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The PBR1000 Summary: L3Harris Technologies(NYSE: LHX)

August 24, 2020 by admin

The PBR1000 Summary: L3Harris Technologies(NYSE: LHX)

Empowering Astute Business Leaders and Shrewd Investors Through The PBR1000 Analytics!

Business Description: “L3Harris Technologies (NYSE:LHX) is an agile global aerospace and defense technology innovator, delivering end-to-end solutions that meet customers’ mission-critical needs.”

Business Name: L3Harris Technologies, Inc.
Ticker: NYSE: LHX
Fiscal Year Ending Month: June
Stock Price(08/21/20): $178.59
Analyst Estimates(08/21/20): $235.74 12 Month Target Average, +32.00% Estimated 12 Month Change, Buy Recommendation, 4.71/5.00, based on 21 Estimates.

Some of the 28 Current The PBR1000 Rankings for LHX:

#428 By Revenues: $6.801 billion(06/30/19)
#163 By Market Capitalization: $37.40 billion(07/31/20)
#463 By Assets: $10.177 billion(06/30/19)
#404 By Employees: 18,200(06/30/19)

To get the complete profile for LHX and for all 1,000 of The PBR1000 click here!

PBRMarketTools.com provides The PBR1000, a compilation of 1,000 of the largest publicly held companies with primary operations in the US. These companies generate $15 trillion in annual revenues, more than all other US companies combined. The PBR1000 Monthly Snapshots provides these 1,000 companies in Excel format, includes 15 worksheets with 28 rankings, over 200 data/information points, hotlinks to key data, and important news items per company.

Empowering Astute Business Leaders and Shrewd Investors Through The PBR1000 Analytics!

Disclaimers: The PBR1000 is compiled from a variety of publicly available resources. As such, PBRMarketTools.com is not responsible for the data itself. Any liability for the representations or decisions based on the data is solely the responsibility of the authorized user, not PBRMarketTools.com, its employees or affiliates. PBRMarketTools.com is an independent business intelligence service providing news, data, and analysis. It is not a financial advisory or stock brokerage firm and has no affiliation with such organizations.

This The PBR1000 Spotlight is provided by:

LHXspot2 TH21

Filed Under: Summary Tagged With: Analytics, Business, Business Intelligence, Investing, Investments, Investors, L3Harris, Leadership, LHX, PBRMarketTools, Rankings, Recap, Research, Spotlight, The PBR1000, Trading, WallStreet, Wealth Management

The PBR1000 September 2019 Breaking News Recap

October 1, 2019 by admin

The PBR1000 for September 2019: American Football Starts, It’s A Lot Like International Trade Negotiations.

International Big Business is a lot like American football. You need to have excellent and powerful offenses and defenses.

By Larry C. Paxton

The September 2019 breaking news items of interest for The PBR1000 follow with the most current date first.

***Monday, September 30

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for September ending 09/30/19:

DJIA ends September 2019 at 26,916.83, +0.36% from last Friday, +1.95% MTD, +1.19% QTD, +15.39% YTD, -1.62% from record 27,359.16 set 07/15/19.

NASDAQ ends September at 7,999.34, +0.75% from last Friday, +0.46% MTD, -0.09% QTD, +20.56% YTD, -3.97% from record 8,330.21 set 07/26/19.

SPX ends September at 2,976.74, +0.50% from last Friday, +1.72% MTD, +1.19% QTD, +18.74% YTD, -1.62% from record 3,025.86 set 07/26/19.

The September 2019 News Summary: The month ended with US/China trade negotiations scheduled to continue in October. The US Beige Book indicated modest expansion of the US economy. A week later the Federal Reserve Open Market Committee lowered the federal funds rate by 0.25% to 1.75-2.00%. Other US economic data indicates a contraction in manufacturing, but continued modest to moderate growth. In other international news Saudi Arabia oilfields were hit, evidence points to Iran, but repairs are expected to bring production up to previous levels soon. The UK Brexit is still a mess as new Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s efforts have not amounted to much and he is under heavy criticism. The Eurozone is implementing some quantitative easing. Back in the US some severe weather storms affected some coastal areas. But at the end of the month the biggest storm was the US House approving and then aggressively pursuing an impeachment inquiry against President Trump based on his conversations with Ukraine leadership. Overall, it was a good month for the US stock markets with The Stock Market Bull winning 3-0 over The Stock Market Bear who not able to take advantage of the political and international turmoil.

The Month 9 of 2019 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 7 months
The Stock Market Bear: 2 months
Mixed Results: 0 months

Walmart(PBR1 $WMT) takes on Amazon(PBR5 $AMZN) in India with enhancements to Flipkart’s ‘Big Billion Days’ MarketWatch PR link.

Fannie Mae(PBR22 $FNMA) and FreddieMac(PBR39 $FMCC) get approval by FHFA and US Treasury to retain capital up to $45 billion combined to minimize impact of an economic downturn. FHFA PR link.

Boeing(PBR28) forms new Product and Services Safety organization in addition to previously announced Aerospace Safety Committee to unify its approach to safety. $BA PR link.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR35)’s Janssen unit gets US FDA approval for a new indication for INVOKANA® (canagliflozin) to reduce the risk of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), worsening of kidney function, cardiovascular (CV) death, and hospitalization for heart failure in adults with type 2 diabetes and diabetic kidney disease (nephropathy) with a certain amount of protein in the urine. $JNJ PR link.

HP Inc(PBR54) announces the HP Spectre x360 13, 13% smaller, 22 hour battery life, 2.8 lbs, available in 10/19 on HP.com, starts at $1,099. $HPQ PR link.

Dollar General(PBR111) opens its 16,000th store, located in Panama City, FL. $DG PR link.

Sempra Energy(PBR259) to sell its equity interests in its Peruvian businesses, including its 83.6% stake in Luz del Sur, to China Yangtze Power International (Hong Kong) for $3.59 billion in cash. $SRE PR link.

Blackstone(PBR424) to acquire Colony Industrial, the industrial real estate assets and affiliated industrial operating platform of Colony Capital(PBR790), for $5.9 billion, to close in 4Q19. $BX PR link.

Blackstone(PBR424) completes acquisition of San Francisco, CA based performance marketing platform for in-app video advertisements on mobile devices provider Vungle, used by publishers of more than 60,000 mobile apps worldwide, terms not disclosed. $BX PR link.

Colfax(PBR649) completes $1.80 billion sales of its Air and Gas Handling business to KPS Capital Partners. $CFX PR link.

Gannett(PBR745) special stockholders meeting set for 11/14/19 to vote on $12.06/share $1.35 billion cash and stock acquisition by New Media Investment Group(NYSE: NEWM), to close by 12/31/19. $GCI PR link.

Genesco(PBR865) authorizes new up to $100 million share repurchase program. $GCO PR link.

Cabot Oil & Gas(PBR867) to sell its 20% interest in Meade Pipeline to a NextEra Energy Partners(NYSE: NEP) subsidiary for $256 million, to close in 4Q19. $COG PR link.

The US Dept of the Treasury says the US National Debt-Public on 09/27/19 is at $22.622 trillion, Intragovernmental Holdings $5.848 trillion, Total US Debt $22.622 trillion, +0.7% from 08/30/19, +3.0% from 12/31/18, +5.1% from 07/31/18. USTreasury PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says the US 09/30/19 10 Year Treasury Note Yield is at 1.68%, 08/30/19 was at 1.50%, 07/31/19 2.53%, 09/30/18 3.05%. USTreasury PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/BEA says the US Preliminary 2Q19 Net International Investment Position-Assets is at $28.009 trillion, Liabilities $38.565 trillion, for a Deficit $10.555 trillion, +3.9% from 1Q19, +18.5% from 2Q18. USDOC PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says the US 7th District Preliminary August 2019 Midwest Economy Index is at -0.26, July 2019 was at -0.37, June 2019 -0.29, August 2018 +0.29. “Index points to a pickup in Midwest economic growth in August.” ChiFed PR link.

MNI says the Chicago September 2019 Business Barometer(<50=Declining) is at 47.1, August 2019 was at 50.4, July 2019 44.4, September 2018 60.4. MNI PR link.

The American Automobile Assn says the US 09/30/19 Average Price Per Gallon of Regular Gas is at $2.654, 08/30/19 was at $2.580, 07/31/19 $2.721, 09/28/18 $2.875. AAA PR link.

***Friday, September 27

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 39 ending 09/27/19:

DJIA ends Week 39 at 26,820.25, -0.43% from last Friday, +1.58% MTD, +0.83% QTD, +14.97% YTD, -1.97% from record 27,359.16 set 07/15/19.

NASDAQ ends Week 39 at 7,939.63, -2.19% from last Friday, -0.29% MTD, -0.83% QTD, +19.66% YTD, -4.69% from record 8,330.21 set 07/26/19.

SPX ends Week 39 at 2,961.79, -1.01% from last Friday, +1.21% MTD, +0.68% QTD, +18.15% YTD, -2.12% from record 3,025.86 set 07/26/19.

The Week 39 News Summary: There was a new hot topic this week, the Impeachment Inquiry by the US House as they questioned President Trump’s conversation with Ukraine’s leader where he suggested an investigation into Joe Biden and his son Hunter, with both sides taking an aggressive posture. President Trump also gave a somewhat controversial speech at the UN regarding the purpose of a nation. There continue to be growing concerns about the slowing global economy, with the Eurozone prepared to take some actions. US economic news is also mixed, but still growing at a moderate and steady rate. The US Senate passed a spending bill that will take the government through 11/21/19. While The Stock Market Bull tried to turn Week 39 around on Wednesday, he was unsuccessful, and The Stock Market Bear prevailed for a second week in a row, winning 3-0.

The Week 39 of 2019 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 19 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 14 weeks
Mixed Results: 6 weeks

Tesla(PBR140 $TSLA) unfairly fought union organizing and must reimburse employees, judge finds. MarketWatch PR link.

Mylan(PBR272) to pay $30 million fine to the US Securities and Exchange Commission over EpiPen® and EpiPen Jr® Auto-Injectors for purposes of the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program, Mylan neither admits nor denies the SEC’s allegations. $MYL PR link.

Herbalife(PBR535 $HLF) agrees to pay $20 million to settle charges with the US Securities and Exchange Commission that it made false and misleading statements about its China business model in numerous US regulatory filings over a six-year period. SEC PR link.

Ametek(PBR537) to acquire Pleasanton, CA based $180 million in annual sales instrumentation and software used to enhance and extend the operation and performance of electron microscopes manufacturer Gatan from Roper Technologies(PBR517) for $925 million cash, to close in 4Q19. $AME PR link.

Wells Fargo(PBR29) hires Charles W. Scharf as President/CEO and member of the Board, to be effective 10/21/19. $WFC PR link.

Pfizer(PBR59) Executive Chairman Ian Read to retire on 12/31/19, CEO Albert Boura to also become Chairman on 01/01/20. $PFE PR link.

BNY Mellon(PBR185) Chairman/CEO Charles W. Scharf to become President/CEO of Wells Fargo(PBR28), Todd Gibbons appointed Interim CEO and member of the Board. $BK PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/BEA says the US Preliminary August 2019 Personal Income Annual Rate is at $18.773 trillion, +0.4% from July 2019, +6.2% from August 2018, Personal Savings Rate is at +8.1%, Effective Tax Rate +11.7%. USDOC PR link.

The Conference Board says the US Final September 2019 Consumer Sentiment Index is at 93.5, August 2019 was at 89.8, July 2019 98.4, September 2018 100.1. TCB PR link.

***Thursday, September 26

ExxonMobil(PBR2) to sell its non-operated upstream assets in Norway for $4.5 billion as part of its previously announced plans to divest approximately $15 billion in non-strategic assets by 2021, to Vår Energi AS, to close in 4Q19. $XOM PR link.

Lockheed(PBR59) authorizes up to an additional $1.0 billion share repurchase program, balance available now is around $3.3 billion. $LMT PR link.

Abbott(PBR99) gets US FDA approval for its Proclaim XR™ recharge-free neurostimulation system for people living with chronic pain. $ABT PR link.

NGL Energy(PBR120) to acquire all of the equity interests of producer of water pipeline and disposal infrastructure solutions to some in the New Mexico and Texas producers Hillstone Environmental Partners from Golden Gate Capital for approximately $600 million, to close by 12/31/19. $NGL PR link.

WellCare Health Plans(PBR151) to sell its Missouri and Nebraska Medicaid plans to Anthem(PBR33) to meet US regulatory requirements for its $305.39/share cash & stock, $17.3 billion acquisition by Centene(PBR50), to close in 1H20. $WCG PR link.

Blackstone(PBR424) completes $18.7 billion acquisition of assets from three of GLP’s US funds, totals 179 million square feet of urban, infill logistics assets, nearly doubling the size of Blackstone’s existing US industrial footprint. $BX PR link.

Skechers(PBR549) says that since 2016 it has reduced its use of plastic in its footwear packaging by 85 percent to 10 percent of its foot forms, all of which is recyclable. $SKX PR link.

Superior Energy(PBR873) gets delisting notice from NYSE for low stock prices, common stock to start trading on 09/27/19 on the OTC exchange with ticker SPNV, plans to appeal decision. $SPN PR link.

Becton Dickenson(PBR192) Chairman/CEO Vincent Forlenza to step down as CEO, become Executive Chairman, President/COO Thomas E. Polen to become CEO, to be effective 01/28/20. $BDX PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/BEA says the US 2Q19 3rd Estimate Gross Domestic Product Annual Growth Rate remains at +2.0%, $21.340 trillion, +1.1% from 1Q19, +4.1% from 2Q18. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US 4 Week Moving Average Initial Unemployment Insurance Claims for the Week Ending 09/20/19 was at 212,000, -1.2% from 08/24/19, +2.8% from 09/22/18. USDOL PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR39) says the US Average 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rate on 09/26/19 is at 3.64% with 0.6 points/fees, 08/29/19 was at 3.58%, 07/25/19 3.75%, 09/27/18 4.72%. $FMCC PR link.

The Kaiser Family Foundation says the annual family premiums for employer-sponsored health insurance rose 5% to average $20,576 this year, with employers covering 71% of the cost, workers wages rose 3.4% and inflation 2% over the same time. KFF PR link.

***Wednesday, September 25

Amazon(PBR5) announces Certified for Humans, a new program to help find products that are tested to be simple to setup and work dependably with Alexa, and new devices like the 4-in-1 Amazon Smart Oven. $AMZN PR link.

Amazon(PBR5 $AMZN) launches Amazon Care pilot health care program for Seattle area employees with virtual, in-home options. MarketWatch PR link.

Marathon Petroleum(PBR31 $MPC) is sent letter by activist investor Elliott Management recommending MPC split into 3 companies to increase shareholder value. Elliott Management PR link.

Marathon Petroleum(PBR31) responds to letter from activist investor Elliott Management, says how it has done a good job for shareholders, will thoroughly evaluate Elliott’s proposal. $MPC PR link.

Philip Morris(PBR36) and Altria(PBR112) end merger discussions, each will focus on IQOS heated tobacco product. $PM PR link.

Facebook(PBR56) introduces hand tracking on Oculus Quest, announces Facebook Horizon for creating VR worlds. $FB PR link.

Best Buy(PBR70) sets financial targets for 2025, includes $50 billion in enterprise revenue, $1 billion of additional cost reductions and efficiencies. $BBY PR link.

Abbott(PBR99) gets US FDA clearance for ARCHITECT STAT High Sensitivity Troponin-I blood test, could help identify heart attacks several hours sooner than standard troponin tests and help improve diagnosis in women. $ABT PR link.

VF Corp(PBR229) expects to generate approximately $8 billion of free cash flow on a cumulative basis between fiscal 2020 and fiscal 2024 and intends to return $10 billion to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases. $VFC PR link.

Mattel(PBR562) announces the global unveil of Creatable World™, a customizable doll line offering endless combinations all in one box, consists of six different doll kits that are available in a variety of skin tones, retail price $30. $MAT PR link.

Tailored Brands(PBR694) gets multiyear partnership with the National Hockey League (NHL®),first partnership with the NHL, hockey fans will be able to customize their suits, sport coats, formal jackets and vests with linings from their favorite NHL teams by visiting any Men’s Wearhouse and Jos. A. Bank stores throughout the U.S. and Moores stores across Canada. $TLRD PR link.

eBay(PBR285)‘s Devin Wenig steps down as President/CEO and Board member, SVP/CFO Scott Schenkel appointed Interim CEO, internal/external new CEO search starts. $EBAY PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says the US Preliminary August 2019 New Family Homes for Sale Annual Rate is at 713,000 units, +7.1% from July 2019, +18.0% from August 2018; Median Price is at $328,400, +7.5% from July 2019, +2.2% from August 2018; Months Supply at 5.5. USDOC PR link.

The US Energy Information Administration says the US Crude Oil Stocks on 09/20/19 were at 419.5 million barrels of oil, -1.9% from 08/23/19, +5.9% from 09/21/18. USEIA PR link.

***Tuesday, September 24

Alphabet(PBR16 $GOOG)’s Google unit apologizes, promises to give users more control over how and when it stores voice recordings. MarketWatch PR link.

Sprint(PBR89) being investigated by the US Federal Communications Commission for violations of the Lifeline program for low income people, claims Sprint received public payments for 850,000 inactive users, FCC says it jeopardizes merger with T-Mobile US(PBR68). $S PR link.

Fluor(PBR158) announces strategic plan to sell its construction equipment rental company (AMECO) and its government business, and to monetize surplus real estate and non-core investments, anticpates $1+ billion in aggregate proceeds. $FLR PR link.

HD Supply(PBR470) intends to separate its Facilities Maintenance and Construction & Industrial businesses into two independent publicly traded companies, to be completed by mid 2020. $HDS PR link.

Bloomin’ Brands(PBR602) kicks off exclusive partnership with DoorDash with a free 6 oz. Outback Center-cut Sirloin and a side give-away, with a minimum $20 purchase, 10,000 per day for 5 days, 09/25-29/19. $BLMN PR link.

Vail Resorts(PBR886) completes $11.00/share, around $264 million all stock acquisition of $60 million revenues in 12 months ending 07/31/19 Peak Resorts(NASDAQ: SKIS), adds 17 US ski areas to its network. $MTN PR link.

Fortune Brands(PBR497) CEO Christopher Klein to become Executive Chairman, President/COO Nick Fink to become CEO, current Chairman David Thomas to become Lead Independent Director, all on 01/06/20. $FBHS PR link.

The Conference Board says the US Preliminary September 2019 Consumer Confidence Index(1985=100) is at 125.1, August 2019 was at 134.2. “The escalation in trade and tariff tensions in late August appears to have rattled consumers. However, this pattern of uncertainty and volatility has persisted for much of the year and it appears confidence is plateauing. While confidence could continue hovering around current levels for months to come, at some point this continued uncertainty will begin to diminish consumers’ confidence in the expansion.” TCB PR link.

The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller US July 2019 National Home Price Index(Jan2000=100) is at 211.72, June 2019 was at 210.90, May 2019 209.69, Dec 2018 204.95, Dec 2017 196.02. Case-Shiller PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond says the US 5th District September 2019 Manufacturing Index(Annualized) is at -9%, August 2019 was at +1%, July 2019 -12%, September 2018 +26%. “Firms … reported a drop in backlog of orders and weakening local business conditions but were optimistic that conditions would improve in the coming months.” RichmondFed PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond says the US 5th District September 2019 Service Sector Revenue Index(Annualized) is at +6%, August 2019 was at +6%, July 2019 +11%, September 2018 +18%. “… growth of prices paid continued to outpace that of prices received. However, firms expected the gap to narrow in the coming months.” RichmondFed PR link.

***Monday, September 23

Apple(PBR3)‘s new Mac Pro to be made in Austin, TX, will include components designed, developed and manufactured by more than a dozen American companies for distribution to US customers. $AAPL PR link.

Amazon(PBR5) announces plans for a new 1-million sf fulfillment centre in Scarborough, Toronto, Canada, will create 600+ full-time jobs with comprehensive benefits. $AMZN PR link.

Alphabet(PBR16)’s Google unit announces new subscription service, Google Play Pass, $1.99/mo for 12 months introductory price, $4.99/mo thereafter, includes 350 mobile apps and games without ads. $GOOG PR link.

Dow(PBR50) to receive around $1.08 billion from Canadian court decision against Nova Chemicals for damages Dow incurred through 2012 related to the companies’ jointly-owned ethylene asset in Joffre, Alberta, Canada. $DOW PR link.

Facebook(PBR56 $FB) to buy startup CTRL-Labs that lets humans control computers with their brains. MarketWatch PR link.

American Express(PBR74) authorizes up to 120 million share repurchase program, replaces the 41 million shares of common stock remaining from the previous board authorization in 2016. $AXP PR link.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR132) extends expiration date of the offers to exchange the Celgene(PBR204) notes for up to $19,850,000,000 from 09/30/19 to 10/15/19, 5:00PM NYC time. $BMY PR link.

PG&E(PBR177) signs agreement to resolve all insurance subrogation claims arising from the 2017 Northern California wildfires and 2018 Camp Fire, reached with entities representing approximately 85% of insurance subrogation claims, formalizes the $11 billion agreement in principle announced last week. $PCG PR link.

Viacom(PBR241) acquires Seinfeld comedy series from Sony Pictures Television, includes exclusive cable rights for all 180 episodes beginning in 10/21. $VIA PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR358) to sell the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino to Imperial Companies for $516.3 million, Caesars will continue to operate the property under a $45 million lease/year for at least 2 years, to close in 4Q19. $CZR PR link.

Hershey(PBR381) completes $397 million acquisition of maker of a line of low-sugar, high-protein nutrition bars ONE Brands. $HSY PR link.

Wyndham Destinations(PBR616) and Caesars Entertainment(PBR358) extend their marketing partnership to 2030. $WYND PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says the US Preliminary August 2019 National Activity Index is at +0.10, July 2019 was at -0.41, June 2019 +0.13, August 2018 +0.46. ChiFed PR link.

***Friday, September 20

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 38 ending 09/20/19:

DJIA ends Week 38 at 26,935.07, -1.05% from last Friday, +2.01% MTD, +1.26% QTD, +15.47% YTD, -1.55% from record 27,359.16 set 07/15/19.

NASDAQ ends Week 38 at 8,117.67, -0.72% from last Friday, +1.94% MTD, +1.39% QTD, +22.34% YTD, -2.55% from record 8,330.21 set 07/26/19.

SPX ends Week 38 at 2,992.07, -0.51% from last Friday, +2.24% MTD, +1.71% QTD, +19.36% YTD, -1.12% from record 3,025.86 set 07/26/19.

The Week 38 News Summary: The saga continues over the US/China trade negotiations as mixed signals ended the week with talks scheduled, but a trip to Montana cancelled by some Chinese officials. Early in the week Saudi Arabia oil fields are hit by drone strikes with initial analysis indicating Iran was involved, more sanctions were placed on the Iran central banks, there might be a military response, Saudi Arabia says the hit oilfields should be back at full production by the end of the month. Economic news continued to show moderate but slowing growth for the US, and more so globally. The Federal Reserve Open Market Committee lowered the federal funds rate by 0.25% to 1.75%-2.00%. Many General Motors plants were idled as a strike by 50,000 GM workers continued throughout the week. There was not much volatility in the US stock exchanges and the week could have gone either way going into Friday. But the China delegation trip cancellation tipped the scales and The Stock Market Bull lost his 3 week win momentum to The Stock Market Bear who growled tauntingly when the US stock exchanges closed and he had secured the 3-0 victory.

The Week 38 of 2019 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 19 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 13 weeks
Mixed Results: 6 weeks

Walmart(PBR1 $WMT) stop selling all e-cigarettes in its US stores after it winds down its current inventory of e-cigarettes, citing regulatory uncertainty around the vaping devices. MarketWatch PR link.

Merck(PBR71) gets US FDA approval for PIFELTRO™ (in combination with other antiretroviral agents) and DELSTRIGO™ (as a complete regimen) that expand their indications to include adult patients with HIV-1 infection who are virologically suppressed. $MRK PR link.

Starbucks(PBR115 $SBUX) launches a new store format, Starbucks Pickup, that will be exclusively for Rewards members who use the mobile-order-and-pay option. MarketWatch PR link.

Alcoa(PBR234) announces that the United Steelworkers have ratified a new 4 year labor agreement, covering approximately 1,700 active employees at five U.S. locations. $AA PR link.

NVR(PBR405) to move from the S&P MidCap 400 to the S&P 500, to replace Jefferies Financial(PBR635) who will be moved to the S&P MidCap 400, effective 09/26/19. -S&P $NVR PR link.

McDermott Intl(PBR433) to explore strategic alternatives for its licensor of proprietary petrochemicals, refining, gasification and gas processing technologies, and a supplier of proprietary catalysts and related engineering Lummus Technology unit, recently received unsolicited approach for all or part of the unit with valuation exceeding $2.5 billion. $MDR PR link.

Post Holdings(PBR460) to spin off its Active Nutrition business, which markets and distributes ready-to-drink protein and other beverages, protein powders, nutrition bars and other nutritional supplements under the Premier Protein, Dymatize, PowerBar, Supreme Protein and Joint Juice brands, to be called BellRing Brands, IPO expected to be completed in Fall 2019. $POST PR link.

TransDigm(PBR630) completes divestiture of its Esterline Interface Technologies group of businesses to an affiliate of KPS Capital Partners for approximately $190 million, expects to complete divestiture of the Souriau-Subank Connection Technologies business to Eaton Corp(PBR139) during 4Q19. $TDG PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says that the US Preliminary 2Q19 Total Net Worth of Households and Non-Profits is at $113.463 trillion, +1.7% from 1Q19, +4.9% from 2Q18. USFed PR link.

***Thursday, September 19

Amazon(PBR5) co-founds The Climate Pledge, commits to net zero carbon by 2040 and 100% renewable energy by 2030, orders 100,000 fully-electric delivery vehicles. $AMZN PR link.

Walgreens Boots Alliance(PBR17 $WBA) and FedEx(PBR43 $FDX) to use Alphabet(PBR15 $GOOG)’s Wing company to test drone delivery services for residents of Christiansburg in Virginia’s New River Valley. Wing PR link.

Target(PBR38) authorizes a new $5 billion share repurchase program, will begin repurchasing shares under this new authorization upon completion of the current $5 billion program, which is expected to occur in the 2020 fiscal year. $TGT PR link.

Tesla(PBR140) gets Insurance Institute for Highway Safety 2019 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ vehicle, the highest achievement awarded by the Institute, for the Tesla Model 3. $TSLA PR link.

Western Digital(PBR149) to sell its IntelliFlash™ business to DDN, DDN to increase its purchase of Western Digital’s HDD and SSD storage devices, part of Western Digital’s strategic intention to exit Storage Systems, terms not disclosed. $WDC PR link.

Dominion Energy(PBR235) proposes 2,600 megawatts of wind energy by 2026 off Virginia coast, 220+ wind turbines would power 650,000 homes. $D PR link.

Navistar(PBR297) making a capital investment of more than $250 million to build a new manufacturing facility in San Antonio, TX, will create around 600 jobs. $NAV PR link.

Darden Restaurants(PBR349) authorizes new up to $500 million share repurchase program, no expiration date, replaces current authorization. $DRI PR link.

Marvell Technology(PBR751) completes $13.25/share, $452 million acquisition of high speed networking in a broad range of applications from enterprise campuses to autonomous cars multi-gig technology pioneer Aquantia(NYSE: AQ). $MRVL PR link.

TEGNA(PBR864) completes $740 million in cash acquisition of 11 local television stations, including eight Big Four affiliates, from Nexstar Media(PBR768). $TGNA PR link.

KeyCorp(PBR397) Chairman/CEO Beth Mooney to retire on 05/01/20, Chris Gorman appointed President/COO, to be Chairman/CEO upon Mooney’s retirement. $KEY PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/BEA says that the US Preliminary 2Q19 Exports were at $943.0 billion, Imports $1,071.1 billion, for a Deficit of $128.2 billion, -5.9% from 1Q19, +19.5% from 2Q18. USDOC PR link.

The Natl Assn of Realtors says the US Preliminary August 2019 Existing Home Sales Annual Rate is at 5,490,000, +1.3% from July 2019, +2.6% from August 2018; Median Home Price was at $278,200, -0.2% from July 2019, +4.7% from August 2018; Median Time On Market is at 31 days. NAR PR link.

The Conference Board says the US Preliminary August 2019 Leading Economic Index(2016=100) is at 112.1, July 2019 was also at 112.1, June 2019 111.7, August 2018 111.3. “The recent trends in the LEI are consistent with a slow but still expanding economy, which has been primarily driven by strong consumer spending and robust job growth.” TCB PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia says the US 3rd District September 2019 Manufacturing General Activity Indicator is at +12.0, August 2019 was at +16.8, July 2019 +21.8, September 2018 +21.4. “Although most future indexes moderated this month, the firms continue to expect increases in activity and employment over the next six months.” PhillyFed PR link.

***Wednesday, September 18

Amazon(PBR5) says it has received over 208,000 online applications for roles in the US since announcing Career Day. $AMZN PR link.

Amazon(PBR5) announces PayCode service in the US, allows customers to choose Amazon PayCode at checkout and then pay for their purchase in cash at one of 15,000 Western Union(PBR488) locations, items ship once customers pay for their purchase in person at a participating Western Union location. $AMZN PR link.

Microsoft(PBR25) authorizes new up to $40 billion share repurchase program, has no expiration date. $MSFT PR link.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR35)’s Janssen unit gets US FDA approval for ERLEADA® (apalutamide) for the treatment of patients with metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC). $JNJ PR link.

Facebook(PBR56) is expanding its Portal family of home video-calling devices with three new models: Portal for $179, Portal Mini for $129 and Portal TV for $149 with bundle for any two for $50 off. $FB PR link.

Tyson(PBR75) launches a new line of functional refrigerated protein snacks under its new brand, Pact®. $TSN PR link.

Sprint(PBR89) announces a 12-year virtual power purchase agreement for 173.3 megawatts from the 182-MW Maryneal Windpower project located in Nolan County, TX, which will be built, owned and operated by Duke Energy(PBR117) Renewables unit, to be online in 2020. $S PR link.

Capital One(PBR93) and Walmart(PBR1 $WMT) introduce the Capital One co-branded card, the Capital One Walmart Rewards Mastercard, and the private-label card exclusively for Walmart purchases, features include 5% back for purchases made on Walmart.com. $COF PR link.

Northrop Grumman(PBR103) reorganizing into 4 operating sectors, Aeronautics Systems, Defense Systems, Mission Systems and Space Systems, effective 01/01/20. $NOC PR link.

CenturyLink(PBR156) gets new agreement with the Communications Workers of America (CWA) District 7 members through 04/23, covers 8,000 employees in 13 states. $CTL PR link.

Realogy(PBR468) launches RealVitalize in partnership with HomeAdvisor, allows home sellers to utilize HomeAdvisor for non-structural home improvements which are paid upon sale of the house. $RLGY PR link.

Herbalife(PBR534) announces 3 year partnership with Tencent, China’s leading internet and technology company, to help independent distributors more effectively sell products online. $HLF PR link.

Global Payments(PBR678) completes $21.5 billion all-stock merger of equals with TSYS(PBR607), name remains Global Payments. $GPN PR link.

Park Hotels(PBR736) completes $31.00/share, $2.7 billion cash and stock acquisition of upper-upscale 20 hotels with an aggregate of 6,288 rooms in eight states and the District of Columbia Chesapeake Lodging Trust(NYSE:CHSP). $PK PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Open Market Committee lowers the federal funds rate by 0.25% to 1.75%-2.00%, says that since the previous meeting in July 2019 “the labor market remains strong and that economic activity has been rising at a moderate rate.” FOMC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says the US Preliminary August 2019 Housing Permits Issued Annual Rate was at 1,419,000 units, +7.7% from July 2019, +12.0% from August 2018. USDOC PR link.

***Tuesday, September 17

Apple(PBR3) awards an additional $250 million from Advanced Manufacturing Fund to Corning(PBR269), the supplier of precision glass for iPhone, Apple Watch and iPad. $AAPL PR link.

Amazon(PBR5) launches Amazon Music HD, a new tier of premium quality music with more than 50 million songs in High Definition, and millions of songs in Ultra High Definition, the highest quality streaming audio available, for $12.99/month for Prime members and $14.99/month for Amazon customers, or an additional $5/month for current subscribers. $AMZN PR link.

Comcast(PBR32)’s NBCUniversal unit announces Peacock TV streaming service, to be available in 04/20, will have over 15,000 of content, be used during the 2020 Summer Olympics, pricing to be announced later. $CMCSA PR link.

CDW(PBR188 $CDW) to become member of S&P 500 on 09/23/19, will replace soon to be acquired TSYS(PBR608). S&P500 PR link.

Masco(PBR360) authorizes new up to $2 billion share repurchase program, cancels previous program. $MAS PR link.

Raymond James(PBR401 $RJF) per settlement with the US Securities and Exchange Commission to pay $15 million in fines for improperly charging retail investors. SEC PR link.

Chipotle(PBR535) introduces new steak option, carne asada, to be available nationwide 09/19/19. $CMG PR link.

KLA Corp(PBR606) authorizes up to $1 billion share repurchase program, is in addition to current program which has $859 million remaining as of 06/30/19. $KLAC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US 2Q19 Employer Costs for Employees Compensation-Salaries & Wages averages $25.12/hour, Benefits $11.48/hour, Total $36.61/hour, -0.5% from 1Q19, +1.1% from 2Q18. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says the US Preliminary August 2019 Manufacturing % of Capacity is at 77.9%, July 2019 was at 77.5%, June 2019 77.8%, August 2018 78.5%, Growth Over Previous Year +2.2%. USFed PR link.

The Natl Assn of Home Builders says the US Preliminary September 2019 Housing Market Composite Index is at 68, the highest in 2019 so far, August 2019 was at 67, July 2019 65, September 2018 67. “Low interest rates and solid demand continue to fuel builders’ sentiments even as they continue to grapple with ongoing supply-side challenges that hinder housing affordability, including a shortage of lots and labor …” NAHB PR link.

PNC Financial(PBR176) Small and Mid-Size Business Owners Survey shows 55% of respondents remain optimistic about their business, a near record high, 67% do not expect a recession in 2019, 33% expect to hire more fulltime employees within the next 6 months, highest since Spring 2005. “U.S. economic fundamentals remain solid, despite slower economic growth and the ongoing trade war between the United States and China …” $PNC PR link.

***Monday, September 16

Amazon(PBR5) announces expansion of its Chicago Tech Hub, plans to create 400 new tech jobs in fields including cloud computing, advertising, and business development. $AMZN PR link.

General Motors(PBR13 $GM) contracts with United Auto Workers expire, 4 year contract being negotiated, 50,000 GM workers go on strike, first strike since 2 day strike in 2007. MarketWatch PR link.

GE(PBR19)’s Baker Hughes company closes secondary offering of 132.25 million shares of BHGE Class A common stock held by GE which now no longer holds a controlling interest in BHGE, in near future to change name to Baker Hughes Corp, ticker symbol BKR. $BHGE PR link.

Energy Transfer(PBR58) to acquire midstream oil and gas transportation provider SemGroup(PBR813) for $17/share cash and stock, around $5 billion, includes debt, to close late 4Q19/early 1Q20. $ET PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR131) completes acquisition of the remaining interest in RF360 Holdings Singapore, a joint venture with TDK Corporation (TSE:6762), for around $3.1 billion. $QCOM PR link.

Parker Hannifin(PBR214) completes $1.725 billion acquisition of privately held Kent, WA based designer and manufacturer of high temperature, high pressure air and exhaust management solutions for aircraft and engines, with annual sales of approximately $450 million and 1,600 team members across three US locations Exotic Metals Forming Co. $PH PR link.

Weyerhaeuser(PBR393) to sell its 555,000 acres of Michigan timberlands to an affiliate of The Lyme Timber Company LP, for $300 million in cash. $WY PR link.

Timken(PBR657) to acquire Pegnitz, Germany based estimated $135 million in revenues in 2019 automatic lubrication systems developer BEKA Lubrication for around $165 million, to close in 4Q19. $TKR PR link.

Marvell Technology(PBR751) to pay $5.5 million to settle SEC charges that it misled investors when it engaged in an undisclosed revenue management scheme in order to meet publicly-issued revenue guidance. $MRVL PR link.

SeaWorld(PBR972)‘s Gustavo Antorcha resigns as CEO and Board member, CFO Marc Swanson appointed Interim CEO. $SEAS PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York says the US Empire State September 2019 Manufacturing General Business Conditions Index is at +2.0, August 2019 was at +4.8, July 2019 +4.3, September 2018 +18.8. “Indexes assessing the six-month outlook indicated that optimism about future conditions deteriorated noticeably, and capital spending plans weakened markedly.” NYFed PR link.

***Friday, September 13:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 37 ending 09/13/19:

DJIA ends Week 37 at 27,219.52, +1.58% from last Friday, +3.09% MTD, +2.33% QTD, +16.68% YTD, -0.51% from record 27,359.16 set 07/15/19.

NASDAQ ends Week 37 at 8,176.71, +0.91% from last Friday, +2.69% MTD, +2.13% QTD, +23.23% YTD, -1.84% from record 8,330.21 set 07/26/19.

SPX ends Week 37 at 3,007.39, +0.96% from last Friday, +2.77% MTD, +2.23% QTD, +19.97% YTD, -0.61% from record 3,025.86 set 07/26/19.

The Week 37 News Summary: As the week progressed US/China trade took on a more conciliatory and calmer demeanor as new talks were scheduled and some tariffs delayed. US economic data was generally good, with jobs reports, PPI, and CPI numbers indicating continued modest growth and no imminent recession. However, there was some concern over the growing budget deficit which going into the final month now exceeds $1 trillion this fiscal year. Damage from Hurricane Dorian was not as extensive as predicted as it crawled up the East Coast. While not a dramatic week it was nevertheless more somber as the 18th anniversary of 9/11 was observed. With no major drama to wake up The Stock Market Bear it became easy for The Stock Market Bull to dominate all major US stock exchanges and take Week 37 3-0, the 3rd winning week in a row, as new record highs came into view.

The Week 37 of 2019 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 19 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 12 weeks
Mixed Results: 6 weeks

US Foods(PBR119) completes $1.8 billion cash acquisition of Services Group of America‘s $3.2 billion in sales/2017 3,400 employees Food Group of Companies, includes 5 operating units. $USFD PR link.

PG&E(PBR178) agrees in principle with entities representing approximately 85 percent of insurance subrogation claims to an $11 billion settlement to resolve all such claims arising from the 2017 Northern California wildfires and 2018 Camp Fire, subject to approval of the court per filing of Chapter 11 bankruptcy. $PCG PR link.

Pyxus(PBR923) issues statement in response to US Health & Human Services announcement on non-tobacco flavored e-cigarette products, says its products are for adult use only, focus should be on education, not banning flavored products. $PYX PR link.

Conn’s(PBR954) opens 656,658 sf, multistate logistics distribution center in Houston, TX. $CONN PR link.

WW(PBR957) will be changing its legal name from Weight Watchers International, Inc. to WW International, Inc. effective 09/29/19. $WW PR link.

Apple(PBR3) Board member Walt Disney(PBR52) CEO Bob Iger resigns. $AAPL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the US Preliminary July 2019 Sales-Manufacturers was at $504.0 billion, Retailers $459.3, Wholesalers $499.6 billion, Total $1,462.9 billion, +0.3% from June 2019, +1.3% from July 2018. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the US Advance August 2019 Sales-Retail was at $462.0 billion, Food Services & Drinking Places $64.1 billion, Total $526.1 billion, +0.4% from July 2019, +4.1% from August 2018. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US Preliminary August 2019 Import Prices were -0.5%, Last 12 Months -2.0%, Export Prices were -0.6%, Last 12 Months -1.4%. USDOL PR link.

