The PBR1000 June 2020 Stocks & Commodities Snapshots

June 2020 The PBR1000: The Stock Market Bull Has 3 In a Row

PBR1000 Snapshots Recap

Even though The Stock Market Bull has won the last 3 months, he is still behind in the DJIA and S&P500 Year-to-Date.

By Larry C. Paxton

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Month of June ending 06/30/20:

DJIA ends June at 25,812.88, +3.19% from last Friday, +1.69% MTD, +17.77% QTD, -9.55% YTD, -12.65% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends June at 10,058.77, +3.09% from last Friday, +5.99% MTD, +30.63% QTD, +12.11% YTD, -0.72% from record 10,131.37 set 06/23/20.

SPX ends June at 3,100.29, +3.03% from last Friday, +1.84% MTD, +19.95% QTD, -4.04% YTD, -8.44% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The Month of June 2020 News Summary: The Coronavirus Pandemic was the primary driver for most news during June. The coronavirus pandemic tally as of 1:33PM Eastern US by the John Hopkins University CSSE unit is now 10,389,818 confirmed cases globally with 508,406 deaths. For the US it’s 2,620,250 confirmed cases and 126,645 deaths. There does appear to be some flattening out across countries of the world and economies are slowly being opened up. At the beginning of the month there was some optimism that the US could start reopening up its economy and states starting doing so. However, by the end of the month it was clear that there was an uptick rate in cases and several states have had to suspend or further modify their reopening plans. At the beginning of the month there was unexpected turmoil from the death of George Floyd, a person of color, when he died from a knee on his throat for several minutes by a Minneapolis policeman. It was unwarranted and protests broke out across the US that resulted in more deaths and destruction of property, some caused by some aggressive radical groups. This spread globally and other similar cases got wide reporting as well. By the end of the month some dialog was starting to happen. Local, state, and federal laws and proclamations continue to be made as incidents like this are reviewed and made public. This has also caused some bitterness especially in the South where many Civil War Memorials were defaced or destroyed. There does not appear to be an easy path forward to resolve this issues that have simmered and exploded time and again since the US Constitution went into effect in the late 1700’s. US/China trade negotiations were also at a difficult point compounded by events in Hong Kong as China tries to exert more pressure for it to be integrated into its society. Throughout the month the US economy was mixed as the reopening of the economy was attempted. The Federal Reserve gave a somewhat bleak forecast for the economy, rolled back some financial regulations, but also issued a stress test to the major banking institutions. After a major dip in March, the US stock exchanges made a very dramatic comeback for the quarter. The NASDAQ was especially active, set some new record highs, in trading that was volatile for much of the month for all exchanges. The Stock Market Bull prevailed 3-0 for June, but it was not an easy slog because The Stock Market Bear is relentless and continues to try to leverage the coronavirus pandemic and repercussions from it. The first half of 2020 is now in the books. With continued concerns about the Coronavirus Pandemic, the simmering civil unrest, and the upcoming US presidential election, the second half could be just as difficult.

The June 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 3 months
The Stock Market Bear: 2 months
Mixed Results: 1 month

 

The June 2020 US Major Stock Market Exchanges Summary

Number of Trading Days: 22

Number of Gain(+)/Loss(-) Days: DJIA 14+/8-; NASDAQ 18+/4-; SPX 14+/8-.

Record Days: DJIA 0, NASDAQ 5, SPX 0

Longest Gain Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 6 days(06/01-08/20), NASDAQ 8 days(06/12-23/20),  and SPX 4 days(05/29-06/03/20)

Longest Loss Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 3 days(06/09-11/20, 06/17-19/20), NASDAQ 1 day(06/04/20, 06/11/20, 06/24/20), and SPX 3 days(06/09-11/20)

Big Swing Up Days(>1.00%): 11 days, 06/02/20(D +1.05%), 06/03/20(D +2.05%, S +1.36%), 06/05/20(D +3.15%, N +2.06%, S +2.62%), 06/08/20(D +1.70%, N +1.13%, S +1.20%), 06/12/20(D +1.90%, N +1.01%, S +1.31%), 06/15/20(N +1.43%), 06/16/20(D +2.04%, N +1.75%, S +1.90%), 06/22/20(N +1.11%), 06/25/20(D +1.18%, N +1.09%, S +1.10%), 06/29/20(D +2.32%, N +1.20%, S +1.47%), 06/30/20(N +1.87%, S +1.54%)

Big Swing Down Days(<-1.00%): 5 days, 06/09/20(D -1.09%), 06/10/20(D -1.04%), 06/11/20(D -6.90%, N -5.27%, S -5.88%), 06/24/20(D -2.72%, N -2.19%, S -2.59%), 06/26/20(D -2.84%, N -2.59%, S -2.42%)

The PBR1000 June 2020 Snapshots

The following are Top 5 partial tables excerpts from The PBR1000 June 2020 Snapshots. The price for stocks is for the close of trading on June 30, 20201 Month % Chg is compared to May 29, 202012 Months % Chg is compared to June 28, 2019, and the 24 Months % Chg is compared to June 29, 2018. The PBR Rank is by annual revenues.

To get the complete The PBR1000 Snapshots  just click here to get your 12 month subscription and automatically download the June 2020 edition with the complete 15 Snapshots and 27 rankings with the bonuses The PBRMarketTools US Monthly Indices Snapshots and The PBR25 Top Buy Stocks.

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

Table 1 Summary: The range was +83% to -83%538 out of 997 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 1.05%, the median was a gain of 0.87%. The DJIA was +1.69%, NASDAQ +5.99%, SPX +1.84%.

Company PBR
Rank
Symbol Price
06/30/20
Mo
% Chg
12 Mos
% Chg
24 Mos
% Chg
Michaels 531 MIK $ 7.07 +83 -19 -63
Whiting Petroleum
951 WLL $ 1.14 +62 -94 -98
JCPenney
290 JCPNQ $ 0.33 +59 -71 -86
Fossil Group
871 FOSL $ 4.65 +52 -60 -83
QEP Resources 988 QEP $ 1.29 +51 -82 -89

Table 2(S12): The PBR1000 Top 5 12 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 2 Summary: The range was +351% to -99%313 out of 995 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a loss of 2.95%, the median was a loss of 14.73%. The DJIA was -2.96%, NASDAQ +25.64%, SPX +5.39%.

Company PBR
Rank
Symbol Price
06/30/20
Mo
% Chg
12 Mos
% Chg
24 Mos
% Chg
Tesla 117 TSLA $ 1,079.81 +29 +383 +215
Hovnanian 894 HOV $ 23.39 +43 +208 -43
Cincinnati Bell 956 CBB $ 14.85 +1 +200 -5
Owens & Minor 331 OMI $ 7.62 -4 +138 -54
NVIDIA 284 NVDA $ 379.91 +7 +131 +60

Table 3(S13): The PBR1000 Top 5 24 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: The range was +291% to -99%363 out of 975 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 2.88%. The median was a loss of 13.77%. The DJIA was +6.53%, NASDAQ +33.93%, SPX +14.05%.

Company PBR
Rank
Symbol Price
06/30/20
Mo
% Chg
12 Mos
% Chg
24 Mos
% Chg
Twilio 992 TWLO $ 219.19 +11 +61 +291
AMD 433 AMD $ 52.61 -2 +73 +251
Tesla 117 TSLA $ 1,079.81 +29 +383 +215
Veeva Systems 996 VEEV $ 234.42 +7 +45 +205
Roku 993 ROKU $ 116.53 +6 +29 +173

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

Table 4 Summary: The range was $1,379 billion to $0.01 billion. The average is $28.329 billionmedian is $6.65 billion, out of 1,000 companies.

Company PBR
Rank
Symbol Market Cap($B)
06/30/20
Mo
% Chg
12/19
% Chg
12/17
% Chg
Apple 4 AAPL $ 1,568 B +14 +22 +79
Microsoft 20 MSFT $ 1,505 B +9 +25 +128
Amazon 2 AMZN $ 1,337 B +12 +46 +140
Alphabet 11 GOOG $ 929 B -4 +1 +27
Facebook 46 FB $ 629 B -2 +8 +23
The PBR1000
  $ 28,947 B +0 -6 +10

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

Company Price
06/30/20
Mo
% Chg
12 Mos
% Chg
24 Mos
% Chg
The PBR1000 89,755.06 +1.1 -3.0 +2.9
DJIA 25,812.88 +1.7 -3.0 +6.4
NASDAQ 10,058.77 +6.0 +25.6 +33.9
S&P500 3,100.29 +1.8 +5.4 +14.1
GOLD 1,800.50 +3.3 +27.5 +43.5
SILVER 18.64 +0.8 +21.4 +15.1
OIL            39.27 +11.2 -32.5 -47.0

To order a 12 month subscription of The PBR1000 Snapshots go to the Subscribe page.

Please use the Contact Us page if you are a The PBR1000 company and would like to increase your visibility to our worldwide base of shrewd investors.

PBRMarketTools.com provides The PBR1000, a compilation of 1,000 of the largest publicly held companies with primary operations in the US. These companies generate $14 trillion in annual revenues, more than all other US companies combined. The PBR1000 Monthly Snapshots provides these 1,000 companies in Excel format, includes 15 worksheets with 28 rankings, over 200 data/information points, hotlinks to key data, and important news items per company. This service is used by astute business professionals and shrewd investors worldwide.

Disclaimers: The PBR1000 is compiled from a variety of publicly available resources. As such, PBRMarketTools.com is not responsible for the data itself. Any liability for the representations or decisions based on the data is solely the responsibility of the authorized user, not PBRMarketTools.com, its employees or affiliates. PBRMarketTools.com is an independent provider of news, data, and analysis. It is not a financial advisor firm or stock brokerage service, and is not affiliated with any such organization.

(Graphic courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net, ddpavumba.)

Copyright © 2020 by Pax Business Resources, LLC, All Rights Reserved.

The PBRMarketTools June 2020 News & US Stock Exchanges Recap

The PBRMarketTools June 2020 News Summary and US Stock Exchanges Recap

PBR1000 News Summary Stocks Recap

After a rocky start in 2020 The Stock Market Bull now has won the pasture 3 months in a row, still has a ways to go to be ahead for the year.

***Tuesday, June 30

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Month of June ending 06/30/20:

DJIA ends June at 25,812.88, +3.19% from last Friday, +1.69% MTD, +17.77% QTD, -9.55% YTD, -12.65% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends June at 10,058.77, +3.09% from last Friday, +5.99% MTD, +30.63% QTD, +12.11% YTD, -0.72% from record 10,131.37 set 06/23/20.

SPX ends June at 3,100.29, +3.03% from last Friday, +1.84% MTD, +19.95% QTD, -4.04% YTD, -8.44% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The Month of June 2020 News Summary: The Coronavirus Pandemic was the primary driver for most news during June. The coronavirus pandemic tally as of 1:33PM Eastern US by the John Hopkins University CSSE unit is now 10,389,818 confirmed cases globally with 508,406 deaths. For the US it’s 2,620,250 confirmed cases and 126,645 deaths. There does appear to be some flattening out across countries of the world and economies are slowly being opened up. At the beginning of the month there was some optimism that the US could start reopening up its economy and states starting doing so. However, by the end of the month it was clear that there was an uptick rate in cases and several states have had to suspend or further modify their reopening plans. At the beginning of the month there was unexpected turmoil from the death of George Floyd, a person of color, when he died from a knee on his throat for several minutes by a Minneapolis policeman. It was unwarranted and protests broke out across the US that resulted in more deaths and destruction of property, some caused by some aggressive radical groups. This spread globally and other similar cases got wide reporting as well. By the end of the month some dialog was starting to happen. Local, state, and federal laws and proclamations continue to be made as incidents like this are reviewed and made public. This has also caused some bitterness especially in the South where many Civil War Memorials were defaced or destroyed. There does not appear to be an easy path forward to resolve this issues that have simmered and exploded time and again since the US Constitution went into effect in the late 1700’s. US/China trade negotiations were also at a difficult point compounded by events in Hong Kong as China tries to exert more pressure for it to be integrated into its society. Throughout the month the US economy was mixed as the reopening of the economy was attempted. The Federal Reserve gave a somewhat bleak forecast for the economy, rolled back some financial regulations, but also issued a stress test to the major banking institutions. After a major dip in March, the US stock exchanges made a very dramatic comeback for the quarter. The NASDAQ was especially active, set some new record highs, in trading that was volatile for much of the month for all exchanges. The Stock Market Bull prevailed 3-0 for June, but it was not an easy slog because The Stock Market Bear is relentless and continues to try to leverage the coronavirus pandemic and repercussions from it. The first half of 2020 is now in the books. With continued concerns about the Coronavirus Pandemic, the simmering civil unrest, and the upcoming US presidential election, the second half could be just as difficult.

The June 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 3 months
The Stock Market Bear: 2 months
Mixed Results: 1 month

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

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PBRMarketTools.com provides independent news, data, and analysis on 1,000 of the largest publicly held companies with primary operations in the US. The data and analysis is included in The PBR1000 Monthly Snapshots, an MS-Excel workbook with 15 snapshot worksheets, 28 rankings, and over 200 fields of data and information on each company. Click here to find out more! 

(Photos and images courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net, ddpavumba)

Copyright © 2020, All Rights Reserved, Pax Business Resources, LLC.

The PBR1000 May 2020 Stocks & Commodities Snapshots

May 2020 The PBR1000: The Stock Market Bull Gains More Ground

PBR1000 Snapshots Recap

The Stock Market Bull continues to make a strong effort to overcome major losses from the coronavirus pandemic. Opinions are mixed about how long it will take.

