On a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis several analytical reports in customizable Microsoft Excel format are provided to The PBR1000 subscribers. Users include C-level executives, entrepreneurs,  sales/marketing/advertising professionals, investors/investment advisers, business professors/students, career counselors/job seekers, to name just a few. To order your annual subscription, just go to the PBRMarketTools.com Order page.)

(Photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net, Stuart Miles.)

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The PBR1000 April 2015 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots

May 20, 2015 by
ID-100326596 World Stocks Chart-jscreationzs

Which Directions Did Your Stocks Go In April?

 

By Larry C. Paxton

The PBR1000 April 2015 Snapshots include news and stocks data on 1,065 companies in 15 analytical reports.

Current The PBR1000 Subscribers should have already received the MS Excel workbook.


At the end of April it was good to see that the stock exchanges were in the black in all time ranges. However, the journey to get there still involved a lot of fluctuations throughout the month. One highlight was NASDAQ reaching a new high close during the month, the first time in years.

Economic indicators are still mixed. The Federal Reserve continues to be cautious about when it will inevitably have to start to increase interest rates and the rationale for doing justifying that action. This  sets the stage for May. It will be interesting to see how investors respond as a new set of indicators come out and company quarterly SEC reports are filed.

 

In the following tables the stock price is for the close of trading on April 30th, Month % Chg is compared to March 31st, YTD % Chg is compared to December 31, 2014, and the 16 Mos % Chg is compared to December 31, 2013.

Table 1: The PBR1000 Stock Price Composite

Table 1 Summary: Made up of the sum of the stock prices of the 1,065 companies currently tracked by The PBR1000.

Company Price
04/30/15		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 16 Mos
% Chg
The PBR1000 288,901.61 -1.76 -3.81 +17.88

 

Table 2: The PBR1000 Top 5 Month Stock Price % Gainers

Table 2 Summary: The range was +75.00% to -30.67%. 443 out of 1,065 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 41.60% of the companies tracked. The median was a loss of 1.12%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
04/30/15		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 16 Mos
% Chg
NII Holdings
 495 NIHDQ 0.07 +75.00 +250.00 -97.45
Windstream
 410 WIN 11.68 +57.84 +41.75 +46.37
Tidewater
 1004 TDW 27.69 +44.67 -14.56 -53.28
iHeartRadio
 396 IHRT 6.75 +42.11 -18.18 +3.37
McDermott Intl
 734 MDR 5.25 +36.72 +80.41 -42.69

 

Table 3: The PBR1000 Top 5 Year-To-Date Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: The range was +250.00% to -65.58%. 573 out of 1,065 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 53.80% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of 1.09%

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
04/30/15		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 16 Mos
% Chg
NII Holdings
 495 NIHDQ 0.07 +75.00 +250.00 -97.45
McDermott Intl
 734 MDR 5.25 +36.72 +80.41 -42.69
Pinnacle Entertainment
 993 PNK 36.76 +1.86 +65.21 +41.44
Netflix
 534 NFLX 556.50 +33.55 +62.91 +51.15
Skechers USA
 922 SKX 89.92 +25.05 +62.75 +171.42

 

Table 4: The PBR1000 Top 5 16 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 4 Summary: Range was +171.42% to -97.65%. 688 out of 1,060 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 64.91% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of 9.94%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
04/30/15		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 16 Mos
% Chg
Skechers USA
 922 SKX 89.92 +25.05 +62.75 +171.42
Electronic Arts
 603 EA 58.09 -1.23 +23.56 +153.23
Freescale Semiconductor
 548 FSL 39.09 -4.10 +54.93 +143.55
JetBlue Airways
 441 JBLU 20.53 +6.65 +29.45 +140.40
Hawaiian Holdings
 849 HA 23.08 +4.79 -11.40 +139.67

 

Table 5: The PBR1000 Selected Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company Price
04/30/15		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 16 Mos
% Chg
DJIA 17,840.52 +0.36 +0.10 +7.62
NASDAQ 4,941.42 +0.83 +4.34 +18.31
S&P500 2,085.51 +0.85 +1.29 +12.83
Gold 1,181.10 -0.18 -0.32 -1.76
Silver 16.16 -2.65 +3.59 -16.57
Oil 59.74 +25.50 +12.15 -34.50

 

Have questions on The PBR1000 or The PBR US Indices Monthly Snapshot? Please contact us at Sales@PBRMarketTools.com or call us at 520-282-4100.

Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter at @ThePBR1000.

(The PBR1000 provides astute investors and business professionals with the data, news, and analysis for taking higher probability of success actions. The PBR1000 covers over 1,000 of the largest publicly held companies with principle or administrative headquarters in the US. These companies generate over $13 trillion in annual worldwide revenues, more than all other companies in the US combined. These are the key drivers in the US and world economies. On a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis several analytical reports in customizable Microsoft Excel format are provided to Subscribers of The PBR1000. Subscribers include C-level executives, entrepreneurs, sales/marketing/advertising professionals, investors/investment advisers, business professors/students, career counselors/job seekers, to name just a few. To order your annual subscription, just click here to go to the PBRMarketTools.com Order page.)

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The PBR1000: The April 2015 Breaking News Recap!

May 3, 2015 by
ID-100287519 Politics-Stuart Miles

The 2016 Race for the US Presidency Has Started.
What Promises for Economic and Business Growth Can We Expect?

 

By Larry C. Paxton

Activity in The PBR1000 companies during April 2015 was a bit like the start of the 2016 race for the US presidency. There was some activity, like Hillary Clinton announcing her bid and then the quiet followup with her initial road trip. On the business side perhaps Apple(PBR4) came the closest by announcing the Apple Watch and accepting initial orders. The falling apart of the Comcast(PBR44)/Time Warner Cable(PBR125) merger provided some excitement and the Mylan(PBR36) dance with Perrigo(PBR564) and Israel based Teva Pharmaceuticals has provided some entertainment, too.

Following are The PBR1000 and economic news items of note for April 2015 starting with the last active day.

Thursday, April 30:
The PBR1000 Monthly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes month at 17,840.52, -1.33% from last Friday, +0.36% MTD/QTD, +0.10% YTD.
NASDAQ closes month at 4,941.42, -2.96% from last Friday, +0.83% MTD/QTD, +4.34% YTD.
SPX closes month at 2,085.51, -1.52% from last Friday, +0.85% MTD/QTD, +1.29% YTD.

AmerisourceBergen(PBR16) authorizes $1 billion shares buyback program. $ABC PR link.

Boulevard Acquisition(NASDAQ: BLVD) to acquire AgroFresh business from Dow Chemical(PBR48) for $810 million, make it a public company. $BLVD PR link.

Harley-Davidson(PBR417) to begin direct distribution to Canadian independent dealers in August per agreement with current exclusive distributor. $HOG PR link.

NII Holdings(PBR495) completes $1.875 billion sale of its Nextel Mexico operations to AT&T(PBR12). $NIHDQ PR link.

Crown Castle(PBR670) to acquire Quanta Services(NYSE: PWR) subsidiary fiber networks provider Sunesys for $1.0 billion cash. $CCI PR link.

Tesla(PBR887) CEO Elon Musk announces new Tesla battery energy storage emphasis for homes & businesses. $TSLAI PR link.

Sears Holdings(PBR82) & Macerich(PBR1090) create 50/50 joint venture Involving 9 Sears properties located at Macerich malls. $MAC PR link.

Discover Financial(PBR281) promotes Julie Loeger to SVP, Chief Marketing Officer for US Cards, reports to president/COO. $DFS PR link.

Booz Allen Hamilton(PBR437) promotes VP Gary Voellger to Chief Ethics & Compliance Officer, reports to President/CEO Horacio Rozanski. $BAH PR link.

Analog Devices(PBR738) promotes John Hassett to SVP Worldwide Manufacturing, reports to President/CEO Vincent Roche. $ADI PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that March Personal Income & Personal Disposable Income was up less than 0.1% over February. USDOC PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR33) says homeowners who refinanced through the HARP program in 1Q15 are saving $290/mo on a $200,000 loan in the first year. $FMCC PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR33) says the Average 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rate at 3.68% with 0.6 fees/points. $FMCC PR link.

Wednesday, April 29:
Express Scripts(PBR21) announces $5.5 billion accelerated shares repurchase transaction. $ESRX PR link.

Ashland(PBR404) completes $1.35 billion shares buyback program, authorizes a new $1 billion program to expire 12/31/17. $ASH PR link.

Perrigo(PBR564) rejects Mylan(PBR360) $75/share plus 2.3 Mylan shares offer, says still effectively below 1st offer. $PRGO PR link.

Israeli based Teva Pharmaceuticals(NYSE: TESA) sends letter to Mylan(PBR360) board justifying its $82/share, $43 billion offer. $TEVA PR link.

Mylan(PBR360) sends 3rd acquisition offer to Perrigo(PBR564), $75/share plus 2.3 Mylan shares, effective $232.23/share. $MYL PR link.

ITT Educational(PBR1078) CFO Dan Fitzpatrick retiring 10/29/15; 2015 enrollment at 51,201. $ESI PR link.

Kellogg Co(PBR188) promotes Paul Norman to President, North America, reports to Chairman/CEO John Bryant. $K PR link.

GrafTech(PBR1056) CFO Erick Asmussen leaving, VP Finance/Treasurer Quinn Coburn to also be Interim CFO. $GTI PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the 1Q15 Gross Domestic Product was at 0.2% annual rate, $17.71T, down from 4Q14 2.2%. GDP PR link.

The US Federal Reserve System Open Market Committee issues its latest statement on the US economy, no set timeframe to up interest rates from 0%, long term goal is 2%. FOMC PR link.

Tuesday, April 28:
Tyson Foods(PBR80) to eliminate human antibiotics from broiler chicken flocks by 2017. $TSN PR link.

T-Mobile US(PBR115) has 1.8 million net wireless subscriber adds during 1st quarter 2015, 8th consecutive quarter over 1 million. $TMUS PR link.

MasterCard(PBR310) to acquire cloud-based analytics provider Applied Predictive Technologies for $600 million. $MA PR link.

HRG Group(PBR412) completes $1.4 billion sale of Armored AutoGroup to subsidiary Spectrum Brands(PBR529). $HRG PR link.

Iron Mountain(PBR666) to acquire Australian based digital/physical document information management firm Recall Holdings for $2 billion. $IRM PR link.

UPS(PBR50) promotes Corporate Controller/Treasurer Richard Peretz to CFO, effective 07/01/15, succeeds retiring Kurt Kuehn. $UPS PR link.

Anadarko Petroleum(PBR193) promotes Darrell Hollek to EVP, US Onshore Production & Exploration, reports to Chairman/President/CEO Al Walker. $APC PR link.

JCPenney(PBR228) board member Mary Beth West joins as EVP, Chief Customer & Marketing Officer. $JCP PR link.

Apollo Education Group(PBR668) SVP/CFO Brian Swartz resigning effective 05/15/15, Joseph D’Amico named Interim CFO. $APOL PR link.

Endo International(PBR741) hires Matthew Maletta as EVP/Chief Legal Officer, effective 05/04/15, succeeds retiring Caroline Manogue. $ENDP PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the US Homeownership Rate for 1st quarter 2015 was at 63.7%, -1.1% from 1st quarter 2014, -0.3% from 4th quarter 2014. USDOC PR link.

Monday, April 27:
Freddie Mac(PBR33) reaches the $100 billion milestone in multifamily K-Deal securitizations. $FMCC PR link.

ESPN goes to court to force Verizon(PBR15) to change pay-TV offering The Street article link.

Applied Materials(PBR335) & Tokyo Electron terminate $29 billion merger agreement per US Dept of Justice requirements. $AMAT PR link.

Applied Materials(PBR335) authorizes $3 billion 3 year shares buyback program to start in the 3rd quarter. $AMAT PR link.

Mylan(PBR360) rejects Teva Pharmaceuticals(NYSE: TEVA) $82/share, $40 billion buyout offer as undervalued & risky. $MYL PR link.

Celgene(PBR381) to acquire private biotech cancer discovery company Quanticel Pharmaceuticals for $100 million plus up to $385 million based on milestones achieved. $CELG PR link.

Corinthian Colleges(PBR974) announces cessation of effectively all operations, all campuses now closed. $COCO PR link.

Flowserve(PBR477) hires Karyn Ovelmen as EVP/CFO, effective 06/01/15. $FLS PR link.

Fortune Brands(PBR551) hires Nicholas Fink as SVP of Global Growth & Development, effective 06/01/15. http://bit.ly/1dmvCL8$FBHS PR link.

Friday, April 24:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 18,080.14, +1.42% from last Friday, +1.71% MTD/QTD, +1.44% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,092.09(R), +3.25% from last Friday, +3.90% MTD/QTD, +7.52% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,117.69(R), +1.75% from last Friday, +2.41% MTD/QTD, +2.86% YTD.

Comcast(PBR44) terminates $45 billion merger agreement with Time Warner Cable(PBR125) & transactions agreement with Charter Communications(PBR320). $CMCSA PR link.

DISH(PBR201) comments on termination of Comcast(PBR44)/Time Warner Cable(PBR125) merger. $DISH PR link.

Dover(PBR295) completes sale of its precision-engineered components Sargent Aerospace & Defense unit to RBC Bearings(NASDAQ: ROLL) for $500 million. $DOV PR link.

Mylan(PBR360) makes 2nd unsolicited bid for Perrigo(PBR564) for $60/share & 2.2 shares of Mylan, $33 billion cash/stock deal. $MYL PR link.

Perrigo(PBR564) rejects Mylan’s(PBR360) 2nd unsolicited $60 share & 2.2 shares acquisition offer saying it is less than the initial rejected offer. $PRGO PR link.

Scholastic Corp(PBR923) to sell educational technology & services business unit to Houghton Mifflin for $575 million. $SCHL PR link.

Riverbed Technology(PBR1085) acquisition by private equity firm Thomas Bravo & Ontario(Canada) Teachers Pension Plan for $21/share, $3.6 billion cash is completed, now a private company. $RVBD PR link.

Thursday, April 23:
Happy 451st Birthday, Shakespeare!

NASDAQ closes at 5,056.06, first new record close in over 15 years. NASDAQ PR link.

The US Dept of HUD reports that the March New Family Home Sales Annual Rate was at 481,000, -11.4% from February, +19.4% from March 2014. HUD PR link.

Wednesday, April 22:
45th Anniversary of Earth Day. Do something nice for the environment today.

AT&T(PBR12) reports 1.2 million total wireless net adds in 1st quarter, DIRECTV(PBR90) $67 billion acquisition on target for 2nd quarter. $T PR link.

Google(PBR46) announces Project Fi which includes a partnership with T-Mobile(PBR115) & Sprint(PBR162) to provide an optimal fast and easy wireless service. $GOOG PR link.

Coca-Cola Co(PBR59) signs additional letters of intent with Coca-Cola bottlers in refranchising effort. $KO PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) does exclusive US launch of intimate apparel brand HEIDI by model/TV personality Heidi Klum. $M PR link.

Ashland(PBR404) promotes Luis Fernandez-Moreno to SVP & President of Chemicals Group, reports to chairman/CEO. $ASH PR link.

SunEdison(PBR888) promotes Pancho Perez to EVP/COO. $SUNE PR link.

The National Association of Realtors reports that the March Existing Home Sales were at a 5.19 million annual rate, +6.1% from February, +10.4% from March 2014. NAR PR link.

Tuesday, April 21:
General Motors(PBR7) sold 2.4 million vehicles worldwide in 1st quarter 2015. $GM PR link.

Verizon(PBR15) announces new FiOS customizable pay-TV service. $VZ PR link.

