February 2018: A Busy Month for The PBR1000, the Economy, and the Stock Market

What are the winning strategies during a time of volatility? Check back in a few years to find out how well we did today.

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

***Wednesday, February 28:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Month of February Ending 02/28/18

The Stock Market Bear trounced the Stock Market Bull in a very volatile February, a consequence of robo-trading, profit taking, increasing federal interest rates concerns, a school massacre in Florida, and ongoing acrimony in national politics. However, for the optimists, Year-To-Date the Stock Market Bull still has the edge:

DJIA ends February at 25,029.20, -1.11% from last Friday, -4.28% MTD, +1.25% QTD/YTD, -5.96% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.
NASDAQ ends February at 7,273.01, -0.88% from last Friday, -1.87% MTD, +5.35% QTD/YTD, -3.10% from record 7,505.77 set 01/26/18.
SPX ends the week at 2,713.83, -1.22% from last Friday, -3.89% MTD, +1.50% QTD/YTD, -5.54% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

Walmart(PBR1) raising age restriction for purchase of firearms and ammunition to 21 years of age, reviews policy to no longer sell modern sporting rifles like the AR-15 and related items in 2015, sells handguns only in Alaska, removing items from website resembling assault-style rifles, including nonlethal airsoft guns and toys. $WMT PR link.

Walmart(PBR1) introduces new design-centric digital home brand Allswell, with its Debut Collection of luxe mattresses and stylish bedding, renames king bed to “Supreme Queen.” $WMT PR link.

ExxonMobil(PBR2) makes 7th oil discovery offshore Guyana in Stabroek Block, Pacora-1 exploration well, will bring Guyana production to 500,000+ barrels of oil per day, has 45% interest, Hess(PBR248) has 30% interest, Nexen Petroleum 25% interest. $XOM PR link.

Comcast(PBR42 $CMCSA) NBC unit is reducing the number of commercials to better compete with Netflix(PBR447), streaming. MarketWatch PR link.

Lowe’s(PBR50) expands partnership with Sherwin-Williams(PBR251) who will become only nationwide supplier to Lowe’s US retail outlets for interior and exterior paints. $LOW PR link.

TJX Cos(PBR96) authorizes new share repurhase program up to $3 billion through 02/02/19, will provide one-time bonus to eligible, non-bonus-plan Associates, globally, instituting paid parental leave and enhancing vacation benefits for eligible US associates. $TJX PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) Life subsidiary gets exclusive strategic licensing agreement with Ann Arbor, MI, based AlertWatch, used by clinicians for secondary monitoring of patients in operating rooms, helps reduce length of hospital stay and costs. $QCOM PR link.

PPG(PBR190) gets notice from Lowe’s(PBR50)that it will discontinue the sale of OLYMPIC®brand paints and stains in its US retail stores, effective mid-2018, represented annual sales of under $300 million; PPG describes how this is an opportunity for expansion. $PPG PR link.

Lincoln Financial(PBR213) to make a one-time grant of 20 shares of company stock to full- and part-time employees who do not currently participate in the equity plan, reward for record 2017, makes all employees company owners. $LNC PR link.

YUM!(PBR217 $YUM) Pizza Hut unit replaces Papa John’s Pizza as NFL official pizza sponsor in multi-year agreement. NFL PR link.

VISA(PBR224) commits to use 100 percent renewable electricity across its global operations by the end of 2019, joins the RE100 initiative. $V PR link.

Group 1 Automotive(PBR276) acquires five Mercedes-Benz franchises and three Smartfranchises in the London, England, area, from UK based automotive retailer Robinsons Motor Group, will add $260 million of revenues/year; promotes Darren Guiver to Managing Director/UK operations. $GPI PR link.

Stryker Corp(PBR283) completes $24.00/share, $662 million acquisition of Plymouth, MN, based global ENT medical technology products provider Entellus Medical(NASDAQ: ENTL). $SYK PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) and Revance Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: RVNC) announce global collaboration and license agreement for development and commercialization of a proposed biosimilar to BOTOX® (onabotulinumtoxinA), $4 billion marketplace and growing. $MYL PR link.

Dick’s Sporting Goods(PBR367) to no longer sell assault-style rifles, must be at least 21 to purchase firearms & ammunition, implores elected officials to enact firearms reform regulations. $DKS PR link.

Herbalife(PBR487) proposes purchase of $450 million and up to $650 million of common stock, 2:1 stock split, name change to Herbalife Nutrition Ltd, to be voted on at 04/24/18 annual meeting. $HLF PR link.

TD Ameritrade(PBR662) completes Scottradeaccount conversion, now has 4+ million brokerage accounts, 364 branches nationwide. $AMTD PR link.

Hertz(PBR259) hires Paul Stone as EVP/Chief Retail Operations Officer, effective 03/06/18. $HTZ PR link.

Rent A Center(PBR657) COO Joel M. Mussat terminated without cause, effective 02/22/18, entitled to benefits agreed to in employment agreement, COO position is eliminated, direct reports now report to CEO. $RCII PR link.

Owens & Minor(PBR292) elects Mark F. McGettrick, EVP/CFO of Dominion Energy(PBR229), to the Board. $OMI PR link.

Bloomin’ Brands(PBR536) adds Wendy Beck, currently EVP/CFO of Norwegian Cruise Lines(PBR494), to the Board per agreement with investor JANA Partners, who will endorse nominees for Board at annual meeting. $BLMN PR link.

Titan Machinery(PBR908) elects Christine Hamilton, co-owner and managing partner of central S Dakota large farm/ranching operation Christiansen Land and Cattle and also Board member of Minneapolis Federal Reserve Bank, to the Board. $TITN PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says US 4Q17 2nd Estimate Real Gross Domestic Product Annual Rate is +2.5%, $19.737 trillion, +1.2% from 3Q17, +4.4% from 4Q16. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US Public Debt on 02/27/18 was $15.127 trillion, Intragovernmental Holdings $5.711 trillion, Total US Government Debt $20.838 trillion, +1.7% from 01/30/18, +4.6% from 02/27/17. USTreasury PR link.

The US Energy Information Administrationsays US Crude Oil Stockpiles on 02/23/18were at 423.5 million barrels, +1.2% from 01/26/18, -18.4% from 02/17/17. EIA PR link.

The American Automobile Assn says US 02/28/18 Average Price/Gallon of Regular Gasis at $2.530, -2.4% from 01/31/18, +10.5% from 02/28/17. AAA PR link.

The MNI February 2018 Chicago Business Barometer(>50 Gaining) is at 61.9, January 2018 was 65.7, December 2017 67.8, February 2017 57.4. ISM-Chicago/MNI PR link.

Investing: StockBrokers.com releases its 2018 Online Broker Rankings. StockBrokers.com PR link.

***Tuesday, February 27:

Walmart(PBR1) introduces four new exclusive spring season apparel private brands for women, men and kids: Time and Tru, Terra & Sky, Wonder Nation and George, available online and in stores 03/01/18. $WMT PR link.

Boeing(PBR27 $BA) to build two new Air Force Ones for $3.9 billion, original bid was for $5 billion, says Trump negotiated ‘good deal.’ MarketWatch PR link.

Comcast(PBR42) makes proposal to acquire major European entertainment and communications services provider Sky plc for $31 billion cash, 16% more than offered by 21st Century Fox(PBR91). $CMCSA PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) to sell floors 8-14 of its State St store in Chicago for $30 million, exploring opportunities to sell the approximately 240,000 gross sf I. Magnin portion of the main Union Square building in San Francisco, in FY2017 opened 36 Bluemercury stores, 2 Macy’sstores, 30 Backstage off-price stores within existing Macy’s stores and one Bloomingdale’slicensed location in Kuwait, closed 16 Macy’sstores. $M PR link.

eBay(PBR163) to acquire Giosis’ Japanbusiness, including the 2 million users Qoo10.jpplatform, to close 2Q18, terms not disclosed. $EBAY PR link.

AutoZone(PBR290) selling its 26 locations across 9 states European replacement parts provider Interamerican Motor Corporation to Parts Authority, terms not disclosed. $AZO PR link.

Celgene(PBR347) gets Refusal to File letter from US FDA for its multiple sclerosis therapy ozanimod, plans to meet with FDA and be able to re-file application. $CELG PR link.

Lithia(PBR451) acquires $340 million revenues/year Day Automotive Group in Monroeville, PA. $LAD PR link.

Post Holdings(PBR486) to close Clinton, MA, cereal manufacturing facility, was part of Weetabix acquisition on 07/03/17, expects to close by 08/19, will affect 180 employees. $POST PR link.

Fresh Del Monte(PBR527) completes $361 million cash acquisition of grower, processor and supplier of a broad variety of fresh and value-added vegetable products in N America, $535 million/2017, Mann Packing Co. $FDP PR link.

KAR Auction(PBR811) pursuing independent public company spin-off of its Insurance Auto Auctions (IAA) salvage auction business unit within next 12 months. $KAR PR link.

Express Scripts(PBR860) to create a $20 million bonus pool, non-executive employees to receive $500-$2,000 one time bonus based on tenure, will create $30 million education fund for children of employees. $ESRX PR link.

Ocwen Financial(PBR869) to acquire mortgages services provider PHH Corp(NYSE: PHH) for $11.00/share, $360 million cash, to close 2H18. $OCN PR link.

Fitbit(PBR870) introduces Fitbit Ionic adidasedition smartwatch, includes adidas Traincoaching application, retails for $329.95, to be available online and in stores 03/19/18. $FIT PR link.