By Larry C. Paxton

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 22 and month of May 2020 ending 05/29/20:

DJIA ends Week 22 at 25,383.11, +3.75% from last Friday, +4.26% MTD, +15.81% QTD, -11.06% YTD, -14.11% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends Week 22 at 9,489.87, +1.77% from last Friday, +6.75% MTD, +23.24% QTD, +5.76% YTD, -3.33% from record 9,817.18 set 02/19/20.

SPX ends Week 22 at 3,044.31, +3.01% from last Friday, +4.53% MTD, +17.79% QTD, -5.77% YTD, -10.10% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The end of May and Week 22 News Summary: Center stage during this Week 22 US 4 day work week was the ongoing US and China issues. While trade discussions have been difficult, the latest concern is China taking over more control of former UK colony Hong Kong. US President Trump’s immediate response is to use sanctions. The coronavirus pandemic continues to be big news as well. Countries around the world are starting to re-open their businesses and economy to mixed reviews. In the US many major retailers announced their re-openings and current plans for more. The coronavirus pandemic tally as of 12:32PM Eastern US by the John Hopkins University CSSE unit is now 5,878,701 confirmed cases globally with 362,769 deaths. For the US it’s 1,735,971 confirmed cases and 102,323 deaths. A stream of good news about potential vaccines and tests for coronavirus seemed to escalate during the week. The US economic news was mixed with real data indicating major downturns, especially for employment and real GDP adjusted down from -4.8% to -5.0%. However, it is also now showing some up signs, meaning negative numbers are starting towards the positive, and cautious optimism has been reflected in some interviews of Federal Reserve Board members. Week 22 was a typical progression from the start of May. The additional item of interest for May was the new $3 trillion stimulus package that went into effect mid-month to help businesses make it through the pandemic. It was certainly a good week and end of May for The Stock Market Bull. He came back well rested after the Memorial Day holiday, was eager to fight and quickly gored The Stock Market Bear deep on Tuesday and Wednesday. The Stock Market Bear recovered a little bit on Thursday, and Friday was a mixed result in favor of The Stock Market Bull who easily took Week 22 and the month of May with convincing 3-0 results, but still has a long way to go to get back to record levels achieved earlier in the year.

The Week 22 of 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 11 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 10 weeks
Mixed Results: 1 week

The monthly tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 2 months
The Stock Market Bear: 2 months
Mixed Results: 1 month

 

The May 2020 US Major Stock Market Exchanges Summary

Number of Trading Days: 20

Number of Gain(+)/Loss(-) Days: DJIA 10+/10-; NASDAQ 14+/6-; SPX 13+/7-.

Record Days: DJIA 0, NASDAQ 0, SPX 0

Longest Gain Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 3 days(05/14-18/20), NASDAQ 6 days(05/04-11/20),  and SPX 3 days(05/07-11/20, 05/14-18/20, 05/22-27/20)

Longest Loss Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 3 days(05/11-13/20), NASDAQ 2 days(04/30-05/01/20, 05/12-13/20), and SPX 2 days(04/30-05/01/20, 05/12-13/20)

Big Swing Up Days(>1.00%): 10 days, 05/04/20(N +1.23%, 05/05/20(N +1.13%), 05/07/20(N +1.41%, S +1.15%), 05/08/20(D +1.91%, N +1.58%, S +1.69%), 05/14/20(D +1.62%, S +1.15%), 05/18/20(D +3.85%, N +2.44%, S +3.15%), 05/20/20(D +1.52%, N +2.08%, S +1.67%), 05/26/20(D +2.17%, S +1.23%), 05/27/20(D +2.21%, S +1.48%), 05/29/20(N +1.29%)

Big Swing Down Days(<-1.00%): 4 days, 05/01/20(D -2.55, N -3.20%, S -2.81%), 05/12/20(D -1.89%, N -2.06%, S -2.05%), 05/13/20(D -2.17%, N -1.55%, S -1.75%), 05/19/20(D -1.59%, S -1.05%)

The PBR1000 May 2019 Snapshots

The following are Top 5 partial tables excerpts from The PBR1000 May 2020 Snapshots. The price for stocks is for the close of trading on May 29, 20201 Month % Chg is compared to April 30, 202012 Months % Chg is compared to May 31, 2019, and the 24 Months % Chg is compared to May 31, 2018. The PBR Rank is by annual revenues.

To get the complete The PBR1000 Snapshots  just click here to get your 12 month subscription and automatically download the May 2020 edition with the complete 15 Snapshots and 27 rankings with the bonuses The PBRMarketTools US Monthly Indices Snapshots and The PBR25 Top Buy Stocks.

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

Table 1 Summary: The range was +139% to -91%713 out of 1,000 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 6.36%, the median was a gain of 4.88%. The DJIA was +4.26%, NASDAQ +6.75%, SPX +4.53%.

Company PBR
Rank
Symbol Price
05/29/20
Mo
% Chg
12 Mos
% Chg
24 Mos
% Chg
Camping World 539 CWH $ 21.18 +139 +101 +11
United Natural Foods
146 UNFI $ 19.60 +84 +93 -57
Penn Natl Gaming
514 PENN $ 32.81 +84 +74 -4
Twilio
992 TWLO $ 197.60 +76 +50 +266
Ocwen Financial 995 OCN $ 0.74 +75 -52 -83

Table 2(S12): The PBR1000 Top 5 12 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 2 Summary: The range was +351% to -99%412 out of 997 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 2.97%, the median was a loss of 8.70%. The DJIA was +2.29%, NASDAQ +27.33%, SPX +10.62%.

Company PBR
Rank
Symbol Price
05/29/20
Mo
% Chg
12 Mos
% Chg
24 Mos
% Chg
Tesla 117 TSLA $ 835.00 +7 +351 +193
Owens & Minor 332 OMI $ 7.93 +12 +195 -51
NVIDIA 284 NVDA $ 255.02 +21 +162 +41
RH 806 RH $ 216.89 +51 +155 +122
Cincinnati Bell 956 CBB $ 14.73 +1 +130 +20

Table 3(S13): The PBR1000 Top 5 24 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: The range was +292% to -99%375 out of 977 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 3.02%. The median was a loss of 16.01%. The DJIA was +3.96%, NASDAQ +27.52%, SPX +12.53%.

Company PBR
Rank
Symbol Price
05/29/20
Mo
% Chg
12 Mos
% Chg
24 Mos
% Chg
AMD 435 AMD $ 53.80 +3 +96 +292
Twilio 992 TWLO $ 197.60 +76 +50 +266
Tesla 117 TSLA $ 835.00 +7 +351 +193
Roku 993 ROKU $ 109.51 -10 +21 +192
Veeva Systems 996 VEEV $ 218.87 +15 +42 +183

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

Table 4 Summary: The range was $1,379 billion to $0.01 billion. The average is $28.329 billionmedian is $6.65 billion, out of 1,000 companies.

Company PBR
Rank
Symbol Market Cap($B)
05/29/20
Mo
% Chg
12/19
% Chg
12/17
% Chg
Apple 4 AAPL $ 1,379 B +10 +7 +58
Microsoft 20 MSFT $ 1,376 B +2 +14 +109
Amazon 2 AMZN $ 1,198 B +1 +31 +115
Alphabet 11 GOOG $ 968 B +5 +5 +33
Facebook 46 FB $ 642 B +16 +10 +25
The PBR1000
  $ 28,329 B +3 -6 +10

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

Company Price
05/29/20
Mo
% Chg
12 Mos
% Chg
24 Mos
% Chg
The PBR1000 89,312.64 +6.4 +3.0 +3.0
DJIA 25,383.11 +4.3 +2.3 +4.0
NASDAQ 9,489.87 +6.8 +27.3 +27.5
S&P500 3,044.31 +4.5 +10.6 +12.5
GOLD 1,743.00 +2.9 +32.9 +33.6
SILVER 18.49 +23.5 +26.9 +12.3
OIL            35.32 +87.5 -34.0 -47.3

To order a 12 month subscription of The PBR1000 Snapshots go to the Subscribe page.

Please use the Contact Us page if you are a The PBR1000 company and would like to increase your visibility to our worldwide base of shrewd investors.

PBRMarketTools.com provides The PBR1000, a compilation of 1,000 of the largest publicly held companies with primary operations in the US. These companies generate $14 trillion in annual revenues, more than all other US companies combined. The PBR1000 Monthly Snapshots provides these 1,000 companies in Excel format, includes 15 worksheets with 28 rankings, over 200 data/information points, hotlinks to key data, and important news items per company. This service is used by astute business professionals and shrewd investors worldwide.

Disclaimers: The PBR1000 is compiled from a variety of publicly available resources. As such, PBRMarketTools.com is not responsible for the data itself. Any liability for the representations or decisions based on the data is solely the responsibility of the authorized user, not PBRMarketTools.com, its employees or affiliates. PBRMarketTools.com is an independent provider of news, data, and analysis. It is not a financial advisor firm or stock brokerage service, and is not affiliated with any such organization.

(Graphic courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net, ddpavumba.)

Copyright © 2020 by Pax Business Resources, LLC, All Rights Reserved, 

The PBR1000 May 2020 Breaking News Recap

The PBR1000 for May: When Do We Restart the Economy?

PBR1000 COVID19 Coronavirus Economy

Federal, State and Local Governments, Business Leaders, and the Public are all asking, “When do the drivers of the economy get the green light?”

By Larry C. Paxton

The May 2020 breaking news items of interest for The PBR1000 follow with the most current date first.

***Friday, May 29

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 22 ending 05/29/20:

DJIA ends Week 22 at 25,383.11, +3.75% from last Friday, +4.26% MTD, +15.81% QTD, -11.06% YTD, -14.11% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends Week 22 at 9,489.87, +1.77% from last Friday, +6.75% MTD, +23.24% QTD, +5.76% YTD, -3.33% from record 9,817.18 set 02/19/20.

SPX ends Week 22 at 3,044.31, +3.01% from last Friday, +4.53% MTD, +17.79% QTD, -5.77% YTD, -10.10% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The end of May and Week 22 News Summary: Center stage during this Week 22 US 4 day work week was the ongoing US and China issues. While trade discussions have been difficult, the latest concern is China taking over more control of former UK colony Hong Kong. US President Trump’s immediate response is to use sanctions. The coronavirus pandemic continues to be big news as well. Countries around the world are starting to re-open their businesses and economy to mixed reviews. In the US many major retailers announced their re-openings and current plans for more. The coronavirus pandemic tally as of 12:32PM Eastern US by the John Hopkins University CSSE unit is now 5,878,701 confirmed cases globally with 362,769 deaths. For the US it’s 1,735,971 confirmed cases and 102,323 deaths. A stream of good news about potential vaccines and tests for coronavirus seemed to escalate during the week. The US economic news was mixed with real data indicating major downturns, especially for employment and real GDP adjusted down from -4.8% to -5.0%. However, it is also now showing some up signs, meaning negative numbers are starting towards the positive, and cautious optimism has been reflected in some interviews of Federal Reserve Board members. Week 22 was a typical progression from the start of May. The additional item of interest for May was the new $3 trillion stimulus package that went into effect mid-month to help businesses make it through the pandemic. It was certainly a good week and end of May for The Stock Market Bull. He came back well rested after the Memorial Day holiday, was eager to fight and quickly gored The Stock Market Bear deep on Tuesday and Wednesday. The Stock Market Bear recovered a little bit on Thursday, and Friday was a mixed result in favor of The Stock Market Bull who easily took Week 22 and the month of May with convincing 3-0 results, but still has a long way to go to get back to record levels achieved earlier in the year.

The Week 22 of 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 11 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 10 weeks
Mixed Results: 1 week

The monthly tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 2 months
The Stock Market Bear: 2 months
Mixed Results: 1 month

AbbVie(PBR94) gets US FDA approval for ORIAHNN™ (elagolix, estradiol, and norethindrone acetate capsules; elagolix capsules), the first oral medication for the management of heavy menstrual bleeding due to uterine fibroids in pre-menopausal women. $ABBV PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR139) gets US FDA approval of CYRAMZA® (ramucirumab) as first-line treatment for metastatic EGFR-mutated non-small celllung cancer. $LLY PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR139) gets US FDA approval of TAUVID™ (flortaucipir F 18 injection) for use in patients being evaluated for Alzheimer’s Disease. $LLY PR link.

Party City(PBR846) gets a Transaction Support Agreement with bond holders, to deleverage balance sheet by approximately $450 million, PCHI to also raise $100.0 million in new capital to increase its financial strength and support its global operations and ongoing transformation initiatives. $PRTY PR link.

The US Dept of the Treasury says the 05/27/20 US National Debt-Public is at $19.766 trillion, Intragovernmental $5.918 trillion, Total Debt $25.684 trillion, +2.8% from 04/29/20, +10.7% from 12/31/19, +16.6% from 05/31/19. USTreasury PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury 05/29/20 US 30 Year Treasury Bond Yield is at +1.41%, 04/30/20 was at +1.28%, 03/31/20 +1.35%, 05/31/19 +2.58%. USTreasury PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/BEA says the Preliminary April 2020 US Personal Income Annual Rate is at $20.675 trillion, +10.5% from March 2020, +11.7% from April 2019; Personal Savings After Outlays is at $6.149 trillion, +33.0% from March 2020, +9.7% from April 2019. USDOC PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says the Preliminary April 2020 US 7th District Midwest Economic Index is at -7.98, March 2020 was at -1.02. “Index suggests Midwest growth fell substantially in April.” ChiFed PR link.

MNI Indicators says the May 2020 Chicago Business Barometer(<50 = declining) is at 32.3, April 2020 was at 35.4, March 2020 47.8, May 2019 54.2. “… the lowest level since March 1982, as business confidence cooled further amid the Covid-19 crisis.” MNI PR link.