Archer-Daniels-Midland(PBR28) acquires corn processing plants in Bulgaria, Turkey, increases ownership stake in Hungary, for $258 million. $ADM PR link.

Humana(PBR71) acquires multi-state nurse practitioner in home visits provider Your Home Advantage, terms not disclosed. $HUM PR link.

Baker Hughes(PBR124) is cutting 17% of workforce, 10,500 positions, due to drop in oil prices. $BHI PR link.

Mylan(PBR360) is sent an $82/share, $40 billion in cash/stock offer to be acquired by Israel based Teva Pharmaceuticals(NYSE: TEVA). $MYL PR link.

Gannett(PBR458) says TEGNA is to be name of spin-off broadcasting/digital company, will trade as NYSE: TGNA. $GCI PR link.

Perrigo(PBR564) rejects unsolicited $205/share, $29 billion bid from Mylan(PBR360), says offer is undervalued. $PRGO PR link.

FMC Corp(PBR578) completes $1.8 billion acquisition of Denmark based multinational crop protection company Cheminova. $FMC PR link.

Monday, April 20:
Raytheon(PBR118) to invest $1.57 billion for majority ownership in venture with Vista Equity Partners’ Websense unit to provide cyber security services. $RTN PR link.

Groupon(PBR750) to sell 46% stake, retain a 41% stake, in Ticket Monster to partnership of KKR(PBR272)/Anchor Equity for $360 million. $GRPN PR link.

Prologis(PBR937) unit partnership to acquire real estate assets & operating platform of KTR Capital Partners for $5.9 billion. $PLD PR link.

Hyatt Hotels(PBR549) appoints Atish Shah as SVP, Interim CFO. $H PR link.

Friday, April 17:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 17,826.30, -1.28% from last Friday, +0.28% MTD/QTD, +0.02% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,931.81, -1.28% from last Friday, +0.63% MTD/QTD, +4.13% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,081.18, -0.99% from last Friday, +0.64% MTD/QTD, +1.08% YTD.

Ford Motor(PBR8) to invest $2.5 billion to build new engine & transmission plants in Mexico. $F PR link.

Costco(PBR18) reauthorizes up to $4 billion shares repurchase program to expire in April, 2019. $COST PR link.

Raytheon(PBR118) awarded an over $2 billion contract for an international Patriot Air & Missile Defense System. $RTN PR link.

Alpha Natural Resources(PBR478) plans to restore compliance with NYSE minimum stock price average of $1.00/share over last 30 days. $ANR PR link.

Hudson City Bancorp(PBR1022) & M&T Bank Corp(PBR516) agree to extend merger deadline from 04/30/15 to 10/31/15, waiting for regulatory approval. $HCBK PR link.

New York Times(PBR982) promotes Meredith Kopit Levien to Chief Revenue Officer, reports to President/CEO Mark Thompson. $NYT PR link.

Centrus Energy(PBR1035) SVP/COO Bob Van Namen is stepping down on 05/29/15. $LEU PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the March Current Average/Hour Earnings were at $24.86, up from February’s $24.79, up from March 2014’s $24.34. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the March Consumer Price Index-Urban was +0.2%, was -0.1% over the last 12 months. USDOL PR link.

Thursday, April 16:
PPG Industries(PBR183) to do 2:1 stock split after close on 06/12/15. $PPG PR link.

Ecolab(PBR204) to acquire the Travelers North Tower in St. Paul, MN, as new world headquarters. $ECL PR link.

Discover Financial(PBR281) authorizes $2.2 billion shares repurchase program. $DFS PR link.

Alliance Data(PBR540) increases 2015 stock repurchase program from $600 million to $1 billion. $ADS PR link.

Carlyle Group(PBR528) names former WalMart(PBR1) President/CEO Mike Duke as Operating Executive for the Consumer & Retail Group. $CG PR link.

SunEdison(PBR888) hires Cathy Zoi as CEO of its Rural Electric Utility Company unit. $SUNE PR link.

Cytec Industries(PBR901) promotes Carmelo Lo Faro, PhD, to VP/Chief Technology Officer. $CYT PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the March rate for Private Housing Building Permits was at 1,039,000/year, -5.7% from February, +2.9% from March 2014 USDOC PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR33) reports that 30 year fixed rate mortgages averaged 3.67% with 0.7 point for the week ending 04/16/15, was 4.27% a year ago FreddieMac PR link.

The American Petroleum Institute reports that March petroleum deliveries averaged 19.2 million barrels/day, -0.6% from February, +3.4% from March 2014. API PR link.

Wednesday, April 15:
Happy Income Tax Day!

Panera Bread(PBR794) increases shares repurchase program to $750 million, to sell/refranchise 73 company owned stores. $PNRA PR link.

Rackspace(PBR989) hires Scott Crenshaw as SVP Strategy & Product, reports to President/CEO Taylor Rhodes. $RAX PR link.

Freddie Mac(PBR33) hires Anil Hinduja as EVP/Chief Enterprise Risk Officer, reports to CEO Donald Layton. $FMCCX PR link.

CNA Financial(PBR263) hires Andrew Pinkes to be EVP CNA Worldwide Property & Casualty, reports to Chairman/CEO Tom Motamed, effective 05/18/15. $CNA PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank reports that Industrial Production was -0.6% in March, was +0.1% in February, -1.0% annual rate, effect of oil. FRB PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank releases the April Beige Book, summary of comments from businesses. FRB PR link.

Tuesday, April 14:
CSX(PBR224) authorizes $2 billion shares repurchase program over 24 months. $CSX PR link.

Host Hotels(PBR456) announces leadership reorganization in investment team for US West & East coasts. $HSTPR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the March Producer Price Index for Final Demand, a measure of inflation, was +0.2%, after -0.5% in February, -0.8% in January, -0.8% for the past 12 months. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports in the Advance Report for Monthly Retail & Food Sales that March was at $441.4 billion, +0.9% from February, +1.3% over March 2014. USDOC PR link.

Monday, April 13:
Apple(PBR4) is estimated to have presold 1 million Apple Watches in the first weekend according to digital media analytics firm Slice Intelligence. SI PR link.

PepsiCo(PBR43) & NBA enter multiyear partnership; Chinese partner Tingyi’s Master Kong becomes basketball league beverage provider. $PEP PR link.

Sears Holding(PBR82) contributes 10 properties in 50/50 real estate partnership with Simon Property(PBR455). $SHLD PR link.

Citigroup(PBR26) CEO of Global Consumer Bank Manuel Medina-Mora retiring, Stephen Bird to succeed him on 06/01/15; other management changes announced. $C PR link.

Microsoft(PBR30) hires Kurt DelBene as EVP Corporate Strategy and Planning, reports to the CEO. $MSFT PR link.

Best Buy(PBR67) Chairman Hatim Tyabji to retire 06/09/15, CEO Hubert Joly to add role at that time. $BBY PR link.

eBay(PBR170) hires 3 executives to key leadership roles in preparation for spin-off. $EBAY PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury reports that for the 6 months through March Fiscal YTD Receipts were $1.42 trillion, Outlays $1.86 trillion, deficit $0.44 trillion. USDOT PR link.

Republican Senator from Florida Marco Rubio makes it official that he is a candidate to be the next US President. MR campaign link.

Sunday, April 12:
Former First Lady, Senator from New York, and Secretary of State Democrat Hillary Clinton announces that she is a candidate to be the next US President. HC campaign link.

Friday, April 10:
DJIA closes week at 18,057.65, +1.65% from last Thursday, +1.58% MTD/QTD, +1.31% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,995.98, +2.23% from last Thursday, +1.94% MTD/QTD, +5.49% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,102.06, +1.70% from last Thursday, +1.65% MTD/QTD, +2.10% YTD.

Ford Motor(PBR8) reports it sold 296,825 vehicles in China during the 1st quarter, up 9% from last year. $F PR link.

General Electric(PBR9) in major restructuring to sell most of its GE Capital real estate assets for $26.5 billion to Blackstone(PBRPBR374) & Wells Fargo(PBR29); authorizes $50 billion shares buyback program through 2018. $GE PR link.

Blackstone Group(PBR374) to acquire retail REIT firm Excel Trust(NYSE: EXL) for $15.85/share, $2 billion. $EXL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the March US Import Prices Index was -0.3%, was +0.2% in February; the March US Exports Prices Index was +0.1%, was -0.2% in February. USDOL PR link.

Thursday, April 9:
eBay(PBR170) provides further information on plan to separate PayPal & working arrangements. $EBAY PR link.

Sprint(PBR162) to open 1,435 Sprint-RadioShack locations acquired by General Standard, to add 3,500 employees. $S PR link.

PG&E(PBR175) fined $1.6 billion by the California Public Utilities Commission for unsafe gas transmission lines operation, including the 2010 San Bruno pipeline rupture. CPUC PR link.

PG&E(PBR175) responds to CPUC $1.6 billion fine, says lessons will not be forgotten. $PCG PR link.

Avis Budget(PBR326) completes $160 million acquisition of largest independent Italian car rental company The Maggiore Group. $CAR PR link.

Harman Intl(PBR448) completes $780 million acquisition of private 8,000 employee $370 million/year software services company Symphony Teleca. $HAR PR link.

Acxiom(PBR1073) hires Rick Erwin to be President/GM of new division Audience Solutions, reports to CEO Scott Howe. $ACXM PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says February Monthly Wholesale Sales were $444.2 billion, -0.2% from January, -1.5% from February 2014. USDOC PR link.

Wednesday, April 8:
Mylan(PBR360) bids $205/share, $29 billion cash/stock, for fellow generic drugmaker Perrigo(PBR564). $MYL PR link.

HanesBrands(PBR505) completes $200 million acquisition of seller of licensed collegiate logo apparel retailer Knights Apparel. $HBI PR link.

Netherlands based world’s 4th largest oil producer Royal Dutch Shell to acquire UK based liquid natural gas company BG Group for $70 billion in cash/stock. RDS PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Board releases the Federal Open Market Committee minutes from the 03/17-18/15 meeting. FRB PR link.

Tuesday, April 7:
FedEx(PBR61) to acquire Netherlands based logistics provider TNT Express for $8.73/share, $4.8 billion cash. $FDX PR link.

Halliburton(PBR94) to market for sale its drill bits, directional drilling and LWD/MWD businesses in connection with its Baker Hughes(PBR124) acquisition. $HAL PR link.

International Game Techology(PBR876) $6.4 billion acquisition by Italian based GTECH completed, to keep IGT name with headquarters in London. $IGT PR link.

ABM Industries(PBR489) names SVP Treasurer Anthony Scaglione as CFO, succeeds James Lusk who is leaving. $ABM PR link.

Frontier Communications(PBR497) promotes John Lass to EVP Field Operations, reports to CEO Dan McCarthy. $FTR PR link.

The US Dept of Labor in preliminary report says that there were 5.1million US Job Openings in February, 4.9 million hires, and 4.7 million separations. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve reports that February Consumer Credit at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.6%, revolving credit at 5.0%, nonrevolving credit at 9.4%. USFRB PR link.

Monday, April 6:
Ventas(PBR707) to acquire private $2 billion/yr Ardent Health Care for $1.75 billion. $VTR PR link.

Ventas(PBR707) to spin-off post-acute/skilled nursing facility portfolio into a separate public REIT company 2nd half of 2015. $VTR PR link.

Health Care REIT(PBR693) VP Treasurer Mike Crabtree has retired as planned, Steve Schroeder promoted to the position. $HCN PR link.

Friday, April 3:
Good Friday Observed.
US Stock Exchanges Closed.

The PBR1000: The March 2015 Breaking News Recap is available. Click here for the blog post.

Tesla(PBR887) delivers 10,030 vehicles during the 1st quarter 2015, 55% more than in 2014. $TSLA PR link.

Hub Group(PBR623) promotes Vava Dimond to Chief Information Officer. $HUBG PR link.

BOK Financial(PBR1023) promotes Marc Maun to Chief Credit Officer, reports to President/CEO Steve Bradshaw. $BOKF PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that March Total Nonfarm Payroll Employment increased by only 126,000, unemployment rate stays at 5.5% USDOL PR link.

Thursday, April 2:
DJIA closes week at 17,763.24, +0.29% from last Friday, -0.07% MTD/QTD, -0.34% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,886.94, -0.09% from last Friday, -0.28% MTD/QTD, +3.19% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,066.96, +0.29% from last Friday, -0.04% MTD/QTD, +0.39% YTD.

Group 1 Automotive(PBR291) has acquired $160 million/yr Prestige Audi in N Miami Beach, FL. $GPI PR link.

Simon Property(PBR455) authorizes 24 month $2 billion shares buyback program. $SPG PR link.

Expedia(PBR496) purchasing Amgen(PBR144) Seattle waterfront campus as headquarters location in 2018. $EXPE PR link.

Dynegy(PBR1000) completes $2.8 billion acquisition of Duke Energy(PBR111) Midwest 7 MWhr commercial generation & retail assets. $DYN PR link.

Ralph Lauren(PBR337) promotes Christopher Peterson to President, Global Brands, Mitchel Kosh to Chief Administration Officer, Robert Madore to CFO. $RL PR link.

Hershey Co(PBR347) promotes President/CEO John Bilbrey to the additional post of Chairman. $HSY PR link.

Mattel(PBR383) Chairman/Interim CEO Christopher Sinclair now CEO, retains Chairman position. $MAT PR link.

Cliffs Natural Resources(PBR422) EVP Business Development P. Kelly Tompkins now EVP/CFO, Clifford Smith now EVP Business Development. $CLF PR link.

Transdigm(PBR798) hires Terrance Paradie as EVP/CFO, to succeed Greg Rufus who is retiring. $TDG PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the preliminary February International Trade Balance was $186.2 billion in exports, $221.7 billion in imports, US deficit was $35.4 billion. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the February New Orders for Manufactured Goods was up 0.2% over January to $468.3B, 1st up month in 6 months. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that Unemployment Insured Initial Claims were at 268,000 for the week ending 03/28/15, 20,000 less than the previous week. USDOL PR link.

Wednesday, April 1:
Target(PBR38) to shut all 133 Canadian stores by 04/12/15. $TGT PR link.

AIG(PBR41) completes acquisition of Ireland’s 2nd largest health insurance provider, Laya Healthcare. $AIG PR link.

McDonald’s(PBR96) USA to increase wages on 07/01/15 to $1 above minimum wage at corporate locations, to at least $10/hr by end of 2016; also expanding employee benefits. $MCD PR link.

US Commodity Futures Trading Commission charges Kraft Foods(PBR145) & Mondelez(PBR85) with manipulation of wheat futures & cash wheat prices. CFTC PR link.

Celgene(PBR381) appoints Gerald Masoudi EVP, General Counsel & Corporate Secretary, succeeds retiring Lawrence Stein. $CELG PR link.

FMC Corp(PBR578) completes sale of Alkali Chemicals business to Tronox(PBR907) for $1.64 billion. $FMC PR link.

Carlisle Cos(PBR679) completes acquisition of Graco(PBR1072) Liquid Finishing business assets for $590 million cash. $CSL PR link.

Dynegy(PBR1000) completes $3.45 billion purchase of 6.3 gigawatts of power from Energy Capital Partners. $DYN PR link.

ADP(PBR220) reports that March Private Sector Employment grew by 189,000. $ADP PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the February annual construction rate was at $967.2 billion, -0.1% from January, +2.1% over February 2014. USDOC PR link.

California governor Jerry Brown issues executive order for state to reduce its water usage by 25%. CA Governor Newsroom PR link.

