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The PBR1000 May 2018 Stocks & Commodities Snapshots

June 7, 2018 by admin

May 2018: The Stock Market Bull Dominates

The Stock Market Bull wins 2 months in a row. Will geopolitical issues and upcoming US elections stop the streak?

By Larry C. Paxton

The month of May was a lot less volatile than April, at least according to the numbers. With all kinds of geopolitical issues arising creating a lot of uncertainty, and US primary and general elections soon to be center stage, it would seem that volatility should increase. But the US and global economies are doing well, though there are concerns about national debt and employee wage growth is still not growing as much as anticipated. The bottom line is that at the end of the month the Stock Market Bull has won two months in a row and now leads the Stock Market Bear 3 months to 2 months so far in 2018.

The May 2018 US Major Stock Market Exchanges Summary

Number of Trading Days: 22

Number of Gain(+)/Loss(-) Days: DJIA 13+/9-; NASDAQ 12+/10-; SPX 11+/11-.

Record Days: DJIA 0, NASDAQ 0, SPX 0

Longest Gain Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 8 days(05/03-14/18), NASDAQ 5 days(05/04-10/18), SPX 4 days(05/09-14/18)

Longest Loss Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 4 days(04/27-05/02/18), NASDAQ 2 days(05/02-03/18, 05/17-18/18), SPX 2 days(05/02-03/18)

Big Swing Up Days(>1.00%): 4 days(05/04(DNS), 04/04(NS), 05/09(N), 05/21(D), 05/30(DS))

Big Swing Down Days(<-1.00%): 2 days(05/29(DS), 05/31(D))

The PBR1000 May 2018 Snapshots

The following are Top 5 partial tables excerpts from The PBR1000 May 2018 Snapshots. The price for stocks is for the close of trading on May 31, Month % Chg is compared to April 30, YTD % Chg is compared to December 29, 2017, and the 17 Months % Chg is compared to December 30, 2016. The PBR Rank is by annual revenues.

To get the complete The PBR1000 Snapshots just click here to get your 2 month or significantly discounted 12 month subscription and automatically download the May 2018 edition with the complete 15 Snapshots and 25 rankings and the bonus The PBRMarketTools US Monthly Indices Snapshots.

Table 1(S11): The PBR1000 Top 5 Month Stock Price % Gainers

Table 1 Summary: The range was +88% to -60%. 606 out of 1,000 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 1.5%, the median was a gain of 1.9%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 05/31/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	17 Mos % Chg
Essendant	507	ESND	13.99	+88	+51	-33
Chesapeake Energy	304	CHK	4.47	+51	+13	-36
Wayfair	524	W	92.35	+48	+15	+163
Tenet Healthcare	142	THC	35.43	+48	+134	+139
ArcBest	718	ARCB	47.45	+48	+33	+72

Table 2(S12): The PBR1000 Top 5 Year-To-Date Stock Price % Gainers

Table 2 Summary: The range was +315% to -65%. 449 out of 1,000 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 0.0%, the median was a loss of 1.6%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 05/31/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	17 Mos % Chg
BlueLinx	884	BXC	40.55	+1	+315	+443
Fossil	728	FOSL	21.88	+46	+182	-15
Tenet Healthcare	142	THC	35.43	+48	+134	+139
Whiting Petroleum	953	WLL	52.42	+28	+98	+9
Netflix	253	NFLX	351.60	+13	+83	+184

Table 3(S13): The PBR1000 Top 5 17 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: The range was +558% to -92%. 646 out of 1,000 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 19.1%. The median was a gain of 11.5%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 05/31/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	17 Mos % Chg
Weight Watchers	976	WTW	75.32	+8	+70	+558
BlueLinx	884	BXC	40.55	+1	+315	+443
Square	832	SQ	58.25	+23	+68	+327
Scientific Games	690	SGMS	59.30	+11	+16	+324
Systemax	982	SYX	33.02	+5	-1	+277

Table 4(S15): The PBR1000 Top 5 Market Capitalization

Table 4 Summary: The range was $921 billion to $0.01 billion. The average is $26.2 billion, median is $8.2 billion, out of 1,000 companies.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Market Cap($B) 05/31/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	17 Mos % Chg
Apple	4	AAPL	921	+12	+5	+49
Amazon	8	AMZN	788	+3	+42	+121
Microsoft	31	MSFT	760	+3	+15	+57
Alphabet	21	GOOG	745	+4	+2	+40
Facebook	69	FB	543	+8	+6	+64
The PBR1000			26,248	+2	+1	+20

Table 5: The PBR1000 Index & Primary US Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company	Price 05/31/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	17 Mos % Chg
The PBR1000	86,248.83	+1.5	+0.0	+19.1
DJIA	24,415.84	+1.1	-1.2	+23.6
NASDAQ	7,442.12	+5.3	+7.8	+38.3
S&P500	2,705.27	+2.2	+1.2	+20.8
GOLD	1,304.70	-1.0	-0.0	+13.3
SILVER	16.46	+0.6	-3.1	+2.9
OIL	67.04	-2.2	+11.6	+24.8

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

(Image courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net, ddpavumba.)

Filed Under: Snapshots Tagged With: Business Intelligence, business news, Commodities, DJIA, Economy, Investing, Money, NASDAQ, Personal Finance, Rankings, Research, S&P 500, Stock Market, Stocks, The PBR1000, Trading, Wealth Management

The PBR1000 May 2018 Breaking News Recap

June 4, 2018 by admin

The PBR1000 May 2018 Breaking News Items

Global trade has become a critical issue. Will world leaders be able to find fair and equitable solutions? Let’s hope so.

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

***Thursday, May 31:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Month of May Ending 05/31/18:

May 2018 Summary: Geopolitical issues(N Korea, Iran, China, Italy) and US trade policies(tariffs) grabbed most of the headlines during May and caused volatility in the stock market, But the US economy continues to grow at a moderate rate and looks to continue that trend in the near future. Unemployment is very low, the tech sector had a major rally, and corporate earnings were better than expected. As a result, the Stock Market Bull wins May, the second win in a row, and is ahead of the Stock Market Bear with 3 months of wins to 2 months.

DJIA ends May at 24,415.84, -1.36% from last Friday, +1.05% MTD, +1.30 QTD, -1.23% YTD, -8.27% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends May at 7,442.12, +0.11% from last Friday, +5.32% MTD, +5.36% QTD, +7.80% YTD, -1.93% from record 7,588.32 set 03/12/18.

SPX ends May at 2,705.27, -0.59% from last Friday, +2.16% MTD, +2.44% QTD, +1.18% YTD, -5.83% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

General Motors(PBR12) to get $2.25 billion investment from SoftBank Vision Fund for in automated driving venture GM Cruise Holdings, values GM Cruise at $11.5 billion, GM to also invest $1.1 billion. $GM PR link.

Delta(PBR68), Los Angeles World Airportsprepare for construction of $1.86 billion Delta Sky Way at LAX. $DAL PR link.

Hartford Financial(PBR166) completes $2.05 billion sale of its run-off life and annuity businesses Talcott Resolution to an investment group. $HIG PR link.

Sears(PBR168) has identified around 100 non-profitable stores, to close 72 in near future, continuing to evaluate sale of some or all assets to ESL Investments. $SHLD PR link.

LKQ(PBR295) completes $1.8 billion acquisition of Germany based European wholesale distributor of aftermarket spare parts for passenger cars, tools, capital equipment and accessories provider Stahlgruber. $LKQ PR link.

Assurant(PBR424) completes $2.5 billion acquisition of $1 billion revenues/2017 vehicle protection and financial services provider The Warranty Group. $AIZ PR link.

Wyndham Worldwide(PBR503) completes $1.95 billion acquisition of La Quinta(PBR998). $WYN PR link.

Symantec(PBR581) receives non-compliance notice from NASDAQ for not filing its annual 10-K report for year ended 03/31/18 on time, expects to submit a plan to regain compliance. $SYMC PR link.

Brink’s(PBR660) to acquire Hunt Valley, MD, based 5,400 employees 78 locations Dunbar Armored, the fourth largest US cash management company, for approximately $520 million cash, to close by end of 2018. $BCO PR link.

Sanderson Farms(PBR661) extends share repurchase program to 05/31/21, increases authorization from 1.0 million to 2.0 million shares. $SAFM PR link.

SM Energy(PBR997) completes combined $292.3 million sale of its remaining assets in the Williston Basin in Divide County, N Dakota, and the third-party operated assets Halff East in Upton County, TX. $SM PR link.

GameStop(PBR310) board member Shane Kim to serve as interim CEO, Rob Lloyd promoted to COO/CFO, Dan DeMatteo to continue serving as Executive Chairman. $GME PR link.

Celgene(PBR219) hires David Elkins as EVP/CFO, effective 08/01/18, succeeds Peter Kellogg who will become EVP/Chief Corporate Strategy Officer until his retirment in mid 2019. $CELG PR link.

Biogen(PBR238) hires Daniel Karp as EVP/Corporate Development, effective 06/11/18. $BIIB PR link.

Pioneer Natural Resources(PBR477)SVP/Investor Relations Frank Hopkins is retires, Neal Shah promoted as successor. $PXD PR link.

Pentair(PBR512) promotes Phil Rolchigo, PhD, to EVP/Chief Technology Officer. $PNR PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says the US National Debt on 05/30/18 was Public $15.398 trillion, Intragovernmental $5.707 trillion, Total $21.105 trillion, +0.2% from 04/30/18, +3.0% YTD, +6.3% from 05/31/17. USTreasury PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US 4 Week Moving Average Initial Unemployment Claims on 05/26/18 were at 222,250, -3.1% from 04/21/18, -5.5% from 05/25/17; Total 4 Week Moving Average Total Insured Unemployment on 05/19/18 was 1,743,500, -10.6% from 04/14/18, -9.8% from 05/18/17; Insured Unemployment Rate on 05/19/18 is 1.2%. USDOL PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR38) says US Average 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rate on 05/31/18 is at 4.56%, on 04/26/18 was at 4.58%, 03/29/18 4.44%, 05/25/17 3.95%. $FMCC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/BEA says US Preliminary April 2018 Total Personal Income Annual Rate is at $16.935 trillion, +0.3% from March 2018, +3.8% from April 2017. USDOC PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says the 7th District Preliminary April 2018 Midwest Economy Index is at +0.53, March 2018 was +0.52, February 2018 +0.41, April 2017 +0.49. ChiFed PR link.

The MNI May 2018 Chicago Business Barometer(>50 economy gaining) is at 62.7, April 2018 was 57.6, March 2018 57.4, May 2017 59.4. MNI/Chicago ISM PR link.

The US Energy Information Administrationsays US Crude Oil Stocks on 05/25/18 were at 434.5 million barrels of oil, +1.1% from 04/20/18, -15.8% from 05/24/17. EIA PR link.

The American Automobile Assn says the US National Average for Gas/Gallon on 05/31/18was at $2.959, on 04/30/18 it was $2.811, 03/30/18 $2.654, 05/31/17 $2.372. AAA PR link.

The August 2018 Closing Electronic Gold Price/Ounce on 05/31/18 was at $1,304.70, -0.9% from 04/30/18, -0.0% from 12/31/17, +2.3% from 05/31/17. MarketWatch PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says the US 05/31/18 30 Year Treasury Bond Yield closed at 3.00%, on 04/30/18 was at 3.11%, 03/29/18 2.97%, 05/31/17 2.87%. USTreasury PR link.

The Closing Exchange Rate for a Euro on 05/31/18 was $1.1693 US Dollars. MarketWatch Quote PR link.

***Wednesday, May 30:

Walmart(PBR1) to provide a new associate education benefit in partnership with Guild Education, will subsidize the cost of college tuition, books and fees, associate contribution only $1/day. $WMT PR link.

Amazon(PBR8) Prime member discounts now available at an additional 121 Whole Foodsmarkets in 12 states, now available at all 365 stores. $AMZN PR link.

Pfizer(PBR55) gets US FDA approval for ulcerative colitis therapy XELJANZ® (tofacitinib). $PFE PR link.

21st Century Fox(PBR102) sets 07/10/18 for special meeting for stockholders to vote on $52.4 billion in stock acquisition of certain assets by Walt Disney(PBR53), may move or adjourn meeting if Comcast(PBR33) also makes a bid. $FOX PR link.

NGL Energy(PBR218) to sell its remaining Retail Propane business to Superior Plus Corp(TSX:SPB) for $900 million cash, to close within 60 days. $NGL PR link.

Tesla(PBR251 $TSLA) Model 3 now gets recommendation of Consumer Reports after its testers found that a recent over-the-air (OTA) update improved the car’s braking distance by almost 20 feet, still has other issues which CEO Elon Musk says are being addressed. CR PR link.

Jones Lang LaSalle(PBR346) wholly owned subsidiary LaSalle unit to acquire the $7 billion of assets under management Real Estate Multi-Manager business of Aviva Investors, and full ownership of the gross asset value of around $2 billion management of the Encore+ fund. $JLL PR link.

Polaris Industries(PBR480) to acquire privately held largest pontoon boat manufacturer in the US Boat Holdings for around net $705 million cash, to close in 3Q18. $PII PR link.

T Rowe Price(PBR520) to close its Tampa, FL, operations center in 06/19, consolidate into Maryland and Colorado centers, to affect 400 positions. $TROW PR link.

Michael Kors(PBR556) in 4Q18 report says it will continue to explore acquisitions in FY2019 to complement their existing luxury portfolio. $KORS PR link.

Iron Mountain(PBR598) acquires Dutch EvoSwitch data center business for $235 million. $IRM PR link.

Monster Beverage(PBR653) authorizes new up to $500 million share repurchase program. $MNST PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says US 1Q18 2nd Estimate Gross Domestic Product Annual Growth Rate is at +2.2%, $19.957 trillion, +1.0% from 4Q17, +4.7% from 1Q17. USDOC PR link.

The US Federal Reserve releases Beige Book, from data collected on or before 05/21/18, says economic activity expanded moderately in late April and early May with few shifts in the pattern of growth, outlooks for near term growth were generally upbeat. USFed PR link.

ADP(PBR235) says US Preliminary May 2018 Change In National Employment was +178,000, +38,000 from Small Businesses, +84,000 from Medium Sized Businesses, and +56,000 from Large Businesses; Goods Producing Sector was +64,000 jobs, Service Sector +114,000. $ADP PR link.

Healthcare News: Statement by US FDACommissioner Scott Gottlieb, MD, on President Trump’s signing of the Right to Try Act. FDA PR link.

***Tuesday, May 29:

Amazon(PBR8) to open its first Oklahomafulfillment center, in Oklahoma City, 600,000 sf facility, to create 1,500+ full-time jobs by end of 2019. $AMZN PR link.

Walt Disney(PBR53)’s ABC unit cancels hit revival sitcom show “Roseanne” after Roseanne Barr’s racist tweet about former Obama adviser Valerie Jarrett. $DIS PR link.

Starbucks(PBR124) executive chairman/founder Howard Schultz sends open letter reminding everyone that today 8,000 Starbucks locations will be closed in the afternoon for training of its 175,000 partners, follow-on to recent incident in Philadelphia. $SBUX PR link.

WellCare Health Plans(PBR165) to acquire private $4.3 billion in revenues in 2018 Meridian Health Plan of Michigan, Inc., Meridian Health Plan of Illinois, Inc., and MeridianRx, a pharmacy benefit manager (PBM), (collectively, “Meridian”) for $2.5 billion in cash by end of 2018. $WCG PR link.

Allergan(PBR173) issues voluntary US recall of one lot (Lot# 5620706, Expiry May-2019) of TAYTULLA® 1mg/20mcg, 6×28 physicians sample pack, for use by women to prevent pregnancy, first four days of therapy had four non-hormonal placebo capsules instead of active capsules. $AGN PR link.

Monsanto(PBR194 $MON) $66 billion acquisition by Germany based Bayer AGgranted conditional approval by US Dept of Justice, Bayer must divest $9 billion in business and assets to BASF. USDOJ PR link.

Monsanto(PBR194 $MON) $66 billion acquisition by Germany based Bayer AGconditions set by US Dept of Justice to be completed in around 2 months. Bayer PR link.

Kinder Morgan(PBR213) to sell Canadian Trans Mountain Pipeline system and the expansion project (TMEP) to the Canadian government for around C$ 4.5 billion(US$ 3.5 billion) by early 4Q18. $KMI PR link.

MGM Resorts(PBR270) and MGM Growth Properties(NYSE: MGP) to acquire the real property and operations associated with the Empire City Casino‘s race track and casino for $850 million. $MGM PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR441) to acquire Simi Valley, CA, based retail property/casualty broker, and employee benefits consultant and broker Thomas Costello Insurance Agency, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

SCANA(PBR545) to hold special stockholders meeting on 07/31/18 to vote on stock-for-stock merger into Dominion Energy(PBR228). $SCG PR link.

KKR(PBR670) to acquire global 10,000+ customers and 6,000 employees digital and IT infrastructure with a broad portfolio of software solutions provider BMC Software from a private investor group led by Bain Capital Private Equity and Golden Gate Capital, terms not disclosed. $KKR PR link.

Brown-Forman(PBR597) CEO Paul Varga to retire, effective 12/31/18, EVP/COO Lawson E Whiting to be successor. $BFA PR link.

HP Inc(PBR56) to promote Steve Fieler to CFO, effective 07/01/18, succeeds Cathie Lesjak who will become interim COO then retire in early 2019. $HPQ PR link.

Ocwen Financial(PBR991) EVP/CFO Michael Bourque leaving effective 06/22/18, new CFO search starts. $OCN PR link.

Tenet Healthcare(PBR141) appoints General Lloyd J. Austin, III, retired 4 star Army general, and Meghan M. FitzGerald, DrPH, Managing Partner at healthcare investment fund L1 Health and Assistant Professor of Health Policy at Columbia University, to the Board. $THC PR link.

Molina Healthcare(PBR146) elects Richard Zoretic, retired EVP of WellPoint, to the Board effective 08/01/18. $MOH PR link.

Hub Group(PBR579) elects Mary Boosalis, President /CEO of Premier Health, to the Board. $HUBG PR link.

Service Corp Intl(PBR688) elects Jakki L. Haussler, co-founder/CEO of Opus Capital Management, and Sara Martinez Tucker, chairman of The U of Texas Board of Regents, to the Board. $SCI PR link.

ServiceMaster(PBR707) appoints Steven B. Hochhauser, former chairman/CEO of Johns Manville, to the Board. $SERV PR link.

The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller US March 2018 National Home Prices Index(01/2000=100) is at 198.94, February 2018 was 197.29, January 2018 196.47, March 2017 186.74. Case-Shiller PR link.

The Conference Board US Preliminary May 2018 Consumer Confidence Index(1985=100)is at 128.0, April 2018 was at 125.6. TCB PR link.

***Monday, May 28:

***US Federal Holiday: Memorial Day.
Remembering those who made
the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms
we enjoy and cherish today.***

***Friday, May 25:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 05/25/18:

In a repeat of last week the Stock Market Bullhad an excellent Monday and Wednesday was okay, but the Stock Market Bear took Tuesday,Thursday, and 2 out of 3 on Friday. However, it wasn’t enough and Week 21 belongs to the Stock Market Bull. Both have now won 10 weeks with one week a mixed result. All indices are in positive territory for the week, month, quarter, and now year, but still below their records.

DJIA ends the week at 24,753.09, +0.15% from last Friday, +2.44% MTD, +2.70 QTD, +0.14% YTD, -7.00% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends the week at 7,433.85, +1.08% from last Friday, +5.20% MTD, +5.24% QTD, +7.68% YTD, -2.04% from record 7,588.32 set 03/12/18.

SPX ends the week at 2,721.33, +0.31% from last Friday, +2.77% MTD, +3.05% QTD, +1.78% YTD, -5.27% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

PepsiCo(PBR43) to acquire Bare Foods C(dba Bare Snacks), a US-based maker of baked fruit and vegetable snacks, terms not disclosed. $PEP PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR125) extends $127.50/share tender offer for acquisition of NXP Semiconductors(NASDAQ: NXPI) to 06/08/18 5PM Eastern, 4.0% of the outstanding NXP common shares have been validly tendered. $QCOM PR link.

Principal Financial(PBR206) now has 60% ownership of CIMB-Principal Asset Management Group and CIMB-Principal Islamic Asset Management in SE Asia joint venture. $PFG PR link.

LabCorp(PBR283) to become a preferred national laboratory for Aetna(PBR48)‘s 20 million customers per extended and expanded agreement to be effective 01/01/19. $LH PR link.

Coty(PBR363)’s Professional Beauty division opens new N America headquarters on 26 acre campus in Calabasas, CA. $COTY PR link.

Windstream(PBR459) completes reverse 1:5 stock split. $WIN PR link.

Herbalife(PBR544 $HLF) largest shareholder Icahn Enterprises(PBR147) tendering up to 11.4 million Herbalife shares of its 45.7 million shares because it is an outsized position currently. MarketWatch PR link.

Great Plains Energy(PBR757) $14 billion merger of equals with Westar Energy(PBR769)gets final regulatory approvals, transaction to close in 06/18, merged company to be called Evergy, Inc. (NYSE: EVRG). $GXP PR link.

UPS(PBR41) hires Kevin Warren as SVP/Chief Marketing Officer. $UPS PR link.

Tesla(PBR251) hires Stuart Bowers as VP/Engineering, James Zhou VP/CFO-China, and several director level executive positions. $TSLA PR link.

Delek US(PBR378) and Delek Logistics Partners(NYSE:DKL) hire Regina Bynote Jones as EVP/General Counsel and Secretary. $DK PR link.

The U of Michigan US Final May 2018 Consumer Sentiment Index is at 98.0, April 2018 was 98.8, March 2018 101.4, May 201797.1. UMich PR link.

***Thursday, May 24:

Apple(PBR4 $AAPL) wins iPhone patent infringement law suit, to receive $539 million from Samsung. MarketWatch PR link.

McKesson(PBR6) in fiscal year 2018 report announces an additional share repurchase authorization of $4 billion. $MCK PR link.

VISA(PBR153) makes strategic investment in YellowPepper to accelerate adoption of mobile payments and tokenization in Latin Americaand the Caribbean, expansion of partnership started in 2017. $V PR link.

Celgene(PBR219) authorizes additional $3 billion share repurchase program, to do $2 billion accelerated share repurchase using existing program and part of the new authorization. $CELG PR link.

First Data(PBR244) to sell $120 million in revenues in 2017 card processing businesses in parts of Central and Southeastern Europe for around $450 million to European high tech payment infrastructure and services provider SIA. $FDC PR link.

UNUM(PBR259) authorizes new up to $750 million share repurchase program, expires 11/24/19, replaces previous $750 million authorization scheduled to expire 11/25/18. $UNM PR link.

Clorox(PBR453) authorizes up to $2 billion share repurchase program, replaces existing $750 million program. $CLX PR link.

Windstream(PBR459) to upgrade its cable TV network internet speeds in N Georgia from 100 megabits-per second(Mbps) to 300 Mbps within next 12 months, serves 67,000 households. $WIN PR link.

Cimarex Energy(PBR869) to sell oil and gas properties principally located in Ward County, TX, to Callon Petroleum for $570 million cash. $XEC PR link.

AGNC Investment(PBR978) has priced a public offering of 30,000,000 shares of common stock, expects total gross proceeds of about $558.0 million. $AGNC PR link.

Ryman Hospitality(PBR993) to do $150 million expansion of Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Kissimmee, FL, adds 303 new guest rooms, 90,000 sf of convention space. $RHP PR link.

Molina Healthcare(PBR146) hires Thomas Tran as CFO/Treasurer effective 06/04/18, succeeds retiring Joseph White. $MOH PR link.

KeyCorp(PBR399) Chief Human Resources Officer Craig Buffie to retire in 2H18, Brian Fishel to be successor. $KEY PR link.

La-Z-Boy(PBR946) hires Melinda D. Whittington as SVP/CFO effective 06/21/18, to succeed retiring Louis M. (“Mike”) Riccio. $LZB PR link.

Bed Bath & Beyond(PBR236) appoints Stephanie Bell-Rose, senior managing director at TIAA, to the Board. $BBBY PR link.

Conagra Brands(PBR351) appoints Anil Arora, director and vice-chairman of Envestnet, to the Board, effective 07/17/18. $CAG PR link.

TDS(PBR504) elects James (Jim) W. Butman, President/CEO of wholly owned subsidiary TDS Telecom, to the Board. $TDS PR link.

Kennametal(PBR853) elects Lorraine M. Martin, recently retired EVP and deputy of Lockheed(PBR64)’s Rotary and Mission Systems, to the Board effective 07/01/18. $KMT PR link.

The Natl Assn of Realtors says US April 2018 Existing Home Sales Annual Rate is at 5,460,000, -2.5% from March 2018, -1.4% from April 2017; April 2018 Median Price was $257,900, +3.0% from March 2018, +5.3% from April 2017. NAR PR link.

***Wednesday, May 23:

Walmart(PBR1 $WMT) to acquire Japan’s SoftBank Group‘s 21% stake in India’s e-commerce provider Flipkart, in addition to $16 billion for the 77% stake it is acquiring.MarketWatch PR link.

ExxonMobil(PBR3) to reduce 2016 levels of methane emissions by 15%, flaring by 25% by 2020. $XOM PR link.

Kroger(PBR17) to acquire Chicago, IL, based 1,000 employees $250 million in profitable sales in 2017 largest US private meal kit company Home Chef for $200 million plus up to $500 million based on milestones achieved over next 5 years. $KR PR link.

Anthem(PBR30) to acquire largest US non-hospice, community-based palliative care provider Aspire Health, terms not disclosed, to close 3Q18. $ANTM PR link.

Comcast(PBR33) considering superior all-cash offer to acquire 21st Century Fox(PBR102) after spinoff of “New Fox.” $CMCSA PR link.

IBM(PBR34) to add 1,800 jobs over 2 years in France to drive innovation in AI, blockchain, cloud computing and IoT. $IBM PR link.

Southern Co(PBR119)’s Southern Power unit to sell a 33% minority interest in its solar portfolio to Global Atlantic Financial Group Limited for $1.175 billion. $SO PR link.

Huntsman(PBR333) authorizes increase of $450 million share buyback program to $1 billion. $HUN PR link.

Chipotle(PBR537) to relocate its headquarters, currently in Denver, CO, to Newport Beach, CA, will impact 400 employees in Denver and New York. $CMG PR link.

Herbalife(PBR544) renews partnership through 2021 as official nutrition sponsor of international soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo. $HLF PR link.

Tiffany(PBR568) approves up to $1 billion share repurchase program, effective 06/01/18 through 01/31/22, replaces 2016 program. $TIF PR link.

Qorvo(PBR694) authorizes new up to $1 billion share repurchase program, includes $126 million remaining under previous plan. $QRVO PR link.

Wynn Resorts(PBR403) stockholders at annual meeting vote 14.0 million votes for and 55.9 million votes against the proposed executive officers compensation plan, a non-binding advisory vote. $WYNN PR link.

Revlon(PBR747) promotes COO Debra Perelman to President/CEO, effective immediately, is daughter of Board Chairman Ronald O. Perelman. $REV PR link.

Macy’s(PBR114) hires Paula Price as CFO, effective 07/09/18, to succeed retiring Karen Hoguet. $M PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR121) SVP and President/Lilly Oncology Sue Mahony, PhD, to retire effective 08/31/18 after 18 years with the company. $LLY PR link.

Lear Corp(PBR142) hires Rashida Thomas as Chief Diversity Officer and Director/Talent Management. $LEA PR link.

Patterson Cos(PBR471) hires Donald Zurbay as CFO, effective 06/29/18, and Andrea Frohning as Chief Human Resources Officer, effective immediately. $PDCO PR link.

Cooper Cos(PBR844) hires Holly Sheffield as EVP/Chief Strategy Officer, effective 06/04/18; Dr. Robert Auerbach now President/CooperSurgical. $COO PR link.

Avnet(PBR160) appoints Oleg Khaykin, president/CEO of Viavi Solutions, to the Board. $AVT PR link.

Diebold Nixdorf(PBR529) appoints Ellen M. Costello, currently serving as an independent director on the board of Citigroup(PBR32), to the Board. $DBD PR link.

Sally Beauty(PBR589) appoints Denise Paulonis, EVP/CFO of The Michaels Companies(PBR503), to the Board. $SBH PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says US Preliminary April 2018 New Family Homes Sold Annual Rate is at 662,000, -1.5% from March 2018, +11.6% from April 2017; April 2018 Median Home Price was at $312,400, -6.9% from March 2018, +0.4% from April 2017; April 2018 Months Supply at 5.4. USDOC PR link.

The Federal Open Market Committee releases minutes of its 05/01-02/18 meeting, notes labor market had continued to strengthen and that economic activity had been rising at a moderate rate, no federal funds rate increase, but a 90% chance for one at the 06/18 meeting. FOMC PR link.

***Tuesday, May 22:

Anthem(PBR30) to remain headquartered in Indianapolis, IN, spending $20 million in renovations for its new corporate offices in downtown area. $ANTM PR link.

MetLife(PBR46) authorizes new $1.5 billion share repurchase program, $370 million still available from 2017 authorization. $MET PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR121)’s Taltz® (ixekizumab)receives the first US FDA approval for label update to Include data for psoriasis involving the genital area. $LLY PR link.

PPG(PBR192) gets NYSE notice regarding delayed Form 10-Q filing, has 6 months to be in compliance. $PPG PR link.

Tesla(PBR251 $TSLA) CEO Elon Musk says braking distance issue mentioned by Consumer Reports is a firmware fix which will be rolled out in a few days. MarketWatch PR link.

Electronic Arts(PBR518) acquires Israel based cloud gaming technology assets and personnel of a wholly owned subsidiary of GameFly, terms not disclosed. $EA PR link.

Varian Medical(PBR749) will not submit a counterproposal to competing bid by Chinabased CDH Investments for acquisition of Australian based interventional oncology radiation therapies provider Sirtex Medical Limited (ASX: SRX), explains why its $1.28 billion bid is the better one. $VAR PR link.

Portland General Electric(PBR857) issues request for proposals seeking an additional 100 average megawatts of renewable power generating resources, minimum bid size 10 megawatts, bids due by 06/15/18. $POR PR link.

Lowe’s(PBR40) hires JCPenney(PBR230) Chairman/CEO Marvin Ellison as President/CEO, effective 07/02/18, succeeds retiring Robert Niblock, director Richard W. Dreiling to also become Chairman. $LOW PR link.

JCPenney(PBR230) Chairman/CEO Marvin Ellison resigns effective 06/01/18 to take position at Lowe’s(PBR40), lead independent director Ron Tysoe elected Chairman, Office of the CEO formed with 4 senior executives assigned. $JCP PR link.

Qurate Retail(PBR278) names Jeff Yurcisin as President of Zulilly, effective 08/15/18, Mary Campbell as Qurate Retail Group Chief Merchandising and Interactive Officer effective immediately, Aidan O’Meara to President/Qurate Retail Group International effective 07/02/18, and Tom Bazzone to President/Frontgate. $QRTEA PR link.

Fred’s(PBR897) appoints Dana Goldsmith Needleman, principal of private real estate investment firm The Cogent Group, and Thomas Zacharias, President of real estate investment and advisory firm Zacharias & Co, to the Board. $FRED PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond says the US Fifth District May 2018 Manufacturing Index is at +16%, April 2018 was -3%, March 2018 +15%, May 2017 +3%. RichmondFed PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond says the US Fifth District May 2018 Services Revenues Index is at +11%, April 2018 was +2%, March 2018 +25%, May 2017 +24%. RichmondFed PR link.

Personal Finance: The US Federal Reserve in its Report on the Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households in 2017 says 4 out of 10 families would not be able to come up with $400 for an emergency, down from 50% in 2013. USFed PR link.

International Trade: China to cut import tariff on autos to 15% from 25%, auto parts to 6% from 8% to 25%, effective 07/01/18. MarketWatch PR link.

***Monday, May 21:

GE(PBR18) to spin-off GE Transportation unit which will then merge into Wabtec(PBR595)resulting in 50.1% ownership by GE and GE shareholders, 49.9% by Wabtec, in $11.1 billion deal, to close early 2019. $GE PR link.

Microsoft(PBR31) to acquire Berkeley, CA, based conversational Artificial Intelligence solutions developer Semantic Machines, terms not disclosed. $MSFT PR link.

Comcast(PBR33 $CMCSA) $30 billion bid for UK’s Sky plc unlikely to get an antitrust review, per a UK government official. MarketWatch PR link.

Southern Co(PBR119) to sell Florida assets Gulf Power Company, Florida City Gas and the entities holding Southern Power’s interests in Plant Oleander and Plant Stanton to NextEra Energy(PBR161) for $6.475 billion, includes debt. $SO PR link.

Amgen(PBR123) gets US FDA approval for the use of Prolia® (denosumab) for the treatment of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIOP) in men and women at high risk of fracture. $AMGN PR link.

Micron Technology(PBR144) authorizes up to $10 billion share repurchase program. $MU PR link.

Kohl’s(PBR149) expands millennial brand portfolio through an apparel collection with POPSUGAR, to launch in 09/18. $KSS PR link.

Tesla(PBR251 $TSLA)‘s announces new high-performance Model 3 for $78,000. MarketWatch PR link.

Tesla(PBR251 $TSLA) Model 3 falls short of a Consumer Reports recommendation despite record range and agile handling, cites issues with braking, controls, and ride quality.Consumer Reports PR link.

Fifth Third Bancorp(PBR358) to merge MB Financial(Nasdaq: MBFI) into its operations in $4.7 billion 90% stock/10% cash deal. $FITB PR link.

Adobe Systems(PBR377) to aquire B2C and B2B cloud commerce developer Magento Commerce for $1.68 billion, to close 3Q18. $ADBE PR link.

Adobe Systems(PBR377) authorizes new up to $8 billion share repurchase program through FY 2019. $ADBE PR link.

Blackstone(PBR386 $BX) to acquire $1.1 billion in revenues in 2017 LaSalle Hotel Properties(NYSE: LHO) for $33.50/share, $4.8 billion cash, to close 3Q18. $LHO PR link.

AmTrust Financial(PBR450) activist 9.4% investor Icahn Enterprises(PBR147) files lawsuit in Delaware challenging going private by the Zyskind/Karfunkel families. $AFSI PR link.

Simon Property(PBR474) to install ultra-fast electric vehicle chargers at more than 30 of its shopping centers in partnership with Electrify America. $SPG PR link.

Cerner(PBR499) adds $500 billion to share repurchase program, $639 million now available, no expiration date set. $CERN PR link.

Roper Technologies(PBR614) to acquire Atlanta, GA, based global software and solutions for asset-centric companies provider PowerPlan from private equity firm Thoma Bravo for $1.1 billion cash. $ROP PR link.

Curtiss-Wright(PBR837) to utilize $50 million in repatriated cash to expand share repurchase program which has a current balance available of $36 million. $CW PR link.

Allscripts(PBR889) completes acquisition of mobile, enterprise patient engagement solutions developer HealthGrid, represents a significant expansion of the Allscripts FollowMyHealth®platform, terms not disclosed. $MDRX PR link.

Brunswick(PBR534) Chief Technology Officer David Foulkes gets additional responsibility of President/Brunswick Marine Consumer Solutions. $BC PR link.

FMC Corp(PBR714) President/FMC Agriculture Solutions Mark Douglas appointed corporate President/COO, other unit promotions reporting to Douglas also announced. $FMC PR link.

M&T Bank(PBR452) Corp elects Kevin J. Pearson, Vice Chairman of principal subsidiary M&T Bank, to its Board. $MTB PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says the US Preliminary April 2018 National Activity Index is at +0.34, March 2018 was +0.32, February 2018 +0.73, April 2017 +0.44. ChiFed PR link.

***Friday, May 18:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 05/18/18:

The week of good 1st quarter corporate earnings was offset by geopolitical concerns. The Stock Market Bull did well on Monday and Wednesday, but the Stock Market Bear feasted on Tuesday and Thursday for a strong win in Week 20 of 2018 and YTD has now won 10 weeks.

DJIA ends the week at 24,715.09, -0.47% from last Friday, +2.28% MTD, +2.54 QTD, -0.02% YTD, -7.14% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends the week at 7,354.34, -0.66% from last Friday, +4.08% MTD, +4.12% QTD, +6.53% YTD, -3.08% from record 7,588.32 set 03/12/18.

SPX ends the week at 2,712.97, -0.54% from last Friday, +2.45% MTD, +2.73% QTD, +1.47% YTD, -5.57% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

Campbell Soup(PBR346) CEO Denise Morrison retires, director since 2016 Keith McLoughlin named interim CEO. $CPB PR link.

Middleby(PBR806) to acquire the global beverage solutions, soft serve and ice cream dispensing equipment, frozen drink machines, and automated double-sided grills developer $315 million in sales in 2017 the Taylor Company from UTC Climate, Controls & Security, a unit of United Technologies(PBR45), for $1.0 billion, to close 3Q18. $MIDD PR link.

Tenneco(PBR308) SVP/Finance Jason Hollar to become CFO on 07/01/18, to succeed retiring EVP/CFO Ken Trammell who will stay onboard in a broader leadership role as Tenneco separates into 2 independent public companies. $TEN PR link.

JetBlue(PBR387) EVP/Corporate Affairs, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary James Hnat to retire effective 06/30/18, will remain in an advisory role and on the Board. $JBLU PR link.

JetBlue(PBR387) VP/Customer Experience Joanna Geraghty promoted to President/COO, EVP/Operations Jeff Martin transitions to senior advisory role during reorganization. $JBLU PR link.

Flowserve(PBR560) hires Lanesha Minnix as SVP/Chief Legal Officer effective 06/11/18. $FLS PR link.

Vitamin Shoppe(PBR969) EVP/CFO Brenda Galgano to resign, effective 06/05/18, SVP/Business Development & Strategy Bill Wafford to be successor. $VSI PR link.

Take-Two Interactive(PBR883) appoints Paul Viera, founder/CEO of global investment firm Earnest Partners, to the Board. $TTWO PR link.

***Thursday, May 17:

Kroger(PBR17) increases investment in and partners with online grocery store retailer UKbased Ocado for online ordering, automated fulfillment and home delivery capabilities in the US, will start with 3 sites in US in 2018, expand to 20 over 3 years. $KR PR link.

United Technologies(PBR45 $UTX) activist investor Bill Ackman of Pershing Square says United Technologies should be split into 3 companies. Pershing PR link.

Amgen(PBR123) gets US FDA approval for Aimovig™ (erenumab-aooe) for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults, first and only FDA-approved treatment specifically developed to prevent migraine by blocking the calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor (CGRP-R). $AMGN PR link.

Emerson Electric(PBR184) to acquire global smart pneumatics technologies that power machine and factory automation applications developer Germany based 2,100 employees $425 million in 2017 sales Aventics from Tritonfor around $630 million. $EMR PR link.

CBS(PBR213) request for a temporary restraining order against the Redstone familyand National Amusements that would have enabled CBS to strip its Redstones/NA of its voting power is denied by Delaware court decision. $CBS PR link.

CBS(PBR213) board in a unanimous vote of the directors not affiliated with National Amusements approves pro rata dividend of 0.5687 shares of Class A common stock for each share of the Company’s Class A common stock and Class B common stock, conditioned on a final determination by the Delaware courts. $CBS PR link.

PayPal(PBR216) to acquire iZettle for $2.2 billion, will expand omnichannel presence in small businesses in Europe and Latin America, to close 3Q18. $PYPL PR link.

Tesla(PBR251 $TSLA) needs to raise $10.5 billion in capital to keep going through 2020, says Goldman Sachs(PBR89). MarketWatch PR link.

Global Partners(PBR318) to acquire retail fuel and Jiffy Mart convenience store assets in Vermont and New Hampshire from Champlain Oil Company, to close in 3Q18, terms not disclosed. $GLP PR link.

Williams Cos(PBR341) to acquire Williams Partners(NYSE: WPZ) in all stock deal valued at $10.5 billion, to close in fall of 2018. $WMB PR link.

AmTrust Financial(PBR450) shareholders get letter from 9.4% shareholder Carl Icahn/Icahn Enterprises urging them to vote against the $13.50/share, $2.7 billion acquisition by Stone Point Capital and the Karfunkel Family, requests 06/04/18 special meeting be moved to a later date. $AFSI PR link.

Hasbro(PBR488) authorizes additional $500 million for share repurchase program, balance available is now $639.2 billion. $HAS PR link.

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

United Continental(PBR76) CFO Andrew Levy leaves, SVP/Finance, Procurement and Treasurer Gerry Laderman appointed interim CFO, new CFO search starts. $UAL PR link.

Quest Diagnostics(PBR356) elects Helen I. Torley, President/CEO of novel cancer therapies developer/marketer Halozyme Therapeutics, to the Board. $DGX PR link.

Ascena Retail(PBR407) appoints John L. Welborn, Jr., currently Managing Director for investment advisory firm Stadium Capital Management, to the Board. $ASNA PR link.

Sealed Air(PBR529) director since 2012 Jerry R. Whitaker elected as non-executive Chairman of the Board. $SEE PR link.

Continental Resources(PBR845) elects Shelly Lambertz, COO of Hamm Capital, to the Board, replaces James L. Gallogly who is becoming President of the University of Oklahoma. $CLR PR link.

Rush Enterprises(PBR518) announced founder W. Marvin Rush died today at age 79, founded Company in 1965, served on Board from its incorporation until 08/16. $RUSHA PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphiasays US 3rd District May 2018 Manufacturing General Activity Indicator is at 34.4, April 2018was at 23.2, March 2018 22.3, May 2017 35.5. PhillyFed PR link.

The Conference Board says the US Preliminary April 2018 Leading Economic Index(2016=100) is at 109.4, March 2018 was at 109.0, February 2018 108.6, suggests solid growth should continue through 2018. TCB PR link.

***Wednesday, May 16:

Walmart(PBR1) in partnership with Lord & Taylor to roll out the new Lord & Taylor flagship store on Walmart.com in the coming weeks, will debut with more than 125 brands, including Tommy Bahama, Vince Camuto, Miss Selfridge, La La Anthony, Lucky Brand, H Halston and Effy, will be part of Walmart.com’s broader fashion destination. $WMT PR link.

Amazon(PBR8) Prime members to get an additional 10% off sales prices off hundreds of Whole Foods items, starting in Florida, to roll out across all 365 Whole Foods markets in the US during summer 2018. $AMZN PR link.

Amazon(PBR8) to open its first fulfillment center in Tucson, AZ, 855,000+ sf, to employ 1,500+ full time. $AMZN PR link.

Oracle(PBR77) to acquire DataScience.com. $ORCL PR link.

International Paper(PBR130) supports Irish Takeover Panel ruling saying IP must announce whether it will will not make a binding offer for Smurfit Kappa Group plc by 7:00an 06/06/18, IP says it will not make a binding offer without approval of SKG board, says proposed $45/share in stock/cash, around $10.6 billion is a compelling strategic and financial rationale offer. $IP PR link.

Kinder Morgan(PBR212) Canada(TSX: KML)acknowledges Canada’s decision to repay KML for the Trans Mountain pipeline losses, KML continues to plan to move forward with pipeline construction. $KMI PR link.

CBS(PBR213) majority voting stockholder National Amusements amends CBS’s bylaws, requires supermajority for certain board actions related to dividends and changes in bylaws. $CBS PR link.

Group 1 Automotive(PBR264) authorizes increase of share repurchase program from $100 million to $126 million. GPI PR link.

Zoetis(PBR482) to acquire Union City, CA, based $245 million in revenues/FY2018 global veterinary point-of-care diagnostic instruments provider Abaxis(NASDAQ: ABAX) for $83/share, $2.0 billion. $ZTS PR link.

Herbalife(PBR487) sets Dutch Auction tender offer for common shares after 2:1 stock split at between $49 to $54/share. $HLF PR link.

Tenet Healthcare(PBR141) hires Paola Arbour as SVP/Chief Information Officer and Marie Quintana as SVP/Chief Marketing Officer. $THC PR link.

Wabash Natl(PBR867) hires Melanie D. Margolin as SVP/General Counsel. $WNC PR link.

Performance Food(PBR157) appoints Randy Spratt, EVP/Chief Information Officer and Chief Technology Officer for McKesson(PBR6) to the Board. $PFGC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says US Preliminary April 2018 Private Housing Building Permits Issued Annual Rate was at 1,352,000, -1.8% from March 2018, +7.7% from April 2017. USDOC PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says US Preliminary April 2018 Total Industry Production % of Capacity was at 78.0%, March 2018 was 77.6%, February 2018 77.1%, April 201776.2%. USFed PR link.

***Tuesday, May 15:

Amazon(PBR8) AWS cloud services are selected by Verizon(PBR16 $VZ) as its preferred public cloud provider. $AMZN PR link.

Boeing(PBR29) issues statement on World Trade Organization‘s final ruling saying European Union provided $22+ billion of illegal subsidies to European aircraft maker Airbus, clears way for the US Trade Representative to seek remedies in the form of tariffs against European imports to the US. $BA PR link.

IBM(PBR34) blockchain technology to be used by Veridium to help transform the carbon credit market with the goal of making it easier for companies to offset their environmental footprints. $IBM PR link.

Target(PBR39) Restock next-day delivery service of household essentials now available coast to coast, free for all Target REDcardpurchases, $2.99 for all other orders, no membership required. $TGT PR link.

Target(PBR39) to open 11 in-store men’s grooming departments with 600+ products ranging from $1.49 to $199.99, to have 80 departments by year end, items also available online. $TGT PR link.

Pfizer(PBR55) gets US FDA approval for RETACRIT® (epoetin alfa-epbx), a biosimilar to Epogen® and Procrit® (epoetin alfa)1, for all indications, is first and only biosimilar erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) to be approved in the US. $PFE PR link.

Facebook(PBR69) publishes enforcement numbers for the first time, says 3-4% of monthly active user accounts are fake accounts, 583 million fake accounts disabled in 1Q18, usually within a few minutes of registration. $FB PR link.

Tyson(PBR75) to acquire poultry rendering and blending assets of $550 million in expected revenues/2018 American Proteins, Inc. and AMPRO Products for $850 million, expected to enable Tyson Foods to recycle more animal products for feed, pet food and aquaculture. $TSN PR link.

Gilead Sciences(PBR110) gets US FDA approval for expanded indication for Truvada®(Emtricitabine and Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate) for reducing the risk of acquiring HIV-1 in adolescents. $GILD PR link.

Kellogg(PBR220 $K) closes operations in Venezuela amid country’s ‘deterioration.’MarketWatch PR link.

Blackstone(PBR383)’s International Market Centers unit to acquire AmercasMart, will create world’s largest permanent mart operator for furniture, home decor, rug, gift and apparel with nearly 20 million sf of showroom space, terms not disclosed, to close 3Q18. $BX PR link.

Trinity Industries(PBR588) files initial Form 10to spin-off newly named Arcosa as an independent publicly held infrastructure company, to be completed in 4Q18. $TRN PR link.

MSA Safety(PBR988) elects President/COO Nishan Vartanian as President/CEO as planned, succeeds William Lambert who is now non-executive Chairman. $MSA PR link.

Old Republic Intl(PBR430) promotes Craig R. Smiddy to corporate President/COO, other appointments announced. $ORI PR link.

Scientific Games(PBR699) hires Doug Albregts as EVP and Group CEO/Gaming Division. $SGMS PR link.

AutoZone(PBR268) appoints Gale V. King, EVP/Chief Administrative Officer for Nationwide, and Jill Soltau, President/CEO of JOANN Stores, to the Board. $AZO PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary March 2018 Total Manufacturers/Retail/Wholesale Sales are at $1.430 trillion, -0.1% from February 2018, +5.8% from March 2017. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Advance April 2018 Total Retail/Food Services/Drinking Places Sales are at $497.6 billion, +0.3% from March 2018, +4.7% from April 2017. USDOC PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York says the Empire State May 2018 Manufacturing General Business Conditions Index is at 20.1, April 2018 was 15.8, March 2018 22.5, May 2017 3.0. NYFed PR link.

The National Assn of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Preliminary May 2018 Housing Market Index is at 70, April 2018 was 68, March 201870, May 2017 69. NAHB PR link.

***Monday, May 14:

Amazon(PBR8) to open its sixth Ohio fulfillment center in West Jefferson, will create 1,500+ full-time positions by the end of 2019. $AMZN PR link.

HP Inc(PBR56) unveils premium notebooks, desktops and displays from the HP Elite 1000 Series of devices for the office and the consumer oriented HP ENVY devices. $HPQ PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR122) to acquire oncology compound AK-01, an Aurora kinase A inhibitor, developer AurKa Pharma from TVM Capital Life Science for $110 million upfront plus up to $465 million for milestone achievements. $LLY PR link.

Sears(PBR167) special committee of the board of directors initiating a formal process to explore the sale of its Kenmore brand and related assets, the Sears Home Improvement Products business of the Sears Home Services division and the Parts Direct business of the Sears Home Services division, ESL Investments has already expressed an interest in being a buyer. $SHLD PR link.

CBS(PBR213) and CBS special committee file lawsuit against National Amusements alleging breaches of fiduciary duty and seeking to prevent it from interfering with a special meeting of the Board of Directors at which it plans to issue dividends that would dilute National Amusements voting interests from 79% to 17%. $CBS PR link.

Tesla(PBR251 $TSLA) reorganizing into a more flat management structure and other news.MarketWatch PR link.

Baxter(PBR273) gets US FDA clearance for its Spectrum IQ Infusion System with Dose IQ Safety Software for bi-directional electronic medical records (EMR) integration to help ensure the correct medications and fluids are delivered to the patient. $BAX PR link.

Steel Dynamics(PBR302) to acquire Terre Haute, IN, based high margin flat roll steel processor Companhia Siderurgica Nacional(“Heartland”) for $400 million, will expand annual flat roll steel shipping capacity to 8.4 million tons and total shipping capability to 12.4 million tons. $STLD PR link.

The Mosaic Co(PBR369) to move its corporate headquarters from Plymouth, MN, to Hillsborough County, FL, will be more closely located to its primary customer base, timing, location, people to be relocated still under consideration. $MOH PR link.

JM Smucker(PBR370) completes $1.7 billion acquisition of privately held 700 employees Meadville, PA, based Ainsworth Pet Nutrition, maker of Rachael Ray™ Nutrish® pet food. $SJM PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR511) applauds the US Supreme Court‘s decision to strike down the federal Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), likely leaving sports betting regulations to the states. $CZR PR link.

Triumph Group(PBR609) provides update on sale of 3 non-core businesses, Triumph Aerospace Structures Long and Large (L&L)machining and metal finishing operations, APU Repair Product Line (RPL) of Triumph Aviation Services Asia, and Triumph Structures – Long Island, represents $165 million in annual sales, terms not disclosed. $TGI PR link.

Brinker Intl(PBR653) says payment card information of some of its Guests who visited certain Chili’s® Grill & Bar corporate-owned restaurants between 03/18 and 04/18 have been compromised in a data incident, extent under investigation. $TSLA PR link.