The U of Michigan US Preliminary September 2019 Consumer Sentiment Index is at 92.0, August 2019 was 89.8, July 2019 98.4, September 2018 100.1. “The outlook for consumption is for a slower but positive growth, keeping the expansion going for another year.” UMichigan PR link.

***Thursday, September 12:

Walmart(PBR1) to expand the reach of Delivery Unlimited – a Grocery Delivery membership option for customers – to 1,400 stores in 200 markets later this fall, gives customers the option to pay a yearly $98 fee or a monthly $12.95 fee to receive unlimited Walmart Grocery Delivery orders, non-membership pay per delivery option also available. $WMT PR link.

Amazon(PBR5) to open its Regional Air Hub at the Fort Worth Alliance Airport 10/29, will create 300 jobs. $AMZN PR link.

Alphabet(PBR15 $GOOG)’s Google unit is paying more than $1 billion in fines and back taxes to settle a pair of tax disputes in France, where it has faced years of investigations into whether it has properly declared all of its activity in the country. Wall Street Journal PR link.

GE(PBR19) announces tender offers to purchase up to $5 billion of its existing debt. $GE PR link.

Kroger(PBR20) and partner Ocado to open 5th online grocery Customer Fulfillment Center, to be located in Dallas, TX area, will create around 400 jobs. $KR PR link.

Gap Inc(PBR182) gives presentation about Old Navy unit, plans to add 860 stores for a total of around 2,000 after spinoff. $GPS PR link.

Tapestry(PBR474) announces a strategic partnership with Alibaba’s Tmall, China’s largest B2C ecommerce platform, marks a step forward in Tapestry’s ChinaNext digital innovation agenda. $TPR PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says the US August 2019 Federal Government Receipts were $228.0 billion, Outlays $428.3 billion, for a Deficit of $200.3 billion, Fiscal Year To Date Receipts(11 Months) were at $3.088 trillion, Outlays $4.155 trillion, FYTD Deficit 2019 $1.067 trillion, FYTD Deficit 2018 was at $898.1 billion. USTreasury PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US Preliminary August 2019 Employee Current Average Earnings Per Hour are at $28.11, Average Hours Worked Per Week at 34.4, Total Weekly Earnings $966.98, +0.7% from July 2019, +2.9% from August 2018. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US August 2019 Consumer Price Index-All Items is at +0.1%, July 2019 was at +0.3%, June 2019 +0.1%, August 2018 +0.1%, Last 12 Months +1.7%. USDOL PR link.

***Wednesday, September 11:

MasterCard(PBR208) and enterprise blockchain software provider R3 to develop and pilot a new blockchain-enabled cross-border payments solution that will initially focus on connecting global faster payments infrastructures, schemes and banks supported by a clearing and settlement network operated by Mastercard. $MA PR link.

Wolverine World Wide(PBR859) approves a new, four-year share repurchase program, authorizing up to $400 million in share repurchases that is incremental to the remaining balance of the Company’s share repurchase program that was authorized in 02/19. $WWW PR link.

Oracle(PBR78) Co-CEO Mark Hurd will take a leave of absence for health related reasons, Co-CEO Safra Catz and Executive Chairman/Founder Larry Ellison to cover his responsibilities. $ORCL PR link.

DXC Technology(PBR148) Chairman/President/CEO Mike Lawrie retires as President/CEO, remains Chairman, will retire on 12/31/19, Mike Salvino elected President/CEO, effective immediately. $DXC PR link.

Sanmina(PBR410) elects President/COO Hartmut Liebel as CEO, effective 09/30/19, will succeed Michael Clarke who remains in an advisory role. $SANM PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US Preliminary August 2019 Producer Price Index-Final Demand Goods was -0.5%, Final Demand Services +0.3%, Total +0.1%, Last 12 Months +1.8%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the US Preliminary July 2019 Wholesale Sales-Durables was at $238.7 billion, Non-Durables $260.9 billion, Total $499.6 billion, +0.3% from June 2019, +0.0% from July 2018. USDOC PR link.

***Tuesday, September 10:

Apple(PBR3) announces new dual camera iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, Apple Watch Series 5, new iPad version, Apple Arcade, announces launch of Apple TV+ on 11/01/19. $AAPL PR link.

Ford(PBR12) announces new electric options vehicles in Germany, expects 50%+ cars sold in Europe by end of 2022 to be electrified. $F PR link.

GE(PBR19) to sell 105 million shares of Baker Hughes(NYSE: BHGE), a GE company, Class A common stock in a secondary offering, will no longer have a controlling interest in BGHE. Baker Hughes PR link.

Target(PBR38) to hire around 125,000 seasonal team members for stores, and 8,000 for distribution and fulfillment centers, hourly wages start at $13.00. $TGT PR link.

CarMax(PBR168) will create 430 new jobs for its new Customer Experience Center opening in Tempe, AZ, in 12/19. $KMX PR link.

JCPenney(PBR260) introduces St. John’s Bay® Outdoor lifestyle apparel for men, includes rugged shirts, jackets and pants. $JCP PR link.

Baxter(PBR278) to acquire non-invasive hemodynamic monitoring technologies provider Cheetah Medical for $190 million upfront plus $40 million based on milestone achievements, to close in 4Q19. $BAX PR link.

Fifth Third Bancorp(PBR374) gets US approval to convert from an Ohio state-chartered bank to a national bank. $FITB PR link.

Fidelity Natl Financial(PBR390) terminates $50.00/share in cash/stock, equity value of $1.2 billion acquisition of title insurance company Stewart Information Services(PBR906) due to the US Federal Trade Commission‘s issuance of an administrative complaint seeking to block the merger. Fidelity to pay Stewart a $50 million termination fee. $FNF PR link.

YUM!(PBR484 $YUM)’s Taco Bell unit launching a vegetarian menu nationwide on 09/12/19. MarketWatch PR link.

Chipotle(PBR535 $CMG) gets lawsuit from New York City alleging it violated the city’s Fair Workweek Law, Chipotle says it is cooperating, feels the filing was unnecessary. MarketWatch PR link.

Hasbro(PBR552) introduces ‘Ms. Monopoly’ game, celebrates women trailblazers, features Ms. Monopoly as an advocate whose mission is to invest in female entrepreneurs. $HAS PR link.

EchoStar(PBR876) completes spinoff of its Broadcast Satellite Service (BSS) business for 22.9 million DISH(PBR230) shares, around $800 million. $SATS PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US Preliminary July 2019 Job Openings-Private were at 6,555,000, Government 662,000, Total 7,217,000, -0.4% from June 2019, -3.0% from July 2018. USDOL PR link.

CoreLogic says the US June 2019 Housing Mortgages 30 or More Days Delinquent was at 4.0%, May 2019 was at 3.6%, April 2019 3.6%, June 2018 4.3%. “Despite recent stress in some areas of the country, mortgage delinquency rates continue to stay at near-record lows.” CoreLogic PR link.

***Monday, September 9:

Amazon(PBR5) announces Amazon Career Day on Tuesday, 09/17/19, hiring 30,000+ full and part-time for jobs at locations across the US. $AMZN PR link.

AT&T(PBR9 $T) gets letter from activist shareholder Elliott Management, has $3.2 billion in AT&T stock, says it sees ways share price can increase by 65% by end of 2021. Elliott PR link.

Alphabet(PBR15)’s Google unit being investigated by attorneys general of 50 states and territories regarding Google’s ‘potential monopolistic behavior.’ MarketWatch PR link.

Target(PBR38) to roll out its new loyalty offering, Target Circle, nationwide on 10/06/19, designed to complement Target’s RedCard* program by offering perks and special deals for all guests, including those who currently may not be interested in acquiring a new credit or debit card. $TGT PR link.

UPS(PBR40) to hire around 100,000 for full and part-time positions for the holiday season. $UPS PR link.

Cummins(PBR122) completes $15.00/share $290 million acquisition of other than shares already owned by The Hydrogen Company. $CMI PR link.

PG&E(PBR178 $PCG) gets $2.5 billion offer from City of San Francisco for PG&E’s electric system in city. MarketWatch PR link.

PG&E(PBR178) files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, offers around $18 billion in compensation for recent wildfires, plans to emerge from Chapter 11 by 06/30/20. $PCG PR link.

WestRock(PBR187) is reconfiguring its North Charleston, SC, paper mill, will permanently shut down one of the three paper machines and related physical infrastructure, eliminating approximately 288,000 tons of linerboard capacity, will eliminate 260 jobs. $WRK PR link.

Alcoa(PBR234) to implement a new operating model starting 11/01/19, will eliminate its business unit structure and consolidate sales, procurement and other commercial capabilities at an enterprise level, Executive Team will also be streamlined from 12 to seven direct reports to the CEO. $AA PR link.

Uber(PBR270) signs 10 year lease agreement for the The Old Main Post Office in the Chicago River area, will add about 2,000 jobs over 3 years. $UBER PR link.

Quanta Services(PBR276) acquires NE states gas utility contractor The Hallen Construction Co and two specialty utility foundation and pole-setting contractors serving the southeast US for $330 million. $PWR PR link.

Allison Transmission(PBR780) acquires Lewisburg, TN based aluminum castings producer Walker Die Casting and Muscle Shoals, AL based ie cast dies and tooling C&R Tool and Engineering for $103 million. $ALSN PR link.

ServiceMaster(PBR908) enters European pest control market with acquisition of Sweden based 4th largest pest control company in Europe $60 million in annual revenues Nomor Holding AB from Norvestor for around $200 million. $SERV PR link.

HCP(PBR915) to acquire a 224,000 square foot, LEED Gold® laboratory building 100% leased to five life science tenants located at 35 CambridgePark Drive in the Boston, MA Cambridge submarket for $332.5 million, to close in 12/19. $HCP PR link.

Wendy’s(PBR949) to launch its breakfast menu, currently available in more than 300 restaurants, across the US system in 2020, the Company and its franchisees plan to hire approximately 20,000 crew members. $WEN PR link.

Fred’s(PBR982) files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, has commenced going out of business sales at all retail locations, which are expected to close over the next 60 days. $FRED PR link.

Vitamin Shoppe(PBR995) says the ‘go-shop’ period has ended, has a sole Bidder expressing interest in buying the company, will be reviewing proposal, still has Liberty Tax(OTC PINK: TAXA) for $6.50/share, $208 million cash offer. $VSI PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says the US Preliminary July 2019 Consumer Credit Outstanding-Revolving was at $1.081 trillion, Non-Revolving $3.042 trillion, Total $4.123 trillion, +0.6% from June 2019, +2.8% YTD(7 months), +5.3% from July 2018. USFed PR link.

FannieMae(PBR21) says the US August 2019 Home Purchase Sentiment Index is at 93.8, July 2019 was at 93.7, June 2019 91.5, August 2018 88.0. “We … expect housing market activity to remain relatively stable, and the favorable rate environment should continue supporting increased refinance activity.” $FNMA PR link.

***Friday, September 6:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 36 ending 09/06/19:

DJIA ends Week 36 at 26,797.46, +1.49% from last Friday/MTD, +0.74% QTD, +14.88% YTD, -2.05% from record 27,359.16 set 07/15/19.

NASDAQ ends Week 36 at 8,103.07, +1.76% from last Friday/MTD, +1.21% QTD, +22.12% YTD, -2.73% from record 8,330.21 set 07/26/19.

SPX ends Week 36 at 2,978.71, +1.79% from last Friday/MTD, +1.26% QTD, +18.82% YTD, -1.56% from record 3,025.86 set 07/26/19.

The Week 36 News Summary: The week and new month started off with a holiday, but on Tuesday new tariffs on China and retaliatory tariffs by China on the US went into effect. However, by the end of the week tensions eased as it was announced China has requested new trade talks and are now scheduled for October. During the week the US economic news was somewhat positive with the release of the Beige Book by the Federal Reserve Districts indicating modest growth. But manufacturing data and surveys indicated a slowdown. This was balanced by good services numbers and at the end of the week positive jobs numbers. Corporate earnings continued to be mixed. US regulatory agencies are becoming more active in taking on mostly high tech companies. Hurricane Dorian slammed into the Bahamas, then headed towards the Florida and Carolinas east coasts with significant rains and flooding issues the big concerns. Hong Kong protests eased somewhat, and the UK is still mired in how to do Brexit by 10/31/19, and might require new general elections. The Stock Market Bear had a big day on Tuesday, but The Stock Market Bull took over the rest of the week and notched a 3-0 Week 36 victory, his second week win in a row.

The Week 36 of 2019 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 18 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 12 weeks
Mixed Results: 6 weeks

Cisco(PBR62) completes acquisition of privately held Mountain View, CA based meeting transcription, voice search, and meeting highlights/action items, with robust data privacy provider Voicea, terms not disclosed. $CSCO PR link.

Tractor Supply(PBR377) opens 1,800th store, located in Berkshire Township (Sunbury), OH. $TSCO PR link.

Fidelity Natl Financial(PBR390 $FNF) $50.00/share in cash/stock, equity value of $1.2 billion acquisition of title insurance company Stewart Information Services(PBR906) is being challenged by the US Federal Trade Commission, concerns about 2 of the Big 4 in title insurance merging and limiting competition. FTC PR link.

Nucor(PBR113) Chairman/CEO John J. Ferriola to retire on 12/31/19, EVP Leon J. Topalian elected President/COO effective immediately, to become CEO on 01/01/20. $NUE PR link.

Trinity Industries(PBR810) President/CEO Timothy R. Wallace to retire upon selection of a successor after 44 years with the company and 20 years as CEO. $TRN PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US August 2019 Number of People Employed was at 157,828,000, +650,000 from July 2019, +2,274,000 from August 2018, Unemployment is at 6,044,000, Unemployment Rate remains at 3.7%. USDOL PR link.

***Thursday, September 5:

Prudential Financial(PBR49) to acquire consumer solutions platform for health and financial wellness needs provider Assurance IQ for $2.35 billion plus up to an additional $1.15 billion based on achieving milestones, to close in early 4Q19. $PRU PR link.

Facebook(PBR56) launches Facebook Dating in the US, also giving people the ability to integrate their Instagram posts directly into their Facebook Dating profile and giving people the ability to add Instagram followers to their Secret Crush lists, in addition to Facebook friends, currently available in 19 other countries, to be available in Europe in early 2020. $FB PR link.

Tyson(PBR75)’s Ventures subsidiary completes an investment in San Francisco, CA based New Wave Foods®, a producer of plant-based shellfish and plans to have a shrimp alternative ready for food service operators in early 2020. $TSN PR link.

Tractor Supply(PBR377) to be Toro(PBR796)’s exclusive partner in the farm and ranch channel for select models of Toro zero-turn mowers, walk mowers and portable power equipment in stores nationwide and online beginning in spring of 2020 under new long-term strategic partnership. $TTC PR link.

Motorola Solutions(PBR399) says technology investment firm Silver Lake will make a new $1 billion investment in Motorola Solutions, and settle its outstanding $800 million aggregate principal investment one year ahead of its maturity. $MSI PR link.

Host Hotels(PBR493) completes sale of 6 non-core hotels for a combined price of $415 million. $HST PR link.

Michaels Cos(PBR511) to hire 15,000 seasonal positions for the 2019 holiday season, hiring day scheduled for 09/07/19. $MIK PR link.

Brinker Intl(PBR706) completes acquisition of 116 Chili’s® Grill & Bar restaurants, with annual revenues of around $300 million, from its 14-year franchisee, ERJ Dining, terms not disclosed. $EAT PR link.

Red Robin(PBR978) Board unanimously rejects an unsolicited, conditional proposal made on 07/18/19 by Vintage Capital Management to acquire all of the outstanding common shares of Red Robin for $40.00 per share, says proposal undervalues Red Robin and is not in the best interests of all shareholders. $RRGB PR link.

Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR997) completes conversion from a publicly traded partnership to a corporation. $APO PR link.

Babcock & Wilcox(PBR1000) regains full compliance with the NYSE minimum price continued listing criteria after 10:1 reverse stock split. $BW PR link.

Red Robin(PBR978) hires Paul J.B. Murphy III as President/CEO, effective 10/03/19, to succeed Chairman/Interim CEO Pattye Moore who plans to retire after an appropriate transition period. $RRGB PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US 2Q19 1st Revision of Business Sector Labor Output Productivity/Hour-All Persons remains at +2.6%, 1Q19 was at +3.6%, 4Q18 +0.0%, 2Q18 +2.4%. USDOL PR link.

ADP(PBR236) says the US Preliminary August 2019 Change In Employment-Small Businesses(1-49 Employees) is +66.000, Mid-Sized(50-499) +77,000, Large(500 or more) +52,000, Total +195,000, +37.2% from July 2019, +22.6% from August 2018; Total from Goods Producing Sector was +11,000, Service-Providing Sector +184,000. $ADP PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the US Preliminary July 2019 Manufacturers New Orders-Durable Goods was at $250.2 billion, Non-Durable Goods $250.1 billion, Total $500.3 billion, +1.4% from June 2019, +0.3% from July 2018. USDOC PR link.

The Institute for Supply Management says the US August 2019 Non-Manufacturing Index(>50=economy growing) is at 56.4%, July 2019 was at 53.7%, June 2019 55.1%, August 2018 58.8%. “The non-manufacturing sector’s rate of growth rebounded after two consecutive months of cooling off. The respondents remain concerned about tariffs and geopolitical uncertainty; however, they are mostly positive about business conditions.” ISM PR link.

The IHS Markit August 2019 Composite PMI Output Index is at 50.7, July 2019 was at 52.6, June 2019 51.5, August 2018 54.7. “The Composite PMI Output Index … signaled the slowest increase in output since the current sequence of expansion began in March 2016. The slowdown was led by muted upturns across the manufacturing and service sectors, with the latter registering a notably softer rise in activity.” IHS Markit PR link.

***Wednesday, September 4:

The August 2019 Snapshot 12 Summary: The PBR1000 Top 5 Month Performers YTD(8 Months)(Rank, Company, PBR Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 08/30/19 Stock Price, % Increase from 12/31/18):

1. Diebold Nixdorf, PBR553, $DBD, $11.21, +350%
2. Snap, PBR990, $SNAP, $15.83, +187%
3. Avon Products, PBR491, $AVP, $4.35, +186%
4. FannieMae, PBR21, $FNMA, $2.82, +166%
5. FreddieMac, PBR39, $FMCC, $2.70, +157%

Range: +350% to -98%
Number of Companies at 0% or Better: 674/994
Average: +17.63%
Median: +11.65%
DJIA: +13.19%
NASDAQ: +20.01%
SPX: +16.74%

Tomorrow: The PBR1000 Top 5 Stock Performers Since 12/29/17(20 Months).

Alphabet(PBR15 $GOOG)’s Google/YouTube unit ordered to pay $170 million fine for collecting children’s personal data without parental consent. MarketWatch PR link.

Stryker Corp(PBR231) to acquire point-of-care imaging technology provider Mobius Imaging, and its sister company, GYS Tech, (DBA Cardan Robotics), for around $370 million cash upfront and up to $130 million of contingent payments based on milestone achievements. $SYK PR link.

Bed Bath & Beyond(PBR251) business transformation efforts include a rapid refresh of nearly 160 Bed Bath & Beyond stores, resetting the cost structure, reducing inventories by $1 billion, Board transformation with 9 new independent members. $BBBY PR link.

Fortive(PBR446) to split into two independent publicly held companies, Fortive, an industrial technology company, and NewCo, a global industrial company, to be completed in 2H20. $FTV PR link.

Post Holdings(PBR460) authorizes new $400 million share repurchase program, replaces existing program. $POST PR link.

Palo Alto Networks(PBR851) to acquire IoT security company Zingbox for $75 million. $PANW PR link.

WW(PBR957) to present Oprah Winfrey‘s “Oprah’s 2020 Vision: Your Life in Focus” in 9 US cities starting 01/04/20 through 03/07/19, producer is Live Nation(PBR283) Women Nation division. $WW PR link.

Tapestry(PBR474) Chairman Jide Zeitlin appointed to also be CEO, effective immediately, succeeds Victor Luis, who is leaving the Company and its Board. $TPR PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Beige Book for data through 08/23/19 says, “On balance, reports from Federal Reserve Districts suggested that the economy expanded at a modest pace through the end of August. Although concerns regarding tariffs and trade policy uncertainty continued, the majority of businesses remained optimistic about the near-term outlook.” USFed PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says the US Preliminary July 2019 Exports-Goods were at $138.2 billion, Services $69.2 billion, Total Exports $207.4 billion; Imports-Goods were at $211.8 billion, Services $49.6 billion, Total Imports $261.4 billion, Total Monthly Deficit $54.0 billion, July 2018 Total Monthly Deficit was $52.5 billion; Total YTD Exports(7 months) were at $1,456.6 billion, YTD Imports $1,830.4 billion, Total YTD Deficit $373.8, July 2018 Total YTD Deficit was $346.2 billion. USDOC PR link.

***Tuesday, September 3:

The August 2019 Snapshot 11 Summary: The PBR1000 Top 5 Month Performers(Rank, Company, PBR Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 08/30/19 Stock Price, % Increase from 07/31/19):

1. Owens & Minor, PBR309, $OMI, $5.08, +87%
2. Vitamin Shoppe, PBR995, $VSI, $6.45, +46%
3. Cincinnati Bell, PBR971, $CBB, $5.43, +42%
4. WW(Weight Watchers), PBR957, $WW, $29.99, +39%
5. Hovnanian, PBR891, $HOV, $8.24, +37%

Range: +87% to -64%
Number of Companies at 0% or Better:314/1,000
Average: -1.93%
Median: -4.71%
DJIA: -1.72%
NASDAQ: -2.60%
SPX: -1.81%

Tomorrow: The PBR1000 Top 5 Stock Performers Since 12/31/18(8 Months).

Walmart(PBR1) to discontinue sales of short-barrel rifle ammunition, sell through and discontinue handgun ammunition, discontinue handgun sales in Alaska, marking its complete exit from handguns, remaining assortment will be even more focused on the needs of hunting and sport shooting enthusiasts, policy is in response to recent shootings in Texas. $WMT PR link.

Allergan(PBR196) gets US FDA approval for the use of Juvéderm VOLUMA® XC, a hyaluronic acid gel dermal filler, with a TSK STERiGLIDE™ cannula for cheek augmentation to correct age-related volume deficit in the mid-face in adults over 21. $AGN PR link.

Avis Budget(PBR331) gets agreement with Ford(PBR12) Commercial Solutions to digitally connect approximately 14,000 Ford Motor Company vehicles in Avis Budget Group’s European rental fleet, adds to the 35,000 Ford vehicles digitally connected in the Avis Budget US fleet. CAR PR link.

Concho Resources(PBR597) to sell its 25 thousand barrels of oil equivalent per day New Mexico Shelf assets to a Spur Energy Partnersaffiliate for $925 million, authorizes an up to $1.5 billion share repurchase program. $CXO PR link.

Ashland(PBR641) completes $1.015 billion sale of its Composites business and butanediol facility in Marl, Germany, to INEOS Enterprises. $ASH PR link.

Tailored Brands(PBR693) gets multi-year partnership with the US National Football League to provide NFL team logo liners in suits from its Men’s Wearhouse and Jos. A. Banksunits. $TLRD PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the US Preliminary July 2019 Construction Spending Annual Rate-Residential was at $512.8 billion, Non-Residential $776.0 billion, Total $1,288.8 billion, +0.1% from June 2019, -2.7% from July 2018. USDOC PR link.

The Institute for Supply Management says the US August 2019 Manufacturing PMI Index(<50=economy contracting) is at 49.1%, July 2019 was at 51.2%, June 2019 51.7%, August 2018 61.3%. “Comments from the panel reflect a notable decrease in business confidence. August saw the end of the PMI® expansion that spanned 35 months, with steady expansion softening over the last four months.” ISM PR link.

IHS Markit says the US August 2019 US Manufacturing PMI is at 50.3, July 2019 was at 50.4, June 2019 50.6, August 2018 54.7. “U.S manufacturers signalled a further slowdown in overall growth in August, with the PMI dropping to its lowest for almost a decade.” IHS Markit PR link.

The PurdueU/CME Group August 2019 Ag Economy Barometer Composite Index is at 124, July 2019 was at 153, June 2019 126, August 2018 129. “Farmers were less optimistic about current economic conditions on their farms and, especially, about their expectations for future conditions.” PurdueU PR link.

***Monday, September 2:

***US Labor Day.
***US Stock Exchanges Closed.

***Friday, August 30:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 35 and the month of August ending 08/30/19:

DJIA ends Week 35 and August at 26,403.28, +3.02% from last Friday, -1.72% MTD, -0.74% QTD, +13.19% YTD, -3.49% from record 27,359.16 set 07/15/19.

NASDAQ ends Week 35 and August at 7,962.88, +2.72% from last Friday, –2.60% MTD, -0.54% QTD, +20.01% YTD, -4.41% from record 8,330.21 set 07/26/19.

SPX ends Week 35 and August at 2,926.46, +2.79% from last Friday, -1.81% MTD, -0.52% QTD, +16.74% YTD, -3.29% from record 3,025.86 set 07/26/19.

The Monthly 2019 YTD(8 months through August) tally is:
The Stock Market Bull: 6 months
The Stock Market Bear: 2 months
Mixed Results: 0 months

Check out the BLOG page for the previous RECAPS and SNAPSHOTS posts.

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PBRMarketTools.com provides news, data, and analysis on 1,000 of the largest publicly held companies with primary operations in the US. The data and analysis is included in The PBR1000 Monthly Snapshots, an MS-Excel workbook with 15 snapshot worksheets, 28rankings, and over 200 fields of data and information on each company. Click here to find out more!

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The PBR1000 August 2019 Breaking News Recap

September 1, 2019 by admin

International Trade Issues Heat Up In August 2019 for The PBR1000

Go/Stop/Caution US/China trade negotiations have affected companies like The PBR1000 and stock markets throughout 2019, the US has still not ratified the US/Mexico/Canada agreement, UK’s Brexit attempts have had an effect as well. Let’s hope for more green lights for the rest of 2019.

By Larry C. Paxton

The August 2019 breaking news items of interest for The PBR1000 follow with the most current date first.

***Friday, August 30:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 35 and the month of August ending 08/30/19:

DJIA ends Week 35 and August at 26,403.28, +3.02% from last Friday, -1.72% MTD, -0.74% QTD, +13.19% YTD, -3.49% from record 27,359.16 set 07/15/19.

NASDAQ ends Week 35 and August at 7,962.88, +2.72% from last Friday, –2.60% MTD, -0.54% QTD, +20.01% YTD, -4.41% from record 8,330.21 set 07/26/19.

SPX ends Week 35 and August at 2,926.46, +2.79% from last Friday, -1.81% MTD, -0.52% QTD, +16.74% YTD, -3.29% from record 3,025.86 set 07/26/19.

The Week 35 and August News Summary: On the international front the G-7 meeting in France concluded with a US/Japan deal and signals by both the US and China that eased trade tensions. The UK continues to struggle on Brexit issues with the October 31 deadline approaching. For the month US/China trade dominated the news, and mostly in a negative way as both sides announced tariffs to go into effect, but mellowed out in the last week. Throughout the month the US economic data continued to indicate modest to moderate growth, but slowing as well, and whispers of recession being imminent increased a little bit. Corporate earnings were mostly mixed with a few pleasant surprises. After a 4 wild weeks run by The Stock Market Bear it was time for The Stock Market Bull to regain the pasture, winning Week 35 easily, but having to concede August to The Stock Market Bear.

The Week 35 of 2019 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 17 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 12 weeks
Mixed Results: 6 weeks

The Monthly 2019 YTD(8 months through August) tally is:
The Stock Market Bull: 6 months
The Stock Market Bear: 2 months
Mixed Results: 0 months

AT&T(PBR9 $T) says it’s reached tentative 5 year agreements with the Communications Workers of America District 3 union representing about 20,000 workers in nine states in the Southeast. MarketWatch PR link.

NGL Energy(PBR120) authorizes up to $150 million share repurchase program through 09/30/21. $NGL PR link.

Allergan(PBR196) to pay $1.9 million to Summit County, OH and $3.1 million to Cuyahoga County, OH as part of settlement of trial scheduled in 10/19 in the federal opioid multidistrict litigation. $AGN PR link.

Alcoa(PBR234) reaches a tentative agreement with the United Steelworkers on a new 4-year labor agreement for approximately 1,700 active employees at five US locations. $AA PR link.

Insight(PBR412) completes $35/share $581 million cash and debt acquisition of IT products and services provider PCM(NASDAQ: PCMI). $NSIT PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR428) acquires Mission Viejo, CA based medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D and disability insurance plans to university postdoctoral scholars and visiting scholars, as well as health insurance plans to university students benefits broker and consultant Garnett-Powers & Associates Insurance Services, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/BEA says US Preliminary July 2019 Total Personal Income Annual Rate is at $18.703 trillion, +0.1% from June 2019, +6.3% from July 2018, Personal Savings Annual Rate is at $1.269 trillion, for a +7.7% Savings Rate. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says the US National Debt on 08/29/19 was Debt Held By Public$16.570 trillion, Intragovernmental $5.897 trillion, Total $22.467 trillion, +2.0% from 07/31/19, +2.2% from 12/28/18, +4.7% from 08/31/18. USTreasury PR link.

The U of Michigan says the US Final August 2019 Consumer Survey Index is at 89.8, July 2019 was at 98.4, June 2019 98.2, 96.2. “While the overall level of sentiment is still consistent with modest gains in consumption, the data nonetheless increased the likelihood that consumers could be pushed off the “tariff cliff” in the months ahead.” UMichigan PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says the US 7th District Preliminary July 2019 Midwest Economic Index is at -0.27, June 2019 is at -0.30. ChiFed PR link.

MNI/ISM says the Chicago August 2019 Business Barometer(>50=economy gaining) is at 50.4, July 2019 was at 44.4, June 2019 49.7, August 2018 63.6. “The survey still suggests a softer overall tone in business activity despite the August pick-up in sentiment, as the three-month average fell again, dipping to 48.2.” MNI/ISM PR link.

The American Automobile Assn says the US Regular Gas Average Price on 08/30/19 is at $2.58/gallon, -5.2% from 07/31/19, -9.1% from 08/31/19. AAA PR link.

***Thursday, August 29:

Walt Disney(PBR52) sells its 80% equity interest in the YES Network to newly formed investor group of Yankee Global Enterprises and Sinclair Broadcast(PBR720), among others, for $3.47 billion, deal part of consent decree with the US Dept of Justice that allowed Disney’s acquisition of 21st Century Fox. $DIS PR link.

Tech Data(PBR83) adds $200 million to share repurchase program, balance is now around $275 million. $TECD PR link.

AbbVie(PBR92) discontinues research and development program of Rovalpituzumab Tesirine (Rova-T) as a first-line maintenance therapy for advanced small-cell lung cancer. $ABBV PR link.

Deere & Co(PBR82) President/COO John C. May becomes member of the Board, to become CEO on 11/04/19, to succeed Chairman/CEO Samuel R. Allen, who will remain Chairman. $DE PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/BEA says the US 2Q19 2nd Estimate of Gross Domestic Product Annual Rate of Growth is at +2.0%, $21.339 trillion, +1.1% from 1Q19, +4.0% from 2Q18. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US 08/24/19 Initial Unemployment Insurance Claims 4 Week Moving Average is at 214,250, +0.7% from 07/20/19, +1.1% from 08/25/18; The 08/17/19 Total Insured Unemployment 4 Week Moving Average is at 1,697,250, +0.0% from 07/13/19, -2.0% from 08/18/18; Insured Unemployment Rate remains at 1.2%. USDOL PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR39) says the US Average 30 Year Fixed Home Mortgage Rate on 08/29/19is at 3.58% with 0.5 points/fees, on 07/25/19 it was 3.75% , on 06/27/19 3.73%, on 08/31/18 4.52%. $FMCC PR link.

***Wednesday, August 28:

Facebook(PBR56) provides updates on policies and requirements for ads about social issues, elections or politics in the US. $FB PR link.

American Airlines(PBR66) to hire 400+ new Tech Ops team members for its Tulsa, OK commercial aviation base maintenance facility, the largest in the world. $AAL PR link.

Tesla(PBR140) launches Tesla Insurance in California, plans to expand to other states in the future, provides Tesla owners with up to 20% lower rates, and in some cases as much as 30%. $TSLA PR link.

Marriott Intl(PBR147) to replace tiny, single-use toiletry bottles of shampoo, conditioner and bath gel in guestroom showers with larger, pump-topped bottles in all properties by 12/20, to prevent about 500 million tiny bottles annually from going to landfills. $MAR PR link.

Pilgrim’s Pride(PBR282) to acquire around $1.2 billion in annual sales, 6,000 employees, largest pig producer in the UK with 12 fresh and value-added operations Tulip Limited from Danish Crown for $354 million cash. $PPC PR link.

Coty(PBR326) and Younique have agreed to part, Coty will sell its controlling stake to Younique’s original founders, terms not disclosed. $COTY PR link.

Hain Celestial(PBR818) completes sale of $200 million in revenues anticipated in FY2019 premium basmati and specialty rice brand Tilda® to EBRO FOODS S.A. for $342 million cash. $HAIN PR link.

Fitbit(PBR958) launches Fitbit Premium, a new health and fitness app subscription service, $9.99/mo or $79.99 annually, also announces Fitbit Versa 2 smartwatch and Fitbit Aria Air, a Bluetooth smart scale. $FIT PR link.

Medtronic(PBR95) Chairman/CEO Omar Ishrak to retire as CEO on 04/26/20, will become Executive Chairman, EVP Restorative Therapies Geoff Martha appointed corporate president, to become member of the Board on 11/01/19, become CEO on 04/27/20. $MDT PR link.

The US Energy Information Administrationsays the US 08/23/19 Crude Oil Stocks are at 427.8 million barrels, -2.0% from 07/26/19, +5.4% from 08/24/18. EIA PR link.

TrueCar’s ALG unit says US August 2019 New Auto Sales to be at around 1,602,276 vehicles, +8.1% from August 2018, Average Transaction Price is $34,278, Average Incentive Outlay$3,825, Used Vehicle Sales expected to reach 3,350,362 down 0.2% year-over-year and flat from 07/19. TrueCar PR link.

***Tuesday, August 27:

Costco(PBR14 $COST) overwhelmed by massive crowds during its first opening in China in Shanghai. MarketWatch PR link.

Philip Morris(PBR36) confirms it is in discussions with Altria(PBR112) regarding a potential all-stock merger of equals. $PM PR link.

Lithia Motors(PBR255) has acquired Hazelton, PA auto dealership Hazelton Honda, anticipates annual revenues of around $50 million, terms not disclosed. $LAD PR link.

Alaska Air(PBR363) and two unions ratify new five year agreements covering 5,200 employees. $ALK PR link.

Hershey(PBR381) to expand snack bar portfolio with acquisition of maker of a line of low-sugar, high-protein nutrition bars ONE Brands for $397 million, to close in 4Q19. $HSY PR link.

Deluxe Corp(PBR889) appoints Cheryl Mayberry McKissack to be Non-Executive Chair, effective 08/22/19, succeeds Martyn Redgrave who remains on the Board. $DLX PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond says the US 5th District August 2019 Manufacturing Index(Annualized) is at +1%, July 2019 was at -12%, June 2019 +2%, August 2018 +21%. “Firms reported increasing capital expenditures and inventories, but the measure of local business conditions was slightly negative. Manufacturers were, however, optimistic that conditions would improve in the next six months.” RichmondFed PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond says the US 5th District August 2019 Service Sector Revenue Index(Annualized) is at +6%, July 2019 was at +11%, June 2019 +16%, August 2018 +26%. “Respondents … reported growth in the average workweek but continued to struggle to find workers with the necessary skills. They expected this difficulty to persist in the near future.” RichmondFed PR link.

The Conference Board says the US Preliminary August 2019 Consumer Confidence Index(1985=100) is at 135.1, July 2019 was at 135.8, June 2019 124.3, August 2018 134.7. “… While other parts of the economy may show some weakening, consumers have remained confident and willing to spend. However, if the recent escalation in trade and tariff tensions persists, it could potentially dampen consumers’ optimism regarding the short-term economic outlook.” TCB PR link.

The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller US Preliminary June 2019 National Home Price Index(01/2000=100) is at 210.71, May 2019 was at 209.49, April 2019 207.85, June 2018 204.31. “The U.S. National Home Price NSA Index YOY price change in June 2019 of 3.1% is exactly half of what it was in June 2018. While housing has clearly cooled off from 2018, home price gains in most cities remain positive in low single digits. Therefore, it is likely that current rates of change will generally be sustained barring an economic downturn.” Case-Shiller PR link.

***Monday, August 26:

Johnson & Johnson(PBR35) to appeal Oklahoma‘s $572 million civil judgment, says its Janssen unit did not cause the opioid crisis in Oklahoma. $JNJ PR link.

Target(PBR38) and Walt Disney(PBR52) to launch 25 Disney stores within select Target stores nationwide on 10/04/19, with 40 additional locations opening by 10/31/20, an all-new, Disney focused digital experience is available on Target.com today. $TGT PR link.

Cisco(PBR62) to acquire Salt Lake City, UT privately-held contact center predictive analytics developer and provider CloudCherry, terms not disclosed, to close by 01/31/20. $CSCO PR link.

Oracle(PBR78 $ORCL) files new appeal over Pentagon’s $10B JEDI cloud contract RFP process. TechCrunch PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR116) gets US FDA approval for Taltz® (ixekizumab) injection 80 mg/mL for the treatment of adults with active ankylosing spondylitis (AS), also known as radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (r-axSpA), affects 1.6 million people in the US. $LLY PR link.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR132) says that Celgene(PBR203), in connection with its $74 billion merger agreement with Bristol-Myers Squibb and to satisfy US regulatory requirements, to sell its global rights to OTEZLA® (apremilast) to Amgen(PBR123) for $13.4 billion cash. $BMY PR link.

TechnipFMC(PBR334) to spinoff as two separate independent companies, 15,000 employees SpinCo, a downstream global energy company headquartered in Paris, France, and 22,000 employees RemainCo energy technology and services provider headquartered in the UK and Houston, TX, to be completed in 1H20. $FTI PR link.

Agilent Technologies(PBR532) completes $1.165 billion acquisition of privately-owned global designer, manufacturer and distributor of life science instrumentation BioTek Instruments. $A PR link.

Pitney Bowes(PBR661) to sell its Software Solutions business to Syncsort for $700 million in cash, to close by 12/31/19. $PBI PR link.

Verisk Analytics(PBR830) to acquire UK based Daily Mail and General Trust(Lon:DMGT)‘s global provider of real-time data and intelligence for commodity and energy markets Genscapefor $364 million cash. $VRSK PR link.

Kaman Corp(PBR911) completes $700 million cash sale of its 2,200 employees $1.1 billion in revenues in 2018 Distribution segment to affiliates of Littlejohn & Co. $KAMN PR link.

AT&T(PBR9)‘s biggest business unit, AT&T Communications, CEO John Donovan to retire effective 10/01/19, successor to be named later. $T PR link.

Aramark(PBR195) Chairman/President/CEO Eric Foss retires, to remain in advisory capacity until 10/02/19, Lead Independent Director Stephen Sadove named non-Executive Chairman, Office of the CEO formed, successor search starts. $ARMK PR link.

LAM Research(PBR279) Chairman Stephen G. Newberry to retire on 11/04/19, lead independent director Abhijit Y. Talwalkar to be successor. $LRCX PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank of Chicagosays the US Preliminary July 2019 National Activity Index is at -0.36, June 2019 was at +0.03, May 2019 -0.10, July 2018 +0.27. ChiFed PR link.

