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The PBR1000 April 2015 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots

May 20, 2015 by admin

ID-100326596 World Stocks Chart-jscreationzs

Which Directions Did Your Stocks Go In April?

By Larry C. Paxton

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

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

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

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

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

Table 1: The PBR1000 Stock Price Composite

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table 5: The PBR1000 Selected Stock Exchanges/Commodities

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

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

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

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

(Photo made available through freedigitalphotos.net, jscreationzs.)

Filed Under: Snapshots Tagged With: Commodities, DJIA, Economy, Investing, Money, NASDAQ, S&P 500, Stock Market, Stocks, The PBR1000, Trading

The PBR1000: The April 2015 Breaking News Recap!

May 3, 2015 by admin

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

By Larry C. Paxton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wednesday, April 15:
Happy Income Tax Day!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Filed Under: Recaps Tagged With: acquisitions, business news, Economy, Investing, Leadership, mergers, Personal Finance, Rankings, Stock Market, The PBR1000

The PBR1000: The March 2015 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots

April 12, 2015 by admin

ID-100174853 Buy Sell Hold Dice on Computer Stuart Miles

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

By Larry C. Paxton

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

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

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

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

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

Table 1: The PBR1000 Stock Price Composite

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table 5: The PBR1000 Selected Stock Exchanges/Commodities

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

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

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

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

Filed Under: Snapshots Tagged With: Commodities, DJIA, Economy, Investing, Money, NASDAQ, Personal Finance, Research, S&P 500, Stock Market, Stocks, The PBR1000, Trading

The PBR1000: The March 2015 Breaking News Recap!

April 4, 2015 by admin

ID-100270408 Under Construction Supertrooper

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

By Larry C. Paxton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(Photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net, Supertrooper.)

Filed Under: Recaps Tagged With: acquisitions, Business, Investing, Leadership, mergers, Rankings, Stock Market, The PBR1000

The PBR1000: The February 2015 Stocks/Commodiies Snapshots

March 31, 2015 by admin

Where to Invest Next? Use The PBR1000!

By Larry C. Paxton

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

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

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

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

Table 1: The PBR1000 Stock Price Composite

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table 5: The PBR1000 Selected Stock Exchanges/Commodities

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

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

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

Filed Under: Snapshots Tagged With: DJIA, Investing, NASDAQ, Rankings, S&P 500, Stock Market, The PBR1000

The PBR1000: The February 2015 Breaking News Recap!

March 2, 2015 by admin

ID-100207743 Graphic-World Business-KROMKRATHOG

The Global Market Place Was Very Active In February 2015! By Larry C. Paxton

February 2015 started out with a classic battle on the American football field with Super Box XLIX. The global market place also had many ongoing battles, and several of them have yet to be played out. The recent dramatic drop in oil prices continues to be a major driver. The Eurozone granted Greece a 4 month extension on its loans. The Ukraine/Russia ceasefire is fragile. The Middle East remains unsettled. In the US the government struggled over issues of the Keystone XL Pipeline. There was the funding of the Department of Homeland Security with or without some implications to President Obama’s immigration directives. The Federal Communications Commission approved some controversial net-neutrality regulations. Several major acquisitions were closed. Throughout it all some of the US stock exchanges reached new highs. Annual reports were submitted with mixed results. So, the battles continue. Let’s see what happens as we finish the first quarter of 2015!

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

Friday, February 27:
DJIA closes week at 18,132.70, -0.04%% from last Friday, +5.64% MTD, +1.74% QTD & YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,963.53, +0.15% from last Friday, +7.08% MTD, +4.80% QTD & YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,104.50, -0.27% from last Friday, +5.49% MTD, +2.21% QTD & YTD.

Mylan(PBR360) completes $5.3 billion stock deal for acquisition of Abbott’s(PBR127) non-US developed markets specialty & branded generics business. MYL PR link.

Targa Resources(PBR377) completes $7.7 billion acquisition of Atlas Energy(PBR748). TRGP PR link.

Cooper-Standard(PBR654) acquires 95% of China based Huayu-Cooper Standard Sealing Systems, has 9 manufacturing facilities & 2 technical centers. CPS PR link.

Kroger(PBR25) SVP/Human Resources Katy Barclay retiring in the Fall of 2015, Timothy Massa will take over HR responsibilities. KR PR link.

Priceline(PBR365) promotes Paul Hennessy to become CEO of the priceline.com division on 04/01/15. CEO Chris Soder to become division Chairman. PCLN PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce in 2nd Estimate says 4th quarter Gross Domestic Product was at a 2.2% annual rate, $17.7 trillion. USDOC PR link.

Thursday, February 26:
Gap Inc(PBR168) approves $1 billion shares buyback program, adds to $7.25 billion repurchased since 2010. GPS PR link.

Catamaran Corp(PBR189) to acquire pharmacy benefit management client Healthcare Solutions for $405 million. CTRX PR link.

Ross Stores(PBR260) authorizes $1.4 billion shares buyback program through fiscal year 2016. ROST PR link.

Harley-Davidson(PBR417) to add Canada for direct distribution to independent dealers. HOG PR link.

Chico’s FAS(PBR748) to do a $250 million shares buyback program, open 40 new stores, close 120 existing stores, cut headcount by 12%. CHS PR link.

Hershey Co(PBR347) hires Patricia Little as SVP/CFO starting 03/16/15. HSY PR link.

Alaska Air(PBR459) hires Charles Breer as Managing Director of Alliances. ALK PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR33) says 30 year fixed mortgage rates for the week ending 02/26/15 averaged 3.80% with 0.6 points/fees. FM PR link.

The US Federal Communications Commission votes in favor of internet net-neutrality regulations. FCC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the January Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) declined 0.7% in January on a seasonally adjusted basis, down 0.1% over the last 12 months before seasonal adjustment. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that Real Earnings in January averaged $24.75/hour, 34.6 hours/week, $856.35 per week. USDOL PR link.

Wednesday, February 25:
Starwood Hotels(PBR405) announces partnership with rider service Uber for guests to earn Starpoints rewards. HOT PR link.

Frontier Communications(PBR497) gets strategic partnership to provide its internet subscribers TiVo(NASDAQ: TIVO) DVR services. FTR PR link.

SunEdison(PBR888) announces plan to electrify 20 million people by 2020 in underserved areas around the world. SUNE PR link.

McGraw Hill(PBR482) Chairman Terry McGraw not standing for re-election on 04/29/15, board proposes independent Director Ed Haldeman as non-Exec Chairman. MHFI PR link.

The US Dept of HUD reports preliminary January New Home Sales were at a 481,000 units annual rate with a $294,300 median price. HUD PR link.

Tuesday, February 24:
AmerisourceBergen(PBR16) completes acquisition of animal health distribution company MWI Veterinary Supply(PBR673) for $190/share, $2.5 billion. ABC PR link.

Comcast(PBR44) increases shares repurchase authorization to $10 billion, $4.25 billion allocated for 2015. CMCSA PR link.

HanesBrands(PBR505) to acquire seller of licensed collegiate logo apparel retailer Knights Apparel in deal valued at $200 million. HBI PR link.

Mondelez Intl(PBR85) hires Roberto Marques as EVP & President, North America, starting mid March. MDLZ PR link.

VMware(PBR454) hires Bask Iyer as SVP, Chief Information Officer, starting 03/23/15, will report to EVP/CFO/COO Jonathon Chadwick. VMW PR link.

Flowers Foods(PBR590) announces EVP Gene Lord is retiring 04/24/15 after almost 50 years of service. FLO PR link.

Charles River Labs(PBR1058) announces EVP/CFO Thomas Ackerman is retiring in 2016, SVP David Smith to be successor, other promotions announced. CRL PR link.

Monday, February 23:
Apple(PBR4) to build 100% renewable energy data centers in Ireland & Denmark for $2 billion. AAPL PR link.

Mondelez Intl(PBR85) announces $2 billion cash tender offer for certain notes. MDLZ PR link.

3M(PBR92) to acquire Polypore’s $210 million in revenues Separations Media business for $1 billion. MMM PR link.

American Airlines(PBR103) to sell its Telair Cargo Group to TransDigm(PBR798) for $725 million cash, expected to close by 05/31/15. AAL PR link.

Medtronic(PBR161) acquires private bladder control products company Advanced Uro-Solutions, terms not disclosed. MDT PR link.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR165) to expand immuno-oncology pipeline by acquiring Flexus Biosciences for $1.25 billion. BMY PR link.

Baxter Intl(PBR179) says mid-2015 public spin-off biopharma Baxalta to locate headquarters in 260,000 sf facility in Bannockborn, IL. BAX PR link.

Keurig Green Mountain(PBR499) repurchasing 5.2 million shares from Luigi Lavazza SpA(NR) for $620 million. GMCR PR link.

Armstrong World(PBR717) to separate into 2 publicly held companies through spin-off of Flooring business to shareholders in 1st quarter 2016. AWI PR link.

Ocwen Financial(PBR881) selling $9.8 billion portfolio of mortgage servicing rights to Nationstar. OCN PR link.

Stifel Financial(PBR885) to expands wealth management/fixed income capabilities with acquisition of private Sterne Agee Group, transaction value around $150 million. SFN PR link.

DISH Network(PBR201) President/CEO Joseph Clayton to retire 03/31/15, Founder/Chairman Charles Ergen to add those roles. DISH PR link.

Darden Restaurants(PBR393) promotes Interim CEO Gene Lee to CEO & member of the board. DRI PR link.

JetBlue(PBR441) announces leadership EVP promotions for HR, Operations, other areas. JBLU PR link.

M&T Bank(PBR516) promotes Janet Coletti to EVP/Human Resources, succeeds Steve Braunscheidel who is retiring in 03/15. MTB PR link.

The National Association of Realtors reports that the January annual rate of sales of existing homes was at 4.82 million, down 4.9% from December. NAR PR link.

Friday, February 20:
DJIA closes week at 18,140.44(R), +0.67% from last Friday, +5.68% MTD, +1.78% QTD & YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,955.97, +1.27% from last Friday, +6.92% MTD, +4.64% QTD & YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,110.30(R), +0.63% from last Friday, +5.78% MTD, +2.50% QTD & YTD.

Targa Resources(PBR377) acquisition of Atlas Energy(PBR748) for $7.7 billion approved by shareholders of both companies, expected to close 02/27/15. Targa PR link.