Molina Healthcare(PBR146) hires James Woys as EVP/Health Plan Services. $MOH PR link.

United Natural Foods(PBR309) COO Sean Griffin to retire on 10/01/18, President/Atlantic Region Chris Testa to become corporate President, two other appointments mentioned. $UNFI PR link.

W.R. Grace(PBR913) SVP/CFO Thomas E. Blaser to resign from company effective 05/31/18 by mutual agreement, VP/Controller William Dockman to be interim CFO, search starts. $GRA PR link.

Xerox(PBR281) terminates merger agreement with Fujifilm, enters into settlement agreement with Carl Icahn and Darwin Deason, appoints Jonathan Christodoro, Keith Cozza, Nicholas Graziano, Scott Letier and John Visentin to the Board, Gregory Brown, Joseph Echevarria, Cheryl Krongard and Sara Martinez Tucker remain on the Board, Robert J. Keegan, Charles Prince, Ann N. Reese, William Curt Hunter, and Stephen H. Rusckowski resign from the Board, Jeff Jacobson resigns as CEO and from the Board, Keith Cozza to be appointed Chairman, John Visentin to be elected Vice Chairman and CEO. $XRX PR link.

Wynn Resorts(PBR400) director John J. Hagenbuch decides not to stand for re-election at 2018 annual meeting, director Robert J. Miller tenders his resignation. $WYNN PR link.

Hillenbrand(PBR917) elects Daniel C. Hillenbrand, currently Chairman, and previously President/CEO of Able Manufacturing and Assembly, to the Board. $HI PR link.

Sports Betting: In an opinion by Justice Samuel Alito the US Supreme Courtinvalidates the 1992 Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act, a federal law that says states can’t “sponsor, operate, advertise, promote, license, or authorize” sports gambling. US Supreme Court PR link.

***Friday, May 11:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 05/11/18:

The Stock Market Bull makes a dominating come back after 2 weeks of losses to the Stock Market Bear by winning all 5 days of the DJIA, and 4 out of 5 days for the NASDAQ and S&P500. All 3 exchanges were up by over 2% for the week and ahead year-to-date.

DJIA ends the week at 24,831.17, +2.34% from last Friday, +2.76% MTD, +3.02 QTD, +0.45% YTD, -6.71% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends the week at 7,402.88, +2.68% from last Friday, +4.76% MTD, +4.81% QTD, +7.24% YTD, -2.44% from record 7,588.32 set 03/12/18.

SPX ends the week at 2,727.72, +2.41% from last Friday, +3.01% MTD, +3.29% QTD, +2.02% YTD, -5.05% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

CVS Health(PBR7) commends the Trump Administration‘s focus on reducing the cost of prescription drugs, is well positioned to implement many of the key proposals. $CVS PR link.

Express Scripts(PBR25) issues statement supporting the Trump Administration‘s push to lower drug costs. $ESRX PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR126) extends $127.50/share tender offer for acquisition of NXP Semiconductors(NASDAQ: NXPI) to 05/25/18 5PM Eastern, 13.1% of the outstanding NXP common shares have been validly tendered. $QCOM PR link.

C.H. Robinson(PBR189) increases share repurchase authorization balance by 15 million, has 1.2 million remaining from previous authorization. $CHRW PR link.

Tesla(PBR251 $TSLA) CEO Elon Musk tweets about an all-wheel drive, dual motor ‘performance’ Model 3 to go into production starting in 07/18. MarketWatch PR link.

Symantec(PBR558) in its 4Q18 report says Audit Committee has commenced an internal investigation in connection with concerns raised by a former employee, may not be able to file 10-K on time. $SYMC PR link.

GameStop(PBR310) CEO Michael K. Mauler resigns, effective immediately, for personal reasons, Executive Chairman/Co-Founder Daniel A. DeMatteo adds interim CEO responsibilities as new CEO search starts. $GME PR link.

The Cheesecake Factory(PBR800) hires Scarlett May as EVP/General Counsel and Secretary of the Company, succeeds retiring Debby R. Zurzolo; SVP/COO Keith T. Carango now President/The Cheesecake Factory Bakery, succeeds now retired Max S. Byfuglin. $CAKE PR link.

Allison Transmission(PBR807) to promote Fred Bohley to VP/CFO & Treasurer on 06/01/18. $ALSN PR link.

Penske Automotive(PBR133) elects automotive executive Wolfgang Dürheimer, most recently Chairman/CEO of Bentley Motors Ltd, to the Board. $PAG PR link.

The US Food and Drug Administrationreleases a statement from Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, MD, on the Trump Administration’s plan to lower drug prices. FDA PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary April 2018 Import Prices Index changed +0.3%, March 2018 -0.2%, February 2018+0.2%, April 2017 +0.2%, Last 12 Months+3.3%; US Preliminary April 2018 Export Prices Index changed +0.6%, March 2018+0.3%, February 2018 +0.2%, April 2017+0.2%, Last 12 Months +3.8%. USDOL PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia 2Q18 Survey of Professional Forecastersindicates a slightly brighter outlook for US economic growth and labor markets in 2018 and 2019. PhillyFed PR link.

The U of Michigan US Preliminary May 2018 Consumer Sentiment Index is at 98.8, April 2018 was 98.8, March 2018 101.4, May 201797.1. UMichigan PR link.

***Thursday, May 10:

PPG(PBR26) finds discrepancies in its 1Q18, not able to file 10-Q at this time, possible impact on 2017 statements, VP/Controller employment has been terminated. $PPG PR link.

Cisco(PBR60) completes $270 million cash acquisition of Los Altos, CA, based privately held AI-driven relationship intelligence platform for finding new prospects, navigating the selling process, and strengthening relationships provider Accompany. $CSCO PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR142) to acquire ARMO BioSciences(NASDAQ: ARMO), a late-stage immuno-oncology developer of a pipeline of proprietary product candidates that activate the immune system of cancer patients to recognize and eradicate tumors, for $50/share, $1.6 billion cash. $LLY PR link.

Alcoa(PBR253) and Rio Tinto(NYSE:RIO)announce a revolutionary process to make aluminum that produces oxygen and eliminates all direct greenhouse gas emissions from the traditional smelting process, Apple(PBR5) an investor and providing technical support, joint venture name is Elysis, plan to sell technology package in 2024. $AA PR link.

Gannett(PBR414) to acquire digital marketing software company WordStream for $130 million cash plus up to $20 million for achieving revenue targets in 2019 & 2020, expects $55 million in revenues in 1st year, to close 2Q18. $GCI PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR437) to acquire Brownsville, TX, based full-service Managing General Agency (MGA), broker and claims administrator, with focus on the Hispanic markets in Texas, California, and Florida, Pronto Insurance, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

McDermott Intl(PBR825) completes $6 billion merger with CB&I(NYSE: CBI)(Chicago Bridge & Iron), completes 3:1 reverse stock split. $MDR PR link.

Anthem(PBR38) newly launched pharmaceutical benefits manager unit IngenioRxstarts external search for new CEO with departure of Brian Griffin, COO Deepti Jain named leader. $ANTM PR link.

Diplomat Pharmacy(PBR515) hires Brian Griffin as Chairman/CEO effective 06/04/18. $DPLO PR link.

The Mosaic Co(PBR300) hires Clint Freeland as SVP/CFO, effective 06/04/18. $MOS PR link.

The Mosaic Co(PBR300) director Gregory Ebel appointed Board Chairman, succeeds Robert Lumpkins who remains on the Board, James Popowich retired as a director, and Oscar Bernardes was newly elected to the Board. $MOS PR link.

Tractor Supply(PBR436) at 2018 annual meeting elects Denise Jackson, Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary for AMN Healthcare Services(NYSE:AMN), the nation’s largest healthcare workforce solutions and staffing company, to the Board, Johnston C. Adams has retired, other directors re-elected. $TSCO PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US Preliminary April 2018 Federal Government Receipts were $510.447 billion, Outlays $296.192 billion, for Surplus of $214.255 billion, Fiscal Year To Date Deficit(7 months) is $385.444 billion, FY YTD Deficit April 2017 was $344.428. USTreasury PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US Preliminary April 2018 Consumer Price Index(aka Inflation) was at +0.2%, Last 12 Months +2.5%, March 2018 was +2.4%, February 2018 2.2%, April 2017 +2.2%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary April 2018 Employee Average Current Earnings/Hour is at $26.84, Average Work Hours/Week is at 34.5, Average Weekly Earnings at $925.98, +0.2% from March 2018, +2.5% from April 2017. USDOL PR link.

***Wednesday, May 9:

PBRMarketTools Snapshot 15 Summary: The PBR1000 April Top 5 By Market Capitalization(Rank, Company, PBR Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 04/30/18 Market Capitalization in $ Billions, % Change YTD(4 months)):

1. Apple, PBR4, AAPL, $824B, -6%
2. Amazon, PBR8, AMZN, $763B, +37%
3. Microsoft, PBR31, MSFT, $738B, +12%
4. Alphabet, PBR21, GOOG, $717B, -2%
5. Facebook, PBR69, FB, $503B, -2%
Range: $824B to $0.01B
The PBR1000 Total Market Capitalization:$25.740 trillion, -0.8% YTD(4 months), +17.5% from 12/30/16(16 months)
Average: $25.740 billion
Median: $8.0 billion

The PBR1000, business intelligence to empower you to make better decisions. To find out more click here.

Walmart(PBR1) to pay $16 billion for an initial stake of approximately 77% in India e-commerce provider Flipkart, includes $2 billion of new equity funding. $WMT PR link.

Amazon(PBR8) announces the interactive Amazon Experience Centers within select Lennar(PBR340) model homes across the US, customers can simply ask Alexa to control the television, lights, thermostat, shades, and more. $AMZN PR link.

Sears(PBR93) Auto Centers first to work with Amazon(PBR8) to provide full-service tire installation and balancing for customers who purchase any brand of tires on Amazon.com. $SHLD PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) authorizes new $10 billion share repurchase program, no expiration date, replaces current 2015 $15 billion program which had $1.2 billion left. $QCOM PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR314) to sell Octavius Tower at Caesars Palace and Harrah’s Philadelphia real estate assets to VICI Properties(NYSE:VICI) for $590 million, Caesars to continue to operate properties under long-term leases. $CZR PR link.

Royal Caribbean(PBR329) authorizes a $1 billion share repurchase program over next 2 years. $RCL PR link.

Wyndham Worldwide(PBR464) completes sale of its European vacation rentals business to an affiliate of Platinum Equity for $1.3 billion. $WYN PR link.

Wyndham Worldwide(PBR464) approves spin-off of wholly-owned subsidiary Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Inc., the world’s largest hotel franchisor with more than 8,300 affiliated hotels, effective at end of 05/31/18, will start trading on 06/01/18 as NYSE: WH; Wyndham Worldwide to be renamed Wyndham Destinations, start trading on 06/01/18 replacing current WYN ticker with new ticker NYSE: WYND. $WYN PR link.

Groupon(PBR652) 1Q18 report shows it had now has 4.2 million voucherless members in deal with American Express(PBR83), global units sold were at 42.4 million in 1Q18, -7% from 1Q17, part of restructuring to focus on revenue generation that maximizes gross profit, had 32.6 million N American active customers, 17.0 million from International unit, authorizes $300 million share repurchase program. $GRPN PR link.

ON Semiconductor(PBR656) acquires Irelandbased specializing in Silicon Photomultipliers (SiPM), Single Photon Avalanche Diode (SPAD) and LiDAR sensing products for automotive, medical, industrial and consumer markets SensL Technologies, terms not disclosed. $ON PR link.

Sinclair Broadcast(PBR894) to raise $1.5 billion from divestiture of 23 TV stations to Fox Broadcasting, Standard Media Group(an affiliate of Standard General LP), Meredith Corp(PBR994), and Howard Stirk and Cunningham Broadcasting Corporation, to comply with regulators for Sinclair’s $43.50/share, $3.9 billion cash/stock, plus assumption of $2.7 billion of debt acquisition of Tribune Media Company(NYSE:TRCO). $SBGI PR link.

Univar(PBR334) President/COO David Jukes promoted to President/CEO, succeeds Chairman/CEO Stephen D. Newlin who has been appointed Executive Chairman. $UNVR PR link.

W.R. Grace(PBR645) President/COO Hudson La Force to succeed retiring CEO Fred Festa in 4Q18, Festa to become Non-Executive Chairman. $GRA PR link.

3M(PBR92) President & GM/3M Canada Company Mojdeh Poul to become EVP/Safety and Business Graphics unit effective 07/01/18, succeeds retiring Frank Little. $MMM PR link.

Covanta Holdings(PBR958) hires Ginny Angilello as SVP/Chief Human Resources Officer. $CVA PR link.

Gilead Sciences(PBR107) appoints Harish M. Manwani, Global Executive Advisor to the private equity business of Blackstone(PBR352), to the Board. $GILD PR link.

Tesla(PBR251) shareholders get letter from CtW Investment Group to vote against re-election of Board members Antonio J. Gracias, Kimball Musk, and James R. Murdoch at 06/05/18 annual meeting, says they are not independent directors, not experienced in the auto industry. $TSLA PR link.

Oshkosh(PBR368) appoints retired General Raymond T. Odierno, 38th Chief of Staff for the US Army, to the Board. $OSK PR link.

Ralph Lauren(PBR406) to add Angela Ahrendts, SVP/Retail at Apple(PBR5), and has appointed Michael George, President/CEO of Qurate Retail(PBR263) to the Board. $RL PR link.

CNO Financial(PBR559) elects Daniel Maurer as Board Chairman, succeeds Neal Schneider who retires from the position but will remain on the Board. $CNO PR link.

W.R. Grace(PBR645) appoints Schlomo Yanai, currently Chairman of the Cambrex Corporation, former Teva Pharmaceuticals CEO, and retired Israeli Major General, to the Board. $GRA PR link.

STERIS(PBR922) Board Chairman John P. Wareham to retire at 2018 annual meeting, independent director Dr. Mohsen M. Sohi expected to be appointed Chairman, Dr. Nirav Shah appointed to the Board. $STE PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US April 2018 Producer Price Index was +0.1%, March 2018was +0.3%, February 2018 +0.2%, Last 12 Months +2.6%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary March 2018 Total Wholesale Sales was at $498.0 billion, +0.4% from February 2018, +7.3% from March 2017. USDOC PR link.

California Solar Energy Update: California Energy Commission votes 5-0 to approve mandate for solar panels on new houses starting in 2020. LA Times PR link.

***Tuesday, May 8:

MetLife(PBR39) to provide annuity benefits to approximately 41,000 retirees and beneficiaries in the FedEx(PBR65) defined benefit pension plans, representing pension obligations of approximately $6 billion. $MET PR link.

Capital One(PBR116) has ceased new originations of residential mortgages and home equity loan products, to sell approximately $17 billion of first and second lien mortgages to DLJ Mortgage Capital, Inc., a subsidiary of Credit Suisse AG, in 2Q18, will then resume stock repurchase program. $COF PR link.

DISH(PBR196) ends 1Q18 with 10.845 million DISH TV subscribers and 2.303 million Sling TV subscribers. The total 13.148 million Pay-TV subscribers is compared to 13.528 million Pay-TV subscribers at the end of 1Q17. $DISH PR link.

Pentair(PBR363) authorizes new $750 million share repurchase program, expires 05/31/21, replaces existing program which had a balance of $450 million. $PNR PR link.

La Quinta(PBR998) Board approves spin-off of CorePoint Lodging as an independently held company(NYSE: CPLG, starting 05/31/18) in connection with La Quinta’s $1.95 billion acquisition by Wyndham Worldwide(PBR464 $WYN), to complete spin-off, then close acquisition on 05/30/18. $LQ PR link.

Diplomat Pharmacy(PBR515) expects to name next CEO by end of week, interim CEO Jeff Park has voluntarily resigned effective 05/11/18, will remain on the Board, CFO Atul Kavthekar to temporarily assume the additional responsibilities of the CEO until the appointment of the new CEO is effective. $DPLO PR link.

Facebook(PBR228) appoints Jeff Zients, CEO of diversified holding company Cranemere and former Director of the National Economic Council for President Obama, to the Board, effective 05/31/18. $FB PR link.

Blackstone(PBR352) appoints Sir John Hood, Chair of the Rhodes Trust, which oversees the Rhodes scholarship program, and President/CEO of the Robertson Foundation, to the Board, effective 05/14/18. $BX PR link.

MDU Resources(PBR513) board member A. Bart Holaday resigns, has reached age maximum for directors. $MDU PR link.

Adtalem Education(PBR905) appoints Georgette Kiser, Managing Director and Chief Information Officer of The Carlyle Group(PBR581), and Dr. Steven M. Altschuler, MD, Managing Director, Healthcare Ventures, at Ziff Capital Partners, to the Board; Kathy Boden Holland resigns from the Board to become Group President of its Medical and Healthcare vertical, currently Adtalem’s largest business unit; Chamberlain University unit President Susan Groenwald, PhD, RN, ANEF, FAAN, to retire after 12 years upon appointment of successor. $ATGE PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary March 2018 Total Job Openings-Private were at 5,928,000, Government 622,000, Total Openings 6,550,000, +7.8% from February 2018, +16.8% from March 2017. USDOL PR link.

CoreLogic says US February 2018 Total Percent of Mortgage Payments 30 Days or More Past Due was at 4.8%, January 2018 was 4.9%, December 2017 5.3%, February 20175.0%, Total Percent of Homes in Foreclosureis at 0.6%. CoreLogic PR link.

***Monday, May 7:

PBRMarketTools Snapshot 13 Summary: The PBR1000 April Top 5 Stock Gainers Since 12/30/16(16 Months)(Rank, Company, PBR Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 04/30/18 Stock Price, % Increase from 12/30/16):

1. Weight Watchers, PBR985, WTW, $70.05, +512%
2. BlueLinx, PBR856, BXC, $40.22, +438%
3. Scientific Games, PBR699, SGMS, $53.30, +281%
4. Systemax, PBR903, SYX, $31.43, +258%
5. RH(Restoration Hardware), PBR765, RH, $95.45, +211%
Range: +512% to -99%
Number of Companies at 0% or Better:623/998
Average: +17.15%
Median: +10,54%

The PBR1000, business intelligence to empower you to make better decisions. To find out more click here.

Mondelez(PBR87) to acquire Tate’s Bake Shop, home of America’s top-rated chocolate chip cookie, for approximately $500 million from private equity firm The Riverside Company and other shareholders, including Founder Kathleen King, to close in summer 2018. $MDLZ PR link.

Starbucks(PBR178) to receive $7.15 billion from Nestlé SA for rights to market, sell, and distribute Starbucks®, Seattle’s Best Coffee®, Starbucks Reserve®, Teavana™ , Starbucks VIA® and Torrefazione Italia® packaged coffee and tea in all global at-home and away-from-home channels. $SBUX PR link.

Principal Financial(PBR265) authorizes new up to $300 million share repurchase program, $96 million remained under previous $250 million program. $PFG PR link.

Blackstone(PBR352 $BX) to acquire global investor and asset manager of commercial real estate Gramercy Property Trust for $27.50/share, $7.6 billion cash, to close 2H18. $GPT PR link.

Windstream(PBR426) Wholesale unit to expand new almost 1,700 mile southern route from Los Angeles to Dallas as part of 100G nationwide fiber network expansion strategy, to be completed in 3Q18. $WIN PR link.

Intl Flavors & Fragrances(PBR666) to acquire global flavors and natural fine ingredients producer with 70,000 products and 30,000+ customers Frutarom (TASE:FRUT) for $106.25/share, $7.1 billion cash/stock, to close in 6-9 months. $IFF PR link.

Hexcel(PBR921) authorizes additional $500 million share repurchase program, $212 million remaining from previous authorization. $HXL PR link.

Monsanto(PBR187) Chairman/CEO Hugh Grant announces intention to leave upon acquisition by Bayer AG, to close in 2Q18, several other named executives leaving as well, some staying on in the Crop Sciences unit. $MON PR link.

Wells Fargo(PBR30) hires Amanda Norton as Chief Risk Officer, starting in the summer of 2018, to succeed retiring Mike Loughlin. $WFC PR link.

PPG(PBR26) hires Daniel G. Korte as Global VP Elect/Aerospace, succeeds Barry N. Gillespie who is retiring on 08/01/18. $PPG PR link.

Medtronic(PBR133) hires Mike Weinstein as SVP/Strategy. $MDT PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says US Preliminary March 2018 Total Consumer Debt was at $3.875 trillion, +0.3% from February 2017, +1.1% from December 2017(YTD), +5.0% from March 2017. USFed PR link.

FannieMae(PBR17) says US April 2018 Home Purchase Sentiment Index is at 91.7, a new all-time survey high, March 2018 was 88.3, February 2018 85.8, April 2017 86.7. $FNMA PR link.

***Friday, May 4:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 05/04/18:

The Stock Market Bear easily had its way through Thursday. The Stock Market Bull then made a dramatic appearance on Friday and pushed the NASDAQ into plus territory for the week. In the end, the results were mixed for Week 20 of 2018 with the Stock Market Bearwinning 2 out of the 3 US stock exchanges.

DJIA ends the week at 24,262.51, -0.20% from last Friday, +0.41% MTD, +0.66 QTD, -1.85% YTD, -8.84% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends the week at 7,209.62, +1.26% from last Friday, +2.03% MTD, +2.07% QTD, +4.44% YTD, -4.99% from record 7,588.32 set 03/12/18.

SPX ends the week at 2,663.42, -0.24% from last Friday, +0.58% MTD, +0.85% QTD, -0.38% YTD, -7.29% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

Snapshot 12 Summary: The PBR1000 April Top 5 Stock Gainers YTD(4 Months)(Rank, Company, PBR Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 04/30/18 Stock Price, % Increase from 03/29/18):

1. BlueLinx, PBR856, BXC, $40.25, +312%
2. Fossil, PBR671, FOSL, $14.95, +92%
3. Stage Stores, PBR915, SSI, $2.91, +73%
4. Netflix, PBR252, NFLX, $312.46, +63%
5. Eastman Kodak, PBR926), KODK, $4,95, +60%
Range: +312% to -94%
Number of Companies at 0% or Better:411/1,000
Average: -1.43%
Median: -3.01%

The PBR1000, business intelligence to empower you to make better decisions. To find out more click here.

Wells Fargo(PBR30) to pay $480 million in agreement in principle to resolve a consolidated securities fraud class action related to sales practices matters in the US District Court for the Northern District of California. $WFC PR link.

Xerox(PBR144) has taken an appeal from the decision enjoining the Fuji Xerox combination, says merger decision should be made by the shareholders, not the courts. $XRX PR link.

Newell Brands(PBR434) to sell its Covington, KY, based global consumer and commercial package manufacturing business The Waddington Group to Novolex Holdings, to result in after-tax proceeds of approximately $2.2 billion. $NWL PR link.

Newell Brands(PBR434) announces accelerated transformation plan, to generate around $10 billion in after-tax proceeds from divestitures by end of 2019, be an around $9.5 billion in sales/year company. $NWL PR link.

Sprouts(PBR688 $SFM) discontinues same-day home delivery service with Amazon(PBR29) Prime Now, effective 05/01/18, will expand the service with Instacart. Supermarket News PR link.

Cincinnati Bell(PBR988) gets Hawaiʻi Public Utilities Commission approval for $650 million cash/stock merger with Hawaiian Telecom(NASDAQ: HCOM), expects to close transaction soon after Federal Communications Commission review. $CBB PR link.

Xerox(PBR144) agreement on 05/01/18 with Carl Icahn and Darwin Deason expired 05/03/18 8PM with no actions taken, current Board and management team, including CEO Jeff Jacobson, remain in place. $XRX PR link.

Caterpillar(PBR54) hires Andrew Bonfield as CFO effective 09/01/18, succeeds Brad Halverson who retires 05/04/18, Financial Services division VP Joe Creed to be interim CFO. $CAT PR link.

Colgate-Palmolive(PBR168) VP/Corporate Controller Henning Jakobsen appointed CFO, succeeds Dennis Hickey who will be assuming the role of Vice Chairman. $CL PR link.

American Electric Power(PBR174)’s Southwestern Electric Power Co(SWEPCO)unit’s President/COO Venita McCellon-Allen has retired after 30 years with the company, Malcolm Smoak named SWEPCO interim President/COO.$AEP PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US April 2018 Civilian Force Employed was at 155,181,000, +3,000 from March 2018, +2,020,000 from April 2017, April 2018 Unemployed at 6,346,000, April 2018 Unemployment Rate at 3.9%, April 2017 was 4.4%. USDOL PR link.

US/China Trade: US representatives in China, seek $200 billion cut in China trade imbalance. MarketWatch PR link.

***Thursday, May 3:

Snapshot 11 Summary: The PBR1000 April Top 5 Stock Month Performers(Rank, Company, PBR Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 04/30/18 Stock Price, % Increase from 03/29/18):

1. Verifone, PBR858, PAY, $23.01, +50%
2. Andeavor, PBR82, ANDV, $138.32, +38%
3. Stage Stores, PBR915, SSI, $2.91, +33%
4. SM Energy, PBR978, SM, $23.95, +33%
5. Chipotle, PBR527), CMG, $423.33, +31%
Range: +50% to -48%
Number of Companies at 0% or Better:511/1,000
Average: -0.01%
Median: +0.16%%

The PBR1000 empowers astute business leaders and shrewd investors worldwide to make higher probability of success decisions. To find out more click here.

SuperValu(PBR164) completes its about $43 million cash sale of 21 of its 38 Farm Fresh Food & Pharmacy (“Farm Fresh”) stores to three different retailers: Harris Teeter, Kroger Mid-Atlantic Division, and Food Lion, in various stages for other 17 stores. $SVU PR link.

Kellogg(PBR198) adds $420 million to joint venture with Tolaram in West Africa, an emerging market. $K PR link.

KKR(PBR332) to convert from a partnership to a corporation, effective 07/01/18; increases share repurchase program to $500 million. $KKR PR link.

Griffon Corp(PBR890)’s Clopay Building Products unit to acquire $200 million expected annual sales US manufacturer and marketer of rolling steel door and grille products designed for commercial, industrial, institutional, and retail use CornellCookson for $180 million. $GFF PR link.

Weight Watchers(PBR988) in 1Q18 report says it has added 1 million subscribers since 1Q17, 4.6 million subscribers highest in company’s history, credits global response to its new WW Freestyle™ program. $WTW PR link.

United Continental(PBR77) hires Josh Earnest as Chief Communications Officer, starts 05/21/18. $UAL PR link.

Patterson Cos(PBR542) President/Patterson Dental N America David Misiak departing on 05/11/18, search for new president starts. $PDCO PR link.

Pool Corp(PBR836) adds $200 million to share repurchase program, balance available is now $236 million. $POOL PR link.

Alliance One Intl(PBR875) hires Bryan Mazur as EVP/Global Specialty Products. $AOI PR link.

Archer-Daniels-Midland(PBR34) elects AECOM(PBR322) Chairman/CEO Michael S. Burke to the Board along with the 11 current members. $ADM PR link.

Allergan(PBR219) elects John Davidson, former SVP/Controller and Chief Accounting Officer at Tyco International, to the Board. $AGN PR link.

Alaska Air(PBR454) elects Facebook(PBR228) VP/Finance Susan Li to the Board. $ALK PR link.

Scotts Miracle-Gro(PBR705) appoints its former CFO David Evans to the Board. $SMG PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary 1Q18 Business Sector Labor Productivity Output/Hour-All Persons, was at +1.1%, 4Q17was -0.4%, 3Q17 +3.2%, 1Q17 -0.7%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says US March 2018 Exports were at $208.5 billion, Imports$257.5 billion, Deficit $49.0 billion, Exports YTD(3 months) were at $613.7 billion, Imports YTD $777.3 billion, Deficit YTD $163.6 billion, March 2017 Deficit YTD was $137.9 billion. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary March 2018 New Orders for Durable Goods was valued at $255.2 billion, Non-Durable Goods $252.4 billion, Total$507.6 billion, +1.5% from February 2018, +8.1% from March 2017. USDOC PR link.

IHS Markit says US April 2018 Composite PMI Output Index was 54.9, March 2018 was 54.2, February 2018 55.8, April 2017 53.2. IHS Markit PR link.

The Institute for Supply Management says US April 2018 Non-Manufacturing Index is at 56.8%, March 2018 was 58.8%, February 201859.5%, April 2017 57.5%. ISM PR link.

***Wednesday, May 2:

Macy’s(PBR97) has acquired STORY, a concept store in New York City. STORY founder/CEO Rachel Shechtman will join Macy’s as brand experience officer. $M PR link.

Starbucks(PBR178) issues statement from Donte Robinson, Rashon Nelson, and CEO Kevin Johnson regarding settlement from arrest incident in Philadelphia on 04/12/18. $SBUX PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR314) authorizes up to $500 million share repurchase program, no expiration date. $CZR PR link.

Live Nation(PBR366) to acquire 2nd highest grossing festival in the world in 2017 Rock in Rio, terms not disclosed. $LYV PR link.

Spirit AeroSystems(PBR370) to acquire high lift wing structures, mechanical assemblies and major functional components to major OEMs and Tier-1 suppliers in the global commercial aerospace and military markets supplier S.R.I.F. N.V., the parent company of 1,400 employees anticipated $400 million in sales/2018 Asco Industries, N.V., for $650 million in cash, to close 2H18. $SPR PR link.

Salesforce(PBR453) completes $44.89/share cash/stock, $6.5 billion enterprise value acquisition of $296 million in sales/2017 1,200 customers MuleSoft(NYSE: MULE). $CRM PR link.

Post Holdings(PBR486) authorizes new $350 million share repurchase program, had repurchased $488 million under previous authorizations. $POST PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Bellevue, WA, based retirement plan consultant and investment analyst firm ClearPoint Financial, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

Tesla(PBR651 $TSLA) is accused of patent infringement by Nikola Corporation for its design of the Semi, asking $2+ billion in damages. AZ District Court PR link.

Boyd Gaming(PBR727) to acquire Lattner Entertainment Group Illinois, operator of nearly 1,000 gaming units in 220 locations across the state of Illinois, for $100 million cash. $BYD PR link.

McDermott Intl(PBR825) and CB&I(NYSE: CBI(Chicago Bridge & Iron) shareholders approve $6 billion merger to be named McDermott, expects to close 05/10/18. $MDR PR link.

Sprint(PBR86) President/CEO Marcelo Claure named Executive Chairman, CFO Michel Combes appointed CEO, both effective on or before 05/31/18, new CFO search starts. $S PR link.

Xerox(PBR144) reaches agreement with Carl Icahn and Darwin Deason; Keith Cozza of Icahn Enterprises(PBR147) to be named Chairman, John Visentin to be named Vice Chairman and CEO, CEO Jeff Jacobson to resign as Xerox CEO and from the Board, 6 directors to resign from the Board, 3 directors remain on the Board, no effect on pending claims against Fujifilm. $XRX PR link.

Scientific Games(PBR937) CEO SG Interactive Barry Cottle to become new President/CEO on 06/01/18, succeeds Kevin Sheehan who will remain as a senior advisor; also, Tim Bucher hired as EVP/Chief Products Officer. $SGMS PR link.

Kohl’s(PBR149) hires Doug Howe as Chief Merchandising Officer. $KSS PR link.

SunPower(PBR680) CFO Chuck Boynton to transition out, will remain CEO of 8point3 Energy Partners through the sale, hires Manavendra Sial as new CFO, effective after filing of 1Q18 10-Q report. $SPWR PR link.

Univar(PBR334) appoints Kerry J. Preete, EVP/Chief Strategy Officer at Monsanto(PBR147), to the Board. $UNVR PR link.

Wynn Resorts(PBR427) board sends shareholders letter asking them to vote for its nominees at 05/16/18 annual meeting, says largest shareholder Elaine Wynn’s “withhold the vote” against Director John J. (“Jay”) Hagenbuch campaign is misguided. $WYNN PR link.

HCP(PBR834) appoints Lydia Kennard, recently CEO of Los Angeles World Airports, and Kent Griffin, a seasoned REIT executive, to the Board. $HCP PR link.

US Federal Open Market Committee releases statement from its 05/01-02/18 meetings, says labor market has continued to strengthen and that economic activity has been rising at a moderate rate, keeps federal funds short term interest rate at 1.50-1.75%. FOMC PR link.

ADP(PBR235) says US April 2018 Private Sector Change In Employment was +204,000, +62,000 from Small Businesses, +88,000 from Midsize Businesses, +54,000 from Large Businesses, March 2018 change was +228,000, February 2018 +241,000, April 2017+155,000. $ADP PR link.

***Tuesday, May 1:

Apple(PBR5) authorizes new $100 billion share repurchase program, will complete the execution of the previous $210 billion share repurchase authorization during the fiscal 3Q18. $AAPL PR link.

Boeing(PBR27) to acquire independent provider of aviation parts and services in the aerospace industry KLX(NASDAQ: KLXI) for $63/share, includes assumption of about $1.0 billion of net debt, total $4.25 billion all cash, to close by 3Q18. $BA PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) to expand Boston Tech Huband create an additional 2,000 technology jobs, expanding into 430,000 sf development on Boston waterfront, plans to open the doors of its new office in 2021. $AMZN PR link.

Cisco(PBR60) to acquire Los Altos, CA, based privately held AI-driven relationship intelligence platform for finding new prospects, navigating the selling process, and strengthening relationships provider Accompany for $270 million cash. $CSCO PR link.

Cisco(PBR60) to sell its Service Provider Video Software Solutions (SPVSS) business to private equity firm Permira, who will create a new, rebranded company focused on developing and delivering video solutions for the Pay-TV industry, terms not disclosed, to close Cisco fiscal 1Q19. $CSCO PR link.

T-Mobile(PBR95) celebrates 5th year as a public company, reports 1.4 million net adds in 1Q18, 20th quarter in a row with 1+ million net adds, has 74 million customers. $TMUS PR link.

Medtronic(PBR133) gets US FDA approval for its Deep Brain Stimulation therapy for medically refractory epilepsy. $MDT PR link.

AbbVie(PBR136) commences modified “Dutch auction” tender offer to purchase up to $7.5 billion of its common stock at a price between $99.00/share and $114.00/share, expires 05/29/18. $ABBV PR link.

Lincoln Financial(PBR213) completes $3.3 billion acquisition of Liberty Life Assurance Company of Boston from Liberty Mutual Insurance Group. $LNC PR link.

L3 Technologies(PBR238) to sell its aviation logistics services, supply chain management, and maintenance, repair and overhaul services provider Vertex Aerospace unit to American Industrial Partners for $540 million cash. $LLL PR link.

Owens & Minor(PBR292) completes $710 million cash acquisition of $1 billion revenues/year surgical and infection prevention (“S&IP”) business of Halyard Health. $OMI PR link.

Hasbro(PBR549) to acquire Saban’s Power Rangers and several other entertainment brands, including My Pet Monster, Popples, Julius Jr., Luna Petunia, Treehouse Detectives and others, in a $522 million cash/stock deal, to close 2H18. $HAS PR link.

Pitney Bowes(PBR588) gets renewal and multi-year extension of its partnership with eBay(PBR163) to power eBay’s Global Shipping Program. $PBI PR link.

USG Corp(PBR599) authorizes a new round of negotiations for potential acquisition by Gebr. Knauf KG (“Knauf”). $USG PR link.

Vista Outdoor(PBR784) in strategic transformation growth plan to focus on ammunition, hunting and shooting accessories, hydration bottles and packs, and outdoor cooking products; exploring strategic options for remaining Sports Protection brands (e.g. Bell, Giro, and Blackburn), Jimmy Styks paddle boards, and Savage and Stevens firearms. $VSTO PR link.

Beacon Roofing(PBR818) has acquired Tri-State Builder’s Supply (“Tri-State”), a wholesale supplier of roofing, siding, windows, doors and related building products located in Duluth, MN. $BECN PR link.

MetLife(PBR39) CFO John Hele retires, succeeded by EVP/Treasurer John McCallion; promotes Stephen W. Gauster to EVP/General Counsel. $MET PR link.

Honeywell(PBR74) promotes Greg Lewis to interim role of VP/Corporate Finance until 08/03/18 at which time he will succeed retiring Tom Szlosek as CFO. $HON PR link.

JM Smucker(PBR437) President/Pet Food and Pet Snacks Barry Dunaway to retire 07/31/18, President/Canada, International & US Away From Home David Lemmon is successor; President/CEO Jeffrey Watters of soon to be acquired Ainsworth to become SVP/General Manager of Ainsworth. $SJM PR link.

Henry Schein(PBR270) President James Breslawski adds role of Vice Chairman, hired Jonathan Koch as SVP & CEO/Global Dental Group. $HSIC PR link.

US Steel/Aluminum Tariffs Update: On 04/30/18 President Trump approved Section 232 tariff modifications on steel and aluminum imports, has reached a final agreement with South Korea on steel imports, also has reached agreements in principle with Argentina, Australia, and Brazil with respect to steel and aluminum, is extending negotiations with Canada, Mexico, and the European Unionfor a final 30 days. White House PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary March 2018 Total Construction Spending Annual Rate is at $1.285 trillion, -1.7% from February 2018, +3.6% from March 2017. USDOC PR link.

The Institute for Supply Management says the US April 2018 Manufacturing PMI Index(>50%=Economy Expanding) is at 57.3%, March 2018 was 59.3%, February 201860.8%, April 2017 55.3%. ISM PR link.

IHS Markit says the US April 2018 Manufacturing PMI is at 56.5, highest since September 2014, March 2018 was 55.6, February 2018 55.3, April 2017 52.8. IHS Markit PR link.

Automotive News reports that US April 2018 Total Light Vehicles Sold were at 1,063,895 units, excludes GM who is now reporting only quarterly, -5.0% from April 2017, April 2018 Average Price was $35,411, +0.4% from from March 2018, +2.1% from April 2017. Automotive News PR link.

The PurdueU/CME Group April 2018 Ag Economy Barometer is 125, March 2018 was 135, February 2018 140, April 2017 130. PurdueU/CME Group PR link.

Check out the BLOG page for the previous RECAPS and SNAPSHOTS posts.

Have questions on The PBR1000 or The PBR US Economic Indices Monthly Snapshots? Please contact us at Sales@PBRMarketTools.com or call us in the US at 520-444-2519.

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Filed Under: Recaps Tagged With: acquisitions, Business, Business Intelligence, business news, DJIA, Economy, Leadership, Market Research, mergers, Money, NASDAQ, Rankings, Research, S&P 500, Stock Market, Stocks, The PBR1000, Trading, Wealth Management

The PBR1000 April 2018 Stocks & Commodities Snapshots

May 4, 2018 by admin

April 2018: The Stock Market Bull Wins, But Just Barely

After a 2 month lapse, the Stock Market Bull is back in the game with a narrow win in April.

By Larry C. Paxton

With 9 out of 21 trading days in April being up or down by 1% or more volatility was at its greatest so far in 2018, even though the US and world economies continue to show strong moderate growth, US employment is good, and initial 1Q18 corporate earnings were generally encouraging. But there were headwinds from continued geopolitical concerns about N Korea and renewed issues with the nuclear treaty with Iran. At the end of the month the Stock Market Bull stops the Stock Market Bear at 2 consecutive months and they are now tied at 2 months each for the year.

The US Major Stock Market Exchanges April 2018 Summary

Number of Trading Days: 21

Number of Gain(+)/Loss(-) Days: DJIA 10+/11-; NASDAQ 11+/10-; SPX 13+/8-.

Record Days: DJIA 0, NASDAQ 0, SPX 0

Longest Gain Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 3 days(04/03-05/18), NASDAQ 3 days(04/03-05/18, 04/16-18/18), SPX 3 days(04/13-15/18, 04/16-18/18, 04/25-27/18)

Longest Loss Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 5 days(04/18-24/18), NASDAQ 5 days(04/19-25/18), SPX 2 days(04/19-20/18)

Big Swing Up Days(>1.00%): 6 days(04/03(DNS), 04/04(NS), 04/10(DNS), 04/12(DN), 04/17(NS), 04/26(NS)), mostly from international trade issues, optimism over anticipated meetings with N Korea.

Big Swing Down Days(<-1.00%): 3 days(04/02(DNS), 04/20(N), 04/24(DNS)), mostly from technology sector drops, Iran nuclear treaty issues.

The PBR1000 April 2018 Snapshots

The following are Top 5 partial tables excerpts from The PBR1000 April 2018 Snapshots. The price for stocks is for the close of trading on April 30, Month % Chg is compared to March 29, YTD % Chg is compared to December 29, 2017, and the 16 Months % Chg is compared to December 30, 2016. The PBR Rank is by annual revenues.

To get the complete The PBR1000 Snapshots just click here to get your 2 month or significantly discounted 12 month subscription and automatically download the April 2018 edition with the complete 15 Snapshots and 25 rankings and the bonus The PBRMarketTools US Monthly Indices Snapshots.

Table 1(S11): The PBR1000 Top 5 Month Stock Price % Gainers

Table 1 Summary: The range was +50% to -48%. 511 out of 1,000 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a loss of 0.0%, the median was a gain of 0.2%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 04/30/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	16 Mos % Chg
Verifone	877	PAY	23.01	+50	+30	+30
Andeavor	82	ANDV	138.32	+38	+21	+58
Stage Stores	934	SSI	2.91	+33	+73	-33
SM Energy	997	SM	23.95	+33	+8	-31
Chipotle	537	CMG	423.33	+31	+46	+12

Table 2(S12): The PBR1000 Top 5 Year-To-Date Stock Price % Gainers

Table 2 Summary: The range was +312% to -94%. 411 out of 1,000 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a loss of 1.4%, the median was a loss of 3.0%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 04/30/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	16 Mos % Chg
BlueLinx	882	BXC	40.22	+23	+312	+438
Fossil	726	FOSL	14.95	+18	+92	-42
Stage Stores	934	SSI	2.91	+33	+73	-33
Netflix	252	NFLX	312.46	+6	+63	+152
Eastman Kodak	943	KODK	4.95	-7	+60	-68

Table 3(S13): The PBR1000 Top 5 16 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: The range was +512% to -99%. 627 out of 998 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 17.2%. The median was a gain of 11.0%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 04/30/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	16 Mos % Chg
Weight Watchers	976	WTW	70.05	+10	+58	+512
BlueLinx	882	BXC	40.22	+23	+312	+438
Scientific Games	689	SGMS	53.30	+28	+4	+281
Systemax	982	SYX	31.43	+10	-6	+258
Square	833	SQ	47.34	-4	+37	+247

Table 4(S15): The PBR1000 Top 5 Market Capitalization

Table 4 Summary: The range was $824 billion to $0.01 billion. The average is $25.8 billion, median is $8.1 billion, out of 1,000 companies.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Market Cap($B) 04/30/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	16 Mos % Chg
Apple	4	AAPL	824	-3	-6	+33
Amazon	8	AMZN	763	+10	+37	+114
Microsoft	31	MSFT	738	+7	+12	+53
Alphabet	21	GOOG	717	+3	-2	+35
Facebook	69	FB	503	+13	-2	+52
The PBR1000			25,800	+2	-1	+18

Table 5: The PBR1000 Index & Primary US Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company	Price 04/30/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	16 Mos % Chg
The PBR1000	84,985.83	-0.1	-1.5	+17.4
DJIA	24,163.15	+0.3	-2.3	+22.3
NASDAQ	7,066.27	+0.0	+2.4	+31.3
S&P500	2,648.05	+0.3	-1.0	+18.3
GOLD	1,316.10	-1.0	+0.8	+14.3
SILVER	16.36	+0.1	-3.7	+2.3
OIL	68.57	+5.6	+14.1	+27.6

Have questions on The PBR1000 or The PBR US Economic Indices Monthly Snapshots? Please contact us at Sales@PBRMarketTools.com or call us in the US at 520-444-2519.

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

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The PBR1000 April 2018 Breaking News Recap

May 3, 2018 by admin

The PBR1000 April 2018 Breaking News Items

A Lot of Questions About When the Chaos Will End and the Predictable Order, If There Ever Was Such A Thing, Will Be Restored.

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

***Monday, April 30:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Month of April Ending 04/30/18:

The Stock Market Bear had the momentum as the month closed, but the Stock Market Bulleked out the win for April, its first since its big win in January, and ties up their records at 2 months each for 2018 so far.

DJIA ends April at 24,163.15, -0.61% from last Friday, +0.25% MTD/QTD, -2.25% YTD, -9.22% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends April at 7,066.27, -0.75% from last Friday, +0.04% MTD/QTD, +2.36% YTD, -6.88% from record 7,588.32 set 03/12/18.

SPX ends April at 2,648.05, -0.82% from last Friday, +0.27% MTD/QTD, -0.96% YTD, -7.83% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

Walmart(PBR1) wholly owned UK retail subsidiary Asda Group to combine with J Sainsbury plc, Walmart to hold 42% stake and receive about $4.0 billion cash, combined 2017 revenues of about $68.9 billion from 2,800 stores plus websites, 330,000 employees. $WMT PR link.

ExxonMobil(PBR2) to acquire Indonesia based motorcycle lubricants manufacturer & marketer PT Federal Karyatama, includes the Federal Oil brand and a 700,000 barrel per year blending plant in Cilegon, Indonesia, to close 3Q18, terms not disclosed. $XOM PR link.

Marathon Petroleum(PBR23) to acquire Andeavor(PBR71 $ANDV) for total enterprise value of $35.6 billion, a 24.4% premium price based on ANDV’s 04/27/18 closing stock price, creates a leading US refining, marketing, and midstream company, to close 2H18. $MPC PR link.

Oracle(PBR78) has acquired student-centric, cloud-based financial aid solution for higher education institutions provider Vocado, terms not disclosed. $ORCL PR link.

T-Mobile(PBR95) and Sprint(PBR86) to merge as T-Mobile in all stock deal, values Sprint at $59 billion, combined company $146 billion, will push 5G development, to close before end of 1H19. $TMUS PR link.

Gilead Sciences(PBR107) and Alphabet(PBR44)’s Verily announce 3 year scientific collaboration to identify and understand immunological and molecular drivers of inflammatory diseases. $GILD PR link.

Medtronic(PBR133) gets US FDA approval of its Infuse(TM) Bone Graft in new spine surgery indications. $MDT PR link.

Xerox(PBR144 $XRX) merger with Fujifilmtemporarily blocked per injunction issued by NY Supreme Court judge on 04/27/18, agrees with activist stockholder plaintiff, says Xerox CEO Jeff Jacobson sought to conclude the deal even though he was advised to end negotiations.Reuters PR link.

Parker Hannifin(PBR218) completes divestiture of its global Facet filtration business to Filtration Group Corporation per its agreement with the US Dept of Justice, terms not disclosed. $PH PR link.

VF Corp(PBR232) completes sale of its Nautica® brand business to Authentic Brands Group, terms not disclosed. $VFC PR link.

JCPenney(PBR234) offering exclusive popular singer-songwriter Lionel Richie designed Home Collection of comforters, quilts, sheets, decorative pillows and bath towels, available online, in select stores in Fall 2018. $JCP PR link.

KKR(PBR332) completes majority ownership acquisition of largest dental support organization in the US with 11,000 team members in more than 850 supported dental practices across 35 states, Effingham, IL, based Heartland Dental, from Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan and affiliates who remain stakeholders, terms not disclosed. $KKR PR link.

Boston Scientific(PBR356) completes $306 million up front plus up to $100 million for commercial milestone achievements acquisition of privately held Maple Grove, MN, based the Rezūm® system enlarged prostrate therapy developer NxThera. $BSX PR link.

KBR(PBR395) gets contract to develop world’s largest fully integrated crude oil to chemicals project in Saudi Arabia. $KBR PR link.

LabCorp(PBR413) to sell its $150 million in sales/2017 Covance Food Solutions business to Eurofins Scientific (EUFI.PA) for $670 million cash, to close in 3Q18. $LH PR link.

Chipotle(PBR561) food delivery from 1,500+ locations available per national deal with DoorDash. $CMG PR link.

Pitney Bowes(PBR588) selling its Document Messaging Technologies (DMT) production mail business and supporting software to Platinum Equity for $361 million. $PBI PR link.

Chico’s FAS(PBR730) to offer Chico’s brand apparel and accessories on Amazon(PBR29)beginning in mid 05/18. $CHS PR link.

Fitbit(PBR870) moving its healthcare services on wearables development to Alphabet(PBR44)’s Google new Cloud Healthcare API. $FIT PR link.

Scientific Games(PBR937) gets 8 year contract extension to provide lottery instant games in Kentucky. $SGMS PR link.

Prologis(PBR940) to acquire logistics real estate company DCT Industrial Trust(NYSE: DCT) in $8.4 billion stock-for-stock deal, includes debt, to close 3Q18. $PLD PR link.

Marriott Vacations(PBR947) to acquire ILG in $4.7 billion cash/stock deal, will result in an upper-upscale and luxury vacation ownership and exchange company with 100+ vacation properties worldwide and around 650,000 owners, $2.9 billion in annual revenues. $VAC PR link.

NCR(PBR383) hires Michael D. Hayford as CEO, succeeds Chairman/CEO Bill Nuti who has been named Chairman Emeritus, and names Frank Martire Executive Chairman. $NCR PR link.

YRC Worldwide(PBR472) promotes President/COO Darren Hawkins to CEO per succession plan, succeeds retiring James Welch. $YRCW PR link.

TransDigm(PBR810) President/COO Kevin Stein, PhD, now President/CEO, succeeds Chairman/CEO/Co-Founder Nick Howley who is now Executive Chairman. $TDG PR link.

Terex(PBR357) hires Boris Schoepplein as President/Terex Parts & Services, based in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, effective 06/01/18. $TEX PR link.

Fifth Third Bancorp(PBR387) hires Susan B. Zaunbrecher as SVP/Senior Legal Adviser with intent to succeed Jelena McWilliams, a candidate to chair the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation(FDIC), as Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary. $FITB PR link.

S&P Global(PBR477) hires Dimitra Manis as EVP/Chief People Officer. $SPGI PR link.

McKesson(PBR6) elects Brad Lerman, SVP/General Counsel and Corporate Secretary for Medtronic(PBR133), as a new independent board director. $MCK PR link.

Deckers Outdoor(PBR929) appoints William L. McComb, former CEO of Liz Claiborne, to the Board and announces that John G. Perenchio has resigned from the Board. $DECK PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US National Public Debt on 04/26/18 was at $15.335 trillion, Intragovernmental Holdings $5.720 trillion, Total Debt $21.055 trillion, -0.2% from 03/30/18, +2.7% YTD, +6.1% from 04/28/17. USTreasury PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/BEA says US Preliminary March 2018 Total Personal Income Annual Rate is at $16.888 trillion, +0.3% from February 2018, +3.6% from March 2017; Personal Savings Rate Average at +3.1%, Effective Tax Rate Average at 12.3%. USDOC PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says 7th District Preliminary April 2018 Midwest Economy Index is at +0.52, March 2018 was +0.41. ChiFed PR link.

The MNI April 2018 Chicago Business Barometer(>50=Expanding) is at 57.6, March 2018 was 57.4, February 2018 61.9, April 201758.3. MNI/ISM Chicago PR link.