(The PBR1000 is the premiere comparative data and reporting service covering over 1,000 of the largest publicly held companies with principle or administration headquarters in the US. These companies generate over $13 trillion in annual worldwide revenues, more than all other companies in the US combined. These are the key drivers in the US and world economies. On a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis several analytical reports in customizable Microsoft Excel format are provided to The PBR1000 subscribers. Users include C-level executives, entrepreneurs,  sales/marketing/advertising professionals, investors/investment advisers, business professors/students, career counselors/job seekers, to name just a few. To order your annual subscription, just go to the PBRMarketTools.com Order page.)

(Photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net, Stuart Miles.)

Filed Under: Recaps Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

The PBR1000: The March 2015 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots

April 12, 2015 by
ID-100174853 Buy Sell Hold Dice on Computer Stuart Miles

Buy, Hold, or Sell? Use The PBR1000
To Help You Develop Your Strategy!

 

By Larry C. Paxton

The PBR1000 March 2015 Snapshots include news and stocks data on 1,076 companies in 15 analytical reports.

Current The PBR1000 Subscribers should have already received the MS Excel workbook.

The “Yo-Yo Syndrome” might be in effect in 2015. January was down, February back up, and March was down. The stock exchanges had a lot of big swing days. The DJIA was up 100 or more points on 8 trading days, and there were 7 down days. The biggest swing was a loss of  333 points on March 10.   US economic growth and stability continues to be tepid and fragile as demonstrated by jobs related data.  Rumors on when the Federal Reserve Board will raise interest rates seems to cause some of the up and downs.  The Global economy  has been somewhat shaky as well. Nevertheless, as shown in the tables below, there are some excellent results coming out of the stock market games.

Let’s see if April 2015 continues the “YoYo Syndrome” trend.

In the following tables the stock price is for the close of trading on March 31st, Month % Chg is compared to February 27th, YTD % Chg is compared to December 31, 2014, and the 15 Mos % Chg is compared to December 31, 2013.

Table 1: The PBR1000 Stock Price Composite

Table 1 Summary: Made up of the sum of the stock prices of the 1,076 companies currently tracked by The PBR1000.

Company Price
03/31/15		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 15 Mos
% Chg
The PBR1000 294,389.27 -1.17 -2.07 +19.99

 

Table 2: The PBR1000 Top 5 Month Stock Price % Gainers

Table 2 Summary: The range was +53.60% to -71.43%. 514 out of 1,076 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 47.77% of the companies tracked. The median was a loss of 0.25%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
03/31/15		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 15 Mos
% Chg
McDermott Intl
 734 MDR 3.84 +53.60 +31.96 -58.08
Pinnacle Entertainment
 993 PNK 36.09 +40.21 +62.20 +38.86
Herbalife
 486 HLF 42.76 +37.89 +13.42 -45.67
Kraft Foods
 145 KRFT 87.12 +35.99 +39.03 +61.59
Travel Centers of America
 325 TA 17.44 +27.77 +38.19 +79.06

 

Table 3: The PBR1000 Top 5 Year-To-Date Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: The range was +100.00% to -77.73%. 622 out of 1,076 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 57.81% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of 1.90%

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
03/31/15		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 15 Mos
% Chg
NII Holdings
 495 NIHDQ 0.04 -71.43 +100.00 -98.55
Pinnacle Entertainment
 993 PNK 36.09 +40.21 +62.20 +38.86
Conn’s
 1052 CONN 30.28 +17.14 +62.01 -61.52
Freescale Semiconductor
 548 FSL 40.76 +12.88 +61.55 +153.96
Insperity
 830 NSP 52.29 +0.95 +54.29 +44.73

 

Table 4: The PBR1000 Top 5 15 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 4 Summary: Range was +156.39% to -99.21%. 703 out of 1,071 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 65.64% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of 10.43%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
03/31/15		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 15 Mos
% Chg
Electronic Arts
 603 EA 58.82 +2.86 +25.10 +156.39
Freescale Semiconductor
 548 FSL 40.76 +12.88 +61.55 +153.96
Centene
 244 CNC 70.69 +15.02 +36.13 +139.79
Southwest Airlines
 150 LUV 44.30 +2.45 +4.68 +135.14
Hawaiian Holdings
 849 HA 22.03 +18.99 -15.45 +128.71

 

Table 5: The PBR1000 Selected Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company Price
03/31/15		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 15 Mos
% Chg
DJIA 17,776.12 -1.97 -0.26 +7.24
NASDAQ 4,900.89 -1.26 +3.48 +17.34
S&P500 2,067.89 -1.74 +0.44 +11.88
Gold 1,183.20 -2.42 -0.14 -1.59
Silver 16.60 +0.24 +6.41 -14.30
Oil 47.60 -4.34 -10.64 -47.81

 

Have questions on The PBR1000 or The PBR US Indices Monthly Snapshot? Please contact us at Sales@PBRMarketTools.com or call us at 520-282-4100.

Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter at @ThePBR1000.

(The PBR1000 provides astute investors and business professionals with the data, news, and analysis for taking higher probability of success actions. The PBR1000 covers over 1,000 of the largest publicly held companies with principle or administrative headquarters in the US. These companies generate over $13 trillion in annual worldwide revenues, more than all other companies in the US combined. These are the key drivers in the US and world economies. On a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis several analytical reports in customizable Microsoft Excel format are provided to Subscribers of The PBR1000. Subscribers include C-level executives, entrepreneurs, sales/marketing/advertising professionals, investors/investment advisers, business professors/students, career counselors/job seekers, to name just a few. To order your annual subscription, just click here go to the PBRMarketTools.com Order page.)

(Photo made available through freedigitalphotos.net, Stuart Miles.)

 

Filed Under: Snapshots Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The PBR1000: The March 2015 Breaking News Recap!

April 4, 2015 by
ID-100270408 Under Construction Supertrooper

After The 1st Quarter, 2015 Is Still Very Much Under Construction.

 

By Larry C. Paxton

With the end of March 2015 the 1st Quarter is in the books and it is with mixed results. The economy continues to show slow but steady progress, oil and key commodities prices were pretty stable, and reflected at the gas pump, which seems to have lead to higher consumer optimism about the future.  The Federal Reserve Board  continues to show restraint on raising interest rates, and justifiably so, based on their careful analysis. However, any whisper of an increase in interest rate creates a lot of volatility in the markets, with wide swings on several days throughout March. On the international scene the European Union seems focused on trying to find a resolution with Greece and its obligations, Ukraine is rarely in the news. China is trying to bolster its own economy which is still growing, but certainly not at the rapid pace of years past. The capturing the headlines towards the end of March were the nuclear power countries negotiating with Iran to delay or end its development of nuclear bomb material. So, there are some big question marks as we enter the second quarter, and these can result in huge opportunities or major setbacks, but will probably be somewhere in between. Based on results so far this year, 2015 is still very much under construction.

Following are The PBR1000 and economic news items of note for March 2015 starting with the last active day.

Tuesday, March 31:
DJIA closes month at 17,776.12, +0.36% from last Friday, -1.97% MTD, -0.26% QTD/YTD.
NASDAQ closes month at 4,900.89, +0.20% from last Friday, -1.26% MTD, +3.48% QTD/YTD.
SPX closes month at 2,067.89, +0.33% from last Friday, -1.74% MTD, +0.44% QTD/YTD.

IBM(PBR24) to invest $3 billion over 4 years to establish a new Internet of Things unit. IBM PR link.

Comcast(PBR44) & CFO Michael Angelakis to invest $4.1 billion to create new investment/operating global company. New CFO search starting. CMCSA PR link.

Arrow Electronics(PBR129) completes acquisition of 800 partners government sales specialist immixGroup. ARW PR link.

Charter Communications(PBR320) to acquire 6th largest US cable operator Bright House Networks for $10.4 billion. CHTR PR link.

CBRE Group(PBR346) to acquire Johnson Controls(PBR65) Global Workplace Solutions unit for $1.475 billion cash. CBG PR link.

RadioShack(PBR619) gets okay from bankruptcy judge to sell stores to hedge fund Standard General. Associated Press article PR link.

GNC(PBR739) selects agencies Consigliere, CROSSMEDIA, & 22squared for branding & marketing efforts. GNC PR link.

Macerich(PBR1090) rejects new $95.50/share, $23.5 billion unsolicited offer from Simon Property(PBR455). MAC PR link.

Chevron(PBR3) Vice Chairman & EVP Upstream George Kirkland to retire 06/15/15, Jay Johnson to become EVP Upstream. CVX PR link.

Cameron Intl(PBR269) appoints Justin Rounce as VP Marketing & Chief Technology Officer, reports to Chairman/CEO Jack Moore. CAM PR link.

Campbell Soup(PBR315) promotes Ed Carolan to SVP in new Integrated Global Services unit. CPB PR link.

Equifax(PBR817) promotes Trey Loughran to Chief Marketing Officer, succeeds Paul Springman who is retiring after 24 years. EFX PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the 4th Quarter 2014 US Net International Position was assets $24.7 billion, liabilities $31.6 billion, deficit of $6.9 billion. USDOC PR link.

Monday, March 30:
UnitedHealthcare(PBR14) OptumRx pharmacy care services unit to acquire pharmacy benefit management company Catamaran(PBR189) for $61.50/share, $12.8 billion. UNH PR link.

Archer-Daniels-Midland(PBR28) to acquire private Belgium based edible oils bottler/distributor AOR NV. ADM PR link.

Best Buy(PBR67) Canadian unit to close Future Shops, consolidate to 192 Best Buy locations, layoff 1,500 employees. BBY PR link.

Alcoa(PBR122) to curtail smelting capacity in Brazil by 04/15/15. AA PR link.

Avis Budget(PBR326) marks 100 million rental days in N America over past 12 months. CAR PR link.

Fortune Brands(PBR551) to acquire kitchen/bathroom cabinetry manufacturer Norcraft for $25.50/share, $600 million. FBHS PR link.

Perrigo(PBR564) completes buy of Belgium based over-the-counter healthcare products company Omega Pharma NV for $4.5 billion cash & equity. PRGO PR link.

American Tower(PBR625) completes acquisition of exclusive rights to 11,448 wireless communications sites from Verizon(PBR15) for $5 billion cash. AMT PR link.

GNC(PBR739) herbal products are in full compliance with FDA regulations, reaches agreement with the NY Attorney General for further testing. GNC PR link.

Tesla(PBR887) CEO Elon Musk tweets that there will be a major announcement on 04/30/15 regarding a new non-automotive product.

Enterprise Products(PBR56) announces CEO Mike Creel to retire 12/31/15; COO Jim Teague to become CEO; Fowler, Bulawa and Nelly promoted. EPD PR link.

Yahoo!(PBR500) hires Bryan Power as SVP Human Resources, reports to CEO Marissa Mayer. YHOO PR link.

TD Ameritrade(PBR651) CFO Bill Gerber retiring, hires Steve Boyle to be CFO in July. AMTD PR link.

New York Times(PBR982) promotes Kinsey Wilson EVP Product & Technology, reports to President/CEO Mark Thompson & Executive Editor Dean Baquet. NYT PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the February US Annual Personal Income was at $15.130 trillion, +3.9% over January, savings rate was at 5.8% of disposable income, was 5.5% in January. USDOC PR link.

Friday, March 27:
DJIA closes week at 17,712.66, -2.29% from last Friday, -2.32% MTD, -0.62% QTD/YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,891.22, -2.69% from last Friday, -1.46% MTD, +3.28% QTD/YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,061.02, -2.23% from last Friday, -2.07% MTD, +0.10% QTD/YTD.

Chevron(PBR3) to sell off its 50% share in Caltex Australia. CVX PR link.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR39) Ethicon unit gets agreement to collaborate with Google(PBR46) on surgical robotics. JNJ PR link.

Dow Chemical(PBR48) to separate much of its chlor-alkali business which will merge with Olin Corp(PBR769) in $5 billion deal. DOW PR link.

Visteon(PBR338) receives antitrust approvals for sale of its 70% interest in S. Korea based 15,500 employee Halla Visteon Climate Control to Hahn & Co for $3.6 billion. VC PR link.

Dynegy(PBR1000) gets regulatory approval to buy 12,500 MW of coal & gas generation from Duke Energy(PBR111) & Energy Capital Partners(NR) for $6.25 billion. DYN PR link.

Davita Healthcare(PBR312) announces CFO Garry Menzel leaving, James Hilger named Interim CFO. DVA PR link.

Ascena Retail(PBR493) hires Brian Lynch as President/CEO of its Justice tween specialty retail unit. ASNA PR link.

QuikSilver(PBR925) President Pierre Agnes now CEO, Greg Healey promoted to President, founder Bob McKnight appointed Chairman. ZQK PR link.

Thursday, March 26:
Goodyear Tire(PBR137) has established its first Chinese development center in Pulandian. GT PR link.

Medtronic(PBR161) completes acquisition of minimally invasive hearing implant provider Sophono. MDT PR link.

Carnival Corp(PBR176) to add 9 new generation cruise ships over 4 year period starting in 2019. CCL PR link.

Dover(PBR295) selling its precision-engineered components Sargeant Aerospace & Defense unit to RBC Bearings(NASDAQ: ROLL) for $500 million. DOV PR link.

AAR Corp(PBR882) completes the sale of Telair Cargo Group to TransDigm(PBR798) for $725 million cash. AIR PR link.

Calumet Specialty(PBR443) promotes F William Grube to Executive Vice Chairman, hires Bill Hatch as Interim CEO, starting 04/01/15. CLMT PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR33) says 30 year fixed mortgage rates averaged 3.69% with 0.6 points in the last week. FreddieMac PR link.

Wednesday, March 25:
Comcast(PBR44) EVP/Chief Diversity Officer David Cohen says merger with Time Warner Cable(PBR125) moving to mid 2015 because of regulatory issues. CMCSA PR link.

Kraft Foods(PBR145) to be acquired by HJ Heinz with 51% ownership, to be Kraft Heinz, special $16.50/share dividend, $10 billion, to Kraft stockholders. KRFT PR link.

Brown-Forman(PBR575) increases share buyback program by $1 billion. BFB PR link.

Global Payments(PBR756) acquires European based Realex Payments for $110 million. GPN PR link.

Tuesday, March 24:
Merck(PBR63) adds $10 billion, total $11.7 billion, for shares buyback program. MRK PR link.

Hertz(PBR249) provides explanation for failure to file 10-K with SEC, has until 09/17/15. HTZ PR link.

Ross Stores(PBR260) to do 2:1 stock split on 06/11/15. ROST PR link.

AutoZone(PBR278) adds $750 billion to its ongoing shares buyback program. AZO PR link.

Group 1 Automotive(PBR291) has acquired $80 million/yr Dallas/Ft Worth area DFW Audi. GPI PR link.

Carlyle Group(PBR528) to acquire majority stake in 200 client $100 billion in assets Conifer Financial Services. CG PR link.

Lexmark Intl(PBR598) to acquire software developer Kofax(NASDAQ: KFX) for $11/share, $1 billion. LXK PR link.

Alliance One Intl(PBR804) responds to compliance issue by NYSE regarding strategies to get stock price at or above $1.00. AOI PR link.

Google(PBR46) hires Morgan Stanley(PBR81) CFO Ruth Porat as CFO, effective 05/26/15. GOOG PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the February current average earnings/hr is $24.78, +0.1% from January, +2.0% from February, 2014 USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the February Consumer Price Index-Urban was up 0.2% over January, 0.0% for the last 12 months. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of HUD reports that February sales of new single family homes were at a 539,000 annual rate, +7.8% over January, +24.8% over February, 2014. HUD PR link.

Monday, March 23:
Humana(PBR71) to sell wholly owned subsidiary Concentra to a joint venture of Select Medical & Welsh Carson for $1.055 billion cash. HUM PR link.

