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The PBR1000 November 2016 Breaking News Recap

December 4, 2016 by admin

November 2016: Now What?

Congratulations to President-Elect Donald Trump and Vice-President Elect Mike Pence. Let’s Make America Even Greater!

By Larry C. Paxton

On the evening of Tuesday, November 8th, after a long, laborious, and vitriolic 2016 US Presidential campaign between two unpopular candidates, Americans and people around the world turned on their TVs and surfed the internet on their various devices to follow what most believed would be a narrow popular vote and wide margin Electoral College win by Hillary Clinton. But as the evening unfolded it became apparent that maybe pollsters had somehow missed their marks. The impossible path to victory for businessman Donald J. Trump slowly became somehow maybe possible, gained momentum, then became shockingly probable. In the early hours of November 9th it became clear that Trump had won the Electoral College vote and was now President-Elect. On top of that, unexpectedly the Senate and House maintained their Republican majorities. It was a most improbable and unexpected result. For several days there was chaos as the media interviewed anyone and everyone, it was analyzed and reported on in every possible way, and to this day there is still a sense of dismay by many.

The stock market made a good run and broke records, but why? Is it a sense of optimism, or a relief that the event is done, resolved, and that we can now move on?

Now what?

By the end of November there was a sense of acceptance, a general spirit of cooperativeness, and willingness to see how this unconventional President-Elect proceeds. Trump was starting to form his cabinet and make appointees. There have been and will continue to be controversies, gaffs, and some turmoil.

The Trump presidency promises to be different, at times be unpredictable, will move faster, be more emotional, cause higher ups and deeper downs, will test Americans, world leaders, and people and institutions globally in ways we cannot foresee.

Will there really be massive deportations of illegal immigrants, a longer taller border wall paid for by Mexico, tearing up of trade agreements, a slew of new conservative Supreme Court justices? Can corporate tax rates and government regulations be significantly reduced and yet the economy improve? Is there really the money and peoplepower available for major infrastructure projects? Can good manufacturing jobs really return to the US and companies remain profitable? Can the middle class be built up, poverty be greatly reduced, and income inequality become an issue of the past? Will coal become the energy king again and renewable energy stagnate? What will now be our policies on climate change? Time will tell, and this is just a partial list.

You can predict that there will be some plausible but not provable conspiracy theories, continued true and untrue revelations on character flaws, and that Saturday Night Live will have a treasure lode of new hilarious weekly skits.

But there is also an excitement and hope that it all go well, that President Trump be given his fair chance to move the United States of America forward in a way that keeps it the greatest, most influential, admired, and maybe even appreciated country on the planet.

Americans need to come together to be supportive and at the same time be vigilant. It is a fine balancing act that needs our thoughts, prayers, communications, and appropriate actions.

While the election was the big news, the world of business did not stop. Here’s the quick November 2016 summary on key activities that relate to The PBR1000:

US Presidency: Donald J. Trump is the US President-Elect, to be inaugurated as the 45th President of the United States on Friday, January 20, 2017.

Mergers & Acquisitions: 25 deals worth over $1 billion initiated, closed, or updated. Total transaction value is $136 billion.

Restructurings/Spinoffs: 5

Share Repurchase Programs: 20 announced, total $54 billion

Bankruptcies: 0

CEO Changes: 10 announced.

Jobs: Tepid growth

US Economy: Modest/moderate growth continues, stable but fragile, significant growth in eCommerce, retail outlets down.

Federal Reserve Federal Funds Rate Changes: 0, remains at 0.25-0.50%, meeting mid December.

International: Brexit, oil price fluctuations, Middle East conflicts, refugee crisis, N Korea nuclear/missile tests, Cuba’s Fidel Castro’s death, upcoming European elections, climate change, new US president were the headliners.

For more details here are The PBR1000 corporate and economic related breaking news items of interest with hotlinks to the sources for November 2016, starting with the last active business day.

Wednesday, November 30:

The PBRMarketTools End of November US Stock Exchanges Recap:
DJIA ends November at 19,123.58, -0.15% from last Friday, +5.41% MTD, +4.45% QTD, +9.75% YTD, -0.15% from record 19,152.14 on 11/25/16.
NASDAQ ends November at 5,323.68, -1.39% from last Friday, +2.59% MTD, +0.22% QTD, +6.32% YTD, -1.39% from record 5,398.92 on 11/25/16.
SPX ends November at 2,198.81, -0.66% from last Friday, +3.42% MTD, +1.41 QTD, +7.58% YTD, -0.66% from record 2,213.35 on 11/25/16.

Tesla(PBR651 $TSLA) wins right to operate dealerships in Richmond, Va. MarketWatch PR link.

Synopsys(PBR879) completes acquisitions of technology security services providers Cigital and its spinoff Codiscope. $SNPS PR link.

GoPro(PBR1010) says Black Friday sales up 35% YoY, closing entertainment division, reducing workforce by 15%, president Tony Bates leaving. $GPRO PR link.

McCormick(PBR552) president/CEO Lawrence Kurzius to also be chairman up retirement of Alan Wilson on 01/31/17. $MKC PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says 11/29/16 US Public Debt at $14.431 trillion, Government $5.499 trillion, Total $19.930 trillion, +5.9% YTD. Treasury PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Board releases Beige Book for period ending 11/18/16, reports mostly modest to moderate growth. FRB PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US October Total Personal Income Annual Rate at $16.260 trillion, Taxes $2.009 trillion, effective Tax Rate 12.35%. USDOC PR link.

The US Energy Information Administration says US Crude Oil Stocks on 11/25/16 were 488.1 million barrels, +4.3% from 10/21/16, +7.0% from 11/20/15. EIA PR link.

ADP(PBR235) says US November Employment +216,000 jobs from October, +228,000 from services, -11,000 from goods sectors. $ADP PR link.

ISM reports November MNI Chicago Business Barometer(50=Neutral) at 57.6, October was 50.6, September 54.2. ISM/MNI PR link.

American Automobile Assn says 11/30/16 US National Regular Gas Average/Gallon at $2.150, 10/31/16 was $2.210, 11/30/15 $2.038. AAA PR link.

OPEC members agree to cut oil production by 1.2 million barrels/day to 32.5 million barrels/day. MarketWatch PR link.

Tuesday, November 29:

AT&T(PBR12) DirecTV NOW streaming service available 11/30/16, $35/mo for 60+ channels to $70/mo for 120+ channels options. $T PR link.

Medtronic(PBR133) first to receive European approval for less-invasive HVAD® implant procedure. $MDT PR link.

Cognizant(PBR272) to acquire digital marketing/customer experience Netherland’s based 260 person agency Mirabeau BV. $CTSH PR link.

Pilgrim’s Pride(PBR310) to acquire Upper Midwest premium branded chicken products GNP Company for $350 million cash. $PPC PR link.

KKR(PBR332) to be majority shareholder in Sweden based 9,500 employees $990 million/yr beds/mattresses provider Hilder Anders. $KKR PR link.

McCormick(PBR552) to acquire Italian $56 million/yr flavor manufacturer Enrico Giotti SpAfor $127 million. $MKC PR link.

Sonoco Products(PBR480) promotes Rob Tiede to EVP/COO, other senior leadership promotions announced. $SON PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce 2nd Estimate 3Q16 Gross Domestic Product was 3.2%, $18.658 trillion, +1.1% from 2Q16, +2.84% from 3Q15. USDOC PR link.

The Conference Board November Consumer Confidence Index(1985=100) at 107.1, October was 100.8. TCB PR link.

S&P/CoreLogic/Case-Shiller September National Home Price Index(2000=100) at 184.80, Aug 184.12, Sept 2015 175.23. Case-Shiller PR link.

Adobe(PBR557) says Cyber Monday Online Sales at record $3.39 billion, +10.2% from 2015, Black Friday did $3.34 billion. $ADBE PR link.

Monday, November 28:

Allstate(PBR84) to acquire consumer protection plan provider SquareTrade for $1.4 billion. $ALL PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) Signs Sub-license Agreement with the Medicines Patent Pool to Increase Access to Hepatitis C Treatment in Developing Countries. $MYL PR link.

Under Armour(PBR668) changing Class A shares trading symbol from UA to UAA, Class C from UA.C to UA starting 12/07/16. $UA PR link.

Edwards Lifesciences(PBR819) to acquire Israel based private Valtech Cardio for $340 million plus up to $350 million over 10 years; authorizes up to an additional $1 billion in stock repurchase program, balance is $1.277 billion. $EW PR link.

Verisk Analytics(PBR943) acquires property/casualty insurance market intelligence data and analytics firm MarketStance. $VRSK PR link.

AMSURG(PBR945) & Envision Healthcare(NYSE: $EVHC) stockholders approve $15 billion merger, to be effective 12/01/16. $AMSG PR link.

Juniper Networks(PBR516) hires Terese Kemble as Chief Human Resources Officer. $JNPR PR link.

HSN(PBR609) hires Ron Little as CFO starting 01/03/17. $HSNI PR link.

Friday, November 25:

The PBRMarketTools Week Ending 11/25/16 US Stock Exchanges Recap:
DJIA ends week at 19,152.14, +1.51% from last Friday, +5.57% MTD, +4.61% QTD, +9.91% YTD, +0.00% from record 19,152.14 on 11/25/16.
NASDAQ ends week at 5,398.92, +1.45% from last Friday, +4.04% MTD, +1.64% QTD, +7.82% YTD, +0.00% from record 5,398.92 on 11/25/16.
SPX ends week at 2,213.35, +1.44% from last Friday, +4.10% MTD, +2.08% QTD, +8.29% YTD, +0.00% from record 2,213.35 on 11/25/16.

Economic Inequality: Global wealth study reveals ‘shockingly’ high levels of economic inequality. MarketWatch PR link.

International News: Longtime Cuban leader Fidel Castro dies at age 90.

Thursday, November 24:

***Happy & Blessed Thanksgiving!***
Let’s give thanks for our courageous forefathers, for the many freedoms we enjoy, for family and friends, for the safe food and water that sustains us,and pray for peace in the world.

Wednesday, November 23:

Merck(PBR70) and Sanofi Pasteur to end joint vaccines operations in Europe on 12/31/16. $MRK PR link.

Freeport-McMoRan(PBR128) completes at-the-market common stock offering, raises $1.5 billion on sale of 116.5 million shares since 07/28/16. $FCX PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR142) says solanezumab for mild dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease phase 3 study did not meet primary endpoint. $LLY PR link.

Bed Bath & Beyond(PBR240) acquires PersonalizationMall.com for $190 million cash. $BBBY PR link.

FMC Technologies(PBR334) & France based Technip(EUROnext: TEC) get EU clearance for $13 billion merger, special stockholders meetings set for 12/05/16. $FTI PR link.

SPX(PBR506) to sell European Power Generation Business to Germany based mutares AG by 12/31/16. $SPXC PR link.

The Federal Reserve Board releases the FOMC minutes from 11/01-02/16 meeting, expects economy to grow at moderate pace, labor market to strengthen. FRB PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says 11/19/16 Unemployment Insurance Weekly Claims at 251,000, -0.8% from 10/22/16, -7.4% from 11/25/15. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of HUD estimates US October Median Home Price at $304,500, -3.1% from September, +1.9% from October 2015. HUD PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) says 11/23/16 Average 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rate at 4.03%, 10/27/16 was 3.47%, 11/25/15 was 3.95%. $FMCC PR link.

The University of Michigan US Final November Consumer Sentiment Index at 93.8, October was 87.2, November 2015 91.3. UMich PR link.

Tuesday, November 22:

Amazon(PBR29) to open third Nevada fulfillment center in N Las Vegas, will have 800,000 sf, create 1,000 jobs. $AMZN PR link.

Allergan(PBR219) gets FDA clearance for XEN® Gel Stent, new surgical treatment for refractory glaucoma. $AGN PR link.

Allergan(PBR219) acquires Chase Pharmaceuticals to expand CNS R&D pipeline and build on commitment to Alzheimer’s Disease. $AGN PR link.

KKR(PBR332) to acquire Nissan‘s 41% share of Japanese automotive components manufacturer Calsonic Kansei Corp. $KKR PR link.

Dr Pepper Snapple(PBR406) to acquire antioxidant infused beverages provider Bai Brands for $1.7 billion cash. $DPS PR link.

Lithia Motors(PBR451) acquires $90 million/year Honolulu, HI, Ford store. $LAD PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmondsays 5th District October Manufacturing Index at 4, September was -4, August -8. RichmondFed PR link.

The National Assn of Realtors says US October Existing Home Sales Annual Rateat 5.6 million, +2% from September, +5.9% from October 2015 NAR PR link.

Monday, November 21:

AT&T(PBR12), DISH(PBR196) and WPP to acquire TV addessable advertising provider INVIDI, operate it together. $T PR link.

CitiGroup(PBR28) to add up to $1.75 billion to stock repurchase program, balance is up to $10.35 billion. $C PR link.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR37) Janssen Biotech unit gets FDA approval for DARZALEXas additional multiple myeloma therapy. $JNJ PR link.

Oracle(PBR78) acquires cloud-based 3,500 enterprise customers Internet performance/DNS provider Dyn. $ORCL PR link.

Sunoco Logistics(PBR158) to acquire Energy Transfer Partners(NYSE: ETP) for $21 billion in all stock deal. $SXL PR link.

Monsanto(PBR187) subsidiary The Climate Corporation acquires Estonia based VitalFields to expand digital agriculture innovation for European farmers. $MON PR link.

Constellation Brands(PBR377) authorizes new up to $1 billion share repurchase program, current $1 billion plan still in effect. $STZ PR link.

Symantec(PBR385) to acquire LifeLock(NYSE: LOCK) for $24/share, $2.3 billion to form world’s largest digital safety platform for consumers. $SYMC PR link.

Coty(PBR524) completes $510 million cash acquisition of UK high-end hairstyling appliances provider ghd. $COTY PR link.

Varian Medical(PBR678) authorizes 8 million stock repurchase plan starting 01/01/17, 4 million shares remain from 2016 authorization. $VAR PR link.

Boeing(PBR27) hires Kevin McAllister as president/CEO of Commercial Airplanes, promotes Stanley Deal to president/CEO of new Global Services unit. $BA PR link.

Tyson Foods(PBR80) president Tom Hayes to add CEO role with retirement of Donnie Smith on 12/31/16. $TSN PR link.

Barnes & Noble(PBR408) hires Demos Parneros as COO. $BKS PR link.

The October Chicago Fed National Activity Index at -0.08, September was -0.23, October 2015 -0.16. ChiFed PR link.

Friday, November 18:

The PBR1000 Week Ending 11/18/16 US Stock Exchanges Recap:
DJIA ends week at 18,867.93, +0.11% from last Friday, +4.00% MTD, +3.06% QTD, +8.28% YTD, -0.29% from record 18,923.06 on 11/15/16.
NASDAQ ends week at 5,321.51, +1.61% from last Friday, +2.55% MTD, +0.18% QTD, +6.27% YTD, -0.34% from record 5,339.52 on 09/22/16.
SPX ends week at 2,181.90, +0.81% from last Friday, +2.62% MTD, +0.63% QTD, +6.75% YTD, -0.38% from record 2,190.15 on 08/15/16.

Raytheon(PBR118) to add 2,000 jobs over 5 years to its 10,000 employees Missile Systems headquarters in Tucson, AZ. $RTN PR link.

Facebook(PBR228) authorizes up to $6.0 billion shares repurchase program, no deadline. $FB PR link.

Dana(PBR382) to acquire 80% of power-transmission, fluid power businesses of Europe’s Brevini Group SpA, to buy remaining 20% by 2020. $DAN PR link.

Southern Co(PBR155) hires Nancy Sykes as Chief Human Resources Officer. $SO PR link.

DSW(PBR778) SVP & interim CFO Jared Poff now officially SVP/CFO. $DSW PR link.

The Conference Board says US October Leading Economic Indicator at 124.5(2010=100), September was 124.4, August 124.1. TCB PR link.

Thursday, November 17:

JPMorgan Chase(PBR21) to pay $264 million fine to settle charges of corrupt hiring practices in Asia. MarketWatch PR link.

Tesoro(PBR71) to acquire Western Refining(PBR193 $WNR) in $37.30/share all stock deal, $6.4 billion transaction. $TSO PR link.

Community Health System(PBR125) selling Spokane, WA, area Rockwood Health Systemfor $425 million cash. $CYH PR link.

Southern Co(PBR155) subsidiary acquires controlling interest from SunPower(PBR680 $SPWR) in the 100 MW Boulder Solar I Facility near Las Vegas, NV. $SO PR link.

Wellcare Health Plans(PBR221) to acquire Universal American(PBR882 $UAM) for $10.00/share, $600 million cash. $WCG PR link.

Fiserv(PBR474) adds 15 million shares to current shares repurchase program. $FISV PR link.

Snap-On(PBR641) acquires $10 million/yr mechanical & electronic torque wrench provider Sturtevant Richmont for $13 million cash. $SNA PR link.

Tesla(PBR651 $TSLA), SolarCity($SCTY)shareholders approve $25.83/share, $2.6 billion merger. MarketWatch PR link.

Analog Devices(PBR701) acquires solid state laser beam steering technology from Vescent Photonics. $ADI PR link.

New York Times(PBR971) adds 41,000 net new subscribers in the week following the 11/08/16 US Election Day. $NYT PR link.

Allscripts(PBR1014) authorizes new $200 million shares repurchase program. $MDRX PR link.

HRG Group(PBR420) president/CEO Omar Asali leaving in 2H2017 fiscal year to start a long term investment company. $HRG PR link.

Molson Coors(PBR558) promotes Tracey Joubert to CFO, succeeds Mauricio Restrepo who has resigned. $TAP PR link.

TripAdvisor(PBR928) Viator unit CEO Barrie Seidenberg resigns, Dermot Halpin gets expanded role as president of global vacation rentals & attractions divisions. $TRIP PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US October All Items Consumer Price Index at +0.4%, September +0.3%, Annual +1.6%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US October Housing Permits Issued Annual Rate at 1.229 million, +0.3% from September, +4.6% from October 2015. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor estimates US October Average Worker Earnings/Hr at $25.92, +0.39% from September, +2.9% from October 2015. USDOL PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphiasays November Manufacturing General Activity Indicator at 7.6, October was 9.7, September 12.8. PhillyFed PR link.

Wednesday, November 16:

Freeport-McMoRan(PBR128) completes $2.65 billion cash sale of 70% interest in mining company TF Holdings to China Molybdenum. $FCX PR link.

First Solar(PBR630) expects 3GW of Series 6 production in 2019, reducing workforce, taking $500+ million restructuring charge. $FSLR PR link.

Allison Transmission(PBR865) to complete $500 million stock repurchase program by 12/31/16, authorizes new up to $1 billion program through 12/31/19. $ALSN PR link.

Republic Airways(PBR1015) files Plan of Reorganization, intends to emerge from Chapter 11 in 1Q2017. $RJETQ PR link.

BOK Financial(PBR1021) gets approval to acquire $578 million in assets MTB Bancshares for $102.5 million, expects to close on 11/30/16. $BOKF PR link.

HCA(PBR75) COO Sam Hazen now also president. $HCA PR link.

Gilead Sciences(PBR107) promotes Jim Myers to EVP/Worldwide Commercial Operations. $GILD PR link.

Kimberly-Clark(PBR141) promotes Michael Hsu to president/COO, adds international leaders to senior executive team. $KMB PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US October Total Final Demand Producer Price Index at +0.0%, September was +0.3%, August +0.0%. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Board estimates US October Industrial Production % of Capacityat 75.3%, September was 75.4%, August 75.6%. FRB PR link.

FreddieMac’s November Insight addresses 3 long term trends: income inequality, housing land costs, and increasing land use restrictions. $FMCC PR link.

The Natl Assn of Home Builders says US November Natl Housing Market Index at 63, October was 63, November 2015 was 62. FRB PR link.

Tuesday, November 15:

Viacom(PBR212) acquires Televisión Federal S.A. (Telefe) in Argentina from Telefónica S.A.for $345 million. $VIA PR link.

Biogen(PBR282) spin-off of hemophilia business Bioverativ on track for early 2017, chief therapeutics operations officer & CFO named. $BIIB PR link.

Avis Budget(PBR316) forms partnership with world’s largest mobile transportation platform, China’s Didi Chuxing, for car rental services globally. $CAR PR link.

Telephone & Data Sys(PBR482) subsidiary TDS acquires S Utah’s InterLinx Communications with its 170 miles of fiber optic transport. $TDS PR link.

La-Z-Boy(PBR916) acquires La-Z-Boy brand license from UK licensee Furnico, buys 9 independent operator La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries in NE US. $LZB PR link.

Finish Line(PBR927) evaluating strategic alternatives, including a possible sale, of its specialty running store chain JackRabbit. $FINL PR link.

Gap Inc(PBR179) hires Teri List-Stoll as CFO starting 01/17/16, succeeds leaving Sabrina Simmons. $GPS PR link.

Buffalo Wild Wings(PBR981) hires Santiago Abraham as Chief Information Officer. $BWLD PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US September Mfrs/Retail/Wholesale Sales at $1.315 trillion, +0.7% from August, +0.8% from September 2015. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US October Retail+Food/Drinking Places Salesat $465.9 billion, +0.8% from September, +4.3% from October 2015. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor estimates US October Import Price Index at +0.5%, Exports +0.2%, Imports YoY -0.2%, Exports YoY -1.1%. USDOL PR link.

The NY Federal Reserve Bank November Empire State Manufacturing General Business Conditions Index at 1.5, +8.3 from October, +11.6 from November 2015. NYFed PR link.

Retail: Online retailers tighten vice grip on department stores. MarketWatch PR link.

Logistics: UPS(PBR47) expects holiday deliveries to rise to a record of over 700 million packages. MarketWatch PR link.

Logistics: US Post Office expects holiday deliveries to jump to 750 million packages. MarketWatch PR link.

Monday, November 14:

GE(PBR9) Digital unit acquires cloud-based field service management solutions provider ServiceMax for $915 million. $GE PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) Home Services expands into 20 more US markets. $AMZN PR link.

Microsoft(PBR31) in 2 deals purchases 237 MW of wind energy, has now purchased over 500 MW. $MSFT PR link.

AIG(PBR46) selling Japan life insurance business to FWD Group, terms not disclosed. $AIG PR link.

HCA(PBR75) authorizes up to additional $2 billion for share repurchase program. $HCA PR link.

Avnet(PBR100) acquires 200,000 engineers, makers, and hobbyists online community Hackster. $AVT PR link.

Medtronic(PBR133) receives FDA approval for Claria MRI(TM) Quad Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Defibrillator. $MDT PR link.

Estee Lauder(PBR255) to acquire prestige makeup millennials emphasis brand Too Facedfor $1.45 billion. $EL PR link.

Estee Lauder(PBR255) completes acquisition of wide range of skin tones cosmetics provider BECCA. $EL PR link.

Avis Budget(PBR316) adds $250 million to stock repurchase program, balance is now $400 million. $CAR PR link.

Enbridge(NYSE: ENB) special shareholders meeting set for 12/15/16 to vote on $28 billion acquisition of Spectra Energy(PBR422 $SE). $ENB PR link.

HARMAN Intl(PBR456) to be acquired by S Korea based Samsung Electronics(KRX: 005930) for $112.00/share, $8.0 billion cash. $HAR PR link.

NVIDIA(PBR510) teams with National Cancer Institute, US Dept of Energy to create CANDLE AI platform for accelerating cancer research. $NVDA PR link.

Cerner(PBR628) approves $500 million share repurchase program. $CERN PR link.

Ventas(PBR671) selling 36 skilled nursing fac ilities to operator Kindred Healthcare(PBR479 $KND) for $700 million, extends all Kindred’s long term acute care hospital leases to 2025. $VTR PR link.

Twitter(PBR787) gets a new 2.9 million shares purchase investment by hedge fund Jana Partners. $TWTR PR link.

Verisk Analytics(PBR943) acquires UK based large scale mapping/geospatial data provider GeoInformation Group. $VRSK PR link.

PG&E(PBR172) elects Geisha Williams as president/CEO, Tony Earley to executive chairman, Nick Stavropolous to president/COO, all effective 03/01/17. $PCG PR link.

MGM Resorts(PBR273) hires Aaron Fischer as SVP/Corporate Development. $MGM PR link.

NASDAQ(PBR618) president/COO Adena Friedman to be CEO on 01/01/17, to succeed Bob Greifeld who will become chairman. $NDAQ PR link.

HCP(PBR838) to promote CFO Tom Herzog to CEO & Chief Investment Officer Justin Hutchens to president on 01/01/17. $HCP PR link.

Friday, November 11:

***Veterans Day.***
Thank those who have served,
and those serving today,
who protect our country and its
precious hard fought for freedoms.

The PBRMarketTools Week Ending 11/11/16 US Stock Exchanges Recap:
DJIA ends week at 18,847.66, +5.36% from last Friday, +3.89% MTD, +2.95% QTD, +8.16% YTD, +0.00% from record 18,847.66 on 11/11/16.
NASDAQ ends week at 5,237.11, +3.78% from last Friday, +0.92% MTD, -1.41% QTD, +4.59% YTD, -1.92% from record 5,339.52 on 09/22/16.
SPX ends week at 2,164.45, +3.80% from last Friday, +1.80% MTD, -0.18% QTD, +5.90% YTD, -1.17% from record 2,190.15 on 08/15/16.

UPS(PBR47) to spend $196 million to expand by 260,000+ square feet & modernize Jacksonville, FL, hub. $UPS PR link.

Newmont Mining(PBR358) pours first gold at Nevada’s Long Canyon ahead of schedule and below budget. $NEM PR link.

Diebold(PBR676) finalizes 43.6% minority interest in banking & retail IT technologies joint venture with China’s Aisino Group. $DBD PR link.

Diebold(PBR676) finalizes 40% minority interest in ATM/kiosk services joint venture with China’s Inspur Group; Diebold to have exclusive rights outside China. $DBD PR link.

Belden(PBR822) makes public $13.82/share, $380 million cash offer for Digi International(NASDAQ: DGII). $BDC PR link.

The University of Michigan Preliminary US November Consumer Survey Index is at 91.6, October was 87.2, November 2015 91.2. UMich PR link.

Thursday, November 10:

MetLife(PBR39) authorizes $3 billion share repurchase program. $MET PR link.

UPS(PBR47) to build new 1.2 million square foot regional hub In Atlanta for $400 million, to employ 1,250. $UPS PR link.

ConocoPhillips(PBR53) to do $3 billion share repurchase program, initiate $5-8B N America natural gas asset divestiture program, $5 billion capital expenditures in 2017. $COP PR link.

Ingram Micro(PBR62) $38.90/share, $6.0 billion acquisition by China based Tianjin Tianhai must close by date extended to 12/15/16. $IM PR link.

Gilead Sciences(PBR107) gets FDA okay for Hepatitis B drug Vemlidy. $GILD PR link.

Kohl’s(PBR140) authorizes up to $2.0 billion share buyback program over 3 years. $KSS PR link.

ConAgra Foods(PBR166) renames itself ConAgra Brands after completion of spin-off of potato foods provider Lamb Weston as an independent public company. $CAG PR link.

American Financial(PBR435) completes $32/share, $320 million acquisition of non-owned shares of National Interstate(NASDAQ: $NATL). $AFG PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PR515) acquires UK based financial planning/employee benefits consultant Argentis, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

Polaris Industries(PBR531) completes $665 million acquisition of private off-road jeep/truck aftermarket accessories $740 million/yr Transamerican Auto Parts. $PII PR link.

Adobe Systems(PBR557) to acquire video advertising platform developer TubeMogul(NASDAQ: TUBE) for $14/share, $540 million. $ADBE PR link.

Perrigo(PBR565) to review strategic alternatives for multiple sclerosis drug Tysabri®royalty stream. $PRGO PR link.

Willis Towers Watson(PBR621) increases share buyback program by $1 billion, balance is $1.228 billion. $WLTW PR link.

CME Group(PBR664) volume reaches all-time daily high of 44.5 million contracts on 11/09/16, previous high was on 10/15/14. $CME PR link.

Skechers USA(PBR808) transitions from 3rd party distributor to joint venture in S. Korea. $SKX PR link.

Bright Horizons(PBR1018) acquires UK based Asquith Day Nurseries & Pre-Schools, now has over 1,000 nurseries worldwide. $BFAM PR link.

Waste Management(PBR206) CFO Jim Fish, Jr, promoted to CEO, succeeds David Steiner who remains on the board, CFO search starts. $WM PR link.

Huntsman Corp(PBR244) appoints CFO J Kimo Esplin to EVP/Strategy & Investment, promotes Sean Douglas to EVP/CFO, both starting 01/01/17. $HUN PR link.

CME Group(PBR664) CEO Phupinder Gill to retire 12/31/16; Terry Duffy now Chairman/CEO; Bryan Durkin now president. $CME PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US Total October Federal Government Receipts at $221.7 billion, Outlays $265.9 billion, Deficit $44.2 billion. Treasury PR link.

Wednesday, November 9:

***Republican and businessman Donald Trump is elected 45th President of the United States. Republicans retain majority in both the House of Representatives and the Senate.*** . Politico PR link.

General Motors(PBR8) investing $900 million in 3 facilities, to layoff 2,000 at some Ohio & Michigan locations. $GM PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires San Francisco, CA, actuarial employee benefits consultancy Altman & Cronin Benefits Consultancy. $AJG PR link.

SunPower(PBR680) Business Unitspresident Howard Wenger is leaving the company within the next 6 months. $SPWR PR link.

Twitter(PBR787) COO Adam Bain leaving, CFO Anthony Noto promoted to COO, CFO search starts. $TWTR PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US September Total Wholesale Sales at $445.0 billion, +0.2% from August, +0.4% from September 2015. USDOC PR link.

Tuesday, November 8:

*** US Elections Day!
*** Be a good citizen, cast your vote!

The PBR1000 October Snapshot 11 Summary:
The Top 5 Stock Price Gainers YTD:

1. Cliffs Natural Resources(PBR832), $CLF, +249%
2. Cloud Peak Energy(PBR984), $CLD, +196%
3. SunCoke Energy(PBR950), $SXC, +194%
4. Titan International(PBR944), $TWI, +159%
5. Quad/Graphics(PBR478), $QUAD, +155%

Range: +249% to -96%
Companies >+0%: 618/1,000
Average: +4.3%%
Median: +6.1%%

Get the full Snapshot 11 list with more details and the 14 other analytical snapshots with a monthly or significantly discounted annual The PBR1000 subscription today! Subscribe link.

CVS Health(PBR11) adds $15.0 billion to share repurchase program, balance is $18.7 billion. $CVS PR link.

Baxter Intl(PBR176) adds $1.5 billion to share repurchase program, balance is $1.9 billion. $BAX PR link.

Hertz(PBR259 $HTZ) now over one-third owned by Carl Icahn with today’s purchase of 15 million shares. MarketWatch PR link.

Blackstone(PBR352) to buy Germany’s OfficeFirst Immobilien with 1.4 million square meter office space across 6 cities portfolio. $BX PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) buys E Lansing, MI, wholesale insurance broker Regency Group, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

Tesla(PBR651 $TSLA) agrees to buy Germany’s Grohmann Engineering. MarketWatch PR link.

Ventas(PBR671) talking to Kindred Health(PBR479 $KND) regarding KND planned exit from skilled nursing facilities business. $VTR PR link.

Service Corp Intl(PBR684) adds $313 million to share repurchase program, balance is $400 million. $SCI PR link.

The US Dept of Labor estimates US September Job Openings at 5.486 million, +0.6% from August, +2.4% from September 2015. USDOL PR link.

CoreLogic estimates US September Housing Serious Delinquencies at 1.014 million, -2.6% from August, -24.8% from September 2015. CoreLogic PR link.

Monday, November 7:

Kroger(PBR20) to hold open interviews on 11/09/16 for military veterans and their families, hired 7,000 in 2015. $KR PR link.

Windstream(PBR426) to own 51% in merger with network services provider EarthLink(NASDAQ: ELNK) in $1.1 billion transaction. $WIN PR link.

Insight(PBR460) to acquire $771 million/year 570 employee IT services firm DataLink(NASDAQ: DTLK) for $258 million. $NSIT PR link.

Kindred Healthcare(PBR479) to exit skilled nursing facility business. $KND PR link.

AmTrust Financial(PBR564) completes $218.7 million cash acquisition of ANV Holdings from Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan. $AFSI PR link.

Cooper Cos(PBR950) acquires $29 million/yr in-vitro fertilization segment Wallace from Smiths Medical for $168 million. $COO PR link.

CA Technologies(PBR550) promotes Kieran McGrath as EVP/CFO. $CA PR link.

Brunswick(PBR584) hires Danielle Brown as VP/CIO starting 11/14/16, succeeds retiring Michael Schulz. $BC PR link.

HSN(PBR609) hires Carmen Bauza as EVP/Chief Merchandising Officer starting 11/28/16. $HSNI PR link.

Endo Intl(PBR700) promotes Terry Coughlin to EVP/COO, Tony Pera to president, Par Pharmaceuticals(US generics unit). $ENDP PR link.

The US Federal Reserve estimates US September Total Consumer Credit Outstanding at $3.707 trillion, +0.5% from August, +4.9% YTD. FedReserve PR link.

The Conference Board says US October Help Wanted Ads at 4.838 million, -2.0% from September, -10.2% from October 2015. USDOC PR link.

Friday, November 4:

The PBR1000 Week Ending 11/04/16 US Stock Exchanges Recap:
DJIA ends week at 17,888.28, -1.50% from last Friday, -1.40% MTD, -2.29% QTD, +2.66% YTD, -4.01% from record 18,636.05 on 08/15/16.
NASDAQ ends week at 5,046.37, -2.77% from last Friday, -2.75% MTD, -5.00% QTD, +0.78% YTD, -5.49% from record 5,339.52 on 09/22/16.
SPX ends week at 2,085.18, -1.94% from last Friday, -1.93% MTD, -3.83% QTD, +2.02% YTD, -4.79% from record 2,190.15 on 08/15/16.

Danaher(PBR137) completes $53/share, $4 billion cash acquisition of fully automated GeneXpert® systems developer Cepheid(NASDAQ:CPHD). $DHR PR link.

CenturyLink(PBR160) to sell data centers/colocation business to BC Partners/Medina Capital consortium for $2.15 billion plus $150 million equity stake in new company. $CTL PR link.

YUM!(PBR217)’s Taco Bell unit to add 100,000 U.S. jobs by 2022. MarketWatch PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US October Employment at 151.925 million, -43,000 from September, 4.9% Unemployment Rate. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept Commerce estimates US September Exports at $189.2 billion, Imports $225.6 billion, Deficit $36.4 billion, Deficit YTD(9 mos) $366.9 billion. USDOC PR link.

Thursday, November 3:

Intel(PBR51) to acquire virtual reality startup VOKE for immersive sports. $INTC PR link.

NextEra Energy(PBR173) completes sale of Pennsylvania gas generating assets to Starwood Energy for $765 million. $NEE PR link.

CarMax(PBR202) hiring 2,500 positions nationwide, over 1,200 for automotive service careers. $KMX PR link.

NetApp(PBR405) to reduce worldwide headcount by 6%. $NTAP PR link.

American Axle & Mfg(PBR602) to acquire lightweight components for powertrain/suspenions manufacturer Metaldyne Performance Group(NYSE: MPG)for $1.6 billion cash/stock, assume $1.7 billion in net debt. $AXL PR link.

Intl Flavors & Fragrances(PBR666) to acquire $75 million/year private Fragrance Resources, terms not disclosed. $IFF PR link.

TreeHouse Foods(PBR690) to close 90 employees Delta, British Columbia facility, downsize by 100 employees a Battle Creek, MI, facility, over 15 months. $THS PR link.

Rackspace(PBR935) $32/share, $4.3 billion acquisition by Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR906) is completed. $RAX PR link.

Symantec(PBR385) promotes Nick Noviello to EVP/CFO starting 12/01/16, succeeds leaving Thomas Seifert. $SYMC PR link.

Fresh Del Monte(PBR527) promotes Youssef Zakharia to president/COO, succeeds Hani El-Naffy who remains on the board. $FDP PR link.

Abercrombie & Fitch(PBR595) EVP/Sourcing Diane Chang retiring on 06/24/17. $ANF PR link.

TreeHouse Foods(PBR690) EVP/CFO Dennis Riordan named acting president with leaving of Chris Sliva; Matthew Foulston to be EVP/CFO by 12/02/16. $THS PR link.

The US Dept of Labor Preliminary 3Q16 Labor Productivity Output at +3.4%, Revised 2Q16 was -0.4%, 3Q15 +2.3%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US September All Manufacturing New Ordersat $463.0 billion, August $459.1 billion, July $458.0 billion. USDOC PR link.

Markit US October Composite PMI Output Index at 54.9, September was 52.3, August 51.5. Markit PR link.

ISM says October US Non-Manufacturing ISM Index at 54.8%, September was 57.1%, August 51.4%. ISM PR link.

Wednesday, November 2:

Allergan(PBR21) completes $5 billion share purchase program, authorizes new $10 billion accelerated program, initiates $0.70/share dividend for 1Q17. $AGN PR link.

AIG(PBR46) authorizes up to $3.0 billion additional shares repurchase program. $AIG PR link.

