The PBR1000: The November 2014 Breaking News Recap!

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Santa asks the Board, “Has the year been naughty or nice?”

 

By Larry C. Paxton

November 2014 was a very eventful month, starting with the US elections that saw the Republicans gain a majority in the Senate and increase their majority in the House. President Obama exercised his executive privileges in the areas of net neutrality and immigration.

There were over $125 billion in new deals announced by 10 of The PBR1000 companies, the largest being Actavis(PBR297) winning the bidding war to acquire Allergan(PBR391) for $66 billion. Spinoffs have become popular and shares buyback programs continue to proliferate. While the stock market indexes were at record highs, a major event was the significant drop in oil prices. A lot of global maneuvering is starting to take place with that shift, leaving the big question: how it will affect the economy both short and long term?

While we gave thanks for the many blessings we have on Thanksgiving Day, we also can’t help but be concerned by the obvious lack of growth of the middle class, and the unrest it is causing seen by recent marches demanding livable wages. This has been compounded by the events of the Ferguson, Missouri, decisions and riots after the grand jury results were announced.

November ended with a lot of Black Friday hype, but with lower than expected sales. December starts with Cyber Monday, which is expected to take a big leap. But will data breaches and identity theft put a dent in at store and online purchases? So, the stage has been set for December with a lot of question marks, but I also sense with a feeling of very cautious optimism.

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

Friday, November 28:
Welcome to Black Friday!

DJIA closes week at 17,828.24, +0.10% from last Friday, 2.52% MTD, +4.61% QTD, +7.55% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,791.63, +1.67% from last Friday, +3.47% MTD, +6.64% QTD, +14.73% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,067.56, +0.20% from last Friday, +2.45% MTD, +4.83% QTD, +11.86% YTD.

Coca-Cola Co(PBR58), SABMiller, & Coca-Cola SABCO to form Coca-Cola Beverages Africa to serve South & East Africa markets. Click here for the Coca-Cola press release.

Enbridge Energy(PBR353) acquires 80% interest in 2 US wind farms, in Texas & Indiana, from E.ON, who will remain operator, for $650 million. Click here for the Enbridge press release.

BE Aerospace(PBR608) is informed by NASDAQ that the KLX spin-off will start trading on 12/17/14 with the symbol KLXI. Click here for the BEA press release.

Thursday, November 27:
Markets are closed.
Happy Thanksgiving Day,
Give Thanks and Travel Safe!

Wednesday, November 26:
The US Dept of Commerce in a preliminary report says October personal income was +0.2% over September, real disposable income was +0.1%. Click here for the USDOC press release.

The US Dept of HUD preliminary report shows October new home sales at a 458,000 annual rate, +0.7% over September. Click here for the HUD press release.

Tuesday, November 25:
Aetna(PBR57) completes acquisition of private healthcare shopping exchange technologies company bswift for $400 million. Click here for the Aetna press release.

Harbinger Group(PBR431) chairman/CEO Philip Falcone resigns effective 12/01/14, independent board director Joseph Steinberg to be chairman, CEO search to begin. Click here for the Harbinger press release.

BE Aerospace(PBR608) board approves separation of KLX unit & shares distribution, to take place 12/16/14. Click here for the BE Aerospace press release.

Greenbrier Cos(PBR931) promotes Jack Isselmann to SVP/External Affairs & Programs, reports to chairman/CEO. Click here for the Greenbrier press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the 3rd quarter 2014 2nd Estimate GDP was at a 3.9% annual rate. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Monday, November 24:
HealthSouth(PBR820) to acquire privately held 5,000 employee Encompass Home Health & Hospice for $750 million, to close by end of 2014. Click here for the HealthSouth press release.

United Technologies(PBR45) chair/CEO Louis Chenevert retires, effective immediately, SVP/CFO Greg Hayes appointed president/CEO. Click here for the UTC press release.

American Tower(PBR623) to acquire 4,800+ communications towers in Nigeria from a Netherlands based Bharti Airtel subsidiary. Click here for the AT press release.

Jarden(PBR341) does 3:2 stock split. Click here for the Jarden press release.

SunEdison(PBR882) & Brazil based Renova Energia create a 50/50 joint venture to develop 1 Gigawatt of solar power in Brazil. Click here for the SunEdison press release.

A. Schulman(PBR854) appoints Brent Middleton as VP/GM for US/Canada & Gustavo Perez as VP/GM Latin America. Click here for the AS press release.

Friday, November 21:
DJIA closes week at 17,810.06, +0.99% from last Friday, 2.41% MTD, +4.50% QTD, +7.44% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,712.97, +0.52% from last Friday, +1.78% MTD, +4.89% QTD, +12.84% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,063.50, +1.16% from last Friday, +2.25% MTD, +4.62% QTD, +11.64% YTD.

Cardinal Health(PBR26) physician office-focused commercial organization to be consolidated with the Henry Schein(PBR274) Medical Group per longterm strategic agreement. Click here for the Henry Schein press release.

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

Abercrombie & Fitch(PBR557), in its first franchise agreement, to open its brand stores in Mexico through Grupo AXO. Click here for the A&F press release.

American Tower(PBR623) to acquire 2 portfolios totaling 6,480 cellular towers in Brazil from TIM Cellular SA for $1.2 billion. Click here for the AT press release.

Scientific Games(PBR1069) completes its acquisition of Bally Technologies for $5.1 billion. Click here for the SG press release.

Aetna(PBR57) authorizes $1 billion shares buyback plus $464 million remaining from previous buyback program. Click here for the Aetna press release.

Dillard’s(PBR367) authorizes $500 million Class A Common shares buyback program. Click here for the Dillard’s press release.

Flowers Foods(PBR588) increases its stock buyback program to 15 million shares. Click here for the FF press release.

Thursday, November 20:
Alcoa(PBR122) completes $2.85 billion cash/stock buy of UK based jet engine parts producer Firth Rixson. Click here for the Alcoa press release.

Apache Corp(PBR168) has added 300,000 leasehold acres in 2014, selling its non-core Louisiana & some Anadarko Basin oil & gas assets for $1.4 billion. Click here for the Apache press release.

Cognizant Technology(PBR292) completes acquisition of privately held healthcare IT software developer TriZetto for $2.7 billion cash. Click here for the CT press release.

Blackstone Group(PBR372) to acquire GE Capital’s Japan residential business of over 10,000 units for $1.6 billion. Click here for the Blackstone press release.

Fiserv(PBR484) authorizes 20 million shares repurchase program. Click here for the Fiserv press release.

Activision Blizzard(PBR510) announces its Call of Duty video game is biggest entertainment launch of the year, lifetime sales now exceeds $10 billion. Click here for the AB press release.

W.R. Grace(PBR657) to acquire remaining 50% from Turkey construction products joint venture partner, terms not disclosed. Click here for the WRG press release.

Corinthian Colleges(PBR968) selling 56 Everest & WyoTech campuses to nonprofit ECMC Group, to close in January, 2015. Click here for the CC press release.

Hertz(PBR249) elects travel & transportation industry veteran John Tague as president/CEO, effective 11/21/14. Click here for the Hertz press release.

Clorox(PBR428) has new CEO, former EVP/COO Benno Dorer. Click here for the Clorox biography of BD.

Children’s Place Retail(PBR929) appoints Anurup Pruthi as SVP/CFO, effective 12/01/14, reports to COO. Click here for the CPR press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that October current earnings were up 0.1% to $24.57/hr average, $850.12/week, for 34.6 hour workweek. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the October Consumer Price Index was unchanged over September, 1.7% YTD. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The White House blog on President Obama’s speech regarding his plan to sign executive orders on immigration policy. Click here for the White House post.

Wednesday, November 19:
Family Dollar(PBR254) moves special stockholders meeting from 12/11/14 to 12/23/14 to vote on $9.2 billion merger with Dollar Tree(PBR328). Click here for the Family Dollar press release.

Dollar General(PBR154) affirms commitment to acquire Family Dollar(PBR254), working with FTC on terms. Click here for the Dollar General press release.

Avis Budget(PBR325) completes $210 million plus fleet cost deal for Budget licensee of S. California & Las Vegas. Click here for the Avis Budget press release.

Cliffs Natural Resources(PBR421) pursuing exit options for its Eastern Canadian operations. Click here for the CNR press release.

Yahoo!(PBR495) to be default mobile & desktop search engine in the US for Mozilla Firefox starting in 12/14 per 5 year strategic agreement. Click here for the Yahoo! press release.

Keuring Green Mountain(PBR532) announces that 11 year CFO/Treas Frances Rathke leaving in 2015 when replacement found. Click here for the KGM press release.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR648) acquires Muscatine, IA, retail insurance broker Miller-Harrison Insurance Services. Click here for the AJG press release.

Crown Castle Intl(PBR668) stockholders vote to merge with wholly owned subsidiary Crown Castle REIT, to close by year end. Click here for the CCO press release.

Health Care REIT(PBR691) completes acquisition of HealthLease Properties REIT, includes portfolio of senior living, acute care, long-term care communities. Click here for the HCREIT press release.

Corinthian Colleges(PBR968) receives NASDAQ notice regarding inability to file latest 10-K & 10-Q reports. Click here for the CC press release.

The Federal Reserve Board announces the appointments of chairs and deputy chairs for the 12 Federal Reserve Banks for 2015. Click here for the FRB press release.

The Federal Reserve Board in its Oct 29 Open Market Committee report says the economy is expanding at moderate pace. Click here for the FRB press release.

The US Dept of HUD preliminary report says that October private housing building permits was at a 1,080,000 annual rate, +4.8% over September. Click here for the HUD press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports a net increase of 397,000 private sector jobs in 1st quarter 2014. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Tuesday, November 18:
Archer-Daniels-Midland(ADM)(PBR27) completes buy of Specialty Commodities for $191 million, announces some senior management changes. Click here for the ADM press release.

Avon(PBR266) announces leadership changes in Latin America, headquarters. Click here for the Avon press release.

Micron Technology(PBR284) announces CFO/VP of Finance Ronald Foster to retire effective 02/28/15. Click here for the MT press release.

Darden Restaurants(PBR392) says CFO Brad Richmond to retire by 03/31/15, Chief HR Officer Daisy Ng resigning, being replaced by SVP Danielle Kirgan, SVP Government & Community Affairs Bob McAdam to leave at end of year; also restructuring Olive Garden & Longhorn field leadership. Click here for the Darden press release.

The US Senate votes 59-41 in favor of the Keystone XL Pipeline, 1 vote short needed for passage. Click here for the Library of Congress notice.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the October Producer Price Index(PPI) was up 0.2%, with services up 0.5%, goods down 0.4%. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Monday, November 17:
Actavis(PBR297) to acquire healthcare products provider Allergan(PBR391) for $219/share, $66 billion. Click here for the Actavis press release.

Fidelity Natl Fin(PBR300) FNFV unit completes sale of Comdata to FleetCor for stock valued at $356 million. Click here for the FNF press release.

Canada based Valeant Pharmaceuticals(NYSE: VRX) says it cannot justify $219/share bid for Allergan(PBR391), will not be submitting any further offers. Click here for the Valeant press release.

Halliburton(PBR94) to acquire oilfield products & services provider Baker Hughes(PBR124) for $78.62/share, $34.6 billion in cash & stock. Click here for the Halliburton press release.

Medtronic(PBR162) & Ireland based medical supplies provider Covidien shareholders to meet on 01/06/15 to approve $49.2 billion cash acquisition. Click here for the Medtronic press release.

Actavis(PBR297) completes $23/share, $675 million tender offer of Durata Therapeutics outstanding shares. Click here for the Actavis press release.

Lennar(PBR414) & Macerich(PBR1083) to do 500,000 sf urban outlet joint venture 50/50 project in upscale mixed use San Francisco area Candlestick Point. Click here for the Lennar press release.

SunEdison(PBR882) & indirect subsidiary TerraForm Power to acquire wind projects developer & operator First Wind for $2.4 billion. Click here for the SunEdison press release.

Cummins(PBR158) names Tracy Embree as president, Components Group, reports to COO Rich Freeland. Click here for the Cummins press release.

AES Corp(PBR171) EVP/COO Andrew Vesey leaving effective 12/31/14, for CEO position in Australia. CFO Bernerd Da Santos to also be acting COO 12/01/14. Click here for the AES press release.

American Axle & Mfg(PBR643) names Nigel Francis VP Corp Planning, Jon Morrison as Pres, AAM N America. Click here for the AAM press release.

Fairchild Semiconductor(PBR1002) Chairman/CEO Mark Thompson to add President title after departure of Pres/COO Vijay Ullal. Click here for the FS press release.

In Nov US economy/housing outlook FreddieMac(PBR33) forecasts 2015 3.0% economy growth rate, 5% more housing sales. Click here for the FreddieMac press release.

Saturday, November 15:
Open enrollment for health care plans starts today through 12/15/14 for coverage starting 01/01/15. Click here for the HealthCare.gov website.

Friday, November 14:
DJIA closes week at 17,634.74, +0.35% from last Friday, 1.40% MTD, +3.47% QTD, +6.38% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,688.54, +1.21% from last Friday, +1.25% MTD, +4.34% QTD, +12.26% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,039.82, +0.39% from last Friday, +1.08% MTD, +3.42% QTD, +10.36% YTD.

Hertz(PBR249) to buy 350,000 2015 vehicles, implement a $100 million cost reduction program, restate 2011-2013 financials. Click here for the Hertz press release.

Flowserve(PBR473) to acquire Netherland’s based engineered vacuum and fluid pumps provider SIHI Group BV for $372.5 million. Click here for the Flowserve press release.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR648) acquires Richmond, VA, based human resource consulting services firm The Titan Group, terms not disclosed. Click here for the AJG press release.

Albemarle(PBR739) & Rockwood Holdings(PBR1006) shareholders approve merger, to close 1st quarter 2015. Click here for the Albemarle press release.

Kroger(PBR24) announces that its Ralphs Grocery Co to hire for 1,200 permanent positions in So. California. Click here for the Kroger press release.

Ashland(PBR331) elects Bill Wulfsohn, former Pres/CEO of Carpenter Technology(PBR836), as Chairman/CEO, effective 01/01/15, succeeds James O’Brien, who is retiring . Click here for the Ashland press release.

Carpenter Technology(PBR836) announces chairman Gregory Pratt to also be CEO again, effective immediately, replaces Bill Wulfsohn who is leaving to become chairman/CEO of Ashland(PBR331). Click here for the CT press release.

Thursday, November 13:
Berkshire Hathaway(PBR4) to acquire Duracell in exchange for Proctor & Gamble(PBR32) shares valued at $4.7 billion. Click here for the P&G press release.

Expedia(PBR491) completes acquisition of Australia based online travel company Wotif Group for $612 million. Click here for the Expedia press release.

Graham Holdings(PBR607) to do tax free spin-off of subsidiary Cable ONE as a separate public company in 2015. Click here for the GH press release.

Baker Hughes(PBR124) confirms it is in preliminary merger talks with Halliburton(PBR94). Click here for the BH press release.

AIG(PBR41) appoints Charlie Shamieh CEO Life, Health, and Disability Insurance; Alessa Quane named Corporate Chief Actuary. Click here for the AIG press release.