The American Automobile Assn says US Average Price Per Gallon-Regular on 04/30/18was at $2.811, highest since November 2014, 03/30/18 was $2.654, 02/28/18 $2.530, 04/28/17$2.398. AAA PR link.

***Friday, April 27:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 04/27/18:

The Stock Market Bear continued its run in the earlier part of the week, then the Stock Market Bull made an appearance for a couple of days. But in the end the Stock Market Bear prevailed for its 9th win of 2018 in the 19th week.

DJIA ends the week at 24,311.19, -0.62% from last Friday, +0.86% MTD/QTD, -1.65% YTD, -8.66% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends the week at 7,119.80, -0.37% from last Friday, +0.80% MTD/QTD, +3.13% YTD, -6.17% from record 7,588.32 set 03/12/18.

SPX ends the week at 2,669.91, -0.01% from last Friday, +1.10% MTD/QTD, -0.14% YTD, -7.06% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

Qualcomm(PBR106) extends $127.50/share tender offer for acquisition of NXP Semiconductors(NASDAQ: NXPI) to 05/11/18 5PM Eastern, 12.7% of the outstanding NXP common shares have been validly tendered. $QCOM PR link.

Wynn Resorts(PBR427 $WYNN) appears before Massachusetts Gaming Commission(MGC) regarding whether or not Steve Wynn should be a qualifier, CEO Matt Maddox affirms he should not be, is no longer a part of the company, proposes $2.5 billion Wynn Boston Harbor casino being constructed name be changed to Encore Boston Harbor. MGC PR link.

PPG(26) announces restructuring plan, includes reducing headcount by 1,100 by end of 2Q19. $PPG PR link.

Hill-Rom(PBR954) hires John P. Groetelaars as President/CEO, effective 05/14/18, succeeds retiring John J. Greisch. $HRC PR link.

Mondelez(PBR87) hires Paulette Alviti as Chief Human Resources Officer, effective 06/11/18, succeeds retiring Karen May. $MDLZ PR link.

Newmont Mining(PBR358) elects René Médori, PhD, who has deep experience in the global energy and mining industries, to the Board. $NEM PR link.

Norwegian Cruise Lines(BR489) appoints Pamela Thomas-Graham, Founder/CEO of Dandelion Chandelier LLC, a private digital media enterprise focused on global luxury, to the Board. $NCLH PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/BEA says US Advance Estimate 1Q18 Gross Domestic Product Annual Rate was at +2.3%, $19.965 trillion, +1.1% from 4Q17, +4.8% from 1Q17. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US 1Q18 All Civilian Workers Employment Cost Index(2005=100) was at 132.5, 4Q17 was 131.4, 1Q17 129.0. USDOL PR link.

The U of Michigan US Final April 2018 Consumer Sentiment Index is at 98.8, March 2018 was 101.4, February 2018 99.7, April 2017 97.0. UMichigan PR link.

***Thursday, April 26:

Amazon(PBR29) Prime Video gets exclusive 2 year renewal to stream Natl Football League Thursday Night Football games globally. $AMZN PR link.

American Express(PBR83 $AXP) gets word from China‘s central bank that it would “formally accept” AMEX’s application to clear and settle domestic bank-card transactions, initial step toward approval. MarketWatch PR link.

Whirlpool(PBR138) commences modified Dutch Auction tender offer to purchase up to $1 billion of its common stock for $150 to $170/share, expires 05/23/18. $WHR PR link.

Tenet Healthcare(PBR161) completes $630 million acquisition of 15% ownership stake inUnited Surgical Partners International from Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowe, now owns 95%, Baylor U Medical Center owns remaining 5%. $THC PR link.

Hershey(PBR354 $HSY) to stop selling certain sizes and varieties of candy to save money as costs rise. MarketWatch PR link.

T Rowe Price(PBR570) adds 10 million shares to repurchase program, balance available is now 21 million shares, all 12 board nominees elected, including newcomer Richard Verma, Vice Chairman/Partner at The Asia Group and former US ambassador to India. $TROW PR link.

CIT Group(PBR608) to purchase its common stock up to $500,000,000, for $50-$56/share, expires 05/23/18. $CIT PR link.

First Solar(PBR630) to build a new solar module manufacturing facility near existing Perrysburg, OH, flagship plant. The $400 million capital investment 1 million sf 1.2 gigawatt factory to create 500 new jobs in northwestern Ohio, will produce the company’s advanced technology Series 6 thin film photovoltaic (PV) module, construction to start mid 2018, be in full production by late 2019. $FSLR PR link.

Welltower(PBR635) to acquire Quality Care Properties, Inc. (NYSE: QCP) for $20.75/share, forms 80/20 joint venture with regional not-for-profit health system ProMedica Health Systemwho will provide operations support. $WELL PR link.

Endo Intl(PBR700) to acquire New Jerseybased developer/marketer of sterile injectable and ophthalmic drugs for the US marketplace Somerset Therapeutics and its India based affiliate contract developer/manufacturer Wintac Ltd for around $190 million total. $ENDP PR link.

MGIC Investment(PBR993) authorizes up to $200 million share repurchase program through 12/31/19. $MTG PR link.

La Quinta(PBR998) stockholders approve acquisition by Wyndham Worldwide(PBR464)for $1.95 billion in cash after spin-off of La Quinta’s real estate assets into independent public company CorePoint Lodging, to close 2Q18. $LQ PR link.

Tesla(PBR651) SEC proxy statement shows CEO Elon Musk received $49,920 in 2017 compensation, median worker earned $54,816 for a Pay Ratio of 0.91/1.00(pg 38). $TSLA PR link.

Macerich(PBR957) SEVP/CFO/Treasurer Thomas O’Hern to become CEO on 01/01/19, will succeed retiring Art Coppola, SVP/Finance Scott Kingsmore to become EVP/CFO/Treasurer. $MAC PR link.

The New York Times(PBR971) promotes Roland Caputo to CFO, effective 04/30/18, was named interim CFO on 03/01/18. $NYT PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Total Initial Unemployment Insurance Claims for Week Ending 04/21/18 were at 209,000, was 218,000 on 03/31/18, 217,000 on 02/24/18, 242,000 on 04/29/17. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US 1Q18 Total Housing Units are at 137.1 million, 120.9 million are occupired, 77.0 million by homeowners, 43.0 million by renters, 17.2 million homes are vacant, Occupancy Rate is 87.5%, Home Ownership Rate 64.2%. USDOC PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) says US 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rate Average on 04/26/18 was at 4.58% with 0,5 fees/points, 03/29/18 was 4.44%, 02/22/18 4.40%, 04/27/17 4.03%. $FMCC PR link.

***Wednesday, April 25:

Ford(PBR10) releases 1Q18 results, says by 2020 almost 90% of Ford portfolio in N Americawill be trucks, utilities and commercial vehicles, sedans to be focused on Mustang and new Focus Active crossover. $F PR link.

Comcast(PBR42) bids $30 billion for major European entertainment and communications services provider Sky plc, a 16% premium over 21st Century Fox(PBR91) bid. $CMCSA PR link.

UPS(PBR47) makes available a special Voluntary Retirement Plan for a select group of non-operations, retirement-eligible US management employees to help reduce headcount, lower on-going operating expense. $UPS PR link.

21st Century Fox(PBR91) responds to Comcast(PBR42) $30 billion bid for Sky plc, comments that it remains committed to its recommended cash offer for Sky announced on 12/15/17 and is currently considering its options. $FOX PR link.

Norfolk Southern(PBR242) increases shares buyback program to $1.5 billion. $NSC PR link.

Estee Lauder(PBR255) expands paid parental leave program to 20 weeks, up to $10,000 for adoption assistance, expands benefits to include back-up child, adult, and elder care. $EL PR link.

Ball Corp(PBR312) authorizes 25 million share repurchase program, replaces all previous programs. $BLL PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR314) to license and manage its first Mexico non-gaming facility at to be developed $200 million 5 start luxury 500 room with convention center beach front Caesars Palace resort in Puerto Los Cabos. $CZR PR link.

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

Twitter(PBR735) 1Q18 ends with 336 million total average monthly active users, 69 million from US, 267 million from international, total +3% from 1Q17, 6 million new users in 1Q18. $TWTR PR link.

Hologic(PBR767) gets US FDA approval for ThinPrep® Integrated Imager, which will make automated imaging of Pap tests more broadly available to US laboratories and cytologists. $HOLX PR link.

Plexus(PBR807) to build second manuifacturing facility in Guadalajara, Mexico, 472,000 sf, to be ready mid 2019, employ around 3,000. $PLXS PR link.

Briggs & Stratton(PBR920) authorizes $50 million share repurchase program, expires 06/30/20. $BGG PR link.

Regions Financial(PBR540) President John Turner to become CEO on 07/02/18, succeeds Chairman/CEO Grayson Hall who will become Executive Chairman through 2018. $RF PR link.

Coty(PBR524) hires Esra Erkal-Paler to newly created position of Chief Global Corporate Affairs Officer. $COTY PR link.

Public Storage(PBR848) promotes Natalia N. Johnson to SVP/Chief Human Resources Officer and hires Ryan Burke as VP/Investor Services, succeeds retiring Clemente Teng. $PSA PR link.

Herbalife(PBR487) board directors stepping off are Richard P. Bermingham, Pedro Cardoso, and Keith Cozza; new directors elected to the board are Nicholas Graziano, portfolio manager of Icahn Capital, Alan LeFevre, former EVP of finance and chief financial officer for Jarden Corporation, Juan Miguel Mendoza, an independent Herbalife distributor for 25 years, and Margarita Palau-Hernandez, founder and CEO of Hernandez Ventures. $HLF PR link.

Moody’s(PBR636) elects Vincent Forlenza, Chairman/CEO of Becton Dickinson(PBR318) and Gerrit Zalm, former Chairman/CEO of ABN AMRO to the Board. $MCO PR link.

The US Energy Information Administrationsays US Crude Oil Reserve Stocks on 04/20/18 were at 429.7 million barrels of oil, -0.1% from 03/23/18, -18.7% from 04/21/17. EIA PR link.

ADP(PBR235) says US 1Q18 Average Annual Wage Growth was at +2.9%, +0.8% from 1Q17, 1Q18 Average Worker Hourly Wage was $27.36, +$ 0.78 from 1Q17. $ADP PR link.

***Tuesday, April 24:

Amazon(PBR29) Prime members can now have items delivered inside their vehicle parked at home, work or near other locations in their address book through the Amazon Key service, no additional charge, currently available in 37 locations, rolling out across the US. $AMZN PR link.

Microsoft(PBR31) and Declaration Networks Group to deliver broadband internet access to approximately 65,000 people on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, including Accomack and Northampton Counties, and Garrett County, Maryland, over the next three years, partnership part of Microsoft’s Rural Airband Initiative. $MSFT PR link.

General Mills(PBR162) completes $40.00/share, $8.0 billion cash acquisition of BLUE brand natural foods and treats for dogs and cats company Blue Buffalo Pet Products(NASDAQ: BUFF). $GIS PR link.

SuperValu(PBR164) to sell 8 of its distribution centers, around 5.8 million square feet, to a single buyer for around $483 million then lease back the facilities for an initial term of 20 years with five five-year renewal options. $SVU PR link.

Gap Inc(PBR179) to open 60 new Old Navystores by end of 2018. $GPS PR link.

Genworth Financial(PBR287) and China Oceanwide withdraw and refile Committee on Foreign Investment in the US (CFIUS) joint notice, starts 45 day investigative period regarding GNW’s $5.43/share, $2.7 billion cash acquisition of Oceanwide. $GNW PR link.

Salesforce(PBR453) to invest $2.2 billion in its French business over the next five years. $CRM PR link.

Herbalife(PBR487) name change to Herbalife Nutrition Ltd to be effective 04/25/18, ticker symbol remains HLF; 2:1 stock split distribution date is 05/14/18. $HLF PR link.

TransDigm(PBR810) completes $525 million acquisition of Melbourne, FL, based $85 million/FY2018 proprietary aftermarket products and repair and overhaul services to the aerospace and defense end markets Extant Components Group from Warburg Pincus. $TDG PR link.

Sinclair Broadcast(PBR894) to sell 23 TV stations to Standard Media Group(an affiliate of Standard General LP), Meredith Corp(PBR994), Howard Stirk and Cunningham Broadcasting Corporation and another party to be announced, upon consummation of Sinclair’s $43.50/share, $3.9 billion cash/stock, plus assumption of $2.7 billion of debt acquisition of Tribune Media Company(NYSE:TRCO). $SBGI PR link.

Jabil Circuit(PBR188) CFO Forbes I.J. Alexander to retire 08/31/18 after 25 years with company, SVP/Controller Michael K. Dastoor named successor, effective 09/01/18. $JBL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says US Preliminary March 2018 New Family Homes Sold/For Sale Annual Rate is at 694,000, +4.0% from February 2018, +8.8% from March 2017; Preliminary March 2018 Median Home Price was $337,200, +3.5% from February 2018, +4.8% from March 2017. USDOC PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond Fifth District April 2018 Manufacturing Index(Annualized) is at -3%, March 2018 was +15%, February 2018 +28%, April 2017 +17%. RichmondFed PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond Fifth District April 2018 Service Sector Revenue Index(Annualized) is at +2%, March 2018 was +25%, February 2018 +27%, April 2017 +19%. RichmondFed PR link.

The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller US February 2018 National Home Price Index(01/2000=100)is at 197.01, January 2018 was 196.18, December 2017 196.17, February 2017 185.27. Case-Shiller PR link.

The Conference Board Preliminary April 2018 Consumer Confidence Index(1985=100) is at 128.7, May 2018 was 127.0. TCB PR link.

***Monday, April 23:

Apple(PBR5 $AAPL) acquisition of UK based developer and distributor of music recognition applications Shazam getting in-depth investigation by European Commission, concerned merger could reduce choice for users of music streaming services. European Commission PR link.

Pfizer(PBR56) receives a Complete Response Letter (CRL) from US FDA regarding proposed trastuzumab biosimilar, does not relate to safety or clinical data submitted, plans to respond. $PFE PR link.

Humana(PBR58) with TPG Capital and Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowe, to acquire privately held hospice operators providing care to patients at 245 locations in 22 states Curo Health Services for $1.4 billion, Humana to have 40% minority interest. $HUM PR link.

Sears(PBR93) gets letter from ESL Investments recommending divestiture of all or a portion of (i) the Kenmore brand and related assets, (ii) the Sears Home Improvementbusiness of the Sears Home Services division (“SHIP”), and (iii) the PartsDirect business of the Sears Home Services division, ESL interested in participating as a buyer. $SHLD PR link.

Whirlpool(PBR138) to sell its Brazil based 11,000 employees worldwide Embracocompressor business to Nidec Corporation for $1.08 billion cash, to close in early 2019. $WHR PR link.

FirstEnergy(PBR195) reaches agreement in principle with two groups of key creditors in the Chapter 11 proceedings of FirstEnergy Solutions (FES), its related entities and FirstEnergy Nuclear Operating Company (FENOC). $FE PR link.

PSEG(PBR257) to replace 875 miles of gas mains over 5 years through $1.875 billion settlement with NJ Board of Public Utilities, represents under 2% residential rate increase, around $17/year, to create 3,200 sustained jobs. $PEG PR link.

Henry Schein(PBR270) to spin off and merge its Animal Health business with Vets First Choiceto create an independent public company 63% owned by HSIC, also expects to receive $1.0 to $1.25 billion cash. $HSIC PR link.

CenterPoint Energy(PBR295) to acquire Vectren(PBR745) for $72/share, around $6 billion, will create an energy delivery, infrastructure and services company serving more than 7 million US customers. $CNP PR link.

LabCorp(PBR413) at Walgreens(PBR36 $WBA) to expand into Florida at 10 sites. $LH PR link.

JetBlue(PBR429) and semi-private public charter operator JetSuiteX announce codeshare partnership, includes flights between Burbank, Calif. (BUR); Concord, Calif. (CCR); Oakland, Calif. (OAK); and Las Vegas (LAS). $JBLU PR link.

Netflix(PBR447) to sell $1.5 billion of senior notes for general corporate purposes. $NFLX PR link.

Trimble Navigation(PBR804) to acquire privately-held scalable construction management software developer Viewpoint from Bain Capitalfor $1.2 billion cash. $TRMB PR link.

McDermott Intl(PBR825) rejects unsolicited, non-binding proposal to be acquired by Subsea 7 for $7.00/share. $MDR PR link.

McDermott Intl(PBR825) and CB&I(NYSE: CBI(Chicago Bridge & Iron) $6 billion merger to be named McDermott, expects to close in 05/18. $MDR PR link.

United Continental(PBR77) SEC proxy statement shows CEO Oscar Munoz 2017 total compensation was $9,561,134, median US employee total compensation was $83,211(from 85,359 US employees), 2017 CEO Pay Ratiowas 115:1(pg 84). $UAL PR link.

Cooper Cos(PBR950) CFO Albert White to become President/CEO on 05/01/18, Brian Andrews to be promoted to SVP/CFO & Treasurer. $COO PR link.

PolyOne(PBR586) promotes Dr. David A. Jarus to VP/Research & Development, succeeds retiring Christopher J. Murphy. $POL PR link.

Cabot Corp(PBR607) EVP/CFO Eduardo Cordeiro & President/Americas to step down on 05/15/18, VP/Business Operations of Reinforcement Materials Erica McLaughlin to become SVP/CFO at that time. $CBT PR link.

Granite Construction(PBR831) EVP/CFO Laurel J. Krzeminski to retire in 2H18, search starts. $GVA PR link.

Reinsurance Group of America(PBR256)appoints John J. Gauthier, most recently President of Allied World Financial Services and as EVP/Chief Investment Officer of Allied World Assurance Company Holdings, AG, and Hazel M. McNeilage, Managing Director, EMEA for Northern Trust Asset Management, to the Board, effective 07/18. $RGA PR link.

Wynn Resorts(PBR427) stockholders get letter from co-founder and largest stockholder Elaine Wynn requesting a No vote for Board nominee John J. Hagenbuch at 05/16/18 annual meeting. $WYNN PR link.

Newell Brands(PBR434) ends proxy fight with Starboard, appoints Starboard representatives Gerardo I. Lopez and Robert A. Steele to the Board, to nominate Bridget Ryan Berman for Board at 2018 annual meeting, Andrew Langham steps down from Board effective immediately, David Atchison not standing for re-election. $NWL PR link.

Vitamin Shoppe(PBR968) appoints Himanshu H. Shah, Sing Wang and Melvin L. Keating to the Board, may appoint 2 more later, 4 current directors not standing for re-election. $VS PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago US Preliminary March 2018 3 Month Moving Average National Activity Index is at +0.27, February 2018 +0.31, January 2018 +0.11, March 2017 -0.07. ChiFed PR link.

The Natl Assn of Realtors says US March 2018 Existing Home Sales Annual Rate is at 5,600,000, +1.1% from February 2018, -1.2% from March 2017; US March 2018 Existing Home Median Price is at $250,400, +3.6% from February 2018, +5.8% from March 2017. $NAR PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) in April 2018 Outlookforecasts 30 year fixed mortgage rates to average 5.1%. $FMCC PR link.

***Friday, April 20:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 04/20/18:

The week started out pretty strong as geopolitical issues eased. President Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Abe appeared to have some good talks to address the trade deficit. Former FBI Director James Comeymade the rounds promoting his “tell all” book about his interactions and thoughts about President Trump. As the week progressed 1Q18 earnings came in mixed. Mid week the Beige Book was released indicating the economy is growing at a modest to moderate rate. The much admired former First Lady Barbara Bushpassed away, The Stock Market Bear made a big push in the second half of the week as tech stocks struggled, but in the end the Stock Market Bull pulled out its 10th win of 2018 in the 16th week.

DJIA ends the week at 24,462.94, +0.42% from last Friday, +1.49% MTD/QTD, -1.04% YTD, -8.09% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends the week at 7,146.13, +0.56% from last Friday, +1.17% MTD/QTD, +3.52% YTD, -5.83% from record 7,588.32 set 03/12/18.

SPX ends the week at 2,670.14, +0.52% from last Friday, +1.11% MTD/QTD, -0.13% YTD, -7.06% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

Walmart(PBR1) Proxy Statement for 2018 shareholders meeting shows CEO made $22.8 million in 2017, median worker made $19,177, CEO pay ratio of 1,188:1(pg 78, CEO Pay Ratio). $WMT PR link.

Verizon(PBR15 $VZ) sells its photo services Flickr unit to SmugMug, terms not disclosed. SmugMug PR link.

Kroger(PBR20) completes $2.15 billion sale of 762 convenience stores unit to UK based privately held petrol forecourt convenience store retailer EG Group, announces $1.2 billion accelerated share repurchase program with Goldman Sachs(PBR76). $KR PR link.

Wells Fargo(PBR30) to pay $1 billion per agreement with US Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and Office of the Comptroller of the Currency regarding certain home mortgage and auto loans compliance issues. $WFC PR link.

Monsanto(PBR187 $MON) $128/share, $66 billion cash acquisition by Germany’s Bayer AGgets Russian antitrust authorities approval conditioned on some technology transfers to Russia recipients. MarketWatch PR link.

Facebook(PBR228) moves 1.5 billion users out of reach of new European privacy law. The Guardian PR link.

Biogen(PBR282) purchases $625 million of Ionis Pharmaceuticals (Nasdaq: IONS) stock and makes $375 million up front payment for 10 year expanded strategic collaboration agreement to develop novel antisense drug candidates for a broad range of neurological diseases. $BIIB PR link.

Charter Communications(PBR297) and Comcast(PBR42) form a 50/50 operating platform partnership for the development and design of backend systems to support Comcast’s Xfinity Mobile and Charter’s Spectrum Mobile service. $CHTR PR link.

Varian Medical(PBR678) gets US FDA 510k clearance for its Calypso® Anchored Beacon® transponder, helps clinicians deliver dose to lung tumors with increased confidence and accuracy. $VAR PR link.

Trimble Navigation(PBR804) has acquired assets of Williamsburg, VA, based N Americansupplier of Management Information System (MIS) solutions for steel fabrication developer FabSuite, terms not disclosed. $TRMB PR link.

Middleby(PBR865) acquires Barcelona, Spain, based $20 million in sales/year manufacturer of charcoal grill and oven cooking equipment for commercial foodservice and residential applications Josper SA, terms not disclosed. $MIDD PR link.

TripAdvisor(PBR936) acquires Iceland based business management technology for the tours, attractions and experiences industry provider Bokun, charges flat monthly fee for corporate bookings, terms not disclosed. $TRIP PR link.

HNI Corp(PBR841) Chairman/President/CEO retires as President, to retire as Chairman/CEO no later than 12/31/18, Jeffrey D. Lorenger promoted to President, to add CEO role by end of 2018. $HNI PR link.

Chipotle(PBR561) hires Marissa Andrada as Chief Human Resources Officer. $CMG PR link.

Delta(PBR72) appoints Michael Huerta, former Administrator of the US Federal Aviation Administration, to the Board. $DAL PR link.

AutoNation(PBR148) elects Dr. Jacqueline A. Travisano, EVP/Business and Finance and COO of the University of Miami, to the Board. $AN PR link.

***Thursday, April 19:

Verizon(PBR15) bolsters in-house customer experience design team with acquisition of Moment, terms not disclosed. $VZ PR link.

Wells Fargo(PBR30) commits to provide $200 billion in financing to sustainable businesses and projects by 2030, with more than 50% focused on clean technology and renewable energy transactions that directly support the transition to a low-carbon economy. $WFC PR link.

Wells Fargo(PBR30 $WFC) to no longer be mortgage benefits provider for the American Federation of Teachers because of lack of bank’s relationship with the National Rifle Association and gun manufacturers. AFT PR link.

Proctor & Gamble(PBR33) to acquire the Consumer Health business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, for around $4.1 billion, expands over-the-counter products, replaces and improves upon the highly successful PGT Healthcare joint venture P&G had with Teva Pharmaceutical Industries (NYSE: TEVA), which will be terminated 07/01/18. $PG PR link.

AIG(PBR46) authorizes two new insurance companies in the UK and Luxembourg, in preparation for upcoming Brexit break between the UK and the European Union. $AIG PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) and NXP Semiconductors(NASDAQ: NXPI) at the request of the Ministry of Commerce in China (MOFCOM) have withdrawn and refiled the notice of acquisition, extends end date for purchase to 07/25/18, also extends $127.50/share tender offer date to 04/27/18. $QCOM PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106 $QCOM) laying off 4.4% of its workforce to cut costs. MarketWatch PR link.

Xerox(PBR144 $XRX) defends CEO’s authority on Fujifilm deal after investor’s accusations. MarketWatch PR link.

American Electric Power(PBR174) reaches settlement agreement related to the return on equity (ROE) for transmission investments in AEP’s eastern operating companies and transmission companies, incorporates benefits of tax reform into transmission rates. $AEP PR link.

Allergan(PBR219) issues statement saying that it does not intend to make an offer for Shire plc, continues to evaluate divestitures, combinations and acquisitions. $AGN PR link.

Sempra Energy(PBR254)’s SoCalGas and Opus 12 successfully demonstrate new process to convert carbon dioxide in raw biogas to methane in a single electrochemical step, a critical improvement in the science of upgrading biogas to pipeline quality natural gas, and a simpler method of converting excess renewable electricity into storable natural gas. $SRE PR link.

Cognizant(PBR272) completes acquisition of privately held 2,400 employees, 1,400+ client locations revenue cycle management provider Bolder Healthcare Solutions, terms not disclosed. $CTSH PR link.

MGM Resorts(PBR273) and Chicago based Invenergy to partner in developing a new solar photovoltaic array with 336,000 panels on 640 acres 25 miles from Las Vegas, will generate 100 megawatts, and provide 90% of daytime electricity needs for MGM’s 13 Las Vegas properties. $MGM PR link.

AGCO(PBR280) Power unit celebrates 75th year in business, one millionth engine produced, in its factory in Linnavuori, Nokia, Finland. $AGCO PR link.

Booking(PBR319) to acquire Denver, CO, based local activities and experiences booking software provider, FareHarbor, terms not disclosed. $BKNG PR link.

AMD(PBR445) announced the global availability of its 2nd Generation Ryzen™ Desktopprocessors starting with four models optimized for gamers, creators, and hardware enthusiasts. $AMD PR link.

Guess?(PBR798) and Gucci conclude all pending IP litigations and trademark office matters worldwide, terms not disclosed. $GES PR link.

Mattel(PBR412) appoints director Ynon Kreiz to be CEO, effective 04/26/18, succeeds departing Margo Georgiadis, Kreiz expected to also be elected Chairman at 05/17/18 annual meeting. $MAT PR link.

Macerich(PBR957) Chairman/CEO Arthur Coppola to retire on 12/31/18 after 42 years with company and its predecessors, director Steven Hash appointed Independent Chairman, CEO successor search starts. $MAC PR link.

Nike(PBR98 $NKE) clears way for more diverse leadership with 4 executives having exited. Portland Business Journal PR link.

Nationstar Mortgage(PBR857) promotes Tony Ebers to new company position of COO. $NSM PR link.

Popular(PBR886) creates Corporate Security Group, promotes Betina Castellví to Chief Security Officer as its leader. $BPOP PR link.

Celgene(PBR347)‘s longest serving director, Gilla Kaplan, PhD, to retire after 20 years of service; US health insurance expert Patricia Hemingway Hall and Juno Therapeutics co-founder and former CEO Hans Bishop elected to Board. $CELG PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphiasays the 3rd District March 2018 Manufacturing General Activity Indicator is at 23.2, February 2018 was 22.3, January 201825.8, March 2017 31.6. PhillyFed PR link.

The Conference Board says US Preliminary March 2018 Leading Economic Indicator(2016=100) is at 109.0, February 2018was 108.7, January 2018 108.0, December 2017 107.2, indicates solid economic growth to continue through 2018. TCB PR link.

***Wednesday, April 18:

AT&T(PBR12) decides to withdraw its planned initial public offering of shares of Vrio Corpbased on current market conditions. $T PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) went over 100 million Prime members globally & shipped 5+ billion itemsin 2017, says Founder/Chairman/President/CEO Jeff Bezos in his annual letter to stockholders. $AMZN PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) and Best Buy(PBR73) do exclusive multi-year partnership to offer new Fire TV Edition Smart TVs in US & Canada beginning in summer 2018. $AMZN PR link.

Home Depot(PBR32) to hire 1,000 technology professionals at its primary technology centers in Atlanta, Austin and Dallas. $HD PR link.

Intel(PBR51) Stratix® 10 FPGAs hit 10 trillion floating point operations per second, fastest in the world. $INTC PR link.

Emerson Electric(PBR109) to acquire Textron(PBR207)’s Rockford, IL, based 11 manufacturing facilities globally, 2,300 employees $470 million in sales/2017 Tools and Test Equipment business for $810 million, to close within 90 days. $EMR PR link.

Community Health Systems(PBR125) to sell Ocala, FL, 421-bed Munroe Regional Medical Center to Adventist Health System Sunbelt Healthcare subsidiary Florida Hospital Ocala, to close 3Q18, terms not disclosed, part of divestiture program announced in 12/17. $CYH PR link.

Office Depot(PBR182) expands channel partners program by making available its IT services with 6,000 field technicians, gets agreement with telecom and cloud solutions distributor MicroCorp. $ODP PR link.

RR Donnelley(PBR243) reorganizes from 3 operating units into 2, Marketing Solutions and Business Services. $RRD PR link.

Dover(PBR343) board approves spin-off of oil and gas well drilling equipment developer Apergy as a separate public company, NYSE: APY, effective 05/09/18. $DOV PR link.

United Rentals(PBR438) authorizes new $1.25 billion share repurchase program, commences after completion of $168 million balance remaining from previous $1 billion authorization, expires 12/31/19. $URI PR link.

Netflix(PBR447) has over 100 projects in the works, provides some details on 10 for Europe. $NFLX PR link.

Herbalife(PBR487) commences self-tender offer to purchase up to an aggregate $600 million of shares of its common stock at a per share price between $108.00 and $98.00, expires 05/16/18. $HLF PR link.

Norwegian Cruise Lines(PBR489) authorizes 3 year up to $1 billion share repurchase program. $NCLH PR link.

Tailored Brands(PBR643) announces partnership with Hero to launch phased rollout of Men’s Wearhouse LIVE! and Jos. A. Bank LIVE!, connects online shoppers live with expert sales associates in the physical store, to be in place by 09/18. $TLRD PR link.

SunPower(PBR680) to acquire Hillsboro, OR, based American manufacturer of solar panels SolarWorld Americas, terms not disclosed. $SPWR PR link.

Equinix(PBR793) completes $804 million cash acquisition of operator of data centers in Australia provider Metronode from Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan, now has 15 International Business ExchangeTM (IBX®)data centers across Australia. $EQIX PR link.

GoPro(PBR902) launches GoPro and digital cameras trade-up program for HERO6 Black($50 off) and Fusion($100 off) cameras. $GPRO PR link.

General Motors(PBR8) President/General Manager GM Canada Steve Carlisle appointed SVP & President/Cadillac replacing Johan de Nysschen who is leaving, effective immediately; VP/Global Products Travis Hester now President/General Manager of GM Canada. $GM PR link.

ADP(PBR235) appoints Thomas J. Lynch, Chairman of global technology and manufacturing company TE Connectivity Ltd, and Scott F. Powers, former President/CEO of State Street Global Advisors, to the Board. $ADP PR link.

Wynn Resorts(PBR427) appoints 3 new independent directors, Betsy Atkins, an expert in corporate governance and digital transformation, consumer experience and technology, Dee Dee Myers, Warners Bros Entertainment EVP/Worldwide Corporate Communications and Public Affairs, and Wendy Webb, CEO of Kestrel Advisors and former Walt Disney executive, first step to refresh the Board. $WYNN PR link.

The US Federal Reserve releases the Beige Book for data through 04/09/18, says economic growth continues to be modest to moderate, outlooks remain optimistic with some concerns over new and proposed tariffs, employmentcontinues to grow at a modest to moderate pace. USFed PR link.

***Tuesday, April 17:

***Beloved former First Lady Barbara Bush passes away at age 92. New York Post PR link.***

Walmart(PBR1) US to launch new look website for e-commerce in 05/18. $WMT PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) launches the ‘International Shopping’ experience within the Amazon Shopping App, 45 million items available to be shipped internationally from the US. $AMZN PR link.

Aetna(PBR49) in 1Q18 reorganizes its business and management structure in preparation for its $207/share, $69 billion, stock/cash acquisition by CVS Health(PBR11). $AET PR link.

Southwest Airlines(PBR153) confirms an accident involving Southwest Airlines Flight 1380 flight from NY, NY, to Dallas, TX, #1 engine caught fire, emergency landing in Philadelphia, PA, 1 fatality, flight had 144 passengers and 5 crew. $LUV PR link.

Starbucks(PBR178) to close all 8,000+ US stores on afternoon of 05/29/18 for racial-bias education for its nearly 175,000 employees, will also become part of on-boarding process. $SBUX PR link.

BlackRock(PBR252) to acquire $9 billion in of committed client capital 80+ team members Los Angeles, CA, based Tennenbaum Capital Partners, terms not disclosed. $BLK PR link.

JetBlue(PBR429)‘s 5,000 inflight crewmembers elect to have the Transport Workers Union (TWU) represent them. $JBLU PR link.

Alliant Energy(BR634) gets approval from Iowa Utilities Board to to add 1,000 MW of new wind energy in Iowa, enough to power 430,000 homes, to invest $1.8 billion by end of 2020. $LNT PR link.

Scotts Miracle-Gro(PBR705) to acquire largest hydroponic distributor in the US $460 million in sales in 2017 Sunlight Supply for $425 million cash and $25 SMG equity, will become part of wholly owned subsidiary The Hawthorne Gardening Company. $SMG PR link.

Bon-Ton Stores(PBR707) not able to find buyer of its business as an ongoing concern, goes to auction, joint venture composed of the holders of the Company’s 8.0% Second Lien Secured Notes due 2021 and Great American Group, LLC and Tiger Capital Group, LLC will acquire the inventory and certain other assets of the Company, sale to be finalized and wind-down of operations scheduled for 04/18/18. $BONTQ PR link.

Big Lots(PBR468) President/CEO David Campisi, on medical leave, retires to focus on health issues, EVP/Chief Merchandising & Operating Officer Lisa Bachmann and EVP/Chief Admin & CFO Timothy Johnson continue assigned responsibilities until successor hired. $BIG PR link.

Southern Co(PBR155) to promote Andrew Evans to EVP/CFO, to succeed retiring Art Beattie, Kimberly Greene to succeed Evans as Chairman/President/CEO of Southern Company Gas, Stan Connally to succeed Greene as EVP/Operations & Chairman/President/CEO of Gulf Power, all effective 06/01/18. $SO PR link.

XCEL Energy(PBR241) hires Brett Carter to newly created position of EVP/Chief Customer and Innovation Officer. will assume many of the responsibilities currently held by Marvin McDaniel who is retiring 06/01/18. $XEL PR link.

Tapestry(PBR496) hires Eraldo Poletto as CEO/Brand President of Stuart Weitzman, effective 04/30/18, succeeds departing Wendy Kahn. $TPR PR link.

Welltower(PBR635) hires Keith Konkoli as SVP/Outpatient Medical & Real Estate Services, succeeds retiring Mike Noto. $WELL PR link.

H&R Block(PBR669) hires Vinoo Vijay as Chief Marketing Officer, effective 04/23/18. $HRB PR link.

Wynn Resorts(PBR427) co-founder and largest shareholder Elaine Wynn writes letter to the Board saying governance structure needs to be reformed and that the board of directors needs to be reconstituted immediately, recommends process to do so for voting at 2018 annual meeting. $WYNN PR link.

Nelnet(PBR972) mourns the passing away of co-founder/Board Vice Chairman and former CEO Stephen F. Butterfield. $NNI PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says US Preliminary March 2018 Private Housing Building Permits Issued Annual Rate is at 1,354,000, +2.5% from February 2018, +7.5% from March 2017. USDOC PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says US Preliminary March 2018 Total Manufacturing Production % of Capacity was at 78.0%, February 2018was 77.7%, January 2018 77.1%, March 201775.5%. USFed PR link.

The Natl Assn of Home Builders/Wells Fargo March 2018 Housing Market Composite Indexis at 69, remains in solid territory, February 2018was 70, January 2018 71, March 2017 71. NAHB/WF PR link.

***Monday, April 16:

Merck(PBR70) shares surge anew on lung cancer advance on Keytruda results($MRK PR link.), while Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR185)stock plummets with less positive Opdivoresults($BMY PR link.). MarketWatch PR link.

Goldman Sachs(PBR76) Bank USA Marcusunit acquires 1+ million customers personal finance app developer Clarity Money, terms not disclosed. $GS PR link.

American Express(PBR83) and Marriott International(PBR211) to launch new Starwood Preferred Guest® Luxury Credit Card in 08/18, $450 annual fee includes $300 in purchases credit, other benefits. $AXP PR link.

Icahn Enterprises(PBR147) to sell its majority owned subsidiary Tropicana Entertainment real estate to Gaming and Leisure Properties, Inc. (NASDAQ:GLPI) and to merge its gaming and hotel operations into Eldorado Resort(NASDAQ:ERI) for an aggregate consideration of $1.85 billion, to close 2H18. $IEP PR link.

Goodyear Tire(PBR157) and Bridgestone Americas to form tire distribution joint venture called TireHub to serve US tire dealers and retailers, with an emphasis on satisfying rapidly growing demand for larger rim diameter premium tires, to be available around mid 2018. $GT PR link.

Group 1 Automotive(PBR276) expands in Brazil with Toyota and Honda dealerships in Sao Paulo area. $GPI PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR314) in deal with Merass Holdings to manage its first two non-gaming luxury hotels, Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai, and a beach club, Caesars Bluewaters Dubai, at Meraas’ Dubai-based Bluewaters Island development, starting in late 2018. $CZR PR link.

Boston Scientific(PBR356) acquires privately held nVision Medical, developed the first and only device cleared by the US FDA to collect cells from fallopian tubes, offering a potential platform for earlier diagnosis of ovarian cancer, for $150 million plus additional up to $125 million over four years for milestone achievements, potential $2 billion market. $BSX PR link.

Wynn Resorts(PBR427) says all litigation issues between WYNN, Kim Sinatra and Elaine Wynn have been resolved, no payments made. $WYNN PR link.

Netflix(PBR447) 1Q18 results show 125,000,000 total members, 118,900,000 paid, net additions of 7,410,000, forecasting 6,200,000 net additions for 2Q18. $NFLX PR link.

NASDAQ(PBR618) completes $335 million sale of its Corporate Solutions’ Public Relations Solutions and Digital Media Services units to West Corporation. $NDAQ PR link.

Tesla(PBR651 $TSLA) temporarily shutting down Model 3 production for 4-5 days.Buzzfeed PR link.

Tesla(PBR651) blog addresses recent Revealarticle critical about safety at Tesla, Tesla says its goal is to build “the safest factory on Earth.”$TSLA PR link.

Middleby(PBR865) acquires nitro coffee brew developer JoeTap, a subsidiary of A.C. Beverage, with its patented nitrogen infusion process that will be incorporated into a smaller footprint and with greater operator flexibility, terms not disclosed. $MIDD PR link.

Domino’s(PBR889) launches over 150,000 US hotspots for non-traditional ordering and delivery places, like parks, sports fields, and beaches. $DPZ PR link.

BlueLinx(PBR892) completes $413 million acquisition of building products wholesale distributor Cedar Creek, a portfolio company of Charlesbank Capital Partners. $BXC PR link.

Scientific Games(PBR937)’ SG Digital unit has commenced OpenBet sportsbook product review sessions with the NJ Division of Gaming Enforcement, anticipating US Supreme Courtdecision to repeal the Professional and Amateur Sports Betting Association Act (PASPA). $SGMS PR link.

Sempra Energy(PBR254) hires Faisel H. Khan as VP/Investor Relations, succeeds recently retired Richard A. Vaccari. $SRE PR link.

Agilent Technologies(PBR364) SVP & President/Life Sciences and Analytical Group Patrick Kaltenbach leaving company 04/20/18, successor search starts. $A PR link.

Titan Intl(PBR910) notifies CFO James M. Froisland that his contract will not be renewed, expires 12/05/18, successor search starts. $TWI PR link.

Estee Lauder(PBR255) elects Jennifer Hyman, Co-Founder/CEO of Rent the Runway, and Jennifer Tejada, CEO of PagerDuty, to the Board. $EL PR link.

MasterCard(PBR291) hires former US Trade Representative Michael Froman as Vice Chairman and to the new role of President/Strategic Growth. $MA PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary February 2018 Total Business Sales were at $1.430 trillion, +0.4% from January 2018, +5.8% from February 2017, February 2018 Total Business Inventorieswere at $1.929 trillion, +0.6% from January 2018, +4.0% from February 2017. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Advance March 2018 Total Retail Sales were at $494.6 billion, +0.6% from February 2018, +4.5% from March 2017. USDOC PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York April 2018 Empire State Manufacturing Current Business Conditions Index is at 15.8, March 2018 was 22.5, February 2018 13.1, April 20174.1. NYFed PR link.

FannieMae(PBR17) revises forecast of US 2018 economic growth from +2.8% to a still strong +2.7%, predicts 2 federal funds interest rate hikes, expresses major concern that international trade wars could significantly alter results. $FNMA PR link.

***Friday, April 13:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 04/13/18:

It was just another typical week of volatility. Will the US and allies attack Syria or not over alleged chemical weapons use against civilians? As it turns out, late Friday there was a limited set of airstrikes by the US and its British and French allies on chemical weapons related facilities in Syria. The trade wars banter seemed to ease up a bit between the US and China and there might be an interest in joining the TPP. President Trump’s personal attorney’s officewas raided by the US Attorney General’s office. House Speaker Paul Ryan announces that he will not run for re-election and will retire as House Speaker in January. National Guard troops started deployments to the US/Mexico border. Former FBI director James Comeystirs up some controversy with excerpts and comments from his soon to be released book. Facebook Founder/Chairman/CEO Mark Zuckerberg faced hearings, made apologies, and promised policy changes over concerns of user privacy data capture and use that will affect many popular social media services. Corporate earnings reports were mixed, with financial services results disappointing on the last day of the week. US economic data continues to show moderate and stable growth. Signals from the Federal Reserve indicate more federal funds interest rate increases during the year. For the major US stock exchanges it was a mixed week with 3 days positive, 2 days negative, with the Stock Market Bull making a strong comeback after last week’s loss to notch its 9th win of 2018 in week 15. He also returns to be positive month-to-date as well, but still has ground to make up year-to-date for the DJIA and S&P500, and even more against all records.

DJIA ends the week at 24,360.14, +1.79% from last Friday, +1.07% MTD/QTD, -1.45% YTD, -8.48% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends the week at 7,106.65, +2.77% from last Friday, +0.61% MTD/QTD, +2.94% YTD, -6.35% from record 7,588.32 set 03/12/18.

SPX ends the week at 2,656.30, +1.99% from last Friday, +0.58% MTD/QTD, -0.65% YTD, -7.54% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

Sears(PBR93 $SHLD) closing its last store in the city of Chicago in 07/18. Chicago Sun-Times PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) extends $127.50/share tender offer for acquisition of NXP Semiconductors(NASDAQ: NXPI) to 04/20/18 5PM Eastern, 16.2% of the outstanding NXP common shares have been validly tendered. $QCOM PR link.

Facebook(PBR228) SEC filing shows that Founder/Chairman/CEO Mark Zuckerberg received $1 in compensation in 2017, $8.9 million for personal security related services. $FB PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR314) will license the Harrah’s brand name to the Buena Vista Gaming Authority as part of a new $168 million 71,000 sf casino development near the city of Buena Vista in N California. $CZR PR link.

Comcast(PBR42) and Netflix(PBR447) expand partnership following successful Xfinity X1integration. $NFLX PR link.

Adobe Systems(PBR557) appoints David “Dave” A. Ricks, Chairman/CEO of Eli Lilly(PBR142), to the Board. $ADBE PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary February 2018 Total Job Openings was at 6,051,000, -2.8% from January 2018, +7.7% from February 2017. USDOL PR link.

The U of Michigan Preliminary April 2018 Consumer Sentiment Index is at 97.8, March 2018 was 101.4, February 2018 99.7, March 2017 96.3. UMich PR link.

Gartner(PBR885) forecasts 2018 total global IT spending to grow by 6.2% to $3.7 trillion, 2019by 2.8%. $IT PR link.

***Thursday, April 12:

Amazon(PBR29) completes acquisition of home security products developer Ring, offering Ring Video Doorbell for $99.99. $AMZN PR link.

Wells Fargo(PBR30 $WFC) gets ultimatum from the 1.7 million members American Federation of Teachers that it must stop doing business with the NRA and gun manufacturers, will discontinue mortgage benefit program, used by 20,000 members, if they don’t. AFT PR link.

Broadcom(PBR152) authorizes up to $12 billion share repurchase program, expires 11/03/19. $AVGO PR link.

Franklin Resources(PBR315) authorizes new up to 80 million shares repurchase program with no expiration date, is in addition to 15.9 million shares remaining from previous program, 04/11/18 market close was at $32.48/share. $BEN PR link.

Essendant(PBR458) to acquire Genuine Parts(PBR191) $2.0 billion/year business products distributor S.P. Richards unit for $680 million, to close by end of 2018. $ESND PR link.

Sonoco Products(PBR480) completes $150 million acquisition of privately owned producer of thermoformed plastic packaging for fresh produce and dairy products, Plant City, FL, based $90 million in sales/2017, 425 employees Highland Packaging Solutions. $SON PR link.

Tesla(PBR651 $TSLA) withdraws formal cooperation with probe of fatal crash, will still assist investigators. MarketWatch PR link.

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

Lennar(PBR340) CEO Stuart Miller appointed Executive Chairman, President Rick Beckwitt appointed CEO, COO Jon Jaffe becomes President/COO, CFO Bruce Gross becomes CEO/Lennar Financial Services unit, Treasurer Diane Bessette becomes CFO/Treasurer in executive team restructuring. $LEN PR link.

Caterpillar(PBR54) Group President/Customer & Dealer Support Rob Charter to retire, Bob De Lange is named successor, Tom Pellette to succeed him as Group President/Construction Industries, Ramin Younessi to succeed him as Group President/Energy & Transportation, all effective 06/01/18. $CAT PR link.

Electronic Arts(PBR527) restructures leadership team, 8 people mentioned, includes Blake Jorgensen as COO/CFO, Chris Bruzzo as Chief Marketing Officer, Matt Bilbey joining as EVP/Strategic Growth. $EA PR link.

Polaris Industries(PBR531) hires Julie Gilbert to new position of Chief Customer Engagement and Growth Officer. $PII PR link.

Range Resources(PBR726) EVP/COO Ray Walker to retire effective 04/13/18, 42 years in the industry. $RRC PR link.

Cisco(PBR60) appoints Mark Garrett, former Adobe Systems(PBR557) EVP/CFO, to the Board. $CSCO PR link.

Sysco(PBR61) elects John M. Hinshaw, retired EVP/Technology and Operations and Chief Customer Officer of Hewlett Packard Enterprises(PBR95), to the Board. $SYY PR link.

Ciena Corp(PBR829) board member since 1994 Barry Cash passed away on 04/10/18. $CIEN PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary March 2018 Total Import Prices were +0.0%, February 2018 was +0.3%, January 2018+0.8%, March 2017 -0.2%, Last 12 Months+3.6%; March 2018 Total Export Prices were +0.3%, February 2018 +0.2%, January 2018+0.7%, March 2017 +0.1%, Last 12 Months+3.4%. USDOL PR link.

***Wednesday, April 11:

ExxonMobil(PBR2) says P’nyang field in Papua New Guinea has increased to 4.36 trillion cubic feet of gas, an 84% increase from a previous 2012 assessment, evaluating support of a 3-train LNG plant expansion concept. $XOM PR link.

CVS Health(PBR11) implementing new initiatives to reduce prescription drug prices, store locations to use CVS Pharmacy Rx Savings Finder. $CVS PR link.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR37)’s Vision unit announces two-week reusable, spherical ACUVUE OASYS® with Transitions® Light Intelligent Technology™, contact lenses adjust to lighting situation, to be available 1H19. $JNJ PR link.

Starbucks(PBR178) opens first store in Uruguay in capital city of Montevideo, plans to have 10 by 2020 with 130 employees. $SBUX PR link.

Carnival Corp(PBR184) increases quarterly dividend from $0.45/share to $0.50/share, re-authorizes of up to $1 billion in share repurchases. $CCL PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) partnering with Fujifilm Kyowa Kirin Biologics Co., Ltd. to commercialize a biosimilar to Humira® (adalimumab) developed by Fujifilm, Mylan will leverage its regulatory platform to seek approval and commercialize the product for $4.1 billion/year Humira market in Europe. $MYL PR link.

Tractor Supply(PBR436)‘s small-box pet specialty supply retailer Petsense unit to open a store in Gulf Breeze and Crestview to enter Florida market, currently has 172 stores in 27 states. $TSCO PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) to become official title sponsor of UK based Premiership Rugby, games televised in over 200 countries, over 2 million attendees at games last season. $AJG PR link.

Alexion Pharmaceutical(PBR840) to acquire Stockholm, Sweden, based biopharmaceutical company that develops novel therapies for patients with rare copper-mediated disorders Wilson Therapeutics(Nasdaq Stockholm: WTX) through tender offer valued at $855 million. $ALXN PR link.

KKR(PBR332) hires David Haines as Executive Chairman of the Global Spreads business, effective upon its $8.1 billion acquisition from Unilever. $KKR PR link.

Fiserv(PBR474) hires Kim Crawford Goodman as President/Card Services. $FISV PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary March 2018 Average Employee Current Weekly Earnings is at $925.29, +0.3% from February 2018, +3.3% from March 2017. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary March 2018 Monthly Consumer Price Index(aka inflation) was -0.1%, February 2018was +0.2%, January 2018 +0.5%, March 2017-0.3%, Last 12 Months was +2.4%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US March 2018 Total Federal Government Receipts Fiscal YTD(6 Months) were at $1.497 trillion, Outlays FYTD was $2.097 trillion, Deficit FYTD $599.7 billion, March 2017 FYTD Deficit was $526.9 billion. USTreasury PR link.

The Federal Reserve Open Market Committeereleases the minutes from its 03/20-21/18 meeting, noted volatility in equity markets, labor markets continue to strengthen, real GDPgrew at moderate rate in 1Q18, actual path of the federal funds rate will depend on the economic outlook as informed by incoming data. FOMC PR link.

***Tuesday, April 10:

Walmart(PBR1) and delivery service Postmatesto expand Online Grocery Delivery option service to over 40% of the US, $9.95 delivery fee and $30 order minimum. $WMT PR link.

Kroger(PBR20) family of stores is hiring 11,000, includes 2,000 management positions. $KR PR link.

Humana(PBR58) acquires Orlando, FL, based 22 clinics serving 43,000 patients Family Physicians Group, terms not disclosed. $HUM PR link.