Goodyear Tire(PBR157) breaks ground on $485 million expansion of Pulandian, China, factory, to produce 5 million large rim tires/year by 2020. $GT PR link.

American Electric Power(PBR174) seeks bids for up to 500,000 tons of coal to be delivered 01/17-03/17 to its generating plants. $AEP PR link.

Newmont Mining(PBR358) completes $1.3 billion sale in interest in Indonesia’s PTNNTcopper/gold mines. $NEM PR link.

Peabody Energy(PBR372) to sell Australian Metropolitan Mine for $200 million plus potential consideration. $BTUUQ PR link.

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

Brocade Communications(PBR845) to be acquired by Singapore based Broadcom Ltd(NASDAQ: AVGO) for $12.75/share, $5.9 billion cash. $BRCD PR link.

Amgen(PBR135): Lori Johnston returns as SVP/Human Resources starting 12/09/16. strong>$AMGN PR link.

Gap Inc(PBR179) EVP/CFO Sabrina Simmons to depart at end of FY2016. $GPS PR link.

Whole Foods(PBR203) eliminates co-CEO structure, appoints John Mackey CEO, Walter Robb remains on board, EVP/CFO Glenda Flanagan to retire after FY2017. $WFM PR link.

General Cable(PBR418) hires Matti Masanovich as SVP/CFO starting 11/11/16. $BGC PR link.

Intl Flavors & Fragrances(PBR666) hires Susana Suarez-Gonzalez as EVP/Chief Human Resources Officer starting 11/28/16, succeeds retiring Angelica Cantlon. $IFF PR link.

Federal Open Market Committee keeps federal funds interest rate at 0.25-0.50%, sees progress towards 2% inflation rate, improved labor conditions. FOMC PR link.

ADP(PBR235) October US Change in National Employment was +147,000, Sept was +154,000, Aug +177,000. $ADP PR link.

AutoNews: Revised report says October Vehicle Sales at 1,370,721, -4.4% from September, -5.9% from October 2015, 17.98 million annual rate. AutoNews PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) 2Q16 Apartment Investment Market Index at 110.4, 1Q16 was 107.6, 2Q15 115.9. $FMCC PR link.

The Chicago Cubs win the Baseball World Series in Game 7 at the Cleveland Indians 8-7 in a dramatic 10 inning overtime game. Chicago Tribune PR link.

Tuesday, November 1:

The PBR1000 October Snapshot 10 Summary:
The Top 5 Stock Price October Gainers:

1. Peabody Energy(PBR416), $BTUUQ, +465%
2. LINN Energy(PBR668), $LINEQ, +291%
3. SunEdison(PBR744), $SUNEQ, +268%
4. TeamHealth(PBR392), $TMH, +32%
5. SunCoke Energy(PBR953), $SXC, +27%

Range: +465% to -54%
Companies >+0%: 316/1,000
Average: -3.1%
Median: -2.7%

Get the full Snapshot 10 list with more details and the 14 other analytical snapshots with a monthly or significantly discounted annual The PBR1000 subscription today! Subscribe link.

Allergan(PBR21) completes $1.695 billion cash/stock acquisition of liver therapies developer Tobira Therapeutics. $AGN PR link.

Alcoa(PBR115) separation from Alcoa Inc, now known as Arconic, is complete. Now global leader in bauxite, alumina, aluminum products. $AA PR link.

YUM!(PBR217) completes spinoff of YUM China as an independent public company(NYSE: YUMC). $YUM PR link.

Liberty Interactive(PBR263) stockholders approve split-off of Liberty Expedia as a separate independent public company, to be effective 11/04/16. $QVCA PR link.

Dover(PBR343) completes $160 million sale of Tipper Tie, a global supplier of processing & clip packaging machines, to JBT Corp(NYSE: JBT). $DOV PR link.

Discovery Communications(PBR399) & MLB’s BAMTech form digital technology provider BAMTech Europe, first client is EuroSport Digital. $DISCA PR link.

Gannett(PBR414) terminates discussions to acquire Tronc(NASDAQ: TRNC)(fka Tribune Publishing). $GCI PR link.

Regions Financial(PBR450) adds $120 million to share repurchase program, balance now is $760 million, expires 06/30/17. $RF PR link.

Harris Corp(PBR481) to sell Caprock Communications managed satellite, terrestrial & wireless business for cruise/energy industries to SpeedCast International for $425 million cash. $HRS PR link.

Crown Castle(PBR603) to acquire NextEra Energy(PBR178 $NEE)‘s fiber services provider FPL FiberNet for $1.5 billion cash. $CCI PR link.

Equinix(PBR793) collaborates with Facebook(PBR228 $FB) to deploy/test industry’s 1st entirely open source-based packet-optical network solution. $EQIX PR link.

HCP(PBR838) selling 64 properties leased to Brookdale Senior Living(PBR587 $BKD) to Blackstone(PBR352 $BX) affiliates for $1.125 billion. $HCP PR link.

Air Products(PBR267) hires Dr Samir Serhan as EVP to oversee most technology, engineering, and manufacturing functions. $APD PR link.

Herbalife(PBR354) chairman/CEO to become executive chairman 06/01/17, COO Richard Goudis to be new CEO. $HLF PR link.

Fifth Third Bancorp(PBR387) hires Aravind Immaneni to be chief operations & technology officer starting 11/14/16. $FITB PR link.

T Rowe Price(PBR570) chairman/Chief Investment Officer Brian Rogers to retire 03/31/17, 6 senior investment leaders appointed as CIOs. $TROW PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US September Total Construction Spending Annual Rate at $1.150 trillion, -0.4% from August, -0.2% from September 2015. USDOC PR link.

Manufacturing ISM Report on Business October PMI Index at 51.9%, September was 51.5%, August 49.4%. ISM PR link.

Markit October Final US Manufacturing PMIat 53.4, September was 51.5, August 52.0. Markit PR link.

AutomotiveNews estimates US October New Vehicles Sold at 1.183 million units, -4.9% from October 2015. AutoNews PR link.

TrueCar estimates US October Total Vehicle Sales at $46 billion, -4.2% from October 2015, Average Transaction Price $33,544, +2.5% from October 2015. $TRUE PR link.

Purdue/CME Group October Ag Economy Barometer at 92, September was 101, August 95, future outlook dims. Purdue/CME Group PR link.

FTI Consulting forecasts 2016 online retail sales at $395 billion, 2017 $436 billion, 2020 $562 billion. FTI PR link.

(The PBR1000 is the premiere business intelligence service covering over 1,000 of the largest publicly held companies with principle or administration headquarters in the US. These companies generate nearly $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 worldwide include C-level executives, entrepreneurs, sales/marketing/advertising professionals, investors/investment advisors, business professors/students, human resources/career counselors/job seekers, federal/state/local government agencies, social causes organizations, to name just a few. To order your monthly or significantly discounted annual subscription, just go to the PBRMarketTools.com Subscribe page.)

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

The PBR1000 August 2016 Breaking News Recap

September 5, 2016 by admin

August 2016: A Wait and See Month?

Maybe Football Season Is The Best Time To Also Develop A New Winning Business Strategy!

By Larry C. Paxton

There were some opportunities for some major dramatics in August 2016, but not much materialized.

Perhaps much of the excitement energy was transferred to the Rio De Janeiro 31st Olympiad which was center stage for half of the month. As always, it was a great celebration of sport at its best with dazzling performances in gymnastics, swimming, track & field, and many other events.

In the meantime US and global economic news continued to show moderate growth at best, with some big question marks regarding what Brexit really means. Mergers and acquisition activities were modest. There were no surprising leadership changes. The Federal Reserve did send a message that it might be open to increase the funds interest rate, but it would be a minimal increase.

With Labor Day being the traditional end of summer we enter a new season The big question is which will be more volatile, the economy, markets, the much anticipated U.S. Presidential debates, or the college and pro football season?

Following are The PBR1000 and economic related breaking news items of interest for August 2016, starting with the last active business day.

Wednesday, August 31:

The PBR1000 End of August US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA ends August at 18,400.88, +0.03% from last Friday, -0.17%% MTD, +2.63% QTD, +5.60% YTD, -1.26% from record 18,636.05 on 08/15/16.
NASDAQ ends August at 5,213.22, -0.11% from last Friday, +0.99% MTD, +7.65% QTD, +4.11% YTD, -0.93% from record 5,262.02 on 08/15/15.
SPX ends August at 2,170.95, +0.09% from last Friday, -0.12% MTD, +3.43 QTD, +6.21% YTD, -0.88% from record 2,190.15 on 08/15/16.

Amazon(PBR29 $AMZN) and Wells Fargo(PBR30 $WFC) abruptly end student loan partnership. MarketWatch PR link.

Deere & Co(PBR81) to contest DOJ decision to block acquisition of Monsanto(PBR187 $MON) subsidiary The Climate Corp’s Precision Planting $100 million/year farming equipment unit. $DE PR link.

C.H. Robinson(PBR215) to acquire New Zealand/Australia $251 million/FY16 freight forwarding/customs brokerage services provider APC Logistics for $225 million cash. $CHRW PR link.

A-Mark Precious Metals(PBR419) acquires majority interest in Indiana based SilverTowne Mint, signs exclusive supplier agreement with global refiner/precious metals producer Asahi Refining USA. $AMRK PR link.

JetBlue(PBR429) flight 387 arrives in Santa Clara, Cuba, first US commercial flight to Cuba in over 50 years. $JBLU PR link.

Insight(PBR460) acquires Perth, Australia based technology consulting/managed services provider Ignia. $NSIT PR link.

Pioneer Natural Resources(PBR476) completes $450 million acquisition of 28,000 Midland Basin acres from Devon Energy(PBR143 $DVN). $PXD PR link.

NVIDIA(PBR510) in partnership with China’s Baidu to use artificial intelligence to develop cloud-to-car autonomous car platform. $NVDA PR link.

Brunswick(PBR584) completes acquisition of Germany based $41 million/2015 Indoor Cycling Group. $BC PR link.

IDEX(PBR861) completes $239 million acquisition of global Swiss based metal-to-metal seal & flow control solutions manufacturer SFC Koenig AG. $IEX PR link.

Fitbit(PBR870) opens Europe/Middle East/Africa headquarters office in Dublin, Ireland. $FIT PR link.

Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR906) extends $1.6 billion tender offer for Outerwall(824) to 09/22/16, 28.1% of shares tendered to date. $APO PR link.

Blackhawk Network(PBR998) to acquire UK based 20,000 clients global branding services provider Grass Roots Group for $118 million cash. $HAWK PR link.

McDonald’s(PBR101) USA president Mike Andres to retire at 2016 end, Chris Kempczinski named successor, other executive appointments named. $MCD PR link.

IDEX(PBR861) names Mike Yates as Interim CFO, effective 09/09/16, Heath Mitts is leaving. $IEX PR link.

ADP(PBR235) says 177,000 new US jobs created in August. $ADP PR link.

The Chicago August PMI Index falls 4.3 points to 51.5. MNI-ISM PR link.

Tuesday, August 30:

European Commission says Ireland gave illegal tax benefits to Apple(PBR5 $AAPL) worth up to $14.5 billion. EC PR link.

Apple(PBR5) CEO Tim Cook writes letter regarding history of taxes in European operations, says European Commission decision unfounded. $AAPL PR link.

Honeywell(PBR74) completes $1.5 billion acquisition of private supply chain & warehouse automatiion provider Intelligrated. $HON PR link.

KKR(PBR332) to acquire 4,000 clients contact centers & analytics software developer Calabrio, terms not disclosed. $KKR PR link.

Chipotle(PBR561) to offer free Kid’s Meals with purchase of an entre on Sundays during September. $CMG PR link.

Under Armour(PBR668) to open 1.3 million sf distribution center in Sparrows Point, MD, in summer 2018, employ 1,000. $UA PR link.

Brinker Intl(PBR697)’s Chili’s unit makes $30 million over 6 years commitment to St. Jude School Program. $EAT PR link.

Ford(PBR10) Credit unit group VP, chairman/CEO Bernard Silverstone retiring 10/01/16 after 37 years; Joy Falotico named successor. $F PR link.

General Cable(PBR418) hired Leah Stark in 07/16 as SVP/Chief Human Resources Officer. $BGC PR link.

S&P Global(PBR477) hires Steve Kemps as EVP/General Counsel. $SPGI PR link.

CIT Group(PBR608) rehires Jim Duffy to be EVP/Chief Human Resources Officer. $CIT PR link.

The Conference Board says the August Consumer Confidence Index(1985=100) is at 101.1, July was 96.7, Dec 2015 96.3. TCB PR link.

The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller June US National Home Price Index(Jan2000=100) at 182.42, May at 180.69, June 2015 173.61. CoreLogic PR link.

Monday, August 29:

Chevron(PBR3) to provide 0.65 million metric tons of liquid natural gas annually for 10 years to China through deal with ENN LNG Trading Company. $CVX PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) to open 850,000+ sf fulfillment center in Monee, IL. $AMZN PR link.

Walgreens Boots Alliance(PBR36) Walgreens unit & Prime Therapeutics to form new central specialty pharmacy/mail service businesses. $WBA PR link.

Mondelez(PBR87) says no longer pursuing acquisition of Hershey(PBR354 $HSY). $MDLZ PR link.

Southern Co(PBR155) subsidiary to acquire 147 MW Grant Plains wind facility in Oklahoma. $SO PR link.

NextEra Energy(PBR173) reaches agreements with 17 global financial institutions for $18.4 billion Oncor transaction. $NEE PR link.

Nordstrom(PBR214) to carry edited J. Crew collection in 16 full line stores & online beginning 09/12/16. $JWN PR link.

Core-Mark(PBR271) supply agreement with 1,100 Circle K stores in SE US not being renewed in 01/17. $CORE PR link.

Packaging Corp(PBR425) completes $386 million cash acquisition of independent corrugated products producer $324 million/2015 TimBar. $PKG PR link.

USG Corp(PBR599) to sell building product distributor L&W Supply unit to private $5.9 billion/2015 ABC Supply for $670 million cash. $USG PR link.

Verisk Analytics(PBR943) acquires offshore oil/gas data & subscriptions business of Quest Offshore. $VRSK PR link.

American Airlines(PBR69) promotes COO Robert Isom to president, succeeds leaving Scott Kirby. $AAL PR link.

United Continental(PBR77) hires Scott Kirby to new role of president. $UAL PR link.

KKR(PBR332) expands Asia-Pacific leadership team with new appointments in China, Korea, & Singapore. $KKR PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates Total US July Personal Income Annual Rate at $16.023 trillion, +0.45% from June, +4.0% from July 2015 USDOC PR link.

Friday, August 26:

The PBR1000 Week Ending 08/26/16 US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA ends week at 18,395.40, -0.85% from last Friday, -0.20% MTD, +2.60% QTD, +5.57% YTD, -1.29% from record 18,636.05 on 08/15/16.
NASDAQ ends week at 5,218.92, -0.37% from last Friday, +1.10% MTD, +7.77% QTD, +4.22% YTD, -0.82% from record 5,262.02 on 08/15/15.
SPX ends week at 2,169.04, -0.68% from last Friday, -0.21% MTD, +3.34% QTD, +6.12% YTD, -0.96% from record 2,190.15 on 08/15/16.

Judge denies Caesars Entertainment(PBR314 $CZR) litigation reprieve in $11 billion bondholder battle. MarketWatch PR link.

Herbalife(PBR354) CEO expresses appreciation for Carl Icahn‘s purchase of 2.3 million shares. $HLF PR link.

Rackspace(PBR935) to be acquired by Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR906 $APO) for $32.00/share, $4.3 billion cash. $RAX PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce 2nd Estimate 2Q GDP is 1.1%, $18.437 trillion, Personal Consumption Expenditures $12.965 trillion. USDOC PR link.

The Fed: Text of Janet Yellen’s speech at Jackson Hole, WY, symposium. When will interest rates go up? FRB PR link.

The U of Michigan August Final Index of Consumer Sentiment at 89.8, July was 90.0, Aug 2015 91.9. UMich PR link.

Investing: E*Trade(PBR930) study reveals varying ETF preferences of older & younger investors. $ETFC PR link.

Thursday, August 25:

Amazon(PBR29) introduces Amazon Vehicles, a car research destination & automotive community. $AMZN PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) to open 8th Texas fulfillment center, 2nd in Coppell. Employs over 10,000 full-time hourly workers in 5 current open facilities. $AMZN PR link.

Walgreens Boots Alliance(PBR36) exercises 2nd tranche of warrants to purchase AmerisourceBergen(PBR16 $ABC) shares, now owns 23.9% equity stake. $WBA PR link.

Freddie Mac(PBR41) & Fannie Mae(PBR17 $FNMA) to continue high loan-to-value refinancing HARP program through 09/30/17 when new program kicks in. $FMCC PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) providing options to cut retail cost of its EpiPen by 50% for eligible patients. $MYL PR link.

Berry Plastics(PBR488) to acquire flexible plastic packaging films manufacturer AEP Industries(NASDAQ: $AEPI) for $765 million cash/stock, includes debt. $BERY PR link.

ON Semiconductor(PBR656) receives FTC regulatory approval for acquisition of Fairchild Semiconductor(PBR1000 $FCS). tender offer still needs to be satisfied. $ON PR link.

Great Plains Energy(PBR757) $12.2 billion cash/stock acquisition of Westar Energy(PBR747 $WR) to be voted on by shareholders of both companies on 08/26/16, still expects to close in spring 2017. $GXP PR link.

Estee Lauder(PBR255) hires Andrew Ross as SVP/Strategy & New Business Development. $EL PR link.

Wednesday, August 24:

Pfizer(PBR56) to acquire small molecule anti-infective business from AstraZeneca for up to $1.575 billion plus royalties. $PFE PR link.

Lear Corp(PBR165) hires Dr. Andre Weimerskirch as VP, Cyber Security for E-Systems. $LEA PR link.

Williams Cos(PBR348) confirms receipt of investor Corvex‘s director nominations, expresses disappointment on timing. $WMB PR link.

Alcoa(PBR115) hires Kate Hargrove Ramundo to be future Arconic spinoff EVP/Chief Legal Officer/Secretary. $AA PR link.

Jones Lang LaSalle(PBR449) president Christian Ulbrich to add CEO role on 10/01/16, to succeed retiring Colin Dyer. $JLL PR link.

The Natl Assn of Realors says July Existing Home Sales Annual Rate at 5,390,000, -3.2% from June, -1.6% from July 2015 $NAR PR link.

Discover Financial(PBR286) report says Millennials are twice as likely as Boomers to take out a home equity loan. $DFS PR link.

Equifax(PBR795) survey says most college students pay credit cards in full each month. $EFX PR link.

Tuesday, August 23:

Medtronic(PBR133) completes $1.1 billion cash acquisition of miniaturized, mechanical circulatory support technologies developer Heartware International(NASDAQ: $HTWR). $MDT PR link.

Lear Corp(PBR165) signs investment agreement to build a 32,000 sq meter leather plant in Yangzhou, China. $LEA PR link.

Tesla(PBR651) announces new Model S electrical car version with range of 315 miles, 0-60 mph in 2.5 seconds, fastest production car in the world. $TSLA PR link.

Albemarle(PBR792) to acquire 15,000 MT/year lithium salts production assets in China. $ALB PR link.

Zoetis(PBR500) promotes Glenn David to EVP/CFO, succeeds Paul Herendeen, who has resigned. $ZTS PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates July New Home Sales Annual Rate at 654,000, +12.4% from June, +31.3% from July 2015. July New Home Median Price at $294,600, -5.1% from June, -0.5% from July 2015. USDOC PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond estimates August 5th District Manufacturing Index(Annualized) at -11%, July was +10%, June -10%. RichmondFed PR link.

Monday, August 22:

Pfizer(PBR56) to acquire oncology biopharma firm Medivation(NASDAQ: $MDVN) for $81.50/share, $14 billion. $PFE PR link.

Peabody Energy(PBR372) reaches agreement with Illinois on financial assurances in support of coal mine restoration activities. $BTUUQ PR link.

TeamHealth(PBR498) acquires operations of Grossmont Emergency Medical Group, serves 100,000 San Diego area patients/year. $TMH PR link.

Green Plains(PBR649) to purchase 3 Abengoa Bioenergy ethanol plants for $237 million cash in bankruptcy sale. $GPRE PR link.

Office Depot(PBR182) Chairman/CEO Roland Smith to resign CEO role by 1Q2017 end; Troy Rice promoted to new position of COO. $ODP PR link.

Viacom(PBR212) president/CEO Philippe Bauman steps down, COO Thomas Dooley named interim president/CEO through 09/30/16, 5 independent directors elected to board. $VIA PR link.

Marathon Oil(PBR250) promotes T Mitch Little to EVP/Operations; EVP/CFO JR Sult is leaving; other executive changes made. $MRO PR link.

Avis Budget(PBR316) hires Arthur Orduna to new position of Chief Innovation Officer. $CAR PR link.

A. Schulman(PBR791) promotes Gary Miller to COO, Frank Roederer to SVP/GM USCAN. $SHLM PR link.

July Chicago Fed National Activity Index +0.27, from +0.05 in June. ChicagoFed PR link.

Friday, August 19:

The PBR1000 Week Ending 08/19/16 US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA ends week at 18,552.57, -0.13% from last Friday, +0.65% MTD, +3.47% QTD, +6.47% YTD, -0.45% from record 18,636.05 on 08/15/16.
NASDAQ ends week at 5,238.38, +0.10% from last Friday, +1.48% MTD, +8.17% QTD, +4.61% YTD, -0.45% from record 5,262.02 on 08/15/15.
SPX ends week at 2,183.87, -0.01% from last Friday, +0.47% MTD, +4.05% QTD, +6.85% YTD, -0.29% from record 2,190.15 on 08/15/16.

ON Semiconductor(PBR656) extends $20/share, $2.4 billion cash tender offer for Fairchild Semiconductor(PBR1000 $FCS) to 09/01/16, currently has commitment of 70.3% of shares. $ON PR link.

A. Schulman(PBR791) to promote Andrean Horton to EVP/Chief Legal Officer on 09/01/16, succeeds retiring David Minc. $SHLM PR link.

Thursday, August 18:

Dow Chemical(PBR48) celebrates its 50,000th Habitat for Humanity home. $DOW PR link.

Caterpillar(PBR54) to close down certain mining product lines, eliminate 195 jobs. $CAT PR link.

Sprint(PBR86) launches Unlimited Freedom, 2 lines $100/mo unlimited talk/text/data plan. $S PR link.

T-Mobile US(PBR95) announces T-Mobile ONE unlimited calls/text/data 4 line family plan for $160/mo. $TMUS PR link.

Emerson Electric(PBR109) to acquire valves & controls business from Pentair(PBR363 $PNR) for $3.15 billion. $EMR PR link.

Continental Resources(PBR497) to sell 80,000 acres of non-strategic properties in N Dakota & Montana for $222 million. $CLR PR link.

Toro(PBR855) to do 2-for-1 stock split, effective 09/16/16. $TTC PR link.

Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR906) & Nike(PBR98 $NKE) form strategic partnership for apparel manufacturing in the Americas. $APO PR link.

United Continental(PBR77) hires Andrew Levy as EVP/CFO, Julia Haywood as EVP/Chief Commercial Officer. $UAL PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) hires Richard Lennox as Chief Marketing Officer, effective 09/15/16. $M PR link.

General Cable(PBR418) EVP & president/CEO of Americas Gregory Lampert leaving; Juan Mogollon hired as SVP of Latin America. $BGC PR link.

A. Schulman(PBR791) Chairman Joe Gingo is now also president/CEO with departure of Bernard Rzepka. $SHLM PR link.

The US Dept of Justice issues a directive to phase out use of private prisons. DOJ PR link.

Employment: There are 1.2 million missing retail workers because Amazon(PBR29 $AMZN)’s so good MarketWatch PR link.

The Philadelphia Federal Reserve says August Manufacturing Business Outlook Survey Index at +2.0, July was -2.9, June 4.7. PhillyFed PR link.

The Conference Board says August Leading Economic Index at 124.3(2010=100), July was 123.8, June 123.4. TCB PR link.

Wednesday, August 17:

Cisco(PBR60) announces restructuring plan, to lay off up to 5,500 employees, 7% of global workforce. $CSCO PR link.

Progressive(PBR145), 4th largest US auto insurer, reports July Personal Lines Policies in Force are 14.544 million, +7% from July 2015. $PGR PR link.

JCPenney(PBR234) presents 3 year plan for accelerated growth through private brands, home & beauty. $JCP PR link.

Ingredion(PBR415) to acquire 120 employee rice starch/rice flour business of Thailand’s Sun Flour Industry Co, now has 870 employees, 4 facilities in Thailand. $INGR PR link.

Universal Forest Products(PBR733) promotes Mike Mordell to EVP-International Operations. $UFPI PR link.

The US Federal Reserve releases FOMC minutess for July meeting, labor market improved, 2Q GDP moderate, inflation rate <2% target. FRB PR link.

Tuesday, August 16:

Ford(PBR10) targets fully autonomous vehicle for ride sharing in 2021; invests in new tech companies, doubles Silicon Valley team. $F PR link.

Essendant(PBR458) reorganizing into Business & Facilities Essentials and Industrial Essentials, names management team. $ESND PR link.

Leidos(PBR475) completes $1.8 billion/50.5% equity acquisition of Lockheed(PBR64 $LMT)’s Information Systems & Global Solutions unit. $LDOS PR link.

Cintas(PBR523) to acquire branded uniforms & facility services programs G & K Services(NASDAQ: GK) for $97.50/share, $2.2 billion enterprise value. $CTAS PR link.

Wolverine Worldwide(PBR722) authorizes up to $300 million over 4 years share repurchase program. $WWW PR link.

KB Home(PBR802) acquires rights to 300+ homesites in master-planned community The Meadows in Castle Rock, CO. $KBH PR link.

Buffalo Wild Wings(PBR981) expands share repurchase program by $300 million, balance is $375 million. $BWLD PR link.

Visteon(PBR351) hires Christian Garcia as EVP/CFO, effective 10/01/16. $VC PR link.

Barnes & Noble(PBR408) CEO Ronald Boire departs per board decision, executive chairman Leonard Riggio to be interim CEO. $BKS PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US July Consumer Price Index was +0.0%, last 12 mos +0.8%(Unadjusted). USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US July Average Current Weekly Earnings at $886.31, +0.6% from June, +2.4% from July 2015. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of HUD says US July Private Housing Building Permits were 1,152,000, -0.09% from June, +0.88% from July 2015 HUD PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says US July Total Industrial Production Capacity at 75.9%, +0.5% from June, -1.5% from July 2015. FRB PR link.

Monday, August 15:

AIG(PBR46) to sell its private mortgage insurance unit United Guaranty Corporation to Arch Capital Group(NASDAQ: ACGL) for $3.4 billion. $AIG PR link.

Aetna(PBR49) to reduce participation in Affordable Care Act individual public exchanges from 778 counties to 242 in 2017. $AET PR link.

Dollar General(PBR151) opens site 13,000, located in Birmingham, AL. $DG PR link.

Jones Lang LaSalle(PBR449) acquires Singapore 180 professional staff Asia Pacific interior design service PDM International. $JLL PR link.

Salesforce(PBR453 $CRM) to acquire business analytics firm BeyondCore, terms not disclosed. BeyondCore PR link.

Xylem(PBR575) to acquire global water industry technologies/data analytics firm $837 million/FY2016 Sensus for $1.7 billion. $XYL PR link.

Diebold(PBR676) completes $1.8 billion acquisition of Germany based 9,000 employee retail banks IT solutions/services provider Wincor Nixdorf. $DBD PR link.

Concho Resources(PBR734) to acquire 40,000 net Midland Basin acres from Reliance Energy for $1.625 billion, to have 150,000+ net acres. $CXO PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) August Outlook says 2016 could reach $2 trillion in mortgage originations, forecasts 2017 GDP at 1.9%. $FMCC PR link.

The preliminary Natl Assn of Homebuilders US August Housing Market Index at 60, July was 58, June 60. NAHB/Wells Fargo PR link.

The NY Federal Reserve says the August Empire State Manufacturing Survey General Business Conditions Index at -4.21, July was +0.55, Aug 2015 -12.79. NYFed PR link.

Friday, August 12:

The PBR1000 Week Ending 08/12/16 US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA ends week at 18,576.47, +0.18% from last Friday, +0.78% MTD, +3.61% QTD, +6.61% YTD, -0.20% from record 18,613.51 on 08/11/16.
NASDAQ ends week at 5,232.89, +0.23% from last Friday, +1.37% MTD, +8.06% QTD, +4.50% YTD, +0.00% from record 5,232.89 on 08/12/15.
SPX ends week at 2,184.05, +0.05% from last Friday, +0.48% MTD, +4.06% QTD, +6.85% YTD, -0.08% from record 2,185.79 on 08/11/16.

Anthem(PBR38 $ANTM)-Cigna(PBR85 $CI) merger ruling unlikely to come in 2016, judge says. MarketWatch PR link.

KBR(395) to acquire the Honeywell(PBR74) 3,550 employee $600 million/yr government services provider HTSI for $266 million. $KBR PR link.

SunEdison(PBR782 $SUNEQ) shareholders lose bankruptcy fight, judge says company ‘hopelessly insolvent.’ MarketWatch PR link.

E*Trade(PBR930) reports End of July Stock Plan Accounts at 1,455,148, +0.8% from June, +8.1% from July 2015. $ETFC PR link.

21st Century Fox(PBR91 $FOX) Fox News unit gets new leadership team. MarketWatch PR link.

Dick’s Sporting Goods(PBR367) Teri List-Stoll no longer EVP/CFO, EVP/COO Andre Hawaux to serve as interim CFO. $DKS PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US June Trade Sales/Mfrs Shipments at $1.308 trillion, +1.16% from May, -0.64% from June 2015. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce Advance July Retail Trade Total at $457.7 billion, -0.04% from June, +2.26% from July 2015. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US July Producer Price Index at -0.4%, June was +0.5%, -0.2% from July 2015. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Agriculture August WASDE report forecasts record levels for corn & soybean crops for 2016/2017. USDA PR link.

The U of Michigan Preliminary August Consumer Sentiment Index at 90.4, July was 90.0, June 93.5. UMich PR link.

Thursday, August 11:

Ingram Micro(PBR62) $38.90/share, $6.0 billion acquisition by China based Tianjin Tianhai must close by extended date of 11/13/16. $IM PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) to close around 100 of its 728 stores in early 2017, represents $1 billion in revenues. $M PR link.

United Natural Foods(PBR371) acquires $50 million/year fresh & organic foods distributor/merchandiser Gourmet Guru. $UNFI PR link.

Lithia Motors(PBR451) acquires Kemp Ford in Thousand Oaks, CA, to add $65 million to annual revenues. $LAD PR link.

Meredith Corp(PBR994) promotes Tom Harty to president/COO. $MDP PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US July Import Price Index was +0.1%, June was +0.6%, Yr-to-Yr -3.7%. USDOL PR link.

Adobe Systems(PBR557) reports falling consumer goods prices for six consecutive months in July Digital Price Index. http://bit.ly/2aLCsbZ

Healthcare: Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) says most companies paying at least 5% more for health insurance premiums in 2016; 1-in-4 incurring double digit increases. $AJG PR link.

Wednesday, August 10:

Exelon(PBR102) to invest $25 billion over 5 years in infrastructure, smart grid technology in its 6 utilities serving 10 million customers. $EXC PR link.

Chesapeake Energy(PBR131) to transfer N Texas Barnett Shale asset to First Reserve; to renegotiate Mid-Continent Gas Gathering agreement. $CHK PR link.

Peabody Energy(PBR372) business plan approved by DIP lenders, plans to emerge from Chapter 11 bankruptcy by end of year. $BTUUQ PR link.

JetBlue(PBR429) July Passenger Load Factor at 87.7%, June was 87.0%, YTD is 85.1%. $JBLU PR link.

Herbalife(PBR487) gets approval from China’s Ministry of Commerce to operate in 3 more provinces, currently in 25. $HLF PR link.

LAM Research(PBR520 $LRCX) and KLA-Tencor(PBR692) provides update on $10.6 billion deal, regulatory approvals might extend past 10/20/16. $KLAC PR link.

WABCO(PBR704) to supply vast majority of vacuum pumps for China based auto manufacturer/Volvo owner Geely in multi-year deal. $WBC PR link.

AAR Corp(PBR883) hires Marcus Jadotte as VP of Public Affairs, to establish a Washington DC office. $AIR PR link.

The US Dept of Labor estimates Total US June Job Openings at 5,624,000, +2.0% from May, +8.8% from June 2015. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says Total US July Receipts were $210.0 billion, Outlays $322.8 billion, Deficit $112.8 billion, YTD Deficit $513.7 billion. Treasury PR link.

Tuesday, August 9:

Walt Disney(PBR57) to acquire 33% stake in video streaming company BAMTech for $1 billion, option to purchase majority stake. $DIS PR link.

American Airlines(PBR69) reports July traffic, total passenger load factor at 85.2%, -2.1% from July 2015. $AAL PR link.

RR Donnelley(PBR243) to move from NASDAQ to NYSE on 08/22/16, will use same RRD symbol. $RRD PR link.

Gannett(PBR414) completes $4.60/share, $140 million acquisition of $320 million/year digital market solutions company ReachLocal. $GCI PR link.

TD Ameritrade(PBR662) averaged 454,000 client trades per day in July, -3% from June, same as July 2015. $AMTD PR link.

SunPower(PBR680) to lay off 15% of workforce, 1,200 positions, primarily from the Philippines. $SPWR PR link.

Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR906) affiliates extend $30.25/share, $2.2 billion cash tender offer to acquire Diamond Resorts Intl(NYSE: DRII) extended to 08/24/16. $APO PR link.

Community Health System(PBR125) promotes Tim Hingtgen to president/COO on 09/01/16, succeeds retiring Wayne Smith. $CYH PR link.

hhgregg(PBR864) promotes Kevin Kovacs to CFO, Samuel Johnson to Chief Retail Officer. $HGG PR link.

Domino’s Pizza(PBR889) opens 13,000th store in the Seattle, WA, area. $DPZ PR link.

US Dept of Labor 2Q2016 Labor Productivity Annual Rate -0.7% from 1Q2016, Output +1.4%. USDOL PR link.

US Dept of Commerce estimates Total US June Wholesale Sales at $444.6 billion, +1.88% from May, -0.45% from June 2015. USDOC PR link.

CoreLogic: 38,000 completed foreclosures in June, down 4.9% YOY. CoreLogic PR link.

Monday, August 8:

Walmart(PBR1) to acquire e-commerce store Jet.com for $3 billion cash plus $300 million stock. $WMT PR link.

Chevron(PBR3) gets affirmation from US Appeals Court that $9.5 billion judgment in Ecuador was fraudulent & unenforceable in the US. $CVX PR link.

Delta Air Lines(PBR72) issues statement to customers regarding flight cancellations & delays. $DAL PR link.

Marriott Intl(PBR211) merger with Starwood Hotels(PBR417 $HOT) extended by up to 60 days per China Ministry of Commerce request. $MAR PR link.

Williams Cos(PBR348) to receive $209 million & Williams Partners(NYSE: WPZ) $817 million in sale of Canadian businesses. $WMB PR link.

Terex(PBR357) gets European Union & US Antitrust clearances for $1.3 billion sale of Material Handling/Port Solutions business to Konecranes, expected to close early 2017. $TEX PR link.

Intuit(PBR529)’s QuickBooks Online unit passes 1.5 million paid subscribers. $INTU PR link.

AMC Entertainment(PBR851) to accelerate deployment of Dolby cinema in 100 AMC sites by end of 2017, 7 years early. $AMCX PR link.

Mattress Firm(PBR932) to be acquired by S Africa based global integrated retailer Steinhoff for $64.00/share, $3.8 billion cash. $MFRM PR link.

Vail Resorts(PBR1032) to acquire Canada mountain resort Whistler Blackcomb in $46.8/share, $1.8 billion cash/stock deal. $MTN PR link.

Polaris Industries(PBR531) promotes Joel Houlton to VP Global Safety and Quality. $PII PR link.

Endo Intl(PBR700) hires Joseph Ciaffoni as president, US Branded Pharmaceuticals. $ENDP PR link.

hhgregg(PBR864) appoints 4 to SVP/VP responsibilities in marketing, 3 merchandising areas. $HGG PR link.

Red Robin(PBR1046) promotes president Denny Marie Post to CEO, succeeds retiring Steve Carley. $RRGB PR link.

New York Federal Reserve article: Consumers’ Income/Spending Growth Expectations Strengthen, Labor Market Expectations Weaken. $NYFED PR link.

Fannie Mae(PBR17 $FNMA) and Freddie Mac(PBR41 $FMCC) could need $126 billion taxpayer bailout in next crisis, stress test finds. MarketWatch PR link.

Friday, August 5:

The PBR1000 Week Ending 08/05/16 US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA ends week at 18,543.53, +0.60% from last Friday/MTD, +3.42% QTD, +6.42% YTD, -0.28% from record 18,595.03 on 07/20/16.
NASDAQ ends week at 5,221.12, +1.14% from last Friday/MTD, +7.81% QTD, +4.27% YTD, +0.00% from record 5,221.12 on 08/05/15.
SPX ends week at 2,182.87, +0.43% from last Friday/MTD, +4.00% QTD, +6.80% YTD, +0.00% from record 2,182.87 on 08/05/16.