Domino’s(PBR889) and Ford(PBR10) begin second round of self-driving delivery vehicle testing in Miami, FL. $DPZ PR link.

Weight Watchers(PBR988) ends 2017 with 600,000 more members, 3.2 million total, a 23% growth over 2016, positive response to WW Freestyle™ program launched in 12/17. $WTW PR link.

CrossAmerica Partners(PBR731) hires Gerardo Valencia as President, to add CEO role in 2-3Q18, to succeed President/CEO Jeremy Bergeron who will be assuming a new leadership role within Alimentation Couche-Tard. $CAPL PR link.

SeaWorld(PBR948) President/CEO Joel Manby agrees to step down, Chief Parks Operations Officer John T. Reilly named Interim CEO. $SEAS PR link.

UNUM(PBR261) hires Puneet Bhasin as Chief Information and Digital Officer, effective 03/08/18. $UNM PR link.

Continental Resources(PBR497) hires Rory R. Sabino as VP/Investor Relations, succeeds retiring Warren Henry. $CLR PR link.

TrueBlue(PBR704) hires Maggie Lower to newly created position of Chief Marketing Officer. $TBI PR link.

Abercrombie & Fitch(PBR595) elects Kerrii B. Anderson, most recently President/CEO of Wendy’s(PBR877) International unit, to the Board. $ANF PR link.

Fred’s(PBR897) appoints Neeli Bendapudi, Provost, Executive Vice Chancellor and a Professor of Marketing at the University of Kansas, to the Board, effective 03/21/18, replaces Mary McNabb who retired after 13 years of service. $FRED PR link.

The Federal Reserve Board of Richmond says Fifth District February 2018 Manufacturing Index(Annualized) is at 28%, January 2018was 14%, December 2017 20%, February 201719%. RichmondFed PR link.

The Federal Reserve Board of Richmond says Fifth District February 2018 Services Sector Revenue Index(Annualized) is at 27%, January 2018 was 20%, December 2017 25%, February 2017 20%. RichmondFed PR link.

The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller US December 2017 National Home Price Index(01/2000=100) is at 196.23, November 2017 was 195.78, October 2017 195.42, December 2016 184.66. S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) releases its US February Outlook, forecasts 4.6% annualized 30 year fixed mortgage rate for 2018, 5.1% for 2019, housing price growth to slow, provides an analysis of how 2 homeowner families will be affected by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. $FMCC PR link.

The Conference Board says the US February 2018 Consumer Confidence Index(1985=100)is at 130.8, January 2018 was 124.3. TCB PR link.

Autonomous Vehicles Update: California now allows driverless cars without a human behind the wheel. MarketWatch PR link.

***Monday, February 26:

Berkshire Hathaway(PBR4) Chairman Warren Buffett releases 2017 Letter to the Stockholders, includes his thoughts on the impact of recent US corporate tax reform legislation, how new GAAP rules will affect financial reporting, acquisition philosophy, and much more. $BRKB PR link.

GE(PBR9) CEO John Flannery issues 2017 Letter to Stockholders, discusses current challenges and opportunities. $GE PR link.

UPS(PBR47) suing European Commission for $2.15 billion for blocking the UPS-TNT acquisition in 12/13. $UPS PR link.

DowDuPont(PBR48) announces names of upcoming independent public spin-offs: Agriculture Division to become Corteva Agriscience™ in 1Q19, did $14+ billion in 2017; Materials Science Division to be called Dow in 2Q19, did nearly $44 billion in 2017, and; Specialty Products Division to become new DuPont in 2Q19, did $21 billion in 2017. $DWDP PR link.

FedEx(PBR65) responds to questions on the Natl Rifle Assn, gun safety and policy, says it strongly supports 2nd Amendment subject to appropriate background checks, opposes assault rifles for civilians, will not discontinue discounted shipping services for NRA or any organization in response to their politics, beliefs or positions on issues. $FDX PR link.

American Airlines(PBR69) and Quantas file application with US Dept of Transportation to form joint venture to provide more services for flights between N America, Australia & New Zealand. $AAL PR link.

Delta(PBR72) informs Natl Rifle Assn it will end its contract for discounted fares for travel to the association’s 2018 annual meeting out of respect for customers and employees on both sides, continues to support 2nd Amendment. $DAL PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) sends letter to Broadcom(NASDAQ: AVGO), provides a markup document addressing regulatory and certainty issues of merger, restates current valuation is unacceptable, welcomes meeting to discuss items further. $QCOM PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106 $QCOM) gets response from Broadcom(NASDAQ: AVGO), says Qualcomm’s proposed process is an effort to delay 03/06/18 annual meeting. $AVGO PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) responds to Broadcom(NASDAQ: AVGO) saying Broadcom’s statements were misleading, ready to negotiate on price, has made clear it has no intention of delaying planned 03/06/18 annual meeting. $QCOM PR link.

Medtronic(PBR133) gets US FDA approval for new arm indication for the Guardian(TM) Sensor 3 to control automated insulin delivery via a hybrid closed loop system. $MDT PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR142) gets additional US FDA approval for Verzenio™ (abemaciclib), as initial treatment for advanced breast cancer. $LLY PR link.

CBS(PBR210) launches CBS SPORTS HQ, a 24-hour streaming sports news network offering news, highlights and analysis, free on connected devices. $CBS PR link.

Nordstrom(PBR214) to again partner with influencer Arielle Charnas to introduce SOMETHING NAVY Brand in the fall 2018. $JWN PR link.

JCPenney(PBR234) launching apparel line dedicated to 14-year-old Nickelodeonstar/social media sensation JoJo Siwa, features bright and colorful apparel, bedding and bows promoting Siwa’s positive, anti-bullying outlook, online already, available in stores 03/02/18. $JCP PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) defeats Allergan(PBR219)‘s maneuver to rent tribal sovereign immunity to avoid dry eye therapy Restasis® patent challenge. $MYL PR link.

Wynn Resorts(PBR427 $WYNN) board gets sued by NY Comptroller for failing to hold ex-CEO Steve Wynn to account in sexual misconduct case. MarketWatch PR link.

AMC Networks(PBR851) proposes to buy shares it does not own in digital channel company RLJ Entertainment(NASDAQ:RLJE)for $4.25/share, around $60 million cash. $AMCX PR link.

Cree(PBR964) gets strategic long-term agreement to produce and supply its Wolfspeed™ silicon carbide (SiC) wafers to Infineon Technologies AG (FSE: IFX / OTCQX: IFNNY), deal valued at well over $100 million. $CREE PR link.

Brown & Brown(PBR972) to do 2:1 stock spliton 03/28/18 for shareholders of record on 03/14/18. $BRO PR link.

Meredith Corp(PBR994) to sell Time Inc UK, with its 50+ brands, to UK private equity firm Epiris per plan after recent acquisition of Time Inc, to close in 1Q18. $MDP PR link.

Anixter(PBR391) CEO Robert J Eck to retire after 28 years with company on 06/30/18, will remain on Board; President/COO William Galvin to become President/CEO on 07/01/18. $AXE PR link.

US Foods(PBR118) hires David Works as EVP/Chief Human Resources Officer. $USFD PR link.

SuperValu(PBR164) EVP/Chief Strategy Officer & interim CFO Rob Woseth promoted to EVP/CFO. $SVU PR link.

C.H. Robinson(PBR215) promotes Bob Biesterfeld to COO, effective 03/01/18. $CHRW PR link.

H&R Block(PBR669) hires Tiffany Scalzitti Monroe as Chief People Officer, effective 03/05/18. $HRB PR link.

Molina Healthcare(PBR284) board member, son of founder & former CFO/Treasurer John Molina steps down from the Board. $MOH PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) 16 year veteran director Wendy Cameron to resign from Board, effective at annual meeting, Pauline van der Meer Mohr, currently a non-executive director of HSBC Holdings plc, nominated to be director. $MYL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says US Preliminary January 2018 New Homes Sold/For Sale Annual Rate is at 593,000, -7.8% from December 2017, -1.0% from January 2017; January 2018 Median Price at $323,000, -4.1% from December 2017, +2.5% from January 2017; January 2018 Months Supplyat 6.1 months, December 2017 was 5.5 months, January 2017 5.2 months. USDOC PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says US Preliminary January 2018 National Activity Index is at +0.12, December 2017 was +0.14, November 2017 +0.24, January 2017-0.19. ChiFed PR link.

***Friday, February 23:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 02/23/18

The Stock Market Bear looked like he was going to easily win this shorter trading week, but on the last day the Stock Market Bull charged past him thanks to the US Federal Reservesuggesting it expects interest rates to be gradual and not as many as originally thought for 2018:

DJIA ends the week at 25,309.99, +0.36% from last Friday, -3.21% MTD, +2.39% QTD/YTD, -4.91% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.
NASDAQ ends the week at 7,337.39, +1.35% from last Friday, -1.00% MTD, +6.29% QTD/YTD, -2.24% from record 7,505.77 set 01/26/18.
SPX ends the week at 2,747.30, +0.55% from last Friday, -2.71% MTD, +2.76% QTD/YTD, -4.37% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

Valero Energy(PBR13) UK subsidiary to acquire SemGroup(PBR866)’s SemLogistics Milford Haven 8.5 million barrel fuel storage facility on the west coast of Wales, terms not disclosed. $VLO PR link.

Citigroup(PBR28 $C) to refund customers $335 million after failing to lower interest rates in period 2011-2017, affects 1.75 million cardholders, $190 average refund. MarketWatch PR link.