Icahn Enterprises(PBR147) to sell wholly owned subsidiary Federal-Mogul to Tenneco(PBR321) for $5.4 billion cash/stock, Tenneco to spin-off Federal-Mogul up into 2 separate independent public companies. $IEP PR link.

Booking(PBR319) announces milestone of five million reported listings in homes, apartments and other unique places to stay. $BKNG PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) to acquire global marketing rights to a once-monthly glatiramer acetateproduct, a therapy for multiple sclerosis, through investment/partnership with Israelicompany Mapi Pharma, terms not disclosed. $MYL PR link.

Spirit AeroSystems(PBR370) divests itself from Haeco Spirit AeroSystems (JinJiang) Co. Ltd, a maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) joint venture in China, terms not disclosed. $SPR PR link.

Tesla(PBR651) gets purchase agreement to install a high-storage 212kW/840kWhr Tesla battery at BP Wind Energy’s Titan 1 Wind Farm in S Dakota, has 10 turbines on 7,500 acres, 25MW capacity, powers 6,700 homes. $TSLA PR link.

Sempra Energy(PBR254) to promote Joseph A. Householder to President/COO and Trevor I. Mihalik to EVP/CFO on 05/01/18, reiterates CEO succession plan. $SRE PR link.

Flowserve(PBR492) hires Elizabeth Burger as SVP/Chief Human Resources Officer, effective 04/16/18. $FLS PR link.

TEGNA(PBR622) hires Kurt Rao as Chief Technology Officer, effective 04/16/18. $TGNA PR link.

PerkinElmer(PBR838) hires James M. Mock as SVP/CFO, effective 05/01/18, to succeed retiring Andy Wilson. $PKI PR link.

Stepan(PBR904) hires Luis Rojo as VP/CFO, effective 04/30/18. $SCL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary March 2018 Producer Price Index is at +0.3%, February 2018 was +0.2%, January 2018+0.4%, March 2017 +0.1%, Last 12 Months+3.0%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says US Preliminary February 2018 Total Wholesale Sales were at $495.9 billion, January 2018 was $490.9 billion, December 2017 $498.1, February 2017 $464.3 billion, % Change From February 2017 is +5.5%. USDOC PR link.

The US Congressional Budget Office forecasts 2018 Budget Deficit to be 4.2% of Gross Domestic Product, to grow to 5.1% of GDP in 2022. CBO PR link.

The Institute of International Finance says governments, businesses and individuals added $21 trillion of debt in 2017, bringing the total outstanding debt around the world to $237 trillion, the highest level on record. Yahoo Finance PR link.

CoreLogic says US January 2018 Home Mortgages 30 Days or More Delinquent was at 4.9%, December 2017 was 5.3%, November 2017 5.1%, January 2017 5.3%, Total US Homes In Foreclosure is at 0.6%. CoreLogic PR link.

Stocks Investing: Some interesting observations and comments from the investment team at Legg Mason(PBR709). $LM PR link.

***Monday, April 9:

***A PBRMarketTools Snapshot Summary.***

Snapshot 15 Summary: The PBR1000 March Top 5 By Market Capitalization(Rank, Company, PBR1000 Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 03/29/18 Market Capitalization):

1. Apple, PBR2, AAPL, $845 billion
2. Alphabet, PBR20, GOOG, $699 billion
3. Amazon, PBR7, AMZN, $693 billion
4. Microsoft, PBR29, MSFT, $688 billion
5. Berkshire Hathaway, PBR4, $485 billion

Range: $845 billion to $0.01 billion
Total The PBR1000 Market Capitalization:$25.2 trillion, -2.4% from 12/29/17, +15.4% from 12/30/16
Average: $25.2 billion
Median: $7.7 billion

The PBR1000 is used by astute business leaders and shrewd investors worldwide. Click here to find out more!

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Apple(PBR5) now globally powered by 100% renewable energy, currently has commitments from 23 suppliers to do so also. $AAPL PR link.

Nike(PBR98) acquires computer vision Tel Aviv, Israel, based Invertex to expand digital platform capabilities, terms not disclosed. $NKE PR link.

Leucadia Natl(PBR246) to sell 48% of National Beef to long-term strategic partner Marfrig for around $900 million cash, reducing Leucadia’s ownership in National Beef to 31%; also agrees to sell all its equity interests in Garcadia and its associated real estate to current partners, the Garff family, to net $425 million; to vote for company name change to Jefferies Financial Group Inc at 2018 annual meeting, ticker proposed to be NYSE: JEF; board approves up to 25 million share repurchase program from 12.5 million shares remaining from previous program. $LUK PR link.

Calumet Specialty(PBR431) acquires Irvine, CA, based private Biosynthetic Technologies, holds exclusive rights to patented technology that converts fatty acids found in plant and animal oils into high-performance synthetic oils that can be used in industrial lubricant, personal care and other chemical sectors, terms not disclosed. $CLMT PR link.

S&P Global(PBR477) completes $550 million cash/stock acquisition of Cambridge, MA, based provider of next-generation machine learning and analytics to the world’s premier financial institutions as well as the National Security community Kensho Technologies. $SPGI PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Houston, TX, based retail property/casualty broker serving Texas-based transportation clients, primarily long-haul truckers, Integrity Transportation Insurance Agency, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) in multi-year partnership to become Chicago Cubs’ official insurance brokerage, benefits and risk management services partner, west gate to be named “Gallagher Way”, also naming rights for left field bullpen door, and will do a videoboard feature sponsoring late inning insurance runs. $AJG PR link.

Bon-Ton Stores(PBR707) gets letter of intent to be purchased as a going concern in a Bankruptcy Court-supervised sale process by an investor group made up of DW Partners, Namdar Realty Group (including its partner Mason Asset Management) and Washington Prime Group, in the process of finalizing an asset purchase agreement in advance of 04/16/18 auction. $BONTQ PR link.

Dynegy(PBR777) $13.24/share in all stock deal with enterprise value of $20 billion merger into Vistra Energy Corp(NYSE: VST) is completed. $DYN PR link.

VeriFone(PBR858) to be acquired by private equity firm Francisco Partners for $23.04/share(a 54% premium from 04/09/18 closing price of $15.00), $3.4 billion cash, includes net debt, to close 3Q18. $PAY PR link.

Woodward(PBR888) to acquire Rolls Royce Power Systems unit fuel injection systems technology company 1,000 employees L’Orange GmbH for $859 million, has facilities in Germany, US, and China, did sales of $300 million in 2017. $WWD PR link.

E*Trade(PBR930) completes acquisition of $18.3 billion in institutional assets under custody, $1.6 billion in customer cash, 200 active registered investment advisors independent advisor custodian TCA, terms not disclosed. $ETFC PR link.

Caterpillar(PBR54) Group President/Customer & Dealer Support (C&DS) Rob Charter to retire 06/01/18 after 30+ years with the company, successor search starts. $CAT PR link.

Wynn Resorts(PBR427) promotes Corrine Clement to VP/Culture and Community, a new department. $WYNN PR link.

Cooper Tire & Rubber(PBR625) SVP/CFO Ginger Jones to retire as full-time executive later this year, to stay on until successor named. $CTB PR link.

Aerojet Rocketdyne(PBR969) hires Natalie Schilling as Chief Human Resources Officer. $AJRD PR link.

ServiceMaster(PBR704) appoints William(Bill) C. Cobb, former President/CEO of H&R Block(PBR669), to the Board. $SERV PR link.

FannieMae(PBR17) says US March 2018 Home Purchase Sentiment Index is at 88.3, February 2018 was 85.8, January 2018 89.5, March 2017 84.5. $FNMA PR link.

***Friday, April 6:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 04/06/18:

The first week of the month and quarter was a little bit like an April Fool’s Day joke, with the Stock Market Bear having Monday to himself on worries of international trade, but those fears subsided and the Stock Market Bull recovered the losses over the next three days. But after Thursday’s announcement that President Trump wanted to add tariffs on $100 billion of imports from China, and with a timid jobs report on Friday, the Stock Market Bear returned with a vengeance to easily claim the week as his.

DJIA ends the week at 23,932.76, -0.71% from last Friday/MTD/QTD, -3.18% YTD, -10.08% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends the week at 6,915.11, -2.10% from last Friday/MTD/QTD, +0.17% YTD, -8.87% from record 7,588.32 set 03/12/18.

SPX ends the week at 2,604.47, -1.38% from last Friday/MTD/QTD, -2.59% YTD, -9.34% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

Boeing(PBR27) gets deal from American Airlines(PBR69 $AAL) for 47 firm orders plus 28 options for Dreamliner 787s, order valued at $12+ billion, more than doubles AAL’s Dreamliner fleet. $BA PR link.

Merck(PBR70) and Incyte(Nasdaq:INCY) Phase 3 ECHO-301/KEYNOTE-252 studyresults evaluating Incyte’s epacadostat in combination with Merck’s KEYTRUDA® in patients with unresectable or metastatic melanoma determined that the study did not meet the primary endpoint, study to be discontinued. $MRK PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) extends $127.50/share tender offer for acquisition of NXP Semiconductors(NASDAQ: NXPI) to 04/13/18 5PM Eastern, 16.1% of the outstanding NXP common shares have been validly tendered. $QCOM PR link.

BB&T(PBR277) Insurance Holdings unit to acquire Regions Financial(PBR450)‘s property and casualty and employee benefits products to businesses Insurance Group unit, has 60,000 clients in Southeast, Texas, and Indiana, terms not disclosed. $BBT PR link.

PriceSmart(PBR683) hires Maarten Jager as EVP/CFO, effective 04/24/18, succeeds retiring John Hefner. $PSMT PR link.

Roper Technologies(PBR614) elects Shellye L. Archambeau, most recently CEO of MetricStream, to the Board. $ROP PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US March 2018 Total Civilian Labor Force Employed was at 155,178,000, -37,000 from February 2018, +2,114,000 from March 2017, March 2018 Total Unemployed was at 6,585,000, -121,000 from February 2018, -586,000 from March 2017, March 2018 Unemployment Rate remains at 4.1%. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Board says US Preliminary February 2018 Total Consumer Revolving Debt was at $1.031 trillion, Non-Revolving Debt $2.837 trillion, Total Consumer Debt $3.868 trillion, +0.3% from January 2018, +0.7% YTD, +5.1% from February 2017. USFed PR link.

***Thursday, April 5:

***A PBRMarketTools Snapshot Summary.***
Snapshot 13 Summary: The PBR1000 March Top 5 Stock Performers Since 12/30/16(15 Months)(Rank, Company, PBR1000 Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 03/29/18 Stock Price, % Increase from 12/30/16):

1. Weight Watchers, PBR985, WTW, $63.72, +457%
2. BlueLinx, PBR856, BXC, $32.59, +326%
3. Systemax, PBR903, SYX, $28.55, +226%
4. RH(Restoration Hardware), PBR820, RH, $95.28, +210%
5. Scientific Games, PBR699, SGMS, $41.60, +197%

Range: +457% to -99%
Number of Companies at 0% or Better:623/1,000
Average: +17.0%
Median: +10.3%

The PBR1000 is used by astute business leaders and shrewd investors worldwide. Not a full Subscriber yet? Click here!

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CVS Health(PBR11) to expand ongoing efforts to educate patients about, and increase access to, the opioid overdose-reversal drug naloxone consistent with the Surgeon General’s Advisory on Naloxone and Opioid Overdoseissued today. $CVS PR link.

AT&T(PBR12) launches Vrio Corp IPO, holding company for AT&T’s Latin American digital entertainment services units, DIRECTV Latin America and SKY Brasil, NYSE: VRIO, Class A stock, $19-22. $T PR link.

Verizon(PBR15 $VZ) selling former AOL unit Moviefone to MoviePass owner Helios and Matheson Analytics(NASDAQ: HMNY) in cash and stock deal. $HMNY PR link.

JPMorgan Chase(PBR21) Chairman/CEO Jamie Dimon releases his 2017 annual report, was a good year for JPM during profound political and economic change around the world. $JPM PR link.

Alphabet(PBR44 $GOOG)’s Google unit gets open letter from 3,000 employees asking it to drop Pentagon ‘war’ drone program, Google responds. MarketWatch PR link.

Monsanto(PBR187) provides update on $128/share, $66 billion cash acquisition by Germany’s Bayer AG, says optimistic, Bayer leading the way on regulatory issues, may require some divestitures, to close in 2Q18. $MON PR link.

BlackRock(PBR252) provides its clients with an update on civilian firearms exposures in investment portfolios, has funds that does not include firearms. $BLK PR link.

Biogen(PBR282) and Samsung Bioepis get agreement in patent case with AbbVie (PBR136)for the commercialization of IMRALDI, a biosimilar referencing HUMIRA® (adalimumab), AbbVie will grant patent licenses for the use and sale of IMRALDI in Europe, on a country-by-country basis, and Biogen and Samsung Bioepis will make royalty payments to AbbVie. $BIIB PR link.

Sanmina(PBR401) facilities in Chennai, Indiabecome first Tier 1 Electronic Manufacturing Services company in India with both FDA Registration and Medical Design Registration. $SANM PR link.

NetApp(PBR405) authorizes additional $4 billion for share repurchase program, no expiration date. $NTAP PR link.

Intercontinental Exchange(PBR556) agrees to acquire the Chicago Stock Exchange, to close 2Q18, terms not disclosed. $ICE PR link.

Twitter(PBR735) releases 12th biannual Twitter Transparency Report, says suspended 1.2+ million accounts since 08/15 for terrorist content, provides updates on new transparency rules. $TWTR PR link.

GNC(PBR743) does master franchise agreement with Rapid Nutrition to market, sell and distribute GNC products through retail outlet expansion, e-commerce, and other potential distribution channels throughout Australia. $GNC PR link.

Synopsys(PBR879) replenishes share repurchase program back to $500 million. $SNPS PR link.

eBay(PBR163) hires Sukhinder Singh Cassidy to be president of its StubHub division, effective 05/02/18, succeeds Scott Cutler who recently became SVP and head of eBay’s Americas business unit. $EBAY PR link.

Campbell Soup(PBR326) announces strategic reorganization, appoints Luca Mignini as COO to oversee core businesses, doing search for someone to head up new Accelerator unit, Emily Waldorf appointed as SVP/Corporate Strategy. $CPB PR link.

Gannett(PBR414) President/USA TODAY NETWORK Maribel Perez Wadsworth now also Publisher, USA TODAY. $GCI PR link.

Adobe Systems(PBR557) promotes John Murphy to EVP/CFO, succeeds retiring Mark Garrett. $ADBE PR link.

Helmerich & Payne(PBR600) hires Mark W. Smith as CFO Designate effective 05/01/18, to succeed Juan Pablo Tardio as CFO upon his retirement on 06/30/18. $HP PR link.

Urban Outfitters(PBR638) says David McCreight, CEO of Anthropologie Group and President/Urban Outfitters, is departing 04/27/18, Hillary Super will be successor to lead the brand. $URBN PR link.

GoPro(PBR902) announces Eve Saltman has returned as VP, Corporate/Business Development and General Counsel. $GPRO PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says US Preliminary February 2018 Total Trade Exports were $204.5 billion, Trade Imports$262.0 billion, Trade Deficit $57.5 billion, February 2017 Trade Deficit was $44.4 billion; Total Trade Exports YTD(2 months) were $405.4 billion, Trade Imports YTD $519.7 billion, Deficit YTD is $114.3 billion, Deficit YTD 2017 $93.1 billion. USDOC PR link.

World Trade Organization: China files WTO complaint over the US’ tariff measures on Chinese goods. WTO PR link.

New China Tariffs Request: President Donald Trump requests tariffs on an additional $100 billion of Chinese goods. MarketWatch PR link.

***Wednesday, April 4:

***PBRMarketTools Special Report.***
Snapshot 12 Summary: The PBR1000 March Top 5 YTD(3 Months) Stock Performers(Rank, Company, PBR1000 Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 03/29/18 Stock Price, % Increase from 12/29/17):

1. BlueLinx, PBR856, BXC, $32.59, +234%
2. Alliance One, PBR894, AOI, $26.05, +97%
3. Eastman Kodak, PBR926, KODK, $5.35, +73%
4. Fossil, PBR671, FOSL, $12.70, +63%
5. Tenet Healthcare, PBR129, THC, $24.25, +60%

Range: +234% to -93%
Number of Companies at 0% or Better:379/1,000
Average: -1.4%
Median: -3.2%

The PBR1000 is used by astute business leaders and shrewd investors worldwide. Not a full Subscriber yet? Click here!

******

CVS Health(PBR11) to phase in new program to focus on early identification of kidney disease and expansion of home dialysis equipment capabilities. $CVS PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) to open its 4th fulfillment center in Nevada in N Las Vegas, 800,000+ sf facility, to employ 1,000+ full-time. $AMZN PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR142) paying $63 million upfront to Sigilon Therapeutics for development of encapsulated cell Diabetes 1 therapies, pay up to $410 million for reaching development and commercialization milestones, plus royalties on the commercial product, plus LLY making an undisclosed equity investment. $LLY PR link.

Facebook(PBR228) revises API, login, and other policies to protect user data, says Cambridge Analytica may have improperly collected data on up to 87 million people. $FB PR link.

JM Smucker(PBR437) to acquire privately held 700 employees Meadville, PA, based Ainsworth Pet Nutrition, LLC, maker of Rachael Ray™ Nutrish® pet food, for $1.7 billion, to close after 05/01/18; also reviewing strategic options, including a potential divestiture, for its US baking business that primarily encompasses products sold in US retail channels under the Pillsbury®, Martha White®, Hungry Jack®, White Lily®, and Jim Dandy®brands, represents $370 million annual revenues. $SJM PR link.

Michaels Cos(PBR503 $MIK) to add 300+ exclusive events/parties items from the new Martha Stewart Celebrations line through Sequential Brands Group(NASDAQ: SQBG), includes Cricut machine for custom projects. $SQBG PR link.

AMC Entertainment(PBR728) to open first movie theater after 35 year ban in Saudi Arabiain Riyadh on 04/18/18 under new license agreement, under Vision 2030 Saudi Arabiaeffort expects to have 350 cinemas and 2,500 screens by 2030. $AMC PR link.

SM Energy(PBR978) to sell remaining assets in the Williston Basin in Divide County, N Dakota, and the third-party operated assets Halff East in Upton County, TX, for a combined $292.3 million. $SM PR link.

3M(PBR92) promotes Kristen Ludgate to SVP/Human Resources, effective 07/01/18, succeeds retiring Marlene McGrath. $MMM PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) CFO Karen Hoguet to retire in 02/19, has been CFO since 1997, successor search starts. $M PR link.

Nike(PBR98 $NKE) needs to promote more women and minorities, company’s HR chief says.MarketWatch PR link.

Bed Bath & Beyond(PBR240) appoints JB (Johnathan) Osborne, co-founder and CEO of Red Antler, to the Board, will stand for election at 2018 annual meeting. $BBBY PR link.

JetBlue(PBR429) board member since 2002 David Checketts to leave effective 05/17/18. $JBLU PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary February 2018 Manufacturing New Orders was $498.0 billion, +1.2% from January 2018, +7.1% from February 2017. USDOC PR link.

ADP(PBR235) says US Preliminary March 2018 Change In Private Sector Employmentwas +241,000, February 2018 was 246,000, January 2018 241,000, March 2017 122,000. $ADP PR link.

IHS Markit says US March 2018 Composite PMI Index is at 54.2, February 2018 was 55.8, January 2018 53.8, March 2017 53.0. IHS Markit PR link.

The Institute for Supply Management says the US March 2018 Non-Manufacturing ISM Index(>50% economy growing) is at 58.8%, February 2018 was 59.5%, January 201859.9%, March 2017 55.2%. ISM PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) releases “Profile of Today’s Renter,” says 67% of renters view renting as more affordable than owning a home. $FMCC PR link.

***Tuesday, April 3:

Target(PBR40 $TGT) adding three small-format stores in NYC, on the path to having 130 small format stores by end of 2019. MarketWatch PR link.

21st Century Fox(PBR91) issues statement regarding its proposed $14.8 billion cash acquisition of European entertainment 30,000 employee Sky plc, submits new revised set of remedies to maintain independence of Sky News, includes establishing Sky News as an independent entity with guaranteed funding for 15 years, or purchase by Walt Disney(PBR57), which has also expressed an interest in acquiring Sky. $FOX PR link.

VF Corp(PBR232) completes acquisition of private Auckland, New Zealand, based $150 million revenues/year 340+ employees natural materials high-performance outdoor clothing company Icebreaker Holdings, terms not disclosed. $VFC PR link.

Crown Holdings(PBR298) completes $3.91 billion acquisition of $2.3 billion/year global provider of transit packaging systems Signode Industrial Group Holdings from The Carlyle Group(PBR581). $CCK PR link.

Pentair(PBR363) board approves spin-off of nVent Electric plc as a public company, shares to start trading on 05/01/18 with ticker symbol NYSE: NVT, Pentair to continue as a global water company. $PNR PR link.

Ryder(PBR378) acquires 109 e-commerce fulfillment facilities across the US and Canada provider MXD Group for $120 million, Ryder now second largest last mile delivery provider of big and bulky goods. $R PR link.

W.R. Grace(PBR645) completes $416 million acquisition of Albemarle(PBR792)‘s polyolefin catalysts and components business. $GRA PR link.

Tesla(PBR651) releases 1Q18 production figures, 34,494 total vehicles, a 40% increase over 4Q17, 9,766 were Model 3‘s, now producing around 2,000 Model 3’s per week, expects to be at 5,000/week in about 3 months, and as result will not require an equity or debt raise this year. $TSLA PR link.

Equinix(PBR793) completes $800 million debt and cash acquisition of 1.6 million gross-square-foot InfoMart Dallas from ASB Real Estate Investments. $EQIX PR link.

Curtiss-Wright(PBR837) completes $212.5 million acquisition of Dresser-Rand Government Business, from a Siemens AGwholly-owned subsidiary. $CW PR link.

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

PSEG(PBR257) VP/Investor Relations Kathleen Lally to retire 06/30/18, Manager/Investor Relations Carlotta Chan to be successor. $PEG PR link.

Stryker Corp(PBR283) Group President/Global Quality and Business Operations Lonny Carpenter to retire on 03/31/18, Viju Menon hired as successor, effective 04/30/18. $SYK PR link.

DSW(PBR778) hires Drew Domecq as SVP/Chief Information Officer. $DSW PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) elects Christopher E. Herbert, Managing Director for Harvard University’s Joint Center for Housing Studies, to the Board. $FMCC PR link.

The US Trade Representative releases proposed list of 1,300 separate tariff lines on approximately $50 billion worth of Chinese imports in response to China’s unfair trade practices related to the forced transfer of US technology and intellectual property, will undergo further review in a public notice and comment process, including a hearing, before final determinations are made. USTR PR link.

Automotive News says US March 2018 New Light Vehicle Sales were at 1,655,864, +26.9% from February 2018, +6.4% from March 2017; March 2018 Average Price was $35,285, -0.5% from February 2018, +2.0% from March 2017; Annual Sales Rate is at 17,490,000 vehicles. Automotive News PR link.

The US March 2018 PurdueU/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer Composite Index is at 135, February 2018 was 140, January 2018135, March 2017 124. PurdueU/CME Group PR link.

***Monday, April 2:

Snapshot 11 Summary: The PBR1000 March Top 5 Stock Performers (Rank, Company, PBR1000 Ranking by Revenues, Stock Symbol, 03/29/18 Stock Price, % Increase from 02/28/18):

1. BlueLinx, PBR856, BXC, $32.59, +116%
2. Veritiv, PBR318, VRTV, $39.20, +62%
3. Sears Hometown, SHOS, PBR830, $3.00, +43%
4. Crocs, PBR998, CROX, $16.25, +33%
5. Guess?, PBR807, GES, $15.79, +31%

Range: +116% to -33%
Number of Companies at 0% or Better:438/1,000
Average: -0.6%
Median: -0.8%

The PBR1000 is used by astute business leaders and shrewd investors worldwide. Not a full Subscriber yet? Click here!

GE(PBR9) to sell its Enterprise Financial Management (Revenue-Cycle, Centricity Business), Ambulatory Care Management (Centricity Practice Solution) and Workforce Management (formerly API Healthcare) assets comprising GE Healthcare’s Value-Based Care Division to private equity firm Veritas Capitalaffiliate for $1.05 billion in cash, to close in 3Q18. $GE PR link.

Energy Transfer Equity(PBR52) Partners unit completes $1.8 billion sale of compression business to USA Compression Partners(NYSE: USAC), ETE receives ownership interests in USAC general partner and 12.5 million shares of USAC. $ETE PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) extends $127.50/share tender offer for acquisition of NXP Semiconductors(NASDAQ: NXPI) to 04/06/18 5PM Eastern, 14.8% of the outstanding NXP common shares have been validly tendered. $QCOM PR link.

AFLAC(PBR121) completes AFLAC Japanbranch to subsidiary. $AFL PR link.

FirstEnergy(PBR195) files Chapter 11 bankruptcy for its First Energy Solutions and FirstEnergy Nuclear Operating Companyunits, will be deconsolidated from FirstEnergy’s financial reporting, in discussions with noteholders, does not effect First Energy and its other subsidiaries. $FE PR link.

NGL Energy(PBR207) completes $200 million cash sale of portion of its Retail Propanebusiness across 10 states to a DCC plc division. $NGL PR link.

Sinclair Broadcast(PBR894) responds to criticism from media, says recent promotional announcements for its local news serve no political agenda, represents an effort to differentiate their award-winning news programming from other less reliable sources of information. $SBGI PR link.

Sonoco Products(PBR480) EVP/COO Rob Tiede now President/CEO as planned, succeeds retiring President/CEO Jack Sanders. $SON PR link.

Advance Auto Parts(PBR279) EVP/CFO Tom Okray departing, effective 04/15/18, SVP/Controller and Chief Accounting Officer Jeff Shepherd to also be interim CFO until successor named. $AAP PR link.

Celgene(PBR347) President/COO Scott A. Smith has departed, primary responsibilities being handled by Chairman/CEO Mark Alles, will modify executive team structure. $CELG PR link.

JetBlue(PBR429) hires Andres Barry as president of the airline’s new subsidiary, JetBlue Travel Products. $JBLU PR link.

UNISYS(PBR633) hires Katie Ebrahimi as SVP/Chief Human Relations Officer, effective 04/26/18, to succeed Dave Loeser. $UIS PR link.

Newell Brands(PBR434) to nominate David L. Atchison, an e-commerce marketing analytics executive with leading brands including Zulily and RedEnvelope, to the Board at the 2018 Annual Meeting, is the final independent nominee per cooperation agreement with Carl C. Icahn. $NWL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary February 2018 Total Construction Spending Annual Rate was at $1.273 trillion, +0.1% from January 2018, +3.0% from February 2017. USDOC PR link.

The Institute for Supply Management says the US March 2018 Manufacturing PMI Index(>50 expanding) is at 59.3%, February 2018 was 60.8%, January 2018 59.1%, March 201756.6%, 107th consecutive month of economic growth. ISM PR link.

IHS Markit says the US March 2018 Manufacturing PMI is at 55.6, highest since March 2015, February 2018 was 55.3, January 2018 55.5, March 2017 53.3. IHS Markit PR link.

***Friday, March 30:

***US Stock Markets Closed
***In Observance of Good Friday.

***Thursday, March 29:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week/Month/Quarter Ending 03/29/18

The business week comes to an end with the Stock Market Bull making a strong appearance after a few weeks of being a no-show. However, the Stock Market Bear dominated the monthso dramatically that it carried the quarter, and YTD with him. It really only took two or three weeks to do that, which is a little unsettling. What’s next? The predictions of expert prognosticators are all over the place and there is no clear direction. Let’s see what happens in April.

DJIA ends the week at 24,103.11, +2.42% from last Friday, -3.70% MTD, -2.49% QTD/YTD, -9.44% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.

NASDAQ ends the week at 7,063.44, +1.01% from last Friday, -2.88% MTD, +2.32% QTD/YTD, -6.92% from record 7,588.32 set 03/12/18.

SPX ends the week at 2,640.87, +2.03% from last Friday, -2.69% MTD, -1.22% QTD/YTD, -8.08% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

Check out the BLOG page for the previous RECAPS and SNAPSHOTS posts.

Have questions on The PBR1000 or The PBR US Economic Indices Monthly Snapshots? Please contact us at Sales@PBRMarketTools.com or call us in the US at 520-444-2519.

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

(Image courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net, sheelamohan.)

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

The PBR1000 March 2018 Stocks & Commodities Snapshots

April 8, 2018 by admin

March 2018: The PBR1000 Gets A Big Stock Market Bear Hug.

Volatility is a favorite word for the Stock Market Bear, and it showed up often in March 2018.

By Larry C. Paxton

March featured another month of volatility from international trade as tariffs are threatened, the federal funds rate was increased with more anticipated during the year, there were more additions to the White House’s prestigious “You’re fired!” list, controversies surround the continuing investigation of Russia’s meddling in US elections, user privacy issues and data breaches continue to dog social media, retail and financial services, and the US President is being assaulted by the media for alleged personal indiscretions, but blows it off as he determinedly strives to achieve the agenda he promised his constituents. Confusion seems to reign in the hearts of investors so it was an easy second month in a row win for the Stock Market Bear.

On the other hand the economic data indicates continued moderate, consistent, and strengthening growth.

Mid-term elections should start heating up soon. It will be interesting to see how the voters respond to all of this in primary and the November general election as issues are debated and promises made by the candidates.

With volatility there are also new opportunities short and long term as the stock market and economy adjusts. It’s a good time to be a full Subscriber to The PBR1000 and The PBRMarketTools US Indices Snapshots!

The US Major Stock Market Exchanges March 2018 Summary

Number of Trading Days: 21

Number of Gain(+)/Loss(-) Days: DJIA 9+/12-; NASDAQ 11+/10-; SPX 9+/12-.

Record Days: DJIA 0, NASDAQ 2, SPX 0

Longest Gain Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 2 days(03/05-06, 03/08-09, 03/15-16), NASDAQ 7 days(03/02-12), SPX 3 days(03/02-06)

Longest Loss Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 4 days(02/27-03/02), NASDAQ 3 days(02/27-03/01, 03/13-15, 03/21-23), SPX 4 days(03/12-15)

Big Swing Up Days(>1.00%): 5 days(03/02, 03/05, 03/09, 03/26, 03/29), mostly from international trade issues easing, N Korea willing to talk and give up its nuclear program, US/S Korea trade deal, economic data

Big Swing Down Days(<-1.00%): 8 days(03/01, 03/07, 03/13, 03/14, 03/19, 03/22, 03/23, 03/27), mostly from international trade tariffs threatened, federal funds rate increase, technology/energy sector drops, White House staff turnover, President’s personal issues.

The PBR1000 March 2018 Snapshots

The following are Top 5 partial tables excerpts from The PBR1000 March 2018 Snapshots. The price for stocks is for the close of trading on March 29, Month % Chg is compared to February 28, YTD % Chg is compared to December 29, 2017, and the 15 Months % Chg is compared to December 30, 2016. The PBR Rank is by annual revenues.

To get the complete The PBR1000 Snapshots just click here to get your 2 month or significantly discounted 12 month subscription and automatically download the March 2018 edition with the complete 15 Snapshots and 25 rankings and the bonus The PBRMarketTools US Monthly Indices Snapshots.

Table 1(S11): The PBR1000 Top 5 Month Stock Price % Gainers

Table 1 Summary: The range was +116% to -33%. 438 out of 1,000 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a loss of 0.6%, the median was a loss of 0.8%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 03/29/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	15 Mos % Chg
BlueLinx	856	BXC	32.59	+116	+234	+336
Veritiv	318	VRTV	39.20	+62	+36	-27
Sears Hometown	830	SHOS	3.00	+43	+15	-36
Crocs	998	CROX	16.25	+33	+29	+137
Guess?	807	GES	15.79	+31	+23	+71

Table 2(S12): The PBR1000 Top 5 Year-To-Date Stock Price % Gainers

Table 2 Summary: The range was +234% to -93%. 379 out of 1,000 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a loss of 1.4%, the median was a loss of 3.2%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 03/29/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	15 Mos % Chg
BlueLinx	856	BXC	32.59	+116	+234	+336
Alliance One	894	AOI	26.05	+31	+97	+36
Eastman Kodak	926	KODK	5.35	+2	+73	-65
Fossil	671	FOSL	12.70	-5	+63	-51
Tenet Healthcare	129	THC	24.25	+18	+60	+63

Table 3(S13): The PBR1000 Top 5 15 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: The range was +457% to -99%. 623 out of 998 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 17.0%. The median was a gain of 10.3%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 03/29/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	15 Mos % Chg
Weight Watchers	985	WTW	63.72	-6	+44	+457
BlueLinx	856	BXC	32.59	+116	+234	+336
Systemax	903	SYX	28.55	-0	-14	+226
RH(Restoration Hardware)	820	RH	95.28	+12	+11	+210
Scientific Games	699	SGMS	41.60	-6	-19	+197

Table 4(S15): The PBR1000 Top 5 Market Capitalization

Table 4 Summary: The range was $845 billion to $0.01 billion. The average is $25.2 billion, median is $7.7 billion, out of 1,000 companies.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Market Cap($B) 03/29/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	15 Mos % Chg
Apple	2	AAPL	845	-7	-3	+37
Alphabet	20	GOOG	699	-10	-4	+31
Amazon	7	AMZN	693	-5	+25	+94
Microsoft	29	MSFT	688	-5	+4	+42
Berkshire Hathaway	4	FB	485	-6	-1	+21
The PBR1000			25,202	-4	-2	+15

Table 5: The PBR1000 Index & Primary US Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company	Price 03/29/18	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	15 Mos % Chg
The PBR1000	85,412.53	-0.6	-1.4	+17.0
DJIA	24,103.11	-3.7	-2.5	+17.6
NASDAQ	7,063.44	-2.9	+2.3	+31.2
S&P500	2,640.87	-2.7	-1.2	+18.0
GOLD	1,329.30	+0.9	+1.9	+15.4
SILVER	16.34	-0.4	-3.8	+2.2
OIL	64.91	+5.3	+8.0	+20.8

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

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

(Image courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net, ddpavumba.)

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

The PBR1000 February 2018 Breaking News Recap

March 2, 2018 by admin

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

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

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

***Wednesday, February 28:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

***Tuesday, February 27:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

***Monday, February 26:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

***Friday, February 23:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

***Thursday, February 22:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

***Wednesday, February 21:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

***Tuesday, February 20:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

***Monday, February 19:

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

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

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

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

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

***Friday, February 16:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

***Thursday, February 15:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

***Wednesday, February 14:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

***Tuesday, February 13:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

***Monday, February 12:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

***Friday, February 9:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

***Thursday, February 8:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

***Wednesday, February 7:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

***Tuesday, February 6:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

***Monday, February 5:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

***Sunday, February 4:

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

***Friday, February 2:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

***Thursday, February 1:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

***Wednesday, January 31:

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

Check out the BLOG page for the previous RECAPS and SNAPSHOTS posts.

Have questions on The PBR1000 or The PBR US Economic Indices Monthly Snapshots? Please contact us at Sales@PBRMarketTools.com or call us in the US at 520-444-2519.

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

(Image courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net, sheelamohan.)

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

The PBR1000 January 2018 Breaking News Recap

February 3, 2018 by admin

January 2018: A Good Start to the Year for The PBR1000

It was a good start for the year, hopefully we can say the same at the end of 2018.

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

***Wednesday, January 31:

The year started out with threats of a US federal government shutdown, an earthquake in Alaska, President Trump at the World Economic Forum in Davos, a rally in the tech and healthcare sector stocks, ending the first month of the year with a big time win for the Stock Market Bull.

21st Century Fox(PBR91) Fox Sports unit gets 5 year rights deal starting with 2018 season with Natl Football League to broadcast Thursday Night Football Presented by Bud Light. $FOX PR link.

eBay(PBR163) signs agreement for Adyen to become its primary payments processing partner globally, longtime partner PayPal(PBR252 $PYPL will continue to be a payments option at checkout for eBay buyers under new intermediate platform until 07/23. $EBAY PR link.

Cummins(PBR438) acquires UK based Johnson Matthey’s developer of high-voltage automotive grade battery systems for electric and hybrid vehicles subsidiary, terms not disclosed. $CMI PR link.

Bon-Ton Stores(PBR707) provides list of the 42 locations that will be closed as part of its store rationalization program. $BONT PR link.

On Assignment(PBR918) to acquire cyber security, cloud, DevOps, IT modernization and advanced science and engineering solutions to government enterprises provider $586 million revenues in 2017 ECS Federal from Roy Kapani, the company’s majority owner and founder, and Lindsay Goldberg, a private investment firm, for $775 million cash, to close 04/02/18. $ASGN PR link.

The Federal Open Market Committee releases statement from 01/30-31/18 meeting, says labor market has continued to strengthen and that economic activity has been rising at a solid rate, anticipates inflation rate to achieve 2% target in the medium term, expects to continue gradual increases on federal funds interest rate. FOMC PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US National Public Debt on 01/30/18 was $14.802 trillion, Intragovernmental Holdings $5.691 trillion, Total US Debt $20.493 trillion. USTreasury PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US 4Q17 All Civilian Workers Employment Cost Index(2005=100) is at 131.4, 3Q17 was 130.6, 2Q17 129.7, 4Q16 128.0. USDOL PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says 7th District Preliminary December Midwest Economic Index is at +0.43, November was +0.17, the December Relative Midwest Economic Index is at +0.02, November was -0.20. ChiFed PR link.

ADP(PBR235) says US Preliminary January Total Change In Employment was +234,000, +58,000 from Small Businesses, +91,000 from Midsized Businesses, +85,000 from Large Businesses. +22,000 from the Goods Producing Sector, +212,000 from Service-Providing Sector. $ADP PR link.

The MNI January Chicago Business Barometer is at 65.7, December was 67.8, November 63.9, January 2017 50.3. ISM/MNI PR link.

The American Automobile Assn says US Average Price for a Regular Gallon of Gas on 01/31/18 was at $2.591, +4.6% from 12/29/17, +13.9% from 01/31/17. AAA PR link.

***Tuesday, January 30:

Amazon(PBR29), Berkshire Hathaway(PBR4)and JPMorgan Chase(PBR21) to form a company to address healthcare for their US employees, aims to improve employee satisfaction and reduce costs. $BRKB PR link.

Alphabet(PBR44 $GOOG)’s Waymo unit to purchase thousands of Fiat Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivans for its self-driving service, to start in Phoenix and spread to other US cities in 2018. FCA PR link.

Pfizer(PBR56) to make $5 billion in capital investments in US over 5 years, to contribute $500 million to US pension funds in 2018, allocates around $100 million for a special, one-time bonus to be paid to all non-executive colleagues in 1Q18. $PFE PR link.

McDonald’s(PBR101) to invest $2.4 billion in existing locations, to open 1,000 new restaurants worldwide in 2018. $MCD PR link.

Chesapeake Energy(PBR131) lays off 13% of workforce, around 400, primarily from its Oklahoma City campus. $CHK PR link.

Facebook(PBR228) implements new ad policy forbidding certain financial products and services like binary options, initial coin offerings, and cryptocurrency. $FB PR link.

Blackstone(PBR352) led consortium to acquire 55% stake of Thomson Reuters(TSX/NYSE: TRI) Financial & Risk business, based on total business valuation of $20 billion. $BX PR link.

Varian Medical(PBR678) to acquire Australianbased interventional oncology radiation therapies provider Sirtex Medical Limited (ASX: SRX) for $1.28 billion. $VAR PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US 4Q17 Total Housing Units at 136,912,000, 87.8% occupied, 3Q17 was 87.1%, 4Q16 87.3%, 4Q17 Home Ownership Rate at 64.2%, 3Q1763.9%, 4Q16 63.7%. USDOC PR link.

The Conference Board says the US Preliminary January Consumer Confidence Index(1985=100) is at 125.4, December was 123.1, January 2017 111.6. TCB PR link.

***Monday, January 29:

United Continental(PBR77) gets naming rights to Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, to be called United Airlines Memorial Coliseumbeginning in 08/19, in 16 year agreement with the U of Southern California, will support $270 million project to restore and preserve the Coliseum and upgrade its facilities. $UAL PR link.

Dollar General(PBR151) accepting applications from suppliers/vendors for Innovation and Supplier Diversity Summit in 04/18, categories of interest include Beauty, Personal Care and Over-the-Counter/Wellness, General Merchandise/All Non-Food, Grocery. $DG PR link.

Group 1 Automotive(PBR276) acquires Audi El Paso and Subaru El Paso auto dealerships, to generate $65 million revenues/year. $GPI PR link.

WestRock(PBR278) to acquire Kapstone(PBR826), a N American producer/distributor of containerboard, corrugated products and specialty papers, including liner and medium containerboard, kraft papers and saturating kraft, for $35/share, $4.9 billion, includes $1.36 billion debt, to close by 09/30/18. $WRK PR link.

Dr Pepper Snapple(PBR406) and Keurig Green Mountain to merge, DPS shareholders to receive $103.75/share special cash dividend and retain 13% of the combined company, creates $11 billion/yr company. $DPS PR link.

Noble Energy(PBR471) to divest 7.5% working interest in the Tamar field, offshore Israel, to Tamar Petroleum Ltd. (TASE: TMRP) for $560 million cash and 38.5 million shares in TMRP, total around $800 million. $NBL PR link.

NASDAQ(PBR618) to sell its Corporate Solutions’ Public Relations Solutions and Digital Media Services units to West Corporation for $335 million in 2Q18. $NDAQ PR link.

JPMorgan Chase(PBR21) appoints Daniel Pinto and Gordon Smith as Co-Presidents/Co-CEOs. $JPM PR link.

Revlon(PBR900) President/CEO Fabian Garcia steps down to pursue other opportunities, Board member Paul Meister appointed Executive Vice Chairman, will oversee day-to-day operations of the company on an interim basis. $REV PR link.

Superior Energy(PBR522) elects Westervelt “Westy” T. Ballard, Jr, to CFO, effective 03/01/18, succeeds retiring after 22 years with company Robert Taylor. $SPN PR link.

Moody’s(PBR636) EVP/CFO Linda Huber to leave after 12 years with company upon appointment of successor, search starts. $MCO PR link.

Celgene(PBR347) Executive Chairman Bob Hugin to retire after 19 years of service, effective 02/05/18, CEO Mark Alles appointed to the additional role of Chairman. $CELG PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/BEA says US Preliminary December Total Personal Income Annual Rate is at $16.687 trillion, +0.4% from November, +4.1% from December 2016, December Personal Savings Rate at 2.4%, November was 2.5%, December 2016 3.2%, December Effective Tax Rate at 12.6%. USDOC PR link.

***Friday, January 26:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 01/26/18:
DJIA ends at record 26,616.71, +2.09% from last Friday, +7.68% MTD/QTD/YTD, +0.00% from record 26,616.71 set 01/26/18.
NASDAQ ends at record 7,505.77, +2.31% from last Friday, +8.73% MTD/QTD/YTD, +0.00% from record 7,505.77 set 01/26/18.
SPX ends at record 2,872.87, +2.23% from last Friday, +7.45% MTD/QTD/YTD, +0.00% from record 2,872.87 set 01/26/18.

Walmart(PBR1 $WMT) cuts as many as 500 corporate positions in its Bentonville, AR, headquarters, will promote more than 360 associates into positions “with higher responsibility.” MarketWatch PR link.

Lowe’s(PBR50) adds $5 billion to share repurchase program, balance is $7.1 billion, no expiration date. $LOW PR link.

FedEx(PBR65) to increase employee compensation by $200 million, voluntarily contribute $1.5 billion to FedEx pension plan, and invest $1.5 billion over 7 years to expand Indianapolis hub, follows recently enacted US Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. $FDX PR link.

Delta(PBR72) pleased with US International Trade Commission‘s ruling rejecting Boeing(PBR27)‘s anticompetitive attempt against Bombardier‘s 110-seat CS100 aircraft when Boeing offers no viable alternative. $DALC PR link.

AbbVie(PBR135) to invest around $2.5 billion in capital projects in US over next 5 years, to make one-time contribution in 2018 of around $350 million to select charitable organizations, to accelerate pension funding by $750 million, as well as enhance non-executive employee compensation, cites result of US Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. $ABBV PR link.

Starbucks(PBR178) 2017 revenues were $22.4 billion, +5% from 2016, opened 2,250+ net new stores, 2018 focus to be on China and US. $SBUX PR link.

Electronic Arts(PBR527), Walt Disney(PBR57)’s ESPN, Disney XD and the NFL announce first long-term, multi-event competitive gaming network agreement, includes The Madden NFL Ultimate League. $EA PR link.

Meredith Corp(PBR994) extends tender offer for TimeInc(PBR661) shares to 01/30/18, 65%+ of shares tendered so far, expects to close on 01/31/18. $MDT PR link.

Caterpillar(PBR54) VP of Global Supply Network Division Frank Crespo to retire effective 02/01/18, functions to be consolidated into existing divisions. $CAT PR link.

TSYS(PBR790) EVP and President/International Issuer Solutions Kelley Knutson now SVP and and President of prepaid debit cards provider Netspend. $TSS PR link.

Modine Manufacturing(PBR985) hires Sylvia A. Stein, JD, to the role of VP/General Counsel and Corporate Secretary. $MOD PR link.

Jack in the Box(PBR987) Brand President Frances Allen to resign effective 02/09/18; hires Marcus Tom to be VP/COO effective 02/12/18. $JACK PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says US Advanced 4Q17 Estimate of Gross Domestic Product Annual Rate is at +2.6%, $19.739 trillion, +1.2% from 3Q17, +4.4% from 4Q16. USDOC PR link.

***Thursday, January 25:

Walmart(PBR1) and Japan based online retailer Rakuten enter strategic alliance, Rakuten to offer online grocery delivery service in Japan in 3Q18, Walmart to sell eBooks, audiobooks, and Rakuten Kobo eReaders in US stores & online later in 2018. $WMT PR link.

Kroger(PBR20)’s Simple Truth® brand reaches $2 billion in annual sales and continues to grow, largest natural and organic brand in the US. $KR PR link.

Home Depot(PBR32) to provide a new one-time cash bonus for US hourly associates of up to $1,000, made possible by the new tax reform bill. $HD PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) and leading Chinese manufacturers announce “5G Pioneer”initiative, availability of commercial 5G premium tier devices expected in 2019. $QCOM PR link.

PG&E(PBR172) to begin developing recently state approved four pilot projects aimed at helping fleet and residential customers simplify electric vehicle (EV) charging in California. $PCG PR link.

Lennar(PBR340) 2017 10-K Legal Proceedings states US Dept of Justice has issued subpoena to mortgage subsidiary regarding the adequacy of certain underwriting and quality control processes related to FHA loans originated and sold in prior years. $LEN PR link.

Newell Brands(PBR434) accelerates strategic plan, to focus on 9 consumer divisions totaling $11 billion in sales, exploring strategic options for other units, includes a 50% reduction in the company’s global factory and warehouse footprint, a 50% reduction in its customer base and consolidation of 80% of global sales on two ERP platforms by end of 2019. $NWL PR link.

Alaska Air(PBR454) to provide $1,000 one time bonuses to 25,000 US employees on 02/29/18, cites new Tax Cuts and Jobs Act legislation. $ALK PR link.

SunPower(PBR680) sells 110 megawatt(DC) El Pelicano Solar Plant in Chile, provides power for Santiago underground railway, to Actis, gets long term maintenance and operations contract, terms not disclosed. $SPWR PR link.

Tetra Tech(PBR781) acquires Newport Beach, CA, based aerospace data analytics, environmental and acoustic consulting, and 3-dimensional airspace visualization for federal and commercial aviation customers provider BridgeNet International, terms not disclosed. $TTEK PR link.

Fitbit(PBR870 $FIT) CEO wants to move from tracking steps to tracking blood sugar. MarketWatch PR link.

Convergys(PBR703) CEO Andrea Ayers, after 30 years with the company, to depart upon appointment of successor, search starts. $CVG PR link.

Equinix(PBR793) CEO Steve Smith resigns after exercising poor judgment with respect to an employee matter, Executive Chairman and former CEO Peter Van Camp appointed interim CEO, search starts. $EQIX PR link.

Aetna(PBR49) EVP/Consumer Health and Services Gary Loveman, PhD, will be leaving, date to be determined. $AET PR link.

Markel(PBR470) hires Saurabh Madaan as Managing Director, Investments. $MKL PR link.

Cinemark(PBR739) EVP/CFO Sean Gamble adds COO role, hires Wanda Gierhart as EVP/Chief Marketing Officer. $CNK PR link.

Newell Brands(PBR434) announces Ian G.H. Ashken, Domenico De Sole and Martin E. Franklin have resigned from the Board, effective immediately. $NWL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US 01/20/18 Weekly Initial Unemployment Claims were at 233,000, the 4 Week Average is 240,000, +1.0% from December, -2.2% from January 2017. The 4 Week Moving Average Total Insured Employment on 01/13/18 was 1,920,000, +0.0% from December, -8.2% from January 2017, Insured Unemployment Rate is at 1.4%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says US Preliminary December New Family Home Sales Annual Rate was 625,000, -9.3% from November, +14.1% from December 2016; December Median Price was $335,400, +0.1% from November, +2.6% from December 2016; New Homes Available were at 295,000, +3.9% from November, +15.2% from December 2016; Months Supply is 5.7, November was 4.9, December 2016 5.6. USDOC PR link.

The US Energy Information Administrationsays US Crude Oil Reserve Stocks on 01/19/18 were at 411.6 Millions of Barrels, -4.7% from 12/22/17, -15.7% from 01/20/17. USEIA PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) says the US Average 30 Year Fixed Mortgate Rate on 01/25/18 is 4.15% with 0.5 points/fees, 12/28/17 was 3.99%, 11/30/17 3.90%, 01/26/17 4.19%. $FMCC PR link.

The Conference Board says the US December Leading Economic Index(2016=100) is at 107.0, November was 106.4, October 105.9. Expects US economic growth to continue through 1H18. TCB PR link.

***Wednesday, January 24:

Apple(PBR5) to release iOS11.3 in the spring, includes a Business Chat option in Messages app, have a one view Health Records option in the Health app. $AAPL PR link.

Comcast(PBR42) 4Q17 report shows at year end it had 25,869,000 high speed internet customers, gained 1,168,000 in 2017, had 29,347,000 total customer relationships between video, internet, voice, and security & automation services; Total 2017 revenues were $52.5 billion, +4.9% from 2016. $CMCSA PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) to appeal $1.23 billion fine by European Commission relating to an expired agreement between Qualcomm and Apple(PBR5), which was in effect from 2011 through 2016, for the pricing of modem chips. $QCOM PR link.

Starbucks(PBR178) to launch new ‘Partner and Family Sick Time’ benefit, to do second wage increase for all US hourly/salaried partners, provide an additional Stock Grant with a 1-year vest, reiterates it will create 8,000+ new retail jobs, 500 manufacturing jobs in 2018. $SBUX PR link.