American Electric Power(PBR177) to review strategic alternatives for its barge transportation business. AEP PR link.

Tenet Healthcare(PBR223) to own 50.1% of a joint venture with United Surgical to form largest US ambulatory surgery provider valued at $2.6 billion. THC PR link.

Tenet Healthcare(PBR223) to acquire UK based 9 hospital/clinic facilities Aspen Healthcare for $215 million cash. THC PR link.

Biogen Idec(PBR358) changes name to Biogen, keeps stock symbol. BIIB PR link.

ON Semiconductor(PBR710) changing its NASDAQ stock symbol from ONNN to ON on 04/06/15. ONNN PR link.

Carnival Corp(PBR176) promotes James Chedgy to VP, Global Financial Planning & Analysis, reports to Treasurer Josh Weinstein. CCL PR link.

The National Association of Realtors says February Existing Home Sales were at a 4.88 million annual rate, +1.2% over January, +4.7% over February, 2014. NAR PR link.

The White House issues a statement marking the 5th year anniversary of the signing of The Affordable Care Act, aka Obamacare. WH PR link.

Friday, March 20:
DJIA closes week at 18,127.65, +2.13% from last Friday, -0.03% MTD, +1.71% QTD/YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,026.42, +3.17% from last Friday, +1.27% MTD, +6.13% QTD/YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,108.10, +2.66% from last Friday, 0.17% MTD, +2.39% QTD/YTD.

RadioShack(PBR619) notifies SEC of its intent to de-list from the NYSE on 03/31/15. RSHCQ PR link.

Macerich(PBR1090) confirms new $95.50/share, $23.5 billion unsolicited offer from Simon Property(PBR455). MAC PR link.

AVX(PBR1003) Chairman/CEO John Gilbertson resigning effective 03/31/15, John Sarvis to be promoted to CEO on 04/01/15. AVX PR link.

BOK Financial(PBR1023) announces resignation of COO Dan Ellinor, Stacy Kymes promoted to new position of EVP Corporate Banking. BOKF PR link.

Thursday, March 19:
American Express(PBR86) gets exclusive multi-year co-brand deal with Charles Schwab(PBR442). AMEX article link.

SeaWorld(PBR1002) hires Joel Manby to be CEO effective 04/07/15, David D’Alessandro to remain Chairman. SEAS article link.

FreddieMac(PBR33) says the 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rate averaged 3.78% with 0.6 point for week ending 03/19/15, was 4.32% year ago. Freddie Mac PR link.

Wednesday, March 18:
Target(PBR38) employees to receive $9 minimum wage next month UPI article link.

Starbucks(PBR164) reaffirms 7 strategies to grow market cap to $100 billion, to test delivery services. SBUX PR link.

Starbucks(PBR164) announces 2:1 stock split after 04/08/15 closing. SBUX PR link.

Ocwen Financial(PBR881) to sell $9.6 billion portfolio of mortgage servicing rights to Green Tree(NR). OCN PR link.

ITT Educational(PBR1078) provides update on failure to file required 10-K report to SEC. ESI PR link.

TreeHouse Foods(PBR819) promotes Christopher Sliva to EVP/COO. THS PR link.

Tuesday, March 17:
Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Actavis(PBR297) completes $70.5 billion acquisition of Allergan(PBR392), combined company expects $23 billion in 2015 revenues. ACT PR link.

Becton Dickinson(PBR305) completes $12.2 billion acquisition of CareFusion(PBR580). BDX PR link.

Charter Communications(PBR320) shareholders approve issuance of shares in transactions with Comcast(PBR44). CHTR PR link.

Brookdale Senior Living(PBR692) & HCP(PBR866) to acquire 35 private pay senior living communities from Chartwell Retirement Residences for $849 million. HCP PR link.

Greenbrier Cos(PBR839) gets $1.09 billion in orders for 10,100 railcars. GBX PR link.

Equinix(PBR852) to become an S&P 500 component after close on 03/20/15. EQIX PR link.

Macerich(PBR1090) board rejects Simon Property(PBR455) $91/share, $22.4 billion unsolicited offer, feels it was undervalued. MAC PR link.

Groupon(PBR750) hires Carol Campagnolo as SVP Human Resources & Jay Sullivan as SVP Consumer Product. GRPN PR link.

The Dept of HUD reports that preliminary February New Housing Permits were at a 1,092,000 annual rate, +3% over January, +7.7% over February 2014. HUD PR link.

Monday, March 16:
The PBR1000 February Snapshots, 15 analytical reports on 1,081 public companies in Excel format, has been released.

General Electric(PBR9) selling its GE Capital Australia & New Zealand Consumer Lending Business for $6 billion enterprise value to a consortium of investors that includes KKR(PBR272). GE PR link.

Henry Schein(PBR276) to become an S&P 500 component on 03/18/15. HSIC PR link.

Blackstone Group(PBR374) to acquire Chicago’s 3.8 million sf, 110 stories tall, 2nd tallest office building in the US, Willis Tower, terms not disclosed. BX PR link.

McGraw Hill(PBR482) S&P500 unit to add American Airlines Group(PBR103) to its index, will replace Allergan(PBR392) which is being acquired by Actavis(PBR297). MHFI PR link.

Babcock & Wilcox(PBR637) files registration statement to form an independent public spinoff of its power generation business. BWC PR link.

Diebold(PBR696) acquires Canada based ATM software developer 200 employee Phoenix Interactive. DBD PR link.

A. Schulman(PBR787) to acquire specialty engineered plastics company Citadel Plastics for $800 million. SHLM PR link.

Endo Health(PBR741) withdraws its $175/share, $11 billion cash & stock offer for Salix Pharmaceuticals(SLXP) because of competing Valeant bid. ENDP PR link.

Coca-Cola Enterprises(PBR317) EVP/Supply Chain Bill Douglas retiring, Ronald Lewis to rejoin as SVP/Supply Chain. CCE PR link.

Visteon(PBR338) President/CEO Timothy Leuliette to step down by end of 2015, search firm retained. VC PR link.

Spectrum Brands(PBR529) promotes COO Andreas Rouve to CEO, to succeed retiring Dave Lumly. SPB PR link.

Friday, March 13:
DJIA closes week at 17,749.31, -0.60% from last Friday, -2.11% MTD, -0.41% QTD/YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,871.76, -1.13% from last Friday, -1.85% MTD, +2.87% QTD/YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,053.40, -0.86% from last Friday, -2.43% MTD, -0.27% QTD/YTD.

MGM Resorts(PBR270) promotes Nik Rytterstrom to General Manager of the Las Vegas Luxor Resort; Renee West, president of Luxor & Excalibur Resorts, to retire on 04/24/15. MGM PR link.

Facebook(PBR327) acquires shopping site TheFind. TheFind PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that private industry employers spent an average of $31.32/hr worked for employee compensation in December 2014, $46.50/hr for union workers. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the February Producer Price Index for final demand fell 0.5%, decreased 0.6% for the 12 months ended in February. USDOL PR link.

Thursday, March 12:
Amazon(PBR37) launches Amazon Exclusives store featuring new innovative products from popular up and coming brands, including some from TV show “Shark Tank.” AMZN PR link.

Dollar General(PBR153) to open new 730 stores in 2015, move/remodel 875 stores, has $1.2 billion available for shares buyback. DG PR link.

Gannett(PBR458) on track to spin-off new publicly held broadcasting/digital company in mid 2015. GCI PR link.

RadioShack(PBR619) in 8-K filing states that since it is in Chapter 11 stockholders should not expect to receive any recovery funds. RSHCQ PR link.

Children’s Place Retail(PBR934) in outlook says it expects to close 200 stores in 2013-2017. PLCE PR link.

Dollar General(PBR153) EVP/CFO David Tehle resigning effective 07/01/15, internal/external search starts. DG PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR33) reports that 30 year fixed mortgage rates averaged 3.86% with 0.6 point for week ending 03/12/15, 3.75% last week, 4.37% a year ago. FreddieMac PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that advance estimate of February retail/food services sales were $437.0 billion, -0.6% from January, +1.7% above February 2014. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says February US government receipts were $139 billion, outlays $332 billion, deficit $192 billion, deficit YTD(5 mos) is $387 billion. Treasury PR link.

Wednesday, March 11:
United Technologies(PBR45) exploring strategic alternatives for its Sikorsky helicopter unit, including possible public spin-off. UTX PR link.

The US Federal Trade Commission charges DIRECTV(PBR90) with deceptively advertising the cost of its satellite television service. FTC PR link.

KKR(PBR272) to acquire Air Medical Group which handles 75,000 medical emergencies annually. KKR PR link.

PetSmart(PBR359) acquisition by a consortium led by pan-Euopean buyout investor BC Partners for $83/share, $8.7 billion cash is completed, being delisted from NASDAQ. PETM PR link.

Ingredion(PBR371) completes acquisition of specialty ingredients provider Penford Corp for $340 million. INGR PR link.

Endo Health(PBR741) makes unsolicited acquisition offer to Salix Phamaceuticals(SLXP) for $175/share cash & stock, $11 billion. ENDP PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Board completes evaluations of “stress tests”(CCAR) of major financial institutions. FRB PR link.

Because of the US Federal Reserve Board CCAR results the following organizations authorize shares buyback programs:
American Express(PBR86) up to $6.6 billion
Bank of America(PBR22) $4 billion
Bank of New York Mellon up to $3.1 billion
Citigroup(PBR26) up to $7.8 billion
Discover Financial(PBR281) up to $2.2 billion
JPMorgan Chase(PBR20) up to $6.4 billion
PNC Financial(PBR171) up to $2.875 billion
State Street(PBR259) up to $1.8 billion
US Bancorp(PBR131) $3 billion

FreddieMac(PBR33) in March US Economic/Housing Market Outlook says 2015 to be best year for home sales since 2007. FreddieMac PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that private industry employers spent an average of $31.32/hour worked in December 2014, $21.72/hour worked, $9.60/hour in benefits. USDOL PR link.

Tuesday, March 10:
Express Scripts(PBR21) reports that 2014 US prescription drug spending increased 13.1%, driven by Hepatitis C & compounded medications. ESRX PR link.

Target(PBR38) files 8-K announcing layoff of 1,700, to save $100 million. TGT PR link.

Actavis(PBR297) $66 billion acquisition of Allergan(PBR392) approved at both shareholders meetings, expected to close in 2-4 weeks. AGN PR link.

The Pantry(PBR331) shareholders approve acquisition by Quebec, Canada based Alimentation Couche-Tard for $36.75/share, $1.7 billion deal. PTRY PR link.

First Solar(PBR628) & SunPower(PBR772) forming 8point3 Energy Partners limited partnership to own/operate a portfolio of selected solar generation assets, IPO paperwork filed. FSLR PR link.

Sprouts Farmers Market(PBR789) announces closing of sale of all remaining shares held by affiliates of Apollo Global Management(PBR531). SFM PR link.

AmSurg(PBR1077) physician services division, Sheridan, completes acquisition of 50+ radiologists practice Radiology Associates of Hollywood, FL. AMSG PR link.

Google(PBR46) files 8-K regarding CFO Patrick Pichette’s retirement within next 6 months. GOOG PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that there were 5.0 million job openings on the last business day of January, little changed from December. Hires decreased to 5.0 million and separations were little changed at 4.8 million in January. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that January merchant wholesalers sales were $433.7 billion, down 3.1% from December, down 1.0% from the January 2014 level. USDOCL PR link.

Monday, March 9:
Apple(PBR4) announces Apple Watch, to be available 04/24/15 in 9 countries, retails for $349 to $10,000. AAPL PR link.

General Motors(PBR7) authorizes an initial $5 billion shares buyback program, targets $20 billion cash balance. GM PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) completes acquisition of 60 locations luxury beauty products & spa services retailer Bluemercury for $210 million cash. M PR link.

QUALCOMM(PBR104) authorizes $15 billion shares buyback program, will use $10 billion over next 12 months. QCOM PR link.

Alcoa(PBR122) to acquire titanium & specialty metal products manufacturer RTI(NYSE: RTI) in a $1.5 billion stock deal. AA PR link.

Barnes & Noble(PBR388) investing in college study materials provider Flashnotes.com. BKS PR link.

Harbinger Group(PBR412) changes name to HRG Group; president Omar Asali adds CEO title. HRG PR link.

Simon Property(PBR455) proposes to buy fellow mall developer/manager Macerich(PBR1090) for $91/share, $22.4 billion, which includes $6.4 billion of debt. SPG PR link.

Gaming & Leisure Properties(NASDAQ: GLPI makes unsolicited $4.1 billion offer to buy Pinnacle Entertainment(PBR993) assets. GLPI PR link.

The US Congressional Budget Office estimates a deficit of 2.7% of GDP in 2015, 2.4% the next 3 yrs, then rise. By 2025 public debt is estimated to be at 77% of GDP. CBO PR link.

Friday, March 6:
DJIA closes week at 17,856.78, -1.52% from last Friday & MTD, +0.19% QTD & YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,927.37, -0.73% from last Friday & MTD, +4.04% QTD & YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,071.26, -1.58% from last Friday & MTD, +0.60% QTD & YTD.

Dow Jones announces that Apple(PBR4) will replace AT&T(PBR12) on the DJIA on 03/19/15. DJ PR link.

Alcoa(PBR122) doing strategic review of smelting & refining capacity worldwide for possible divestiture. AA PR link.

PetSmart(PBR359) shareholders approve acquisition by a consortium led by pan-Euopean buyout investor BC Partners for $83/share, $8.7 billion cash, expected to close on 03/11/15. PETM PR link.

Orbital ATK(PBR494) designed & built Dawn spacecraft now orbiting dwarf planet Ceres. OA PR link.

NII Holdings(PBR495) announces a new restructuring plan to emerge from Chapter 11. NIHDQ PR link.

The US Food & Drug Administration approves its first biosimilar medication for use in the US, Sandoz’s Zarxio. FDA PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that Total Nonfarm Payroll Employment was up by 295,000 in February, the Unemployment Rate is at 5.5%. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Board reports that January Consumer Credit increased at an annual rate of 4.25%, revolving credit -1.5%, nonrevolving credit +6.25%. FRB PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the January International Trade of Goods and Services deficit was $41.8 billion, down $3.8 billion from December. USDOC PR link.

Thursday, March 5:
3M(PBR92) releases revised paper policy providing leading-edge protection for forests, endangered species, and forest communities worldwide. MMM PR link.

SunEdison(PBR888) acquires energy storage operating projects, pipeline, and project origination team from Solar Grid Storage. SUNE PR link.

Airgas(PBR463) to promote SVP/HR Pamela Claypool to President, Airgas North Division up retirement of Shaun Powers in August, will report to Andrew Cichocki, President, Airgas USA. ARG PR link.

Clearwater Paper(PBR913) VP of Supply Chain Patrick Burke to become President, Consumer Products Division, upon retirement of Thomas Colgrove at end of the quarter. CLW PR link.

Centrus Energy(PBR1035) hires Daniel Poneman, former US deputy secretary of energy, as president/CEO. LEU PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the 4th quarter 2014 Nonfarm Business Sector Labor Productivity decreased at a 2.2 percent annual rate, output increased 2.6 percent and hours worked increased 4.9 percent. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that New Orders for Manufactured Goods in January, down 6 consecutive months, was -$0.9 billion, or -0.2%, to $470.0 billion. USDOC PR link.

The PBR1000 Index for February is 298,638.22, +3.24% over January, -0.90% QTD/YTD, +21.46% over 12/31/13.