General Mills(PBR162) to acquire BLUE brandnatural foods and treats for dogs and cats company Blue Buffalo Pet Products(NASDAQ: BUFF) for $40.00/share, $8.0 billion cash, to close by 05/31/18. $GIS PR link.

KBR(PBR395) to acquire technology solutions, engineering services, mission operations, scientific and IT software solutions in the Government Services market provider Stinger Ghaffarian Technologies, has $3.4 billion in backlog with no major recompetes for two years, terms not disclosed. $KBR PR link.

UGI Corp(PBR325) hires Ted J. Jastrzebski as CFO, effective on or before 05/21/18. $UGI PR link.

Markel(PBR470) hires Beth Hungate-Noland as Managing Director/Markel Ventures. $MKL PR link.

TDS(PBR482) US Cellular(NYSE: USM) subsidiary VP/Controller Douglas Chambers to become TDS SVP/Finance & Chief Accounting Officer on 05/18/18, succeeds retiring Douglas Shuma, will also assume Shuma’s role as CFO and Chief Accounting Officer at TDS and Chief Accounting Officer at US Cellular. $TDS PR link.

Pfizer(PBR56) elects its COO Albert Bourla, DVM, PhD, to the Board. $PFE PR link.

Kraft Heinz(PBR156) board member Warren Buffett, Chairman of Berkshire Hathaway(PBR4), to retire from Board at 2018 annual meeting; Alexandre Van Damme, Board member of Anheuser-Busch Inbev and Restaurant Brands International as well as a director of DKMS, the largest bone marrow donor center in the world, is nominated to fill vacancy. $KHC PR link.

Fresh Del Monte(PBR527) Board member Hani El-Naffy to retire at end of his term on 05/02/18. $FDP PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) February Insight analyzes effect of higher mortgage interest rates on borrowers, lenders, real estate agents, and home builders, provides 3 scenarios for 30 year fixed mortgage rates. $FMCC PR link.

***Thursday, February 22:

Gilead Sciences(PBR107)’s Kite unit to pay $150 million and up to an additional $3.01 billion in collaboration agreement for use of Sangamo Therapeutics(Nasdaq:SGMO) ZFN technology to modify genes to develop next-generation cell therapies for autologous and allogeneic use in treating different cancers . $GILD PR link.

Fiserv(PBR474) to do 2:1 common stock split on 03/19/18 for holders of record on 03/05/18. $FISV PR link.

Sprouts(PBR688) authorizes up to $350 million share repurchase program through 12/31/19. $SFM PR link.

Brookdale Senior Living(PBR587) concludes its strategic review process, rejects an offer, decides to execute a turnaround strategy as a public company under new leadership, appoints CFO Cindy Baier to President/CEO and acting CFO until replacement found, effective 02/28/18, succeeds Andy Smith who is stepping down, EVP/Chief Accounting Officer Bryan Richardson to leave effective 03/09/18, replacement not being sought, Daniel Decker and William Petty, Jr, retiring from the Board, Lee S. Wielansky elected Non-Executive Chairman. $BKD PR link.

Gilead Sciences(PBR107) EVP/Commercial operations James Meyers retiring, search starts. $GILD PR link.

PNC Financial(PBR189) promotes Chief Investment Officer William Parsley to COO. $PNC PR link.

Carpenter Technology(PBR856) COO to assume a new role as VP/Business Management Office, and Global Advanced Engineering, as well as the leadership of Environmental, Health and Safety; Chief Technology Officer Mike Murtagh to be VP & Group President of Specialty Alloys Operations, both effective 07/01/18. $CRS PR link.

Invacare(PBR984) appoints Kathleen P. Leneghan as SVP/CFO, has been interim CFO since 11/26/17; Board member Mike Merriman not standing for re-election because of other personal and professional obligations. $IVC PR link.

Anthem(PBR38) Board elects Elizabeth E. Tallett as Chairman, effective 05/16/18, succeeds Joseph R. Swedish who is retiring. $ANTM PR link.

Hershey(PBR354) Chairman John P. Bilbrey to retire effective with 05/02/18 annual meeting, Charles A. Davis elected as successor. $HSY PR link.

TEGNA(PBR622) elects Howard Elias as new Chairman, succeeds retiring Marjorie Magner, to be effective after 04/26/18 annual meeting; Stuart J. Epstein, most recently co-managing partner at Evolution Media and former EVP/CFO of NBCUniversal, elected to the Board, effective immediately. $TGNA PR link.

Snapshot 15 Summary: The PBR1000 January Top 5 by Market Capitalization(Rank, Company, PBR Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, Market Cap in $ Billion on 01/31/18):

1. Apple, PBR2, AAPL, $849B
2. Alphabet, PBR27, GOOG, $813B
3. Microsoft, PBR28, MSFT, $715B
4. Amazon, PBR12, AMZN, $693B
5. Facebook, PBR97, FB, $544B

Range: $849B to $0B
Total The PBR1000 Market Cap: $27.2 trillion, +5.3% from 12/31/17, +24.6% from 12/30/16
Average: $27.2 billion(#205)
Median: $7.9 billion(#500)

To get all 15 of The PBR1000 Snapshots with 25 rankings each month become a The PBR1000 Subscriber by clicking here!

The US Federal Reserve Board‘s Vice Chairman for Supervision Randal K. Quarles says US economy appears to be performing very well, is in the best shape that it has been in since the crisis. USFed PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) says the US 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rate Average on 02/22/18 is 4.40% with 0.5 points/fees, was 4.15% on 01/25/18, 4.16% on 02/23/17. $FMCC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US Initial Unemployment Insurance Claims 4 Week Moving Average for 02/17/18 is 226,000, -5.8% from 01/20/18, -6.2% from 02/23/17; Insured Unemployment Rate on 02/10/18 was 1.3%. USDOL PR link.

The Conference Board says the US Preliminary January 2018 Leading Economic Index(2016=100) is 108.1, December 2017 was 107.1, November 2017 106.5. TCB PR link.

***Wednesday, February 21:

Amazon(PBR29) Studios acquires global TV rights to Scottish writer Iain M. Banks‘ first novel ‘Consider Phlebas’, a space opera about a fictional interstellar utopian society, the Culture, to be available on Prime Video. $AMZN PR link.

Merck(PBR70) to acquire Australian based oncolytic immunotherapy treatments developerViralytics Limited (ASX: VLA, OTC: VRACY)for $394 million by end of 2Q18. $MRK PR link.

Broadcom(NASDAQ: AVGO) adjusts offer for Qualcomm(PBR106 $QCOM) from $82/share to $79/share based on Qualcomm’s revised offer for NXP Semiconductors, all other terms remain the same. $AVGO PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) responds to Broadcom(NASDAQ: AVGO) adjusted $82/share to $79/share offer, says makes inadequate offer even worse, explains advantages of NXP Semiconductorsacquisition. $QCOM PR link.

Gap Inc(PBR179) launches the Gap | Sarah Jessica Parker limited-edition assortment of girls and boys apparel and accessories celebrating love, luck and magic, priced from $16.95 to $78. available 03/01/18 online and in selected countries. $GPS PR link.

DISH(PBR196) closes 4Q17 with 13.242 million Pay-TV subscribers, including 11.030 million DISH TV subscribers and 2.212 million Sling TV subscribers, 2017 total revenue of $14.39 billion, compared to $15.21 billion in 2016. $DISH PR link.

JCPenney(PBR234) launches Obsess, first collection is influenced by Olympic gold medalist Laurie Hernandez, features trendy tops, rompers, dresses and jeans designed for all body types, $21.99 to $34.99, available online 02/26/18, in stores 03/02/18. $JCP PR link.

Priceline(PBR319) changing name to Booking Holdings Inc, effective immediately, ticker changing to NASDAQ: BKNG on 02/27/18. $PCLN PR link.

AMD(PBR445) introduces two new higher performance embedded chips, the AMD EPYC™ Embedded 3000 processor, for networking, storage and edge computing devices, and the AMD Ryzen™ Embedded V1000 processor, for medical imaging, industrial systems, digital gaming and thin clients. $AMD PR link.

Host Hotels(PBR455) to acquire 3 Hyatt(PBR537) properties, Andaz Maui, Grand Hyatt San Francisco, and Hyatt Regency Coconut Point, for $1 billion. $HST PR link.

Quad/Graphics(PBR495) acquires privately held Dallas/Ft Worth, TX, area based 600 employees N America marketing services provider Ivie & Associates, terms not disclosed. $QUAD PR link.

Fresh Del Monte(PBR527) authorizes another up to $300 million share repurchase program, expires 02/21/21, existing $300 million program expires 07/29/18. $FDP PR link.

Bloomin’ Brands(PBR536) confirms receipt of letter from activist investor Barington Capitalsuggesting spin-off of Outback Restaurants, plans to address issue after release of 4Q17 results tomorrow. $BLMN PR link.

OneMain(PBR567) to provide eligible team members with a one-time $600 bonus, raises minimum wage to $14/hour. $OMF PR link.

First Solar(PBR630) to build 200-megawatt ac photovoltaic(PV) solar power plant on 2,000 acres in Twiggs County, GA, to be commissioned in late 2019, will be the largest stand-alone PV solar plant in the SE US. $FSLR PR link.

AMC Entertainment(PBR728) adds 9 million Stubs members over last 18 months, now has 12 million members representing 30 million movie-goers. $AMC PR link.

Diebold Nixdorf(PBR676) hires Gerrard Schmid as President/CEO and Board member, effective immediately. $DBD PR link.

Tupperware(PBR746) President/COO Tricia Stitzel to become President/CEO, effective 05/09/18, to succeed Rich Goings who will become Executive Chairman. $TUP PR link.