Discover Financial(PBR286) raises minimum pay rate to $15.25/hr for nearly all full-time US employees, to impact 7,000+, granted a $1,000 bonus to 15,000+ earlier in the month, result of the recent corporate tax reductions. $DFS PR link.

Campbell Soup(PBR326) to end manufacturing at Toronto plant, move its Canadian headquarters and commercial operations to a new location in the Greater Toronto Area. $CPB PR link.

Royal Caribbean(PBR329) employees, except corporate officers, to get 5% salary bonuses for achieving 3 year Double Double goal of doubling earnings per share and a double digit return on invested capital. $RCL PR link.

Boston Scientific(PBR356) invests $90 million and has option to acquire privately held IRIS Transcatheter Annuloplasty Ring System to treat severe mitral regurgitation developer Millipedefor $325 million plus $125 million for milestone achievements, must be exercised by end of 2019. $BSX PR link.

Perrigo(PBR565) gets final US FDA approvaland launches an AB rated generic version of Epiduo® Gel for topical treatment of acne, $164 million marketplace over past 12 months. $PRGO PR link.

Perrigo(PBR565) gets final US FDA approvalfor generic version of Estrace® Cream (estradiol vaginal cream, USP, 0.01%), $457 million marketplace over past 12 months. $PRGO PR link.

Ralph Lauren(PBR349) hires Alice Delahunt to newly created position of Chief Digital Officer, effective in 04/18; other supportive SVP positions announced. $RL PR link.

Ingredion(PBR415) promotes Larry Fernandes to SVP and Chief Commercial Officer effective 03/01/18. $INGR PR link.

JM Smucker(PBR437) Vice Chair and President/US Food and Beverage Steven Oakland to retire 06/29/18; Joseph Stanziano to be SVP/General Manager, Coffee, effective 02/01/18; Tina Floyd to be SVP/General Manager, Consumer Foods, effective 02/01/18; Amy Held to SVP/Strategy and M&A, effective 05/01/18. $SJM PR link.

CIT Group(PBR608) promotes Mike Jones to President/Business Capital unit effective immediately, and Jeff Lytle to President/Rail business effective 04/01/18. $CIT PR link.

Brown & Brown(PBR972) promotes Paul Rogers to SVP and Regional President of Employee Benefits. $BRO PR link.

Merck(PBR70) elects Inge Thulin, Chairman/President/CEO of 3M(PBR92), to the Board, effective 03/01/18. $MRK PR link.

Sanmina(PBR401) appoints William DeLaney, most recently CEO of Sysco(PBR61) to the Board. $SANM PR link.

Silgan(PBR576) elects William T. Donovan, former Chair of privately held manufacturer of wood flooring products for the truck trailer and container industries Rockland Industrial Holdings, to the Board. $SLGN PR link.

MGIC Investment(PBR993) elects Melissa Lora, President of YUM!(PBR217)’s Taco Bell International unit, to the Board. $MTG PR link.

The Natl Assn of Realtors says US Preliminary December Existing Home Sales Annual Rate was 5,570,000, -3.6% from November, +1.1% from December 2016; December Median Sales Price was $246,800, -0.5% from November, +5.8% from December 2016. NAR PR link.

***Tuesday, January 23:

CVS Health(PBR11) adds 22 medication disposal units that will be installed inside CVS Pharmacy locations in S Carolina, now has 750 locations across US. $CVS PR link.

Valero Energy(PBR13) approves incremental $2.5 billion share repurchase authorization, balance is now $3.7 billion. $VLO PR link.

Verizon(PBR15) says 2017 revenues were at $87.5 billion, -1.9% from 2016, net increase of 1.2 million retail postpaid connections in 4Q17, ended 2017 with 116.3 million total retail connections. $VZ PR link.

JPMorgan Chase(PBR21) increasing wages between $15 to $18/hour for 22,000 employees, opening up to 400 new Chase branches in new cities and states, hiring 4,000 in new US markets and for home lending, increasing small business lending by $4 billion nationwide, home loans by 25% to $50 billion, expanding philanthropic investments by 40% to $1.75 billion in $20 billion over 5 years investment, cites recent changes to the US corporate tax system and a more constructive regulatory and business environment. $JPM PR link.

Walt Disney(PBR57) announces 125,000+ US non-executive employees will receive a one-time $1,000 cash bonus, will also make an initial investment of $50 million in a new and ongoing education program specifically designed to cover tuition costs for hourly employees, result of recently enacted US tax reform plan. $DIS PR link.

T-Mobile(PBR95) completes acquisition of TV technology innovator Layer3 TV to create T-Mobile’s new TV service in 2018, terms not disclosed. $TMUS PR link.

Kimberly-Clark(PBR141) in 4Q17 report says it will reduce its workforce by 5,000-5,500 (12-13%) as part of 2018 global restructuring program. $KMB PR link.

UNUM(PBR261) to enter Poland market with acquisition of group and individual risk protection provider Pramerica Życie from a Prudential Financial(PBR55) subsidiary, terms not disclosed. $UNUM PR link.

Quest Diagnostics(PBR353) to acquire Santa Ana, CA, based national provider of home-based health risk assessments and related services Mobile Medical Examination Service (MedXM), terms not disclosed. $DGX PR link.

Brown-Forman(PBR563) to do 4:1 stock spliton 02/28/18. $BFB PR link.

Clean Harbors(PBR629) to acquire Veolia N America’s $210 million/2017 60 locations US Industrial Cleaning Services Division for $120 million cash, to close 1Q18. $CLH PR link.

Intl Flavors & Fragrances(PBR666) breaks ground for new 32 acre site manufacturing facility in Sri City, India, to be its largest facility in Greater Asia, to be in production by end of 2019. $IFF PR link.

Ventas(PBR671) transitions management of 76 private pay seniors housing communities with 6,000 seniors to newly formed Eclipse Senior Living with Ventas having a 34% stake. $VTR PR link.

GoDaddy(PBR905) to acquire 10,000 customers Austin, TX, based “do-it-for-me” social networks services provider Main Street Hub for $125 million cash plus $50 million performance bonuses. $GDDY PR link.

Scientific Games(PBR937) completes acquisition of leading supplier of hole-card readers for blackjack provider Tech Art, terms not disclosed. $SGMS PR link.

Tesla(PBR651) announces new 10-year incentive plan for CEO/Founder Elon Musk, only compensation is 100% at-risk performance awards, paid as stock options in 12 tranches based on achieving market capitalization goals starting at $100 billion to $650 billion. $TSLA PR link.

AMD(PBR445) hires Mike Rayfield as SVP/General Manager of AMD Radeon Technologies Group(RTG) and David Wang as SVP/Engineering for RTG. $AMD PR link.

Twitter(PBR735) COO Anthony Noto leaving by 03/01/18 to accept CEO role in another company. $TWTR PR link.

Kemper(PBR847) hires Duane Sanders as President of Property & Casualty Division. $KMPR PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond says Fifth District January Manufacturing Index(Annualized) is at 14%, December was 20%, November 30%, January 2017 12%. RichmondFed PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond says Fifth District January Service Sector Revenue Index(Annualized) is at 20%, December was 25%, November 30%, January 2017 21%. RichmondFed PR link.

The US Senate confirms Jerome Powell as next Federal Reserve Chairman by a vote of 84-13, 3 not voting. Senate PR link.

***Monday, January 22:

***US Congress passes legislation to extend Federal Government spending through 02/08/18.

Apple(PBR5) joins Malala Fund, first Laureate partner, with the initial goal of extending secondary education opportunities to 100,000+ girls in India and Latin America. $AAPL PR link.

AIG(PBR46) to acquire reinsurance, primary insurance, and asset management services provider Validus(NYSE: VR) for $68.00/share, $5.56 billion cash. $AIG PR link.

Whirlpool(PBR138) Chairman Jeff Fettig praises Trump Administration‘s decision to uphold long-standing trade rules by establishing a tariff of up to the legal maximum of 50 percent on imports of large residential washing machines, will result in new manufacturing jobs in Ohio, Kentucky, S Carolina and Tennessee. $WHR PR link.

Baxter(PBR176) gets US FDA approval of frozen, premixed, ready-to-use formulation cardiovascular medication Bivalirudin. $BAX PR link.

Aramark(PBR184) completes $1 billion acquisition of uniform and linen rental and supply company AmeriPride. $ARMK PR link.

FirstEnergy(PBR195) to get $2.5 billion equity investment from Elliott Management and others. $FE PR link.

Celgene(PBR347) to acquire cellular immunotherapy developer Juno Therapeutics(NASDAQ: JUNO) for $87/share, around $9 billion cash, to close 1Q18. $CELG PR link.

Netflix(PBR447) adds 8.33 million subscribers in 4Q17, has 117.58 million total, had 93.80 million at end of 4Q16, 2017 revenues of $3.286 billion, +32.6% from 2016. $NFLX PR link.

Brinker Intl(PBR697) in partnership with Pearson is offering no cost Foundational, GED and associate degrees to Chili’s and Maggiano’s employees. $EAT PR link.

Equinix(PBR793) international data centers to make AT&T(PBR12) Switched Ethernet ServiceSM with Network on Demand available to businesses through expanded relationship. $EQIX PR link.

Priceline(PBR319) hires David Goulden as EVP/CFO effective 03/01/18, succeeds retiring Daniel J. Finnegan. $PCLN PR link.

Darden Restaurants(PBR398) promotes Dave George to the newly created position of EVP/COO; Dan Kiernan succeeds George as President/Olive Garden. $DRI PR link.

Ingredion(PBR415) promotes Tony Delio to SVP/Corporate Strategy & Chief Innovation Officer effective 03/01/18, succeeds departing Martin Sonntag. $INGR PR link.

Clorox(PBR442) EVP/CFO Steve Robb to retire on 03/31/18, Kevin Jacobsen to be promoted to SVP/CFO effective 04/01/18. $CLX PR link.

Adobe Systems(PBR557) EVP/CFO Mark Garrett and EVP/General Counsel Mike Dillon to retire upon appointment of successors. $ADBE PR link.

Netflix(PBR447) appoints Rodolphe Belmer, CEO of Eutelsat, to the Board. $NFLX PR link.

Alaska Air(PBR454) appoints retired Boeing(PBR27) executive Ray Conner to the Board. $ALK PR link.

Abercrombie & Fitch(PBR595) Executive Chairman Arthur Martinez to retire effective 02/03/18, Lead Independent Director Terry Burman to become Non-Executive Chairman at that time. $ANF PR link.

Brinker Intl(PBR697) elects James Katzman, retired partner of Goldman Sachs(PBR76), to the Board. $EAT PR link.

Alexion Pharmaceutical(PBR840) appoints Deborah Dunsire, MD, former President/CEO of Millennium Pharmaceuticals, to the Board. $ALXN PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says Preliminary December National Activity Indexis at +0.27, November was +0.11, October+0.87, December 2016 +0.47. ChiFed PR link.

The Office of the US Trade Representativeissues statement on President Trump approving relief for manufacturers of washing machines and solar cells through up to 50% tariffs on imports. USTR PR link.

FannieMae(PBR17) January 2018 Economic and Housing Outlook forecasts 2.7% GDP in 2018, unemployment rate to drop to 3.7% in 2H19, Federal Reserve policy decisions are key factor. $FNMA PR link.

***Friday, January 19:

***US Senate unable to pass spending bill, federal government partially shuts down for the first time since 2013. Starts Saturday, January 20.

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 01/19/18:
DJIA ends at 26,071.72, +1.04% from last Friday, +5.47% MTD/QTD/YTD, -0.17% from record 26,115.65 set 01/17/18.
NASDAQ ends at record 7,336.38, +1.04% from last Friday, +6.27% MTD/QTD/YTD, +0.00% from record 7,336.38 set 01/19/18.
SPX ends at record 2,810.30, +0.86% from last Friday, +5.11% MTD/QTD/YTD, +0.00% from record 2,810.30 set 01/19/18.

Amazon(PBR29) raises monthly Prime membership from $10.99 to $12.99, annual membership still $99, student, low income options still available. $AMZN PR link.

Coca-Cola(PBR63) reshaping its approach to packaging, with a global goal to help collect and recycle the equivalent of 100% of its packaging by 2030. $KO PR link.

Schlumberger(PBR96) says in 4Q17 reportthat it will exit the marine and land seismic acquisition market, and turn WesternGecoproduct line into an asset-light business. $SLB PR link.

Lincoln Financial(PBR213) to acquire Liberty Life Assurance Company of Boston from Liberty Mutual Insurance Group for $3.3 billion, to close 2Q18. $LNC PR link.

SunTrust Banks(PBR307) Chief Information Officer Anil Cheriyan to retire effective 03/31/18, Scott Case to be promoted to CIO effective 02/05/18. $STI PR link.

Lowe’s(PBR50) appoints David H. Batchelder, co-founder of Relational Investors, and Lisa W. Wardell, CEO of Adtalem Global Education(PBR905), to its Board effective 03/22/18, to add nomination of Brian C. Rogers, chairman of T. Rowe Price(PBR570), for Board election at 2018 annual meeting. $LOW PR link.

Cabot Corp(PBR607) elects Dr. Cynthia Arnold, recently retired as Chief Technology Officer of The Valspar Corporation, to the Board; elects Sue H. Rataj as Non-Executive Chair, succeeds John F. O’Brien who remains on the Board; Roderick C.G. MacLeod, Board member since 1998, to retire from Board at annual meeting on 03/08/18. $CBT PR link.

The U of Michigan US Preliminary January Consumer Sentiment Index is at 94.4, December was 95.9, November 98.5, January 2017 98.5. UMich PR link.

***Thursday, January 18:

ExxonMobil(PBR2) to acquire 80% exploration and production rights for the Deepwater Cape Three Points block of 366,000 acres 57 miles from coast of Ghana. $XOM PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) announces the 20 cities in contention for its HQ2 headquarters which could employ as many as 50,000. $AMZN PR link.

American Express(PBR83) revenues up 10% over 2017, added 2.5 million cardholders in 4Q17, will have net loss because of recent Tax Act legislation. $AXP PR link.

Sprint(PBR86) and Cox Communicationsannounce new multi-year business agreement, settles some patent issues, allows Sprint to leverage Cox’s broadband infrastructure. $S PR link.

Carl Icahn of Icahn Enterprises(PBR147)sends open letter to Xerox(PBR144)shareholders regarding concerns of potential Xerox/Fujifilm transaction and ‘old guard’ board that needs to be changed. $XRX PR link.

CenturyLink(PBR160) brings broadband to 600,000 homes and businesses in rural America over the last 2 years in conjunction with FCC’s Connect America Fund (CAF) program to install 1.2 million over 6 years. $CTL PR link.

Bank of NY Mellon(PBR183 $BK) in 4Q17conference call says it will raise minimum wage to $15/hour effective 03/01/18, to affect 1,000 of its 52,700 employees, will invest in technology, cites tax reform as key driver. MarketWatch PR link.

Facebook(PBR228)’s WhatsApp unit introduces WhatsApp Business. $FB PR link.

VF Corp(PBR232) to open new 500,000 sf distribution center in 07/18 in Jonestown, PA, to hire for 175+ positions over 3 years. $VFC PR link.

Wyndham Worldwide(PBR464) to acquire La Quinta(PBR998) hotel franchise and hotel management businesses for $1.95 billion in cash, to close 2Q18, after spin-off of La Quinta’s real estate assets into CorePoint Lodging. $WYN PR link.

Regis Corp(PBR912) gets exclusive multi-year sponsorship between its Supercuts hair salons and Major League Baseball starting with 2018 Championship Season. $RGS PR link.

Texas Instruments(PBR220) President/CEO Rich Templeton to transition to Chairman role, EVP/COO Brian Crutcher to become President/CEO on 06/01/18. $TXN PR link.

La Quinta(PBR998) President/CEO Keith Cline to serve as President/CEO of 315 hotels with 40,000 rooms CorePoint Lodging upon completion of spinoff as a separate public company. $LQ PR link.

Blackstone(PBR352) Alternative Asset Management unit President/CEO Tom Hill to become its Chairman, John McCormick appointed as successor. $BX PR link.

Nike(PBR98 $NKE) promotes Dirk-Jan “DJ” van Hameren to Chief Marketing Officer, succeeds Greg Hoffman who has been named VP/Global Brand Creative and Marketing Innovation. MarketWatch PR link.

Ryder(PBR378) hires Rajeev Ravindran as Chief Information Officer, succeeds Mel Kirk who is now Chief Technology Officer of Ryder’s Fleet Management Solutions unit. $R PR link.

Albemarle(PBR792) EVP/Corporate Strategy & Investor Relations Matt Juneau to retire in 03/18, Eric W. Norris hired as successor. $ALB PR link.

AES Corp(PBR171) appoints Jeffrey Ubben, Founder/CEO of ValueAct Capital, to the Board. $AES PR link.

Facebook(PBR228) appoints Kenneth I. Chenault, who is retiring as Chairman/CEO of American Express effective 02/01/18, to the Board, effective 02/05/18. $FB PR link.

PPL Corp(PBR245) elects Phoebe A. Wood, former Brown-Forman(PBR563) VP/CFO and Vice Chairman, to the Board. $PPL PR link.

Agilent Technologies(PBR364) appoints Dow Wilson, CEO of Varian Medical(PBR678), to the Board, effective 03/20/18. $A PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says US Preliminary December Building Permits Issued Annual Rate is at 1,302,000 units, -0.1% from November, +2.8% from December 2016. USDOC PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia January Manufacturing General Business Indicator Index is at 22.2, December was 27.9, November 24.3, January 2017 24.1. PhillyFed PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) January Outlookforecasts increased lending rates, increasing number of home sales, slower price growth, and lower value of originations through 2019. $FMCC PR link.

OPEC January Monthly Oil Market Reportsays Global GDP Rate to remain at 3.7% in 2018, US 2017 GDP estimated at 2.3%, to be 2.6% in 2018; 2017 Global Oil Demandaveraged 96.99 million barrels of oil/day(mb/d), expects to be 98.51 mb/d in 2018, OPEC nations generated 32.42 mb/d in 12/17. OPEC PR link.

***Wednesday, January 17:

Walmart(PBR1) is first national pharmacy chain to offer free opioid disposal solution at all pharmacy locations. $WMT PR link.

Apple(PBR5) to invest over $350 billion in US economy over next 5 years, to create 20,000 jobs. $AAPL PR link.

Verizon(PBR15) and Natl Basketball Assn(NBA) expand multi-platform content and technology partnership with multi-year video streaming service. $VZ PR link.

Intel(PBR51) provides progress report on actions and results pertaining to mitigating Spectre and Meltdown exploits. $INTC PR link.

Amgen(PBR135) gets US FDA approval for addition of overall survival data to KYPROLIS® (carfilzomib) label in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma. $AMGN PR link.

Franklin Resources(PBR315) to acquire UKbased $10 billion in global and emerging markets equities investment management firm Edinburgh Partners, terms not disclosed. $BEN PR link.

Abercrombie & Fitch(PBR595) Abercrombie Kids unit launches ‘Everybody Collection,’ its first gender-neutral collection, first collection will feature 25 styles, including tops, bottoms and accessories, available in stores and online. $ANF PR link.

Dentsply Sirona(PBR694) hires Donald Casey, Jr, as CEO, effective 02/12/18, succeeds interim CEO Mark Thierer. $XRAY PR link.

Walmart(PBR1) EVP/COO Judith McKenna to become President/CEO of Walmart International, effective 02/01/18, succeeds retiring David Cheesewright. $WMT PR link.

Wells Fargo(PBR30) SEVP/Chief Risk Officer Mike Loughlin to retire after 36 years with WF, effective when successor appointed. $WFC PR link.

Polaris Industries(PBR531) hires Mike Donoughe as Chief Technical Officer, effective 01/22/18, succeeds Steve Kemp who is becoming VP/Technology, Electronics & Software. $PII PR link.

Genesco(PBR702) SVP/CFO Mimi Eckel Vaughn to become COO when CFO successor appointed. $GCO PR link.

HCA(PBR75) appoints Michael W. Michelson to the Board, was previously on the Board from 2006 to 2016. $HCA PR link.

Dentsply Sirona(PBR694) appoints Betsy D. Holden, formerly Co-CEO of Kraft Foods and CEO of Kraft Foods North America, and Leslie F. Varon, former CFO of Xerox(PBR144), and Don Casey, Jr, next Dentsply Sirona CEO, to the Board. $XRAY PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Board releases Beige Book, 11 of 12 districts report modest to moderate growth, outlook for 2018 remains optimistic for majority of contacts surveyed. USFed PR link.

The Federal Reserve Board says US Preliminary December Industrial Production Index(2012=100) was at 107.5, November was 106.5, October 106.6, December 2016 103.8, Total Over Last 12 Months +3.6%; US Preliminary December Manufacturing Capacity was at 77.9%, November was 77.2%, October 77.4%, December 2016 76.0%. USFed PR link.

The Natl Assn of Home Builders/Wells Fargo US Preliminary January Composite Housing Market Index is at 72, December was 74, November 69, January 2017 67. NAHB/WF PR link.

The ADP US 4Q17 Workforce Vitality Index(3Q13=100) is at 116.8, +4.0% from 4Q16. (Measures total wages paid to the US private sector workforce.) $ADP PR link.

***Tuesday, January 16:

GE(PBR9) to take $6.2 billion after-tax GAAP charge in 4Q17 as a result of comprehensive review and reserve testing for GE Capital’s run-off insurance portfolio, North American Life & Health (NALH). $GE PR link.

IBM(PBR25) and Maersk (MAERSKb.CO) to form joint venture applying blockchain to improve global trade and digitize supply chains. $IBM PR link.

Boeing(PBR27) and auto seats manufacturer Adient(NYSE:ADNT) form joint venture company Adient Aerospace to develop, manufacture and sell seating products to airlines and aircraft leasing companies. $BA PR link.

MetLife(PBR39) to merge General American Life Insurance Company subsidiary into its Metropolitan Tower Life Insurance Companysubsidiary in 1H18. $MET PR link.

Energy Transfer Equity(PBR52) Partners unit to sell compression business to USA Compression Partners(NYSE: USAC) for $1.8 billion, ETE to receive ownership interests in USAC general partner and 12.5 million shares of USAC. $ETE PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) sends letter to stockholders, explains how it is creating value, encourages rejection of Broadcom(NASDAQ: AVGO) acquisition bid at 03/06/18 annual stockholders meeting. $QCOM PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106 $QCOM) gets response to its shareholders letter from Broadcom(NASDAQ: AVGO). $AVGO PR link.

Medtronic(PBR133) gets US FDA clearance for Riptide(TM) Aspiration System. $MDT PR link.

NextEra Energy(PBR173)’s Florida Light & Power unit to apply federal tax savings toward $1.3 billion cost of Hurricane Irma, will save 4.9 million consumers planned $250 surcharge. $NEE PR link.

Visteon(PBR351) authorizes new share repurchase program for $500 million, is in addition to current authorization which has $200 million balance available. $VC PR link.

TEGNA(PBR622) and Sony Pictures Television(NYSE: SNE) do exclusive multi-year distribution agreement, SPT to distribute all TEGNA owned first-run programming, SPT to also act as exclusive advertising sales representative for national barter and integrations. $TGNA PR link.

H&R Block(PBR669) enters exclusive partnership with Walmart(PBR1), is new, exclusive DIY desktop tax software provider through stores and online. $HRB PR link.

Bon-Ton Stores(PBR707) default on $14 million interest payment due 12/15/17, enters into forbearance agreement, due 01/26/18, may be extended to 02/04/18. $BONT PR link.

Vantiv(PBR754) completes $10 billion acquisition of London, UK, based WorldPay, merged company named WorldPay, class A common stock to start trading on NYSE with ticker symbol WP. $VNTV PR link.

Adtalem Education(PBR905)’s Association of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists (ACAMS) unit reaches 60,000 international members. $ATGE PR link.

Blackhawk Network(PBR998) to be acquired by Silver Lake and P2 Capital Partners for $45.25/share, $3.5 billion cash, to close mid-2018. $HAWK PR link.

Kennametal(PBR706) promotes Peter Dragich to VP & President/Industrial unit, succeeds departing Chuck Byrnes; Ron Port promoted to VP and President/Infrastructure unit. $KMT PR link.

Jack in the Box(PBR987) hires Lance F. Tucker as EVP/CFO, effective 03/26/18, succeeds retiring Jerry P. Rebel. $JACK PR link.

Dollar Tree(PBR309) appoints Stephanie Stahl, former executive at Coach and Revlon(PBR900), to the Board. $DLTR PR link.

Triumph Group(PBR578) appoints retired USAF General Larry O. Spencer, currently President of the Air Force Association, and Daniel P. Garton, former President/CEO of American Airlines(PBR69)’ American Eagle subsidiary, to the Board, effective immediately and 02/19/18, respectively. $TGI PR link.

TEGNA(PBR622) elects Gina Bianchini, Silicon Valley entrepreneur with a deep expertise in social media and community building technology platforms, to the Board, effective 02/26/18. $TGNA PR link.

Charles River Labs(PBR900) appoints Jean-Paul Mangeolle, former President of AB SCIEX, to the Board. $CRL PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York says the Empire State January Manufacturing Survey General Business Conditions Index is at 17.7, December was 19.6, November 20.9, January 2017 6.7. NYFed PR link.

***Monday, January 15:

***Martin Luther King, Jr, Day.
***US Stock Markets Closed.

Avis Budget(PBR316) adopts one-year Stockholder Rights Plan to protect stockholders against “creeping control” by largest shareholder SRS Investment Management, cooperative agreement ends today, identifying new director candidates with specific skill sets to replace a number of retiring directors. $CAR PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires New Providence, NJ, based full-service employee benefits consultant and broker firm The Daniels Group, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

Manitowoc(PBR579) to relocate corporate headquarters from Manitowoc, WI, to Milwaukee, WI, will lease approximately 16,000 sf in One Park Place in the Park Plaza office park, expects transition to be completed by 1Q18 end. $MTW PR link.

***Friday, January 12:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 01/12/18:
DJIA ends at record 25,803.19, +2.01% from last Friday, +4.39% MTD/QTD/YTD, +0.00% from record 25,803.19 set 01/12/18.
NASDAQ ends at record 7,261.06, +1.74% from last Friday, +5.18% MTD/QTD/YTD, +0.00% from record 7,261.06 set 01/12/18.
SPX ends at record 2,786.24, +1.57% from last Friday, +4.21% MTD/QTD/YTD, +0.00% from record 2,786.24 set 01/12/18.

Merck(PBR70) gets US FDA approval for LYNPARZA® (olaparib) in germline BRCA-mutated metastatic breast cancer. $MRK PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) extends cash tender offer to acquire Netherlands based NXP Semiconductors NV(NASDAQ: NXPI) for $110.00/share, $47 billion cash to 02/09/18, 1.7% of NXP common shares, have been validly tendered. $QCOM PR link.

AFLAC(PBR121) issues statement regarding allegations which it claims are false, including insider trading, fraudulent sales and financial manipulation. $AFL PR link.

Group 1 Automotive(PBR276) to give $500 cash bonus to non-management dealership employees and operational support staff across its 115 US dealerships, cites recently signed tax reform bill. $GPI PR link.

Live Nation(PBR366) acquires certain assets, including ticketing commerce platform, anti-scalping algorithm, API applications and patent portfolio, from London, England, based Complete Entertainment Resources Group(fka Songkick), agree to settle litigation issues. $LYV PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Houston, TX, based property/casualty broker focused exclusively on serving Texas water utilities AquaSurance, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

HNI Corp(PBR841) SVP/Strategic Development Jerald K. Dittmer announce intent to retire, effective 02/16/18. $HNI PR link.

Walt Disney(PBR57 $DIS) board members Facebook(PBR228 $FB) COO Sheryl Sandberg and Twitter(PBR735 $TWTR) CEO Jack Dorsey not standing for re-election due to conflicts relating to matters before the board. MarketWatch PR link.

Berry Global(PBR488) Executive Chairman Jon Rich to retire from position and board; CEO Tom Salmon unanimously elected to add Chairman role, effective 02/01/18. $BERY PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary December Current Average Earnings/Hourwas $26.63, Average Work Week 34.5 hours, Average Weekly Earnings $918.74, +0.3% from November, +2.8% from December 2016. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US December Consumer Price Index was +0.1%, Novemberwas +0.4%, October +0.1%, December 2016+0.3%, Last 12 Months +2.1%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary December Manufacturers Saleswere $1.420 trillion, +1.2% from November, +7.9% from December 2016. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Advance December Total Retail and Food Services & Drinking Places Sales were $495.4 billion, +0.4% from November, +5.5% from December 2016. USDOC PR link.

***Thursday, January 11:

Walmart(PBR1) raising minimum wage to $11/hour, giving $1,000 one-time bonus to US employees with 20 years of service, expanded parental(6 weeks paid) and maternity(10 weeks paid) leave policy for fulltime hourly employees, $5,000 for adoption fees. $WMT PR link.

Walmart(PBR1 $WMT)’s Sam’s Club unit to close around 10% of its 660 stores over next few weeks, will eliminate around 10,000 jobs. MarketWatch PR link.

Tenet Healthcare(PBR161) completes transfer of its 2 Philadelphia hospitals to Paladin Healthcare for $170 million. $THC PR link.

Facebook(PBR228) CEO Mark Zuckerberg says major changes being made to improve people communications, users to see less public content like posts from businesses, brands, and media. $FB PR link.

Becton Dickinson(PBR318) gets US FDA notification of significant violations of the law as part of ongoing investigation into lead testing issues. $BDX PR link.

Boston Scientific(PBR356) gets US FDA approval for Spectra WaveWriter™ Spinal Cord Stimulator System, offers non-opioid treatment option with multiple therapies for people with chronic pain. $BSX PR link.

AMD(PBR445) provides update on recent and planned actions based on security issues related to Meltdown & Spectre uncovered on 01/03/18 by Google Project Zero. $AMD PR link.

Post Holdings(PBR486) to combine private brands business into a unit under direction of Jim Dwyer as its President/CEO to explore IPO, a placement of private equity, a sale of the businesses or a strategic combination; Post to complete $77.00/share, $1.5 billion cash acquisition of producer and distributor of refrigerated potato, pasta and vegetable-based side dishes, pork sausage, and a variety of refrigerated and frozen convenience food items Bob Evans Farms(NASDAQ: BOBE) on 01/12/18; upon close will separate Post into 2 business units, a refrigerated retail business unit lead by Bob Evan’s CEO Mike Townsley, and a foodservice business unit lead by Mark Westphal, who moves from CFO to President of Post’s Michael Foods Group. $POST PR link.

Endo Intl(PBR700) comments on US Attorney‘s office grand jury subpoena relating to products containing oxymorphone. $ENDP PR link.

DST Systems(PBR723) to be acquired by SS&C Technologies(Nasdaq: SSNC) for $84/share, $5.4 billion, includes debt, to close 3Q18. $DST PR link.

TSYS(PBR790) completes $1.05 billion cash acquisition of technology led acquiring services to more than 70,000 merchants and 100+ integrated partners in the US provider Cayanfrom Parthenon Capital Partners. $TSS PR link.

Eastman Kodak(PBR871 $KODK) directors disclose acquisitions prior to ‘blockchain’ rally. MarketWatch PR link.

Meredith Corp(PBR994) extends tender offer for TimeInc(PBR661) shares to 01/25/18, 58%+ of shared tendered so far. $MDP PR link.

IBM(PBR25) SVP/CFO Martin J. Schroeter takes on new role as SVP/Global Markets, SVP/Finance & Operations James Kavanaugh becomes SVP/CFO. $IBM PR link.

Freddie Mac(PBR41) names Jacqueline M. Welch as head of Human Resources, Diversity & Inclusion and Chief Diversity Officer. $FMCC PR link.

Molina Healthcare(PBR284) COO Terry Bayer to retire after 13 years, role to be eliminated, responsibilities go to CEO. $MOH PR link.

Graphic Packaging(PBR553) promotes Mike Farrell to SVP/Supply Chain. $GPK PR link.

Diebold Nixdorf(PBR676) hires Mark Brewer as SVP/Managing Director-Global Retail. $DBD PR link.

Sabre Corp(PBR736) CFO Rick Simonson to retire by end of 2018, new CFO search starts. $SABR PR link.

Hologic(PBR767) elects Namal Nawana, former CEO of Alere, to the Board. $HOLX PR link.

New York Times(PBR971) appoints Rachel Glasser, CFO of Etsy, to the Board. $NYT PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US December Federal Government Receipts were $325.8 billion, Outlays $349.0 billion, Deficit $23.2 billion, Fiscal YTD Deficit(3 months) is at $225.0 billion, 2017 Fiscal YTD Deficit(3 months) was $209.8 billion. USTreasury PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US December Producer Price Index Total Monthly Final Demand is -0.1%, November was +0.4%, October +0.4%, December 2016 +0.2%, Total Last 12 Months +2.6%. USDOL PR link.

***Wednesday, January 10:

Apple(PBR5 $AAPL) to turn over its cloud operations in China to state-owned local partner, Guizhou-Cloud Big Data Industry Co, on 02/28/18, to comply with Chinese law. MarketWatch PR link.

Coca-Cola(PBR63) relaunching Diet Coke with new look, adding 4 new flavors. $KO PR link.

Sears(PBR93) raises $100 million in new financing, is pursuing an additional $200 million from other counterparties, in discussions with certain lenders regarding additional transactions to improve the terms on potentially more than $1 billion of its non-first lien debt, doing cost reductions of $200 million on an annualized basis in 2018 unrelated to store closures. $SHLD PR link.

Medtronic(PBR133) gets US FDA approval of a new clinician programmer for use with the SynchroMed(TM)II Intrathecal Drug Delivery system, an implantable pump that provides targeted drug delivery for chronic pain and severe spasticity. $MDT PR link.

Whirlpool(PBR138) restructuring Embracocompressor business, to close Turin, Italy, facility, 500 positions impacted, assembly/manufacturing to be moved to other Embraco facilities. $WHR PR link.

Waste Management(PBR206) to pay $2,000 bonuses to every US employee not on a bonus or sales incentive plan, 34,000 estimated to be eligible, cites new corporate US tax structure as reason. $WM PR link.

Activision Blizzard(PBR549 $ATVI), ‘Call of Duty’ developer, shuts down sole US distribution center and warehouse, located in Fresno, CA, layoff of 50 people. MarketWatch PR link.

Brink’s(PBR613) to acquire Brazil based $80 million/year cash-in-transit, money processing and ATM services provider Rodoban for around $145 million cash, to close 2Q18. $BCO PR link.

Iron Mountain(PBR663) completes $1.315 billion plus $60 million performance incentive acquisition of 4 US operations of Phoenix, AZ, based IO Data Centers. $IRM PR link.

Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR906)’s Northwoods Energy unit to acquire SM Energy(PBR978)‘s core Powder River Basin assets of over 112,200 net acres in Wyoming for $500 million. $APO PR link.

Cerner(PBR628) hires Brent Shafer as Chairman/CEO, effective 02/01/18, succeeds Interim Chairman/CEO & Co-Founder Cliff Illig who will resume his Vice Chairman role. $CERN PR link.

Alaska Air(PBR454)’s Horizon Air unit names Gary Beck as President/CEO, Constance von Muehlen as its COO. $ALK PR link.

Berkshire Hathaway(PBR4) increases board size from 12 to 14, then elects Gregory E. Abel, Chairman/CEO of the Hathaway Energy Co unit and appointed Vice Chairman-Non-Insurance Business Operations, and Ajit Jain, EVP/National Indemnity Co unit and appointed Vice Chairman-Insurance Operations, to the Board. $BRKB PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary November Total Wholesale Saleswere at $611.0 billion, +1.5% from October, +9.9% from November 2016. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary December Import Prices were +0.1%, Last 12 Months +3.0%, December Export Prices-0.1%, Last 12 Months +2.6%. USDOL PR link.

***Tuesday, January 9:

T-Mobile(PBR95) announces first plan in US for narrowband IoT (NB-IoT), to be available for just $6 per year. $TMUS PR link.

Arrow Electronics(PBR120) completes acquisition of San Jose, CA, based 1,500 employees, large global IoT design services provider eInfochips, terms not disclosed. $ARW PR link.

Discovery Communications(PBR399) to relocate its global headquarters from Silver Spring, MD, to New York City in 2019; upon closing of acquisition of Scripps Network(PBR732), Discovery also will establish a National Operations Headquarters at Scripps’ current campus in Knoxville, TN. $DISCA PR link.

Sprouts(PBR688) to expand home delivery service from 8 to all its major markets in new partnership with Instacart, first phase is to select zip codes in Phoenix & Tucson, AZ. $SFM PR link.

Applied Industrial Technologies(PBR787) to acquire Columbus, OH, based 68 locations, 1,000 employees specialty process flow control products and services distributor FCX Performance for $768 million, to close within 30 days. $AIT PR link.

Par Pacific(PBR858) to acquire 33 Cenex® Zip Trip convenience stores in eastern Washington and northwestern Idaho from CHS Inc. for approximately $70 million plus inventory value, includes multi-year strategic fuel supply agreements. $PARR PR link.

Eastman Kodak(PBR871) and WENN Digital, in licensing partnership, launch blockchain KODAKOne image rights management platform and KODAKCoin, a photo-centric cryptocurrency for photographers and agencies to receive royalty payments through cryptocurrencies. $KODK PR link.

Wendy’s(PBR877) opens 500th international restaurant in late 12/17, located in Guatemala City, Guatemala. $WEN PR link.

Lands’ End(PBR976) selected as the new uniform supplier for 51,000 American Airlines(PBR69) Flight Service, Airport Customer Service and Premium Customer Services employees, 1.8 million apparel items. $LE PR link.

SM Energy(PBR978) to sell 112,200 acre leasehold in Wyoming’s Powder Blue Basin for $500 million cash, to close 1Q18. $SM PR link.

SYNNEX(PBR209) President/CEO Kevin Murai to retire and become Chairman, COO Dennis Polk to become President/CEO, Dwight Steffensen to become Lead Independent Director, all on 03/01/18. $SNX PR link.

AAR Corp(PBR883) Chairman/CEO David Storch to retire as CEO effective 05/31/18, President/COO John M. Holmes elected CEO effective 06/01/18. $AIR PR link.

Domino’s(PBR889) President/CEO Patrick Doyle to depart on 06/30/18, successor to be President/Domino’s International Richard Allison, President/Domino’s USA Russell Weiner to be COO(a newly created position) and President/Americas, both effective 07/01/18. $DPZ PR link.

Polaris Industries(PBR531) hires Lucy Clark Dougherty as SVP/General Counsel, compliance officer, corporate secretary, and president of the Polaris Foundation, effective 01/29/18. $PII PR link.

Brinker Intl(PBR697) promotes Wade Allen to SVP/Chief Digital Officer, will transition from retiring David Doyle, former Brinker chief information officer. $EAT PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary November Total Hires were at 5,110,000 for the Private Sector, 379,000 for the Government Sector, 5,489,000 Total, -1.9% from October, +5.3% from November 2016. USDOL PR link.

CoreLogic says US October Percent of House Payments 30 Or More Days Past Due was at 5.1%, September was 5.0%, August 4.6%, October 2016 5.2%. CoreLogic PR link.

The US December Purdue/CME Group Composite Ag Economy Barometer is at 126, November was 128, October 135, December 2016 132. Purdue/CME Group PR link.

***Monday, January 8:

Apple(PBR5 $AAPL) defends its record amid criticism over iPhones’ effect on kids. MarketWatch PR link.

GE(PBR9) Healthcare, Roche(SIX: RO, ROG; OTCQX: RHHBY) enter partnership to develop integrated digital diagnostics platform to improve oncology and critical care treatment. $GE PR link.

Target(PBR40) to introduce its Universal Thread brand in 02/18, an exclusive women’s lifestyle brand that’s grounded in denim and features tops, dresses, accessories and shoes, with prices ranging from $5 to $39.99. $TGT PR link.

Pfizer(PBR56 $PFE) abandons costly hunt for new Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s drugs, will result in layoffs of 300 in NE US. MarketWatchPR link.

Whirlpool(PBR138) becomes first appliance maker to activate Apple(PBR5) Watchfunctionality, to roll out in 20+ appliances in 2018. $WHR PR link.

Facebook(PBR228 $FB), Chinese smartphone maket Xiaomi team up for virtual-reality headset in China, new device is modeled after Facebook’s Oculus Go. MarketWatch PR link.

The Mosaic Co(PBR300) completes $1.15 billion cash and 34.2 million common shares of stock acquisition of Brazil based Vale Fertilizantes. $MOS PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) to complete $1 billion share repurchase program, Abbott Labs(PBR134)sells it 14.5% stake as planned. $MYL PR link.

Celgene(PBR347) to acquire Impact Biomedicines for upfront payment of $1.1 billion, additional $5.9 billion possible based on performance, adds Fedratinib to Its pipeline of therapies for hematologic malignancies. $CELG PR link.

NCR(PBR383) opens its new two tower 750,000 sf campus global headquarters campus in midtown Atlanta, to house 5,000 employees. $NCR PR link.

NVIDIA(PBR510) selected by Uber for the AI computing system in its fleet of self-driving vehicles. $NVDA PR link.

Fitbit(PBR870) community grows to over 25 million active users in 2017. $FIT PR link.

GoPro(PBR902) to reduce workforce from 1,254 to under 1,000, withdraw from drone market because of Europe/US hostile regulatory environment. $GPRO PR link.

Regis Corp(PBR912) to close around 600 nonperforming company owned SmartStylesalons on 01/08/18, to strategically grow remaining 2,000 SmartStyle salons with creative new offerings within Walmart(PBR1). $RGS PR link.

Allscripts(PBR944) to acquire private San Francisco, CA, based 30,000 ambulatory practices and 5 million patient visits a month cloud EHR provider Practice Fusion for $100 million cash. $MDRX PR link.

Perrigo(PBR565) hires Uwe Röhrhoff as President/CEO, effective 01/15/18, succeeds retiring John T. Hendrickson. $PRGO PR link.

Nordstrom(PBR214) Rack unit President Karen McKibbin to retire in 03/18, Chief Innovation Officer Geevy Thomas to be successor. $JWN PR link.

CSX(PBR226) hires Edmond Harris as EVP/Operations. $CSX PR link.

Ingredion(PBR415) to appoint Elizabeth Adefioye as SVP/Chief Human Resources Officer, effective 03/01/18. $INGR PR link.

Bloomin’ Brands(PBR536) hires Ramin Eivaz as SVP/Digital Marketing, Analytics & CRM, a newly created position. $BLMN PR link.

The Federal Reserve Board says US Preliminary November Total Consumer Credit Outstanding is at $3.827 trillion, +0.7% from October, +5.0% YTD, +5.3% from November 2016. USFed PR link.

Fannie Mae(PBR17) says US December Home Purchase Sentiment Index is at 85.8, November was 87.8, October 85.2, December 2016 80.7. $FNMA PR link.

***Friday, January 5:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 01/05/18:
DJIA ends at record 25,295.87, +2.33% from last Friday/MTD/QTD/YTD, +0.00% from record 25,295.87 set 01/05/18.
NASDAQ ends at record 7,136.56, +3.38% from last Friday/MTD/QTD/YTD, +0.00% from record 7,136.56 set 01/05/18.
SPX ends at record 2,743.15, +2.60% from last Friday/MTD/QTD/YTD, +0.00% from record 2,743.15 set 01/05/18.

ExxonMobil(PBR2) makes 6th oil discovery offshore Guyana since 2015, new play concept for the 6.6 million acre Stabroek Block, 3.2 billion oil-equivalent barrels before discovery, has 45% interest, Hess(PBR248) has 30% interest, Nexen Petroleum 25% interest. $XOM PR link.

Amgen(PBR135) gets US FDA approval for XGEVA® (denosumab) for prevention of skeletal-related events In patients with multiple myeloma. $AMGN PR link.

Facebook(PBR228) CEO/Founder Mark Zuckerberg posts on his FB page his annual challenge, 2018 is to fix Facebook, discusses centralization/decentralization issues. (Requires FB access). $FB PR link.

Owens & Minor(PBR292) expects to close $710 million in cash acquisition of $1 billion revenues/year surgical and infection prevention (“S&IP”) business of Halyard Health in 1Q18, former Halyard SVP/COO Chris Lowery joins as President/Global Products. $OMI PR link.

Constellation Brands(PBR377) authorizes up to $3 billion share repurchase plan, is in addition to current $1 billion plan. $STZ PR link.

Netflix(PBR447) to launch ‘My Next Guest Needs No Introduction With David Letterman’on 01/12/18, monthly series, 1st guest is former US President Barack Obama. $NFLX PR link.

Itron(PBR896) completes $16.25/share(25% premium over 09/15/17 closing price), $830 million cash acquisition of Internet of Important Things™ connectivity platforms and solutions to utilities and cities provider, $311 million in sales/2016 with $1.2 billion backlog Silver Spring Networks(NYSE: SSNI). $ITRI PR link.

Scientific Games(PBR937) completes $631 million acquisition of NYX Gaming Group(TSXV: NYX). $SMGS PR link.

Veritiv(PBR311) Chairman/CEO Mary Laschinger gets new agreement extending her contract to 12/31/21 with 1 year renewal options. $VRTV PR link.

Diplomat Pharmacy(PBR515) appoints board director Jeff Park to Interim CEO, follows resignation of co-founder Phil Hagerman who will remain member of the board, become Chairman Emeritus, independent lead director Ben Wolin appointed Chairman, new CEO search starts. $DPLO PR link.

Pinnacle Foods(PBR751) hires Daniel Poland as EVP/Chief Supply Chain Officer, effective 01/22/18, succeeds retiring D. Michael Wittman. $PF PR link.

McDermott Intl(PBR825) hires Ian Prescott as VP/Asia, succeeds retiring Hugh Cuthbertson. $MDR PR link.

Red Robin(PBR963) hires Beverly Carmichael as EVP/Chief People, Culture and Resource Officer. $RRGB PR link.

Broadcom(NASDAQ: AVGO) files definitive proxy materials and sends letter to Qualcomm(PBR106 $QCOM) shareholders promoting its 11 director candidates for 03/06/18 annual stockholders meeting. $AVGO PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary December Total Employed was 154,021,000, +104,000 from November, +1,788,000 from December 2016; Total Unemployed at 6,576,000, Unemployment Rate at 4.1%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says US Preliminary November Total Exports were $200.3 billion, Total Imports $250.8 billion, Total Deficit $50.5 billion; YTD Total Exports are $2.131 trillion, YTD Total Imports $2.645 trillion, YTD Total Deficit $513.5 billion, YTD Total Deficit November 2016 $460.2 billion. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary November Total Manufacturers New Orders were at $488.1 billion, +1.4% from October, +6.4% from November 2016. USDOC PR link.

The ISM US December Non-Manufacturing Index(>50% means economy growing) is at 55.9%, November was 57.4%, October 60.1%, December 2016 57.2%. ISM PR link.

***Thursday, January 4:

Apple(PBR5) acknowledges security issues related to “Spectre” and “Meltdown,” affects nearly all Apple computing devices, coming out with fixes. $AAPL PR link.

Intel(PBR51) says it expects to have software patches and firmware updates available for 90% of its and partner devices by end of next week to make them immune to recently discovered exploits “Spectre” and “Meltdown.” $INTC PR link.

Sears(PBR93) to close 64 Kmart stores and 39 Sears stores between early March and early April 2018 per strategic assessment. $SHLD PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) says comparable sales on an owned basis increased 1.0% in November/December 2017 combined, to close 11 stores in early 2018, close 19 more as leases or operating covenants expire, to reach 100 closures announced in 08/16. $M PR link.

Carnival Corp(PBR184) to launch 4 new cruise ships across 4 brands in 2018, to add 18 new cruise ships to industry’s largest fleet between 2018 and 2022. $CCL PR link.

JCPenney(PBR234) delivers a 3.4% comp sales increase for the combined nine-week period ending 12/30/17; reaffirms full-year financial guidance. $JCP PR link.

JetBlue(PBR429) to distribute $1,000 bonuses to all 21,000 crew members in response to recent US tax reform legislation. $JBLU PR link.

Western Union(PBR441) Financial Servicessubsidiary resolves compliance violations from 2004-2012 with New York Dept of Financial Services, pays $60 million, commended for its significant compliance enhancements since 2012 and work with law enforcement agencies, says 20% of workforce dedicated to compliance functions. $WU PR link.

Williams-Sonoma(PBR508) launches Robinmattress collection, includes Robin Sleep System, features small, non-contact monitoring device designed to measure sleep in detail, including the quality and quantity of sleep, from a customer’s nightstand, starts at $629. $WSM PR link.

Xilinx(PBR809) President/CEO Moshe Gavrielov to retire from company and board, effective 01/28/18, COO Victor Peng elected to be President/CEO starting 01/29/18 per transition plan. $XLNX PR link.

Sprint(PBR86) hires telecom/cable industry executive Michel Combes as President/CFO, to be appointed to board at a later date, succeeds Tarek Robbiati who is leaving 01/31/18. $S PR link.

PNC Financial(PBR189) appoints Linda R. Medler, retired US Air Force Brigadier General and until 12/17 Chief Information Security Officer at Raytheon(PBR118)’s Missile Systems subsidiary, and Martin Pfinsgraff, former senior deputy comptroller for large bank supervision at the US Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, to the Board. $PNC PR link.

ADP(PBR235) says US Preliminary December National Employment Change was +250,000, +35.1% from revised November, +24.4% from December 2016; Goods Producing Sectorwere +28,000, Services Sector +222,000. $ADP PR link.

IHS Markit says US December Composite PMI Output Index was at 54.1, November was 54.5, October 55.2, December 2016 54.1. IHS Markit PR link.

***Wednesday, January 3:

McKesson(PBR6) completes $735 million acquisition of RxCrossroads, a provider of tailored services to pharmaceutical and biotechnology manufacturers, from CVS Health(PBR11 $CVS). $MCK PR link.

Verizon(PBR15) and A+E Networks expand partnership across Verizon’s family of media brands. $VZ PR link.

AmerisourceBergen(PBR16) completes $815 million cash acquisition of Springfield, IL, based largest, privately held US healthcare products wholesaler HD Smith. $ABC PR link.

Intel(PBR51) responds to security issues, not unique to its devices, is being mitigated by software updates with little impact to performance. $INTC PR link.

Abbott Labs(PBR134) gets US FDA approvalfor magnetic resonance (MR)-conditional labeling for the Quadra Assura MP™ Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Defibrillator (CRT-D) and Fortify Assura™ Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD). $ABT PR link.

Penske Automotive(PBR170) completes acquistion of UK based 4 locations 18,000 fixed price used car sales/year $300 million/year The Car People, terms not disclosed. $PAG PR link.

Allergan(PBR219) in cost cutting and restructuring effort to eliminate over 1,000 positions and around 400 open positions. $AGN PR link.

Dominion Resources(PBR229) andSCANA(PBR489) to merge in $7.9 billion all stock transaction, $14.6 billion with debt, SCANA to be a wholly owned subsidiary, upon closing SCANA’s South Carolina Electric & Gas Company subsidiary (SCE&G) electric customers to receive an average $1,000 payment within 90 days. $D PR link.