Diebold(PBR694) names Tom Signorello as SVP N American Sales & Mychal Kempt as VP Global Launch Management. Click here for the Diebold press release.

Rackspace(PBR983) appoints Todd Cione as Chief Revenue Officer. Click here for the Rackspace press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that there were 4.7 million job openings at end of September, 5.0 million hires, & 4.8 million separations. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that for the week ending 11/08/14 initial unemployment claims were 290,000, up 12,000 from the previous week. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Wednesday, November 12:
Cognizant Technology(PBR292) acquires Australia based digital solutions provider Odecee, terms not disclosed. Click here for the Cognizant press release.

BB&T(PBR252) to acquire top 50 bank PA based Susquehanna Bancshares for $2.5 billion cash & stock. Click here for the BB&T press release.

UnitedHealth Group(PBR14) forms Office of the CEO, announces senior leadership changes. Click here for the UHG press release.

An Enterprise Products(PBR56) subsidiary & Oiltanking Properties(NYSE: OILT) to merge, $6 billion total value in distributions. Click here for the EP press release.

Annaly Capital(PBR509) subsidiary acquires a portfolio of 11 properties with grocery-anchored shopping centers, total of 1.48 million sq ft. Click here for the Annaly press release.

Macerich(PBR1083) buys remaining 40% stake in Fashion Outlets of Chicago for $70 million, comes after October $205 million sale of South Towne Center in Sandy, UT. Click here for the Macerich press release.

The White House reports on US & China announcement on new actions to reduce carbon pollution. Click here for the White House press release.

The White House blog regarding President Obama’s plan for net neutrality. Click here for the White House press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports preliminary September Wholesale Trade sales were at $454.3 billion, up 0.2% over August. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Tuesday, November 11:
It’s Veterans Day. A sincere Thank You to all Veterans for your service to our country.

Yahoo!(PBR495) to acquire video ads platform developer BrightRoll for $640 million cash. Click here for the Yahoo! press release.

Mondelez Intl(PBR84) to acquire 80% ownership in Vietnam’s leading confectionary provider Kinh Do Corp for $370 million. Click here for the Mondelez press release.

Fossil Group(PBR637) & fashion Michael Kors Holdings renew global licensing agreement through 2024. Click here for the Fossil press release.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR648) acquires Arlington Heights, IL, retail insurance agency The Forker Company, terms not disclosed. Click here for the AJG press release.

Service Corp Intl(PBR754) increases share repurchase program to $300 million. Click here for the SCI press release.

Juniper Networks(PBR496) names 17 year company veteran Rami Rahim as CEO, effective immediately, takes over for Shaygan Kheradpir. Click here for the JN press release.

DeVry Education Group(PBR899) announces death of board chairman Dr. Connie Curran; Lyle Logan appointed interim board chair. Click here for the DeVry press release.

The White House provides Fact Sheet on APEC Regional Trade agreements reached in conference in China. Click here for the White House press release.

Monday, November 10:
Heartland Payment Systems(PBR853) acquires foodservice enterprise level POS software developer 25,000 user locations, $15 billion in transactions XPIENT Solutions, terms not disclosed. Click here for the HPS press release.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR648) acquires Woodland Hills, CA, based SGB-NIA Insurance Brokers, terms not disclosed. Click here for the AJG press release.

The Assn of Professional Flight Attendants narrowly defeats a new contract with American Airlines. Agreement to go to arbitration starting 12/03/14. Click here for the APFA press release.

President Obama’s official statement on net neutrality: Click here for the Whitehouse press release.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR301) announces CFO Donald Colvin retiring on 12/31/14, Eric Hession to become CFO on 01/01/15. Click here for the Caesars press release.

Actavis(PBR297) announces that Maria Teresa(Tessa) Hilado to become CFO, effective 12/08/14, is leaving PepsiCo, & will take over for retiring R Todd Joyce. Click here for the Actavis press release.

Friday, November 7:
DJIA closes week at 17,573.93, +1.05% from last Friday & MTD, +3.12% QTD, +6.02% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,632.53, +0.04% from last Friday & MTD, +3.10% QTD, +10.92% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,031.92, +0.69% from last Friday & MTD, +3.02% QTD, +9.93% YTD.

AT&T(PBR12) to acquire Mexico 8.6 million subscriber wireless provider lusacell for $2.5 billion. Click here for the AT&T press release.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR39) completes $1.75 billion cash buy of viral diseases developer Alios BioPharma. Click here for the J&J press release.

Sears Holdings(PBR81) announces possible REIT business plan through sale-leaseback of stores to bolster balance sheet. Click here for the Sears press release.

Estee Lauder(PBR242) to acquire ultraluxury fragrances company Editions de Parfums Frederic Malle, terms not disclosed. Click here for the EL press release.

Calpine Corp(PBR390) completes acquisition of Boston area natural gas-fired 809 Megawatt power plant from Exelon Corp(PBR108) for $530 million. Click here for the Calpine press release.

Bemis(PBR466) completes sale of its global Pressure Sensitive Materials unit(MACtac) to private equity firm Platinum Equity for $170 million. Click here for the Bemis press release.

Ford(PBR8) announces several senior leadership changes. Click here for the Ford press release.

Fastenal(PBR625) announces Willard Oberton is resigning as CEO on 12/31/14, will remain chairman, board elects president Leland Hein to be Pres/CEO on 01/01/15. Click here for the Fastenal press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that October nonfarm employment was up 214,000 and the unemployment rate drops 0.1% to 5.8%. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Federal Reserve Board reports that consumer credit rose to a 6.5% annual rate during the 3rd quarter. Click here for the FRB press release.

Thursday, November 6:
New York Times(PBR976) launches in-school digital subscription program for K-12. Click here for the NYT press release.

Home Depot(PBR35) releases more information on data breaches, including 53 million email addresses. Click here for the HD press release.

Perrigo(PBR563) to buy Belgium based over-the-counter healthcare products company Omega Pharma NV for $4.5 billion cash & equity. Click here for the Perrigo press release.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR648) acquires San Diego based Discovery Benefit Solutions, terms not disclosed. Click here for the AJG press release.

FreddieMac(PBR33) reports that 30 year fixed mortgage rates as of 11/06/14 averaged 4.02% with 0.5 points. Click here for the FreddieMac press release.

The US Dept of Labor in its preliminary report says that the non-farm labor productivity annual rate was up 2.0% during the 3rd quarter. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Dept of Labor reportsthat initial unemployment claims at 278,000, down 10,000 from previous week. 4 week moving average at 279,000. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Congressional Budget Office projects the US Dept of Defense 2015-2021 plans to cost an average of $47 billion more per year than provided in the Budget Control Act. Click here for the CBO press release.

Wednesday, November 5:
Motorola Solutions(PBR296) buys back $750 million of common stock from ValueAct Capital. Click here for the MS press release.

AES Corp(PBR171) wins 20 year contracts for 1,384MW of new power at existing California power plants. Click here for the AES press release.

Carnival(PBR173) to increase its fleet capacity by 10% with 4 new ships in the next 18 months. Click here for the Carnival press release.

Booz Allen Hamilton(PBR437) says Carlyle Group(PBR525) affiliate sold 10 million Class A shares to JPMorgan(PBR18), Carlyle will now own 37% of BAH Class A shares. Click here for the BAH press release.

Carlyle Group(PBR525) & coinvestors to acquire investment banking industry software & data platforms provider Dealogic for $700 million. Click here for the CG press release.

Babcock & Wilcox(PBR636) approves spin-off of Power Generation business into a separate publicly held company. Click here for the B&W press release.

Orbital Sciences(PBR1010) announces go-forward plan for NASA’s commercial resupply services program, updates last week’s failed launch. Click here for the OS press release.

Archer-Daniels-Midland(PBR27) Pres/COO Juan Luciano to become Pres/CEO on 01/01/15, Patricia Woertz to remain Chairman. Click here for the ADM press release.

Boise Cascade(PBR635) appoints EVP Tom Corrick as COO, effective immediately. SVP/CFO/Treas Wayne Rancort now an EVP. Click here for the BC press release.

Actavis(PBR297) announces CFO R Todd Joyce to retire in early 2015, exec search firm retained. Click here for the Actavis press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that inflation adjusted compensation costs for private industry employees increased 0.6% over the past year. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Tuesday, November 4:
It’s Election Day. VOTE!!!

Plains All-American Pipeline(PBR68) & Enterprise Products(PBR56) in 50/50 Eagle Ford joint venture to expand pipelines, add new terminal. Click here for the PAAP press release.

Allergan(PBR391) responds to CA court decision to allow Valeant to vote its 9.7% ownership in the 12/18/14 special stockholders meeting re $54 billion offer. Click here for the Allergan press release.

Liberty Media(PBR570) completes spin-off of publicly held Liberty Broadband(NASDAQ: LBRDA, LBRDK), to start trading 11/05/14. Click here for the LM press release.

Sigma-Aldrich(PBR715) completes buy of invitro diagnostic antibody reagents & kits company Cell Marque. Click here for the S-A press release.

Applied Industrial Technologies(PBR782) has acquired supplier to W Texas upstream oil & gas facilities Ira Pump & Supply, terms not disclosed. Click here for the AIT press release.

The US Bureau of Census/Dept of Commerce reports that the September US international trade balance decreased to -$43.0 billion from -$40.0 billion in August(revised). Click here for the Census/Commerce press release.

The US Bureau of Census/Dept of Commerce reports that September new orders for manufactured goods was down $2.8 billion, or 0.6%, from August to $499.4 billion. Click here for the Census/Commerce press release.

Monday, November 3:
LabCorp(PBR418) to acquire Covance(PBR745) for $105.21/share, $5.6 billion. Click here for the LabCorp press release.

Aetna(PBR57) to acquire private healthcare shopping exchange technologies company bswift for $400 million. Click here for the Aetna press release.

Alcoa(PBR122) investing $190 million in Davenport Works, IA, facility, to expand aerospace/industrial applications. Click here for the Alcoa press release.

Estee Lauder(PBR242) completes acquisition of French heritage high end fragrancy & sensory lifestyle company Le Labo. Click here for the EL press release.

Agilent Technologies(PBR365) completes spin-off of electronic measurements business Keysight, now publicly trading under KEYS. Click here for the AT press release.

Blackstone Group(PBR372) & PAI Partners sell UK based United Biscuits to Yildiz Holding, terms not disclosed. Click here for the Blackstone press release.

Dr Pepper Snapple(PBR409) acquires assets of E Pennsylvania based Davis Bottling & Davis Beverage, terms not disclosed. Click here for the DrPS press release.

Frontier Communications(PBR492) expands strategic agreement with Intuit(PBR548) to provide support for online small business services for $100 million over 3 years. Click here for the FC press release.

Vornado Realty(PBR709) to sell 1740 Broadway for $605 million, completes acquisition of St Regis Avenue Retail. Click here for the VR press release.

Sigma-Aldrich(PBR715) announces 12/05/14 as stockholder special meeting date for vote on $17 billion acquisition by Germany based Merck. Click here for the S-A press release.

Chemtura(PBR828) completes $1 billion sale of its AgroSolutions unit to Platform Specialty Products(NR). Click here for the Chemtura press release.

AIG(PBR41) approves new $1.5 billion stock repurchase program. Click here for the AIG press release.

Centrus Energy(PBR1030), fka USEC, receives NYSE notice saying it is now in compliance for being listed. Click here for the CE press release.

Arrow Electronics(PBR129) names Gregory Tarpinian SVP, General Counsel, & Secretary, succeeds Peter Brown who is retiring. Click here for the AE press release.

Church & Dwight(PBR646) adds COO title to CFO Matthew Farrell. Click here for the C&D press release.

Barnes Group(PBR1068) announces the retirement of Chairman Thomas Barnes, scheduled for 12/31/14. Click here for the Barnes Group press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports preliminary September Construction Spending Annual Rate was $950.9 billion, -0.4% from August, +2.9% from September, 2013. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Saturday, November 1:
The PBR1000 October 2014 Breaking News Recap has been released. Click here for the blog post.

(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, franky242.)

The PBR1000: The October 2014 Breaking News Recap!

ID-10064146 Construction Tools in Cart-Vichaya Kiatying-Angsulee

What Tools Should Be Used To Keep Making Progress?

By Larry C. Paxton

In October the new US government “inversion” policies apparently had an effect as  some major deals among The PBR1000 fell through and there were few mergers announced with headquarters moving offshore. There were a lot of spin-offs announced and some changes in C-level leadership.

The Federal Reserve announced that it is stopping the Quantitative Easing program.  Other impacts will be reviewed in The PBR1000 Stocks/Commodities Snapshot that will be released in a few days.

Globally the US is the leader in the many years recovery. But it is still a fragile situation. It will be interesting to see what “tools” businesses and governments use to get to the post recovery phase.

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

Friday, October 31:
DJIA closes week at 17,390.52, +3.48% from last Friday, +2.04% MTD & QTD, +4.91% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,630.74, +3.28% from last Friday, +3.06% MTD & QTD, +10.87% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,018.05, +2.72% from last Friday, +2.32% MTD & QTD, +9.18% YTD.

IBM(PBR23) & China based Tencent Cloud sign agreement for providing cloud based services to businesses. Click here for the IBM press release.

Dollar General(PBR154) extends deadline for $80/share tender offer for Family Dollar(PBR254) to 12/31/14, 5PM. Click here for the DG press release.

Estee Lauder(PBR242) acquires luxury skin care brand RODIN olio lusso, terms not disclosed. Click here for the EL press release.

Level 3 Communications(PBR389) completes $7.3 billion acquisition of tw telecom. Click here for the Level 3 press release.

Newell Rubbermaid(PBR420) to pursue selling its Endicia online postage and Calphalon retail outlet stores & kitchen electronics businesses. Click here for the NR press release.

Sonoco Products(PBR481) completes acquisition of Europe based composite containers provider Weidenhammer Packaging Group for $360 million cash. Click here for the Sonoco press release.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR648) acquires Western US based insurance broker Insurance Associates, terms not disclosed. Click here for the AJG press release.

FreddieMac(PBR33) in 3rd quarter refinance report estimates that $8.0 billion was cashed out on home equity refinancing, up $2.4 billion from the 2nd quarter. Click here for the FreddieMac press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that September personal income was up 0.2% over August, disposable income up 0.1%. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Thursday, October 30:
Lockheed Martin(PBR61) to acquire private 500+ employee provider of healthcare IT solutions for the government company Systems Made Simple. Click here for the LM press release.

Harman International(PBR448) authorizes $500 million over 3 years stock repurchase program. Click here for the Harman press release.

Allison Transmission(PBR897) authorizes $500 million stock repurchase program. Click here for the AT press release.

Carnival(PBR173) announces that President/CEO Gerry Cahill will retire on 11/30/14, no replacement named. Click here for the Carnival press release.

Harman International(PBR448) appoints Sandra Rowland as EVP/CFO, effective 01/01/15, succeeds Herbert Parker who has been appointed EVP/Operational Excellence. Click here for the Harman press release.