Snapshot 13 Summary: The PBR1000 January Top 5 Stock Performers Since 12/30/16(13 Months) (Rank, Company, PBR Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 01/31/18 Stock Price, % Increase from 12/30/16):

1. Weight Watchers, PBR985, WTW, $64.29, +461%
2. Systemax, PBR901, SYX, $31.05, +254%
3. Scientific Games, PBR694, SGMS,$46.65, +233%
4. RH(fka Restoration Hardware), PBR814, RH, $93.99, +206%
5. Conn’s, PBR911, CONN, $33.30, +163%

Range: +461% to -89%
Number of Cos at 0% or Better: 711/999
Average: +23.2%
Median: +17.0%

The Federal Open Market Committee releases minutes from its 01/30-31/18 meeting, says labor market continues to strengthen, economic activity rising at a solid rate, expects inflation to rise in 2018 and stabilize at around the 2% target, keeps federal funds rate at 1.25-1.50%. FOMC PR link.

The Natl Assn of Realtors says US Preliminary January 2018 Existing Home Sales Annual Rate is at 5,380,000, -3.2% from December 2017, -4.8% from January 2017; January 2018 Median Sales Price was $240,500, -2.4% from December 2017, +5.8% from January 2017. NAR PR link.

***Tuesday, February 20:

Snapshot 11 Summary: The PBR1000 January Top 5 Stock Performers (Rank, Co, PBR Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 01/31/18 Stock Price, % Increase from 12/29/17):

1. Eastman Kodak, PBR924, KODK, $7.95, +156%
2. BlueLinx, PBR853, BXC, $16.19, +66%
3. Cenveo, PBR902, CVO, $1.39, +54%
4. Kapstone Paper/Packaging, PBR662, KS, $34.64, +53%
5. Weight Watchers, PBR985, WTW, $64.29, +45%

Range: +156% to -53%
Number of Companies at 0% or Better:687/1,000
Average: +3.90%
Median: +3.52%

Amazon(PBR29) Prime members earn 5% back when using their Amazon Rewards Visa card at its Whole Foods unit starting today. $AMZN PR link.

Merck(PBR70 $MRK) loses hepatitis C therapy Sovaldi patent case to Gilead Sciences(PBR107 $GILD), $2.5 billion award to Merck in jury trial overturned by judge. MarketWatch PR link.

21st Century Fox(PBR91) Fox News unit to launch an exclusive Over-the-Top (OTT) opinion streaming service entitled Fox Nation in 4Q18. $FOX PR link.

Privately held food store chain Albertson’s to merge with drug store chain Rite Aid(PPBR105), to be named public company expects $83 billion sales in 1st year across 4,900 locations, to close early 2H18. $RAD PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) enters into amended agreement of $110.00/share to $127.50/share to acquire Netherlands based NXP Semiconductors NV(NASDAQ: NXPI), lowers minimum tinder threshhold from 80% to 70%, expiration date set to 03/05/18. $QCOM PR link.

Broadcom(NASDAQ: AVGO) evaluating options following Qualcomm(PBR106 $QCOM)‘s amended acquisition plan of NXP, recommends Qualcomm stockholders express their disappointment. $AVGO PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) Datacenter Technologiessubsidiary and new subscription games-on-demand service for mobile gaming Hatch Entertainment to collaborate on delivering next-generation cloud-based gaming experiences on servers based on the Qualcomm Centriq™ 2400 – the world’s first 10nm server processor. $QCOM PR link.

Anadarko(PBR154) jointly owned Mozambique LNG1 Co gets 15 year, 1.2 million tons/year liquid natural gas deal with Électricité de France electric utility company. $APC PR link.

Perrigo(PBR565) gets patent challenge from Bayer AG for generic version of rosacea treatment Finacea® Foam, 15%, $54 million market in 2017. $PRGO PR link.

Plexus(PBR807) revises capital allocation plan per US tax reform, authorizes a $200 million share repurchase program that will go into effect when $106 million current plan balance is used up, to pay $13 million in one time bonuses to 16,000 employees. $PLXS PR link.

Curtiss-Wright(PBR837) to acquire Dresser-Rand Government Business, from a Siemens AG wholly-owned subsidiary for $212.5 million. $CW PR link.

Gap Inc(PBR179) President/CEO of Gap brand unit is leaving per mutual agreement, EVP/Global Talent & Sustainability Brent Hyder to be interim brand President/CEO until replacement found. $GPS PR link.

Perrigo(PBR565) appoints Ronald L. Winowiecki as CFO, had been Acting CFO since 02/17. $PRGO PR link.

Guess?(PBR798) co-founder Paul Marciano relinquishes day-to-day duties during investigation of alleged improper conduct, which he denies. $GES PR link.

***Monday, February 19:

***US Federal Holiday: President’s Day
***US Stock Exchanges Closed.

Mattel(PBR412) expands partnership with Tynker started in 2015, sets goal to introduce 10 million kids to coding by 2020, through Tynker’s computing platform used in 1 in 3 US schools, using Mattel’s characters. $MAT PR link.

Netflix(PBR447) to provide its content library through partnership with OSN to Middle East/North Africa in first deal for the region. $NFLX PR link.

Noble Energy(PBR471) gets 10 year deals for a total of around $14 billion to supply Egypt with a total of 1.15 triiion cubic feet of natural gas from its working interests in Eastern Mediterranean Leviathan and Tamar fields. $NBL PR link.

Celanese(PBR369) promotes SVP/Engineered Materials Scott Richardson to CFO, effective immediately, succeeds departing Chris Jensen. $CE PR link.

***Friday, February 16:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 02/16/18:
DJIA ends the week at 25,219.38, +4.25% from last Friday, -3.56% MTD, +2.02% QTD/YTD, -5.25% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.
NASDAQ ends the week at 7,239.47, +5.31% from last Friday, -2.32% MTD, +4.87% QTD/YTD, -3.55% from record 7,505.77 set 01/26/18.
SPX ends the week at 2,732.22, +4.30% from last Friday, -3.24% MTD, +2.19% QTD/YTD, -4.90% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

Qualcomm(PBR106) issues open letter regarding 02/14/18 meeting with Broadcom(NASDAQ: AVGO), says Broadcom’s $82/share offer undervalues company, concerns about regulatory/anti-trust issues, proposed breakup fee inadequate, open to further discussions. $QCOM PR link.

FirstEnergy(PBR195) to deactivate the coal-fired 1,300 megawatt Pleasants Power Stationin Willow Island, WV, will be sold or closed on 01/01/19, effects around 190 employees. USDOC PR link.

Praxair(PBR233 $PX) merger with Germanybased Linde AG(Xetra: LIN) to create $30 billion/year company gets European Union anti-trust probe, concerns over few gases companies, potential threat to consumer/business prices, sets deadline of 07/04/18 to decide on deal. MarketWatch PR link.

General Cable(PBR418) stockholders approve acquisition by Italian based global energy and telecom cable systems provider Prysmian Group (BIT: PRY) for $30/share, $3 billion cash, expects to close by 3Q18. USDOC PR link.

Welltower(PBR635) to change stock symbol from NYSE: HCN to NYSE: WELL, effective with the opening of trading on 02/28/18. USDOC PR link.

Middleby(PBR865) acquires Bothell, WA, based $15 million sales/year equipment manufacturer of solutions for filling and depositing bakery and food products Hinds-Bock Corporation, terms not disclosed. USDOC PR link.

Trinity Industries(PBR402) announces that Group CFO/Construction, Energy, Marine and Components businesses Scott Beasley to be CFO of public spin-off infrastructure related businesses scheduled for 2H18, SVP/CFO James Perry to remain at Trinity. USDOC PR link.

Omnicom(PBR192) appoints Ronnie S. Hawkins, Managing Director, Head of International Investments and a member of the Investment Committee of EIG Global Energy Partners, to the Board. USDOC PR link.

CBRE(PBR301) appoints Brandon B. Boze as Board Chair, succeeding Ray Wirta, who will remain on the Board, effective following the company’s annual shareholders’ meeting in 05/18. USDOC PR link.

Wynn Resorts(PBR427) SEC filing states that former Chairman/CEO Steve Wynn is not entitled to any severance payment or other compensation from the Company under the employment agreement, includes SW agreeing to not directly compete against company for at least 2 years. $WYNN PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce releases results of investigations into steel and aluminum imports, identifies 3 options for each commodity, including at least a 24% tariff globally on steel, at least a 7.7% tariff globally on aluminum, as first options. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says US Preliminary January 2018 Private Housing Building Permits Issued Annual Rate was at 1,396,000 units, +7.4% from December 2017, +7.4% from January 2017. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary January 2018 All Imports Prices were +1.0%, Last 12 Months +3.6%; All Exports Priceswere +0.8%, Last 12 Months +3.4%. USDOL PR link.

The U of Michigan US Preliminary February 2018 Consumer Sentiment Index is at 99.9, January 2018 was 95.7, December 2017 95.9, February 2017 96.3. UMichigan PR link.

***Thursday, February 15:

Anthem(PBR38) completes acquisition of Florida based 130,000 members privately‐held for‐profit Medicare Advantage organization America’s 1st Choice, terms not disclosed. $ANTM PR link.

Oracle(PBR78) to acquire cloud based Web Application Firewall (WAF) and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) mitigation services provider Zenedge, terms not disclosed. $ORCL PR link.

AbbVie(PBR135) authorizes new $10 billion share repurchase program, supersedes existing programs. $ABBV PR link.