***Friday, August 23:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 34 ending 08/23/19:

DJIA ends Week 34 at 25,628.90, -0.99% from last Friday, -4.60% MTD, -3.65% QTD, +9.87% YTD, -6.32% from record 27,359.16 set 07/15/19.

NASDAQ ends Week 34 at 7,751.77, -1.83% from last Friday, -5.18% MTD, -3.18% QTD, +16.83% YTD, -6.94% from record 8,330.21 set 07/26/19.

SPX ends Week 34 at 2,847.11, -1.44% from last Friday, -4.47% MTD, -3.22% QTD, +13.57% YTD, -5.91% from record 3,025.86 set 07/26/19.

The Week 34 News Summary: The same old story continues as the big news of the week again was US/China trade issues as both China and the US threatened or imposed additional tariffs on each other. The US economy continues to be good, as indicated in the FOMC minutes released during the week, but the word “recession” keeps popping up more and more, while the global economy continues to shift down, and will be a discussion item at the G-7 meeting that starts this weekend in France. Corporate earnings were again mixed. Through Thursday it looked like it was going to finally be a week for The Stock Market Bull, but Friday’s tariffs war changed all that and sent the stock exchanges into a near death spiral much to The Stock Market Bear‘s delight as he claims another 3-0 victory, his 4th week in a row.

The Week 34 of 2019 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 16 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 12 weeks
Mixed Results: 6 weeks

Dick’s Sporting Goods(PBR352 $DKS)removed hunting category, including guns, from 125 more stores. MarketWatch PR link.

Insperity(PBR628) adds 700,000 shares to share repurchase program, around 1,519,000 shares now available. $NSP PR link.

Tractor Supply(PBR377) extends employment contract by 1 year for CEO Greg Sandfort who will continue to serve as CEO until a successor is appointed and will assist in the transition. $TSCO PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says the US Preliminary July 2019 New Family Home Sales Annual Rate is at 635,000 units, -12.8% from June 2019, +4.3% from July 2018; July 2019 Median New Home Sales Price is at $312,800, +2.2% from June 2019, -4.5% from July 2018. USDOC PR link.

***Thursday, August 22:

World Fuel(PBR77) to acquire Universal Weather and Aviation’s Houston, TX based 5,000 locations UVair® fuel business for around $170 million, to close by 12/31/19. $INT PR link.

Raytheon(PBR106) to build a 200,000 sf facility supporting 500 new high-tech jobs at its Space and Airborne Systems headquarters in McKinney, TX, construction will be completed in late 2020. $RTN PR link.

Las Vegas Sands(PBR228) decides not to pursue Osaka, Japan integrated resorts, will focus on Tokyo and Yokohama for new developments. $LVS PR link.

MGM Resorts(PBR256) reaffirms its commitment to an integrated resort in Osaka, Japan. $MGM PR link.

Univar(PBR343) to change its corporate name to Univar Solutions Inc, effective 09/01/19, will retain UNVR ticker symbol. $UNVR PR link.

Hasbro(PBR552) to acquire Canada based global independent studio that specialises in the development, acquisition, production, financing, distribution and sales of entertainment content, including popular pre-teen characters Peppa Pig and PJ Masks, Entertainment One Ltd(LSE: ETO) for around $4.0 billion cash, a 31% premium, to close in 4Q19. $HAS PR link.

Bristow Group(PBR966) files ammended Chapter 11 plan of reorganization, Court has approved the proposed Superpriority Secured Debtor-in-Possession Credit Agreement for an aggregate principal amount of $150 million, plans to emerge from Chapter 11 in 4Q19. $BRSWQ PR link.

HP Inc(PBR54) President/CEO Dion Weisler stepping down and returning to Australia due to family health issues, effective 10/31/19, President of HP’s Imaging, Printing and Solutions Enrique Lores appointed President/CEO, effective 11/01/19. $HPQ PR link.

The Conference Board US Preliminary July 2019 Leading Economic Index(2016=100) is at 112.2, June 2019 was at 111.7, May 2019 111.8, July 2018 110.9. “While the LEI suggests the US economy will continue to expand in the second half of 2019, it is likely to do so at a moderate pace.” TCB PR link.

***Wednesday, August 21:

Amazon(PBR5) opens new 84,000 sf office in downtown Portland, OR, for its Portland Tech Hub, to create 400 new high tech jobs. $AMZN PR link.

JPMorgan Chase(PBR26 $JPM) to incorporate Chase Pay app in more merchant websites and apps, to close stand-alone Chase Pay app in early 2020. MarketWatch PR link.

Kinder Morgan(PBR220) to sell the US portion of the Cochin Pipeline to Pembina Pipeline Corporation (TSX: PPL; NYSE: PBA) for $2.5 billion in cash/stock deal. $KMI PR link.

O’Reilly Automotive(PBR321) to acquire Guadalajara, Mexico based 1,100 employees automotive aftermarket parts in Mexico, operating five distribution centers, 20 Orma Autopartes stores and serving over 2,000 independent jobber locations in 28 Mexican states specialty retailer Mayasa, all stock transaction, to close in 4Q19. $ORLY PR link.

Vistra Energy(PBR330) to retire 4 coal-fueled power power plants in Illinois to meet the requirements of the recently approved revisions to the Multi-Pollutant Standard rule imposed by the Illinois Pollution Control Board, 300 jobs to be eliminated. $VST PR link.

UGI Corp(PBR388) completes $35.33/share, $2.45 billion acquisition of the remaining 74% of shares it did not own of largest US retail propane marketer AmeriGas Partners(NYSE: APU). $UGI PR link.

Columbia Sportwear(PBR765) purchases 3 buildings for $33 million near its Portland, OR, headquarters, 200,000 sf, 1 building to be available in 06/20, the other two in 06/21. $COLM PR link.

Splunk(PBR922) to acquire SignalFx, an SaaS provider in real-time monitoring and metrics for cloud infrastructure, microservices and applications, for $1.05 billion, 60% cash, 40% stock, to close by 01/31/20. $SPLK PR link.

Fitbit(PBR958) will be collaborating with Singapore’s Health Promotion Board on a healthy population project in support of Singapore’s Smart Nation initiative. $FIT PR link.

PerkinElmer(PBR767) Chairman/CEO Robert F. Friel to retire after 20+ years with the company on 12/29/19, President/COO Prahlad Singh appointed to the Board, effective immediately, to also become CEO on 12/30/19, lead director Alexis Michas to become Non-Executive Chairman. $PKI PR link.

The Federal Reserve Open Market Committee released the minutes from its 07/30-31/19 meeting, says, “Both total and core inflation were projected to move up slightly next year, as the low readings early this year were expected to be transitory, but nevertheless to continue to run below 2 percent.” FOMC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor/BLS says that the revised the Current Employment Statistics (CES) survey employment estimates indicate that 501,000 fewer non-farm jobs were created since March 2019 than previously reported, final report to be released in 02/20. USDOL PR link.

The Natl Assn of Realtors says the US Preliminary July 2019 Existing Home Sales Annual Rate is at 5,420,000 units, +2.5% from June 2019, +0.6% from July 2018, Median Sale Price is $280,800, -1.7% from June 2019, +4.3% from July 2018, Housing Inventory is at 1,920,000, Housing Inventory Available at 4.2 months. NAR PR link.

***Tuesday, August 20:

Walmart(PBR1 $WMT) sues Tesla(PBR140 $TSLA) over solar-panel rooftop fires.Morningstar PR link.

Facebook(PBR56) announces smartphone users can see and control the data that apps and websites share with Facebook. $FB PR link.

Tesla(PBR140) CEO Elon Musk tweets that a new residential solar roof rent option is available, starts at $50/mo, no longterm contract, can cancel at any time. $TSLA PR link.

Jacobs Engineering(PBR205) to acquire UK based 2,000 employees, $285 million in revenues/2019 program management technical and consulting services in areas such as decommissioning, nuclear new build and operational support in the civil nuclear and defense segments provider John Wood Group’s Nuclear business for an enterprise value of around $300 million, to close by 03/31/20. $JEC PR link.

Uber(PBR270 $UBER) to establish a new US General and Administrative Hub that will house various corporate functions in Dallas, TX, will create 3,000 new jobs and more than $75 million in capital investment, will also receive a Texas Enterprise Fund (TEF) grant of $24,000,000. Office of Texas Governor PR link.

Vistra Energy(PBR330) to acquire Dallas, TX based Ambit Energy with its approximately 1.1 million residential electricity customer equivalents in 17 states for $475 million plus net working capital in an all-cash transaction, to close by 12/31/19. $VST PR link.

Hasbro(PBR552) to begin phasing out plastic from new product packaging, including plastic elements like polybags, elastic bands, shrink wrap, window sheets and blister packs, beginning in 2020, ambition is to eliminate virtually all plastic in packaging for new products by the end of 2022. $HAS PR link.

Sabre Corp(PBR621) to challenge the US Dept of Justice lawsuit seeking to block the $360 million acquisition of Farelogix, reiterates benefits. $SABR PR link.

ScanSource(PBR623) wants to divest certain nondigital distribution businesses in Europe, UK, Mexico, Colombia, Chile, Peru and the Miami-based export operations, had net sales of $623 million for FY2019, have around 490 employees in these area, will focus on US, Canada and Brazil. $SCSC PR link.

Endo Intl(PBR739) to pay $10 million and provide up to $1 million of its Vasostrict® and Adrenalin® products free of charge in agreement with 2 Ohio counties to resolve Track 1 opioid cases, settlement will include no admission of wrongdoing, fault or liability of any kind by the Endo Entities, is based on the avoidance of litigation risk and associated costs. $ENDP PR link.

Plexus(PBR749) authorizes new up to $50 million share repurchase program, expires 09/30/20. $PLXS PR link.

***Monday, August 19:

Walmart(PBR1) partners with Buzzfeed’s Tastyservice, customers can add the entire ingredient list from a menu of 4,000 Tasty videos to their Walmart Online Grocery carts with one click, can then place their order for pickup or home delivery. $WMT PR link.

Amazon(PBR5) to open a new 1+ million sf fulfillment center in West Jordan, UT creating more than 800 full-time jobs starting at $15 an hour with comprehensive benefits, already has 2,000+ employees in Utah. $AMZN PR link.

Target(PBR38) introduces its newest largest owned Food & Beverage brand Good & Gather, will offer a wide range of food and beverage products that prioritize taste, quality ingredients and ease, at a great value, to be available starting 09/15/19. $TGT PR link.

Lowe’s(PBR41) to carry more than 10,000 licensed NFL-branded merchandise items on Lowes.com/NFL, will also have NFL items in select stores. $LOW PR link.

Walt Disney(PBR52) to launch its streaming service Disney+ on 11/12/19 in the US, Canada, and Netherlands, in Australia & New Zealandon 11/19/19, offering Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu bundle for $12.99/month. $DIS PR link.

Capital One(PBR93) to acquire Tysons Corner, VA based 30 employees investment banking firm focused on serving growth-oriented aerospace/defense, government services and technology companies KippsDeSanto & Co, to close in 3Q19, terms not disclosed. $COF PR link.

Avnet(PBR158) authorizes an additional $500 million share repurchase program, balance available is now $675 million. $AVT PR link.

PG&E(PBR178 $PCG) to face California court trial over its possible liability over the 2017 Tubbs fire. MarketWatch PR link.

Boston Scientific(PBR311) completes $4.2 billion cash acquisition of UK based BTG plc(LSE: BTG), which develops and commercializes products used in minimally-invasive procedures targeting cancer and vascular diseases, as well as specialty pharmaceuticals. $BSX PR link.

Boston Scientific(PBR311) gets US FDA approval of its ImageReady™ MRI labeling for the Vercise Gevia™ Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) System to be used in a full-body magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) environment which with the Vercise Cartesia™ Directional Lead, is designed to treat the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease. $BSX PR link.

PolyOne(PBR659) to sell its global provider of formulated PVC and polypropylene based solutions with around $700 million in annual sales Performance Products and Solutions(PP&S) business to SK Capital Partners for $775 million in cash, to close in 4Q19. $POL PR link.

Tailored Brands(PBR693) completes $62 million all cash sale of its corporate apparel business, which had net sales of $235.4 million in fiscal 2018, to a group led by the existing corporate apparel UK executive team. $TLRD PR link.

***Friday, August 16:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 33 ending 08/16/19:

DJIA ends Week 33 at 25,886.01, -0.1.53% from last Friday, -3.64% MTD, -2.68% QTD, +10.97% YTD, -5.38% from record 27,359.16 set 07/15/19.

NASDAQ ends Week 33 at 7,895.99, -0.79% from last Friday, -3.42% MTD, -1.38% QTD, +19.00% YTD, -5.21% from record 8,330.21 set 07/26/19.

SPX ends Week 33 at 2,888.68, -1.03% from last Friday, -3.08% MTD, -1.80% QTD, +15.23% YTD, -4.53% from record 3,025.86 set 07/26/19.

The Week 33 News Summary: The week started off ugly as the US and China exchanged tariffs and currency manipulation threats and actions. Second quarter corporate earningscontinued to be mixed. The US economic indicators still indicate a downward trend of modest and slowing growth. Some have been using the “recession” word to much alarm. As a result the US stock market had 4 volatile days of plus or minus 1% or more with Tuesday being the most dramatic with a 3% plunge for all 3 indices. The Stock Market Bull received some significant injuries in the week as The Stock Market Bear viciously slashed and gashed his way to his 3rd week in a row, and most convincing, 3-0 win.

The Week 33 of 2019 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 16 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 11 weeks
Mixed Results: 6 weeks

GE(PBR19) responds to allegations by Harry Markopolos that GE financials contain fraudulent data, says such claims are meritlous, that he did not talk to company, has conflicting interest with a hedge fund with incentives to drive GE stock price down. $GE PR link.

AbbVie(PBR92) gets US FDA approval for RINVOQ™ (upadacitinib), a 15 mg, once-daily oral Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor, for the treatment of adults with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to methotrexate (MTX-IR). $ABBV PR link.

Celgene(PBR204) gets US FDA approval for INREBIC® (fedratinib) for the treatment of adult patients with intermediate-2 or high-risk primary or secondary (post-polycythemia vera or post-essential thrombocythemia) myelofibrosis. $CELG PR link.

Edwards Lifesciences(PBR644) gets US FDA approval to expand use of the Edwards SAPIEN 3 and SAPIEN 3 Ultra transcatheter heart valve systems to the treatment of severe, symptomatic aortic stenosis (AS) patients who are determined to be at low risk of open-heart surgery. $EW PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says the US Preliminary July 2019 New Residential Construction Building Permits Issued Annual Rate is at 1,336,000, +8.4% from June 2019, +1.5% from July 2018. USDOC PR link.

The U of Michigan says the US Preliminary August 2019 Consumer Sentiment Index is at 92.1, July 2019 was at 98.4, June 2019 98.2, December 2018 98.3, August 2018 96.2. “… the August survey indicated some concerns about the future pace of income and job gains. It is likely that consumers will reduce their pace of spending while keeping the economy out of recession at least through mid 2020.” UMichigan PR link.

***Thursday, August 15:

UPS(PBR40) venture capital arm, UPS Ventures, makes a minority investment in autonomous driving company TuSimple, are testing self-driving tractor trailers on a route in Arizona to determine whether the vehicles can improve service and efficiency in the UPS® network. $UPS PR link.

JCPenney(PBR261) will soon be offering in 30 stores a sought-after selection of secondhand women’s clothing and handbags from thredUP, the world’s largest online consignment store featuring like-new styles from leading designers and brands. $JCP PR link.

Leidos(PBR302) completes acquisition of Malvern, PA based nearly 200 staff members independent medical evaluations, medical record reviews, and medical and vocational case management for insurance carriers, employers, law firms, third party administrators, and state and local government provider IMX Medical Management Services and its affiliated businesses, terms not disclosed. $LDOS PR link.

E*Trade(PBR752) CEO/Board member Karl A. Roessner is leaving, will remain as an employee of the Company in an advisory capacity until 12/31/19, COO Michael A. Pizzi appointed CEO and member of the Board, effective 08/15/19. $EFTC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary 2Q19 Labor Productivity Output/Hour Annual Rate-All Persons is at +2.6%, 1Q19 was at +3.6%, 4Q18 +0.0%, 2Q18 +2.4%. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says the US Preliminary July 2019 Total Industrial Production % of Capacity is at 77.5%, June 2019 was at 77.8%, May 77.8%, July 2018 78.8%, Capacity Growth Over Previous Year+2.2%. USFed PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the US Preliminary June 2019 Sales-Manufactures was at $506.2 billion, Retailers$455.4 billion, Wholesalers $498.5 billion, Total Sales $1.460 trillion, +0.1% from May 2019, +1.3% from June 2018. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says that the US Advance July 2019 Retail Sales-Retailis at $458.3 billion, Food Services & Drinking Places $65.2 billion, Total Retail Sales $523.5 billion, +0.7% from June 2019, +3.4% from July 2018. USDOC PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York says the Empire State August 2019 Manufacturing General Business Conditions Index is at +4.8, July 2019 was at +4.3, June 2019 -8.6, August 2018 +24.3. NYFed PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia says the 3rd District August 2019 Manufacturing General Activity Indicator is at +16.8, July 2019 was at +21.8, June 2019 +0.3, August 2018 +13.0. PhillyFed PR link.

The Natl Assn of Home Builders/Wells Fargo US August 2019 Housing Market Sentiment Composite Index is at 66, July 2019 was at 65, June 2019 64, August 2018 was at 67. “Even as builders report a firm demand for single-family homes, they continue to struggle with rising construction costs stemming from excessive regulations, a chronic shortage of workers and a lack of buildable lots …” NAHB PR link.

The Economic Policy Institute says CEOs are paid 278 times more than the average U.S. worker. MarketWatch PR link.

***Wednesday, August 14:

The US Dept of Labor says the US Preliminary July 2019 Import Prices were +0.2%, Import Prices Last 12 Months -1.8%, Export Prices+0.2%, Export Prices Last 12 Months -0.9%. USDOL PR link.

***Tuesday, August 13:

Kraft Heinz(PBR108) says in 2Q19 report it is eliminating 400 positions in restructuring effort(pg 24). $KHC PR link.

CBS(PBR213) and Viacom(PBR242) to combine in an all-stock merger, will create a combined company named ViacomCBS with more than $28 billion in revenue, CBS President/CEO Bob Bakish to be ViacomCBS President/CEO, to close by 12/31/19. $CBS PR link.

Advance Auto Parts(PBR318) in 2Q19 report authorizes new $400 million share repurchase program, replaces previous 08/18 authorization for $600 million. $AAP PR link.

Genworth Financial(PBR354) to sell its majority interest in Genworth MI Canada, the largest private sector residential mortgage insurer in Canada, to Brookfield Business Partners L.P. (NYSE: BBU) (TSX: BBU.UN) for net cash proceeds of $1.8 billion, to close by 12/31/19, should increase the likelihood of subsequently completing the acquisition of Genworth by China Oceanwide Holdings Group by 12/31/19. $GNW PR link.

CIT Group(PBR849) to acquire $6.8 billion in deposits, $4.5 billion of which are HOA deposits from more than 31,000 community associations nationwide, Mutual of Omaha Bank, for $1 billion cash and stock, to close in 1Q20. $CIT PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR131) appoints Mark McLaughlin as Chairman, effective immediately, succeeds Jeff Henderson who remains a Board member. $QCOM PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US Preliminary July 2019 Employee Current Average Earnings Per Hour is at $27.98, Average Hours Worked Per Week is at 34.3, Average Current Weekly Earnings are at $959.71, -0.0% from June 2019, +2.6% from July 2018. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US July 2019 Consumer Price Index-All Items is at +0.3%, June 2019 was at +0.1%, May 2019 +0.1%, July 2018 +0.2%, Last 12 Months +1.8%. USDOL PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York Center for Microeconomic Data says the US 2Q19 Total Household Debt-Housing Debt is at $9.81 trillion, Non-Housing Debt $4.06 trillion, Total $13.87 trillion, the twentieth consecutive quarter with an increase, and the total is now $1.2 trillion higher, in nominal terms, than the previous peak of $12.68 trillion in the 3Q08. NYFED PR link.

CoreLogic says the US May 2019 Housing Mortgages 30 Days or More Delinquent is at 3.6%, April 2019 was at 3.6%, March 2019 4.0%, May 2018 4.2%. “The 30-plus delinquency rate, the most comprehensive measure of mortgage performance, is at an over 10-year low.” CoreLogic PR link.

***Monday, August 12:

Verizon(PBR18) Media unit to sell its media network powered by a massive community of independent creators and home to 475 million blogs Tumblr service to WordPress parent Automattic, terms not disclosed. $VZ PR link.

Tyson(PBR75) to rebuild fire damaged Kansas beef plant and pay fulltime workers during construction. $TSN PR link.

Universal Forest Products(PBR564) to change its name to UFP Industries, Inc, effective 01/01/20, to restructure from geography emphasis to markets served emphasis, better reflects its wider user base, will retain UFPI stock symbol. $UFPI PR link.

Rite Aid(PBR138) hires Heyward Donigan as CEO and member of the Board, effective immediately, succeeds CEO John Standley who steps down as planned. $RAD PR link.

SpartanNash(PBR371) accepts resignation of President/CEO and Board member Dave Staples, Chairman and former CEO(2008-2017) Dennis Eidson appointed to the additional roles of Interim President/CEO, effective immediately; has made the decision to exit its Indianapolis-based $20 million revenues/year Fresh Kitchenoperations to improve operating earnings and EBITDA results within the Food Distribution segment. $SPTN PR link.

YUM!(PBR485) President/COO David Gibbs to become CEO on 01/01/20, member of the Board on 11/01/19, will succeed Greg Creed who is retiring at end of 2019 after 25 years with YUM! $YUM PR link.

The US Dept of the Treasury says the US July 2019 Federal Government Receipts were $251.3 billion, Outlays $371.0 billion, Deficit$119.7 billion; the US July 2019 Federal Government Receipts YTD(10 months) are at $2.860 trillion, Outlays YTD $3.727 trillion, Deficit YTD $866.8 billion; US July 2018 Federal Government Deficit YTD was $684.0 billion. USTreasury PR link.

***Friday, August 9:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 32 ending 08/09/19:

DJIA ends Week 32 at 26,287.44, -0.75% from last Friday, -2.15% MTD, -1.17% QTD, +12.69% YTD, -3.92% from record 27,359.16 set 07/15/19.

NASDAQ ends Week 32 at 7,959.14, -0.56% from last Friday, -2.65% MTD, -0.59% QTD, +19.95% YTD, -4.45% from record 8,330.21 set 07/26/19.

SPX ends Week 32 at 2,918.65, -0.46% from last Friday, -2.07% MTD, -0.79% QTD, +16.43% YTD, -3.54% from record 3,025.86 set 07/26/19.

The Week 32 News Summary: Over the weekend the US was rocked by more senseless gun violence with shootings in El Paso, TX, and then Dayton, OH, following a shooting a week earlier at the Gilroy Garlic Festival in California. Controversial visits to Dayton and El Paso by President Trump and the First Lady followed, with President Trump saying a solution needs to be found, and might include background checks. The US/China trade warstook a turn down as China devalued its currency to offset the tariffs threatened by President Trump, who also indicated at the end of the week that scheduled trade talks next week might not occur, that he was not in a hurry to make a trade deal. As 2nd quarter corporate earnings reports wind down the results are very mixed. Economic reports like wholesale trade and the Producer Price Index continue to indicate a modestly growing economy at this time. The Stock Market Bear had his best day in a long time on Monday with all 3 major US exchanges finishing around 3% off from the previous Friday. But The Stock Market Bull countered aggressively Tuesday through Thursday to get back even, but was too exhausted to complete the comeback on Friday. The Stock Market Bear wins Week 32, his second week in a row, 3-0.

The Week 32 of 2019 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 16 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 10 weeks
Mixed Results: 6 weeks

Gilead Sciences(PBR133) gets China National Medical Products Administration (NMPA)approval for Biktarvy® (bictegravir 50mg/emtricitabine 200mg/tenofovir alafenamide 25mg, BIC/FTC/TAF), a once-daily single tablet regimen (STR) for the treatment of HIV-1infection, 150,000 new HIV-1 cases reported in China in 2018. $GILD PR link.

PG&E(PBR178) in 2Q19 report says it has taken an additional $3.9 billion pre-tax charge for estimated third-party claims related to the 2017 Northern California wildfires and the 2018 Camp fire. $PCG PR link.

Sears(PBR180 $SHLDQ) parent Transform Holdings(aka the new Sears) to close an additional 26 Sears and Kmart stores, liquidation sales to start 08/15/19. MarketWatch PR link.

Netflix(PBR194 $NFLX) snags ‘Game of Thrones’ creators David Benioff and D.B. Weiss away from HBO in $200-$300 million mega-deal to create and develop series and movies exclusively for the streaming giant.MarketWatch PR link.

JCPenney(PBR261) confirms receipt of NYSE listing non-compliance for stock price being under $1.00 per share for 30 or more days, has 6 months to remedy, might do a reverse stock split at next shareholders annual meeting. $JCP PR link.

Diplomat Pharmacy(PBR497) is reviewing strategic alternatives to increase shareholder value, includes possible sale or merger. $DPLO PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US Preliminary July 2019 Producer Price Index for Final Demand-Goods is +0.4%, Services -0.1%, Total Final Demand +0.2%, June 2019 was at +0.1%, May 2019 +0.1%, July 2018 +0.1%, Last 12 Months +1.7%. USDOL PR link.

***Thursday, August 8:

The July 2019 Snapshot 15 Summary: The PBR1000 Top 5 By Market Capitalization (Rank, Company, PBR Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 07/31/19 Market Capitalization):

1. Microsoft, PBR25, $MSFT, $1,075 billion
2. Apple, PBR3, $AAPL, $961 billion
3. Amazon.com, PBR5, $AMZN, $939 billion
4. Alphabet, PBR15, $GOOG, $851 billion
5. Facebook, PBR56, $FB, $562 billion

Range: $1,075 billion to $0.00 billion
Total: $28.524 trillion, +3.23% from 06/28/19, +20.72% from 12/31/18, +10.08% from 12/29/17
Average: $28.524 billion
Median: $8.09 billion

Archer-Daniels-Midland(PBR48) extends current 100,000,000 shares repurchase program from 12/31/19 expiration to 12/31/24, adds an additional 100,000,000 shares to the program. $ADM PR link.

American Airlines(PBR66) announces first entrance to Africa with flights to Morocco starting in 05/20, expands other international flights into Eastern Europe. $AAL PR link.

Starbucks(PBR115) and global partner Nestleannounce a new premium coffee experience for Chinese consumers with the introduction of Starbucks At Home and “We Proudly Serve Starbucks® Coffee” integrated business solutions in Foodservice channels, includes 21 products, including whole bean and roast and ground packaged coffees, as well as the first-ever jointly developed Starbucks capsules. $SBUX PR link.

Broadcom(PBR146) to acquire the enterprise security business of Symantec(PBR541) for $10.7 billion in cash, to close by 1Q20. $AVGO PR link.

Occidental(PBR160) completes $55 billion acquisition of Anadarko(PBR233), includes $17 billion of debt. $OXY PR link.

Graphic Packaging(PBR472) to make $600 million investment in a new coated recycled board (CRB) machine in the Midwest with annual capacity of approximately 500,000 tons. $GPK PR link.

Conduent(PBR505) in 2Q19 report says it will conduct both a strategic and operational review of the company and each line of business; CEO search process suspended in conjunction with the review. $CNDT PR link.

Roper Technologies(PBR518) to acquire cloud-based software solutions provider for the life insurance and annuity industries serving over 500,000 agents iPipeline for $1.625 billion cash, to close in 3Q19. $ROP PR link.

Laureate Education(PBR683) authorizes new up to $150 million stock repurchase program of its Class A common stock, expects to complete by 06/30/20. $LAUR PR link.

La-Z-Boy(PBR934) to close its Redlands, CA, upholstery manufacturing facility in 10/19 and move production to available capacity at its other N American facilities, will impact 350 employees; will transition the leather cut-and-sew operation from its Newton, MS upholstery manufacturing plant to its other N American-based cut-and-sew facility, will affect 105 of 525 employees at that location. $LZB PR link.

Vitamin Shoppe(PBR995) to be acquired by Liberty Tax(OTC PINK: TAXA) for $6.50/share, $208 million cash, a 43% premium to its closing share price on 08/07/19, to be completed in 4Q19. $VSI PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the US Preliminary June 2019 Wholesale Sales-Durable Goods was at $241.2 billion, Non-Durable Goods $257.3 billion, Total $498.5 billion, -0.3% from May 2019, -0.2% from June 2018. USDOC PR link.

***Wednesday, August 7:

The July 2019 Snapshot 12 Summary: The PBR1000 Top 5 Stock Price Performers Since 12/29/17(19 Months)(Rank, Company, PBR Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 07/31/19 Stock Price, % Increase from 12/31/18):

1. AMD, PBR444, $AMD, $30.45, +196%
2. Chipotle, PBR536, $CMG, $795.53, +175%
3. Rent-A-Center, PBR794, $RCII, $27.03, +144%
4. FTI Consulting, PBR884, $FCN, $104.45, +143%
5. Square, PBR691, $SQ, $80.41, +132%

Range: +196% to -99%
Number of Companies at 0% or Better:482/993
Average: +7.12%(PBR399)
Median: -1.59%(PBR496)
DJIA: +8.68%
NASDAQ: +18.43%
SPX: +11.47%

Tomorrow: The PBR1000 July 2019 Top 5 By Market Capitalization.

Walmart(PBR1 $WMT) considering strategic options for its Modcloth unit acquired in 2017.Glossy PR link.

FedEx(PBR43 $FDX) to end ground deliveries for Amazon(PBR5), contract ends after 08/31/19. MarketWatch PR link.

Nike(PBR79) has acquired Celect, a leading retail predictive analytics and demand sensing firm based in Boston, MA, terms not disclosed. $NKE PR link.

Salesforce(PBR238) to acquire cloud based field service management solutions developer and provider ClickSoftware for around $1.35 billion, to close by 10/31/19. $CRM PR link.

Huntsman(PBR328) to sell its chemical intermediates businesses, which includes PO/MTBE, and its surfactants businesses located in Texas and Australia to Indorama Ventures for $2.076 billion, to close by 12/31/19. $HUN PR link.

AMC Entertainment(PBR499) crosses 900,000 members paying $19.95-$23.95/month, depending on state, for its AMC Stubs A-Listprogram. $AMC PR link.

IAC(PBR589) in 2Q19 letter to shareholders says it is considering spinning its two large publicly traded subsidiaries, MTCH and ANGI, evaluating options, also is largest investor with $250 million large minority investment in new global marketplace called Turo, a car sharing service provider. $IAC PR link.

TransDigm(PBR631) to sell its Esterline Interface Technologies group of businesses, part of 03/19 acquisition of Esterline Technologies, to an affiliate of KPS Capital Partners for approximately $190 million,to close in 1Q20. $TDG PR link.

Barnes & Noble(PBR659) $6.50/share, around $683 million acquisition by UK affiliates of Elliott Management is completed. $BKS PR link.

Groupon(PBR795) launches Groupon Select, a $4.99/mo membership program, benefits include an extra 25% off local deals in your neighborhood, an extra 15% off plus free shipping on all Groupon Goods orders and an extra 10% off travel, live events and tickets. $GRPN PR link.

Blue Apron($APRN) to end pilot partnership with Walmart(PBR1 $WMT)’s Jet.com but continue with WW(PBR957 $WW)(fka Weight Watchers). MarketWatch PR link.

Conduent(PBR505) President/COO Cliff Skelton appointed interim CEO, effective immediately, succeeds Ashok Vemuri per plan announced 05/08/19. $CNDT PR link.

The US Federal Reserve System says the US Preliminary June 2019 Consumer Credit Outstanding-Revolving is at $1.072 trillion, Non-Revolving $3.031 trillion, Total $4.102 trillion, +0.4% from May 2019, +2.3% YTD(7 Months), +5.3% from June 2018. USFED PR link.

FannieMae(PBR21) says the US July 2019 Home Purchase Sentiment Index is at 93.7, June 2019 was at 91.5, May 2019 92.0, July 2018 86.5. “Consumer job confidence and favorable mortgage rate expectations lifted the HPSI to a new survey high in July, despite ongoing housing supply and affordability challenges…” $FNMA PR link.

***Tuesday, August 5:

The July 2019 Snapshot 12 Summary: The PBR1000 Top 5 Stock Price Performers YTD(7 Months)(Rank, Company, PBR Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 07/31/19 Stock Price, % Increase from 12/31/18):

1. Diebold Nixdorf, PBR554, $DBD, $13.91, +459%
2. Snap, PBR990, $SNAP, $16.80, +205%
3. Avon Products, PBR492, $AVP, $4.25, +180%
4. SunPower, PBR936, $SPWR, $11.69, +135%
5. FannieMae, PBR21, $FNMA, $2.28, +115%

Range: +459% to -99%
Number of Companies at 0% or Better:777/994
Average: +19.92%(#440)
Median: +17.19%(#497)
DJIA: +15.16%
NASDAQ: +23.21%
SPX: +18.89%

Tomorrow: The PBR1000 Top 5 Stock Performers Since 12/29/17(19 Months).

Amazon(PBR5) expanding test of Amazon Scout self-driving delivery cooler sized 6 wheel vehicle currently available near Amazon’s Seattle headquarters to include Irvine, CA. $AMZN PR link.

Amazon(PBR5) starts new and current Prime Student members subscription to Amazon Music Unlimited to get more than 50 million songs plus thousands of curated playlists and stations at the new price of $0.99/month. $AMZN PR link.

Walt Disney(PBR52 $DIS) sets high bar with new $12.99 streaming bundle for Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu, to be available 11/12/19.MarketWatch PR link.

Cisco(PBR62) to acquire privately held Mountain View, CA based meeting transcription, voice search, and meeting highlights/action items, with robust data privacy provider Voicea, terms not disclosed. $CSCO PR link.

Aramark(PBR195) authorizes up to $200 million share repurchase program, expires 07/31/22. $AMRK PR link.

Aramark(PBR195) acquires privately-held Good Uncle, an app-based on-demand food delivery service that brings freshly prepared, restaurant quality meals to conveniently located pick-up points around college campuses, terms not disclosed. $ARMK PR link.

MasterCard(PBR208) to acquire the clearing and instant payment services, and e-billing solutions businesses of European paytech company Nets’ Corporate Services unit for approximately $3.19 billion, to close in 1H20. $MA PR link.

CBS(PBR213) and Nextstar Media(PBR770)sign multi-year agreement that renews CBS network affiliations for Nexstar stations in fifteen markets that reach approximately 5% of the US audience and nearly six million households. $CBS PR link.

Viacom(PBR242) to acquire Paws, Inc., the entity holding global intellectual property rights to the Garfield and the U.S. Acres franchises, including corresponding rights related to content, consumer products, and location-based experiences, to close in the upcoming weeks. $VIA PR link.

Fox Corp(PBR304) Entertainment division has acquired Emmy® Award-winning animation studio production company Bento Box Entertainment, developer of “Bob’s Burgers. $FOX PR link.

Fifth Third Bancorp(PBR375) will raise its minimum wage to $18/hour for approximately 4,900 employees beginning 10/28/19, previously raised minimum wage from $12/hour to $15/hour in 01/18. $FITB PR link.

Kelly Services(PBR495) President/CEO George Corona to retire on 09/30/19, will remain on the Board, EVP Peter Quigley to become President/CEO and Board member on 10/01/19. $KELYA PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US Preliminary June 2019 Job Openings-Private were at 6,629,000, Government 719,000, Total7,348,000, -0.5% from May 2019, -0.6% from June 2018. USDOL PR link.

The PurdueU/CME Group US July 2019 Ag Economy Barometer Composite Index is at 153, June 2019 was at 126, May 2019 101, July 2018 117. “… the big driver of the overall sentiment improvement was producers’ improved perspective on current conditions.” PurdueU/CME PR link.

***Monday, August 5:

The July 2019 Snapshot 11 Summary: The PBR1000 Top 5 Month Performers(Rank, Company, PBR Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 07/31/19 Stock Price, % Increase from 06/28/19):

1. Tower Intl, PBR951, $TOWR, $30.80, +58%
2. Dean Foods, PBR384, $DF, $1.45, +58%
3. Diebold Nixdorf, PBR554, $DBD, $13.91, +52%
4. Quad/Graphics, PBR595, $QUAD, $11.31, +43%
5. GNC, PBR839, $GNC, $2.08, +39%

Range: +58% to -73%
Number of Companies at 0% or Better:550/1,000
Average: +0.84%(#482)
Median: +0.69%(#500)
DJIA: +0.99%
NASDAQ: +2.11%
SPX: +1.31%

Tomorrow: The PBR1000 Top 5 Stock Performers Since 12/31/18(7 Months).

Hewlett Packard Enterprises(PBR97) has acquired the business assets of MapR, a leading data platform for artificial intelligence and analytics applications powered by scale-out, multi-cloud and multi-protocol file system technology, terms not disclosed. $HPE PR link.

Textron(PBR226) is reviewing strategic alternatives for its Bonn, Germany based Kautex business unit, which produces fuel systems and other functional components, operates over 30 plants in 14 countries and generated over $2.3 billion in revenue in 2018, options include a sale, tax-free spin-off or other transaction. $TXT PR link.

Fox Corp(PBR304) to acquire 67% of equity in provider of a differentiated and personalized experience for consumers to compare instant, accurate pre-qualified rates from multiple financial institutions across student loans, personal loans and mortgages Credible Labs(ASX: CRD) for around $265 million, will commit an additional $75 million of growth capital over 2 years, to close in 4Q19. $FOX PR link.

LPL Financial(PBR519) completes acquisition of 33 advisors, $3 billion in client assets, Allen & Company of Florida, terms not disclosed. $LPLA PR link.

Gannett(PBR745) to be acquired by New Media Investment Group(NYSE: NEWM) for $12.06/share cash and stock, around an 18% premium, around $1.35 billion, New Media’s current Chairman/CEO Michael Reed to be lead executive, Gannett’s newly appointed CEO Paul Bascobert will become CEO of the combined company’s operating subsidiary. $GCI PR link.

The Institute for Supply Management says the US July 2019 Non-Manufacturing Index(>50%=Economy growing) is at 53.7%, June 2019 was at 55.1%, May 2019 56.9%, July 2018 56.7%. “Respondents indicated ongoing concerns related to tariffs and employment resources. Comments remained mixed about business conditions and the overall economy.” ISM PR link.

The IHS Markit US July 2019 Composite PMI Output Index is at 52.6, June 2019 was at 51.5, May 2019 50.9, July 2018 55.7. “The rise was led by service providers who registered a faster increase in output, with manufacturers only recording a slight upturn in production.” IHS Markit PR link.

TD Ameritrade(PBR500) reviews its July 2019 Investor Movement Index(IMX) for the record month. $AMTD PR link.

***Friday, August 2:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 31 ending 08/02/19:

DJIA ends Week 31 at 26,485.01, -2.60% from last Friday, -1.41% MTD, -0.43% QTD, +13.54% YTD, -3.20% from record 27,359.16 set 07/15/19.

NASDAQ ends Week 31 at 8,004.07, -3.92% from last Friday, -2.10% MTD, -0.03% QTD, +20.63% YTD, -3.92% from record 8,330.21 set 07/26/19.

SPX ends Week 31 at 2,932.05, -3.10% from last Friday, -1.62% MTD, -0.33% QTD, +16.96% YTD, -3.10% from record 3,025.86 set 07/26/19.