Curtiss-Wright(PBR767) Executive Chairman Martin Benante to retire 01/01/15, CEO David Adams to then also become Chairman. Click here for the C-W press release.

Yahoo!(PBR495) names Lisa Utzschneider as SVP/Sales, Americas, will report to CEO Marissa Meyer. Ned Brody to become SVP/Advertising Technology & Strategy. Click here for the Yahoo! press release.

The US Dept of Commerce in Advance Estimate says 3rd quarter GDP annual rate was 3.5%. Click here for the USDOC press release.

The US Dept of Labor in initial report says on 10/25/14 initial unemployment claims were 287,000, up 3,000 from previous week. Click here for the USDOL press release.

FreddieMac(PBR33) reports 30 year fixed mortgage rates on 10/30/14 averaged 3.98% with 0.5 points. Click here for the FreddieMac press release.

Wednesday, October 29:
MasterCard(PBR307) & Zilzar.com collaborate to target $2.5 trillion Muslim lifestyle marketplace. Click here for the MasterCard press release.

Abbott Labs(PBR127) to acquire private electrophysiology technologies medical device company Topera for $250 million plus incentives. Click here for the Abbott Labs press release.

Booz Allen Hamilton(PBR437) acquires Boston based epidemiological & analytics company Epidemico, terms not released. Click here for the BAH press release.

RadioShack(PBR617) on track to have its Fix It Here! mobile device repair service in 750 locations by year end. Click here for the RadioShack press release.

IBM(PBR23) to use its analytics tools in partnership with Twitter(NR) and its data for commercial purposes. Click here for the IBM press release.

VISA(PBR227) authorizes new $5 billion stock repurchase program. Click here for the VISA press release.

CenterPoint Energy(PBR317) appoints SVP/Chief Accounting Officer, SVP/Chief Information Officer, & SVP/Chief Customer Officer. Click here for the CE press release.

RadioShack(PBR617) announces Harry Wilson, CEO of MAEVA Group, to be Chief Revitalization Officer, reports to CEO. Click here for the RadioShack press release.

Applied Industrial Technologies(PBR782) elects Peter Wallace, CEO for private Gardner Denver, as independent Chairman. Succeeds John Meier who will continue to serve on the board. Click here for the AIT press release.

Black Hills(PBR1033) announces EVP/CFO Anthony Cleberg retiring 03/31/15, VP/Controller Richard Kinsley to become SVP/CFO 01/01/15. Click here for the BH press release.

The US Federal Reserve Board gives its assessment of the US economy, to conclude its asset purchase program this month. Click here for the FRB press release.

Tuesday, October 28:
Amgen(PBR144) to accelerate dividend payouts, reinitiate $2 billion stock repurchase program, layoff an additional 600-1,000 people. Click here for the Amgen press release.

Chevron(PBR3) announces $6 billion development project with Hess Corp(PBR114) operated Stampede project in deepwater US Gulf of Mexico. Click here for the Chevron press release.

Macy’s(PBR97) to open its first international Macy’s store in 2018 in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. Click here for the Macy’s press release.

Level 3 Communications(PBR389) & tw telecom stockholders approve merger, expected to close by 11/05/14. Click here for the Level 3 press release.

SunEdison(PBR882) & Rajasthan Government in India sign Memorandum of Understanding to develop 5 gigawatts of solar power. Click here for the SunEdison press release.

Family Dollar(PBR254) mailing out proxy info for special stockholders meeting on 12/11/14 to vote on $9.2 billion merger with Dollar Tree(PBR328). Click here for the Family Dollar press release.

Alliant Techsystems(PBR489) sets 12/09/14 for special stockholders meeting to vote on merger of aerospace unit with Orbital Sciences(PBR1010). Click here for the AT press release.

Orbital Sciences(PBR1010) comments on failed Antares rocket launch with supplies to the international space station. Click here for the OS press release.

IBM(PBR23) adds $5 billion to $1.4 billion remaining for stock repurchase program. Click here for the IBM press release.

AutoNation(PBR152) in 3rd quarter report says it has purchased 8% of outstanding shares, has increased share repurchase program, now has $281 million available. Click here for the AutoNation press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the end of the 3rd quarter 2014 homeownership rate was at 64.4%, -0.9% from the 3rd quarter 2013. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Monday, October 27:
Chiquita Brands(PBR658) agrees to be acquired by Brazilian based Cutrale/Safra Groups for $14.50/share, $1.3 billion includes debt, to close late 2014/early 2015. Click here for the Chiquita press release.

Allergan(PBR391) confirms receipt of Valeant merger letter, says no new terms proposed. Click here for the Allergan press release.

Micron Technology(PBR284) authorizes $1 billion stock repurchase program. Click here for the MT press release.

HCA(PBR76) elects CEO Milton Johnson as Chairman, effective 12/31/14, succeeds Richard Bracken who is retiring. Click here for the HCA press release.

Advanced Micro Devices(AMD)(PBR451) hires Forrest Norrod as SVP/GM for Enterprise, Embedded, and Semi-Custom Business, reports to Pres/CEO Lisa Su. Click here for the AMD press release.

Hill-Rom(PBR945) appoints Steven Strobel as SVP, effective 11/03/14, will add CFO title on 12/01/14. Click here for the Hill-Rom press release.

Friday, October 24:
DJIA closes week at 16,805.41, +2.59% from last Friday, -1.39% MTD & QTD, +1.38% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,483.72, +5.29% from last Friday, -0.22% MTD & QTD, +7.35% YTD.
SPX closes week at 1,964.58, +4.12% from last Friday, -0.39% MTD & QTD, +6.29% YTD.

Level 3 Communications(PBR389) receives FTC approval for $7.3 billion acquisition of tw telecom(NASDAQ: TWTC). Click here for the Level 3 press release.

Chiquita Brands(PBR658) shareholders vote to not pursue Ireland based Fyffes merger deal, both sides terminate discussions, Chiquita to enter into more discussions with Brazilian based Cutrale-Safra Groups. Click here for the Chiquita Brands press release.

Frontier Communications(PBR492) completes its $2 billion acquisition of AT&T(PBR12) Connecticut’s wireline, broadband & video operations. Click here for the FC press release.

Proctor & Gamble(PBR32) in 1st quarter results announces plan to spinoff Duracell battery unit into a separate company. Click here for the P&G press release.

Avis Budget(PBR325) to acquire the Budget licensee, the Mirkin family, for S. California & Las Vegas for $210 million plus fleet cost. Click here for the AB press release.

Celanese(PBR377) increases shares repurchase program to $500 million. Click here for the Celanese press release.

SandRidge Energy(PBR884) files registration for MidCon Midstream, LP, for Initial Public Offering on NYSE. Click here for the SandRidge press release.

Blackhawk Network(PBR1058) completes $290 million acquisition of global incentive solutions provider Parago, will be a subsidiary. Click here for the BN press release.

DuPont(PBR82) EVP/Chief Innovation Officer Tom Connelly, Jr, to retire; SVP Jim Collins, Jr, to become EVP, SVP Matt Trerotola to become EVP, both become members of Office of the CEO, effective 12/01/14. Click here for the DuPont press release.

Avery Dennison(PBR402) names SVP/CFO Mitchell Butier President/COO, effective 11/01/14. Click here for the AD press release.

US Census/HUD report that the September annual rate of new home sales was 467,000, August was 466,000; median price was $259,000, average price $313,200. Click here for the Census/HUD press release.

Thursday, October 23:
Pfizer(PBR53) authorizes new $11 billion share buyback program, adds to $1.3 billion current program. Click here for the Pfizer press release.

Jarden(PBR341) to do 3:2 stock split on 11/24/14 for stockholders of record on 11/03/14. Click here for the Jarden press release.

Dr Pepper Snapple(PBR409) to buy back $375-400 million in shares per 3rd quarter results report. Click here for the Dr Pepper Snapple press release.

Chiquita Brands(PBR658) confirms receipt of $14.50/share revised offer from Cutrale & Safra Groups, ahead of Chiquita/Fyffes merger vote. Click here for the Chiquita Brands press release.

Coca-Cola Co(PBR58) Chief Marketing & Commercial Officer Joe Tripodi to retire 02/28/15, company veteran Marcos de Quinto to become CMO. Click here for the Coca-Cola Co press release.

Alcoa(PBR122) selling majority stake in Mt Holly Smelter in Goose Creek, SC, to Century Aluminum for $67.5 million. Click here for the Alcoa press release.

FreddieMac(PBR33) reports that 30 year fixed mortgage rates are at 3.92% with 0.5 points. Click here for the FreddieMac press release.

Carpenter Technology(PBR836) announces 2 year $500 million stock repurchase plan. Click here for the Carpenter Technnology press release.

Allegheny Technologies(PBR566) announces Elizabeth Powers as new SVP, Chief Human Resources Officer, effective 11/01/14. Click here for the Allegheny Technologies press release.

EMCOR(PBR385) announces $250 million share buyback program. Click here for the EMCOR press release.

Asbury Automotive(PBR449) appoints David Hult as next EVP/Chief Operating Officer, effective 11/03/14. Click here for the Asbury Auto press release.

Wednesday, October 22:
SunEdison(PBR882) gets agreement to build 30 solar systems for 9 public agencies in San Francisco area. Click here for the SunEdison press release.

AT&T(PBR12) in its 3rd quarter earnings report says it has 2 million wireless net additional subscribers year to date. Click here for the AT&T press release.

Brunswick(PBR576) authorizes up to $200 million over 2 years for shares repurchase program. Click here for the Brunswick press release.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR39) makes $200 million commitment to speed Ebola vaccine development & greatly expand production. Click here for the JNJ press release.

Actavis(PBR297) to invest $40 million & get exclusive option after Phase 2b study to buy a Rhythm subsidiary & its gastrointestinal product rights. Click here for the Actavis press release.

A. Schulman(PBR854) realigning its European back office & support functions, reducing headcount. Click here for the A Schulman press release.

Davita Healthcare(PBR309) to acquire 100+ physicians 11 locations Colorado Springs Health Partners, to close in 4th quarter. Click here for the Davita press release.

First Horizon National’s(PBR1027) First Tennessee Bank to expand into N. Carolina with TrustAtlantic acquisition. Click here for the FHN press release.

FreddieMac(PBR33) releases its October US Economic & Housing Market Outlook & forecast. Click here for the FreddieMac press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that September average weekly earnings were $848.74, up from $846.63 in August. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the September Consumer Price Index for all items was +0.1% over August, was -0.2% in August, is +1.7% over past 12 months. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Tuesday, October 21:
Coca-Cola Co(PBR58) refranchising most bottling operations by end of 2017, rest of world by 2020. Click here for the Coca-Cola press release.

Kimberly-Clark(PBR130) in 3rd quarter results report announces layoffs of 1,100-1,300 by end of 2016. Click here for the Kimberly-Clark press release.

Amgen(PBR144) confirms receipt of letter from key shareholder Third Point suggesting company separate into two companies. Click here for the Amgen press release.

FIS(PBR406) to appoint Pres/COO Gary Norcross as Pres/CEO on 01/01/15, Chairman/CEO Frank Martire as Exec Chairman. Click here for the FIS press release.

The National Association of Realtors reports that September existing home sales were at a 5,170,000 annual rate, +2.4% over August, median price was $209,700. Click here for the NAR press release.

Monday, October 20:
AbbVie(PBR142) terminates inversion merger talks with Ireland based Shire. Click here for the AbbVie press release.

AbbVie(PBR142) announces $5 billion shares buyback program, increases dividend. Click here for the AbbVie press release.

Citrix Systems(PBR683) acquires cloud-based signature capture company RightSignature, terms not disclosed. Click here for the Citrix press release.

Celanese(PBR377) has acquired the assets of conductive polymers co Cool Polymers, terms not disclosed. Click here for the Celanese press release.

Friday, October 17:
DJIA closes week at 16,380.41, -0.99% from last Friday, -3.89% MTD & QTD, -1.18% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,258.44, -0.42% from last Friday, –5.23% MTD & QTD, +1.96% YTD.
SPX closes week at 1,886.76, -1.02% from last Friday, -4.34% MTD & QTD, +2.08% YTD.

Cliffs Natural Resources(PBR421) to post a $6 billion non-cash impairment to long-lived assets. Click here for the CNR press release.

AECOM Technology(PBR316) completes $6 billion acquisition of engineering & construction firm URS. Click here for the AECOM press release.

Chiquita Brands(PBR658) board unanimously rejects $14/share offer by Brazil based Cutrale/Safra Groups. Click here for the Chiquita press release.

Asbury Automotive(PBR449) increases stock repurchase program to $200 million. Click here for the Asbury Automotive press release.

The US Census/HUD reports September Housing Starts at an annual rate of 1,017,000, +6.3% over August, +17.8% over September 2013; September Building Permits at annual rate of 1,018,000, +1.5% over August, +2.5% over September 2013. Click here for the Census/HUD press release.

Thursday, October 16:
Chesapeake Energy(PBR153) selling 435 wells to Southwestern Energy(PBR622) for $5.375 billion. Click here for the Chesapeake Energy press release.

Amazon(PBR36) to hire 80,000 holiday workers. Click here for the Amazon press release.

CF Industries(PBR438) and Yaro International ASA terminate discussions on possible merger. Click here for the CF Industries press release.

Cytec Industries(PBR893) announces $200 million stock repurchase program. Click here for the Cytec press release.

Gap Inc(PBR167) announces $500 million stock repurchase program, follows $1 billion repurchase plan. Click here for the Gap press release.

Wednesday, October 15:
Hewlett-PackardP(PBR17) resumes stock repurchase program, returning 50%+ of free cash flow to shareholders. Click here for the HP press release.

QUALCOMM(PBR109) to acquire UK chip maker CSR for $2.5 billion. Click here for the QUALCOMM press release.

Ingredion to acquire specialty ingredients provider Penford Corp for $340 million. Click here for the Ingredion press release.

Estee Lauder(PBR242) to acquire high-end fragrancy company Le Labo, expected to close in November, terms not disclosed. Click here for the Estee Lauder press release.

Alcoa(PBR122) selling its Jamalco bauxite mining & alumina refining joint venture stake to Noble Group for $140 million. Click here for the Alcoa press release.

Beacon Roofing(PBR826) is acquiring Dallas/Ft Worth based Wholesale Roofing Supply, terms not disclosed. Click here for the BR press release.

Frontier Communications(PBR492) receives Connecticut approval to acquire AT&T(PBR12) Connecticut’s wireline service, expected to close on 10/24/14. Click here for the FC press release.

SunEdison(PBR882) Global Services Division exceeds 3 gigawatts of solar voltaic capacity worldwide. Click here for the SunEdison press release.

Chiquita Brands(PBR658) confirms receipt of $14/share revised offer from Brazil based Cutrale & Safra Groups. Click here for the Chiquita press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the September Producer Price Index was down -0.1%, is up 1.6% for past 12 months. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Dept of Commerce in the September Advance Monthly Retail/Food Services reports sales -0.3% from August, up 4.3% from Sept 2013. here for the USDOC press release.

Tuesday, October 14:
ANN(PBR772) enters into non-disclosure agreement with major stockholder Golden Gate Capital for more detailed discussions. Click here for the ANN press release.