Air Products(PBR267) to acquire largest independent carbon dioxide(CO2) business in continental Europe ACP Europe SA, terms not disclosed. $APD PR link.

Avis Budget(PBR316) confirms receipt of notice from investor SRS Investment Management, which has 2 members on the Board, of its intent to nominate 5 at 2018 annual meeting, AB expresses disappointment, cites accomplishments of current board. $CAR PR link.

Becton Dickinson(PBR318) completes $100 million Achieve™ Programmable Automatic Biopsy System, Temno™ Biopsy System and Tru-Cut™ Biopsy Needles assets and CRB’s Aspira® Pleural Effusion Drainage Kits and the Aspira® Peritoneal Drainage System assets sale to Merit Medical(NASDAQ: MMSI). $BDX PR link.

Wyndham Worldwide(PBR464) to sell its $750 million/year European vacation rental business to Platinum Equity for around $1.3 billion, Wyndham will also get a 20 year 1% of net revenue royalty for use of its name. $WYN PR link.

Noble Energy(PBR471) authorizes share repurchase program through 2020 of $750 million, also to sell its deepwater Gulf of Mexicoassets to Fieldwood Energy for $710 million. $NBL PR link.

TEGNA(PBR622) completes $325 million cash acquisition of Midwest Television‘s broadcasting stations in San Diego, CA, KFMB-TV(CBS), KFMB-D2 (CW) and radio stations KFMB-AM/FM. $TGNA PR link.

TreeHouse Foods(PBR690) to close pretzels and cereal snack mixes manufacturing facility in Visalia, CA, by end of 1Q19, affects 294 employees. $THS PR link.

Aaron’s(PBR725) authorizes new up to $500 million share repurchase program, discontinues previous program. $AAN PR link.

A. Schulman(PBR791) to be acquired by plastics, chemicals and refining manufacturer LyondellBasell (NYSE: LYB) for $42/share, $2.25 billion cash, to close 2H18. $SHLM PR link.

Wendy’s(PBR877) authorizes new up to $175 million share repurchase program, expires 03/03/19. $WEN PR link.

Chemours(PBR454) President/Chemical Solutions Chris Siemer is leaving, Ed Sparks promoted to be successor effective 04/01/18. $CC PR link.

Coca-Cola(PBR63) nominates Christopher Davis, Chairman of $30+ billion in client assets Davis Advisors, and Caroline Tsay, CEO of cloud infrastructure software company Compute Software and former executive at Hewlett Packard Enterprises, to be elected to the Board at 04/18 annual meeting. $KO PR link.

Celgene(PBR347) elects John Weiland, former President/COO of recently acquired CR Bard, to the Board. $CELG PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US January 2018 Producer Price Index Total Monthly Final Demand was at +0.4%, December 2017 was +0.0%, November 2017 +0.4%, January 2017+0.5%, Total Last 12 Months(Unadjusted) is +2.7%. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says US Preliminary January 2018 Industrial Production % of Capacity is at 77.5%, December 2017 was 77.7%, November 2017 77.5%, January 201775.7%. USFed PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York says the Empire State February 2018 Manufacturing Current General Business Conditions Index is at 13.1, January 2018 was 17.7, December 2017 19.6, February 201717.1. NYFed PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphiasays the US 3rd District February 2018 Manufacturing General Activity Indicator is at 25.8, January 2018 was 22.2, December 201727.9, February 2017 35.3. PhillyFed PR link.

The Natl Assn of Home Builders/Wells Fargo US Preliminary February 2018 Housing Market Composite Index is at 72, January 2018 was 72, December 2017 74, February 2017 65. NAHB PR link.

FannieMae(PBR17) in February Economic and Housing Outlook continues to project a 2.7% growth rate in 2018, even with higher interest rates and stock market volatility. $FNMA PR link.

***Wednesday, February 14:

Fannie Mae(PBR17) records 4Q17 loss of $6.5 billion after provision for $9.9 billion in federal taxes from new tax regulations, had a net worth deficit of $3.7 billion on 12/31/17, FHFA to submit a request to US Treasury for $3.7 billion for FNMA. $FNMA PR link.

Cisco(PBR60) authorizes additional $25 billion for share repurchase program, balance is now $31 billion, no expiration date. $CSCO PR link.

Lockheed(PBR64) breaks ground on new, $50 million, 255,000 sf office facility in Orlando, FL, to hire 1,800 over next 2 years, 500 for Orlando. $LMT PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) board and senior management representatives to meet and determine next steps after meeting with Broadcom(NASDAQ: AVGO) representatives for 2 hours. $QCOM PR link.

Lear Corp(PBR165) authorizes increase of share repurchase program to $1.5 billion, expiration extended to 12/31/20. $LEA PR link.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR185) to pay Nektar Therapeutics(Nasdaq:NKTR) $1.0 billion plus purchase $850 million in NKTR shares at $102.60/share in global strategic development and commercialization collaboration for Nektar’s lead immuno-oncology program, NKTR-214. $BMY PR link.

Celgene(PBR347) authorizes additional $5 billion for share repurchase program, no expiration date. $CELG PR link.

NVR(PBR533) authorizes $300 million share repurchase program. $NVR PR link.

Equinix(PBR793) to acquire the 1.6 million gross-square-foot InfoMart Dallas from ASB Real Estate Investments, in an $800 million debt and cash transaction, to close mid 2018. $EQIX PR link.

Granite Construction(PBR831) to acquire water management, construction, and drilling company Layne Christensen(NASDAQ: LAYN)in a stock-for-stock transaction valued at $565 million, including the assumption of net debt, to close in 2Q18. $GVA PR link.

Popular(PBR886) to acquire Wells Fargo(PBR30)’s auto finance business in Puerto Rico for $1.7 billion cash. $BPOP PR link.

SunTrust Banks(PBR307) Vice Chairman & head/Consumer Segment Mark Chancy and EVP & head/Wholesale Segment Beau Cummins to become co-COOs; CFO Aleem Gillani to retire in 2Q18, head of Commercial Banking Allison Dukes named successor, effective 03/31/18. $STI PR link.

Constellation Brands(PBR377) promotes Bill Newlands to President/COO, President/CEO Rob Sands retains CEO role. $STZ PR link.

Honeywell(PBR74) President/CEO Darius Adamczyk nominated to be Chairman at 04/23/18 annual meeting, to succeed retiring Dave Cote; Duncan B. Angove, President of Infor, elected to Board. $HON PR link.

Chemours(PBR454) board member Stephen D. Newlin to not seek re-election, needs more personal time. $CC PR link.

T Rowe Price(PBR570) Vice Chairman Ed Bernard to retire on 12/31/18 after 30 years with the firm; Rob Sharps named head of Investments and remains CIO, effective 03/01/18. $TROW PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary January Consumer Price Index(CPI)-All Itemswas +0.5%, Food was +0.2%, Energy was +3.0%, All Items Last 12 Months is at +2.1%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary January 2018 Current Average Earnings/Houris at $26.74, Average Hours Worked/Week is at 34.3, for Average Weekly Income of $917.18, -0.2% from December, +2.6% from January 2017. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary December 2017 Total Manufacturer Sales were at $1.431 trillion, +0.6% from November 2017, +6.7% from December 2016. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Advance January 2018 Total Retail Trade was at $492.0 billion, -0.3% from December 2017, +3.6% from January 2017. USDOC PR link.

***Tuesday, February 13:

Phillips 66(PBR7) to repurchase 35 million shares of common stock from Berkshire Hathaway(PBR4) for $93.725/share, $3.3 billion, eliminates regulatory requirements issue for BH which remains a primary stockholder with just under a 10% stake. $PSX PR link.

MetLife(PBR39) review reveals deficiencies in notifying certain Retirement and Income Solutions (“RIS”) group annuitants, affects 13,500 retirees. $MET PR link.

PepsiCo(PBR43) authorizes new share repurchase program of up to $15 billion of PepsiCo common stock, starts 07/01/18, expires 6/30/21, replaces $12 billion repurchase program that started 07/01/15 with expiration date of 06/30/18. $PEP PR link.

Broadcom(NASDAQ: AVGO) to seek election of six, rather than 11, nominees to the Qualcomm(PBR106 $QCOM) Board. $AVGO PR link.

AFLAC(PBR121) announces 2:1 stock splitpayable 03/16/18. $AFL PR link.

Xerox(PBR144) responds to major shareholders Carl Icahn and Darwin Deason open letter regarding disagreement for merger with FujiFilm, explains why concerns are false. $XRX PR link.

Henry Schein(PBR270) denies FTC anti-trust price fixing allegations, plans vigorous defense. $HSIC PR link.

Becton Dickinson(PBR318) gets US FDA pre-market approval for BD Onclarity™ HPV Assay, can detect 14 high-risk HPV types. $BDX PR link.

Barnes & Noble(PBR408) implements new labor model for its stores, has eliminated certain store positions, provides flexibility for staffing. $BKS PR link.

HanesBrands(PBR459) completes $400 million cash acquisition of Sydney, Australia based specialty retailer and online seller of intimate apparel in Australia, New Zealand and South Africa $144 million sales/2017 Bras N Things. $HBI PR link.

GNC(PBR743) to get $300 million investment from China based Harbin Pharmaceutical, to form strategic joint venture partnership for manufacturing, marketing, sale and distribution of GNC-branded products in China. $GNC PR link.

Kemper(PBR847) to acquire specialty, nonstandard auto insurance segment 2,300 employees, 10,600 independent agents, $1.4 billion in 2017 direct written premiums provider Infinity Property and Casualty Corporation (NASDAQ: IPCC) for $129/share, $1.4 billion cash/stock. $KMPR PR link.