Casey’s General Stores(PBR342) responds to letter from activist investor JCP Investment Management and partners recommending strategic alternatives, including sale of company. $CASY PR link.

Noble Energy(PBR471) receives $305 million cash from CNX Resources(NYSE: CNX) in divestiture of its 50 percent interest in CONE Gathering. $NBL PR link.

Tesla(PBR651) releases 4Q17 and yearly production results, delivered 101,312 Model S and X vehicles in 2017, +33% over 2016, delivered 1,550 Model 3‘s in 4Q17, expects Model 3 production to be 2,500 per week by end of 1Q18, 5,000 per week by end of 2Q18. $TSLA PR link.

Wendy’s(PBR877) expands its “4 for $4”program to include 8 entrees with nuggets, fries and a drink. $WEN PR link.

AVX(PBR969) to acquire privately held 700 employees $90 million/2017 manufacturer of passive and active IMD antenna systemsEthertronics for $142 million cash and $8 million of net debt. $AVX PR link.

Weight Watchers(PBR988) ranked #1 again byUS News & World Report in several categories for diet plans. $WTW PR link.

Office Depot(PBR182) hires Joseph T. Lower as EVP/CFO, succeeds retiring Stephen Hare. $ODP PR link.

SunTrust Banks(PBR307) hires Ellen Fitzsimmons as EVP/General Counsel & Corporate Secretary, succeeds retiring Raymond Fortin. $STI PR link.

Bon-Ton Stores(PBR707) hires Michael Culhane as EVP/CFO, succeeds departing Nancy Walsh. $BONT PR link.

Pier 1 Imports(PBR916) hires Nancy A. Walsh as EVP/CFO, effective 01/25/18. $PIR PR link.

The Federal Reserve Open Market Committeereleases minutes from 12/12-13/17 meeting, says labor market conditions continued to strengthen through 11/17 and suggested that real gross domestic product (GDP) was rising at a solid pace in the 2H17.projects inflation rate to be close to 2% target in 2019 and on target in 2020. FOMC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary November Total Construction Spending Annual Rate is at $1.257 trillion, +0.8% from October, +11.5% from November 2016. USDOC PR link.

The ISM US December Manufacturing PMI Index(>50% means economy growing) is at 59.7%, November was 58.2%, October 58.7%, December 2016 54.5%. ISM PR link.

Automotive News reports that US December New Light Vehicle Sales were at 1,333,409, -5.6% from December 2016, Average Transaction Price was $36,133, +0.7% from November. Automotive News PR link.

***Tuesday, January 2:

Apple(PBR5 $AAPL) acquires Vancouver, BC, Canada, based iOS developer tools provider BuddyBuild, now part of Apple’s Xcode engineering group, to stay in Vancouver, to cease Android app development 03/01/18. BuddyBuild PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) reports it shipped over 5 billion items worldwide in 2017 to Prime members. $AMZN PR link.

American Airlines(PBR69) to distribute $1,000 bonus to each non-officer team member in 1Q18, total $130 million, cites new US tax reform legislation. $AAL PR link.

Arrow Electronics(PBR120) to acquire San Jose, CA, based 1,500 employees, large global IoT design services provider eInfochips, to close this month, terms not disclosed. $ARW PR link.

All Southwest Airlines(PBR153) employees to receive $1,000 bonus on 01/08/18, to contribute $5 million for charitable causes, increase fleet investment, result of tax reform legislation. $LUV PR link.

Nordstrom(PBR214) will hire 250 for its first stand-alone Men’s Store in Manhattan, NYC, to open in 04/18. $JWN PR link.

YUM!(PBR217)’s Pizza Hut unit offering 50% discount for online orders only through 01/08/18. $YUM PR link.

The Mosaic Co(PBR300) modifies acquisition of Brazil based Vale Fertilizantes to $1.15 billion cash and 34.2 million common shares of stock, to close around 01/08/18. $MOS PR link.

Graphic Packaging(PBR553) completes $1.8 billion acquisition of International Paper(PBR117)’s N America Consumer Packaging business, with 3,900 employees in 10 locations in US and UK, will retain 20.5% stake. $GPK PR link.

Vulcan Materials(PBR685) completes $900 million acquisition of Aggregates USA from SPO Partners, divests certain Aggregates USA operations in Tennessee and Virginia to Blue Water Industries for $290 million per agreement with US Dept of Justice. $VMC PR link.

HealthSouth(PBR800) completes corporate name change to Encompass Health Corporation, trading symbol changes from NYSE: HLS to NYSE: EHC. $EHC PR link.

Zions Bancorp(PBR813) to increase ongoing compensation for more than 40% of its employees as of 01/01/18, to provide nearly 80% of employees with $1,000 bonuses during 2018, intends to contribute $12 million to the Zions Bancorporation Foundation, result of US tax reform legislation. $ZION PR link.

Beacon Roofing(PBR818) completes $2.625 billion cash acquisition of East Rutherford, NJ, based 208 locations in 31 states exterior and interior building products distributor Allied Building Products Corp from Ireland based CRH plc(NYSE: CRH). $BECN PR link.

Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR906)’s West Corpunit acquires automated appointment reminder services and patient communication software provider PhoneTree, terms not disclosed. $APO PR link.

Rent A Center(PBR657) CEO Mark Speese resigns, remains member of the Board, current Board member & former President/COO Mitch Fadel appointed CEO effective immediately. $RCII PR link.

TeleFlex(PBR923) completes planned CEO transition, President/COO Liam Kelly now President/CEO, succeeds Benson Smith who retired on 12/31/17, and is now non-executive Chairman. $TFX PR link.

Royal Caribbean(PBR329) hires Laura B. Miller as SVP/Chief Human Relations Officer. $RCL PR link.

TransDigm(PBR810) EVP James Skulina appointed interim CFO, replaces Terrance Paradie who has resigned for personal reasons, and will aid in transition. $TDG PR link.

Alexion Pharmaceutical(PBR840) and major stakeholder Elliott Management agree to collaborate on identifying a new board member. $ALXN PR link.

IDEX(PBR861) appoints Mark Beck, President/CEO of global doors/windows manufacturer JELD-WEN, to the Board. $IEX PR link.

The IHS Markit US December Manufacturing PMI is at 55.1, November was 53.9, October54.6, December 2016 54.3. IHS Markit PR link.

***Monday, January 1:

***Happy and Prosperous New Year!
***US Stock Markets Closed.

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The PBR1000 December 2017 Breaking News Recap

January 3, 2018 by admin

December 2017: The Year Ends With A Tax Break Gift

The US federal government passes a tax bill that corporations and consumers should be happy about. A nice way to end 2017.

Here are The PBR1000 corporate and economic related breaking news items of interest with hotlinks to the sources for December 2017, starting with the last active business day.

***Friday, December 29:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Year Ending 12/29/17:
DJIA ends 2017 at 24,719.22, -0.14% from last Friday, +1.84% MTD, +10.33% QTD, +25.08% YTD, -0.48% from record 24,837.51 set 12/28/17.
NASDAQ ends 2017 at 6,903.39, -0.81% from last Friday, +0.43% MTD, +6.27% QTD, +28.24% YTD, -1.31% from record 6,994.76 set 12/18/17.
SPX ends 2017 at 2,673.61, -0.36% from last Friday, +0.98% MTD, +6.12% QTD, +19.42% YTD, -0.62% from record 2,690.16 set 12/18/17.

Liberty Interactive(PBR263) completes acquisition of the 62% of shares it doesn’t own of interactive multichannel retailer HSN(PBR609)for $40.36/share, $2.6 billion in all stock deal. $QVCA PR link.

Becton Dickinson(PBR318) completes $317/share, $24 billion cash/stock acquisition of 16,000 employees healthcare devices and therapies provider CR Bard(PBR637). $BDX PR link.

Comerica(PBR740) to increase minimum wage to $15.00/hr, effective 01/05/18, and give one-time $1,000 bonus in 01/18 to 4,500 non-officer colleagues, result of new US tax plan. $CMA PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US National Debt on 12/27/17-Public was $14.863 trillion, Intragovernmental $5.628 trillion, Total National Debt $20.491 trillion, -0.4% from 11/29/17, +2.6% from 12/30/16. USTreasury PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says 7th District Preliminary November Midwest Economic Index is at +0.22, October was -0.11, September -0.13, November 2016 +0.03. ChiFed PR link.

The American Automobile Assn says US Average Price/Gal for Regular Gas was $2.477 on 12/29/17, was $2.495 on 11/30/17, $2.469 on 10/31/17, $2.286 on 12/31/16. AAA PR link.

***Thursday, December 28:

Apple(PBR5) releases statement of apology and provides clarification on battery performance in iPhones, offers $29 price, a $50 discount, for people to upgrade batteries by 12/31/18 on iPhone6 and higher. $AAPL PR link.

Amazon(PBR29 $AMZN) captured 45-50% of e-commerce holiday shopping, up 38% from last year, from its 88 million Prime members, estimates GBH Insights. MarketWatch PR link.

SunTrust Banks(PBR307) to increase minimum wage to $15/hour, adds $50 million to community grants for national/local financial well-being efforts, adds 1% to current matching 6% 401(k) retirement plans, $1,000 bonus for employees completing SunTrust Momentum onUp financial fitness program. $STI PR link.

Avnet(PBR100) hires Tom Liguori as CFO, effective 01/29/18. $AVT PR link.

Old Republic Intl(PBR445) hires Jeffrey Lange as SVP/Underwriting & Distribution of the Old Republic General Insurance Group, of which he also becomes a member of the Office of the CEO, both effective 01/02/18. $ORI PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Initial Unemployment Insurance Claims 4 Week Average Ending 12/23/17 was at 237,750, -1.9% from 11/25/17 report, -9.6% from 12/29/17, Total Insured Unemployment 4 Week Moving Average Ending 12/16/17 was 1,919,750, +0.5% from 11/25/17 report, -6.0% from 12/29/17, Insured Unemployment Rate at 1.4%. USDOL PR link.

The US Energy Information Administrationsays US Crude Oil Stocks were at 431.9 Millions of Barrels on 12/22/17, -4.8% from 11/24/17, -11.2% from 12/31/16. USEIA PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says US Revised 3Q17 Net International Investment Positionwas US Assets of $26.895 trillion, US Liabilitiesof $34.624 trillion, for Deficit Balance of $7.769 trillion. USDOC PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) says US 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rate On 12/28/17 Average was 3.99% with 0.5 points/fees, 11/30/17 was 3.90%, 10/26/17 3.94%, 12/29/16 4.32%. $FMCC PR link.

The MNI December Chicago Business Barometer(>50=Gaining) is at 67.6, highest since March 2011, November was 63.9, October 66.2, December 2016 53.9. ISM Chicago-MNI PR link.

***Wednesday, December 27:

Dollar General(PBR151) to open 17th distribution center, nearly 1 million sf, located in Longview, TX, contruction to start early 2018, to employ 400 at full capacity. $DG PR link.

KKR(PBR332) to acquire Westport, CT, based acquirer and operator of general practice and specialty veterinary hospitals with 125 facilities located across 22 states PetVet Care Centersfrom Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan, terms not disclosed. $KKR PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) to promote Cristiano R. Amon to corporate President, effective 01/04/18, will continue to also be lead for QCT business unit. $QCOM PR link.

The Conference Board says US Preliminary December Consumer Confidence Index(1985=100) is at 122.1, November was 128.6, October 126.2, December 2016 113.3. TCB PR link.

***Tuesday, December 26:

Amazon(PBR29) says more than 4,000,000 people trialed Prime in one week alone this season, Echo Dot and Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote were the #1 and #2 top-selling products across all categories. $AMZN PR link.

Capital One(PBR116) reduces share repurchase program to up to $1.0 billion from up to $1.85 billion, expires 06/30/18, cites new short term tax act legislation as reason. $COF PR link.

NGL Energy(PBR207) completes $300 million sale of its 50% Interest in Glass Mountain Pipeline to an affiliate of BlackRock(PBR252)’s Global Energy and Power Infrastructure Fund. $NGL PR link.

Hubbell(PBR632) to acquire global supplier of smart infrastructure solutions to water, gas, and electric utilities Aclara Technologies, an affiliate of Sun Capital Partners, for $1.1 billion, to close 1Q18. $HUBB PR link.

SemGroup(PBR866) completes $300 million sale of its 50% interest in Glass Mountain Pipeline to an affiliate of BlackRock(PBR252)’s Global Energy and Power Infrastructure Fundin partnership with Navigator Energy Services. $SEMG PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond says US Fifth District December Annualized Manufacturing Index is at +20%, Novemberwas +30%, October +12%, December 2016+7%. RichmondFed PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond says US Fifth District December Annualized Service Sector Revenue Index is at +25%, November was +30%, October +24%, December 2016 +9%. RichmondFed PR link.

The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller US October Natl Home Price NSA Index(01/2000=100) is at 195.63, September was 195.31, August194.77, October 2016 184.26. S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller PR link.

Mastercard(PBR291) SpendingPulse reports that 2017 holiday sales increased 4.9%, a new record for dollars spent and largest year-over-year increase since 2011. $MA PR link.

***Monday, December 25:

***Christmas Day.
***US Stock Markets Closed.

***Friday, December 22:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 12/22/17:
DJIA ends at 24,754.06, +0.42% from last Friday, +1.98% MTD, +10.48% QTD, +25.26% YTD, -0.15% from record 24,792.20 set 12/18/17.
NASDAQ ends at 6,959,96, +0.34% from last Friday, +1.25% MTD, +7.14% QTD, +29.29% YTD, -0.50% from record 6,994.76 set 12/18/17.
SPX ends at 2,683.34, +0.28% from last Friday, +1.35% MTD, +6.51% QTD, +19.85% YTD, -0.25% from record 2,690.16 set 12/18/17.

Amazon(PBR29 $AMZN) acquires wire-free video home security cameras and monitoring systems startup Blink, terms not disclosed. Blink PR link.

Merck(PBR70)/Pfizer(PBR56 $PFE) worldwide collaboration gets US FDA approval for STEGLATROTM (ertugliflozin) and the fixed-dose combination STEGLUJAN™ (ertugliflozin and sitagliptin) for treatment of type 2 diabetes. $MRK PR link.

PNC Financial(PBR189), as a result of tax reform bill signing, to provide for employees in the defined benefit pension plan an additional $1,500 to their existing pension accounts, provide a $1,000 cash payment to approximately 47,500 employees in 1Q18, raise minimum pay rate to $15/hour by the end of 2018, make a $200 million contribution to the PNC Foundation. $PNC PR link.

Hess(PBR248) completes $2 billion sale of its oil and gas interests in Norway to Aker BP ASA, effective 01/01/18. $HES PR link.

BB&T(PBR277), as result of tax reform signing, to raise minimum hourly wage from $12 to $15/hour, provide a one-time $1,200 bonus to almost 27,000 employees, donate $100 million to its philanthropic fund. $BBT PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR314) completes sale of real estate assets of Harrah’s Las Vegasto VICI Properties for $1.14 billion cash, does leaseback, and acquires adjacent land from VICI to develop a planned new 300,000 sf convention center. $CZR PR link.

Becton Dickinson(PBR318) $317/share, $24 billion cashstock acquisition of CR Bard(PBR637) gets Federal Trade Commission approval, based on some conditions, expects to close in 12/17. $BDX PR link.

Vulcan Materials(PBR685) gets agreement with conditions from US Dept of Justice to acquire 31 Southern aggregates facilities Aggregates USA from SPO Partners for $900 million, expects to close 12/29/17. $VMC PR link.

Legg Mason(PBR709) to do accelerated stock purchase of $40.50/share, $225.5 million, with Shanda Asset Management Investment, no other repurchases to be made until 4Q18. $LM PR link.

First Horizon National(PBR953) to distribute $1,000 bonuses after 1st of year to non-participating company bonus plan employees, based on good year and passing of new tax reform legislation. $FHN PR link.

CSX(PBR226) board names acting President/CEO Jim Foote to be President/CEO immediately, succeeds E. Hunter Harrison who died unexpectedly on 12/16/17. $CSX PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) board unanimously rejects all 11 director nominees assembled by Broadcom(NASDAQ: AVGO) and Silver Lake Partners, pushes for election of current directors at next annual meeting. $QCOM PR link.

PSEG(PBR257) elects Barry H. Ostrowsky, President/CEO of RWJBarnabas Health, to the Board, effective 02/20/18. $PEG PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/BEA says US Preliminary Navember Total Personal Income Annual Rate is at $16.629 trillion, +0.3% from October, +3.8% from November 2016; Personal Savings Rate at 2.9%, Effective Tax Rate 12.4%. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says US Preliminary November New Family Homes Sold Annual Rate is at 733,000, +17.5% from October, +26.6% from November 2016, November Median Price is at $318,700, -0.3% from October, +1.2% from November 2016. USDOC PR link.

The University of Michigan US Final December Consumer Sentiment Index is at 95.9, November was 98.5, October 100.7, December 2016 98.2. UMich PR link.

***Thursday, December 21:

Anthem(PBR38) completes acquisition of Florida based 40,000 members Medicare Advantage health plans and healthcare delivery networks provider HealthSun, terms not disclosed. $ANTM PR link.

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

Facebook(PBR228 $FB) and Universal Music Group agree to a global, multi-year agreement under which UMG becomes the first major music company to license its recorded music and publishing catalogs for video and other social experiences across Facebook, Instagram and Oculus. UMG PR link.

Voya Financial(PBR253) to sell closed block variable annuity and fixed and fixed indexed annuities businesses to consortium led by Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR906), deal valued at $1.1 billion; Voya to repurchase $1 billion of common stock by 06/30/18. $VOYA PR link.

Celgene(PBR347) reports Phase III study of REVLIMID® says it did not achieve superiority in some specific follicular lymphoma cancers. $CELG PR link.

NCR(PBR383) completes sale of remaining Interactive Printer Solutions division assets, located in Middle East/Africa, to group led by Turbon AG, terms not disclosed. $NCR PR link.

Rush Enterprises(PBR505) to provide $1,000 discretionary bonus to its 6,600 US employees when President Trump signs tax reform bill. $RUSHA PR link.

TransDigm(PBR810) to divest the SCHROTH Safety Products acquired on 02/22/17 to its management and Perusa GmbH per agreement with US Dept of Justice. $TDG PR link.

Modine Manufacturing(PBR985) VP/Vehicular Thermal Solutions Holger Schwab so leave by end of 4QFY18 for a non-directly competing company. $MOD PR link.

Alphabet(PBR44) Executive Chairman Eric Schmidt at 01/18 regular board meeting will step down to become a technical advisor for the company, will remain a board member. $GOOG PR link.

Hartford Financial(PBR152) appoints Carlos Dominguez, former senior executive at Cisco(PBR60), to the Board, effective 02/21/18. $HIG PR link.

Rent A Center(PBR657) stockholders to vote at annual meeting on proposal to move to annual election of all members of the Board, currently members serve 3 years. $RCII PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says US 3rd Estimate 3Q17 Gross Domestic Product is at +3.2%, $19,501 trillion, +1.3% from 2Q17, +4.1% from 3Q16. USDOC PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says the US Preliminary November National Activity Index is at +0.15, October was +0.76, September +0.31, November 2016 -0.16. ChiFed PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia December Manufacturing General Activity Indicator is at +26.2, November was +22.7, October +27.9, November 2016 +8.7. PhillyFed PR link.

The Conference Board says US Preliminary November Leading Economic Index(2010=100) is at 130.9, October was 130.5, September 129.3, November 2016124.4. TCB PR link.

***Wednesday, December 20:

AT&T(PBR12), with passage of new US tax bill, to increase capital spending by $1 billion, provide $1,000 special bonus to its 200,000+ US employees. $T PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) Fire TV now supports Mozilla Firefox and Amazon Silk internet browsers in over 100 countries. $AMZN PR link.

Wells Fargo(PBR30) raises team member minimum hourly rate from $13.50 to $15.00, effective 03/18, target $400 million in 2018 for philanthropic contributions. $WFC PR link.

Freddie Mac(PBR41 $FMCC) and Fannie Mae(PBR17 $FNMA) to maintain $3 billion capital reserve per conservator statement by Federal Housing Finance Agency. FHFA PR link.

Comcast(PBR42) to give 100,000+ US employees a special $1,000 bonus and expects to spend $50+ billion over the next five years investing in infrastructure, a result of new tax reform law and net neutrality changes. $CMCSA PR link.

PG&E(PBR172) suspends quarterly dividend, cites uncertainty related to causes and potential liabilities associated with the extraordinary October 2017 Northern California wildfires. $PCG PR link.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR185) gets US FDA approval for Opdivo (nivolumab) as adjuvant therapy in patients with completely resected melanoma with lymph node involvement or metastatic disease. $BMY PR link.

Fifth Third Bancorp(PBR387) in response to new US tax legislation raises minimum wage to $15/hour, to give 13,500+ employees one time special bonus of $1,000. $FITB PR link.

Diplomat Pharmacy(PBR515) completes $515 million cash plus $80 million in stock acquisition of $388 million in revenues/year St Louis, MO, based full-service pharmacy benefit manager LDI Integrated Pharmacy Services. $DPLO PR link.

Boyd Gaming(PBR727) to expand into Pennsylvania with acquisition of King of Prussia based Valley Forge Casino Resortfrom Valley Forge Convention Center Partnersfor $280.5 million cash. $BYD PR link.

Cabot Oil & Gas(PBR857) to sell Eagle Ford Shale assets to Venado Oil & Gas affiliate for $765 million, to close by end of 1H18. $COG PR link.

Scientific Games(PBR937) $631 million acquisition of NYX Gaming Group(TSXV: NYX)gets NYX shareholders approval, to close early 01/18. $SGMS PR link.

M&T Bank(PBR504) former CFO Rene Jones is appointed Chairman/CEO, succeeds Robert Wilmer who died unexpectedly; Vice Chairman/Chief Risk Officer Richard S. Gold named President/COO. $MTB PR link.

Delta(PBR72) promotes Chief Information Officer Rahul Samant to EVP, effective 01/01/18. $DAL PR link.

CommScope(PBR482) Chief Technology Officer Morgan Kurk to be promoted to EVP/COO on 01/01/18, succeeds retiring Randy Crenshaw. $COMM PR link.

The Natl Assn of Realtors says US November Existing Home Sales Annual Rate is at 5,810,000, +5.6% from October, +3.8% from November 2016, Median Price is $248,000, +0.4% from October, +5.8% from November 2016, Median Time On Market was 40 days, October was 34 days, November 2016 43 days. NAR PR link.

***Tuesday, December 19:

UPS(PBR47) pre-orders 125 Tesla(PBR651 $TSLA) Semi fully-electric tractors. $UPS PR link.

Pfizer(PBR56) gets US FDA approval for BOSULIF® (bosutinib) to include adult patients with newly-diagnosed chronic phase Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myelogenous leukemia (Ph+ CML). $PFE PR link.

Tenet Healthcare(PBR161) to make decision on potential sale of its hospital and physician revenue cycle management business process services unit Conifer Health Solutions in 1H18, provides updated 2018 outlook. $THC PR link.

Starbucks(PBR178) opens its 25th store in Puerto Rico, 1st since Hurricane Maria. $SBUX PR link.

Crown Holdings(PBR298) to acquire $2.3 billion/year global provider of transit packaging systems Signode Industrial Group Holdingsfrom The Carlyle Group(PBR581 $CG) for $3.91 billion cash, to close in 1Q18. $CCK PR link.

Avis Budget(PBR316) is now the exclusive car rental partner of Hawaiian Airlines(PBR820). $CAR PR link.

Live Nation(PBR366) acquires interest in 9,000 seat amphitheater Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion (formerly Meadowbrook) in Gilford, NH, terms not disclosed. $LYV PR link.

Kindred Healthcare(PBR479) to be acquired by by a consortium of TPG Capital, Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowe and Humana(PBR58 $HUM) for $9.00/share, $4.1 billion cash, includes debt, to close in summer 2018. $KND PR link.

Alliant Energy(PBR634) to acquire 170-megawatt project English Farms Wind Farm, located in Poweshiek County in central Iowa, from developer Tradewind Energy, construction to start in 2018, 69 turbines to power 50,000 homes, terms not disclosed. $LNT PR link.

PerkinElmer(PBR839) completes $1.3 billion cash acquisition of Germany based 2,400 employee $310 million/2017 global autoimmune/infectious disease/allergy testing provider EUROIMMUN Medical Laboratory Diagnostics AG. $PKI PR link.

Jack in the Box(PBR987) to sell its wholly owned subsidiary Qdoba Restaurant, with its 700+ QDOBA MEXICAN EATS® company operated and franchisee restaurants, to Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR906 $APO) for approximately $305 million cash, expects to close in 04/18. $JACK PR link.

Medtronic(PBR133) SVP & President/Asia Pacific Bob White appointed EVP & President/Minimally Invasive Therapies Group, succeeds departed Bryan Hanson. $MDT PR link.

Arconic(PBR215) appoints Dave Miller, a Senior Portfolio Manager at Elliott Management, to the Board, replaces Patrice Merrin, who has voluntarily stepped down. $ARNC PR link.

Huntsman(PBR244) elects Peter R. Huntsman as Chairman, effective 01/01/18, succeeds Founder/Executive Chairman Jon Huntsman who becomes Chairman Emeritus and continues to serve on Board. $HUN PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says US Preliminary November Total Private Housing Permits Issued Annual Rate is at 1,298,000, -1.4% from October, +3.4% from November 2016. USDOC PR link.

S&P Global Risk Insight: 2017 Retail Bankruptcies Set Record Pace – Which Companies Are Most At Risk? S&P Global PR link.

***Monday, December 18:

Amazon(PBR29) 2nd Annual Digital Day to be on Friday, 12/29/17, over 5,000 deals in 8 categories, up to 80% off. $AMZN PR link.

Pfizer(PBR56) authorizes new $10 billion share repurchase program, is in addition to $6.4 billion remaining under current authorization. $PFE PR link.

Oracle(PBR78) to acquire Australia based cloud based team collaboration for construction projects used by 70,000 user organizations in over 70 countries developer Aconex(ASX: ACX)for $1.2 billion, to close 1H18. $ORCL PR link.

Colgate-Palmolive(PBR168) to acquire $100 million/year combined professional skin care providers PCA Skin and EltaMD, to close 1Q18, terms not disclosed. $CL PR link.

AES Corp(PBR171) to sell entire 51% equity interest in Masin-AES Pte. Ltd., a subsidiary of AES that owns AES’ business interests in the Philippines, to SMC Global Power for $1.05 billion. $AES PR link.

Carnival Corp(PBR184) partners with Univision Communications to develop the first O·C·E·A·N primetime series, to air starting 01/07/18, ‘La Gran Sorpresa’ (The Great Surprise) uses the power of travel to reunite families as they overcome hardships, oriented towards Hispanic America. $CCL PR link.

Jacobs Engineering(PBR225) completes $3.27 billion cash/stock acquisition of $4.4 billion/last 12 months, 20,000+ employees Englewood, CO, based global design, engineering and program management firm CH2M. $JEC PR link.

Henry Schein(PBR270) has acquired 900 customers cloud-based practice management solutions to veterinary clinics provider eVetPractice, terms not disclosed. $HSIC PR link.

Campbell Soup(PBR326) to acquire Charlotte, NC, based $2.2 billion/year 6,000 employees, 13 manufacturing facilities in US & UK snacks provider Snyder’s-Lance(NASDAQ: LNCE) for $50.00/share, $4.87 billion cash. $CPB PR link.

Hershey(PBR354) to acquire Amplify Snack Brands(NYSE:BETR), provider of Skinny Pop, Tyrrells, Oatmega, Paqui and other international brands, for $12.00/share, $1.6 billion. $HSY PR link.

Celanese(PBR369) to acquire Evansville, IN, based thermoplastics custom compounder Omni Plastics and its subsidiaries, including the distributor Resinal de Mexico, terms not disclosed. $CE PR link.

TEGNA(PBR622) to acquire Midwest Television‘s broadcasting stations in San Diego, CA, KFMB-TV(CBS), KFMB-D2 (CW) and radio stations KFMB-AM/FM, for $325 million cash, to close 1Q18. $TGNA PR link.

Penn Natl Gaming(PBR750) to acquire owner/operator of 16 gaming and entertainment facilities Pinnacle Entertainment(NASDAQ:PNK) for $32.47/share, $2.8 billion cash/stock, to close 2H18, Penn to sell 4 Pinnacle facilities to Boyd Gaming(PBR727) for $575 million. $PENN PR link.

TSYS(PBR790) to acquire technology led acquiring services to more than 70,000 merchants and 100+ integrated partners in the US provider Cayan from Parthenon Capital Partners for $1.05 billion cash. $TSS PR link.

McDermott Intl(PBR825) and CB&I (NYSE:CBI) (Chicago Bridge & Iron) to merge in $6 billion stock deal, headquarters to be in Houston, TX, to close 2Q18. $MDR PR link.

CSX(PBR226) CEO E. Hunter Harrison dies unexpectedly on 12/16/17 from severe complications from a recent illness. $CSX PR link.

M&T Bank(PBR504) Chairman/CEO Robert Wilmer dies suddenly and unexpectedly on 12/17/17, was 83. Director Robert T. Brady, former Chairman and CEO of Moog(PBR737), named M&T’s Non-Executive Chairman, effective immediately. M&T’s three Vice Chairmen, Richard S. Gold, René F. Jones and Kevin J. Pearson, maintain responsibility for the bank’s day-to-day operations. $MTB PR link.

McKesson(PBR6) EVP/CFO James Beer to leave company, SVP & CFO of US Pharmaceutical and McKesson Specialty Health Britt Vitalone to be EVP/CFO, effective 01/01/18. $MCK PR link.

Walt Disney(PBR57)’s ESPN President & Co-Chairman of Disney Media Networks John Skipper resigns for personal reasons, former ESPN President/Executive Chairman George Bodenheimer to be Acting Chairman for next 90 days while Disney CEO Bob Iger finds successor. $DIS PR link.

Travelers Cos(PBR104) President/COO Brian MacLean to retire from company after 30 years, effective 03/31/18. $TRV PR link.

Allergan(PBR219) promotes Wayne Swanton to EVP/Global Operations following announcement that EVP/COO Rob Stewart is leaving to become President/CEO of Amneal Pharmaceuticals in 2018. $AGN PR link.

Cedar Fair(PBR977) hires Tim Fisher as COO, succeeds Richard Zimmer who will become CEO on 01/01/18. $FUN PR link.

AGNC Investment(PBR992) EVP/CFO Peter J. Federico to become President/COO, SVP/Chief Accounting Officer Bernice E. Bell to become EVP/CFO, effective 03/31/18. $AGNC PR link.

Whirlpool(PBR138) appoints James M. Loree, President/CEO of Stanley Black & Decker(PBR249), to the Board. $WHR PR link.

Insperity(PBR814) appoints Randall Mehl, President of Stewardship Capital Advisors, to the Board. $NSP PR link.

The Natl Home Builders Assn/Wells Fargo US Preliminary December Composite Housing Market Survey Index is at 74, November was 69, October 68, December 2016 69. NAHB PR link.

***Friday, December 15:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 12/15/17:
DJIA ends at record 24,651.74, +1.33% from last Friday, +1.56% MTD, +10.03% QTD, +24.74% YTD, +0.00% from record 24,651.74 set 12/15/17.
NASDAQ ends at record 6,936.58, +1.41% from last Friday, +0.91% MTD, +6.78% QTD, +28.86% YTD, +0.00% from record 6,936.58 set 12/15/17.
SPX ends at record 2,675.81, +0.92% from last Friday, +1.07% MTD, +6.21% QTD, +19.52% YTD, +0.00% from record 2,675.81 set 12/15/17.

Kroger(PBR20) adds its Prep+Pared Meal Kitsto four new divisions: Central, Columbus, Fry’s and Nashville, joining Cincinnati, Louisville and Ralphs. Cooking time 20 minutes, for 2 adults, $14-$20, no subscription required. $KR PR link.

Marathon Petroleum(PBR23) to exchange its general partner economic interests in MPLX LP (NYSE: MPLX), which include incentive distribution rights for 275 million newly issued MPLX common units valued at approximately $10.1 billion. $MPC PR link.

Reno, NV, based Aerion Corporation and Lockheed(PBR64) join forces to develop world’s first supersonic business jet, the AS2. $LMT PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) extends cash tender offer to acquire Netherlands based NXP Semiconductors NV(NASDAQ: NXPI) for $110.00/share, $47 billion cash to 01/12/18. $QCOM PR link.

Kellogg(PBR198) authorizes up to $1.5 billion share repurchase program from 01/01/18 to 12/31/19. $K PR link.

Calpine Corp(PBR330), America’s largest generator of electricity from natural gas and geothermal resources, stockholders approve $15.25/share, $5.6 billion cash acquisition by Energy Capital Partners along with a consortium of investors led by Access Industries and Canada Pension Plan Investment Board, to be completed in 1Q18. $CPN PR link.

KKR(PBR332) to acquire European based Unilever‘s global Spreads business for around $8.1 billion. $KKR PR link.

TechnipFMC(PBR334) gets notice that Credit Agricole/Amundi SA now own 5.2%+ of voting shares. $FTI PR link.

Noble Energy(PBR471) to receive $305 million cash from CNX Resources(NYSE: CNX) in divestiture of its 50 percent interest in CONE Gathering. $NBL PR link.

Michael Kors(PBR519) to no longer use animal fur in its products, with production being phased out by the end 2018. $KORS PR link.

Public Storage(PBR848) adds over 1 million sf of storage space in Houston area in 2017. $PSA PR link.

Express Scripts(PBR860) completes $3.6 billion acquisition of privately-held evidence-based medical benefit management services provider eviCore healthcare. $ESRX PR link.

Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR906) to acquire 2,100 employees in 34 locations on 4 continents slag handling, metal reclamation, and other complementary services for steel mills provider Phoenix Services, terms not disclosed. $APO PR link.

Hexcel(PBR921) completes the acquisition of high-performance thermoplastic, carbon fiber reinforced 3D printed parts developer Commercial Aerospace & Defense business of Oxford Performance Materials, terms not disclosed. $HXL PR link.

Wabash Natl(PBR917) CEO Dick Giromini to step down 06/01/18, serve as Executive Advisor through 06/01/19, President/COO Brent Yeagy named successor, effective 06/02/18. $WNC PR link.

Performance Food(PBR157) CFO Tom Ondrof to transition to newly created role of Strategic Growth Leader, Jim Hope to be successor, effective 03/01/18. $PFGC PR link.

Proctor & Gamble(PBR33) announces certified director election results, all 11 of P&G’s Directors elected, and appoints activist investor Nelson Peltz, CEO and founding partner of Trian Fund Management, and Joseph Jimenez, CEO of Novartis, to the Board, effective 03/01/18. $PG PR link.

Arrow Electronics(PBR120) appoints Steven H. Gunby, President/CEO of FTI Consulting(PBR941), to the Board. Separately, after 20 years of service, John N. Hanson has retired from the Board. $ARW PR link.

Kennametal(PBR706) elects Joseph Alvarado, currently Chairman of Commercial Metals(PBR362) and will retire in January 2018, to the Board, effective 01/01/18. $KMT PR link.

Wabash Natl(PBR917) appoints John G. (“Jack”) Boss, President/CEO of Momentive Performance Materials, to the Board. $WNC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US 3Q17 Total Wages/Salaries per Hour for All Workers Averaged $24.33, Benefits $11.31, Total$35.64, +1.0% from 2Q17, +4.4% from 3Q16. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says US Preliminary November Industrial Production Index(2012=100) is at 106.4, October was 106.1, September 104.9, November 2016102.9; November Industrial Production % of Capacity was 77.1%, October 77.0%, September 76.2%, November 2016 75.5%. USFed PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York December Empire State Manufacturing General Business Conditions Index is at +18, November was +19.4, October +30.2, December 2016 +7.6. NYFed PR link.

***Thursday, December 14:

Verizon(PBR15) completes $225 million acquisition of fiber-optic network assets serving the Chicago market from Englewood, CO, based WideOpenWest(NYSE: WOW). $VZ PR link.

Amazon(PBR29 $AMZN) again selling streaming devices Apple(PBR5 $AAPL) TV and Alphabet(PBR44 $GOOG)’s Google Chromecast. MarketWatch PR link.

Pfizer(PBR56) gets US FDA approval for XELJANZ® (tofacitinib) and XELJANZ® XR for the treatment of active psoriatic arthritis. $PFE PR link.

Walt Disney(PBR57) to acquire 21st Century Fox(PBR91 $FOX), after spinoff of Fox Broadcasting, Fox News, Fox Business, FS1, FS2, and Big Ten Network to its shareholders, for $52.4 billion in stock, includes $13.7 billion net debt, Disney Chairman/CEO Bob Iger agrees to stay on through 12/31/21, transaction to close by 06/30/18. $DIS PR link.

Humana(PBR58) authorizes $3 billion share repurchase program, expires 12/31/20. $HUM PR link.

Cigna(PBR85) acquires SaaS digital health plan platform and engagement services software developer Brighter, terms not disclosed. $CI PR link.

Sears(PBR93) celebrates 50th anniversary of Diehard brand by launching its product line on Amazon(PBR29). $SHLD PR link.

PPG(PBR190) authorizes $2.5 billion share repurchase program, no expiration date, is in addition to current program which has $1.4 billion remaining. $PPG PR link.

Waste Management(PBR206) authorizes $1.25 billion share repurchase program. $WM PR link.

Hess(PBR248 $HES) major stockholder Elliott Management seeks to ouster Chairman/CEO John Hess. MarketWatch PR link.

Cognizant(PBR272) acquires $300 million of its Class A Common Stock, 3.58 million shares, from Barclays Bank PLC, first phase of anticipated $1.2 billion share repurchases by end of 2018. $CTSH PR link.

Ryder(PBR378) to repurchase up to 1.5 million shares(closed at $81.07/share on 12/14/17) by 12/13/19, replaces previous program which has expired. $R PR link.

Wynn Resorts(PBR427) to purchase 38 acres of land directly across from Wynn Las Vegas for $336 million, site of former New Frontier & Alon Resort. $WYNN PR link.

Albemarle(PBR792) to sell polyolefin catalysts and components business to W. R. Grace(PBR645) for around $416 million. $ALB PR link.

Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR906) to acquire Minnesota based largest privately-held fully independent airline in the US serving 2.5 million passengers/year Sun Country Airlines, terms not disclosed. $APO PR link.

Scientific Games(PBR937) Interactive unit enters Italian market with 11 titles. $SGMS PR link.

Take-Two Interactive(PBR956) forms Private Division™, a developer-focused publisher for independent studios. $TTWO PR link.

CSX(PBR226) President/CEO E. Hunter Harrison(hired 03/17) goes on medical leave, EVP/COO James Foote named acting CEO. $CSX PR link.

MSA Safety(PBR996) Chairman/CEO William Lambert to retire as CEO in 05/18, President/COO Nishan J. Vartanian elected to the Board, to be successor. $MSA PR link.

Cisco(PBR60) SVP/Operations Rebecca Jacoby to retire 01/27/18 after 22 years with company, SVP/Asia Pacific & Japan Irving Tan to be successor in newly created position of SVP/Operations & Digital; EVP/Worldwide Sales & Field Operations Chris Dedicoat to leave role on 07/28/18, will be senior advisor to Chairman/CEO Chuck Robbins. $CSCO PR link.

EOG Resources(PBR159) promotes Lloyd W. “Billy” Helms, Jr. to COO, succeeds Gary Thomas who will retain President role until retirement by 2018 yearend; Ezra Y. Yacob to succeed Helms as EVP/Exploration and Production. $EOG PR link.

Chico’s FAS(PBR730) hires David Pastrana as President, White House Black Market brand, effective 01/10/18, succeeds departing Donna Colaco. $CHS PR link.

New York Times(PBR971) Chairman/Publisher Arthur O. Sulzberger, Jr., to retire from Publisher role on 12/31/17, A.G. Sulzberger to be named Publisher, is elected to the Board. $NYT PR link.

Bank of America(PBR24) appoints Dr. Maria Zuber, E. A. Griswold Professor of Geophysics and the vice president for research at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, to the Board. $BAC PR link.

Cognizant(PBR272) appoints Joseph M. Velli, former SEVP of The Bank of New York(now BNY Mellon), to the Board. $CTSH PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says US 3Q17 Networth of Households/Non-Profits was $96.939 trillion, +1.8% from 2Q17, +8.0% from 3Q16. USFed PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary November All Imports Price Index was +0.7%, Exports +0.5%, both +3.1% Year-to-Year. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary October Total Manufacturing/Retail/Wholesaler Sales were $1.401 trillion, +0.6% from September, +6.5% from October 2016. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Advance November Total Retail Sales were $492.7 billion, +0.8% from October, +5.8% from November 2016. USDOC PR link.

***Wednesday, December 13:

Target(PBR40) to acquire Birmingham, AL, based online same-day delivery platform Shiptfor $550 million cash, to start in half of stores in early 2018. $TGT PR link.

Altice USA(NYSE: ATUS), Charter Communications(PBR297) and Comcast(PBR42) to form a new Interconnect in early 2Q18 in the New York market that will provide a one-stop TV/digital advertising solution to reach more than 6.2 million households across the New York DMA, largest in the US. $ATUS PR link.

T-Mobile(PBR95) to acquire TV technology innovator Layer3 TV to create T-Mobile’s new TV service in 2018, terms not disclosed. $TMUS PR link.

Pfizer(PBR56) gets US FDA approval for IXIFI, a biosimilar for Remicade® (infliximab), as a treatment for patients with rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, pediatric Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, and plaque psoriasis. $PFE PR link.

Jacobs Engineering(PBR225) $3.27 billion cash/stock acquisition of $4.4 billion/last 12 months, 20,000+ employees Englewood, CO, based global design, engineering and program management firm CH2M gets CH2M shareholders approval. $JEC PR link.

LandStar(PBR653) increases share repurchase program to 3,000,000 shares, (around $300 million). $LSTR PR link.

Adtalem Education(PBR905) has completed move of corporate headquarters from Downers Grove, IL, into downtown Chicago, 150+ employees at new location. $ATGE PR link.

YRC Worldwide(PBR472) CEO James Welch to retire on 07/31/18. YRC Freight President Darren Hawkins to assume transitional role of President/COO, Reddaway President TJ O’Connor will become President of YRC Freight, and Reddaway VP/Operations Bob Stone to become Reddaway President, all on 01/01/18. $YRCW PR link.

Diebold Nixdorf(PBR676) President/CEO Andy Mattes resigns, Office of the Executive to be lead by SVP/CFO Christopher Chapman and SVP/COO Juergen Wunram who serve as Interim Co-Presidents/Co-CEOs until successor named. $DBD PR link.

KeyCorp(PBR544) Chief Risk Officer Bill Hartmann to retire in mid 2018, Mark Midkiff hired to be new Chief Risk Officer on 01/22/18. $KEY PR link.

ServiceMaster(PBR704) hires Pratip Dastidar as SVP/Chief Transformation Officer. $SERV PR link.

Pier 1 Imports(PBR916) hires William H. Savage for new position of EVP/Global Sourcing. $PIR PR link.

Community Health Systems(PBR125) elects Michael Dinkins and K. Ranga Krishnan to the Board. $CYH PR link.

Molina Healthcare(PBR284) director Dr. J. Mario Molina, son of late founder Dr. C. David Molina, resigns from the Board. $MOH PR link.

Carlisle Cos(PBR650) elects Jesse Singh, CEO of CPG International and former 3M(PBR92) executive, to the Board. $CSL PR link.

TrueBlue(PBR704) director William Steele retiring from Board effective 12/31/17 after 17 years of service. $TBI PR link.

Sabre Corp(PBR736) elects Hervé Couturier, President of Kerney Partners, to the Board. $SABR PR link.

The Federal Open Market Committee says the labor market has continued to strengthen and that economic activity has been rising at a solid rate, raises federal funds rate by 0.25% to 1.25%-1.50%, forecasts GDP, PCE, Unemployment Rates for 2018-2020. FOMC PR link. FOMC Projections link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary November Current Average Earnings Per Hour are $26.55, Average Hours Worked Per Week is 34.5, Current Weekly Earnings at $915.98, +0.5% from October, +3.1% from November 2016. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US November Consumer Price Index(aka Inflation Index)was +0.4%, October was +0.1%, September+0.5%, November 2016 +0.2%, Last 12 Months(Unadjusted) is at +2.2%, was +1.7% for 12 Months Ending November 2016. USDOL PR link.

***Tuesday, December 12:

Amazon(PBR29) Web Services unit and Ningxia Western Cloud Data Technology Coopen a 2nd AWS Region in China. $AMZN PR link.

PepsiCo(PBR43 $PEP) confirms order for 100 Tesla(PBR651 $TSLA) Semi trucks. MarketWatch PR link.

Western Digital(PBR194) and Toshiba reach global settlement agreement to resolve their ongoing disputes in litigation and arbitration, extend their relationship, and enhance the mutual commitment to their ongoing flash memory collaboration, clears way for Toshiba Memory acquisition by Bain Capital Equity and affiliates. $WDC PR link.

Allergan(PBR219) gets US FDA clearance for CoolSculpting® treatment to improve appearance of lax tissue In the double chin. $AGN PR link.

Facebook(PBR228) moving to a local selling model for advertising, sales to be recorded in country sold, not at Dublin international headquarters. $FB PR link.

Campbell Soup(PBR326) completes $700 million cash acquisition of $218 million revenues/last 12 months organic broth/soup and shelf-stable plant-based beverages and other meals/sides producer Pacific Foods of Oregon. $CPB PR link.

Trinity Industries(PBR402) to spin-off infrastructure related businesses into separate public company in 2H18. Also authorizes new $500 million share repurchase program starting 01/01/18 through 12/31/19. $TRN PR link.

NVR(PBR533) authorizes the repurchase of $300 million of its outstanding common stock. $NVR PR link.

Interpublic(PBR350) hires Kristin Cavallo as CEO of The Martin Agency. $IPG PR link.

XCEL Energy(PBR241) director Gail Boudreaux resigning from Board, effective 12/31/17, was recently named President/CEO of Anthem(PBR38). $XEL PR link.

Stryker Corp(PBR283) director Howard Cox, Jr, to retire from Board at next annual meeting in 05/18, to be named Director Emeritus for his 44 years of service. $SYK PR link.

Insight(PBR460) appoints Girish Rishi, CEO at JDA Software, to the Board. $NSIT PR link.

TEGNA(PBR622) elects Melinda Witmer, a former executive at Time Warner Cable (now Charter Spectrum), to the Board. $TGNA PR link.

UNISYS(PBR633) President/CEO Peter Altabef to also become Chairman on 04/26/18 following retirement of Paul Weaver, Nathaniel Davis to become Independent Lead Director. $UIS PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US November Federal Receipts were $208.4 billion, Outlays$346.9 billion, Deficit $138.5 billion, YTD Deficit(2 Months) is at $201.8 billion, YTD Deficit 2016 was $182.5 billion. Treasury PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US November Producer Price Index is at +0.4%, October and September also at +0.4%, November 2016+0.2%. USDOL PR link.

The CoreLogic US September Housing Foreclosures 30 Days or More Delinquent was at 5.0%, August was 4.6%, July 4.6%, September 2016 5.2%. CoreLogic PR link.

***Monday, December 11:

Apple(PBR5 $AAPL) confirms it has purchased London-based music and image recognition service Shazam, terms not disclosed, but estimated for $400 million. TechCrunch PR link.

Verizon(PBR15) to stream in-market and national football games starting 01/18 in multi-year partnership with National Football League. $VZ PR link.

Boeing(PBR27) authorizes $18 billion share repurchase program, replaces existing $14 billion authorization of which $9.2 billion was used, expects purchases over next 24-30 months. $BA PR link.

Archer-Daniels-Midland(PBR34) to sell its Bolivia based 400 employees oilseeds operations to Inversiones Piuranas SA, terms not disclosed. $ADM PR link.

American Express(PBR83) to eliminate signature requirements for cardholder purchases worldwide beginning 04/18. $AXP PR link.

3M(PBR92) to sell substantially all of its 500 employees, $400 million revenues/year, Communication Markets Division to Corning(PBR281) for $900 million, in 2018. $MMM PR link.

Aramark(PBR184) completes $1.35 billion acquisition of Avendra from a consortium of 5 major hospitality companies. $ARMK PR link.

Avis Budget(PBR316) largest stock holder, SRS Investments, discloses 12 million shares, 14.7% ownership stake. $CAR PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) gets favorable US District Court patent ruling on MS treatment Glatiramer Acetate Injection 40 mg/mL, the first generic version of Teva Pharmaceutical(TEVA)’s Copaxone® 40 mg/mL, Teva drops further litigation. $MYL PR link.

LKQ(PBR376) to acquire Germany based European wholesale distributor of aftermarket spare parts for passenger cars, tools, capital equipment and accessories provider Stahlgruber for $1.8 billion, expects to close mid 1H18. $LKQ PR link.

Western Union(PBR441) to move its global headquarters from Englewood, CO, to the Tech Center area of Denver, CO. $WU PR link.

Colfax(PBR517) completes $863 million cash/stock sale of its $463 million revenues in 2017 Fluid Handling business to CIRCOR. $CFX PR link.

Xylem(PBR575) to acquire Calgary, Alberta, Canada, based 500 employees global smart infrastructure assessment and management for the water industry provider Pure Technologies(TSX: PUR) for $397 million, to close 1Q18. $XYL PR link.

Iron Mountain(PBR663) to acquire the 4 US operations of Phoenix, AZ, based IO Data Centers for $1.315 billion plus $60 million performance incentive. $IRM PR link.

Arch Coal(PBR691) to repurchase 500,000 shares for $41.5 million from Monarch Alternative Capital, counts towards current $500 million repurchase program. $ARCH PR link.

Regeneron(PBR708) gets US FDA approval for 12-week dosing interval of EYLEA® (aflibercept) Injection in patients with wet age-related macular degeneration. $REGN PR link.

Fitbit(PBR870) and Jawbone announce resolution of all outstanding civil litigation, terms not disclosed. $FIT PR link.

Synopsys(PBR879) completes $547 million cash acquisition of private automated solutions for securing and managing open source software provider Black Duck Software. $SNPS PR link.

Briggs & Stratton(PBR920) has acquired the assets of Ground Logic, Inc. of Lincoln, NE, a designer/manufacturer of stand-on commercial spreaders and spreader/sprayers for fertilizer and pesticide-herbicide lawn applications on mid/large-sized residential/commercial properties, terms not disclosed. $BGG PR link.

Kraft Heinz(PBR156) hires Rashida La Lande as its new Global General Counsel and Corporate Secretary effective mid 01/18, succeeds leaving Jim Savina. $KHC PR link.

Ingredion(PBR415) to hire Valdirene Bastos Licht as SVP and President/Asia-Pacific and an officer of the Company effective 03/01/18, succeeds Jorgen Kokke who is becomes an EVP on 01/01/18. $INGR PR link.