Energizer Holdings(PBR527) to spin-off Personal Care Division on 07/01/15 as a separate public company with the name Edgewell Personal Care(NYSE: EPC). Household Products Division to retain Energizer Holdings name and stock symbol. ENR PR link.

Thursday, February 19:
The Federal Trade Commission files a lawsuit against the proposed Sysco(PBR60) & US Foods(NR) merger, creates a foodservice distributor with 75% of the market. FTC PR link.

Ball Corp(PBR304) proposes to acquire UK based metal beverage can maker Rexam(LSE: REX) for $8.4 billion cash/stock. BLL PR link.

Priceline(PBR365) announces a $3 billion shares buyback program in its 4th Quarter/Full Year report. PCLN PR link.

LabCorp(PBR419) completes the $5.7 billion acquisition of Covance(PBR747). LH PR link.

Wednesday, February 18:
Citigroup(PBR26) announces $100 billion 10 year commitment to finance sustainable growth activities. C PR link.

Anthem(PBR40) completes acquisition of Florida 196,000 Medicaid/Medicare members company Simply Healthcare. Anthem PR link.

Actavis(PBR297) to take Allergan name after its $66 billion acquisition of Allergan(PBR392). Actavis PR link.

Crown Holdings(PBR298) completes acquisition of Monterrey, Mexico, 1500 employee, aluminum can/bottle manufacturer EMPAQUE from Heineken NV. CCK PR link.

Campbell Soup(PBR315) introducing cost savings program, to simplify organization structure, will save $200 million/year. CPB PR link.

Homebuilder NVR(PBR544) announces a $300 million shares buyback program. NVR PR link.

GEO Group(PBR991) completes acquisition of 8 correctional & dentention facilities with 6,500 beds from LCS Corrections Services for $312 million. GEO PR link.

Cubic Corp(PBR1008) combines two defense units into one $800 million revenues Cubic Global Defense segment, William Toti named president. CUB PR link.

Lockheed Martin(PBR62) promotes Rod Makoske to SVP/Corp Engineering, Tech, & Operations, also corporate officer; Keoki Jackson promoted to Chief Technology Officer. LMT PR link.

Flowserve(PBR477) SVP/CFO Mike Taff leaving 03/31/15, VP Malcolm Platt named interim CFO. FLS PR link.

Ciena Corp(PBR870) hires Marcus Starke SVP/Chiem Marketing Officer, reports to President/CEO Gary Smith. CIEN PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the January Producer Price Index for Final Demand was -0.8%, was unchanged for the last 12 months USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of HUD reports that the January Privately-Owned Housing Starts were at a 1,065,000 annual rate, -2.0% from revised Dec estimate of 1,087,000. HUD PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR33) releases its February US Economic & Housing Market Outlook. FMCC PR link.

Tuesday, February 17:
DuPont(PBR83) sends letter to shareholders regarding its direction, responds to Trian Fund Mgmt letter. DD PR link.

Halliburton(PBR94) $34.6 billion acquisition of Baker Hughes(PBR124) to be voted on by shareholders of both companies on 03/27/15. HAL PR link.

Arrow Electronics(PBR129) acquires the United Technical Publishing division of Hearst Business Media(NR). ARW PR link.

Actavis(PBR297) receives temporary injunction for generic $1.1 billion market asthma treatment Pulmicort RESPULES. ACT PR link.

Boston Scientific(PBR349) to pay Johnson & Johnson(PBR39) $600 million for merger agreement breach in Guidant buy in 2006. BSX PR link.

Carlyle Group(PBR528) acquires controlling stake in global sports travel & event management company PrimeSport Holdings from Clearlake Capital(NR). CG PR link.

Fossil Group(PBR638) to design, develop & distribute Kate Spade(PBR1040) New York watches through 2025 through global licensing agreement. FOSL PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) acquires Phoenix, AZ, based private placement life insurance distributor Cohn Financial Group. AJG PR link.

Ford(PBR8) hires John Casesa as Group VP/Global Strategy, reports to President/CEO Mark Fields. F PR link.

Kraft Foods(PBR145) announces James Kehoe rejoining Kraft as EVP/CFO. KRFT PR link.

FirstEnergy(PBR187) announces Tony Alexander to resign as Executive Chairman on 04/30/15, director George Smart to return to his prior role as Chairman at that time. FE PR link.

Owens & Minor(PBR285) President/CEO James Bierman to retire upon election of a successor. OMI PR link.

Starwood Hotels(PBR405) President/CEO Frits van Paasschen resigns, director Adam Aron appointed Interim CEO. HOT PR link.

Alaska Air(PBR459) promotes Andrew Harrison to EVP/Chief Revenue Officer. ALK PR link.

SandRidge Energy(PBR892) hires Steve Turk as EVP/COO effective 03/02/15. SD PR link.

The Whitehouse reports that 11.4 million people have signed up for private health insurance under the Affordable Care Act. WH PR link.

Monday, February 16:
Presidents’ Day. US stock exchanges, most US federal, state, and local government offices are closed.

Mondelez Intl(PBR85) acquires private 40 product US snacking company Enjoy Life Foods, terms not disclosed. MDLZ PR link.

Ball Corp(PBR304) acquires 2 Canton, Ohio, area 100 employee metal end & closure facilities from Sonoco Products(PBR485). Ball PR link.

Crown Castle(PBR670) is exploring the sale of its wireless infrastructure Australian subsidiary. CCI PR link.

Friday, February 13:
DJIA closes week at 18,019.35, +1.09%% from last Friday, +4.98% MTD, +1.10% QTD & YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,893.84, +3.15% from last Friday, +5.58% MTD, +3.33% QTD & YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,096.99(R), +2.02%% from last Friday, +5.11% MTD, +1.85% QTD & YTD.

American International Group(PBR41) authorizes $2.5 billion shares buyback program, repurchased $4.9 billion in 2014. AIG PR link.

Enterprise Products(PBR56) completes $5.9 billion acquisition of Oiltanking Properties, to operate as a wholly owned subsidiary. EPD PR link.

Actavis(PBR297) to divest its outsourcing/R&D unit Aptalis Pharmaceutical Technologies to private investment firm TPG. Actavis PR link.

Heartland Payment Systems(PBR859) has acquired POS companies Dinerware & pcAmerica, adds to previous POS acquisitions. HPY PR link.

General Dynamics(PBR91) appoints L Flynn EVP Aerospace Group, M Burns president of Gulfstream, M A Gilliland EVP HR/Admin, various effective dates. GD PR link.

Avery Dennison(PBR402) hires Anne Bramman as SVP/CFO. AVY PR link.

Thursday, February 12:
American Express(PBR86) announces co-brand & merchant acceptance agreements with Costco(PBR18) to expire 03/31/16. AMEX PR link.

Anixter(PBR398) to sell its OEM Supply-Fasteners segment to American Industrial Partners(NR) for $380 million cash. Anixter PR link.

Expedia(PBR496) to acquire global online travel company Orbitz Worldwide(NYSE: OWW) for $12/share, $1.6 billion cash. Expedia PR link.

Energen(PBR941) allocating $1 billion for drilling & development in 2015, selling majority of San Juan Gas assets for $395 million. Energen PR link.

Kraft Foods(PBR145) promotes George Zoghbi to COO, Chris Kempczinsk to EVP, Growth Incentives & President, International; CFO, CMO, & EVP R & D departing. Kraft PR link.

ConAgra Foods(PBR149) names former Hillshire Brands president/CEO Sean Connolly as its next CEO, effective 04/06/15, to succeed retiring CEO Gary Rodkin. ConAgra PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce in advance report says January 2014 retail & food services was at $439.8 billion, up $14.2 billion from January 2013. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that for the week ending 01/31/15 the total insured unemployment was at 2,354,000, 1.8% insured unemloyment rate. USDOL PR link.

Wednesday, February 11:
Rite Aid(PBR108) to acquire independent pharmacy benefit manager EnvisionRx for $2 billion. Rite Aid PR link.

Arrow Electronics(PBR129) to acquire Taiwan based $500 million/yr Asian electronic component distributor ATM Electronic Corp. AE PR link.

Corinthian Colleges(PBR974) receives suspension/delisting notice from NASDAQ, to be effective 02/17/15, for failure to file annual 10-K report on a timely basis. CC PR link.

CSX(PBR224) promotes Oscar Munoz to President, retains COO title. Cindy Sanborn promoted to EVP-Operations, reports to Munoz. CSX PR link.

Alaska Air(PBR459) appoints Jay Gupta Managing Director of Infrastructure & Modern Platforms in IT Services division, oversees data, call centers. Alaska Air PR link.

Ascena Retail(PBR493) promotes SVP Financial Planning & Analysis Robb Giamatteo to CFO. Ascena PR link.

Amkor Technology(PBR676) appoints Dr. Choon Heung Lee EVP Worldwide Manufacturing Operations, succeeds retiring JooHo Kim, reports to President/CEO Steve Kelley. Amkor PR link.

Louisiana-Pacific Corp(PBR869) makes several changes in executive leadership effective 03/01/15, including sales & marketing. L-P PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury reports January receipts of $307.6 billion, outlays of $324.3 billion, deficit of $17.5 billion, fiscal YTD deficit of $194.2 billion. USDOTr PR link.

Tuesday, February 10:
First Solar(PBR628) announces Apple(PBR4) has committed to a $848 million, 25 year, 130 megawatt solar power purchase deal. FS PR link.

International Game Technology(PBR876) stockholders approve $6.4 billion acquisition led by Italian based GTECH. IGT PR link.

Home Depot(PBR35) is filling more than 80,000 positions for the spring season. HD PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce preliminary report says that December 2014 wholesalers sales were $449.8 billion, -0.4% from November, but +1.4% from December 2013. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that there were 5.0 million job openings on the last business day of December(4.8 million in November), the highest level since January 2001. USDOL PR link.

Monday, February 9:
General Dynamics(PBR91) authorizes repurchase of up to 10 million shares on the open market. GD PR link.

Federal-Mogul(NASDAQ: FDML) completes $385 million acquisition of the TRW Automotive(PBR154) German based 4,000 employee engine valve business. F-M PR link.

Alliant Techsystems(PBR494) completes spin-off of its Sporting Goods business as Vista Outdoor, which will start trading on 02/10/15 as NYSE: VSTO, then completes merger with Orbital Sciences(PBR1019), renamed Orbital ATK, to start trading as NYSE: OA on 02/10/15. Orbital ATK PR link.