The PBR1000 End of July Top 5 Companies by Market Capitalization:
1. Apple(PBR3), $AAPL, $562.02B
2. Alphabet(PBR35), $GOOGL, $527.82
3. Microsoft(PBR25), $MSFT, $442.56B
4. ExxonMobil(PBR2), $XOM, $368.84B
5. Amazon(PBR18), $AMZN, $358.03B

Range: $562.02 to $0.00, median was $6.34B(PBR502), Average was $21.14B(PBR226).

Total The PBR1000 Market Capitalization was $21,208.33B, +3.30% from June, +5.31%YTD, +3.12% from 12/31/14. (1,003 companies)

Get the current month plus the next 12 months of the 15 analytical snapshots of The PBR1000 Monthly Snapshots, including the full Market Capitalization Snapshot, by going to the SUBSCRIBE page now!

American Airlines(PBR69) & TMU-IAM Association reach interim agreement on pay increases for 30,000 ground employees. $AAL PR link.

International Paper(PBR117) to complete $2.2 billion acquisition of Weyerhauser(PBR355 $WY)‘s pulp business in 4Q2016. $IP PR link.

AbbVie(PBR136 $ABBV) files patent suit against Amgen(PBR135 $AMGN) over Humira biosimilar. MarketWatch PR link.

Priceline(PBR319)’s Booking.com unit adds its one-millionth property in Nantucket, Massachussets. $PCLN PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) completes $9.9 billion acquisition of Sweden based 4,500 employee global pharmaceuticals provider Meda. $MYL PR link.

Sprint(PBR86) hires Jan Geldmacher, former CEO of Vodafone Global Enterprise, as president of Sprint Enterprise. http://sprint.co/2ap4Q8h

Scientific Games(PBR937) hires Kevin Sheehan as new president/CEO, Gavin Isaacs to become vice chairman of the board. $SGMS PR link.

The US Dept of Labor estimates US July Employment at 151.5 million, +420,000 from June, +2.7 million from Jul 2015, Unemployment rate at 4.9%. USDOL PR link.

US Dept of Commerce says US Total June Exports YTD at $1.091 trillion, Imports $1.335 trillion, Deficit $245 billion. USDOC PR link.

US Federal Reserve estimates US June Consumer Credit Outstanding at $3.634 trillion, +0.34% from May, +2.78% YTD, +5.77% from June 2015 FedReserve PR link.

Thursday, August 4:

Spectra Energy(PBR422) sells its Canadian natural gas liquids business to Plains Midstream Canada for $204 million. $SE PR link.

LinkedIn(PBR843) 2Q2016 report says cumulative members grew 18% year-over-year to 450 million. $LNKD PR link.

Natl Oilwell Varco(PBR127) promotes Isaac Joseph to president, Wellbore Technologies unit. $NOV PR link.

Diebold(PBR676) promotes Octavio Marquez to SVP/Managing Director N & S America operations. $DBD PR link.

TreeHouse Foods(PBR690) EVP/CFO & interim president of Private Brands to become a senior advisor, search for new CFO starts. $THS PR link.

Bristow Group(PBR919) promotes Chip Earle to SVP/Chief Legal& Support Officer, Mary Wersebe to VP/Human Resources. $BRS PR link.

US Dept of Labor estimates US July Employment at 151,517,000, +420,000 from June, +2.651,000 from Jul 2015, Unemployment rate at 4.9% USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US June Manufacturers’ New Orders were $447.4 billion, -1.5% from May, -2.6% YTD. USDOC PR link.

Wednesday, August 3:

Stocks Fun Fact: The PBR1000 Top 5 YTD Stock Gainers through July are:
1. Cliffs Natural Resources(PBR842), $CLF, +400.63%
2. US Steel(PBR228), $X, +244.49%
3. AK Steel(PBR351), $AKS, +192.86%
4. Quad/Graphics(PBR478), $QUAD, +172.69%
5. CONSOL Energy(PBR633), $CNX, +145.32%

Range: +400.63% to -97.45%, 685 companies were +0.00%, median was +9.60%. (1,003 companies)

Allergan(PBR219) to sell pharmaceutical products distributor Anda to Teva Pharmaceuticals for $500 million. $AGN PR link.

Newfield Exploration(PBR830) In two separate agreements sells most of its Texas assets for $390 million. $NFX PR link.

Universal American(PBR882) completes sale of traditional insurance business to Nassau Reinsurance Group for $30.5 million cash. $UAM PR link.

Wolverine Worldwide(PBR722) promotes Mike Jeppesen to expanded role of president, Wolverine Heritage Group. $WWW PR link.

ADP(PBR235) says July Change in National Employment was +179,000 with Goods Producing -6,000, Services +185,000. $ADP PR link.

The Conference Board July Help Wanted Online Ads were 4,814,300, +3.4% from June, -10.3% from July2015. TCB PR link.

Markit reports July US Composite PMI Output Index at 51.8, June was 51.2, May 50.9. Markit PR link.

ISM says US July Non-Manufacturing Index at 55.5%, June was 56.5%, May 52.9%. ISM PR link.

Automotive News says July US New Auto Units Sold were 1,521,245, +0.5% from July 2015. AutoNews PR link.

Tuesday, August 2:

Stocks Fun Fact: The PBR1000 Top 5 Stock Gainers 12/31/14-07/31/16:
1. NVIDIA(PBR454), $NVDA, +184.79%
2. AMD(PBR536), $AMD, +156.93%
3. Amazon(PBR18), $AMZN, +144.50%
4. Newmont Mining(PBR320), $NEM, +132.80%
5. Insperity(PBR722), $NSP, +131.60%

Range: +184.79% to -95.15%, 494 companies were +0.00%, median was -0.16%. (991 companies)

AIG(PBR46) authorizes additional $3.0 billion for share repurchase program, balance is $4.0 billion. $AIG PR link.

Energy Transfer Equity(PBR52) & Sunoco Logistics(PBR158 $SXL) sell 36.75% stake in Bakken Pipeline Project to Enbridge Energy(PBR333 $EEP) & Marathon Petroleum(PBR23 $MPC) for $1.2 billion & $800 million respectively. $ETE PR link.

Allergan(PBR219) completes $40.5 billion cash/stock divestiture of global generics business to Teva Pharmaceutical. $AGN PR link.

Molina Healthcare(PBR284) to acquire certain Medicare Advantage assets from Aetna(PBR49 $AET) & Humana(PBR58 $HUM) for $117 million. $MOH PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) to complete $9.9 billion acquisition of Sweden based 4,500 employee global pharmaceuticals provider Meda on 08/05/16. $MYL PR link.

Avery Dennison(PBR396) completes $226 million acquisition of $170 million/year Mactac Europe. $AVY PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Pearland, TX, south central US retail insurance broker Victory Insurance Agency. $AJG PR link.

Griffon Corp(PBR890) adds $50 million to share repurchase program, balance is $64.6 million. $GFF PR link.

Cincinnati Bell(PBR1027) shareholders approve 1-for-5 reverse stock split, to be effective 10/05/16. $CBB PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) hires Elisa Garcia as Chief Legal Officer, effective 09/07/16, succeeds retiring Dennis Broderick. $M PR link.

McDonald’s(PBR101) Chief Administrative Officer Pete Benson retiring on 09/02/16; organizational changes to be announced in coming weeks. $MCD PR link.

NRG Energy(PBR186) hires Bruno Sarda as VP/Sustainability. $NRG PR link.

PVH(PBR328) hires Raf Simons as Chief Creative Officer of its Calvin Klein unit. $PVH PR link.

TD Ameritrade(PBR662) EVP/COO Marv Adams resigning on 12/01/16, COO position to be eliminated. $AMTD PR link.

The Dept of Commerce estimates US June Total Personal Income Annual Rate at $15.883 trillion, +0.2% from May, +3.4% from June 2015. USDOC PR link.

TrueCar estimates July New Auto Sales at $48.9 million, Average Transaction Price $32,518, Incentive per Unit Spending $3,225. TrueCar PR link.

US July Purdue/CME Ag Barometer Index at 112, June was 104, May 97. Purdue/CME PR link.

Monday, August 1:

Verizon(PBR15) to acquire Ireland based global fleet & mobile workforce management solutions provider Fleetmatics(NYSE: FLTX) for $60.00/share, $2.4 billion cash. $VZ PR link.

Glaxo, Alphabet(PBR44 $GOOGL) plan $700 million bioelectric venture. MarketWatch PR link.

Pfizer(PBR56) acquires remaining 78% of private gene therapy firm Bamboo Therapeutics for up to $650 million. $PFE PR link.

McDonald’s(PBR101) USA announces big changes to its food. $MCD PR link.

Icahn Enterprises(PBR147) confirms co-manager arrangements with Brett Icahn and David Schechter. $IEP PR link.

MGM Resorts(PBR273) completes $900 million acquisition of Boyd Gaming(PBR727)‘s 50% ownership in Borgata Hotel Casino in Atlantic City, NJ. $MGM PR link.

Gannett(PBR414) extends $4.60/share tender offer for $320 million/year digital market solutions company ReachLocal(NASDAQ: RLOC) to 08/08/16, 42.09% of shares tendered so far. $GCI PR link.

Jones Lang LaSalle(PBR449) completes acquisition of UK based 1,600 clients in 60,000 locations property maintenance provider Integral UK. $JLL PR link.

Salesforce(PBR453) to acquire collaboration software developer Quip in $582 million stock deal. $CRM PR link.

Coach(PBR496) sells interest in 10 Hudson Yards headquarters location for $707 million, signs 20 year lease. $COH PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires UK based employee benefits insurance provider Orb Financial Services. $AJG PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires San Diego, CA, retail insurance broker Blue Horizon Insurance Services. $AJG PR link.

Tesla(PBR651 $TSLA) to acquire Solar City($SCTY) for $25.83/share, $2.6 billion in all stock deal. MarketWatch PR link.

Convergys(PBR703) becomes 2nd largest customer management services company in Germany with $135 million acquisition of buw. $CVG PR link.

Kennametal(PBR706) to eliminate 1,000 positions in FY2017, form new organizational structure with 3 operating units. $KMT PR link.

Equinix(PBR793) completes $211 million acquisition of Paris data center from Digital Realty. $EQIX PR link.

Newell Brands(PBR434) Chief Commercial Officer Joseph Arcuri leaving effective 08/31/16, to receive $625,000 severance payment plus other benefits. $NWL PR link.

hhgregg(PBR864) interim president/CEO & CFO Robert Riesbeck appointed president/CEO. $HGG PR link.

The US Dept of Agriculture lifts years-long ban on beef imports from Brazil. MarketWatch PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates June US Construction Spending Annual Rate at $1.134 trillion, -0.65% from May, +0.27% from June 2015 USDOC PR link.

The July 2016 Manufacturing ISM® Report On Business® says PMI at 52.6%, June was 53.2%, May 51.3%. ISM PR link.

The Markit July Flash US Manufacturing PMI at 52.9, June was 51.3, May was 50.7. Markit PR link.

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The PBR1000 July 2016 Breaking News Recap

August 1, 2016 by admin

July 2016: Happy New Half Year!

Dem Donkey Rep Elephant Fight-vectorolie ID-100374511

The Round 1 Primary Season is Over; The Round 2 Campaigning Stage has been set.

By Larry C. Paxton

At the beginning of July 2016 the possible ramifications of Brexit, the vote that will remove the UK as a member of the European Union, was the major news and continued to play an important part throughout July 2016. Bottomline, a new prime minister moved into 10 Downing Street, the world did not fall apart, and experts from all kinds of disciplines are still struggling at making projections on what the effect will be short term and long term.

In contrast, the big news at the end of July 2016 was the formal selection of outspoken, sometimes crude, often politically incorrect, business tycoon, ‘law-and-order’ Donald Trump as the Republican candidate and scandal ridden, perceived by many as too secretive, untrustworthy and paranoid but very politically experienced Hillary Clinton as the Democratic candidate for the next president of the US. Both vice president picks have higher positive ratings than the partners who selected them.

The next almost 100 days will be filled with lots of vitriol, huge spending on negative political ads, drama filled debates with incomplete or blatant false facts, impossible promises, and who knows what kind of last minute surprises. May the good Lord have mercy on the souls of the American voter during this process.

In between Brexit and the US presidential candidates being selected there were the usual number of mergers/acquisitions, mixed earnings reports, and moderate at best economic data.

As August starts let’s pray for a safe and exciting XXXI Olympiad in Rio de Janeiro that displays the best in athletic competition, achievement, and outstanding sportsmanship. May it be a great model for the business world as well.

Following are The PBR1000 and economic related breaking news items of interest for July 2016, starting with the last active business day.

Friday, July 29:

The PBR1000 End of July US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA ends July at 18,432.24, -0.75% from last Friday, +2.80% MTD/QTD, +5.78% YTD, -0.88% from record 18,595.03 on 07/20/16.
NASDAQ ends July at 5,162.13, +1.22% from last Friday, +6.60% MTD/QTD, +3.09% YTD, -1.09% from record 5,218.86 on 07/20/15.
SPX ends July at 2,173.60, -0.07% from last Friday, +3.56% MTD/QTD, +6.34% YTD, -0.07% from record 2,175.03 on 07/22/16.

NextEra Energy(PBR173) to acquire Energy Future Holdings’ interest in Oncor Electric Delivery company for $18.4 billion. $NEE PR link.

KeyCorp(PBR544) completes $4.1 billion acquisition of First Niagara Financial(PBR980 $FNFG). $KEY PR link.

Welltower(PBR635) promotes Mercedes Kerr to EVP/Business Development. $HCN PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates that theUS 2Q2016 Gross Domestic Product Annual Rate is at 1.2%, $18.438 trillion, 1Q2016 revised to 0.8%. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says 2Q2016 Employment Cost Index(2005=100) for All Civilian Workers at 126.7, 1Q2016 was 126.0, 2Q2015 was 123.8. USDOL PR link.

The July MNI Chicago Business Barometerat 55.8, June was 56.8, May was 49.3. MNICBBPR link.

Thursday, July 28:

Oracle(PBR78) to acquire cloud based business services provider NetSuite(NYSE: $N) for $109.00/share, $9.3 billion. $ORCL PR link.

Avnet(PBR100) to acquire UK based global distributor of electronic & related componentsPremier Farnell plc for $2.46/share, $919 million cash. $AVT PR link.

Manpower(PBR132) authorizes additional 6 million shares repurchase program, balance is now 7.5 million. $MAN PR link.

CBS(PBR210) adds $5 billion to stock repurchase program, total available now $6 billion. $CBS PR link.

Air Products(PBR267) files SEC Form 10 for independent public company spin-off Versum Materials, to start trading in October. $APD PR link.

Cognizant Technology(PBR272) acquires private 170 person digital innovation, strategy & design firm Idea Couture. $CTSH PR link.

Alliance Data(PBR462) to provide private label & co-branded credit card services for 886 storesUlta Salon(PBR646 $ULTA). $ADS PR link.

Brunswick(PBR584) to acquire Germany based $41 million/2015 Indoor Cycling Group.$BC PR link.

Tempur Sealy(PBR687) adds $200 million to share repurchase program, balance is $344 million. $TPX PR link.

IDEX(PBR861) to acquire global Swiss based metal-to-metal seal & flow control solutions manufacturer SFC Koenig AG for $239 million.$IEX PR link.

New York Times(PBR971) 2Q2016 revenues at $372.6 million, $54.1 million from digital news subscriptions, 51,000 net new subscribers for digital news products. $NYT PR link.

M&T Bank(PBR504) hires Doris Meister as EVP, to head Wilmington Trust wealth unit.$MTB PR link.

GNC(PBR743) CEO Michael Archbold steps down, independent board member Robert Moran now interim CEO. $GNC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says 07/16/16 US Total 4 Week Moving Average Unemployment Claims at 2.135 million, +.1% from June, -5.3% from July 2015. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US 2nd Quarter Home Occupancy at 118.3 million units, Owner Occupied 74.4 million, Ownership Rate 62.9%. USDOC PR link.

The US Energy Information Administrationreports 07/22/16 Crude Oil Stocks at 521.1 million barrels, -1.0% from June, +13.4% from July 2015. EIA PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR44) says 07/28/16 Average 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rate at 3.48%, 06/30/16 was 3.48%, 07/30/15 was 3.98%.$FMCC PR link.

Wednesday, July 27:

Amazon(PBR29) to open 800,000 sf fulfillment center in Jacksonville, FL, will create 1,500 fulltime positions. $AMZN PR link.

Anthem(PBR38) increases enrollment in FY2016 by 1.2 million, now has 39.8 million members. $ANTM PR link.

Mondelez(PBR87) to enter China’s growing $2.8 billion chocolate market, to introduce Milkabrand products in September. $MDLZ PR link.

T-Mobile US(PBR95) 2Q2016 total net adds at 1.9 million, customer base at 67+ million.$TMUS PR link.

Alcoa(PBR115) to ask shareholders on 10/05/16 to approve 1 for 3 reverse stock split.$AA PR link.

Dollar General(PBR151) purchases 41 formerWalmart(PBR1) Express stores for relocating existing DG stores. $DG PR link.

Facebook(PBR228) 2Q2016 rpt says June Daily Active Users at 1.13 billion, 1.03 billion from mobile users. $FB PR link.

LabCorp(PBR413) to acquire NIPT, women’s health & reproductive genetics providerSequenom(NASDAQ: SQNM) for $2.40/share, $302 million cash. $LH PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Miami, FL, managing general agency Gabor Insurance Services. $AJG PR link.

Brookdale Senior Living(PBR587) to sell 44 communities across 12 states for $252.5 million.$BKD PR link.

Alliant Energy(PBR634) to invest $1 billion to expand wind energy operations in Iowa. $LNTPR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR142) chairman John Lechleiter resigning president/CEO role 01/01/17, David Ricks to become president/CEO, then add chairman role 06/01/17. $LLY PR link.

Triumph Group(PBR578) hires Jim McCabe as CFO, effective 08/08/16. $TGI PR link.

Erin Nuxoll re-joins Boise Cascade(PBR610)as VP/Human Resources. $BCC PR link.

The US Federal Reserve releases FOMCminutes from 07/26-27/16 meeting, keeps federal funds rate at 0.25-0.50%. FRB PR link.

FreddieMac 1Q2016 Apartment Investment Market Index at 107.37, +0.30% from 4Q2015, -3.22% from 1Q2015 $FMCC PR link.

Tuesday, July 26:

Citrix(PBR658)’s GoTo business to merge withLogMeIn(NASDAQ: LOGM) in $65.31/share, $1.8 billion deal. $CTXS PR link.

Analog Devices(PBR701) to acquire high performance analog integrated circuits developer Linear Technology(PBR1011 $LLTC) for $60.00/share, $14.8 billion stock/cash. $ADI PR link.

The US Dept of HUD estimates US June New Family Home Sale Median Price at $306,700, +6.2% from May, +6.1% from June 2015. HUDPR link.

The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller May Home Prices Index(Jan2000=100) is 180.70, April was 178.61. SPICE PR link.

The Conference Board says July Consumer Confidence Index(1985=100) at 97.3, June was 97.4. TCB PR link.

Monday, July 25:

Verizon(PBR15) to acquire Yahoo!(PBR519 $YHOO)‘s operating business for $4.83 billion cash, combine it with AOL unit. $VZ PR link.

Sprint(PBR86) reports postpaid phone net additions of 173,000 in 1Q2017, highest in 9 years. $S PR link.

ConAgra(PBR166) completes sales of its JM Swank and SpiceTec Flavors & Seasoningsunits for $488 million. $CAG PR link.

American Financial(PBR435) to acquire remaining non-owned shares of National Interstate(NASDAQ: $NATL) for $32.00/share, $320 million. $AFG PR link.

Molson Coors(PBR558) announces leadership appointments to take effect upon close ofMillerCoors acquisition. $TAP PR link.

Outerwall(PBR824) to be acquired by Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR906 $APO) for $52.00/share, $1.6 billion cash. $OUTR PR link.

AMC Entertainment(PBR851) makes final offer to Carmike Cinemas(NASDAQ: $CKEC)for $33.06/share, $1.21 billion cash/stock.$AMC PR link.

E*Trade(PBR930) to acquire Aperture New Holdings, parent of $104 million/2015OptionsHouse, for $725 million. $ETFC PR link.

Friday, July 22:

The PBR1000 Week Ending 07/22/16 US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA ends week at 18,570.85, +0.29% from last Friday, +3.57% MTD/QTD, +6.58% YTD, -0.13% from record 18,595.03 on 07/20/16.
NASDAQ ends week at 5,100.16, +1.40% from last Friday, +5.32% MTD/QTD, +1.85% YTD, -2.27% from record 5,218.86 on 07/20/15.
SPX ends week at 2,175.03, +0.61% from last Friday, +3.63% MTD/QTD, +6.41% YTD, +0.00% from record 2,175.03 on 07/22/16.

Honeywell(PBR74) splitting Automation & Control Solutions unit into 2 units,Home/Building Technologies &Safety/Productivity Solutions. $HON PR link.

Liberty Interactive(PBR263) completes spinoff of independent public companyCommerceHub, to start trading 07/25/16.$QVCA PR link.

ON Semiconductor(PBR656) extends $20/share, $2.4 billion cash tender offer forFairchild Semiconductor(PBR1000 $FCS) to 08/04/16, currently has commitment of 53.1% of shares. $ON PR link.

Stanley Black & Decker(PBR249)president/COO James Loree to be president/CEO on 08/01/16, John Lundgren to remain chairman through 2016. $SWK PR link.

Patterson Cos(PBR542) hires Todd Marshall as chief marketing/digital officer. $PDCO PR link.

Thursday, July 21:

ExxonMobil(PBR2) to acquire Papua New Guinea based oil & gas developerInterOil(NYSE: IOC) for $2.5 billion. $XOM PR link.

MasterCard(PBR16) to acquire 92.4% of UK based payments technology provider VocaLinkfor $920 million. $MA PR link.

Anthem(PBR38) says US Dept of Justicelawsuit to prevent merger with Cigna(PBR85 $CI) is unfortunate & misguided. $ANTM PR link.

Comcast(PBR42) to offer Xfinity TV/Internet Prepaid Services nationwide by end of 2017, to partner with 4,400 Boost Mobile locations.$CMCSA PR link.

Aetna(PBR49) & Humana(PBR58 $HUM) to defend pending merger in response to US Dept of Justice lawsuit. $AET PR link.

Johnson Controls(PBR68) expects to accelerate merger with Tyco plc(NYSE $TYC), to close 09/02/16. $JCI PR link.

General Mills(PBR162) restructuring global supply chain, to cut 1,400 jobs in US, Brazil, & China operations. $GIS PR link.

PPG Industries(PBR190) to sell flat glass & glass coatings businesses to Vitro SAB for $750 million cash. $PPG PR link.

PayPal & VISA(PBR224 $V) form strategic partnership to extend consumer payment choice, especially digital. $PYPL PR link.

VISA(PBR224) adds $5.0 billion to share repurchase program, balance is $7.3 billion. $VPR link.

Dana Holding(PBR382) changing name toDana Inc, effective 08/01/16. PayPal PR link.

Joy Global(PBR590) to be acquired by Japan based Komatsu for $3.7 billion cash. $JOY PR link.

21st Century Fox(PBR91) TV units chairman/CEO Roger Ailes resigns, Ruport Murdoch now chairman/acting CEO. $FOX PR link.

JCPenney(PBR234) CEO Marvin Ellison to also be chairman upon retirement of Mike Ullman, III, on 08/01/16. $JCP PR link.

Biogen(PBR282) CEO George Scangos to leave in coming months after successor identified. $BIIB PR link.

The Philadelphia Federal Reserve says July Manufacturing General Activity Indicator at -2.9, June was 4.7. PhillyFed PR link.

The National Assn of Realtors says June Existing Home Sales at a 5.570 million annual rate, +1.1% from May, +3.0% from June 2015.NAR PR link.

The Conference Board June Leading Economic Index at 123.7, +0.3% from May.TCB PR link.

Wednesday, July 20:

Kroger(PBR20) Axium Pharmacy unit to acquire specialty pharmacy Modern HC, operate as wholly own subsidiary. $KR PR link.

Dow Chemical(PBR48) & DuPont(PBR82 $DD) shareholders approve merger, spinoff into 3 separate independent companies, expected to close 2H2016. $DOW PR link.

Molson Coors(PBR558) gets USDOJ approval for acquisition of SABMillers 58% stake inMillerCoors. $TAP PR link.

Sprint(PBR86) hires Ismat Aziz as SVP/Human Resources, succeeds retired Sandy Price. $SPR link.

Occidental Petroleum(PBR123) hires Oscar Brown as SVP/Worldwide Business Development. $OXY PR link.

ADP(PBR235) 2Q2016 Workforce Vitality Index at 109.6, +2.7% from 2Q2015. $ADP PR link.

Tuesday, July 19:

EMC Corp(PBR111) shareholders vote to approve $59 billion acquisition by Dell, closing on track. $EMC PR link.

Monsanto(PBR187) rejects as financially inadquate Bayer AG(XETRA: BAY) revised acquisition offer, remains open to further discussion. $MON PR link.

Mattel(PBR412) awarded worldwide master toy licensee for Jurassaic World byComcast(PBR42 $CMCSA) NBC Universalunit. $MAT PR link.

Kroger(PBR20) Houston division president Bill Breetz retiring; 3 new division presidents named.$KR PR link.

Rent A Center(PBR657) promotes Jim York to EVP/RTO Domestic Operations. $RCII PR link.

Toro(PBR855) president/COO Richard Olson elected to president/CEO, effective 11/01/16, Michael Hoffman to remain chairman. $TTC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says Total June Private Housing Building Permits at 1,153,000, +1.5% from May, -13.57% from June 2015. USDOC PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR44) releases July Insight, focus on 55+ housing market. $FMCC PR link.

Monday, July 18:

Johnson & Johnson(PBR37) completes $3.3 billion cash acquisition of privately held hair care products provider Vogue International. $JNJPR link.

NextEra Energy(PBR173) & Hawaiian Electric(PBR647 $HE) agree to terminate merger agreement per Hawaiian Public Utilities Commission order. $NEE PR link.

Ross Stores(PBR253) opens 31 new locations in June & July, on track to open 90 in 2016.$ROST PR link.

Netflix(PBR447) to beam new CBS(PBR210) “Star Trek” TV series in 188 countries in exclusive licensing deal. $NFLX PR link.

Netflix(PBR447) adds 1.7 million subscribers in Q2, below 2.5 million forecast, now at 83 million subscribers. $NFLX PR link.

Moody’s(PBR636) acquires full ownership of credit ratings, reseach, & other services Korea Investor Services, terms not disclosed. $MCOPR link.

Hawaiian Electric(PBR647) to move forward as an independent company, American Savings Bank unit will not be spunoff. $HE PR link.

Boeing(PBR27) SVP Engineering, Test & Technology Greg Hyslop adds Chief Technology Officer role, succeeds retiring John Tracy, reports to chairman/president/CEO Dennis Mullenburg. $BA PR link.

FTI Consulting(PBR941) hires Ajay Sabherwal as CFO, effective 08/15/16. $FCN PR link.

Friday, July 15:

The PBR1000 Week Ending 07/15/16 US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA ends week at 18,516.55, +2.04% from last Friday, +3.27% MTD/QTD, +6.26% YTD, +0.00% from record 18,516.55 on 07/15/16.
NASDAQ ends week at 5,029.59, +1.47% from last Friday, +3.86% MTD/QTD, +0.44% YTD, -3.63% from record 5,218.86 on 07/20/15.
SPX ends week at 2,161.74, +1.49% from last Friday, +3.00% MTD/QTD, +5.76% YTD, -0.09% from record 2,163.75 on 05/21/15.

Amazon(PBR29) to open 10th fulfillment center in California in Sacramento, to employ 1,000 fulltime people. $AMZN PR link.

HanesBrands(PBR459) completes $800 million acquisition of Australia based underwear/intimate apparel company Pacific Brands. $HBI PR link.

Herbalife(PBR487) to pay FTC $200 million in settlement agreement, to continue business model, to allow Carl Icahn to acquire up to 34.99% of common shares. $HLF PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says June Current Average Earnings Per Hour at $25.61, +0.08% from May, +2.6% from June 2015.USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US June Consumer Price Index +0.2% from May, food at -0.1%, energy at +1.3%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says US May Manufacturing/Trade Total Sales at $1.292 trillion, +0.25% from April, -1.44% from May 2015. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says US June Retail Trade Sales at $457.0 billion, +0.56% from May, +2.72% from June 2015. USDOC PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says US June % of Industrial Capacity at 75.4%, May was 74.9%, growth over previous year +0.6%. FRB PR link.

The NY Federal Reserve July Empire State Manufacturing General Business Conditions Index at 0.6, July was 6.0. NYFEDPR link.

The U of Michigan says Preliminary US July Consumer Index Sentiment at 89.5, June was 93.5, July 2015 was 93.1. UMich PR link.

The NAHB/Wells Fargo July National Housing Market Index at 59, June was 60, July 2015 was 60. NAHB/WF PR link.

Thursday, July 14:

Devon Energy(PBR143) sells its 50% interest in Access Pipeline for $1.1 billion, completes divestiture plan. $DVN PR link.

Regions Financial(PBR450) announces $640 million common stock repurchase program. $RFPR link.

Alliance Data(PBR462) to manage loyalty driven private label credit card program for The Childrens Place(PBR939 $PLCE). $ADS PR link.

Cree(PBR964) to sell Wolfspeed Power and RF Division to Infineon Technologies AG(FSE: IFX) for $850 million cash. $CREE PR link.

ConAgra(PBR166) hires David Marberger as EVP/CFO, effective 08/29/16, succeeds retiring John Gehring. $CAG PR link.

Coach(PBR496) hires Wendy Kahn as Stuart Weitzman unit CEO & brand president, effective 09/13/16. $COH PR link.

Brink’s(PBR613) hires Ron Domanico as CFO, Rohan Pal as Chief Information & Digital Officer.$BCO PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says June Total Producer Price Index was +0.5% from May, May was +0.4%, +0.3% over last 12 months.USDOL PR link.

Adobe Systems(PBR557) releases Adobe Digital Economy Project June 2016, shows continued deflation in the vast majority of goods and services. $ADBE PR link.

Wednesday, July 13:

Amazon(PBR29) says 07/12/16 Prime Dayexceeded 2015 by over 60% worldwide, over 50% in the US. $AMZN PR link.

SuperValu(PBR164) to expand wholesale business with acquisition of 22 Food Lionstores in WV, PA, MD, VA. $SVU PR link.

ConAgra(PBR166) files SEC Form 10 registration for planned fall spin-off of independent public potato foods provider Lamb Weston, names key leadership. $CAG PR link.

Starbucks(PBR178) to be global licensee/investor in boutique bakery/cafe Italian restaurant Princi. $SBUX PR link.

Entergy(PBR227) in talks to sell its Fitzpatrick Nuclear Power Plant in Scriba, NY, toExelon(PBR102 $EXC). $ETR PR link.

AAR Corp(PBR883) acquires the SPACEMAX®product line of high-tech, hard-wall, rapid-deployment mobile shelters used in commercial, military and humanitarian operations. $AIR PR link.

Alaska Air(PBR454) names Peter Hunt as president of subsidiary Virgin America, to be CEO with acquisition close. $ALK PR link.

AAR Corp(PBR883) to promote Tim Romenesko to vice chairman/CFO, effective 08/01/16, succeeds retiring Michael Sharp. $AIRPR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US June Receipts at $329.6 billion, Outlays $323.3 billion, Surplus $6.3 billion, YTD Deficit $400.8 billion. Treasury PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the June US Import Price Index Year-to-Year at -4.8%, Exports -3.5%. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve releases mid May-end of June Beige Book, summarizes US economy as growing at a modest pace. FRB PR link.

Tuesday, July 12:

JPMorgan Chase(PBR21) to raise minimum hourly wages from $10.15 to $12.00-16.50 over next 3 years for 18,000 employees, increase benefits & training. $JPM PR link.

Starbucks(PBR178) to raise prices $0.10-0.30 on 35% of beverages offered. $SBUX PR link.

KeyCorp(PBR544) gets okay for $4.1 billion acquisition of First Niagara Financial(PBR980), to close around 08/01/16.$KEY PR link.

Triumph Group(PBR578) promotes MaryLou Thomas to EVP, Aerospace Structures. $TGI PR link.

AMC Entertainment(PBR728) to acquire UK based largest Europe theatre exhibitor Odeon & UCI Cinemas Group for $1.199 billion cash/stock. $AMCX PR link.

AMC Entertainment(PBR728) reiterates its intent to acquire Carmike Cinemas(NASDAQ: $CKEC) for $30/share, $1.1 billion but confirms deal at risk. $AMCX PR link.

Kroger(PBR20) Roundy’s unit CEO Bob Mariano to retire 09/01/16. $KR PR link.

Intuit(PBR529) hires Lucas Watson as EVP & Chief Marketing and Sales Officer. $INTU PR link.

Polaris Industries(PBR531) promotes Craig Scanlon to new position of Chief Marketing Officer. $PII PR link.

The US Dept of Labor estimates Total May US Job Openings at 5.5 million, -5.9% from April, +2.1% from May 2015. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates Total US May Monthly Wholesale Trade at $435.5 billion, +0.5% from April, -2.44 from May 2015.USDOC PR link.

FreddieMac releases US July Outlook, expects GDP to be 1.9% in 2016, 2.2% in 2017.$FMCC PR link.

Corelogic estimates Total May US Seriously Delinquent Mortgage Payments at 1.113 million, -21.6% from May 2015. CoreLogic PR link.

Retailers leased the most warehouse space in more than 30 years during second quarter.MarketWatch PR link.

Monday, July 11:

Southern Co(PBR155) & Kinder Morgan(PBR181 $KMI) enter 7,600 mileSouthern Natural Gas Pipeline strategic venture. $SO PR link.

Starbucks(PBR178) to increase wages 5-15% for all partners/store managers, effective 10/03/16. $SBUX PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR314) & Caesars Acquisition Co amend & restate merger agreement. $CZR PR link.

Visteon(PBR351) completes acquisition of India based 140 employee automotive multimedia systems supplier AllGo Systems. $VC PR link.

Salesforce(PBR453) completes $75/share, $2.8 billion cash acquisition of global digital commerce market cloud leaderDemandware(NYSE: DWRE). $CRM PR link.

Skechers USA(PBR808) expands European Distribution Center to 98,500 sq meters, largest in southern Belgium. $SKX PR link.

Avnet(PBR100) appoints board member Bill Amelio as interim CEO, replaces leaving Rick Hamada. $AVT PR link.

Staples(PBR122) promotes Steve Matyas to President, North American Retail. $SPLS PR link.

HCP(PBR831) executive chairman Michael McKee adds interim president/CEO role with departure of Lauralee Martin. $HCP PR link.

BOK Financial(PBR1021) promotes Marty Grunst to Chief Risk Officer. $BOKF PR link.

Aircraft Industry: Boeing(PBR27) forecasts demand for 39,620 new airplanes valued at $5.9 trillion over next 20 years. $BA PR link.

Friday, July 8:

The PBR1000 Week Ending 07/08/16 US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA ends week at 18,146.74, +1.10% from last Friday, +1.21% MTD/QTD, +4.14% YTD, -0.90% from record 18,312.39 on 05/19/15.
NASDAQ ends week at 4,956.76, +1.94% from last Friday, +2.36% MTD/QTD, -1.01% YTD, -5.02% from record 5,218.86 on 07/20/15.
SPX ends week at 2,129.90, +1.28% from last Friday, +1.48% MTD/QTD, +4.21% YTD, -0.04% from record 2,130.82 on 05/21/15.

Southern Co(PBR155) & Turner Renewable Energy acquire N Carolina 74 MW Rutherford Farm solar facility. $SO PR link.

ON Semiconductor(PBR656) extends $20/share, $2.4 billion cash tender offer forFairchild Semiconductor(PBR1000 $FCS) to 07/21/16, currently has commitment of 50.9% of shares. $ON PR link.

Equinix(PBR793) promotes Mike Campbell as Chief Sales Officer. $EQIX PR link.

Cenveo(PBR899) to do 1-for-8 reverse stock split on 07/13/16. $CVO PR link.

The US Dept of Labor estimates Total US June Employed at 151.1 million, +67,000 from May, >strong>Unemployment Rate at 4.9%, June 2015 was 5.3%. USDOL PR link.

Thursday, July 7:

Southern Co(PBR155) acquires 102 megawatt Texas’ Lamesa Solar Facility, to be operational by mid 2017. $SO PR link.

Alpha Natural Resources(PBR548) to emerge from bankruptcy in late 07/16, to operate as a private company. $ANRZQ PR link.

WhiteWave Foods(PBR624) to be acquired by France based global food company Danone for $56.25/share, $12.5 billion cash, to close by 2016 end. $WWAV PR link.

PayChex(PBR770) authorizes up to $350 million share repurchase program through 05/31/19. $PAYX PR link.