The American Automobile Assn says the 05/29/20 US Average Price for a Gallon of Gas is at $1.972, 04/30/20 was at $1.772, 03/31/20 $1.997, 05/31/19 $2.825. AAA PR link.

The U of Michigan May 2020 Final Consumer Sentiment Index is at 72.3, April 2020 was at 71.8, March 2020 89.1, May 2019 100.0. “The CARES relief checks and higher unemployment payments have helped to stem economic hardship, but those programs have not acted to stimulate discretionary spending due to uncertainty about the future course of the pandemic.” UMichigan PR link.

***Thursday, May 28

Amazon(PBR2) will convert 125,000 of the 175,000 temporary jobs hired since March to permanent roles if employees would like to stay at Amazon long term. $AMZN PR link.

CVS Health(PBR5) will open additional COVID-19 test sites at select CVS Pharmacy drive-thru locations on Friday, 05/29/20 to establish a total of 1,000 sites across more than 30 states and Washington, DC. $CVS PR link.

Cisco(PBR61) to acquire privately held San Francisco, CA based internet and cloud intelligence platform provider ThousandEyes, terms not disclosed. $CSCO PR link.

JCPenney(PBR291) has reopened 150 stores in 27 states, now has 304 reopened stores nationwide, plans to have 500 open by 06/03/20. $JCP PR link.

Quest Diagnostics(PBR394) gets US FDA emergency use authorization for the Quest Diagnostics Self-collection Kit for COVID-19 (self-collection kit), allows an individual to swab the front part of the nostril and may be used on children (supervised by an adult) as well as adults. $DGX PR link.

Under Armour(PBR515) reopened its first US stores on 05/15/20, opened additional stores last week, will have nearly 50% of its N America stores open by Friday, 05/29/20, will continue to reopen additional stores on a case-by-case basis. $UA PR link.

Capri(PBR517) is phasing reopening of global stores, in the Americas less than 15% of the 455 retail stores in the region are open, anticipates having the majority open by early 07/20. $CPR PR link.

Electronic Arts(PBR535) gets multi-year renewal with the National Football League (NFL) and the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), the EA SPORTS™ Madden NFLfranchise will exclusively create authentic football simulation games, and EA SPORTS, the NFL and the NFLPA will partner to develop games in new genres, expanded esports programs. $EA PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/BEA says the 1Q20 2nd Estimate US Real Gross Domestic Product Annual Rate Change was -5.0% to $21,534.9 billion, -0.9% from 4Q19, +2.1% from 1Q19. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says for Week Ending 05/23/20 the US 4 Week Moving Average Initial Unemployment Insurance Claims is at 2,608,000, for 04/25/20 it was at 5,033,250, 05/25/19 216,750; for Week Ending 05/16/20 the US 4 Week Moving Average Total Insured Unemployment is at 22,722,250, 04/18/20 was at 13,292,500, 05/18/19 1,672,500; 05/16/20 Insured Unemployment Rate is at 14.5%, 04/18/20 was at 12.4%, 05/18/29 1.2%. USDOL PR link.

The US Energy Information Administration says that 05/22/20 US Crude Oil Inventories are at 534.4 million barrels, 04/24/20 was at 527.6 mb, 03/20/20 455.4 mb, 5/24/19 476.5 mb. USEIA PR link.

FreddieMac says the 05/28/20 US Average 30 Year Fixed Home Mortgage Rate is at a record low of 3.15% with 0.8 points/fees, 04/30/20 was at 3.23%, 03/26/20 3.50%, 05/30/19 3.99%. FreddieMac PR link.

***Wednesday, May 27

Walmart(PBR1) enters the popular fashion resale market in partnership with ThredUP, has nearly 750,000 pre-owned items across women’s and children’s clothing, accessories, footwear and handbags. $WMT PR link.

AT&T(PBR9)’s WarnerMedia unit launches streaming service HBO Max, $14.99/mo, has over 10,000 hours of content. $T PR link.

GE(PBR33) to sell its GE Lighting business to Savant Systems, includes a long-term licensing agreement for use of the GE brand, terms not disclosed, to close mid 2020. $GE PR link.

Boeing(PBR40) has concluded its voluntary layoff program, involuntary layoff program to start, will affect 6,770 workers. $BA PR link.

Boeing(PBR40) has resumed production of the 737 MAX at its Renton, WA factory, to ramp up during rest of the year. $BA PR link.

Walt Disney(PBR49) has submitted a proposal to the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force in Florida describing a phased reopening of Walt Disney World Resort theme parks planned to begin on 07/11/20. $GE PR link.

Archer-Daniels-Midland(PBR54) and beef producer Marfrig (B3:MRFG3) to create PlantPlus Foods, a joint venture for the sale of plant-based food products across S American and N American markets. $ADM PR link.

Gilead Sciences(PBR134) enters into 10 year partnership with Arcus Biosciences(NYSE: RCUS) to co-develop and co-commercialize next-generation cancer Immunotherapies, Gilead to pay $175 million upfront plus a $200 million equity investment plus up to $1.6 billion based on milestones achieved. $GILD PR link.

Marriott Intl(PBR151) has informed above-property associates in the US that furloughs and reduced work week schedules which began in April will be extended through 10/02/20, is also rolling out a voluntary transition program for on-property and above-property associates in the US who may choose to leave the company. $MAR PR link.

American Electric Power(PBR203) has received approvals to acquire the entire planned 1,485 megawatts (MW) of wind generation in Oklahoma, will invest approximately $2 billion in this new renewable energy to serve its Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO) and Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO) customers. $AEP PR link.

MGM Resorts(PBR243) reopening its Las Vegas properties Bellagio, New York-New York, MGM Grand Las Vegas and The Signature on 06/04/20. $MGM PR link.

Wynn Resorts(PBR439) to re-open its Wynn Las Vegas on 06/04/20. $WYNN PR link.

Boyd Gaming(PBR695) to resume operations at 9 properties in Nevada on 06/04/20, 2 properties in Missouri and 2 in Iowa on 06/01/20. $BYD PR link.

The US Federal Reserve releases the Beige Book for data collected through 05/18/20. “Although many contacts expressed hope that overall activity would pick-up as businesses reopened, the outlook remained highly uncertain and most contacts were pessimistic about the potential pace of recovery.” USFed PR link.

The US Federal Bank of Richmond says the May 2020 US 5th District Manufacturing Index(Annualized) is at -27%, April 2020 was at -53%, March 2020 +2%, May 2019 +7%. “… contacts expected conditions to improve in
the next six months.” RichmondFed PR link.

The US Federal Bank of Richmond says the May 2020 US 5th District Service Sector Revenue Index(Annualized) is at -48%, April 2020 was at -87%, March 2020 +1%, May 2019 +3%. “Survey respondents expected conditions and revenues to remain soft in the coming months.” RichmondFed PR link.

***Tuesday, May 26

Alphabet(PBR11)’s Google unit to phase in re-opening of offices starting 07/06/20 at around 10% of capacity, 30% by September, giving each Googler an allowance of $1,000, or the equivalent value in a country, to expense necessary equipment and office furniture for the majority who continue to work from home. $GOOG PR link.

Merck(PBR66) to acquire privately held vaccines, including a COVID-19 candidate, and immune-modulation therapies for infectious diseases and cancer developer Themis, terms not disclosed. $MRK PR link.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR108) gets US FDA approval for Opdivo® (nivolumab) + Yervoy® (ipilimumab) combined with limited chemotherapy as first-line treatment of metastatic or recurrent non-small cell lung cancer. $BMY PR link.

JCPenney(PBR291) launches its Linden Street brand with 100% cotton sheet sets starting at $40, and quilts and comforters ranging from $90 to $220. $JCPNQ PR link.

Regeneron(PBR387) offering a secondary public offering of 12.8 million of Sanofi‘s 23.2 million common shares, to repurchase approximately $5 billion of common stock directly from Sanofi, Sanofi to hold around 400,000 shares after common stock sale. $REGN PR link.

Triumph Group(PBR686) says all 36 of its operational factories have returned to safe operational status following closures related to government-mandated shutdowns, COVID-19 cases, and temporary closure of customer facilities, has recalled approximately 2,000 of the previously announced 4,200 furloughs, and completed the 700-person reduction in force of salaried positions. $TGI PR link.

Six Flags(PBR963) to re-open its Frontier City in Oklahoma City, OK, park with limited capacity beginning 06/05/20. $SIX PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says the Preliminary April 2020 US National Activity Index is at -16.74, March 2020 was at -4.97, February 2020 +0.05, April 2019 -0.69. ChiFed PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says the Preliminary April 2020 US New Family Homes Sold Annual Rate is at 623,000 units, March 2020 was at 619,000, February 2020 717,000, April 2019 664,000; April 2020 Median Home Price is at $309,900, March 2020 was at $326,900, February 2020 $331,400, April 2019 $339,000. USDOC PR link.

The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller Preliminary March 2020 US Natl Composite Home Price Index((01/2000=100) is at 214.96, February 2020 was at 213.16, January 2020 212.34, March 2019 205.99, a 4.4% increase year-to-year. Case-Shiller PR link.

The Conference Board says the Preliminary May 2020 Consumer Confidence Index(1985=100) is at 86.6, April 2020 was at 85.7, March 2020 118.8, May 2019 131.3. “While the decline in confidence appears to have stopped for the moment, the uneven path to recovery and potential second wave are likely to keep a cloud of uncertainty hanging over consumers’ heads.” TCB PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia says the May 2020 US 3rd District Non-Manufacturing General Activity Index is at -68.6, April 2020 was at -96.4, March 2020 -35.1, May 2019 +16.8. PhillyFed PR link.

***Monday, May 25

***US Memorial Day
***Remembering the fallen heroes
***who made the ultimate sacrifice
***so that we can remain free
***and a beacon of hope.
***US Stock Exchanges Closed.

***Friday, May 22

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 21 ending 05/22/20:

DJIA ends Week 21 at 24,465.16, +3.29% from last Friday, +0.49% MTD, +11.63% QTD, -14.27% YTD, -17.21% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends Week 21 at 9,324.59, +3.44% from last Friday, +4.89% MTD, +21.10% QTD, +3.92% YTD, -5.02% from record 9,817.18 set 02/19/20.

SPX ends Week 21 at 2,955.45, +3.20% from last Friday, +1.48% MTD, +14.35% QTD, -8.52% YTD, -12.72% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The Week 21 News Summary: During the week more retailers, manufacturers and other businesses announced their plans for re-opening during the coronavirus pandemic, with social distancing and other health aids being a part of the mix. The tally as of 12:32PM Eastern US by the John Hopkins University CSSE unit says there are now 5,169,907 confirmed cases globally with 335,993 deaths. For the US it’s 1,591,242 confirmed cases and 95,533 deaths. US economic data now shows much of the near term impact, such as jobs lost and existing home sales tumbling, but there are also some consumer and business surveys, which are more current, that indicate some optimism after the significant spike downwards. The US Federal Reserve says it still has more ways to help the economy recover. In the minutes of the last meeting of the Federal Open Market Committee it was very clear that they had significant discussions about how to proceed. Forecasts are all over the place with some experts saying there will be a quick recovery, meaning during the 3rd and 4th quarters of this year, and some saying it will take well into 2021 or 2022, some say even later, for a full recovery. This year will be compounded by the election process where both sides will most assuredly exaggerate their points of view on the economy and how they will fix it. Perhaps the biggest event of the week was the renewed tension between the US and China on trade issues. Investors started the week very positive. The Stock Market Bull, after the big loss last week, come out determined to redeem himself on Monday and was helped by news of a potential coronavirus vaccine result, and had a huge day. But The Stock Market Bear responded back on Tuesday as the news was questioned, then lost again on Wednesday, took Thursday, and Friday was a slight edge for The Stock Market Bull, who gets a strong Week 21 3-0 victory. We head into a long Memorial Day weekend with a breather for the stock exchanges on Monday, and then the finish of another volatile month in Week 22. Enjoy the long weekend, still stay safe and don’t eat too many hotdogs!

The Week 21 of 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 10 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 10 weeks
Mixed Results: 1 week

Bed Bath & Beyond(PBR277) to have around 50% of its stores open by 06/13/20, includes about 500 Bed Bath & Beyond stores across North America, as well as around 50 Christmas Tree Shop stores and around 50 Cost Plus World Market stores in the US, is in addition to buybuy BABY and Harmon Face Values stores that have remained open; phase-in will bring approximately 11,000 associates back from furlough. $BBBY PR link.

Hertz(PBR314) and its US and Canada units file voluntary petitions for reorganization under Chapter 11 in the US Bankruptcy Court, impact of coronavirus pandemic, does not include international or franchise locations, businesses remain open, has $1 billion in cash available to support ongoing operations. $HTZ PR link.

***Thursday, May 21

Macy’s(PBR118) closed all stores on 03/18/20, started re-opening on 05/04/20, have approximately 190 Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s stores open in their full formats, expect another 80 Macy’s stores to open for Memorial Day weekend, has seen a steady uptick in online sales. $M PR link.

L Brands(PBR243 $LB) to close 250 Victoria’s Secret stores in the US and Canada, sees brand generating $5.5-6.0 billion in revenues per year. The Motley Fool PR link.

YUM!(PBR491)’s Taco Bell unit to hire 30,000+ team members this summer. $YUM PR link.

Harley-Davidson(PBR507 $HOG) has begun a planned phased approach to resuming production in its US manufacturing facilities, full staffing of 1,000 expected at the engine and drivetrain factory in Menomonee Falls, WI, following Memorial Day weekend. Milwaukee Sentinel Journal PR link.