Alcoa(PBR122) names Nahla Azmy VP/Investor Relations, appoints Kelly Pasterick VP Global Financial Processes, Global Primary Products. Alcoa PR link.

BlackRock(PBR262) appoints Deborah Winshell as Managing Director/Global Impact Investing, for social/environmental causes, will also oversee global philanthropy program. BlackRock PR link.

The Andersons(PBR428) Grain Group President Denny Addis retiring in May, Ethanol Group President Neill McKinstray to assume leadership over both groups. The Andersons PR link.

Aeropostale(PBR868) EVP/CFO Marc Miller becoming COO, David Dick joining as SVP/CFO on 02/17/15. Aeropostale PR link.

Avista Corp(PBR973) names Kevin Christie VP of Customer Solutions, retains external communications, community outreach, philanthropy and other responsibilities. Avista PR link.

CBL & Assoc(PBR1082) names appointments for director of accounting, SVP planning/redevelopment, VP shared services, VP development/redevelopment, VP development. CBL PR link.

Friday, February 6:
DJIA closes week at 17,824.29, +3.84%% from last Friday & MTD, +0.01% QTD & YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,744.40, +2.36% from last Friday & MTD, +0.18% QTD & YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,055.47, +3.03%% from last Friday & MTD, -0.17% QTD & YTD.

The Pantry(PBR331) sets 03/10/15 for special shareholders meeting to vote on acquisition by Quebec, Canada based Alimentation Couche-Tard for $36.25/share, $1.7 billion deal. Pantry PR link.

Harris Corp(PBR469) to buy global aerospace, defense, information & other technologies Exelis(NYSE: XLS) for $23.75/share, $4.75 billion. Harris PR link.

Cablevision(PBR397) president Brian Sweeney to also become CFO on 03/01/15, report to CEO James Dolan. Cablevision PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that total nonfarm payroll employment rose by 257,000 in January, and the unemployment rate was little changed at 5.7%. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve reports that December consumer credit increased at an annual rate of 5-1/2%. FRB PR link.

Standard & Poor’s lowers Greece Long-Term Rating from ‘B’ to ‘B-‘, kept on CreditWatch negative. S&P PR link.

Thursday, February 5:
Verizon(PBR15) announces $15.54 billion in deals with Frontier Communications(PBR497) & American Tower(PBR625), authorizes $5 billion shares buyback program. Verizon PR link.

Anthem(PBR40) confirms patient records were hacked, CEO statement. Anthem PR link.

Actavis(PBR297) to divest rights to branded respiratory portfolio in US/Canada to AstraZeneca for $600+ million. Actavis PR link.

RadioShack(PBR619) reaches asset purchase agreement for affiliate of Standard General to acquire up to 2,400 stores, also filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. RadioShack PR link.

W.R. Grace(PBR657) to split into 2 independent public companies to be named later, Catalyst & Materials Technologies, and Construction Products & Darex packaging. WRG PR link.

Brocade Communication(PBR836) to acquire assets of Riverbed Technology(PBR1085). Brocade PR link.

Greenbrier Cos(PBR839) appoints Brad Skinner as SVP, Business Development, other appointments mentioned. GreenbrierPR link.

Brown & Brown(PBR1020) hires B Carl Owen as CIO, reports to EVP/CFO R Andrew Watts. B&BPR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the international trade of goods & services deficit was $46.6 billion in December, up $6.8 billion from November. USDOC PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR33) reports that the average 30 year fixed mortgage rate ending 02/05/15 was 3.59% with 0.7 fees/points. FreddieMac PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that annual nonfarm labor average productivity increased 0.8% from 2013 to 2014. USDOL PR link.

Wednesday, February 4:
Staples(PBR120) to acquire Office Depot(PBR235) in $6.3 billion cash/stock deal. OD PR link.

GNC(PBR739) agrees to NY Attorney General request to halt sales of certain herbal supplements, stands behind product quality. GNC PR link.

Under Armour(PBR809) has acquired 20 million user mobile sports tracking Denmark based Endomondo for $85 million cash, to acquire 80 million online user health goals US based MyFitnessPal for $475 million. UA PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR301) announces Mark Frissora joining as CEO designee, to become CEO on 07/01/15. CE PR link.

Harley-Davidson(PBR417) names President/COO Matt Levatich to become President/CEO after retirement of Keith Wandell on 05/01/15. H-D PR link.

ADP(PBR220) reports that there were 213,000 new private sector jobs in January, down from 253,000 in December. ADP PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR33) reports that borrowers who refinanced in 2014 to save net $5 billion in interest over 1st 12 mos compared to $20 billion in 2013. FreddieMac PR link.

Tuesday, February 3:
Auto Industry Update:
GM US January sales were 202,786 vehicles, up 18% over last year. PR link
Ford US January sales were 178,351 vehicles, up 15% over last year. PR link
Fiat Chrysler US January sales were 145,007 vehicles, up 14% over last year. PR link .

Ford(PBR8) hiring 1,550 for F-150 plants. Ford PR link.

Archer-Daniels-Midland(PBR28) to sell 50% stake in Northern Brazil export terminal, to quadruple capacity. ADM PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) to acquire luxury beauty products & spa services retailer Bluemercury for $210 million cash. Click here for the Macy’s press release.

JM Smucker(PBR427) to acquire 2,500 employee pet food & snacks producer Big Heart Pet Brands for $5.8 billion cash/stock, includes $2.6 billion debt. Click here for the JMS press release.

FMC Corp(PBR578) selling its Alkali Chemicals business to Tronox(PBR907) for $1.64 billion. FMC PR link.

Wendy’s(PBR777) to sell 500 corp restaurants to franchisees, open 1,000 new restaurants by 2020. Wendy’s PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) announces several senior executive changes & appointments to deepen focus on omnichannel profitable sales growth. Click here for the Macy’s press release.

SunEdison(PBR888) appoints Paul Gaynor, former First Wind CEO, as EVP N American Utility & Global Wind. SunEdison PR link.

The NY Attorney General asks major retailers to halt sales of certain herbal supplements, DNA tests fail to confirm listed active ingredients. NYAG PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that new orders for manufactured goods in December were down 5 consecutive mos, decreased $16.4 billion, -3.4%, to $471.5 billion. USDOC PR link.

Monday, February 2:
Sysco(PBR60) to sell 11 US food distribution centers to Performance Food Group, contingent on successful Sysco-US Foods merger. Click here for the Sysco press release.

Mylan(PBR360) to acquire certain female healthcare businesses from India based Famy Care for up to $800 million. Mylan PR link.

Kindred Healthcare(PBR481) completes $1.8 billion acquisition of Gentiva Health(PBR944). KND PR link.

FMC Corp(PBR578) acquires global rights for new broadleaf weed herbicide from Japan based Kumiai Chemical. FMC PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) acquires specialty insurance broker Aequus Trade Credit. AJG PR link.

Cerner(PBR687) completes acquisition of Siemens Health Services for $1.3 billion cash. Cerner PR link.

Intuitive Surgical(PBR829) approves an up to $1 billion shares buyback program. Click here for the IS press release.

AvalonBay Communities(PBR1001) buys 22.5ksf site at 1865 Broadway from American Bible Society for $300 million, will develop 300ksf residential/retail facility. ABC PR link.

Chevron(PBR3) promotes Jeanette Ourada to Corporate VP/Comptroller effective 04/01/15, upon retirement of Matt Foehr. Chevron PR link.

VISA(PBR212) appoints Vasant Prahbu as CFO effective 02/09/15, succeeds Byron Pollitt who is retiring. VISA PR link.

Dick’s Sporting Goods(PBR400) appoints CFO Andre Hawaux to additional role of COO. DSG PR link.

Cincinnati Financial(PBR517) lists promotions & new appointments of subsidiary companies directors, officers & general counsel. CF PR link.

CA Technologies(PBR520) hires Michael Bisignano as EVP/General Counsel, reports to CEO Mike Gregoire. CA PR link.

Lands’ End(PBR984) CEO Edgar Huber to retire on 02/17/15, Federica Marchionni to become CEO. Click here for the LE press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that personal income was up $41.3 billion, 0.3%, & disposable personal income up $35.8 billion, 0.3%, in December. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that December construction spending is estimated at an annual rate of $982.1 billion, 0.4% above November, 2.2% above December 2013. USDOC PR link.

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

Super Bowl XLIX Final:
New England Patriots 28, Seattle Seahawks 24.
Most Valuable Player:
Quarterback Tom Brady
Played at:
University of Phoenix Stadium,
Glendale, Arizona

Protective Life(PBR572) acquisition by Japan based Dai-ichi Life Insurance Company, Limited (TSE: 8750) for $70.00/share, $5.7 billion cash has been completed. PL PR link.

(Photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net, KROMKRATHOG.)

Filed Under: Recaps Tagged With: acquisitions, Business, business news, Leadership, mergers, Rankings, Stock Market, The PBR1000

The PBR1000: The January 2015 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots

February 22, 2015 by admin

ID-100235617 Stock Market Chart-cooldesign

Where Should We Put Our Money?

By Larry C. Paxton

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

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

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

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

Table 1: The PBR1000 Stock Price Composite

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table 5: The PBR1000 Selected Stock Exchanges/Commodities

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

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

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

(Photo Courtesy of cooldesign/FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

Filed Under: Snapshots Tagged With: Commodities, DJIA, Investing, NASDAQ, Research, S&P 500, Stock Market, The PBR1000

The PBR1000: The January 2015 Breaking News Recap!

February 2, 2015 by admin

ID-100179127 Colorful Question Marks-Danilo Rizzuti

January 2015 Was Difficult. What’s Next?

By Larry C. Paxton

The recent dramatic changes in world oil policies, resulting significant drop in oil prices, continued uncertainty about foreign economies and politics(i.e., the election of the leftest anti-austerity party in Greece, the unlinking of the Swiss Franc from the Euro), and corporate quarterly and annual reports that are starting to come in with mixed results, are just some of the causes for the markets to fluctuate wildly throughout January 2015. A common word heard towards the end of the month by many professionals is that the markets are currently directionless.

But January 2015 is now behind us. February starts with Super Bowl XLIX, and hopefully a new year reset.

Following are the January 2015 Breaking News items, from the latest date to the first:

Friday, January 30:
DJIA closes week at 17,164.95, -2.87% from last Friday, -3.69% MTD, QTD, & YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,635.24, -2.58% from last Friday, -2.13% MTD, QTD, & YTD.
SPX closes week at 1,994.99, -2.77% from last Friday, -3.10% MTD, QTD, & YTD.