The new board of Darden Restaurants(PBR392) appoints President/COO Gene Lee as Interim CEO, effective immediately. Click here for the Darden press release.

CME Group(PBR678) to layoff 5% of workforce, 150 positions, mostly from technology. Click here for the CME Group press release.

Gap Inc(PBR167) plans to hire 63,000 holiday season employees. Click here for the Gap press release.

Agilent Technologies(PBR365) to close its nuclear magnetic resonance business, will eliminate 300 jobs over next 12 months. Click here for the Agilent press release.

Alliance Data(PBR537) Canadian Loyalty Business signs multi-year agreement with 450 store pharmaceutical retailer Rexall. Click here for the Alliance Data press release.

Monday, October 13, Columbus Day:
Targa Resources(PBR375) is buying Atlas Pipeline & Atlas Energy(PBR748) for $7.7 billion. Click here for the Targa press release.

STERIS(PBR966) is buying UK based hospital sterilization technologies Synergy Health for $1.9 billion cash & stock. Click here for the STERIS press release.

Danaher(PBR139) to combine its Communications business with NetScout Systems(NASDAQ: NTCT) in $2.6 billion deal, to close in 2015. Click here for the Danaher press release.

General Electric(PBR9) Capital Aviation Services to acquire Ireland based helicopter lessor Milestone Aviation Group for $1.775 billion. Click here for the GE press release.

Archer-Daniels-Midland(PBR27) to acquire healthy ingredients provider Specialty Commodities for $170 million, will become part of WILD Flavors unit. Click here for the ADM press release.

JCPenney(PBR225) names Home Depot(PBR35) executive Marvin Ellison as president effective 11/01/14, to become CEO in August, 2015. Click here for the JCP press release.

AES Corp(PBR171) is selling its Turkey based energy development assets for $125 million, to close in 1st quarter 2015. Click here for the AES press release.

Ford Motor(PBR8) to hire 850 additional workers for its Dearborn Rouge F-150 plant. Click here for the Ford press release.

France’s Iliad confirms it is no longer pursuing a merger with T-Mobile US(PBR115). Click here for the Iliad press release.

Becton Dickinson(PBR319) acquires Irish based sequencing & genotyping company GenCell Biosystems, terms not disclosed. Click here for the BD press release.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR648) is acquiring Decatur, IL retail insurance broker Bennett & Shade Co, terms not disclosed. Click here for the AJG press release.

Friday, October 10:
DJIA closes week at 16544.10, -2.74% from last Friday, -2.93% MTD & QTD, -0.20% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,276.24, -4.45% from last Friday, -4.83% MTD & QTD, +2.39% YTD.
SPX closes week at 1,906.13, -3.14% from last Friday, -3.35% MTD & QTD, +3.13% YTD.

Darden Restaurants(PBR392) preliminary results shows Starboard’s 12 nominees elected to board, new CEO to be appointed. Click here for the Darden press release.

The Blackstone Group(PBR372) financial advisory services units to spin-off, join PJT Partners, become a new public company in 2015. Click here for the Blackstone press release.

Medtronic(PBR162) announces structure & executive leadership team upon anticipated merger with Covidien. Click here for the Medtronic press release.

Caterpillar(PBR49) announces retirement of 2 group presidents, new appointments. Click here for the Caterpillar press release.

CIT Group(PBR606) & Century Tokyo Leasing form partnership for aerospace leasing. Click here for the CIT Group press release.

Amphenol(PBR504) 2:1 stock split takes effect.

Thursday, October 9:
Endo Health(PBR738) to acquire Auxilium Pharmaceuticals for $33.25/share, $2.6 billion cash & stock. Click here for the Endo Health press release.

Symantec(PBR368) to split into 2 public companies by end of 2015, a security company and an information technology company. Click here for the Symantec press release.

Kindred Healthcare(PBR476) to acquire Gentiva Health(PBR940) for $19.50/share, $1.8 billion, includes debt, to close in 1st quarter 2015. Click here for the Kindred press release.

Time Warner Cable(PBR125) shareholders approve $45.2 billion merger with Comcast(PBR44). Click here for the TWC press release.

Alaska Air(PBR459) & Association of Flight Attendants reach tentative agreement on a new 5 year contract with carrier’s 3,300 flight attendants. Click here for the Alaska Air press release.

Ashland(PBR331) selling non-core elastomers business to Lion Copolymer Holdings, terms not disclosed. Click here for the Ashland press release.

Hill-Rom(PBR945) appoints former Baxter International(PBR176) executive Carlyn Solomon as new COO. Click here for the Hill-Rom press release.

The US Census Bureau reports that August sales of merchant wholesalers was $453.9 billion, down 0.7% from July, up 5.8% from August 2013. Inventories were at $538.0 billion, up 0.1% from July, up 7.9% from August 2013. Click here for the USCB press release.

Wednesday, October 8:
Graco(PBR1066) selling its Liquid Finishing business assets to Carlisle Companies(PBR676) for $590 million cash, to close 1st quarter 2015. Click here for the Graco press release.

EMC Corp(PBR119) sent letter by shareholder Elliott Management recommending spin-off of VMWare(PBR454). Click here for the Business Wire article, which includes letter.

Yahoo!(PBR495) is laying off a third, around 500, of its India staff according to several news sources.

Gap Inc(PBR167) CEO Glenn Murphy to retire on 02/01/15, GAP digital leader Art Peck will then become next CEO. Click here for the Gap press release.

Advanced Micro Devices(AMD)(PBR451) appoints Dr. Lisa Su as president/CEO, effective immediately as Rory Read steps down. Click here for the AMD press release.

The Congressional Budget Office reports FY2014 Fed Govt receipts were $3.013 trillion, outlays were $3.499 trillion, deficit is $486 billion, down from $680 billion in FY2013. Cllick here for the CBO press release.

The Federal Reserve Board releases the minutes of its Federal Open Market Committee meeting held 09/16-17/14. Click here for the FRB FOMC minutes.

Tuesday, October 7, 2014:
DISH Network(PBR199) extends its multi-year agreement with Frontier Communications(PBR492) to bundle DISH services with its internet technologies. Click here for the DISH press release.

Cognizant Technology(PBR292) acquires digital marketing agency Cadient Group, terms not disclosed. Click here for the Cognizant press release.

Kimberly-Clark(PBR130) announces details for completion of publicly held health care spin-off Halyard Health by end of October. Click here for the Kimberly-Clark press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that at the end of August there were 4.8 million job openings, up 0.2 million from July, that the hire rate was 3.3%, and the separations rate was 3.2%. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Federal Reserve Board reports that the August consumer credit annual rate was up 5%, revolving credit -0.25%, non-revolving credit +7%. Click here for the FRB press release.

Monday, October 6:
Chevron(PBR3) selling 30% interest in the Canada’s Duvernay shale assets to Kuwait based KUFPEC for $1.5 billion, now a joint partnership. Click here for the Chevron press release.

Hewlett-Packard(PBR17) to split into 2 public companies, Hewlett-Packard Enterprise & HP, Inc. by the end of 2015. Click here for the HP press release.

Actavis(PBR297) to buy developer of medicines for infectious diseases & acute illnesses Durata Therapeutics(NASDAQ: DRTX) for $23/share, $675 million. Click here for the Actavis press release.

Hilton Worldwide(PBR271) is selling the Waldorf Astoria New York to China based Anbang Insurance for $1.95 billion. Click here for the Hilton press release.

Liberty Interactive Corp(PBR232) splitting into 2 publicly held groups, QVC Group(NASDAQ: QVCA & QVCB) & eCommerce oriented Liberty Ventures Group(NASDAQ: LVNTA & LVNTB). Click here for the LIC press release.

BE Aerospace(PBR608) appoints Joseph Lower as VP/Finance, will become CFO up separation of KLX unit. Click here for the BEA press release.

Sunday, October 5:
Becton Dickinson(BD)(PBR319) to buy medical devices & instruments developer CareFusion(PBR580) for $12.2 billion. Click here for the BD press release.

Friday, October 3:
DJIA closes week at 17,009.69, -0.60% from last Friday, -0.19% MTD & QTD, +2.61% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,475.62, -0.81% from last Friday, -0.40% MTD & QTD, +7.16% YTD.
SPX closes week at 1,967.90, -0.75% from last Friday, -0.22% MTD & QTD, +6.47% YTD.

Medtronic(PBR162) announces plan for $16 billion in external debt to help finance the $49.2 billion Covidien deal. Click here for the Medtronic press release.

KKR(PBR270) Natural Resources & Fleur de Lis Energy to acquire Permian Basin properties from Linn Energy for $350 million. Click here for the Medtronic press release.

Sigma-Aldrich(PBR715) to acquire immunohistochemistry 90 person firm Cell Marque, terms not disclosed. Click here for the S-A press release.

JPMorgan Chase(PBR18) completes its $3.5 billion sale of its physical commodities business to Mercuria Energy Group & others. Click here for the JPMC press release.

Chiquita(PBR658) & Ireland based Fyffes receive European Commission approval for merger, special shareholders meeting set of 10/24/14. Click here for the Chiquita press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports 248,000 more people were working in Sept, the unemployment rate drops from 6.1% to 5.9%. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports total August exports of $198.5 billion, imports of $238.6 billion, for a deficit of $40.1 billion, down from $40.3 billion in July. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Thursday, October 2:
Constellation Brands(PBR479) to acquire Mexico based AB InBev glass plant for $300 million, expand beer production, & additional plans. Click here for the CB press release.

Dow Chemical(PBR48) updates progress on $4.5-$6 billion in planned non-strategic divestitures by end of 2015. Click here for the DC press release.

Berkshire Hathaway(PBR4) to acquire largest US privately owned auto dealership Van Tuyl Group, terms not disclosed. Click here for the BH press release.

Sears Holdings(PBR81) to generate $380 million from sale of Sears Canada, close expected early November. Click here for the Sears press release.

FIS(PBR406) completes $600 million acquisition of Brussels based payments solution provider Clear2Pay. Click here for the FIS press release.

Dover(PBR295) has acquired oil & gas artificial lift & fluid handling solutions provider Accelerated Companies for $430 million. Click here for the Dover press release.

Walt Disney(PBR62) extends Chairman/CEO Robert Igor’s contract through 06/30/18. Click here for the Walt Disney press release.

The US Dept of Commerce says August new orders for manufactured goods was -$56.1 billion from July, -10.1%, to $502.0 billion. Click here for the USDOC press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that initial jobless claims for week ending 09/27/14 was 287,000, down 8,000 from the previous week. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Wednesday, October 1:
The PBR1000 September 2014 Breaking News Recap has been released. Click here for the The PBR1000 September Breaking News Recap blog.

ADP(PBR217) completes spin-off of its Dealer Services unit CDK Global(NASDAQ: CDK). Click here for the ADP press release.

Enterprise Products(PBR56) acquires the general partner & LP interests in Oiltanking Services(NYSE: OILT) for $4.41 billion, proposes merger for $6 billion. Click here for the EP press release.

Archer-Daniels-Midland(PBR27) completes $3.13 billion acquisition of Swiss company WILD Flavors. Click here for the ADM press release.

Bank of America(PBR21) board adds Chairman title to CEO Brian Moynihan, effective immediately. Click here for the BofA press release.

General Motors(PBR7) outlines its strategic plan to achieve 9-10% margins. Click here for the GM press release.

Dollar General(PBR154) extends its $80/share offer to acquire Family Dollar(PBR254) from 10/08/14 to 10/31/14. Click here for the Dollar General press release.

Owens & Minor(PBR285) completes acquisition of procedure based kits & trays provider Medical Action Industries for $207 million. Click here for the O&M press release.

Fastenal(PBR625) has acquired aerospace product distributor Av-Tech Industries, terms not disclosed. Click here for the Fastenal press release.

Carlisle(PBR676) acquires medical devices interconnect components provider LHi Technology for $195 million. Click here for the Carlisle press release.

Beacon Roofing Supply(PBR826) has acquired Portland, ME, based residential roofing, siding, & windows distributor Applicators Sales & Service, terms not disclosed. Click here for the Beacon press release.

Babcock & Wilcox(PBR636) evaluating possible split into 2 public companies, Power Generation & Government/Nuclear Operations. Click here for the B&W press release.

SunEdison(PBR882) new proprietary polysilicon technology to slash cost of solar power to $0.40/watt by 2016. Click here for the SunEdison press release.

Lehigh Gas Partners(PBR894) general partner purchased by CST Brands, name changed to CrossAmerica Partners, LP, will start trading on NYSE: CAPL.

Centrus Energy(PBR1030), fka USEC Corporation, names Mikel Williams as chairman, Chief Restructuring Officer John Castellano to become Interim President/CEO on 10/17/14 while search for CEO starts. Click here for the SunEdison press release.

The US Census Bureau reports that the construction spending annual rate for August was $961.0B, down from $968.8B in July. Click here for the Census press release.

(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, Vichaya Kiatying-Angsulee.)

The PBR1000: The September 2014 Breaking News Recap!

business strategy process

Which Direction Should The Company Take?

 

By Larry C. Paxton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Monday, September 1:
US Federal Holiday: Labor Day

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

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

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

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

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

The PBR1000: The August 2014 Breaking News Recap!

ID-100274698 Exclamation Question Mark-Boians Cho Joo Young

July Ended with a Question Mark, August with an Exclamation Mark, What Will Happen in September?

 

By Larry C. Paxton

Compared to July’s big plummet on the last day, August featured new stock market highs as the bulls maintained their run through the end of the month. This despite some big continuing question marks on the US economy, impacts of sanctions on Russia because of their activities in the Ukraine area, and other regional problems in Iraq and Syria. There was also an earthquake that caused some damage in Napa Valley and an Iceland volcano played a small part as well to help remind us that Mother Nature does not want to be left out of the economic influence mix.

The big news for PBRMarketTools.com is that it has made available to the general public The PBR US Indices Monthly Snapshot! Click here for more info & an Introductory Offer!

News items of interest for The PBR1000 in August follow, with the most current date first.

Sunday, August 31:
3M(PBR91) completes acquisition of Sumitomo Electrics’ 25% ownership of Sumitomo 3M for $865 million. Click here for the 3M press release.

Friday, August 29:
Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week:
DJIA closes at 17,098.45, +0.57% over last Friday, +3.23% MTD, +1.62% QTD, +3.15% YTD.
NASDAQ closes at 4,580.27, +0.92% over last Friday, +4.82% MTD, +3.90% QTD, +9.67% YTD.
SPX closes at 2,003.37, +0.75% over last Friday, +3.77% MTD, +2.20% QTD, +8.39% YTD.

BE Aerospace(PBR610) files SEC registration for public spin-off of its KLX Consumables Management segment. Click here for the BE Aerospace press release.

Briggs & Stratton(PBR912) closes its acquisition of towable electronic devices Allmand Bros for $62 million. Click here for the Briggs & Stratton press release.