Revlon(PBR900) hires Pamela Hill Alabaster to lead Global Corporate Communications/Social Responsibility. $REV PR link.

ADP says the US June Employment is +172,000 from May, +95,000 from small , +52,000 from medium, and +25,000 from large businesses. $ADP PR link.

Wednesday, July 6:

Southern Co(PBR155) acquires controlling interest in 102 MW Henrietta Solar Project in Kings Cty, CA, from SunPower(PBR680 $SPWR). $SO PR link.

Kinder Morgan(PBR181) gets new 10 year $900 million agreement to provide in-plant terminal resources for Nucor Corp(PBR130 $NUE). $KMI PR link.

Huntsman Corp(PBR244) to close S Africa 140 employee 25K metric ton titanium dioxide plant, save $200+ million. $AJG PR link.

Assurant(PBR268) acquires private $48 million/year title & valuation services providerAmerican Title for $45 million. $AIZ PR link.

MGM Resorts(PBR273) & NRG Energy(PBR186 $NRG) complete installation of nation’s largest rooftop solar array. $MGM PR link.

Gannett(PBR414) acquires certain publications/events assets of North Jersey Media Group, to contribute $90 million revenues/year. $GCI PR link.

Packaging Corp(PBR425) to acquire independent corrugated products producer $324 million/2015 TimBar for $386 million cash.$PKG PR link.

Alleghany Corp(PBR467) Jazwares unit acquires Boston based children/young adult musical instruments provider First Act. $Y PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires 85% in Swedish based $11 million/yr specialty insurance/reinsurance broker Brim AB. $AJGPR link.

MSC Industrial(PBR715) to launch self-tender offer, do stock repurchase program up to $390 million. $MSM PR link.

Nortek(PBR763) to be acquired by industrial manufacturer UK based Melrose Industries PLC for $86.00/share, $2.8 billion cash. $NTKPR link.

D.E. Shaw strikes deal forSunEdison(PBR782)’s stake in California solar project. MarketWatch PR link.

Boston Properties(PBR803) completes acquisition of 49.8% interest in 1.2 million sf office campus Colorado Center in Santa Monica, CA, for $511.1 million. $BXP PR link.

Western Digital(PBR194) CFO Olivier Leonetti leaving, Chief Strategy Officer Mark Long to add EVP/CFO roles on 09/01/16. $WDC PR link.

DISH(PBR196) hires Jay Roth as SVP/Chief Marketing Officer, reports to EVP of Marketing Warren Schlichting. $DISH PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says Total US Exports CYTD through May at $907.1 billion, Total Imports $1,105.7 billion, Total Deficit $200.4 billion. USDOC PR link.

The US Federal Reserve releases FOMCminutes for June meeting, no funds rate change, notes on UK vote on EU membership, inflation, jobs. FRB PR link.

Jobs: The Conference Board June Help Wanted Online rpt says 4.658M #jobs advertised online, -226,700 from May TCB PR link.

Mortgages: Refinancings soar as rates tumble post-#Brexit referendum. MarketWatch PR link.

ISM says June Non-Manufacturing Index at 56.5%, May was 52.9%.(>50% = #economy growing). ISM PR link.

Markit says US June Composite PMI at 51.2, up from May’s 50.9, with Services at 51.4, Manufacturing at 50.4. Markit PR link.

Tuesday, July 5:

Chevron(PBR3) approves next major Tengiz Expansion Project in Kazakhstan, to add 260,000 barrels of oil/day. $CVX PR link.

Comcast(PBR42 $CMCSA) will addNetflix(PBR447 $NFLX) to latest set-top boxes.MarketWatch PR link.

Sysco(PBR61) completes $3.1 billion acquisition of European food services distributorBrakes Group. $SYY PR link.

INTL FCStone(PBR88) completes acquisition of 100,000 clients, $11 billion in assets, 160 employees correspondent securities clearing & independent wealth management units of Stifel Financial(PBR835)’s Sterne Agee subsidiary.$INTL PR link.

Southern Co(PBR155) acquires 43 megawattPassadumkeag Windpark in Penobscot County, Maine. $SO PR link.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR185) acquires Sweden based cancer/rare diseases therapies developer Cormorant Pharmaceuticals for up to $520 million. $BMY PR link.

Computer Sciences(PBR237) completes acquisition of Europe technology services ServiceNow provider Aspediens. $CSC PR link.

KKR(PBR332) to acquire industry specific enterprise software global provider Epicor.$KKR PR link.

KBR(PBR395) completes $570 million acquisition of government services providerWyle. $KBR PR link.

Netflix(PBR447 $NFLX) gets new exclusive US multi-year content licensing deal withCBS(PBR210)/Warner Bros joint venture CW Network for subscription TV services. $CBS PR link.

Jones Lang LaSalle(PBR449) completes acquisition of 500 employee global corporate real estate technology provider BRG. $JLL PR link.

Jones Lang LaSalle(PBR449) acquires Chevy Chase, MD investment sales, equity, & debt advisory firm Sage Capital Advisors. $JLL PR link.

Ventas(PBR671) to acquire life science/medical real estate assets of Blackstone(PBR352 $BX)’s Wexford Science & Technology unit for $1.5 billion cash. $VTR PR link.

A. Schulman(PBR791) enters strategic partnership with France based plastics distributor Snetor Chimie to commercialize masterbatches & additives in Africa. $SHLM PR link.

AMSURG(PBR945) Sheridan division acquires Boca Raton, FL 100+ providers 30 facilities in FL, NJ, MO, & IL Resolute Anesthesia and Pain Solutions. $AMSG PR link.

AMSURG(PBR945) Sheridan division acquires Tampa, FL 43 radiologists/18 locationsAllegiantMD. $AMSG PR link.

Charter Communications(PBR297) hires David Ellen as Sr EVP overseeing several business units. $CHTR PR link.

Bristow Group(PBR919) SVP/Chief Admin Office Hilary Ware leaving for personal reasons, Mary Wersebe is interim. $BRS PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates Total US May Manufacturers New Orders at $456.5 billion, +0.04% from April, -3.16% from May 2015. USDOC PR link.

CoreLogic says that May National Home Prices were +5.9% from May 2015.MarketWatch PR link.

The PurdueU/CME June Ag Barometer at 104, May was 97(100=Unchanged).PurdueU/CME PR link.

Monday, July 4:
***Independence Day***
***US Stock Markets Closed.***
***Remember the Founding Fathers,***
***Celebrate Our Freedoms!***

Friday, July 1:

The PBR1000 Week Ending 07/01/16 US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA ends week at 17,949.37, +3.15% from last Friday, +0.11% MTD/QTD, +3.01% YTD, -1.98% from record 18,312.39 on 05/19/15.
NASDAQ ends week at 4,862.57, +3.28% from last Friday, +0.41% MTD/QTD, -2.89% YTD, -6.83% from record 5,218.86 on 07/20/15.
SPX ends week at 2,102.95, +3.22% from last Friday, +0.19% MTD/QTD, +2.89% YTD, -1.31% from record 2,130.82 on 05/21/15.

Honeywell(PBR74) to acquire private supply chain & warehouse automatiion providerIntelligrated for $1.5 billion. $HON PR link.

Danaher(PBR137) completes spinoff of separate public professional instrumentation/industrial technologies providerFortive Corporation. $DHR PR link.

Southern Co(PBR155) completes $12 billion acquisition of AGL Resources(PBR452 $GAS), creates 2nd largest US utility. $SO PR link.

State Street(PBR260) completes up to $485 million acquisition of $100+ billion in assetsGE(PBR9) Asset Management. $STT PR link.

Newell Brands(PBR434) completes $270 million sale of window coverings business toHunter Douglas. $NWL PR link.

Abercrombie & Fitch(PBR595 $ANF) suesGap(PBR179 $GPS) over poaching of CMO.AdAge PR link.

Thor Ind(PBR616) acquires recreational vehicles $1.5 billion/2015 manufacturer Jaycofor $576 million. $THO PR link.

Alliance One Intl(PBR875) provides reasons for not being able to file annual 10-K on a timely basis. $AOI PR link.

American Capital Agency(PBR992) completes $562 million in cash acquisition of its external manager, American Capital Mortgage Management. AGNCP PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates May US Total Construction Spending Annual Rate at $1.143 trillion, -0.79% from April, +2.80% from May 2015. USDOC PR link.

The June 2016 Manufacturing ISM® Report On Business® PMI at 53.2%, +1.9% from May.ISM PR link.

Automotive News reports June Automobile Sales at 1,512,996 units, +2.4% from June 2015. AutoNews PR link.

TrueCar estimates Total US June Automobile Sales at $50.9 billion, +7.4% from June 2015,Average Transaction Price at $32,693.TrueCar PR link.

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Filed Under: Recaps Tagged With: acquisitions, Business, Business Intelligence, business news, DJIA, Economy, Leadership, mergers, NASDAQ, Rankings, Research, S&P 500, The PBR1000

The PBR1000 March 2016 Breaking News Recap

April 8, 2016 by admin

March 2016: Are We Working Together Yet?

It Would Be Boring If Someday We Achieved Working Together As A Perfectly Organized Team.

By Larry C. Paxton

The 1st Quarter of 2016 ended with a lot of unresolved issues and unsure directions.

Most of the breaking news continued to revolve around oil and energy. Prices and supply fluctuated and productivity decisions were left hanging. There is still a lot of confusion around the many facets of this major commodity that has a great effect on the world economically and politically.

Annual earnings reports continued to flow in with mixed results, but mostly down for corporations with international operations.

US economic data continues to show mostly moderate growth, with a feeling of fragility. Jobs reports are encouraging, but wage growth still lags. The Federal Reserve continues to take a cautious approach to federal funds rates increases because of the data, especially because of lower than desired inflation rate.

All these issues are compounded by the international continuing war on ISIS and other extremist groups. The attack in Brussels reminds us of how serious this is, as well as the ongoing large immigration of citizens fleeing from war zones in the Middle East.

Finally, there is the US Presidential election. The turmoil caused by unconventional candidates, the sometimes bizarre caucuses and primary elections processes, continued influx and use of money by the candidates, their superpacks, and by special interest groups would have the Founding Fathers shaking their heads.

The 2nd Quarter is starting, make your predictions and let’s see how it unfolds!

Following are The PBR1000 and economic related breaking news items of note for March 2016, starting with the last active day.

Thursday, March 31:

The PBR1000 End of Month US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA ends March at 17,685.09, +0.97% from last week, +7.08% MTD, +1.49% QTD/YTD, -3.43% from record 18,312.39 on 05/19/15.
NASDAQ ends March at 4,869.85, +2.02% from last week, +6.84 MTD, -2.75% QTD/YTD, -6.69% from record 5,218.86 on 07/20/15.
SPX ends trading week at 2,059.74, +1.17% from last week, +6.60% MTD, +0.77% QTD/YTD, -3.34% from record 2,130.82 on 05/21/15.

General Electric(PBR9)’s GE Capital Files Request for Rescission of Status as a Systemically Important Financial Institution. $GE PR link.

Amazon(PBR29)’s Twitch to launch league for popular iOS esports game ‘Vainglory.’ MarketWatch article link.

Thermo Fisher Scientific(PBR175) completes $14/share, $1.3 billion cash acquisition of cellular/genetic analysis products provider Affymetrix(NASDAQ: AFFX). $TMO PR link.

Starwood Hotels(PBR417) reaffirms to merge with Marriott Intl(PBR211 $MAR) for $77.94/share, $13.3 billion after Anbang Insurance consortium withdraws offer. $HOT PR link.

Boise Cascade(PBR610) completes $215 million acquisition of 270 employees Engineered Lumber unit from Georgia-Pacific. $BCC PR link.

SunEdison(PBR782) confirms subpoena, SEC investigation. MarketWatch article link.

Visteon(PBR351) names VP/Corporate Controller William Robertson to interim CFO, succeeds Jeff Stafeil who is leaving. $VC PR link.

Molson Coors(PBR558) hires Mauricio Restrepo as CFO, effective 05/02/16. $TAP PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says on 03/26/16 Weekly Initial Unemployment Claims at 276,000, insured unemployment rate at 1.6%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says 4th Quarter US International Investment Position was Assets $23.2T, Liabilities $30.6T, Bal -$7.4T. USDOC PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) says on 03/31/16 Average Weekly 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rate was at 4.71% with 0.5 points/fees. $FMCC PR link.

Housing: FreddieMac(PBR41) predicts housing will have its best year in a decade. $FMCC PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says on 03/30/16 the US National Debt for Public at $13.9 trillion, Intragovernmental holdings $5.3 trillion, total $19.2 trillion. Treas PR link.

Jobs Growth-Healthcare: Sick people are keeping job growth healthy MarketWatch article link.

Manufacturing-Chicago PMI: ISM says March Chicago PMI at 53.6, +6.0 from February. ISM article link.

Business: IMF says it’s new business, not smaller ones, that needs cultivation. MarketWatch article link.

Millennials: Why millennials are such tough customers. MarketWatch article link.

Wednesday, March 30:

IBM(PBR25 $IBM) to buy Salesforce(PBR453 $CRM) consultant Bluewolf Group. MarketWatch article link.

Amazon(PBR29) to open 7th fulfillment center in California in San Bernardino, to create 1,000+ fulltime hourly jobs. $AMZN PR link.

MetLife(PBR39) SIFI ‘to big to fail’ designation rescinded by US District Court, CEO issues statement regarding positive decision. $MET PR link.

No longer ‘too big to fail,’ MetLife(PBR39 $MET) proceeds with breakup plans. MarketWatch article link.

BlackRock(PBR252 $BLK), money-management giant, to cut about 400 jobs. MarketWatch article link.

CBRE(PBR301) to acquire affiliate Atrium AS in Norway, terms not disclosed. $CBG PR link.

Gannet(PBR414) says $12/share, $280 million acquisition of Journal Media Group(NYSE: JMG) delayed, working with Dept of Justice to resolve issues. $GCI PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Farmington, CT, wholesale insurance broker Joseph & Distel, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

Chipotle(PBR561 $CMG) is developing a burger chain. MarketWatch PR link.

Sandridge Energy(PBR975 $SDOC) warns of possible bankruptcy filing. MarketWatch PR link.

PepsiCo(PBR43 $PEP) Frito-Lay N America CEO Tom Greco leaves, Al Carey promoted to CEO of consolidated 3 N America Divisions. MarketWatch article link.

Biogen(PBR282) hires Michel Vounatsos as EVP/Chief Commercial Officer, effective 04/18/16, reports to CEO. $BIIB PR link.

CEO of SunEdison(PBR782 $SUNE)’s two spinoffs abruptly leaves. MarketWatch article link.

Donaldson Co(PBR783) promotes Jeffrey Spethmann to SVP/Industrial Products, effective 04/04/16, reports to president/CEO. $DCI PR link.

Domino’s Pizza(PBR889) promotes Tim McIntyre to EVP/Communications, Investor Relations & Legislative Affairs, succeeds retiring Lynn Liddle, effective early May, reports to CEO. $DPZ PR link.

The US Energy Info Administration says on 03/25/16 the Average Regular Gasoline Price was $2.066/gal, Diesel $2.121, Heating Oil $2.131, Propane $2.008. EIA PR link.

ADP(PBR235) says March Employment up 200,000, 86,000 from small businesses, 75,000 midsized, 39,000 large. $ADP article link.

Venture Capital: Venture-capital firms raising money at highest rate in more than 15 years. MarketWatch article link.

Personal Finance: When it comes to saving money, millennials are killing it. MarketWatch article link.

Economy: Why cheaper imports aren’t giving Americans much relief. MarketWatch article link.

Economy: Here’s why the Fed doesn’t know if inflation is a problem. MarketWatch article link.

Minimum Wage-Opinion: A higher minimum wage is no way to solve the problem of poverty. MarketWatch article link.

Investing: The emotional and psychological risks of investing. MarketWatch article link.

Tuesday, March 29:

Boeing(PBR27) to cut more than 4,500 jobs by June in accelerated cost cutting. MarketWatch article link.

Comcast(PBR42)’s NBC Olympics Surpasses $1 Billion In National Advertising Sales For Rio 2016. $CMSCA article link.

Ross Stores(PBR253) opens 28 new locations, on track to open 90 in 2016. $ROST article link.

Diebold(PBR676) reaches minimum tender condition for $1.8 billion acquisition of Wincor Nixdorf, transaction close expected summer 2016. $DBD PR link.

International Game Technology(PBR878) signs 7 year contract with Virginia Lottery to provide new lottery technologies and services. $IGT PR link.

Investing: The U.S. IPO market is looking like 2009. MarketWatch PR link.

Unions: Supreme Court’s 4-4 decision preserves compulsory union dues MarketWatch article link.

Consumer Survey: Consumer confidence rebounds in March – Conference Board. MarketWatch article link.

Investing: The 3 most valuable indicators for do-it-yourself investors. MarketWatch article link.

Monday, March 28:

Avon(PBR303) & 3% stakeholder group led by Barington Capital Group reach agreement, avoid proxy contest. $AVP PR link.

Marriott Intl(PBR211) reaffirms commitment to acquire Starwood Hotels(PBR417 $HOT), says longterm value is $92.36-$103.46/share. $MAR PR link.

Starwood Hotels(PBR417) says revised $88.66/share cash proposal from Anbang Insurance led investor consortium is superior, working on details. $HOT PR link.

Colgate-Palmolive(PBR168) promotes Justin Skala, Noel Wallace to COO posts, Franck Moison to vice chairman. $CL PR link.

HCP(PBR831) EVP/CFO Timothy Schoen leaving to be president of BioMed Realty, effective 05/22/16, CFO seach initiated. $HCP PR link.

Revlon(PBR900) hires Fabian Garcia as president/CEO, effective 04/15/16. $REV PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says February US Personal Income Annual Rate at $15.7 trillion, +0.2% from January, Personal Savings at 5.4%, +0.1% from January. USDOC article link.

Economy: Consumer spending off to weak start in 2016. MarketWatch article link.

US Manufacturing: U.S. manufacturing dead? Output has doubled in three decades. MarketWatch article link.

Transportation Stocks: Dow transports on track for worst losing streak since August swoon. MarketWatch article link.

International Economy-China: China’s identity crisis: Is it supply or demand? MarketWatch article link.

Friday, March 25:

***Good Friday Observed.***
***US Stock Markets Closed.***

Citigroup(PBR28 $C)’s new Costco(PBR18 $COST) cards coming in May with more benefits. MarketWatch news link.

VF Corp(PBR232) exploring strategic alternatives for its supplies, apparel, and fanware Licensed Sports Group. $VFC PR link.

RR Donnelley(PBR243) announces CEOs/boards for planned separation in 10/2016 into 3 independent public companies. $RRD PR link.

Cameron Intl(PBR269) $66.86/share, $14.8 billion cash/stock acquisition by Schlumberger(NYSE: SLB) to close on 04/01/16, has received Chinese antitrust approval. $CAM PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce in 3rd Est says 4th Quarter Gross Domestic Product was at a +1.4% annual rate. 2015 GDP was +2.4%. USDOC PR link.

Corporate Financial Results: Corporate profits fall in 2015 for first time since Great Recession. MarketWatch article link.

Thursday, March 24:

The PBR1000 End of Trading Week US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA ends trading week at 17,515.73, -0.49% from last week, +6.05% MTD, +0.52% QTD/YTD, -4.35% from record 18,312.39 on 05/19/15.
NASDAQ ends trading week at 4,773.50, -0.46% from last week, +4.73 MTD, -4.67% QTD/YTD, -8.53% from record 5,218.86 on 07/20/15.
SPX ends trading week at 2,035.94, -0.67% from last week, +5.37% MTD, -0.39% QTD/YTD, -4.45% from record 2,130.82 on 05/21/15.

Amazon(PBR29) to open 800,000 sf fulfillment center in Edgerton, KS, will create 1,000 fulltime hourly jobs plus managers. $AMZN letter link.

American Airlines(PBR69) files SEC 8-K announcing 6% pay increase for mainline flight attendants effective 04/01/16. $AAL letter link.

Yahoo!(PBR519) is sent letter by investor Starboard Value expressing concerns and nominating 9 candidates for board. Starboard letter link.

Netflix(PBR447) admits throttling itself on AT&T(PBR12), Verizon(PBR15) wireless networks. MarketWatch news link.

Wednesday, March 23:

American Airlines(PBR69) announces new profit sharing program. $AAL PR link.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR185) to acquire private biotech autoimmune diseases therapies developer Padlock Therapeutics for up to $600 million. $BMY PR link.

Terex(PBR357) in negotiations with Zoomlion to be acquired for $31.00/share cash. $TEX PR link.

Fifth Third Bancorp(PBR387) creates 100 new tech jobs with salary packages worth more than $100,000 each. $FITB PR link.

TeamHealth(PBR498) now 8.0% owned by JANA Partners per agreement. $TMH PR link.

KeyCorp(PBR544) & First Niagara Financial(PBR980 $FNFG) shareholders approve $4.1 billion merger, expects to close in 3Q2016. $KEY PR link.

Allscripts Healthcare(PBR1014) in joint venture to acquire private Netsmart Technologies to combine with Homecare unit to create largest technology company exclusively dedicated to human services and post acute care. $MDRX PR link.

Pinnacle Foods(PBR751) CEO Robert Gamgort leaving by 04/30/16 to become CEO of Keurig(PBR507 $GMCR). $PF PR link.

The US Dept of HUD says February New Family Home Sales at a 512,000 annual rate, +2.0% from January, -6.1% from February 2015. HUD PR link.

Tuesday, March 22:

How GE(PBR9) Exorcised the Ghost of Jack Welch to Become a 124-Year-Old Startup. Bloomberg Business article link.

Southern Co(PBR155) gets California regulators approval for $12 billion acquisition of AGL Resources(PBR452 $GAS), still expected to close 2H2016. $SO PR link.

AutoZone(PBR290) authorizes additional $750 million for ongoing share repurchase program. $AZO PR link.

Lumber Liquidators(PBR1061) resolves California Air Resources Board inquiry. $LL PR link.

Tenet Healthcare(PBR161) promotes Eric Evans to president, Hospital Operations, succeeds leaving Britt Reynolds. $THC PR link.

Newell rubbermaid(PBR434) hires Russ Torres to new position of Chief Transformation Officer. $NWL PR link.

Human Resources: Below the Surface – Emerging Global Motivators & Job Search Preferences. Manpower(PBR132) article link.

Monday, March 21:

Apple(PBR5 $AAPL) announces iPhone SE, 9.7-inch iPad Pro, lower watch prices MarketWatch PR link.

Anthem(PBR38) files suit against Express Scripts(PBR22 $ESRX) to recover damages for pricing & operations issues. $ANTM PR link.

Cisco(PBR60) completes $1.4 billion acquisition of private IoT services platform provider Jasper Technologies. $CSCO PR link.

Marriott Intl(PBR211) to acquire Starwood Hotels(PBR417 $HOT) for $79.53/share, $13.6 billion, in revised agreement. $MAR PR link.

Sherwin-Williams(PBR251) to acquire Valspar(PBR526 $VAL) for $113.00/share, $11.3 billion. $SHW PR link.

EMCOR(PBR392) to acquire electrical/instrumentation services providers Ardent Services and Rabalais Constructors for $205 million cash. $EME PR link.

Western Union(PBR441) to be first to offer Cubans & other worldwide citizens remittances services to Cuba in 2H2016. $WU PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) to acquire global insurance management operations of Kane Group, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

NASDAQ(PBR618) to acquire 10,000 clients board portal solution Boardvantage for $200 million. $NDAQ PR link.

Olin Corp(PBR838) to reduce chlor alkali production. $OLN PR link.

Red Robin(PBR1046) acquires 13 franchised restaurants with almost 800 employees in Texas. $RRGB PR link.

Visteon(PBR351) hires Markus Schupfner as Chief Technology Officer, effective 04/01/16. $VC PR link.

General Cable(PBR418) EVP/CFO Brian Robinson to leave pending identification of successor and transition period. $BGC PR link.

Griffon Corp(PBR890) Telephonics subsidiary president Joseph Battaglia to retire 09/30/16, COO Kevin McSweeney to become president. $GFF PR link.

Mattress Firm(PBR932) president Ken Murphy adds CEO title, Steve Stagner becomes Executive Chairman. $MFRM PR link.

The National Assn of Realtors says February Existing Home Sales at a 5.08 million annual rate, -7.1% from January, +2.2% from February 2015. NAR PR link.

Battery Technologies: Big battery breakthroughs are coming, thanks to taxpayers’ investments. MarketWatch article link.

Friday, March 18:

The PBR1000 End of Week US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA ends week at 17,602.30, +2.26% from last week, +6.57% MTD, +1.02% QTD/YTD, -3.88% from record 18,312.39 on 05/19/15.
NASDAQ ends week at 4,795.65, +0.99% from last week, +5.22 MTD, -4.23% QTD/YTD, -8.11% from record 5,218.86 on 07/20/15.
SPX ends week at 2,049.58, +1.35% from last week, +6.07% MTD, +0.28% QTD/YTD, -3.81% from record 2,130.82 on 05/21/15.

Bank of America(PBR24) adds $800 million to $4.0 billion share repurchase program authorized in 2015. $BAC PR link.

Walgreens Boots Alliance(PBR36) exercises warrants to purchase $1.17 billion & 14.97% of AmerisourceBergen(PBR16 $ABC) common shares. $WBA PR link.

Staples(PBR122) & Office Depot(PBR182 $ODP) send letter to customers regarding the upcoming hearing in US District Court per lawsuit by FTC regarding the proposed merger. $SPLS PR link.

US Steel(PBR167) to idle plants, lay off workers. $X PR link.

MGM Resorts(PBR273) & partner Infinity World to sell their Las Vegas CityCenter The Shops at Crystals mall to Invesco & Simon Property(PBR494) for $1.1 billion. $MGM PR link.

Airbus plans defense-unit sale to KKR(PBR332) for $1.2 billion. $KKR PR link.

Starwood Hotels(PBR417) determines Anbang Insurance & partners $76/share offer is superior to the Marriott Intl(PBR211 $MAR) offer & to terminate that agreement. $HOT PR link.

Starwood Hotels(PBR417) gives details for spin-off completion & merger of its vacation ownership business. $HOT PR link.

ON Semiconductor(PBR656) extends $20.00/share, $2.4 billion cash tender offer for Fairchild Semiconductor(PBR1000 $FCS) to 03/31/16. $ON PR link.

Thursday, March 17:

McKesson(PBR6) to cut 1,600 jobs in US. $MCK PR link.

JPMorgan Chase(PBR21) authorizes $1.88 billion increase to $6.4 billion equity repurchase program. $JPM PR link.

Ingram Micro(PBR62) to acquire $125 million/yr unified communications/collaboration value added distributor NETXUSA. $IM PR link.

Newell Rubbermaid(PBR434) to sell its Levolor & Kirsch window coverings business to Hunter Douglas for $270 million. $NWL PR link.

IDEX(PBR861) completes $224.2 million cash acquisition of $120 million/yr safety/emergency response equipment manufacturer Akron Brass. $IEX PR link.

Aeropostale(PBR924) in 10-K report says evaluating strategic alternatives, including sale or restructuring of company. $ARO PR link.

SeaWorld(PBR1013) announces last generation of orcas in its care. $SEAS PR link.

American Capital Agency(PBR992) promotes Gary Kain to CEO, Alvin Puryear as non-executive chair. $AGNCP PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says that January Job Openings were at a historical high of 5.541 million, Hires 5.030 million, Separations 4.903 million. USDOL PR link.

Technology/Wearables: Apple(PBR5) will lead surge in #wearable shipments through 2020. MarketWatch PR link.

Wednesday, March 16:

Peabody Energy(PBR372) in 2015 10-K report indicates it may have to file for bankruptcy. $BTU PR link.

Chipotle(PBR561 $CMG) is giving away millions of free burritos to lure back wary customers. MarketWatch article link.

SunEdison(PBR782) delays filing of 10-K report, has identified material weaknesses in internal controls over financial reporting. $SUNE PR link.

Kroger(PBR20) promotes Mary Ellen Adcock to Group VP-Retail Operations, effective 05/16/16, succeeds retiring Marnette Perry. $KR PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says February Average Employee Current Earnings at $25.35/hour, -0.12% from January, +2.2% from February 2015. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says February Consumer Price Index was -0.2% from January, +1.0 over last 12 mos. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of HUD says February Privately-Owned Housing Units Building Permits were at a 1,167,000 annual rate, -3.1% from January, +6.3% from February 2015. HUD PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says February US Total Industrial Production was -0.5% from January, -1.0% from February 2015. FRB PR link.

The US Federal Reserve in March meeting maintains 0.25-0.50 federal funds rate at this time. FRB PR link.

Gambling: This is how much Americans will spend betting on March Madness games. MarketWatch article link.

Global Economy: 59% of fund managers see an economy in its final innings — highest percent since 2008. MarketWatch article link.

Housing: FreddieMac(PBR41) survey shows more than half of renters plan to continue renting. $FMCC PR link.

Tuesday, March 15:

UPS(PBR47) to invest $100 million in compressed natural gas, CNG vehicles, & related infrastructure. $UPS PR link.

Alcoa(PBR115) precision engineering/advanced manufacturing public spinoff to be named Arconic, separation planned for 2H2016. $AA PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Oklanoma based retail insurance broker Bomford, Couch & Wilson, terms not disclosed. $AA PR link.

CME Group(PBR664) to sell Aurora, IL, data center to CyrusOne(NASDAQ: CONE) for $130 million, then do 15 year lease back. $CME PR link.

Eastman Kodak(PBR871) talking to prospective buyers of its PROSPER Inkjet busness. $KODK PR link.

CBRE(PBR301) Global Investors CEO Matt Khourie to be CEO of Trammell Crow Co unit, succeeds Danny Queenan who remains COO Global Investors; CEO CBRE Clarion Securities Ritson Ferguson to add CEO Global Investors title. $CBG PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says February Total Producer Price Index for Final Demand at -0.2%, with Goods at -0.6%, Services 0.0%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says January Total Trade Sales & Mfrs Shipments were at $1.296 trillion, -0.4% from December, -1.1% from January 2015. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says February Total US Retail & Food Services Sales were $447.3 billion, -0.1% from January, +3.1% from February 2015 USDOC PR link.

Monday, March 14:

International Paper(PBR117) to sell Asia based 18 factories, 3,000 employees, corrugated packaging business for $150 million. $IP PR link.

Avon(PBR303) to reduce workforce worldwide by 2,500 under 3 year plan, 1,700 in 2016. $AVP PR link.

Starwood Hotels(PBR417) receives unsolicited $76.00/share cash offer, has $63.74/share agreement with Marriott Intl(PBR211 $MAR). $HOT PR link.

Fresh Market(PBR942) to be acquired by Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR906) for $28.50/share, $1.36 billion cash. $TFM PR link.

Cabot Corp(PBR607) President/CEO Patrick Prevost resigns for health reasons, remains on board. EVP Sean Keohane promoted to president/CEO. $CBT PR link.

New York Times(PBR971) Andy Rosenthal steps down as Editorial Page Editor, to be a columnist, James Bennet rejoins to succeed him. $NYT PR link.

Auto Loans: Auto sales at risk as defaults of subprime loans rise. MarketWatch PR link.

Economy: Morgan Stanley(PBR79) cuts S&P 500 target as recession fears rise. MarketWatch PR link.

Jobs: There’s little slack left in the jobs market, former Obama adviser says. MarketWatch PR link.

World Economy: Chinese economic data paint a gloomy picture. MarketWatch PR link.

Oil: OPEC stands pat on 2016 global oil demand estimate. MarketWatch PR link.

Friday, March 11:

The PBR1000 End of Week US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA ends week at 17,213.31, +1.21% from last week, +4.22% MTD, -1.22% QTD/YTD, -6.00% from record 18,312.39 on 05/19/15.
NASDAQ ends week at 4,748.47, +0.67% from last week, +4.18 MTD, -5.17% QTD/YTD, -9.01% from record 5,218.86 on 07/20/15.
SPX ends week at 2,022.19, +1.11% from last week, +4.66% MTD, -1.06% QTD/YTD, -5.10% from record 2,130.82 on 05/21/15.

Ford(PBR10) forms Ford Smart Mobility LLC subsidiary to develop, invest in mobility services, Jim Hackett is chairman. $F PR link.

HARMAN Intl(PBR456) completes acquisition of global automotive cyber security provider TowerSec, terms not disclosed. $HAR PR link.

Armstrong World(PBR772) to spin-off $1.2 billion/2015 Armstrong Flooring as separate public company with 04/01/16 distribution date. $AWI PR link.

IGT(PBR878) signs 10+ year agreement with N. Carolina Education Lottery to provide lottery technologies & services. $IGT PR link.

Boeing(PBR27) CTO/SVP Engineering John Tracy to retire late summer; Colbert, Fancher, Hyslop, Shanahan named to new SVP roles. $BA PR link.

Polaris Industries(PBR531) hires Robert Mack as SVP-Corporate Development/Strategy & president, Adjacent Markets, effective 04/01/16. $PII PR link.

SunEdison(PBR782) hires Ilan Daskal as CFO Designee, by 04/04/16. $SUNE PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says February Import Prices Index was -0.3% from January, -6.1% between February 2015 & February 2016. USDOL PR link.

Thursday, March 10:

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Arlington Hts, IL, Midwest retail insurance broker Vincent L Braband Insurance, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

Yahoo!(PBR519) Sports unit partners with NHL to bring fans free, live out-of-market games & on-demand premium content. $YHOO PR link.

Iron Mountain(PBR663) acquires Baltics’ leading doc storage/archiving company Archyyvu Sistemos, terms not disclosed. $IRM PR link.

PolyOne(PBR586) promotes Michael Garratt as SVP/Chief Commercial Officer & Donald Wiseman SVP & president, Performance Products & Solutions. $POL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says Total 4th Quarter US Domestic Nonfinancial Debt was at $45.1 trillion, with $14.1 trillion from Household Debt, $12.8 trillion from Business Debt, & $18.1 trillion from Government Debt. FRB PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says February Receipts at $169.1 billion, Outlays $361.8 billion, Deficit $192.6 billion, fiscal YTD(5 mos) Deficit $353.0 billion. Treasury PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says December Employee Costs for Employee Compensation averaged Wages $23.06/hr, Benefits $10.52/hr, Total $33.58/hr. USDOL PR link.

Personal Finance: Consumers Are Still Lagging in Savings Despite Cheaper Gas and Lower Mortgage Rates. MainStreet article link.

Housing: Another 1 million homes regained positive equity in 2015, CoreLogic says. MarketWatch article link.

Wednesday, March 9:

Amazon(PBR29 $AMZN) to be provided air cargo services by Air Transport Services Group. $ATSG PR link.

Pfizer(PBR56) commences $5 billion accelerated share repurchase program. $PFE PR link.

NASDAQ(PBR618) to acquire International Securities Exchange from Deutsche Borse Group for $1.1 billion. $NDAQ PR link.

ADT(PBR627) acquisition by Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR906 $APO) affiliate expected to close before June 2016. $ADT PR link.

Tailored Brands(PBR643) to close around 250 Jos Banks/Mens Wearhouse stores during fiscal year 2016. $TLRD PR link.

Visteon(PBR351) hires Brett Pynnonen as VP & General Counsel, effective 03/14/16, succeeds leaving Peter Ziparo. $VC PR link.

Dana Holding(PBR382) hires Jonathan Collins as CFO, effective 03/28/16. $DAN PR link.

Darden Restaurants(PBR398) appoints Ricardo Cardenas to CFO, replaces Jeffrey Davis who has left. $DRI PR link.

Crown Castle(PBR603) hires Daniel Schlanger as SVP, to be CFO on 06/01/16. $CCI PR link.

American Eagle Outfitters(PBR640) Chief Financial & Admin Officer Mary Boland to retire on 04/01/16. $AEO PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says January Wholesale Sales were at $433.1 billion, -1.3% from December, -3.1% from January 2015. USDOC PR link.

Advertising Industry: Advertisers taking money out of TV, moving more to digital in 2017 MarketWatch article link.

Tuesday, March 8:

Intel(PBR51) acquires Israeli virtual reality startup Replay Technologies for immersive sports, terms not disclosed. $INTC PR link.

Lockheed Martin(PBR64) Aeronautics unit announces voluntary layoff program to reduce employment by 1,000 positions in the US. $LMT PR link.

Whole Foods Market(PBR203 $WFM) and NRG(PBR186) to plan large scale commercial solar project portfolio with 84 stores. $NRG PR link.

CarMax(PBR202) hiring more than 1,600 positions nationwide. $KMX PR link.

AutoZone(PBR290) is hiring 10,000 full-time/part-time AutoZoners for its 5,100+ stores. $AZO PR link.

Intuit(PBR529 $INTU) sheds QuickBase in plan to pare down. MarketWatch article link.

Cerner(PBR628) authorizes up to $300 million share repurchase program, no time limit. $CERN PR link.

SunEdison(PBR782 $SUNE) sent letter by Vivant Solar(NYSE: VSLR) terminating merger agreement, plans to seek legal remedies for willful breach. $VSLR PR link.

Calpine Corp(PBR330) hires Charlie Gates as EVP-Power Operations, effective 04/01/16. $CPN PR link.

American Axle & Mfg(PBR602) VP-Driveline Product Engineering Philip Guys now also Chief Technology Officer. $AAM PR link.