Wednesday, March 4:
McDonald’s(PBR96) USA announces new antibiotics policy & menu sourcing initiatives. MCD PR link.

AbbVie(PBR142) to acquire hematology oncology Imbruvica developer Pharmacyclics(NASDAQ: PCYC) for $21 billion. ABBV PR link.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR165) gets FDA approval for lung cancer treatment Opdivo. BMY PR link.

Baxter Intl(PBR179) acquires German based private autoimmune& allergic disease treatment biopharma company SuperMol for $225 million. BAX PR link.

HanesBrands(PBR505) previously announced 4:1 stock split is effective today. HBI PR link.

Brocade Communication(PBR836) completes acquisition of Riverbed Technology’s(PBR1085) SteelApp assets. BRCD PR link.

Alcoa(PBR122) hires José Aurélio Drummond as President of Alcoa Latin America, effective 03/09/15. AA PR link.

AECOM(PBR309) CEO Michael Burke adds Chairman title, effective 03/04/15. ACM PR link.

ADP(PBR220) reports that the February private sector jobs increased by 212,000, down 38,000 from January. ADP PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Board releases latest Beige Book, reports moderate economic growth in most districts. FRB PR link.

Tuesday, March 3:
Citigroup(PBR26) selling its OneMain credit service to Springleaf(NYSE: LEAF) for $4.25 billion. C PR link.

Target(PBR38) to cut $2 billion in costs over next 2 years, grow digital channel by 40%/year, open stores with more flexible formats. TGT PR link.

Best Buy(PBR67) resumes authorized $5 billion shares buyback program, to use $1 billion over next 3 years. BBY PR link.

Alcoa(PBR122) completes acquisition of private German titanium products $100 million/yr, 600 employees, company TITAL. AA PR link.

Stryker Corp(PBR288) authorizes additional $2 billion shares buyback program to $583 million currently available. SYK PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) acquires NationAir Aviation Insurance of W Chicago, IL. AJG PR link.

Frontier Communications(PBR497) Pres/COO Daniel McCarthy to become Pres/CEO on 04/03/15, CEO Maggie Wilderotter to become Exec Chair. FTR PR link.

Hubbell(PBR646) hires Maria Lee as VP, Corporate Strategy & Investor Relations, reports to SVP/CFO William Sperry. HUBB PR link.

Brinker Intl(PBR688) hires Tom Edwards, Jr, as EVP/CFO, effective 03/16/15. EAT PR link.

Other News Highlights: House of Representatives passes the Homeland Security Funding bill passed by the Senate; Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warns US of Iran nuclear threats in historic joint meeting of Congress.

Monday, March 2:
Costco(PBR18) enters multi-year co-brand credit card agreement with Citigroup(PBR26) & co-brand incentive agreement with VISA(PBR212). COST PR link.

Cardinal Health(PBR27) to acquire Johnson & Johnson’s(PBR39) cardiac/endovascular medical products unit Cordis for $1.944 billion cash. CAH PR link.

Arrow Electronics(PBR129) to acquire 800 partners government sales specialist immixGroup. ARW PR link.

eBay’s(PBR170) PayPal unit is acquiring mobile payments provider Paydiant for $280 million. EBAY PR link.

Avis Budget(PBR326) to acquire the largest independent Italian car rental company The Maggiore Group for $170 million. CAR PR link.

Boston Scientific(PBR349) to acquire urology portfolio from Endo Intl’s(PBR741) American Medical Systems unit for up to $1.65 billion cash. BSX PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) acquires NJ based wholesale brokers Excel Insurance Services & Metcom Excess. AJG PR link.

Heartland Payment Systems(PBR859) acquires private national payroll service provider Payroll 1. HPY PR link.

Lumber Liquidators(PBR1093) responds to “60 Minutes” episode regarding product safety issues. LL PR link.

Archer-Daniels-Midland(PBR28) makes several leadership appts, including div presidents, SVP, & CTO. ADM PR link.

AECOM(PBR309) hires Carla Christofferson as EVP, General Counsel. ACM PR link.

Axiall(PBR503) announces departure of George Biltz, Chief Strategy Officer, to take a CEO position in another company. AXLL PR link.

DeVry(PBR906) hires Lisa Sodeika as SVP External Relations, succeeds Sharon Thomas Parrott who is retiring. DV PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that January Personal Income was at a $15.062 trillion annual rate, up 0.3% over December. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that January Construction Spending was at a $971.4 billion annual rate, -1.1% from December, +1.8% from January 2014. USDOC PR link.

Sunday, March 1:
The PBR1000: The February 2015 Breaking News Recap is available. Click here for the blog post.

Netherlands based NXP Semiconductor (NASDAQ: NXPI) & Freescale Semiconductor (PBR548) agree to merger in $11.8 billion deal, to close 2nd half of 2015. FSL PR link.

(The PBR1000 is the premiere comparative data and reporting service covering over 1,000 of the largest publicly held companies with principle or administration headquarters in the US. These companies generate over $13 trillion in annual worldwide revenues, more than all other companies in the US combined. These are the key drivers in the US and world economies. On a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis several analytical reports in customizable Microsoft Excel format are provided to The PBR1000 subscribers. Users include C-level executives, entrepreneurs,  sales/marketing/advertising professionals, investors/investment advisers, business professors/students, career counselors/job seekers, to name just a few. To order your annual subscription, just go to the PBRMarketTools.com Order page.)

(Photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net, Supertrooper.)

Filed Under: Recaps Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

The PBR1000: The February 2015 Stocks/Commodiies Snapshots

March 31, 2015 by
Invest Button 87976-20131105

Where to Invest Next? Use The PBR1000!

 

By Larry C. Paxton

The PBR1000 February 2015 Snapshots include news and stock data on 1,081 companies in 15 analytical reports.

Current The PBR1000 Subscribers should have already received the MS Excel workbook.

February experienced a recovery from the down tick of January. The stock exchanges continue to fluctuate widely day to day. US economic indices continue to be mixed, but the Federal Reserve Board continues to show restraint in raising interest rates, but also by indicating optimism for the future. Global economics and conflicts have an impact on the markets as well, but are mostly unpredictable.

In the following tables the stock price is for the close of trading on February 27th, Month % Chg is compared to January 30th, YTD % Chg is compared to December 31, 2014, and the 14 Mos % Chg is compared to December 31, 2013.

Table 1: The PBR1000 Stock Price Composite

Table 1 Summary: Made up of the sum of the stock prices of the 1,081 companies currently tracked by The PBR1000.

Company Price
02/27/15		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 14 Mos
% Chg
The PBR1000 298,555.31 +3.24 -0.90 +21.47

 

Table 2: The PBR1000 Top 5 Month Stock Price % Gainers

Table 2 Summary: The range was +65.16% to -64.43%. 885 out of 1,081 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 81.87% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of 6.14%

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
02/27/15		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 14 Mos
% Chg
Aeropostale
 868 ARO 4.03 +65.16 +73.71 -55.67
Conn’s
 1052 CONN 25.85 +64.23 +38.31 -67.15
Amkor Technology
 676 AMKR 9.73 +53.23 +37.04 +58.73
ITT Exelis
 487 XLS 24.20 +41.44 +38.05 +26.97
Arch Coal
 671 ACI 1.31 +41.27 -26.40 -70.56

 

Table 3: The PBR1000 Top 5 Year-To-Date Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: The range was +220.00% to -65.72%. 637 out of 1,081 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 58.93% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of 1.69%

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
02/27/15		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 14 Mos
% Chg
NII Holdings
 495 NIHDQ 0.064 +0.00 +220.00 -97.67
Aeropostale
 868 ARO 4.03 +65.16 +73.71 -55.67
Insperity
 830 NSP 51.80 +23.51 +52.85 +43.37
Education Mgmt Corp
 826 EDMC 0.25 -9.38 +51.58 -97.52
Freescale Semiconductor
 548 FSL 36.11 +12.53 +43.12 +124.98

 

Table 4: The PBR1000 Top 5 13 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 4 Summary: Range was +149.26% to -98.78%. 714 out of 1,076 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 66.36% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of 10.54%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
02/27/15		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 14 Mos
% Chg
Electronic Arts
 603 EA 57.18 +4.23 +21.62 +149.26
Southwest Airlines
 150 LUV 43.24 -4.29 +2.17 +129.51
Freescale Semiconductor
 548 FSL 36.11 +12.53 +43.12 +124.98
The Pantry
 331 PTRY 36.70 -0.54 -0.97 +118.71
Hospira
 570 HSP 87.54 +38.01 +42.92 +112.06

 

Table 5: The PBR1000 Selected Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company Price
02/27/15		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 14 Mos
% Chg
DJIA 18,132.70 +5.64 +1.74 +9.39
NASDAQ 4,963.53 +7.08 +4.80 +18.84
S&P500 2,104.50 +5.49 +2.21 +13.86
Gold 1,213.10 -5.17 +2.38 +0.90
Silver 16.56 -3.78 +6.15 -14.51
Oil 49.76 +3.15 -6.59 -45.44

 

Have questions on The PBR1000 or The PBR US Indices Monthly Snapshot? Please contact us at Sales@PBRMarketTools.com or call us at 520-282-4100.

Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter at @ThePBR1000.

(The PBR1000 provides astute investors and business professionals with the data, news, and analysis for taking higher probability of success actions. The PBR1000 covers over 1,000 of the largest publicly held companies with principle or administrative headquarters in the US. These companies generate over $13 trillion in annual worldwide revenues, more than all other companies in the US combined. These are the key drivers in the US and world economies. On a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis several analytical reports in customizable Microsoft Excel format are provided to Subscribers of The PBR1000. Subscribers include C-level executives, entrepreneurs, sales/marketing/advertising professionals, investors/investment advisers, business professors/students, career counselors/job seekers, to name just a few. To order your annual subscription, just go to the PBRMarketTools.com Order page.)

 

Filed Under: Snapshots Tagged With: , , , , , ,

The PBR1000: The January 2015 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots

February 22, 2015 by
ID-100235617 Stock Market Chart-cooldesign

Where Should We Put Our Money?

By Larry C. Paxton

The PBR1000 January 2015 Snapshots include news and stock data on 1,088 companies in 15 analytical reports.

Current The PBR1000 Subscribers should have already received the MS Excel workbook.

The stock exchanges started the new year down from the near record highs in December. The stock exchanges continue to be greatly affected by the price of oil and international current and potential crises. Economic indicators continue to show mixed results. It is anticipated by nearly everybody that the Federal Reserve will up interest rates at some point, but it now looks like later in the year.

In the following tables the stock price is for the close of trading on January 30th, Month % Chg is compared to December 31st, YTD % Chg is compared to December 31, 2014, and the 13 Mos % Chg is compared to December 31, 2013.

Table 1: The PBR1000 Stock Price Composite

Table 1 Summary: Made up of the sum of the stock prices of the 1,088 companies currently tracked by The PBR1000.

Company Price
01/30/15		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 13 Mos
% Chg
The PBR1000 289,767.92 -3.99 -3.99 +17.66

 

Table 2: The PBR1000 Top 5 Month Stock Price % Gainers

Table 2 Summary: The range was +220.00% to -59.47%. 348 out of 1,088 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 31.99% of the companies tracked. The median was a loss of 3.35%

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
01/30/15		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 13 Mos
% Chg
NII Holdings
 495 NIHDQ 0.064 +220.00 +220.00 -97.67
Education Management
 826 EDMC 0.276 +67.27 +67.27 -97.26
Exide Technologies
 697 XIDEQ 0.082 +37.82 +38.82 -65.83
Newmont Mining
 311 NEM 25.150 +33.07 +33.07 +9.21
Netflix
 534 NFLX 441.800 +29.33 +29.33 +20.00

 

Table 3: The PBR1000 Top 5 Year-To-Date Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: The range was +220.00% to -59.47%. 348 out of 1,088 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 31.99% of the companies tracked. The median was a loss of 3.35%

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
01/30/15		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 13 Mos
% Chg
NII Holdings
 495 NIHDQ 0.064 +220.00 +220.00 -97.67
Education Management
 826 EDMC 0.276 +67.27 +67.27 -97.26
Exide Technologies
 697 XIDEQ 0.082 +37.82 +38.82 -65.83
Newmont Mining
 311 NEM 25.150 +33.07 +33.07 +9.21
Netflix
 534 NFLX 441.800 +29.33 +29.33 +20.00

 

Table 4: The PBR1000 Top 5 13 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 4 Summary: Range was +139.81% to -97.67%. 624 out of 1,083 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 57.62% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of 4.47%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
01/30/15		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 13 Mos
% Chg
Southwest Airlines
 150 LUV 45.18 +6.76 +6.76 +139.81
Electronic Arts
 603 EA 54.86 +16.69 +16.69 +139.15
The Pantry
 331 PTRY 36.90 -0.43 -0.43 +119.90
Hawaiian Holdings
 849 HA 19.44 -25.37 -25.37 +101.87
Freescale Semiconductor
 548 FSL 32.09 +27.19 +27.19 +99.94

 

Table 5: The PBR1000 Selected Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company Price
01/30/15		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 13 Mos
% Chg
DJIA 17,164.95 -3.69 -3.69 +3.55
NASDAQ 4,635.24 -2.13 -2.13 +10.98
S&P500 1,994.99 -3.10 -3.10 +7.93
Gold 1,279.20 +7.96 +7.96 +6.40
Silver 17.21 +10.32 +10.32 -11.15
Oil 48.24 -9.44 -9.44 -47.11

 

Have questions on The PBR1000 or The PBR US Indices Monthly Snapshot? Please contact us at Sales@PBRMarketTools.com or call us at 520-282-4100.

Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter at @ThePBR1000.

(The PBR1000 provides astute investors and business professionals with the data, news, and analysis for taking higher probability of success actions. The PBR1000 covers over 1,000 of the largest publicly held companies with principle or administrative headquarters in the US. These companies generate over $13 trillion in annual worldwide revenues, more than all other companies in the US combined. These are the key drivers in the US and world economies. On a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis several analytical reports in customizable Microsoft Excel format are provided to Subscribers of The PBR1000. Subscribers include C-level executives, entrepreneurs,  sales/marketing/advertising professionals, investors/investment advisers, business professors/students, career counselors/job seekers, to name just a few. To order your annual subscription, just go to the PBRMarketTools.com Order page.)

(Photo Courtesy of cooldesign/FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

Filed Under: Snapshots Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

The PBR1000: The December 2014 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots

January 12, 2015 by
ID-10074385 Stocktrader on world-watcharakun

Hoping To Build A High Return Stock Portfolio!

 

By Larry C. Paxton

The PBR1000 December 2014 Snapshots include news and stock data through December 31st and annual 10-K reports filed with the SEC from 2013 through October 2014.  The current The PBR1000 includes 1,092 companies.

A sample of The PBR1000 May 2014 Snapshot is available for download at the top of the “Sample Snapshots” page.

The tables below are compiled from The PBR1000 December 2014 Snapshots, with 14 reports. Current The PBR1000 Subscribers should have already received the MS Excel workbook.

The stock exchanges ended on the upswing at near record highs. Commodities were down, especially oil, which is causing some chaos and conjecture. While there are some anxieties there is also cautious optimism about what what will happen in 2015. Most economic indicators are moderately positive, but still fragile, particularly when considering the world situation.

In the following tables the stock price is for the close of trading on December 31st, Month % Chg is compared to November 30th, YTD % Chg is compared to December 31, 2013, and the 24 Mos % Chg is compared to December 31, 2012.

Table 1: The PBR1000 Stock Price Composite

Table 1 Summary: Made up of the sum of the stock prices of the 1,092 companies currently tracked by The PBR1000.