Tempur Sealy(PBR729) has begun opening its domestic retail stores in a phased approach, expects the vast majority of its approximately 160 U.S. retail locations to be open by the end of May. $TPX PR link.

The Conference Board says the April 2020 US Leading Economic Index(2016=100) is at 98.8, March 2020 was at 103.2, February 2020 110.6, April 2019 111.9. “Business conditions may recover for some sectors and industries over the next few months… But, the breadth and depth of the decline in the LEI suggests that an imminent re-opening of some sectors does not imply a fast rebound for the economy at large.” TCB PR link.

The Natl Assn of Realtors says the Preliminary April 2020 US Existing Home Sales Annual Rate is at 4,330,000 units, March 2020 was at 5,270,000, April 2019 5,230,000; Median Sales Price is at $286,800, March 2020 was at $280,600, April 2019 $267,000. NAR PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia says the May 2020 US 3rd District Manufacturing General Activity Indicator is at -43.1, April 2020 was at -56.6, March 2020 -12.7, May 2019 +17.5. “The firms expect the current slump in manufacturing activity to last less than six months, as the broadest indicator of future activity strengthened further from last month’s reading; furthermore, the firms continue to expect overall growth in new orders, shipments, and employment over the next six months.” PhillyFed PR link.

***Wednesday, May 20

Intel(PBR45) has acquired wifi solutions provider Rivet Networks$INTC PR link.

The US Federal Open Market Committee releases the minutes from its 04/28-29/20 meeting, says “The staff observed that uncertainty regarding the economic effects of the coronavirus outbreak was extremely elevated and that the historical behavior of the U.S. economy in response to past economic shocks provided limited guidance for making judgments about how the economy might evolve over coming quarters.” FOMC PR link.

***Tuesday, May 19

Amazon(PBR2 $AMZN) to open new 820,000sf fulfillment center in former General Motors facility in Wilmington, DE, is third facility in state, will employ 1,000 fulltime workers. MarketWatch PR link.

Facebook(PBR140) launches Facebook Shops, a mobile-first shopping experience where businesses can easily create an online store on Facebook and Instagram for free. $FB PR link.

Kohl’s(PBR160) in quarterly report says it has opened up around 50% of its stores with the latest health and safety measures. $KSS PR link.

MGM Resorts(PBR244) to re-open its two Mississippi properties, Gold Strike Casino Resort in Tunica will reopen in a limited capacity to the public on 05/25/20, followed by Biloxi’s Beau Rivage Resort & Casino’s reopening 06/01/20, also in a limited capacity. $MGM PR link.

Darden Restaurants(PBR361) started re-opening restaurants 04/27/20, 49% now open through 05/17/20, with dining rooms limited to 25%-50% of capacity, expects to have 65% open by 05/31/20. $DRI PR link.

Capri(PBR518) says because of complications from the COVID-19 pandemic it is unable to file its annual 10-K report with the SEC, has up to 45 days after 05/27/20 to be in compliance. $CPRI PR link.

Pier 1 Imports(PBR954) seeking Bankruptcy Court approval to begin an orderly wind-down of its retail operations as soon as reasonably possible after store locations are able to reopen following the government-mandated closures during the COVID-19 pandemic, has not been able to find a buyer. $PIRRQ PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says the Preliminary April 2020 New Residential Construction Building Permits-Private Housing Annual Rate is at 1,074,000, March 2020 was at 1,356,000, February 2020 1,438,000, April 2019 1,330,000. Click on the link for Housing Starts, House Completions and additional data. USDOC PR link.

***Monday, May 18

Verizon(PBR19) completes acquisition of 390 employees enterprise-grade cloud-based video conferencing and event platform provider BlueJeans, will be deeply integrated into Verizon’s 5G product roadmap, providing secure and real-time engagement solutions for high growth areas such as telemedicine, distance learning and field service work. $VZ PR link.

Occidental Petroleum(PBR149) has completed sale of Anadarko’s Mozambique and South Africa assets to Total SA(NYSE: TOT), unable to sell Algerian assets per agreement with Algerian government, gets waiver from Total to sell the Ghana assets to another party. $OXY PR link.

PG&E(PBR185) says preliminary indications for its Plan of Reorganization is getting overwhelming acceptance by the wildfire victims entitled to vote on the Plan, Plan confirmation hearing scheduled for 05/27/20, believes that it remains on track for Plan confirmation by 06/30/20. $PCG PR link.

Uber(PBR227 $UBER) to cut 3,000 more jobs on top of 3,700 announced on 05/06/20, 6,700 is about 25% of workforce, to close 45 offices, in response to drop in rides from coronavirus pandemic. MarketWatch PR link.

Huntsman(PBR430) completes $300 million cash acquisition of CVC Thermoset Specialties, a N American specialty chemical manufacturer serving the industrial composites, adhesives and coatings markets, from Emerald Performance Materials LLC which is majority owned by affiliates of American Securities. $HUN PR link.

GameStop(PBR450) letter to shareholders explains progress made under strategic program “GameStop Reboot,” addresses issues by dissident stockholders. $GME PR link.

SS&C Tech(PBR565) completes $120 million acquisition of New York-based 150+ employees developer of systems for trust accounting, payments and unique asset servicing on modern, web-based technology Innovest Systems$SSNC PR link.

Boyd Gaming(PBR696) plans to reopen 7 casino properties in Louisiana and Mississippi this week, 2 more next week. $BYD PR link.

Hertz(PBR315) President/CEO Kathryn V. Marinello resigns from her roles and as a Board member, will continue in a consulting position for up to 1 year, EVP/Chief Retail Operations Officer N America Paul Stone elected to be President/CEO and Board member effective immediately. $HTZ PR link.

The Natl Assn of Home Builders says the Preliminary May 2020 Housing Market Composite Index(<50 = more builders view conditions as poor than good) is at 37, April 2020 was at 30, March 2020 72, May 2019 66. “As many states and localities across the nation lift stay-at-home orders and more furloughed workers return to their jobs, we expect this demand will strengthen. Other indicators that suggest a housing rebound include mortgage application data that has posted four weeks of gains and signs that buyer traffic has improved in housing markets in recent weeks.” NAHB PR link.

***Friday, May 15

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 20 ending 05/15/20:

DJIA ends Week 20 at 23,685.42, -2.56% from last Friday, -2.71% MTD, +8.07% QTD, -17.01% YTD, -19.85% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends Week 20 at 9,014.56, -1.17% from last Friday, +1.41% MTD, +17.07% QTD, +0.47% YTD, -8.18% from record 9,817.18 set 02/19/20.

SPX ends Week 20 at 2,863.70, -2.26% from last Friday, -1.67% MTD, +10.80% QTD, -11.36% YTD, -15.43% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The Week 20 News Summary: Several national governments are starting to open up their economies somewhat as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. The tally as of 12:32PM Eastern US by the John Hopkins University CSSE unit says there are now 4,516,360 confirmed cases globally with 306,051 deaths. For the US it’s 1,432,045 confirmed cases and 86,851 deaths. Many US states are starting to open up their economies for most businesses, with social distancing and use of face masks being pushed as the responsibility for workers and customers. The US Food and Drug Administration continues to aggressively issue Emergency Use Authorizations for tests and possible treatments. President Trump says there will be a vaccine by the end of the year, but many view this as too optimistic. The openings are controversial with many prominent health professionals saying this is dangerous and will increase the spread of COVID-19, but politicians being pushed by businesses to say the risk to the economy is greater. It is a difficult balancing act with no clear cut answers at this time, even though there will be many in hindsight. US economic news was gloomy at best as figures from February through April are starting to show. The weekly initial jobless numbers continue to be in the millions, job openings is down, and there are concerns that it will take the 36 million employees out of work years to recover. Comments by members of the US Federal Reserve were not particularly encouraging as well. The US House has put together a new stimulus package of $3 trillion, but many have said it is dead on arrival. The US-China trade talks seem to have reached an impasse at this time, and the Saudi Arabia-Russia oil production issues continue to keep oil prices abnormally low. The Stock Market Bear was angry about his loss last week and charged hard at The Stock Market Bull and took out a big chunk of his hide the first 3 days of the week. The Stock Market Bull made some valiant attempts to come back the last two days of the week but it was not nearly enough, and he is forced to relinquish Week 20 with a 0-3 record.

The Week 20 of 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 9 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 10 weeks
Mixed Results: 1 week

Facebook(PBR46) has acquired GIPHY, 50% of its traffic is from Facebook, Facebook to further integrate GIPHY’s GIF library into Instagram and other Facebook apps, terms not disclosed. $FB PR link.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR108) gets US FDA approval for Opdivo® (nivolumab) + Yervoy® (ipilimumab) as first-line treatment of patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer shose tumors express PD-L1≥1%. $BMY PR link.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR108) gets US FDA approval for Pomalyst® (pomalidomide) for AIDS-related and HIV-Negative kaposi sarcoma. $BMY PR link.

JCPenney(PBR292) files voluntary petitions for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the US Bankruptcy Code, has restructuring support agreement with lenders holding approximately 70% of JCPenney’s first lien debt who are providing $900 million in debtor-in-possession financing, stores to close in phases during process. $JCP PR link.

Legg Mason(PBR761) shareholders approve $50.00/share cash, will also assume about $2 billion of Legg Mason’s outstanding debt, acquisition by Franklin Resources(PBR478), to close in 3Q20. $LM PR link.

GNC(PBR885) gets amended agreements to extend the springing maturity dates for the term loan facility, FILO credit facility and revolving credit facility to get balance under $50 million from 05/16/20 to 08/10/20. $GNC PR link.

WW(PBR963) says it will be laying off some personnel worldwide, expects reduction in force to be completed by end of 2020. $WW PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the Preliminary March 2020 Job Openings-Private is at 5,462,000, Government 730,000, Total 6,192,000, February 2020 was at 7,005,000, March 2019 7,364,000. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says the Preliminary April 2020 Industrial Production % of Capacity is at 64.9%, March 2020 was at 73.2%, February 2020 76.7%, April 2019 77.8%. USFed PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the Preliminary March 2020 US Sales-Manufacturing is at $473.6 billion, Retail $437.6 billion, Wholesales $475.0 billion, Total Sales $1.386 trillion, February 2020 was at $1.463 trillion, January 2020 $1.471 trillion, March 2019 $1.458 trillion. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the Preliminary April 2020 US Sales-Retail is at $371.5 billion, Food Services & Drinking Places $32.4 billion, Total Retail Sales $403.9 billion, March 2020 was at $483.5, February 2020 $527.3 billion, April 2019 $515.3 billion. USDOC PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York says the May 2020 US Empire State Manufacturing General Business Conditions Index is at -48.5, April 2020 was at -78.2, March 2020 -21.5, May 2019 +14.4. “While current conditions remained extremely weak, firms grew more optimistic that conditions would be better six months from now.” NYFed PR link.

The U of Michigan Preliminary May 2020 US Consumer Sentiment Index is at 73.7, April 2020 was at 71.8, March 2020 89.1, May 2019 100.0. “Confidence inched upward in early May as the CARES relief checks improved consumers’ finances and widespread price discounting boosted their buying attitudes. Despite these gains, personal financial prospects for the year ahead continued to weaken, falling to the lowest level in almost six years…” UMichigan PR link.

***Thursday, May 14

Kroger(PBR22) says it has hired more than 100,000 workers in the past eight weeks, including those from the hardest-hit sectors like restaurants, hotels and food service distributors, continues to hire. $KR PR link.

Delta(PBR65) to retire its 18 widebody Boeing 777s by the end of 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, will accelerate strategy to simplify and modernize its fleet, while continuing to operate newer, more cost-efficient aircraft. $DAL PR link.

Goldman Sachs(PBR87) to acquire McLean, VA based 160 employees and around $11 billion in assets for RIAs boutique custodian for wealth management firms Folio Financial, to close in 3Q20, terms not disclosed. -Folio Financial $GS PR link.

Carnival Corp(PBR153) provides update on response to COVID-19 pandemic, is doing a combination of layoffs, furloughs, reduced work weeks and salary reductions across the company, including senior management, as all ships return to their home ports. $CCL PR link.

Tapestry(PBR474) expects to have over 300 Coach, Kate Spade, and Stuart Weitzman stores in N America offering curbside or store pickup service by the end of this week and around 120 stores to be open in Europe, Japan, Malaysia, and Australia, all stores are already open in China and S Korea. $TPR PR link.

Columbia Sportswear(PBR737) to reopen 30 branded stores in ten states on Friday, 05/15/20, bringing back more than 250 of its furloughed retail workers. $COLM PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the Preliminary April 2020 US All Imports Price Index is at -2.6%, March 2020 was at -2.4%, February 2020 -0.7%, April 2019 +0.2%; All Exports Price Index is at -3.3%, March 2020 was at -1.7%, February 2020 -1.2%, April 2019 +0.1%; Year-to-Year All Imports is -6.8%, All Exports -7.0%. USDOL PR link.

***Wednesday, May 13

Ford(PBR12) to restart initial production in the UK at its Dagenham Engine Plant in Essex and Bridgend Engine Plant in South Wales from 05/18/20, means that all of Ford’s European manufacturing facilities will be back at work. $F PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the Preliminary April 2020 Total Final Month Demand Producer Price Index is -1.3%, March 2020 was at -0.2%, February 2020 -0.6%, April 2019 +0.4%, Last 12 Months -1.2%. USDOL PR link.

***Tuesday, May 12

Facebook(PBR46 $FB) to pay $52 million to current and former moderators to compensate them for mental health issues developed on the job. The Verge PR link.