Mortgages: Equifax(PBR795) says January Total Balance of First Mortgages was $8.3 trillion, +2.1% from January 2015. $EFX PR link.

Corporate Finance: U.S. companies have enough liquidity for next 12 months, but face risk after that. MarketWatch PR link.

Employment: Manpower(PBR132) releases Q2 2016 hiring outlook. $MAN infographic link.

Housing/Foreclosures: 38,000 completed foreclosures in January, down 16.2% YOY. CoreLogic article link.

Monday, March 7:

US Supreme Court turns away Apple(PBR5 $AAPL) appeal in e-books antitrust case, expected to pay $450 million as part of settlement. MarketWatch PR link.

United Continental(PBR77) president/CEO Oscar Munoz to return to duties full time on 03/14/16 after heart transplant recovery. $UAL PR link.

Southern Co(PBR155) Power subsidiary acquires 120 megawatt East Pecos Solar Facility, terms not disclosed. $SO PR link.

Pepco(PBR493 $POM) and Exelon(PBR102) revise filing to provide several pathways to secure merger’s significant benefits for Pepco customers. $EXC PR link.

AMC Networks(PBR851) announces up to $500 million share repurchase program, no deadline set. $AMCX PR link.

JM Smucker(PBR437) to promote Mark Smucker to President/CEO on 05/01/16, Richard Smucker to be Executive Chairman, Timothy Smucker to be Chairman Emeritus. $SJM PR link.

United Rentals(PBR438) hires Chris Hummel as SVP-Chief Marketing Officer. $URI PR link.

Xylem(PBR575) hires Mark Rajkowski to be SVP-CFO starting 03/28/16. $XYL PR link.

CME Group(PBR664) announces 4 Managing Director promotions. $CME PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says January Consumer Debt is at $3.533 trillion, +0.30% from December, +6.48% from January 2015. FRB PR link.

Inflation: Fed’s Fischer and Brainard disagree on inflation threat. MarketWatch article link.

Wages/Jobs: ‘Silver tsunami’ is holding down wage growth, says Fed study. MarketWatch article link.

Friday, March 4:

The PBR1000 End of Week US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA ends week at 17,006.77, +2.20% from last week, +2.97% MTD, -2.40% QTD/YTD, -7.13% from record 18,312.39 on 05/19/15.
NASDAQ ends week at 4,717.02, +2.76% from last week, +3.49 MTD, -5.80% QTD/YTD, -9.62% from record 5,218.86 on 07/20/15.
SPX ends week at 1,999.99, +2.67% from last week, +3.51% MTD, -2.15% QTD/YTD, -6.14% from record 2,130.82 on 05/21/15.

Intuit(PBR529) selling its Quicken unit to HIG Capital, expected to close in April, terms not disclosed. $INTU PR link.

Manitowoc(PBR579) completes spinoff of independent public company Manitowoc Foodservices(NYSE: MFS). $MTW PR link.

SunEdison(PBR782) & TerraForm Power settle & terminate Latin America Power acquisition. $SUNE PR link.

Republic Airways(PBR1015) VP-Finance & Treasurer Jason Secore has resigned effective 03/24/16, taking position at AAR Corp(PBR883). $RJET PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says 158.9 million people employed in February, 7.816 million unemployed, 4.9% unemployment rate. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says January Exports were $176.5 billion, Imports $222.1 billion, for Deficit of $45.6 billion, Deficit was $44.7 billion in December. USDOC PR link.

Thursday, March 3:

AT&T(PBR12) plans to sell linear TV ads using Web-like methods. MarketWatch article link.

Verizon(PBR15 $VZ) & Hearst Corp form joint venture Verizon Hearst Media Partners to create new digital video content brands for mobile obsessed millenials. MarketWatch article link.

Barnes & Noble(PBR408) to open 4 new stores in fiscal year 2017 using a new concept. $BKS PR link.

Lithia Motors(PBR451) authorizes $250 million Class A shares repurchase program. $LAD PR link.

Fiserv(PBR474) completes $200 million cash acquisition of ACI Worldwide(NASDAQ: ACIW)‘s digital banking/electronics payments provider unit Community Financial Services. $FISV PR link.

Herbalife(PBR487) files SEC Form 8-K, corrects ‘Active New Member’ metrics for 2015. $HLF PR link.

AMC Entertainment(PBR728) to acquire Carmike Cinemas(NASDAQ: CKEC) for $30/share, $1.1 billion cash, creates largest movie theater chain in the US & world. $AMC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says 4Q2015 Business Sector Labor Productivity changed at a -2.2% annual rate, output +1.0%, hrs worked +3.2%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says January New Orders-Manufactured Durable Goods at $237.1 million, Non-Durable at $226.8 million, total $463.9 million, +1.6% from December. USDOC PR link.

Wednesday, March 2:

ExxonMobil(PBR2) adjusts capital expenditures to $23 billion in 2016, down 25% from 2015. $XOM PR link.

McKesson(PBR6) to acquire Canada based 8,600 employees 470+ retail pharmacies Rexall Health from Katz Group for $2.2 billion. $MCK PR link.

AT&T(PBR12 $T) prepping DirecTV unit to enter crowded online video marketplace. MarketWatch article link.

Target(PBR40 $TGT) partners with Finnish design house Marimekko for next ‘capsule collection,’ 200 items available 04/17/16. MarketWatch article link.

Prudential Financial(PBR55) completes $529 million purchase from partner ILC for 40% ownership stake in Chile based retirement services provider AFP Habitat. $PRU PR link.

Yahoo!(PBR519) launches new experience dedicated to esports, names Yahoo Esports leadership team. $YHOO PR link.

SunEdison(PBR782 $SUNE) buyout of Vivint Solar in jeopardy. MarketWatch article link.

Sprint(PBR86) hires Robert Hackl to be Chief Experience Officer/President-National Sales on 04/01/16. $S PR link.

Chesapeake Energy(PBR131 $CHK) former CEO Aubrey McClendon, shale pioneer, dead after car crash. MarketWatch article link.

Huntsman Corp(PBR244) promotes Scott Wright to president, Advanced Materials division, effective 06/01/16, succeeds James Huntsman. $HUN PR link.

Hess Corp(PBR248) elects James Quigley as chairman, succeeds Mark Williams who has retired for health reasons. $HES PR link.

The US Federal Reserve releases Beige Book, says business contacts generally optimistic about future economic growth. FRB PR link.

Jobs: ADP(PBR235)’s February National Employment Report says small businesses added 76,000 jobs, midsized 62,000, large 76,000, total 214,000. $ADP article link.

Economy Opinion: 7 big risks are now plaguing the U.S. and global economies. MarketWatch article link.

Energy Opinion: Why OPEC will never cut production again. MarketWatch article link.

Tuesday, March 1:

Cisco(PBR60) to expand data center portfolio technologies with acquisition of private CliQr for $260 million cash, to close in 3Q2016. $CSCO PR link.

Honeywell(PBR74) no longer pursuing combination with United Technologies(PBR45 $UTX). $HON PR link.

EMC Corp(PBR111 $EMC) $59 billion acquisition by Dell is on track, says Michael Dell. http://on.mktw.net/1Y0h31HMarketWatch article link.

Anadarko Petroleum(PBR154) to cut capital expenditures by almost 50%, sell $3 billion in assets in 2016. $APC PR link.

Assurant(PBR268) completes $940 million sale of employee benefits business to Canada’s Sun Life Financial. $AIZ PR link.

Avon(PBR303) gets $435 million investment from Cerberus Capital Management for 16.6% stake; N American business split off as a separate private company. $AVP PR link.

McGraw Hill(PBR477) selling 2 assets from S&P Global Market Intelligence division, SPSE & CMA, to Intercontinental Exchange(PBR556 $ICE), terms not disclosed. $MHFI PR link.

NextEra Energy(PBR173) promotes John Ketchum to EVP/Finance & CFO, succeeds retiring Moray Dewhurst. $NEE PR link.

CF Industries(PBR502) hires Tom Grooms as Chief Information Officer. $CF PR link.

Brinker Intl(PBR697) hires John Cywinski as EVP-Strategic Innovation. $EAT PR link.

Barnes Group(PBR1030) hires Michael Beck as company SVP & president of Aerospace unit. $B PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says January Construction Spending Annual Rate at $1.141 trillion, +1.5% from December, +10.4% from January 2015. USDOC PR link.

Auto Industry: Automakers to see $44 billion in revenue on solid new vehicle sales growth in February. TrueCar PR link.

Auto Industry: February Auto Sales were at 1,343,922 units, +6.8% from February 2015. Automotive News PR link.

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(The PBR1000 is the premiere business intelligence service covering over 1,000 of the largest publicly held companies with principle or administration headquarters in the US. These companies generate nearly $14 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 advisors, business professors/students, career counselors/job seekers, to name just a few. To order your annual subscription, just go to the PBRMarketTools.com Subscribe page.)

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

The PBR1000 February 2016 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots

March 12, 2016 by admin

February 2016: Which Direction Are The Markets Heading?

Increase Decrease Chart-hywards ID-100395866

Stock Market and Commodities Prices…
Which Direction Will They Go
Short Term and Long Term?

By Larry C. Paxton

Throughout February 2016 the stock markets bounced up and down almost in synch with the price of oil. Annual corporate earnings reports continued to be mixed, also affected by oil industry companies. The markets also seemed to fluctuate on conjecture and mixed messages from Federal Reserve governors on how many and when interest rates will climb again.

In terms of volatility, out of the 20 trading days in February 2016, 11 of them were positive, 2 were less than -2%, compared to 5 in January, for the NASDAQ.

Both bulls and bears continue to make their case for the future, but the feeling is that there is really no overwhelming and convincing evidence one way or the other. However, I am sure there will be in hindsight down the road.

If you are not a current Subscriber to The PBR1000 just click here to get your 13 month subscription and automatically download the current 2016 edition of The PBR1000 Snapshots.

In the following tables the stock price is for the close of trading on February 29th, Month % Chg is compared to December 31st, YTD % Chg is compared to January 30, 2015, and the 14 Mos % Chg is compared to December 31, 2014.

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

Table 1 Summary: The range was +75.74% to -70.43%. 619 out of 1,030 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 60.10% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of 1.65%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 02/29/16	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	14 Mos % Chg
Groupon	640	GRPN	4.78	+75.74	+55.70	-42.13
Titan International	887	TWI	5.07	+69.00	+28.68	-52.30
Freeport McMoRan	126	FCX	7.63	+65.87	+12.70	-67.34
Modine Manufacturing	962	MOD	9.48	+47.66	+4.75	-30.29
NII Holdings	588	NIHD	5.31	+45.48	+5.15	n/a

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

Table 2 Summary: The range was +212.50% to -83.97%. 383 out of 1,030 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 37.18% of the companies tracked. The median was a loss of 3.92%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 02/29/16	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	14 Mos % Chg
Walter Energy	984	WLTGQ	0.04	+12.90	+212.50	-97.46
Groupon	640	GRPN	4.78	+75.74	+55.70	-42.13
J.C. Penney	232	JCP	10.20	+40.50	+53.15	+57.41
Newmont Mining	354	NEM	25.83	+29.41	+43.58	+36.67
Alpha Natural Resources	536	ANRZQ	0.02	-3.18	+38.18	-99.09

Table 3(S13): The PBR1000 Top 5 13 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: Range was +117.95% to -99.09%. 340 out of 1,026 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 33.14% of the companies tracked. The median was a loss of -12.66%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 02/29/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	14 Mos % Chg
A-Mark Precious Metals	410	AMRK	21.73	+28.35	+15.28	+117.95
Netflix	438	NFLX	93.41	+1.71	-18.33	+91.41
Skechers	527	SKX	32.92	+16.58	+8.97	+78.72
Amazon.com	31	AMZN	552.52	-5.87	-18.25	+78.03
Heartland Payment Systems	401	HPY	93.52	+1.56	-1.37	+73.35

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

Table 4 Summary: Range was $536.11 billion to $0.00 billion. The average is $18.56 billion, median is $5.71 billion, out of 1,030 companies tracked.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Market Cap($B) 02/29/16	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	14 Mos % Chg
Apple	3	AAPL	536.11	-1.21	-8.65	-17.19
Alphabet	44	GOOGL	480.29	-6.00	-7.97	+34.50
Microsoft	27	MSFT	402.43	-8.55	-9.19	+5.10
ExxonMobil	2	XOM	333.10	+2.78	+2.65	-14.92
Berkshire Hathaway	5	BRK.A	331.57	+6.95	+1.87	-8.30
The PBR1000			19,119.29	-0.54	-5.74	-7.73

Table 5: The PBR1000 Index & Selected Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company	Price 02/29/16	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	14 Mos % Chg
The PBR1000	64,933.39	-0.28	-6.05	-7.47
DJIA	16,516.50	+0.30	-5.21	-7.33
NASDAQ	4,557.95	-1.21	-8.98	-3.76
S&P500	1,932.23	-0.41	-5.47	-6.15
Gold	1,244.80	+11.30	+17.41	+5.06
Silver	14.94	+4.77	+8.26	-4.23
Oil	33.76	+0.06	-8.86	-36.62

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

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

(The PBR1000 provides astute investors and business professionals with the data, news, and analysis for taking higher probability of success actions. The PBR1000 covers over 1,000 of the largest publicly held companies with principle or administrative headquarters in the US. These companies generate nearly $14 trillion in annual worldwide revenues, more than all other companies in the US combined. These are the key drivers in the US and world economies. On a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis several analytical reports in customizable Microsoft Excel format are provided to Subscribers of The PBR1000. Subscribers include C-level executives, entrepreneurs, sales/marketing/advertising professionals, investors/investment advisers, business professors/students, career counselors/job seekers, to name just a few. To order your annual subscription, just click here to go to the PBRMarketTools.com Order page.)

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

The PBR1000 February 2016 Breaking News Recap

March 5, 2016 by admin

February 2016: Have You Checked Your Oil Levels Recently?

Hopefully Your Car Oil Levels
Are More Predictable
Than The Price Of Oil!

By Larry C. Paxton

In the office we try to summarize what were the big influences on news for that day. In February just about every day the top news event related to what was happening with oil. Were oil prices up or down? How were the major players adapting? Were they selling off or acquiring assets? Were they laying off people? What changes were they making for capital expenditures? On the world stage people were following OPEC decisions intently. Oil was the dominant theme by far in February, as it has been for some time now.

The other big influences were the earnings reports for 2015 which continued to flood in during February. Bottomline, the results were very mixed, not much to get excited about.

Jobs and wages had their few days of interest as well, once again not a big encouragement.

Perhaps the biggest entertainment value was watching the presidential debates, which continue to be mostly a lot of talk and not much substance, with a lot of focus on one candidate, Donald Trump, a capitalist icon for many, a member of the “One Percent Club” who seems to be having great appeal to a wide range of people who feel disenfranchised by the political system.

There were certainly other influences, like global growth concerns, shareholder activism, and mixed economic data. We will address these further in future blog posts.

Following are The PBR1000 and economic related news items of note for February 2016, starting with the last active day.

Monday, February 29:

The PBR1000 February US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA ends February at 16,516.50, -0.74% from last Friday, +0.30% MTD, -5.21% QTD/YTD, -9.81% from record 18,312.39 on 05/19/15.
NASDAQ ends February at 4,557.95, -0.71% from last Friday, -1.21% MTD, -8.98% QTD/YTD, -12.66% from record 5,218.86 on 07/20/15.
SPX ends February at 1,932.23, -0.81% from last Friday, -0.41% MTD, -5.47% QTD/YTD, -9.32% from record 2,130.82 on 05/21/15.

Berkshire Hathaway(PBR4)‘s Warren Buffett’s 2015 letter reflects his optimism about US business. $BRKA PR link.

Proctor & Gamble(PBR33) completes transfer of Duracell batteries unit to Berkshire Hathaway(PBR4 $BRKA), buys 52 million P&G shares from BH for $1.8 billion. $PG PR link.

MetLife(PBR39) 4,000 advisors Retail Advisor Force unit being acquired by MassMutual, to close by mid 2016, terms not disclosed. $MET PR link.

Sysco(PBR61) to reduce workforce by 2%, 1,200 people, within the next 15 months, part of 3 year plan. $SYY PR link.

American Express(PBR83) to sell its Costco(PBR18 $COST) US cobranded card portfolio to CitiGroup(PBR28 $C) for $1 billion. $AXP PR link.

Sprint(PBR86) to do joint venture with Europe’s Dixons Carphone wireless retailer, to open 500 Sprint stores in the U.S. $S PR link.

Icahn Enterprises(PBR147 $IEP) owns 82% of Federal-Mogul common shares, proposes $7.00/share buyout of remaining shares. $FDML PR link.

Computer Sciences(PBR237) completes acquisition of Australia based 3,000 employee IT services company UXC(ASX: UXC) for $308 million. $CSC PR link.

CONSOL Energy(PBR598) to sell SW Virginia Buchanan Mine and other assets to Coronado IV for $420 million. $CNX PR link.

DENTSPLY(PBR694) completes $14.5 billion acquisition of Sirona Dental(NASDAQ: SIRO), now DENTSPLY Sirona, now world’s largest manufacturer of professional dental products. $XRAY PR link.

GoPro(PBR1010) acquires mobile editing apps Splice & Replay, terms not disclosed. $GPRO PR link.

Target(PBR40) hires Arthur Valdez as EVP-Chief Supply Chain & Logistics Officer, reports to EVP/COO John Mulligan. $TGT PR link.

Lockheed Martin(PBR64) promotes John Rood to SVP-International, succeeds retiring Pat Dewar. $LMT PR link.

Lockheed Martin(PBR64) promotes John Mollard to VP & Treasurer, effective 04/04/16, succeeds Ken Possenriede who will be VP Finance/Business Operations at Aeronautics unit. $LMT PR link.

Carlisle Cos(PBR650) appoints Amelia Murillo as VP-Human Resources. $CSL PR link.

Cinemark(PBR739) president/COO Robert Copple has resigned. $CNK PR link.

Lumber Liquidators(PBR1061) hires Dennis Knowles as COO. $LL PR link.

Housing: FreddieMac(PBR42) releases February Insight & Outlook. $FMCC PR link.

Friday, February 26:

The PBR1000 End of Week US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA ends week at 16,639.77, +1.51% from last week, +1.05% MTD, -4.51% QTD/YTD, -9.13% from record 18,312.39 on 05/19/15.
NASDAQ ends week at 4,590.47, +1.91% from last week, -0.51 MTD, -8.33% QTD/YTD, -12.04% from record 5,218.86 on 07/20/15.
SPX ends week at 1,948.05, +1.58% from last week, +0.40% MTD, -4.69% QTD/YTD, -8.58% from record 2,130.82 on 05/21/15.

Apple(PBR5 $AAPL) fires back in court that FBI seeks ‘dangerous power.’ MarketWatch article link.

Caterpillar(PBR54) to end production of on-highway vocational trucks, to impact about 70 positions. $CAT PR link.

Honeywell(PBR74) reveals offer for United Technologies(PBR45 $UTX), $108/share, $39 billion cash/stock. $HON PR link.

United Technologies(PBR45) says Honeywell(PBR74 $HON) $108/share, $39 billion cash/stock offer has regulatory challenges, customer concerns, and is grossly undervalued. $UTX PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) increases share repurchase program by $1.5 billion, new balance around $2 billion. $M PR link.

JCPenney(PBR234 $JCP) goes private (label) in fight to continue turnaround. MarketWatch article link.

Liberty Media(PBR534) settles litigation with Vivendi for $775 million, has $1.3 billion balance for share repurchase program. $LMCA PR link.

Groupon(PBR652) sells one billionth Groupon, first Groupon was sold in October 2008. $GRPN PR link.

Olin Corp(PBR838) president/COO John Fischer to become CEO on 05/01/16, succeeds retiring Joe Rupp. $OLN PR link.

Revlon(PBR900) president/CEO Lorenzo Delpani to step down effective 03/01/16, will remain on board; Gianni Pieraccioni appointed as new COO. $REV PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says January Personal Income Annual Rate at $15.691 trillion, +0.5% from December, Personal Savings Rate at 5.2%. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce restates 4th Quarter GDP Annual Rate from 0.7% to 1.0%, $18.148 trillion, 2015 GDP was 2.4%. USDOC PR link.

Energy: Energy companies’ latest move as oil prices slump? Sell, sell, sell. MarketWatch article link.

Consumer Credit: This is how many Americans have ‘great’ credit. MarketWatch article link.

Thursday, February 25:

McKesson(PBR6) making 2 acquisitions, Vantage Oncology & Biologics, for a total of $1.2 billion. $MCK PR link.

Best Buy(PBR73) authorizes new $1 billion share buyback program over 2 years. $BBY PR link.

Halliburton(PBR90 $HAL) to cut 5,000 jobs, 8% of workforce, had announced 22,000 job cuts previously. MarketWatch article link.

Kohl’s(PBR149) plans $600 million share buyback program with $50/share average. $KSS PR link.

Gap Inc(PBR179) authorizes $1 billion share buyback program, supersedes previous program. $GPS PR link.

Estee Lauder(PBR255) has acquired Paris-based global luxury fragrances provider By Kilian, terms not disclosed. $EL PR link.

Packaging Corp(PBR425) authorizes additional $200 million for share repurchase program. $PKG PR link.

Dynegy(PBR777) & Energy Capital Partners form joint venture to acquire ENGIE’s US fossil portfolio for $3.3 billion. $DYN PR link.

Equifax(PBR795) completes $1.9 billion acquisition of Australia based credit information company Veda Group. $EFX PR link.

Restoration Hardware(PBR915)’s new membership program gives analysts pause. $RH PR link.

Republic Airways(PBR1015) files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, appoints Lars Arnell as SVP/Chief Restructuring Officer. $RJET PR link.

Core-Mark(PBR271) SVP/CFO Stacy Lorentz-Congdon retiring at end of 2016, VP/Chief Accounting Officer Christopher Miller to be CFO on 05/01/16. $CORE PR link.

Ralph Lauren(PBR349) President-Global Brands Chris Peterson to leave on 05/31/16, position to be eliminated. $RL PR link.

Avery Dennison(PBR396) president/COO Mitchell Butier to be president/CEO on 05/01/16. CEO Dean Scarborough to become executive chairman. $AVY PR link.

Urban Outfitters(PBR638) promotes David McCreight to president. $URBN PR link.

Sprouts Farmers Market(PBR688) hires Brad Lukow as CFO, effective 03/04/16. $SFM PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US 02/20/16 Initial Unemployment Claims at 272,000, +10,000 from previous week, total at 2,253,000. USDOL PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR42) says US Average 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rate at 3.62% with 0.6 points/fees. $FMCC PR link.

Wednesday, February 24:

Caterpillar(PBR54) VP Electric Power Division Steve Niehaus is retiring, division to be consolidated with Marine & Petroleum Power divisions. $CAT PR link.

TJX Cos(PBR96) adds $1.5-2.0 billion to share buyback pgm, current balance is $1.5 billion, expires 01/28/17. $TJX PR link.

Southern Co(PBR155) to acquire electric utilities technologies provider PowerSecure Intl(NYSE: POWR) for $18.75/share, $431 million cash, to close 2Q2016. $SO PR link.

BB&T(PBR277) to acquire $200 million revenues/year commercial wholesale insurance provider Swett & Crawford, terms not disclosed. $BBT PR link.

Marathon Petroleum(PBR23) chairman Thomas Usher to retire 04/27/16, president/CEO Gary Heminger to then add chairman title. $MPC PR link.

Boeing(PBR27) promotes Leanne Caret to president/CEO-Defense, Space, & Security, succeeds retiring Chris Chadwick. $BA PR link.

Level 3 Communications(PBR375) CEO Jeff Storey to take 2 month temporary medical leave for heart surgery, CFO Sunit Patel to also be Interim CEO. $LVLT PR link.

The US Dept of Housing & Urban Development says January New Single-Family Sales Annual Rate was at 494,000 units, -9.2% from December, -5.2% from January 2015. HUD PR link.

Taxes: 45% of Americans pay no federal income tax. MarketWatch article link.

Robotics: IDC Forecasts Worldwide Spending on Robotics to Reach $135 Billion in 2019. IDC PR link.

Opinion-US Economy: Markit’s PMI shows significant risk of US economy falling into contraction. Full analysis: Markit article link.

Tuesday, February 23:

Viacom(PBR212) to explore strategic investment partnership for Paramount Pictures. $VIA PR link.

Airgas(PBR461) stockholders approve acquisition by France based Air Liquide(Euronext Paris: AI) for $143/share, $13.4 billion cash, expected to close 2Q or 3Q2016. $ARG PR link.

Activision Blizzard(540) completes acquisition of London based gaming developer King Digital Entertainment(NYSE: KING) for $18.00/share, $5.9 billion, creating largest game network in the world with over 500 million users. $ATVI PR link.

Lexmark(PBR601) to eliminate 550 of 14,000 positions worldwide over next 12 months. $LXK PR link.

Cooper Tire & Rubber(PBR618) authorizes new $200 million share repurchase program through 12/31/17. $CTB PR link.

Monster Beverage(PBR785) to acquire American Fruits & Flavors for $690 million, to close 1Q2016. $MNST PR link.

Eastman Chemical(PBR288) retirements for COO Ron Lindsey, SVP Integrated Supply Chain Godefroy Motte; 5 promotions announced. $EMN PR link.

Discovery Communications(PBR399) CFO Andrew Warren to leave company at end of 2016. $DISCA PR link.

Toll Brothers(PBR577) Vice Chairman/Co-Founder Bruce Toll to retire on 03/08/16. $TOL PR link.

Cooper Tire & Rubber(PBR618) Chairman/CEO Roy Armes to retire on 08/31/16, COO Bradley Hughes to then become President/CEO. $CTB PR link.

The National Assn of Realtors says January Existing Home Sales was at a 5.47 million annual rate, median price $213,800. NAR PR link.

S&P/Case-Shiller December US National Home Prices Index was +0.1% from November, +5.4% from December 2014. C-S PR link.

Housing: What the shrinking amount of mortgage debt tells us about the housing market. MarketWatch article link.

Fashion: Wearable device sales soar, led by Fitbit MarketWatch article link.

Monday, February 22:

Verizon(PBR15) to acquire fiber-optic network business of XO Communications for about $1.8 billion, expected to close 1H2017. $VZ PR link.

United Technologies(PBR45) confirms it has been in talks with Honeywell(PBR74 $HON), has concerns about regulatory obstacles, customer concerns, & valuations issues. $UTX PR link.

Sysco(PBR61) to acquire European food services distributor Brakes Group for $3.1 billion, includes $2.3 billion of debt. $SYY PR link.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR185) completes sale of its HIV R&D portfolio to ViiV Healthcare for $350 million up front with $2.5 billion in future incentives. $BMY PR link.

Fortune Brands(PBR469) authorizes $400 million share repurchase program over next 2 years. $FBHS PR link.

Lumber Liquidators(PBR1061 $LL) wood flooring cancer risk greater than previously reported because of inaccurate calculation by CDC. MarketWatch PR link.

Kroger(PBR20) Smith’s division president Jay Cummins to retire on 04/29/16 after 44 years with company. $KR PR link.

Blackhawk Network(PBR998) president Talbott Roche now also CEO, succeeds William Tauscher who remains chairman. $HAWK PR link.

Markit February Flash U.S. Manufacturing PMI of 51.0 flashes warning sign. MarketWatch PR link.

Friday, February 19:

The PBR1000 End of Week US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA ends week at 16,391.99, +2.62% from last week, -0.45% MTD, -5.93% QTD/YTD, -10.49% from record 18,312.39 on 05/19/15.
NASDAQ ends week at 4,504.43, +3.85% from last week, -2.37 MTD, -10.04% QTD/YTD, -13.69% from record 5,218.86 on 07/20/15.
SPX ends week at 1,917.78, +2.84% from last week, -1.16% MTD, -6.17% QTD/YTD, -10.00% from record 2,130.82 on 05/21/15.

Apple(PBR5 $AAPL) vs. the FBI: A complete guide regarding the phone encryption controversy. MarketWatch PR link.

Citigroup(PBR28) to sell consumer businesses in Brazil, Argentina, and Columbia. $C PR link.

Coca-Cola(PBR63) signs letter of intent to grant additional bottling territory to Swire Coca-Cola USA. $KO PR link.

AutoNation(PBR148) has $250 million available for share repurchase program. $AN PR link.

Yahoo!(PBR519) forms independent committee to explore strategic alternatives. $YHOO PR link.

Perrigo(PBR565) to relocate global investor relations, global treasury functions from US to Ireland headquarters. $PRGO PR link.

Intl Flavors & Fragrances(PBR666) promotes Dionisio Ferenc as VP, Global Fine Fragrances. $IFF PR link.

Mueller Industries(PBR812) to acquire 60% interest in S Korea based global copper-based pipe joining manufacturer Jungwoo Metal, terms not disclosed. $MLI PR link.

Booz Allen Hamilton(PBR466) CFO Kevin Cook to retire, EVP Lloyd Howell, Jr to be CFO on 07/01/16. $BAH PR link.

SeaWorld(PBR1013) promotes John Reilly to Chief Parks Operations Officer & Dr. Chris Dold to Chief Zoological Officer, effective 04/01/16; forms Resort Development Group. $SEAS PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the January Current Average Earnings/Hour was $25.39, +0.47% from December, +2.5% from January 2015. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the January Consumer Price Index was unchanged from December, +1.4% over the past 12 months, seasonally unadjusted. USDOL PR link.

Thursday, February 18:

IBM(PBR25) Watson Health unit to acquire Truven Health Analytics for $2.6 billion. strong>$IBM PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) & Lenova sign 3G/4G China patent license agreement. $QCOM PR link.

DISH Network(PBR196) ends 2015 with 13.897 million Pay-TV subscribers, ended 2014 with 13.978 million. $DISH PR link.

Alliance Data(PBR462) adds $500 million for new $1 billion balance available for 2016 share buyback program. $ADS PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Santa Monica, CA, based retail insurance broker White & Co Insurance, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

Cabela’s(PBR606) EVP/COO Michael Copeland to transition to strategic advisory role over next month. $CAB PR link.

Wednesday, February 17:

Ingram Micro(PBR62) to be acquired by & become subsidiary of China based Tianjin Tianhai for $38.90/share, $6.0 billion cash, to close 2H2016. $IM PR link.

T-Mobile US(PBR95) reports 2.1 million net new adds to its wireless network in 4Q15, 8.3 million total in 2015. $TMUS PR link.

Capital One(PBR116) authorizes additional $300 billion for $3.125 billion share buyback program authorized in 2015. $COF PR link.

Devon Energy(PBR143) to offer 69,000,000 common shares at $18.75/share, proceeds to be used for a variety of financial purposes. $DVN PR link.

Targa Resources(PBR308) completes all equity acquisition of Targa Resources Partners. $TRGP PR link.

DSW(PBR778) to acquire e-commerce off-price footwear & accessories retailer eBuys for $62.5 million plus future performance payments. $DSW PR link.

Kroger(PBR20) SVP Retail Operations & Strategic Initiatives Marnette Perry retiring after 44 years with company, effective 04/29/16. $KR PR link.

Caterpillar(PBR54) announces new responsibilities for VPs Doug Hoerr, Greg Folley, & Tana Utley, effective 03/01/16. $CAT PR link.

Level 3 Communications(PBR375) makes EVP/Chief Admin Officer Laurinda Pang Regional President of N. America & Asia Pacific. $LVLT PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the January Producer Price Index for Final Demand was +0.1%, was -0.2% in Dec, -0.2% from January 2015. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says the January Private Housing Units Building Permits Issued annual rate was at 1,202,000, -0.2% from December, +13.5% from January 2015. USDOC PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says January Total Industrial Production Capacity at 77.1%, December was 76.4%, January 2015 was 79.1% FRB PR link.

The US Federal Reserve releases January FOMC Statement, reviews economic situation, maintains 0.25-0.50% funds rate. FRB PR link.

Tuesday, February 16:

United Continental(PBR77) & PAFCA reach tentative agreement for its 420 dispatchers. $UAL PR link.

Upon merger completion Staples(PBR122) & Office Depot(PBR182 $ODP) to sell $550+ million revs/yr from Fortune 500 clients to Essendant(PBR458 $ESND) for $22.5 million. $SPLS PR link.

Stryker Corp(PBR283) to acquire defibrillators provider Physio-Control Intl from Bain Capital for $1.28 billion cash. $SYK PR link.

Graphic Packaging(PBR553) completes acquisition of 2 location folding carton manufacturer Walter G Anderson, terms not disclosed. $GPK PR link.

ADT(PBR627) to be acquired by affiliate of Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR906 $APO) for $42.00/share, a 56% premium on 02/12/16 closing price. $ADT PR link.

Devon Energy(PBR143) restructures senior leadership, EVP E&P Tony Vaughn promoted to COO; EVP-HR, EVP-Marketing to retire. $DVN PR link.

Steel Dynamics(PBR306) co-founder/EVP Steelmaking & president/COO Steel Operations Richard Teets, Jr. retiring, 3 SVP promotions announced. $STLD PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR314) hires Les Ottolenghi as EVP-Chief Information Officer, reports to president/CEO. $CZR PR link.

Fiserv(PBR474) hires Robert Hau as CFO, effective 03/14/16. $FISV PR link.

hhgregg(PBR864) CFO Robert Riesbeck now also interim president/CEO, Dennis May has left. $HGG PR link.

Monday, February 15:

***U.S. Presidents’ Day***
***U.S. Stock Markets Closed.***

Freeport-McMoRan(PBR128) sells 13% interest in Morenci Mine to Sumitoma Metal Mining for $1.0 billion cash. $FCX PR link.

JCPenney(PBR234) Chief Merchant John Tighe to oversee product development and design within merchandising organization; Supply Chain SVP Mike Robbins assumes added responsibility for global sourcing. $JCP PR link.

Crown Holdings(PBR298) promotes Robert Bourque, Jr to President-Asia Pacific Division, effective 05/01/16, succeeds retiring Jozef Salaerts, reports to president/CEO. $CCK PR link.

Celanese(PBR369) promotes SVP-HR Lori Johnston to EVP-Chief Administrative Officer. $CE PR link.

PulteGroup(PBR428) promotes Ryan Marshall to president, Harmon Smith to COO. $PHM PR link.

Friday, February 12:
The PBR1000 End of Week US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA ends week at 15,973.84, -1.43% from last week, -2.99% MTD, -8.33% QTD/YTD, -12.77% from record 18,312.39 on 05/19/15.
NASDAQ ends week at 4,337.51, -0.59% from last week, -5.99 MTD, -13.38% QTD/YTD, -16.89% from record 5,218.86 on 07/20/15.
SPX ends week at 1,864.78, -0.81% from last week, -3.89% MTD, -8.77% QTD/YTD, -12.49% from record 2,130.82 on 05/21/15.

Lear Corp(PBR165) increases share buyback program to $1 billion, expires 12/31/17. $LEA PR link.

L Brands(PBR247 $LB) Victoria’s Secret CEO Sharen Turney resigns. MarketWatch article link.

NASDAQ(PBR618) to acquire 8,500 clients global news distributor & analytics provider MarketWired, terms not disclosed. $NDAQ PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says January Year to Year Import Price Index was -6.2%, lead by fuel at -34.5%, Exports at -5.7%, USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says December Manufacturing/Trade Sales were $1.3 trillion, -0.6% from November, -2.7% from December 2014. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says January Retail/Food Services Sales were $449.9 billion, +0.2% from December, +3.4% from January 2014. USDOC PR link.

Thursday, February 11:

AIG(PBR46) adds $5.0 billion to share repurchase program, balance is $5.8 billion. $AIG PR link.

Brunswick(PBR584) increases share repurchase program by $300 billion, balance is $360 billion. $BC PR link.

JetBlue(PBR429) promotes John Culp to VP-Inflight Experience & Rachel McCarthy to VP-Talent. $JBLU PR link.

Hyatt Hotels(PBR537) hires Patrick Grismer as CFO, effective 03/14/16. $H PR link.

Brunswick(PBR584) president/COO Mark Schwabero elected as chairman/CEO, succeeds retiring Dustan McCoy. Brenna Preisser promoted to VP-Chief Human Resources Officer, succeeds retiring Russell Lockridge. $BC PR link.

W.R. Grace(PBR625) hires Thomas Blaser to be SVP-Finance/CFO. $GRA PR link.

Wednesday, February 10:

Amazon(PBR29) replaces current $2 billion share repurchase program with a $5 billion one, no termination date. $AMZN PR link.

Caterpillar(PBR54) names Rimco, its dealer for Puerto Rico & Eastern Caribbean, as its Cuba dealer. $CAT PR link.

Cisco(PBR60) adds $15 billion to share repurchase program, balance is $16.9 billion, no termination date set. $CSCO PR link.

Pilgrim’s Pride(PBR310) increases share buyback program from $150 million to $300 million over next 12 months. $PPC PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) to acquire Sweden based 4,500 employee global pharmaceuticals provider Meda for $9.9 billion, includes debt. $MYL PR link.

Carlyle Group(PBR581) announces $200 million share repurchase program. $CG PR link.

IGT(PBR878) North American subsidiary gets multi-year licensing deal for Life is Good lottery products. $IGT PR link.