Beacon Roofing Supply(PBR827) has acquired Vancouver, Canada, based residiential roofing systems distributor All Weather Products LTD, terms not disclosed. Click here for the Beacon press release.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR649) completes assets acquisition of Baker Tilly’s Employee Benefits Solutions business. Click here for the AJG press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports personal income in July 2014 increased 0.2 percent. Nominal personal consumption expenditures (PCE) fell 0.1 percent, while real PCE fell 0.2 percent. Nominal and real disposable personal income (DPI) rose 0.1 percent. The personal saving rate as a percentage of DPI was 5.7 percent in July. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Thursday, August 28:
PBRMarketTools.com today makes available to the general public The PBR US Indices Monthly Snapshot! Click here for more info & an Introductory Offer!

RadioShack(PBR618) to be exclusive national retailer for new nationwide 4G LTE mobile services provider Defense Mobile Corp. Click here for the RadioShack press release.

Tyson Foods(PBR87) completes its $8.55 billion acquisition of Hillshire Brands(PBR571), which will be delisted. Click here for the Tyson Foods press release.

Fred’s(PBR893) announces it will close 60 stores without pharmacies after disappointing 2nd quarter results. Click here for the Fred’s press release.

KKR(PBR270) & Borealis Maritime grow shipping fleet through acquisition of 9 ships from Commerzbank. Click here for the KKR press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the 2nd estimate of 2nd quarter Gross Domestic Product is a 4.2% annual rate, $17,311.3 billion. Click here for the USDOC press release.

FreddieMac reports that the average 30 year fixed rate mortgage for the week is 4.10% with 0.5 fees & points. Click here for the FreddieMac press release.

Wednesday, August 27:
Liberty Interactive Corp(PBR232) announces completion of Liberty TripAdvisor Holdings(NASDAQ: LTRPA, LTRPB) spin-off, which will start trading as a separate company on 08/28/14. Click here for the Liberty Interactive Corp press release.

AAR Corp(PBR852) acquires temperature-controlled container assets from Cool Containers, terms not disclosed. Click here for the AAR Corp press release.

Medtronic(PBR163) acquires private Italian based hospital managed services firm NGC Medical SpA, valued at $350 million. Click here for the Medtronic press release.

United Technologies(PBR45) increases stock repurchase program from $1.25 billion to $1.35 billion. Click here for the UT press release.

The US Congressional Budget Office forecasts $506 billion deficit for FY2014, $170 billion less than in FY2013. Click here for the USCBO press release.

The US Congressional Budget Office forecasts increasing federal deficit spending through 2024. Click here for the USCBO press release.

Tuesday, August 26:
Burger King(PBR1050) & Canadian based coffee/doughnut co Tim Hortons agree to merge, to be Canadian based, $12.5 billion financing in place, will create 3rd largest quick service restaurant company in the world. Click here for the Burger King press release.

Amazon(PBR36) to acquire interactive game company Twitch for $970 million. Click here for the Amazon press release.

American Airlines(PBR644) withdrawing fares for economic reasons from Orbitz(OWW) immediately, US Airways unit 09/01/14. Click here for the American Airlines press release.

Medtronic(PBR163) has acquired Netherland’s deep brain stimulation tech developer Sapiens SBS for $200 million cash. Click here for the Medtronic press release.

Yahoo!(PBR494) completes its acquisition of mobile analytics firm Flurry(NR). Click here for the Yahoo! press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that 61% of 4.3 million workers displaced from 2011-2013 have been re-employed. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Dept of Commerce says July durable goods at $300.1 billion, up 22.6% over June, shipments at $248.9 billion, unfilled orders $1,158.5 billion, inventories at $401.9 billion. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Monday, August 25:
SunPower(PBR766) announces that Verizon(PBR15) investments in solar power to generate 25 MW of green energy, enough to power 8,500 homes annually. Click here for the SunPower press release.

Alcoa(PBR122) announces the permanent closing of 150k metric ton/year Portovesme Smelter in Italy, not cost competitive now. Click here for the Alcoa press release.

ANN(PBR770) receives an open joint letter from activist investors Engine Capital Management & Red Alder regarding why they think the retailer should be sold. Click here for the Ulitzer news article, which includes the letter.

Calpine Corp(PBR391) to acquire Boston area natural gas-fired 809 Megawatt power plant from Exelon Corp(PBR108) for $530 million. Click here for the Calpine press release.

Lockheed(PBR59) completes its acquisition of 25 employee Boston area energy management firm Sun Catalytix, terms not disclosed. Click here for the Lockheed press release.

Archer-Daniels-Midland(ADM)(PBR27) announces it has opened its new global headquarters & customer center in downtown Chicago. Click here for the ADM press release.

Kathryn Bufano officially becomes President/CEO of Bon-Ton Stores(PBR700). Click here for the Bon-Ton brief biography of KB.

The US Dept of Labor reports that July unemployment rates were much lower in 18 states, higher in 8 & DC, and around the 6.2% avg in 24 states. For more details click here for the DOL press release.

The US Dept of HUD reports that July sales of new homes was at a 412,000 annual rate, down 2.4% from the revised June rate, median sale price was $269,800. Click here for the HUD press release.

Apollo Education Group(PBR592) announces the death of 93 year old Dr. John Sperling, founder of AEG & its flagship University of Phoenix. Click here for the CNN article.

Friday, August 22:
Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week:
DJIA closes at 17,001.22, +2.03% over last Friday, +2.64% MTD, +1.04% QTD, +2.56% YTD.
NASDAQ closes at 4,538.55, +1.65% over last Friday, +3.86% MTD, +2.96% QTD, +8.67% YTD.
SPX closes at 1,988.40, +1.71% over last Friday, +2.99% MTD, +1.44% QTD, +7.58% YTD.

Dynegy(NR) to buy 12,500 MW of coal & gas generation from Duke Energy(PBR112) & Energy Capital Partners(NR) for $6.25 billion. Click here for the Dynegy press release.

Goldman Sachs(PBR72) settles with the Federal Housing Finance Agency(FHFA), will repurchase $3.15 billion in residential backed mortgage securities(RMBS) sold to Freddie Mac(PBR32) & Fannie Mae(PBR16) in 2005-2007. Click here for the Goldman Sachs press release.

Keurig Green Mountain(PBR527) & Kraft Foods(PBR146) announce multi-year agreement to package Kraft’s branded coffees in Keurig portion pack formats. Click here for the Keurig press release.

Lockheed(PBR59) completes the acquisition of satellite launch preparations services firm Astrotech Space Operations, terms not disclosed. Click here for the Lockheed press release.

Thursday, August 21:
Bank of America(PBR21) to pay $16.65 billion settlement in deal with the US Dept of Justice for financial fraud before & during financial crisis. Click here for the USDOJ press release.

Family Dollar(PBR253) rejects the Dollar General(PBR153) $9.7 billion offer based on antitrust issues. Click here for the Family Dollar press release.
Dollar General(PBR153) reconfirms its interest in Family Dollar(PBR253), says no antitrust issues. Click here for the Dollar General press release.

Home Depot(PBR34) names Craig Menear as CEO effective 11/01/14; current Chairman/CEO Frank Blake to remain as chairman. Click here for the Home Depot press release.

The Conference Board Leading Economic Index for July is up sharply at 0.9%, indicating that the economy is gaining traction. Click here for the Conference Board press release.

The National Association of Realtors reports that July existing home sales were at a 5.15 million annual rate, up 2.4% over June. Click here for the NAR press release.

The US Census Bureau reports that the gap between the wealthy, with median assets of $630K in 2011, and poor, with median assets of -$6k, widened from 2000. Click here for the Census Bureau press release.

Wednesday, August 20:
Ventas(PBR704) completes $900 million acquisition of Canadian senior healthcare facilities firm Holiday Retirement. Click here for the Ventas press release.

AES Corp(PBR170) sells 100% of its equity interests in 87.5 MW of operating wind projects in the UK for $160 million. Click here for the AES press release.

ADP(PBR230) announces name of Dealer Services public spinoff will be CDK Global. Click here for the ADP press release.

VMWare(PBR453) acquires real-time application delivery technologies company CloudVolumes, terms not disclosed. Click here for the VMWare press release.

Tuesday, August 19:
PetSmart(PBR360) announces it is exploring strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value, including possible sale of the company. Click here for the PetSmart press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports Real Earnings Per Hour were at $24.45 in July, unchanged from June, and unchanged from July, 2013. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the Consumer Price Index was up 0.1% in July, was up 0.3% in June, food prices up, energy costs down. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Dept of Housing & Urban Development reports that July Building Permits were at an annual rate of 1,052,000, up 8.1% over June, 7.7% over July 2013. Also, July Housing Starts were at an annual rate of 1,093,000, up 15.7% from June, up 7.7% from July, 2013. Click here for the USHUD press release.

Monday, August 18:
Dollar General(PBR153) bids $78.50/share, $9.7 billion cash for Family Dollar(PBR253), beats the $74.50/share Dollar Tree(PBR328) offer. Click here for the Dollar General press release.

Cameron International(PBR267) selling its Centrifugal Compression unit to Ireland based Ingersoll-Rand for $850 million. Click here for the Cameron International press release.

Kroger Co(PBR25) completes acquisition of online vitamin seller Vitacost.com for $8/share, $280 million. Click here for the Kroger Co press release.

HealthcareDIVE reports on the 4.5 million patients data hack in April or June of Community Health Systems(PBR181) originating from China. Click here for the HealthcareDIVE article.

Vulcan Materials(PBR706) acquires an Oklahoma quarry & 2 Dallas area distribution yards from Martin Marietta Materials(PBR843) for cash & property. Click here for the Vulcan Materials press release.

Aeropostale(PBR863) announces that Julian Geiger has rejoined company as CEO immediately, replaces Thomas Johnson who is also leaving the board. Click here for the Aeropostale press release.

Lockheed Martin(PBR59) completes acquisition of security systems provider Zeta Associates(NR), terms not disclosed. Click here for the Lockheed Martin press release.

Mobile apps city guides developer Jetpac announces it has been acquired by Google(PBR46). Click here for the Jetpac announcement.

Fannie Mae(PBR16) gives its outlook on housing for the rest of 2014, 2015; forecasts a flat market. Click here for the Fannie Mae analysis.

The National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index rises 2 points to 55, composite of 3 components, highest of the year. Click here for the NAHB article.

Dept of Labor says eCommerce has grown to 6% of all retail sales in 1st quarter of 2014 from 2% in 2004. For more click here for the USDOL press release.

Friday, August 15:
Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week:
DJIA closes at 16,662.91, +0.66% over last Friday, +0.60% MTD, -0.97% QTD, +0.52% YTD.
NASDAQ closes at 4,464.93, +2.15% over last Friday, +2.18% MTD, +1.29% QTD, +6.90% YTD.
SPX closes at 1,955.06, +1.22% over last Friday, +1.26% MTD, -0.26% QTD, +5.77% YTD.

Coca-Cola Co(PBR58) buys 16.7% stake in Monster Beverage(PBR824) for $2.15 billion, enters into long term strategic relationship. Click here for the Coca-Cola Co press release.

Deere & Co(PBR76) announces it is laying off 600 workers. Click here for the Des Moines Register article.

Gilead Sciences(PBR236) wins Solvaldi Hepatitis C drug legal fight with Roche. Click here for the San Francisco Business Times article.

Quebec, Canada based Valeant Pharmaceuticals extends expiration date for acceptance of acquisition of Allergan(PBR392) to 12/31/14. Click here for the Valeant press release.

Canadian based energy company Fortis completes its $4.3 billion acquisition of UNS Energy Corp(PBR990). Click here for the Fortis press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the Producer Price Index was up 0.1% in July, up 1.7% over 12 months. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Thursday, August 14:
Bloomberg reports that Cisco Systems(PBR54) is cutting 6,000 jobs, 8% of its workforce, after flat financial results. Click here for the Bloomberg article.

Briggs & Stratton(PBR912) to acquire towable light towers, industrial heaters, & solar LED arrow boards manufacturer Allmand Bros for $62 million cash. Click here for the B & S press release.

Donaldson Co(PBR783) to acquire United Arab Emirates based gas turbine inlet air filtration systems manufacturer Northern Technical, no terms disclosed. Click here for the Donaldson Co press release.

The Chiquita Brands(PBR658) board determines $13/share Safra bid not sufficient, pushing for Fyffes merger offer. Click here for the Chiquita Brands press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that US import prices fell 0.2% in July, primarily from fuel prices, & prices for exports were unchanged. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Wednesday, August 13:
Allergan(PBR392) to acquire worldwide rights to TARIS Holding’s LiRIS program, in 2nd phase testing, for $67.5 million plus up to $520 million in incentives. Click here for the Allergan press release.

WellPoint(PBR40) announces that pending stockholder approval it will change its name to Anthem by the end of 2014. Click here for the WellPoint press release.

Weyerhauser(PBR303) announces increased dividend, $700 million stock repurchase program. Click here for the Weyerhauser press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that from April to July youth(16-24) employment is up 2.1 million to 20.1 million, 51.9 percent employed in July. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Tuesday, August 12:
Caesars Entertainment(PBR301) & Caesars Entertainment Operating Co(CEOC) reach agreement with certain creditors to reduce debt by nearly $550 million in preparation for CEOC going public. Click here for the Caesars Entertainment press release.

JPMorgan Chase(PBR18) is selling 50% of portfolio of companies in One Equity Partners to a group lead by Lexington Partners. Click here for the JPMorgan Chase press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports 4.58 million job openings at the end of June, 4.83 million hires, 4.55 million separations, all up over May. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Treasury reports $210.6 billion in receipts for July, $305.2 billion in outlays, $94.6 billion deficit. Fiscal Year-To-Date $460.4 billion deficit. Click here for the USDOT press release.

Monday, August 11:
Kinder Morgan(PBR196) to acquire all outstanding securities of KMP, KMR, & EPB, consolidate operations, $70 billion transaction value. Click here for the KMI press release.

Chiquita Brands(PBR658) confirms unsolicited $13/share buyout offer from Brazil based Cutrale Group & Safra Group. Click here for the Chiquita press release.

Anixter(PBR398) announces the acquisition of the independent security & low voltage technology products distributor Tri-Ed unit of Audax Group for $420 million. Click here for the Anixter press release.

Fred’s(PBR893) announces a multi-year agreement with Cardinal Health(PBR22) to be its primary pharmaceuticals provider. Click here for the Cardinal Health press release.

ConAgra Foods(PBR172) CEO Gary Rodkin announces intent to retire after 9 years at end of company’s fiscal year in May, 2015. Click here for the ConAgra press release.

Microsoft(PBR35) announces Nokia 130 mobile phone with music & video for $25. Click here for the Microsoft press release.

Liberty Interactive(PBR232) announces record & distribution date and symbol information for spin-off of Liberty TripAdvisor. Click here for the Liberty Interactive press release.

Blackstone Group(PBR374) & its founders buy France/UK based independent wholesale autoparts distributor Alliance Automotive Group from Weinberg Capital Partners. Click here for the Blackstone Group press release.

Puerto Rico based Popular(PBR753) Community Bank sells its 12 branch Chicago area operations to First Midwest Bancorp(NASDAQ: FMBI). Click here for the Popular press release.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR649) has acquired managing general agent & wholesale insurance broker Cowles & Connell. Click here for the AJG press release.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR649) has acquired Eastern Caribbean based full service insurance broker & risk management firm Minvielle & Chastanet. Click here for the AJG press release.