Alliant Energy(PBR634) SVP John Larsen to become President on 01/01/18, role held by Chairman/President/CEO Patricia Kampling. $LNT PR link.

Barnes Group(PBR977) appoints Peter Gutermann as SVP/General Counsel and Secretary. $B PR link.

GE(PBR9) announces Verizon(PBR15) Chairman/CEO Lowell McAdams resigns from Board, no longer able to allocate time necessary to serve. $GE PR link.

Lockheed(PBR64) elects Jeh Johnson, former US Secretary of Homeland Security, and James Taiclet, Chairman/President/CEO of American Tower(PBR562), to the Board. $LMT PR link.

Xerox(PBR144) director Jonathan Christodoro, former Managing Director of Icahn Capital, has resigned to allow Carl Icahn to submit nominations at 2018 annual meeting, standstill arrangement with the Icahn Group entered into on 07/27/16 terminated, Icahn to submit 4 board nominations, Xerox confirms guidance and progress. $XRX PR link.

SAIC(PBR580) appoints Mark J Johnson, Co-founder and Managing Partner of private equity firm Astra Capital Management, to the Board. $SAIC PR link.

Thor Industries(PBR616) appoints Christopher J. Klein, CEO of Fortune Brands(PBR569), to the Board, replaces Alan Siegel who is retiring after 35 years of service. $THO PR link.

HealthSouth(PBR800) appoints Nancy M. Schlichting, former President/CEO of the Henry Ford Health System, to the Board. $HLS PR link.

BlueLinx(PBR892) appoints Karel K. Czanderna, President/CEO of Flexsteel Industries(NASDAQ), to the Board effective 01/01/18. $BXC PR link.

Titan Intl(PBR910) appoints its President/CEO Paul G. Reitz to the Board. $TWI PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary October Job Openings were at 5,997,000, -2.9% from September, +7.3% from October 2016. USDOL PR link.

***Friday, December 8:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 12/08/17:
DJIA ends at record 24,329.16, +0.23% from last Friday/MTD, +8.59% QTD, +23.11% YTD, +0.00% from record 24,329.16 set 12/08/17.
NASDAQ ends at 6,840.08, -0.49% from last Friday/MTD, +5.30% QTD, +27.07% YTD, -1.05% from record 6,912.36 set 11/28/17.
SPX ends at record 2,651.50, +0.15% from last Friday/MTD, +5.24 QTD, +18.43% YTD, +0.00% from record 2,651.50 set 12/08/17.

Amazon(PBR29) Music Unlimited unit expands its streaming service into 28 more countries, also shipping them Echo devices for Alexa cloud-based voice service using English. $AMZN PR link.

Sysco(PBR61) has placed a reservation for 50 of Tesla(PBR651 $TSLA)’s new fully-electric Semi tractors. $SYY PR link.

Honeywell(PBR74) authorizes repurchase up to $8 billion of its common stock, includes $1.5 billion remaining from previous program, no expiration date. $HON PR link.

SuperValu(PBR164) completes $180 million acquisition of retailer owned cooperative, 650 employees, 1.5 million sf in real estate Affiliated Grocers of Florida. $SVU PR link.

KKR(PBR332) to acquire Fair Lawn, NJ, based 1,400 employees global industrial tool components manufacturer Hyperion from Sandvik, terms not disclosed. $KKR PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) Executive Chairman Terry Lundgren to retire on 01/03/18, CEO Jeff Gennette to add chairman role at that time, completes transition plan. $M PR link.

Barnes Group(PBR977) appoints Richard Hipple, Executive Chairman of Materion, to the Board. $B PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US November Employed was at 153,918,000, +57,000 from October, +1,870,000 from November 2016, Unemployment Rate remains at 4.1%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary October Total Wholesale Saleswere at $484.5 billion, +0.7% from September, +8.3% from October 2016. USDOC PR link.

The U of Michigan Preliminary December Consumer Sentiment Index is at 96.8, November was 98.5, October 100.7, December 2016 98.2. UMich PR link.

***Thursday, December 7:

GE(PBR9) Power unit to reduce global headcount by 12,000 as part of plan to take out $1 billion in structural costs. $GE PR link.

Johnson Controls(PBR68) authorizes incremental $1 billion to its share repurchase program, balance available is now $1.2 billion. $JCI PR link.

United Continental(PBR77) authorizes new $3 billion share repurchase program. $UAL PR link.

Gilead Sciences(PBR107) & cell therapy KIte subsidiary to acquire pre-clinical stage company Cell Design Labs for up to $567 million. $GILD PR link.

Raytheon(PBR118) forms new wholly owned subsidiary, Raytheon Emirates, headquartered in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, John Brauneis named CEO. $RTN PR link.

Dollar General(PBR151) planning 2,000 real estate projects comprised of 900 new stores, 1,000 store remodels and 100 store relocations in fiscal year 2018. $DG PR link.

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

Dover(PBR343) to spin off $1 billion/year upstream energy businesses, “Wellsite”, into a standalone, public company, all stock transaction, by end of 2Q18. $DOV PR link.

Norwegian Cruise Lines(PBR489) to change from NASDAQ to NYSE, effective 12/19/17, symbol to remain NCLH. $NCLH PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Glenview, IL, based life insurance general agency SouthCap Brokerage Group, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

American Tower(PBR562) approves new $2 billion stock repurchase program, has $345 million remaining from previous 2011 authorization. $AMT PR link.

Tesla(PBR651 $TSLA) gets Anheuser-Buschorder for 40 Tesla semi trucks. MarketWatch PR link.

Edwards Lifesciences(PBR819) authorizes new share repurchase program to acquire up to an additional $1 billion in common stock. $EW PR link.

Ciena Corp(PBR829) authorizes up to $300 million share repurchase program through end of fiscal year 2020. $CIEN PR link.

Middleby(PBR865) acquires Denmark based $30 million/year industrial cooling and freezing equipment for the food processing industry manufacturer Scanico A/S, terms not disclosed. $MIDD PR link.

Synopsys(PBR879) enters into $200 million accelerated share repurchase program with JPMorgan Chase(PBR21) and others. $SNPS PR link.

PharMerica(PBR911) $29.25/share, $1.4 billion cash, includes debt, acquisition by KKR(PBR332) is completed per SEC filing. $PMC PR link.

New York Times(PBR971) says it now has 3.5 million paid subscriptions, 130 million monthly readers, opens 3 new leadership positions, 2018 to be Year of Audience. $NYT PR link.

Invacare(PBR984) to reduce N Americaworkforce by 110 associates in restructuring. $IVC PR link.

United Continental(PBR77) promotes Kate Gebo to EVP/Human Resources & Labor Relations, succeeds retired Mike Bonds. $UAL PR link.

Anthem(PBR38) appoints Antonio Neri, President of Hewlett Packard Enterprise(PBR56), to the Board. $ANTM PR link.

CoreCivic(PBR965) EVP/Chief Corrections Officer Harley G. Lappin to retire effective 01/01/18, at which time he will become a member of the Board. $CXW PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says US Preliminary October Total Consumer Revolving Debt was at $1.012 trillion, Non-Revolving Debt $2.791 trillion, Total Debt $3.802 trillion, +0.5% from September, +4.3% YTD. USFED PR link.

FannieMae(PBR17) says the US November Home Purchase Sentiment Index is at 87.8, October was 85.2, September 88.3, November 2016 81.2. $FNMA PR link.

***Wednesday, December 6:

Walmart(PBR1) changing legal name from Wal-mart Stores, Inc., to Walmart Inc., effective 02/01/18. $WMT PR link.

ExxonMobil(PBR2) and Mexico retail partner Grupo Orsan to open eight Mobil stations in the state of Querétaro in 12/17, to open 50 in Bajioregion 1Q18, marks entry in Mexico’s fuels market. $XOM PR link.

CVS Health(PBR11) Pharmacy unit stores in Manhattan launches free, same-day prescription and certain over-the-counter items delivery service this week, same/next day in additional cities to launch in early 2018. $CVS PR link.

Home Depot(PBR32) authorizes $15 billion share repurchase plan, replaces previous authorization, has repurchased 1.3 billion shares for $73 billion since 2002. $HD PR link.

DaVita Healthcare(PBR302) subsidiary independent medical group 1.7 million patients per year DaVita Medical Care to be acquired by UnitedHealth(PBR14)’s Optum unit for $4.9 billion cash, to close in 2018. $DVA PR link.

Spirit AeroSystems(PBR370) to invest $1 billion, add 1,000 jobs, over 5 years in expansion of facility in Wichita, KS. $SPR PR link.

Williams-Sonoma(PBR508)’s Pottery Barn unit to offer Leesa Mattresses online after success from the West Elm unit. $WSM PR link.

Fred’s(PBR897) cancels quarterly dividend, amends 2012 share repurchase program to 3.8 million common shares valid for up to 2 years, considering various strategic transactions and alternatives for certain non-core assets, including real estate and the specialty pharmacy business. $FRED PR link.

Scientific Games(PBR937) gets support from NYX key stockholders William Hill plc and AlpInvest to acquire Las Vegas, NV, based 1,000 employees globally digital gaming provider NYX Gaming Group(TSXV: NYX) for around $631 million, stockholders meeting scheduled for 12/20/17. $SGMS PR link.

Lowe’s(PBR50) promotes Sylvain Prud’homme to President/International, effective 12/15/17. $LOW PR link.

Adobe Systems(PBR557) promotes Scott Belsky as Chief Product Officer and EVP/Creative Cloud. $ADBE PR link.

Hershey(PBR354) appoints business and financial executive Wendy L. Schoppert, most recently EVP of Sleep Number Corporation, to its Board. $HSY PR link.

Ulta Beauty(PBR646) appoints Sally Blount, PhD, Dean of the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, to the Board. $ULTA PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Revised 3Q17 Labor Productivity Output/Hour was +3.6%, unchanged from previous revision, 2Q17 was +1.4%, 3Q16 was +2.7%. USDOL PR link.

ADP(PBR235) says US November Change in Non-Farm Employment was +190,000, +50,000 from small sized businesses, +99,000 from medium sized businesses, +41,000 from large sized businesses; +36,000 from goods producing sector, +155,000 from service sector. $ADP PR link.

Ford(PBR10) 2018 6th Annual Trends Reportsays people feel increasingly polarized by unrest, upheaval and other changes taking place in the world, and more than 60 percent of adults globally say they feel overwhelmed by things happening around them. $F PR link.

***Tuesday, December 5:

Ford(PBR10) to introduce 50+ new vehicles in China by 2025, to locally assemble 5 vehicle lines starting in 2019, working with Baidu on autonomous vehicle development. $F PR link.

Bank of America(PBR24) increases planned common stock repurchase plan by $5 billion, $17 billion now available through 06/30/18. $BAC PR link.

Alphabet(PBR44)’s Google unit pulls YouTubefrom Amazon(PBR29) streaming devices in reciprocity disagreement. MarketWatch PR link.

McDonald’s(PBR101 $MCD) interview with US President Chris Kempczinski, announces new $1, $2 and $3 value menu to be rolled out starting 01/04/18, will replace the current McPick 2 Menu. Chicago Tribune PR link.

YUM!(PBR217 $YUM)’s Pizza Hut unit to roll out beer/wine delivery, to test in Phoenix. CNN PR link.

Williams-Sonoma(PBR508) launches four new e-commerce sites for Canadian customers, Williams Sonoma, West Elm, Pottery Barn and Pottery Barn Kids. $WSM PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires London, UK, based business consulting services provider Gatehouse Consulting, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

Intuit(PBR529) to acquire 35,000 customers automatic time tracking and scheduling provider TSheets for $340 million cash, to close 2Q18. $INTU PR link.

Brunswick(PBR584) announces it intends to sell its Sea Ray line in 1H18. $BC PR link.

Hyster-Yale Materials(PBR721) to acquire 75% and controlling interest in private China based Zhejiang Maximal Forklift Co from KNSN Pipe and Pile Co for $90 million cash. $HY PR link.

Cinemark(PBR739) announces Movie Club, $8.99/mo movie membership program, offers ticket and concession discounts and other exclusive benefits. $CNK PR link.

Toro(PBR855) appoints Michael G. Vale, PhD, EVP/Health Care Business Group of 3M(PBR92), to the Board, effective 01/01/18. $TTC PR link.

DISH(PBR196) Chairman/CEO Charlie Ergen relinquishes CEO role to President/COO Erik Carlson, executive team restructured, David Scott hired, effective in 02/18, as EVP/Chief Human Resources Officer. $DISH PR link.

Genesco(PBR702) SVP and Journeys Group President/CEO James Estepa to retire effective 02/01/18, to be succeeded by Mario Gallione. $GCO PR link.

Aerojet Rocketdyne(PBR969) hires Steve Warren as VP/Communications & Chief Communications Officer. $AJRD PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says US Preliminary October Total Exports were $195.9 billion, Total Imports $244.6 billion, Total Deficit $48.7, Total YTD Deficit(10 months) is $462.8 billion, Total YTD Deficit October 2016was $413.9 billion. USDOC PR link.

The IHS Markit Final November Composite PMI Output Index is at 54.5, October was 55.2, September 54.8, November 2016 54.9. IHS Markit PR link.

The ISM November Non-Manufacturing Index(>50% Economy Growing) is at 57.4%, October was 60.1%, September 59.8%, November 2016 57.2%. ISM PR link.

The Purdue/CME November Agriculture Barometer Index is at 128, October was 135, September 132, November 2016 116. Purdue/CME PR link.

***Monday, December 4:

ExxonMobil(PBR2) acquires from Mauritania government 3 deepwater offshore blocks, totaling nearly 8.4 million acres. $XOM PR link.

Apple(PBR5 $AAPL) to transfer $15.46 billion in allegedly unpaid taxes that the European Unionordered Dublin to retrieve, beginning in 1Q18, per Ireland’s finance chief. MarketWatch PR link.

CVS Health(PBR11) to acquire Aetna(PBR49 $AET) for $207/share, $69 billion, stock/cash, expects to close 2H18. $CVS PR link.

ConocoPhillips(PBR53) to get $337 million from Ecuador government under a February 2017 International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) arbitration award. $COP PR link.

Hartford Financial(PBR152) to complete its exit from run-off life and annuity businesses with sale of Talcott Resolution to an investment group for $2.05 billion, expects to close 1H18. $HIG PR link.

Starbucks(PBR178) opens state-of-the-art premium reserve Roastery in Shanghai with the first fully immersive coffee wonderland in China. $SBUX PR link.

MasterCard(PBR291) authorizes new $4.0 billion share repurchase program, to start when current authorization used up, $1.5 billion balance. $MA PR link.

SunTrust Banks(PBR307) completes sale of its commercial lines insurance premium finance subsidiary, $1.4 billion in assets Premium Assignment Corporation (PAC), to IPFS Corporation, terms not disclosed. $STI PR link.

Discovery Communications(PBR399) acquires additional 24.5% stake in joint venture OWN, the Oprah Winfrey Network, for $70 million, now has 70% stake, Oprah Winfrey to remain CEO, exclusive relationship extended through 2025. $DISCA PR link.

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

Triumph Group(PBR578) to combine Aerospace Structures and Precision Components into Aerospace Structures unit, Pete Wick to be its EVP, effective 01/01/18. $TGI PR link.

Vantiv(PBR754) and Worldpay Group plc (LSE: WPG) announce leadership after merger, name to be WorldPay, global/corporate headquarters in Cincinnati, OH, international headquarters in London, UK, NYSE symbol to be WP, company to be led by Charles Drucker as executive chairman and co-CEO, and Philip Jansen as co-CEO, expects to close 01/16/18. $VNTV PR link.

Adtalem Education(PBR905) to transfer ownership of DeVry University(DU) and its Keller Graduate School of Management to Cogswell Education in 2018, agreement includes a multiple year earn-out based on DU performance. $ATGE PR link.

FTI Consulting(PBR941) adds $100 million to share repurchase program, balance is now $113 million, no time limit. $FCN PR link.

Broadcom(NASDAQ: AVGO) to nominate 11 independent directors for election at Qualcomm(PBR106 $QCOM) 2018 annual meeting and to propose certain other matters for the consideration. Broadcom PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) responds to the Broadcom((NASDAQ: AVGO) nomination of 11 independent directors, says company is better positioned with current Board. $QCOM PR link.

Clearwater Paper(PBR898) appoints Beth Ford, COO for Land O’ Lakes Businesses, as Chairman, effective 01/01/18, to succeed Boh Dickey. $CLW PR link.

First Horizon National(PBR953) Board member R Brad Martin retires, served over 20 years. $FHN PR link.

Big Lots(PBR468) President/CEO David Campisi taking temporary medical leave, EVP/Chief Merchandising & Operating Officer Lisa Bachmann and EVP/Chief Admin & CFO Timothy Johnson assigned responsibilities until DC returns. $BIG PR link.

Ingredion(PBR415) to promote Jorgen Kokke to EVP/Global Specialties & President/N America, and Pierre Perez Y Landazuri to SVP & President/EMEA, effective 01/01/18. $INGR PR link.

Under Armour(PBR668) acting CFO David Bergman appointed as CFO; MyFitnessPal co-founders Mike Lee and Albert Lee to leave in 01/18; digital businesses restructured, all now reporting to Chief Technology Officer Paul Fipps. $UA PR link.

Woodward(PBR888) promotes Matthew F. Taylor to President/Airframe Systems, effective 02/02/18, succeeds retiring Marty Glass. $WWD PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary October Manufacturing Orderswere at $479.6 billion, -0.1% from September, +4.3% from October 2016. USDOC PR link.

***Friday, December 1:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 12/01/17:
DJIA ends at 24,231.59, +2.86% from last Friday, -0.17% MTD, +8.15% QTD, +22.61% YTD, -0.17% from record 24,272.35 set 11/30/17.
NASDAQ ends at 6,847.59, -0.60% from last Friday, -0.38% MTD, +5.41% QTD, +27.20% YTD, -0.94% from record 6,912.36 set 11/28/17.
SPX ends at 2,642.22, +1.53% from last Friday, -0.20% MTD, +4.88 QTD, +18.02% YTD, -0.20% from record 2,647.58 set 11/30/17.

ExxonMobil(PBR2) to merge refining and marketing divisions into Exxon Fuels & Lubricants Co in 1Q18, Bryan Milton to be President, effective 01/01/18. $XOM PR link.

DowDuPont(PBR48) Dow Chemical subsidiary completes $1.1 billion sale of its Dow AgroSciences‘ corn seed business in Brazil to CITIC Agri Fund, satisfies part of the required regulatory remedies of the DowDuPont merger transaction. $DWDP PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) to hire an additional 7,000 seasonal associates in 2017. $M PR link.

Amgen(PBR135) gets US FDA approval for Repatha® (evolocumab) as the first PCSK9 inhibitor to prevent heart attacks, strokes. $AMGN PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR142) gets US FDA approval for Taltz® (ixekizumab) for treatment of active psoriatic arthritis. $LLY PR link.

Monsanto(PBR187) $128/share, $66 billion cash acquisition by Germany’s Bayer AG gets Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States approval, expects transaction to close in early 2018. $MON PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) and Biocon get US FDA approval for Ogivri™ (trastuzumab-dkst), a biosimilar to Herceptin® (trastuzumab), a therapy for certain breast and stomach cancers. $MYL PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) gets US FDA approval of its Heparin Sodium Injection USP line, a complex injectable used as an anticoagulant in blood transfusions, extracorporeal circulation and dialysis procedures to prevent and treat various types of blood clots and to treat atrial fibrillation with embolization. $MYL PR link.

Quest Diagnostics(PBR353) completes acquisition of Cleveland HeartLab, forms strategic collaboration with Cleveland Clinic, terms not disclosed. $DGX PR link.

ARRIS Intl(PBR366) completes $800 million cash acquisition of Brocade(PBR845)’s Ruckus Wireless and ICX Switch business from Singapore based Broadcom Ltd(NASDAQ: AVGO). $ARRS PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Wayne, IL, based full range of employee benefits, property/casualty, financial and retirement products and services, and human resource consulting services provider Weiss Insurance Agencies, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

Molson Coors(PBR558) MillerCoors subsidiary purchases group annuity contract from Athene Annuity and Life Co to provide pension benefit services to 6,000 retirees/beneficiaries, reduces pension benefits obligations by $900 million. $TAP PR link.

SL Green Realty(PBR862) adds $500 million to share repurchase program, balance available is now $1.5 billion. $SLG PR link.

Wendy’s(PBR877) does exclusive partnership with DoorDash for home deliveries, available in all markets. $WEN PR link.

ExxonMobil(PBR2) promotes President/Exxon Chemical Co Neil Chapman to SVP and member of corporate’s management committee, John Verity to become President/Exxon Chemical, both effective 01/01/18. $XOM PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary October Total Construction Annual Rate is at $1.242 trillion, +1.4% from September, +5.8% from October 2016. USDOC PR link.

The ISM US November Manufacturing PMI Index is at 58.2%, October was 58.7%, September 60.8%, November 2016 53.2%. ISM PR link.

The IHS Markit US November Manufacturing PMI is at 53.9, October was 54.6, September53.1, November 2016 54.1. IHS Markit PR link.

Automotive News says US Estimated December Light Vehicle Sales were at 1,394,910 units, Average Transaction Pricewas $35,870, Average Incentive Outlay $3,692. Auto News PR link.

***Thursday, November 30:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for November Ending 11/30/17:
DJIA ends at record 24,272.35, +3.03% from last Friday, +3.83% MTD, +8.33% QTD, +22.82% YTD, +0.00% from record 24,272.35 set 11/30/17.
NASDAQ ends at 6,873.97, -0.22% from last Friday, +2.17% MTD, +5.82% QTD, +27.69% YTD, -0.56% from record 6,912.36 set 11/28/17.
SPX ends at record 2,647.58, +1.74% from last Friday, +2.81% MTD, +5.09 QTD, +18.26% YTD, +0.00% from record 2,647.58 set 11/30/17.

Check out the BLOG page for the previous RECAPS and SNAPSHOTS posts.

Have questions on The PBR1000 or The PBR US Economic Indices Monthly Snapshots? Please contact us at Sales@PBRMarketTools.com or call us in the US at 520-444-2519.

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

The PBR1000 October 2017 Stocks & Commodities Snapshots

November 8, 2017 by admin

October 2017: Stocks Have A Nice Gain To Start 4Q17.

The Stock Market Bull had an excellent October. Does he have the stamina to continue the run through the end of 2017 and into 2018?

By Larry C. Paxton

Stocks had a nice start to the new quarter, and there are some good reasons why. The economy continues to grow at a steady modest/moderate rate with some indications that it is strengthening. Unemployment is low, manufacturing and services industries continue to show growth, housing is in demand and inventories are low which will trigger growth in construction, consumer confidence indices are positive, just to name a few key economic drivers.

Many of President Trump’s promised initiatives are still mired in the mud pits of Congress, and perhaps rightfully so because they will cause significant change. But there does seem to be a possibility that tax reform could become a reality before the end of the year and that is creating some optimism as well.

There are, of course, also unpredictable counter forces. Natural disasters, geopolitical events, a burst of social upheavals caused by the increasing gap between the “haves” and “have nots.”

We have entered the favorite time of year for retailers. Forecasts are optimistic that consumers are anxious to use their new mobile and online purchasing tools to buy more than ever before.

What does that mean for investors in stocks? Many experts say that the US Stock Market Bull run that has lasted for several years must slow down, but others continue to say that the Bull is strong and has the endurance to run for a lot longer.

So, place you bets one way or the other. If you are undecided, then flip a coin, and flip it again to check your answer. However way you choose, we wish you the best! We also believe that a The PBR1000 Annual Subscription is a great investment in a tool to increase your probability of success, as has been proven over the years.

The US Major Stock Market Exchanges October Summary

Number of Trading Days: 22

Number of Gain(+)/Loss(-) Days: DJIA 16+/6-; NASDAQ 14+/8-; SPX 16+/6-.

Record Days: DJIA 12, NASDAQ 12, SPX 10

Longest Gain Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 7(09/27/17-10/05/17), NASDAQ 9(09/26/17-10/06/17), SPX 8(09/26/17-10/05/17)

Longest Loss Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 2(10/06/17-10/09/17), NASDAQ 2(10/26/17-10/27/17), SPX 2(10/06/17-10/09/17)

Big Swing Up Days(>1.00%): 1, 10/27/17(NASDAQ +2.20%): Strong technology sector earnings reports.

Big Swing Down Days(<-1.00%): None

The PBR1000 October Snapshots

The following are Top 5 partial tables excerpts from The PBR1000 October Snapshots. The price for stocks is for the close of trading on October 31, Month % Chg is compared to September 29, YTD % Chg is compared to December 31, 2016, and the 22 Months % Chg is compared to December 31, 2015. The PBR Rank is by annual revenues.

To get the complete The PBR1000 Snapshots just click here to get your 2 month or significantly discounted 12 month subscription and automatically download the October 2017 edition with the complete 15 Snapshots and 25 rankings.

Table 1(S11): The PBR1000 Top 5 Month Stock Price % Gainers

Table 1 Summary: The range was +74% to -64%. 593 out of 1,002 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 2.0%, the median was a gain of 1.3%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 10/31/17	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	22 Mos % Chg
Bon-Ton Stores	714	BONT	0.75	+74	-49	-64
CalAtlantic	388	CAA	49.34	+35	+45	+30
Babcock & Wilcox	913	BW	4.38	+32	-74	-79
Restoration Hardware	810	RH	89.92	+28	+193	+13
Skechers USA	591	SKX	31.92	+27	+30	+6

Table 2(S12): The PBR1000 Top 5 Year-To-Date Stock Price % Gainers

Table 2 Summary: The range was +292% to -82%. 650 out of 1,001 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 14.8%, the median was a gain of 9.9%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 10/31/17	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	22 Mos % Chg
Weight Watchers	986	WTW	44.92	+3	+292	+97
Scientific Games	693	SGMS	47.60	+4	+240	+431
Systemax	902	SYX	28.55	+8	+226	+232
Restoration Hardware	812	RH	89.92	+28	+193	+13
Tronox	820	TROX	26.47	+25	+157	+577

Table 3(S13): The PBR1000 Top 5 22 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: The range was +956% to -90%. 737 out of 998 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 28.3%. The median was a gain of 31.2%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 10/31/17	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	22 Mos % Chg
Chemours	447	CC	56.61	+12	+156	+956
Tronox	820	TROX	26.47	+25	+157	+577
NVIDIA	362	NVDA	206.81	+16	+94	+527
Scientific Games	693	SGMS	47.60	+4	+240	+431
Navistar	316	NAV	42.31	-4	+35	+379

Table 4(S15): The PBR1000 Top 5 Market Capitalization

Table 4 Summary: The range was $873.13 billion to $0.01 billion. The average is $24.9 billion, median is $6.1 billion, out of 1,002 companies.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Market Cap($B) 10/31/17	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	22 Mos % Chg
Apple	4	AAPL	873.13	+10	+41	+49
Alphabet	27	GOOG	704.41	+6	+32	+35
Microsoft	28	MSFT	640.67	+12	+33	+45
Amazon	12	AMZN	530.95	+15	+49	+68
Facebook	95	FB	522.93	+5	+58	+77
The PBR1000			24,859.42	+2	+14	+23

Table 5: The PBR1000 Index & Selected Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company	Price 10/31/17	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	22 Mos % Chg
The PBR1000	84,470.31	+2.0	+14.8	+28.3
DJIA	23,377.24	+4.3	+18.3	+34.2
NASDAQ	6,727.67	+3.6	+25.0	+34.4
S&P500	2,575.26	+2.2	+15.0	+26.0
GOLD	1,270.50	-0.9	+10.3	+19.8
SILVER	16.69	+0.0	+4.4	+21.0
OIL	54.38	+5.3	+1.2	+46.8

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

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

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

The PBR1000 October 2017 Breaking News Recap

November 6, 2017 by admin

October 2017: The Last Quarter Starts

Economy Magnifier-Stuart Miles ID-100460418

The economy is the key indicator, and it continues to look good.

By Larry C. Paxton

The US economy showed no signs of letting up on its modest/moderate growth during October, though most of the data was prior to, or just after, the devastating hurricanes that hit the US and its territories in recent months. Nevertheless, economists seemed to be of the opinion that the rebuilding would mostly cancel out any temporary negative effects. The US stock exchanges had an excellent month, which perhaps helps validate that thought. The persistent question is how long can the run of the Stock Market Bull continue?

The PBR1000 companies continued to plod ahead without too many surprises. Retailers are making final preparations for the holiday buying season. It will be interesting to see what the ‘Amazon Effect’ is this year, but there is a sense there are some retailers who are finding ways to compete.

It continues to be hard to gauge the effects of President Trump’s agenda and the related actions of Congress on critical items, but some key issues will become prominent, especially as we enter the season for mid-term elections.

The world was relatively calm with fewer natural disasters, a toned down N Korea, and some key elections held in Japan and China that solidified leadership.

Here’s a quick October 2017 summary on items reported that relate to The PBR1000:

The PBR1000 Mergers & Acquisitions: 24 deals worth at least $1 billion initiated, closed, or updated. Total transaction value was $199 billion.

The PBR1000 Spinoffs: 4

The PBR1000 Share Repurchase Programs: 10 announcements, total $32.2 billion.

The PBR1000 Bankruptcies: 1 initiated or updated

The PBR1000 CEO Changes: 11 announced.

Jobs/Wages: 4.2% unemployment rate, modest wage growth.

US Economy: Modest/moderate growth continues, stable but fragile.

Federal Reserve Federal Funds Rate Changes: No change, remains 1.00-1.25%, an increase possible at FOMC meeting in December, 2017.

US Stock Market Exchanges: All three US major stock exchanges established new closing records during the month. The Stock Market Bull easily won October(See The PBR1000 October Stocks/Commodities Snapshots blog post.)

The PBR1000 Additions: 3, Chemours(PBR447 $CC), First Data Corp(PBR231 $FDC), Michael Kors(PBR519 $519).

The PBR1000 Removals: 1, West Corp(PBR787 $WSTC), acquired by Apollo Global Management(PBR843 $APO).

US News: Las Vegas concert shooting; President Trump visits hurricane ravaged Puerto Rico, Las Vegas after shooting; House and Senate pass budget proposal; California wildfires; Hurricane Nate; Harvey Weinstein and other notables sexual harassment scandals; President Trump decertifies Iranian nuclear treaty; NAFTA talks pushed into 2018; President Trump declares opioid crisis; partial release of JFK assassination papers; Manhattans killed in truck incident; Russian involvement in US election investigation still in progress.

International News: Catalan votes for independence from Spain; Japan earthquake; Brexit issues; Japan snap election, Abe gets decisive win; China election, Xi extends powerbase; European Central Bank extends quantitative easing program by 9 months; Australian government loses majority.

The PBR1000 October Breaking News Items

Here are The PBR1000 corporate and economic related breaking news items of interest with hotlinks to the sources for October 2017, starting with the last active business day.

***Tuesday, October 31:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for October Ending 10/31/17:
DJIA ends at 23,377.24, -0.24% from last Friday, +4.34% MTD/QTD, +18.29% YTD, -0.28% from record 23,441.76 set 10/24/17.
NASDAQ ends at record 6,727.67, +0.39% from last Friday, +3.57% MTD/QTD, +24.98% YTD, +0.00% from record 6,727.67 set 10/31/17.
SPX ends at 2,575.26, -0.23% from last Friday, +2.22% MTD/QTD, +15.03% YTD, -0.23% from record 2,581.07 set 10/27/17.

IBM(PBR25) authorizes additional $3 billion for share repurchase program, balance is now $4.5 billion. $IBM PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) to open new fulfillment center in Macon, GA, to create 500+ fulltime positions. $AMZN PR link.

Walgreens Boots Alliance(PBR36) completes 10 year global agreement for Fareva to take ownership of BCM, Walgreens Boots Alliance’s contract manufacturing business, which operates factories in the UK, France and Germany, for the manufacture and supply of own beauty brands and private label products, including products for sale in the USA. $WBA PR link.

Energy Transfer Equity(PBR52) Partners unit completes $1.57 billion sale of its 32.44% stake in Rover Pipeline Project to Blackstone(PBR352) Energy Partners. $ETE PR link.

HCA(PBR75) authorizes additional up to $2 billion share repurchase program, balance now is $2.15 billion. $HCA PR link.

Amgen(PBR135) and Kirin Holdings joint venture Kirin-Amgen to become a wholly owned subsidiary of Amgen, $780 million payment to be funded from joint venture cash holdings. $AMGN PR link.

ADP(PBR235) to submit complaint to SEC claiming Pershing Square‘s Bill Ackman statements have been false and misleading during proxy battle for 11/07/17 annual meeting. $ADP PR link.

Stanley Black & Decker(PBR240) to open in early 2018 a new 300,000 sf manufacturing facility in Mission, TX, to create 450 jobs. $SWK PR link.

Hormel Foods(PBR293) to acquire premium deli meat and salami $300 million revenues/year company Columbus Manufacturing from Arbor Investments for $850 million. $HRL PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) responds to proposed amendments to civil complaint filed in US District Court against Mylan and 17 other pharmaceutical companies regarding price fixing, denies charges, plans to defend. $MYL PR link.

Symantec(PBR385) completes $950 million sale of its Website Security and related PKI solutions to Lehi, UT, based DigiCert, gets about a 30% equity stake in DigiCert common stock, part of Symantec plan to be focused on cloud generation Integrated Cyber Defense Platform. $SYMC PR link.

Netflix(PBR447 $NFLX) suspends production of its popular ‘House of Cards’ for season 6 amid a sexual assault allegation against its star Kevin Spacey. MarketWatch PR link.

Envision Healthcare(PBR581) 3Q17 report says operations disrupted by Hurricanes Harvey & Irma, initiates a full review of a broad range of alternatives. $EVHC PR link.

MRC Global(PBR664) elects Deborah Adams, former Phillips 66(PBR7) executive, to the Board. $MRC PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US National Debt on 10/30/17 was $20.453 trillion, +1.0% from 09/29/17, +2.4% Calendar YTD, +3.3% from 10/31/16. Treasury PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US 3Q17 Employment Cost Index for All Civilian Laborers(2005=100) is at 130.6, 2Q17 was 129.7, 3Q16 127.4. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US 3Q17 Total Housing Units at 136.7 million, Occupied at 119.1 million, Occupancy Rate87.1%, Owner Occupied at 76.1 million, Renter Occupied 42.9 million, Home Ownership Rateat 63.9%, 2Q17 was 63.7%, 3Q16 63.5%. USDOL PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says 7th District Preliminary September Midwest Economic Index is at +0.09, August was +0.08, July +0.28, September 2016 -0.05. ChiFed PR link.

The Conference Board US Preliminary October Consumer Confidence Index(1985=100) is at 125.9, highest since 12/2000, September was 120.6, October 2016100.8. TCB PR link.

The MNI Chicago October Business Barometer hits 66.2, highest since 03/11, September was 65.2, August 58.9, October 2016 50.6. MNI/ISM Chicago PR link.

The US August S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller National Home Price Index(01/2000=100) is at 195.05, July was 194.01, June 192.66, August 2016 183.88. Case-Shiller PR link.

The American Automobile Assn says US Average Regular/Gallon Gas Price on 10/31/17 was $2.469, -3.9% from 09/29/17, +11.7% from 10/31/16. AAA PR link.

***Monday, October 30:

Amazon(PBR29) to move Amazon Studios, IMDb, Amazon Video and World Wide Advertising units into historic Hollywood location 280,000 sf The Culver Studios. $AMZN PR link.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR37)’s Janssen unit receives US FDA approval for new 10 mg dosing for XARELTO® (rivaroxaban) to reduce the continued risk of Venous Thromboembolism (VTE). $JNJ PR link.

Andeavor(PBR71) completes incentive distribution rights for 59% buy-in after Andeavor Logistics(NYSE: ANDX) completes acquisition of Western Refining Logistics(NYSE: WNRL) for $1.7 billion(includes debt). $ANDV PR link.

CenturyLink(PBR160) gets last required regulatory approval for $66.50/share, $34 billion acquisition of Level 3 Communications(PBR375) from the US Federal Communications Commission, to close transaction on 11/01/17. $CTL PR link.

JCPenney(PBR234) partners with LEGO to offer LEGO building bricks and playsets in 875 toy shops inside JCPenney stores starting in November and online in December. $JCP PR link.

Lennar(PBR340) to acquire CalAtlantic(PBR799) for $51.34/share, $9.3 billion cash/stock, includes $3.6 billion debt, will create the nation’s largest homebuilder, to close 1Q18. $LEN PR link.

Constellation Brands(PBR377) invests $300 million for 9.9% ownership stake in Ontario, CAN, based medicinal cannabis products provider Canopy Growth Corp. $STZ PR link.

Owens Corning(PBR465) to acquire $480 million revenues/2017 1,800+ employees mineral wool insulation for building and technical applications in Europe producer Paroc Groupfrom CVC Capital Partners for $1.05 billion, to close in early 2018. $OC PR link.

Rent A Center(PBR657) to explore strategic and financial alternatives, Steven Pepper resigns as Chairman & director as a result of decision. $RCII PR link.

Analog Devices(PBR701) and China Mobile Communications Corp IoT unit sign Memorandum Of Understanding to collaborate to develop IoT solutions for customers across industries from the sensor level through to the cloud. $ADI PR link.

Dynegy(PBR777) to merge into Vistra(NYSE: VST) for $13.24/share in all stock deal with enterprise value of $20 billion. $DYN PR link.

CarMax(PBR202) EVP/COO Cliff Woods to retire in summer 2018, to be succeeded by EVP/Strategy & Business Transformation Ed Hill. $KMX PR link.

Diplomat Pharmacy(PBR515) hires Robyn Peters as EVP/Sales & Payor Strategies. $DPLO PR link.

Scholastic Corp(PBR926) promotes Kenneth Cleary to CFO, succeeds terminated Maureen O’Connell. $SCHL PR link.

CoreCivic(PBR965) EVP/Chief Corrections Officer Harley Lappin to retire effective 01/01/18, to be succeeded by SVP/Operations Patrick Swindle. $CXW PR link.

GATX(PBR995) EVP & President/Rail International James Earl to retire effective 03/01/18, to be succeeded by N Gokce Tezel. $GATX PR link.

NCR(PBR383) elects Matt Thompson, EVP/Field Operations for Adobe Systems(PBR577), to the Board. $NCR PR link.

Noble Energy(PBR471) elects Holli Ladhani, Chairman/President/CEO of Rockwater Energy Solutions, to the Board. $NBL PR link.

Sprouts(PBR688) appoints Joe O’Leary, former PetSmart executive, to the Board. $SFM PR link.

PerkinElmer(PBR839) elects Pascale Witz, a widely experienced commercial healthcare executive, to the Board. $PKI PR link.

GoPro(PBR902) appoints Rick Welts, President/COO of the Golden State Warriors professional basketball team, to its Board. $GPRO PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says the US Preliminary September Total Personal Income Annual Rate is $16.533 trillion, +0.4% from August, +2.3% from September 2016, Personal Savings Rate at 3.1%, Effective Tax Rate 12.5%. USDOC PR link.

***Friday, October 27:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 10/27/17:
DJIA ends at 23,434.19, +0.45% from last Friday, +4.59% MTD/QTD, +18.58% YTD, -0.03% from record 23,441.76 set 10/24/17.
NASDAQ ends at record 6,701.26, +1.09% from last Friday, +3.16% MTD/QTD, +24.49% YTD, +0.00% from record 6,701.26 set 10/27/17.
SPX ends at record 2,581.07, +0.23% from last Friday, +2.45% MTD/QTD, +15.29% YTD, +0.00% from record 2,581.07 set 10/27/17.

ExxonMobil(PBR2) with recent agreements now has 1.4+ million net acres offshore from Brazil, over 2 billion barrels of high quality oil reserves. $XOM PR link.

Amazon(PBR29)’s Whole Foods unit having a National Hiring Day on 11/02/17, looking to hire 6,000+ people for part/full time positions. $AMZN PR link.

Tenet Healthcare(PBR161) 3Q17 report says restructuring, $150 million cost reduction initiative to include laying off 1,300 positions, appoints James Bierman, former President/CEO of Owens & Minor(PBR292) to the Board. $THC PR link.

Huntsman(PBR244) and Swiss based Clariant (SIX: CLN) agree to abandon $20 billion merger of equals, based on activist investor opposition. $HUN PR link.

Mylan(PBR346)’s EpiPen4Schools® Program surpasses one million free Epinephrine Auto-Injector donations to US schools. $MYL PR link.

XCEL Energy(PBR241) EVP & Group President/Utilities and Chief Administrative Officer Marvin McDaniel Jr to retire 2Q18. $XEL PR link.

Delek US(PBR536) & Delek Logistics hires Melissa Buhrig as EVP/General Counsel & Secretary. $DK PR link.

Interpublic(PBR350) appoints Patrick Q. Moore, EVP/Strategy and Business Development of Carters(PBR699), to the Board, effective 01/01/18. $IPG PR link.

AMC Entertainment(PBR728) board member Jack Q. Gao resigns along with all other boards affiliated with parent Chinese private conglomerate Dalian Wanda Group. $AMC PR link.

Schnitzer Steel(PBR764) appoints Rhonda D. Hunter, SVP at Weyerhauser(PBR355), to the Board. $SCHN PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce US Advance Estimate 3Q17 Gross Domestic Product is +3.0%, $19,495.5 trillion, +1.3% from 2Q17, +4.1% from 3Q16. USDOC PR link.

The U of Michigan US Final October Consumer Sentiment Index is at 100.7, September was 95.1, August 96.8, October 2016 87.2. UMich PR link.

***Thursday, October 26:

Comcast(PBR42) in 3Q17 nets 115,000 new customer relationships, total is now 29.1 million, revenues through 9 months at $62.6 billion, +5.4% from 2016. $CMCSA PR link.

Cognizant(PBR272) to acquire London, UK, based 220 digital agency experts independent full-service digital agency firm Zone, to close in 4Q17, terms not disclosed. $CTSH PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) wins UK court ruling related to Copaxone® 40 mg/mL Patent. $MYL PR link.

Hershey(PBR354) authorizes additional $100 million share repurchase program, to start after current authorization is completed. $HSY PR link.

Intuit(PBR529) to acquire cloud-based SaaS technology provider of sales and use tax calculation and filing Exactor, to be integrated into Quickbooks Online, terms not disclosed. $INTU PR link.

Perrigo(PBR565) settles Hatch-Waxman litigation relating to Onexton® Gel (clindamycin phosphate 1.2% and benzoyl peroxide 3.75%) brought by Valeant Pharmaceuticals NA and Dow Pharmaceutical Sciences, details not disclosed. $PRGO PR link.

Twitter(PBR735) in 3Q17 report says Monthly Active Users were at 330 million, +4% from 3Q16, revenues were $590 million, -4% from 3Q16. $TWTR PR link.

Hologic(PBR767) gets US FDA clearance for Paraflu Assay on Panther Fusion® system. $HOLX PR link.

Equinix(PBR793) opening $98.5 million International Business Exchange™ (IBX®)data center, named DC12, at Ashburn campus in Virginia. Now operates 14 IBX data centers in the Washington, D.C. area. $EQIX PR link.

Deckers Outdoor(PBR929) in 2Q18 report says it has authorized an additional $335 million for share repurchase program, balance is now $400 million. Also states it is no longer actively pursuing a sale of its business. $DECK PR link.

Scientific Games(PBR937) gets new Kansas Lottery‘s 10 year systems contract, implementation planned for 07/18, will replace current supplier. $SGMS PR link.

Hewlett Packard Enterprises(PBR56) hires Archana “Archie” Deskus as Global Chief Information Officer. $HPE PR link.

Community Health Systems(PBR125) Division II President Michael Portacci to retire 12/01/17. $CYH PR link.

Netflix(PBR447) promotes Jessica Neal to Chief Talent Officer. $NFLX PR link.

Suburban Propane(PBR901) promotes SVP/Operations Steven C. Boyd to COO. $SPH PR link.

Chevron(PBR3) elects John B. Frank, Vice Chairman of Oaktree Capital Management, to the Board. $CVX PR link.

Equifax(PBR795) appoints Scott A. McGregor, former CEO of Broadcom (NASDAQ: AVGO), to the Board. $EFX PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that US Initial Unemployment Claims 4 Week Moving Average on 10/14/17 was 239,500, -13.8% from 09/16/17, -5.3% from 10/15/16. USDOL PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) says US Average 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rate on 10/26/17 was 3.94% with 0.5 points/fees, was 3.83% on 09/28/17, 3.47% on 10/27/16. $FMCC PR link.

***Wednesday, October 25:

Amazon(PBR29) launches Amazon Key for Prime members, initially in 37 cities, enables in-home delivery and secure home access for guests and service appointments, available starting 11/08/17. $AMZN PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) announces CloudCam security camera, works with Alexa, one for $119.99, 3 for $289.99, available 11/08/17. $AMZN PR link.

American Airlines(PBR69) Chairman/CEO Doug Parker responds to NAACP travel advisory in letter to employees. $AAL PR link.

Sprint(PBR86) total 3Q17 wireless net additions was 378,000, 54,027,000 total connections, 3Q16 was 53,962,000. $S PR link.

Sears(PBR93) releases reinvented 120 page 2017 Wish Book catalog for the holidays, first release since 2011. $SHLD PR link.

Nordstrom(PBR214) aiming to fill 13,650 positions before the holidays. $JWN PR link.

CSX(PBR226) authorizes new $1.5 billion share repurchase program. $CSX PR link.

Sanofi(EURONEXT: SAN and NYSE: SNY) files suit against Mylan(PBR346 $MYL) in US District Court to defend 18 patent rights on Lantus® and Lantus® SoloStar®. $SNY PR link.

Orbital ATK(PBR655) delivers 100,000th Hellfire rocket motor. $OA PR link.

Intl Flavors & Fragrances(PBR666) commissioning a new fragrance ingredients 165,000 sq meters plant in Jiande, located in China’s Zhejiang Province. $IFF PR link.

Mondelez(PBR87) hires Glen Walter as EVP & President/N America. $MDLZ PR link.

CSX(PBR226) hires James Foote as COO, succeeds departing EVP/COO Cindy Sanborn and EVP/Chief Sales & Marketing Officer Fredrik Eliasson, effective 11/15/17. EVP/Law & Public Affairs, General Counsel, and Corporate Secretary Ellen M. Fitzsimmons retiring effective 11/08/17, to be succeeded by Nathan Goldman. $CSX PR link.

Essendent(PBR458) interim President/CEO Richard Phillips elected President/CEO. $ESND PR link.

The Carlyle Group(PBR581) announces Kewsong Lee & Glenn Youngkin to become Co-CEOs, Peter Clare to join William Conway, Jr, as Co-Chief Investment Officer, Daniel A. D’Aniello to become Chairman Emeritus & remain on Board, current Co-CEOs David M. Rubenstein and William E. Conway, Jr. will become Co-Executive Chairmen, all effective 01/01/18. $CG PR link.

New York Times(PBR971) EVP/CFO James Follo to retire in early 2018. Successor search starts. $NYT PR link.

EMCOR(PBR392) elects William Reid, former CEO of EMCOR Industrial Services, to the Board. $EME PR link.

Olin Corp(PBR838) elects Earl L. Shipp, former Dow Chemical VP/US Gulf Coast Operations, to the Board. $OLN PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says US Preliminary September New Family Homes Sales Annual Rate is at 667,000 units, +18.9% from August, +17.0% from September 2016, Median Price $319,700, +5.2% from August, -1.2% from September 2016, New Houses Available at 279,000, 5.0 Months Supply. HUD PR link.

The US Energy Information Administrationsays US 10/20/17 Crude Oil Reserves were at 457.3 million barrels, -2.9% from 09/22/17, -2.3% from 10/21/16. EIA PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) Rental Housing Surveyfinds affordability driving demand for rental housing, highlights changing preferences towards renting among all demographics. $FMCC PR link.

***Tuesday, October 24:

AT&T(PBR12) 3Q17 report shows revenue decline primarily because of wireline declines, had 3.0 million net adds for wireless services, Nearly 300,000 DIRECTV NOW net adds balances traditional TV subscriber declines. $T PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) celebrates 10 years in Arizona, employs 6,000, to open a new center in Phoenix area, refurbish original Valley location, add 1,000+ more fulltime jobs. $AMZN PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) launches Business Prime Shipping, $499/10 users and other options annual subscription in the US and Germany, includes unlimited free 2 day shipping in the US. $AMZN PR link.

Anthem(PBR38) to acquire Florida based 130,000 members privately‐held for‐profit Medicare Advantage organization America’s 1st Choice, terms not disclosed, to close 1Q18. $ANTM PR link.

International Paper(PBR117) to sell majority interest in its N America Consumer Packaging business, with 3,900 employees in 10 locations in US and UK, to Graphic Packaging(PBR553) for $1.8 billion, will retain 20.5% stake. $IP PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR142) in 3Q17 report says reviewing strategic alternatives for Elanco Animal Health unit, including an initial public offering, merger, sale, or retention of the business. $LLY PR link.

Cognizant(PBR272) to acquire Zurick, Switzerland, based 380 employees digital experience and marketing solutions provider Netcentric, terms not disclosed. $CTSH PR link.

Pentair(PBR363) to file Form 10 for spin-off Electrical business as a separate public company called nVent, remain a public Water company, still planned for 2Q18. $PNR PR link.

New York Times(PBR971) to transfer pension benefits and annuity administration for approximately $225 million in pension obligations in agreement with Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co. $NYT PR link.

AIG(PBR46) hires Thomas Leonardi as EVP/Government Affairs, Public Policy and Communications, effective 11/01/17. $AIG PR link.

Patterson Cos(PBR542) hires Mark Walchirk as President/CEO, effective 11/20/17, succeeds interim CEO Jim Wiltz who will remain on the Board. $PDCO PR link.

TriNet(PBR659) hires Barrett Boston as SVP/Chief Revenue Officer. $TNET PR link.

Whiting Petroleum(PBR667) hires Bradley Holly as President/CEO, effective 11/01/17, to succeed retiring James Volker. $WLL PR link.

Express Scripts(PBR860) moves EVP James M. Havel to EVP/CFO, succeeds Eric Slusser who will be leaving at end of 1Q18. $ESRX PR link.

Amgen(PBR135) appoints Dr. Wanda Austin, retired President/CEO of The Aerospace Corporation, to the Board, to be effective in 12/17. $AMGN PR link.

Ball Corp(PBR312) elects Cathy D. Ross, retired EVP/CFO of FedEx(PBR65) Express, and Pedro Henrique Mariani, Chairman of Banco BBM, to the Board. $BLL PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond 5th District September Manufacturing Index(Annualized) is at +12%, August was +19%, July +14%, September 2016 -6%; The September Service Sector Revenue Index is at +24%, August was +22%, July +22%, September 2016 +10%. RichmondFed PR link.

***Monday, October 23:

AT&T(PBR12) $85.4 billion cash/stock acquisition of Time Warner(PBR103) termination date extended for a short while to get US regulatory approval. $T PR link.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR37)’s Janssen unit receives 2 US FDA approvals for Simponi aria® (Golimumab) for treatment of adults with active Psoriatic Arthritis or active Ankylosing Spondylitis. $JNJ PR link.