UPS(PBR47) CEO David Abney elected to also be chairman. $UPS PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says January Federal Government Receipts were $313.6 billion, Outlays $258.4 billion, Surplus $55.2 billion, Fiscal YTD Deficit is $160.4 billion. Treasury PR link.

The Natl Retail Federation forecasts 2016 Retail Sales to grow by 3.1%, non-store sales to grow 6-9%. NRF PR link.

Tuesday, February 9:

Amazon(PBR29) Web Services announces Amazon Lumberyard, a free cross-platform, 3D game engine integrated with AWS & Twitch. $AMZN PR link.

Cummins(PBR146) to do $500 million, 4 million shares, accelerated share repurchase deal with Goldman Sachs(PBR76 $GS). $CMI PR link.

Viacom(PBR212) and Snapchat enter into global content production and ad sales deal. $VIA PR link.

Cabela’s(PBR606) promotes EVP/Chief Commercial Officer Scott Williams to president. $CAB PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says December Job Openings at 5.6 million, Hires at 5.4 million, Separations at 5.1 millions. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says December US Wholesale Sales were $440.0 billion, -0.3% from November, -4.5% from December 2014. USDOC PR link.

Monday, February 8:

Pfizer(PBR56) names executive leadership team for combined organization upon close of proposed Allergan(PBR219 $AGN) transaction, expected in 2nd half of 2016. $PFE PR link.

Apollo Education(PBR681) to be taken private in $9.50/share, $1.1 billion cash transaction. $APOL PR link.

Sunday, February 7:

Super Bowl 50: The Denver Broncos win 24-10 against the Carolina Panthers in a defense dominated championship game.

Friday, February 5:
The PBR1000 End of Week US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA ends week at 16,204.97, -1.59% from last week/MTD, -7.00% QTD/YTD. Record: 18,312.39 on 05/19/15.
NASDAQ ends week at 4,363.14, -5.44% from last week/MTD, -12.87% QTD/YTD. Record: 5,218.86 on 07/20/15.
SPX ends week at 1,880.05, -3.10% from last week/MTD, -8.02% QTD/YTD. Record: 2,130.82 on 05/21/15.

Calpine Corp(PBR330) completes $500 million acquisition of 745 megawatt power plan New Hampshire based Granite Ridge Energy Center. $CPN PR link.

Mattress Firm(PBR932) completes $780 million acquisition of 1,050 stores Sleepy’s, now has nearly 3,500 locations. $MFRM PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Number of Employed at 150.5 million, unemployed at 7.8 million, unemployment rate at 4.9%. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says December US Total Consumer Credit at $3.547 trillion, +0.60% from November, +6.92% from December 2014. FRB PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says 2015 US Total Exports were $2.230 trillion, Imports $2.762 trillion, Deficit $0.532 trillion. USDOC PR link.

Thursday, February 4:

Duke Energy(PBR114) considering sale of all or a portion of its International Energy business. $DUK PR link.

Icahn Enterprises(PBR147) completes $18.50/share, $1.03 billion acquisition of Pep Boys(PBR872). $IEP PR link.

Viacom(PBR212) names Sumner Redstone as chairman emeritus, president/CEO Phillipe Dauman elected executive chairman. $VIA PR link.

Genworth Financial(PBR287) to restructure, to separate longterm care business, suspend sales of traditional life & fixed annuity products. $GNW PR link.

Symantec(PBR384) gets $500 million from Silver Lake Partners, total capital return program increased to $5.5 billion. $SYMC PR link.

Group 1 Automotive(PBR276) acquires UK 12 dealerships Spire Automotive Group with $575 million annual revenues; divests 3 US dealerships with $160 million revenues/year; promotes Frank Grese, Jr, to SVP-Human Resources, Daryl Kenningham to Regional VP-West, David Fesmire Regional VP-East. $GPI PR link.

Bemis(PBR545) increases repurchase program by 20 million shares, balance is now 22.8 million shares. $BMS PR link.

TD Ameritrade(PBR662) acquires big data firm FA Insights, terms not disclosed. $AMTD PR link.

W.R. Grace(PBR625) promotes SVP/CFO Hudson La Force to president/COO. $GRA PR link.

Kennametal(PBR706) hires Ronald DeFeo as president/CEO, effective immediately, Donald Nolan has left. $KMT PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the 2015 Average Annual Labor Productivity was +0.6% from 2014. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says the December US Shipments at $467.0 billion, -1.4% from November, 8th down month in last 9 months. USDOC PR link.

Wednesday, February 3:

Wells Fargo(PBR30 $WFC) reaches $1.2 billion settlement with the US Dept of Justice regarding 2001-2010 FHA loan issues. SEC filing link.

Home Depot(PBR32) hiring more than 80,000 for Spring. $HD PR link.

Comcast(PBR42) authorizes $10 billion share repurchase program, $5 billion to be spent in 2016. $CMCSA PR link.

Lowe’s(PBR50) to acquire Canadian home improvement retailer/distributor RONA for $2.3 billion cash. $LOW PR link.

Cisco(PBR60) to acquire private IoT services platform provider Jasper Technologies for $1.4 billion cash. $CSCO PR link.

W.R. Grace(PBR625) completes separation of GCP Applied Technologies(NYSE: GCP) into a separate public company. $GRA PR link.

Autodesk(PBR773) to restructure, reduce staff by 10%(925 positions), transition to cloud, focus on subscription business. $ADSK PR link.

GoPro(PBR1010) ships 6.6 million cameras in 2015, +27% from 2014, promotes Brian McGee to CFO, succeeds retirng Jack Lazar, effective 03/11/16. $GPRO PR link.

Delta Air Lines(PBR72) CEO Richard Anderson to become executive chairman on 05/02/16, president Ed Bastian to be CEO, Gil West is now SEVP/COO. $DAL PR link.

Manpower(PBR132) hires Jack McGinnis as CFO, Michael Van Handel to be Sr EVP, effective 02/15/16. $MAN PR link.

SuperValu(PBR164) hires Mark Gross as president/CEO, succeeds retiring Sam Duncan. $SVU PR link.

CBS(PBR210) president/CEO Leslie Moonves adds chairman title with resignation of Sumner Redstone who is now chairman emeritus. $CBS PR link.

Greenbrier Cos(PBR846) promotes CFO Mark Rittenbaum to EVP-Commercial, Leasing & Finance, Lorie Tekorius promoted to SVP-CFO & Treasurer. $GBX PR link.

ADP says the January Change in Non-Farm Private Sector Employment was +205,000 jobs, 192,000 were from services sector. $ADP PR link.

Institute for Supply Management says the January Non-Manufacturing Index was at 53.5%, down from 55.8% in December. $ISM PR link.

Tuesday, February 2:

Alphabet(PBR44 $GOOG) officially surpasses Apple(PBR5 $AAPL) as world’s most valuable company. MarketWatch PR link.

3M(PBR92) authorizes $10 billion share repurchase program with no completion date. $MMM PR link.

Staples(PBR122) and Office Depot(PBR182 $ODP) extend completion of merger from 02/04/16 to 05/16/16 for completion of FTC litigation. $SPLS PR link.

Lithia Motors(PBR451) acquires $65 million/year Toyota/Scion of Milford, MA. $LAD PR link.

Yahoo!(PBR519) announces 4 point strategic plan, includes 15% reduction in workforce. $YHOO PR link.

Chipotle(PBR561) opened 229 restaurants in 2015, has 2,010 stores, plans to add 220-235 in 2016. $CMG PR link.

Salesforce(PBR453) vice chairman/president Keith Block adds COO to responsibilities. $CRM PR link.

Hub Group(PBR611) hires Geoff DeMartino as VP Corporate Development. $HUBG PR link.

KB Home(PBR802) hires Jill Peters as SVP-Investor Relations. $KBH PR link.

Viavi Solutions(PBR944) hires Oleg Khaykin as president/CEO. $VIAV PR link.

Allscripts Healthcare(PBR1014) hires Melinda Whittington to be CFO. $MDRX PR link.

Mergers/Acquisitions: US retail, consumer M&A rose in value, declined in volume in 2015. MarketWatch article link.

Auto Industry: January US New Auto Sales at 1.148 million vehicles, -0.4% from January 2015, annual rate 17.55 million. Auto News article link.

Auto Industry: January US New Auto Sales Revenues at $38.052B, +1.4% from January 2015, avg trans price $33,155. TrueCar article link.

Monday, February 1:
Click here for The PBR1000 January 2016 Monthly Breaking News Recap.

Amazon(PBR29) inks production deal with Mattel(PBR412 $MAT) to greenlight American Girl specials for prime video. $AMZN PR link.

Abbott Labs(PBR134) to acquire global point of care diagnostics provider Alere(PBR752 $ALR) for $56/share, $5.8 billion. $ABT PR link.

Dominion Resources(PBR229) to combine with natural gas supplier Questar(NYSE: STR) for $25/share, $4.4 billion, includes debt assumption. $D PR link.

Stryker Corp(PBR283) to acquire medical disposable products provider Sage Products from Madison Dearborn Partners for $2.775 billion cash. $SYK PR link.

Ashland(PBR407) completes acquisition of 89 Oil Can Henry’s quick lube stores. $ASH PR link.

Chipotle(PBR561 $CMG) gets final report from Center for Disease Control regarding e. coli outbreaks, appears over. CDC PR link.

NASDAQ(PBR618) completes acquisition of alternate trading platform Chi-X Canada, terms not disclosed. $NDAQ PR link.

TreeHouse Foods(PBR690) completes $2.7 billion acquisition of ConAgra(PBR166 $CAG) Private Brands. $THS PR link.

Walter Energy(PBR1006) to sell remaining US assets to Seminole Coal Resources to satisfy bankruptcy restructuring program. $WLTGQ PR link.

TJX Cos(PBR96) president Ernie Herman now also CEO, chairman/CEO Carol Meyrowitz now executive chairman. $TJX PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) names Peter Sachse as Chief Growth Officer, hires Justin MacFarlane as Chief Strategy, Analytics & Innovations Officer, both report to president Jeff Gennette. $M PR link.

Medtronic(PBR133) acquires private Italy based hemodialysis treatment solutions provider Bellco, terms not disclosed. $MDT PR link.

Gilead Sciences(PBR107) promotes Katie Watson to EVP-Human Resources. $GILD PR link.

CarMax(PBR202) EVP-HR Bill Nash promoted to president, to become CEO upon retirement of Tom Follard by end of 2016, Cliff Wood promoted to COO. $KMX PR link.

Herbalife(PBR487) hires Dr. John Agwunobi as Chief Health and Nutrition Officer. $HLF PR link.

Patterson Cos(PBR542) hires Kelly Baker as Chief Human Resources Officer. $PDCO PR link.

Cabot Corp(PBR607) president/CEO Patrick Prevost continues to be on medical leave, working part-time from home, expects to return full-time soon. $CBT PR link.

Cooper-Standard(PBR644) promotes Sharon Wenzl to SVP-Corporate Communications/Community Affairs. $CPS PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says December Disposable Personal Income Annual Rate at $13.654 trillion, +0.3% from November, Personal Savings at 5.5%. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says December US Construction Spending at $1.117 trillion annual rate, +0.1% from November, +8.2% from December 2014. USDOC PR link.

The Manufacturing ISM® Report On Business® January PMI at 48.2, up 0.2 from December. ISM PR link.

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

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Filed Under: Recaps Tagged With: acquisitions, Business, business news, Commodities, DJIA, Economy, Investing, Leadership, mergers, NASDAQ, Rankings, S&P 500, Stock Market, The PBR1000

The PBR1000 January 2016 Breaking News Recap

February 1, 2016 by admin

ID-10035635 Statue of Liberty Storm-Damian Brandon

Lady Liberty Experienced
A Stormy Start To 2016.
When Will The Skies Start To Clear?

January 2016: A Stormy Start

By Larry C. Paxton

Many people were happy to see 2015 come to an end. Most experts were painting a cautious rosy picture for 2016.

But January 2016 turned out to be even more volatile than December.

Oil prices plummeted again, but did recover a little by month end. There are concerns about the collateral damage of lower and negative profits from major oil industry companies. Towards the end of the month 4th quarter earnings came in with mixed results across all business sectors.

Internationally the Bank of Japan surprised most by introducing a negative funds rate. China is experiencing much slower growth as it transitions into a more internal consumer based economy, and there is continuing concern about the numbers China provides. Europe growth is mostly flat.

While US economic indices indicate consumer confidence, other indices show moderate growth at best, and there still seems to be no sense of stability yet. As the year progresses the US Presidential Race might have an impact, especially if the attack ads are especially negative regarding the economy and how big business affects it.

So, what will happen in February? It’s anybody’s guess. A few of our feeble predictions are that the volatility will continue; mergers, acquisitions, and spinoffs will increase; there will be some layoffs; oil will recover a bit more, and; the initial caucuses and primary elections in the US Presidential Race will only confuse and anger voters.

Following are The PBR1000 and economic related news items of note for January 2016, starting with the last active day.

Friday, January 29:
The PBR1000 End of January US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes month at 16,466.30, +2.32% from last week, -5.50% MTD/QTD/YTD. Record: 18,312.39 on 05/19/15.
NASDAQ closes month at 4,613.95, +0.50% from last week, -7.86% MTD/QTD/YTD. Record: 5,218.86 on 07/20/15.
SPX closes week at 1,940.24, +1.75% from last week, -5.07% MTD/QTD/YTD. Record: 2,130.82 on 05/21/15.

Apple(PBR5 $AAPL) aims for virtual reality with Flyby acquisition, reported hiring. MarketWatch article link.

Xerox(PBR144) to split into 2 public companies, $11 billion Document Technology and a $7 billion Business Process Outsourcing, to be completed by end of 2016. $XRX PR link.

Axiall(PBR521) rejects as undervalued unsolicited $20.00/share offer from Westlake Chemical(NYSE: WLK). $AXLL PR link.

Men’s Wearhouse(PBR643) forming a holding company, Tailored Brands, Inc., to start trading on 02/01/16 as NYSE: TLRD. $MW PR link.

Gilead Sciences(PBR107) president/COO John Milligan, PhD, to become CEO on 03/10/16, John Martin to become executive chairman. $GILD PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US 4th Quarter Employment Cost Index at 125.2, +0.6% from 3rd Quarter, compensation +2.0% from 4th Quarter 2014. USDOL article link.

The US Dept of Commerce says US 4th Quarter Gross Domestic Product Advance Estimate at 0.7% annual rate, $18.128 billion, 2015 rate at 2.4%. USDOC article link.

The US Energy Information Administration says the Weekly Average Price/Gallon for gas at $1.856, diesel $2.071, heating oil $2.064, propane $2.024. USEIA article link.

The US Dept of Treasury says the US Total National Debt on 01/28/16 was $18.990 trillion. Treasury article link.

The FreddieMac releases its January Insight & Outlook, emphasis on housing buy-to-rent trends, economic headwinds $FMCC PR link.

ISM-Chicago says the January Chicago Business Barometer at 55.6, up 12.7 points from December. ISM-Chicago PR link.

U of Michigan says the January Survey of Consumers Confidence at 92.0, -0.6% from December, -6.2% from January 2015. UM PR link.

Opinion: US manufacturing teeters on the edge of recession. MarketWatch article link.

Thursday, January 28:
General Motors(PBR8 $GM) creates product team for autonomous vehicles. MarketWatch article link.

Hershey(PBR354) authorizes $500 million shares repurchase program. $HSY PR link.

Lithia Motors(PBR451) acquires $45 million/year Riverside Subaru in Riverside, CA. $LAD PR link.

Brown-Forman(PBR563) approves new 1 year $1 billion share repurchase program starting 04/01/16. $BF.B PR link.

NII Holdings(PBR604) completes $178 million sale of Nextel Argentina, to focus on Brazil operations. $NIHD PR link.

NASDAQ(PBR618) EVP-Corporate Strategy/CFO Lee Shavel to retire 03/31/16. $NDAQ PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) says 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rates averaging 3.79%, -.02% from last wk, 0.6 points/fees unchanged. $FMCC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Initial Unemployment Insurance Claims for the week ending 01/23/16 were at 278,000, -16,000 from the previous week. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says the US 4th Quarter Homeownership Rate at 63.8%, -0.2% from 4th Quarter 2014, +0.1% from 3rd Quarter. USDOC PR link.

The National Retail Federation says Super Bowl 50 Average Spending per Viewer/Partygoer at $82.19, up from $77.88 last year. NRF PR link.

Commentary: Earnings take a dark turn as profit warnings, sales misses mount. MarketWatch article link.

Opinion: Behind the puzzle of why companies aren’t firing. MarketWatch article link.

Wednesday, January 27:
Norfolk Southern(PBR242) to achieve $650 million in annual savings by 2020, includes reduction of workforce by 2,000. $NSC PR link.

Cognizant Technology(PBR272) acquires private global cloud consulting/technology services firm KBACE Technologies, terms not disclosed. $CTSH PR link.

Enbridge Energy(PBR333) acquires NE British Columbia Tupper Main & West gas plants from Murphy Oil(PBR448) Canadian subsidiary for $538 million. $EEP PR link.

DeVry(PBR905) to contest complaint filed by the Federal Trade Commission challenging employment and earnings outcomes of its graduates. $DV PR link.

Meredith Corp(PBR994) $2.4 billion acquisition by Media General(NYSE: MEG) has been terminated. $MDP PR link.

The Andersons(PBR525) SVP-Human Resources Arthur DePompei to retire, being succeeded by Val Blanchett, effective 02/15/16. $ANDE PR link.

The US Federal Reserve issues a statement from its 01/26-27/16 meeting, no change in funds rate because of mixed economic signals. FRB PR link.

The US Dept of HUD says December New Single Family House Sales Annual Rate at 544,000, +10.8% from November, +9.9% from December 2014. HUD PR link.

Tuesday, January 26:
Apple(PBR5) reports slowing growth in iPhone sales. MarketWatch article link.

AIG(46) to sell of some units, restructure into 9 business units, return at least $25 billion to shareholders over 2 years. $AIG PR link.

AIG(PBR46) to sell AIG Advisor Group to Lightyear Capital & PSP Investments, terms not disclosed. $AIG PR link.

Lockheed Martin(PBR64) to separate and combine IT and Technical Services with Leidos(PBR475 $LDOS) for $1.8 billion and 50.5% equity. $LMT PR link.

Praxair(PBR233) signs 15 year contract with energy producer Total, further expands pipeline network in the Port of Antwerp. $PX PR link.

Terex(PBR357) confirms receipt of unsolicited $30.00/share offer from Zoomlion. $TEX PR link.

Total System(PBR790) to acquire 1,000 employee, 235,000 merchant clients TransFirst for $2.35 billion cash. $TSS PR link.

Arrow Electronics(PBR120) COO Global Components/Enterprise Computing retiring effective 04/30/16. $ARW PR link.

The Conference Board says that the January Consumer Confidence Index was at 98.1, up from December’s 96.3. CB article link.

Monday, January 25:
Berkshire Hathaway(PBR4 $BRK.A) to complete $235/share, $37.2 billion acquisition of Precision Castparts(PBR274) on 01/29/16. $PCP PR link.

JPMorgan Chase(PBR21) to settle most of Lehman suit for $1.42 billion. MarketWatch article link.

Johnson Controls(PBR68) & Tyco plc(NYSE: $TYC) to merge, to be Johnson Controls plc with global headquarters in Cork, Ireland, stock symbol to be JCI. $JCI PR link.

Sprint(86 $S) Nextel Corp to cut up to 2,500 jobs, cut labor costs by $350 million/year. MarketWatch article link.

Under Armour(PBR668) announces global partnership with actor/producer Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. $UA PR link.

Huntington Bancshares(PBR895) to acquire FirstMerit(NASDAQ: $FMER) for $3.4 billion, creates largest Ohio bank by deposit share, expands operations into Chicago & Wisconsin. $HBAN PR link.

Staples(PBR122) appoints Shira Goodman as president, N American Operations, John Wilson as president, International Operations & Transformation. $SPLS PR link.

Friday, January 22:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 16,093.51, +0.66% from last week, -7.64% MTD/QTD/YTD. Record: 18,312.39 on 05/19/15.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,591.18, +2.29% from last week, -8.31% MTD/QTD/YTD. Record: 5,218.86 on 07/20/15.
SPX closes week at 1,906.90, +1.41% from last week, -6.70% MTD/QTD/YTD. Record: 2,130.82 on 05/21/15.

United Continental(PBR77) 12,000+ pilots approve contract extension through 01/31/19. $UAL PR link.

Cigna(PBR85) says Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (“CMS”) intends to impose sanctions to suspend enrollment in its Medicare Advantage program because of Parts C & D discrepancies. $CI PR link.

Legg Mason(PBR709) acquires 83% majority interest in real estate investment & $40 billion portfolio management firm Clarion Partners for $585 million. $LM PR link.

Piedmont Natural Gas(PBR993) stockholders approve $4.9 billion acquisition by Duke Energy(PBR114 $DUK), to close by end of 2016. $PNY PR link.

The National Assn of Realtors says December Existing Home Sales at 5.46 million annual rate, +14.7% from November, median price $224,100. NAR PR link.

Thursday, January 21:
IBM(PBR25) acquires cloud based video streaming 80 million users/month service Ustream, terms not disclosed. $IBM PR link.

CBS(PBR210) and SKY announce long-term Pan-European agreement for Showtime portfolio of programming. $CBS PR link.

BB&T(PBR277) to complete $1.8 billion acquisition of National Penn Bancshares on or about 04/01/16. $BBT PR link.

Tiffany & Co(PBR551) authorizes new $500 million stock repurchase program, expires 01/31/19. $TIF PR link.

TD Ameritrade(PBR662) launches new investment services for AARP‘s 38 million members. $AMTD PR link.

IAC(PBR665) restructures into 5 segments, changes stock symbol from IACI to IAC. $IAC PR link.

H&R Block(PBR669) opens over 280 offices for its new brand Block Advisors providing tax services all year. $HRB PR link.

Wednesday, January 20:
Staples(PBR122) & Office Depot(PBR182 $ODP) extend merger termination date to 05/16/16 to satisfy FTC litigation & obtain financing. $SPLS PR link.

Fiserv(PBR474) to acquire for $200 million the assets of Community Financial Services unit of ACI Worldwide(NASDAQ $ACIW). $FISV PR link.

Brunswick(PBR584) has acquired commercial fitness equipment maker Cybex International for $195 million. $BC PR link.

Cenveo(PBR899) completes $105 million sale of Packaging Business to WestRock. $CVO PR link.

Citrix(PBR658) hires Kirill Tatarinov as president/CEO, effective 01/25/16. $CTXS PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says December Current Average Earnings at $25.24/hr, -0.04% from November, +2.5% from December 2014. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says December Consumer Price Index was -0.1% from December, +0.7% over last 12 months. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of HUD says the December Family Housing New Construction Permits Annual Rate at 1,232,000, -3.9% from November, +14.4% from December 2014. USHUD PR link.

Investing: BlackRock(PBR252) sponsored report says US institutional investors to increase & broaden use of ETFs in 2016. $BLK PR link.

Tuesday, January 19:
Johnson & Johnson(PBR37) to restructure Medical Devices to save around $1 billion, includes 4-6% reduction in global workforce over 2 years. $JNJ PR link.

AIG(PBR46) raises available global commercial property limits to $2.5 billion per occurrence. $AIG PR link.

JCPenney(PBR234) introducing major appliances in 22 pilot stores starting 02/01/16. $JCP PR link.

Chipotle(PBR561) new food safety procedures iin place, to close all locations 11AM-3PM on 02/08/16 for all team meeting. $CMG PR link.

Genesco(PBR702) has sold its school/youth sports apparel& equipment Lids Team Sports unit to Varsity Sports subsidiary BSN Sports, terms not disclosed. $GCO PR link.

Chico’s FAS(PBR730) completes sale of its Boston Proper direct-to-consumer business. $CHS PR link.

Tetra Tech(PBR781) completes acquisition of Australian based $407 million revenues/2015 geoservices/project management co Coffey Intl. $TTEK PR link.

ABM Industries(PBR478) hires David Goodes as SVP-Chief Human Resources Officer. $ABM PR link.

The Andersons(PBR525) president Grain/Ethanol groups Neill McKinstray retiring, Corey Jorgenson to be president-Grain. $ANDE PR link.

Monday, January 18:
***Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
***US Stock Markets Closed.

Qualcomm(PBR106) & Guizhou Province form joint venture to design & sell server chipsets in China. $QCOM PR link.

CSX(PBR226) restructuring from 10 to 9 division, closing Huntington, WV, admin office. $CSX PR link.

Alcoa(PBR115) hires Karl Tragl as president, Transportation/Construction Solutions, effective 02/15/16, succeeds leaving Jose Drummond. $AA PR link.

JCPenney(PBR234) hires Joe McFarland as EVP-Stores, succeeds Tony Bartlett. $JCP PR link.

Friday, January 15:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 15,988.08, -2.19% from last week, -8.25% MTD/QTD/YTD. Record: 18,312.39 on 05/19/15.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,488.42, -3.34% from last week, -10.36% MTD/QTD/YTD. Record: 5,218.86 on 07/20/15.
SPX closes week at 1,880.33, -2.17% from last week, -8.00% MTD/QTD/YTD. Record: 2,130.82 on 05/21/15.

Walmart(PBR1) to close 269 stores worldwide, affects 16,000 associates, to offer jobs assistance. $WMT PR link.

General Electric(PBR9) to sell Appliances business to Qingdao Haier Co for $5.4 billion. $GE PR link.

Genworth Financial(PBR287) closes sale of certain blocks of term life insurance policies to Protective Life Insurance Company. $GNW PR link.

PulteGroup(PBR428) completes $450 million acquisition of 7,400 controlled lots, 280 homes in backlog, from John Wieland Homes. $PHM PR link.

Intuit(PBR529) to sell its online marketing/communications software service Demandforce unit to Internet Brands. $INTU PR link.

Graphic Packaging(PBR553) to acquire 2 location folding carton manufacturer Walter G Anderson, terms not disclosed. $GPK PR link.

Pinnacle Foods(PBR751) completes $11.00/share, $975 million acquisition of health & wellness foods brands manufacturer Boulder Brands. $PF PR link.

Equinix(PBR793) completes $3.8 billion acquisition of UK based 40+ data centers services provider Telecity. $EQIX PR link.

Caterpillar(PBR54) promotes VP Denise Johnson to group president of Resources Industries unit, effective 04/01/16, succeeds retiring Ed Rapp. $CAT PR link.

Polaris Industries(PBR531) VP Corporate Development Todd Balan has left, Guido Neizert appointed interim. $PII PR link.

Cinemark(PBR739) hires Angelia Pelham as EVP-Chief Human Relations Officer. $CNK PR link.

US Federal Reserve says December Total US Industrial Production was at 106.0% of 2012 average, -1.8% from December 2014. FRB PR link.

US Dept of Labor says the December Producer Price Index was -0.2%, goods at -0.7%, services +0.1%, 2015 at -1.0%. USDOL PR link.

US Dept of Commerce says November Trade Sales/Manufacturers’ Shipments Value at $1.314 trillion, -0.2% from October, -2.8% from November 2014. USDOC PR link.

US Dept of Commerce says December US Retail/Food Services Sales were $448.1 billion, -0.1% from November, +2.2% from December 2014. USDOC PR link.

Energy: Obama halts most new coal-mining leases on public lands. MarketWatch article link.

Personal Finance: America’s growing student-loan-debt crisis, $1.2 trillion for 40 million students. MarketWatch article link.

Thursday, January 14:
Goldman Sachs(PBR76) agrees to $2.285 billion settlement regarding pre-recession mortgage securities. $GS PR link.

Brown-Forman(PBR563) to sell its Southern Comfort & Tuaca trademarks to Sazerac for $544 million. $BF PR link.

Orbital ATK(PBR655) gets new NASA contract to deliver cargo to the International Space Station. $OA PR link.

United Technologies(PBR45) appoints Robert Leduc as president, Pratt & Whitney unit, Paul Adams retiring. $UTX PR link.

Lowe’s Cos(PBR50) hires Jennifer Weber as Chief Human Resources Officer, effective 03/01/16, succeeds retiring Maureen Ausura. $LOW PR link.

MGM Resorts(PBR273) hires James Steward as CEO & Andy Chien as CFO for future REIT spinoff MGP. $MGM PR link.

Alaska Air(PBR454) promotes Kurt Kinder to VP, Maintenance and Engineering. $ALK PR link.

Fortune Brands(PBR569) hires Brett Finley as President of Therma-Tru Doors. $FBHS PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says December Import Prices were -1.2% from November, -8.2% from December 2014, driven mostly by fuel prices. USDOL PR link.

Apple(PBR5)‘s slowing iPhone sales weigh on suppliers. MarketWatch PR link.

Entertainment: 21st Century Fox(PBR91 $FOX) films prove dominant, racking up 26 Oscar nominations. MarketWatch article link.

The PBR1000 Fact: The PBR1000 Total Market Capitalization(1,036 companies) on 12/31/15 was $20.364 trillion, -2.08% from Nov, -2.06% for the year.

Wednesday, January 13:
General Motors(PBR8) adds $4 billion to shares repurchase program, $9 billion now available. $GM PR link.

General Electric(PBR9 $GE) to cut 6,500 jobs in Europe at ex-Alstom units. MarketWatch article link.

General Electric(PBR9) to move headquarters from Fairfield, CT, to Boston, MA, to be completed by end of 2018. $GE PR link.

World’s #1 golfer Jordan Spieth signs multi-year partnership deal with Coca-Cola(PBR63). $KO PR link.

Reynolds American(PBR317) completes $5.0 billion sale of Natural American Spirit international businesses. $RAI PR link.

TreeHouse Foods(PBR690) to hire additional Omaha-based ConAgra(PBR166 $CAG) Private Brands employees. $THS PR link.

Activision Blizzard(PBR540) hires Stacey Sher to be co-president with Nick van Dyk of television/films Studios unit. $ATVI PR link.

Boyd Gaming(PBR727) promotes Josh Hirsberg to EVP/CFO & treasurer, Steve Thompson to EVP-Operations, Nevada, & corporate procurement, admin, & slot operations, & Ted Bogich to EVP-Operations Midwest/South/Peninsula, & corporate marketing, design, & construction. $BYD PR link.

HCP(PBR831) promotes Troy McHenry to EVP-General Counsel, Corporate Secretary, succeeds retiring Jim Mercer. $HCP PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US FY(3 mos) YTD Receipts through December were $765.645 billion, Outlays $981.190 billion, Deficit $215.546 billion. Treasury PR link.

The US Federal Reserve releases Beige Book. 12 Districts report overall flat to moderate growth since last release . FRB PR link.

Economy: So many jobs, so little growth. What gives? MarketWatch article link.

Auto Industry: Auto execs shrug off fears for global car sales. MarketWatch article link.

Tuesday, January 12:
Ford(PBR10) sells 1.3 million vehicles in Europe in 2015, +11% from 2014. $F PR link.

MetLife(PBR39) to pursue spinoff of US Retail Business into separate public company. $MET PR link.

Visteon(PBR351) to acquire India based 140 employee automotive multimedia systems supplier AllGo Systems. $VC PR link.

Graphic Packaging(PBR553) to acquire Australian based 3 locations folding carton manufacturer Colorpak(ASX: CKL) in 2Q2016. $GPK PR link.

W.R. Grace(PBR625) approves separation of GCP Applied Technologies, to be completed 02/03/16, to trade as NYSE: GCP. $GRA PR link.

Aeropostale(PBR924) has new cost reduction program, to eliminate 100 corporate positions. $ARO PR link.

Kroger(PBR20) Fred Meyer president Lynn Gust retiring, Jeff Burt promoted, takes over 01/31/16. $KR PR link.

Boyd Gaming(PBR727) 40 year employee EVP/Chief Business Development Officer Bob Boughner retiring this summer, will remain on board. $BYD PR link.

FTI Consulting(PBR941) CFO David Johnson leaving 02/29/16, joining an NGO. $FCN PR link.

The Dept of Labor says November Job Openings at 5.432 million, was 5.349 million in October, was 4.886 million in November 2014. USDOL PR link.

2016 Outlook: KKR(PBR332) releases its global Outlook 2016: Adult Swim Only. $KKR article link.

Computer Industry: 4Q2015 worldwide PC shipments were 75.7 million units, -8.3% from 4Q2014. Gartner article link.

CoreLogic says November Houses in Foreclosure at 448,000, 1.2% of all mortgages, -21.8% from November 2014. Corelogic article link.

Monday, January 11:
Walgreens Boots Alliance(PBR36) turning over ownership of the 56 Chicago-land area health care retail clinics to operator Advocate Health Care. $WBA article link.

Alcoa(PBR115) gets longterm $1.5 billion contract to supply jet engine components to General Electric(PBR9) Aviation unit. $AA article link.

Apollo Education(PBR681) to explore strategic alternatives, including change of ownership. $APOL article link.

Arch Coal(PBR691) files for Chapter 11 reorganization, to restructure $1.9 billion of debt, will stay open. $ACI article link.

DENTSPLY(PBR694) and Sirona Dental(NASDAQ: SIRO) shareholders approve $13 billion merger, to close 1Q2016. $XRAY article link.

Celgene(PBR347) Bob Hugin to be Executive Chairman, Pres/COO Mark Alles to be CEO, CFO Jacqualyn Fouse to be Pres/COO. $CELG article link.

Acxiom(PBR1062) promotes Dennis Self to president/general manager of Marketing Services. $ACXM article link.

Sports: Alabama wins the national college football championship 45-40 over Clemson. USA Today article link.

Friday, January 8:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 16,346.45, -6.19% from last week & MTD/QTD/YTD. Record: 18,312.39 on 05/19/15.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,643.63, -7.26% from last week & MTD/QTD/YTD. Record: 5,218.86 on 07/20/15.
SPX closes week at 1,922.03, -5.96% from last week & MTD/QTD/YTD. Record: 2,130.82 on 05/21/15.

Ford(PBR10) sets annual sales record in China, more than 1.1 million vehicles sold in 2015. $F PR link.

FedEx(PBR65) gets unconditional European Union approval for its $4.8 billion acquisition of Netherlands based TNT Express, to close in 1st half 2016. $FDX PR link.

Thermo Fisher Scientific(PBR175) to acquire cellular/genetic analysis products provider Affymetrix(NASDAQ: $AFFX) for $14.00/share, $1.3 billion cash. $TMO PR link.

Charter Communications(PBR297) gets NY approval for $78.7 billion acquisition of Time Warner Cable(PBR119). $CHTR PR link.

Dollar Tree(PBR309) announces departure of Howard R. Levine, CEO of acquired Family Dollar. $DLTR PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says December Civilian Workforce at 157.8 million available, 149.9 million employed, 7.9 million unemployed for 5.0% unemployment rate. USDOL PR link.

The Federal Reserve says December Total Consumer Credit is at $3.526 trillion, +0.40% from November, +6.29% from December 2014. FRB PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says November US Wholesale Sales at $442.8 billion, -1.0% from October, -4.6% from November 2014. USDOC PR link.

Thursday, January 7:
Ford(PBR10) Adopts Mark-to-Market for Pension and OPEB Plans; Improves Transparency of Automotive Operating Performance. $F PR link.

Boeing(PBR27) delivers record 762 airplanes in 2015, 768 net orders booked. $BA PR link.

Alcoa(PBR115) to close Indiana based Warrick Smelter and curtail remaining capacity at Pt. Comfort refinery in Texas. $AA PR link.

SuperValu(PBR164) files Form 10 for possible spin-off of its Save-A-Lot unit into a separate, publicly traded company. $SVU PR link.

Penske Automotive(PBR170) acquires 49% interest in interest in Japan based BMW/MINI/Rolls-Royce/Ferrari luxury dealerships Nicole Group. $PAG PR link.

Omnicon(PBR192) division BBDO Worldwide acquires majority stake in fashion/luxury brands creative agency 100+ employees Wednesday Agency Group. $OMC PR link.

Dover(PBR343) completes $465 million acquisition of dispenser & system businesses from France based Tokheim Group. $DOV PR link.

Constellation Brands(PBR377) To Build New 10 Million Hectoliter Brewery In Mexicali, Mexico And Further Expand Its Nava Brewery. $STZ PR link.

NCR(PBR383) to sell Interactive Printer Solutions Division to Atlas Holdings LLC, terms not disclosed. $NCR PR link.

Meredith Corp(PBR994) proposes amended $20+/share “merger of equals” with Media General(NYSE: MEG). $MDP PR link.

Charles River Labs(PBR1025) to acquire biopharma/ag/industrial chemicals CDMO company WIL Research for $585 million cash. $CRL PR link.

United Continental(PBR77) CEO Oscar Munoz recovering from heart transplant, expects to return late 1st/early 2nd quarter. $UAL PR link.

Time Warner(PBR103) extends chairman/CEO Jeff Bewkes contract through 2020. $TWX PR link.

Northrop Grumman(PBR113) promotes Lisa R. Davis to Corporate VP, Communications, effective 02/29/16; Darryl M. Fraser to retire. $NOC PR link.

Lincoln National(PBR213) promotes Ken Solon to SVP, Chief Information Officer, reports to president/CEO. $LNC PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) CFO John Sheehan to retire on 04/01/16. $MYL PR link.