The Week 31 News Summary: At the beginning of the week most attention was focused on the US Federal Reserve. On Wednesday they knocked 0.25% off the federal short term funds rate. International trade was also a hot issue as the US/China talks appear to not have made much progress, they plan to meet again in September. N Korea lobbed some missiles into the sea as a protest against planned US/S Korea military exercises. In US politics the Democrats held their second round of debates featuring 20 wannabe challengers to President Trump, former VP Joe Biden continues to be the leader. Capital One announced that information on 100 million US people had been hacked. Corporate earnings were mostly mixed. The US economyis growing modestly, but jobs and wage growth are bright spots. The Stock Market Bearseverely clawed The Stock Market Bull, especially after the funds rate cut, and eagerly takes Week 31 3-0.

The Week 31 of 2019 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 16 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 9 weeks
Mixed Results: 6 weeks

Manpower(PBR134) authorizes new 6 million shares share repurchase program, is in addition to the share repurchase program authorized in 08/18, of which approximately 1.9 million shares remained available on 06/30/19. $MAN PR link.

YUM(PBR485 $YUM) Pizza Hut unit will close hundreds of locations to focus on carry out and delivery. MarketWatch PR link.

Hill-Rom(PBR758) to acquire Irvine, CA based $10 million in revenues/year Breathe Technologies, Inc, developer and manufacturer of a patented wearable, non-invasive ventilation technology that supports improved patient mobility, for $130 million cash. $HRC PR link.

Bristow Group(PBR966) files Chapter 11 plan of reorganization and a related disclosure statement with the US Bankruptcy Court, reaffirms plan to emerge from Chapter 11 Bankruptcy in 4Q19. $BRSWQ PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says that the US July 2019 Available Work Force is at 163,351,000, Employed at 157,288,000, +223,000 from June 2019, +1,264,000 from July 2018, Unemployedat 6,123,000, +147,000 from June 2019, -122,000 from July 2018, Unemployment Rateis at 3.7%, June 2019 was at 3.7%, July 2018 was at 3.8%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says the US June 2019 Exports-Goods were at $137.1 billion, Services $69.2 billion, Total Exports $206.3 billion, June 2019 Imports-Goods were at $212.2 billion, Services $49.2 billion, Total Imports $261.4 billion, June 2019 Deficit $55.1 billion, June 2019 Deficit YTD(6 months) is at $316.3 billion, June 2018 Deficit YTD was $293.7 billion. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the US Preliminary June 2019 Manufacturing New Orders-Durable Goods were at $245.4 billion, Non-Durable Goods $248.4 billion, Total Manufacturing Orders $493.8 billion, +0.6% from May 2019, -1.6% from June 2018, June 2019 Total YTD(6 months) is at $2.982 trillion, +0.6% from June 2018 Total YTD. USDOC PR link.

The U of Michigan US Final July 2019 Consumer Sentiment Index is at 98.4, June 2019 was at 98.2, May 2019 100.0, July 2018 97.9. “… consumers do not anticipate a rapid acceleration in income growth rates, nor do they expect significant changes in inflation and unemployment rates. Consumers have not ignored mounting policy uncertainties as they have begun to take precautionary measures to increase savings and reduce debt.” UMichigan PR link.

***Thursday, August 1:

DuPont(PBR34) in 2Q19 report says it has authorized a $2 billion share repurchase program, $250 million repurchased to date. $DD PR link.

Target(PBR38) is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its first designer partnership, bringing back nearly 300 original, iconic items from 20 past designer partnerships, scheduled for Fall 2019. $TGT PR link.

Lowe’s(PBR41 $LOW) eliminating thousands of jobs, to outsource jobs of maintenance and assembly workers to third-party companies. MSN PR link.

3M(PBR90) completes $230 million sale of its 500 employees gas and flame detection business to Teledyne(PBR747). $MMM PR link.

3M(PBR90) says over 5,000 lawsuits against the 3M™ Bair Hugger™ system have been dismissed in Minnesota federal court, decision does not dismiss two similar cases filed in state courts in Missouri and Texas. $MMM PR link.

Salesforce(PBR236) completes $15.7 billion all-stock acquisition of self-service analytics platform provider Tableau Software(NYSE: DATA). $CRM PR link.

Icahn Enterprises(PBR289) completes around $550 million sale of its 77% stake in majority-owned subsidiary Ferrous Resources Limitedto a wholly-owned subsidiary of Brazil based Vale SA. $IEP PR link.

Campbell Soup(PBR340) to sell its Australia brand Arnott’s, $885 million in the latest 12 months and approximately 3,800 employees, and certain of Campbell’s International operations to KKR(PBR832) for $2.2 billion cash, to close in 1H20. $CPB PR link.

Dick’s Sporting Goods(PBR351) launches its own apparel brand, DSG, available at its stores and its online site only. $DKS PR link.

UGI Corp(PBR389) Energy Services subsidiary completes around $1.275 billion acquisition of Columbia Midstream Group of a subsidiary of TC Energy Corporation (NYSE: TRP). $UGI PR link.

TreeHouse Foods(PBR479) completes $90 million sale of its Snacks Division, to generate around $670 million in revenues in 2019, to 17,000 employees in 150 locations worldwide Atlas Holdings. $THS PR link.

Western Union(PBR489) in 2Q19 report says implementing a new Global Strategy designed to drive improved efficiency, profitability, and long-term revenue growth, will include headcount reduction of approximately 10% and a consolidation of corporate and business offices. $WU PR link.

Terex(PBR521) has completed the sale of its Demag® Mobile Cranes business to Tadano Ltd for an enterprise value of approximately $215 million. $TEX PR link.

SAIC(PBR546) COO Nazzic S Keene is now CEO as planned, succeeds Tony Moraco who has retired. $SAIC PR link.

Penn Natl Gaming(PBR656)‘s Tim Wilmott to retire as CEO and Board member effective 12/31/19, President/COO Jay Snowden to be successor on 01/01/20. $PENN PR link.

GoDaddy(PBR795) CEO Scott Wagner is stepping down for health reasons, effective 09/04/19, Aman Bhutani hired as successor. $GDDY PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the US Preliminary June 2019 Construction Spending Annual Rate-Residential is at $513.2 billion, Non-Residential was at $773.8 billion, Total $1.287 trillion, -1.3% from May 2019, -2.1% from June 2018. USDOC PR link.

The Institute for Supply Management says the US July 2019 Manufacturing PMI Index(>50%=economy expanding) is at 51.2%, June 2019 was at 51.7%, May 2019 52.1%, July 2018 58.1%. “Respondents expressed less concern about U.S.-China trade turbulence, but trade remains a significant issue. More respondents noted supply chain adjustments as a result of moving manufacturing from China. Overall, sentiment this month is evenly mixed…” ISM PR link.

The IHS Markit US July 2019 Manufacturing PMI is at 50.4, June 2019 was at 50.6, May 2019 50.5, July 2018 55.3. “The latest reading signalled a fractional improvement in the health of the manufacturing sector, but also indicated the slowest overall expansion since the height of the financial crisis in September 2009.”IHS Markit PR link.

***Wednesday, July 31:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for July 2019 ending 07/31/19:

DJIA ends July 2019 at 26,864.27, -1.21% from last Friday, +0.99% MTD/QTD, +15.16% YTD, -1.81% from record 27,359.16 set 07/15/19.

NASDAQ ends July 2019 at 8,175.42, -1.86% from last Friday, +2.11% MTD/QTD, +23.21% YTD, -1.86% from record 8,330.21 set 07/26/19.

SPX ends July 2019 at 2,980.38, -1.50% from last Friday, +1.31% MTD/QTD, +18.89% YTD, -1.50% from record 3,025.86 set 07/26/19.

The July 2019 YTD(7 months) tally is:
The Stock Market Bull: 6 months
The Stock Market Bear: 1 month
Mixed Results: 0 months

Check out the BLOG page for the previous RECAPS and SNAPSHOTS posts.

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PBRMarketTools.com provides news, data, and analysis on 1,000 of the largest publicly held companies with primary operations in the US. The data and analysis is included in The PBR1000 Monthly Snapshots, an MS-Excel workbook with 15 snapshot worksheets, 27 rankings, and over 200 fields of data and information on each company. Click here to find out more!

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Filed Under: Recaps Tagged With: acquisitions, Business, Business Intelligence, business news, Economy, Leadership, Market Research, Marketing, mergers, Money, Rankings, Research, Sales, Snapshots, Spotlight, Stock Market, Stocks, The PBR1000, Trading, Wealth Management

The PBR1000 Welcomes Elanco Animal Health!

August 8, 2019 by admin

The PBR1000 Profile: Elanco Animal Health

The PBR1000: Empowering Astute Business Leaders and Shrewd Investors Through The PBR1000 Analytics!

The PBR1000 Welcomes Elanco Animal Health!

Date Added: 10/21/19
Products/Services: Animal health and food-animal production
Ticker: NYSE: ELAN, $27.02 on 10/31/19
Current The PBR1000 Rankings:
720 By Revenues: $3.1 billion
447 By Market Capitalization: $10.12 billion(10/31/19)
479 By Assets: $9.0 billion
761 By Employees: 5,780
334 By Analyst Estimates: Overweight, 4.09/5.00, 11 estimates, Average Target Price $33.43(11/08/19)

To get the complete profile for Elanco Animal Health and for all 1,000 of The PBR1000 click here!

PBRMarketTools.com provides The PBR1000, a compilation of 1,000 of the largest publicly held companies with primary operations in the US. These companies generate $14 trillion in annual revenues, more than all other US companies combined. The PBR1000 Monthly Snapshots provides these 1,000 companies in Excel format, includes 15 worksheets with 28 rankings, over 200 data/information points, hotlinks to key data, and important news items per company.

Empowering Astute Business Leaders and Shrewd Investors Through The PBR1000 Analytics!

Disclaimers: The PBR1000 is compiled from a variety of publicly available resources. As such, PBRMarketTools.com is not responsible for the data itself. Any liability for the representations or decisions based on the data is solely the responsibility of the authorized user, not PBRMarketTools.com, its employees or affiliates. PBRMarketTools.com is a provider of news, data, and analysis, and is not a financial advisor firm.

This The PBR1000 Spotlight is provided by:

Filed Under: Spotlight Tagged With: Business Intelligence, business news, Elan, Elanco, Investing, Rankings, Research, Spotlight, Stock Market, Stocks, The PBR1000

The PBR1000 July 2019 Stocks & Commodities Snapshots

August 5, 2019 by admin

July 2019 The PBR1000: The Stock Market Bull Sets Some Records

The Stock Market Bull had a good start to the 2nd half of 2019, setting records in all 3 major US stock exchanges. With global and US economies still growing, but more slowly, can he maintain the momentum for the rest of the year?

By Larry C. Paxton

The PBR1000 July 2019 News Summary: The stage for July was set at the end of June when US President Trump met with China President Xi Jinping at the G20 Summit in Osaka, Japan. While there were no decisions, trade negotiations were on and off during July, the next meetings scheduled for September. President Trump also had an historic meeting with N Korea President Kim Jong-un at the DMZ, briefly entered into N Korea, and had a much longer chat than expected with Kim Jong-un afterwards. But at the end of July N Korea fired some short range rockets labelled as a kind of protest against scheduled joint US/S Korea and allies military exercises. Iran apparently attacked some oil ships, and they have exceeded the enriched nuclear material levels agreed to in a treaty the US withdrew from. UK Prime Minister Theresa May was unable to negotiate an acceptable Brexit agreement, stepped down, and the controversial and flamboyant Boris Johnson is the new PM, making Brexit his top priority. The European Central Bank signaled future funds rate cuts. The US celebrated the 243rd anniversary of Independence Day on July 4th. The US Women’s Soccer team won the World Cup. Tropical Storm Barry struck Louisiana and other Southern states, but damage was not as extensive as had been anticipated. The month started out with a strong US jobs report. 2Q19 corporate earningsreports started and are mixed with Boeing being hit by the continuing issues with its 737 MAX airplane. Robert Mueller appeared before a couple of congressional committees for hearings on his report concerning Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election and possible collusion by the Trump campaign, with no additional clarity. Capital One was hit with a large hack that is causing identity theft concerns. The Democrat Party sponsored 2 debates with 10 presidential candidates each, Joe Biden continues to be the front runner. On the last day of the month the Federal Open Market Committee approved a 0.25% cut in the federal funds rate, and each of the major US stock exchanges took >1% drop. The Gross Domestic Product Annual Rate came in at +2.1%, indicating slower growth. The 3 major US Stock Exchanges all hit records during the month, and even with the significant drop on the last day The Stock Market Bull prevailed over The Stock Market Bear to take his 6th 3-0 monthly victory over only 1 monthly loss.

The July 2019 US Major Stock Market Exchanges Summary

Number of Trading Days: 22

Number of Gain(+)/Loss(-) Days: DJIA 12+/10-; NASDAQ 12+/10-; SPX 13+/9-.

Record Days: DJIA 4, NASDAQ 6, SPX 8

Longest Gain Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 4 days(06/28-07/03/19, 07/10-15/19), NASDAQ 6 days(06/26/10-07/03/19), and SPX 5 days(06/27-07/03/19, 07/09-15/19)

Longest Loss Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 3 days(07/05-09/19), NASDAQ and SPX 3 days(07/29-31/19)

Big Swing Up Days(>1.00%): 2 days (07/01/19(N +1.06%), 07/26/19(N +1.11%))

Big Swing Down Days(<-1.00%): 1 days (07/31/19(D -1.23%, N -1.19%, S -1.09%))

The PBR1000 July 2019 Snapshots

The following are Top 5 partial tables excerpts from The PBR1000 July 2019 Snapshots. The price for stocks is for the close of trading on July 31, 2019, Month % Chg is compared to June 28, 2019, YTD % Chg is compared to December 31, 2018, and the 19 Months % Chg is compared to December 29, 2017. The PBR Rank is by annual revenues.

To get the complete The PBR1000 Snapshots just click here to get your 12 month subscription and automatically download the July 2019 edition with the complete 15 Snapshots and 28 rankings and the bonus The PBRMarketTools US Monthly Indices Snapshots.

Table 1(S11): The PBR1000 Top 5 Month Stock Price % Gainers

Table 1 Summary: The range was +58% to -73%. 550 out of 1,000 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 0.84%(PBR482), the median was a gain of 0.69%(PBR500). The DJIA was +0.99%, NASDAQ +2.11%, SPX +1.31%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 07/31/19	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	19 Mos % Chg
Tower Intl	951	TOWR	$ 30.80	+58	+29	+1
Dean Foods	384	DF	$ 1.45	+58	-62	-87
Diebold Nixdorf	554	DBD	$ 13.91	+52	+459	-15
Quad/Graphics	595	QUAD	$ 11.31	+43	-8	-50
GNC	839	GNC	$ 2.08	+39	-12	-44

Table 2(S12): The PBR1000 Top 5 Year-To-Date Stock Price % Gainers

Table 2 Summary: The range was +459% to -99%. 777 out of 994 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 19.92%, the median was a gain of 17.19%. The DJIA was +15.16%, NASDAQ +23.21%, SPX +18.89%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 07/31/19	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	19 Mos % Chg
Diebold Nixdorf	554	DBD	$ 13.91	+52	+459	-15
Snap	990	SNAP	$ 16.80	+17	+205	+15
Avon Products	492	AVP	$ 4.25	+10	+180	+98
SunPower	936	SPWR	$ 11.69	+9	+135	+39
FannieMae	21	FNMA	$ 2.28	-16	+115	-14

Table 3(S13): The PBR1000 Top 5 19 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: The range was +196% to -99%. 482 out of 993 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 7.12%(PBR399). The median was a loss of 1.59%(PBR496). The DJIA was +8.68%, NASDAQ +18.43%, SPX +11.47%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 07/31/19	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	19 Mos % Chg
AMD	444	AMD	$ 30.45	+0	+65	+196
Chipotle	536	CMG	$ 795.53	+9	+84	+175
Rent-A-Center	794	RCII	$ 27.03	+2	+67	+144
FTI Consulting	884	FCN	$ 104.45	+25	+57	+143
Square	691	SQ	$ 80.41	+11	+43	+132

Table 4(S15): The PBR1000 Top 5 Market Capitalization

Table 4 Summary: The range was $1,075 billion to $0.00 billion. The average is $28.524 billion(PBR214), median is $8.09 billion(PBR500), out of 1,000 companies.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Market Cap($B) 07/31/19	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	19 Mos % Chg
Microsoft	25	MSFT	$ 1,075 B	+5	+40	+63
Apple	3	AAPL	$ 961 B	+5	+30	+10
Amazon	5	AMZN	$ 939 B	+0	+30	+69
Alphabet	15	GOOG	$ 851 B	+14	+18	+17
Facebook	56	FB	$ 562 B	+4	+47	+10
The PBR1000			$ 28,524 B	+3	+21	+10

Table 5: The PBR1000 Index & Primary US Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company	Price 07/31/19	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	19 Mos % Chg
The PBR1000	92,663.51	+0.8	+20.0	+7.2
DJIA	26,864.27	+1.0	+15.2	+8.7
NASDAQ	8,175.42	+2.1	+23.2	+18.4
S&P500	2,980.38	+1.3	+18.9	+11.5
GOLD	1,437.80	+1.8	+11.9	+10.2
SILVER	16.41	+6.8	+5.4	-3.4
OIL	58.58	+0.7	+27.9	-2.5

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PBRMarketTools.com provides The PBR1000, a compilation of 1,000 of the largest publicly held companies with primary operations in the US. These companies generate $14 trillion in annual revenues, more than all other US companies combined. The PBR1000 Monthly Snapshots provides these 1,000 companies in Excel format, includes 15 worksheets with 28 rankings, over 200 data/information points, hotlinks to key data, and important news items per company. This service is used by astute business professionals and shrewd investors worldwide.

Disclaimers: The PBR1000 is compiled from a variety of publicly available resources. As such, PBRMarketTools.com is not responsible for the data itself. Any liability for the representations or decisions based on the data is solely the responsibility of the authorized user, not PBRMarketTools.com, its employees or affiliates. PBRMarketTools.com is a provider of news, data, and analysis, and is not a financial advisor firm.

(Graphic courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net, ddpavumba.)

Filed Under: Snapshots Tagged With: Business, Business Intelligence, business news, Commodities, DJIA, Economy, Investing, Market Research, Money, NASDAQ, Personal Finance, Rankings, Research, S&P 500, Snapshots, Stock Market, Stocks, The PBR1000, Trading, Wealth Management

The PBR1000 August 2018 Stocks & Commodities Snapshots

September 6, 2018 by admin

August 2018 The PBR1000: Another Big Win for the Stock Market Bull

In August 2018 The Stock Market Bull captured his 5th monthly win of the year. As usual, experts are mixed on how long he can keep the trend going.

By Larry C. Paxton

It was another good month for all 3 major US stock market exchanges. Highlights include Apple(PBR4 $AAPL) being the first US company to hit the $1 trillion market capitalization level. Tech stocks had an especially good month as indicated by the NASDAQ having 18+ trading days to only 5- trading days. US economic growth continues to be robust, unemployment remains low, there are more job openings than qualified people to fill them, but there is also a lack of affordable housing inventory and mortgage rates are climbing. It was another victorious month for the Stock Market Bull, who after 8 months in 2018 now has 5 monthly wins to the Stock Market Bear’s 2 months, with June being the only mixed result.

The August 2018 US Major Stock Market Exchanges Summary

Number of Trading Days: 23

Number of Gain(+)/Loss(-) Days: DJIA 12+/11-; NASDAQ 18+/5-; SPX 14+/9-.

Record Days: DJIA 0, NASDAQ 4, SPX 4

Longest Gain Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 4 days(08/16-21/18, 08/24-29/18), NASDAQ 8 days(07/31-08/09/18), SPX 4 days(08/02-07/18, 08/16-21/18, 08/24-29/18)

Longest Loss Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 4 days(08/08-13/18), NASDAQ 2 days(08/10-13/18), SPX 4 days(08/08-13/18)

Big Swing Up Days(>1.00%): 3 days(08/02/18(N), 08/16/18(D), 08/27/18(D))

Big Swing Down Days(<-1.00%): 1 days(08/15/18(N))

The PBR1000 August 2018 Snapshots

The following are Top 5 partial tables excerpts from The PBR1000 August 2018 Snapshots. The price for stocks is for the close of trading on August 31, 2018, Month % Chg is compared to July 31, 2018 YTD % Chg is compared to December 29, 2017, and the 20 Months % Chg is compared to December 30, 2016. The PBR Rank is by annual revenues.

To get the complete The PBR1000 Snapshots just click here to get your 2 month or significantly discounted 12 month subscription and automatically download the August 2018 edition with the complete 15 Snapshots and 27 rankings and the bonus The PBRMarketTools US Monthly Indices Snapshots.

Table 1(S11): The PBR1000 Top 5 Month Stock Price % Gainers

Table 1 Summary: The range was +53% to -58%. 603 out of 1,000 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 2.08%, the median was a gain of 1.53%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 08/31/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	20 Mos % Chg
Vitamin Shoppe	995	VSI	12.80	+53	+191	-46
Core-Mark	177	CORE	35.77	+48	+13	-17
UNISYS	747	UIS	18.60	+45	+128	+24
Revlon	757	REV	21.75	+39	-0	-25
Endo Intl	645	ENDP	17.15	+38	+121	+4

Table 2(S12): The PBR1000 Top 5 Year-To-Date Stock Price % Gainers

Table 2 Summary: The range was +268% to -75%. 575 out of 1,000 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 4.70%, the median was a gain of 3.40%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 08/31/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	20 Mos % Chg
BlueLinx	891	BXC	35.93	+5	+268	+381
Fossil	739	FOSL	22.67	-13	+192	-12
Vitamin Shoppe	995	VSI	12.80	+53	+191	-46
Square	840	SQ	88.64	+37	+156	+550
AMD	488	AMD	25.17	+37	+145	+122

Table 3(S13): The PBR1000 Top 5 20 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: The range was +554% to -92%. 690 out of 1,000 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 24.85%. The median was a gain of 16.25%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 08/31/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	20 Mos % Chg
Weight Watchers	974	WTW	74.90	-16	+69	+554
Square	840	SQ	88.64	+37	+156	+550
RH	801	RH	159.00	+17	+84	+418
BlueLinx	891	BXC	35.93	+5	+268	+381
Systemax	980	SYX	36.50	-18	+10	+316

Table 4(S15): The PBR1000 Top 5 Market Capitalization

Table 4 Summary: The range was $1,090 billion to $0.04 billion. The average is $27.8 billion, median is $8.3 billion, out of 1,000 companies.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Market Cap($B) 08/31/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	20 Mos % Chg
Apple	4	AAPL	1,090	+17	+25	+76
Amazon	8	AMZN	977	+13	+76	+174
Alphabet	21	GOOG	867	+2	+19	+63
Microsoft	22	MSFT	858	+6	+30	+78
Berkshire Hathaway	3	BRKB	519	+5	+6	+29
The PBR1000			27,798	+3	+7	+28

Table 5: The PBR1000 Index & Primary US Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company	Price 08/31/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	20 Mos % Chg
The PBR1000	90,023.93	+2.1	+4.7	+24.9
DJIA	25,964.82	+2.2	+5.0	+31.4
NASDAQ	8,109.54	+5.7	+17.5	+50.7
S&P500	2,901.52	+3.0	+8.5	+29.6
GOLD	1,206.90	-2.1	-7.5	+4.8
SILVER	14.58	-6.2	-14.2	-8.9
OIL	69.88	+2.1	+16.3	+30.1

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(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 $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 monthly or significantly discounted annual subscription, just click here to go to the PBRMarketTools.com Order page.)

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The PBR1000 July 2018 Breaking News Recap

August 4, 2018 by admin

The PBR1000 July 2018 Breaking News Items

International trade issues continue to dominate the business news. Will we see more or fewer cargo ships crossing the oceans?

By Larry C. Paxton

July 2018 was marked by trade tensions and threatened tariffs, but eased down towards the end of the month. The US economy continues to show good strength as indicated by the 4.1% GDP growth rate announced at the end of the month. However, the technology sector struggled with cybersecurity and identity issues.

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

***Tuesday, July 31:

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

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

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

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

The Stock Market Bull clearly had a strong month across the major US stock exchanges and now leads the Stock Market Bear 4 months to 2 months with 1 month mixed through July.

UPS(PBR41) partners with Thor Trucks to develop and test a fully-electric class 6 delivery truck in Los Angeles, CA, to deploy later in 2018. $UPS PR link.

Charter Communications(PBR67) in 2Q18 report says it has 27.6 million total customer relationships, a 3.3% increase from 2Q17, and 52.9 million total Primary Service Units. $CHTR PR link.

Facebook(PBR69) removes 32 pages and accounts from Facebook and Instagrambecause they were involved in coordinated inauthentic behavior, in very early stages of investigation. $FB PR link.

Medtronic(PBR94) gets US FDA approval for the Implantable System for Remodulin® (ISR)to treat patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). $MDT PR link.

Starbucks(PBR124) opens its first USstandalone Italian themed Princi boutique bakery and café, located in Seattle, to open additional locations in New York and Chicago in the fall. $SBUX PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR125) commences tender offer to purchase up to $10 billion of its shares for $60.00/share to $67.50/share, expires 08/27/18. $QCOM PR link.

VISA(PBR153) renews Olympic partnershipthrough 2032, started in 1986, includes support of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and the Paralympic Games as well. $V PR link.

MGM Resorts(PBR269) becomes official gaming partner with the Natl Basketball Assn(NBA) and Womens NBA in multi-year deal. $MGM PR link.

Royal Caribbean(PBR322) completes $1 billion acquisition of 66.7% equity stake in privately owned luxury and expedition cruising provider Silversea Cruises. $RCL PR link.

Fortive(PBR406) to acquire privately held $270 million in revenues/2018 physical resource management software provider Accruent from Genstar Capital for $2.0 billion cash, to close 3Q18. $FTV PR link.

United Rentals(PBR409) completes $715 million cash acquisition of 950 employees $295 million in revenues for 12 months ending 05/31/18 multinational tank, pump, filtration and trench shoring rental solutions for a broad range of industrial and construction applications provider BakerCorp. $URI PR link.

Pioneer Natural Resources(PBR477) to sell its West Panhandle assets in Texas to an undisclosed buyer for $201 million. $PXD PR link.

AMC Entertainment(PBR504) Stubs A-Listenrollment exceeds 175,000 fully paid members after 5 weeks, well ahead of projections, aiming for 500,000 by 06/30/19, 1 million by 06/30/20, Stubs program currently has 15.8 million members. $AMC PR link.

Nationstar Mortgage(PBR929) acquisition by legacy reinsurance business provider WMIH Corp(NASDAQ: WMIH)(fka Washington Mutual) is completed, to continue trading as WMIH, will be changing name to Mr Cooper Group Inc(NASDAQ: COOP), considering reverse stock split. $NSM PR link.

McKesson(PBR5) promotes Brian Tyler, PhD, to President/COO. $MCK PR link.

FirstEnergy(PBR208) early retirement plan to be used by EVP/Corporate Strategy, Regulatory Affairs & Chief Legal Officer Leila Vespoli, retires 04/01/19, EVP/Finance James Pearson by 04/01/19, SVP/Chief Human Resources Charles Lasky on 06/01/19. $FE PR link.

American Tower(PBR405) EVP & President/US Tower Division Steven Marshall stepping down, Steve Vondran named successor, effective 08/01/18. $AMT PR link.

Owens Corning(PBR425) President/Roofing Brian Chambers promoted to newly created role of COO, Gunner Smith promoted to President/Roofing. $OC PR link.

Agilent Technologies(PBR539) SVP/CFO Didier Hirsch to retire on 10/31/18, Robert W. McMahon hired as SVP, effective 08/03/18, will become CFO on 09/01/18. $A PR link.

Moody’s(PBR570) hires Mark Kaye as SVP/CFO, effective 08/20/18. $MCO PR link.

Hologic(PBR698) CFO Bob McMahon leaving to become CFO at Agilent Technologies(PBR539), Chief Accounting Officer Karleen Oberton is named CFO successor. $HOLX PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US Total Debt Held By the Public on 07/30/18 is $15.566 trillion, Intragovernmental Holdings $5.733 trillion, Total National Debt $21.299 trillion, +0.5% from 06/29/18, +3.9% YTD, +7.3% from 07/31/17. USTreasury PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US 10 Year Treasury Note Yield on 07/31/18 was at 2.96%, 06/29/18 was 2.85%, 05/31/18 2.83%, 07/31/172.30%. USTreasury PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/BEA says US Preliminary June 2018 Total Personal Income Annual Rate is at $17.572 trillion, +0.4% from May 2018, +5.1% from June 2017; Personal Savings Rate is at 6.8%, Effective Tax Rate11.7%. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US June 2018 Employment Cost Index(12/2005=100) is at 133.3, +0.6% from March 2018, +2.8% from June 2017. USDOL PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says US 7th District Preliminary June 2018 Midwest Economy Index is at +0.40, May 2018was +0.58. ChiFed PR link.

The MNI July 2018 Chicago Business Barometer(>50=Gaining) is at 65.5, June 2018was at 64.1, May 2018 62.7, July 2017 58.9. MNI/ISM Chicago PR link.

The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller US May 2018 National Home Price NSA Index(01/2000=100)is at 202.95, April 2018 was 200.82, March 2018 198.83, May 2017 190.77. Case-Shiller PR link.

The Conference Board says US Preliminary July 2018 Consumer Confidence Index(1985=100) is at 127.4, June 2018 was 127.1. TCB PR link.

The American Automobile Assn says US Average Price/Gallon of Regular Gas on 07/31/18 was at $2.862, +0.3% from 06/29/18, +23.6% from 07/31/17. AAA PR link.

***Monday, July 30:

Johnson & Johnson(PBR36) Consumer unit to acquire privately held Zarbee’s, Inc, includes the full line of Zarbee’s Naturals™ products for children and adults, to close 3Q18, terms not disclosed. $JNJ PR link.

Caterpillar(PBR62) 2Q18 report says it has authorized a new $10 billion share repurchase program effective 01/01/19 with no expiration date, current $10 billion authorization from 01/01/14 expires 12/31/18, has $4.2 billion remaining. $CAT PR link.

T-Mobile(PBR70) signs $3.5 billion agreement for Nokia to provide its complete end-to-end 5G technology, software and services portfolio to accelerate US launch of T-Mobile’s 5G network. $TMUS PR link.

Tyson(PBR75) issues profit warning because of uncertainty of trade policies and tariffs, primarily chicken and pork, increased volatility in the commodities markets, lowers benefit from tax reforms. $TSN PR link.

US Foods(PBR115) to acquire Services Group of America‘s $3.2 billion in sales/2017 3,400 employees Food Group of Companies, includes 5 operating units, for $1.8 billion cash. $USFD PR link.

CBS(PBR214) selecting outside counsel to conduct an independent investigation into allegations of misconduct made against CEO Les Moonves, postpones annual shareholders meeting, no date yet set. $CBS PR link.

MGM Resorts(PBR269) and GVC Holdings PLC (LON: GVC) establish a 50/50 joint venture to create a world-class sports betting and online gaming platform in the US, initial investment is $100 million each. $MGM PR link.

MGM Resorts(PBR269) in joint venture with GVC and in partnership with Boyd Gaming(PBR727) to offer online and mobile gaming platforms – including sports betting, casino gaming and poker – in jurisdictions, currently 15 states, where either Boyd Gaming or MGM Resorts operate physical casino resorts and online licenses are available. $MGM PR link.

Frontier Communications(PBR312) and the Communications Workers of America District 9(California) amend and extend current contracts through 09/20, affects 2,700 employees. $FTR PR link.

KKR(PBR674 $KKR) and Williams Cos(PBR343) joint venture to acquire operator of southern part of Colorado’s Denver-Julesburg Basin natural gas and oil pipelines Dallas, TX, based Discovery Midstream from TPG Growth for $1.2 billion. Williams to also sell Four Corners Assets for $1.125 billion, to close 2H18. $WMB PR link.

Alliance Data(PBR357) authorizes new $500 million share repurchase program, starts 08/01/18, expires 07/31/19. $ADS PR link.

Dana(PBR380) to buy the $730 million in revenues/2017 5,900 employees in 10 manufacturing/engineering facilities around the globe Drive Systems segment of the Oerlikon Group (SIX: OERL) for around $600 million, to close late 2018/1Q19. $DAN PR link.

Harley-Davidson(PBR470) shares its “More Roads to Harley-Davidson” growth plan through 2022, includes new modular 500cc to 1250cc middleweight platform of motorcycles to launch in 2020, first electric motorcycle, LiveWire™, to launch in 2019. $HOG PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR519) to introduce sports betting into its Atlantic City, Gulf Coast and Tunica properties in July and August, using Scientific Games(PBR696) sportsbook OpenBet platform. $CZR PR link.

AMC Networks(PBR726) to acquire digital channel company RLJ Entertainment(NASDAQ: RLJE) for $6.25/share, $274 million cash, to become an independent subsidiary, has 800,000 subscribers from its British/international oriented Acorn TVand Urban Movie Channel(UMC) with emphasis on African American and urban audiences. $AMCX PR link.

Fossil Group(PBR732) gets global licensing agreement through 2023 with BMW for watches and smartwatches. $FOSL PR link.

Macquarie Infrastructure(PBR886) to sell 644 MW power generation facility Bayonne, NJ, based Bayonne Energy Center for around $900 million cash, to close 4Q18. $MIC PR link.

TrueBlue(PBR778) CEO Steven Cooper to become Chairman, President/COO Patrick Beharelle to be CEO, effective 09/01/18. $TBI PR link.

Tesla(PBR250) hires Dave Morton as Chief Accounting Officer, was EVP/CFO for Seagate Technology. $TSLA PR link.

Avon Products(PBR467) hires Benedetto Conversano to newly-created role of SVP/Chief Digital & Information Technology Officer, effective 09/03/18, succeeds retiring Sue Liddie, GVP/Chief Information Officer, and will have additional digital related responsibilities. $AVP PR link.

TransDigm(PBR640) promotes Mike Lisman to CFO, interim CFO Jim Skulina named SVP/Finance. $TDG PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says it expects to borrow $329 billion in privately-held net marketable debt in July-September 2018 quarter, expects to borrow $440 billion in October-December 2018 quarter. US Treasury PR link.

***Friday, July 27:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 07/27/18:

DJIA ends week at 25,451.06, +1.57% from last Friday, +4.86% MTD/QTD, +2.96% YTD, -4.38% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends week at 7,737.42, -1.06% from last Friday, +3.02 MTD/QTD, +12.08% YTD, -2.46% from record 7,932.24 set 07/25/18.

SPX ends week at 2,818.82, +0.61% from last Friday, +3.70% MTD/QTD, +5.43% YTD, -1.88% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

Weekly Summary: By the end of Wednesday it looked like the Stock Market Bull had a firm lock on the week, all US exchanges were well up, NASDAQ reached a new record, trade tensions with the European Union had eased. But the Stock Market Bear, masquerading as Facebook and Twitter, made an entrance, spoiling the week for NASDAQ which finished down. As a result, it was another mixed weekwith the Stock Market Bull again taking 2 exchanges to 1. The Stock Market Bull retains his small lead with 13 win weeks to the Stock Market Bear’s 12, with 5 weeks now ending mixed.

21st Century Fox(PBR101 $FOX) and Walt Disney(PBR53) shareholders from both companies approve Walt Disney $38/share, $71.3 billion acquisition of Fox Entertainmentassets. $DIS PR link.

NextEra Energy(PBR162) and Alliant Energy(PBR654 $LNT) agree to shorten the term of the Duane Arnold Energy Center power purchase agreement, will close in late 2020, Alliant to purchase power from 4 NextEra existing wind projects, NextEra to invest around $650 million in existing and new renewables generation across Iowa by end of 2020. $NEE PR link.

American Electric Power(181) cancels regional Wind Catcher project, plans to invest $24 billion in 2018 through 2021 to rebuild and enhance aging infrastructure, add advanced technologies to the energy system. $AEP PR link.

JetBlue(PBR389) pilots ratify a new 4 year agreement, starts 08/01/18. $JBLU PR link.

Timken(PBR701) to acquire Milan, Italy, based $140 million in revenues/2018 600 employees linear motion products engineering firm Rollon Group, to close by end of 09/18, terms not disclosed. $TKR PR link.

Twitter(PBR794) says 2Q18 revenues of $711 million was 24% over 2Q17, Daily Average Users +11%, Monthly Average Users at 335 million, +9 million from 2Q17, down 1 million from 1Q18 from recent decision to eliminate fake accounts. $TWTR PR link.

CBS(PBR213 $CBS) says it will investigate allegations of misconduct made against CEO Les Moonves by The New Yorker in an article written by Ronan Farrow. MarketWatch PR link.

AGCO(PBR335) offers 144,611 shares of restricted stock to vest on 12/31/20 for Chairman/President/CEO Martin H. Richenhagen as an inducement not to retire. $AGCO PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says US Advanced Estimate 2Q18 Real Gross Domestic Product Annual Rate is at +4.1%, 1Q18 was +2.2%, 4Q17 +2.3%; Annual GDP is at $20.403 trillion, +1.8% from 1Q18, +5.4% from 2Q17. USDOC PR link.

The U of Michigan US Final July 2018 Consumer Sentiment Index is at 97.9, says despite the expectation of higher inflation and higher interest rates during the year ahead, consumers have kept their confidence at high levels due to favorable job and income prospects, June 2018 was 98.2, May 2018 98.0, July 2017 93.4. UMichigan PR link.

***Thursday, July 26:

Walmart(PBR1) enters longterm agreement for Capital One(PBR116) to be exclusive issuer of Walmart’s private label and co-branded credit card program in the US beginning 08/01/19. $WMT PR link.

Walmart(PBR1) launches new online shopping destination for the baby department, has added 30,000+ items, focus on nursery items. $WMT PR link.

ExxonMobil(PBR2) starts up new 1.5 million tons/year ethane cracker in its Baytown, TX, chemical and refining complex. $XOM PR link.

Facebook(PBR69 $FB) stock drops roughly 20%, loses $120 billion in value after warning that revenue growth will take a hit. MarketWatch PR link.

Cummins(PBR143) celebrates production of its 2 millionth engine at Jamestown Engine Plantfacility in Jamestown, NY. $CMI PR link.

Allergan(PBR174) authorizes new $2.0 billion share repurchase program, expects to deploy over the next 12 months. $AGN PR link.

Chesapeake Energy(PBR302) to sell Utica Shale position for $2 billion to private Houston, TX, based Encino Acquisition Partners. $CHK PR link.

United Natural Foods(PBR309) to acquire SuperValu(PBR164) for $32.50/share, $2.9 billion cash, includes debt, to close 4Q18, plans to divest SUPERVALU retail assets over time. $UNFI PR link.

Newmont Mining(PBR372) acquires 50% stake in Galore Creek Project in British Columbia, CAN, Teck Resources has other 50%, undeveloped site has estimated 8 million ounces of gold, 9 billion pounds of copper. $NEM PR link.

Fiserv(PBR469) gets 25 year longterm naming rights agreement for the nearly completed Wisconsin Entertainment and Sports Center, now called Fiserv Forum, home of the Milwaukee Bucks major league basketball team and Marquette University Golden Eaglesmen’s basketball team, terms not disclosed. $FISV PR link.

Welltower(PBR562) completes $20.75/share $4.4 billion acquisition of Quality Care Properties, Inc. (NYSE: QCP), 20% joint venture partner regional not-for-profit health system ProMedica Health System will provide operations support. $WELL PR link.

KKR(PBR674) to acquire multiple Caiforniafacilities 50,000 members, 4,000 employees active lifestyle and hospitality company The Bay Club from York Capital Management, terms not disclosed. $KKR PR link.

FMC Corp(PBR719) to rebrand its lithium materials business upon separation as a separate public company as Livent Corporation. $FMC PR link.

GGP(PBR811) stockholders approve acquisition by Canadian based global commercial real estate company Brookfield Property(NYSE: BPY) for $23.50/share, $9.25 billion cash, to close by end of 08/18. $GGP PR link.