Cisco(PBR60) to acquire cloud PBX, unified communications, team collaboration, and contact center solutions for businesses and service providers across 80 countries BroadSoft (NASDAQ: BSFT) for $55/share, $1.9 billion net of cash, to close 1Q18. $CSCO PR link.

Delta(PBR72) to hire 1,000 flight attendants in 2018, had 150,000 applicants in 2017. $DAL PR link.

T-Mobile(PBR95) 3Q17 report shows 1.3 million total net additions – 18 straight quarters of adding more than 1 million, ends with 70,731,000 total customers. $TMUS PR link.

Hartford Financial(PBR152) to acquire Aetna(PBR49)’s US Group Life and Disability business for $1.45 billion cash, expected to close early 11/17. $HIG PR link.

eBay(PBR163) StubHub unit gets multi-year agreement with Natl Football League to be its NFL Authorized Ticket Resale Marketplace starting with the 2018-2019 season. $EBAY PR link.

ConAgra(PBR166) completes acquisition of Angie’s Artisan Treats, the maker of Angie’s BOOMCHICKAPOP ready-to-eat popcorn, from TPG Growth, terms not disclosed. $CAG PR link.

CarMax(PBR202) to hire 2,000+ for long-term positions by 12/31/17. $KMX PR link.

Praxair(PBR233) merger with Germany based Linde AG(Xetra: LIN) to become a $30 billion/year Linde plc exchange offer minimum ratio changed from 75% to 60%, original acceptance period extended from 10/24/17 to 11/07/17 midnight. $PX PR link.

Hess(PBR248) to sell its oil and gas interests in Norway to Aker BP ASA for $2 billion; commences sale of Denmark assets. $HES PR link.

XPO Logistics(PBR321) to hire 6,000 seasonal workers in anticipation of expansion of e-commerce sales. $XPO PR link.

LKQ(PBR376) to acquire Dover(PBR343) subsidiary Warn Co, 350+ employees designer, manufacturer and marketer of high performance vehicle equipment and accessories, terms not disclosed. $LKQ PR link.

Netflix(PBR447) to offer $1.6 billion for 4.875% senior notes, to close 10/26/17, 04/15/28 mature date, proceeds to be used for general corporate purposes. $NFLX PR link.

NASDAQ(PBR618) completes acquisition of global content and analytics for institutional investors provider eVestment, terms not disclosed. $NDAQ PR link.

HB Fuller(PBR870) completes $1.575 billion acquisition of South Bend, IN, based $650 million/year, 1,500 employees in 5 countries Royal Adhesives & Sealants. $FUL PR link.

Kroger(PBR20) EVP/Retail Operations Fred Morganthall to retire after 31 years of service, effective 11/30/17, EVP/Merchandising Mike Donnelly to assume responsibility for both operations as EVP/COO, effective 11/01/17. $KR PR link.

Coca-Cola(PBR63) President/N America J. Alexander “Sandy” Douglas Jr to retire on 03/01/18, will be succeeded by James L. “Jim” Dinkins who will assume new responsibilities on 01/01/18. $KO PR link.

Tenet Healthcare(PBR161) CEO Trevor Fetter steps down & resigns from Board as planned, Executive Chairman Ronald A. Rittenmeyer appointed CEO until permanent successor appointed. $THC PR link.

Arconic(PBR215) to hire Charles “Chip” Blankenship as CEO, effective 01/15/18, will succeed interim CEO and director David Hess, who will remain on the Board, director John Plant appointed Chairman, effective immediately. $ARNC PR link.

Arconic(PBR215) appoints Eric Roegner as EVP & Group President/Engineered Products and Solutions, succeeds leaving Karl Tragl, Tim Myers appointed EVP & Group President/Global Rolled Products and Transportation & Construction Solutions. $ARNC PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR314) hires Chris Holdren as Chief Marketing Officer, effective 11/01/17. $CZR PR link.

Diebold Nixdorf(PBR676) promotes Patty Lang to VP/Chief People Officer. $DBD PR link.

Blackhawk Network(PBR998) hires Charles Garner as CFO, to succeed retiring Jerry Ulrich. $HAWK PR link.

Delta(PBR72) appoints former US Secretary of Defense Ash Carter to the Board. $DAL PR link.

Stanley Black & Decker(PBR249) elects Nike(PBR98) CIO Jim Scholefield to the Board. $SWK PR link.

Brink’s(PBR613) appoints Dan Henry, former CEO of Netspend Corp and Euronet co-founder, to the Board, Peter Feld to resign from Board effective 11/11/17. $BCO PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago US Preliminary September Federal National Activity Index is at +0.17, August was -0.37, July -0.27, September 2016 -0.04. ChiFed PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) October Outlookforecasts 4.4% average interest rate in 2018, 6.3 million homes sold, 4.9% house price growth, $1.695 trillion in total originations. Also assesses impact of recent hurricanes. $FMCC PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) Multifamily in Focusreport focuses on the worsening of rental affordability. $FMCC PR link.

***Friday, October 20:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 10/20/17:
DJIA ends at record 23,328.63, +2.00% from last Friday, +4.12% MTD/QTD, +18.04% YTD, +0.00% from record 23,328.63 set 10/20/17.
NASDAQ ends at record 6,629.05, +0.35% from last Friday, +2.05% MTD/QTD, +23.15% YTD, +0.00% from record 6,629.05 set 10/20/17.
SPX ends at record 2,575.21, +0.86% from last Friday, +2.22% MTD/QTD, +15.02% YTD, +0.00% from record 2,575.21 set 10/20/17.

Booz Allen Hamilton(PBR466) to acquire Cincinnati, OH, based 40 professionals platform for managed cyber threat detection and response services provider Morphick, terms not disclosed. $BAH PR link.

Merck(PBR70 $MRK) laying off around 1,800 US sales people from 3 sales teams, to focus on chronic care therapies with 960 sales people. MarketWatch PR link.

Sealed Air(PBR344) SVP/CFO Carol Lowe departing on 10/31/17, Chief Accounting Officer/Controller Bill Stiehl to add interim CFO role. $SEE PR link.

Domino’s(PBR889) 113 Chicagoland locations to hire 2,000 new team members. $DPZ PR link.

Blackstone(PBR352) Board member Richard Jenrette retires, Board size reduced from 12 to 11. $BX PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US September Federal Government Receipts were $348.722 billion, Outlays $340.722 billion, Surplus $8.000 billion, Fiscal 2017 Year End Deficit at $665.712 billion, Fiscal 2016 Year End Deficitwas $585.6 billion. Treasury PR link.

The Natl Assn of Realtors says US September Total Existing Home Sales Annual Rate is at 5,390,000, +0.7% from August, -1.5% from September 2016, Median Price is $245,100, September 2016 $235,200. NAR PR link.

***Thursday, October 19:

Verizon(PBR15) adds 603,000 net retail postpaid net additions wireless subscribers in 3Q17, had 109.7 million retail postpaid connections and 5.6 million retail prepaid connections at the end of the quarter. $VZ PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) launches 18th wind farm, located in Scurry County, TX, has 100+ turbines, to generate 1,000,000+ MWh a year, 35 more Amazon wind farms scheduled. $AMZN PR link.

Alphabet(PBR44)’s CapitalG growth investment fund heads up $1 billion financing in ridesharing company Lyft. $GOOG PR link.

Genuine Parts(PBR191) to acquire Cedar Rapids, IA, based industrial applications company $100 million revenues/year Apache Hose & Belting, and Rochester, NY, based 17 stores regional automotive parts distributor $25 million revenues/year Monroe Motor Products, terms not disclosed. $GPC PR link.

CBS(PBR210) to split off CBS Radio which will combine with Entercom Communications(NYSE: ETM), will have 235 radio stations, including 22 in top 25 US markets. $CBS PR link.

JCPenney(PBR234) introducing smartwatches in 245 stores and JCPenney.com starting 10/30/17, unveils new Modern Bride concept in its fine jewelry dept. $JCP PR link.

TechnipFMC(PBR334) to acquire Plexus’ Exploration Wellhead equipment and services business for jack up applications, terms not disclosed. $FTI PR link.

Celgene(PBR347) stops two Crohn’s disease studies, not initiating another related study due to results. $CELG PR link.

JetBlue(PBR429) ending ticket sales through more than 10 online travel agencies, will focus on direct bookings though jetblue.com and select third-party channels, to reduce costs. $JBLU PR link.

Under Armour(PBR668) introduces subscription service ArmourBox, sends 4-6 items, try for a week, send back unwanted items, 20% off if take all items. $UA PR link.

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

Intuit(PBR529) board member Diane Greene, CEO of Alphabet(PBR44)’s Google cloud businesses, stepping down at annual shareholder meeting in 01/18, former Amazon(PBR29) CFO Thomas Szkutak nominated as successor. $INTU PR link.

Ferro Corp(PBR992) appoints Marran Ogilvie, who has more than 20 years of executive management and financial experience across a diverse set of business environments, to the Board. $FOE PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia 3rd District October Manufacturing General Activity Indicator is at 27.9, September was 23.8, August 18.9, October 2016 11.1. PhillyFed PR link.

The Conference Board US Preliminary September Leading Economic Index is at 128.6, August was 128.8, July 128.4, September 2016 123.8. TCB PR link.

***Wednesday, October 18:

ExxonMobil(PBR2) has acquired a crude oil terminal in Wink, TX, from Genesis Energy, permitted for 100,000 barrels of oil/day, located in Delaware Basin of the Permian Basin. $XOM PR link.

Apple(PBR5) & GE(PBR9) partner to bring predictive data and analytics from Predix, GE’s industrial Internet of Things (IoT) platform, to iPhone & iPad. $GE PR link.

AT&T(PBR12) gets Brazilian Antitrust Authority approval for $85.4 billion cash/stock acquisition of Time Warner(PBR103), US only regulatory agency left, expects to close by 12/31/17. $T PR link.

Anthem(PBR38) establishing a new pharmacy benefits manager to be named IngenioRx, to launch in 2020 upon expiration of current contract, gets 5 year deal to provide IngenioRx to CVS Health(PBR11) starting 01/01/2020. $ANTM PR link.

Hewlett Packard Enterprises(PBR55) to return $2.5 billion to shareholders in FY18, $500 million in dividends, $2 billion in share repurchases, increases share repurchase authorization by $5 billion. $HPE PR link.

Gilead Sciences(PBR107)’s Kite unit Yescarta™ (Axicabtagene Ciloleucel) becomes first CAR T Adult Refractory Large B-Cell Lymphoma therapy for certain situations approved by the US FDA. $GILD PR link.

SuperValu(PBR164) to acquire retailer owned cooperative, 650 employees, 1.5 million sf in real estate Affiliated Grocers of Florida for $180 million. $SVU PR link.

Micron Technology(PBR180) to retire $2.25 billion in debt. $MU PR link.

Assurant(PBR268) to acquire $1 billion revenues/2017 vehicle protection and financial services provider The Warranty Group for $2.5 billion, includes debt, to close in 1H18. $AIZ PR link.

CBRE(PBR301) acquires San Francisco, CA, based Custom Spaces, the Bay Area’s premier boutique real estate advisor to the tech sector. $CBG PR link.

Quest Diagnostics(PBR353) to acquire Cleveland HeartLab, form strategic collaboration with Cleveland Clinic, terms not disclosed. $DGX PR link.

SunPower(PBR680) gets 291 megawatts deal in 2nd Round CRE4 French Tenders for Solar Projects, will be supplying 505 megawatts in 1st/2nd Round of the French Tenders combined, more than any other solar panel brand. $SPWR PR link.

Universal Forest Products(PBR733) to do 3:1 stock split, effective 11/15/17. $UFPI PR link.

MEDNAX(PBR794) to acquire 90+ physicians serving 160 sites Houston metro based Synergy Radiology Associates, terms not disclosed, 10th acquisition in 2017. $MD PR link.

Adtalem Education(PBR905)’s DeVry University receives accreditation reaffirmation for it Engineering Technology classroom and online programs. $ATGE PR link.

American Express(PBR83) appoints Vice Chairman Stephen J. Squeri to succeed retiring Kenneth I. Chenault as Chairman/CEO on 02/01/18. $AXP PR link.

C.H. Robinson(PBR215) appoints Timothy C. Gokey, President/COO at Broadridge Financial(PBR533), to the Board. $CHRW PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says US Preliminary September Total Housing Permits Issued Annual Rate is at 1,215,000, -4.5% from August, -4.3% from September 2016. HUD PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Board releases Beige Book, based on data gathered through 10/06/17, says pace of growth split between modest and moderate. Fed PR link.

ADP(PBR237) says US 3Q17 Workforce Vitality Index(3Q13=100) is at 115.1, +3.5% from 3Q16. $ADP PR link.

***Tuesday, October 17:

Johnson & Johnson(PBR37) in 3Q17 report says it will not pursue global approvals of sirukumab for treatment of moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis, to discontinue clinical trial for talacotuzumab, an investigational compound being studied in patients with acute myeloid leukemia. $JNJ PR link.

Fidelity Natl Financial(PBR331) FNFV Group unit completes $200 million cash acquisition of clinical documentation and coding solutions for healthcare facilities T-System Holdings. $FNF PR link.

Electronic Arts(PBR527) to ramp down and close Visceral studio, move its Star Wars project to EA Worldwide Studios, to launch new Star Wars Battlefront II in a few weeks. $EA PR link.

Tailored Brands(PBR643) enters 9th year in partnership with National Basketball Coaches Assn, providing 10 US made Joseph Abboud suits and 20 ties for 24 NBA coaches. $TLRD PR link.

Middleby(PBR865) acquires Dayton, OH, based $50 million/year slicers and mixers for the commercial foodservice industry provider Globe Food Equipment Co. $MIDD PR link.

Amazon(PBR29 $AMZN) Studios unit suspended for sexual harrassment allegations head Roy Price resigns. Deadline PR link.

World Fuel(PBR67) hires Jeff Smith as EVP/COO. $INT PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) hires Danielle Kirgan as Chief Human Resources Officer, effective 10/23/17. $M PR link.

DISH(PBR196) promotes SVP Tim Messner to General Counsel, effective 10/23/17, succeeds EVP R Stanton Dodge, who will be joining DraftKings as its chief legal officer. $DISH PR link.

TSYS(PBR790) elects Thaddeus Arroyo, CEO of AT&T(PBR12) Business unit, and Richard A. Smith, Chairman/President/CEO of Realogy Holdings Corp, to the Board. $TSS PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary September All Imports Prices were +0.7%, All Exports Prices +0.8%, Year-to-Date All Import Prices +2.7%, YTD All Export Prices +2.9%. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Board says US Preliminary September Industrial Production Total Index(2012=100) is at 104.6, August104.3, July 105.1, September 2016 104.1. USFed PR link.

The Natl Assn of Home Builders/Wells Fargo US Preliminary October Housing Market Index is at 68, September was 64, August 67, October 2016 63. NAHB PR link.

***Monday, October 16:

Johnson & Johnson(PBR37)’s Janssen unit gets US FDA approval for an expanded indication for STELARA® (ustekinumab) for the treatment of adolescents with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. $JNJ PR link.

Aramark(PBR184) to acquire N America hospitality procurement services provider Avendra for $1.35 billion from a consortium of 5 major hospitality companies. Also acquiring uniform and linen rental and supply company AmeriPride for $1 billion. Both transactions to close by 12/31/17. $AMRK PR link.

Nordstrom(PBR214) family suspends active exploration of taking the company private until after the start of 2018. $JWN PR link.

Facebook(PBR228 $FB) acquires recently launched app developer TBH, has quickly added 5 million subscribers, over 1 billion messages sent. TBH PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) says US District Court concludes that Allergan(PBR219)‘s patent protection for Restasis ended in 2014, not entitled to renewed patent rights for a second wave of patent protection, also binding against Allergan’s arrangement with Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe. $MYL PR link.

Blackstone(PBR352) completes acquisition of Philadelphia, PA, area based independent investment management firm with over $10 billion in assets under management Harvest Fund Advisors, terms not disclosed. $BX PR link.

Cummins(PBR438) to acquire assets of Brammo, which designs and develops battery packs for mobile and stationary applications, terms not disclosed. $CMI PR link.

Netflix(PBR447) in 3Q17 reports net gain of 5.3 million subscribers, total now 109.25 million memberships, forecasts to grow by 6.3 million in 4Q17, continue to build its own content. $NFLX PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Santa Fe, NM, based commercial property/casualty and employee benefits coverages and services, and high-net-worth personal lines coverages provider Reynolds & Rodar Insurance Group, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

GE(PBR9) promotes Rafael Santana to CEO/GE Transportation, effective 11/01/17, succeeds Jamie Miller who is becoming GE CFO. $GE PR link.

Micron Technology(PBR180) hires Manish Bhatia as EVP/Global Operations. $MU PR link.

Dentsply Sirona(PBR694) hires Nick Alexos as EVP/Chief Administration Officer and Keith Ebling as EVP/General Counsel & Secretary. $XRAY PR link.

Woodward(PBR888) President/Airframe Systems Group Martin Glass to resign on 02/02/18 after 40 years with the company. $WWD PR link.

Microsoft(PBR29) proposes election of Penny Pritzker, former US Secretary of Commerce, and Arne Sorenson, President/CEO of Marriott Intl(PBR211), to the Board, at annual meeting set for 11/29/17. $MSFT PR link.

Proctor & Gamble(PBR33) provides preliminary voting results, indicates Trian‘s Nelson Peltz narrowly defeated for a Board position. $PG PR link.

Sears(PBR93) board member Bruce Berkowitz, Chief Investment Officer of Fairholme Capital Management, steps down. $SHLD PR link.

Vulcan Materials(PBR685) elects Kathleen Quirk, EVP/CFO of Freeport-McMoRan(PBR128), to the Board. $VMC PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York October Empire State Manufacturing Index is at 30.2, a 3 year high, September was 24.4, August 25.2, October 2016 -5.5. NYFed PR link.

***Friday, October 13:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 10/13/17:
DJIA ends week at 22,871.72, +0.43% from last Friday, +2.08% MTD/QTD, +15.73% YTD, -0.01% from record 22,872.89 set 10/11/17.
NASDAQ ends at record 6,605.80, +0.24% from last Friday, +1.69% MTD/QTD, +22.71% YTD, +0.00% from record 6,605.80 set 10/13/17.
SPX ends at 2,553.17, +0.15% from last Friday, +1.34% MTD/QTD, +14.04% YTD, -0.08% from record 2,555.24 set 10/11/17.

Comcast(PBR42 $CMCSA)’s Fandango unit to acquire MovieTickets.com, previously acquired Movieclips, Flixster, Rotten Tomatoes and a streaming platform it renamed Fandango Now. MarketWatch PR link.

Alcoa(PBR115) pays $237.5 million and transfers 2,200 acres of land and assets to power provider Luminant Generation Companyto terminate electricity contract tied to Alcoa’s Rockdale Operations in Texas. $AA PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary September Current Average Earnings/Hourwas $26.55, Average Work Week Hours 34.4, Weekly Earnings $913.32, August was $909.19, July $910.46, September 2016$887.86. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US September Consumer Price Index(All Items) is at +0.5%, August was +0.4%, July +0.1%, Last 12 Months(Unadjusted) +2.2%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary August Trade Sales and Manufacturers’ Shipments were $1.369 trillion, +0.7% from July, +5.5% from August 2016. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Advance September Total Retail and Food Services/Drinking Places Revenues were $483.9 billion, +1.6% from August, +4.5% from September 2016. USDOC PR link.

The U of Michigan US Preliminary October Consumer Sentiment Index is at 101.1, September was 95.1, August 96.8, October 2016 87.2. UMich PR link.

***Thursday, October 12:

Amazon(PBR29) to hire for over 120,000 in the US for the 2017 holiday season. $AMZN PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) AWS unit and Microsoft(PBR31 $MSFT) announce Gluon, a new open source deep learning interface that allows developers to more easily and quickly build machine learning models. $AMZN PR link.

TimeInc(PBR631) partners with Alphabet(PBR44)’s Google to launch Adapt, leverages DoubleClick to deliver outstream native video ads. $TIME PR link.

Dynegy(PBR777) completes $180 million sale of its Lee Energy Facility to Rockland Capital, funds to be used for debt reduction. $DYN PR link.

Polaris Industries(PBR531) hires Chris Musso as President/Off-Road Vehicles, effective 11/06/17. $PII PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US September Producer Price Index for Total Final Demandwas +0.4%, August was +0.2%, July -0.1%, September 2016 +0.3%, Total Last 12 Months Total Demand at +2.1%. USDOL PR link.

***Wednesday, October 11:

Kroger(PBR20) announces Restock Kroger program, exploring strategic alternatives for its 784 stores, 11,000 associates, $4 billion/2016(includes $1.4 billion in inside sales) convenience store business, including possible sale. $KR PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) introduces Kindle Oasis, featuries 7-inch, 300 ppi display, waterproof design, and audible, $249.99, to start shipping 10/31/17. $AMZN PR link.

Tenet Healthcare(PBR161) to sell suburban Chicago based MacNeal Hospital and related operations, including an independent practice association of 1,000 physicians, to Trinity Health affilate Loyola Medicine regional healthcare system, to close 1Q18, terms not disclosed. $THC PR link.

Micron Technology(PBR180) reprices $1 billion common stock offering to $1.2 billion, for $41.00/share, to be used to pay down debt, expects to close by 10/16/17. $MU PR link.

Coach(PBR496) to change its name to Tapestry, Inc, stock trading symbol from COH to NYSE: TPR, effective 10/31/17. $COH PR link.

International Paper(PBR117) elects Jacqueline C. Hinman, Chairman/President/CEO of engineering firm CH2M Hill, and Clinton A. Lewis, Jr, EVP & President/International Operations of animal health medicines provider Zoetis(PBR500), to its Board. $IP PR link.

ITT Corp(PBR735) elects Mario Longhi, former President/CEO of US Steel(PBR167), to its Board. $ITT PR link.

TransDigm(PBR810) appoints Gary E. McCullough, investor/advisor to venture capital firm Abundant Venture Partners, and David A. Barr, most recently Managing Director of private equity fund Warburg Pincus, to its Board. $TDG PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US Preliminary August Job Openings at 6,082,000, -0.9% from July, +10,7% from August 2016. USDOL PR link.

The Federal Open Market Committee releases 09/19-20/17 Meeting Minutes, says US economic activity rising moderately, inflation remains below 2% target, to start balance sheet normalization program in October, no change in federal funds rate. FOMC PR link.

The US Energy Information Administrationestimates Average 2017 WTI Oil Price Per Barrel to be $49.69, 2018 Forecast is $50.57, 2016 was $43.33, 2015 $48.67. EIA PR link.

***Tuesday, October 10:

Walmart(PBR1) authorizes new $20 billion share repurchase program, replaces existing program, to utilize over next 2 years. $WMT PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) introduces a new option for Prime Student, $5.49/month with no annual commitment. $AMZN PR link.

Pfizer(PBR56) reviewing strategic alternatives for its Consumer Healthcare business. $PFE PR link.

Honeywell(PBR74) to spinoff $4.5 billion/year 13,000 employees Homes and the ADI Global Distribution Business, and $3 billion/year 6,500 employees Transportation Systems, into two independent public companies by end of 2018, additional restructuring announced. $HON PR link.

Micron Technology(PBR180) launches $1 billion offering of common stock, to be used to pay down debts. $MU PR link.

JCPenney(PBR234) introduces for the holiday season a limited collection of women’s apparel, accessories and home décor items created with award-winning actress and style icon Tracee Ellis Ross, available starting 11/12/17. $JCP PR link.

Henry Schein(PBR270) completes acquisition of independent family owned Columbia, SC, based $115 million/2016 animal health products supplier Merritt Veterinary Supplies, terms not disclosed. $HSIC PR link.

NVIDIA(PBR510) unveils NVIDIA DRIVE PX Pegasus, the world’s first artificial intelligence computer designed to drive fully autonomous robotaxis. $NVDA PR link.

Coty(PBR524) relaunches COVERGIRL brand to use makeup as a tool for self-expression and personal transformation. $COTY PR link.

Great Plains Energy(PBR757) & Westar Energy(PBR747) to hold special shareholder meetings on 11/21/17 to vote on merger of equals, on track for merger to close in 1H18. $GXP PR link.

Equinix(PBR795) completes $259 million acquisition of Itconic, a data center, connectivity and cloud infrastructure solutions provider in Spain and Portugal, from The Carlyle Group(PBR581). $EQIX PR link.

West Corp(PBR842), a global provider of communication and network infrastructure services, $23.50/share $5.1 billion cash acquisition by Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR906) is completed. $WSTC PR link.

Express Scripts(PBR860) to acquire privately-held evidence-based medical benefit management services provider eviCore healthcare for $3.6 billion, accelerates shift to being a patient benefit management company. $ESRX PR link.

CDW(PBR239) CFO Ann Zigler to retire on 12/31/17, Collin Kebo to be promoted to CFO on 01/01/18. $CDW PR link.

Molina Healthcare(PBR284) hires Joseph M. Zubretsky as President/CEO, effective 11/06/17. $MOH PR link.

MasterCard(PBR291) President/Global Products and Solutions Gary Flood leaving at end of 2017, operating units to then report to President/CEO Ajay Banga. $MA PR link.

MDU Resources(PBR513) promotes Trevor J. Hastings to President/CEO of WBI Holdings Inc., MDU’s pipeline and energy services business. $MDU PR link.

KB Home(PBR802) elects James C. (“Rad”) Weaver, CEO of McCombs Partners, the investment management division of McCombs Enterprises, to the Board. $KBH PR link.

CoreLogic reports that US July Housing Loans 30 Days Or More Delinquent were at 4.6%, June was 4.5%, May 4.5%, July 2016 5.5%, Total Houses In Foreclosure at 0.7%. CoreLogic PR link.

The International Monetary Fund October World Economic Outlook forecasts 3.6% global growth rate in 2017, 3.7% in 2018, mostly from emerging regions, and despite lower growth rates for the US and UK. IMF PR link.

***Monday, October 9:
***US Federal Holiday: Columbus Day.
***US Stock Markets: Open.

Phillips 66(PBR7) adds $3 billion to share repurchase program, balance is now $12 billion, from authorizations since 3Q2012. $PSX PR link.

Microsoft(PBR31) entering into a 15-year power purchase agreement with GE(PBR9) to purchase 100% of the wind energy from GE’s new, 37-megawatt Tullahennel wind farm in County Kerry, Ireland. $MSFT PR link.

AIG(PBR46) expects to report 3Q2017 pre-tax catastrophe losses net of reinsurance of $2.9 billion to $3.1 billion ($1.9 billion to $2.0 billion after-tax) from Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, Maria and Mexico earthquake. $AIG PR link.

Medtronic(PBR133) Endurant(TM) II/IIs stent graft system receives FDA approval to treat short neck anatomies when used with Heli-FX(TM) EndoAnchor(TM) System. $MDT PR link.

Ross Stores(PBR253) opens 40 stores in September/October, makes 96 stores in 2017, completes store growth plans for fiscal 2017. $ROST PR link.

Magellan Health(PBR592) gets all regulatory approvals to acquire Senior Whole Health, serves complex, high-risk populations, providing both Medicare and Medicaid dual-eligible benefits to 22,000+ members in Massachusetts/NY, anticipates $1 billion revenues in 2017, to close by 12/31/17. $MGLN PR link.

Keysight Technologies(PBR660) temporarily closing Santa Rosa corporate headquarters due to wildfires on the area. $KEYS PR link.

Equinix(PBR793) acquires $2.5 million/year Zenium data center in Istanbul, Turkey, for $92 million cash, to be renamed Equinix IS2, includes current 1,500 square meters fitted out data center, expandable to up to 12,000 square meters. $EQIX PR link.

Granite Construction(PBR831) promotes Kyle Larkin to SVP/California Group Manager, effective 10/16/17. $GVA PR link.

GE(PBR9) elects Ed Garden, Chief Investment Officer and a Founding Partner of Trian Fund Management, to the Board, replaces Robert Lane, former Chairman/CEO of Deere & Co(PBR81), who has retired for health reasons. $GE PR link.

Minerals Tech(PBR949) elects Franklin Feder, former senior executive at Alcoa(PBR115), to the Board. $MTX PR link.

FannieMae(PBR17) says US September Home Purchase Sentiment Index is at 88.3, Augustwas 88.0, July 86.8, September 2016 82.8. $FNMA PR link.

***Friday, October 6:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 10/06/17:
DJIA ends week at 22,773.67, +1.65% from last Friday/MTD/QTD, +15.24% YTD, -0.01% from record 22,775.39 set 10/05/17.
NASDAQ ends at record 6,590.18, +1.45% from last Friday/MTD/QTD, +22.42% YTD, +0.00% from record 6,590.18 set 10/06/17.
SPX ends at 2,549.33, +1.19% from last Friday/MTD/QTD, +13.87% YTD, -0.11% from record 2,552.07 set 10/05/17.

The PBR1000 Top 5 September by Market Capitalization(Company, Rank by Revenues, Stock Symbol, Market Cap, Stock Price 09/29/17, % Change from 12/31/16(YTD)) are:

1. Apple(PBR4), AAPL, $796B, $154.12, +33%
2. Alphabet(PBR27), GOOG, $665B, $959.11, +24%
3. Microsoft(PBR28), MSFT, $574B, $74.49, +20%
4. Facebook(PBR95), FB, $496B, $170.87, +49%
5. Amazon(PBR12), AMZN, $462B, $961.35, +28%
The PBR1000 Total Market Capitalization:$24.319 trillion
Average Market Capitalization Change YTD:+12.8%
Range: $797B to $0.00B
Average: $24.3B(1,001 companies); Median:$7.4B

To get the full Snapshot 15 report go to The PBR1000 Subscribe page.

Costco(PBR18) launches CostcoGrocery, offering free 2 day delivery of non-perishables on orders over $75, expanding InstaCart service for same day deliveries of perishables. $COST PR link.

Kellogg(PBR198) to acquire Chicago Bar Co, maker of clean-label protein nutrition bars RXBAR, for $600 million. $K PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR314) announces new board of directors following completion of restructuring of Caesars Entertainment Operating Company. $CZR PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR314) completes merger with Caesars Acquisition Companyand concludes restructuring of Caesars Entertainment Operating Company, has an enterprise value of $20 billion, planning $1.5 billion in capital expenditures for property improvements. $CZR PR link.

United Natural Foods(PBR371) authorizes $200 million share repurchase program. $UNFI PR link.

CIT Group(PBR608) to sell Financial Freedom and reverse mortgage portfolio to an undisclosed buyer for $900 million, expects to close 2Q18. $CIT PR link.

ResMed(PBR977) provides status report on sleep-disordered breathing and respiratory care patent infringement lawsuits worldwide against Fisher & Paykel. $RMD PR link.

Apple(PBR5) hires Katherine Adams as General Counsel & SVP/Legal & Global Security, succeeds retiring General Counsel Bruce Sewell. $AAPL PR link.

GE(PBR9) CEO/Transportation Jamie Miller to be CFO, effective 11/01/17, succeeds departing Vice Chairman/CFO Jeff Bornstein, Vice Chairs Beth Comstock and John Rice to retire effective 12/31/17. $GE PR link.

Blackhawk Network(PBR998) board member Jeffrey Fox resigns to focus on recent appointment as CEO of Endurance International Group. $HAWK PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US September Non-Farm Employment was at 154,345,000, +906,000 from August, +2,419,000 from September 2016, Unemployed were at 6,801,000, Unemployment Rate is at 4.2%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary August Total Wholesale Saleswere $473.4 billion, +1.7% from July, +7.2% from August 2016. USDOC PR link.

The Federal Reserve Board says US Preliminary August Total Consumer Debt at $3.766 trillion, +0.4% from July, +3.3% YTD, +10.2% since 12/31/15(20 months). FED PR link.

***Thursday, October 5:

The PBR1000 Top 5 September Stock Price Gainers since 12/31/15(21 months)(Company, Rank by Revenues, Stock Symbol, Stock Price 09/29/17, % Change from 12/31/15) are:

1. NVIDIA(PBR363), NVDA, $178.77, +442%
2. Tronox(PBR819), TROX, $21.10, +440%
3. Scientific Games(PBR689), SGMS, $45.85, +411%
4. Navistar(PBR317), NAV, $44.07, +399%
5. Cleveland-Cliffs(PBR816), $7.15, +353%

Range: +442% to -96%
Number of Companies >0.0%: 860/997
Average: +26.1%; Median: +23.8%

To get the full Snapshot 13 report go to The PBR1000 Subscribe page.

Boeing(PBR27) to acquire Manassas, VA, based 550 employees across 6 states autonomous systems technologies to enable advanced robotic aircraft for future aerospace applications and vehicles developer Aurora Flight Sciences, terms not disclosed. $BA PR link.

Sears(PBR93) borrows $100 million at 11% interest from Chairman/CEO Eddie Lampert’s ESL Investments, can borrow up to $100 million before 12/01/17. $SHLD PR link.

Whirlpool(PBR138) gets unanimous US International Trade Commission safeguard ruling against Samsung and LG for washing machine imports, remedy hearing set for 10/19/17. $WHR PR link.

ADP(PBR235) acquires Irvine, CA, based digital payments processing platforms provider Global Cash Card, terms not disclosed. $ADP PR link.

MasterCard(PBR291) and PayPal(PBR252 $PYPL) expand digital partnership globally. $MA PR link.

DR Horton(PBR337) completes $17.75/share, $560 million cash 75% stake acquisition of Forestar Group(NYSE: FOR), will remain a public company. $DHI PR link.

Netflix(PBR447 $NFLX) raises subscription prices on premium services, plans to spend $7 billion on new content in 2018, up from $6 billion. MarketWatch PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Sudbury, Ontario, CAN, based human resources, employee benefits, wealth management and life insurance consulting and brokerage services area provider DiBrina Group, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

Iron Mountain(PBR663) to acquire two Credit Suisse data centers in London and Singaporefor approximately $100 million, adds 273,000 sf to data center portfolio. $IRM PR link.

CME Group(PBR664) expands Asia Pacific footprint with opening of an office in Sydney, Australia. $CME PR link.

Regeneron(PBR708) and Sanofi to continue marketing, selling and manufacturing Praluent® (alirocumab) injection in the US per US Court of Appeals Amgen(PBR135 $AMGN) patent challenge decision, new trial to start in 2018, permanent injunction vacated. $REGN PR link.

Lennox Intl(PBR631) promotes Gary Bedard to EVP & President/COO of Worldwide Refrigeration, effective 10/16/17, succeeds departing David Moon. $LII PR link.

Vista Outdoor(PBR784) hires Christopher Metz as CEO, effective 10/09/17. $VSTO PR link.

ADP(PBR235) sends shareholders letter urging them to re-elect the 10 current directors, not for Pershing Square nominees, at 11/07/17 annual shareholders meeting. $ADP PR link.

Williams-Sonoma(PBR508) appoints Bob Lord, IBM(PBR25)‘s Chief Digital Officer, to the Board. $WSM PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census US Preliminary August Total Manufacturers New Orders was $471.7 billion, +1.2% from July, +3.9% from August 2016. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce US Preliminary August Total Exports were $195.3 billion, YTD(8 mos) $1.545 trillion, Total Imports were $237.7 billion, YTD $1.906 trillion; Deficit $42.4 billion, Deficit YTD $361.3 billion, August 2016 Deficit YTD was $332.2 billion. USDOC PR link.

***Wednesday, October 4:

The PBR1000 Top 5 September Stock Price Gainers YTD(Company, Rank by Revenues, Stock Symbol, Stock Price 09/29/17, % Change from 12/31/16) are:

1. Weight Watchers(PBR986), WTW, $43.55, +280%
2. Scientific Games(PBR689), SGMS, $45.85, +228%
3. Systemax(PBR899), SYX, $26.43, +201%
4. Restoration Hardware(PBR811), RH, $70.32, +129%
5. Conn’s(PBR912), CONN, $28.15, +123%

Range: +280% to -80%
Number of Companies >0.0%: 648/1,000
Average: +12.7%; Median: +9.1%

To get the full Snapshot 12 report go to The PBR1000 Subscribe page.

Amazon(PBR29) announces Alexa and the all-new Echo, Echo Plus, and Echo Dot now available in India, to be available in Japan later in the year. $AMZN PR link.

Amazon(PBR29 $AMZN) gets European Commission order to pay Luxembourg $294 million in back taxes. EC PR link.

Alphabet(PBR44 $GOOG)’s Google unit announces Pixel 2 & Pixel 2 LP smartphones, Home Mini speakers, Pixel Buds, Clips clip-on camera, Pixelbook & Pixelbook Pen. MarketWatch PR link.

World Fuel(PBR67) renews share repurchase program for up to $100 million, replaces 09/16 authorization. $INT PR link.

3M(PBR92) completes $2.0 billion acquisition of 1,500 employees worldwide safety devices provider Scott Safety from Johnson Controls(PBR68). $MMM PR link.

Gilead Sciences(PBR107) agreements with the Medicines Patent Pool and four manufacturers provides licenses for generic production of Bictegravir, for HIV treatments in low to middle income countries. $GILD PR link.

Kinder Morgan(PBR181), DCP Midstream(PBR929) and Targa Resources(PBR308) agree to jointly develop natural gas Gulf Coast Express Pipeline Project from Permian Basin to Texas coast. $KMI PR link.

Gannett(PBR414) acquires majority interest in Phoenix, AZ, based online media & publishing company with 8.5 million monthly food enthusiasts Grateful Ventures, terms not disclosed. $GCI PR link.

Navient(PBR443) to acquire financial technology and education finance company Earnest for $155 million cash. $NAVI PR link.

Tailored Brands(PBR643) Men’s Wearhouse to be NHL Coaches Assn official custom suit provider for 2 years, providing 10 American made Joseph Abboud custom suits and ties for participating coaches. $TLRD PR link.

Beacon Roofing(PBR818) $2.625 billion cash acquisition of East Rutherford, NJ, based 208 locations in 31 states exterior and interior building products distributor Allied Building Products Corp from Ireland based CRH plc(NYSE: CRH) expects to close 01/02/18. $BECN PR link.

Verizon(PBR15) EVP & President/Global Media Marni Walden to leave in 02/18. $VZ PR link.

Pitney Bowes(PBR588) EVP & President/SMB Solutions Mark Shearer to retire in 1Q18, Jason Dies is successor, Christopher Stehmann now EVP/International SMB Solutions, Lila Snyder named EVP & President/Global Ecommerce & Presort Services. $PBI PR link.

Diebold Nixdorf(PBR676) promotes Devon Watson to newly created position of VP/Chief Marketing Officer. $DBD PR link.

Hain Celestial(PBR712) hires Julie Bowerman as SVP/Digital Engagement & eCommerce. $HAIN PR link.

Cedar Fair(PBR977) President/COO Richard Zimmer to become CEO, effective 01/01/18, CEO Matt Ouimet to become Executive Chairman, Debra Smithart-Oglesby lead independent director. $FUN PR link.

World Fuel(PBR67) appoints Stephen Gold, EVP/Technology & Operations Innovation for CVS Health(PBR11), to the Board. $INT PR link.

ADP(PBR235) reports US Preliminary September Change In Private Sector National Employment(Non-Farm) was +135,000 jobs, -40.8% from August, -37.8% from September 2016, Goods Producing Sector was +48,000, Services +88,000. $ADP PR link.

The IHS Markit US September Composite PMI Output Index is at 54.8, August was 55.3, July54.6, September 2016 52.3. IHS Markit PR link.

The ISM US September Non-Manufacturing Index(>50 economy growing) is at 59.8%, August was 55.3%, July 53.9%, September 2016 57.1%. ISM PR link.

***Tuesday, October 3:

The PBR1000 Top 5 September Stock Price Gainers(Company, Rank by Revenues, Stock Symbol, Stock Price 08/31/17, % Change from 08/31/17) are:

1. Conn’s(PBR912), CONN, $28.15, +62%
2. Restoration Hardware(PBR811), RH, $70.32, +50%
3. Babcock & Wilcox(PBR914), BW, $3.33, +47%
4. Sears Hometown(PBR822), SHOS, $2.55, +46%
5. Revlon(PBR779), REV, $24.55, +45%

Range: +62% to -35%
Number of Companies >0.0%: 733/1,001
Average: +3.0%; Median: +4.4%

Not getting the monthly The PBR1000 with 15 analytical reports, 22 monthly rankings, and 200 data points/info per company? Subscribe here!

Walmart(PBR1) acquires New York City, NY, 24/7 operation that delivers packages the same-day, overnight and in scheduled two-hour windows provider Parcel, terms not disclosed. $WMT PR link.

Ford(PBR10) redeploying assets, to focus on smart cars, shift products emphasis to trucks, SUVs. $F PR link.

Verizon(PBR15)‘s recently acquired Yahoo unit reveals that all 3 billion accounts may have been hacked in 08/13, original estimate was 1 billion. $VZ PR link.

Amazon(PBR29 $AMZN) has acquired 3D body model startup, Body Labs, for $50M-$70M.TechCrunch PR link.

Microsoft(PBR31) unveils a Windows Mixed Reality headset from Samsung, the Samsung HMD Odyssey, which joins the family of Windows Mixed Reality headsets, to be available 10/17/17. $MSFT PR link.

Alphabet(PBR44 $GOOG)’s Google unit YouTube TV, $35/month service, to live stream Major League Baseball’s World Series in sponsorship agreement. MLB PR link.

3M(PBR92) completes $200 million sale of its $95 million/year electronic monitoring business used by correctional and law enforcement agencies around the world to an Apax Partnersaffiliate. $MMM PR link.

Gilead Sciences(PBR107) completes $180/share, $11.9 billion cash acquisition of engineered cell therapies developer Kite Pharma(NASDAQ: KITE). $GILD PR link.

Amgen(PBR135) and CytomX Therapeutics(NASDAQ:CTMX) to co-develop a CytomX Probody™ T-cell therapies for multiple human cancer types. $AMGN PR link.

Office Depot(PBR182) to enter business services sector with $1 billion acquisition of $1.1 billion/year 6,000 licensed technicians IT services, products and solutions provider CompuCom Systems. $ODP PR link.

Allergan(PBR219) gets US FDA approval for BOTOX® Cosmetic (OnabotulinumtoxinA) for temporary improvement in the appearance of some conditions of moderate to severe forehead lines. $AGN PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) gets US FDA approval for first generic for Teva Pharmaceutical’s Copaxone®, therapy for multiple sclerosis. $MYL PR link.

ARRIS Intl(PBR366) remains committed to $800 million cash acquisition of Brocade(PBR845)’s Ruckus Wireless and ICX Switch business from Singapore based Broadcom Ltd(NASDAQ: AVGO) once their merger is completed, which is being delayed. $ARRS PR link.

WABCO(PBR704) completes $250 million plus $225 million to $265 million over next 3 1/2 years based on earnings of the business acquisition of Meritor(PBR639) interest in Meritor WABCOjoint venture. $WBC PR link.

Scientific Games(PBR937) to acquire leading supplier of hole-card readers for blackjack provider Tech Art, to close in 1Q18, terms not disclosed. $SGMS PR link.

Mattel(PBR412) hires Joe Euteneuer as CFO, succeeds departed Kevin Farr. $MAT PR link.

Mattel(PBR412) hires Sven Gerjets as Chief Technology Officer, Amy Thompson as Chief People Officer, and Nancy Elder as Chief Communication Officer. $MAT PR link.

Welltower(PBR635) promotes John Goodey to EVP/CFO, succeeds departing Scott Estes. $HCN PR link.

Carlisle Cos(PBR650) hires Shelley Bausch as President/Carlisle Fluid Technologies. $CSL PR link.

Automotive News reports US September New Light Vehicle Sales were at 1,525,522 cars/trucks, +6.3% from September 2016, Annual Rate at 18.58 million units. Automotive News PR link.

TrueCar says US Estimated September Total New Vehicle Sales at $46 billion, -1.1% from September 2016, Average Transaction Price is $32,597, -1.1%, Incentive Per Unit Spending at $3,742. TrueCar PR link.

The Purdue/CME Group US September Ag Economy Barometer is at 132, August was also 132, July 139, September 2016 101, notes producers have waning optimism about US economy. Purdue/CME Group PR link.

Healthcare Study: Express Scripts(PBR860) analysis shows an estimated 870,000 Americans reached or exceeded a yearly medication cost threshold of $50,000 in 2016, up 35 percent from 2014. $ESRX PR link.

The National Retail Federation forecasts US 2017 Holiday Sales to grow 3.6-4.0%, $678.75 billion to $682 billion, up from $655.8 billion last year. NRF PR link.

***Monday, October 2:

GE(PBR9) completes $3.4 billion sale of Water & Process Technologies business to France based Suez and Canadian Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec. $GE PR link.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR37) completes divestiture of its $371.5 million/2016 Codman Neurosurgery business to Integra LifeSciences for around $1.045 billion. $JNJ PR link.

International Paper(PBR117) to reduce pension liabilities by transferring $1.3 billion in pension benefits for 45,000 former employees to Prudential Financial(PBR55) through the purchase of a group annuity contract for pension benefits and annuity administration. $IP PR link.

CenturyLink(PBR160) gets US Dept of Justice approval, based on certain conditions, for $66.50/share, $34 billion acquistion of Level 3 Communications(PBR375), now waiting additional regulatory approvals. $CTL PR link.

VF Corp(PBR232) completes $820 million cash acquisition of Williamson-Dickie Mfg. Co., a family-owned, private global workwear company, $875 million in revenues over the last 12 months. $VFC PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR314) has approvals from all gaming authorities and stockholders, plans to complete merger with Caesars Acquisition and restructuring of Caesars Entertainment Operating Co on 10/06/17. $CZR PR link.

Fidelity Natl Financial(PBR331) completes spin-off of Black Knight(NYSE: BKI) as a separate public company. $FNF PR link.

Fidelity Natl Financial(PBR331) Group unit acquires majority interest in real estate digital transaction management and closing solutions SkySlope, used by 1,500 brokerages covering 5,000 offices, 140,000 agents to initiate 1.5 million real estate transactions/year. $FNF PR link.

Live Nation(PBR366) issues statement on Las Vegas Route 91 Harvest Festival shooting tragedy, pledges support and assistance for victims & employees. $LYV PR link.

Packaging Corp(PBR425) completes $265 million cash acquisition of Sacramento Container, Northern Sheets, and Central California Sheets. $PKG PR link.

Coty(PBR524) completes acquisition of exclusive long-term global license rights for Burberry Beauty luxury fragrances, cosmetics and skincare. $COTY PR link.

Pitney Bowes(PBR588) completes $475 million acquisition of private Austin, TX, based parcel delivery, returns, fulfillment and digital commerce solutions for retailers and ecommerce brands provider Newgistics. $PBI PR link.

Carlisle Cos(PBR650) to acquire Maryland Heights, MO, based $430 million revenues/year polyurethane products and solutions provider Accella Performance Materials from Arsenal Capital Partners for $670 million cash. $CSL PR link.

Tesla(PBR651) delivers 26,150 vehicles in 3Q17, 14,065 were Model S, 11,865 Model X, and 220 Model 3; expects to deliver 100,000 Model S & Model X’s in 2017, up 31% from 2016, removing bottlenecks for Model 3 production. $TSLA PR link.

Equifax(PBR795) says cybersecurity firm has concluded forensic investigation of cybersecurity event disclosed 09/07/17, raises total number of US consumers affected from 143 million to 145.5 million. $EFX PR link.

Griffon Corp(PBR890) completes $200 million acquisition of Emerson Electric(PBR109)‘s $300 million+ revenues/year 1,500 employees ClosetMaid unit. $GFF PR link.

Regis Corp(PBR912) completes sale and subsequent franchise of all mall-based salons and UK businesses, 1,108 salons with 9,800 stylists & managers, to Regent affiliate The Beautiful Group. $RGS PR link.

TeleFlex(PBR923) completes $725 million plus up to $375 million based on milestones achieved acquisition of private urology medical devices developer NeoTract. $TFX PR link.

Allscripts(PBR944) completes $185 million cash acquisition of McKesson(PBR6)‘s hospital/health system IT business, Enterprise Information Solutions. $MDRX PR link.

Vitamin Shoppe(PBR968) enters China marketvia digital platform in partnership with Macy’s(PBR97) China Limited using Alibaba‘s online Tmall Global service. $VSI PR link.

Cincinnati Bell(PBR988) completes $201 million cash acquisition of N America/UK technology services/solutions provider OnX Enterprise Solutions. $CBB PR link.

Principal Financial(PBR265) to promote Julia Lawler to Chief Risk Officer, effective 01/01/18, succeeds retiring Greg Elming. $PFG PR link.

CF Industries(PBR502) hires Susan Menzel as SVP/Human Resources, effective 10/05/17. $CF PR link.

Diplomat Pharmacy(PBR515) acquires Tennessee based product development, IT outsourcing, and consulting services provider 8th Day Software and Consulting, names its founder Dave Loschinskey as DPLO’s Chief Information Officer. $DPLO PR link.

Dentsply Sirona(PBR694) appoints Mark Thierer interim CEO, Bob Size interim President/COO, Eric Brandt Non-Executive Chairman, follows resignations of Jeffrey Slovin, Christopher Clark, and Bret Wise. $XRAY PR link.

ServiceMaster(PBR704) appoints Dion Persson to SVP/Business Development, to focus on spin-off of new stand-alone public company American Home Shield in 2018. $SERV PR link.

Scientific Games(PBR937) hires Shawn Dennis as EVP/Chief Marketing Officer. $SGMS PR link.

GE(PBR9) Chairman Jeff Immelt steps down per plan, CEO John Flannery elected to additional role of Chairman. $GE PR link.

Citigroup(PBR28) elects John C. Dugan, former Comptroller of the Currency, and S. Leslie Ireland, former Asst Secretary for Intelligence and Analysis for the US Treasury Dept, to the Board. $C PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says US Preliminary August Total Construction Spending Annual Rate is at $1.218 trillion, +0.5% from July, +2.50% from August 2016. USDOC PR link.

The ISM US September Manufacturing PMI Index is at 60.8%, August was 58.8%, July56.3%, September 2016 49.4%. ISM PR link.

The IHS Markit Final September Manufacturing PMI is at 53.1, August was 52.8, July 53.3, September 2016 51.5. IHS Markit PR link.

***Friday, September 29:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week and Month Ending 09/29/17:
DJIA ends at 22,405.09, +0.25% from last Friday, +2.08% MTD, +4.94% QTD, +13.37% YTD, -0.03% from record 22,412.59 set 09/20/17.
NASDAQ ends at record 6,495.96, +1.07% from last Friday, +1.05% MTD, +5.79% QTD, +20.67% YTD, +0.00% from record 6,495.96 set 09/29/17.
SPX ends at record 2,519.36, +0.68% from last Friday, +1.93% MTD, +3.96% QTD, +12.53% YTD, +0.00% from record 2,519.36 set 09/29/17.

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

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

(Image courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net, Stuart Miles.)

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

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