Chevron(PBR3) announces 2015 $35 billion capital/exploratory budget, 13% less than 2014. Click here for the Chevron press release.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR39) Janssen unit gets FDA approval for adult HIV-1 treatment PREZCOBIX(TM). Click here for the J&J press release.

Safeway(PBR84) $9 billion acquisition by privately held Albertsons has closed, Safeway delisted from NYSE. Click here for the Safeway press release.

CME Group(PBR680) & trading technologies provider GFI Group terminate merger talks following GFI stockholders no vote. Click here for the CME press release.

HCA(PBR76) promotes operations president Sam Hazen to COO. Click here for the HCA press release.

Donaldson Co(PBR780) to promote COO Tod Carpenter to President/CEO on 04/01/15. Click here for the Donaldson press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports in its advance report that the 4th quarter 2014 GDP annual rate was 2.6%, $17,710.7 billion, down from 5.0% in the 3rd quarter. Click here for the USDOC press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that compensation costs for civilian workers increased 2.2% for the 12-mo period ending December 2014, was up 2.0% in 2013. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Thursday, January 29:
Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR165) gets FDA approval for Evotaz for adult HIV-1 infections. Click here for the BMS press release.

VISA(PBR212) in 4th quarter report announces 4:1 stock split effective 03/19/15. Click here for the VISA press release.

Campbell Soup(PBR315) to restructure into 3 product divisions, division presidents named. Click here for the Campbell’s press release.

Hershey Co(PBR347) to acquire $35 million/yr meat jerky manufacturer KRAVE Pure Foods. Click here for the Hershey press release.

Mylan(PBR360) shareholders approve $5.3 billion stock deal for acquisition of Abbott’s(PBR127) non-US developed markets specialty & branded generics business; new public Mylan company to be formed in The Netherlands with current leadership. Click here for the Mylan press release.

Manitowoc(PBR566) to split into two independent companies, Cranes lifting equipment with $2.3 billion sales in 2014, & Foodservices with $1.2 billion sales in 2014, by 1st quarter 2016. Click here for the Manitowoc press release.

Endo Health(PBR741) completes $2.6 billion acquisition of men’s healthcare products developer Auxilium Pharmaceutical. Click here for the EH press release.

SunEdison(PBR888) & former subsidiary TerraForm complete $2.4 billion acquisition of wind projects developer & operator First Wind. Click here for the SunEdison press release.

Kate Spade(PBR1040) to close the 19 Kate Spade Saturday stores, reorganize Jake Spade brand. Click here for the KS press release.

Gap Inc(PBR168) promotes Scott Key as SVP, President/GM of Customer Experience, eliminates creative-director role. Click here for the Gap press release.

CenterPoint Energy(PBR321) CFO Gary Whitlock retiring, William Rogers to become CFO 03/03/15. Click here for the CPE press release.

DSW(PBR801) announces EVP promotions for COO, Chief Admin, Chief Innovation, & Chief Supply Officers. Click here for the DSW press release.

FreddieMac(PBR33) reports for 01/29/15 the average 30 year fixed rate mortgage is 3.66% with 0.6 points. Click here for the FreddieMac press release.

The Nationall Retail Federation estimates Super Bowl XLIX to have 184 million viewers, will spend $14.3 billion for the event. Click here for the NRF press release.

Wednesday, January 28:
HanesBrands(PBR505) sets 4:1 stock split for 03/04/15. Click here for the HanesBrands press release.

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

Citrix(PBR685) to restructure, eliminate 900 employee/contractor positions. Click here for the Citrix press release.

McDonald’s(PBR96) President/CEO Don Thompson to retire on 03/01/15, SVP/Chief Brand Officer Steve Easterbrook to become President/CEO. Click here for the McDonald’s press release.

Avon(PBR267) appoints James Scully as EVP/CFO, formerly J. Crew COO, reports to Pres/CEO Sheri McCoy, by 04/01/15. Click here for the Avon press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the union membership rate in private industry was 6.6% in 2014; public sector 35.7%. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that In the 2nd quarter of 2014, gross job gains from opening and expanding private sector establishments were 7.4 million. Gross job losses from closing and contracting private sector establishments were 6.5 million. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Federal Open Market Committee in its 01/28/15 report states that economic activity has been expanding at a solid pace. Click here for the FOMC report.

Tuesday, January 27:
Apple(PBR4) reports record results in 1st quarter, sold 74.5 million iPhones. Click here for the Apple press release.

Safeway(PBR84) acquisition by privately held Albertsons gets FTC approval, expected to close within 5 days. Click here for the Safeway press release.

Yahoo!(PBR500) announces plan for tax-free spin-off of remaining stake in Alibaba Group. Click here for the Apple press release.

Alliant Techsystems(PBR494) & Orbital Sciences(PBR1019) stockholders approve merger, to be called Orbital ATK, trade under NYSE: OA starting 02/10/15. Click here for the Orbital press release.

Alaska Air(PBR459) appoints former Starbucks(PBR164) executive Sangita Woerner as VP of Marketing. Click here for the Alaska Air press release.

Cooper-Standard(PBR654) promotes Allen Campbell to EVP/Chief Infrastructure Officer, hires Matthew Hardt to become EVP/CFO. Click here for the C-S press release.

Ferrellgas(PBR791) EVP/CFO Ryan VanWinkle resigns, SVP/Finance & Investor Relations Alan Heitman to be CFO until new search completed. Click here for the Ferrellgas press release.

The US Dept of HUD reports that the annual sales rate of new single family homes in December was 481,000, median price $298,100, average price $377,800. Click here for the HUD press release.

The US Dept of HHS reports that 9.5 million people are signed up for the Health Insurance Marketplace coverage. Click here for the HHS press release.

Monday, January 26:
Medtronic(PBR161) gets approval of Ireland High Court to complete $49.2 billion acquisition of Covidien, expected to close today, Medtronic & Covidien to be wholly owned subsidiaries of Ireland based Medtronic plc. Click here for the Medtronic press release.

Carnival Corp(PBR176) & China Merchants Group to explore 2 joint ventures to expand cruise industry in China. Click here for the Carnival press release.

Actavis(PBR297) pending $66 billion acquisition of Allergan(PBR392) gets SEC approval, special stockholders meetings for both companies to approve are set for 03/10/15. Click here for the Actavis press release.

Actavis(PBR297) to become UK’s #1 provider of generic drugs with acquisition of Auden McKenzie for 306 million GBP. Click here for the Actavis press release.

MeadWestvaco(PBR447) & Rock-Tenn(PBR(PBR268) agree to stock/swap merger to create $16 billion equity valued global consumer & corrugated packaging company. Click here for the MWV press release.

NII Holdings(PBR495) is selling its Nextel Mexico operations to AT&T(PBR12) for $1.875 billion, expected to close mid-2015. Click here for the NIIH press release.

GEO Group(PBR991) buys 8 correctional/detention facilities with 6,500 beds from private LCS Corrections Services for $312 million. Click here for the GEO press release.

CNA Financial(PBR263) appoints Rocco Orlando as SVP/Sales & Distribution. Click here for the CNA press release.

Charter Communications(PBR320) promotes Rich DiGeronimo to EVP/Product & Strategy, reports to COO John Bickham. Click here for the CC press release.

Mattel(PBR383) Chairman/CEO Bryan Stockton resigns, independent board member Christopher Sinclair named Chairman/Interim CEO. Click here for the Mattel press release.

Citrix(PBR685) appoints Robson Grieve as SVP/Marketing, reports to President/CEO Mark Templeton. Click here for the Citrix press release.

The Congressional Budget Office reports that the federal budget deficit to be steady relative to the size of economy through 2018, then projected to increase through 2025. Click here for the CBO press release.

Sunday, January 25:
Greece: The Greece general elections take place, leftest anti-austerity party Syriza gets the most votes. Click here for the Greek Reporter results article.

Friday, January 23:
DJIA closes week at 17,672.60, +0.92% from last Friday, -.84% MTD, QTD, & YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,757.88, +2.66% from last Friday, +0.46% MTD, QTD, & YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,051.82, +1.60% from last Friday, -0.34% MTD, QTD, & YTD.

Deere & Co(PBR77) laying off indefinitely 910 workers from 5 Iowa & Illinois facilities. Click here for the Deere press release.

Expedia(PBR496) acquires Travelocity from Sabre Corp(NASDAQ: SABR) for $280 million cash. Click here for the Expedia press release.

Flowers Foods(PBR590) promotes Robert Benton, Jr. to SVP/Chief Manufacturing Officer; Michael Beatty, EVP/Supply Chain, retiring in Spring 2015. Click here for the FF press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the number of US union wage/salary workers at the end of 2014 was 14.6 million, 11.1% of the workforce, -0.2% from 2013. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The National Association of Realtors reports that December existing home sales annual rate was at 5.04 million, that 2014 total sales were down 3.1% from 2013. Click here for the NAR press release.

Thursday, January 22:
Family Dollar(PBR252) stockholders vote yes for $9.2 billion merger with Dollar Tree(PBR329). Click here for the FD press release.

Dollar General(PBR153) announces Rick Dreiling to continue as chairman/CEO through 01/16, comments on failed Family Dollar(252) bid. Click here for the DG press release.

KKR(PBR272) acquires leading UK rail tickets online retailer 4.7 million active clients Trainline, terms not disclosed. Click here for the KKR press release.

Harman Intl(PBR448) to acquire private 8,000 employee $370 million/year software services company Symphony Teleca. Click here for the Harman press release.

Harman Intl(PBR448) has acquired Israeli-based over-the-air technologies firm Red Bend Software for $170 million stock/cash. Click here for the Harman press release.

E*Trade(PBR947) receives regulatory approval to operate E*Trade Bank as a 9.0 percent Tier 1 financial unit. Click here for the E*Trade press release.

City National Corp(PBR1045) to be acquired by Royal Bank of Canada for $93.50/share, $5.4 billion cash & stock. Click here for the CNC press release.

Starbucks(PBR164) appoints board member Kevin Johnson to also be president/COO in charge of global operations, effective 03/01/15. Click here for the Starbucks press release.

Ball Corp(PBR304) names Mike Gazarik, PhD, Office of Technology Director, effective 03/02/15. Click here for the Ball press release.

The US Dept of Labor says in advance report that for the week ending 01/17/15 initial job claims was 307,000, -10,000 from the previous week. The 4 week moving average was 306,500. Click here for the USDOL press release.