The Dover Corp(PBR296) OPW unit to acquire Australian based manufacturer of bulk liquid handling & storage solutions in petroleum, aviation, & chemicals market firm Liquip International. Click here for the Dover Corp press release.

Friday, August 8:
Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week:
DJIA closes at 16,553.93, +0.37% over last Friday, -0.06% MTD, -1.62% QTD, -0.14% YTD.
NASDAQ closes at 4,370.90, +0.42% over last Friday, +0.03% MTD, -0.85% QTD, +4.65% YTD.
SPX closes at 1,931.59, +0.33% over last Friday, +1.26% MTD, -1.46% QTD, +4.50% YTD.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR649) has acquired national travel insurance company Trip Mate, terms not disclosed. Click here for the AJG press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports nonfarm business sector labor increased at a 2.5% annual rate in the 2nd quarter, hours increased 2.7%, output up 5.2%. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that wholesale trade inventories for June were at $533.5 billion, sales at $454.4 billion. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Thursday, August 7:
Bemis Co(PBR467) elects Bill Austen to be President/CEO immediately, Henry Theisen becomes Executive Chairman until he retires in 2015. Click here for the Bemis press release.

Wendy’s(PBR773) franchised 418 US units, contributed to positive results in 2nd quarter report, will franchise all 135 Canadian locations. Click here for the Wendy’s press release.

Facebook(327) buying security technology company PrivateCore. Click here for the PrivateCore press release.

The Cliffs Natural Resources(PBR422) board announces the election of Lourenco Goncalves as its new Chairman/President/CEO. Click here for the CNR press release.

ABM Industries(PBR485) expands HVAC & energy solutions in N. California with acquisition of Airco Commercial Services, terms not disclosed. Click here for the ABM press release.

The US Dept of Commerce releases prototype estimates of Personal Consumption Expenditures by State, 1997-2012. Click here for the USDOC press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports 2013 labor productivity up in 39 of 54 industries, output up in 43, hrs up in 34, unit labor costs fall in 39. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The Federal Reserve Board reports total US consumer credit used increased by $17.3 billion in June. Click here for the FRB press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports 12 month percent changes in private industry salaries & wages, January 2007-June 2014. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Freddie Mac reports average 30 year fixed mortgage rate on 08/07/14 was 4.14%, with 0.7 fees & points. Click here for the Freddie Mac press release.

Wednesday, August 6:
Sprint(PBR161) names Marcelo Claure as its next President/CEO, effective 08/11/14. Click here for the Sprint press release.

AIG(PBR41) to acquire UK based Ageas Protective Life from Belgium based Ageas Group for $305 million. Click here for the AIG press release.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR649) acquires employee benefits Denver based Denman Consulting Services, no terms disclosed. Click here for the AJG press release.

VMWare(PBR453) authorizes up to $1 billion through 2016 for stock repurchase program. Click here for the VMWare press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports June exports were $195.90B, imports $237.40B, deficit $41.50B, down from $44.70B in May. Click here for the USDOC press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports 250+ employee companies did 68% of the net job growth during 4th qtr 2013, companies with 1-49 & 50-249 employees did 16% each. Click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the 2013 national average for people holding more than 1 job was 4.9%, varies by state. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Tuesday, August 5:
21st Century Fox(PBR97) withdraws Time Warner(PBR92) offer, authorizes $6 billion share repurchase program. Click here for the Fox press release.

Gannett(PBR457) to create 2 public companies from spinoff of publishing business & a broadcasting/digital business. Will also acquire remaining interest in Cars.com for $1.8 billion. Click here for the Gannett press release.

The Institute for Supply Management reports that the July non-manufacturing activity index was up 4.9% over June to 62.4%, 60th consecutive month of growth. Click here for the ISM press release.

The Mortgage Bankers Association reports its mortgage availability index increased slightly by 0.5% in July from 115.8 in June. Click here for the MBA press release.

Monday, August 4:
CBRE Group(PBR348) acquires Germany based project management services 100 person Preuss, no terms provided. Click here for the CBRE press release.

CIT Group(PBR608) completes acquisition of small/medium sized businesses financing 250 employee Direct Capital. Click here for the CIT press release.

CBRE Group(PBR348) has acquired affilliate commercial real estate firm CBRE Louisville, terms not disclosed. Click here for the CBRE press release.

ITT Educational(PBR1030) CEO Kevin Modany resigns as chairman & member of the board, to resign as CEO effective 02/04/15. Click here for the ITT Educational press release.

Dana Holding(PBR368) announces additional $400 million stock repurchase program by end of 2015, adds to $1 billion already authorized. Click here for the Dana Holding press release.

Friday, August 1:
Click here for the The PBR1000 July 2014 Breaking News Recap! blog post.

Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week:
DJIA closes at 16,493.37, -2.75% over last Friday, -0.42% MTD, -1.98% QTD, -0.50% YTD. NASDAQ closes at 4,352.64, -2.18% over last Friday, -0.39% MTD, -1.26% QTD, +4.22% YTD. SPX closes at 1,925.15, -2.69% over last Friday, -2.69% over last Friday, -0.29% MTD, -1.79% QTD, +4.15% YTD.

US Dept of Labor reports 209,000 new jobs in July, unemployment at 6.2%. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Allergan(PBR392) files lawsuit in federal court against Valeant & Pershing Square for violations of federal securities laws. Click here for the Allergan press release.

Ashland(PBR331) completes its sale of Ashland Water Technologies for $1.8 billion. Click here for the Ashland press release.

Brunswick(PBR572) acquires Bell Industries’ $40 million revs/2013 parts & accessories distributor Recreational Products Group. Click here for the Brunswick press release.

ITT Educational(PBR1030) files SEC Form 8 regarding new credit facilty to be secured by mortgages by 09/28/14. Click here for the ITT Educational press release.

Calumet Specialty Products(PBR443) has acquired privately held Oilfield Solutions for $30 million. Click here for the Calumet press release.

Harsco Corp(PBR686) welcomes F. Nicholas Grasberger as its new President/CEO, David Everitt becomes Non-Executive Chairman.

SVP/CFO Robert Gudbranson officially adds titles Interim President/CEO of Invacare(PBR1017) as additional responsibilities.

The Institute for Supply Management reports that the production manufacturing index for July was 57.1%, up 1.8% in June, indicating continued expansion for 14 months. Click here for the ISM press release.

Check out the BLOG page for the previous RECAPS blog posts.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The PBR1000: The July 2014 Breaking News Recap!

Puzzled Confused Lost Signpost Showing Puzzling Problem

Okay, What Happened on the Last Day of July???

By Larry C. Paxton

Things were going so well at the beginning of July. Key economy indices continue to show improvement, to the point where the Federal Reserve talked about fading out of its Quantitative Easing program but saying any increases in interest rates are far down the road for now. Major stock exchanges reached new highs. For many, especially the bull market people, cautious optimism was becoming a little less cautious.

But then there was also the unexpected and tragic downing of the Malaysian Airlines international flight while over a contentious area of Ukraine. The war there has ended up forcing the international community to declare more and more difficult economic sanctions on Russia, which also has a negative effect as well for businesses around the world that provides products and services to Russia. Then there are the other events, including the Israeli attacks on Gaza as a response to the rockets being fired further and further in Israel, the continuing effort for the control of Iraq in a religious war, the conflict in Syria, in the last few days the problems with a prominent Portuguese bank, the default of debt payments by the Argentina government. There continues to be a lot of mergers, especially by US corporations with foreign companies and moving headquarters offshore to take advantage of lower corporate tax rates, and maybe investors were just also taking some of the profits from the recent rapid rises in stock prices. But after the build up all during the month of July and then the major dip on the last day, what does it all mean, and how should we prepare and respond? For each of us, the answer is different. But PBRMarketTools continues to provide the data and reporting to hopefully help you through this and help you make some sound decisions.

Take a deep breath, let’s see what happens in August!

Here are The PBR1000 July 2014 Breaking News briefs with hotlinks to the source documents, from the last day to the first day of July:

Thursday, July 31, 2014:
Stock Exchanges Recap for July:
DJIA closes at 16,563.30, -1.56% over 06/30/14 & QTD, -0.08% YTD.
NASDAQ closes at 4,369.77, -0.87% over 06/30/14 & QTD, +4.63% YTD.
SPX closes at 1,930.67, -1.51% over 06/30/14 & QTD, +4.45% YTD.
For more details subscribe to The PBR1000 today!

US Dept of Labor reports nonfarm employment in all 38 largest metro areas increased from June 2013 to June 2014. Click here for the USDOL press release.

France based broadband & mobile service provider Iliad makes offer for T-Mobile US(PBR115) for $15 billion cash for 56.6% ownership. Click here for the Iliad press release.

Target(PBR37) board names retail veteran Brian Cornell as its next Chairman/CEO, to be effective 08/12/14. Click here for the Target press release.

Freddie Mac(PBR32) reports 30 year fixed rate mortgages at 4.12% with 0.6 fees & points. Click here for the Freddie Mac mortgage page.

Nordstrom(PBR214) to acquire fast growth personalized clothing for men service Trunk Club, terms not disclosed. Click here for the Nordstrom mortgage page.

Brookdale Senior Living(PBR688) completes acquisition of Emeritus Corp(PBR889) for $2.8 billion. Click here for the Brookdale press release.

Alpha Natural Resources(PBR475) gives notice that 11 N. Virgina mining facilities with 1,100 employees to be idled. Click here for the ANR press release.

The Bon-Ton Stores(PBR700) names Kathryn Bufano president & CEO effective 08/25/14. Click here for the Bon-Ton press release.

Darden Restaurants(PBR302) announces accelerated $500 million buyback plan. Click here for the Darden press release.

CBRE Group(PBR348) has acquired Australian based 26 professionals Paragon Project Management Pty Ltd, terms not disclosed. Click here for the CBRE press release.

Cabot Corp(PBR613) closes sale of its Security Materials business to SICPA for $20 million. Click here for the Cabot Corp press release.

Atmel(PBR1004) completes acquisition of high performance low power Wi-Fi & bluetooth solutions company Newport Media(NR) for $140 million. Click here for the Atmel press release.

Wednesday, July 30, 2014:
US Dept of Commerce reports preliminary 2nd qtr GDP at 4.0%, annual rate of $17.294T, 1st qtr GDP revised from -2.9% to -2.1%. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Pfizer(PBR53) buying vaccines unit of Baxter International(PBR177) for $635 million. Click here for the Pfizer press release.

Susser Holdings(PBR399) schedules special stockholders meeting for 08/28/14 to vote on acquisition by Energy Transfer Equity(PBR55) Partners unit for $1.8 billion. Click here for the Susser press release.

Liberty Interactive(PBR232) selling its Provide Commerce floral & gift business to FTD Companies(NASDAQ: FTD) for $430 million. Click here for the Liberty Interactive press release.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR301) subsidiary Caesars Entertainment Operating Company appoints management team, takes steps to be listed. Click here for the Caesars press release.

Tuesday, July 29, 2014:

The US Dept of Commerce reports homeownership rate at 64.8% at end of 2nd quarter 2014, down from 65.0% in 1st quarter. Click here for the USDOC press release.

AECOM Technology(PBR317) acquiring commercial construction management firm Hunt Construction Group, does $1.2 billion revenues, terms not disclosed. Click here for the AECOM press release.

Caterpillar(PBR49) announces $2.5 billion accelerated stock buyback plan, follows $1.7 billion plan completed in March. Click here for the Caterpillar press release.

Boeing(PBR30) reselling Inmarsat-5 satellite military bandwidth to the US government. Click here for the Boeing press release.

Amgen(PBR144) in 2nd quarter report says it will be reducing staff primarily in US by 2,400-2,900 through 2015. Click here for the Amgen press release.

RadioShack(PBR618) opens 21 interactive remodel stores in San Francisco Bay area. Click here for the RadioShack press release.

Expedia(PBR490) completes acquisition of European based online car reservations company Auto Escape Group. Click here for the Expedia press release.

TreeHouse Foods(PBR812) completes acquisition of Flagstone Foods(NR) for $860 million cash. Click here for the TreeHouse Foods press release.

Walmart(PBR1) acquiring 16 person online shopping recommendation company Luvocracy. Click here for the Walmart Labs blog post.

Macerich(PBR1076) & Pennsylvania REIT form joint venture to redevelop downtown Philadelphia 1.4 million sf The Gallery, each partner contributing $106.8 million. Click here for the Macerich press release.

Monday, July 28, 2014:
Dollar Tree(PBR328) to acquire fellow retailer Family Dollar(PBR253) for $74.50/share, $9.2 billion transaction value. Click here for the Dollar Tree press release.

Tyson Foods(PBR87) announces proposed sale of 24 million Class A common stock & 30 million tangible equity units to help fund the Hillshire Brands(PBR571) acquisition. Click here for the Tyson Foods press release.

Medtronic(PBR163) completes acquisition of MRI-guided laser & image guided system developer Visualase for up to $105 million. Click here for the Medtronic press release.

Amazon(PBR36) announces customized 3D printed products store. Click here for the Amazon press release.

Darden Restaurants(PBR302) completes the $1.2 billion cash sale of its Red Lobster business to private equity investment firm Golden Gate Capital. Click here for the Darden press release.

Darden Restaurants(PBR302) announces that Chairman/CEO Clarence Otis to step down as Chairman, remain CEO until 12/31/14 at latest, Chairman/CEO roles now split, Interim Chair appointed. Click here for the Darden press release.

Owens & Minor(PBR285) elects Pres/COO Jim Bierman to Pres/CEO effective 09/01/14, current Chair/CEO Craig Smith to become Executive Chairman. Click here for the O & M press release.

Blackstone Group(PBR374) acquiring heart of London 330ksf 125 Old Broad Street from Brookfield Property Partners for $540 million. Click here for the Blackstone press release.

The Nationall Assn of Realtors says pending home sales slipped in June, forecasting 4.95 million sold homes in 2014, 2.8% lower than the 5.1 million sold in 2013. Click here for the NAR press release.

Friday, July 25, 2014:
DJIA closes at 16,960.57, -0.82% over 07/18/14, +0.80% MTD & QTD, +2.32% YTD.
NASDAQ closes at 4,449.56, +0.39% over 07/18/14, +0.94% MTD & QTD, +6.54% YTD.
SPX closes at 1,978.34, +0.01% over 07/18/14, +0.92% MTD & QTD, +7.03% YTD.
For more details subscribe to The PBR1000 today!

Safeway(PBR83) announces preliminary results of 2014 stockholder vote, 96% approve acquisition by Albertsons. Click here for the Safeway press release.

RadioShack(PBR618) receives continued listing standards notice from NYSE because trading under $1, plans to cure issue in 6 month period. Click here for the RadioShack press release.

The US Dept of Labor reports that in March 2014 86% of fulltime private industry workers received medical care benefits, 23% of part timers did. For more click here for the USDOL press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that 16 out of 22 industry groups contributed to the 1st quarter 2014 2.9% decrease in Gross Domestic Product. For details click here for the USDOC press release.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that Durable Goods Orders were up 0.7% in June to $239.9 billion. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Thursday, July 24, 2014:
US Dept of HUD says New Single Family Homes sold at 406,000 annual rate in June, down 8.1% from May, median price $273,500, avg price $331,400. Click here for the HUD press release.