Thermo Fisher Scientific(PBR112) gets US FDA approval for further expanded emergency use authorization (EUA) for its multiplex real-time PCR test intended for the qualitative detection of nucleic acid from SARS‑CoV‑2, the virus that causes COVID-19$TMO PR link.

Gilead Sciences(PBR134) has signed non-exclusive voluntary licensing agreements with five generic pharmaceutical manufacturers based in India and Pakistan to further expand supply of remdesivir for distribution in 127 nearly all low-income and lower-middle income countries, as well as several upper-middle- and high-income countries that face significant obstacles to healthcare access. $GILD PR link.

Las Vegas Sands(PBR232) decides to discontinue its pursuit of Integrated Resort (IR) development in Japan$LVS PR link.

LabCorp(PBR264) is offering its COVID-19 at-home collection test kit to individuals nationwide who have symptoms consistent with COVID-19 infection and individuals without symptoms who may have been exposed to the virus, no upfront cost, is in addition to healthcare workers and first responders. $LH PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says the April 2020 US Federal Government Receipts are at $241.9 billion, Outlays $980.0 billion, for a Deficit of $737.9 billion; April 2020 YTD Receipts(7 Months) are at $1.845 trillion, YTD Outlays $3.327 trillion, YTD Deficit $1.481 trillion, YTD April 2019 was at $ 0.531 trillion. USTreasury PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the Preliminary April 2020 Current Average Employee Earnings/Hour is at $30.01, Average Hours Worked Per Week 34.2, for Average Current Weekly Earnings of $1,026.34, +5.0% from March 2020, +7.3% from April 2019. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the April 2020 Consumer Price Index Change is at -0.8%, March 2020 was at -0.4%, February 2020 +0.1%, April 2019 +0.3%, Last 12 Months +0.3%. USDOL PR link.

CoreLogic says the February 2020 US Home Loans 30 Days or More Delinquent is at 3.6%, January 2020 was at 3.5%, December 2019 3.7%, February 2019 4.0%. “After a long period of decline, we are likely to see steady waves of delinquencies throughout the rest of 2020 and into 2021. The pandemic and its impact on national employment is unfolding on a scale and at a speed never before experienced and without historical precedent. The next six months will provide important clues on whether public and private sector countermeasures — current and future — will soften the blow and help us avoid the protracted, widespread foreclosures and delinquencies experienced in the Great Recession.” USDOL PR link.

***Monday, May 11

Abbott(PBR99) gets US FDA Emergence Use Authorization(EUA) for SARS-CoV-2 IgG lab-based serology blood test on the Alinity™ i system, plans to ship nearly 30 million antibody tests globally in May across its ARCHITECT® and Alinity i™ platforms and will have capacity for 60 million tests in June, is 4th COVID-19 US FDA EUA. $ABT PR link.

Tesla(PBR117) on 05/09/20 outlines plans to re-open Fremont, CA manufacturing facility, files lawsuit against Alameda County for City of Fremont denying re-open. $TSLA PR link.

Tesla(PBR117) Founder/CEO Elon Musk tweets that the Fremont, CA manufacturing facility is restarting production today against Alameda County rules, if anyone is arrested asks that it be only him. $TSLA PR link.

PNC Financial(PBR177) to sell its 22.4% investment in BlackRock(PBR218) through a registered offering and related buyback by BlackRock for $1.1 billion. $PNC PR link.

Coty(PBR354) to get initial investment of $750 million through the sale of convertible preferred shares to KKR(PBR608), sign a Memorandum of Understanding for the sale of a majority in Coty’s Professional Beauty and Retail Hair Businesses including the Wella, Clairol, OPI and ghd brands at a contemplated enterprise value of $4.3 billion. $COTY PR link.

Stage Stores(PBR952) files voluntary petitions under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code in the US Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas, Houston Division, will simultaneously solicit bids for a going concern sale of the business or any of its assets and initiate an orderly wind-down of operations, will terminate the wind-down of operations at certain locations if it receives a viable going-concern bid. $SSI PR link.

***Friday, May 8

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 19 ending 05/08/20:

DJIA ends Week 19 at 24,331.32, +2.56% from last Friday, -0.06% MTD, +11.01% QTD, -14.74% YTD, -17.66% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends Week 19 at 9,121.32, +6.00% from last Friday, +2.61% MTD, +18.46% QTD, +1.66% YTD, -7.09% from record 9,817.18 set 02/19/20.

SPX ends Week 19 at 2,929.80, +3.50% from last Friday, +0.60% MTD, +13.36% QTD, -9.32 YTD, -13.48% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The Week 19 News Summary: Several US states have loosened up some restrictions put in place over the past few months to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Many companies in some some industries have been given the go-ahead and are starting cautiously to re-open their businesses. There are mixed opinions on this, as public and private health professionals would prefer to keep the restrictions in place, but business owners are bleeding cash and need to get their establishments running again to prevent permanent loss of their establishments. In April the US lost over 20 million jobs and the unemployment rate jumped from 3.5% a few months ago to 14.7%. Many experts are saying this is a “light” figure because many more people have been affected that have not been able to be counted for some reason. The latest COVID-19 numbers from John Hopkins U CSSE are: Globally confirmed cases are at 3,926,724, Deaths 273,034; US confirmed cases are at 1,281,246, Deaths 76,901. It is hard to tell if the curve is flattening as old hotspots start fading away, but new ones start. With the start of the re-opening of the economy there was optimism on Wall StreetThe Stock Market Bear was kicked out of the pasture as The Stock Market Bull charged in. NASDAQ did especially well by being the first exchange to go back positive year-to-date. While The Stock Market Bull once again ties The Stock Market Bear year-to-date in weekly wins, there is still a lot of effort that will be needed to get back above last year and to be in records territory. The question is, “Can The Stock Market Bull maintain his Spring romp in May?”

The Week 19 of 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 9 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 9 weeks
Mixed Results: 1 week

Merck(PBR66) gets US FDA approval for LYNPARZA® (olaparib) as first-line maintenance treatment with Bevacizumab for HRD-positive advanced ovarian cancer. $MRK PR link.

AbbVie(PBR94) completes $193.23/share cash & stock $63 billion acquisition of Allergan(PBR197), creates a $50 billion revenues/year pharmaceutical company. $ABBV PR link.

Fluor(PBR166) on regulatory filing says it received a subpoena from the US Dept of Justice seeking documents and information related to 2Q19 charges; certain of the projects associated with those charges; and certain project accounting, financial reporting and governance matters, follows the US Securities and Exchange Commission investigation requesting on 02/18/20 similar information, Fluor is cooperating, Board has also formed a separate committee to do a review. $FLR PR link.

Royal Caribbean(PBR285) provides update on responses to COVID-19 pandemic, includes reducing workforce by around 26% of 5,000+ US shoreside employees. $RCL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the April 2020 US Total Number of Employed(Table A-1) is at 133,403,000, -22,369,000 from March 2020, -23,242,000 from April 2019; Total Unemployed is at 23,078,000, +15,937,000 from March 2020, +17,253,000 from April 2019; Unemployment Rate is at 14.7%, March 2020 was at 4.4%, February 2020 3.5%, April 2019 3.6%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the Preliminary March 2020 US Wholesale Sales-Durables is at $225.8 billion, Non-Durables $249.2 billion, Total Sales $475.0 billion, -5.2% from February 2020, -5.2% from March 2019. See Table 1 for Inventories and Inventories/Sales Ratios. USDOC PR link.

***Thursday, May 7

UnitedHealth(PBR7) will provide more than $1.5 billion in initial assistance, including customer premium credits, to its UnitedHealthcare customers as many people have been unable to access routine or planned care due to the COVID-19 pandemic. $UNH PR link.

Alphabet(PBR11 $GOOG) drops controversial Sidewalk Labs unit ‘smart city’ project in Toronto. MarketWatch PR link.

Ford(PBR12) phasing in restart, includes its N American parts depots resuming full operations on 05/11/20, on 05/18/20 its N American assembly plants previously operating on three-shift patterns will return with two-shifts, most two-shift plants will return on one shift and most one-shift plants will operate on one shift, will include new health protocols, employees able to do their jobs remotely will continue to do so until advised otherwise. $F PR link.

Kohl’s(PBR159) to reopen stores in Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Georgia, Idaho, Mississippi, Montana, and Texas, as well as a majority of its stores in Florida and Tennessee on Monday, 05/11, after opening stores in Arkansas, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Utah earlier this week. $KSS PR link.

PG&E(PBR185) $200 million fine for causing deadly wildfires is waived by California regulators, fine would hinder PG&E’s plan to exit bankruptcy by 06/30/20 deadline. $PCG PR link.

Gap Inc(PBR198 $GPS) to open 800 stores by the end of May, will be across the company’s portfolio of chains including Old Navy, Banana Republic and Athleta, “Ship from store” service will be available at 1,000 stores and curbside pickup at 75, with plans to expand those services. MarketWatch PR link.

Charles Schwab(PBR291) to acquire assets of San Mateo, CA-based technology and data science developer of thematic investment strategies that allows investors to trade intelligently weighted baskets of stocks built around themes, investing styles or multi-asset models Motif, terms not disclosed, to close mid-2020. $SCHW PR link.

JCPenney(PBR292) and and Sephora USA have reaffirmed their long-standing partnership to operate Sephora inside JCPenney (SiJCP), have resolved outstanding legal matters and have agreed to mutually beneficial revisions to their joint enterprise operating agreement. $JCP PR link.

BorgWarner(PBR304) $3.3 billion all stock acquistion of Delphi Technologies PLC (NYSE: DLPH) amended to allow Delphi to use its $500 million revolving credit facility, exchange ratio lowered to 0.4307 shares of BorgWarner for each share of Delphi, on track to close in 2H20. $BWA PR link.

Ulta Beauty(PBR402) has curbside pickup in more than 700 locations, is planning to open around 180 locations in select states on 05/11/20. $ULTA PR link.

Fresh Del Monte(PBR579) reinstates share repurchase program, reflects the confidence it has in its long-term performance and its belief that it can successfully execute its strategy. $FDP PR link.

Tailored Brands(PBR758) to phase in opening of approximately 300 Men’s Wearhouse, Jos. A. Bank and K&G stores by Memorial Day, with the first stores opening in Georgia and Texas this week. $TLRD PR link.

TripAdvisor(PBR948) in 1Q20 report says response to COVID-19 includes a workforce reduction of around 700 employees, will likely impact another around 200, the 900 total representing 23% of the workforce, and furloughing a further approximately 850 employees, or 22% of its workforce. $TRIP PR link.

Cincinnati Bell(PBR970) shareholders approve $15.50/share cash, around $2.9 billion, includes debt, acquisition by Macquarie Infrastructure(PBR933), still needs regulatory approvals, to close in 1H21. $CBB PR link.

Fiserv(PBR303) CEO Jeffery Yabuki to step down on 07/01/20 after 15 years with the company, will continue to serve as Executive Chairman through 12/31/20, Frank Bisignano elected to become CEO. $FISV PR link.

Univar(PBR331) appoints independent Lead Director Christopher D. Pappas as independent Chairman, succeeds Stephen D. Newlin who will continue to serve on the Board. $UNVR PR link.

Teradata(PBR866) hires Steve McMillan as President/CEO and member of the Board effective 06/08/20, will succeed interim President/CEO Victor Lund who will continue as an advisor through 2020. $TDC PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says the Preliminary March 2020 Consumer Credit Outstanding-Revolving is at $1.066 trillion, Non-Revolving $3.143 trillion, Total $4.209 trillion, -0.3% from February 2020, +0.2% YTD(3 months), +3.8% from March 2019. USFed PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the Preliminary 1Q20 US Business Sector Labor Productivity Output/Hour is at -2.3%, 4Q19 was at +1.0%, 3Q19 -0.4%, 1Q19 +4.0%. USDOL PR link.

FannieMae says the April 2020 US Home Purchase Sentiment Index is at 63.0, its lowest reading since November 2011, March 2020 was at 80.8, February 2020 92.5, April 2019 88.3. “… consumers reported a markedly more pessimistic view of homebuying and home selling conditions. Moreover, on net, more consumers reported that their household income is significantly lower today than it was 12 months ago.” FannieMae PR link.

***Wednesday, May 6

Ford(PBR12) in design collaboration with 3M(PBR98 $MMM) has built and is shipping 10,000+ powered airpurifying respirators(PAPRs) to healthcare workers, has ability to make 100,000 more, also receives order from New Jersey for 500,000 reusable gowns, can produce 200,000 per week. $F PR link.

Uber(PBR227) in response and demand as a result of the coronavirus pandemic is reducing its customer support and recruiting teams by approximately 3,700 full-time employee roles. $UBER PR link.

Marriott Vacations(PBR595) in response to coronavirus pandemic on its business is reducing corporate spending, includes furloughing 65% of associates and reducing work weeks by roughly 25%, on average, for its remaining associates. $VAC PR link.

Sinclair Broadcast(PBR607 $SBGI) agrees to pay record US Federal Communications Commission $48 million civil penalty and abide by a strict compliance plan in order to close three open investigations per its investigation into the company’s disclosure of information relating to its proposed acquisition of stations owned by Tribune MediaFCC PR link.

Sinclair Broadcast(PBR607) responds to $48 million fine by the US FCC, says it is pleased with the resolution and to be moving forward. $SBGI PR link.

Abercrombie & Fitch(PBR656) had closed stores mid March due to the coronavirus pandemic, to start to reopen stores in locations in N America and the EMEA region where regulations permit following guidance from government health authorities. $ANF PR link.

Danaher(PBR175) President/CEO Thomas P. Joyce Jr to retire on 09/01/20, EVP Rainer M. Blair named as successor. $DHR PR link.

