Which Direction Should The Company Take?

By Larry C. Paxton

September featured a lot of  The PBR1000 mergers, acquisitions, spin-offs, a major IPO, and some changes in leadership. Additionally, there is continuing uncertainty and questions about the current and future effects of the phasing out of the Federal Reserve Quantitative Easing program.  The Treasury Department issued a ruling making mergers with foreign corporations for tax purposes a big question mark as well. Other impacts will be reviewed in The PBR1000 Stocks/Commodities Snapshot that will be released in a few days.

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

Tuesday, September 30:
Stock Exchanges Recap for the month of September:
DJIA closes at 17,042.90, -0.41% from last Friday, -0.32% MTD, +1.29% QTD, +2.81% YTD.
NASDAQ closes at 4,493.39, -0.42% from last Friday, -1.90% MTD, +1.93% QTD, +7.59% YTD.
SPX closes at 1,972.29, -0.53% from last Friday, -1.55% MTD, +0.62% QTD, +6.70% YTD.

eBay(PBR169) & payments unit PayPal to become separate public companies in 2nd half 2015. Click here for the eBay press release.

Yahoo!(PBR495) sold 140 million shares of Alibaba for $9.4 billion according to 8-K report. Click here for the Yahoo! filing.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR39) announces agreement to acquire private clinical stage company Alios BioPharma for $1.75 billion cash. Click here for the J&J press release.

Murphy Oil(PBR446) to sell some of its Malaysian assets for $2.0 billion. Click here for the Murphy Oil press release.

Masco(PBR314) to spin-off its installation & other services business into a separate independent public company. Click here for the Masco press release.

Johnson Controls(PBR65) wants to divest its non-core global facilities management unit Global Workplace Solutions. Click here for the Johnson Controls press release.

News Corp(PBR299) to acquire online real estate listings service Move(NASDAQ: MOVE) for $950 million. Click here for the News Corp press release.

DR Horton(PBR395) announces retirement of CEO Donald Tomnitz, to be succeeded by COO David Auld on 10/01/14. Click here for the DRH press release.

Monday, September 29:
Macy’s(PBR97) to hire around 86,000 associates for the holiday season, 3.6% more than 2013. Click here for the Macy’s press release.

Cisco(PBR54) announces completion of privately held MetaCloud acquisition, 30 companies add support to the Intercloud. Click here for the Cisco press release.

ADT(PBR627) non-compete expires, ready to enter commercial security business. Click here for the ADT press release.

The US Dept of Commerce says August personal income +0.3%, disposable income +0.3%, personal consumption expenditures +0.5% over July. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Sunday, September 28:
NiSource(PBR424) announces plan to split into 2 separate public companies. Click here for the NiSource press release.

Friday, September 26:
Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week:
DJIA closes at 17,113.15, -0.96% from last Friday, +0.09% MTD, +1.70% QTD, +3.24% YTD.
NASDAQ closes at 4,512.19, -1.48% from last Friday, -1.49% MTD, +2.36% QTD, +8.04% YTD.
SPX closes at 1,982.85, -1.37% from last Friday, -1.02% MTD, +1.15% QTD, +7.28% YTD.

Yahoo!(PBR495) confirms it is reviewing a letter from major stockholder Starboard suggesting a merger with AOL(PBR805). Click here for the Yahoo! press release.

AutoBlog reports that Ford Motor(PBR8) recalls 850,000 2013/2014 cars & SUVs for airbag issues. Click here for the AutoBlog notice.

Abbott Labs(PBR127) completes its acquisition of Latin American based CFR Pharmaceuticals for $2.9 billion plus debt. Click here for the Abbott Labs notice.

Chiquita Brands(PBR658) announces revised merger agreement with Ireland based Fyffes. Click here for the Chiquita press release.

The US Dept of Commerce in 3rd estimate report says GDP was 4.6% at an annual rate in 2nd quarter 2014. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Thursday, September 25:
GameStop(PBR287) announces it plans to hire 25,000 holiday workers, up 47% from last year. Click here for the GameStop press release.

DIRECTV(PBR90) stockholders approve merger with AT&T(PBR12), expected to close in 1st half of 2015. Click here for the DIRECTV press release.

Ford Motor(PBR8) has exceeded the UAW job commitment with 14,000+ new jobs created since 2011. Click here for the Ford press release.

Lockheed(PBR61) increases stock repurchase program by $2.0 billion. Click here for the Lockheed press release.

Blackhawk Network(PBR1058) to acquire global incentive solutions provider Parago for $290 million. Click here for the Blackhawk Network press release.

LabCorp(PBR418) to acquire cardiovascular diagnostic lab tests on NMR provider LipoScience(NASDAQ: LPDX) for $5.25/share, $85.3 million transaction value. Click here for the LabCorp press release.

Energy Transfer Equity(PBR55) announces 1st step of acquisition of Susser Holdings(PBR399), name change to Sunoco. Click here for the ETE press release.

Symantec(PBR368) appoints Michael Brown as CEO, had been interim CEO. Click here for the Symantec press release.

Coach(PBR486) announces the retirement of executive chairman Lew Frankfort. Click here for the Coach press release.

In its advance report The US Dept of Commerce says August orders for US durable goods were $245.4 billion, down 18.2% from July. Click here for the USDOC press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that median employee tenure unchanged at 4.6 years in January 2014 compared to January 2012. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Wednesday, September 24:
Valeant Pharmaceuticals(NYSE: VRX) in its 3rd quarter results includes an open letter to Allergan(PBR391) CEO regarding the proposed merger, offers an “olive branch.” Click here for the Valeant press release.

Walmart(PBR1) to provide an exclusive low cost checking account nationwide through Green Dot Corp(NYSE: GDOT) by the end of October. Click here for the Walmart press release.

Hasbro(PBR560) announces new merchandising relationship with Walt Disney(PBR62) for Princess & Frozen dolls starting in 2016. Click here for the Hasbro press release.

In a jury trial Boston Scientific(PBR350) is found responsible for licensing breach, $308 million awarded plaintiff, plans to appeal decision. Click here for the BS SEC 8-K filing.

The US Dept of HUD reports August new family home sales at a 504,000 annual rate, up from 427,000 in July, median price $275,600. Click here for the HUD press release.

Tuesday, September 23:
General Motors(PBR7) to create a separate Cadillac business unit in 2015 with global headquarters in New York City. Click here for the GM press release.

Spectrum Brands(PBR559) buying Proctor & Gamble’s(PBR32) European pet food business, does $200 million/year, terms not disclosed. Click here for the SB press release.

CF Industries(PBR438) confirms merger of equals discussions with Yara International ASA(OSLO: YAR). Click here for the CFI press release.

Starbucks(PBR185) to buy remaining 60.5% share of 1,000+ locations Starbucks Japan in 2 step process for $913 million. Click here for the Starbucks press release.

Monday, September 22:
Sigma-Aldrich(PBR715) being bought by Germany based Merck for $140/share, $17 billion cash. Click here for the S-A press release.

Clorox(PBR428) announces it is closing its Venezuela operations because of local economic policies, seeking a buyer for those assets. Click here for the Clorox press release.

Endo Health(PBR738) responds to rejected $2.2 billion bid for Auxilium Pharmaceuticals, tells why the merger is good. Click here for the EH press release.

Apple(PBR6) reports it sold a record of over 10 million iPhone6/iPhone6 Plus devices over the first weekend after launch. Click here for the Apple press release.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR648) acquires healthcare consulting firm The Benfield Group. Click here for the AJG press release.

Adobe Systems(PBR564) acquires developer of software development kits for mobile apps Aviary. Terms not disclosed. Click here for the Adobe press release.

Owens & Minor(PBR285) to acquire Ireland based privately held surgical kitting company ArcRoyal. Terms not disclosed. Click here for the O&M press release.

Dun & Bradstreet(PBR957) in a joint partnership to provide its business data on the data-as-a-service cloud platform of Oracle(PBR75). Click here for the D&B press release.

The US Treasury comments on targeted actions it is taking to discourage corporate inversions. Click here for the Treasury press release.

The National Association of Realtors reports existing home sales in August closed at a 5.05 million annual rate, down from 5.14 million in July. Click here for the NAR press release.

Sunday, September 21:
Dresser-Rand(PBR663) agrees to be acquired by Germany based Siemens AG for $83/share, $7.6 billion cash total transaction value. Click here for the D-R press release.