Nationstar Mortgage(PBR857) to acquire legacy reinsurance business provider WMIH Corp(NASDAQ: WMIH)(fka Washington Mutual) for $18.00/share or exchange share equivalent, to close 2H18. $NSM PR link.

Fitbit(PBR870) to acquire health coaching platform provider Twine Health, to close 1Q18, terms not disclosed. $FIT PR link.

Charles River Labs(PBR900) to acquire global biopharmaceutical and medical devices testing services provider MPI Research for $800 million cash. $CRL PR link.

Chipotle(PBR561) hires former YUM!(PBR217)’s Taco Bell division CEO Brian Niccol as CEO, Chairman/CEO/Founder Steve Ells to become Executive Chairman, both effective 03/05/18. $CMG PR link.

Blackstone(PBR352) President/COO Tony James named Executive Vice Chairman, Global Head of Real Estate Jon Gray becomes President/COO. $BX PR link.

Charles River Labs(PBR900) EVP & President/Global Research Models & Services Dr. Davide Molho now President/COO. $CRL PR link.

CBL & Assoc(PBR998) promotes Mike Harrison to EVP/Operations and Alan Lebovitz to EVP/Management. $CBL PR link.

Mondelez(PBR87) appoints Debra Crew, former President/CEO of Reynolds American, and Peter May, President/Founding Partner of Trian Fund Management, to the Board, Nelson Peltz, CEO/Founding Partner of Trian, to step down, all effective 03/01/18. $MDLZ PR link.

Dollar General(PBR151) appoints Tim McGuire, Chairman of Canada based smartphone repair shops Mobile Klinik, and Ralph Santana, EVP/Chief Marketing Officer of Samsung subsidiary Harman International Industries, to the Board. $DG PR link.

Washington is budgeting a $5.1 billion taxpayer bailout for FannieMae(PBR17 $FNMA) and FreddieMac(PBR41 $FMCC). MarketWatch PR link.

CoreLogic reports that US November Housing Mortgage Payments 30 Days or More Delinquent was at 5.1%, October was 5.1%. September 5.0%, November 2016 5.2%; US November Total Percentage of Houses in Foreclosure was 0.6%, November 2016 was 0.8%. CoreLogic PR link.

***Monday, February 12:

General Motors(PBR8)’s S Korea unit to cease production and close its increasingly underutilized Gunsan plant by the end of May 2018. $GM PR link.

MetLife(PBR39) establishing $15/hr minimum wage for US employees, providing minimum group life insurance benefit of $75,000, introducing a $300 minimum monthly credit for the cash-balance formula of the company’s defined benefit pension plan, enhancing the 401(k) plan design, extending company-paid group legal services offered through MetLife’s Hyatt Legal Plans, creating a new $10 million skills development fund. $MET PR link.

Lockheed(PBR64) delivers 400th C-130J Super Hercules Aircraft, operations in 17 countries, over 1.7 million flight hours. $MET PR link.

Oracle(PBR78) to rapidly open 12 new datacenter regions and increase the breadth and depth of Oracle Cloud services available across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. $ORCL PR link.

21st Century Fox(PBR91) proposes safeguards for UK’s Sky News independence for at least 5 years as part of acquisition. -Marketwatch $FOX PR link.

General Dynamics(PBR94) to acquire $5 billion sales/year government IT business services provider CSRA (NYSE: CSRA) for $40.75/share, $9.6 billion, includes $2.8 billion debt. $GD PR link.

Lennar(PBR340) completes $51.34/share, $9.3 billion, includes $3.6 billion debt, acquisition of CalAtlantic(PBR799). $LEN PR link.

Herbalife(PBR487) establishes new 600 million RMB ($90 Million USD) China Growth and Impact Investment Fund to be used for acquisitions, nutrition clubs expansion, technology, and research, learning, and training. $HLF PR link.

Pinnacle West(PBR620) subsidiary APS to provide electricity from First Solar(PBR631) 65 MW solar field and 50 MW solar-fueled battery in Arizona, plans expansion to over 500 MW battery storage. $PNW PR link.

Barnes & Noble(PBR408) hires Timothy Mantel as Chief Merchandising Officer. $BKS PR link.

Murphy Oil(PBR448) EVP/CFO John W. Eckart to retire upon appointment of successor sometime in 2018. $MUR PR link.

Regeneron(PBR708) hires Marion McCourt as SVP/Head of Commercial. $REGN PR link.

Equifax(PBR795) hires Jamil Farshchi as Chief Information Security Officer. $EFX PR link.

Southern Co(PBR155) appoints Dr. Ernest Moniz, the former US Secretary of Energy and a physicist, to the Board effective 03/01/18. $SO PR link.

Insight(PBR460) appoints Linda Breard, an experienced CFO for tech companies, to the Board. $NSIT PR link.

Simon Property(PBR494) appoints Marta R Steward, recently retired EVP/CFO of Norfolk Southern(PBR242), to the Board. $SPG PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US January Federal Government Receipts were $361.0 billion, Outlays $311.8 billion, Surplus $49.2 billion; YTD(4 months) Receipts are $1.131 trillion, YTD Outlays $1.306 trillion, YTD Deficit$ 0.176 trillion. Treasury PR link.

***Friday, February 9:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 02/09/18:
DJIA ends the week at 24,190.90, -5.21% from last Friday, -7.49% MTD, -2.14% QTD/YTD, -9.11% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.
NASDAQ ends the week at 6,874.49, -5.06% from last Friday, -7.25% MTD, -0.42% QTD/YTD, -8.41% from record 7,505.77 set 01/26/18.
SPX ends the week at 2,619.55, -5.16% from last Friday, -7.23% MTD, -2.02% QTD/YTD, -8.82% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

Alphabet(PBR44 $GOOG)’s Waymo self driving vehicle unit and Uber agree to settle court case about intellectual property, Waymo to get 0.34% equity in Uber, worth around $245 million, originally sought $1 billion. The Verge PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106 $QCOM) is sent letter by Broadcom(NASDAQ: AVGO) requesting meeting this weekend, reiterates $82/share is final offer, strong Qualcomm shareholder support, $8 billion reverse termination fee. Broadcom PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) extends cash tender offer again to acquire Netherlands based NXP Semiconductors NV(NASDAQ: NXPI) for $110.00/share, $47 billion cash to 02/23/18, 1.5% of NXP common shares have been validly tendered. $QCOM PR link.

Insperity(PBR814) to pay one-time bonuses of $1,000 to $4,000 based on tenure to its non-management employees, $9 million total, result of recent tax reform bill. $NSP PR link.

Gartner(PBR885) to sell its global provider of talent assessment solutions CEB Talent Assessment to private UK based Exponent Private Equity for $400 million, to close 1H18. $IT PR link.

GameStop(PBR294) terminates employment of COO Tony Bartel and EVP/Strategic Business and Brand Development Michael Hogan without cause. $GME PR link.

Juniper Networks(PBR516) Chief Customer Officer Vincent Molinaro to step down upon appointment of successor; receives US Dept of Justice letter saying it has closed investigation into possible violations of the US Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (“FCPA”) without taking any action against the Company. $JNPR PR link.

NGL Energy(PBR207) appoints L. John Schaufele IV, of private investment firm The Energy & Minerals Group, to the Board, replaces Patrick G. Wade as a Director. $NGL PR link.

Ryder(PBR378) Board member L. Patrick Hassey has retired after 13 years of service. $R PR link. Ryder(PBR378) elects David G. Nord, Chairman/President/CEO of Hubbell(PBR632), and Dmitri L. Stockton, recently retired SVP and Special Advisor to the Chairman of GE(PBR9), to the Board, effective 03/01/18. $R PR link.

Newell Brands(PBR434) confirms receipt of activist investor Starboard Value‘s intention to nominate 10 candidates to stand for election to the Board at 2018 annual meeting, summarizes its current board and management achievements. $NWL PR link.

Amkor Technology(PBR659) appoints Doug Alexander, former president of multi-vertical cloud technology company Actua Corporation, and MaryFrances McCourt, VP/Finance and Treasurer at the University of Pennsylvania, to the Board. $AMKR PR link.

Guess?(PBR798) Board forms Special Committee of two independent directors to oversee an ongoing investigation into recent allegations of improper conduct by founder Paul Marciano who adamantly denies the allegations. $GES PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary December Total Wholesale Saleswere at $500.2 billion, +1.2% from November, +9.1% from December 2016. USDOC PR link.

***Thursday, February 8:

ExxonMobil(PBR2) adds 2.7 bilion oil-equivalent barrels of oil and gas to reserves in 2017, replaces 187% of 2017 productivity, reserves life at current production rates is 14 years. $XOM PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) introduces free two-hour delivery from Whole Foods Market through Prime Now in Austin, Cincinnati, Dallas and Virginia Beach, to expand across US throughout 2018. $AMZN PR link.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR37) Janssen Pharmaceutical unit gets US FDA approval for new indication of ZYTIGA® (abiraterone acetate) in combination with prednisone for the treatment of patients with metastatic high-risk castration-sensitive prostate cancer (CSPC). $JNJ PR link.

Tyson(PBR80) providing one-time $1,000 bonus to qualified full-time employees, $500 to part-time, effects 100,000+, enhancing employee training, education and development opportunities, accelerate capital projects, cites effect of new US tax laws. $TSN PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) Board unanimously rejects Broadcom(NASDAQ: AVGO) unsolicited 02/05/18 revised $60/share plus $22/share of Broadcom stock as undervalued and well short of regulatory commitment, and has offered to meet Broadcom to discuss issues. $QCOM PR link.