Amgen(PBR122) EVP/Research & Development Sean Harper, MD, to retire, to be succeeded by SVP/Translational Sciences & Oncology David M. Reese, MD; EVP/Global Commercial Operations Anthony Hooper to retire, Murdo Gordon hired to be successor, effective 09/03/18. $AMGN PR link.

Alliance Data(PBR357) CFO Charles Horn to retire in 2019, succession plan to be implemented. $ADS PR link.

NCR(PBR415) announces new organizational structure, hires Owen Sullivan as COO, Frank D’Angelo as President/Banking, Paul Langenbahn as President/Commerce, Tim Vanderham as Chief Technology Officer, and Debra Bronder as SVP/Chief Human Relations Officer. $NCR PR link.

Regions Financial(PBR446) promotes John Owen to SrEVP/COO. $RF PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US 4 Week Average Initial Unemployment Claims for Week Ending 07/21/18 was at 218,000, -1.8% from 06/23/18, -10.7% from 07/20/17. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US 2Q18 Total Housing Units were at 138,313,000, Occupancy Rate at 87.7%, Home Ownership Rate at 64.3%, 1Q18 was at 64.2%, 2Q1763.7%. USDOC PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR38) says US Average 30 Year Fixed Rate Mortgage on 07/26/18 was 4.54% with 0.5 points/fees, was 4.55% on 06/28/18, 4.56% on 05/31/18, 3.92% on 07/27/17. $FMCC PR link.

***Wednesday, July 25:

Facebook(PBR69) 2Q18 report shows 42% increase in revenues from 2Q17 to $13.038 billion, Daily Active Users in 06/18 were at 1.47 billion, +11% year over year. $FB PR link.

Honeywell(PBR71) Homes unit to be called Resideo after spin-off as a standalone public traded company in late 2018, emphasis will be home comfort and security using established channels. $ADP PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR125) in 3Q18 report says it is terminating its $44 billion cash agreement to purchase NXP Semiconductors(NASDAQ: NXPI), cites lack of timely approval by Chinaregulators, as a result intends to pursue an up to $30 billion share repurchase program. $QCOM PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR125 $QCOM) suggests Apple(PBR4 $AAPL) will use Intel(PBR44 $INTC) modems in new iPhone. MarketWatch PR link.

ONEOK(PBR239) to acquire 20% it doesn’t own in West Texas LPG Pipeline Limited Partnership for $195 million cash, to close on 07/31/18, will be sole owner. $OKE PR link.

Mattel(PBR517) in 2Q18 report says it is laying off 2,200 positions, representing 22% of global non-manufacturing workforce, as well as completing planned sale of manufacturing sites in Mexico, affected by “Toy R US” liquidation, Structural Simplification program to help it return to profitability. $MAT PR link.

TD Ameritrade(PBR614) Network financial news and education broadcast channel to launch 2 new daily programs, “Fast Market” and “Virtual Trade”, designed to provide market insight and trading education to viewers across varying proficiency levels. $AMTD PR link.

Bright Horizons(PBR909) launches Early Education Degree Achievement Plan to provide free college tuition for all full-time employees in the company’s early education centers and preschools in partnership with 4 higher education institutions. $BFAM PR link.

Marathon Petroleum(PBR37) Chairman/CEO Gary R. Heminger will continue in those roles after $35.6 billion acquisition in 2H18 of Andeavor(PBR82), 7 executives from MPC and 3 from ANDV will complete the leadership team. $MPC PR link.

Gilead Sciences(PBR108) President/CEO John F. Milligan, PhD, to step down by 12/31/18, been with company 28 years. $GILD PR link.

Best Buy(PBR65) Sr EVP and President/Multi-Channel Retail Shari Ballard stepping down effective 08/03/18, will serve in an advisory position through 03/19. $BBY PR link.

Albemarle(PBR697) Chief Strategy Officer Eric Norris named President/Lithium, President/Bromine Specialties Raphael Crawford to President/Catalysts, and hires Netha Johnson to be President/Bromine Specialties. $ALB PR link.

Albemarle(PBR697) VP/Treasurer Dave Ryan to become VP/Corporate Strategy & Investor Relations, Asst Treasurer Amy Dunbar becomes VP/Treasurer. $ALB PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says US Preliminary June 2018 New Family Home Sales Annual Rate is at 631,000 units, -5.3% from May 2018, +2.4% from June 2017; June 2018 Median Sales Price is at $302,100, -2.5% from May 2018, -4.2% from June 2017. USDOC PR link.

The US Energy Information Administrationsays US Crude Oil Stocks on 07/20/18 were at 404.9 million barrels of oil, -2.8% from 06/22/18, -16.2% from 07/21/17. USEIA PR link.

ADP(PBR234) 2Q18 Workforce Vitality Reportshows National Average Wage Growth Rate of +3.0%, consistent with a tightening labor market, 1Q18 was +2.9%, 2Q17 +2.7%; 2Q18 National Average Turnover Rate at 63.0%, 1Q18 was 62.7%, 2Q17 59.9%. $ADP PR link.

***Tuesday, July 24:

Verizon(PBR16) says it had 531,000 retail postpaid net wireless additions, including 398,000 postpaid smartphone net adds in 2Q18, revenue growth at 4.7% year over year. $VZ PR link.

Verizon(PBR16) to launch residential 5G broadband in Houston, TX, in 2H18, already has plans for Sacramento and Los Angeles, 4th market to be announced. $VZ PR link.

Pfizer(PBR55) to build cutting-edge sterile injectable facility in Michigan, investing nearly $500 million in US manufacturing, to create 450+ jobs. $PFE PR link.

AbbVie(PBR102) gets US FDA approval of ORILISSA™ (elagolix) for management of moderate to severe pain associated with endometriosis. $ABBV PR link.

Marriott Intl(PBR120) signs agreement with luxury hospitality development firm Flag Luxury Group to build a more than $500 million Ritz-Carlton Hotel and Residences Tower in NYC’s NoMad neighborhood, will be 500+ feet in height, have 250 hotel rooms, 16 branded residences, to open in 2021. $MAR PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR121) to separate Elanco Animal Health with Initial Public Offering, will have a minority stake, to complete in 2H18. $LLY PR link.

Aramark(PBR195) to significantly reduce single-use disposable plastics across its global food service operations by 2022. $ARMK PR link.

Netflix(PBR251) establishes first European production hub in Madrid, Spain, 22,000 square meters campus, over 13,000 cast, crew and extras working on 20 Netflix original productions across the country. $NFLX PR link.

eBay(PBR299) to provide its US sellers with greater access to business financing through partnership with Square(PBR835) Capital unit, up to $100,000. $EBAY PR link.

Harley-Davidson(PBR470) says 2Q18motorcycles sold were at 78,428, 2Q17 was 81,368, 1H18 was 129,514, 1H17 136,437, anticipates 231,000-236,000 for 2018. $HOG PR link.

Synovus Financial(PBR951) to acquire FCB Financial Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: FCB), owner of Florida Community Bank (FCB), Florida’s largest community bank, for $2.9 billion in all stock deal. $SNV PR link.

Comerica(PBR673) EVP/Corporate Development , Strategy, and Corporate Planning Jay Oberg to become Chief Risk Officer, effective 01/01/19, succeeds retiring Michael H. Michalak. $CMA PR link.

Brinker Intl(PBR686) hires Kelly Baltes as EVP and President/Maggiano’s Little Italy®. $EAT PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond says the US Fifth District July 2018 Manufacturing Index(Annualized) is at 20%, remains in solid expansionary territory, June 2018 was 21%, May 2018 17%. RichmondFed PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond says the US Fifth District July 2018 Service Sector Revenue Index(Annualized) is at 23%, shows strong growth, June 2018 was 19%, May 201816%. RichmondFed PR link.

***Monday, July 23:

ExxonMobil(PBR2) increases estimate for Guyana’s Stabroek Block from 3.2 billion to 4 billion barrels of oil. $XOM PR link.

Lockheed(PBR57) has hired 1,800+ employees in support of F-35 fighter aircraft since 01/2017, to add 400 more F-35 support jobs for Fort Worth, TX, facility. $LMT PR link.

Nike(PBR83 $NKE) raises pay for 7,000 workers to improve compensation equality. MarketWatch PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR125) Technologies subsidiary unveils world’s first fully-integrated 5G NR millimeter wave (mmWave) and sub-6 GHz RF modules for smartphones and other mobile devices. $QCOM PR link.

LifePoint Health(PBR377) to be acquired by RCCH Healthcare Partners, which is owned by Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR763) and affiliates, for $65.00/share, a 36% premium on 07/20/18 closing stock price, $5.6 billion, includes $2.9 billion net debt, to close in next several months, combined companies to be private, called LifePoint Health, remain headquartered in Brentwood, TN. $LPNT PR link.

Intercontinental Exchange(PBR462) completes $685 million cash acquisition of fixed income marketplace TMC Bonds. $ICE PR link.

KKR(PBR674) to acquire Taiwan based chemical products company LCY Chemical Corp in $1.56 billion share swap, to close in 4Q18. $KKR PR link.

Boston Properties(PBR766) and the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board form 55/45 joint venture, complete $628 million acquisition of 47 acre, 21 buildings, net 1.2 million rentable sf, 94% occupied, Santa Monica Business Park. $BXP PR link.

Popular(PBR844) authorizes up to $125 million share repurchase program. $BPOP PR link.

Fannie Mae(PBR20) announces CEO Timothy J. Mayopoulos to step down by end of 2018, EVP/CFO David Benson promoted to President, Celeste Brown promoted to EVP/CFO, both effective 08/06/18. $FNMA PR link.

Tenneco(PBR307) selects Brian J. Kesseler as CEO of Aftermarket and Ride Performanceunit, and Roger J. Wood as CEO of Powertrain Technology unit, both units to become independent, publicly traded companies in 2H19. $TEN PR link.

Vitamin Shoppe(PBR995) hires Sharon M. Leite as CEO, effective 08/27/18. $VSI PR link.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR139) EVP/Chief Commercial Officer Murdo Gordon leaving, effective 08/03/18, for another opportunity. $BMY PR link.

Lithia Motors(PBR285) hires Erik Lewis as SVP/Chief Human Relations Officer, succeeds Chris Holzshu who is now an EVP. $LAD PR link.

RPM Intl(PBR512) VP/Public Affairs Randell McShepard now also in newly created role of Chief Talent Officer. $RPM PR link.

Domino’s Pizza(PBR731) promotes Tom Curtis to EVP/Team USA, succeeds Stan Gage who recently purchased 12 Domino’s stores to become a franchisee. $DPZ PR link.

Cabot Corp(PBR748) EVP & President/Performance Chemicals segment and Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region Nicholas Cross stepping down for personal reasons, effective 10/01/18 SVP Jay Doubman and VP Aled Rees to add these responsibilities. $CBT PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says US Preliminary June 2018 National Activity Index is at +0.43, indicating a rebound in economic growth, May 2018 was at -0.43, April 2018 +0.49, June 2017 +0.12. ChicagoFed PR link.

The Natl Assn of Realtors says US Preliminary June 2018 Existing Home Sales Annual Rate is at 5.380 million, -0.6% from May 2018, -2.2% from June 2017; June 2018 Median Existing Home Price is at all time high of $276,900, +4.6% from May 2018, +5.2% from June 2017. NAR PR link.

Jobs: Boeing(PBR29) releases 2018 Pilot & Technician Outlook, forecasts a 20-year demand for 790,000 pilots, double the current workforce. $BA PR link.

***Friday, July 20:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 07/20/18:

DJIA ends week at 25,058.12, +0.15% from last Friday, +3.24% MTD/QTD, +1.37% YTD, -5.86% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends week at 7,820.20, -0.07% from last Friday, +4.13 MTD/QTD, +13.28% YTD, -0.44% from record 7,855.12 set 07/17/18.

SPX ends week at 2,801.83, +0.02% from last Friday, +3.07% MTD/QTD, +4.80% YTD, -2.47% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

Weekly Summary: It was a week where the word “would” or “would’t” played a big role in the summit between President Trump and Russia’s Putin. Federal Reserve Chairman Powell was cautiously upbeat about the US economy during Congressional hearings, which was backed up by its Beige Book release. Quarterly earnings reports came in somewhat mixed. Similarly, the Stock Market Bull and Stock Market Bear played a back and forth tug-of-war game throughout the week in which either could have won. At the end the margins were narrow and results mixed, with the Stock Market Bull taking a 2-1 edge. Year-to-Date the Stock Market Bull maintains a very slight lead with 13 to 12 win weeks and with 4 weeks now being mixed results.

Amazon(PBR8) to open first fulfillment center in Eastern Washington, in Spokane, 600,000 sf facility, to employ 1,500+ full-time associates. $AMZN PR link.

Pfizer(PBR55) gets US FDA approval for NIVESTYM™ (filgrastim-aafi), a biosimilar to Amgen(PBR122)’s Neupogen1 (filgrastim), for patients with neutropenia, many of whom have cancer and can be hospitalized for potentially life-threatening side effects stemming from chemotherapy. $PFE PR link.

Aramark(PBR195) is first sports concessionaire to pilot iPhone and Apple Business Chat and Apple Pay apps at Citizens Bank Park, home of the Philadelphia Phillies, allows fans in designated sections to order certain menu items for delivery to their seat. $ARMK PR link.

State Street(PBR262) to acquire privately held Burlington, MA, $300+ million in revenues/2017 300 clients investment management front office tools and solutions provider Charles Lab Development for $2.6 billion, to close 4Q18. $STT PR link.

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

Platform Specialty(PBR606) to sell its Agriculture Solutions business, Arysta LifeScience and its assets, to UPL Corporationfor $4.2 billion cash, to close late 2018/early 2019. $PAH PR link.

Platform Specialty(PBR606) to change name to Element Solutions Inc(NYSE: ESI) upon completion of sale of its Arysta LifeScienceunit; authorizes up to $750 million share buyback program after Arysta LifeScience sale. $PAH PR link.

Lowe’s(PBR40) hires Joe McFarland as EVP/Stores. $LOW PR link.

PPG(PBR193) promotes Anne M. Foulkes to SVP/General Counsel & Secretary, effective 08/01/18, succeeds retiring Glenn Bost. $PPG PR link.

Equifax(PBR659) promotes Paulino do Rego Barros Jr to President/US Information Systems, succeeds leaving Trey Loughran. $EFX PR link.

***Thursday, July 19:

Snapshot 15 Summary: The PBR1000 June 2018 Top 5 By Market Capitalization(Rank, Company, PBR Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 06/29/18 Market Capitalization in Billions of $):

1. Apple(PBR4 $AAPL), $910B
2. Amazon(PBR8 $AMZN), $824B
3. Alphabet(PBR24 $GOOG), $780B
4. Microsoft(PBR31 $MSFT), $758B
5. Facebook(PBR69 $FB), $563B

Range: $910 billion to $0.01 billion
The PBR1000 Total: $26.212 trillion, +1.16% YTD(6 months), +20.08% from 12/30/17(18 months)
Average: $26.212 billion
Median: $8.15 billion

AT&T(PBR9 $T) $85.4 billion cash/stock acquisition of Time Warner(PBR90) lawsuit by the US Dept of Justice requested to be fast-tracked by DOJ. MarketWatch PR link.

Chevron(PBR13) gets climate change lawsuit by NY City dismissed by US District Court, judge says claims arise under federal common law, require uniform standard of decision. $CVX PR link.

Comcast(PBR33) says it is will no longer pursue acquisition of 21st Century Fox(PBR101)assets, will focus on UK based Sky plcacquisition. $CMCSA PR link.

Cisco(PBR60 $CSCO) says Amazon(PBR8 $AMZN) Web Services says it isn’t making a “commercial” networking switch, would compete directly with Cisco. GeekWire PR link.

Delta(PBR68) and Calgary, Alberta, CAN, based WestJet to create a comprehensive transborder joint venture arrangement that will offer customers an extensive route network within the US and Canada. $DAL PR link.

Merck(PBR73) net prices across US products are down 1.9%, commits to not increasing prices by more than inflation rate, lowering price of Hepatitis C therapy ZEPATIER by 60%, several other medicines by 10%. $MRK PR link.

Starbucks(PBR124) to open its first Deaf-friendly US Signing Store, to be in Washington, DC, in 10/18, near Gallaudet University, will hire 20-25 Deaf from across the US. $SBUX PR link.

Danaher(PBR154) to spin-off Dental unit as a separate independent, publicly traded company, did $3 billion in revenues in 2017, has 12,000 employees, to be completed in 2H19. $DHR PR link.

Concho Resources(PBR769) completes $9.5 billion all stock acquisition of RSP Permian(NYSE: RSPP), expands Concho’s strategic portfolio in the Permian Basin to approximately 640,000 net acres, now largest unconventional shale producer in the Permian Basin. $CXO PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphiasays the 3rd District July 2018 Manufacturing General Activity Indicator is at 25.7, indicates continued expansion of manufacturing activity, June 2018 was 19.9, May 2018 34.4, July 201723.2. PhillyFed PR link.

The Conference Board says the US Preliminary June 2018 Leading Economic Index(2016=100) is at 109.8, points to continuing solid growth in the US economy, May 2018 was 109.3, April 2018 109.3, June 2017128.1. TCB PR link.

Jobs: President Trump signs an Executive Order to establish the National Council for the American Worker which will develop a National strategy for training and retraining the workers needed across high-demand industries, 20+ companies/associations sign a new Pledge to America’s Workers. White House PR link.

***Wednesday, July 18:

Snapshot 13 Summary: The PBR1000 Top 5 Stock Performers Since 12/30/16(18 Months)(Rank, Company, PBR Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 06/29/18 Stock Price, % Increase from 12/30/16):

1. Weight Watchers(PBR976 $WTW), $101.10, +783%
2. BlueLinx(PBR885 $BXC), $37.53, +402%
3. RH(PBR795 $RH), $139.70, +355%
4. Square(PBR835 $SQ), $61.64, +352%
5. Systemax(PBR982 $SYX), $34.33, +291%

Range: +783% to -89%
Number of Companies at 0% or Better:647/1,000
Average: +19.73%
Median: +11.33%

Tomorrow: Snapshot 15 Summary: The PBR1000 June 2018 Top 5 By Market Capitalization.

Not a full subscriber to the much more detailed and insightful analytics of the monthly The PBR1000 Snapshots or The PBRMarketTools US Economic Indices Snapshots? Click here!

Amazon(PBR8) Prime members purchase more than 100 million items during Prime Day event, best sellers were Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote and Echo Dot. $AMZN PR link.

Alphabet(PBR21 $GOOG)’s Google unit gets record $5.1 billion fine from the European Union Antitrust Commission for illegal practices regarding Android mobile devices to strengthen dominance of Google’s search engine. European Commission PR link.

Express Scripts(PBR25) subsidiary eviCoreopens new provider service center in St Louis, MO, will add 100 jobs, will support physicians and other healthcare providers during the pre-authorization and medical benefit review process. $ESRX PR link.

Target(PBR39) has its biggest online one-day sales event on 07/17/18, millions of shoppers, 90% of items being shipped from local stores. $TGT PR link.

Intel(PBR44) breaks Guiness Book of World Records for drone light shows in celebration of 50th anniversary, featured 2,018 Intel® Shooting Star™ drones over its Folsom, CA, facility. $INTC PR link.

AIG(PBR58) completes $68.00/share, $5.56 billion cash acquisition of reinsurance, primary insurance, and asset management services provider Validus(NYSE: VR). $AIG PR link.

Tenet Healthcare(PBR141) to sell its last 3 Chicago area acute care hospitals to TWG Partners, will be managed by Pipeline Health. $TMC PR link.

Community Health Systems(PBR152) to sell Arkansas-based Sparks Health System to Baptist Health, to close 4Q18, terms not disclosed. $CYH PR link.

Devon Energy(PBR209) completes $3.125 billion sale of its interests in EnLink Midstream Partners(NYSE: ENLK) and EnLink Midstream(NYSE: ENLC) to an affiliate of Global Infrastructure Partners. $DVN PR link.

Global Partners(PBR317) completes $134 million acquisition of retail fuel and Jiffy Martconvenience store assets in Vermont and New Hampshire from Champlain Oil Company. $GLP PR link.

Dana(PBR381) collaborates with Mecalac to provide e-Drivetrain for world’s first electric compact wheeled excavator. $DANPR link.

Celanese(PBR443) to sell Nanjing, China, 275,000 metric ton per year industrial ethanol production unit and form TCX® technology joint venture with Chengzhi Shareholding Co, terms not disclosed. $CE PR link.

Intuit(PBR498) selling its Data Center in Quincy, WA, to privately held H5 Data Centers, has moved TurboTax Online and transitioning QuickBooks Online to Amazon(PBR8 $AMZN) Web Services. $INTU PR link.

Zions Bancorp(PBR742) gets notification that the Financial Stability Oversight Council (FSOC) will grant Zions’ appeal for relief from the designation of Zions or its successor as a systemically important financial institution, gets Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)approval to merge holding company with bank, will then be under only one regulatory agency, the OCC, to close by 09/30/18. $ZION PR link.

Sinclair Broadcast(PBR744) in response to anticipated FCC concerns regarding its $43.50/share, $3.9 billion cash/stock, plus assumption of $2.7 billion of debt acquisition of Tribune Media Company(NYSE:TRCO)amends divestitures for Dallas and Houston TV stations, and TRCO has withdrawn divestiture of Chicago‘s WGN. $SBGI PR link.

La-Z-Boy(PBR938) to acquire La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries® stores in Arizona from EBCO, Inc, largest-volume licensee operator within the 350-store network, includes 9 stores and $78 million in sales in 2017. $LZB PR link.

Willis Towers Watson(PBR338) extends CEO John Haley’s contract until 01/21, has been with company since 1977, CEO since 1998. $WLTW PR link.

Lear Corp(PBR142) hires Alicia Davis as VP/Investor Relations, effective 08/01/18. $LEA PR link.

Campbell Soup(PBR349) promotes Xavier Boza to SVP/Chief Human Relations Officer, effective 08/01/18, succeeds retiring Robert Morrissey. $CPB PR link.

Sabre Corp(PBR630) promotes Dave Shirk to EVP & President of newly created organization Travel Solutions, hiring Sundar Narasimhan as SVP & President/Sabre Labs & product strategy, appoints Louis Selincourt as SVP/Global Development Centers. $SABR PR link.

The US Federal Reserve releases Beige Bookfor data through 07/09/18, growth was modest/moderate in 10 of 12 district, Dallas has strong growth, St Louis slight growth; labor shortages in several types of businesses, wage increases modest/moderate, and; prices grew at modest/moderate rate, tariffs costs contribution slight/modest at this time. USFed PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says US Preliminary June 2018 Total Private Housing Building Permits Issued were at a 1,273,000 rate, -2.2% from May 2018, -3.0% from June 2017. USDOC PR link.

***Tuesday, July 17:

Snapshot 12 Summary: The PBR1000 Top 5 Stock Performers YTD(6 Months)(Rank, Company, PBR Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 06/29/18 Stock Price, % Increase from 12/29/17):

1. BlueLinx(PBR885 $BXC), $37.53, +285%
2. Fossil(PBR732 $FOSL), $26.87, +246%
3. Genesis Healthcare(PBR485 $GEN), $2.29, +201%
4. Weight Watchers(PBR976 $WTW), $101.10, +128%
5. Tenet Healthcare(PBR141 $THC), $33.57, +121%

Range: +285% to -92%
Number of Companies at 0% or Better:473/1,000
Average: +0.46%
Median: -1.11%

Tomorrow: Snapshot 13 Summary: The PBR1000 Top 5 Stock Performers Since 12/30/16(18 Months).

Walmart(PBR1) establishes 5 year strategic partnership with Microsoft(PBR31 $MSFT) to further accelerate digital innovation in retail. $WMT PR link.

Berkshire Hathaway(PBR3) board makes amendment so that share repurchases can be made at any time that both Chairman/CEO Warren Buffett and Vice Chairman Charlie Munger believe that the repurchase price is below Berkshire’s intrinsic value, conservatively determined. $BRKB PR link.

Booking(PBR223) investing $500 million in China based mobile app powered on-demand car service company Didi, Booking to make available Didi and Didi to make available Booking apps on their platforms. $BKNG PR link.

Fidelity Natl Financial(PBR363) approves new 3 year 25 million shares repurchase program, effective 08/01/18, expires 07/31/21. $FNF PR link.

KKR(PBR674) to invest $400 million in Palo Alto, CA, based mobile gaming comprehensive platform provider AppLovin that gives developers the ability to connect with consumers around the globe. $KKR PR link.

Annaly Capital(PBR782) extends exchange offer of $19.65/share cash and stock, $900 million, to acquire MTGE Investment Corp(Nasdaq:MTGE), new date is 08/20/18, 5:00PM Eastern time, allows for additional approvals by regulators. $NLY PR link.

Goldman Sachs(PBR88) Chairman/CEO Lloyd C. Blankfein to retire as CEO on 09/30/18, Chairman and from the Board on 12/31/18, President/Co-COO David Solomon to be successor, join Board on 10/01/18. $GS PR link.

Texas Instruments(PBR189) Chairman Rich Templeton reassumes President/CEO roles on an ongoing indefinite basis, CEO Brian Crutcher has resigned due to violations of the company’s code of conduct regarding personal behavior. $TXN PR link.

Adtalem Education(PBR888) hires Dr. Karen Cox as President of Chamberlain University, effective 08/27/18. $ATGE PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says US Preliminary June 2018 Total Industry Capacity Productionis at 78.0%, May 2018 was 77.7%, April 201878.2%, June 2017 76.2%. USFed PR link.

The Natl Assn of Home Builders/Wells Fargo US Preliminary July 2018 Composite Housing Market Index is at 68, June 2018 was 68, May 2018 70, July 2017 64. NAHB PR link.

***Monday, July 16:

Snapshot 11 Summary: The PBR1000 Top 5 Month of June 2018 Stock Performers(Rank, Company, PBR Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 06/29/18 Stock Price, % Increase from 05/31/18):

1. Cenveo(PBR927 $CVOVQ), $0.07, +250%
2. Fred’s(PBR893 $FRED), $2.28, +62%
3. Rent-A-Center(PBR749 $RCII), $14.72, +55%
4. Endo Intl(PBR643 $ENDP), $9.43, +50%
5. RH(PBR795 $RH), $139.70, +43%

Range: +250% to -28%
Number of Companies at 0% or Better:532/1,000
Average: +0.47%
Median: +0.39%

Tomorrow: The PBR1000 Top 5 Stock Performers YTD.

Berkshire Hathaway(PBR3) Chairman/CEO Warren Buffett converts some Class A shares into Class B shares, donates them to 5 foundations, valued at $3.4 billion. $BRKB PR link.

CVS Health(PBR7) responds to Request for Information on Trump Administration’s Blueprint to Lower Drug Prices, says drug manufacturers primarily responsible for higher prices. $CVS PR link.

Amazon(PBR8 $AMZN) founder/CEO Jeff Bezos becomes richest man in world, net worth cracks $150 billion. Bloomberg PR link.

Netflix(PBR251) adds 5.15 million members in 2Q18, was 5.20 million in 2Q17, below 6.2 million forecast, now has 130.14 million members. $NFLX PR link.

Praxair(PBR254 $PX) buyer Linde AG to sell the majority of its gases business in N Americaand certain business activities in S America to consortium of German industrial gases manufacturer Messer Group and CVC Capital Partners for $3.3 billion, considers these divestitures to be necessary in order to allow merger clearance with Praxair. Linde AG PR link.

Salesforce(PBR275) to acquire 3,000+ clients cloud-based, AI-powered marketing intelligence and analytics platform for enterprises, agencies and publishers provider Datorama, terms not disclosed. $CRM PR link.

Fortune Brands(PBR492) adds $400 million to repurchase program, authorization is now around $500 million, expires 04/20. $FBHS PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR520) completes $1.7 billion acquisition of Centaur Holdings, includes Hoosier Park Racing and Casino in Anderson, IN, and the Indiana Grand Racing and Casino in Shelbyville, IN. $CZR PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR520) breaks ground on CAESARS FORUM, a $375 million, 550,000 sf conference center in Las Vegas, NV, to debut in 2020. $CZR PR link.

Herbalife(PBR547) announces national partnership with League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC). $HLF PR link.

Equifax(PBR659) acquires alternative data credit reporting agency DataX, terms not disclosed. $EFX PR link.

KKR(PBR674) to acquire RBMedia, largest independent publisher of audiobooks in the world with a catalogue of more than 35,000 titles spanning all genres, from Shamrock Capital, terms not disclosed. $KKR PR link.

Sinclair Broadcast(PBR744) responds to statement of FCC Chairman Pai on concerns with Tribune Media(NYSE:TRCO) acquisition. $SBGI PR link.

Cabot Corp(PBR748) adds 10 million shares to repurchase program, balance is now around 11 million shares. $CBT PR link.

Brown & Brown(PBR877) acquires $15 million/year Portland, ME, based disability services company Professional Disability Associates, terms not disclosed. $BRO PR link.

Alliance One Intl(PBR915) shareholders to vote on name change to Pyxus International, Inc,ticker NYSE: PYX, at 08/16/18 annual meeting. $AOI PR link.

Nationstar Mortgage(PBR929) expects to close $18.00/share or exchange share equivalent acquisition of legacy reinsurance business provider WMIH Corp(NASDAQ: WMIH)(fka Washington Mutual) on 07/31/18. $NSM PR link.

La-Z-Boy(PBR938) to acquire privately owned with manufacturing facilities in Tijuana, Mexico, Commerce, CA, based Joybird, an e-commerce retailer and manufacturer of custom, mid-century modern upholstered furniture for millenials and GenX consumers, with annual revenues of $55 million last year, to close early 2Q19, to be a wholly owned subsidiary. $LZB PR link.

Lithia Motors(PBR285) hires George Hines as its first Chief Technology & Innovation Officer. $LAD PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says US Preliminary May 2018 Total Manufacturer/Retail/Wholesale Sales were at $1.450 trillion, +1.4% from April 2018, +8.6% from May 2017; May 2018 Total Manufacturer/Retail/Wholesale Inventorieswere at $1.937 trillion, +0.4% from April 2018, +4.4% from May 2017. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Advance June 2018 Total Retail Sales were at $506.8 billion, +0.5% from May 2018, +6.6% from June 2017. USDOC PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York says the Empire State July 2018 Manufacturing General Business Conditions Index is at 22.6, a high level, suggesting a continuation of robust growth, June 2018 was 25.0, May 2018 was 20.1, July 2017 12.7. NYFED PR link.

The US Trade Representative says US has launched separate disputes at the World Trade Organization (WTO) against China, the European Union, Canada, Mexico and Turkey, challenging the tariffs each WTO Member imposed in response to President Trump’s actions on trade in aluminum and steel to protect the US’ national security interests. US Trade Rep PR link.

The International Monetary Fund says that amid rising tensions over international trade, the broad global expansion that began roughly two years ago has plateaued and become less balanced, continues to project global growth rates of just about 3.9% for both 2018 & 2019, but judge that the risk of worse outcomes has increased, even for the near term. IMF PR link.

***Friday, July 13:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 07/13/18:

DJIA ends week at 25,019.41, +2.30% from last Friday, +3.08% MTD/QTD, +1.21% YTD, -6.00% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends week at record 7,825.98, +1.79% from last Friday, +4.20 MTD/QTD, +13.36% YTD, +0.00% from record 7,825.98 set 07/13/18.

SPX ends week at 2,801.31, +1.50% from last Friday, +3.05% MTD/QTD, +4.78% YTD, -2.49% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

Week Summary: The Stock Market Bullcharged out the first 2 days of the week, the Stock Market Bear clawed back to make a strong statement on Wednesday, aided by President Trump‘s demanding meetings with NATO allies and new trade wars concerns. But the Stock Market Bull then trampled over him on Thursday and Friday, highlighted by the NASDAQ notching 2 record days. With 2 weekly wins in a row the Stock Market Bull takes a slight lead from the Stock Market Bear year-to-date with 13 to 12 win weeks and with 3 weeks being mixed results.

Not a full subscriber to the much more detailed and insightful analytics of the monthly The PBR1000 Snapshots or The PBRMarketTools US Economic Indices Snapshots? Click here!

Boeing(PBR29) to write off after-tax charge of $124 million after Delaware Supreme Courtdecision saying it is not entitled to recover certain costs associated with the 2005 sale of its production facilities in Wichita, KS, to Spirit Aerosystems. $BA PR link.

Target(PBR39) doing Target.com special 1 day all day online sales deals on Tuesday, 07/17/18, no membership required. $TGT PR link.

Pfizer(PBR55) and Tokyo, Japan, based Astellas Pharma Inc. (TSE: 4503) get US FDA approval of XTANDI® (enzalutamide), the first and only oral medication FDA-approved for both non-metastatic and metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). $PFE PR link.

Valeant Pharmaceuticals(PBR325) name change to Bausch Health Companies Inc. is complete, to start trading as NYSE: BHC on Monday, 07/16/18, with new website www.BauschHealth.com. $VRX PR link.

Spectrum Brands(NYSE: SPB) completes $10 billion acquisition of major shareholder HRG Group(PBR509), becomes an independent public company, SPB board to replace HRG board, retain SPB stock ticker. $SPB PR link.

Brown-Forman(PBR598) authorizes $200 million share repurchase program, expires 07/12/19. $BFA PR link.

WABCO(PBR664) gets its first export deal to supply India’s Tata Motors with hydraulic power steering systems for Tata’s commercial vehicles. $WBC PR link.

Marathon Petroleum(PBR37) SVP/Marketing Tom Kelley to retire effective 10/01/18. $MPC PR link.

PG&E(PBR164) President/COO Nick Stavropoulos to retire at end of 09/18. $PCG PR link.

The US Federal Reserve submits its Monetary Policy Report to the US Congress, says economic activity increased at a solid pace over the 1H18, labor market has continued to strengthen, inflation measured on a 12-month basis was a little above the Federal Open Market Committee’s (FOMC) longer-run objective of 2%. The Fed expects further gradual increases in the target range for the federal funds rate will be consistent with a sustained expansion of economic activity, strong labor market conditions, and inflation near the Committee’s symmetric 2% objective over the medium term. USFed PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary June 2018 All Imports Prices were -0.4%, May 2018 was +0.9%, April 2018 +0.5%; June 2018 All Exports Prices were +0.3%, May 2018 was +0.6%, April 2018 +0.5%; Last 12 Months Imports Prices were +4.3%, Exports Prices+5.3%. USDOL PR link.

The U of Michigan Preliminary July 2018 Consumer Sentiment Index is at 97.1, shows continuing strength due to favorable job and income prospects, but concerns on anticipated tariffs and inflation, June 2018 was 98.2, May 2018 98.0, July 2017 93.4. U of Michigan PR link.

***Thursday, July 12:

Apple(PBR4) and 10 initial suppliers launch $300 million over 4 years in new investment China Clean Energy Fund to connect suppliers with renewable energy sources. $AAPL PR link.

AT&T(PBR9) $85.4 billion cash/stock acquisition of Time Warner(PBR90) gets lawsuit by US Dept of Justice despite previous Court approval, AT&T to defend decision. $T PR link.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR36) ordered to pay $4.69 billion by St Louis, MO, jury in suit linking baby powder to ovarian cancer, plans to appeal verdict. $JNJ PR link.

Intel(PBR44) to acquire 19 years old Santa Clara, CA, based structured ASICs provider eASIC, to close 3Q18, terms not disclosed. $INTC PR link.

ConocoPhillips(PBR86) increases 2018 share repurchase plan from $2 billion to $3 billion, additional $9 billion authorized for share repurchase program, total authorization now at $15 billion, has achieved its $15 billion debt drawdown ahead of schedule. $COP PR link.

21st Century Fox(PBR102) gets UK Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sportapproval for $18.30/share cash acquisition of UK based Sky plc. $FOX PR link.

Abbott Labs(PBR104) gets US FDA approvalfor for a next-generation version of its leading MitraClip® heart valve repair device used to repair a leaky mitral valve without open-heart surgery. $ABT PR link.

McDonald’s(PBR124 $MCD) pulling salads from 3,000 Midwest locations per notices posted by Iowa and Illinois public health departments regarding increases in Cyclospora infections by customers. MarketWatch PR link.

JCPenney(PBR231) remixes its Arizona leading apparel private denim brand for Back-to-Schoolseason, oriented towards GenZ, YouTube stars Brooklyn and Bailey McKnight to serve as brand ambassadors. $JCP PR link.

Tesla(PBR252) has surpassed 200,000 electric cars delivered, $7,500 federal tax credit for buyers being phased out after 12/31/18. $TSLA PR link.

Praxair(PBR256 $PX) acquisition by Germanybased Linde AG may require Linde AG to sell off its N American gases business as well as some S American businesses held by each. Linde AG PR link.

Williams Cos(PBR344) sets 08/09/18 for special stockholders meeting to vote on $10.5 billion all stock acquisition of Williams Partners(NYSE: WPZ). $WMB PR link.

Terex(PBR554) authorizes new up to $300 million repurchase program. $TEX PR link.

Northrop Grumman(PBR111) Chairman/CEO Wes Bush to step down from CEO position on 01/01/19, remain Chairman through 07/19, President/COO Kathy Warden to be President/CEO on 01/01/19. $NOC PR link.

MGIC Investment(PBR998) hires Paula Maggio as EVP/General Counsel & Secretary, effective 07/16/18, succeeds retiring Jeffrey Lane. $MTG PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US June 2018 Federal Government Receipts were $316.3 billion, Outlays $391.1 billion, Deficit $74.9 billion; June 2017 Deficit was $90.2 billion; June 2018 YTD Receipts(9 Months) are $2.541 trillion, YTD Outlays $3.148 trillion, YTD Deficit$607.1 billion, June 2017 YTD Deficit was $523.1 billion. USTreasury PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary June 2018 Current Employee Average Earnings/Hour is at $26.98, for 34.5 Average Hour Work Week, Total Average Earnings/Week is at $930.81, +0.2% from May 2018, +3.0% from June 2017. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary June 2018 Consumer Price Index-Urban All Items is at +0.1%, All Items Less Food & Energy +0.2%, Last 12 Months(Unadjusted)+2.9%, May 2018 was +2.8%, April 2018+2.5%, June 2017 +1.6%. USDOL PR link.

***Wednesday, July 11:

Wednesday The PBR1000 Fun Facts:

The PBR1000 2017 Total Worldwide Revenues: $13.8 trillion
% Change from 2016: +7.6%
The PBR1000 2017 Total Worldwide Profits:$1.09 trillion
% Change from 2016: +13.5%
% of Revenues 2017: +7.9%
% of Revenues 2016: +7.5%
% of Revenues 2015: +6.9%
The PBR1000 2017 Total Worldwide Employees: 35.0 million
% Change from 2016: +1.2%

Not a full subscriber to the much more detailed and insightful analytics of the monthly The PBR1000 Snapshots or The PBRMarketTools US Economic Indices Snapshots? Click here!

Comcast(PBR33) counters 21st Century Fox(PBR102) $18.30/share bid, raises offer for UK’s Sky plc to $19.30/share, $34 billion, expects to complete acquisition by end of 10/18. $CMCSA PR link.

Humana(PBR54) with TPG Capital and Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowe, completes $1.4 billion acquisition of privately held hospice operators providing care to patients at 245 locations in 22 states Curo Health Services, Humana has 40% minority interest. $HUM PR link.

Pfizer(PBR55) reorganizing into 3 business units, science-based Innovative Medicines, off-patent branded and generic Established Medicines, and a Consumer Healthcare, starting fiscal year 2019, Group Presidents named. $PFE PR link.

Facebook(PBR69 $FB) to provide user data to independent research commission non-profit Social Science One and 7 other non-profit foundations to study the role of social media in elections and democracy, first Request for Proposal for Facebook data set available for academic research. Social Science One PR link.