Company Price
12/31/14		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 24 Mos
% Chg
The PBR1000 301,964.92 +1.31 +22.55 +63.48

 

Table 2: The PBR1000 Top 5 Month Stock Price % Gainers

Table 2 Summary: The range was +39.59% to -66.67%. 615 out of 1,092 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 56.32% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of +0.76%

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
12/31/14		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 24 Mos
% Chg
The Pantry
 331 PTRY 37.06 +39.59 +120.86 +205.52
Willbros Group
 886 WG 6.27 +37.80 -33.44 +16.98
Rite Aid
 108 RAD 7.52 +37.23 +48.62 +452.94
Ingles Markets
 593 IMKTA 37.09 +36.66 +36.68 +114.89
TravelCenters
 325 TA 12.62 +34.97 +29.57 +168.51

 

Table 3: The PBR1000 Top 5 Year-To-Date Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: Range was +221.51% to -99.72%. 709 out of 1,087 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 65.23% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of 8.25%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
12/31/14		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 24 Mos
% Chg
RF Micro Devices
 1062 RFMD 16.59 +13.55 +221.51 +270.31
Hawaiian Holdings 849 HA 26.05 +28.39 +170.51 +296.50
Southwest Airlines
 150 LUV 42.32 +1.20 +124.63 +313.28
The Pantry
 331 PTRY 37.06 +39.59 +120.86 +205.52
American Airlines
 103 AAL 53.63 +10.51 +112.40 n/a

 

Table 4: The PBR1000 Top 5 24 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 4 Summary: Range was +692.31% to -99.72%. 933 out of 1,071 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 87.11% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of 42.32%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
12/31/14		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 24 Mos
% Chg
Freddie Mac 33 FMCC 2.06 -13.81 -28.97 +692.31
Fannie Mae 17 FNMA 2.06 +16.12 -31.73 +690.38
Tesla Motors
 887 TSLA 222.41 -9.04 +47.85 +556.66
SunEdison
 888 SUNE 19.51 -9.88 +49.50 +507.79
Rite Aid
 108 RAD 7.52 +37.23 +48.62 +452.94

 

Table 5: The PBR1000 Selected Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company Price
12/31/14		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 24 Mos
% Chg
DJIA 17,823.07 -0.03 +7.52 +36.01
NASDAQ 4,736.05 -1.16 +13.40 +58.85
S&P500 2,058.90 -0.42 +11.39 +44.36
Gold 1,183.20 +0.66 -1.59 -29.66
Silver 15.69 +0.84 -19.00 -48.32
Oil 53.27 -19.60 -41.59 -41.53

 

Have questions on The PBR1000 or The PBR US Indices Monthly Snapshot? Please contact us at Sales@PBRMarketTools.com or call us at 520-282-4100.

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The PBR1000: The December 2014 Breaking News Recap!

January 5, 2015 by
ID-100302563 Oil Well-Stuart Miles

Oil Prices Continued To Drop At The End of 2014. What Does That Mean Short-Term and Long-Term?

By Larry C. Paxton

December 2014 finished on generally positive notes. The DJIA and S&P 500 finished at near their record highs, with the NASDAQ up significantly as well. The final numbers for holiday spending are not in, but initial indications are positive. 3rd quarter GDP numbers were revised up to a strong 5.0% annual rate. Most of the key indicators are preliminary, but reflect a mostly stable, though still fragile, US economy, and the envy of the rest of the world. Oil prices continued to drop significantly and the overall impact short term and long term are still a guess. Internationally the biggest news was the hacking of Sony along with an unnamed threat if the new movie, “The Interview,” was released. The primary suspect is North Korea.

Now we enter 2015 with some cautious optimism. Let’s get this show on the road!

Following are the December 2014 Breaking News items, from the latest date to the first:

Wednesday, December 31:
DJIA closes 2014 at 17,823.07, -1.28% from last Friday, -0.03% MTD, +4.58% QTD, +7.52% YTD.
NASDAQ closes 2014 at 4,736.05, -1.47% from last Friday, -1.16% MTD, +5.40% QTD, +13.40% YTD.
SPX closes 2014 at 2,058.90, -1.43% from last Friday, -0.42% MTD, +4.39% QTD, +11.39% YTD.

FreddieMac(PBR33) says 30 yr fixed rate mortgages finished last week of 2014 at an average of 3.87% with 0.6 points. Click here for the FreddieMac press release.

Eli Lilly(PBR121) completes $5.4 billion acquisition of Novartis Animal Healthcare. Click here for the Eli Lilly press release.

Spectrum Brands(PBR529) completes acquisition of Proctor & Gamble’s(PBR32) European based IAMs & Eukanuba pet food business, terms not disclosed. Click here for the SB press release.

Tuesday, December 30:
Clearwater Paper(PBR913) has sold its specialty products business & mills to Dunn Paper, terms not disclosed. Click here for the CP press release.

The US Dept of Commerce in its preliminary 3rd quarter report says that US international assets are at $24.6 trillion, liabilities at $30.8 trillion, -$6.2 trillion balance. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Monday, December 29:
Walgreen(PBR36) shareholders approve buy of 55% remaining of Alliance Boots, GmBH, reorganization with Walgreen as subsidiary of public Walgreen Alliance Boots(NASDAQ: WBA), to be completed by 12/31/14. Click here for the Walgreen press release.

Liberty Interactive(PBR233) & Liberty Media(PBR571) both extend contract of president/CEO Maffei through 2019. Click here for the Liberty Interactive press release.

Cars.com estimates new car sales at 1.51 million units in December, 16.86 million annual rate, forecasts 17.1 million in 2015. Click here for the Cars.com press release.

Friday, December 26:
DJIA closes week at 18,053.71(R), +1.40% from last Friday, +1.26% MTD, +5.93% QTD, +8.91% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,806.86, +0.87% from last Friday, +0.32% MTD, +6.98% QTD, +15.09% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,088.77(R), +0.88% from last Friday, +1.03% MTD, +5.91% QTD, +13.01% YTD.

Thursday, December 25:
Stock Markets Closed.
Have a Merry and Blessed Christmas!

Wednesday, December 24:
FreddieMac(PBR33) reports that 30 year fixed mortgage rates averaged 3.83% with 0.6 points for the week ending 12/24/14. Click here for FreddieMac report.

The US Dept of Labor in its advance report says that for the week ending Dec 20 initial jobless claims were at 280,000, -9,000 from the previous week. The 4 week moving average was 290,250. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Tuesday, December 23:
Fun Fact: The PBR1000 Stock Index for the end of November was +5.26% over October, +20.97% YTD, +61.37% over YE2012. Click here for The PBR1000 November Stocks/Commodities Snapshot blog post.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR165) receives FDA accelerated approval for melanoma cancer treatment Opdivo. Click here for the BMS press release.

Family Dollar(PBR252), because of lack of votes to adopt the Dollar Tree(PBR329) merger agreement, adjourns today’s special meeting of stockholders to 01/22/15. Click here for the Family Dollar press release.

Dollar General(PBR153) extends tender offer to acquire Family Dollar(PBR252) to 01/30/15. Click here for the Dollar General press release.

Keurig Green Mountain(PBR499) voluntarily recalling 7.2 million MINI Plus Brewers because of possible steam burns. Click here for the Keurig statement.

Vornado Realty Trust(PBR714) to spin-off subsidiary Urban Edge Properties as an independent public company on NYSE: UE in January. Click here for the Vornado statement.

GNC Holdings(PBR739) unveils an exclusive, multi-year ecommerce partnership with health & fitness publisher American Media. Click here for the GNC press release.

Equinix(PBR852) converting to a real estate investment trust(REIT) for tax purposes effective 01/01/15. Click here for the Equinix press release.

The US Dept of Commerce says, in 3rd estimate of the 3rd quarter, that GDP grew at an annual rate of 5.0%. Click here for the USDOC press release.

The US Dept of HUD estimates that November new home sales were at an annual rate of 438,000, -1.6% from revised October. Median sales price was $280,900. Click here for the HUD press release.

The US Dept of Commerce preliminary report says that November personal income was +0.4% over October, disposable personal income +0.3%. Click here for the USDOC press release.

DJIA closes over 18,000 for the first time at 18,024.17, 36th record of the year; S&P500 closes at 2,082.17, 51st record of the year.

Monday, December 22:
Boeing(PBR31) comments on Air China’s commitment for 60 737s for over $6 billion. Click here for the Boeing press release.

Anthem(PBR40) to acquire Florida based managed care Medicaid & Medicare programs provider Simply Healthcare, terms not disclosed. Click here for the Anthem press release.

Oracle(PBR75) to acquire digital marketing services company Datalogix, terms not disclosed. Click here for the Oracle press release.

DuPont(PBR83) to consolidate corporate headquarters at Chestnut Run Plaza in Wilmington, DE, on 07/01/15. Click here for the DuPont press release.

Abbott Labs(PBR127) completes $250 million acquisition of private electrophysiology technologies medical device company Topera. Click here for the Abbott press release.

Chesapeake Energy(PBR152) completes sale of Southern Marcellus & Utica Shale units to Southwestern Energy(PBR624) for a revised $4.975 billion; $1 billion common share buyback program approved. Click here for the CE press release.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR301) & Caesars Acquisition(NASDAQ: CACQ) to do an all stock merger with combined market capitalization of $3.2 billion; will still be controlled by affiliates of Apollo Global Management(PBR531) & TPG Capital. Click here for the Caesars press release.

Ocwen Financial(PBR881) reaches $150 million settlement with NY Dept of Financial Services, exec chairman/founder William Erbey to step down on 01/16/15. Click here for the Ocwen press release.

Actavis(PBR297) appoints Jonathan Kellerman as EVP, global chief compliance officer, reports to president/CEO Brent Saunders. Click here for the Actavis press release.

Ball Corp(PBR304) appoints Erik Bouts as SVP & COO/global metal beverage packaging, effective 02/01/15, reports to chair/pres/CEO John Hayes. Click here for the Ball press release.

President Obama promised that 2014 would be a year of action. What did he accomplish? Click here for the White House review.

The National Association of Realtors reports that the annual rate of existing home sales in November was down from October to 4.93 million. Click here for the NAR press release.

Friday, December 19:
DJIA closes week at 17,804.80, +3.03% from last Friday, -0.13% MTD, +4.47% QTD, +7.41% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,765.38, +2.40% from last Friday, -0.55% MTD, +6.05% QTD, +14.10% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,070.65, +3.41% from last Friday, +0.15% MTD, +4.99% QTD, +12.03% YTD.

Safeway(PBR84) & Albertsons to sell 168 stores to satisfy FTC requirements for the merger to proceed. Click here for the Safeway press release.

Xerox(PBR128) is selling its information technology outsourcing business to France based Atos for $1.05 billion. Click here for the Xerox press release.

Estee Lauder(PBR242) to acquire Hollywood skincare brand GLAMGLOW, terms not disclosed, to close in 01/15. Click here for the EL press release.

Ally Financial(PBR290) announces that the US Treasury has sold its remaining 54.9 million shares invested through the TARP program. Click here for the Ally press release.

News Corp(PBR299) has acquired India based startup BigDecisions.com, terms not disclosed. Clickhere for the News Corp press release.

Subsidiary Caesars Entertainment(PBR301) Operating Company reaches agreement with 1st lien holder, debt restructuring program detailed. Click here for the Caesars press release.

Vornado Realty(PBR714) completes sale of 601k sf office building 1740 Broadway in Manhattan for $605 million. Click here for the Vornado press release.

Ferro Corp(PBR967) completes sale of majority of assets in Polymer Additives to HIG Capital for $154 million cash. Click here for the Ferro press release.

Boeing(PBR31) announces personnel & responsibility changes at corporate and International unit. Click here for the Boeing press release.

Thursday, December 18:
MacMillan Publishers CEO John Sargent comments on agreement for books & ebooks with Amazon(PBR37) that will go into effect on 01/05/15. Click here for the MacMillan/TOR press release.

DuPont(PBR83) files Form 10 to spin-off Performance Chemicals unit as publicly traded The Chemours Company. Click here for the DuPont press release.

Dover(PBR295) selling stationary and portable label/receipt printing unit Datamax O’Neil to Honeywell International(PBR73) for $185 million. Click here for the Dover press release.

The Pantry(PBR331) agrees to be acquired by Quebec, Canada based Alimentation Couche-Tard(TSX: ATD.A) for $36.75/share, $1.7 billion cash, includes assumed debt. Click here for the The Pantry press release.

Harman International(PBR448) to acquire German based 100 employee infotainment systems, connectivity, & car audio solutions technology firm S1nn GmbH, terms not disclosed. Click here for the Harman press release.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) acquires national program broker Affinity Marketing Group, terms not disclosed. Click here for the AJG press release.

Hyster-Yale Materials(PBR732) acquires fuel cell stacks & hydrogen production/dispensing systems developer Nuvera Fuel Cells, terms not disclosed. Click here for the HYM press release.

Kraft Foods(PBR145) CEO Tony Vernon to retire on 12/27/14, chairman John Cahill elected to add CEO title at that time. Click here for the Kraft press release.

GATX(PBR1032) promotes Jim Conniff to SVP, Human Resources. Click here for the GATX press release.

FreddieMac(PBR33) in its weekly report says average 30 yr fixed mortgage rate is at a record low of 3.80% with 0.6 point, was 4.47% 1 year ago. Click here for the FreddieMac press release.

Wednesday, December 17:
DISH Network(PBR199) is the 1st major US pay-TV provider to integrate Netflix(PBR534) app on its set-top box. Click here for the DISH press release.

Visteon(PBR338) selling its 70% interest in S. Korea based 15,500 employee Halla Visteon Climate Control to Hahn & Co for $3.6 billion. Click here for the Visteon press release.

Alaska Air(PBR459) 3,400 flight attendants ratify new 5 year contract, among highest paid in the industry. Click here for the AA press release.

Constellation Brands(PBR483) completes $300 million acquisition of Mexico based Nava Glass, form 50/50 partnership with Owens-Illinois, & buy other nearby infrastructure assets. Click here for the CB press release.

BE Aerospace(PBR611) stockholders get 1 share in now public KLX(NASDAQ: KLXI) spin-off for each 2 shares held. Click here for the BEA press release.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) acquires employee benefits, HR, & retirement plans consultation and brokerage Rockville, MD, based Independent Benefit Services. Click here for the AJG press release.

Curtiss-Wright(PBR771) sells its upstream oil & gas Cimarron Energy unit to Turnbridge Capital for $100 million. Click here for the C-W press release.

Coca-Cola Co(PBR59) appoints Julie Hamilton as Chief Customer & Commercial Leadership Officer, reports to chairman/CEO. Click here for the Coca-Cola press release.

Carnival Corp(PBR176) names Christine Duffy as president of Carnival Cruise Lines unit, reports to corporate CEO. Click here for the Carnival press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the November Consumer Price Index was -0.3% over October, mostly due to the decline in oil prices, +1.3% over the last 12 mos. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that real average hourly earnings increased by 0.8 percent, seasonally adjusted, from November 2013 to November 2014. Combined with a 0.3 percent increase in the average workweek, the result is a 1.1 percent increase in real average weekly earnings over this period. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Federal Reserve Board releases its economic projections based on the Federal Open Market Committee meetings of 12/16-17/14. Click here for the FRB press release.

President Obama’s statement/video for charting a new course on Cuba. Click here for the White House press release.

Tuesday, December 16:
CVS Health(PBR13) adds $10 billion for multi-year common shares repurchase program, total $12.7 billion now available. Click here for the CVS press release.

Asbury Automotive(PBR449) has acquired $140 million/yr Texas Motors Ford, rebranding as David McDavid Ford Fort Worth. Click here for the AA press release.