Ferro Corp(PBR962) acquiring Italian tile coatings manufacturing firm Vetriceramici for $108 million cash. Click here for the Ferro Corp press release.

Friday, September 19:
Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week:
DJIA closes at 17,279.74, +1.72% from last Friday, +1.06% MTD, +2.69% QTD, +4.24% YTD.
NASDAQ closes at 4,579.79, +0.27% from last Friday, -0.01% MTD, +3.89% QTD, +9.65% YTD.
SPX closes at 2,010.40, +1.25% from last Friday, +0.35% MTD, +2.56% QTD, +8.77% YTD.

In the largest IPO in US history China based Alibaba(NYSE: BABA) opens at $92.70, closes at $93,89, up 38.07% over the $68.00 initial asking price. Market cap at $231.44 billion.

Safeway(PBR83) CEO to become President/CEO of combined company with acquirer Albertsons, other management named. Click here for the Safeway press release.

Scotland votes 55% to 45% to stay a member of the United Kingdom rather than become a separate independent country.

Thursday, September 18:
Air Products(PBR260) to reorganize into 7 reporting segments starting 10/01/14. Click here for the Air Products press release.

Kroger(PBR24) opens 2,000th fuel center, is 3rd largest US fuel centers operator. Click here for the Kroger press release.

Home Depot(PBR35) says it has completed malware elimination, could have affected 56 million cards from April to September. Click here for the Home Depot press release.

AIG(PBR41) CEO announces company reorganization, new leadership structure. Click here for the AIG press release.

The Financial Post reports that Costco(PBR19) Canada is switching from American Express(PBR85) to Capital One(PBR116) & Mastercard(PBR307) as exclusive credit card issuers at the beginning of 2015. Click here for the Financial Post article.

Oracle(PBR75) appoints Larry Ellison as Exec Chairman/Chief Technology Officer, Safra Catz & Mark Hurd as Co-CEOs. Click here for the Oracle press release.

JetBlue(PBR441) announces president Robin Hayes to succeed Dave Barger as CEO on 02/16/15. Click here for the JetBlue press release.

Clorox(PBR428) announces that EVP/COO Benno Dorer to become CEO on 11/20/14, Don Knauss to continue as Chairman. Click here for the Clorox press release.

Brunswick(PBR576) completes sale of its retail bowling centers to Bowlmor AMF for $270 million. Click here for the Brunswick press release.

Spectrum Brands(PBR559) is acquiring privately held $40 million/year doors, locks, & hardware manufacturer Tell Manufacturing, terms not disclosed. Click here for the SB press release.

The US Census Bureau/Dept of HUD reports SAAR August building permits of 998,000, down 5.6% from revised July rate, up 5.3% from August 2013. Housing starts are at 956,000, down 14.4% from July, up 8.0% from August 2013. Click here for the Census/HUD joint press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that 2nd quarter travel & tourism generated $1.5 trillion in revenues & employed 7.7 million people directly & indirectly. Click here for the USDOC press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the median number of years wage and salary workers have been with their current employer was 4.6 yrs in Jan 2014, same as in Jan 2012. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Wednesday, September 17:
Endo Health(PBR738) proposes acquisition of men’s healthcare products developer Auxilium Pharmaceuticals for $28.10/share, $2.2 billion cash & stock. Click here for the Endo Health press release.

Dupont(PBR82) sent letter by large shareholder Trian Partners recommending more aggressive divestments to double shares value. Click here for the Trian press release & letter.

Family Dollar(PBR254) board recommends rejection of Dollar General(PBR154) offer, reaffirms Dollar Tree(PBR328) deal. Click here for the Family Dollar press release.

Dollar General(PBR154) responds to Family Dollar(PBR254) saying it is still committed to the acquisition, will make $80/share tender offer to shareholders. Click here for the Dollar General press release.

Cisco(PBR54) to acquire privately held MetaCloud, provider of large private open-stack clouds. Terms not disclosed. Click here for the Cisco press release.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR648) acquires NY, NY based retail insurance broker Hagedorn & Co. Terms not disclosed. Click here for the AJG press release.

Agilent Technologies(PBR365) announces SVP Mike McMullen is now President/COO, to become CEO on 03/18/15, succeeding current CEO Bill Sullivan. Click here for the Agilent press release.

Agilent Technologies(PBR365) to spin-off electronic measurements subsidiary Keysight into separate public company, NYSE: KEYS, on 11/01/14. Click here for the Agilent press release.

Amazon(PBR36) introduces $199 Kindle Voyager & new $79 Kindle ebook readers. Click here for the Amazon press release.

Amazon(PBR36) introduces new Fire HD Tablet, 6″ $99, 7″ $139. Click here for the Amazon press release.

The US Dept of Labor says the Consumer Price Index(Urban) was down 0.2% in August, increased 1.7% over the last 12 months. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Dept of Labor says August Current Average Earnings/Hour is $24.53, up 0.25% over July, 34.5 hour average work week. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Tuesday, September 16:
Rackspace(PBR983) names company veteran Taylor Shore as its new CEO & board member. Co-founder Graham Weston is now the non-executive chairman. Click here for the Rackspace press release.

Rackspace(PBR983) decides to remain an independent entity after evaluating several merger possibilities. Click here for the Rackspace press release.

NASA awards Boeing(PBR31) $4.2 billion and private SpaceX $2.6 billion to develop manned transport capability to the International Space Station by 2017. Click here for the NASA press release.

Humana(PBR71) board authorizes $2 billion stock buyback program through end of 2016. Click here for the Humana press release.

KKR(PBR270) completes its $1.1 billion acquisition of Singapore based packaging company Goodpack. Click here for the KKR press release.

KKR(PBR270) to invest $551 million to own 85% of Japan based electronics manufacturer Pioneer spin-off Pioneer DJ. Click here for the KKR press release.

Eli Lilly(PBR121) to contribute up to $500 million in alliance with AstraZeneca to co-develop a potential treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. Click here for the Eli Lilly press release.

Assurant(PBR286) names Alan B. Colberg as its new President. On 01/01/15 he will also become CEO & board member, succeeding Robert Pollock, who will be retiring. Click here for the Assurant press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the Total Producer Price Index was unchanged in August at 0.0%, up 1.8% for the past 12 months. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Monday, September 15:
Microsoft(PBR30) announces it is acquiring MineCraft game developer Mojang for $2.5 billion. Click here for the Microsoft press release.

TRW Automotive(PBR155) to be acquired by Germany auto supplier ZF Friedrichshafen AG for $105.60/share, $13.5 billion cash. Click here for the TRWA press release.

Apple(PBR6) announces over 4 million pre-orders for iPhone6 & iPhone6 Plus in under 24 hours. Click here for the Apple press release.

Cognizant Technology(PBR292) to acquire privately held healthcare IT software developer TriZetto for $2.7 billion cash. Click here for the Cognizant press release.

Danaher(PBR139) to acquire Swiss based dental implant restorations company Nobel Biocare for $2.2 billion. Click here for the Danaher press release.

Brocade Communication(PBR831) has acquired privately held network visibility & analytics technology company Vistapointe, terms not disclosed. Click here
for the Brocade press release.

RadioShack(PBR617) appoints long time advisor Holly Etlin as interim CFO after departure of John Feray. Click here for the RadioShack press release.

Popular(PBR752) completes the sale of its Central Florida Regional Operations to Harbor Community Bank. Click here for the Popular press release.

AvalonBay Communities(PBR996) selling its 20% $6 million initial investment share of NY, NY, Avalon Christie Place for $108 million. Click here for the AvalonBay press release.

Blackhawk Network(PBR1058) acquires online provider of customizable prepaid incentive and rewards cards company CardLab, terms not disclosed. Click here for the Blackhawk Network press release.

Magellan Health(PBR604) announces the opening of its new corporate headquarters in Scottsdale, Arizona, was previously in Connecticut. Click here for the Blackhawk Network press release.

The US Federal Reserve Board reports that the August industrial production index was down 0.1%, the manufacturing output index was down 0.4%. Click here for the FRB press release.

Friday, September 12:
Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week:
DJIA closes at 16,987.51, -0.87% from last Friday, -0.65% MTD, +0.96% QTD, +2.48% YTD.
NASDAQ closes at 4,567.60, -0.33% from last Friday, -0.28% MTD, +3.62% QTD, +9.36% YTD.
SPX closes at 1,985.54, -1.10% from last Friday, -0.89% MTD, +1.29% QTD, +7.42% YTD.