European Central Bank to start bonds buying program for price stability, 60 billion Euros/mo through at least September 2016. Click here for the ECB press release.

Christian Science Monitor reports Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah has died, successor is half-brother Prince Salman. Click here for the CSM press release.

Wednesday, January 21:
Merck(PBR63) completes $102/share tender offer of antibiotics developer & marketer Cubist Pharmaceuticals(NASDAQ: CBST). Click here for the Merck press release.

Kinder Morgan(PBR198) to acquire Hiland Partners & its midstream oil/gas assets in N Dakota/Montana Bakken area for $3 billion. Click here for the KM press release.

AMSURG(PBR1077) Sheridan unit acquiring national 100+ radiology group Radisphere, terms not disclosed. Click here for the AMSURG press release.

Cummins(PBR157) names Tony Satterthwaite to President, Distribution Business. Click here for the Cummins press release.

Kinder Morgan(PBR198) in its dividend announcement mentions that CEO Rich Kinder to become executive chairman, Steve Kean to become CEO on 06/01/15. Click here for the KM press release.

The US Dept of HUD reports that privately-owned housing units authorized by building permits in December were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1,032,000. This is 1.9 percent (±1.3%) below the revised November rate of 1,052,000, but is 1.0 percent (±1.1%)* above the December 2013 estimate. Click here for the HUD press release.

Tuesday, January 20:
US President Obama gives his 6th State of the Union Address to Congress. Click here for the White House press release.

AIG(PBR41) to acquire Ireland’s 2nd largest health insurance provider, Laya Healthcare, terms not disclosed. Click here for the AIG press release.

Spectrum Brands(PBR529) acquires private $100 million/yr Salix Animal Health, world’s largest vertically integrated rawhide dog treats company. Click here for the SB press release.

Cabot(PBR600) realigning into 4 business segments. Click here for the Cabot press release.

Clean Harbors(PBR608) to carve out Oil & Gas Field Services segment as a standalone public company; Eric Gerstenburg appointed COO, other leadership promotions mentioned. Click here for the CH press release.

First Solar(PBR628) announces it is the first thin film photovoltaic module manufacturer to achieve 10 gigawatts of installed power. Click here for the FS press release.

CME Group(PBR680) ups offer from $5.60 to $5.85/share for trading technologies provider GFI Group. Click here for the CME press release.

Albemarle(PBR742) announces realignment of global business units, executive leadership. Click here for the Albemarle press release.

Specialty apparel retailer Express(PBR854) acquisition by Sycamore Partners discussions terminated due to unavailability of financing. Click here for the Express press release.

Cummins(PBR157) Distribution Business unit President Pamela Carter retiring on 04/01/15. Click here for the Cummins press release.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR165) CEO Lamberto Andreotti to become executive chairman on 05/05/15, COO Giovanni Caforio, MD, to become CEO. Click here for the BMS press release.

Apache Corp(PBR169) chairman/president/CEO Steven Farris retires effective immediately, EVP/COO No. America John Christman IV named president/CEO. Click here for the Apache press release.

Barnes & Noble(PBR388) Retail Group CEO Mitchell Klipper to retire 05/02/15, then be a special advisor. Click here for the BN press release.

Bon-Ton Stores(PBR704) CFO Keith Plowman to retire in 08/15, national search to start. Click here for the BTS press release.

Hologic(PBR761) announces John Griffin joining as general counsel, Allison Bebo as SVP, human resources. Click here for the Hologic press release.

Outerwall(PBR816) CEO Scott Di Valerio steps down, director Nora Denzel appointed Interim CEO. Click here for the Outerwall press release.

Nortek(PBR822) names Liam Weston as Chief Human Resources Officer. Click here for the Nortek press release.

Equifax(PBR817) reports December auto loan balances were at $975 billion, representing 33.2% of non-mortgage consumer debt. Click here for the Equifax press release.

Monday, January 19:
US Stock Exchanges Closed.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Observed.
“An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity.”

Friday, January 16:
DJIA closes week at 17,511.57, -1.27% from last Friday, -1.75% MTD, QTD, & YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,634.38, -1.48% from last Friday, -2.15% MTD, QTD, & YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,019.42, -1.24% from last Friday, -1.92% MTD, QTD, & YTD.

AT&T(PBR12) closes on acquisition of Mexico 9.2 million subscriber wireless provider lusacell for $2.5 billion. Click here for the AT&T press release.

Estee Lauder(PBR242) completes acquisition of Hollywood skincare brand GLAMGLOW. Click here for the EL press release.

CBRE Group(PBR346) acquires Dallas, TX, based 100 employee United Commercial Realty, terms not disclosed. Click here for the CBRE press release.

Regal Entertainment(PBR663) decides sale of the company not in its best interest at this time. Click here for the RE press release.

Ventas(PBR707) completes acquisition of American Realty Capital Healthcare Trust(NASDAQ: HCT) for $2.6 billion cash/stock. Click here for the Ventas press release.

Home Depot(PBR35) chairman Frank Blake retiring 02/02/15, president/CEO Craig Menear to become chairman at that time. Click here for the HD press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the Consumer Price Index(CPI-U) was down 0.4% in Dec, increased 0.8% over the last 12 months. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Dept of Treasury reports that the sum total in November of all net foreign acquisitions of long-term securities, short-term U.S. securities, and banking flows was a monthly net Treasury International Capital outflow of $6.3 billion. Click here for the Treasury press release.

The US Dept of Labor preliminary report shows current avg earnings/hour for December was $24.57, down 0.2% from November. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Thursday, January 15:
The Swiss National Bank unexpectedly discontinues its minimum exchange rate with the Euro, lowers interest rate to -0.75%, stock markets worldwide drop. Click here for the SNB press release.

Target(PBR38) announces plans to discontinue Canadian operations, 133 stores, 17,600 employees. Click here for the Target press release.

The Johnson & Johnson(PBR39) Janssen Pharmaceutical unit is divesting its US license rights of its Nucynta products to Depomed for $1.05 billion. Click here for the JNJ press release.

Dollar General(PBR153) provides update on the FTC review of its proposed merger with Family Dollar(PBR252). Click here for the DG press release.

Kellogg(PBR188) completes acquisition of 86% stake in Egyptian public 3,300 employee $70 million/2013 packaged biscuits producer Bisco Misr. Click here for the Kellogg press release.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR301) subsidiary Caesars Entertainment Operating Company commences voluntary Chapter 11 reorganization, to reduce debt by $10 billion. Click here for the Caesars press release.

CME Group(PBR680) & trading technologies provider GFI Group announce revised offer of $5.60/share for GFIG stockholders, $282 million. Click here for the CME press release.

Vornado(PBR714) completes spin-off of subsidiary Urban Edge Properties as an independent public company on NYSE: UE. Click here for the Vornado press release.

AutoNation(PBR151) chairman/CEO Mike Jackson to add president title upon retirement of pres/COO Mike Maroone, SVP/Sales Bill Berman to become EVP/COO. Click here for the AutoNation press release.

Viacom(PBR202) extends employment agreement with president/CEO Philippe Daumann through 2018. Click here for the Viacom press release.

Juniper Networks(PBR501) promotes Jonathon Davidson EVP/GM of Development & Innovation, reports to CEO Rami Rahim. Click here for the Juniper press release.

FreddieMac(PBR33) reports that the 30 yr fixed mortgage rate for the past weekk averaged 3.66% with 0.6 point. Click here for the FreddieMac press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the December Producer Price Index for final demand fell 0.3%, seasonally adjusted, increased 1.1% in 2014. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Wednesday, January 14:
General Motors(PBR7) to increase capital expenditures to $9 billion in 2015, sold 3.5 million vehicle in China in 2013. Click here for the GM press release.

Exelon(PBR109) & Pepco(PBR498) reach settlement agreement with the NJ Board of Public Utilities in proposed $6.83 billion merger, now planned for 2nd or 3rd quarter 2015. Click here for the Exelon press release.

Adobe Systems(PBR565) authorizes new $2 billion shares repurchase program through FY2017. Click here for the Adobe press release.

Constellation Brands(PBR483) names Bill Newlands to new position of Chief Growth Officer, reports to president/CEO Rob Sands, starts 01/26/15. Click here for the CB press release.

Hawaiian Airlines(PBR849) promotes Shannon Okinaka to SVP/Interim CFO, fills vacancy left by Scott Topping, reports to president/CEO Mark Dunkerley. Click here for the HA press release.

JPMorgan Chase(PBR20) new report reveals summer jobs for young people decline significantly. Click here for the JPMC press release.

The US Dept of Labor says the December price index for U.S. imports fell 2.5%, follows 1.8% drop in November, decreases due to lower fuel prices. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the US total business November end of month inventories were at $1,763.6 billion, +0.2%(+/- 0.1%) from October. Click here for the USDOC press release.

The US Federal Reserve Board releases the latest Beige Book, says modest growth across most districts in recent months, expects faster growth in coming months. Click here for the FRB press release.

Fun info: Vegas by the Numbers: A 2014 Recap; provided by MGM Resorts Intl(PBR270). Click here for the PRNewswire press release.

Tuesday, January 13:

Textron(PBR222) Specialized Vehicles unit acquires 90 employee UK based ground support equipment manufacturer Douglas Equipment from Curtiss-Wright(PBR771), terms not disclosed. Click here for the Textron press release.

Henry Schein(PBR276) acquires dental practice transition and brokerage firm ADS Florida, terms not disclosed. Click here for the HS press release.

Mohawk Industries(PBR342) to acquire Belgium based sheet vinyl, luxury vinyl tile, & laminate manufacturer IVC Group for $1.2 billion. Click here for the Mohawk press release.

Cabot(PBR600) authorizes 5 million shares repurchase program, cancels previous programs. Click here for the Cabot press release.

Dana Holding(PBR367) President/CEO Roger Wood to retire in 04/16, global executive search firm Spencer Stuart retained. Click here for the DH press release.

TD Ameritrade(PBR651) EVP/CFO Bill Gerber to retire at end of FY, 09/15. Click here for the TDA press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports 5.0 million job openings at the end of November, little changed from 4.8 million in October. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Monday, January 12:
AmerisourceBergen(PBR16) to acquire animal health distribution company MWI Veterinary Supply(PBR673) for $190/share, $2.5 billion, expect to close transaction in 03/15. Click here for the AB press release.