Carlisle Cos(PBR548) Chairman David A. Roberts per mandatory retirement age of 72, President/CEO D. Christian Koch elected to add Chairman role to his responsibilities. $CSL PR link.

Hawaiian Electric(PBR759) Chairman since 2006 Jeff Watanabe retires, Retired Admiral Tom Fargo elected as the new Chairman. $HE PR link.

ADP says the April 2020 US Change In Employment-Small Businesses is at -6,005,000, Mid-Sized -5,269,000, Large-Sized -8,963,000, Total April 2020 -20,236,000, Total March 2020 was at a revised-149,000, Total February 2020 a revised +147,000, Total April 2019 +196,000, ADP PR link.

***Tuesday, May 5

Walgreens Boots Alliance(PBR18) to resume standard store operating hours starting today where permitted by local regulations. $WBA PR link.

Sysco(PBR55) in 3Q20 report says it has reduced its staffing levels by approximately 33% through a combination of temporary workforce furloughs and permanent reductions in force because of the impact to business by the COVID-19 pandemic. $SYY PR link.

United Airlines(PBR73) to slash 30% of management jobs starting in 10/20, at least 3,400 people, due to impact of COVID-19 pandemic. $UAL PR link.

Tyson(PBR75) to resume limited pork and beef production at its Waterloo, IA facility on Thursday, 05/07/20, with all workers being tested for COVID-19, and new health and social distancing rules. $TSN PR link.

Cognizant(PBR190) to acquire privately held Reston, VA based 1,000 employees global consultancy specializing in Workday enterprise cloud applications for finance and human resources Collaborative Solutions, terms not disclosed, to close in 2Q20. $CTSH PR link.

Uber(PBR227 $UBER) and Lyft(PBR868 $LYFT) being sued by the Attorney General of California and City Attorneys of Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco alleging worker misclassification of drivers, says should be classified as employees and have benefits. CA AG Office PR link.

Charles Schwab(PBR291) to introduce Schwab Stock Slices™, will enable investors to own any of America’s leading companies from the S&P 500 for as little as $5 each, even if their shares cost more, to launch 06/09/20, investors can purchase a single stock slice or up to 10 different Stock Slices™ at once, commission-free. $SCHW PR link.

Hertz(PBR315) enters into forbearances and limited waivers with certain of its corporate lenders and holders of its asset-backed vehicle debt, provides Hertz with additional time through 05/22/20 to engage in discussions with its key stakeholders to develop a financing strategy and structure that better reflects the economic impact of the COVID-19 global pandemic and Hertz’ ongoing operating and financing requirements. $HTZ PR link.

Wayfair(PBR337) in 1Q20 report says it has 21.1 million active customers, up 29% from last year, 9.9 million orders delivered in 1Q20, +21% from last year, average order was $235. $W PR link.

Alexion Pharmaceutical(PBR534) to acquire commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on life-threatening blood-related disorders Portola Pharmaceuticals(NASDAQ :PTLA) through a $18/share tender offer, around $1.4 billion, to close 3Q20. $ALXN PR link.

Bloomin’ Brands(PBR611) expects to have 336 total Bloomin’ Brands restaurant dining rooms opened with limited seating capacity across multiple states by the end of the day. $BLMN PR link.

Vornado Realty Trust(PBR867) in 1Q20 report says it has temporarily furloughed 1,803 employees, has collected substantially all rent due for 03/20 and collected 90% of rent due from office tenants for 04/20 and 53% of the rent due from retail tenants for 04/20, or 83% in the aggregate, rent relief and/or rent deferral for 04/20 and beyond has been requested by many retail and some office tenants. $VNO PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the Preliminary March 2020 Total Exports-Goods is at $128.1 billion, Services $59.6 billion, Total Exports $187.7 billion, Total Imports-Goods is at $193.7 billion, Services $38.5 billion, Total Imports $232.2 billion, Total March 2020 Deficit $44.5 billion, Total March 2019 Deficit $52.6 billion, Total Exports YTD(3 Months) is at $603.8 billion, Total Imports YTD $733.6 billion, Total Deficit YTD $129.8 billion, March 2019 Total Deficit YTD was at $157.7 billion. USDOC PR link.

The Institute for Supply Management says the April 2020 US Non-Manufacturing Index(<50% = economy contracting) is at 41.8%, March 2020 was at 52.5%, February 2020 57.9%, April 2019 55.5%. “Respondents are concerned about the continuing coronavirus impacts on the supply chain, operational capacity, human resources and finances, as well as the uncertain timelines for the resumption of business and a return to normality.” ISM PR link.

The IHS Markit April 2020 US Composite PMI Output Index is at 27.0, March 2020 was at 40.9, February 2020 49.6, April 2019 53.0. “With hope, infections rates have peaked and the economic downturn should start to ease as virus-related restrictions are lifted. However, while manufacturing may see a rebound in production as increasing numbers of factories are allowed to re-open, prospects look bleaker for many parts of the services economy…” IHS Markit PR link.

The PurdueU/CME Group April 2020 Ag Economy Barometer Composite Index is at 96, March 2020 was at 121, February 2020 168, April 2019 115. “Concerns about the economic outlook for their farms led fewer farmers to think now is a good time to make large investments in their farming operation…” PurdueU/CME Group PR link.

***Monday, May 4

Apple(PBR4) updates the 13-inch MacBook Pro with the new Magic Keyboard, doubles the storage across all standard configurations, offers 10th-generation processors for up to 80% faster graphics performance, starts at $1,299. $AAPL PR link.

GE(PBR33) Aviation unit developing a plan for permanent reductions of it global employee base because of deep contraction of commercial aviation, anticipates it will bring total 2020 reductions to as much as 25%. $GE PR link.

Intel(PBR45) has acquired Moovit, a mobility-as-a-service (MaaS) solutions company, known for its urban mobility application that offers travelers around the world the best multimodal trip planning by combining public transportation, bicycle and scooter services, ride-hailing, and car-sharing, for approximately $900 million. $INTC PR link.

Starbucks(PBR107) expects over 85% of its locations to be open by 05/08/20, 90%+ by early June, based on experience of having 98%+ now open in China operating under revised protocols, now has nearly 20 million people using its mobile app. $SBUX PR link.

Performance Food(PBR161) in 3Q20 report says it has furloughed or eliminated around 3,500 positions. $PFGC PR link.

L Brands(PBR243) and Sycamore Partners mutually agree to terminate Sycamore’s 55% acquisition of Victoria’s Secret unit for $525 million, L Brands still plans to establish Bath & Body Works as a pure-play public company and is preparing the Victoria’s Secret Lingerie, Victoria’s Secret Beauty and PINK businesses (collectively, Victoria’s Secret) to operate as a separate, standalone company; Leslie Wexner steps down as Chairman/CEO, remains on Board as Chairman Emeritus, CFO Stuart Burgdoerfer appointed Interim CEO & remains CFO, Bath & Body Works CEO Andrew Meslow to become L Brands CEO and director Sarah Nash to become L Brands Chairman on 05/14/20 at annual meeting. $LB PR link.

Leidos(PBR281) completes around $1 billion cash acquisition of L3Harris Technologies(PBR459) Security Detection and Automation businesses, which have 200 employees. $LDOS PR link.

NVIDIA(PBR286) to acquire Mountain View, CA-based Cumulus Networks, supports more than 100 hardware platforms with Cumulus Linux, its operating system for network switches, terms not disclosed. $NVDA PR link.

Express(PBR884) to phase in re-openings of its fashion apparel stores, expects to have around 300 open before Memorial Day. $EXPR PR link.

National Fuel Gas(PBR942) to acquire a Royal Dutch Shell plc (NYSE: RDS.A) subsidiary‘s upstream and midstream gathering assets in Pennsylvania for around $541 million, to close on 07/31/20. $NFG PR link.

Discover Financial(PBR229) appoints Board member Thomas Maheras as Chairman, succeeds Lawrence Weinbach who died unexpectedly on 05/01/20. $DFS PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the Preliminary March 2020 US Manufacturers New Orders-Durables is at $240.4 billion, Non-Durables $233.2 billion, Total $473.6 billion, -10.3% from February 2020, -11.4% from March 2019. USDOC PR link.

***Friday, May 1

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 18 ending 05/01/20:

DJIA ends Week 18 at 23,723.69, -0.22% from last Friday, -2.55% MTD, +8.24% QTD, -16.87% YTD, -19.72% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends Week 18 at 8,604.95, -0.34% from last Friday, -3.20% MTD, +11.75% QTD, -4.10% YTD, -12.35% from record 9,817.18 set 02/19/20.

SPX ends Week 18 at 2,830.71, -0.21% from last Friday, -2.81% MTD, +9.52% QTD, -12.38 YTD, -16.40% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The Week 18 News Summary: As numbers from the coronavirus pandemic continue to grow, but apparently at a slower rate, or at least an anticipated slower rate, decisions on how to open up the drivers of the economy are starting to move from the discussion stage to the action stage with the usual tumult of expert voices on all sides of the issues. The emergence from the crisis will be an interesting test for federal, state, and local officials, business leaders, and the public as they work through this. Do not expect it to work perfectly and without some loud noises, especially since it is also an election year. As stated in the month of April recap, the economic reports started showing some of the impact of 2-3 months of the slowdown/shutdown, as well as 1st quarter corporate earnings reports which were starting to be released towards the end of April. However, with the major plunges the stock exchanges experienced in the first quarter, there was a sharp turnaround in April, which ended this week. Nevertheless, the last day of April and 1st day of May were significant down days. Once again, expert opinions are divided about the future. So while The Stock Market Bull took a resounding first victory month in April, The Stock Market Bear managed to just barely claw out a 3-0 win for Week 18. Welcome to a new month, it will be another interesting one for sure.

The Week 18 of 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 8 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 9 weeks
Mixed Results: 1 week

T-Mobile US(PBR69) says its Sprint unit had 538,000 total wireless net additions in 1Q20, total end of period connections were at 54,703,000. $TMUS PR link.

3M(PBR98) completes the around $650 million sale of substantially all of its $380 million in annual revenues drug delivery business to an Altaris Capital Partners affiliate, retains a 17% noncontrolling interest in the new company. $MMM PR link.

Gilead Sciences(PBR134) gets US FDA Emergency Use Authorization for the investigational antiviral remdesivir for the treatment of hospitalized patients with severe COVID-19 disease, Gilead will be donating 1.5 million doses, enough for 140,000+ cases based on a 10-day daily dossage regimen. $GILD PR link.

Spirit AeroSystems(PBR389) to layoff approximately 1,450 hourly and salaried employees at its site in Wichita, KS, as a result of lower demand for commercial aircraft because of the COVID-19 pandemic. $SPR PR link.

TravelCenters(PBR468) commences reorganization, includes reducing its corporate headcount by a total of approximately 130 and eliminating certain positions. $TA PR link.

KeyCorp(PBR396) completes planned leadership transition, Chairman/CEO Beth Mooney retires, Chris Gorman becomes Chairman/CEO. $KEY PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says the Preliminary March 2020 Construction-Residential Annual Rate is at $557.9 billion, Non-Residential $802.6 billion, Total $1.361 trillion, +0.9% from February 2020, +4.7% from March 2019. USDOC PR link.

The Institute for Supply Management says the Preliminary April 2020 US Manufacturing PMI Index(<50 = economy is contracting) is at 41.5%, March 2020 was at 49.1%, April 2019 52.8%. “Comments from the panel were strongly negative (three negative comments for every one positive comment) regarding the near-term outlook, with sentiment clearly impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and continuing energy market recession. The PMI® indicates a level of manufacturing-sector contraction not seen since April 2009, with a strongly negative trajectory.” ISM PR link.

IHS Markit says the April 2020 US Manufacturing PMI Index is at 36.1, March 2020 was at 48.5, February 2020 50.7, April 2019 52.6. “As restrictions are lifted, demand should gradually revive, but the trade-off between risking a second wave of infections and bringing the economy back to life looks set to be one of the greatest challenges faced by policy- and lawmakers in recent history. The process will inevitably be led by caution, meaning recovery will also be frustratingly slow.” IHS Markit PR link.

***Thursday, April 30

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the month of April 2020 ending 04/30/20:

DJIA ends April at 24,345.72, +2.40% from last Friday, +11.80% MTD/QTD, -14.69% YTD, -17.62% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends April at 8,889.55, +2.95% from last Friday, +15.45% MTD/QTD, -0.93% YTD, -9.45% from record 9,817.18 set 02/19/20.