The PBR1000 August 2014 Monthly Snapshot is released. It includes a new quarterly rankings by revenues for annual 10-Ks filed through 06/30/14, an updated CEOs list, and 1,087 companies(4 companies have been removed(acquired, no longer listed), and 12 new companies.)

Darden Restaurants(PBR392) issues statement regarding Starboard’s operational plan, provides progress report on Olive Garden efforts. Click here for the Darden press release.

ADP(PBR217) spin-off of new publicly held CDK Global(NASDAQ:CDK) to be completed after market close on 09/30/14. Click here for the ADP press release.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR648) acquires Australian based insurance broker Parmia Pty, terms not disclosed. Click here for the AJG press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports preliminary estimate of August retail & food services revenues of $444.4 billion, up 0.6% from July. Click here for the USDOC press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports trade sales & manufacturers’ shipments for July were estimated at $1,360.3 billion, up 0.8% from June. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Thursday, September 11:
Patriot Day. 13th Anniversary of 9/11.

Alliance Data(PBR537) to acquire digital marketing company Conversant(NR)(NASDAQ: CNRV) for $35/share, $2.3 billion in cash & stock. Click here for the Alliance Data press release.

Radio Shack(PBR617) in 2nd quarter results report says it is pursuing comprehensive recapitalization options. Click here for the Radio Shack press release.

Abbott Labs(PBR127) announces new $3 billion stock repurchase program, declares 363rd consecutive quarter of paying dividends. Click here for the Abbott Labs press release.

Alcoa(PBR122) signs $1+ billion multiyear supply contract with Boeing(PBR31), to be sole supplier for aluminum alloy wing skins. Click here for the Abbott Labs press release.

Eastman Chemical(PBR280) to acquire specialty chemical company Taminco(NYSE: TAM) for $2.8 billion, expected to close by end of 2014. Click here for the Eastman Chemical press release.

Continental Resources(PBR614) 2:1 stock split takes effect today, closes at $75.79/share.

The US Dept of the Treasury reports August receipts of $194.2 billion, outlays of $323.0 billion, for a $128.7 billion deficit, $589.2 billion deficit YTD. Click here for the Treasury press release.

Wednesday, September 10:
JDS Uniphase(PBR936) to split into an optical components & commercial lasers company & a network and service enablement company. Click here for the JDSU press release.

Activision Blizzard(PBR510) sells over $500 million of its Destiny Worldwide game on first day of availability. Click here for the Activision Blizzard press release.

TRW Automotive(PBR155) selling its engine valve business to Federal-Mogul(NR)(NASDAQ: FDML) for $385 million cash, to close 1st quarter 2015. Click here for the TRWA press release.

AutoNation(PBR152) acquiring Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche and Volvo stores in the Seattle-Bellevue market from Barrier Motors(NR). Click here for the AutoNation press release.

Chiquita Brands(PBR658) signs confidentiality agreement with Brazil’s Cutrale/Safra Groups similar to $1.07 billion Fyffes deal. Click here for the Chiquita press release.

Baxter International(PBR176) announces Baxalta as the name of the new global biopharmaceutical public company to be spun-off in mid 2015. Click here for the Baxter press release.

Viacom(PBR200) completes acquisition of UK’s Channel 5 for $757 million. announces 1st joint programming commission. Click here for the Viacom press release.

Sony to make available 22 Viacom(PBR200) networks on its cloud TV service. Click here for the Viacom press release.

Google(PBR46) acquiring tremor-cancelling device developer LiftLabs, terms not disclosed. Click here for the Google posts.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that Monthly Wholesale Trade for July(Preliminary) was $533.8 billion in inventories, $458.6 billion in sales. Click here for the USDOC press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that private employers spent an average of $30.11/hr on employee compensation in June, $9.09 of it for benefits. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Tuesday, September 9:
Apple(PBR6) announces mobile payments Apple Pay, the iPhone6 & iPhone6 Plus, and the Apple Watch in 3 press releases. Click here for the Apple Pay press release, click here for the Apple iPhone6 press release, and click here for the Apple Watch press release.

The US Congressional Budget Office(CBO) reports that the preliminary Oct-Aug Federal Government Income was $2.663 trillion, outlays were $3.252 trillion, with a deficit of $589 billion, $166 billion less than last year. Click here for the CBO press release.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR648) acquires employee benefits agency Everett James, no terms disclosed. Click here for the AJG press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that 2013 average spending was $51,100 per consumer unit(household), down 0.7% from 2012. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports end of July job openings was 4.7 million, same as June, hire rate of 3.5%, separations rate of 3.3%. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports an August labor participation rate of 62.8%, an employment/population ratio of 59.0%, and an unemployment rate 6.1%, all little changed for the last few months. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Monday, September 8:
General Electric(PBR9) selling its appliances business to Swedish based Electrolux for $3.3 billion, to close in 2015. Click here for the GE press release.

General Mills(PBR149) to buy branded organic & natural food products producer Annie’s(NYSE: BNNY) for $46/share, $820 million total. Click here for the General Mills press release.

Hertz(PBR249) announces that Chairman/CEO Mark Frissora is stepping down for personal reasons, Hertz Equipment Rental unit President/CEO Brian M MacDonald named Interim CEO. Click here for the Hertz press release.

Home Depot(PBR35) confirms its payment data systems have been breached, investigating from April on to determine scope. Click here for the Home Depot press release.

FMC Corp(PBR578) to acquire Denmark based multinational crop protection company Cheminova for $1.8 billion. Click here for the FMC Corp press release.

Bemis(PBR466) is selling its global Pressure Sensitive Materials unit(MACtac) to private equity firm Platinum Equity for $170 million, 4th quarter close. Click here for the Bemis press release.

Chiquita(PBR658) postpones special shareholders meeting to 10/03/14 re Ireland based Fyffes merger, also now open again to merger with Brazilian Cutrale/Safra Groups. Click here for the Chiquita press release.

The US Federal Reserve Board reports that consumer credit grew by $26 billion in last month, 9.7% annual growth rate. Click here for the FRB press release.

Friday, September 5:
Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week:
DJIA closes at 17,137.36, +0.23% over last Friday & MTD, +1.85% QTD, +3.38% YTD.
NASDAQ closes at 4,582.90, +0.06% over last Friday & MTD, +3.96% QTD, +9.73% YTD.
SPX closes at 2,007.71, +0.22% over last Friday & MTD, +2.42% QTD, +8.62% YTD.

Allergan(PBR391) sets up special stockholders meeting for 12/18/14 in response to Pershing Square letter. Click here for the Allergan press release.

Kroger Co(PBR24) announces plan to hire 20,000 permanent employees in its supermarket divisions. Click here for the Kroger press release.

Dollar General(PBR154) reconfirms its intent to acquire Family Dollar(PBR254) after latest $80/share offer rejection. Click here for the Dollar General press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 142,000 in August, and the unemployment rate was little changed at 6.1 percent. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Thursday, September 4:
Darden Restaurants(PBR302) issues open letter to shareholders recommending its board concept, has initiated search for new CEO. Click here for the Darden press release.

Tesla(PBR881) announces that Nevada has been selected for its lithium battery gigafactory. Click here for the Tesla press release.

Mattress Firm to acquire West Coast based specialty bedding retailer The Sleep Train for $425 million. Click here for the Mattress Firm press release.

Assurant(PBR286) acquires residential valuations products/services provider eMortgage Logic for $17 million plus incentives. Click here for the Assurant press release.

The Nordstrom(PBR214) board authorizes $1 billion share repurchase program. Click here for the Nordstrom press release.

The SandRidge Energy(PBR885) board approves an up to $200 million common stock repurchase program. Click here for the SandRidge press release.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR39) responds to ebola crisis with commitment to accelerate vaccine program in collaboration with the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) and provide humanitarian relief aid. Click here for the J&J press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the July 2014 international trade deficit decreased 0.6 percent from June, to $40.5 billion. Exports increased 0.9 percent, to $198.0 billion, and imports rose 0.7 percent, to $238.6 billion. Click here for the USDOC press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that productivity increased 2.3 percent in the nonfarm business sector in the second quarter of 2014; unit labor costs decreased 0.1 percent (seasonally adjusted annual rates). In manufacturing, productivity increased 3.3 percent and unit labor costs decreased 1.6 percent. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Wednesday, September 3:
KKR(PBR270) is selling its 74% stake in Versatel GmbH to German/European based United Internet AG for $1.7 billion. Click here for the KKR press release.