General Cable(PBR385) promotes Sonya Reed to Chief HR Officer, Emerson Moser to SVP General Counsel/Corp Secretary, names Kurt Drake SVP Chief Compliance Officer. Click here for the GC press release.

Carlyle Group(PBR528) promotes 59 professionals to senior positions. Click here for the CG press release.

Perrigo(PBR564) signs exclusive 5 year agreement with Ferrara Candy to manufacture gummy vitamins and dietary supplements for $625 million market. Click here for the Perrigo press release.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) acquires Newport Beach, CA, based national benefits provider firm e3 Financial, terms not disclosed. Click here for the AJG press release.

Citrix(PBR685) has acquired workload-oriented storage virtualization technologies developer Sanbolic, terms not disclosed. Click here for the Citrix press release.

Specialty chemicals company Albemarle(PBR742) completes $6.2 billion acquisition of Rockwood Holdings(PBR1015), which will be delisted. Click here for the Albemarle press release.

SunEdison(PBR888) & India based Adani to build the largest solar manufacturing facility in India with a $4 billion investment. Click here for the SunEdison press release.

SunEdison(PBR888) & India based Omnigrid Micropower partner for 250MW power across 5,000 rural projects to bring electricity to 10 million people in rural India. Click here for the SunEdison press release.

Alpha Natural Resources(PBR478) president Paul Vining resigning end of 01/15, other executives to take on additional responsibilities. Click here for the ANR press release.

ABM Industries(PBR489) EVP Scott Salmirs to succeed president/CEO Henrik Slipsager as CEO, effective 03/31/15. Click here for the ABM press release.

Citrix(PBR685) appoints Carlos Sartorius SVP, Worldwide Sales & Services, reports to pres/CEO Mark Templeton. Click here for the Citrix press release.

Acxiom(PBR1073) Chief Revenue Officer Nada Stirratt stepping down, effective 03/31/15, CEO Scott Howe to lead sales until replacement found. Click here for the Acxiom press release.

Friday, January 9:
DJIA closes week at 17,737.37, -0.54% from last Friday, -0.48% MTD, QTD, & YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,704.07, -0.48% from last Friday, -0.68% MTD, QTD, & YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,044.81, -0.65% from last Friday, -0.68% MTD, QTD, & YTD.

Estee Lauder(PBR242) completes acquisition of ultraluxury fragrances company Editions de Parfums Frederic Malle, terms not disclosed. Click here for the EL press release.

Dover(PBR295) authorizes 15 million over 3 years shares repurchase program. Click here for the Dover press release.

Advance Auto Parts(PBR382) promotes Tammy Finley to EVP, Human Resources & General Counsel, reports to CEO Darren Jackson. Click here for the AAP press release.

Spectrum Brands(PBR529) president/CEO Dave Lumly to retire by end of 2015, will remain on the board. Click here for the SB press release.

Endo Health(PBR741) announces several senior management changes based on pending acquisition of Auxilium. Click here for the EH press release.

The Dept of Labor reports that nonfarm payroll jobs increased by 252,000 in December, the unemployment rate is at 5.6%. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Census Bureau reports that November wholesalers sales were $452.2 billion, -0.3% from October. End of Month inventories were at $547.2 billion, +0.8% from October. here for the Census press release.

Thursday, January 8:
Macy’s(PBR97) restructuring merchandising & marketing, make store & field organization adjustments, maintain 175,000 associates level. Click here for the Macy’s press release.

Global Partners(PBR136) completes acquisition of NE US petroleum products marketer Warren Equities for $387 million. Click here for the GP press release.

General Mills(PBR148) to close baked refrigerated goods plants in New Albany, IN, & Midland, Ontario, will impact 500 employees. Click here for the General Mills press releases.

Dun & Bradstreet(PBR962) acquires B2B professional contact data provider NetProspex for $125 million. Click here for the D&B press release.

Starbucks(PBR164) COO Troy Alstead, after 23 year career, to take an extended unpaid leave of absence after 03/01/15. Click here for the Starbucks press release.

Ball Corp(PBR304) names Manette Snow to new position of VP, Diversity & Inclusion, reports to chairman/president/CEO John Hayes. Click here for the Ball Corp press release.

Carlyle Group(PBR528) appoints Georgette Kiser as Chief Info Officer, reports to co presidents/COOs. Click here for the CG press release.

ADT(PBR620) appoints Andrea Martin to President of Canada operations, effective 01/12/15, reports to President/CEO Naren Gursahaney. Click here for the ADT press release.

Boise Cascade(PBR636) COO Tom Corrick to become CEO upon retirement of Tom Carlile on 03/06/15. Click here for the BC press release.

W.R. Grace(PBR657) appoints Elizabeth Brown as Chief Human Relations Officer. Click here for the WRG press release.

FreddieMac(PBR33) reports that the average 30 year fixed mortgage rate is at 3.73% with 0.6 point. Click here for the FreddieMac press release.

General Motors(PBR7) CEO Mary Barra expects the auto industry to sell16.5-17.0 million new cars in the US in 2015. Click here for the GM press release.

The US Fed Reserve Board reports that November consumer credit was up at a 5% seasonally adjusted annual rate. Revolving credit down at 1.25%, and nonrevolving credit up at 7.5%. Click here for the FRB press release.

President Obama proposes to make community college free for responsible students for 2 Years. Click here for the Whitehouse press release.

President Obama proposes to reduce FHA mortgage insurance to save new homeowner an avg of $900/yr. Click here for the Whitehouse press release.

The US Olympic Committee selects Boston as applicant city for the 2024 Olympic & Paralympic Summer Games. Click here for the USOC press release.

Wednesday, January 7:
T-Mobile US(PBR115) reports 8.3 million total net customer additions in 2014. Click here for the T-Mobile press release.

PVH(PBR318) announces closing of 120 store Izod Retail Division by end of 2015, keep growing wholesale business. Click here for the PVH press release.

Flowserve(PBR477) completes acquisition of Netherland’s based engineered vacuum and fluid pumps provider SIHI Group BV for $372.5 million. Click here for the Flowserve press release.

Keurig Green Mountain(PBR499) to be exclusive producer of Dr Pepper Snapple(PBR409) products for its Keurig Cold at-home beverage system in multi-year agreement. Click here for the Keurig press release.

Carlyle Group(PBR528) acquires engineering/manufacturing drivetrain firm AxleTech International from General Dynamics(PBR91), terms not disclosed. Click here for the CG press release.

Ford(PBR8) John Felice retiring after 30 years, Mark Laneve to succeed him as VP, US Marketing, Sales & Service. Click here for the Ford press release.

Raytheon(PBR118) appoints CFO David Wajsgras as president, IIS, Toby O’Brien to be VP/CFO, effective 03/02/15. Click here for the Raytheon press release.

Alpha Natural Resources(PBR478) CFO Frank Wood to retire on 02/28/15, EVP/Chief Strategy Officer Philip Cavatoni to add CFO duties. Click here for the ANR press release.

Bright Horizons(PBR1047) President/COO Mary Ann Tocio to retire 07/15, leadership changes announced. Click here for the BH press release.

ADP(PBR220) National Employment Report says 241,000 non-farm private sector jobs added in December. Click here for the ADP press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the international trade deficit in goods and services decreased to $39.0 billion in November from $42.2 billion in October (revised), as imports decreased more than exports. Click here for the USDOC press release.

The Federal Open Market Committee released its December 16-17 meeting notes, no immediate plans to raise interest rates. Click here for the FOMC press release.

Dun & Bradstreet(PBR962) says the US economy is showing signs of hesitant growth in 2015. Click here for the D&B press release.

An apparent small cell of Al Qaida operatives systematically attack and kill 12 people in the headquarters of Paris, France, based satirical publication Charlie Hebdo.

Tuesday, January 6:
In separate meetings Medtronic(PBR161) & Ireland based medical supplies provider Covidien shareholders approve Medtronic’s $49.2 billion acquisition, expected to close in next 3-5 weeks. Click here for the Medtronic press release.

Gilead Sciences(PBR237) to acquire from private German based biotech Phenex Pharmaceuticals its liver disease treatment protocols for up to $470 million. Click here for the GS press release.

Coach(PBR490) acquiring women’s luxury footwear designer and manufacturer Stuart Weitzman from private equity firm Sycamore Partners for $574 million cash. Click here for the Coach press release.

Brazilian based Cutrale & Safra complete the $14.50/share tender offer of Chiquita Brands(PBR658), now own 84%+ of common shares. Click here for the Chiquita press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that new orders for manufactured goods in November, down 4 consecutive mos, was down $3.5B from October, or -0.7%, to $492.7B. Click here for the USDOC press release.

The 114th US Congress is convened, John Boehner re-elected as House Speaker, Mitch McConnell elected Senate Majority Leader.

Monday, January 5:
Amazon(PBR37) says Amazon Sellers sold record over 2 billion items worldwide in 2014. Click here for the Amazon press release.

AIG(PBR41) completes acquisition of UK based 350,000 consumer base Ageas Protective Life from Belgium based Ageas Group for $305 million. Click here for the AIG press release.

Pfizer(PBR53) has acquired Swiss based herpes vaccine developer Redvax GmbH, no terms disclosed. Click here for the Pfizer press release.

Amgen(PBR144) & Kite Pharma(NASDAQ: KITE) form strategic cancer immunotherapy research collaboration & license agreement. Click here for the Amgen press release.

C.H. Robinson(PBR211) completes acquisition of private freight broker Freightquote.com for $365 million cash. Click here for the CHR press release.

Cameron International(PBR269) completes sale of Centrifugal Compression unit to Ireland based Ingersoll-Rand for $850 million. Click here for the Cameron press release.

Alliance Data(PBR540) announces $600 million shares repurchase program for 2015. Click here for the AD press release.

CME Group(PBR680) reports average trading volume in 2014 at 13.7 million contracts per day, up 9% from 2013. Click here for the CME Group press release.

Belden(PBR873) completes acquisition of global cybersecurity firm Tripwire for $710 million. Click here for the Belden press release.

Endo Health(PBR741) EVP/Chief Legal Officer Caroline Manogue to retire on 07/01/15, executive search firm retained. Click here for the Endo Health press release.

Curtiss-Wright(PBR771) announces CEO David Adams now also chairman. Click here for the C-W press release.

Covanta Holding(PBR970) announces Steve Jones to become president/CEO in 03/15 when Anthony Orlando steps down, but stays on board. Click here for the Covanta press release.

Blackstone(PBR374) Advisory Partners Vice Chairman Byron Wien announces his annual Predictions for 10 Surprises for 2015. Click here for the Blackstone press release.