SPX ends April at 2,912.43, +2.67% from last Friday, +12.68% MTD/QTD, -9.85% YTD, -13.99% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The April 2020 News Summary: It was another month of Coronavirus news and its effect on the world. As of late 04/30/20 the John Hopkins University CSSE COVID-19 Dashboard shows 3,271,692 cases confirmed worldwide with 232,807 deaths. In the US its 1,056,466 cases with 62,850 deaths. The response has included lockdowns, social distancing, temporary closures of businesses and schools, less traffic, and the pleasant side effects of bluer skies and being more aware birds chirping during a greening and flowering springtime. It is hopefully also a time for families to enjoy the playing and laughing with and getting to know better precious little ones. It has also been a time of great collaborations as companies work together to make ventilators, face masks, gowns, and other related medical aids, as well as accelerated development of new tests and vaccines. Medical practices started using telehealth capabilities. Only emergency situations were actively handled at hospitals. Significant internet bandwidth is being used, and seems to be working remarkably well, for on-line meetings, classes, and communications between loved ones. At the end of April some countries, and in the US some states, were starting to relax some restrictions. In the US the federal government launched some aggressive business loans programs and started sending out $1,200 stimulus checks to most adults, $500 for each child. The impact is around $3 trillion of new national debt. Towards the end of the month US economic indices and surveys, with data that often lags a month or two, started showing some of the damage, with just about all sectors down, except for some in technology and pharma. US initial unemployment claims climbed a remarkable 30,000,000 people in April from layoffs and furloughs. There do seem to be some indications that the cases and deaths are leveling off, but because not much is known about COVID-19 there are concerns about the virus recurring again soon and during the next flu season. Efforts to reopen the economy are being received with mixed reactions of optimism and skepticism from politicians, healthcare professionals, business leaders, and the public. Nevertheless, while the US stock exchanges suffered huge losses in February and March, in April there was a major resurgence, with daily activity still having big volatile up and down swings on an almost daily basis. But when the bell rang for April The Stock Market Bear, while still a big presence, lost out to The Stock Market Bull, who finally took over the pasture after some major struggles and prevails to win his first month of 2020 with a 3-0 victory, but there is a lot of ground to make up. Expert opinions remain varied and mixed, with many of them having agendas as well. Stay safe, keep informed, appreciate and thank those on the front lines, and we wish you and your dear ones the best as we all navigate and deal with these uncertain times.

The April 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 1 Month
The Stock Market Bear: 2 Months
Mixed Results: 1 Month

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PBRMarketTools.com provides news, data, and analysis on 1,000 of the largest publicly held companies with primary operations in the US. The data and analysis is included in The PBR1000 Monthly Snapshots, an MS-Excel workbook with 15 snapshot worksheets, 28 rankings, and over 200 fields of data and information on each company. Click here to find out more! 

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The PBR1000 April 2020 Stocks & Commodities Snapshots

April 2020 The PBR1000: The Stock Market Bull Starts a Comeback

PBR1000 Snapshots Recap

After an embarrassing March The Stock Market Bull charges onto the pasture and takes charge in April. But he still has quite a way to go to fully recover lost territory.

By Larry C. Paxton

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the month of April 2020 ending 04/30/20:

DJIA ends April at 24,345.72, +2.40% from last Friday, +11.80% MTD/QTD, -14.69% YTD, -17.62% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends April at 8,889.55, +2.95% from last Friday, +15.45% MTD/QTD, -0.93% YTD, -9.45% from record 9,817.18 set 02/19/20.

SPX ends April at 2,912.43, +2.67% from last Friday, +12.68% MTD/QTD, -9.85% YTD, -13.99% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The April 2020 News Summary: It was another month of Coronavirus news and its effect on the world. As of late 04/30/20 the John Hopkins University CSSE COVID-19 Dashboard shows 3,271,692 cases confirmed worldwide with 232,807 deaths. In the US its 1,056,466 cases with 62,850 deaths. The response has included lockdowns, social distancing, temporary closures of businesses and schools, less traffic, and the pleasant side effects of bluer skies and being more aware birds chirping during a greening and flowering springtime. It is hopefully also a time for families to enjoy the playing and laughing with and getting to know better precious little ones. It has also been a time of great collaborations as companies work together to make ventilators, face masks, gowns, and other related medical aids, as well as accelerated development of new tests and vaccines. Medical practices started using telehealth capabilities. Only emergency situations were actively handled at hospitals. Significant internet bandwidth is being used, and seems to be working remarkably well, for on-line meetings, classes, and communications between loved ones. At the end of April some countries, and in the US some states, were starting to relax some restrictions. In the US the federal government launched some aggressive business loans programs and started sending out $1,200 stimulus checks to most adults, $500 for each child. The impact is around $3 trillion of new national debt. Towards the end of the month US economic indices and surveys, with data that often lags a month or two, started showing some of the damage, with just about all sectors down, except for some in technology and pharma. US initial unemployment claims climbed a remarkable 30,000,000 people in April from layoffs and furloughs. There do seem to be some indications that the cases and deaths are leveling off, but because not much is known about COVID-19 there are concerns about the virus recurring again soon and during the next flu season. Efforts to reopen the economy are being received with mixed reactions of optimism and skepticism from politicians, healthcare professionals, business leaders, and the public. Nevertheless, while the US stock exchanges suffered huge losses in February and March, in April there was a major resurgence, with daily activity still having big volatile up and down swings on an almost daily basis. But when the bell rang for April The Stock Market Bear, while still a big presence, lost out to The Stock Market Bull, who finally took over the pasture after some major struggles and prevails to win his first month of 2020 with a 3-0 victory, but there is a lot of ground to make up. Expert opinions remain varied and mixed, with many of them having agendas as well. Stay safe, keep informed, appreciate and thank those on the front lines, and we wish you and your dear ones the best as we all navigate and deal with these uncertain times.

The April 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 1 Month
The Stock Market Bear: 2 Months
Mixed Results: 1 Month

 

The April 2020 US Major Stock Market Exchanges Summary

Number of Trading Days: 21

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

Record Days: DJIA 0, NASDAQ 0, SPX 0

Longest Gain Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 4 days(04/22-27/20), NASDAQ 4 days(04/08-14/20),  and SPX 2 days(04/08-09/20, 04/16-17/20)

Longest Loss Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 2 days(04/20-21/20), NASDAQ 2 days(04/20-21/20), and SPX 2 days(04/20-21/20)

Big Swing Up Days(>1.00%): 11 days, 04/02/20(D +2.24%, N +1.72%, S +2.28%), 04/06/20(D +7.73%, N +7.33%, S +7.03%), 04/08/20(D +3.44%, N +2.58%, S +3.41%), 04/09/20(D +1.22%, S +1.45%), 04/14/20(D +2.39%, N +3.95%, S +3.06%), 04/16/20(N +1.66%), 04/17/20(D +2.99%, N +1.38%, S +2.68%), 04/22/20(D +1.99%, N +2.81%, S +2.29%), 04/24/20(D +1.11%, N +1.65%, S +1.34%), 04/27/20(D +1.51%, N +1.11%, S +1.47%), 04/29/20(D +2.21%, N +3.57%, S +2.66%)

Big Swing Down Days(<-1.00%): 8 days, 04/01/20(D -4.44, N -4.41%, S -4.41%), 04/03/20(D -1.69%, N -1.53%, S -1.51%), 04/13/20(D -1.39%, S -1.01%), 04/15/20(D -1.86%, N -1.44%, S -2.20%), 04/20/20(D -2.44%, N -1.03%, S -1.79%), 04/21/20(D -2.67%, N -3.48%, S -3.07%), 04/28/20(N -1.40%), 04/30/20(D -1.17%)

The PBR1000 April 2019 Snapshots

The following are Top 5 partial tables excerpts from The PBR1000 April 2020 Snapshots. The price for stocks is for the close of trading on April 30, 20201 Month % Chg is compared to March 31, 202012 Months % Chg is compared to April 30, 2019, and the 24 Months % Chg is compared to April 30, 2018. The PBR Rank is by annual revenues.

To get the complete The PBR1000 Snapshots  just click here to get your 12 month subscription and automatically download the April 2020 edition with the complete 15 Snapshots and 28 rankings and the bonuses The PBRMarketTools US Monthly Indices Snapshots and The PBR25 Top Buy Stocks.

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

Table 1 Summary: The range was +318% to -77%906 out of 1,000 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 13.65%, the median was a gain of 14.28%. The DJIA was +11.08%, NASDAQ +15.45%, SPX +12.68%.

Company PBR
Rank
Symbol Price
04/30/20
Mo
% Chg
12 Mos
% Chg
24 Mos
% Chg
Antero Resources 591 AR $ 2.98 +318 -59 -84
SM Energy
949 SM $ 4.05 +232 -75 -83
Apache Corp
451 APA $ 13.08 +213 -60 -68
Crestwood Equity
717 CEQP $ 10.94 +159 -70 -60
Range Resources 786 RRC $ 5.83 +156 -36 -58

Table 2(S12): The PBR1000 Top 5 12 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 2 Summary: The range was +228% to -99%247 out of 993 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a loss of 9.69%, the median was a loss of 19.84%. The DJIA was -8.45%, NASDAQ +9.81%, SPX -1.13%.

Company PBR
Rank
Symbol Price
04/30/20
Mo
% Chg
12 Mos
% Chg
24 Mos
% Chg
Tesla 117 TSLA $ 781.88 +49 +228 +166
Owens & Minor 332 OMI $ 7.08 -23 +108 -56
Newmont Goldcorp 316 NEM $ 59.48 +31 +92 +51
Roku 993 ROKU $ 121.23 +39 +91 +273
AMD 433 AMD $ 52.39 +15 +90 +382

Table 3(S13): The PBR1000 Top 5 24 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: The range was +382% to -99%343 out of 974 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a loss of 0.68%. The median was a loss of 17.88%. The DJIA was +0.76%, NASDAQ +25.80%, SPX +9.98%.

Company PBR
Rank
Symbol Price
04/30/20
Mo
% Chg
12 Mos
% Chg
24 Mos
% Chg
AMD 433 AMD $ 52.39 +15 +90 +382
Roku 993 ROKU $ 121.23 +39 +91 +273
Veeva Systems 996 VEEV $ 190.80 +22 +36 +172
Twilio 992 TWLO $ 112.30 +25 -18 +166
Tesla 117 TSLA $ 781.88 +49 +228 +166

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

Table 4 Summary: The range was $1,350 billion to $0.01 billion. The average is $27.476 billionmedian is $6.53 billion, out of 1,000 companies.

Company PBR
Rank
Symbol Market Cap($B)
04/30/20
Mo
% Chg
12/19
% Chg
12/17
% Chg
Microsoft 20 MSFT $ 1,350 B +11 +12 +105
Apple 4 AAPL $ 1,259 B +13 -2 +44
Amazon 2 AMZN $ 1,183 B +21 +29 +113
Alphabet 11 GOOG $ 922 B +17 -0 +26
Facebook 46 FB $ 554 B +17 -5 +8
The PBR1000
  $ 27,476 B +13 -9 +6

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

Company Price
04/30/20
Mo
% Chg
12 Mos
% Chg
24 Mos
% Chg
The PBR1000 84,203.33 +13.7 -9.7 -0.7
DJIA 24,345.72 +11.1 -8.5 +0.8
NASDAQ 8,889.55 +15.5 +9.8 +25.8
S&P500 2,912.43 +12.7 -1.1 +10.0
GOLD 1,694.20 +6.5 +31.8 +28.7
SILVER 14.97 +5.8 -0.1 -8.5
OIL            18.84 -6.3 -70.5 -72.5

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PBRMarketTools.com provides The PBR1000, a compilation of 1,000 of the largest publicly held companies with primary operations in the US. These companies generate $14 trillion in annual revenues, more than all other US companies combined. The PBR1000 Monthly Snapshots provides these 1,000 companies in Excel format, includes 15 worksheets with 28 rankings, over 200 data/information points, hotlinks to key data, and important news items per company. This service is used by astute business professionals and shrewd investors worldwide.

Disclaimers: The PBR1000 is compiled from a variety of publicly available resources. As such, PBRMarketTools.com is not responsible for the data itself. Any liability for the representations or decisions based on the data is solely the responsibility of the authorized user, not PBRMarketTools.com, its employees or affiliates. PBRMarketTools.com is an independent provider of news, data, and analysis. It is not a financial advisor firm or stock brokerage service, and is not affiliated with any such organization.

(Graphic courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net, ddpavumba.)

Copyright © 2020 by Pax Business Resources, LLC, All Rights Reserved, 

The PBR1000 April 2020 Breaking News Recap

The PBR1000: April is All About Social Distancing

PBR1000 Coronavirus COVID19

Every one must do their part to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus, as Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa demonstrates.

By Larry C. Paxton

The April 2020 breaking news items of interest for The PBR1000 follow with the most current date first.

***Thursday, April 30

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the month of April 2020 ending 04/30/20:

DJIA ends April at 24,345.72, +2.40% from last Friday, +11.80% MTD/QTD, -14.69% YTD, -17.62% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends April at 8,889.55, +2.95% from last Friday, +15.45% MTD/QTD, -0.93% YTD, -9.45% from record 9,817.18 set 02/19/20.

SPX ends April at 2,912.43, +2.67% from last Friday, +12.68% MTD/QTD, -9.85% YTD, -13.99% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The April 2020 News Summary: It was another month of Coronavirus news and its effect on the world. As of late 04/30/20 the John Hopkins University CSSE COVID-19 Dashboard shows 3,271,692 cases confirmed worldwide with 232,807 deaths. In the US its 1,056,466 cases with 62,850 deaths. The response has included lockdowns, social distancing, temporary closures of businesses and schools, less traffic, and the pleasant side effects of bluer skies and being more aware birds chirping during a greening and flowering springtime. It is hopefully also a time for families to enjoy the playing and laughing with and getting to know better precious little ones. It has also been a time of great collaborations as companies work together to make ventilators, face masks, gowns, and other related medical aids, as well as accelerated development of new tests and vaccines. Medical practices started using telehealth capabilities. Only emergency situations were actively handled at hospitals. Significant internet bandwidth is being used, and seems to be working remarkably well, for on-line meetings, classes, and communications between loved ones. At the end of April some countries, and in the US some states, were starting to relax some restrictions. In the US the federal government launched some aggressive business loans programs and started sending out $1,200 stimulus checks to most adults, $500 for each child. The impact is around $3 trillion of new national debt. Towards the end of the month US economic indices and surveys, with data that often lags a month or two, started showing some of the damage, with just about all sectors down, except for some in technology and pharma. US initial unemployment claims climbed a remarkable 30,000,000 people in April from layoffs and furloughs. There do seem to be some indications that the cases and deaths are leveling off, but because not much is known about COVID-19 there are concerns about the virus recurring again soon and during the next flu season. Efforts to reopen the economy are being received with mixed reactions of optimism and skepticism from politicians, healthcare professionals, business leaders, and the public. Nevertheless, while the US stock exchanges suffered huge losses in February and March, in April there was a major resurgence, with daily activity still having big volatile up and down swings on an almost daily basis. But when the bell rang for April The Stock Market Bear, while still a big presence, lost out to The Stock Market Bull, who finally took over the pasture after some major struggles and prevails to win his first month of 2020 with a 3-0 victory, but there is a lot of ground to make up. Expert opinions remain varied and mixed, with many of them having agendas as well. Stay safe, keep informed, appreciate and thank those on the front lines, and we wish you and your dear ones the best as we all navigate and deal with these uncertain times.