AbbVie(PBR142) & Google(PBR46) backed Calico to co-invest $1.5 billion to develop age-related diseases therapies. Click here for the AbbVie press release.

CVS Caremark(PBR13) changes name to CVS Health, ends tobacco sales 1 month early. Click here for the CVS press release.

Men’s Wearhouse(PBR775) announces early termination agreement between Jos. A. Bank & Jim’s Formal Wear. Click here for the Men’s Wearhouse press release.

AutoData Corp reports US light vehicle sales in August were at a 17.53 million seasonally adjusted annual rate, up from 16.48 million in July. Click here for the AutoData website & spreadsheet download.

The Congressional Budget Office(CBO) projects federal public held debt to be $12.8 trillion by fiscal year end, $20.6 trillion by 2024. Click here for the CBO press release.

The US Census Bureau releases the July Manufacturers’ Shipments, Orders, Inventories Report. New orders up 10.5% over June to $558.3B. Click here for the Census Bureau press release.

The OECD reports global unemployment to remain above pre-crisis levels through 2015. Click here for the OECD press release.

Tuesday, September 2:
Dollar General(PBR153) ups bid for Family Dollar(PBR253) to $80/share, addresses antitrust issues. Click here for the DG press release.

Boston Scientific(PBR351) closes its $415 million cash acquisition of interventional division of Bayer AG. Click here for the BS press release.

AutoZone(PBR283) to acquire original equipment import replacement parts distributor Interamerican Motor Corp(NR). Terms not disclosed. Click here for the AutoZone press release.

Halliburton(PBR93) reaches $1.1 billion settlement on claims related to the 2010 Macondo well incident in the Gulf of Mexico. Click here for the Halliburton press release.

Duke Energy(PBR112), Piedmont Natural Gas(PBR1032) select Dominion Resources(PBR203) to build 550-mile natural gas ‘Atlantic Coast Pipeline’ for $4.5 billion+. Click here for the Duke Energy press release.

Archer-Daniels-Midland(ADM)(PBR27) is selling its global chocolate business to Cargill(NR) for $440 million. Click here for the ADM press release.

Allergan(PBR392) files answer in Federal Court responding to Valeant and Pershing Square’s counterclaims. Click here for the Allergan press release.

Darden Restaurants(PBR302) announces new director nominees of reconstituted board for 2014 annual meeting of shareholders. Click here for the Darden press release.

Brookdale Senior Living(PBR688) & HCP(PBR861) complete $1.2 Billion CCRC(continuing care retirement communities) joint venture & amendment of former Emeritus leases. Click here for the Brookdale press release.

AGL Resources(PBR502) completes the sale of its Tropical Shipping insurance unit to Seattle based Saltchuk Resources for $220 million after taxes. Click here for the AGL press release.

Baker Hughes(PBR124) acquires Weatherford International’s pipeline & specialty services business for $250 million. Click here for the Baker Hughes press release.

Albemarle(PBR738) completes sale of its antioxidant, ibuprofen and propofol businesses to SI Group. No terms disclosed. Click here for the Albemarle press release.

A. Schulman(PBR855) continues growth in Asia Pacific with acquisition of Australia-based Compco for $6.7 million cash. Click here for the A. Schulman press release.

The US Dept of Census reports total annual rate of construction in July($981.3B) was +1.8% over revised June($963.7B). Click here for the Census press release.

Monday, September 1:
US Federal Holiday: Labor Day

The PBR1000 August 2014 Breaking News Recap is published. Click here for the blog post.

AIG(PBR41) announces that Peter D. Hancock is now President/CEO, per succession plan announced on 06/10/14. Click here for the AIG press release.

United Parcel Service(UPS)(PBR50) has new CEO, David Abney.

TeamHealth(PBR538) new President/CEO is Mike Snow.

(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.)

So Far, So Good! What Will Happen In The Second Half?

By Larry C. Paxton.

The results for the first half of 2014 are in. So far it has been a mellower year than 2013. The stock market has performed as many people predicted, with new highs being established. At the same time the popular commodities were up as well. Economic data had some interesting mixed results. Unemployment fell a little, but the GDP caused some concern. Nevertheless, the major stock exchanges all improved during the month, for the quarter and year to date. Some experts remain bullish, others are still predicting a bearish correction. There have been quite a few significant mergers and acquisitions. Politically there are some hotspots in the world that seem very fragile and could have an impact. In the US we continue to struggle with political gridlock as the Senate,  House and the President just can’t seem to address some critical issues in a way that the American people would like. But the midterm elections are nearing, some primary elections have already been held, and it could be a pretty volatile election season coming up. So, as the caption above indicates, CEOs and their C-level management team members, investors, workers, and citizens continue to have a giant question mark as we enter the second half of 2014.

We start out July by celebrating Independence Day. Let’s be thankful for the freedoms and opportunities the Founding Fathers initiated,  fought for, and which we enjoy today. As we celebrate let’s remember that around the world our success is an ideal many people dream of and strive for.

Following are news items of interest for The PBR1000, most current date first. (NR) behind a company name means “No Ranking.”

Monday, June 30, 2014:
DJIA closes at 16,826.20 on 06/30/14, +0.65% over 05/30/14, +2.24% QTR, +1.51% YTD. NASDAQ closes at 4,408.18 on 06/30/14, +3.90% over 05/30/14, +4.98% QTR, +5.54% YTD. SPX closes at 1,960.23 on 06/30/14, +1.91% over 05/30/14, +4.69% QTR, +6.05% YTD. Gold closes at 1,327.20 on 06/30/14, +6.06% over 05/30/14, +3.26% QTR, +10.39% YTD. Silver closes at 21.06 on 06/30/14, +12.02% over 05/30/14, +6.80% QTR, +8.72% YTD. Oil closes at 105.48 on 06/30/14, +2.48% over 05/30/14, +4.03% QTR, +7.17% YTD.

PPG Industries(PBR180) to acquire Mexico based coatings company Consorcio Comex for $2.3 billion. Click here for the PPG press release.

TreeHouse Foods(PBR812) acquiring Flagstone Foods for $860 million cash. Click here for the TreeHouse Foods press release.

General Motors(PBR7) announces 6 new safety recalls affecting 7.6 million vehicles. Click here for the GM press release.

Devon Energy(PBR252) selling non-core US oil & gas units to Linn Energy(NASDAQ: LINE) for $2.3 billion pre-tax. Click here for the Devon Energy press release.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR39) completes divestiture of the Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics unit to The Carlyle Group(PBR521) for $4 billion. Click here for the J&J press release.

Friday, June 27, 2014:
DJIA closes at 16,851.84, -0.56% over last week, +0.81% MTD, +1.67% YTD; NASDAQ closes at 4,397.93, +0.68% over last week, +3.66% MTD, +5.30% YTD, and; S&P500 closes at 1960.96, -0.10% over last week, +1.94% MTD, +6.09% YTD.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR301) to close Atlantic City Showboat property on 08/31/14, cites high property tax burden. Click here for the Caesars press release.

Dollar General(PBR153) Chairman/CEO Rick Dreiling to retire by 05/30/15. Click here for the DG press release.

Boeing(PBR30) acquires government software development & services 140 employee firm Ventura Solutions. Click here for the Boeing press release.

Thursday, June 26, 2014:
Alcoa(PBR122) acquiring UK based jet engine parts producer Firth Rixson for $2.85 billion cash & stock. Click here for the Alcoa press release.

Wednesday, June 25, 2014:
The US Dept of Commerce revises 2014 1st quarter GDP annual rate to -2.9%. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Barnes & Noble(PBR364) splitting into 2 public companies, one for retail, the other for Nook Media, by end of 1st quarter 2015. Click here for the BN press release.

Carlyle’s(PBR521) Sequential Brands Group to acquire consumer products firm Galaxy Brand Holdings for $100 million cash. Click here for the Carlysle press release.

Owens & Minor(PBR285) acquiring kits & trays producer Medical Action Industries(NASDAQ: MDCI) for $13.80/share, $208 million cash & assumed debt. Click here for the O&M press release.

The US Supreme Court rules against live streaming TV provider Aereo, says it is not just an equipment provider, but also has characteristics of cable & network TV providers like CBS(PBR176) & Comcast(PBR44). Click here for the Supreme Court press release.