Medtronic(PBR96) gets US FDA approval for a less-invasive implant approach of its HVAD(TM) System, a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) for patients with advanced heart failure. $MDT PR link.

21st Century Fox(PBR102) counters Comcast(PBR33), ups bid for UK’s Sky plc to $18.30/share cash, expects to close in 3Q18. $FOX PR link.

Broadcom(PBR159) to acquire information technology management software and solutions provider CA Technologies(PBR564) for $44.50/share, $18.9 billion cash, to close 4Q18. $AVGO PR link.

Activision Blizzard(PBR389) gets multi-year exclusive telecast agreement with Walt Disney(PBR53) ESPN and Disney XD units to broadcast its Overwatch League, the world’s first major global city-based esports league, terms not disclosed. $ATVI PR link.

Avery Dennison(PBR411) to terminate its Pension Plan, non-cash charge anticipated to be up to $600 million, no change in benefit amounts for 11,200 participants. $AVY PR link.

Scientific Games(PBR690) SG Social unit releases worldwide story driven 3D MONOPLY Slots mobile app, based on classic Hasbro(PBR549) game. $SGMS PR link.

ResMed(PBR852) and Alphabet(PBR21)‘s advanced health data analytics Verily unit to form a joint venture to study the health/financial impacts of undiagnosed/untreated sleep apnea, and develop software solutions to more efficiently identify, diagnose, treat and manage individuals with sleep apnea and other breathing related sleep disorders, affects 54 million Americans. $RMD PR link.

Systemax(PBR982) to sell its France based IT value added reseller business Inmac Wstore to Bechtle AG, Germany‘s largest independent IT systems integrator, terms not disclosed. $SYX PR link.

GoPro(PBR994) announces it has sold over 30 million HERO cameras since November 2009 launch, has sold over 4 million HERO5 Blackcameras since 4Q16 launch, 3 months faster than HERO4 Silver. $GPRO PR link.

A.O. Smith(PBR697) Chairman/CEO Ajita G. Rajendra to become Executive Chairman, effective 09/01/18, President/COO Kevin J. Wheeler to be President/CEO. $AOS PR link.

Colgate-Palmolive(PBR181) promotes Noel R. Wallace to President/COO, and P. Justin Skala to EVP/Chief Growth & Strategy Officer. $CL PR link.

UNUM(PBR260) hires Wade Hinton as VP/Diversity & Inclusion, effective 08/20/18. $UNM PR link.

Markel(PBR450) hires Robert Cox as President/COO/Insurance Operations, Brad Kiscaden promoted to President/Chief Administrative Officer, and Bryan Sanders to President/US Insurance, all effective 09/05/18. $MKL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary June 2018 Total Monthly Demand Producer Price Index(PPI) is at +0.3%, May 2018 was +0.5%, April 2018 +0.1%, June 2017 +0.1%; Total Last 12 Months Final Demand is at +3.4%. May 2018 was +3.1%, April 2018+2.6%, June 2017 +1.9%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary June 2018 Total Wholesale Sales-Durable were at $244.2 billion, Non-Durable$264.8, Total $509.0 billion, +2.5% from May 2018, +11.8% from June 2017. USDOC PR link.

LPL Financial(PBR562) Research unit releases Midyear Outloook 2018, expects GDP of 3%, 10%+ stock total returns, flat to low-single-digits bonds growth. $LPLA PR link.

***Tuesday, July 10:

AT&T(PBR9) to acquire privately held San Mateo, CA, based cybersecurity threat intelligence provider AlienVault, to close 3Q18, terms not disclosed. $T PR link.

NGL Energy(PBR162) completes $900 million cash sale of its remaining Retail Propanebusiness to Superior Plus Corp(TSX:SPB). $NGL PR link.

JCPenney(PBR231) to open second store in Brooklyn, NY, a 75,000 sf multi-story facility in Kings Plaza, to open 08/10/18. $JCP PR link.

JetBlue(PBR390) orders 60 Airbus 220-300 aircraft for delivery beginning in 2020, option for 60 additional aircraft in 2025, to be assembled in Mobile, AL. $JBLU PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR442) acquires Pennington, NJ, based WCD Group, manages and mitigates risk in the environmental, construction and real estate marketplace. $AJG PR link.

QEP Resources(PBR930) to sell its eastern Utah based Uinta Basin assets to Middle Fork Energy Partners for $155 million. $SBUX PR link.

Stryker Corp(PBR235) Group President/MedSurg & Neurotechnology Tim Scannell to become President/COO, effective 08/01/18, Group President/Orthopaedics David Floyd to retire on 06/30/19, J Andrew Pierce to become Group President/MedSurg, and Spencer Stiles to become Group President/Instruments. $SYK PR link.

Vulcan Materials(PBR594) hires Suzanne H. Wood to be SVP/CFO, effective 09/01/18, will succeed EVP/CFO & Strategy Officer John R. McPherson who remain Chief Strategy Officer, will retire at end of 2018. $VMC PR link.

UNISYS(PBR736) hires Vishal Gupta as SVP/Technology and Chief Technology Officer, effective 08/01/18, succeeds leaving Tarek El-Sadany. $UIS PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary May 2018 Total Job Openings was at 6,637,000, -3.0% from April 2018, +16.7% from May 2017, May 2018 Total Hires were at 5,754,000, +3.1% from April 2018, +4.9% from May 2017, May 2018 Total Separations were at 5,468,000, +0.8% from April 2018, +3.8% from May 2017. USDOL PR link.

CoreLogic says US April 2018 Total Home Mortgages 30 or More Days Delinquent was at 4.2%, March 2018 was 4.3%, February 20184.8%, April 2017 4.8%. CoreLogic PR link.

***Monday, July 9:

Starbucks(PBR125) to phase out single use plastic straws, replace with recyclable lids, in all 28,000+ stores worldwide by 2020. $SBUX PR link.

Nordstrom(PBR180) deepens growth strategy through local market focus, plans to open additional Nordstrom Local neighborhood hubs with 1,200 sf store in Brentwood and 2,200 sf store in Downtown, Los Angeles, CA, this fall, designed to offer customers access to services like onsite tailoring and alterations, curbside pickup, buy online, pick up in store, easy returns and more. $JWN PR link.

Booking(PBR225) to acquire Sydney, Australia, based Asia/Pacific oriented with thousands of affiliates worldwide hotel metasearch site HotelsCombined, will become part of KAYAK unit, terms not disclosed. $BKNG PR link.

Anadarko(PBR248) completes $3.0 billion share repurchase program, adds $1.0 billion, increases debt reduction program by $500 million, now at $1.5 billion, expires 06/30/19. $APC PR link.

Tesla(PBR252 $TSLA) increases price of Model S and Model X by over $20,000 in China due to new trade-war tariffs, largest exporter of electric cars to China, planning gigafactory in Shanghai’s Free Trade Zone. Electrek PR link.

JM Smucker(PBR373) to sell its US bakingbusiness to Brynwood Partners for $375 million, includes Pillsbury®, Martha White®, Hungry Jack®, White Lily®, and Jim Dandy® brands, which generated $370 million net sales in 12 months ending 04/30/18. $SJM PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR442) acquires Chicago, IL-based licensed insurance broker, discount medical plan organization and third-party administrator, providing direct marketing of insurance and membership programs to many of the largest financial services institutions in the US and Canada, Reassurance Holdings, Inc., including its subsidiaries Coverdell & Co and Carefree Marketing, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

Sonoco Products(PBR506) implementing a 4% increase on all composite and corresponding metal ends in the US & Canada starting with 08/01/18 shipments, decision based on new tariffs in place. $SON PR link.

Vista Outdoor(PBR811) to sell its Bollé, Cébé and Serengeti brands (the “Eyewear Brands”) to a European private equity fund for $158 million, to close in 30-45 days, to focus on core product categories of ammunition, hunting and shooting accessories, hydration bottles and packs, and outdoor cooking products. $VSTO PR link.

Lowe’s(PBR40) announces leadership restructuring roles and reassignments, COO Richard D. Maltsbarger is leaving. $LOW PR link.

Gilead Sciences(PBR109)’s Kite unit hires Michael Amoroso as SVP and Head of Worldwide Commercial, Cell Therapy, effective in 08/18. $GILD PR link.

CSX(PBR258) appoints Mark Wallace to EVP/Sales & Marketing and Chief Human Relations Officer Diana Sorfleet to succeed Wallace as EVP/Chief Admin Officer. $CSX PR link.

Range Resources(PBR758) and 17% stakeholder SailingStone Capital Partnersagree to reduce board to 9 members, to appoint two mutually agreed upon directors, initiate an external search for an EVP, split Chairman and CEO roles, appoints independent director Greg Maxwell as Chairman. $RRC PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says US Preliminary May 2018 Total Consumer Revolving Credit is at $1.039 trillion, Non-Revolving Credit $2.858 trillion, Total Consumer Credit $3.898 trillion, +0.6% from April 2018, +1.3% YTD, +4.7% from May 2017. USFed PR link.

FannieMae(PBR20) says the US June 2018 Home Purchase Sentiment Index is at 90.7, May 2018 was 92.3, April 2018 91.7, June 201788.3. $FNMA PR link.

TD Ameritrade(PBR609) June 2018 Investor Movement Index is at 5.45, May 2018 was at 5.06, clients were net buyers during the June IMX period. $AMTD PR link.

***Friday, July 6:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 07/06/18:

DJIA ends the week at 24,456.48, +0.76% from last Friday/MTD/QTD, -1.06% YTD, -8.12% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends the week at 7,688.39, +2.37% from last Friday/MTD/QTD, +11.37% YTD, -1.20% from record 7,781.52 set 06/20/18.

SPX ends the week at 2,759.82, +1.52% from last Friday/MTD/QTD, +3.22% YTD, -3.94% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

Week Summary: It was a week of two halves. Monday and Tuesday ended with net declinesfor the Stock Market Bear, then a day off Wednesday to celebrate US Independence Day, finishing off with a nice rebound by the Stock Market Bull on Thursday and Friday. International trade threats escalated, but were countered by a good economic report from the Federal Reserve. The bottomline is that the Stock Market Bull prevailed in a shortened Week 27 and is again tied with the Stock Market Bear with 12 win weeks each and with 3 weeks being mixed results.

Not a full subscriber to the much more detailed and insightful analytics of the monthly The PBR1000 Snapshots or The PBRMarketTools US Economic Indices Snapshots? Click here!

United Continental(PBR76) to record a special non-cash impairment charge of $105 million ($82 million net of taxes) associated with its Brazilroutes. $UAL PR link.

EchoStar(PBR874) issues statements about its proposed acquisition of Inmarsat plc, decision to not pursue. $SATS PR link.

RPM Intl(PBR511) streamlines leadership structure, Group Presidents to report directly to Chairman/CEO Frank Sullivan, President/COO Ronald Rice takes early retirement. $RPM PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US June 2018 Civilian Labor Force Employed is at 155.6 million, +102,000 from May 2018, +2.3 million from June 2017, June 2018 Unemployed was 6.6 million, June 2018 Unemployment Rate is 4.0%, June 2017 was 4.3%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says US Preliminary May 2018 Total Exports were $215.3 billion, Total Imports $258.4 billion, Total Deficit $43.1 billion, Total Deficit May 2017 was $45.8 billion; Total Exports YTD(5 months)were $1.046 trillion, Total Imports YTD $1.291 trillion, Total Deficit YTD $244.8 billion, Total Deficit YTD 2017 was $226.7 billion. USDOC PR link.

***Thursday, July 5:

Chevron(PBR13) gets favorable ruling when Argentine appeals court rejects fraudulent Ecuadorian judgment against Chevron. $CVX PR link.

Walgreens Boots Alliance(PBR19) completes $416 million acquisition of 40% minority stake in Sinopharm Holding GuoDa Drugstores Co., Ltd. (“GuoDa”), a leading retail pharmacy chain in China. $WBA PR link.

Boeing(PBR29) and Embraer (B3: EMBR3, NYSE: ERJ) sign non-binding Memorandum of Understanding that proposes the formation of a $4.75 billion joint venture comprising the commercial aircraft and services business of Embraer that would strategically align with Boeing’s commercial development, production, marketing and lifecycle services operations, Boeing to have $3.8 billion 80% stake, Embraer $975 million 20% stake. $BA PR link.

Micron Technology(PBR145) issues statement regarding preliminary injunction by Chinese courts against Micron entities in patent infringement cases filed by United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC) and Fujian Jinhua Integrated Circuit Co. (Jinhua), expects total revenue loss to be around 1% during legal process. $MU PR link.

Praxair(PBR256) in accordance with its proposed merger with Linde AG (LIN.DE), to sell the majority of its businesses in Europe to Taiyo Nippon Sanso Corporation for around $6 billion cash. $PX PR link.

Boston Scientific(PBR317) to acquire 65% stake it doesn’t already own in privately held single-shot cryoablation platform for the treatment of atrial fibrillation developer Cryterion Medical for $202 million cash up front. $BSX PR link.

Zebra Technologies(PBR606) to acquire $87 million in revenues in 12 months ending 03/31/18 developer of semi-, fully- and ultra-rugged tablets, 2-in-1 laptops, and a range of performance matched accessories Xplore Technologies(NASDAQ: XPLR) for $6.00/share, around $90 million cash, to close in 3Q18. $ZBRA PR link.

WABCO(PBR664) gets long-term agreement with S Korea based Hyundai Motor to supply industry’s lightest and highest performing single-piston air disc brakes for series production on Hyundai’s new medium-duty trucks starting in August 2019. $WBC PR link.

Intuitive Surgical(PBR687) gets US FDA clearance for first 60mm stapler compatible with the da Vinci Xi and X surgical systems. $ISRG PR link.

Square(PBR832 $SQ) has withdrawn its application to open an FDIC insured ILC depository bank, although it plans to refile with a top regulator at a later date. American Banker PR link.

Popular(PBR843) gets final regulatory approvals to acquire Wells Fargo(PBR27)’s auto finance business in Puerto Rico for $1.7 billion cash, to close 08/01/18. $BPOP PR link.

Wynn Resorts(PBR403) EVP/General Counsel & Secretary Kim Sinatra to no longer be with company effective 07/15/18, terms not yet finalized. $WYNN PR link.

The Federal Reserve Open Market Committeereleases minutes from its 06/12-13/18 meeting, notes that labor market had continued to strengthen and that economic activity had been rising at a solid rate, noted that uncertainty and risks associated with trade policy had intensified. FOMC PR link.

Advanced Data Processing says US Preliminary June 2018 Private Sector Change In Employment was +177,000 people, -6.4% from May 2018, +14.9% from June 2017. $ADP PR link.

The IHS Markit US June 2018 Services Business Activity Index is at 56.5, May 2018was 56.8, April 2018 54.6, June 2017 54.2; the US June 2018 Composite Index is at 56.2, May 2018 was 56.6, April 2018 54.9, June 201753.9. IHS Markit PR link.

The Institute of Supply Management US June 2018 Non-Manufacturing Index(>50%=growing) is 59.1%, May 2018 was 58.6%, April 2018 56.8%, June 2017 57.4%. ISM PR link.

***Wednesday, July 4:

US Stock Markets Closed.
US Independence Day
Celebrating Freedoms Earned Through Vision, Courage, and Sacrifices.

***Tuesday, July 3:

Amazon(PBR8) sets 07/16-17/18 as Prime Day, will offer deals on over 1 million items, includes Whole Foods. $AMZN PR link.

PayPal(PBR219) completes sale of $7.6 billion in receivables to Synchrony Financial(PBR172)for $6.9 billion, existing co-brand consumer credit card program agreement extended, and Synchrony is now the exclusive issuer of the PayPal Credit online consumer financing program in the U.S., through 2028. $PYPL PR link.

Cooper-Standard(PBR622) to acquire 500 employees in 4 facilities extruders and molders of organic, silicone, thermoplastic and engineered polymer products Lauren Manufacturing and Lauren Plastics, terms not disclosed. $CPS PR link.

Marriott Vacations(PBR865) calls for special shareholders meeting on 08/28/18 to vote on $4.7 billion cash/stock acquisition of ILG, will result in an upper-upscale and luxury vacation ownership and exchange company with 100+ vacation properties worldwide and around 650,000 owners, $2.9 billion in annual revenues. $VAC PR link.

Barnes & Noble(PBR592) terminates employment and board membership of CEO Demos Parneros for violations of the Company’s policies; interim Office of the CEO formed as search for new CEO starts. $BKS PR link.

Hershey(PBR368) hires Damien Atkins as SVP/General Counsel & Secretary, effective 08/13/18. $HSY PR link.

McDermott Intl(PBR702) hires Samik Mukherjee as EVP/COO. $MDR PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary May 2018 Manufacturers’ New Orders were at $247.1 billion for Durables, $249.0 billion for Non-Durables, $496.1 billion Total New Orders, +0.4% from April 2018, +7.3% from May 2017. USDOC PR link.

Automotive News reports that US June 2018 New Light Vehicle Sales were at 1,541,531 units, +5.0% from June 2017, Average Transaction Price was $33,148, +0.7% from June 2017, Average Incentive Outlay $3,779, Total Sales at $51.1 billion, Annual Rate17,000,000 units. Automotive News PR link.

The PurdueU/CME Group US June 2018 Ag Economy Baromoeter Composite Index is at 143, even with drop in crop prices futures and trade war concerns, May 2018 was 141, April 2018 125, June 2017 131. PurdueU PR link.

***Monday, July 2:

Archer-Daniels-Midland(PBR47) to acquire France based global provider of value-added animal nutrition solutions Neovia for around $1.8 billion, to close 4Q18. $ADM PR link.

Humana(PBR54) with TPG Capital and Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowe complete $9.00/share, $4.1 billion cash, includes debt, acquisition of Kindred Healthcare(PBR452. $HUM PR link.

Facebook(PBR69 $FB) reveals dozens of companies that received special access to user data. MarketWatch PR link.

Textron(PBR205) completes $810 million sale of its Rockford, IL, based 11 manufacturing facilities globally, 2,300 employees $470 million in sales/2017 Tools and Test Equipmentbusiness to Emerson Electric(PBR186). $TXT PR link.

Henry Schein(PBR234) and KKR(PBR669)’s Internet Brands unit completes joint venture formation of anticipated $400 million/year in revenues dental practice management related services provider Henry Schein One, HSIC to have 70% stake and provide management, KKR 30% stake, terms not disclosed. $HSIC PR link.

BB&T(PBR242) completes acquisition of Regions Financial(PBR447)‘s property and casualty and employee benefits products to businesses Insurance Group unit, has 60,000 clients in Southeast, Texas, and Indiana, terms not disclosed. $BBT PR link.

Tesla(PBR252) produces 5,031 Model 3 and 1,913 Model S and X vehicles in last 7 days of 2Q18, total 2Q18 production was 53,339 vehicles, a 55% increase from 1Q18. $TSLA PR link.

Interpublic(PBR350) to acquire Acxiom Corp(NASDAQ: ACXM)‘s 2,100 employee data management provider Acxiom Marketing Solutions unit for $2.3 billion cash, to close by end of 2018. $IPG PR link.

Dr Pepper Snapple(PBR405) announces 12 member board of directors for Keurig Dr Pepper, to be formed after merger with Keurig Green Mountain scheduled for 07/09/18. $DPS PR link.

Fortive(PBR407) to acquire expected $130 million in revenue in 2018 construction cost data, software and service provider Gordian from private equity firm Warburg Pincus for $775 million cash, to close 3Q18. $FTV PR link.

United Rentals(PBR410) to acquire 950 employees $295 million in revenues for 12 months ending 05/31/18 multinational tank, pump, filtration and trench shoring rental solutions for a broad range of industrial and construction applications provider BakerCorp for about $715 million cash, to close 3Q18. $URI PR link.

Signet Jewelers(PRB435) completes $445.5 million sale of non-prime receivables and implementation of a forward flow purchase arrangement for future non-prime receivables with funds managed by CarVal Investors and Castlelake. $SIG PR link.

Cummins(PBR438) to acquire Silicon Valley-based Efficient Drivetrains, which designs and produces hybrid and fully-electric power solutions for commercial markets, to close 3Q18, terms not disclosed. $CMI PR link.

Polaris Industries(PBR480) completes around net $705 million cash acquisition of privately held largest pontoon boat manufacturer in the US Boat Holdings. $PII PR link.

Pitney Bowes(PBR632) completes $361 million sale of its Document Messaging Technologies (DMT) production mail business and supporting software to Platinum Equity, some non-US units to close in 3Q18 & 4Q18 pending regulatory approvals. $PBI PR link.

Ryerson(PBR653) completes $140 million cash acquisition of bar, tube, plate, and sheet products producer $600 million in revenues/year Central Steel & Wire(OTC: CSTW). $RYI PR link.

KKR(PBR669) completes conversion from a limited partnership to a corporation. $KKR PR link.

Gannett(PBR684) completes $130 million plus up to $20 million for achieving revenue targets in 2019 & 2020 acquisition of digital marketing software company WordStream, expects $55 million in revenues in 1st year. $GCI PR link.

Kemper(PBR742) completes $129/share, $1.4 billion cash/stock acquisition of specialty, nonstandard auto insurance segment 2,300 employees, 10,600 independent agents, $1.4 billion in 2017 direct written premiums provider Infinity Property and Casualty Corporation (NASDAQ: IPCC). $KMPR PR link.

Trimble Navigation(PBR751) completes $1.2 billion cash acquisition of privately-held scalable construction management software developer Viewpoint from Bain Capital. $TRMB PR link.

Mueller Industries(PBR821) acquires 800 employees $166 million in sales in 2017 insulated HVAC flexible duct systems manufacturer and distributor ATCO Rubber Products for $162.8 million. $MLI PR link.

Rollins(PBR925) acquires Aardwolf Pestkare, its first acquisition in Singapore, terms not disclosed. $ROL PR link.

Cincinnati Bell(PBR979) completes $650 million cash/stock acquisition of Hawaiian Telecom(NASDAQ: HCOM). $CBB PR link.

Tesla(PBR252 $TSLA) SVP/Engineering Doug Field leaving after 5 years, had been on leave of absence since early 05/18. MarketWatch PR link.

Air Products(PBR340) promotes Victoria Brifo to VP/Chief Human Relations Officer. $APD PR link.

United Rentals(PBR410) EVP/CFO William Plummer to retire on 10/12/18, SVP/Controller & Chief Accounting Officer Jessica Graziano appointed successor. $URI PR link.

Sabre Corp(PBR625) hires Doug Barnett as EVP/CFO starting 07/23/18, succeeds retiring Rick Simonson. $SABR PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary June 2018 Total Construction Spending Annual Rate is at $1.309 trillion, +0.4% from May 2018, + 4.5% from June 2017. USDOC PR link.

The Institute for Supply Management US June 2018 Manufacturing PMI Index(>50% is expanding) is at 60.2%, 110th consecutive month of overall economic growth, demand remains strong, May 2018 was 58.7%, April 2018 57.3%, June 2017 56.7%. ISM PR link.

The IHS Markit US June 2018 Manufacturing PMI is at 55.4, ends strongest quarterly performance since 3Q14, May 2018 was 56.4, April 2018 56.5, June 2017 52.0. IHS Markit PR link.

***Friday, June 29:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 06/29/18:

Week/Month/Quarter/Half Year Summary: International trade issues again dominated the news for the week, economic results were still good but mixed, so the Stock Market Beargouged out the Stock Market Bull for a second week in a row win. Week 26 ends with the Stock Market Bear holding a slim 12 to 11 weeks lead with 3 weeks being mixed results. The month of June 2018 ends mixed with a slight edge to the Stock Market Bull winning 2-1, who retains a 3 months to 2 months lead, with 1 month now mixed. The 2nd Quarter belongs to the Stock Market Bull, following a 1st Quarter mixed result. The first half of the year and YTD is also a mixed result, with the Stock Market Bullhaving a 2-1 lead. The DJIA is clearly the exchange that has had the most struggles so far. With US elections coming up the 2nd Halfshould provide an interesting show and test for investors and stock exchanges worldwide.

DJIA ends the week and month at 24,271.41, -1.26% from last Friday, -0.59% MTD, +0.70 QTD, -1.81% YTD, -8.81% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends the week and month at 7,510.30, -2.37% from last Friday, +0.92% MTD, +6.33% QTD, +8.79% YTD, -3.49% from record 7,781.52 set 06/20/18.

SPX ends the week and month at 2,718.37, -1.33% from last Friday, +0.48% MTD, +2.93% QTD, +1.67% YTD, -5.38% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

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The PBR1000 June 2018 Stocks & Commodities Snapshots

July 5, 2018 by admin

June 2018: Stocks End First Half With Mixed Results

An emotional month in many ways, ending with a close mixed result between the Stock Market Bull and Stock Market Bear. The stage is set for the start of the 2nd half of 2018.

By Larry C. Paxton

Throughout June there were a lot of emotional ups and downs as trade wars continue to threaten the world economic order. But that was countered by a US economy that continues to show resilience and robustness, especially in the areas of jobs and manufacturing. At the end of the month the NASDAQ had 6 record days and was up nicely. The DJIA was down a little, the S&P500 countered by being up a little. Surprisingly, US stock exchanges volatility continued to be relatively low. Overall the Stock Market Bull barely edged out the Stock Market Bear with 2 major US stock exchanges up and 1 down for the first mixed monthly result of the year. The record year-to-date is the Stock Market Bull ahead 3 months to the Stock Market Bear’s 2 months, with June being a mixed result.

The June 2018 US Major Stock Market Exchanges Summary

Number of Trading Days: 21

Number of Gain(+)/Loss(-) Days: DJIA 10+/11-; NASDAQ 13+/8-; SPX 13+/8-.

Record Days: DJIA 0, NASDAQ 6, SPX 0

Longest Gain Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 4 days(06/06-11/18), NASDAQ 4 days(06/01-06/18), SPX 4 days(06/01-06/18)

Longest Loss Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 8 days(06/12-21/18), NASDAQ 3 days(06/21-25/18), SPX 3 days(06/15-19/18)

Big Swing Up Days(>1.00%): 2 days(06/01/18(NS), 06/06/18(D))

Big Swing Down Days(<-1.00%): 3 days(06/19/18(D), 06/25/18(DNS), 06/27/18(N))

The PBR1000 June 2018 Snapshots

The following are Top 5 partial tables excerpts from The PBR1000 June 2018 Snapshots. The price for stocks is for the close of trading on June 29, Month % Chg is compared to May 31, YTD % Chg is compared to December 29, 2017, and the 18 Months % Chg is compared to December 30, 2016. The PBR Rank is by annual revenues.

To get the complete The PBR1000 Snapshots just click here to get your 2 month or significantly discounted 12 month subscription and automatically download the June 2018 edition with the complete 15 Snapshots and 25 rankings and the bonus The PBRMarketTools US Monthly Indices Snapshots.

Table 1(S11): The PBR1000 Top 5 Month Stock Price % Gainers

Table 1 Summary: The range was +250% to -28%. 532 out of 1,000 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 0.5%, the median was a gain of 0.4%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 06/29/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	18 Mos % Chg
Cenveo	927	CVOVQ	0.07	+250	-92	-99
Fred’s	893	FRED	2.28	+62	-44	-88
Rent-A-Center	749	RCII	14.72	+55	+33	+31
Endo Intl	643	ENDP	9.43	+50	+22	-43
RH	795	RH	139.70	+43	+62	+355

Table 2(S12): The PBR1000 Top 5 Year-To-Date Stock Price % Gainers

Table 2 Summary: The range was +285% to -92%. 473 out of 1,000 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 0.5%, the median was a loss of 1.1%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 06/29/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	18 Mos % Chg
BlueLinx	885	BXC	37.53	-7	+285	+402
Fossil	732	FOSL	26.87	+23	+246	+4
Genesis Healthcare	484	GEN	2.29	+9	+201	-46
Weight Watchers	976	WTW	101.10	+34	+128	+783
Tenet Healthcare	141	THC	33.57	-5	+121	+126

Table 3(S13): The PBR1000 Top 5 18 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: The range was +783% to -89%. 647 out of 1,000 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 19.7%. The median was a gain of 11.3%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 06/29/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	18 Mos % Chg
Weight Watchers	976	WTW	101.10	+34	+128	+783
BlueLinx	885	BXC	37.53	-7	+285	+402
RH	795	RH	139.70	+43	+62	+355
Square	835	SQ	61.64	+6	+78	+352
Systemax	982	SYX	34,33	+4	+3	+291

Table 4(S15): The PBR1000 Top 5 Market Capitalization

Table 4 Summary: The range was $910 billion to $0.01 billion. The average is $26.2 billion, median is $8.2 billion, out of 1,000 companies.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Market Cap($B) 06/29/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	18 Mos % Chg
Apple	4	AAPL	910	-1	+4	+47
Amazon	8	AMZN	824	+5	+48	+131
Alphabet	21	GOOG	780	+5	+7	+47
Microsoft	31	MSFT	758	-0	+15	+57
Facebook	69	FB	563	+4	+10	+70
The PBR1000			26,208	+0	+1	+20

Table 5: The PBR1000 Index & Primary US Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company	Price 06/29/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	18 Mos % Chg
The PBR1000	86,409.65	+0.5	+0.4	+19.7
DJIA	24,271.41	-0.6	-1.8	+22.8
NASDAQ	7,510.30	+0.9	+8.8	+39.5
S&P500	2,718.37	+0.5	+1.7	+21.4
GOLD	1,254.50	-3.9	-3.9	+8.9
SILVER	16.20	-1.6	-4.6	+1.3
OIL	74.15	+10.6	+23.4	+38.0

Have questions on The PBR1000 or The PBR US Economic Indices Monthly Snapshots? Please contact us at Sales@PBRMarketTools.com or call us in the US at 520-444-2519.

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Filed Under: Snapshots Tagged With: Business Intelligence, Commodities, DJIA, Economy, Investing, Money, NASDAQ, Personal Finance, Rankings, Research, S&P 500, Stock Market, Stocks, The PBR1000, Trading, Wealth Management

The PBR1000 May 2018 Stocks & Commodities Snapshots

June 7, 2018 by admin

May 2018: The Stock Market Bull Dominates

The Stock Market Bull wins 2 months in a row. Will geopolitical issues and upcoming US elections stop the streak?

By Larry C. Paxton

The month of May was a lot less volatile than April, at least according to the numbers. With all kinds of geopolitical issues arising creating a lot of uncertainty, and US primary and general elections soon to be center stage, it would seem that volatility should increase. But the US and global economies are doing well, though there are concerns about national debt and employee wage growth is still not growing as much as anticipated. The bottom line is that at the end of the month the Stock Market Bull has won two months in a row and now leads the Stock Market Bear 3 months to 2 months so far in 2018.

The May 2018 US Major Stock Market Exchanges Summary

Number of Trading Days: 22

Number of Gain(+)/Loss(-) Days: DJIA 13+/9-; NASDAQ 12+/10-; SPX 11+/11-.

Record Days: DJIA 0, NASDAQ 0, SPX 0

Longest Gain Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 8 days(05/03-14/18), NASDAQ 5 days(05/04-10/18), SPX 4 days(05/09-14/18)

Longest Loss Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 4 days(04/27-05/02/18), NASDAQ 2 days(05/02-03/18, 05/17-18/18), SPX 2 days(05/02-03/18)

Big Swing Up Days(>1.00%): 4 days(05/04(DNS), 04/04(NS), 05/09(N), 05/21(D), 05/30(DS))

Big Swing Down Days(<-1.00%): 2 days(05/29(DS), 05/31(D))

The PBR1000 May 2018 Snapshots

The following are Top 5 partial tables excerpts from The PBR1000 May 2018 Snapshots. The price for stocks is for the close of trading on May 31, Month % Chg is compared to April 30, YTD % Chg is compared to December 29, 2017, and the 17 Months % Chg is compared to December 30, 2016. The PBR Rank is by annual revenues.

To get the complete The PBR1000 Snapshots just click here to get your 2 month or significantly discounted 12 month subscription and automatically download the May 2018 edition with the complete 15 Snapshots and 25 rankings and the bonus The PBRMarketTools US Monthly Indices Snapshots.

Table 1(S11): The PBR1000 Top 5 Month Stock Price % Gainers

Table 1 Summary: The range was +88% to -60%. 606 out of 1,000 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 1.5%, the median was a gain of 1.9%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 05/31/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	17 Mos % Chg
Essendant	507	ESND	13.99	+88	+51	-33
Chesapeake Energy	304	CHK	4.47	+51	+13	-36
Wayfair	524	W	92.35	+48	+15	+163
Tenet Healthcare	142	THC	35.43	+48	+134	+139
ArcBest	718	ARCB	47.45	+48	+33	+72

Table 2(S12): The PBR1000 Top 5 Year-To-Date Stock Price % Gainers

Table 2 Summary: The range was +315% to -65%. 449 out of 1,000 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 0.0%, the median was a loss of 1.6%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 05/31/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	17 Mos % Chg
BlueLinx	884	BXC	40.55	+1	+315	+443
Fossil	728	FOSL	21.88	+46	+182	-15
Tenet Healthcare	142	THC	35.43	+48	+134	+139
Whiting Petroleum	953	WLL	52.42	+28	+98	+9
Netflix	253	NFLX	351.60	+13	+83	+184

Table 3(S13): The PBR1000 Top 5 17 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: The range was +558% to -92%. 646 out of 1,000 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 19.1%. The median was a gain of 11.5%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 05/31/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	17 Mos % Chg
Weight Watchers	976	WTW	75.32	+8	+70	+558
BlueLinx	884	BXC	40.55	+1	+315	+443
Square	832	SQ	58.25	+23	+68	+327
Scientific Games	690	SGMS	59.30	+11	+16	+324
Systemax	982	SYX	33.02	+5	-1	+277

Table 4(S15): The PBR1000 Top 5 Market Capitalization

Table 4 Summary: The range was $921 billion to $0.01 billion. The average is $26.2 billion, median is $8.2 billion, out of 1,000 companies.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Market Cap($B) 05/31/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	17 Mos % Chg
Apple	4	AAPL	921	+12	+5	+49
Amazon	8	AMZN	788	+3	+42	+121
Microsoft	31	MSFT	760	+3	+15	+57
Alphabet	21	GOOG	745	+4	+2	+40
Facebook	69	FB	543	+8	+6	+64
The PBR1000			26,248	+2	+1	+20

Table 5: The PBR1000 Index & Primary US Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company	Price 05/31/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	17 Mos % Chg
The PBR1000	86,248.83	+1.5	+0.0	+19.1
DJIA	24,415.84	+1.1	-1.2	+23.6
NASDAQ	7,442.12	+5.3	+7.8	+38.3
S&P500	2,705.27	+2.2	+1.2	+20.8
GOLD	1,304.70	-1.0	-0.0	+13.3
SILVER	16.46	+0.6	-3.1	+2.9
OIL	67.04	-2.2	+11.6	+24.8

Have questions on The PBR1000 or The PBR US Economic Indices Monthly Snapshots? Please contact us at Sales@PBRMarketTools.com or call us in the US at 520-444-2519.

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

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Filed Under: Snapshots Tagged With: Business Intelligence, business news, Commodities, DJIA, Economy, Investing, Money, NASDAQ, Personal Finance, Rankings, Research, S&P 500, Stock Market, Stocks, The PBR1000, Trading, Wealth Management

The PBR1000 May 2018 Breaking News Recap

June 4, 2018 by admin

The PBR1000 May 2018 Breaking News Items

Global trade has become a critical issue. Will world leaders be able to find fair and equitable solutions? Let’s hope so.

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

***Thursday, May 31:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Month of May Ending 05/31/18:

May 2018 Summary: Geopolitical issues(N Korea, Iran, China, Italy) and US trade policies(tariffs) grabbed most of the headlines during May and caused volatility in the stock market, But the US economy continues to grow at a moderate rate and looks to continue that trend in the near future. Unemployment is very low, the tech sector had a major rally, and corporate earnings were better than expected. As a result, the Stock Market Bull wins May, the second win in a row, and is ahead of the Stock Market Bear with 3 months of wins to 2 months.

DJIA ends May at 24,415.84, -1.36% from last Friday, +1.05% MTD, +1.30 QTD, -1.23% YTD, -8.27% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends May at 7,442.12, +0.11% from last Friday, +5.32% MTD, +5.36% QTD, +7.80% YTD, -1.93% from record 7,588.32 set 03/12/18.

SPX ends May at 2,705.27, -0.59% from last Friday, +2.16% MTD, +2.44% QTD, +1.18% YTD, -5.83% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

General Motors(PBR12) to get $2.25 billion investment from SoftBank Vision Fund for in automated driving venture GM Cruise Holdings, values GM Cruise at $11.5 billion, GM to also invest $1.1 billion. $GM PR link.

Delta(PBR68), Los Angeles World Airportsprepare for construction of $1.86 billion Delta Sky Way at LAX. $DAL PR link.

Hartford Financial(PBR166) completes $2.05 billion sale of its run-off life and annuity businesses Talcott Resolution to an investment group. $HIG PR link.

Sears(PBR168) has identified around 100 non-profitable stores, to close 72 in near future, continuing to evaluate sale of some or all assets to ESL Investments. $SHLD PR link.

LKQ(PBR295) completes $1.8 billion acquisition of Germany based European wholesale distributor of aftermarket spare parts for passenger cars, tools, capital equipment and accessories provider Stahlgruber. $LKQ PR link.

Assurant(PBR424) completes $2.5 billion acquisition of $1 billion revenues/2017 vehicle protection and financial services provider The Warranty Group. $AIZ PR link.

Wyndham Worldwide(PBR503) completes $1.95 billion acquisition of La Quinta(PBR998). $WYN PR link.

Symantec(PBR581) receives non-compliance notice from NASDAQ for not filing its annual 10-K report for year ended 03/31/18 on time, expects to submit a plan to regain compliance. $SYMC PR link.

Brink’s(PBR660) to acquire Hunt Valley, MD, based 5,400 employees 78 locations Dunbar Armored, the fourth largest US cash management company, for approximately $520 million cash, to close by end of 2018. $BCO PR link.

Sanderson Farms(PBR661) extends share repurchase program to 05/31/21, increases authorization from 1.0 million to 2.0 million shares. $SAFM PR link.

SM Energy(PBR997) completes combined $292.3 million sale of its remaining assets in the Williston Basin in Divide County, N Dakota, and the third-party operated assets Halff East in Upton County, TX. $SM PR link.

GameStop(PBR310) board member Shane Kim to serve as interim CEO, Rob Lloyd promoted to COO/CFO, Dan DeMatteo to continue serving as Executive Chairman. $GME PR link.

Celgene(PBR219) hires David Elkins as EVP/CFO, effective 08/01/18, succeeds Peter Kellogg who will become EVP/Chief Corporate Strategy Officer until his retirment in mid 2019. $CELG PR link.

Biogen(PBR238) hires Daniel Karp as EVP/Corporate Development, effective 06/11/18. $BIIB PR link.

Pioneer Natural Resources(PBR477)SVP/Investor Relations Frank Hopkins is retires, Neal Shah promoted as successor. $PXD PR link.

Pentair(PBR512) promotes Phil Rolchigo, PhD, to EVP/Chief Technology Officer. $PNR PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says the US National Debt on 05/30/18 was Public $15.398 trillion, Intragovernmental $5.707 trillion, Total $21.105 trillion, +0.2% from 04/30/18, +3.0% YTD, +6.3% from 05/31/17. USTreasury PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US 4 Week Moving Average Initial Unemployment Claims on 05/26/18 were at 222,250, -3.1% from 04/21/18, -5.5% from 05/25/17; Total 4 Week Moving Average Total Insured Unemployment on 05/19/18 was 1,743,500, -10.6% from 04/14/18, -9.8% from 05/18/17; Insured Unemployment Rate on 05/19/18 is 1.2%. USDOL PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR38) says US Average 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rate on 05/31/18 is at 4.56%, on 04/26/18 was at 4.58%, 03/29/18 4.44%, 05/25/17 3.95%. $FMCC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/BEA says US Preliminary April 2018 Total Personal Income Annual Rate is at $16.935 trillion, +0.3% from March 2018, +3.8% from April 2017. USDOC PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says the 7th District Preliminary April 2018 Midwest Economy Index is at +0.53, March 2018 was +0.52, February 2018 +0.41, April 2017 +0.49. ChiFed PR link.