YUM!(PBR217) and Grubhub (NYSE: GRUB)announce new US growth partnership, Initially includes online ordering for pickup and delivery from US KFC and Taco Bell restaurants, Yum! to purchase $200M of common stock from Grubhub, Pizza Hut US President Artie Starrs to join Grubhub board of directors as an independent director. $YUM PR link.

KKR(PBR332) in 4Q17 report says it is evaluating changing structure from partnership to corporation. $KKR PR link.

Salesforce(PBR453) to invest $2 billion in its Canadian business over 5 years. $CRM PR link.

HanesBrands(PBR459) to acquire Sydney, Australia based specialty retailer and online seller of intimate apparel in Australia, New Zealand and South Africa $144 million sales/2017 Bras N Things for around $400 million cash. $HBI PR link.

Synopsys(PBR879) completes acquisition of Enschede, the Netherlands, based global supplier of photonic chip design solutions PhoeniX Solutions, terms not disclosed. $SNPS PR link.

New York Times(PBR971) says in 4Q17 it added 99,000 net digital news subscriptions and 157,000 total net digital-only subscriptions, has 2,644,000 net digital-only subscriptions, +41.8% from 4Q16. $NYT PR link.

Sensient Technologies(PBR997) to acquire Lima, Peru, based natural color business of GlobeNatural from Michell Group, terms not disclosed. $SXT PR link.

Cooper-Standard(PBR644) hires Jeffrey A. DeBest to the newly created position of President/Advanced Technology Group. $CPS PR link.

Universal Corp(PBR833) SVP/CFO David Moore to retire effective 08/31/18, SVP Johan C. Kroner named successor. $UVV PR link.

Mattel(PBR412) appoints Ynon Kreiz as Non-Executive Chairman, to be effective at the annual meeting, succeeds retiring Chairman and former CEO Christopher A. Sinclair. $MAT PR link.

CME Group(PBR664) Chairman Emeritus Leo Melamed to retire from Board at the conclusion of his current term in 05/18. $CME PR link.Retired Chairman Jack Sandner to step down from Board in 05/18. $CME PR link. Names slate of director nominees for 05/09/18 annual meeting. $CME PR link.

Allison Transmission(PBR865) Board members Francis ‘Buzz’ Raborn and Jamie Star to not seek re-election when their terms end at 2018 annual meeting. $ALSN PR link.

***Wednesday, February 7:

AT&T(PBR12) exploring initial public offering of a minority interest in its Latin America entertainment services business, DIRECTV Latin America, in 1H18. $T PR link.

Gilead Sciences(PBR107) gets US FDA approval for Biktarvy® (Bictegravir, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Alafenamide) for treatment of HIV-1 infection. $GILD PR link.

Anadarko(PBR154) increases share repurchase program by $500 million to $3.0 billion. $APC PR link.

SuperValu(PBR164) confirms Blackwells Capital intent to nominate directors for next annual meeting, outlines current transformation actions underway. $SVU PR link.

NRG Energy(PBR186) to sell its ownership interests in NRG Yield and NRG’s Renewables Platform to Global Infrastructure Partners for $1.375 billion cash, to close 2H18; NRG Yield to purchase NRG’s interest in certain ROFO pipeline assets for $407 million; NRG’s South Central business being sold to Cleco Corporate Holdings for $1 billion; NRG sets 2018 total asset sales cash proceeds target to approximately $3.2 billion. $NRG PR link.

Terex(PBR357) authorizes new up to $325 million share repurchase program. $TEX PR link.

Alleghany Corp(PBR467) subsidiary acquires San Angelo, TX, based fabricator of steel bridges and structural steel for stadiums, airports, and other large commercial and industrial projects Hirschfeld Industries, terms not disclosed. $Y PR link.

Fiserv(PBR474) to sell 55% ownership stake in its Lending Solutions business to Warburg Pincus for $395 million net after-tax proceeds, retains 45% ownership. $FISV PR link.

Berry Global(PBR488) completes $475 million cash acquisition of Clopay Plastic Productsunit from Griffon Corp(PBR890). $BERY PR link.

Chipotle(PBR561) to provide its 71,000 associates accelerated training programs, up to $1,000 one time bonus for qualified hourly/salaried employees, one time stock grant for qualified staff employees, expanding maternity/paternity coverage, result of new tax laws. $CMG PR link.

NASDAQ(PBR618) to move corporate headquarters from downtown Manhattan to its MarketSite location at 4 Times Square, 145,000 sf 15 year lease. $NDAQ PR link.

Tesla(PBR651) says 2018 to be transformative year, expects to begin generating positive quarterly operating income on a sustained basis at some point as Model 3 production hits numbers. $TSLA PR link.

Hain Celestial(PBR712) exploring divestiture of its Hain Pure Protein business, did $159 million last fiscal year. $HAIN PR link.

TSYS(PBR790) to provide its Virtual Payment Precept solution for JPMorgan Chase(PBR21)‘s commercial card business. $TSS PR link.

AAR Corp(PBR883) and to do joint venture with India based Indamer Aviation for the development of a new airframe maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility in Nagpur, India, to serve India’s growing airline services. $AIR PR link.

New York Times(PBR971) introduces its online T Magazine, new format print version coming out 02/18/18. $NYT PR link.

Nelnet(PBR972) completes $150 million cash acquisition of Madison, WI, based student loan servicing company Great Lakes Educational Loan Services. $NNI PR link.

Weight Watchers(PBR988) strategic vision by 2020 end is to help 10 million people adopt healthy habits, grow revenue to $2+ billion, remove all artificial ingredients from its products, offer free memberships to teenagers. $WTW PR link.

Valero Energy(PBR13) EVP/CFO Michael Ciskowski to retire effective 05/03/18, SVP/Treasurer Donna Titzman to become EVP/CFO at that time. $VLO PR link.

Omnicom(PBR192) promotes Wendy Clark to President/CEO of its DDB Worldwide unit, succeeds Chuck Brymer who will assume the title of Chairman. $OMC PR link.

CA Technologies(PBR550) hires Ava Hahn as EVP/General Counsel and Corporate Secretary, succeeds departing Michael Bisignano. $CA PR link.

Keysight Technologies(PBR660) promotes Mark Pierpoint SVP & President/Ixia Solutions Group, succeeds departed Bethany Mayer. $KEYS PR link.

Cardinal Health(PBR26) elects Akhil Johri, EVP/CFO of United Technologies(PBR45), to the Board. $CAH PR link.

Progressive(PBR145) Chairman and former CEO Glenn Renwick to retire from the Board effective with annual shareholders meeting in 05/18, after 30 years with the company. $PGR PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says US Preliminary December Total Consumer Debt Outstandingwas at $3.481 trillion, +0.5% from November, +5.4% for 2017. TheFed PR link.

FannieMae(PBR17) says US January Home Purchase Sentiment Index is at new high of 89.5, December was 85.8, November 87.8, January 2017 82.7. $FNMA PR link.

***Tuesday, February 6:

Omnicom(PBR192) Health Group unit acquires Williamsburg, VA, based Snow Companies, a full-service patient engagement agency that focuses on direct-to-patient (DTP) communications, marketing, education, and patient research initiatives for major pharmaceutical and biotech companies around the world. $OMC PR link.

Pioneer Natural Resources(PBR476) plans to divest its S Texas, Raton, and West Panhandleassets. $PXD PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Sioux Falls, SD, based property/casualty, life, health and voluntary benefits coverages to businesses and individuals agency Williams Insurance Agency, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

Fresh Del Monte(PBR527) to acquire grower, processor and supplier of a broad variety of fresh and value-added vegetable products in N America, $535 million/2017, Mann Packing Co, for $361 million cash. $FDP PR link.

Xylem(PBR575) acquires urban water cycle and wastewater and stormwater systems solutions for municipalities provider EmNet, terms not disclosed. $XYL PR link.

Carlisle Cos(PBR650) authorizes additional 5 million shares repurchase program, balance is now 7.1 million shares, no expiration date. $CSL PR link.

Bon-Ton Stores(PBR707) gets bankruptcy court approval for “First Day” motions, including authorization to access up to $725 million in debtor-in-possession financing from its existing ABL lenders, stores, e-commerce and mobile platforms operating as normal. $BONT PR link.

GameStop(PBR294) EVP & President/International Mike Mauler appointed CEO, effective immediately. $GME PR link.

Wynn Resorts(PBR427) Chairman/CEO Steve Wynn resigns, effective immediately; President Matt Maddox appointed CEO and Boone Wayson Non-Executive Chairman. $WYNN PR link.

Cinemark(PBR739) promotes Jay Jostrand to SVP/Real Estate, succeeds retiring Tom Owens. $CNK PR link.

Southwest Gas(PBR867) SVP/CFO Roy Centrella to retire effective 04/01/18, to be succeeded by VP/Controller Gregory Peterson. $SWX PR link.

Trimble Navigation(PBR804) appoints Johan Wibergh, group technology officer and CIO of Vodafone, to the Board. $TRMB PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary December Job Openings were at 5,811,000, -2.8% from November, +4.9% from December 2016. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says US Preliminary December Total Exports were $203.4 billion, Total Imports $256.5 billion, Total Deficit $53.1 billion, Total 2017 Deficit was $566.0 billion, Total 2016 Deficit was $504.8 billion. Total 2015 Deficit was $500.4 billion. USDOC PR link.