EMCOR(PBR392) promotes Maxine Lum Mauricio general counsel, succeeds Sheldon Cammaker who is now vice chairman. $EME PR link.

The Andersons(PBR525) COO & a corporate VP to retire, positions to be eliminated. $ANDE PR link.

Domino’s Pizza(PBR889) promotes Eric Anderson to EVP-International Operations, reports to International unit president in the Netherlands. $DPZ PR link.

Verisk Analytics(PBR943) promotes Bill Churney to president of its catastropic modeling unit AIR Worldwide. $VRSK PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says 2015 US Jobless Claims finish at lowest level since 1973. MarketWatch article link.

Wednesday, January 6:
T-Mobile US(PBR95) has 63.3 million subscribers with net 8.3 million added in 2015. $TMUS PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) to reduce expenses by $400 million, eliminate 3,000 jobs, close 40 of 770 stores. $M PR link.

Carnival Corp(PBR184) to launch 4 new ships in 2016. $CCL PR link.

Monsanto(PBR187 $MON) to eliminate 1,000 more jobs on top of 2,600 annunced earlier. MarketWatch article link.

Facebook(PBR228) Oculus unit blogs that Oculus Rift pre-orders now open, $599 price, first shipments 03/28/16. $FB article link.

Netflix(PBR447) claims global presence after launching in 130 new countries. MarketWatch article link.

Alliance Data(PBR462) authorizes $500 million stock repurchase program for 2016. $ADS PR link.

Yahoo!(PBR519) receives letter from major stockholder Starboard Value suggesting management changes, new strategic directions. Starboard letter link.

Chipotle(PBR561) files SEC 8-K form regarding effects of recent health incidents on 4th quarter earnings & receipt of Federal Grand Jury Subpoena. $CMG PR link.

Amkor Technology(PBR659) now has 100% ownership in auto market OSAT $832 million/year J-Devices. $AMKR PR link.

Blackhawk Network(PBR998) acquires GiftCards.com & OmniCard.com for $120 million. $HAWK PR link.

Oshkosh(PBR368) Defense segment president John Urias retiring for health reasons, effective 02/06/16. $OSK PR link.

NetApp(PBR405) restructures, promotes Jeffrey Bergmann to interim CFO, succeeds leaving Nick Noviello. $NTAP PR link.

Clean Harbors(PBR629) promotes Michael Battles to EVP/CFO. $CLH PR link.

Fresh Market(PBR942) hires Pamela Kohn as EVP/Chief Merchandising Officer. $TFM PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says Total US Exports YTD(11 months) were at $2.049 trillion, Imports $2.537 trillion, Balance -$0.488 trillion. USDOC article link.

The US Dept of Commerce says November New Orders of Manufactured Goods was $472.2 billion, -0.2% from October, -3.2% from November 2014. USDOC article link.

The Federal Reserve releases the December Meeting Open Market Committee Minutes. FOMC article link.

Healthcare: Here’s how much government healthcare spending has ballooned over two decades. MarketWatch article link.

World Bank forecasts modest 2.9% global growth in 2016, up from 2.4% in 2015, advanced economies to gain speed. WB article link.

Tuesday, January 5:
Apple(PBR5 $AAPL) scaling back iPhone production. MarketWatch article link.

Ford(PBR10) tripling its fleet of Fusion Hybrid autonomous research vehicles, largest such fleet among all automakers. $F PR link.

Netflix(PBR447) and DreamWorks($DWA) are making the leap to global markets. $NFLX PR link.

Fairchild Semiconductor(PBR1000) says revised unsolicited $21.70 from China Resources is superior offer. $FCS PR link.

NVR(PBR533) promotes Jeffrey Martchek to president, Homebuilding Operations. $NVR PR link.

Magellan Health(PBR592) hires Srini Koushik as Chief Technology Officer. $MGLN PR link.

2015 US Auto Sales set record with 17.5 million sold, +5.7% from 2014. Auto News article link.

December US Auto Sales at $57.9 billion, average unit price was $34,081. TrueCar article link.

RealEstate: Median price for Manhattan apartment is at a record $1.15 million, +17.3% from 2014. MarketWatch article link.

Yahoo!(PBR519) Flurry Analytics unit in State of Mobile study says mobile use grew by 58% in 2015. $YHOO article link.

Monday, January 4:
General Motors(PBR8) to invest $500 million in ridesharing service Lyft. $GM article link.

Baylor Scott & White Health and Tenet Healthcare(PBR161) Complete Joint Venture to Own Five North Texas Hospitals. $THC article link.

CBRE Group(PBR301) acquires 100+ employee Memphis, TN, affiliate. $CBG article link.

LifePoint Hospitals(PBR463) completes acquisition of 376 bed, 2,800 employees, 300 physicians St. Francis Hospital. $LPNT PR link.

LifePoint Hospital(PBR463) Duke unit joined by former Tenet Healthcare(PBR161 $THC) NC based 137 bed Central Carolina Hospital & 355 bed Frye Regional, includes 19 regional physician practices. $LPNT PR link.

NVIDIA(PBR510) Boosts IQ of Self-Driving Cars With World’s First In-Car Artificial Intelligence Supercomputer. $NVDA PR link.

Polaris Industries(PBR531) acquires private aftermarket snowmobile helmets & goggles provider 509, terms not disclosed. $PII PR link.

Activision Blizzard(PBR540) acquires esports live streaming gaming & competitive leagues developer Major League Gaming. $ATVI PR link.

Brink’s(PBR613) to add 3 directors per agreement with 12.3% stakeholder Starboard Value; Chairman/President/CEO to retire by 2016 annual meeting. $BCO PR link.

NASDAQ(PBR618) leads exchanges with 275 new listings in 2015. $NDAQ PR link.

General Motors(PBR8) CEO Mary Barra adds Chairman title. $GM PR link.

Target(PBR40) promotes Janna Potts to EVP, Chief Stores Officer, oversees 1,805 US stores, reports to COO. $TGT PR link.

Micron Technology(PBR180) president Mark Adams resigns for personal health reasons effective 02/01/16. $MU PR link.

Pitney Bowes(PBR588) hires Bob Guidotti as EVP & president, Software Solutions. Mark Wright now EVP, Strategic Growth Initiatives. $PBI PR link.

Analog Devices(PBR701) hires Jean Philibert as SVP-Human Resources. $ADI PR link.

Domino’s Pizza(PBR889) hires Judy Werthauser as EVP-Chief People Officer. $DPZ PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says November Construction Spending is estimated at a $1.123 trillion annual rate, -0.4% from October, +10.5% from November 2014. USDOC PR link.

Economy: Here’s how the government miscalculated a decade’s worth of construction data. MarketWatch article link.

Opinion: Blackstone(PBR352)‘s Byron Wien Announces Predictions for Ten Surprises for 2016. $BX PR link.

Friday, January 1:
***Happy, Blessed, Peaceful, and Prosperous New Year!***
(Stock Markets Closed.)

Click here for The PBR1000 December 2015 Monthly Breaking News Recap.

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

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(The PBR1000 is the premiere business intelligence service covering over 1,000 of the largest publicly held companies with principle or administration headquarters in the US. These companies generate nearly $14 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 advisors, business professors/students, career counselors/job seekers, to name just a few. To order your annual subscription, just go to the PBRMarketTools.com Subscribe page.)

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Filed Under: Recaps Tagged With: acquisitions, Business, business news, Commodities, DJIA, Economy, Investing, Leadership, mergers, NASDAQ, Personal Finance, Rankings, Research, S&P 500, Stock Market, The PBR1000

The PBR1000 July 2015 Breaking News Recap

August 3, 2015 by admin

ID-100335902 Business Word Head-Sujin Jetkasettakorn

As A Business Leader There Is A Lot To Think About.

By Larry C. Paxton

The PBR1000 in July 2015 had a lot of highlights in several areas.

Most of the mega deals involved the continuing consolidation of health related businesses. There were also some long awaited completion of deals like AT&T/DirecTV and Dollar Tree/Family Dollar.

More spinoffs occurred or were announced, with PayPal getting most of the press.

The US economy is still regarded as somewhat fragile but showing modest growth, enough to keep everyone guessing when the Federal Reserve will increase interest rates.

World issues had an affect as well. The stock markets displayed volatility based on the still unresolved Greece debt issues, the slowdown of the China economy and the dramatic downward dip in its markets towards the end of the month. Nevertheless, all US stock markets showed good increases over June with the NASDAQ hitting new highs. Other issues that didn’t seem to have a direct effect, but could have a longer range impact include the nuclear weapons negotiations with Iran, and the battles against extremist warring organizations like ISIL in the Middle East.

August has a history of volatility, let’s see if that’s true again in 2015.

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

Friday, July 31:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 17,689.86, +0.69% from last Friday, +0.40% MTD/QTD, -.75% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,128.28, +0.78% from last Friday, +2.84% MTD/QTD, +8.28% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,103.84, +1.16% from last Friday, +1.97% MTD/QTD, +2.18% YTD.

UPS(PBR47) to acquire truckload freight brokerage company Coyote Logistics for $1.8 billion. $UPS PR link.

Jarden(PBR324) completes $1.35 billion acquisition of disposable tableware manufacturer The Waddington Group from private equity firm Olympus Partners. $JAH PR link.

Berry Plastics(PBR488) to acquire specialty materials provider AVINTIV from Blackstone Group(PBR352) for $2.45 billion cash. $BERY PR link.

Yahoo!(PBR519) to acquire social shopping site Polyvore, terms not disclosed. $YHOO PR link.

Penn National Gaming(PBR750) to acquire Illinois 1,100 video gaming terminals operator Prairie State Gaming. $PENN PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the 2nd Quarter Employment Cost Index decelerated sharply to 0.2% from the 1st Quarter. MarketWatch article link.

Thursday, July 30:
MasterCard(PBR291) extends partnership with Samsung to deliver Samsung Pay in Europe. $MA PR link.

Intl Flavors & Fragrances(PBR666) completes $311 million acquisition of Lucas Meyer Cosmetics. $IFF PR link.

Ventas(PBR671) to spinoff of most of its post-acute/skilled nursing facility portfolio as an independent publicly held REIT called Care Capital Properties, NYSE: CCP, after 08/17/15. $VTR PR link.

Kroger(PBR20) 1st female corporate executive Group VP for Corporate Affairs Lynn Marmer retiring in early 2016. $KR PR link.

Raytheon(PBR118) promotes Wesley Kremer as President, Integrated Defense Systems. $RTN PR link.

Diebold(PBR676) EVP/COO George Mayes, Jr, leaving, position to be eliminated in streamlining effort. $DBD PR link.

Avista Corp(PBR990) announces 3 changes to its officer team in finance, strategy, & development. $AVA PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says that the 2nd Quarter Advance GDP estimate is at a 2.3%, $17.840 trillion, annual rate. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says for the week ending 07/18/15 the Total Insured Unemployment was at 2.266,000, 4 week moving average at 2,255,250. USDOL PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) says on 07/30/15 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rate averaged 3.98% with 0.6 points/fees. $FMCC PR link.

Wednesday, July 29:
Mylan(PBR346) receives unconditional clearance by European Commission for purchase of Perrigo(PBR565). $MYL PR link.

Apollo Education Group(PBR681) files notice disclosing an FTC civil investigation on business practices. MarketWatch article link.

Cytec(PBR887) to be merged into Brussels based global chemical company Solvay for $75.25/share, $5.5 billion. $CYT PR link.

Manitowoc(PBR579) hires Hubertus Muelhaeuser as CEO for the Manitowoc Foodservice unit. $MTW PR link.

Tuesday, July 28:
AIG(PBR46) acquires private First Principles Capital Management, names its CEO Douglas Dachille as AIG’s next EVP/Chief Investment Officer, succeeds William Dooley, who is retiring. $AIG PR link.

Caterpillar(PBR54) to do $1.5 billion accelerated stock repurchase program by end of 3rd quarter. $CAT PR link.

Caterpillar(PBR54) announces new strategy for its vocational truck product family, to expand production at its Victoria, TX, facility. $CAT PR link.

Honeywell Intl(PBR74) to acquire gas heating, controls, metering, and advanced technologies provider Elster Division from Melrose Industries plc for $5.1 billion. $HON PR link.

SuperValu(PBR164) considering spinoff of its Save-A-Lot unit into a stand-alone publicly traded company. $SVU PR link.

Proctor & Gamble(PBR33) promotes David Taylor as President/CEO, effective 11/01/15, succeeds AG Lafley who becomes Executive Chairman. $PG PR link.

Citrix(PBR658) President/CEO Mark Templeton to retire when successor appointed, search firm retained. $CTXS PR link.

Scientific Games(PBR937) hires David Smail as EVP/Chief Legal Officer, effective 08/03/15. $SGMS PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says the 2nd Quarter Homeownership Rate was 63.4%, -1.3% from 2nd quarter 2014, -0.4% from 1st quarter 2015. USDOC PR link.

Monday, July 27:
Allergan(PBR219) selling its global generics business to Teva Pharmaceutical($TEVA) for $40.5 billion cash/stock. $AGN PR link.

Allergan(PBR219) to acquire depression therapies developer Naurex for $560 million cash. $AGN PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) comments on Israel based Teva Pharmaceuticals acquisition of generics business of Allergan(PBR219) & unsolicited offer withdrawal for Mylan. $MYL PR link.

McGraw Hill(PBR477) to acquire data, analytics, & research firm SNL Financial for $2.225 billion cash. $MHFI PR link.

Arch Coal(PBR691) postpones 1:10 reverse stock split from 07/27/15 close to 08/03/15 close. $ACI PR link.

Beacon Roofing(PBR818) to acquire roofing products distributor Roofing Supply Group for $1.1 billion cash/stock. $BECN PR link.

SandRidge Energy(PBR975) receives NYSE notice of potential delisting because share price less than $1.00 for 30 days, considering reverse stock split. $SD PR link.

Darden Restaurants(PBR398) announces Todd Burrowes is rejoining LongHorn Steakhouse unit as President, reports to CEO. $DRI PR link.

Friday, July 24:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 17,568.53, -2.86% from last Friday, -0.29% MTD/QTD, -1.43% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,088.83, -2.33% from last Friday, +2.04% MTD/QTD, +7.45% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,079.65, -2.21% from last Friday, +0.80% MTD/QTD, +1.01% YTD.

AT&T(PBR12) completes $67 billion acquisition of DirecTV(PBR89), now the largest pay TV provider in the US & world. $T PR link.

Anthem(PBR38) to acquire Cigna(PBR85) for $188/share, $54.2 billion, creates company with 53 million medical members, $115 billion revenues/year. $ANTM PR link.

Enterprise Products(PBR59) completes sale of its offshore Gulf of Mexico assets to Genesis Energy(PBR553) for $1.5 billion cash. $EPD PR link.

Cisco(PBR60) to stop selling flash memory data-storage business known as Invicta. MarketWatch article link.

Johnson Controls(PBR68) plans to spinoff $22 billion in 2014 revenues Automotive Experience business as an independent publicly traded company within 12 months. $JCI PR link.

American Airlines(PBR69) ups shares repurchase program to $4 billion. $AAL PR link.

Charles River Labs(PBR1025) completes acquisition of rapid bacterial detection equipment provider Celsis International for $212 million cash. $CRL PR link.

Public Service Enterprise(PBR257) EVP/CFO Caroline Dorsa to retire in 4th quarter, search firm retained for new CFO. $PEG PR link.

The US Dept of HUD says June New Single-Family Houses Sales were at a 482,000 annual rate, -6.8% from May, +18.1% over June 2014. HUD PR link.

Thursday, July 23:
Cisco(PBR60) to sell its set-top box business unit to France based Technicolor for $604 million. $CSCO PR link.

Alcoa(PBR115) completes acquisition of titanium & specialty metal products manufacturer RTI(NYSE: RTI) in $1.5 billion stock deal. $AA PR link.

Starbucks(PBR178) adds 50 million shares for repurchase to existing 11 million available. $SBUX PR link.

EnerSys(PBR776) completes acquisition of Australia based equipment facilities manufacturer ICS Industries. $ENS PR link.

DuPont(PBR82) promotes Marc Doyle to SVP-Safety/Protections unit upon resignation of Matthew Trerotola. $DD PR link.

Crown Holdings(PBR298) CEO John Conway retiring effective 01/01/16, Timothy Dunne elected to succeed him as President/CEO. $CCK PR link.

Celanese(PBR369) Interim CFO Chris Jensen officially named CFO. $CE PR link.

Colfax Corp(PBR517) hires Matt Trerotola as CEO, effective 07/24/15, succeeds retiring Steve Simms. $CFX PR link.

Yahoo!(PBR519) promotes Lisa Utzschneider to Chief Revenue Officer. $YHOO PR link.

CA Technologies(PBR550) hires Ayman Sayed as Chief Product Officer, reports to CEO Mike Gregoire. $CA PR link.

Graham Holdings(PBR615) Kaplan unit CEO Tom Leppert resigning effective 08/21/15, Chairman Andy Rosen to add CEO responsibilities. $GHC PR link.

Wednesday, July 22:
Home Depot(PBR32) to acquire national distributor/direct marketer of maintenance, repair & operational products Interline Brands for $1.625 billion cash. $HD PR link.

Genworth Financial(PBR287) in negotiations to sell its lifestyle protection insurance business to France based AXA SA for $510 million. $GNW PR link.

Discovery Communications(PBR399) to acquire full ownership of Europe/Asia sports channels group Eurosport from TFI Group for $535 million per 2012 agreement. $DISCA PR link.

St Jude Medical(PBR440) to acquire medical devices for heart failure developer Thoratec for $63.50/share, $3.4 billion cash. $STJ PR link.

Bank of America(PBR24) CFO Bruce Thompson stepping down, Paul Donofrio to become CFO on 08/01/15; other key management changes announced. $BAC PR link.

The National Assn of Realtors reports June Existing Home Sales at a 5.49 million annual rate, $236,400 median price. NAR PR link.

Tuesday, July 21:

KKR(PBR332) to acquire an 80% stake in $1 billion total enterprise valued photovoltaic developer/operator Gestamp Solar from Gestamp Renewables. $KKR PR link.

Lexmark(PBR601) to eliminate 500 positions worldwide as part of restructuring program. $LXK PR link.

CIT Group(PBR608) gets federal & states regulatory approval for $3.4 billion acquisition of OneWest Bank, expected to close 08/03/15. $CIT PR link.

Henry Schein(PBR270) promotes Peter McCarthy to President, Global Animal Health Group. $HSIC PR link.

Corning(PBR281) Vice Chairman/CFO Jim Flaws to retire on 11/30/15. $GLW PR link.

Corning(PBR281) elects Lawrence McRae as Vice Chairman & Corporate Development Officer, Tony Tripeny as SVP/CFO effective 09/01/15, & Dr. Jeffrey Evenson SVP/Chief Strategy Officer. $GLW PR link.

Royal Caribbean(PBR329) hires Jim Berra as Chief Marketing Officer, reports to President/CEO Michael Bayley. $RCL PR link.

HARMAN Intl(PBR456) promotes Phillip Eyler as EVP & President, Infotainment division, reports to Chairman/President/CEO Dinesh Paliwal. $HAR PR link.

Iron Mountain(PBR663) hires Deirdre Evens as Chief People Officer, reports to President/CEO William Meaney. $IRM PR link.

Bon-Ton Stores(PBR707) hires Bill Tracy as COO, effective 07/27/15. $BONT PR link.

AMC Entertainment(PBR728) President/CEO Gerry Lopez leaving, effective 08/06/15, CFO Craig Ramsey to become Interim President/CEO at that time. $AMC PR link.

Elizabeth Arden(PBR1043) hires JuE Wong as President, Elizabeth Arden Brand, effective 08/03/15. $RDEN PR link.

Monday, July 20:
United Technologies(PBR45) to do 75 million shares repurchase program, $8.3 billion, with sale of Sikorsky Aircraft unit to Lockheed Martin(PBR64) for $9 billion. $UTX PR link.

Lockheed Martin(PBR64) to acquire Sikorsky Aircraft unit from United Technologies(PBR45) for $9 billion. $LMT PR link.

Ross Stores(PBR253) to open 19 Ross Dress for Less and 8 dd’s Discount stores in July as part of plan for 90 new stores in 2015. $ROST PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR314) reaches agreement on debt restructuring with a group of 2nd lien holders, makes changes to 01/14/15 Restructuring Support Agreement. $CZR PR link.

Calpine Corp(PBR330) to expand in Texas & NE US with acquisition of retail electric provider Champion Energy Marketing for $240 million. $CPN PR link.

CF Industries(PBR502) confirms it is in preliminary discussions with OCI NV regarding a potential combination involving certain of OCI’s businesses. $CF PR link.

Arch Coal(PBR691) announces 1:10 reverse stock split after 07/27/15 market close, will maintain listing status on NYSE. $ACI PR link.

SunEdison(PBR782) to acquire Vivint Solar(NYSE: VSLR) for $16.50/share, $2.2 billion in cash/stock/notes, to close in 4th quarter 2015. $SUNE PR link.

Synopsis(PBR879) completes acquisition of the Seeker security product and its R&D team from Quotium(NYSE Euronext: QTE).
$SNPS PR link.

eBay(PBR163) spinoff PayPal(NASDAQ: PYPL) in first day of public trading opens at $41.46, range $39.80-$42.55, closes at $40.47. MarketWatch PayPal stock info.

Adobe Systems(PBR557) hires Abhay Parasnis as Chief Technology Officer & SVP/platform technology and services. $ADBE PR link.

HealthSouth(PBR800) EVP/General Counsel & Secretary John Whittington retiring on 12/31/15. $HLS PR link.

Friday, July 17:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 18,086.54, +1.84% from last Friday, +2.65% MTD/QTD, +1.48% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,210.14(R), +4.25% from last Friday, +4.48% MTD/QTD, +10.01% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,126.64, +2.41% from last Friday, +3.08% MTD/QTD, +3.29% YTD.

GameStop(PBR287) completes acquisition of ThinkGeek retailer parent Geeknet(NASDAQ: GKNT) for $20/share, $140 million. $GME PR link.

Yahoo!(PBR500) files with SEC to spinoff remaining holdings in Alibaba Group into an independent, publicly traded, registered investment company, as announced on 01/27/15, to close in 4th quarter. $YHOO PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says June Employee Average Earnings were $24.95/hour, 34.5 hours/week, $860.78/week, +2.0% from June 2014. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the June Consumer Price Index for All Items was +0.3% over May, +0.1% over the last 12 months. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of HUD says the June Private Housing Units Building Permits were at a 1,343,000 annual rate, +7.4% over May, +30.0% over June 2014 HUD PR link.

Thursday, July 16:
Amazon’s(PBR37) first Prime Day sales exceed Black Friday 2014 by 18%, 34.4 million items sold. $AMZN PR link.

Enterprise Products(PBR56) to sell its offshore Gulf of Mexico assets to Genesis Energy(PBR553) for $1.5 billion cash. $EPD PR link.

Mondelez(PBR85) completes acquisition of 80% stake in Vietnam’s leading snacks business Kinh Do for $370 million. $MDLZ PR link.

Hertz(PBR249) completes restatements of annual reports, to separate its equipment rental business, implementing cost reduction program. $HTZ PR link.

McGraw Hill(PBR477) Platts division acquires shipping & oil industries news & analysis provider Petromedia. $MHFI PR link.

Groupon(PBR750) acquires OrderUp to power nationwide food ordering & delivery. $GRPN PR link.

Dollar Tree(PBR329) promotes Mike Witynski to COO. $DLTR PR link.

Fifth Third Bancorp(PBR345) hires Lars Anderson to be EVP/COO on 08/03/15. $FITB PR link.

Hershey Co(PBR347) hires Peter Horst as new Chief Marketing Officer, effective 07/27/15. Mike Wege now SVP/Chief Admin Officer. $HSY PR link.

Domino’s Pizza(PBR927) promotes Jeff Lawrence to EVP/CFO, succeeds Mike Lawton who is retiring at the end of August. $DPZ PR link.

Wednesday, July 15:
Amazon(PBR37) Studios announces Spike Lee’s Chi-Raq as first ever Amazon original movie. $AMZN PR link.

Nike(PBR98) gets $169 million apparel deal from 08/01/16 through 2027 with University of Michigan, MarketWatch article link.

Kinder Morgan(PBR198) to purchase 100% of Shell’s equity interest in the Elba LNG Liquefaction joint venture for $630 million. $KMI PR link.

Corning(PBR332) authorizes $2 billion shares repurchase program, expires 12/31/16. $GLW PR link.

Molina Healthcare(PBR375) to enter Chicago market with acquisition of Medicaid assets of 61,000 member MyCare Chicago. $MOH PR link.

Anixter(PBR398) to acquire the distributor Power Solutions segment of HD Supply for $825 million. $AXE PR link.

Netflix(PBR534) grows by 3.3 million subscribers in 2nd Quarter, now has over 65 million subscribers worldwide. $NFLX PR link.

Walter Energy(PBR920) reaches restructuring agreement with senior lendors, files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. $WLTG PR link.

Gannett(PBR458) hires Kevin Gentzel as its first Chief Revenue Officer. $GCI PR link.

Juniper Networks(PBR501) hires Susan Lovegren as SVP/Human Resources, Bob Worrall as SVP/CIO. $JNPR PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the June Producer Price Index for final demand was +0.4% over May, -0.7% for 12 months ended in June. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Board in its G17 report says June Industrial Production was +0.3%, +1.5% over June 2014; Capacity Utilization was at 78.4% USFRB PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Board releases its latest Beige Book, overall districts are generally optimistic. USFRB PR link.

Tuesday, July 14:
Danaher(PBR139) completes $2.6 billion deal that combines its Communications unit with a subsidiary of NetScout Systems(NASDAQ: NTCT). $DHR PR link.

Molina Healthcare(PBR375) to acquire Medicaid assets of 25,000 member S. Florida firm Preferred Medical Plan. $MOH PR link.

Celgene(PBR381) to acquire immune/metabolics therapeutics developer Receptos(NASDAQ: RCPT) for $232/share, $7.2 billion. $CELG PR link.

Barnes & Noble(PBR388) approves publicly held Barnes & Noble Education spinoff, scheduled for 08/02/15, to start trading on 08/03/15 with symbol NYSE: BNED. $BKS PR link.

IAC(PBR669) soon to be spinoff The Match Group to acquire fellow dating site PlentyOfFish for $575 million. $IACI PR link.

WPX Energy(PBR713) to acquire privately held Permian Basin assets based RKI Exploration for $2.35 billion. $WPX PR link.

Guess?(PBR751) Co-Founder/CEO Paul Marciano announces that Victor Herroro to be new CEO in August. $GES PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce in advance report says June Retail & Food Sales were at $442.0 billion, -0.3% from May, +1.4% from June 2014. USDOC PR link.

Monday, July 13:
Valero Energy(PBR10) adds $2.5 billion to its available $400 million for stock repurchases. $VLO PR link.

Comcast(PBR44) to roll out $15/month TV streaming service across the US by the end of 2016, starting in Boston. $CMCSA PR link.

Medtronic(PBR161) to acquire detection/prevention of retained surgical items device company RF Surgical Systems for $235 million. $MDT PR link.

Computer Sciences(PBR209) files Form 10 for government services spinoff Computer Sciences GS, separation planned for October. $CSC PR link.

BorgWarner(PBR339) to acquire rotating electrical components producer Remy International for $29.50/share, $1.2 billion, to close in 4th quarter. $BWA PR link.

Jarden(PBR341) to acquire disposable tableware manufacturer The Waddington Group from private equity firm Olympus Partners for $1.35 billion. $JAH PR link.

PG&E(PBR175) announces promotion of several senior officers as part of restructuring program. $PCG PR link.

Jacobs Engineering(PBR213) hires Steven Demetriou as President/CEO, effective 08/17/15, to succeed retiring Craig Martin. $JEC PR link.

Dana Holding(PBR367) hires Jim Kamsickas as President/CEO, effective 08/11/15, succeeds retiring Roger Wood. $DAN PR link.

Xylem(PBR581) appoints Shashank Patel as Interim CFO upon resignation of Mike Speetzen, effective 07/30/15. $XYL PR link.

The US Dept of the Treasury says the June Surplus was $51.8B on Receipts of $342.9B. YTD Deficit is $313.4B. Treasury PR link.

Friday, July 10:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 17,760.41, +0.17% from last Thursday, +0.80% MTD/QTD, -0.35% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,997.70, -0.23% from last Thursday, +0.22% MTD/QTD, +5.52% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,076.62, -0.01% from last Thursday, +0.65% MTD/QTD, +0.86% YTD.

Halliburton(PBR94) $34.6 billion acquisition of Baker Hughes(PBR124) deadline extended to 12/01/15 for time to satisfy US Dept of Justice requirements. $BHI PR link.

Edwards Lifesciences(PBR879) to acquire CardiAQ Valve Technologies for up to $400 million. $EW PR link.

Biogen(PBR358) R&D leader Doug Williams, PhD, leaving to become CEO of a startup, new R&D co-leaders announced. $BIIB PR link.

Tesla(PBR887) hires Ganesh Srivats to be in charge of North American Sales. $TSLA PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says that May Merchant Wholesalers Sales were $449.8 billion, +0.3% from April, -3.8% from May 2014. USDOC PR link.

Thursday, July 9:
T-Mobile US(PBR115) adds 2.1 million customers in 2nd quarter, up 41% over previous year. $TMUS PR link.

eBay(PBR170) trying to sell e-commerce Enterprise unit, losing Toys R Us as a major client who plans to do its own e-commerce. MarketWatch article link.

Avon(PBR267) sells its UK based natural skincare line Liz Earle to Walgreens Boots Alliance(PBR36) for $215 million cash. $AVP PR link.

Coty(PBR524) to merge Proctor & Gamble’s(PBR32) Beauty Business into Coty in deal valued at $12.5 billion. $COTY PR link.

Charles River Labs(PBR1058) to acquire rapid bacterial detection equipment provider Celsis International for $212 million cash. $CRL PR link.

Walgreens Boots Alliance(PBR36) Interim CEO Stefano Pessina named CEO. $WBA PR link.

Conn’s(PBR1052) hires Thomas Moran as CFO, effective 07/27/15. $CONN PR link.

Wednesday, July 8:
The PBR1000 June 2015 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots summary is posted. Blog post.

Microsoft(PBR30) restructuring phone hardware business, to reduce staff by up to 7,800. $MSFT PR link.

Enterprise Products(PBR56) completes purchase of all Eagle Ford Shale member interests of EFS Midstream for $2.15 billion. $EPD PR link.

Ingredion(PBR371) to acquire privately held natural fruits and vegetables concentrates producer Kerr Concentrates for $100 million. $INGR PR link.

CA Technologies(PBR520) completes $480 million acquisition of Agile software development & services provider Rally Software(NYSE: RALY). $CA PR link.

Curtiss-Wright(PBR771) expands stock repurchase program to $300 million. $CW PR link.

Walter Energy(PBR920) gets delisting notice from NYSE because of stock price non-compliance. $WLT PR link.

Micron Technology(PBR166) hires Trevor Schulze as Chief Information Officer. $MU PR link.

Fifth Third Bancorp(PBR345) President/COO Greg Carmichael to become President/CEO on 11/01/15, will succeed retiring Kevin Kabat. $FITB PR link.

Darden Restaurants(PBR393) hires Jeff Davis as SVP/CFO, effective 07/16/15, reports to CEO Gene Lee. $DRI PR link.

Sprouts Farmers Market(PBR789) hires Shawn Gensch as Chief Marketing Officer, Dan Sanders as EVP of store operations. $SFM PR link.

Acxiom(PBR1073) hires Jeremy Allen as President of $445 million Marketing Services Division. $ACXM PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says May Consumer Credit increased at 5.75% annual rate, Revolving Credit 2%, Nonrevolving Credit 7%. FRB PR link.

The US Federal Reserve in its Federal Open Market Committee minutes of its 06/16-17/15 meeting says that economic activity is expanding moderately after little 1st quarter change. FRB PR link.

Tuesday, July 7:
Cisco(PBR58) to acquire private cloud based service renewals firm MaintenanceNet for $139 million. $CSCO PR link.

Carnival Corp(PBR176) gets US approval for travel to Cuba, expects to start in May, 2016. $CCL PR link.

Allergan(PBR297) gets exclusive worldwide rights licensing agreement for Merck(PBR63) CGRP migraine development program for $250 million plus incentives. $MRK PR link.

Frontier Communications(PBR497) hires Kathleen Weslock as EVP/Chief People Officer, effective 07/13/15, reports to President/CEO Daniel McCarthy. $FTR PR link.

Xylem(PBR581) hires Kairus Tarapore as SVP/Chief Human Resources Officer, effective 07/27/15, reports to President/CEO Patrick Decker. $XYL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says May Job Openings were at 5.4 million, hires at 5.0 million, separations at 4.7 million. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says May International Trade deficit was -$41.9 billion on exports of $188.6 billion, imports of $230.5 billion. USDOC PR link.

Monday, July 6:
Cardinal Health(PBR27) completes acquisition of generics/OTC medications distributor The Harvard Drug Group for $1.115 billion. $CAH PR link.

Dollar Tree(PBR329) completes $9.2 billion cash/stock acquisition of discount retailer Family Dollar(PBR252). $DLTR PR link.

Advance Auto Parts(PBR382) to replace recently acquired Family Dollar on the S&P500 on 07/08/15. $AAP PR link.

LINN Energy(PBR810) sells remaining Permian Basin Wolfcamp acreage for $281 million. $LINE PR link.

SunEdison(PBR888) and spinoff TerraForm Power to acquire 930 megawatt contracted wind portfolio from Invenergy for $2 billion. $SUNE PR link.

JPMorgan Chase(PBR20) Stacey Friedman to succeed Steve Cutler next year as General Counsel; Cutler to be appointed Vice Chairman. $JPM PR link.

Axiall(PBR503) EVP Timothy Mann appointed Interim President/CEO upon immediate retirement of Paul Carrico, new CEO search starts. $AXLL PR link.

Friday, July 3:
US Stock Markets Closed
in Observance of Independence Day.
Give Thanks & Celebrate
Our History and Freedoms.

Humana(PBR71) to be acquired by Aetna(PBR57) for $230/share, $37 billion cash/stock. $HUM PR link.

Thursday, July 2:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 17,730.11, -1.21% from last Friday, +0.63% MTD/QTD, -0.52% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,009.21, -1.40% from last Friday, +0.45% MTD/QTD, +5.77% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,076.78, -1.18% from last Friday, +0.66% MTD/QTD, +0.87% YTD.

Kraft Foods(PBR145) & HJ Heinz complete merger, new company is Kraft Heinz Co, to start trading as NASDAQ: KHC on 07/06/15. $KRFT PR link.

Centene(PBR244) to acquire health care plans provider Health Net(PBR239) for $6.8 billion cash/stock, to close in early 2016. $CNC PR link.

Biogen(PBR358) & AGTC(NASDAQ: AGTC) enter collaboration to develop gene therapies in ophthalmology, Biogen payments could exceed $1 billion. $BIIB PR link.

Barnes & Noble(PBR388) names Ron Boire CEO of Retail, effective 09/08/15; spinoff of College unit planned for August. $BKS PR link.

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

Aeropostale(PBR868) continues aggressive expansion in Asia with new licensing agreements in India & Indonesia. $ARO PR link.

SunEdison(PBR888) & Gamesa(BME: GAM) form joint venture to develop 1 gigawatt of wind power plants by 2018. $SUNE PR link.

Intel(PBR52) President Renee James leaving, other executive leadership changes announced. $INTC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says Total June Nonfarm Employment rose by 223,000, compared with an average monthly gain of 250,000 over the prior 12 months. June Unemployment Rate drops 0.2% to 5.3%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says May New Manufactured Goods Orders were down $4.5 billion, -1.0%, to $470.5 billion, down 9 of last 10 months. USDOC PR link.

Wednesday, July 1:
General Electric(PBR9) $3.3 billion sale of Appliances unit dened by US Dept of Justice; Swedish based Electrolux to fight decision. Electrolux PR link.

Hewlett-Packard(PBR19) Enterprise files Form 10 to become a separate publicly traded company, planned for November. $HPQ PR link.

INTL FCStone(PBR64) merges 3 US subsidiaries into INTL FCStone Financial Inc. $INTL PR link.

DuPont(PBR83) completes spinoff of its Performance Chemicals unit as The Chemours Company, trading as NYSE: CC. $DD PR link.

Hess Corp(PBR114) completes $2.675 billion sale of Bakken midstream assets, establishes Bakken Midstream joint venture with Global Infrastructure Partners valued at $5.35 billion. $HES PR link.

eBay(PBR170) PayPal unit buying international money transfers/remittances processor Xoom(NASDAQ: XOOM) for $25/share, $890 million. $EBAY PR link.

Baxter Intl(PBR179) spinoff Baxalta starts 1st day as biopharmaceutical with base of $6 billion in annual sales. $BXLT PR link.

Chubb Corp(PBR200) to be acquired by Ace Ltd(NYSE: ACE) for $28.3 billion cash/stock, expects to close in 1st quarter 2016. $CB PR link.

MeadWestvaco(PBR439) & Rock-Tenn(PBR278) complete merger, name combined company WestRock(NYSE: WRK)(PBR278). $WRK PR link.