Sunday, January 4:
The PBR1000: The December 2014 Breaking News Recap is posted. Click here for the post.

Friday, January 2:
DJIA closes week at 17,832.99, -1.22% from last Friday, -0.20% MTD, QTD, & YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,726.81, -1.67% from last Friday, -0.20% MTD, QTD, & YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,058.20, -1.46% from last Friday, -0.03% MTD, QTD, & YTD.

3M(PBR92) completes sale of its global $45 million/yr Static Control business to Desco Industries, terms not disclosed. Click here for the 3M press release.

Cliffs Natural Resources(PBR422) completes sale of W Virginia Logan County coal assets to Coronado Coal for $175 million cash, confirms E Canada facility Bloom Lake has closed. Click here for the CNR press release.

HCC Insurance(PBR760) completes acquisition of Producers Ag Insurance Group from CUNA Mutual Group for $105 million cash. Click here for the HCC press release.

HealthSouth(PBR827) completes $750 million acquisition of privately held 5,000 employee Encompass Home Health & Hospice. Click here for the HealthSouth press release.

International Game Technology(PBR876) special shareholders meeting set for 02/10/15 to vote on acquisition by consortium led by Italian based game technology company GTECH for $6.4 billion in cash, stock, & debt. Click here for the IGT press release.

Graco(PBR1072) announces acquisition of 4 companies for $185 million, including PA based High Pressure Equipment. Click here for the Graco press release.

The US Dept of Commerce says prelim total annual rate construction spending in November was $975 billion, -0.3% from October. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Thursday, January 1:
The staff of PBRMarketTools wishes you and yours a Happy, Blessed, Healthy, and Prosperous 2015!

(Photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net, Danilo Rizzuti.)

Filed Under: Recaps Tagged With: acquisitions, Business, business news, Leadership, mergers, Rankings, Stock Market, The PBR1000

The PBR1000: The December 2014 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots

January 12, 2015 by admin

ID-10074385 Stocktrader on world-watcharakun

Hoping To Build A High Return Stock Portfolio!

By Larry C. Paxton

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

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

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

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

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

Table 1: The PBR1000 Stock Price Composite

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table 5: The PBR1000 Selected Stock Exchanges/Commodities

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

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

(Photo Courtesy of watcharakun/FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

Filed Under: Snapshots Tagged With: Commodities, Investing, Rankings, Research, Stock Market, The PBR1000

The PBR1000: The December 2014 Breaking News Recap!

January 5, 2015 by admin

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

By Larry C. Paxton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CONSOL Energy(PBR631) to pursue IPO for thermal coal business mid 2015, metallurgical business late 2015, authorizes $250 million shares buyback program. Click here for the CONSOL press release.

Armstrong World(PBR717) exiting European flooring business, DLW subsidiary filing for insolvency. Click here for the AW press release.

GrafTech(PBR1056) moving reduced 50 person global headquarters staff to Independence, OH, Innovation & Technology Center to Brooklyn Heights, OH, in 1st quarter, 2015. Click here for the GrafTech press release.

Crude light sweet oil(CLF5) closes at $59.95/barrel, new 5 year low. Click here for the current CLF5 price.

Kroger(PBR25) chairman David Dillon to retire on 12/31/14 after 38 years of company service, CEO Rodney McMullen to add chairman title on 01/01/15. Click here for the Kroger press release.

Caterpillar(PBR49) names new CIO, VP of Finance Services, & VP of Strategic Services. Click here for the current Caterpillar press release.

CBS Corp(PBR178) president/CEO Leslie Moonves gets new contract extending term to 06/30/19. Click here for the CBS press release.

Arch Coal(PBR671) names Matt Giljum VP/Finance & Treasurer upon retirement of Jim Florczak at end of January, 2015. Click here for the AC press release.

SeaWorld(PBR1002) chairman David D’Alessandro to add interim CEO title on 01/15/15, CEO Jim Atchison to become vice chairman. Click here for the SeaWorld press release.

The US Dept of Commerce advance estimate says November Retail & Food Sales were $449.3 billion, +0.7% over October, +5.1% over November, 2013. Click here for the USDOC press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that November import prices -1.5%, -1.2% in October, both decreases driven by declining fuel prices. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the October combined value of distributive trade sales & manufacturers’ shipments is estimated at $1,350.9 billion, -0.1% from September, +3.4% from October, 2013. Click here for the USDOC press release.

The US Federal Reserve Board says in the Z1 Funds Flow 3rd Quarter Report that the net worth of households & nonprofits dipped slightly to $81.3 trillion from the 2nd quarter. Click here for the FRB press release.

Wednesday, December 10:
Baxter International(PBR179) files initial Form 10 with SEC to spinoff Baxalta biopharmaceuticals unit in mid 2015, will have 20% ownership. Click here for the Baxter press release.

Actavis(PBR297) launches generic version of Pfizer’s(PBR53) Celebrex. Click here for the Actavis press release.

Mylan(PBR360) launches one of first generic versions of Celebrex, $2.5 billion/yr US market, has 286 ANDAs waiting FDA approval. Click here for the Mylan press release.

Alliance Data(PBR540) completes $2.3 billion cash & stock acquisition of digital marketing company Conversant. Click here for the AD press release.

First Solar(PBR628) enters residential market with investment in community solar solutions developer Clean Energy Collective, terms not disclosed. Click here for the First Solar press release.

Walmart(PBR1) US division COO Gisel Ruiz promoted to EVP of the International People division, reports to division pres/CEO David Cheesewright. US division Chief Development Officer Judith McKenna promoted to US division COO, reports to division president/CEO Greg Foran. Click here for the Walmart press release.

Walgreens(PBR38) CEO Greg Wasson to retire after completion of merger with Alliance Boots, successor leadership announced. Click here for the Walgreens press release.

MetLife(PBR42) announces that Esther Lee to join as EVP/Global Marketing Officer on 01/12/15, reports to chairman/president/CEO Steven Kandarian. Click here for the MetLife press release.

The US Dept of the Treasury reports November receipts of $191.4B, outlays of $248.3B, deficit of $56.8B. Click here for the Treasury press release.

The US Dept of Commerce releases 3rd Quarter Services Revenues Estimates for 12 services categories. Click here for the USDOC press release.

The US Dept of the Treasury in its says Lifetime Costs have been $426.3 billion of $475 billion authorized, has recovered $14 billion more than cost. Click here for the USDOT report.

Tuesday, December 9:
Discovery Communications(PBR433) to let Hulu stream many of its popular shows starting 01/01/15 in wide ranging agreement. Click here for the DC press release.

Advanced Micro Devices(AMD)(PBR451) to move from NYSE to NASDAQ on 01/02/15. Click here for the AMD press release.

Hudson City Bancorp(PBR1014) & M&T Bank Corp(PBR514) agree to extend merger deadline from 12/31/14 to 04/30/15. Click here for the M&T press release.

Belden(PBR868) to acquire global cybersecurity firm Tripwire for $710 million. Click here for the Belden press release.

Expedia(PBR491) & Airlines Reporting Corporation in 2015 Flight Predictions report say fares in US/Europe to drop slightly. Click here for the Expedia press release.

United Technologies(PBR45) welcomes back Akhil Johri as new SVP/CFO, reports to pres/CEO Gregory Hayes. Click here for the UT press release.

Delta Air Lines(PBR78) promotes Ranjan Goswami to VP Sales-West Coast, a new position. Click here for the Delta press release.

Abercrombie & Fitch(PBR557) CEO Michael Jeffries retires effectively immediately, Arthur Martinez appointed executive chairman, Office the Chairman group formed for day-to-day operations, new CEO search starts. Click here for the A&F press release.

Buckle(PBR1061) announces leadership changes in merchandising & finance areas. Click here for the Buckle press release.

Conn’s, in 3rd quarter report, announces VP/Chief Accounting Officer Mark Haley is now interim CFO, effective immediately, upon departure of Brian Taylor. Click here for the Conn’s press release.

OECD reports Foreign Direct Investment flows continued to struggle in the 1st half of 2014. Click here for the OECD press release.

The US Dept of Labor preliminary report shows that end of October Job Openings was at 4.8 million, 5.1 million job hires, & 4.8 million job separations. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports in preliminary Wholesale Monthly Trade report that October sales were $454.6B, +0.2% over Sept. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Monday, December 8:
Merck(PBR63) to acquire antibiotics developer & marketer Cubist Pharmaceuticals(NASDAQ: CBST) for $102/share in cash, $9.5 billion total deal. Click here for the Merck press release.

EOG Resources(PBR193) sells off majority of Canadian assets for $410 million. Click here for the EOG press release.

CBRE Group(PBR347) acquires 200+ employee real estate consulting & advisory service IVI International, terms not disclosed. Click here for the CBRE press release.

Blackstone Group(PBR372) is selling its San Francisco Peninsula & Silicon Valley offices portfolio properties to Hudson Pacific Properties(NYSE: HPP) for $3.5 billion cash & stock. Click here for the Blackstone press release.

Asbury Automotive(PBR449) acquires Atlanta, GA, suburb new car dealership Sandy Springs Ford, does $110 million/yr. Click here for the Asbury press release.

Hyatt Hotels(PBR546) sells 644 room Vancouver(Canada) Hyatt Regency to InnVest for $123 million/$190,000 per key, will remain a Hyatt Regency. Click here for the Hyatt press release.

CareFusion(PBR580) sets 01/21/15 for special stockholders meeting to vote on the $12.2 billion merger deal with Becton Dickinson(PBR319). Click here for the BD press release.

Greenbrier Cos(PBR931) receives 14,100 in new railcar orders in its 1st quarter, valued at $1.24 billion. Click here for the Greenbrier press release.

FannieMae(PBR33) & FreddieMac(PBR16) announce new 3% down programs for new homebuyers. Click here for the FannieMae press release. Click here for the FreddieMac press release.

C.H. Robinson(PBR210) announces CFO & CIO transitions. Click here for the CHR press release.

JetBlue(PBR441) appoints Alexander Chatkewitz as VP/Controller, reports to Jim Leddy, SVP/Treasurer. Click here for the JetBlue press release.

Brinker International(PBR686) appoints Scarlett May as SVP/General Counsel & Secretary, effective 12/15/14. Click here for the BI press release.

Darling Ingredients(PBR942) announces that Chief Synergy Officer John Muse to reassume his CFO position, effective immediately, upon resignation of Colin Stevenson. Click here for the DI press release.