The PurdueU/CME Group US January Ag Barometer Composite Index is at 135, December was 126, November 128, January 2017 153. PurdueU/CME PR link.

***Monday, February 5:

Kroger(PBR20) to sell 762 convenience storesunit to UK based privately held petrol forecourt convenience store retailer EG Group for $2.15 billion. $KR PR link.

Anthem(PBR38) to contribute $1,000 to 401(k) accounts of 58,000+ associates and recent retirees on 03/29/18. $ANTM PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) confirms receipt of Broadcom(NASDAQ: AVGO) unsolicited proposal to acquire Qualcomm for $60/share plus $22/share of Broadcom stock, revised from previous offer of $60/share plus $10/share of Broadcom stock, which was rejected as undervalued. $QCOM PR link.

ConAgra(PBR166) completes acquisition of $60 million/2017 frozen breakfast and entrée flatbread sandwiches provider Sandwich Bros. of Wisconsin® business, terms not disclosed. $CAG PR link.

Viacom(PBR212) strikes wide-ranging mobile streaming deal with Telefónica across Latin America. $VIA PR link.

Arconic(PBR215) announces $500 million share repurchase program and $500 million early debt reduction. $ARNC PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR314) completes $140 million renovation of Harrah’s Las Vegas, celebrates 80th anniversary of the Harrah’s brand. $CZR PR link.

Owens Corning(PBR465) completes $1.05 billion acquisition of $480 million revenues/2017 1,800+ employees mineral wool insulation for building and technical applications in Europeproducer Paroc Group. $OC PR link.

NVIDIA(PBR510) and global automotive technology company Continental partnering to create top-to-bottom AI self-driving vehicle systems built on the NVIDIA DRIVE™ platform, with a planned market introduction starting in 2021. $NVDA PR link.

Skyworks(PBR582) announces up to $1 billion share repurchase program, expires 01/31/20. $SWKS PR link.

Hubbell(PBR632) completes $1.1 billion acquisition of global supplier of smart infrastructure solutions to water, gas, and electric utilities Aclara Technologies, an affiliate of Sun Capital Partners. $HUBB PR link.

Varian Medical(PBR678) acquires privately-held 1,000+ customer sites radiation oncology Quality Assurance (QA) software provider Mobius Medical Systems, terms not disclosed. $VAR PR link.

SunPower(PBR680) and First Solar(PBR630 $FSLR) to sell 8point3 Energy Partners joint venture to CD Clean Energy and associates for $12.35/share, $977 million, to close by 3Q18 end. $SPWR PR link.

Bon-Ton Stores(PBR707) files for voluntary Chapter 11 bankruptcy to implement financial restructuring. $BONT PR link.

Avon Products(PBR303) hires Jan Zijderveld as CEO, effective immediately, succeeds Sheri McCoy, who previously announced her intention to retire from the Company and Board. $AVP PR link.

Micron Technology(PBR180) hires David Zinsner as SVP/CFO, effective 02/19/18, succeeds retiring Ernie Maddock. $MU PR link.

Dick’s Sporting Goods(PBR367) EVP/Chief Merchant Officer Keri Jones resigns effective 02/09/18 to take CEO role in another company. $DKS PR link.

US Federal Reserve System: Jerome H. Powell sworn in as Chairman of the Board of Governors, succeeds Janet L. Yellen. TheFed PR link.

The ISM US Preliminary January Non-Manufacturing Index is at 59.5%, Decemberwas 56.0%, November 57.4%, January 201756.5%. ISM PR link.

The IHS Markit US January Composite PMI Output Index is at 53.8, December was 54.1, November 54.5, January 2017 55.8. IHS Markit PR link.

***Sunday, February 4:

***The Philadelphia Eagles win Super Bowl LII, its first Super Bowl Championship, 41-33, over The New England Patriots. Eagles quarterback Nick Foles is selected as MVP.***

***Friday, February 2:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the week ending 02/02/18:
DJIA ends the week at 25,520.96, -4.12% from last Friday, -2.40% MTD, +3.24% QTD/YTD, -4.12% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.
NASDAQ ends the week at 7,240.95, -3.53% from last Friday, -2.30% MTD, +4.89% QTD/YTD, -3.53% from record 7,505.77 set 01/26/18.
SPX ends the week at 2,762.13, -3.85% from last Friday, -2.18% MTD, +3.31% QTD/YTD, -3.85% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

Wells Fargo(PBR30) provides plans and timelines to be in compliance with US Federal Reserve directives, including not being able to add assets at this time, continue to change out members of the Board. have a separate Chairman & CEO. $WFC PR link.

Lowe’s(PBR50) to provide an up to $1,000 one-time bonus to its 260,000+ part-time and full-time hourly employees, in addition to long-standing, store-level bonus program; also expands benefits program. $LOW PR link.

Cisco(PBR60) completes $55/share, $1.9 billion net of cash acquisition of cloud PBX, unified communications, team collaboration, and contact center solutions for businesses and service providers across 80 countries BroadSoft (NASDAQ: BSFT). $CSCO PR link.

Celgene(PBR347) starts $87/share, $9 billion cash, tender offer for cellular immunotherapy developer Juno Therapeutics(NASDAQ: JUNO), expires 03/02/18. $CELG PR link.

Trimble Navigation(PBR804) has acquired privately-held e-Builder, a leading SaaS-based construction program management solution for capital program owners and program management firms used in over 200,000 projects, for $500 million. $TRMB PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US January Total Employed was at 154,430,000, +409,000 from December, +2,354,000 from January 2017, Unemployment Rate remains at 4.1%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary December Total Manufacturers’ New Orders were at $498.2 billion, +1.7% from November, +7.2% from December 2016. USDOC PR link.

The U of Michigan US Final January Consumer Sentiment Index is at 95.7, December was 95.9, November 98.5, January 2017 98.5. UMich PR link.

***Thursday, February 1:

Kroger(PBR20) organic produce sales achieve $1 billion, almost 20% of US annual organic produce business. $KR PR link.

Cardinal Health(PBR26) completes $1.2 billion sale of its China pharmaceutical and medical products distribution business to Shanghai Pharma. $CAH PR link.

Wells Fargo(PBR30) completes $227 million sale of its Shareowner Services unit to UKbased Equiniti Group. $WFC PR link.

ConocoPhillips(PBR53) to acquire Anadarko(PBR154)‘s 22% interest in Western North Slope of Alaska, as well as its interest in the Alpine pipeline, for $400 million cash. $COP PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) The Workshop at Macy’s Alumni Verona Collection to launch on Macys.com on 02/15/18, will feature a curated selection of versatile, ready-to-wear pieces including dresses, tops, cardigans, pants and hijabs in a variety of colors and fabrics, $12.95 to $84.95. $M PR link.

Starbucks(PBR178) and JPMorgan Chase(PBR21) launch Starbucks Rewards VISA Card, integrated directly into the Starbucks Rewards™ loyalty program, “Stars” earned for purchases anywhere VISA accepted, $49 annual fee. $SBUX PR link.

CBS(PBR210) forms special committee to evaluate potential combination with Viacom(PBR212). (Viacom also forms a special committee.) $CBS PR link.

Allergan(PBR219) completes $2.9 billion acquisition of Acelity L.P. Inc.‘s regenerative medicine company LifeCell Corporation. $AGN PR link.

Allergan(PBR219) gets US FDA approval to expand the approved use of AVYCAZ® (ceftazidime and avibactam) to include the treatment of hospital-acquired bacterial pneumonia and ventilator-associated bacterial pneumonia. $AGN PR link.

Allergan(PBR219) to make one-time payment of $700 million to Teva Pharmaceuticals in settlement agreement. $AGN PR link.

iHeartMedia(PBR397) elects not to make a cash interest payment of $106 million, due 02/01/18, to holders of its 14% senior unsecured notes due 2021, will utilize 30 grace period as active discussions continue among its creditors regarding a comprehensive debt restructuring. $AGN PR link.

Take-Two Interactive(PBR956)‘s game Red Dead Redemption 2, planned for release during Spring 2018, is now planned to launch on 10/26/18 to allow additional time to further polish the final product. $AGN PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary 2017 Annual Labor Productivity Output/Hourwas +1.2%, 2016 was +0.0%, 2015 +1.2%; 2017 Annual Real Compensation/Hour was -0.6%, 2016 was -0.2%, 2015 +2.8%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary December Total Construction Spending Annual Rate is at $1.253 trillion, +0.7% from November, +5.4% from December 2016. USDOC PR link.

The ISM US January Manufacturing PMI Index(>50%=economy growing) is at 59.1%, December was 59.3%, November 58.2%, January 2017 56.0%. ISM PR link.

The IHS Markit US January Manufacturing PMI Index is at 55.5, December was 55.1, November 53.9, January 2017 55.0. IHS Markit PR link.

Automotive News reports that US January New Light Vehicle Sales were at 1,157,407 units, +1.2% from January 2017, the Average Transaction Price was $36,270, +0.4% from January 2017, the Average Incentive Outlay$3,812. Automotive News PR link.

***Wednesday, January 31:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Month Ending January, 01/31/18:
DJIA ends January at 26,149.39, -1.76% from last Friday, +5.79% MTD/QTD/YTD, -1.76% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.
NASDAQ ends January at 7,411.48, -1.26% from last Friday, +7.36% MTD/QTD/YTD, -1.26% from record 7,505.77 set 01/26/18.
SPX ends January at 2,823.81, -1.71% from last Friday, +5.62% MTD/QTD/YTD, -1.71% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

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