AES Corp(PBR170) selling its 45% stake in Phillipine based Maisin-AES to Thailand based EGCO Group for $453 million. Click l here for the AES press release.

Tuesday, June 24, 2014:
CIT Group(PBR608) acquiring small/mid sized business financing provider & technology driven Lender Direct Capital. Terms not disclosed. Click here for the CIT Group press release.

US Dept of Housing & Urban Development reports that May sales of new homes(seasonally adjusted annual rate) was 504,000 units, April was 425,000. The May new home sales median price was $282,000, average price was $319,200. 189,000 new homes were available at the end of May(seasonally adjusted annual rate), represents 4.5 months supply. Click here for the HUD press release.

CitiGroup(PBR26) gets extension to 01/05/15 to refile acceptable capital plan with Federal Reserve Board, will not be able to increase capital distributions until plan approved. Click here for the FRB press release.

Monday, June 23, 2014:
Wisconsin Energy(PBR513) is acquiring Integrys Energy(PBR426) for $9.1 billion in cash, stock & assumed debt. Click here for the Wisconsin Energy press release.

Oracle Corp(PBR79) to acquire integrated software/hardware retail/hospitality provider MICROS for $68/share cash, $5.3 billion deal. Click here for the Oracle press release.

The Allergan(PBR392) board unanimously rejects the latest Valeant offer as grossly inadequate. Click here for the Allergan press release.

Harbinger Group(PBR431) offers $10/share, $1.1 billion cash, for Central Garden & Pet Supply(NR). Also offers alternative of $750 million cash for pet segment only. Click here for the Harbinger press release.

AMSURG(PBR1064) announces 2 stock offerings, proceeds to help consummate the $2.35 billion Sheridan Healthcare(NR) acquisition. Click here for the AMSURG press release.

Abbott Labs(PBR127) acquiring Russian pharmaceutical Veropharm for up to $495 million cash, will also assume net debt of $150 million. Click here for the Abbott Labs press release.

The A. Schulman(PBR855) board elects 22 year employee Bernard Rzepka as President/CEO, effective 01/01/15. He will replace retiring Joseph Gingo who will stay on as Chairman. Click here for the A. Schulman press release.

Saturday, June 21, 2014:
The France based Alstom board unanimously approves the General Electric(PBR9) $16.9 billion offer to form 3 joint power ventures. Click here for the GE press release.

Friday, June 20, 2014:
AbbVie(PBR142) makes 3rd offer of $54.10/share, $46.3 billion in cash & shares, for Ireland based Shire, offer is again rejected. Click here for the Shire press release.

Oracle Corp(PBR79) is buying co-browsing & screen sharing provider LiveLOOK(NR). Click here for the Oracle press release.

Thursday, June 19, 2014:
General Electric(PBR9) revises offer, announces 2 joint 50/50 ventures with France based Alstom. Click here for the GE press release.

CelGene(PBR382) stockholders approve 2:1 stock split, to occur on 06/26/14. Click here for the CelGene press release.

Wednesday, June 18, 2014:
Red Hat(PBR983) to acquire France based open source cloud computing services company eNovance(NR) for $95 million in cash & stock. Click here for the Red Hat press release.

Amazon(PBR36) announces Fire Phone, its first smartphone, $199, available exclusively on AT&T(PBR12). Click here for the Amazon press release.

Allergan(PBR392) receives another unsolicited tender offer from Valeant Pharmaceuticals(NR). Click here for the Allergan press release.

Men’s Wearhouse(PBR775) completes its acquisition of Jos. A. Bank for $65/share cash, $1.8 billion. Click here for the Men’s Wearhouse press release.

Apple(PBR6) introduces new iMac desktop computer starting at $1,099. Click here for the Apple press release.

Air Products and Chemicals(PBR260) announces that Seifi Ghasemi will become the Chairman/President/CEO on 07/01/14. Click here for the APC press release.

Tuesday, June 17, 2014:
The US Dept of HUD reports annual rate for Private Housing Starts was 1,001,000 in May, down 6.5% from April, up 9.4% from May 2013. Click here for the HUD press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the Consumer Price Index increased 2.1% over the past 12 months. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Actavis(PBR298) & Forest Labs(PBR595) shareholders approve $25 billion merger, expected to close mid year. Click here for the Forest Labs press release.

AES Corp(PBR170) to sell majority of its solar business to SunEdison(PBR883) for up to $207 million. Click here for the AES press release.

Monday, June 16, 2014:
SanDisk(PBR401) to acquire flash based PCIe hardware & software developer Fusion-io(NYSE: FIO) for $1.1 billion cash. Click here for the SanDisk press release.

Level 3 Communications(PBR390) to acquire tw telecom(NASDAQ: TWTC) for $40.86/share, $7.3 billion in stock & cash. Click here for the Level 3 press release.

Safeway(PBR83) makes settlement on proposed merger with Albertsons, will delist on NYSE on 07/03/14. Click here for the Safeway press release.

General Motors(PBR7) announces a new recall of 3.16 million vehicles to rework or replace ignition keys. Click here for the GM press release.

Hillshire Brands(PBR571) board withdraws merger recommendation with Pinnacle Foods(PBR778), will focus on merger with Tyson Foods(PBR87). Click here for the Hillshire Brands press release.

Walmart(PBR1) acquiring retail mobile app developer Stylr, 13th tech acquisition in 3 years. Click here for the Walmart press release.

Sunday, June 15, 2014:
Medtronic(PBR163) to buy Ireland based medical supplies provider Covidien for $93.22/share, $49.2 billion cash. Click here for the Medtronic press release.

Williams Cos(PBR363) to become 100% general partner & 50% limited partner in Access Midstream Partners(NYSE: ACMP) in $5.995 billion transaction. Click here for the Williams Cos press release.

Friday, June 13, 2014:
Priceline(PBR366) to acquire online restaurant reservations company OpenTable for $103/share, $2.6 billion cash. Click here for the Priceline press release.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the Producer Price Index for final demand for May fell 0.2% after increases in April of 0.6% and March of 0.5%. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Thursday, June 12, 2014:
US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports import and export prices rose 0.1% in May following drops of 0.5% and 1.0% in April. Click here for the USBOL press release.

Tesla(PBR882) making its patents available to other car manufacturers to help speed up low emission electric car acceptance. Click here for the Tesla blog post by CEO Elon Musk.

The US Bureau of Labor reports average employer cost per employee was $31.93/hour in March, benefits portion was $9.97(31.2%). Click here for the USBOL press release.

Wednesday, June 11, 2014:
CBS Corp(PBR176) completing its 81% divestiture of CBS Outdoors(NYSE: CBSO) through a shares exchange. Click here for the CBS press release.

Tuesday, June 10, 2014:
Allergan(PBR392) board unanimously rejects Valeant revised merger proposal. Click here for the Allergan press release.

AIG(PBR41) names Peter Hancock, currently an Exec VP, to become President/CEO, effective 09/01/14. Click here for the AIG press release.

BE Aerospace(PBR610) announces it plans to divide up into 2 separate publicly held entities, manufacturing & services. Click here for the BE Aerospace press release.

MetLife(PBR42) to repurchase up to $1 billion of its shares. Click here for the MetLife press release.

Google(PBR46) acquiring satellites provider Skybox Imaging for $500 million cash. Click here for the Google press release.

Monday, June 9, 2014:
Pilgrim’s Pride(PBR306) withdraws its offer to acquire Hillshire Brands(PBR571). Click here for the Pilgrim’s Pride press release.

Tyson Foods(PBR87) submits unilateral offer to acquire Hillshire Brands(PBR571) for $8.55 billion cash. Click here for the Tyson Foods press release.

Hillshire Brands(PBR571) confirms receipt of Tyson Foods(PBR87) $63/share offer, comments on Pinnacle Foods(PBR778) acquisition status. Click here for the Hillshire Foods press release.

Merck(PBR63) to acquire Idenix Pharmaceuticals(NASDAQ: IDIX) for $24.50/share, $3.85 billion cash. Click here for the Merck press release.

Apple(PBR6) closed Friday, 06/06/14 at $645.54/share, $92.22/share after 7:1 split, opens 06/09/14 at $92.70, closes at $93.70.

Analog Devices(PBR733) to acquire Hittite Microwave(NASDAQ: HITT) for $78/share cash, $2 billion enterprise value. Click here for the Analog Devices press release.