Freddie Mac reports that 30 year fixed-rate mortgages averaged 4.13% with 0.6 point for the week ending 07/24/14. Click here for the Freddie Mac press release.

The US Securities & Exchange Commission fines Morgan Stanley(PBR80) $275 million for misleading investors in subprime residential mortgages. Click here for the SEC press release.

SunEdison(PBR883) acquiring Colorado 156 MW, 900 acre solar project from Community Energy(NR). XCEL Energy(PBR242) to contract for 25 year power purchase. Click here for the SunEdison press release.

Macerich(PBR1076) announces 1st phase of expanded Tysons Corner Center in Northern Virginia, adding 1.4 million sq feet of office, residential, hotel, & retail uses. Click here for the Macerich press release.

Wednesday, July 23, 2014:
Fannie Mae(PBR16) forecasts 2nd half 2014 growth of 3.0%, overall year at 1.5% due to slow 1st half. Click here for the Fannie Mae press release.

The International Monetary Fund sees the US economy accelerating in 2nd half of 2014(3-3.5%) & 2015, but 1.7% for all of 2014 due to slow 1st half. Click here for the IMF press release.

Blackstone Group(PBR374) buying majority stake in Service King Collision Repair Centers, The Carlyle Group(PBR521) retaining large minority stake. Click here for the Blackstone press release.

SunEdison(PBR883) subsidiary TerraForm Power(NASDAQ: TERP) closes IPO. Click here for the SunEdison press release.

Tuesday, July 22, 2014:
CIT Group(PBR608) acquiring regional S. Calif. privately held OneWest Bank for $3.4 billion stock & cash. Click here for the CIT Group press release.

LinkedIn(PBR984) to acquire business audience marketing firm Bizo(NR) for $175 million cash & stock. Click here for the LinkedIn press release.

Altria(PBR113) in its 2nd quarter report announces $1 billion stock buyback program. Click here for the Altria press release.

The National Association of Realtors says 5.04M sales of existing homes annual rate, +2.6% over May, $223,300 median price in June. Click here for the NAR press release.

US Dept of Labor reports Average Current Real Earnings for June at $24.45/hr, +0.2% over May, for 34.5 hour average work week. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Dept of Labor says Consumer Price Index-Urban +0.3% seasonally adjusted in June, mostly due to gasoline prices, +2.1% annual unadjusted. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Monday, July 21, 2014:
Yahoo!(PBR494) buying mobile analytics firm Flurry(NR). Click here for the Yahoo! press release.

Allergan(PBR392) to cut workforce by 1,500, eliminate 250 vacant positions per 2nd quarter 2014 report. Click here for the Allergan press release.

Netflix(PBR525) in 2nd quarter 2014 report to shareholders says it now has over 50 million subscribers in 40 countries, 36 million in the US. Click here for the Netflix press release.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR39) announces $5 billion stock buyback program. Click here for the JNJ press release.

Gentiva Health(PBR941) confirmed it has received a new $17.25/share buyout offer from Kindred Healthcare(PBR476). Click here for the Gentiva press release.

Arch Coal(PBR668) to idle its metallurgical coal Cumberland River coal complex. Click here for the Arch Coal press release.

Cliffs Natural Resources(PBR422) issues open letter to shareholders regarding upcoming meeting, recommendation to vote for its board of directors slate, not activist investor Casablanca Capital’s. Click here for the CNR press release.

Friday, July 18, 2014:
DJIA closes at 17,100.18, +0.92% over 07/11/14, +1.63% MTD, +3.16% YTD.
NASDAQ closes at 4,432.15, +0.38% over 0711/14, +0.54% MTD, +6.12% YTD.
SPX closes at 1,978.22, +0.54% over 07/11/14, +0.92% MTD, +7.03% YTD. For more details subscribe to The PBR1000 today!

AbbVie(PBR142) $54 billion cash & stock offer is finally accepted by Ireland’s Shire plc. Click here for the AbbVie press releases.

In 2nd quarter 2014 report General Electric(PBR9) says it plans its Synchrony Financial IPO to occur by the end of July. Click here for the GE press release.

Amazon(PBR36) introduces Kindle Unlimited for $9.99/mo for unlimited reading/listening service on any device. Click here for the Amazon press release.

Brunswick(PBR572) is selling its retail bowling centers business to Bowlmor AMF(NR) for $270 million. Click here for the Brunswick press release.

PPG Industries(PBR180) selling Mt Zion float glass manufacturing facility to Fuyao Glass America(NR), terms not disclosed. Click here for the PPG press release.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR649) acquires employee benefits broker Foundation Strategies(NR), terms not disclosed. Click here for the AJG press release.

Thursday, July 17, 2014:
US Dept of HUD says seasonally adjusted annual rate for Private Housing Building Permits for June was 963,000, down 4.2% over May. Click here for the HUD press release.

Microsoft(PBR35) to simplify organization, eliminate 18,000 positions, in alignment with acquired Nokia devices business. Click here for the Microsoft press release.

Herbalife(PBR482) responds to Pershing Square(NR) attacks. Click here for the Herbalife press release.

Hewlett-Packard(PBR17) announces its President/CEO Meg Whitman is now its new Chairman. Click here for the HP press release.

Blackstone(PBR374) buys $8.6 billion loan portfolio from Spanish bank CatalunyaCaixa. Click here for the CatalunyaCaixa press release.

Gentiva Health(PBR941) board rejects Kindred Healthcare(PBR476) $16.00/share for 14.9% ownership, says has another 100% offer at $17.25/share. Click here for the Gentiva press release.

KeyCorp(PBR512) buying Portland based 170 employee tech investment & capital markets firm Pacific Crest Securities, no transaction details. Click here for the KeyCorp press release.

Wednesday, July 16, 2014:
International Game Technology(PBR798) is being acquired by Italian based game technology company Gtech SpA for $6.4 billion in cash, stock, & debt. Click here for the IGT press release.

Time Warner(PBR92) rejects unsolicited cash & stock offer to be acquired by Twenty-First Century Fox(PBR97). Click here for the Time Warner press release.

US Dept of Labor reports seasonally adjusted Producer Price Index for June was up 0.4%, was down 0.2% in May. Click here for the USDOL press release.

AmSurg(PBR1064) announces the completion of its acquisition of Sheridan Healthcare for $2.35 billion. Click here for the AmSurg press release.

AIG(PBR41) announces settlement with Bank of America(PBR21) on residential mortgage related disputes for $650 million plus. Click here for the AIG press release.

Tuesday, July 15, 2014:
Reynolds American(PBR312) to acquire fellow cigarette maker Lorillard(PBR358) for $68.88/share, $27.4 billion in cash, stock, & assumed debt. Click here for the Reynolds American press release.

Albemarle Corp(PBR738) to buy fellow specialty chemicals co Rockwood Holdings(PBR1006) in a deal valued at $6.2 billion cash & stock. Click here for the Albemarle press release.

Wolverine Worldwide(PBR718) announces plans to close 140 mostly Stride Rite stores by end of 2015. Click here for the Wolverine Worldwide press release.

Hewlett-Packard(PBR17) announces that chairman Ralph Whitworth is stepping down immediately to focus on health issues. Click here for the HP press release.

Apple(PBR6) & IBM(PBR24) forming global partnership to transform enterprise mobility. Click here for the Apple press release.

Sumitomo 3M(PBR91) buying out Sumitomo Electrics remaining 25% ownership share for $885 million. Click here for the 3M press release.

Monday, July 14, 2014:
Today The PBR1000 June 2014 By Industry Snapshot has been emailed to all Subscribers. A blog post to follow in the next week or so.

The US Dept of Justice announces $7 billion settlement with Citigroup(PBR26) for mortgages improprieties prior to 01/01/09. Click here for the USDOJ press release. Click here for the Citigroup press release.

The board of Ireland based Shire has indicated it is willing to recommend AbbVie’s(PBR142) latest $53 billion offer. Click here for the Shire press release.

Whiting Petroleum(PBR701) to buy Kodiak Oil & Gas(NYSE: KOG) for $6 billion in stock. Click here for the Whiting press release.

Abbott Labs(PBR127) to sell its developed markets branded generics pharmaceuticals business to Mylan(PBR361) & form a new publicly held entity. Click here for the Abbott Labs press release.

Exterran(PBR651) buying 110k horsepower natural gas compression assets of a Chesapeake Energy(PBR152) subsidiary for $135 million. Click here for the Exterran press release.

LinkedIn(PBR984) acquiring blogs & articles notifying service Newsle. Click here for the LinkedIn blog post.

eBay(PBR168) & Sotheby’s to create new live auctions for mid-priced($5k-$100k) art & collectibles. Click here for the eBay press release.

ConAgra Foods(PBR172) acquires Chinese potato processor TaiMei Potato Industry Ltd for $93 million. Click here for the ConAgra press release.

Sunday, July 13, 2014:
AECOM Technology(PBR317) to acquire engineering & construction firm URS(NYSE: URS) for $6 billion in cash, stock, & debt. Click here for the AECOM press release.

Friday, July 11, 2014:
DJIA closes at 16,943.81, -0.73% over 07/03/14, +0.70% MTD,2.21% YTD.
NASDAQ closes at 4,415.49, -1.57% over 07/03/14, +0.17% MTD, +5.72% YTD.
SPX closes at 1,967.57, -0.90% over 07/03/14, +0.37% MTD, +6.45% YTD. For more details subscribe to The PBR1000 today!

Reynolds American(PBR312) confirms it is in talks regarding possible acquisition of fellow cigarette manufacturer Lorillard(PBR358). Click here for the Reynolds American press release.

Yahoo(PBR494) is acquiring online video streaming company RayV. Click here for the RayV announcement.

Thursday, July 10, 2014:
The US Federal Trade Commission alleges Apple(PBR36) unlawfully billed parents millions for children’s unauthorized in-app charges. Click here for the FTC press release.

Verizon(PBR15) CEO says its wireless services gaining 1.4 million users in 2nd quarter. Click here for the Verizon press release.

Automotive News reports TRW Automotive(PBR154) is a takeover target by Germany’s auto supplier ZF Friedrichshafen AG for around $11 billion. Click here for the Automotive News article.

Freddie Mac(PBR32) says average 30 year fixed mortgage rate is 4.15% and 0.7 point, down from 4.51% a year ago. Click here for the Freddie Mac press release.

The US Dept of Commerce says May Wholesale Inventories at $532.7B, up 0.5% from April, Wholesale Sales at $453.2B, up 0.7%. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Whirlpool(PBR143) is acquiring majority interest in Italy’s appliances manufacturer Indesit for $1 billion. Click here for the Whirlpool press release.

Wednesday, July 9, 2014:
BusinessWeek: DISH Network(PBR199) asks FCC to deny Comcast(PBR44) & Time Warner Cable(PBR125) $45.2 billion deal. Click here for the BusinessWeek article.

Vornado(PBR708) to acquire St. Regis Fifth Avenue Retail for $700 million. Click here for the Vornado press release.

Vornado(PBR708) completes the $260 million sale of Los Angeles property Beverly Connection Shopping Center. Click here for the Vornado press release.

Cisco(PBR54) completes acquisition of privately held Tail-f, a specialist in virtualized networks. Click here for the Cisco press release.

Tuesday, July 8, 2014:
AbbVie(PBR142) makes new offer to Ireland based Shire, $38.45/share plus 0.8568 AbbVie shares, $51 billion deal. Click here for the Shire statement.

The US Dept of Labor reports 4.6 million job openings at end of May, 4.7 million hires, 4.5 million separations. Click here for the USDOL press release.

Monday, July 7, 2014:
The PBR1000 June 2014 Stocks/Commodities Snapshot blog post is now available. Click here for the The PBR1000 blog post.

Archer-Daniels-Midland(PBR27) to acquire Swiss based flavor systems company WILD Flavors GmbH for $3.13 billion cash. Click here for the ADM press release.

Atmel(PBR1004) to acquire high performance low power Wi-Fi & bluetooth solutions company Newport Media(NR) for $140 million. Click here for the Atmel press release.

Sunday, July 6, 2014:
Expedia(PBR490) acquiring Australia based online travel company Wotif Group for $658 million cash. Click here for the Expedia press release.

Friday, July 4, 2014:
Hospira(PBR565) completes acquisition of India based active pharmaceutical ingredient manufacturer Orchid Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals for $218 million. Click here for the Hospira press release.

Thursday, July 3, 2014:
DJIA closes at record 17,086.26, +1.28% over 06/27/14, +1.44% MTD, +2.97% YTD. NASDAQ closes at 4,485.93, +2.00% over 06/27/14, +1.76% MTD, +7.41% YTD. SPX closes at record 1,985.44, +1.25% over 06/27/14, +1.29% MTD, +7.42% YTD. Click here for The PBR1000 4th of July Special!

SunTrust Banks(PBR319) agrees to pay up to $320 million to resolve claims regarding administration of mortgages. Click here for the SunTrust press release.

Corinthian Colleges(PBR969) & the US Dept of Education sign operating agreement regarding the phase out of CCs 107 US campuses & online programs. Click here for the Corinthian Colleges press release.

US Dept of Labor reports June nonfarm payroll employment up by 288,000, unemployment rate falls from 6.3% to 6.1%. Click here for the USDOL press release.

US Dept of Commerce reports May exports of $195.50 billion, imports of $239.80 billion, deficit of $44.40 billion. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Blackstone(PBR374) closes $5.4 billion deal for industrial & auto components manufacturer Gates Corporation. Click here for the Blackstone press release.

Wednesday, July 2, 2014:
Facebook(PBR327) acquiring ad tech provider LiveRail. Click here for the Facebook press release.

Boeing(PBR30) gets $2.8 billion contract with NASA to build next generation rocket. Click here for the Boeing press release.

Textron(PBR218) to acquire flight simulation & pilot training company ProFlight. Click here for the Textron press release.

Popular(PBR753) completes its repayment of TARP bailout funds to the US government. Click here for the Popular press release.

Kroger(PBR25) agrees to buy online vitamin seller Vitacost for $280 million, according to the Wall Street Journal. Click here for the WSJ press release.

Tyson Foods(PBR87) makes it official, to buy Hillshire Brands(PBR571) for $63/share, $8.55 billion cash/debt deal. Click here for the Tyson Foods press release.

Tuesday, July 1, 2014:
Click here for the The PBR1000 June 2014 Breaking News Recap blog post.

MasterCard(PBR308) completes its acquisition of Australia based loyalty/rewards service Pinpoint. Click here for the MasterCard press release.

Regency Energy Partners(PBR760) completes its acquisition of midstream business of Eagle Rock Energy Partners(NASDAQ: EROC). Click here for the Regency press release.

Hormel Foods(PBR295) buying Muscle Milk privately held producer CytoSport Holdings for $450 million. Click here for the Hormel press release.

Actavis(PBR298) completes its $28 billion acquisition of Forest Labs(PBR595). Click here for the Actavis press release.