The MNI May 2018 Chicago Business Barometer(>50 economy gaining) is at 62.7, April 2018 was 57.6, March 2018 57.4, May 2017 59.4. MNI/Chicago ISM PR link.

The US Energy Information Administrationsays US Crude Oil Stocks on 05/25/18 were at 434.5 million barrels of oil, +1.1% from 04/20/18, -15.8% from 05/24/17. EIA PR link.

The American Automobile Assn says the US National Average for Gas/Gallon on 05/31/18was at $2.959, on 04/30/18 it was $2.811, 03/30/18 $2.654, 05/31/17 $2.372. AAA PR link.

The August 2018 Closing Electronic Gold Price/Ounce on 05/31/18 was at $1,304.70, -0.9% from 04/30/18, -0.0% from 12/31/17, +2.3% from 05/31/17. MarketWatch PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says the US 05/31/18 30 Year Treasury Bond Yield closed at 3.00%, on 04/30/18 was at 3.11%, 03/29/18 2.97%, 05/31/17 2.87%. USTreasury PR link.

The Closing Exchange Rate for a Euro on 05/31/18 was $1.1693 US Dollars. MarketWatch Quote PR link.

***Wednesday, May 30:

Walmart(PBR1) to provide a new associate education benefit in partnership with Guild Education, will subsidize the cost of college tuition, books and fees, associate contribution only $1/day. $WMT PR link.

Amazon(PBR8) Prime member discounts now available at an additional 121 Whole Foodsmarkets in 12 states, now available at all 365 stores. $AMZN PR link.

Pfizer(PBR55) gets US FDA approval for ulcerative colitis therapy XELJANZ® (tofacitinib). $PFE PR link.

21st Century Fox(PBR102) sets 07/10/18 for special meeting for stockholders to vote on $52.4 billion in stock acquisition of certain assets by Walt Disney(PBR53), may move or adjourn meeting if Comcast(PBR33) also makes a bid. $FOX PR link.

NGL Energy(PBR218) to sell its remaining Retail Propane business to Superior Plus Corp(TSX:SPB) for $900 million cash, to close within 60 days. $NGL PR link.

Tesla(PBR251 $TSLA) Model 3 now gets recommendation of Consumer Reports after its testers found that a recent over-the-air (OTA) update improved the car’s braking distance by almost 20 feet, still has other issues which CEO Elon Musk says are being addressed. CR PR link.

Jones Lang LaSalle(PBR346) wholly owned subsidiary LaSalle unit to acquire the $7 billion of assets under management Real Estate Multi-Manager business of Aviva Investors, and full ownership of the gross asset value of around $2 billion management of the Encore+ fund. $JLL PR link.

Polaris Industries(PBR480) to acquire privately held largest pontoon boat manufacturer in the US Boat Holdings for around net $705 million cash, to close in 3Q18. $PII PR link.

T Rowe Price(PBR520) to close its Tampa, FL, operations center in 06/19, consolidate into Maryland and Colorado centers, to affect 400 positions. $TROW PR link.

Michael Kors(PBR556) in 4Q18 report says it will continue to explore acquisitions in FY2019 to complement their existing luxury portfolio. $KORS PR link.

Iron Mountain(PBR598) acquires Dutch EvoSwitch data center business for $235 million. $IRM PR link.

Monster Beverage(PBR653) authorizes new up to $500 million share repurchase program. $MNST PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says US 1Q18 2nd Estimate Gross Domestic Product Annual Growth Rate is at +2.2%, $19.957 trillion, +1.0% from 4Q17, +4.7% from 1Q17. USDOC PR link.

The US Federal Reserve releases Beige Book, from data collected on or before 05/21/18, says economic activity expanded moderately in late April and early May with few shifts in the pattern of growth, outlooks for near term growth were generally upbeat. USFed PR link.

ADP(PBR235) says US Preliminary May 2018 Change In National Employment was +178,000, +38,000 from Small Businesses, +84,000 from Medium Sized Businesses, and +56,000 from Large Businesses; Goods Producing Sector was +64,000 jobs, Service Sector +114,000. $ADP PR link.

Healthcare News: Statement by US FDACommissioner Scott Gottlieb, MD, on President Trump’s signing of the Right to Try Act. FDA PR link.

***Tuesday, May 29:

Amazon(PBR8) to open its first Oklahomafulfillment center, in Oklahoma City, 600,000 sf facility, to create 1,500+ full-time jobs by end of 2019. $AMZN PR link.

Walt Disney(PBR53)’s ABC unit cancels hit revival sitcom show “Roseanne” after Roseanne Barr’s racist tweet about former Obama adviser Valerie Jarrett. $DIS PR link.

Starbucks(PBR124) executive chairman/founder Howard Schultz sends open letter reminding everyone that today 8,000 Starbucks locations will be closed in the afternoon for training of its 175,000 partners, follow-on to recent incident in Philadelphia. $SBUX PR link.

WellCare Health Plans(PBR165) to acquire private $4.3 billion in revenues in 2018 Meridian Health Plan of Michigan, Inc., Meridian Health Plan of Illinois, Inc., and MeridianRx, a pharmacy benefit manager (PBM), (collectively, “Meridian”) for $2.5 billion in cash by end of 2018. $WCG PR link.

Allergan(PBR173) issues voluntary US recall of one lot (Lot# 5620706, Expiry May-2019) of TAYTULLA® 1mg/20mcg, 6×28 physicians sample pack, for use by women to prevent pregnancy, first four days of therapy had four non-hormonal placebo capsules instead of active capsules. $AGN PR link.

Monsanto(PBR194 $MON) $66 billion acquisition by Germany based Bayer AGgranted conditional approval by US Dept of Justice, Bayer must divest $9 billion in business and assets to BASF. USDOJ PR link.

Monsanto(PBR194 $MON) $66 billion acquisition by Germany based Bayer AGconditions set by US Dept of Justice to be completed in around 2 months. Bayer PR link.

Kinder Morgan(PBR213) to sell Canadian Trans Mountain Pipeline system and the expansion project (TMEP) to the Canadian government for around C$ 4.5 billion(US$ 3.5 billion) by early 4Q18. $KMI PR link.

MGM Resorts(PBR270) and MGM Growth Properties(NYSE: MGP) to acquire the real property and operations associated with the Empire City Casino‘s race track and casino for $850 million. $MGM PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR441) to acquire Simi Valley, CA, based retail property/casualty broker, and employee benefits consultant and broker Thomas Costello Insurance Agency, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

SCANA(PBR545) to hold special stockholders meeting on 07/31/18 to vote on stock-for-stock merger into Dominion Energy(PBR228). $SCG PR link.

KKR(PBR670) to acquire global 10,000+ customers and 6,000 employees digital and IT infrastructure with a broad portfolio of software solutions provider BMC Software from a private investor group led by Bain Capital Private Equity and Golden Gate Capital, terms not disclosed. $KKR PR link.

Brown-Forman(PBR597) CEO Paul Varga to retire, effective 12/31/18, EVP/COO Lawson E Whiting to be successor. $BFA PR link.

HP Inc(PBR56) to promote Steve Fieler to CFO, effective 07/01/18, succeeds Cathie Lesjak who will become interim COO then retire in early 2019. $HPQ PR link.

Ocwen Financial(PBR991) EVP/CFO Michael Bourque leaving effective 06/22/18, new CFO search starts. $OCN PR link.

Tenet Healthcare(PBR141) appoints General Lloyd J. Austin, III, retired 4 star Army general, and Meghan M. FitzGerald, DrPH, Managing Partner at healthcare investment fund L1 Health and Assistant Professor of Health Policy at Columbia University, to the Board. $THC PR link.

Molina Healthcare(PBR146) elects Richard Zoretic, retired EVP of WellPoint, to the Board effective 08/01/18. $MOH PR link.

Hub Group(PBR579) elects Mary Boosalis, President /CEO of Premier Health, to the Board. $HUBG PR link.

Service Corp Intl(PBR688) elects Jakki L. Haussler, co-founder/CEO of Opus Capital Management, and Sara Martinez Tucker, chairman of The U of Texas Board of Regents, to the Board. $SCI PR link.

ServiceMaster(PBR707) appoints Steven B. Hochhauser, former chairman/CEO of Johns Manville, to the Board. $SERV PR link.

The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller US March 2018 National Home Prices Index(01/2000=100) is at 198.94, February 2018 was 197.29, January 2018 196.47, March 2017 186.74. Case-Shiller PR link.

The Conference Board US Preliminary May 2018 Consumer Confidence Index(1985=100)is at 128.0, April 2018 was at 125.6. TCB PR link.

***Monday, May 28:

***US Federal Holiday: Memorial Day.
Remembering those who made
the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms
we enjoy and cherish today.***

***Friday, May 25:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 05/25/18:

In a repeat of last week the Stock Market Bullhad an excellent Monday and Wednesday was okay, but the Stock Market Bear took Tuesday,Thursday, and 2 out of 3 on Friday. However, it wasn’t enough and Week 21 belongs to the Stock Market Bull. Both have now won 10 weeks with one week a mixed result. All indices are in positive territory for the week, month, quarter, and now year, but still below their records.

DJIA ends the week at 24,753.09, +0.15% from last Friday, +2.44% MTD, +2.70 QTD, +0.14% YTD, -7.00% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends the week at 7,433.85, +1.08% from last Friday, +5.20% MTD, +5.24% QTD, +7.68% YTD, -2.04% from record 7,588.32 set 03/12/18.

SPX ends the week at 2,721.33, +0.31% from last Friday, +2.77% MTD, +3.05% QTD, +1.78% YTD, -5.27% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

PepsiCo(PBR43) to acquire Bare Foods C(dba Bare Snacks), a US-based maker of baked fruit and vegetable snacks, terms not disclosed. $PEP PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR125) extends $127.50/share tender offer for acquisition of NXP Semiconductors(NASDAQ: NXPI) to 06/08/18 5PM Eastern, 4.0% of the outstanding NXP common shares have been validly tendered. $QCOM PR link.

Principal Financial(PBR206) now has 60% ownership of CIMB-Principal Asset Management Group and CIMB-Principal Islamic Asset Management in SE Asia joint venture. $PFG PR link.

LabCorp(PBR283) to become a preferred national laboratory for Aetna(PBR48)‘s 20 million customers per extended and expanded agreement to be effective 01/01/19. $LH PR link.

Coty(PBR363)’s Professional Beauty division opens new N America headquarters on 26 acre campus in Calabasas, CA. $COTY PR link.

Windstream(PBR459) completes reverse 1:5 stock split. $WIN PR link.

Herbalife(PBR544 $HLF) largest shareholder Icahn Enterprises(PBR147) tendering up to 11.4 million Herbalife shares of its 45.7 million shares because it is an outsized position currently. MarketWatch PR link.

Great Plains Energy(PBR757) $14 billion merger of equals with Westar Energy(PBR769)gets final regulatory approvals, transaction to close in 06/18, merged company to be called Evergy, Inc. (NYSE: EVRG). $GXP PR link.

UPS(PBR41) hires Kevin Warren as SVP/Chief Marketing Officer. $UPS PR link.

Tesla(PBR251) hires Stuart Bowers as VP/Engineering, James Zhou VP/CFO-China, and several director level executive positions. $TSLA PR link.

Delek US(PBR378) and Delek Logistics Partners(NYSE:DKL) hire Regina Bynote Jones as EVP/General Counsel and Secretary. $DK PR link.

The U of Michigan US Final May 2018 Consumer Sentiment Index is at 98.0, April 2018 was 98.8, March 2018 101.4, May 201797.1. UMich PR link.

***Thursday, May 24:

Apple(PBR4 $AAPL) wins iPhone patent infringement law suit, to receive $539 million from Samsung. MarketWatch PR link.

McKesson(PBR6) in fiscal year 2018 report announces an additional share repurchase authorization of $4 billion. $MCK PR link.

VISA(PBR153) makes strategic investment in YellowPepper to accelerate adoption of mobile payments and tokenization in Latin Americaand the Caribbean, expansion of partnership started in 2017. $V PR link.

Celgene(PBR219) authorizes additional $3 billion share repurchase program, to do $2 billion accelerated share repurchase using existing program and part of the new authorization. $CELG PR link.

First Data(PBR244) to sell $120 million in revenues in 2017 card processing businesses in parts of Central and Southeastern Europe for around $450 million to European high tech payment infrastructure and services provider SIA. $FDC PR link.

UNUM(PBR259) authorizes new up to $750 million share repurchase program, expires 11/24/19, replaces previous $750 million authorization scheduled to expire 11/25/18. $UNM PR link.

Clorox(PBR453) authorizes up to $2 billion share repurchase program, replaces existing $750 million program. $CLX PR link.

Windstream(PBR459) to upgrade its cable TV network internet speeds in N Georgia from 100 megabits-per second(Mbps) to 300 Mbps within next 12 months, serves 67,000 households. $WIN PR link.

Cimarex Energy(PBR869) to sell oil and gas properties principally located in Ward County, TX, to Callon Petroleum for $570 million cash. $XEC PR link.

AGNC Investment(PBR978) has priced a public offering of 30,000,000 shares of common stock, expects total gross proceeds of about $558.0 million. $AGNC PR link.

Ryman Hospitality(PBR993) to do $150 million expansion of Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Kissimmee, FL, adds 303 new guest rooms, 90,000 sf of convention space. $RHP PR link.

Molina Healthcare(PBR146) hires Thomas Tran as CFO/Treasurer effective 06/04/18, succeeds retiring Joseph White. $MOH PR link.

KeyCorp(PBR399) Chief Human Resources Officer Craig Buffie to retire in 2H18, Brian Fishel to be successor. $KEY PR link.

La-Z-Boy(PBR946) hires Melinda D. Whittington as SVP/CFO effective 06/21/18, to succeed retiring Louis M. (“Mike”) Riccio. $LZB PR link.

Bed Bath & Beyond(PBR236) appoints Stephanie Bell-Rose, senior managing director at TIAA, to the Board. $BBBY PR link.

Conagra Brands(PBR351) appoints Anil Arora, director and vice-chairman of Envestnet, to the Board, effective 07/17/18. $CAG PR link.

TDS(PBR504) elects James (Jim) W. Butman, President/CEO of wholly owned subsidiary TDS Telecom, to the Board. $TDS PR link.

Kennametal(PBR853) elects Lorraine M. Martin, recently retired EVP and deputy of Lockheed(PBR64)’s Rotary and Mission Systems, to the Board effective 07/01/18. $KMT PR link.

The Natl Assn of Realtors says US April 2018 Existing Home Sales Annual Rate is at 5,460,000, -2.5% from March 2018, -1.4% from April 2017; April 2018 Median Price was $257,900, +3.0% from March 2018, +5.3% from April 2017. NAR PR link.

***Wednesday, May 23:

Walmart(PBR1 $WMT) to acquire Japan’s SoftBank Group‘s 21% stake in India’s e-commerce provider Flipkart, in addition to $16 billion for the 77% stake it is acquiring.MarketWatch PR link.

ExxonMobil(PBR3) to reduce 2016 levels of methane emissions by 15%, flaring by 25% by 2020. $XOM PR link.

Kroger(PBR17) to acquire Chicago, IL, based 1,000 employees $250 million in profitable sales in 2017 largest US private meal kit company Home Chef for $200 million plus up to $500 million based on milestones achieved over next 5 years. $KR PR link.

Anthem(PBR30) to acquire largest US non-hospice, community-based palliative care provider Aspire Health, terms not disclosed, to close 3Q18. $ANTM PR link.

Comcast(PBR33) considering superior all-cash offer to acquire 21st Century Fox(PBR102) after spinoff of “New Fox.” $CMCSA PR link.

IBM(PBR34) to add 1,800 jobs over 2 years in France to drive innovation in AI, blockchain, cloud computing and IoT. $IBM PR link.

Southern Co(PBR119)’s Southern Power unit to sell a 33% minority interest in its solar portfolio to Global Atlantic Financial Group Limited for $1.175 billion. $SO PR link.

Huntsman(PBR333) authorizes increase of $450 million share buyback program to $1 billion. $HUN PR link.

Chipotle(PBR537) to relocate its headquarters, currently in Denver, CO, to Newport Beach, CA, will impact 400 employees in Denver and New York. $CMG PR link.

Herbalife(PBR544) renews partnership through 2021 as official nutrition sponsor of international soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo. $HLF PR link.

Tiffany(PBR568) approves up to $1 billion share repurchase program, effective 06/01/18 through 01/31/22, replaces 2016 program. $TIF PR link.

Qorvo(PBR694) authorizes new up to $1 billion share repurchase program, includes $126 million remaining under previous plan. $QRVO PR link.

Wynn Resorts(PBR403) stockholders at annual meeting vote 14.0 million votes for and 55.9 million votes against the proposed executive officers compensation plan, a non-binding advisory vote. $WYNN PR link.

Revlon(PBR747) promotes COO Debra Perelman to President/CEO, effective immediately, is daughter of Board Chairman Ronald O. Perelman. $REV PR link.

Macy’s(PBR114) hires Paula Price as CFO, effective 07/09/18, to succeed retiring Karen Hoguet. $M PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR121) SVP and President/Lilly Oncology Sue Mahony, PhD, to retire effective 08/31/18 after 18 years with the company. $LLY PR link.

Lear Corp(PBR142) hires Rashida Thomas as Chief Diversity Officer and Director/Talent Management. $LEA PR link.

Patterson Cos(PBR471) hires Donald Zurbay as CFO, effective 06/29/18, and Andrea Frohning as Chief Human Resources Officer, effective immediately. $PDCO PR link.

Cooper Cos(PBR844) hires Holly Sheffield as EVP/Chief Strategy Officer, effective 06/04/18; Dr. Robert Auerbach now President/CooperSurgical. $COO PR link.

Avnet(PBR160) appoints Oleg Khaykin, president/CEO of Viavi Solutions, to the Board. $AVT PR link.

Diebold Nixdorf(PBR529) appoints Ellen M. Costello, currently serving as an independent director on the board of Citigroup(PBR32), to the Board. $DBD PR link.

Sally Beauty(PBR589) appoints Denise Paulonis, EVP/CFO of The Michaels Companies(PBR503), to the Board. $SBH PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says US Preliminary April 2018 New Family Homes Sold Annual Rate is at 662,000, -1.5% from March 2018, +11.6% from April 2017; April 2018 Median Home Price was at $312,400, -6.9% from March 2018, +0.4% from April 2017; April 2018 Months Supply at 5.4. USDOC PR link.

The Federal Open Market Committee releases minutes of its 05/01-02/18 meeting, notes labor market had continued to strengthen and that economic activity had been rising at a moderate rate, no federal funds rate increase, but a 90% chance for one at the 06/18 meeting. FOMC PR link.

***Tuesday, May 22:

Anthem(PBR30) to remain headquartered in Indianapolis, IN, spending $20 million in renovations for its new corporate offices in downtown area. $ANTM PR link.

MetLife(PBR46) authorizes new $1.5 billion share repurchase program, $370 million still available from 2017 authorization. $MET PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR121)’s Taltz® (ixekizumab)receives the first US FDA approval for label update to Include data for psoriasis involving the genital area. $LLY PR link.

PPG(PBR192) gets NYSE notice regarding delayed Form 10-Q filing, has 6 months to be in compliance. $PPG PR link.

Tesla(PBR251 $TSLA) CEO Elon Musk says braking distance issue mentioned by Consumer Reports is a firmware fix which will be rolled out in a few days. MarketWatch PR link.

Electronic Arts(PBR518) acquires Israel based cloud gaming technology assets and personnel of a wholly owned subsidiary of GameFly, terms not disclosed. $EA PR link.

Varian Medical(PBR749) will not submit a counterproposal to competing bid by Chinabased CDH Investments for acquisition of Australian based interventional oncology radiation therapies provider Sirtex Medical Limited (ASX: SRX), explains why its $1.28 billion bid is the better one. $VAR PR link.

Portland General Electric(PBR857) issues request for proposals seeking an additional 100 average megawatts of renewable power generating resources, minimum bid size 10 megawatts, bids due by 06/15/18. $POR PR link.

Lowe’s(PBR40) hires JCPenney(PBR230) Chairman/CEO Marvin Ellison as President/CEO, effective 07/02/18, succeeds retiring Robert Niblock, director Richard W. Dreiling to also become Chairman. $LOW PR link.

JCPenney(PBR230) Chairman/CEO Marvin Ellison resigns effective 06/01/18 to take position at Lowe’s(PBR40), lead independent director Ron Tysoe elected Chairman, Office of the CEO formed with 4 senior executives assigned. $JCP PR link.

Qurate Retail(PBR278) names Jeff Yurcisin as President of Zulilly, effective 08/15/18, Mary Campbell as Qurate Retail Group Chief Merchandising and Interactive Officer effective immediately, Aidan O’Meara to President/Qurate Retail Group International effective 07/02/18, and Tom Bazzone to President/Frontgate. $QRTEA PR link.

Fred’s(PBR897) appoints Dana Goldsmith Needleman, principal of private real estate investment firm The Cogent Group, and Thomas Zacharias, President of real estate investment and advisory firm Zacharias & Co, to the Board. $FRED PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond says the US Fifth District May 2018 Manufacturing Index is at +16%, April 2018 was -3%, March 2018 +15%, May 2017 +3%. RichmondFed PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond says the US Fifth District May 2018 Services Revenues Index is at +11%, April 2018 was +2%, March 2018 +25%, May 2017 +24%. RichmondFed PR link.

Personal Finance: The US Federal Reserve in its Report on the Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households in 2017 says 4 out of 10 families would not be able to come up with $400 for an emergency, down from 50% in 2013. USFed PR link.

International Trade: China to cut import tariff on autos to 15% from 25%, auto parts to 6% from 8% to 25%, effective 07/01/18. MarketWatch PR link.

***Monday, May 21:

GE(PBR18) to spin-off GE Transportation unit which will then merge into Wabtec(PBR595)resulting in 50.1% ownership by GE and GE shareholders, 49.9% by Wabtec, in $11.1 billion deal, to close early 2019. $GE PR link.

Microsoft(PBR31) to acquire Berkeley, CA, based conversational Artificial Intelligence solutions developer Semantic Machines, terms not disclosed. $MSFT PR link.

Comcast(PBR33 $CMCSA) $30 billion bid for UK’s Sky plc unlikely to get an antitrust review, per a UK government official. MarketWatch PR link.

Southern Co(PBR119) to sell Florida assets Gulf Power Company, Florida City Gas and the entities holding Southern Power’s interests in Plant Oleander and Plant Stanton to NextEra Energy(PBR161) for $6.475 billion, includes debt. $SO PR link.

Amgen(PBR123) gets US FDA approval for the use of Prolia® (denosumab) for the treatment of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIOP) in men and women at high risk of fracture. $AMGN PR link.

Micron Technology(PBR144) authorizes up to $10 billion share repurchase program. $MU PR link.

Kohl’s(PBR149) expands millennial brand portfolio through an apparel collection with POPSUGAR, to launch in 09/18. $KSS PR link.

Tesla(PBR251 $TSLA)‘s announces new high-performance Model 3 for $78,000. MarketWatch PR link.

Tesla(PBR251 $TSLA) Model 3 falls short of a Consumer Reports recommendation despite record range and agile handling, cites issues with braking, controls, and ride quality.Consumer Reports PR link.

Fifth Third Bancorp(PBR358) to merge MB Financial(Nasdaq: MBFI) into its operations in $4.7 billion 90% stock/10% cash deal. $FITB PR link.

Adobe Systems(PBR377) to aquire B2C and B2B cloud commerce developer Magento Commerce for $1.68 billion, to close 3Q18. $ADBE PR link.

Adobe Systems(PBR377) authorizes new up to $8 billion share repurchase program through FY 2019. $ADBE PR link.

Blackstone(PBR386 $BX) to acquire $1.1 billion in revenues in 2017 LaSalle Hotel Properties(NYSE: LHO) for $33.50/share, $4.8 billion cash, to close 3Q18. $LHO PR link.

AmTrust Financial(PBR450) activist 9.4% investor Icahn Enterprises(PBR147) files lawsuit in Delaware challenging going private by the Zyskind/Karfunkel families. $AFSI PR link.

Simon Property(PBR474) to install ultra-fast electric vehicle chargers at more than 30 of its shopping centers in partnership with Electrify America. $SPG PR link.

Cerner(PBR499) adds $500 billion to share repurchase program, $639 million now available, no expiration date set. $CERN PR link.

Roper Technologies(PBR614) to acquire Atlanta, GA, based global software and solutions for asset-centric companies provider PowerPlan from private equity firm Thoma Bravo for $1.1 billion cash. $ROP PR link.

Curtiss-Wright(PBR837) to utilize $50 million in repatriated cash to expand share repurchase program which has a current balance available of $36 million. $CW PR link.

Allscripts(PBR889) completes acquisition of mobile, enterprise patient engagement solutions developer HealthGrid, represents a significant expansion of the Allscripts FollowMyHealth®platform, terms not disclosed. $MDRX PR link.

Brunswick(PBR534) Chief Technology Officer David Foulkes gets additional responsibility of President/Brunswick Marine Consumer Solutions. $BC PR link.

FMC Corp(PBR714) President/FMC Agriculture Solutions Mark Douglas appointed corporate President/COO, other unit promotions reporting to Douglas also announced. $FMC PR link.

M&T Bank(PBR452) Corp elects Kevin J. Pearson, Vice Chairman of principal subsidiary M&T Bank, to its Board. $MTB PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says the US Preliminary April 2018 National Activity Index is at +0.34, March 2018 was +0.32, February 2018 +0.73, April 2017 +0.44. ChiFed PR link.

***Friday, May 18:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 05/18/18:

The week of good 1st quarter corporate earnings was offset by geopolitical concerns. The Stock Market Bull did well on Monday and Wednesday, but the Stock Market Bear feasted on Tuesday and Thursday for a strong win in Week 20 of 2018 and YTD has now won 10 weeks.

DJIA ends the week at 24,715.09, -0.47% from last Friday, +2.28% MTD, +2.54 QTD, -0.02% YTD, -7.14% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends the week at 7,354.34, -0.66% from last Friday, +4.08% MTD, +4.12% QTD, +6.53% YTD, -3.08% from record 7,588.32 set 03/12/18.

SPX ends the week at 2,712.97, -0.54% from last Friday, +2.45% MTD, +2.73% QTD, +1.47% YTD, -5.57% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

Campbell Soup(PBR346) CEO Denise Morrison retires, director since 2016 Keith McLoughlin named interim CEO. $CPB PR link.

Middleby(PBR806) to acquire the global beverage solutions, soft serve and ice cream dispensing equipment, frozen drink machines, and automated double-sided grills developer $315 million in sales in 2017 the Taylor Company from UTC Climate, Controls & Security, a unit of United Technologies(PBR45), for $1.0 billion, to close 3Q18. $MIDD PR link.

Tenneco(PBR308) SVP/Finance Jason Hollar to become CFO on 07/01/18, to succeed retiring EVP/CFO Ken Trammell who will stay onboard in a broader leadership role as Tenneco separates into 2 independent public companies. $TEN PR link.

JetBlue(PBR387) EVP/Corporate Affairs, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary James Hnat to retire effective 06/30/18, will remain in an advisory role and on the Board. $JBLU PR link.

JetBlue(PBR387) VP/Customer Experience Joanna Geraghty promoted to President/COO, EVP/Operations Jeff Martin transitions to senior advisory role during reorganization. $JBLU PR link.

Flowserve(PBR560) hires Lanesha Minnix as SVP/Chief Legal Officer effective 06/11/18. $FLS PR link.

Vitamin Shoppe(PBR969) EVP/CFO Brenda Galgano to resign, effective 06/05/18, SVP/Business Development & Strategy Bill Wafford to be successor. $VSI PR link.

Take-Two Interactive(PBR883) appoints Paul Viera, founder/CEO of global investment firm Earnest Partners, to the Board. $TTWO PR link.

***Thursday, May 17:

Kroger(PBR17) increases investment in and partners with online grocery store retailer UKbased Ocado for online ordering, automated fulfillment and home delivery capabilities in the US, will start with 3 sites in US in 2018, expand to 20 over 3 years. $KR PR link.

United Technologies(PBR45 $UTX) activist investor Bill Ackman of Pershing Square says United Technologies should be split into 3 companies. Pershing PR link.

Amgen(PBR123) gets US FDA approval for Aimovig™ (erenumab-aooe) for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults, first and only FDA-approved treatment specifically developed to prevent migraine by blocking the calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor (CGRP-R). $AMGN PR link.

Emerson Electric(PBR184) to acquire global smart pneumatics technologies that power machine and factory automation applications developer Germany based 2,100 employees $425 million in 2017 sales Aventics from Tritonfor around $630 million. $EMR PR link.

CBS(PBR213) request for a temporary restraining order against the Redstone familyand National Amusements that would have enabled CBS to strip its Redstones/NA of its voting power is denied by Delaware court decision. $CBS PR link.

CBS(PBR213) board in a unanimous vote of the directors not affiliated with National Amusements approves pro rata dividend of 0.5687 shares of Class A common stock for each share of the Company’s Class A common stock and Class B common stock, conditioned on a final determination by the Delaware courts. $CBS PR link.

PayPal(PBR216) to acquire iZettle for $2.2 billion, will expand omnichannel presence in small businesses in Europe and Latin America, to close 3Q18. $PYPL PR link.

Tesla(PBR251 $TSLA) needs to raise $10.5 billion in capital to keep going through 2020, says Goldman Sachs(PBR89). MarketWatch PR link.

Global Partners(PBR318) to acquire retail fuel and Jiffy Mart convenience store assets in Vermont and New Hampshire from Champlain Oil Company, to close in 3Q18, terms not disclosed. $GLP PR link.

Williams Cos(PBR341) to acquire Williams Partners(NYSE: WPZ) in all stock deal valued at $10.5 billion, to close in fall of 2018. $WMB PR link.

AmTrust Financial(PBR450) shareholders get letter from 9.4% shareholder Carl Icahn/Icahn Enterprises urging them to vote against the $13.50/share, $2.7 billion acquisition by Stone Point Capital and the Karfunkel Family, requests 06/04/18 special meeting be moved to a later date. $AFSI PR link.

Hasbro(PBR488) authorizes additional $500 million for share repurchase program, balance available is now $639.2 billion. $HAS PR link.

GNC(PBR743) stockholders approve plan to get $300 million investment from China based Harbin Pharmaceutical, to form strategic joint venture partnership for manufacturing, marketing, sale and distribution of GNC-branded products in China. $GNC PR link.

United Continental(PBR76) CFO Andrew Levy leaves, SVP/Finance, Procurement and Treasurer Gerry Laderman appointed interim CFO, new CFO search starts. $UAL PR link.

Quest Diagnostics(PBR356) elects Helen I. Torley, President/CEO of novel cancer therapies developer/marketer Halozyme Therapeutics, to the Board. $DGX PR link.

Ascena Retail(PBR407) appoints John L. Welborn, Jr., currently Managing Director for investment advisory firm Stadium Capital Management, to the Board. $ASNA PR link.

Sealed Air(PBR529) director since 2012 Jerry R. Whitaker elected as non-executive Chairman of the Board. $SEE PR link.

Continental Resources(PBR845) elects Shelly Lambertz, COO of Hamm Capital, to the Board, replaces James L. Gallogly who is becoming President of the University of Oklahoma. $CLR PR link.

Rush Enterprises(PBR518) announced founder W. Marvin Rush died today at age 79, founded Company in 1965, served on Board from its incorporation until 08/16. $RUSHA PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphiasays US 3rd District May 2018 Manufacturing General Activity Indicator is at 34.4, April 2018was at 23.2, March 2018 22.3, May 2017 35.5. PhillyFed PR link.

The Conference Board says the US Preliminary April 2018 Leading Economic Index(2016=100) is at 109.4, March 2018 was at 109.0, February 2018 108.6, suggests solid growth should continue through 2018. TCB PR link.

***Wednesday, May 16:

Walmart(PBR1) in partnership with Lord & Taylor to roll out the new Lord & Taylor flagship store on Walmart.com in the coming weeks, will debut with more than 125 brands, including Tommy Bahama, Vince Camuto, Miss Selfridge, La La Anthony, Lucky Brand, H Halston and Effy, will be part of Walmart.com’s broader fashion destination. $WMT PR link.

Amazon(PBR8) Prime members to get an additional 10% off sales prices off hundreds of Whole Foods items, starting in Florida, to roll out across all 365 Whole Foods markets in the US during summer 2018. $AMZN PR link.

Amazon(PBR8) to open its first fulfillment center in Tucson, AZ, 855,000+ sf, to employ 1,500+ full time. $AMZN PR link.

Oracle(PBR77) to acquire DataScience.com. $ORCL PR link.

International Paper(PBR130) supports Irish Takeover Panel ruling saying IP must announce whether it will will not make a binding offer for Smurfit Kappa Group plc by 7:00an 06/06/18, IP says it will not make a binding offer without approval of SKG board, says proposed $45/share in stock/cash, around $10.6 billion is a compelling strategic and financial rationale offer. $IP PR link.

Kinder Morgan(PBR212) Canada(TSX: KML)acknowledges Canada’s decision to repay KML for the Trans Mountain pipeline losses, KML continues to plan to move forward with pipeline construction. $KMI PR link.

CBS(PBR213) majority voting stockholder National Amusements amends CBS’s bylaws, requires supermajority for certain board actions related to dividends and changes in bylaws. $CBS PR link.

Group 1 Automotive(PBR264) authorizes increase of share repurchase program from $100 million to $126 million. GPI PR link.

Zoetis(PBR482) to acquire Union City, CA, based $245 million in revenues/FY2018 global veterinary point-of-care diagnostic instruments provider Abaxis(NASDAQ: ABAX) for $83/share, $2.0 billion. $ZTS PR link.

Herbalife(PBR487) sets Dutch Auction tender offer for common shares after 2:1 stock split at between $49 to $54/share. $HLF PR link.

Tenet Healthcare(PBR141) hires Paola Arbour as SVP/Chief Information Officer and Marie Quintana as SVP/Chief Marketing Officer. $THC PR link.

Wabash Natl(PBR867) hires Melanie D. Margolin as SVP/General Counsel. $WNC PR link.

Performance Food(PBR157) appoints Randy Spratt, EVP/Chief Information Officer and Chief Technology Officer for McKesson(PBR6) to the Board. $PFGC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says US Preliminary April 2018 Private Housing Building Permits Issued Annual Rate was at 1,352,000, -1.8% from March 2018, +7.7% from April 2017. USDOC PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says US Preliminary April 2018 Total Industry Production % of Capacity was at 78.0%, March 2018 was 77.6%, February 2018 77.1%, April 201776.2%. USFed PR link.

***Tuesday, May 15:

Amazon(PBR8) AWS cloud services are selected by Verizon(PBR16 $VZ) as its preferred public cloud provider. $AMZN PR link.

Boeing(PBR29) issues statement on World Trade Organization‘s final ruling saying European Union provided $22+ billion of illegal subsidies to European aircraft maker Airbus, clears way for the US Trade Representative to seek remedies in the form of tariffs against European imports to the US. $BA PR link.

IBM(PBR34) blockchain technology to be used by Veridium to help transform the carbon credit market with the goal of making it easier for companies to offset their environmental footprints. $IBM PR link.

Target(PBR39) Restock next-day delivery service of household essentials now available coast to coast, free for all Target REDcardpurchases, $2.99 for all other orders, no membership required. $TGT PR link.

Target(PBR39) to open 11 in-store men’s grooming departments with 600+ products ranging from $1.49 to $199.99, to have 80 departments by year end, items also available online. $TGT PR link.

Pfizer(PBR55) gets US FDA approval for RETACRIT® (epoetin alfa-epbx), a biosimilar to Epogen® and Procrit® (epoetin alfa)1, for all indications, is first and only biosimilar erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) to be approved in the US. $PFE PR link.

Facebook(PBR69) publishes enforcement numbers for the first time, says 3-4% of monthly active user accounts are fake accounts, 583 million fake accounts disabled in 1Q18, usually within a few minutes of registration. $FB PR link.

Tyson(PBR75) to acquire poultry rendering and blending assets of $550 million in expected revenues/2018 American Proteins, Inc. and AMPRO Products for $850 million, expected to enable Tyson Foods to recycle more animal products for feed, pet food and aquaculture. $TSN PR link.

Gilead Sciences(PBR110) gets US FDA approval for expanded indication for Truvada®(Emtricitabine and Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate) for reducing the risk of acquiring HIV-1 in adolescents. $GILD PR link.

Kellogg(PBR220 $K) closes operations in Venezuela amid country’s ‘deterioration.’MarketWatch PR link.

Blackstone(PBR383)’s International Market Centers unit to acquire AmercasMart, will create world’s largest permanent mart operator for furniture, home decor, rug, gift and apparel with nearly 20 million sf of showroom space, terms not disclosed, to close 3Q18. $BX PR link.

Trinity Industries(PBR588) files initial Form 10to spin-off newly named Arcosa as an independent publicly held infrastructure company, to be completed in 4Q18. $TRN PR link.

MSA Safety(PBR988) elects President/COO Nishan Vartanian as President/CEO as planned, succeeds William Lambert who is now non-executive Chairman. $MSA PR link.

Old Republic Intl(PBR430) promotes Craig R. Smiddy to corporate President/COO, other appointments announced. $ORI PR link.

Scientific Games(PBR699) hires Doug Albregts as EVP and Group CEO/Gaming Division. $SGMS PR link.

AutoZone(PBR268) appoints Gale V. King, EVP/Chief Administrative Officer for Nationwide, and Jill Soltau, President/CEO of JOANN Stores, to the Board. $AZO PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary March 2018 Total Manufacturers/Retail/Wholesale Sales are at $1.430 trillion, -0.1% from February 2018, +5.8% from March 2017. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Advance April 2018 Total Retail/Food Services/Drinking Places Sales are at $497.6 billion, +0.3% from March 2018, +4.7% from April 2017. USDOC PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York says the Empire State May 2018 Manufacturing General Business Conditions Index is at 20.1, April 2018 was 15.8, March 2018 22.5, May 2017 3.0. NYFed PR link.

The National Assn of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Preliminary May 2018 Housing Market Index is at 70, April 2018 was 68, March 201870, May 2017 69. NAHB PR link.

***Monday, May 14:

Amazon(PBR8) to open its sixth Ohio fulfillment center in West Jefferson, will create 1,500+ full-time positions by the end of 2019. $AMZN PR link.

HP Inc(PBR56) unveils premium notebooks, desktops and displays from the HP Elite 1000 Series of devices for the office and the consumer oriented HP ENVY devices. $HPQ PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR122) to acquire oncology compound AK-01, an Aurora kinase A inhibitor, developer AurKa Pharma from TVM Capital Life Science for $110 million upfront plus up to $465 million for milestone achievements. $LLY PR link.

Sears(PBR167) special committee of the board of directors initiating a formal process to explore the sale of its Kenmore brand and related assets, the Sears Home Improvement Products business of the Sears Home Services division and the Parts Direct business of the Sears Home Services division, ESL Investments has already expressed an interest in being a buyer. $SHLD PR link.

CBS(PBR213) and CBS special committee file lawsuit against National Amusements alleging breaches of fiduciary duty and seeking to prevent it from interfering with a special meeting of the Board of Directors at which it plans to issue dividends that would dilute National Amusements voting interests from 79% to 17%. $CBS PR link.