Family Dollar(PBR253) adopts 1 year shareholder rights plan. Click here for the Family Dollar press release.

ON Semiconductor(PBR705) to acquire image sensor provider Aptina Imaging for $400 million. Click here for the ON Semiconductor press release.

Friday, June 6, 2014:
The US Dept of Labor reports that in May nonfarm employment rose 217,000, unemployment rate remains at 6.3%. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Men’s Wearhouse(PBR775) extends Jos. A. Bank $65/share all cash offer to 06/19/14. Click here for the Men’s Wearhouse press release.

The UPS(PBR50) board has named COO David Abney to become CEO, CEO Scott Davis to retire & be non-executive Chairman, effective 09/01/14. Click here for the UPS press release.

Wednesday, June 4, 2014:
The PBR1000 May 2014 Snapshots have been emailed out to Subscribers. Click here for The PBR1000 May 2014 Snapshots Summary blog post.

The US Dept of Labor reports revised 1st qtr 2014 nonfarm labor productivity as down at a 3.2% annual rate, hours increased 2.2%, output down 1.1%. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that April exports were $193.3B, imports $240.6B, resulting in a trade deficit of $47.2B. Click here for the USDOC press release.

A. Schulman(PBR855) to buy selected majority assets of Ferro Corp(PBR963) specialty plastics business for $91 million. Click here for the A. Schulman press release.

Tuesday, June 3, 2014:
Hillshire Brands(PBR571) to talk with $55/share bidder Pilgrim’s Pride(PBR366) & $50/share bidder Tyson Foods(PBR87). Click here for the Hillshire Brands press release.

Finnish based mobile app developer Pryte announces it has been acquired by Facebook(PBR327). Click here for the Pryte website announcement.

KKR(PBR270) is acquiring 1,600 employee website & software developer Internet Brands(NR). Click here for the press release.

First Solar(PBR627) to acquire German based technology provider Skytron-Energy from AEG Power Solutions. Click here for the press release.

Dept of Commerce says new manufactured goods orders up 0.7% to $499.8B in April. Shipments, unfulfilled orders, inventories up also. Click here for the Dept of Commerce press release.

Monday, June 2, 2014:
Click here for the The PBR1000 May 2014 Breaking News Recap blog post.

Ventas(PBR705) to acquire ARC Healthcare for $2.6 billion cash/stock, & 29 Canadian senior healthcare facilities for $900 million in a separate transaction. Click here for the Ventas press release.

(The purpose of The PBR1000 is to provide a wide range of interested people with the premier key demographic, industry, financial, personnel, and comments/news briefs on over 1,000 of the largest publicly traded companies with principal offices in the US, companies that have a huge impact on the US and world economies. This information is updated monthly and published in MS Excel format as The PBR1000 Monthly Update Report. During a month several supplementary reports are published as well.

Larry C. Paxton is the President/CEO of Pax Business Resources, LLC. PBRMarketTools is the marketing research unit. For several years Larry has worked for and provided products and services to The PBR1000 companies.)

By Larry C. Paxton

In the fourth month of the year we saw a lot of surprise mergers and acquisitions announcements across many industries. It was also interesting to note how some companies are also looking at splitting up their companies into two entities. Some international mega deals are in the works that have to go through approvals of multiple countries and regulatory bodies. In general, it’s just a time consuming process, some adjustments are made, and the deals go through. It will be interesting to see if that’s true for some of the deals that were announced in April.

Following are the breaking news items for April from The PBR1000, starting with the most current items.

Wednesday, April 30, 2014:
The Bureau of Economic Analysis adjusts 4th quarter 2013 US real GDP to 2.6%, increased 0.1% in 1st quarter 2014. Click here for the BEA press release.

Exelon(PBR107) buying electric & gas utilities firm Pepco Holdings(PBR492) for $27.25/share, $6.83 billion cash. Click here  for the Exelon press release.

ADT(PBR623) acquiring Canadian based security monitoring company Reliance Protectron for $500 million. Click here  for the ADT press release.

Energizer(PBR513) plans to split into two public companies in 2015. Click here  for the Energizer press release.

Red Hat(PBR1021) to acquire private open source storage solutions vendor Inktank for $175 million. Click here  for the Red Hat press release.

Tuesday, April 29, 2014:
Alliant Techsystems(PBR522) spinning off outdoor sporting unit to separate public company, merging aerospace & defense unit with Orbital Sciences(PBR1005). Click here  for the ATK press release.

General Electric(PBR9) makes positively received $13.5 billion bid for French based Alstom’s thermal, renewables, & grid business. Click here  for the GE press release.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR163) has acquired private biotech firm Iperian for $175 million. Click here  for the Bristol-Myers press release.

Monday, April 28, 2014:
Forest Labs(PBR647) acquiring drug developer Furiex Pharmaceutical(NR) for $95/share, $1.1 billion cash. Click here  for the Forest Labs press release.

Comcast(PBR44) agrees to give 3.9 million video subscribers to Charter Communications(PBR313). Click here  for the Charter Communications press release.

Susser Holdings(PBR397) being acquired by Energy Transfer Partners(NR, NYSE: ETP) for $1.8 billion. Click here  for the Susser Holdings press release.

Pfizer(PBR53) confirms discussion & continuing interest in UK based biopharmaceutical AstraZeneca. Click here  for the Pfizer press release.

KKR(PBR270) reduces stake in Norwegian software company Visma from 76% to 31.3%. Click here  for the KKR press release.

Friday, April 25, 2014:
The Bureau of Economic Analysis(BEA) reports GDP annual rate for 4th quarter 2013 was 2.6%, 1.9% for all of 2013. Click here  for the BEA press release.

Kellogg’s(PBR188) President/CEO John Bryant to become Chairman on July 1, succeeding James Jenness, who remains on the board. Click here  for the Kellogg’s press release.

Wednesday, April 23, 2014:
Hess Corp(PBR113) has sold Thailand assets for $1 billion. Click here  for the Hess press release.

Apple(6) expands capital return program to $130 billion, increases dividend, announces 7 for 1 stock split. Click here  for the Apple press release.

JetBlue(PBR439) statement regarding pilots approving unionizing under Air Lines Pilots Assn. Click here  for the JetBlue press release.

Amazon(PBR36) to offer exclusive subscriptions to HBO Prime Instant Video and HBO GO streaming service. Click here  for the Amazon press release.

Tuesday, April 22, 2014:
Allergan(PBR390) confirms receipt of unsolicited $48.30/share buy bid by Valeant Pharmaceuticals(NR). Click here  for the Allergan press release.

Allergan(PBR390) adopts 1 yr stockholders rights ‘poison pill’ to avert takeover bid by Valeant Pharmaceuticals(NR). Click here  for the Allergan press release.

Eli Lilly(PBR120) buying Novartis Animal Health(NR) for $5.4 billion. Click here  for the Eli Lilly press release.

Blackstone(PBR372) completes equity acquisition of Accuvant. Click here  for the Blackstone press release.

Monday, April 21, 2014:
In 1st quarter report Kimberly-Clark(PBR129) updates status of a public health care $1.6 billion/yr spin-off in May. Click here  for the Kimberly-Clark press release.

Hillshire Brands(PBR566) to acquire Van’s Natural Foods from Catterton Partners(NR) for $165 million. Click here  for the Hillshire Brands press release.

Treehouse Foods(PBR809) to acquire food/beverage company Protenergy Natural Foods(NR) for $150 million. Click here  for the Treehouse Foods press release.

Friday, April 18, 2014:
LinkedIn(PBR979) announces that it now has 300 million members worldwide. Click here  for the LinkedIn press release.

Calpine(PBR389) to sell 6 southeast power plants for $1.57 billion. Click here  for the Calpine press release.

Thursday, April 17, 2014:
Chemtura(PBR717) selling its AgroSolutions unit to Platform Specialty Products(NR) for $1 billion. Click here  for the Chemtura press release.

Walmart(PBR2) to offer low cost Walmart-2-Walmart money transfer service. Click here  for the Walmart press release.

Live Nation Entertainment(PBR382) assumes sole ownership of Live Nation Japan. Click here  for the Live Nation Entertainment press release.

Wednesday, April 16, 2014:
Johnson Controls(PBR65) acquiring Air Distribution Technologies for $1.6 billion. Click here  for the Johnson Controls press release.

MasterCard(PBR326) acquiring Australia based loyalty/rewards service Pinpoint. Click here  for the MasterCard press release.