Google(PBR46) acquiring streaming music provider Songza(NR). Click here for the Songza announcement.

Alere(PBR664) announces resignation of Pres/CEO Ron Zwanziger & others, COO Namal Nawana appointed interim Pres/CEO. Click here for the Alere press release.

Mark Fields officially becomes President/CEO of Ford Motor(PBR8)

Air Products(PBR260) has new Chairman/President/CEO, Seifi Ghasemi.

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

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

The PBR1000: The June 2014 Breaking News Recap!

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

By Larry C. Paxton.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The PBR1000: The May 2014 Breaking News Recap!

Handshake Animation 144794-20131002By Larry C. Paxton

The Art of the Big Deal was very much in evidence in May. Highlights include a lot of drama in Pfizer’s attempt to acquire AstraZeneca, the pursuit of Allergan by Valeant Pharmaceuticals, GE’s bid for Alstom, Hillshire Brands desire to acquire Pinnacle Foods only to find itself being chased by Pilgrim’s Pride, then by Tyson Foods. It appears that the Men’s Wearhouse/Jos. A. Banks dance will finally end with a hopefully nicely dressed merger, while the “Deal of Equals” between Omnicom and Publicis  fell apart.

Here are the May recaps by most current date first:

Friday, May 30, 2014:
Allergan(PBR391) acknowledges new unsolicited bid by Valeant & Pershing Square Capital Management for $72.00/share. Click here for the Allergan press release.

Men’s Wearhouse(PBR773) acquisition of Jos A Banks expected to close within 30 days upon FTC waiting period expiration. Click here for the Men’s Wearhouse press release.

Thursday, May 29, 2014:
Tyson Foods(PBR87) makes $50/share $6.8 billion all cash bid to acquire Hillshire Brands(PBR569). Click here for the Tyson Foods press release.

Microsoft’s(PBR35) Office & Windows systems to connect with Salesforce(PBR557) CRM per strategic partnership. Click here for the Salesforce press release.

The Bureau of Economic Analysis reports that GDP for 2014 1st quarter has been revised downward to a -1% on an annual basis. Click here for the BEA press release.

Wednesday, May 28, 2014:
Apple(PBR6) to acquire Beats Music & Beats Electronics for $3 billion. Click here for the Apple press release.

Allergan(PBR391) confirms receipt of unsolicited Valeant increased bid to $58.30/share. Click here for the Allergan press release.

McDonald’s(PBR95) announces it plans to return $18-20 billion to shareholders over 3 years. Click here for the McDonald’s press release.

Tuesday, May 27, 2014:
Pilgrim’s Pride proposes to acquire Hillshire Brands(PBR569) for $45.00/share, $6.4 billion. Click here for the Pilgrim’s Pride press release.

Intuit(PBR544) to acquire mobile pay company Check for $360 million cash. Click here for the Intuit press release.

KKR(PBR270) to acquire Singapore based packaging company Goodpack for $1.1 billion. Click here for the KKR press release.

Boeing(PBR30) acquiring Netherland’s airplane maintenance & leasing records management firm AerData BV. Click here for the Boeing press release.

Monday, May 26, 2014:
Memorial Day Observed

After the AstraZeneca board rejects the Pfizer(PBR53) $118 billion bid, no additional offer will be made at this time. Click here for the Pfizer press release.

Friday, May 23, 2014:
The US Dept of Commerce reports new single-family home sales rose 6.4% in April to a 433,000 annual rate. Click here for the USDOC press release.

Thursday, May 22, 2014:

Hess Corp(PBR113) selling 1,300+ locations retail business to Marathon Oil(PBR184) for $2.6 billion cash, will use proceeds in stock repurchase plan. Click here for the Hess press release.

General Electric(PBR9) agrees to French govt request to extend $16.9 billion bid for Alstom to 06/23/14. Click here for the GE press release.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR39) moves $1+ billion US media buying from Interpublic(PBR351) to Omnicom(PBR192). Click here for the Ad Age article.

Reuters reports on the Hewlett-Packard(PBR17) announcement that it will cut up to 16,000 more jobs. Click here for the Reuters article.

Wednesday, May 21, 2014:
Netflix(PBR523) to expand services into 6 European countries by the end of 2014. Click here for the Netflix press release.

eBay(PBR167) asking users to change passwords because of limited account information data breach. Click here for the eBay press release.

KKR’s(PBR270) Brickman Group landscape service merges with snow services ValleyCrest to form $2 billion/yr company. Click here for the Brickman press release.

Monday, May 19, 2014:
Yahoo!(PBR492) Japan & SoftBank agree to cancel $3.17 billion agreement for mobile service eAccess. Click here for the Yahoo! Japan press release.

MasterCard(PBR306) to acquire India based global software & electronics payment services company ElectraCard. Click here for the MasterCard press release.

Sunday, May 18, 2014:
AT&T(PBR11) to acquire DirecTV(PBR89) for $95.00/share, $67.1 billion total transaction value. Click here for the AT&T press release.

Friday, May 16, 2014:
Abbott Labs(PBR126) acquiring Latin America based CFR Pharmaceuticals for $2.9 billion plus debt. Click here for the Abbott Labs press release.

Darden Restaurants(PBR300) selling Red Lobster chain to Golden Gate Capital for $2.1 billion cash. Click here for the Darden press release.

Chesapeake Energy(PB151) announces anticipated $4 billion in asset sales in 2014. Click here for the Chesapeake press release.

Thursday, May 15, 2014:
The Indianapolis Power & Light unit of AES(PBR169) gets approval to build 650 MW gas turbine power plant & natural gas conversion of a 200 MW coal plant, $636 million projects total. Click here for the AES press release.

General Motors(PBR7) announces 2.7 million vehicle recall for 5 safety features. Click here for the GM press release.

Germany’s Deutsche Bank selling The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas to a Blackstone(PBR373) real estate unit for $1.73 billion cash. Click here for the Deutsche Bank press release.

Kindred Healthcare(PBR475) proposes to acquire Gentiva Health Services(PBR941) for $14/share, $1.6 billion cash & stock. Click here for the Kindred press release.

Boston Scientific(PBR349) to acquire interventional division of Bayer AG for $415 million cash. Click here for the Boston Scientific press release.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the urban Consumer Price Index for April increased by 0.3%, 2.0% over the past 12 months. Click here for the BLS press release.

Wednesday, May 14, 2014:
American Intl Grp(AIG)(PBR41) completes $7.6 billion sale of its International Lease Finance Corp to AerCap Holdings NV. Click here for the AIG press release.

The Louisiana-Pacific(PBR864) $1.1 billion agreement to buy Canada’s Ainsworth Lumber has been terminiated. Click here for the L-P press release.

Sears Holdings(PBR81) is considering sale of its 51% stake in Sears Canada. Click here for the Sears press release.

Gannett(PBR456) purchasing 6 Texas TV stations from London Broadcasting Co for $215 million cash. Click here for the Gannett press release.

Acxiom(PBR1058) to acquire LiveRamp for $310 million. Click here for the Acxiom press release.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the Producer Price Index for April was up 0.6. Click here for the USBLS press release.

Tuesday, May 13, 2014:
Merck(PBR63) selling it’s opthalmology products unit to Japan’s Santen Pharmaceutical for $600+ million. Click here for the Merck press release.

Meh Labs announces that its self-destruct mobile messaging app Blink is now a part of Yahoo(PBR492). Click here for the Blink press release.

Monday, May 12, 2014:
Hillshire Brands(PBR271) to acquire Pinnacle Foods for $6.6 billion. Click here for the Hillshire Brands press release.

Allergan(PBR391) unanimously rejects Valeant Pharmaceutical $46 billion takeover bid, viewed as undervalued. Click here for the Allergan press release.

Vantiv(PBR857) to acquire POS payment systems vendor Mercury Payment Systems from Silver Lake investment group for $1.65 billion. Click here for the Vantiv press release.

Friday, May 9, 2014:
DR Horton(PBR394) acquiring Atlanta based home builder Crown Communities for $210 million cash. Click here for the DR Horton press release.

Thursday, May 8, 2014:
Omnicom Group(PBR192) & France’s Publicis Groupe agree to terminate proposed $35 billion merger agreement. Click here for the Omnicrom press release.

Liberty Media(PBR564) in 1st quarter 2014 report announces plan to spin off Liberty Broadband Group cable business into separate public company. Click here for the Liberty Media press release.

Fannie Mae(PBR16) reports 1st quarter net income of $5.3 billion, will pay US government $5.7 billion dividend in June. Click here for the Fannie Mae press release.

Freeport-McMoRan(PBR131) buying Apache Corp(PBR166) deepwater gulf assets for $1.4 billion. Click here for the Freeport-McMoRan press release.

Time Warner(PBR92) announces spin-off dividend of Time, Inc, which will become a separate public company. Click here for the Time Warner press release.

Discovery Communications(PBR433) & England based Liberty Global forming 50/50 joint venture to buy TV producer & distributor All3Media for $930 million. Click here for the Discovery press release.

Wednesday, May 7, 2014:
Ford Motor(PBR8) announces $1.8 billion stock repurchase program to offset share dilution; consistent with capital strategy. Click here for the Ford press release.

Mondelez Intl(PBR84) & Netherland’s DE Masters Blenders 1753 to form world’s leading $7 billion in revenues pure-play coffee company. Click here for the Mondelez Intl press release.

Hyatt(PBR542) selling its Residential Group timesharing service & Maui property to Interval Leisure Group(NR) for $136 million. Click here for the Hyatt press release.

The International Olympic Committee awards broadcast rights through 2032 to the NBCUniversal unit of Comcast(PBR44). Click here for the Comcast press release.

Tuesday, May 6, 2014:
The US Dept of Commerce/Bureau of Economic Analysis says March international trade was $193.9B for exports, $234.3B for imports, $40.4B deficit, down from $41.9B in Feb. Click here for the BEA press release.

Merck(PBR63) selling its consumer care business to Germany’s Bayer AG for $14.2 billion. Click here for the Merck press release.

Office Depot(PBR232) in 1st quarter report announces it will close 400 US stores, 150 in 2014. Click here for the Office Depot press release.

AOL(PBR801) buying ad tracker Convertro(NR) for $101 million. Click here for the AOL press release.

Xerox(PBR127) acquiring workers compensation firm ISG Holdings for $225 million. Click here for the Xerox press release.

Boston Scientific(PBR349) is acquiring 100% of gynecological surgery pre-commercial stage firm IoGyn for $65 million. Click here for the Boston Scientific press release.

Monday, May 5, 2014:
Target(PBR37) board announces resignation of Chair/Pres/CEO Greg Steinhafel; CFO John Mulligan named Interim Pres/CEO. Click here for the Target press release.

PBRMarketTools.com releases its The PBR1000 April Stocks/Commodities Recap report. Click here for the PBRMarketTools.com blog post.

The Institute for Supply Management(ISM) reports that in April its Non-Manufacturing ISM index rose to 55.2%, Business Activity Index up at 60.9%, New Orders Index up at 58.2%, and Employment Index down a little at 51.3%. Click here for the ISM press release.

Friday, May 2, 2014:
The US Dept of Labor reports that 288,000 jobs were created in April, unemployment fell from 6.7% to 6.3%. Click here for the USDOL press release.

News Corp(PBR290) acquiring Canada’s Torstar’s fiction publisher Harlequin for $414 million. Click here for the News Corp press release.

Visteon(PBR335) selling majority of auto interiors business to Cerberus Capital Management affiliate. Click here for the Visteon press release.

The Textron(PBR217) E-Z-GO unit acquires aviation ground support manufacturer TUG Techologies. Click here for the Textron press release.

Thursday, May 1, 2014:
Click here for the The PBR1000 April 2014 Breaking News Recap blog post.

Ford Motor(PBR8) announces Pres/CEO Alan Mulally to retire on July 1, COO Mark Fields to become Pres/CEO. Click here for the Ford press release.

Berkshire Hathaway(PBR4) Energy unit acquiring Canadian transmission company AltaLink for $2.9 billion. Click here for the BHE press release.

Telephone & Data Systems(PBR476) buying Oregon based BendBroadband for $261 million. Click here for the TDS press release.

Viacom(PBR201) to acquire UK’s Channel 5 for $757 million. Click here for the Viacom press release.

YUM!(PBR206) Chair/CEO David Novak to become Exec Chair on 01/01/15, Greg Creed to become CEO. Click here for the YUM! press release.

Ferrellgas Partners(PBR885) acquiring private fluid logistics South Texas company Sable Environmental(NR) for $125 million. Click here for the Ferrellgas press release.

The official start of summer is in June. Let’s see what hot deals are made during the month!

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

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

The PBR1000: The April 2014 Breaking News Recap!

ID-10056573 Business People and World-Kookkai_nakBy Larry C. Paxton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(Graphic courtesy of Kookai_nak/FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

 

The PBR1000: March Stocks/Commodities Recap!

Buy Hold And Sell Dice Representing Market StrategyBy Larry C. Paxton

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

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

 

 

 

 

Table 1: The PBR1000 Composite

Company Price
03/31/14
Mo
% Chg
YTD
% Chg
15 Mos
% Chg
The PBR1000 258,185.34 5.43 4.24 38.86

 

Table 2: The PBR1000 Top 5 Month % Gainers

Company Price
03/31/14
Mo
% Chg
YTD
% Chg
15 Mos
% Chg
Big Lots 37.87 28.16 17.23 33.06
Willbros Group 12.62 27.73 33.97 135.45
Systemax 14.91 26.68 32.53 54.51
Stage Stores 24.45 23.48 10.04 -1.33
First Solar 69.75 22.29 27.73 126.15

 

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

Company Price
03/31/14
Mo
% Chg
YTD
% Chg
15 Mos
% Chg
Green Plains Renewable Energy 29.96 13.36 54.59 278.76
Forest Labs 92.27 -5.43 53.71 161.24
Freescale Semiconductor 24.41 7.30 52.09 121.71
Emeritus Corp 31.44 -.29 45.35 27.18
Hawaiian Holdings 13.96 15.95 44.96 112.48

 

Table 4: The PBR1000 Top 5 15 Months % Gainers

Company Price
03/31/14
Mo
% Chg
YTD
% Chg
15 Mos
% Chg
Fannie Mae 3.90 -18.75 29.57 1,400.00
Freddie Mac 3.86 -16.45 33.10 1,384.62
Tesla Motors 208.45 -14.85 38.57 515.14
SunEdison 18.84 2.61 44.37 486.92
SunPower Corp 32.26 -2.63 8.22 474.02

 

Table 5: The PBR1000 Selected Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company Price
03/31/14
Mo
% Chg
YTD
% Chg
15 Mos
% Chg
DJIA 16,457.66 0.83 -0.72 25.59
NASDAQ 4,198.99 -2.53 0.54 39.06
S&P500 1,872.34 0.69 1.30 31.28
Gold 1,285.30 -3.26 6.90 -23.59
Silver 19.72 -7.29 1.81 -35.05
Oil 101.39 -1.33 3.02 8.21

 

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

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

The PBR1000: The March 2014 Breaking News Recap!

hand working business

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

By Larry C. Paxton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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