Bloomin’ Brands(PBR555) to start paying quarterly dividends, starts $100 million share repurchase program, plans to open 40-50 new restaurants in 2015. Click here for the BB press release.

Abercrombie & Fitch(PBR559) sign 7 year exclusive deal for development of fragrances with Inter Parfums. Click here for the A&F press release.

Crown Castle International(PBR670) completes its merger with wholly owned subsidiary Crown Castle REIT. Click here for the CCI press release.

Cubic Corp(PBR1008) acquires modular networking/baseband communications equipment firm DTECH for up to $114.5 million. Click here for the CC press release.

FirstEnergy(PBR187) elects president/CEO Tony Alexander as executive chairman, Charles Jones to become new president/CEO, both effective 01/01/15. Click here for the FE press release.

WellCare Health Plans(PBR277) appoints Blair Todt as SVP, chief legal & administrative officer & secretary, effective 01/01/15, to report to CEO, succeeds SVP, general counsel & secretary Lisa Iglesias, who is leaving. Click here for the WellCare press release.

Actavis(PBR297) announces that upon the merger with Allergan(PBR392) Brent Saunders to be president/CEO, other global leadership appointments announced. Click here for the Actavis press release.

FreddieMac(PBR33) provides December US Economy/Housing Outlook, reviews 2014 predictions/results. Click here for the FreddieMac press release.

The US Census Bureau reports that privately-owned housing starts in November 2014 were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1,028,000, 1.6 percent (+/- 8.1%)* below the revised October 2014 estimate of 1,045,000. Click here for the Census press release.

President Obama signs into law the $1.1 trillion 2015 spending bill passed by the House on 12/11/14 and the Senate on 12/13/14. Click here for the Voice of America summary.

Monday, December 15:
Express Scripts(PBR21) increases shares buyback program by 65 million shares, now at 205 million shares. Click here for the ES press release.

Archer-Daniels-Midland(ADM)(PBR28) is selling its global cocoa business to Olam International for $1.3 billion, to close in 2nd quarter 2015. Click here for the ADM press release.

Boeing(PBR31) increases share buyback program to $12 billion, increases dividend by 25%. Click here for the Boeing press release.

Pfizer(PBR53) making initial payment of $295 million to OPKO(NYSE: OPK) in global agreement to develop & commercialize long-acting human growth hormone hGH-CTP. Click here for the Pfizer press release.

Emerson Electric(PBR112) selling its power transmission solutions unit to Regal Beloit(PBR653) for $1.4 billion, to close in 1st quarter 2015. Click here for the EE press release.

Apache Corp(PBR169) selling its stake in the Wheatstone & Kitimat LNG projects to Woodside Petroleum(ASX: WPL) for $2.75 billion. Click here for the Apache press release.

AGCO(PBR246) authorizes new $500 million common share buyback program through 2016. Click here for the AGCO press release.

Davita Healthcare(PBR312) merging its 2 clinical research businesses into one unit, with an emphasis on kidney/renal related health issues. Click here for the Davita press release.

Avis Budget(PBR326) to combine 3 regions into 2, the Americas & International, related retirements & promotions announced. Click here for the AB press release.

Yahoo!(PBR500) completes $640 million acquisition of 400 employee video ads platform developer BrightRoll. Click here for the Yahoo! press release.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) has acquired longtime NJ based retail insurance broker O’Gorman & Young, terms not disclosed. Click here for the AJG press release.

Ventas(PBR707) $2.6 billion acquisition of American Realty Capital Healthcare Trust(NASDAQ: HCT) expected to be completed in 01/15 after the ARC special stockholders meeting on 01/15/14. Click here for the Ventas press release.

LINN Energy(PBR810) completes sale of its Granite Wash & Cleveland Properties for $2.3 billion. Click here for the LINN press release.

SunCoke Energy(PBR964) to cut 175 jobs, reduce coal production in half, evaluating further coal mining business options. Click here for the SunCoke press release.

Riverbed Technology(PBR1085) to be acquired by private equity firm Thomas Bravo & the Ontario(Canada) Teachers Pension Plan for $21/share, $3.6 billion cash. Click here for the Riverbed press release.

Express Scripts(PBR21) EVP/CFO Cathy Smith leaving, James Havel to become EVP/Interim CFO on 01/02/15. Click here for the ES press release.

Humana(PBR71) appoints Cynthia Zipperle as SVP/Chief Accounting Ofcr/Controller, reports to SVP/CFO Brian Kane. Click here for the Humana press release.

AES Corp(PBR172) appoints acting COO Bernerd Da Santos as COO, effective 01/01/15. Click here for the AES press release.

Core-Mark(PBR271) SVP/Marketing Chris Hobson to also head up Sales, SVP/Corporate Development Scott McPherson to become SVP/Business Operations & Strategic Opportunities, both positions effective 01/01/15. Click here for the C-M press release.

WellCare Health Plans(PBR277) appoints president/COO Ken Burdick as CEO, effective 01/01/15. Click here for the WellCare press release.

Advanced Micro Devices(AMD)(PBR451) appoints James Clifford as SVP/Global Operations, reports to CEO Lisa Su. Click here for the AMD press release.

The US Federal Reserve Board preliminary report shows that November industrial production was +1.3% over October, +5.2% over November, 2013. Click here for the FRB press release.

Sunday, December 14:
PetSmart(PBR359) to be acquired by a consortium led by pan-Euopean buyout investor BC Partners for $83/share, $8.7 billion cash. Click here for the PetSmart press release.

Friday, December 12:
DJIA closes week at 17,280.83, -3.78% from last Friday, -3.07% MTD, +1.40% QTD, +4.25% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,653.60, –2.66% from last Friday, -2.88% MTD, +3.57% QTD, +11.42% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,002.33, -3.52% from last Friday, -3.15% MTD, +1.52% QTD, +8.33% YTD.

Oil closes below $58, stock exchanges take a dive. Click here for the Oil(CLF5) current price.

Berkshire Hathaway(PBR5) is acquiring non-asset based 3rd party petroleum/chemicals logistics provider Charter Brokerage from Arsenal Capital Partners, terms not disclosed. Click here for the BH press release.

Abbott Labs(PBR127) completes acquisition of Russia based pharmaceutical developer Veropharm for $305 million. Click here for the Abbott Labs press release.

Arrow Electronics(PBR129) adds $200 million to its share buyback program, has used $1.2 billion since 2010. Click here for the AE press release.

Restaurant Brands International Inc. (TSX, NYSE: QSR) now owner of Burger King(PBR1063) & Canada based Tim Hortons brands, to start public trading on 12/15/14. Click here for the RBI press release.

AGCO(PBR246) SVP/GM of N. America, Robert Crain, to add S. America to responsibilities on 01/01/15. Click here for the AGCO press release.

The US Dept of Labor says the November Producer Price Index for final demand was -0.2%, +1.4% for past 12 months. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Thursday, December 11:
American Express(PBR86) & Delta Airlines(PBR78) agree to multi-year extension of their co-brand credit card program partnership. Click here for the AMEX press release.

Danaher(PBR139) completes acquisition of Swiss based Nobel Biocare. Click here for the Danaher press release.

Eastman Chemical(PBR282) completes the acquisition of $100 million/yr Commonwealth Laminating & Coating. Click here for the EC press release.

Assurant(PBR286) introduces Getaround auto rental service as part of new sharing economy services. Click here for the Assurant press release.

KBR(PBR344) to restructure into 3 business units, Tech/Consulting, Engineering/Construction, Government Services, by year end. Click here for the KBR press release.

Adobe Systems(PBR565) to acquire private photos & images website Fotolia from KKR(PBR272) for $800 million. Click here for the Adobe press release.

CONSOL Energy(PBR631) to pursue IPO for thermal coal business mid 2015, metallurgical business late 2015, authorizes $250 million shares buyback program. Click here for the CONSOL press release.

Armstrong World(PBR717) exiting European flooring business, DLW subsidiary filing for insolvency. Click here for the AW press release.

GrafTech(PBR1056) moving reduced 50 person global headquarters staff to Independence, OH, Innovation & Technology Center to Brooklyn Heights, OH, in 1st quarter, 2015. Click here for the GrafTech press release.

Crude light sweet oil(CLF5) closes at $59.95/barrel, new 5 year low. Click here for the current CLF5 price.

Kroger(PBR25) chairman David Dillon to retire on 12/31/14 after 38 years of company service, CEO Rodney McMullen to add chairman title on 01/01/15. Click here for the Kroger press release.

Caterpillar(PBR49) names new CIO, VP of Finance Services, & VP of Strategic Services. Click here for the current Caterpillar press release.

CBS Corp(PBR178) president/CEO Leslie Moonves gets new contract extending term to 06/30/19. Click here for the CBS press release.

Arch Coal(PBR671) names Matt Giljum VP/Finance & Treasurer upon retirement of Jim Florczak at end of January, 2015. Click here for the AC press release.

SeaWorld(PBR1002) chairman David D’Alessandro to add interim CEO title on 01/15/15, CEO Jim Atchison to become vice chairman. Click here for the SeaWorld press release.

The US Dept of Commerce advance estimate says November Retail & Food Sales were $449.3 billion, +0.7% over October, +5.1% over November, 2013. Click here for the USDOC press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that November import prices -1.5%, -1.2% in October, both decreases driven by declining fuel prices. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the October combined value of distributive trade sales & manufacturers’ shipments is estimated at $1,350.9 billion, -0.1% from September, +3.4% from October, 2013. Click here for the USDOC press release.

The US Federal Reserve Board says in the Z1 Funds Flow 3rd Quarter Report that the net worth of households & nonprofits dipped slightly to $81.3 trillion from the 2nd quarter. Click here for the FRB press release.

Wednesday, December 10:
Baxter International(PBR179) files initial Form 10 with SEC to spinoff Baxalta biopharmaceuticals unit in mid 2015, will have 20% ownership. Click here for the Baxter press release.

Actavis(PBR297) launches generic version of Pfizer’s(PBR53) Celebrex. Click here for the Actavis press release.

Mylan(PBR360) launches one of first generic versions of Celebrex, $2.5 billion/yr US market, has 286 ANDAs waiting FDA approval. Click here for the Mylan press release.

Alliance Data(PBR540) completes $2.3 billion cash & stock acquisition of digital marketing company Conversant. Click here for the AD press release.

First Solar(PBR628) enters residential market with investment in community solar solutions developer Clean Energy Collective, terms not disclosed. Click here for the First Solar press release.

Walmart(PBR1) US division COO Gisel Ruiz promoted to EVP of the International People division, reports to division pres/CEO David Cheesewright. US division Chief Development Officer Judith McKenna promoted to US division COO, reports to division president/CEO Greg Foran. Click here for the Walmart press release.

Walgreens(PBR38) CEO Greg Wasson to retire after completion of merger with Alliance Boots, successor leadership announced. Click here for the Walgreens press release.

MetLife(PBR42) announces that Esther Lee to join as EVP/Global Marketing Officer on 01/12/15, reports to chairman/president/CEO Steven Kandarian. Click here for the MetLife press release.

The US Dept of the Treasury reports November receipts of $191.4B, outlays of $248.3B, deficit of $56.8B. Click here for the Treasury press release.

The US Dept of Commerce releases 3rd Quarter Services Revenues Estimates for 12 services categories. Click here for the USDOC press release.

The US Dept of the Treasury in its says Lifetime Costs have been $426.3 billion of $475 billion authorized, has recovered $14 billion more than cost. Click here for the USDOT report.

Tuesday, December 9:
Discovery Communications(PBR433) to let Hulu stream many of its popular shows starting 01/01/15 in wide ranging agreement. Click here for the DC press release.

Advanced Micro Devices(AMD)(PBR451) to move from NYSE to NASDAQ on 01/02/15. Click here for the AMD press release.

Hudson City Bancorp(PBR1014) & M&T Bank Corp(PBR514) agree to extend merger deadline from 12/31/14 to 04/30/15. Click here for the M&T press release.

Belden(PBR868) to acquire global cybersecurity firm Tripwire for $710 million. Click here for the Belden press release.

Expedia(PBR491) & Airlines Reporting Corporation in 2015 Flight Predictions report say fares in US/Europe to drop slightly. Click here for the Expedia press release.

United Technologies(PBR45) welcomes back Akhil Johri as new SVP/CFO, reports to pres/CEO Gregory Hayes. Click here for the UT press release.

Delta Air Lines(PBR78) promotes Ranjan Goswami to VP Sales-West Coast, a new position. Click here for the Delta press release.

Abercrombie & Fitch(PBR557) CEO Michael Jeffries retires effectively immediately, Arthur Martinez appointed executive chairman, Office the Chairman group formed for day-to-day operations, new CEO search starts. Click here for the A&F press release.

Buckle(PBR1061) announces leadership changes in merchandising & finance areas. Click here for the Buckle press release.

Conn’s, in 3rd quarter report, announces VP/Chief Accounting Officer Mark Haley is now interim CFO, effective immediately, upon departure of Brian Taylor. Click here for the Conn’s press release.

OECD reports Foreign Direct Investment flows continued to struggle in the 1st half of 2014. Click here for the OECD press release.

The US Dept of Labor preliminary report shows that end of October Job Openings was at 4.8 million, 5.1 million job hires, & 4.8 million job separations. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports in preliminary Wholesale Monthly Trade report that October sales were $454.6B, +0.2% over Sept. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Monday, December 8:
Merck(PBR63) to acquire antibiotics developer & marketer Cubist Pharmaceuticals(NASDAQ: CBST) for $102/share in cash, $9.5 billion total deal. Click here for the Merck press release.

EOG Resources(PBR193) sells off majority of Canadian assets for $410 million. Click here for the EOG press release.

CBRE Group(PBR347) acquires 200+ employee real estate consulting & advisory service IVI International, terms not disclosed. Click here for the CBRE press release.

Blackstone Group(PBR372) is selling its San Francisco Peninsula & Silicon Valley offices portfolio properties to Hudson Pacific Properties(NYSE: HPP) for $3.5 billion cash & stock. Click here for the Blackstone press release.

Asbury Automotive(PBR449) acquires Atlanta, GA, suburb new car dealership Sandy Springs Ford, does $110 million/yr. Click here for the Asbury press release.

Hyatt Hotels(PBR546) sells 644 room Vancouver(Canada) Hyatt Regency to InnVest for $123 million/$190,000 per key, will remain a Hyatt Regency. Click here for the Hyatt press release.

CareFusion(PBR580) sets 01/21/15 for special stockholders meeting to vote on the $12.2 billion merger deal with Becton Dickinson(PBR319). Click here for the BD press release.

Greenbrier Cos(PBR931) receives 14,100 in new railcar orders in its 1st quarter, valued at $1.24 billion. Click here for the Greenbrier press release.

FannieMae(PBR33) & FreddieMac(PBR16) announce new 3% down programs for new homebuyers. Click here for the FannieMae press release. Click here for the FreddieMac press release.

C.H. Robinson(PBR210) announces CFO & CIO transitions. Click here for the CHR press release.

JetBlue(PBR441) appoints Alexander Chatkewitz as VP/Controller, reports to Jim Leddy, SVP/Treasurer. Click here for the JetBlue press release.

Brinker International(PBR686) appoints Scarlett May as SVP/General Counsel & Secretary, effective 12/15/14. Click here for the BI press release.

Darling Ingredients(PBR942) announces that Chief Synergy Officer John Muse to reassume his CFO position, effective immediately, upon resignation of Colin Stevenson. Click here for the DI press release.