Vornado Realty Trust(PBR690) realizes $145 million net proceeds from $350 million refinancing of 1.3Msf Manhattan office building 909 Third Ave. Click here  for the Vornado press release.

Tuesday, April 15, 2014:
Mosaic Co(PBR225) acquiring Archer-Daniels-Midland(PBR27) Brazil & Paraguay fertilizer units for $350 million. Click here  for the Mosaic press release.

Motorola Solutions(PBR285) selling its enterprise business to Zebra Technologies(NR) for $3.45 billion. Click here  for the Motorola Solutions press release.

Aaron’s(PBR794) rejects $2.3 billion buyout bid, acquires virtual payments Progressive Finance Holdings for $700 million cash. Click here  for the Aaron’s press release.

MGM Resorts(PBR274) & Hakkasan Group(NR) form joint global hotel management company. Click here  for the MGM press release.

Monday, April 14, 2014:
Safeway(PBR60) completes its Blawkhawk Network Holdings spin-off. Click here  for the Safeway press release.

KKR(PBR257) selling its Ipreo unit to Blackstone Group(PBR539) & Goldman Sachs(PBR66) Merchant Banking. Click here  for the KKR press release.

Boston Properties(PBR895) leasing 714,000 sq ft in 61 story San Francisco building to Salesforce.com(PBR784). Click here  for the Boston Properties press release.

Google(PBR55) is buying solar powered drone maker Titan Aerospace, terms not disclosed.

Friday, April 11, 2014:
Ametek(PBR606) acquiring optical instrument maker Zygo for $280 million. Click here  for the Ametek press release.

Vornado Realty Trust(PBR690) spinning off shopping center business into publicly held SpinCo. Click here  for the Vornado press release.

Thursday, April 10, 2014:
Blackstone(PBR539) units providing $650 million for Ventika, to become largest onshore wind farm development in Mexico. Click here  for the Blackstone press release.

H&R Block(PBR668) selling its banking unit to BofI Federal Bank. Click here  for the H&R Block press release.

ADP(PBR234) announces plan to spin off automobile Dealer Services unit as separate public company. Click here  for the ADP press release.

Wednesday, April 9, 2014:
Procter & Gamble(PBR29) selling 3 petfood brands to Mars, Inc(NR) for $2.9 billion. Click here  for the P&G press release.

Hewlett-Packard(PBR15) announces $108 million settlement with the DOJ & SEC over Foreign Corrupt Practices Act charges. Click here  for the HP press release.

Bank of America(PBR21) agrees to fines & refunds totaling $783 million regarding past credit card debt cancellation & identity theft products. Click here  for the BofA press release.

Tuesday, April 8, 2014:
The Time Inc unit of Time Warner(PBR94) to raise $1.4 billion in debt as it prepares to be a spin-off(Bloomberg). Click here  for the Bloomberg News article.

Eli Lilly(PBR119) responds to its $3 billion share of punitive damages in lawsuit with Takeda regarding drug Actos. Click here  for the Eli Lilly press release.

Monday, April 7, 2014:
AGL Resources(PBR551) is selling its Tropical Shipping unit to Seattle based Saltchuk Resources(NR) for $220 million after taxes. Click here  for the AGL Resources press release.

The Jones Group(PBR562) shareholders approve $15/share, $2.2 billion merger with private equity firm Sycamore Partners(prnewswire). Click here  for the prnewswire press release.

CitiGroup(PBR25) agrees to pay $1.125 billion to mortgage trusts. Click here  for the CitiGroup press release.

Cincinnati Bell selling its wireless spectrum licenses to Verizon(PBR16) for $210 million. Click here  for the Cincinnati Bell press release.

Laclede Group(PBR1050) to buy Alabama Gas Company from Energen(PBR951) for $1.6 billion. Click here  for the Laclede press release.

Sunday, April 6, 2014:
Arthur J Gallagher(PBR734) buying Australian based Wesfarmer Insurance Brokerage for $933 million. Click here  for the AJG press release.

Friday, April 4, 2014:
Blackstone(PBR539) acquiring precision automotive parts manufacturer Gates Corp for $5.4 billion. Click here  for the Blackstone press release.

Thursday, April 3, 2014:
Anadarko(PBR192) settles Tronox(PBR909) environmental liabilities suit against subsidiary Kerr-McGee for $5.15 billion. Click here  for the Anadarko press release.

Liberty Media(PBR863) reducing financial stake & losing 2 board members at Barnes & Noble(PBR339). Click here  for the Liberty Media press release.

Wednesday, April 2, 2014:
Cardinal Health(PBR19) acquiring extravascular closure devices firm AccessClosure for $320 million. Click here  for the Cardinal Health press release.

Tuesday, April 1, 2014:
3M Company(PBR91) completes acquisition of healthcare data analytics & business intelligence firm Treo Solutions(NR). Click here  for the 3M press release.

Allstate(PBR85) completes sale of Lincoln Benefit Life Co to Resolutions Life Holdings(NR) for $796 million. Click here  for the Allstate press release.

KKR(PBR257) to acquire Brazil based data center solutions provider Aceco IT. Click here  for the KKR press release.

Pinnacle Entertainment(PBR1037) sells its St. Louis property Lumiere Place Casino to Tropicana Entertainment for $260 million. Click here  for the Pinnacle press release.

STERIS Corp(PBR993) acquiring privately held Integrated Medical Systems International for $165 million. Click here  for the STERIS press release.

Actavis(PBR400) has acquired Thailand’s privately held generic pharmaceutical Silom Medical Co for $100 million. Click here  for the Actavis press release.

Actavis(PBR400) completes sale of its Western European generics pharma operations to India based Aurobinda Pharma Ltd. Click here  for the Actavis press release.

(The purpose of The PBR1000 is to provide a wide range of interested people with the premier key demographic, industry, financial, personnel, and comments/news briefs on over 1,000 of the largest publicly traded companies with principal offices in the US, companies that have a huge impact on the US and world economies. This information is updated monthly and published in MS Excel format as The PBR1000 Monthly Update Report. During a month several supplementary reports are published as well.

Larry C. Paxton is the President/CEO of Pax Business Resources, LLC. PBRMarketTools is the marketing research unit. For several years Larry has worked for and provided products and services to The PBR1000 companies.)

(Graphic courtesy of Kookai_nak/FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

By Larry C. Paxton

There was a lot of movement in stock prices in March among The PBR1000 companies. Daily prices continue to fluctuate dramatically based on almost any kind of good or bad news.

In the tables below the price is for the end of trading on March 31st, Month % Chg is compared to February 28th, YTD % Chg is compared to December 31, 2013, and 15 Mos % Chg is compared to December 31, 2012.

Table 1: The PBR1000 Composite

Table 2: The PBR1000 Top 5 Month % Gainers

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

Table 4: The PBR1000 Top 5 15 Months % Gainers

Table 5: The PBR1000 Selected Stock Exchanges/Commodities

A new The PBR1000 Rankings based on data available through March 31, 2014, will be released within the next week or so.

Have questions? Please contact us at Sales@PBRMarketTools.com or call us at 520-282-4100.

(So, the 1st Quarter of 2014 is complete. Do we know which direction we are going yet?)

By Larry C. Paxton

A lot of mergers and acquisition deals in progress during late 2013 and early 2014 closed in March. There continues to be a lot of mixed signals about the recovery of the economy. Some experts say the bulls have plenty of more room to roam. Other experts say the markets are over extended, we are overdue for a correction, and the bears will be showing up soon.

Russia’s taking Ukraine’s Crimea area and the massing of troops in other areas are cause for concern, especially since a lot of Europe is dependent on Russian oil that goes through the Ukraine. Syria, Iran, and North Korea have been in the background for a while, will they soon emerge and what effect will they have on the world and US markets and economies?

Earthquakes around the world are being reported, will those cause the markets to shake as well? Obamacare seems to have met some important goals, what effect can that have on the economy?

As stated before, there are a lot of uncertainties, so it looks like we need some more time to see what direction the markets are going. Hopefully we all guess right before the year ends!

Following are the The PBR1000 March Breaking News Recaps, with the most current items first.

Monday, March 31, 2014:
Johnson & Johnson(PBR40) accepts The Carlyle Group(PBR654) offer of $4 billion to acquire J&J’s Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics unit. Click here for the J&J press release.

KKR(PBR257) acquires 80% stake in Japan’s Panasonic Corp’s Panasonic Healthcare medical equipment unit. Click here for the KKR press release.