Friday, December 5:
DJIA closes week at 17,958.79, +0.73% from last Friday & MTD, +5.37% QTD, +8.34% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,780.76, -0.23% from last Friday & MTD, +6.40% QTD, +14.47% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,075.37, +0.38% from last Friday & MTD, +5.23% QTD, +12.28% YTD.

Lockheed Martin(PBR61) Orion spacecraft has successful 1st test in goal of manned journey to Mars. http://lmt.co/1tZlgm4.

Eastman Chemical(PBR280) completes acquisition of specialty chemical company Taminco(NYSE: TAM) for $2.8 billion. Click here for the Eastman Chemical press release.

Dollar Tree(PBR328) provides an update on FTC’s review of acquisition of Family Dollar(PBR254), issues involved with Dollar General(PBR154) bid. Click here for the Dollar Tree press release.

Dollar General(PBR154) responds to the Dollar Tree(PBR328) update regarding DT’s proposed acquisition of Family Dollar(PBR254). Click here for the Dollar General press release.

LabCorp(PBR418) completes the acquisition of DNA testing services Bode Technology Group from SolutionPoint International. Click here for the LabCorp press release.

Apollo Education Group(PBR595) enters Brazil with 75% acquisition for $28 million of education provider FAEL. Click here for the AEG press release.

Sigma-Aldrich(PBR715) stockholders approve acquisition by Germany based Merck KGaA for $140/share, $17 billion cash, expected to close mid 2015. Click here for the S-A press release.

Genesco(PBR736) announces that SVP/CFO James Gulmi is retiring at the end of the FY, will be succeeded by Mimi Vaughn, SVP/Strategy & Shared Services. Click here for the Genesco press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the internationall trade of goods & services deficit was $43.4 billion in October, -$0.2 billion from a revised September. Click here for the USDOC press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 321,000 in November, and the unemployment rate was unchanged at 5.8%. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Federal Reserve reports that the preliminary annual rate of Consumer Credit for October was at $882.6 billion revolving, $2,396.3 billion non-revolving. Click here for the FRB press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports new orders for manufactured goods in October decreased $3.3 billion, or 0.7%, to $496.6 billion. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Thursday, December 4:
Best Buy(PBR67) selling its China based Five Star business to Jiayuan Group, does not affect private label operations in China. Click here for the Best Buy press release.

The Hershey Co(PBR348) has acquired Ontario, Canada, based confectionary products manufacturer The Allan Candy Company, terms not disclosed. Click here for the Hershey press release.

Barnes & Noble(PBR386) to acquire Microsoft(PBR30) preferred investment in NOOK Media, agree to terminate commercial agreement. Click here for the BN press release.

Keurig Green Mountain(PBR532) to acquire remaining 85% of equity of hot/cold dispenser developer MDS Global(dba Bevyz) for $220 million. Click here for the KGM press release.

Church & Dwight(PBR646) completes acquisition of the assets of manufacturer & seller of livestock feeds company VI-COR. Click here for the C&D press release.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR648) acquires Brisbane, Australia, insurance broker Blue Holdings, no terms disclosed. Click here for the AJG press release.

Eastman Kodak(PBR798) reorganizing into 5 divisions, names division leaders & corporate functional leaders. Click here for the Kodak press release.

Walgreens(PBR38) names Linda Filler as president of retail products & chief merchandising officer, effective 01/01/15. Click here for the Walgreens press release.

Dupont(PBR82) names Matthias Heinzel as president of Nutrition & Health, effective 01/01/15, succeeds Craig Binetti, who is retiring. Click here for the Dupont press release.

Halliburton(PBR94) announces integration leadership team for the Baker Hughes(PBR124) acquisition. Click here for the Halliburton press release.

Bemis(PBR466) elects Mike Clauer as VP/CFO. Click here for the Bemis press release.

FreddieMac(PBR33) reports that the average 30 year fixed mortgage rate was 3.89% with 0.5 points on 12/04/14. Click here for the FreddieMac press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that Unemployment Insurance Claims for the week ending 11/29/14 was 297,000, 4 week moving average was 299,000. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Wednesday, December 3:
Wellpoint(PBR40) corporate name is now Anthem, Inc, now trading with symbol ANTM. Click here for the Anthem press release.

NextEra Energy(PBR178) to acquire Hawaiian Electric(HEI)(PBR639) as a 3rd unit for $4.3 billion. HEI to spinoff American Savings Bank as a separate public company. Click here for the NextEra press release.

Corning(PBR330) announces $1.5 billion shares buyback program by end of 2016, 4th buyback program since 2011, $7 billion total. Click here for the Corning press release.

Cliffs Natural Resources(PBR421) selling its W Virginia Logan County coal assets to Coronado Coal for $175 million cash. Click here for the CNR press release.

General Dynamics(PBR91) elects S Daniel Johnson as EVP IT & Technology, effective 01/01/15, upon retirement of David Heebner. Click here for the GD press release.

Devon Energy(PBR253) president/CEO John Richels to retire on 07/31/15, COO Dave Hager to become CEO on 08/01/15. Click here for the DE press release.

The US Federal Reserve Board releases the Beige Book, an informal economic summary of the 12 districts, sees positive signs overall across all business segments. Click here for the Beige Book content.

The US Dept of Labor revises 3rd quarter nonfarm labor productivity, +2.3% annual rate, output +4.9%, hours worked +2.5%. Click here for the USDOL press release.

ADP(PBR217) reports +208,000 net new jobs in November, 101,000 from small companies, 65,000 from medium sized companies, 42,000 from large companies. 185,000 jobs were from the services providing industries, 17,000 from goods producing industries. Click here for the ADP press release.

Tuesday, December 2:
Auto Industry:
GM(PBR7) sells 225,818 vehicles in November, +6% from 2013, annual rate at 17.1M vehicles. Click here for the GM press release.
Ford(PBR8) sells 187,000 vehicles in Nov, -2% from 2013. Record sales for Escape, Explorer & Mustang. Click here for the Ford press release.
Chrysler(NR, foreign held) sells 170,839 vehicles in November, +20% over 2013, estimated 17.5 million annual rate. Click here for the Chrysler press release.

Home Depot(PBR35) to purchase assets of fasteners & builders hardware supplier to US retailers HD Supply Hardware Solutions(fka Crown Bolt), terms not disclosed. Click here for the HD press release.

Lockheed Martin(PBR61) statement on completion of acquisition of healthcare IT solutions for the government provider Systems Made Simple. Click here for the Lockheed press release.

MasterCard(PBR307) to start new $3.75 billion shares buyback program upon completion of $275 million remaining from the current $3.50 billion program. Click here for the MasterCard press release.

Corning(PBR330) to acquire Samsung fiber optics & cable business in S Korea, China, & SE Asia, terms not disclosed. Click here for the Corning press release.

Freescale Semiconductor(PBR545) acquires advanced HD content processing ICs developer Zenverge, terms not disclosed. Click here for the FS press release.

Brink’s(PBR575) reorganized from 4 geographic segments to 2 operating segments, makes leadership changes. Click here for the Brink’s press release.

RadioShack(PBR617) responds to lender covenant breaches claims, updates turnaround plan progress. Click here for the RadioShack press release.

Ferro Corp(PBR962) completes acquisition of Italian tile coatings manufacturing firm Vetriceramici for $108 million cash. Click here for the Ferro press release.

The Dept of Commerce reports that preliminary October Total Construction Activity at a $971 billion annual rate, +1.1% over revised September. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Monday, December 1:
Welcome to Cyber Monday!

The PBR1000 November 2014 Breaking News Recap has been released. Click here for the blog post.

Pfizer(PBR53) completes acquisition of vaccines unit of Baxter International(PBR177) for $635 million. Click here for the Pfizer press release.

Medtronic(PBR162) raising $17 billion in 7 private placements of senior notes to help finance Ireland based Covidien acquisition. Click here for the Medtronic press release.

C.H. Robinson(PBR210) to acquire private freight broker Freightquote.com for $365 million cash, to close in 1st quarter 2015. Click here for the CHR press release.

Huntsman Corp(PBR237) restructuring its pigments & additives business, reducing workforce by 900. Click here for the Huntsman press release.

Group 1 Automotive(PBR291) buying 3 UK based BMW/MINI dealerships, making a total of 17 UK dealerships, $1.3 billion in annual sales. Click here for the G1A press release.

Fidelity National Financial(PBR300) to acquire home warranty, home inspections, and commercial inspections provider BPG Holdings, terms not disclosed. Click here for the FNF press release.

Ashland(PBR331) completes the sale of its elastomers business to Lion Copolymer, terms not disclosed. Click here for the Ashland press release.

Mylan(PBR360) to manufacture & distribute Gilead Sciences(PBR236) HIV drug. Click here for the Mylan press release.

Blackstone Group(PBR372) selling its wholly-owned US industrial platform, IndCor Properties, to Singapore based sovereign wealth fund GIC for $8.1 billion. Click here for the Blackstone press release.

Apollo Global Management(PBR527) to acquire IT infrastructure provider Presidio Holdings, which has 6,000 clients, terms not disclosed. Click here for the ApolloGM press release.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR648) acquires Australian insurance broker/risk management services firm Instrat Insurance Brokers. Click here for the AJG press release.

ON Semiconductor(PBR706) authorizes $1 billion shares buyback program over 4 years. Click here for the ON Semiconductor press release.

AOL(PBR805) to acquire digital media cross-screen video management & exchange program provider Vidible. Click here for the AOL press release.

Aetna(PBR57) appoints Karen Rohan as president, reports to CEO, will oversee national, government, & specialty businesses. Click here for the Aetna press release.

HSN(PBR618) appoints Jeffrey Kuster as president of Cornerstone & executive director of HSNi, reports to CEO. Click here for the HSN press release.

Citrix Systems(PBR683) appoints Geir Ramleth as SVP & Chief Strategy Officer, reports to CEO. Click here for the Citrix press release.

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

Filed Under: Recaps Tagged With: acquisitions, Business, Investing, mergers, Rankings, Stock Market, The PBR1000

The PBR1000 April 2015 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots

The PBR1000: The April 2015 Breaking News Recap!

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The PBR1000: The March 2015 Breaking News Recap!

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The PBR1000: The February 2015 Breaking News Recap!

The PBR1000: The January 2015 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots

The PBR1000: The January 2015 Breaking News Recap!

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The PBR1000: The December 2014 Breaking News Recap!

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