Friday, December 5:
DJIA closes week at 17,958.79, +0.73% from last Friday & MTD, +5.37% QTD, +8.34% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,780.76, -0.23% from last Friday & MTD, +6.40% QTD, +14.47% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,075.37, +0.38% from last Friday & MTD, +5.23% QTD, +12.28% YTD.

Lockheed Martin(PBR61) Orion spacecraft has successful 1st test in goal of manned journey to Mars. http://lmt.co/1tZlgm4.

Eastman Chemical(PBR280) completes acquisition of specialty chemical company Taminco(NYSE: TAM) for $2.8 billion. Click here for the Eastman Chemical press release.

Dollar Tree(PBR328) provides an update on FTC’s review of acquisition of Family Dollar(PBR254), issues involved with Dollar General(PBR154) bid. Click here for the Dollar Tree press release.

Dollar General(PBR154) responds to the Dollar Tree(PBR328) update regarding DT’s proposed acquisition of Family Dollar(PBR254). Click here for the Dollar General press release.

LabCorp(PBR418) completes the acquisition of DNA testing services Bode Technology Group from SolutionPoint International. Click here for the LabCorp press release.

Apollo Education Group(PBR595) enters Brazil with 75% acquisition for $28 million of education provider FAEL. Click here for the AEG press release.

Sigma-Aldrich(PBR715) stockholders approve acquisition by Germany based Merck KGaA for $140/share, $17 billion cash, expected to close mid 2015. Click here for the S-A press release.

Genesco(PBR736) announces that SVP/CFO James Gulmi is retiring at the end of the FY, will be succeeded by Mimi Vaughn, SVP/Strategy & Shared Services. Click here for the Genesco press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the internationall trade of goods & services deficit was $43.4 billion in October, -$0.2 billion from a revised September. Click here for the USDOC press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 321,000 in November, and the unemployment rate was unchanged at 5.8%. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Federal Reserve reports that the preliminary annual rate of Consumer Credit for October was at $882.6 billion revolving, $2,396.3 billion non-revolving. Click here for the FRB press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports new orders for manufactured goods in October decreased $3.3 billion, or 0.7%, to $496.6 billion. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Thursday, December 4:
Best Buy(PBR67) selling its China based Five Star business to Jiayuan Group, does not affect private label operations in China. Click here for the Best Buy press release.

The Hershey Co(PBR348) has acquired Ontario, Canada, based confectionary products manufacturer The Allan Candy Company, terms not disclosed. Click here for the Hershey press release.

Barnes & Noble(PBR386) to acquire Microsoft(PBR30) preferred investment in NOOK Media, agree to terminate commercial agreement. Click here for the BN press release.

Keurig Green Mountain(PBR532) to acquire remaining 85% of equity of hot/cold dispenser developer MDS Global(dba Bevyz) for $220 million. Click here for the KGM press release.

Church & Dwight(PBR646) completes acquisition of the assets of manufacturer & seller of livestock feeds company VI-COR. Click here for the C&D press release.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR648) acquires Brisbane, Australia, insurance broker Blue Holdings, no terms disclosed. Click here for the AJG press release.

Eastman Kodak(PBR798) reorganizing into 5 divisions, names division leaders & corporate functional leaders. Click here for the Kodak press release.

Walgreens(PBR38) names Linda Filler as president of retail products & chief merchandising officer, effective 01/01/15. Click here for the Walgreens press release.

Dupont(PBR82) names Matthias Heinzel as president of Nutrition & Health, effective 01/01/15, succeeds Craig Binetti, who is retiring. Click here for the Dupont press release.

Halliburton(PBR94) announces integration leadership team for the Baker Hughes(PBR124) acquisition. Click here for the Halliburton press release.

Bemis(PBR466) elects Mike Clauer as VP/CFO. Click here for the Bemis press release.

FreddieMac(PBR33) reports that the average 30 year fixed mortgage rate was 3.89% with 0.5 points on 12/04/14. Click here for the FreddieMac press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that Unemployment Insurance Claims for the week ending 11/29/14 was 297,000, 4 week moving average was 299,000. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Wednesday, December 3:
Wellpoint(PBR40) corporate name is now Anthem, Inc, now trading with symbol ANTM. Click here for the Anthem press release.

NextEra Energy(PBR178) to acquire Hawaiian Electric(HEI)(PBR639) as a 3rd unit for $4.3 billion. HEI to spinoff American Savings Bank as a separate public company. Click here for the NextEra press release.

Corning(PBR330) announces $1.5 billion shares buyback program by end of 2016, 4th buyback program since 2011, $7 billion total. Click here for the Corning press release.

Cliffs Natural Resources(PBR421) selling its W Virginia Logan County coal assets to Coronado Coal for $175 million cash. Click here for the CNR press release.

General Dynamics(PBR91) elects S Daniel Johnson as EVP IT & Technology, effective 01/01/15, upon retirement of David Heebner. Click here for the GD press release.

Devon Energy(PBR253) president/CEO John Richels to retire on 07/31/15, COO Dave Hager to become CEO on 08/01/15. Click here for the DE press release.

The US Federal Reserve Board releases the Beige Book, an informal economic summary of the 12 districts, sees positive signs overall across all business segments. Click here for the Beige Book content.

The US Dept of Labor revises 3rd quarter nonfarm labor productivity, +2.3% annual rate, output +4.9%, hours worked +2.5%. Click here for the USDOL press release.

ADP(PBR217) reports +208,000 net new jobs in November, 101,000 from small companies, 65,000 from medium sized companies, 42,000 from large companies. 185,000 jobs were from the services providing industries, 17,000 from goods producing industries. Click here for the ADP press release.

Tuesday, December 2:
Auto Industry:
 GM(PBR7) sells 225,818 vehicles in November, +6% from 2013, annual rate at 17.1M vehicles. Click here for the GM press release.
Ford(PBR8) sells 187,000 vehicles in Nov, -2% from 2013. Record sales for Escape, Explorer & Mustang. Click here for the Ford press release.
Chrysler(NR, foreign held) sells 170,839 vehicles in November, +20% over 2013, estimated 17.5 million annual rate. Click here for the Chrysler press release.

Home Depot(PBR35) to purchase assets of fasteners & builders hardware supplier to US retailers HD Supply Hardware Solutions(fka Crown Bolt), terms not disclosed. Click here for the HD press release.

Lockheed Martin(PBR61) statement on completion of acquisition of healthcare IT solutions for the government provider Systems Made Simple. Click here for the Lockheed press release.

MasterCard(PBR307) to start new $3.75 billion shares buyback program upon completion of $275 million remaining from the current $3.50 billion program. Click here for the MasterCard press release.

Corning(PBR330) to acquire Samsung fiber optics & cable business in S Korea, China, & SE Asia, terms not disclosed. Click here for the Corning press release.

Freescale Semiconductor(PBR545) acquires advanced HD content processing ICs developer Zenverge, terms not disclosed. Click here for the FS press release.

Brink’s(PBR575) reorganized from 4 geographic segments to 2 operating segments, makes leadership changes. Click here for the Brink’s press release.

RadioShack(PBR617) responds to lender covenant breaches claims, updates turnaround plan progress. Click here for the RadioShack press release.

Ferro Corp(PBR962) completes acquisition of Italian tile coatings manufacturing firm Vetriceramici for $108 million cash. Click here for the Ferro press release.

The Dept of Commerce reports that preliminary October Total Construction Activity at a $971 billion annual rate, +1.1% over revised September. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Monday, December 1:
Welcome to Cyber Monday!

The PBR1000 November 2014 Breaking News Recap has been released. Click here for the blog post.

Pfizer(PBR53) completes acquisition of vaccines unit of Baxter International(PBR177) for $635 million. Click here for the Pfizer press release.

Medtronic(PBR162) raising $17 billion in 7 private placements of senior notes to help finance Ireland based Covidien acquisition. Click here for the Medtronic press release.

C.H. Robinson(PBR210) to acquire private freight broker Freightquote.com for $365 million cash, to close in 1st quarter 2015. Click here for the CHR press release.

Huntsman Corp(PBR237) restructuring its pigments & additives business, reducing workforce by 900. Click here for the Huntsman press release.

Group 1 Automotive(PBR291) buying 3 UK based BMW/MINI dealerships, making a total of 17 UK dealerships, $1.3 billion in annual sales. Click here for the G1A press release.

Fidelity National Financial(PBR300) to acquire home warranty, home inspections, and commercial inspections provider BPG Holdings, terms not disclosed. Click here for the FNF press release.

Ashland(PBR331) completes the sale of its elastomers business to Lion Copolymer, terms not disclosed. Click here for the Ashland press release.

Mylan(PBR360) to manufacture & distribute Gilead Sciences(PBR236) HIV drug. Click here for the Mylan press release.

Blackstone Group(PBR372) selling its wholly-owned US industrial platform, IndCor Properties, to Singapore based sovereign wealth fund GIC for $8.1 billion. Click here for the Blackstone press release.

Apollo Global Management(PBR527) to acquire IT infrastructure provider Presidio Holdings, which has 6,000 clients, terms not disclosed. Click here for the ApolloGM press release.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR648) acquires Australian insurance broker/risk management services firm Instrat Insurance Brokers. Click here for the AJG press release.

ON Semiconductor(PBR706) authorizes $1 billion shares buyback program over 4 years. Click here for the ON Semiconductor press release.

AOL(PBR805) to acquire digital media cross-screen video management & exchange program provider Vidible. Click here for the AOL press release.

Aetna(PBR57) appoints Karen Rohan as president, reports to CEO, will oversee national, government, & specialty businesses. Click here for the Aetna press release.

HSN(PBR618) appoints Jeffrey Kuster as president of Cornerstone & executive director of HSNi, reports to CEO. Click here for the HSN press release.

Citrix Systems(PBR683) appoints Geir Ramleth as SVP & Chief Strategy Officer, reports to CEO. Click here for the Citrix press release.

(The PBR1000 is the premiere comparative data and reporting service covering over 1,000 of the largest publicly held companies with principle or administration headquarters in the US. These companies generate over $13 trillion in annual worldwide revenues, more than all other companies in the US combined. These are the key drivers in the US and world economies. On a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis several analytical reports in customizable Microsoft Excel format are provided to The PBR1000 subscribers. Users include C-level executives, entrepreneurs,  sales/marketing/advertising professionals, investors/investment advisers, business professors/students, career counselors/job seekers, to name just a few. To order your annual subscription, just go to the PBRMarketTools.com Order page.)

(Photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net, Stuart Miles.)

Filed Under: Recaps Tagged With: , , , , , ,

The PBR1000: The November 2014 Stocks/Commodities Snapshot

December 21, 2014 by

ID-100106700 Christmas Stock Market-imagerymajesticBy Larry C. Paxton

The PBR1000 November 2014 Snapshots include news and stock data through November 30th and annual 10-K reports filed with the SEC from 2013 through September 2014.  Also, the latest The PBR1000 includes a new ranking by revenues of the 1,093 companies tracked.

A sample of The PBR1000 May 2014 Snapshot is available for download at the top of the “Sample Snapshots” page.

The tables below are compiled from The PBR1000 November 2014 Snapshots, with 14 reports. Current The PBR1000 Subscribers should have already received the report.

November continued the end of October’s lead with the stock exchanges finishing at record levels. With all the negative campaign ads that went on and on for months, the historical drop in mid-term election years did not happen. Perhaps that is because with President Obama’s approval ratings at a low point, influenced by the continued steady but tepid and fragile recovery, the Republican victories in both congressional houses with a majority now in both, and winning a significant number of governorships, the result was not unexpected. A surprising development is the continued significant drop in oil prices.  What will be the effect on the US and world economies? Time will tell. Now the consumer interest will be on the holidays and finding those perfect gifts for loved ones. It will be an interesting season for retailers. What will be the growth of online shopping? How safe are stores and online purchases with debit and credit cards, who will make the headlines of The Big Hack Daily News?

The staff of PBRMarketTools.com wish you and yours a joyful and blessed Holiday Season, and a happy and prosperous New Year!

In the following tables the stock price is for the close of trading on November 30th, Month % Chg is compared to October 31st, YTD % Chg is compared to December 31, 2013, and the 23 Mos % Chg is compared to December 31, 2012.

Table 1: The PBR1000 Stock Price Composite

Table 1 Summary: Made up of the sum of the stock prices of the 1,093 companies currently tracked by The PBR1000.

Company Price
11/30/14		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 23 Mos
% Chg
The PBR1000 298,106.83 +5.26 +20.97 +61.37

 

Table 2: The PBR1000 Top 5 Month Stock Price % Gainers

Table 2 Summary: The range was +39.13% to -52.61%. 747 out of 1,093 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 68.34% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of +2.38%

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
11/30/14		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 23 Mos
% Chg
Caesars Entertainment
 301 CZR 16.96 +39.13 -21.26 +145.09
Walter Energy
 920 WLI 3.18 +31.95 -80.88 -91.14
Michael’s Stores
 513 MIK 24.06 +31.62 n/a n/a
Scientific Games
 1075 SGMS 15.14 +28.63 -10.57 +74.63
Covance
 747 CVD 102.62 +28.44 +16.53 +77.64

 

Table 3: The PBR1000 Top 5 Year-To-Date Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: Range was +183.14% to -97.67%. 697 out of 1,088 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 64.06% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of 7.62%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
11/30/14		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 23 Mos
% Chg
RF Micro Devices
 1062 RFMD 14.61 +12.30 +183.14 +226.12
Southwest Airlines
 150 LUV 41.82 +21.29 +121.97 +308.40
Hawaiian Holdings
 849 HA 20.29 +17.01 +110.70 +208.83
Pilgrim’s Pride
 307 PPC 32.30 +13.69 +98.77 +346.13
Edwards Lifesciences
 879 EW 129.68 +7.24 +97.20 +43.82

 

Table 4: The PBR1000 Top 5 22 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 4 Summary: Range was +842.31% to -99.10%. 941 out of 1,072 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 87.78% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of 41.20%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
11/30/14		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 23 Mos
% Chg
Fannie Mae 17 FNMA 2.45 +12.90 -18.60 +842.31
Freddie Mac 33 FMCC 2.39 +16.02 -17.59 +819.23
Tesla Motors
 887 TSLA 244.52 +1.17 +62.55 +621.94
SunEdison
 888 SUNE 21.65 +10.97 +65.90 +574.45
Micron Technology
 166 MU 35.95 +8.64 +65.29 +467.03

 

Table 5: The PBR1000 Selected Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company Price
11/30/14		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 23 Mos
% Chg
DJIA 17,828.24 +2.52 +7.55 +36.05
NASDAQ 4,791.63 +3.47 +14.73 +58.69
S&P500 2,067.56 +2.45 +11.86 +44.97
Gold 1,175.50 +0.17 -2.23 -30.11
Silver 15.56 -3.77 -19.67 -48.75
Oil 66.15 -18.03 -32.79 -29.40

 

Have questions on The PBR1000 or The PBR US Indices Monthly Snapshot? Please contact us at Sales@PBRMarketTools.com or call us at 520-282-4100.

(The PBR1000 is the premiere comparative data and reporting service covering over 1,000 of the largest publicly held companies with principle or administration headquarters in the US. These companies generate over $13 trillion in annual worldwide revenues, more than all other companies in the US combined. These are the key drivers in the US and world economies. On a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis several analytical reports in customizable Microsoft Excel format are provided to The PBR1000 subscribers. Users include C-level executives, entrepreneurs,  sales/marketing/advertising professionals, investors/investment advisers, business professors/students, career counselors/job seekers, to name just a few. To order your annual subscription, just go to the PBRMarketTools.com Order page.)

(Photo Courtesy of imagerymajestic/FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

Filed Under: Snapshots Tagged With: , , , , ,
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