General Motors(PBR7) announces $750 million 1st quarter expense for ignition switch & power steering recalls. Click here for the GM press release.

SunEdison(PBR732) closes funding of solar power plant in Chile, largest in South America. Click here for the SunEdison press release.

BE Aerospace(PBR634) to acquire oilfield rental company Vision Oil Tools for $145 million plus $35 million incentive. Click here for the BE Aerospace press release.

Thursday, March 27, 2014:
Baxter(PBR184) announces splitting into 2 companies, biopharmaceuticals & medical devices. Click here for the Baxter press release.

KKR(PBR257) & Investindustrial(NR) partner with UK based Babcock to by helicopter emergency services Avincis for $2.75 billion. Click here for the KKR press release.

Microsoft(PBR34) expands cloud services by making Office products available on Apple’s(PBR6) iPad. Click here for the Microsoft press release.

Yahoo!(PBR261) Japan buying SoftBank’s mobile service eAccess for $3.17 billion. Click here for the Yahoo! Japan press releases page.

Intel(PBR52) becomes largest stakeholder & collaborator in big data firm Cloudera. Click here for the Intel press release.

NRG Energy(PBR294) acquiring residential solar company Roof Diagnostics Solar(NR). Click here for the NRG press release.

Wednesday, March 26, 2014:
Bank of America(PBR21) settles with FHFA for $9.5 billion regarding residential mortgage backed securities. Click here for the BofA press release.

Tuesday, March 25, 2014:
Facebook(PBR448) to acquire virtual reality gaming firm Oculus for $2 billion. Click here for the Facebook press release.

Intel(PBR52) completes acquisition of privately held wearable health tracker BASIS Science. Click here for the Intel press release.

Monday, March 24, 2014:
Walt Disney Co(PBR64) to acquire YouTube network firm Maker Studio for $500 million plus $450 million incentive. Click here for the Disney press release.

Google(PBR55) in strategic partnership with Italian based world’s largest eyeware company Luxottica to promote Glass. Click here for the Luxottica press release.

Friday, March 21, 2014:
Regency Energy Partners(PBR1009) completes acquisition of PVR Partners(PBR1074) for $5.6 billion. Click here for the REP press release.

Nortek(PBR801) to acquire global HVAC company Thomas & Betts(NR) for $260 million. Click here for the Nortek press release.

Thursday, March 20, 2014:
NAR reports Feb existing home sales down 0.4% from Jan to 4.60 million annual rate, Feb median price was $189,000. Click here for the NAR press release.

Symantec(PBR354) CEO Steve Bennett terminated, board member Michael Brown appointed interim CEO. Click here for the Symantec press release.

Precision Castparts(PBR336) to acquire high speed machining Aerospace Dynamics International from The Marvin Group(NR) for $625 million. Click here for the Precision Castparts press release.

Wednesday, March 19, 2014:
JPMorgan Chase(PBR18) selling its physical commodities business to Mercuria Energy Group Ltd for $3.5 billion. Click here for the JPMorgan press release.

Tuesday, March 18, 2014:
Lockheed Martin(PBR58) buying German commercial airport services firm BEONTRA AG. Click here for the Lockheed Martin press release.

Monday, March 17, 2014:
Chesapeake Energy’s(PBR206) oilfield services subsidiary files SEC paperwork to become a separate company. Click here for the Chesapeake Energy press release.

American Express(PBR84) announces 50/50 joint venture for its Global Business Travel division. Click here for the AMEX press release.

Friday, March 14, 2014:
Textron(PBR208) completes its $1.4 billion acquisition of Beechcraft(NR). Click here for the Textron press release.

Liberty Global(PBR239) completes acquisition of VTR, Chile’s largest cable operator, for $422 million. Click here for the Liberty Global press release.

Thursday, March 13, 2014:
General Electric(PBR8) starts exit from its retail finance business by filing IPO registration for spin-off Synchrony Financial. Click here for the GE press release.

JetBlue Airways(PBR460) selling its LiveTV subsidiary to Thales Group(NR) for $400 million. Click here for the JetBlue press release.

AT&T(PBR12) completes its acquisition of Leap Wireless(PBR625). Click here for the AT&T press release.

Wednesday, March 12, 2014:
Lockheed Martin(PBR58) acquiring cybersecurity solutions provider Industrial Defender(NR). Click here for the Lockheed press release.

Graham Holdings(PBR540) selling Miami TV station WPLG to Berkshire Hathaway(PBR5) & buying Berkshire’s stake of 1.6 million Graham Class B shares. Click here for the Graham Holdings press release.

Tuesday, March 11, 2014:
After several attempts, Men’s Wearhouse(PBR766) to acquire Jos. A. Bank(NR) for $65/share, $1.8 billion. Click here for the Men’s Wearhouse press release.

Quest Diagnostics(PBR327) to acquire privately held onsite prevention & wellness programs provider Summit Health. Click here for the Quest Diagnostics press release.

NRG Energy(PBR294) acquiring the retail electric business of Dominion Resources(PBR199). Click here for the NRG press release.

Blackstone Group(PBR539) is acquiring majority stake in information security & services company Accuvant(NR). Click here for the Blackstone press release.

Monday, March 10, 2014:
Chiquita Brands(PBR638) to merge with Irish fruit company Fyffes plc by year end, $1.07 billion deal. Click here for the Chiquita press release.

Quest Diagnostics(PBR327) completes its acquisition of Solstace Lab Partners Group(NR) for $570 million. Click here for the Quest Diagnostics press release.

Sunday, March 9, 2014:
United Rentals(PBR525) is acquiring specialty pump rental company National Pump(NR) for $780 million. Click here for the United Rentals press release.

Friday, March 7, 2014:
MasterCard(PBR326) & VISA(PBR237) to start cross-industry effort for payment security, to implement EMV. Click here for the MasterCard press release.

Thursday, March 6, 2014:
Staples(PBR109) announces 4th quarter/full year results, to close 225 stores by end of 2015. Click here for Staples press release.

Cerberus Capital controlled Albertsons to acquire Safeway(PBR60) for $40/share, $9 billion, to close in 4th quarter. Click here for the Safeway press release.

KKR(PBR257) completes its acquisition of Southeastern Central Europe’s 1.89 million subscriber cable & pay TV operator United Group. Click here for the KKR press release.

Morgan Stanley(PBR88) sells majority stake in UK based Zenith Vehicle Contracts to HgCapital. Click here for the Zenith press release.

ABM Industries(PBR506) acquires San Diego based HVAC & energy solutions provider Alpha Mechanical(NR). Click here for the ABM press release.

Tuesday, March 4, 2014:
RadioShack(PBR510) announces FY2013 results, closing 1,100 stores, 5 year financing, changing fiscal year to end of January. Click here for RadioShack’s press release.

QUALCOMM(PBR136) increases stock repurchase program to $7.8 billion. Click here for the QUALCOMM press release.

QUALCOMM(PBR136) appoints Steve Mollenkopf as CEO, Dr. Paul Jacobs as Executive Chairman. Click here for the QUALCOMM press release.

Airgas(PBR474) acquires $10 million/year Welding & Therapy Service, Inc(NR) with its 5 locations in Indiana & Kentucky. Click here for the Airgas press release.

Monday, March 3, 2014:
The Carlyle Group(PBR654) is acquiring ADT Korea from Tyco International for $1.93 billion. Click here for The Carlyle Group press release.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR289) selling 4 properties to Caesars Growth Partners(NR) for $2.2 billion. Click here for the CE press release.

DISH Network(PBR180) & Walt Disney(PBR64) agree to multi-year sports, news, & entertainment package. Click here for DISH press release.

Valero Energy(PBR9) announces that Bill Klesse will step down as CEO on May 1, current Pres/COO Joe Gorder to become CEO. Click here for Valero press release.

(The purpose of The PBR1000 is to provide a wide range of interested people with the premier key demographic, industry, financial, personnel, and comments/news briefs on over 1,000 of the largest publicly traded companies with principal offices in the US, companies that have a huge impact on the US and world economies. This information is updated monthly and published in MS Excel format as The PBR1000 Monthly Update Report. During a month several supplementary reports are published as well.

Larry C. Paxton is the President/CEO of Pax Business Resources, LLC. PBRMarketTools is the marketing research unit. For several years Larry has worked for and provided products and services to The PBR1000 companies.)