CF Industries(PBR438) to acquire remaining 50% in UK based nitrogen production company GrowHow from Yara Intl for $580 million. $CF PR link.

McGraw Hill(PBR477) JD Power division acquires NADA Used Car Guide. $MHFI PR link.

Constellation Brands(PBR483) to acquire Napa Valley wine brand Meiomi from Copper Cane for $315 million. $STZ PR link.

Energizer Holdings(PBR527) completes spinoff of Household Products division, changes name to Edgewell Personal Care Company, now trading as NYSE: EPC. $EPC PR link.

Energizer Holdings(PBR527) completes spinoff as a public company from parent Edgewell Personal Care Co. $ENR PR link.

Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR531) acquires 2 million clients business/home security firm Protection 1 & also ASG Security. $APO PR link.

Patterson Cos(PBR563) to sell its medical business to Madison Dearborn Ptnrs for $715 million cash. $PDCO PR link.

Graham Holdings(PBR610) completes spin-off of separate publicly traded company Cable ONE(NYSE: CABO). $GHC PR link.

American Tower(PBR625) closes acquisition of 4,700 communication sites in Nigeria from Bharti Airtel. $AMT PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR301) announces Mark Frissora has assumed role of President/CEO. $CZR PR link.

Peabody Energy(PBR355) promotes Amy Schwetz to EVP/CFO, upon resignation of Michael Crews. $BTU PR link.

Men’s Wearhouse(PBR781) hires Bruce Thorn as COO, reports to CEO Doug Ewert. $MW PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that May Construction Spending was at a $1,035.8 billion annual rate, +0.8% from April, +8.2% from May 2014. USDOC PR link.

The PBR1000 June 2015 Breaking News Recap is posted on the BLOG page. You can also click here.

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

(Photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net, Sujin Jetkasettakorn.)

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

The PBR1000 June 2015 Breaking News Recap

July 2, 2015 by admin

In the Digital Age We Still Shake Hands When Making the Big Deal.

By Larry C. Paxton

There were the usual number of interesting acquisitions/mergers among The PBR1000 during June 2015. The energy sector saw some activity as well with the companies continuing to adjust to lower oil prices, which look like they might be here to stay.

Spin-offs were a major theme as well, with several scheduled to be concluded during the second half of the year.

The US economy continues to send mixed signals, but overall it continues to show moderate growth, and appears to be not quite as fragile. The Federal Reserve seems to indicate that if the numbers continue to show some growth that there will most likely be a very modest increase or two in interest rates in 2015.

However, on the international scene the Greece/Eurozone drama continues. It will be difficult for all parties involved, whatever the resolution.

The revelation late in the month that the US territory of Puerto Rico also has severe economic issues was a surprise for most of us. It will be interesting to see how that plays out.

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

Tuesday, June 30:
The PBR1000 June 2015 Monthend US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes month at 17,619.51, -1.82% from last Friday, -2.17% MTD, -0.88% QTD, -1.14% YTD.
NASDAQ closes month at 4,986.87, -1.84% from last Friday, -1.64% MTD, +1.75% QTD, +5.30% YTD.
SPX closes month at 2,060.36, -1.96% from last Friday, -2.23% MTD, -0.36% QTD, +0.07% YTD.

Apple(PBR4) launches Apple Music streaming service, men most likely to try it. $AAPL PR link.

General Electric(PBR9) selling its European Sponsor Finance unit to Sumitomo Mitsui Banking for $2.2 billion. $GE PR link.

Cisco(PBR58) announces intent to acquire privately held advanced threat protection provider OpenDNS for $635 million. $CSCO PR link.

Emerson Electric(PBR112) to spinoff Network Power as a separate public company, exploring other strategic actions. $EMR PR link.

ConAgra Foods(PBR149) announces plan to exit Private Brands operations. $CAG PR link.

Blackstone Group(PBR374) selling security services provider AlliedBarton unit to Wendel SE for $1.67 billion. $BX PR link.

JetBlue(PBR441) starts charging baggage fees, $20-35/bag. $JBLU PR link.

Asbury Automotive(PBR449) acquires Jacksonville, FL, $90 million/yr Mike Davidson Ford, to be renamed Coggin Ford. $ABG PR link.

Towers Watson(PBR613) & Willis to merge by year end in stock transaction valued at $18 billion. $TW PR link.

Brookdale Senior Living(PBR692) & HCP(PBR866) complete acquisition of 35 private pay senior living communities from Chartwell Retirement Residences for $847 million. $BKD PR link.

Nortek(PBR822) acquires private Numera’s mobile personal emergency response system/ telehealth assets. $NTK PR link.

Pep Boys(PBR874) board reviewing strategic alternatives, including sale, merger, or other plan. $PBY PR link.

Hewlett-Packard(PBR19) Enterprise Group EVP Bill Veghte leaving this summer, Antonio Neri to be EVP/GM, Chris Hsu COO upon separation from HP. $HPQ PR link.

Kroger(PBR25) President/COO Mike Ellis has retired, no successor named. $KR PR link.

Walt Disney(PBR54) promotes treasurer Christine McCarthy to CFO, Kevin Mayer named SVP/Chief Strategy Officer. $DIS PR link.

Nike(PBR98) & Chairman Phil Knight announce start of succession plan, President/CEO Mark Parker recommended. $NKE PR link.

Cummins(PBR157) Chief Technical Officer John Wall is retiring, Jennifer Rumsey is successor. $CMI PR link.

Domino’s Pizza(PBR927) hires Troy Ellis as EVP/Supply Chain, reports to CEO, succeeds retiring John Macksood. $DPZ PR link.

Pier 1 Imports(PBR933) hires Jeff Boyer as EVP/CFO, effective 07/27/15. $PIR PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says that at the end of the 1st quarter the US Net International Investment Position was -$6,794.0 billion, 4th quarter 2014 was -$7,019.7 billion. USDOC PR link.

Monday, June 29:
General Electric(PBR9) selling its US, Mexico, Australia, & New Zealand fleet businesses to Canada based Element Financial for $6.9 billion. $GE PR link.

Microsoft(PBR30) selling its mapping assets & making available employees to ridesharing company Uber. MarketWatch article link.

Comcast(44) NBC Universal unit reports it has terminated its business arrangements with business man/presidential candidate Donald Trump because of his derogatory statements on immigrants. $CMCSA article link.

Sysco(PBR60) terminates $8.2 billion merger agreement with US Foods(NR), announces $3 billion shares repurchase program. $SYY PR link.

Kraft Foods(PBR145) announces executive leadership team for upcoming $10 billion Kraft Heinz merger. $KRFT PR link.

Campbell Soup(PBR315) completes $231 million acquisition of salsa and organic foods company Garden Fresh. $CPB PR link.

Celgene(PBR381) makes $1 billion initial $93/share investment in Juno Therapeutics(NASDAQ: JUNO) for immunotherapeutics collaboration. $CELG PR link.

Gannett(PBR458) completes TEGNA spinoff, new Gannett focus is now being largest local-to-national media company, flagship unit is USA Today. Robert Dickey is CEO. $GE PR link.

TEGNA announces completion of spinoff from Gannett(PBR458), trading as NYSE: TGNA.
$TGNA PR link.

Dresser-Rand(PBR664) gets approval by European Commission to be acquired by Germany’s Siemens AG for $7.6 billion, to close 06/30/15. $DRC PR link.

Friday, June 26:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 17,946.68, -0.38% from last Friday, -0.36% MTD, +0.96% QTD, +0.69% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,080.51, -0.71% from last Friday, +0.21% MTD, +3.67% QTD, +7.27% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,101.49, -0.40% from last Friday, -0.28% MTD, +1.62% QTD, +2.07% YTD.

eBay(PBR170) sets 07/17/15 for spinoff of independent publicly traded PayPal, to start trading on 07/20/15, symbol PYPL. $EBAY PR link.

NII Holdings(PBR495) has emerged from Chapter 11 Reorganization, soon to be traded on NASDAQ, symbol NIHD. $NIHDQ PR link.

Thursday, June 25:
Kroger(PBR25) increases quarterly dividend, to do 2:1 stock split 07/13/15, approves new $500 million share repurchase program. $KR PR link.

General Mills(PBR148) plans to cut up to 725 jobs as part of a restructuring. MarketWatch article link.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR165) to expand R&D with opening/closing of facilities. $BMY PR link.

Rumor: Valeant Pharmaceuticals has made preliminary approach to buy Zoetis(PBR514). MarketWatch article link.

IAC(PBR669) to pursue an IPO for its dating industry The Match Group unit. Also promotes Joey Levin as IAC CEO; CFO Jeff Kip resigning, will continue to serve on interim basis. $IACI PR link.

Brinker Intl(PBR688) acquires franchisee Pepper Dining with its 103 Chili’s Grill & Bar Restaurants for $106.5 million. $EAT PR link.

Target(PBR38) EVP/Chief Merchandising Officer Kathee Tesija to move to advisory role effective 07/06/15, internal/external search to start for position. $TGT PR link.

Dollar General(PBR153) appoints John Garratt as Interim CFO, effective 07/01/15, replaces retiring David Tehle. $DG PR link.

Medtronic(PBR161) promotes Geoff Martha to EVP & President, Restorative Therapies Group & Bill Burke as Chief Integration Officer for Covidien unit, both report to Chairman/CEO Omar Ishrak. $MDT PR link.

Donaldson Co(PBR780) VP/Global Operations Joe Lehman retiring 08/01/15, Rich Lewis to take role at that time. $DCI PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the May Total Personal Income was at a $15.307 trillion annual rate, +0.5% over April, Personal Savings at 5.1% rate. USDOC PR link.

Wednesday, June 24:
IBM(PBR24) & Box(NYSE: BOX) form global partnership to integrate their products & services in a cloud based environment. $IBM PR link.

Zimmer(PBR506) completes $14 billion acquisition of Biomet, renamed Zimmer Biomet, to start trading as NYSE: ZBH on 06/29/15. $ZMH PR link.

Ferrellgas(BR791) completes acquisition of integrated crude oil midstream services company Bridger Logistics for $837 million. $FGP PR link.

Cree(PBR965) to restructure LED business, authorizes $500 million buyback program. $CREE PR link.

AFLAC(PBR117) hires Fred Crawford as EVP/CFO, effective 06/30/15, reports to Chairman/CEO Daniel Amos. $AFL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce in 3rd estimate says 1st Quarter 2015 Gross Domestic Product was revised from -0.7% to -0.2%, $17.693 trillion. USDOC PR link.

Tuesday, June 23:
Fun Fact: In 2014 The PBR1000 employed 33.7 million people worldwide, up 2.68% from 2013.

Verizon(PBR15) completes $50/share, $4.4 billion acquisition of digital content/advertisiing company AOL(PBR812), which is now a wholly owned subsidiary. $ANTM PR link.

Canada based mobile communications company Blackberry(NASDAQ: BBRY) and Cisco(PBR58, NASDAQ: CSCO) sign broad patent cross-licensing agreement. BlackBerry PR link.

3M(PBR92) to acquire personal protective equipment provider Capital Safety from KKR(PBR272) for $2.5 billion. $MMM PR link.

Wholly owned subsidiary Freeport-McMoRan(PBR132) Oil & Gas files for IPO, requests trading symbol FMOG. $FCX PR link.

Darden Restaurants(PBR393) to spinoff 430 restaurants into a separate publicly held REIT. $DRI PR link.

Netflix(PBR534) to do 7:1 stock split on 07/14/15. $NFLX PR link.

Jordan Spieth(Pro Golfer): Under Armour(PBR809) took a chance on me MarketWatch article link.

Boeing(PBR31) President/COO Dennis Muilenberg to become President/CEO on 07/01/15, Jim McNerney to remain Chairman. $BA article link.

The Dept of HUD says that May New Single-Family Home Sales were at a 546,000 annual rate, 2.2% above April, 19.5% above May 2014. HUD PR link.

Monday, June 22:
Anthem(PBR40) offers to acquire fellow health benefits company Cigna(PBR88) for $184/share, $53.8 billion. $ANTM PR link.

Cigna(PBR88) says Anthem’s(PBR40) $184/share unsolicited offer is undervalued. $CI PR link.

Pfizer(PBR53) to acquire quadrivalent meningitis ACWY vaccines Nimenrix & Mencevax from GlaxoSmithKline for $130 million. $PFE PR link.

Energy Transfer Equity(PBR55) confirms $64/share, $53.1 billion unsolicited offer to acquire Williams Cos(PBR361). $ETE PR link.

Williams Cos(PBR361) advises stockholders that the Energy Transfer Equity(PBR55) $64/share offer is undervalued. $WMB PR link.

General Mills(PBR148) to remove artificial flavors & colors from remaining 40% of cereal products by the end of 2017. $GIS PR link.

Fifth Third Bancorp(PBR345) to consolidate/sell 100 branch offices to improve efficiency. $FITB PR link.

Gannett(PBR458) soon to be spinoff broadcasting/digital provider TEGNA to trade as NYSE:TGNA starting 06/29/15. $GCI PR link.

Gannett(PBR458) announces plans after TEGNA spinoff. $GCI PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) acquires California workers compensation insurer Monument. $AJG PR link.

Global Payments(PBR756) to roll out American Express(PBR86) OptBlue merchant program in Canada on 06/24/15. $GPN PR link.

Brookdale Senior Living(PBR692) President/CFO Mark Ohlendorf to focus on being President, COO Richard Gregory leaving 09/30/15. $BKD PR link.

The National Assn of Realtors reports that May Existing Home Sales were at a 5.35 million annual rate, +5.1% over April, median price at $228,700. NAR PR link.

Friday, June 19:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 18,015.95, +0.65% from last Friday, +0.03% MTD, +1.35% QTD, +1.08% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,117.00, +1.30% from last Friday, +0.93% MTD, +4.41% QTD, +8.04% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,109.00, +0.76% from last Friday, +0.12% MTD, +2.04% QTD, +2.48% YTD.

Medtronic(PBR161) has acquired assets of privately held medical device manufacturer Aptus Endosystems for $110 million. $MDT PR link.

Medtronic(PBR161) increases dividend payout, authorizes 80 million shares buyback program. $MDT PR link.

Medtronic(PBR161) acquires privately held medical device manufacturer CardioInsight Technologies for $93 million. $MDT PR link.

L Brands(PBR248) authorizes new $250 million shares buyback program. $LB PR link.

Hershey Co(PBR347) simplifies structure, makes executive leadership changes, 300 jobs to be cut. $HSY PR link.

Enbridge(PBR352) transfers $30.4 billion of Canadian pipelines & energy business to its Income Fund. $EEP PR link.

NII Holdings(PBR495) gets confirmation of Plan of Reorganization by Bankruptcy Court. $NIHDQ PR link.

Aeropostale(PBR868) EVP Design/Merchandising Emilia Fabricant is leaving, no replacement planned. $ARO PR link.

Apache Corp(PBR169) EVP/Executive Advisor to CEO Rod Eichler retiring at the end of June after 21 years with the company. $APA PR link.

Thursday, June 18:
Allstate(PBR87) pays out $178 million in May claims for 8 events. $ALL PR link.

PBF Energy(PBR138) to purchase New Orleans area 189,000 barrels/day Chalmette Refining for $322 million. $PBF PR link.

News Corp(PBR299) to cut jobs, shift resources to digital media $NWS PR link.

News Corp(PBR299) extends stockholder rights plan to 06/18/18. $NWS PR link.

Health Care REIT(PBR693) joint venture with Canada’s Revera to acquire 23 senior housing communities with 3,600 units Canada based Regal Lifestyle Communities for $623 million. $HCN PR link.

HCP(PBR866) EVP/Chief Investment Officer Paul Gallagher has resigned, effective 06/30/15. $HCP PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says May average earnings/hour was at $24.96, weekly earnings $861.12 for a 34.5 hour week. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the May Consumer Price Index was +0.4%, 0.0% over the last 12 months. USDOL PR link.

Wednesday, June 17:
The PBR1000 Fun Fact: Through May ThePBR1000 companies had $3.467 trillion in earnings per share over the past year, paid out $0.955 trillion in dividends, for a payout of 27.55%.

Marriott Intl(PBR210) global hotel portfolio added to TripAdvisor(NASDAQ: TRIP) Instant Booking platform in partnership. $MAR PR link.

Allergan(PBR297) to acquire facial aesthetics developer KYTHERA Pharmaceuticals(NASDAQ: KYTH) for $2.1 billion. $AGN PR link.

Celgene(PBR381) adds $4 billion to its $5.2 billion shares repurchase program. $CELG PR link.

Patterson Cos(PBR563) completes acquisition of production distribution company Animal Health International for $1.1 billion cash, will double revenues. $PDCO PR link.

Tesla(PBR887) partners with leading researcher to cut battery costs, report MarketWatch article link.

Hill-Rom(PBR954) to acquire privately held medical diagnostic equipment manufacturer Welch Allyn for $2.05 billion cash/stock. $HRC PR link.

Microsoft(PBR30) announces senior leadership changes to align engineering to corporate strategy. $MSFT PR link.

Priceline(PBR365) hires Maelle Gavet as EVP, Global Operation, reports to President/CEO Darren Huston. $PCLN PR link.

The US Federal Open Market Committee says the US economy is expanding moderately, anticipates small rate increase this year. FOMC PR link.

Tuesday, June 16:
Coty($COTY) buys 3 businesses from P&G(PBR32, $PG) for $12 billion. MarketWatch article link.

Starbucks(PBR164) Mobile Order & Pay service expands to 3,400 additional US stores. $SBUX PR link.

Starbucks(PBR164) to close all 23 La Boulange retail bakery locations & 2 manufacturing facilities by Sept. $SBUX PR link.

Discover Financial(PBR281) closing mortgage origination business, offer 460 employees severance packages. $DFS PR link.

Starwood Hotels(PBR405) files SEC Form 10 for publicly traded 4th quarter spinoff vacation ownership business named Vistana Signature Experiences. $HOT PR link.

Under Armour(PBR809) to issue Class C non-voting shares with 2:1 stock split effect. $UA PR link.

21st Century Fox(PBR89) Co-COO James Murdoch to become CEO on 07/01/15, Rupert Murdoch & Lachlan Murdoch to be Executive Co-Chairman, Chase Carey Executive Vice Chairman. $FOX PR link.

Magellan Health(PBR606) hires John Littel as SVP, Government Affairs & Communications. $MGLN PR link.

US Dept of HUD reports that May Private Housing Units Bldg Permits are at a 1,275,000 annual rate, +11.8% over April, +25.4% over May 2014. USHUD PR link.

Monday, June 15:
CVS Health(PBR13) to acquire Target’s(PBR38) 1, 660 locations pharmacy/clinical services businesses for $1.9 billion, rebrand. $CVS PR link.

United Technologies(PBR45) to decide by 3rd quarter end to sell or spinoff Sikorsky Aircraft unit. $UTX PR link.

Gap Inc(PBR168) to close 175 N. American stores, reduce headquarters staff by 250. $GPS PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) to acquire $50 million/yr Boston based William Gallagher Associates Insurance Brokers. $AJG PR link.

Standard Pacific(PBR908) and Ryland Group(PBR856) to merge, form 4th largest US homebuilder. $SPF PR link.

Constellation Brands(PBR483) CFO Bob Ryder is leaving, Beer Division CFO David Klein to succeed Ryder. $STZ PR link.

Pep Boys(PBR874) hires Scott Sider as CEO, effective immediately. $PBY PR link.

Lumber Liquidators(PBR1093) Chief Marketing Officer Marco Pescara given additional Merchandising responsibilities, William Schlegel employment being terminated. $LL PR link.

Friday, June 12:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 17,898.84, +0.28% from last Friday, -0.62% MTD, +0.69% QTD, +0.43% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,051.10, -0.34% from last Friday, -0.37% MTD, +3.06% QTD, +6.65% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,094.11, +0.06% from last Friday, -0.63% MTD, +1.27% QTD, +1.71% YTD.

FedEx(PBR61) to take a $2.2 billion charge in 4th quarter for change in pension accounting. $FDX PR link.

Reynolds American(PBR316) completes $27.4 billion acquisition of fellow cigarette manufacturer Lorillard(PBR357), British American Tobacco retains 42% ownership stake in RAI with $4.7 billion equity investment. $RAI PR link.

International Flavors & Fragrances(PBR677) to expand into cosmetics ingredients, to acquire Lucas Meyer Cosmetics for $311 million. $IFF PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the US May Producer Price Index for final demand was +0.5%, -1.1% for 12 months. USDOL PR link.

Thursday, June 11:
Google’s(PBR46, $GOOGL) next project is fixing congested cities. MarketWatch article link.

Hess(PBR114, $HES) to net $3 billion in Bakken midstream joint venture deal MarketWatch article link.

PayPal gears up to tap global payments market after split from eBay(PBR170, $EBAY). MarketWatch article link.

Whole Foods(PBR195, $WFM) lower-cost stores to be named ‘365 by Whole Foods Market’. MarketWatch article link.

HealthSouth(PBR827, $HLS) to buy in patient rehab hospital operator for $730 million. MarketWatch article link.

Tesla(PBR887) snaps up former Solyndra plant: report. MarketWatch article link.

Rupert Murdoch to step down as CEO of 21st Century Fox(PBR89, $FOX) MarketWatch article link.

Kohl’s(PBR141) announces senior executive leadership changes for CFO, COO, Chief Admin Officer, Chief Merchandise/Customer Service Officer, structure. $KSS PR link.

Campbell Soup(PBR315) hires Adam Ciongoli as SVP/General Counsel, reports to president/CEO Denise Morrison. $CPB PR link.

Orbital ATK(PBR494) promotes Scott Lehr as president of Flight Systems Group, effective 07/01/15. $OA PR link.

Pep Boys(PBR874, $PBY) and GAMCO reach understanding. MarketWatch article link.

US retail sales jump 1.2% in May. MarketWatch article link.

US import prices surge 1.3% in May, flat minus fuel. MarketWatch article link.

Corporate debt continues to mount as household wealth climbs $1.3 trillion MarketWatch article link.

Wednesday, June 10:
Johnston Controls(PBR65) announces it is exploring strategic options for the separation of its automotive business. $JCI PR link.

Nike(PBR98) wins NBA sponsorship deal away from Adidas MarketWatch article link.

Visteon(PBR338) hires Sachin Lawande as president/CEO, effective 06/29/15. $VC PR link.

Netflix(PBR534) shares skyrocket with talk of looming stock split. MarketWatch article link.

Hawaiian Electric(PBR639) shareholders approve acquisition by NextEra Energy(PBR181), still need regulatory approvals. $HE PR link.

Men’s Wearhouse(PBR781) gets agreement to operate 300 Macy’s(PBR97) tuxedo shops & online rentals. $MW PR link.

Dollar General(PBR153) announces Jeff Owen rejoining as EVP Store Operations. $DG PR link.

Tesla(PBR887) annual stockholders meeting highlights; CFO Deepak Ahuja to retire. MarketWatch article link.

The US Dept of the Treasury reports am $82 billion budget deficit in May. MarketWatch article link.

US healthcare spending falls 0.4% in first quarter. MarketWatch article link.

Employee compensation grew 4.9% in first quarter. MarketWatch article link.

World Bank revises 2015 global growth, forecasts US at 2.0%. WorldBank PR link.

Tuesday, June 9:
General Motors(PBR7, $GM) says not interested in merger with FiatChrysler MarketWatch article link.

General Electric(PBR9, $GE) to sell buyout unit to Canada pension fund for $12 billion MarketWatch article link.

Commercial Int’l Bank buys CitiGroup’s(PBR26, $C) Egypt retail ops MarketWatch article link.

Amazon(PBR37, $AMZN) to open fulfillment center in #Dallas, create more than 1,500 #jobs MarketWatch article link.

Prudential Financial(PBR70) authorizes $1 billion shares repurchase program over next 12 months. $PRU PR link.

McDonald’s(PBR96, $MCD) names ex-Obama press secretary Robert Gibbs as global communications officer MarketWatch article link.

Kraft Foods(PBR145) special stockholders meeting set for 07/01/15 to vote on acquisition by HJ Heinz. $KRFT PR link.

Campbell Soup(PBR315, $CPB) to acquire salsa and organic foods company Garden Fresh for $231 million. MarketWatch article link.

Visteon(PBR338, $VC) completes $3.6B deal, to return up to $2.6B to shareholders MarketWatch article link.

WhiteWave Foods(PBR758) to acquire Canada based plant-based nutrition products provider Vega for $550 million. $WWAV PR link.

April job openings rise to record high of 5.38 million MarketWatch article link.

US wholesale inventories climb 0.4% in April MarketWatch article link.

Foreclosure inventory down by 25% over the last year, CoreLogic says MarketWatch article link.

Monday, June 8:
The PBR1000 May Snapshots Fact: The Market Capitalization for 05/29/15 was $21.622 trillion, the Top 10 companies totaled $3.527 trillion(16.31%), the median was $6.63 billion.

Humana(PBR71) mum on takeover talk, to stay quiet till July 29. MarketWatch article link.

Swiss based crop protection & seeds company Syngenta rejects Monsanto’s(PBR173) 2nd unsolicitied CHF449/share, $45 billion, offer. Syngenta PR link.

RR Donnelley(PBR253) completes acquisition of digital printing, publishing co Courier Corp(NASDAQ: CRRC) for $261 million. $RRD PR link.

Masco(PBR319) to spin-off Installation & Other Services assets & operations to TopBuild Corp(NYSE: BLD), to start regular trading on 07/01/15. $MAS PR link.

Starwood Hotels(PBR405) sells Scottsdale, AZ, luxury resort The Phoenician to Host Hotels(PBR456) for $400 million. $HOT PR link.

Host Hotels(PBR456) announces acquisition of The Phoenician, asset sales, stock repurchases, other strategic initiatives. $HST PR link.

Gannett(PBR458) board approves spin-off of TEGNA, to start trading as NYSE: TGNA on 06/29/15. $GCI PR link.

Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR531) acquiring worldwide France based glass bottles & jars manufacturer Verallia from Saint-Gobain for $3.24 billion. $APO PR link.

Babcock & Wilcox(PBR637) Power Generation publicly traded spinoff to be named Babcock & Wilcox Enterprises(NYSE: BW), remaining company BWX Technologies(NYSE: BWXT), to start trading 07/01/15. $BWC PR link.

Stifel Financial(PBR885) to acquire Barclays’ Wealth and Investment Management, Americas, with its 180 US advisers managing $56 billion in client assets, to close mid November. $SF PR link.

General Cable(PBR385) CEO Gregory Kenny retiring 07/01/15, Michael McDonnell hired to be president/CEO at that time. $BGC PR link.

Friday, June 5:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 17,849.46, -0.90% from last Friday & MTD, +0.41% QTD, +0.15% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,068.46, -0.03% from last Friday & MTD, +3.42% QTD, +7.02% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,092.83, -0.69% from last Friday & MTD, +1.21% QTD, +1.65% YTD.

Cardinal Health(PBR27) to acquire generics/OTC medications distributor The Harvard Drug Group for $1.115 billion, to close in beginning of 2016. $CAH PR link.

Comcast(PBR44) has agreed to acquire ad tech company Visible World. MarketWatch article link.

DuPont(PBR83) Performance Chemicals spin-off The Chemours Company to begin regular trading as a separate public company on 07/01/15 with symbol NYSE: CC. $DD PR link.

Apache Corp(PBR169) completes sale of Australian subsidiary Apache Energy Limited to a consortium of private equity funds managed by Macquarie Corporate Holdings Limited and Brookfield Asset Management Inc. (NYSE: BAM) for $1.9 billion. $APA PR link.

Baxter Intl(PBR179) board approves spin-off of biopharmaceuticals unit Baxalta, to begin trading as a separate public company 07/01/15, symbol NYSE: BXLT. $BAX PR link.

Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR531) & Italy based insurance company Banca Carige sell Carige Vita Nuova & Carige Assicurazioni for $341 million, sign long term agreements. $APO PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) acquires national employee benefits brokerage & consulting firm Solid Benefit Guidance. $AJG PR link.

Walmart(PBR1): Rob Walton resigns as chairman, remains a director, Greg Penner elected new chairman. $WMT PR link.

Dick’s Sporting Goods(PBR400) hires Teri List-Stoll as EVP/CFO, starts in August. $DKS PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says in May Employment Situation that 280,000 new jobs were created, unemployment rate at 5.5%. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve in its April G19 report says consumer credit was up at a +7.25% annual rate, revolving credit +11.5%, nonrevolving credit +5.75%. USFRB PR link.

Thursday, June 4:
The PBR1000 Fun Fact: The PBR1000 End of May Market Capitalization Total was $21.622 trillion, +0.98% over April, +2.44% YTD, for 1,062 cos.

Amazon(PBR37) receives Most Reputable US Retailer for the 3rd year in a row by the Reputation Institute. MarketWatch article link.

Goodyear Tire(PBR137) & Japan’s Sumitomo Rubber Industries dissolve global alliance of 4 joint ventures, provides details. $GT PR link.

Facebook(PBR327) to start rolling out Facebook Lite. $FB PR link.

CA Technologies(PBR520) acquires private test data management company Grid-Tools, terms not disclosed. $CA PR link.

Intuit’s(PBR521) QuickBooks Online passes 1 million paid subscribers. $INTU PR link.

Carlyle Group(PBR528) completes acquisition of public UK based 2,500 employee Nationwide Accident Repair Services. $CG PR link.

Magellan Health(PBR606) restructuring into 2 units, new CEO for Rx unit on 07/01/15. $MGLN PR link.

Graham Holdings(PBR610) to spin-off its Cable One subsidiary as a public company, effective 07/01/15, with symbol NYSE: CABO. $GHC PR link.

Cisco(PBR58) incoming CEO Chuck Robbins names 10 of the new executive management team. $CSCO PR link.

Delta Air Lines(PBR78) hires Peter Carter as EVP/Chief Legal Officer, reports to CEO Richard Anderson, effective 07/13/15. $DAL PR link.

Carnival Corp(PBR176) names Tara Russell to lead new ‘fathom’ brand for global sustained social impact travel. $CCL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that Unemployment Claims for the Week Ending 05/30/15 were at 276,000, -8,000 from 05/23/15, was 314,000 a year ago. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the 1st Quarter Nonfarm Labor Productivity was at a -3.1% annual rate, output -1.6%, hrs worked +1.6%. USDOL PR link.

Wednesday, June 3:
CBS Corp(PBR178) SHOWTIME unit to launch a standalone internet streaming service in early July initially to Apple(PBR4) customers for $10.99/mo. $CBS PR link.

Yahoo!(PBR500) selected by National Footbal League to deliver first global live stream of an NFL football game 10/25/15. $YHOO PR link.

Wendy’s(PBR777) authorizes $1.4 billion shares buyback program, updates 2015 & long term outlook. $WEN PR link.

E*TRADE Financial(PBR947) exceeds $50 billion in retirement assets. $ETFC PR link.

Groupon(PBR750) promotes Rich Williams to COO; CFO Jason Child leaving 07/31/15, VP Bryan Kayman named Interim CFO. $GRPN PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the April International Goods and Services deficit was $40.9 billion, down $9.7 billion from March. USDOC PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank releases the Beige Book, outlook generally optimistic, economy expected to grow at a modest to moderate pace. FRB PR link.

Tuesday, June 2:
GameStop(PBR287) to acquire ThinkGeek retailer parent Geeknet(NASDAQ: GKNT) for $20/share, $140 million. $GME PR link.

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

Energizer Holdings(PBR527) doing 10 million shares, $1.4 billion stock buyback purchase program, to carry over to Edgewell Personal Care Company after spin-off completed on 07/01/15. $ENR PR link.

Wendy’s(PBR777) completes sale of bakery business to East Balt Bakeries. $WEN PR link.

AOL(PBR812) introduces new homepage with emphasis on mobile first, video-driven destination & content. $AOL PR link.

CNA Financial(PBR263) hires Kevin Leidwinger as President/COO CNA Commercial, reports to CNA Chairman/CEO Tom Motamed, effective 06/22/15. $CNA PR link.

Hershey Co(PBR347) International President Bert Alfonso retiring by 06/30/15. $HSY PR link.

Mattel(PBR383) CEO reshuffles top execs to jumpstart turnaround. MarketWatch article link.

Carpenter Technology(PBR842) promotes SVP/CFO Tony Thene to CEO, effective 07/01/15. $CRS article link.

Cimarex Energy(PBR890) CFO Paul Korus to retire by 09/01/15, VP Mark Burford to become CFO at that time. $XEC article link.

Griffon Corp(PBR891) promotes VP/Controller Brian Harris to SVP/CFO reporting to President/COO Robert Mehmel. $GFF article link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that April New Orders for Manufactured Goods was -0.4% to $476.7 billion, was +2.2% in March. USDOC PR link.

Monday, June 1:
General Electric(PBR9) begins sale process for $40 billion chunk of U.S. lending unit. MarketWatch article link.

Microsoft(PBR30) making Windows 10 available as a free upgrade on 07/29/15. $MSFT PR link.

Intel(PBR52) to acquire field-programmable gate array technology company Altera(PBR942) for $54/share, $16.7 billion cash, to close in 6-9 months. $INTC PR link.

Enterprise Products(PBR56) to purchase all Eagle Ford Shale member interests of EFS Midstream for $2.15 billion. $EPD PR link.

Humana(PBR71) completes sale of wholly owned subsidiary Concentra to a joint venture of Select Medical & Welsh Carson for $1.055 billion cash. $HUM PR link.

Icahn Enterprises(PBR133) completes acquisition of nearly all assets of autoparts distributor Uni-Select USA. $IEP PR link.

Dollar General(PBR153) opens its 12,000th store. $DG PR link.

PPL Corp(PBR227) completes spinoff of energy business, now focused on utility business in US & UK. $PPL PR link.

BlackRock(PBR262) & Pemex sign agreement to accelerate development of energy infrastructure projects in Mexico. $BLK PR link.

Gannett(PBR458) acquires 11 media organizations in 3 states from Digital First Media. $GCI article link.

Energizer Holdings(PBR527) split into 2 public companies gets go ahead, should be trading on NYSE under symbols ENR & EPC on 07/01/15. $ENR PR link.

Apollo Global Management(PBR531) affiliates to acquire diversified technology company OM Group(PBR1060) for $34/share cash, to close by end of 2015. $APO PR link.

Curtiss-Wright(PBR771) sells off all assets & liabilities of downstream oil & gas businesses to Sun Capital Partners Group. $CW PR link.

A. Schulman(PBR787) completes acquisition of specialty engineered plastics company Citadel Plastics for $800 million. $SHLM PR link.

Ferrellgas(PBR791) to acquire integrated crude oil midstream services company Bridger Logistics for $837 million. $FGP PR link.

Zions Bancorp(PBR824) announces restructuring plan, key leadership changes. $ZION PR link.

Crestwood Equity(PBR1005) makes organizational changes, promotes several key executives. $CEQP PR link.

Lumber Liquidators(PBR1093) explains why it relabeled products; shares bounce. MarketWatch article link.

Walt Disney Company(PBR54): James A. Rasulo to step down as CFO, effective 06/30/15. Bloomberg article link.

Two Cisco(PBR58) presidents to depart on 07/25/15. MarketWatch article link.

Cisco(PBR58) CTO Padmasree Warrior planning to leave on 07/25/15. Re/Code article link.

Time Warner Cable(PBR125) CFO William Minson leaving; William Osbourn, Matthew Siegel to serve as Acting Co-CFOs. $TWC article link.

NetApp(389) Chairman/CEO Tom Georgens resigns, EVP George Kurian promoted to CEO, lead independent director Mike Nevens elected Chairman. $NTAP article link.

Advanced Micro Devices(PBR451) hires Jim Anderson as SVP/GM Computing & Graphics business, reports to CEO Dr. Lisa Su. http://bit.ly/1KAgBjE$AMD article link.

CA Technologies(PBR520) hires Otto Berkes as Chief Technology Officer, effective 06/15/15, reports to CEO Mike Gregoire. $CA PR link.

Men’s Wearhouse(PBR781) hires Ben Baum as Chief Digital Officer, reports to CEO Doug Ewert. $MW PR link.

E*Trade(PBR947) CFO Matt Audette leaving, Mike Pizzi promoted to CFO, reports to CEO Paul Idzik. $ETFC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says April Personal Income was up $59.4B, +0.4% over March, Disposable Personal Income up +0.4%. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says April Construction Spending was at a $1,006.1B annual rate, +2.2% over March. USDOC PR link.

The Institute for Supply Management says the May 2015 Manufacturing PMI was at 52.8%, +1.3% from April. ISM PR link.

The PBR1000 May Stocks Index ended at 76,157.82, +0.86% over April, +2.44% YTD, for 1,062 companies.

The PBR1000 May 2015 Breaking News Recap is posted on the BLOG page. You can also click here.

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

Filed Under: Recaps Tagged With: acquisitions, Business, business news, Economy, Investing, mergers, Rankings, Research, The PBR1000

The PBR1000 May 2015 Breaking News Recap!

June 3, 2015 by admin

ID-100259380 Strategy World-Stuart Miles

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

By Larry C. Paxton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Filed Under: Recaps Tagged With: acquisitions, Business, business news, Economy, Investing, mergers, Rankings, The PBR1000

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