Tesla(PBR251 $TSLA) reorganizing into a more flat management structure and other news.MarketWatch PR link.

Baxter(PBR273) gets US FDA clearance for its Spectrum IQ Infusion System with Dose IQ Safety Software for bi-directional electronic medical records (EMR) integration to help ensure the correct medications and fluids are delivered to the patient. $BAX PR link.

Steel Dynamics(PBR302) to acquire Terre Haute, IN, based high margin flat roll steel processor Companhia Siderurgica Nacional(“Heartland”) for $400 million, will expand annual flat roll steel shipping capacity to 8.4 million tons and total shipping capability to 12.4 million tons. $STLD PR link.

The Mosaic Co(PBR369) to move its corporate headquarters from Plymouth, MN, to Hillsborough County, FL, will be more closely located to its primary customer base, timing, location, people to be relocated still under consideration. $MOH PR link.

JM Smucker(PBR370) completes $1.7 billion acquisition of privately held 700 employees Meadville, PA, based Ainsworth Pet Nutrition, maker of Rachael Ray™ Nutrish® pet food. $SJM PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR511) applauds the US Supreme Court‘s decision to strike down the federal Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), likely leaving sports betting regulations to the states. $CZR PR link.

Triumph Group(PBR609) provides update on sale of 3 non-core businesses, Triumph Aerospace Structures Long and Large (L&L)machining and metal finishing operations, APU Repair Product Line (RPL) of Triumph Aviation Services Asia, and Triumph Structures – Long Island, represents $165 million in annual sales, terms not disclosed. $TGI PR link.

Brinker Intl(PBR653) says payment card information of some of its Guests who visited certain Chili’s® Grill & Bar corporate-owned restaurants between 03/18 and 04/18 have been compromised in a data incident, extent under investigation. $TSLA PR link.

Molina Healthcare(PBR146) hires James Woys as EVP/Health Plan Services. $MOH PR link.

United Natural Foods(PBR309) COO Sean Griffin to retire on 10/01/18, President/Atlantic Region Chris Testa to become corporate President, two other appointments mentioned. $UNFI PR link.

W.R. Grace(PBR913) SVP/CFO Thomas E. Blaser to resign from company effective 05/31/18 by mutual agreement, VP/Controller William Dockman to be interim CFO, search starts. $GRA PR link.

Xerox(PBR281) terminates merger agreement with Fujifilm, enters into settlement agreement with Carl Icahn and Darwin Deason, appoints Jonathan Christodoro, Keith Cozza, Nicholas Graziano, Scott Letier and John Visentin to the Board, Gregory Brown, Joseph Echevarria, Cheryl Krongard and Sara Martinez Tucker remain on the Board, Robert J. Keegan, Charles Prince, Ann N. Reese, William Curt Hunter, and Stephen H. Rusckowski resign from the Board, Jeff Jacobson resigns as CEO and from the Board, Keith Cozza to be appointed Chairman, John Visentin to be elected Vice Chairman and CEO. $XRX PR link.

Wynn Resorts(PBR400) director John J. Hagenbuch decides not to stand for re-election at 2018 annual meeting, director Robert J. Miller tenders his resignation. $WYNN PR link.

Hillenbrand(PBR917) elects Daniel C. Hillenbrand, currently Chairman, and previously President/CEO of Able Manufacturing and Assembly, to the Board. $HI PR link.

Sports Betting: In an opinion by Justice Samuel Alito the US Supreme Courtinvalidates the 1992 Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act, a federal law that says states can’t “sponsor, operate, advertise, promote, license, or authorize” sports gambling. US Supreme Court PR link.

***Friday, May 11:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 05/11/18:

The Stock Market Bull makes a dominating come back after 2 weeks of losses to the Stock Market Bear by winning all 5 days of the DJIA, and 4 out of 5 days for the NASDAQ and S&P500. All 3 exchanges were up by over 2% for the week and ahead year-to-date.

DJIA ends the week at 24,831.17, +2.34% from last Friday, +2.76% MTD, +3.02 QTD, +0.45% YTD, -6.71% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends the week at 7,402.88, +2.68% from last Friday, +4.76% MTD, +4.81% QTD, +7.24% YTD, -2.44% from record 7,588.32 set 03/12/18.

SPX ends the week at 2,727.72, +2.41% from last Friday, +3.01% MTD, +3.29% QTD, +2.02% YTD, -5.05% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

CVS Health(PBR7) commends the Trump Administration‘s focus on reducing the cost of prescription drugs, is well positioned to implement many of the key proposals. $CVS PR link.

Express Scripts(PBR25) issues statement supporting the Trump Administration‘s push to lower drug costs. $ESRX PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR126) extends $127.50/share tender offer for acquisition of NXP Semiconductors(NASDAQ: NXPI) to 05/25/18 5PM Eastern, 13.1% of the outstanding NXP common shares have been validly tendered. $QCOM PR link.

C.H. Robinson(PBR189) increases share repurchase authorization balance by 15 million, has 1.2 million remaining from previous authorization. $CHRW PR link.

Tesla(PBR251 $TSLA) CEO Elon Musk tweets about an all-wheel drive, dual motor ‘performance’ Model 3 to go into production starting in 07/18. MarketWatch PR link.

Symantec(PBR558) in its 4Q18 report says Audit Committee has commenced an internal investigation in connection with concerns raised by a former employee, may not be able to file 10-K on time. $SYMC PR link.

GameStop(PBR310) CEO Michael K. Mauler resigns, effective immediately, for personal reasons, Executive Chairman/Co-Founder Daniel A. DeMatteo adds interim CEO responsibilities as new CEO search starts. $GME PR link.

The Cheesecake Factory(PBR800) hires Scarlett May as EVP/General Counsel and Secretary of the Company, succeeds retiring Debby R. Zurzolo; SVP/COO Keith T. Carango now President/The Cheesecake Factory Bakery, succeeds now retired Max S. Byfuglin. $CAKE PR link.

Allison Transmission(PBR807) to promote Fred Bohley to VP/CFO & Treasurer on 06/01/18. $ALSN PR link.

Penske Automotive(PBR133) elects automotive executive Wolfgang Dürheimer, most recently Chairman/CEO of Bentley Motors Ltd, to the Board. $PAG PR link.

The US Food and Drug Administrationreleases a statement from Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, MD, on the Trump Administration’s plan to lower drug prices. FDA PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary April 2018 Import Prices Index changed +0.3%, March 2018 -0.2%, February 2018+0.2%, April 2017 +0.2%, Last 12 Months+3.3%; US Preliminary April 2018 Export Prices Index changed +0.6%, March 2018+0.3%, February 2018 +0.2%, April 2017+0.2%, Last 12 Months +3.8%. USDOL PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia 2Q18 Survey of Professional Forecastersindicates a slightly brighter outlook for US economic growth and labor markets in 2018 and 2019. PhillyFed PR link.

The U of Michigan US Preliminary May 2018 Consumer Sentiment Index is at 98.8, April 2018 was 98.8, March 2018 101.4, May 201797.1. UMichigan PR link.

***Thursday, May 10:

PPG(PBR26) finds discrepancies in its 1Q18, not able to file 10-Q at this time, possible impact on 2017 statements, VP/Controller employment has been terminated. $PPG PR link.

Cisco(PBR60) completes $270 million cash acquisition of Los Altos, CA, based privately held AI-driven relationship intelligence platform for finding new prospects, navigating the selling process, and strengthening relationships provider Accompany. $CSCO PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR142) to acquire ARMO BioSciences(NASDAQ: ARMO), a late-stage immuno-oncology developer of a pipeline of proprietary product candidates that activate the immune system of cancer patients to recognize and eradicate tumors, for $50/share, $1.6 billion cash. $LLY PR link.

Alcoa(PBR253) and Rio Tinto(NYSE:RIO)announce a revolutionary process to make aluminum that produces oxygen and eliminates all direct greenhouse gas emissions from the traditional smelting process, Apple(PBR5) an investor and providing technical support, joint venture name is Elysis, plan to sell technology package in 2024. $AA PR link.

Gannett(PBR414) to acquire digital marketing software company WordStream for $130 million cash plus up to $20 million for achieving revenue targets in 2019 & 2020, expects $55 million in revenues in 1st year, to close 2Q18. $GCI PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR437) to acquire Brownsville, TX, based full-service Managing General Agency (MGA), broker and claims administrator, with focus on the Hispanic markets in Texas, California, and Florida, Pronto Insurance, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

McDermott Intl(PBR825) completes $6 billion merger with CB&I(NYSE: CBI)(Chicago Bridge & Iron), completes 3:1 reverse stock split. $MDR PR link.

Anthem(PBR38) newly launched pharmaceutical benefits manager unit IngenioRxstarts external search for new CEO with departure of Brian Griffin, COO Deepti Jain named leader. $ANTM PR link.

Diplomat Pharmacy(PBR515) hires Brian Griffin as Chairman/CEO effective 06/04/18. $DPLO PR link.

The Mosaic Co(PBR300) hires Clint Freeland as SVP/CFO, effective 06/04/18. $MOS PR link.

The Mosaic Co(PBR300) director Gregory Ebel appointed Board Chairman, succeeds Robert Lumpkins who remains on the Board, James Popowich retired as a director, and Oscar Bernardes was newly elected to the Board. $MOS PR link.

Tractor Supply(PBR436) at 2018 annual meeting elects Denise Jackson, Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary for AMN Healthcare Services(NYSE:AMN), the nation’s largest healthcare workforce solutions and staffing company, to the Board, Johnston C. Adams has retired, other directors re-elected. $TSCO PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US Preliminary April 2018 Federal Government Receipts were $510.447 billion, Outlays $296.192 billion, for Surplus of $214.255 billion, Fiscal Year To Date Deficit(7 months) is $385.444 billion, FY YTD Deficit April 2017 was $344.428. USTreasury PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US Preliminary April 2018 Consumer Price Index(aka Inflation) was at +0.2%, Last 12 Months +2.5%, March 2018 was +2.4%, February 2018 2.2%, April 2017 +2.2%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary April 2018 Employee Average Current Earnings/Hour is at $26.84, Average Work Hours/Week is at 34.5, Average Weekly Earnings at $925.98, +0.2% from March 2018, +2.5% from April 2017. USDOL PR link.

***Wednesday, May 9:

PBRMarketTools Snapshot 15 Summary: The PBR1000 April Top 5 By Market Capitalization(Rank, Company, PBR Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 04/30/18 Market Capitalization in $ Billions, % Change YTD(4 months)):

1. Apple, PBR4, AAPL, $824B, -6%
2. Amazon, PBR8, AMZN, $763B, +37%
3. Microsoft, PBR31, MSFT, $738B, +12%
4. Alphabet, PBR21, GOOG, $717B, -2%
5. Facebook, PBR69, FB, $503B, -2%
Range: $824B to $0.01B
The PBR1000 Total Market Capitalization:$25.740 trillion, -0.8% YTD(4 months), +17.5% from 12/30/16(16 months)
Average: $25.740 billion
Median: $8.0 billion

The PBR1000, business intelligence to empower you to make better decisions. To find out more click here.

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

Amazon(PBR8) announces the interactive Amazon Experience Centers within select Lennar(PBR340) model homes across the US, customers can simply ask Alexa to control the television, lights, thermostat, shades, and more. $AMZN PR link.

Sears(PBR93) Auto Centers first to work with Amazon(PBR8) to provide full-service tire installation and balancing for customers who purchase any brand of tires on Amazon.com. $SHLD PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) authorizes new $10 billion share repurchase program, no expiration date, replaces current 2015 $15 billion program which had $1.2 billion left. $QCOM PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR314) to sell Octavius Tower at Caesars Palace and Harrah’s Philadelphia real estate assets to VICI Properties(NYSE:VICI) for $590 million, Caesars to continue to operate properties under long-term leases. $CZR PR link.

Royal Caribbean(PBR329) authorizes a $1 billion share repurchase program over next 2 years. $RCL PR link.

Wyndham Worldwide(PBR464) completes sale of its European vacation rentals business to an affiliate of Platinum Equity for $1.3 billion. $WYN PR link.

Wyndham Worldwide(PBR464) approves spin-off of wholly-owned subsidiary Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Inc., the world’s largest hotel franchisor with more than 8,300 affiliated hotels, effective at end of 05/31/18, will start trading on 06/01/18 as NYSE: WH; Wyndham Worldwide to be renamed Wyndham Destinations, start trading on 06/01/18 replacing current WYN ticker with new ticker NYSE: WYND. $WYN PR link.

Groupon(PBR652) 1Q18 report shows it had now has 4.2 million voucherless members in deal with American Express(PBR83), global units sold were at 42.4 million in 1Q18, -7% from 1Q17, part of restructuring to focus on revenue generation that maximizes gross profit, had 32.6 million N American active customers, 17.0 million from International unit, authorizes $300 million share repurchase program. $GRPN PR link.

ON Semiconductor(PBR656) acquires Irelandbased specializing in Silicon Photomultipliers (SiPM), Single Photon Avalanche Diode (SPAD) and LiDAR sensing products for automotive, medical, industrial and consumer markets SensL Technologies, terms not disclosed. $ON PR link.

Sinclair Broadcast(PBR894) to raise $1.5 billion from divestiture of 23 TV stations to Fox Broadcasting, Standard Media Group(an affiliate of Standard General LP), Meredith Corp(PBR994), and Howard Stirk and Cunningham Broadcasting Corporation, to comply with regulators for Sinclair’s $43.50/share, $3.9 billion cash/stock, plus assumption of $2.7 billion of debt acquisition of Tribune Media Company(NYSE:TRCO). $SBGI PR link.

Univar(PBR334) President/COO David Jukes promoted to President/CEO, succeeds Chairman/CEO Stephen D. Newlin who has been appointed Executive Chairman. $UNVR PR link.

W.R. Grace(PBR645) President/COO Hudson La Force to succeed retiring CEO Fred Festa in 4Q18, Festa to become Non-Executive Chairman. $GRA PR link.

3M(PBR92) President & GM/3M Canada Company Mojdeh Poul to become EVP/Safety and Business Graphics unit effective 07/01/18, succeeds retiring Frank Little. $MMM PR link.

Covanta Holdings(PBR958) hires Ginny Angilello as SVP/Chief Human Resources Officer. $CVA PR link.

Gilead Sciences(PBR107) appoints Harish M. Manwani, Global Executive Advisor to the private equity business of Blackstone(PBR352), to the Board. $GILD PR link.

Tesla(PBR251) shareholders get letter from CtW Investment Group to vote against re-election of Board members Antonio J. Gracias, Kimball Musk, and James R. Murdoch at 06/05/18 annual meeting, says they are not independent directors, not experienced in the auto industry. $TSLA PR link.

Oshkosh(PBR368) appoints retired General Raymond T. Odierno, 38th Chief of Staff for the US Army, to the Board. $OSK PR link.

Ralph Lauren(PBR406) to add Angela Ahrendts, SVP/Retail at Apple(PBR5), and has appointed Michael George, President/CEO of Qurate Retail(PBR263) to the Board. $RL PR link.

CNO Financial(PBR559) elects Daniel Maurer as Board Chairman, succeeds Neal Schneider who retires from the position but will remain on the Board. $CNO PR link.

W.R. Grace(PBR645) appoints Schlomo Yanai, currently Chairman of the Cambrex Corporation, former Teva Pharmaceuticals CEO, and retired Israeli Major General, to the Board. $GRA PR link.

STERIS(PBR922) Board Chairman John P. Wareham to retire at 2018 annual meeting, independent director Dr. Mohsen M. Sohi expected to be appointed Chairman, Dr. Nirav Shah appointed to the Board. $STE PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US April 2018 Producer Price Index was +0.1%, March 2018was +0.3%, February 2018 +0.2%, Last 12 Months +2.6%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary March 2018 Total Wholesale Sales was at $498.0 billion, +0.4% from February 2018, +7.3% from March 2017. USDOC PR link.

California Solar Energy Update: California Energy Commission votes 5-0 to approve mandate for solar panels on new houses starting in 2020. LA Times PR link.

***Tuesday, May 8:

MetLife(PBR39) to provide annuity benefits to approximately 41,000 retirees and beneficiaries in the FedEx(PBR65) defined benefit pension plans, representing pension obligations of approximately $6 billion. $MET PR link.

Capital One(PBR116) has ceased new originations of residential mortgages and home equity loan products, to sell approximately $17 billion of first and second lien mortgages to DLJ Mortgage Capital, Inc., a subsidiary of Credit Suisse AG, in 2Q18, will then resume stock repurchase program. $COF PR link.

DISH(PBR196) ends 1Q18 with 10.845 million DISH TV subscribers and 2.303 million Sling TV subscribers. The total 13.148 million Pay-TV subscribers is compared to 13.528 million Pay-TV subscribers at the end of 1Q17. $DISH PR link.

Pentair(PBR363) authorizes new $750 million share repurchase program, expires 05/31/21, replaces existing program which had a balance of $450 million. $PNR PR link.

La Quinta(PBR998) Board approves spin-off of CorePoint Lodging as an independently held company(NYSE: CPLG, starting 05/31/18) in connection with La Quinta’s $1.95 billion acquisition by Wyndham Worldwide(PBR464 $WYN), to complete spin-off, then close acquisition on 05/30/18. $LQ PR link.

Diplomat Pharmacy(PBR515) expects to name next CEO by end of week, interim CEO Jeff Park has voluntarily resigned effective 05/11/18, will remain on the Board, CFO Atul Kavthekar to temporarily assume the additional responsibilities of the CEO until the appointment of the new CEO is effective. $DPLO PR link.

Facebook(PBR228) appoints Jeff Zients, CEO of diversified holding company Cranemere and former Director of the National Economic Council for President Obama, to the Board, effective 05/31/18. $FB PR link.

Blackstone(PBR352) appoints Sir John Hood, Chair of the Rhodes Trust, which oversees the Rhodes scholarship program, and President/CEO of the Robertson Foundation, to the Board, effective 05/14/18. $BX PR link.

MDU Resources(PBR513) board member A. Bart Holaday resigns, has reached age maximum for directors. $MDU PR link.

Adtalem Education(PBR905) appoints Georgette Kiser, Managing Director and Chief Information Officer of The Carlyle Group(PBR581), and Dr. Steven M. Altschuler, MD, Managing Director, Healthcare Ventures, at Ziff Capital Partners, to the Board; Kathy Boden Holland resigns from the Board to become Group President of its Medical and Healthcare vertical, currently Adtalem’s largest business unit; Chamberlain University unit President Susan Groenwald, PhD, RN, ANEF, FAAN, to retire after 12 years upon appointment of successor. $ATGE PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary March 2018 Total Job Openings-Private were at 5,928,000, Government 622,000, Total Openings 6,550,000, +7.8% from February 2018, +16.8% from March 2017. USDOL PR link.

CoreLogic says US February 2018 Total Percent of Mortgage Payments 30 Days or More Past Due was at 4.8%, January 2018 was 4.9%, December 2017 5.3%, February 20175.0%, Total Percent of Homes in Foreclosureis at 0.6%. CoreLogic PR link.

***Monday, May 7:

PBRMarketTools Snapshot 13 Summary: The PBR1000 April Top 5 Stock Gainers Since 12/30/16(16 Months)(Rank, Company, PBR Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 04/30/18 Stock Price, % Increase from 12/30/16):

1. Weight Watchers, PBR985, WTW, $70.05, +512%
2. BlueLinx, PBR856, BXC, $40.22, +438%
3. Scientific Games, PBR699, SGMS, $53.30, +281%
4. Systemax, PBR903, SYX, $31.43, +258%
5. RH(Restoration Hardware), PBR765, RH, $95.45, +211%
Range: +512% to -99%
Number of Companies at 0% or Better:623/998
Average: +17.15%
Median: +10,54%

The PBR1000, business intelligence to empower you to make better decisions. To find out more click here.

Mondelez(PBR87) to acquire Tate’s Bake Shop, home of America’s top-rated chocolate chip cookie, for approximately $500 million from private equity firm The Riverside Company and other shareholders, including Founder Kathleen King, to close in summer 2018. $MDLZ PR link.

Starbucks(PBR178) to receive $7.15 billion from Nestlé SA for rights to market, sell, and distribute Starbucks®, Seattle’s Best Coffee®, Starbucks Reserve®, Teavana™ , Starbucks VIA® and Torrefazione Italia® packaged coffee and tea in all global at-home and away-from-home channels. $SBUX PR link.

Principal Financial(PBR265) authorizes new up to $300 million share repurchase program, $96 million remained under previous $250 million program. $PFG PR link.

Blackstone(PBR352 $BX) to acquire global investor and asset manager of commercial real estate Gramercy Property Trust for $27.50/share, $7.6 billion cash, to close 2H18. $GPT PR link.

Windstream(PBR426) Wholesale unit to expand new almost 1,700 mile southern route from Los Angeles to Dallas as part of 100G nationwide fiber network expansion strategy, to be completed in 3Q18. $WIN PR link.

Intl Flavors & Fragrances(PBR666) to acquire global flavors and natural fine ingredients producer with 70,000 products and 30,000+ customers Frutarom (TASE:FRUT) for $106.25/share, $7.1 billion cash/stock, to close in 6-9 months. $IFF PR link.

Hexcel(PBR921) authorizes additional $500 million share repurchase program, $212 million remaining from previous authorization. $HXL PR link.

Monsanto(PBR187) Chairman/CEO Hugh Grant announces intention to leave upon acquisition by Bayer AG, to close in 2Q18, several other named executives leaving as well, some staying on in the Crop Sciences unit. $MON PR link.

Wells Fargo(PBR30) hires Amanda Norton as Chief Risk Officer, starting in the summer of 2018, to succeed retiring Mike Loughlin. $WFC PR link.

PPG(PBR26) hires Daniel G. Korte as Global VP Elect/Aerospace, succeeds Barry N. Gillespie who is retiring on 08/01/18. $PPG PR link.

Medtronic(PBR133) hires Mike Weinstein as SVP/Strategy. $MDT PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says US Preliminary March 2018 Total Consumer Debt was at $3.875 trillion, +0.3% from February 2017, +1.1% from December 2017(YTD), +5.0% from March 2017. USFed PR link.

FannieMae(PBR17) says US April 2018 Home Purchase Sentiment Index is at 91.7, a new all-time survey high, March 2018 was 88.3, February 2018 85.8, April 2017 86.7. $FNMA PR link.

***Friday, May 4:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 05/04/18:

The Stock Market Bear easily had its way through Thursday. The Stock Market Bull then made a dramatic appearance on Friday and pushed the NASDAQ into plus territory for the week. In the end, the results were mixed for Week 20 of 2018 with the Stock Market Bearwinning 2 out of the 3 US stock exchanges.

DJIA ends the week at 24,262.51, -0.20% from last Friday, +0.41% MTD, +0.66 QTD, -1.85% YTD, -8.84% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends the week at 7,209.62, +1.26% from last Friday, +2.03% MTD, +2.07% QTD, +4.44% YTD, -4.99% from record 7,588.32 set 03/12/18.

SPX ends the week at 2,663.42, -0.24% from last Friday, +0.58% MTD, +0.85% QTD, -0.38% YTD, -7.29% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

Snapshot 12 Summary: The PBR1000 April Top 5 Stock Gainers YTD(4 Months)(Rank, Company, PBR Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 04/30/18 Stock Price, % Increase from 03/29/18):

1. BlueLinx, PBR856, BXC, $40.25, +312%
2. Fossil, PBR671, FOSL, $14.95, +92%
3. Stage Stores, PBR915, SSI, $2.91, +73%
4. Netflix, PBR252, NFLX, $312.46, +63%
5. Eastman Kodak, PBR926), KODK, $4,95, +60%
Range: +312% to -94%
Number of Companies at 0% or Better:411/1,000
Average: -1.43%
Median: -3.01%

The PBR1000, business intelligence to empower you to make better decisions. To find out more click here.

Wells Fargo(PBR30) to pay $480 million in agreement in principle to resolve a consolidated securities fraud class action related to sales practices matters in the US District Court for the Northern District of California. $WFC PR link.

Xerox(PBR144) has taken an appeal from the decision enjoining the Fuji Xerox combination, says merger decision should be made by the shareholders, not the courts. $XRX PR link.

Newell Brands(PBR434) to sell its Covington, KY, based global consumer and commercial package manufacturing business The Waddington Group to Novolex Holdings, to result in after-tax proceeds of approximately $2.2 billion. $NWL PR link.

Newell Brands(PBR434) announces accelerated transformation plan, to generate around $10 billion in after-tax proceeds from divestitures by end of 2019, be an around $9.5 billion in sales/year company. $NWL PR link.

Sprouts(PBR688 $SFM) discontinues same-day home delivery service with Amazon(PBR29) Prime Now, effective 05/01/18, will expand the service with Instacart. Supermarket News PR link.

Cincinnati Bell(PBR988) gets Hawaiʻi Public Utilities Commission approval for $650 million cash/stock merger with Hawaiian Telecom(NASDAQ: HCOM), expects to close transaction soon after Federal Communications Commission review. $CBB PR link.

Xerox(PBR144) agreement on 05/01/18 with Carl Icahn and Darwin Deason expired 05/03/18 8PM with no actions taken, current Board and management team, including CEO Jeff Jacobson, remain in place. $XRX PR link.

Caterpillar(PBR54) hires Andrew Bonfield as CFO effective 09/01/18, succeeds Brad Halverson who retires 05/04/18, Financial Services division VP Joe Creed to be interim CFO. $CAT PR link.

Colgate-Palmolive(PBR168) VP/Corporate Controller Henning Jakobsen appointed CFO, succeeds Dennis Hickey who will be assuming the role of Vice Chairman. $CL PR link.

American Electric Power(PBR174)’s Southwestern Electric Power Co(SWEPCO)unit’s President/COO Venita McCellon-Allen has retired after 30 years with the company, Malcolm Smoak named SWEPCO interim President/COO.$AEP PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US April 2018 Civilian Force Employed was at 155,181,000, +3,000 from March 2018, +2,020,000 from April 2017, April 2018 Unemployed at 6,346,000, April 2018 Unemployment Rate at 3.9%, April 2017 was 4.4%. USDOL PR link.

US/China Trade: US representatives in China, seek $200 billion cut in China trade imbalance. MarketWatch PR link.

***Thursday, May 3:

Snapshot 11 Summary: The PBR1000 April Top 5 Stock Month Performers(Rank, Company, PBR Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 04/30/18 Stock Price, % Increase from 03/29/18):

1. Verifone, PBR858, PAY, $23.01, +50%
2. Andeavor, PBR82, ANDV, $138.32, +38%
3. Stage Stores, PBR915, SSI, $2.91, +33%
4. SM Energy, PBR978, SM, $23.95, +33%
5. Chipotle, PBR527), CMG, $423.33, +31%
Range: +50% to -48%
Number of Companies at 0% or Better:511/1,000
Average: -0.01%
Median: +0.16%%

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SuperValu(PBR164) completes its about $43 million cash sale of 21 of its 38 Farm Fresh Food & Pharmacy (“Farm Fresh”) stores to three different retailers: Harris Teeter, Kroger Mid-Atlantic Division, and Food Lion, in various stages for other 17 stores. $SVU PR link.

Kellogg(PBR198) adds $420 million to joint venture with Tolaram in West Africa, an emerging market. $K PR link.

KKR(PBR332) to convert from a partnership to a corporation, effective 07/01/18; increases share repurchase program to $500 million. $KKR PR link.

Griffon Corp(PBR890)’s Clopay Building Products unit to acquire $200 million expected annual sales US manufacturer and marketer of rolling steel door and grille products designed for commercial, industrial, institutional, and retail use CornellCookson for $180 million. $GFF PR link.

Weight Watchers(PBR988) in 1Q18 report says it has added 1 million subscribers since 1Q17, 4.6 million subscribers highest in company’s history, credits global response to its new WW Freestyle™ program. $WTW PR link.

United Continental(PBR77) hires Josh Earnest as Chief Communications Officer, starts 05/21/18. $UAL PR link.

Patterson Cos(PBR542) President/Patterson Dental N America David Misiak departing on 05/11/18, search for new president starts. $PDCO PR link.

Pool Corp(PBR836) adds $200 million to share repurchase program, balance available is now $236 million. $POOL PR link.

Alliance One Intl(PBR875) hires Bryan Mazur as EVP/Global Specialty Products. $AOI PR link.

Archer-Daniels-Midland(PBR34) elects AECOM(PBR322) Chairman/CEO Michael S. Burke to the Board along with the 11 current members. $ADM PR link.

Allergan(PBR219) elects John Davidson, former SVP/Controller and Chief Accounting Officer at Tyco International, to the Board. $AGN PR link.

Alaska Air(PBR454) elects Facebook(PBR228) VP/Finance Susan Li to the Board. $ALK PR link.

Scotts Miracle-Gro(PBR705) appoints its former CFO David Evans to the Board. $SMG PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary 1Q18 Business Sector Labor Productivity Output/Hour-All Persons, was at +1.1%, 4Q17was -0.4%, 3Q17 +3.2%, 1Q17 -0.7%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says US March 2018 Exports were at $208.5 billion, Imports$257.5 billion, Deficit $49.0 billion, Exports YTD(3 months) were at $613.7 billion, Imports YTD $777.3 billion, Deficit YTD $163.6 billion, March 2017 Deficit YTD was $137.9 billion. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary March 2018 New Orders for Durable Goods was valued at $255.2 billion, Non-Durable Goods $252.4 billion, Total$507.6 billion, +1.5% from February 2018, +8.1% from March 2017. USDOC PR link.

IHS Markit says US April 2018 Composite PMI Output Index was 54.9, March 2018 was 54.2, February 2018 55.8, April 2017 53.2. IHS Markit PR link.

The Institute for Supply Management says US April 2018 Non-Manufacturing Index is at 56.8%, March 2018 was 58.8%, February 201859.5%, April 2017 57.5%. ISM PR link.

***Wednesday, May 2:

Macy’s(PBR97) has acquired STORY, a concept store in New York City. STORY founder/CEO Rachel Shechtman will join Macy’s as brand experience officer. $M PR link.

Starbucks(PBR178) issues statement from Donte Robinson, Rashon Nelson, and CEO Kevin Johnson regarding settlement from arrest incident in Philadelphia on 04/12/18. $SBUX PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR314) authorizes up to $500 million share repurchase program, no expiration date. $CZR PR link.

Live Nation(PBR366) to acquire 2nd highest grossing festival in the world in 2017 Rock in Rio, terms not disclosed. $LYV PR link.

Spirit AeroSystems(PBR370) to acquire high lift wing structures, mechanical assemblies and major functional components to major OEMs and Tier-1 suppliers in the global commercial aerospace and military markets supplier S.R.I.F. N.V., the parent company of 1,400 employees anticipated $400 million in sales/2018 Asco Industries, N.V., for $650 million in cash, to close 2H18. $SPR PR link.

Salesforce(PBR453) completes $44.89/share cash/stock, $6.5 billion enterprise value acquisition of $296 million in sales/2017 1,200 customers MuleSoft(NYSE: MULE). $CRM PR link.

Post Holdings(PBR486) authorizes new $350 million share repurchase program, had repurchased $488 million under previous authorizations. $POST PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Bellevue, WA, based retirement plan consultant and investment analyst firm ClearPoint Financial, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

Tesla(PBR651 $TSLA) is accused of patent infringement by Nikola Corporation for its design of the Semi, asking $2+ billion in damages. AZ District Court PR link.

Boyd Gaming(PBR727) to acquire Lattner Entertainment Group Illinois, operator of nearly 1,000 gaming units in 220 locations across the state of Illinois, for $100 million cash. $BYD PR link.

McDermott Intl(PBR825) and CB&I(NYSE: CBI(Chicago Bridge & Iron) shareholders approve $6 billion merger to be named McDermott, expects to close 05/10/18. $MDR PR link.

Sprint(PBR86) President/CEO Marcelo Claure named Executive Chairman, CFO Michel Combes appointed CEO, both effective on or before 05/31/18, new CFO search starts. $S PR link.

Xerox(PBR144) reaches agreement with Carl Icahn and Darwin Deason; Keith Cozza of Icahn Enterprises(PBR147) to be named Chairman, John Visentin to be named Vice Chairman and CEO, CEO Jeff Jacobson to resign as Xerox CEO and from the Board, 6 directors to resign from the Board, 3 directors remain on the Board, no effect on pending claims against Fujifilm. $XRX PR link.

Scientific Games(PBR937) CEO SG Interactive Barry Cottle to become new President/CEO on 06/01/18, succeeds Kevin Sheehan who will remain as a senior advisor; also, Tim Bucher hired as EVP/Chief Products Officer. $SGMS PR link.

Kohl’s(PBR149) hires Doug Howe as Chief Merchandising Officer. $KSS PR link.

SunPower(PBR680) CFO Chuck Boynton to transition out, will remain CEO of 8point3 Energy Partners through the sale, hires Manavendra Sial as new CFO, effective after filing of 1Q18 10-Q report. $SPWR PR link.

Univar(PBR334) appoints Kerry J. Preete, EVP/Chief Strategy Officer at Monsanto(PBR147), to the Board. $UNVR PR link.

Wynn Resorts(PBR427) board sends shareholders letter asking them to vote for its nominees at 05/16/18 annual meeting, says largest shareholder Elaine Wynn’s “withhold the vote” against Director John J. (“Jay”) Hagenbuch campaign is misguided. $WYNN PR link.

HCP(PBR834) appoints Lydia Kennard, recently CEO of Los Angeles World Airports, and Kent Griffin, a seasoned REIT executive, to the Board. $HCP PR link.

US Federal Open Market Committee releases statement from its 05/01-02/18 meetings, says labor market has continued to strengthen and that economic activity has been rising at a moderate rate, keeps federal funds short term interest rate at 1.50-1.75%. FOMC PR link.

ADP(PBR235) says US April 2018 Private Sector Change In Employment was +204,000, +62,000 from Small Businesses, +88,000 from Midsize Businesses, +54,000 from Large Businesses, March 2018 change was +228,000, February 2018 +241,000, April 2017+155,000. $ADP PR link.

***Tuesday, May 1:

Apple(PBR5) authorizes new $100 billion share repurchase program, will complete the execution of the previous $210 billion share repurchase authorization during the fiscal 3Q18. $AAPL PR link.

Boeing(PBR27) to acquire independent provider of aviation parts and services in the aerospace industry KLX(NASDAQ: KLXI) for $63/share, includes assumption of about $1.0 billion of net debt, total $4.25 billion all cash, to close by 3Q18. $BA PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) to expand Boston Tech Huband create an additional 2,000 technology jobs, expanding into 430,000 sf development on Boston waterfront, plans to open the doors of its new office in 2021. $AMZN PR link.

Cisco(PBR60) to acquire Los Altos, CA, based privately held AI-driven relationship intelligence platform for finding new prospects, navigating the selling process, and strengthening relationships provider Accompany for $270 million cash. $CSCO PR link.

Cisco(PBR60) to sell its Service Provider Video Software Solutions (SPVSS) business to private equity firm Permira, who will create a new, rebranded company focused on developing and delivering video solutions for the Pay-TV industry, terms not disclosed, to close Cisco fiscal 1Q19. $CSCO PR link.

T-Mobile(PBR95) celebrates 5th year as a public company, reports 1.4 million net adds in 1Q18, 20th quarter in a row with 1+ million net adds, has 74 million customers. $TMUS PR link.

Medtronic(PBR133) gets US FDA approval for its Deep Brain Stimulation therapy for medically refractory epilepsy. $MDT PR link.

AbbVie(PBR136) commences modified “Dutch auction” tender offer to purchase up to $7.5 billion of its common stock at a price between $99.00/share and $114.00/share, expires 05/29/18. $ABBV PR link.

Lincoln Financial(PBR213) completes $3.3 billion acquisition of Liberty Life Assurance Company of Boston from Liberty Mutual Insurance Group. $LNC PR link.

L3 Technologies(PBR238) to sell its aviation logistics services, supply chain management, and maintenance, repair and overhaul services provider Vertex Aerospace unit to American Industrial Partners for $540 million cash. $LLL PR link.

Owens & Minor(PBR292) completes $710 million cash acquisition of $1 billion revenues/year surgical and infection prevention (“S&IP”) business of Halyard Health. $OMI PR link.

Hasbro(PBR549) to acquire Saban’s Power Rangers and several other entertainment brands, including My Pet Monster, Popples, Julius Jr., Luna Petunia, Treehouse Detectives and others, in a $522 million cash/stock deal, to close 2H18. $HAS PR link.

Pitney Bowes(PBR588) gets renewal and multi-year extension of its partnership with eBay(PBR163) to power eBay’s Global Shipping Program. $PBI PR link.

USG Corp(PBR599) authorizes a new round of negotiations for potential acquisition by Gebr. Knauf KG (“Knauf”). $USG PR link.

Vista Outdoor(PBR784) in strategic transformation growth plan to focus on ammunition, hunting and shooting accessories, hydration bottles and packs, and outdoor cooking products; exploring strategic options for remaining Sports Protection brands (e.g. Bell, Giro, and Blackburn), Jimmy Styks paddle boards, and Savage and Stevens firearms. $VSTO PR link.

Beacon Roofing(PBR818) has acquired Tri-State Builder’s Supply (“Tri-State”), a wholesale supplier of roofing, siding, windows, doors and related building products located in Duluth, MN. $BECN PR link.

MetLife(PBR39) CFO John Hele retires, succeeded by EVP/Treasurer John McCallion; promotes Stephen W. Gauster to EVP/General Counsel. $MET PR link.

Honeywell(PBR74) promotes Greg Lewis to interim role of VP/Corporate Finance until 08/03/18 at which time he will succeed retiring Tom Szlosek as CFO. $HON PR link.

JM Smucker(PBR437) President/Pet Food and Pet Snacks Barry Dunaway to retire 07/31/18, President/Canada, International & US Away From Home David Lemmon is successor; President/CEO Jeffrey Watters of soon to be acquired Ainsworth to become SVP/General Manager of Ainsworth. $SJM PR link.

Henry Schein(PBR270) President James Breslawski adds role of Vice Chairman, hired Jonathan Koch as SVP & CEO/Global Dental Group. $HSIC PR link.

US Steel/Aluminum Tariffs Update: On 04/30/18 President Trump approved Section 232 tariff modifications on steel and aluminum imports, has reached a final agreement with South Korea on steel imports, also has reached agreements in principle with Argentina, Australia, and Brazil with respect to steel and aluminum, is extending negotiations with Canada, Mexico, and the European Unionfor a final 30 days. White House PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary March 2018 Total Construction Spending Annual Rate is at $1.285 trillion, -1.7% from February 2018, +3.6% from March 2017. USDOC PR link.

The Institute for Supply Management says the US April 2018 Manufacturing PMI Index(>50%=Economy Expanding) is at 57.3%, March 2018 was 59.3%, February 201860.8%, April 2017 55.3%. ISM PR link.

IHS Markit says the US April 2018 Manufacturing PMI is at 56.5, highest since September 2014, March 2018 was 55.6, February 2018 55.3, April 2017 52.8. IHS Markit PR link.

Automotive News reports that US April 2018 Total Light Vehicles Sold were at 1,063,895 units, excludes GM who is now reporting only quarterly, -5.0% from April 2017, April 2018 Average Price was $35,411, +0.4% from from March 2018, +2.1% from April 2017. Automotive News PR link.

The PurdueU/CME Group April 2018 Ag Economy Barometer is 125, March 2018 was 135, February 2018 140, April 2017 130. PurdueU/CME Group PR link.

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Filed Under: Recaps Tagged With: acquisitions, Business, Business Intelligence, business news, DJIA, Economy, Leadership, Market Research, mergers, Money, NASDAQ, Rankings, Research, S&P 500, Stock Market, Stocks, The PBR1000, Trading, Wealth Management

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