The April 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 1 Month
The Stock Market Bear: 2 Months
Mixed Results: 1 Month

Apple(PBR4) in 2Q20 report says it has authorized an increase of $50 billion to the existing share repurchase program. $AAPL PR link.

Microsoft(PBR20 $MSFT) Teams usage has increased to more than 75 million daily active users, had 200 million meeting participants in a single day in April. The Verge PR link.

Boeing(PBR40) expects to close its $25 billion bond offering on 05/04/20, does not plan to seek additional funding through the capital markets or the US government options at this time. $BA PR link.

Intel(PBR45) introduces the 10th Gen Intel® Core™ S-series desktop processors, including Intel’s flagship Core i9-10900K processor, the world’s fastest gaming processor. $INTC PR link.

Macy’s(PBR118 $M) to reopen 68 stores on 05/04/20, another 50 stores on 05/11/20, and all 775 stores to be open in 6 weeks, with modified hours and adjustments. MarketWatch PR link.

Danaher(PBR175) completes $825 million sale of its label-free biomolecular characterization, chromatography hardware and resins, and microcarriers and particle validation standards businesses, which generated $140 million in revenues in 2018, to Sartorius AG, sale was part of condition for its 03/31/20 acquisition of Biopharma. $DHR PR link.

SS&C Tech(PBR563) to acquire New York-based 150+ employees developer of systems for trust accounting, payments and unique asset servicing on modern, web-based technology Innovest Systems for $120 million, to close in 2Q20. $SSNC PR link.

Marathon Petroleum(PBR21) elects director John Surma as non-executive Chairman, President/CEO Michael Hennigan elected to the Board. $MPC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US Initial Unemployment Insurance Claims for the Week Ending 04/25/20 is at 3,839,000, 03/21/20 was at 3,283,000, 02/22/20 219,000, 04/20/19 230,000; Total Insured Unemployment on 04/18/20 is at 17,992,000, 04/13/19 was at 1,655,000; the Insured Unemployment Rate on 04/18/20 is at 12.4%, 04/13/19 was at 1.2%. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says the Preliminary March 2020 US Total Personal Income Annual Rate is at $18.696 trillion, -2.0% from February 2020, +1.4% from March 2019, Personal Current Taxes are at $2.188 trillion, Outlays $14.339 trillion, for Savings of $2.169 trillion, for a Savings Rate of 13.1%. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the 1Q20 Employment Cost Index for All Civilian Workers(12/2005=100) is at 140.0, 4Q19 was at 138.9, 1Q19 136.2. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says on 04/29/20 the US National Debt-Public is at $18.927 trillion, Intragovernmental $5.927 trillion, Total Debt $24.854 trillion, +4.9% from 03/31/20, +7.1% YTD, +12.8% from 04/30/19. USTreasury PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says the Yield on a 10 Year Treasury Note on 04/30/20 is at 0.64%, 03/31/20 was at 0.70%, 02/28/20 1.13%, 04/30/19 2.51%. USTreasury PR link.

FreddieMac says the US Weekly Average 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rate as of 04/30/20 is at 3.23% with 0.7 points/fees, 03/26/20 was at 3.50%, 02/27/20 3.45%, 04/25/19 4.2%. “These low rates are driving higher refinance activity and have modestly helped improve purchase demand from their extremely low levels in mid-April.” FreddieMac PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says the Preliminary March 2020 US 7th District Midwest Economy Index is at -1.02, February 2020 was at -0.16, January 2020 -0.35, March 2019 +0.05. ChiFed PR link.

MNI Indicators says the April 2020 Chicago Business Barometer(<50 = Declining) is at 35.4, March 2020 was at 47.8, February 2020 48.9, April 2019 52.6. “… fell … to its lowest level since March 2009 as business confidence dipped sharply amid the current spread of COVID-19.” MNI PR link.

The American Automobile Assn says the US National Average Price Per Gallon of Regular Gas on 04/30/20 is at $1.772, 03/31/20 was at $1.997, 02/29/20 $2.447, 04/30/19 $2.882. AAA PR link.

***Wednesday, April 29

Alphabet(PBR11)’s Google unit to make its Google Meet video conferencing product free for everyone, with availability rolling out over the coming weeks, first 60 minutes are free. $GOOG PR link.

Centene(PBR42) to facilitate the distribution of 25,000 Quest Diagnostics(PBR395) COVID-19 test kits each week to Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) in ten states or districts across the country. $CNC PR link.

Best Buy(PBR71) will be offering in-store consultation service appointments in around 200 stores starting in 05/20. $BBY PR link.

Gilead Sciences(PBR134) phase 3 trial of investigational antiviral Remdesivir in patients with severe COVID-19 demonstrated that patients receiving a 10-day treatment course of remdesivir achieved similar improvement in clinical status compared with those taking a 5-day treatment course. $GILD PR link.

LPL Financial(PBR488) to acquire San Diego, CA, based Lucia Securities, a broker-dealer and registered investment advisor firm with around 20 advisors and $1.5 billion of client assets under management, terms not disclosed, to close in 2H20. $LPLA PR link.

Lyft(PBR868) to layoff around 982 employees, around 17% of its workforce, has furloughed around 288 employees, is impact of the Coronavirus pandemic. $LYFT PR link.

The Federal Open Market Committee issues a statement after its 04/28-29/20 meeting, keeps the federal funds short term interest rate at 0.00-0.25%, says “The Committee will continue to monitor the implications of incoming information for the economic outlook, including information related to public health, as well as global developments and muted inflation pressures, and will use its tools and act as appropriate to support the economy.” FOMC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/BEA says the Preliminary 1Q20 Real GDP Annual % Growth Rate is at -4.8%, GDP Annual $ Rate is at $21.538 trillion, -0.9% from 4Q19, +2.1% from 1Q19. USDOC PR link.

The US Energy Information Administration says US Millions of Barrels of Crude Oil in Inventory on 04/24/20 is at 527.6, was 455.4 on 03/20/20, 443.3 on 02/21/20, 460.6 on 04/19/19. EIA PR link.

***Tuesday, April 28

PBRMarketTools.com welcomes leading global provider of industry-specific, cloud-based software solutions for the life sciences industry Veeva Systems to The PBR1000, ranked 993 by revenues. More details on the  Veeva Systems Spotlight page.

Ford(PBR12) reports 1Q19 loss of over $2 billion, to phase in its manufacturing production in Europe starting 05/04/20, outlines other activities and plans to ramp up business. $F PR link.

Oracle(PBR77) selected by Zoom Communications as its new cloud infrastructure partner to handle dramatic increase in users and video conferencing usage. $ORCL PR link.

Electronic Arts(PBR536) to launch 5 of its games on Alphabet(PBR11)’s Google Stadia cloud-based gaming platform. $EA PR link.

TripAdvisor(PBR948) to reduce workforce by 900+, about 25% of workforce, in response to COVID-19 pandemic impact. $TRIP PR link.

WW(PBR958) in 1Q20 report says it ended quarter with 5.0 million subscribers, up from 4.6 million in 1Q19, will continue to make digital push. $WW PR link.

Crane(PBR694) Chairman R.S. Evans has retired as planned after 47 years with the company, director Jim Tullis is new Chairman. $CR PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the 1Q20 US Total Housing Units is at 140,362,000, +1,153,000 from 1Q19, Occupancy Rate is at 88.6%, 1Q19 was at 87.9%, Home Ownership Rate is at 65.3%, 1Q19 was at 64.2%. USDOC PR link.

The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller February 2020 US National Home Price Index(01/2000=100.00) is at 213.6, January 2020 was at 212.34, December 2019 212.38, December 2018 204.89. Case-Shiller PR link.

The Conference Board says the Preliminary April 2020 US Consumer Confidence Index(1985=100) is at 86.9, March 2020 was at 118.8, February 2020 132.6, April 2019 129.2. “… consumers were less optimistic about their financial prospects and this could have repercussions for spending as the recovery takes hold. The uncertainty of the economic effects of COVID-19 will likely cause expectations to fluctuate in the months ahead.” TCB PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond April 2020 US 5th District Manufacturing Index(Annualized) is at -53%, March 2020 was at +2%, February 2020 -2%, April 2019 +9%. “Firms reported weakened local business conditions and expected conditions to remain soft in the next six months.” RichmondFed PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond April 2020 US 5th District Service Sector Revenue Index(Annualized) is at -87%, March 2020 was at +1%, February 2020 +26%, April 2019 +23%. “Firms expected conditions to remain soft in the near future.” RichmondFed PR link.

***Monday, April 27

Boeing(PBR40) to resume 787 operations at Boeing South Carolina (BSC), with most teammates returning on 05/03 or 05/04, includes all operations temporarily suspended on 04/08 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. $BA PR link.

Boeing(PBR40) terminates Master Transaction Agreement (MTA) with Brazil based Embraer, had planned to create a joint venture comprising Embraer’s commercial aviation business and a second joint venture to develop new markets for the C-390 Millennium medium airlift and air mobility aircraft, says Embraer did not satisfy the necessary conditions. $BA PR link.

Coca-Cola(PBR82) announces a 5 year agreement with Microsoft(PBR20) to standardize its business operations on Microsoft’s cloud, will utilize Microsoft Azure, Dynamics 365 and Microsoft 365, will be implementing Microsoft Teams for collaborations. $KO PR link.

NVIDIA(PBR286) completes $125/share, around $6.9 billion cash acquisition of end-to-end Ethernet and InfiniBand smart interconnect solutions and services for servers and storage supplier Mellanox(NASDAQ: MLNX)$NVDA PR link.

Domtar(PBR498) to temporarily idle the operations of its Hawesville, KY, mill beginning 05/05/20, expects to restart the H1 paper machine in 06/20, while the H2 paper machine will remain idled until 07/20, will temporarily layoff around 400 employees. $UFS PR link.

Adtalem Education(PBR982) completes $465 million sale of its Brazilian portfolio, Adtalem Educacional do Brasil, to YDUQS, the second largest education company in Brazil. $ATGE PR link.

***Friday, April 24

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 17 ending 04/24/20:

DJIA ends Week 17 at 23,775.27, -1.93% from last Friday, +8.48% MTD/QTD, -16.69% YTD, -19.55% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends Week 17 at 8,634.52, -0.18% from last Friday, +12.14% MTD/QTD, -3.77% YTD, -12.05% from record 9,817.18 set 02/19/20.

SPX ends Week 17 at 2,836.74, -1.32% from last Friday, +9.76% MTD/QTD, -12.20 YTD, -16.23% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The Week 17 News Summary: Almost all news continues to revolve around the coronavirus pandemic. The world has nearly 200,000 deaths from coronavirus, the US has just over 50,000 of those, with New York getting hit the hardest. There are mixed signals as to whether or not there has been a peak or not. There is some talk about re-opening economies. In the US several states have indicated they are taking some initial steps, though cautiously. The Senate and House passed, and President Trump has signed, a new stimulus bill to provide an additional $484 billion to small businesses and healthcare operations. There was an initial disbursement of funds to 80 million taxpayers, more is scheduled over the next few months. 1Q20 corporate earnings are being released and it is clear that there has been an impact and it will continue into 2Q20. US economic reports on existing and new housing, jobless claims, and business and consumer surveys are also showing a downward trend. Companies are taking on debt in the hopes of getting through this. Oil prices continue to be near rock bottom, gold prices are rising. The Stock Market Bear came out strong the first couple of trading days, then The Stock Market Bull made a valiant comeback attempt. However, it came up short, The Stock Market Bear sweeps to a Week 17 3-0 victory after missing out the past couple of weeks. It will be interesting to see if the late in the week optimism carries over into Week 18. Use your face masks when appropriate and place your bets!

The Week 17 of 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 8 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 8 weeks
Mixed Results: 1 week

ExxonMobil(PBR3) has reconfigured manufacturing operations in Louisiana to produce medical-grade hand sanitizer for donation to COVID-19 response efforts, initial production of 160,000 gallons– enough to fill nearly 5 million 4-ounce bottles – is being distributed to medical providers and first responders in Louisiana, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Pennsylvania and Texas. $XOM PR link.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR35)’s Janssen Pharmaceutical unit and Emergent BioSolutions to collaborate on development and manufacturing of a COVID-19 vaccine, JNJ goal is to manufacture 1 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines globally. $JNJ PR link.

Facebook(PBR46) introduces real time video Messenger Rooms, can be created from within Messenger or Facebook, up to 50 people, no time limit, rolling out in some countries this week and will expand to the rest of the world in coming weeks. $FB PR link.

US Foods(PBR109) completes $970 million cash acquisition from Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR995) of 70 small-format cash and carry stores across the US Northwest that serve small and mid-sized restaurants and other food business customers with $1.1 billion in revenues in 2019 Smart Foodservice Warehouse Stores$USFD PR link.

Sempra Energy(PBR286) completes $3.59 billion cash sale of its equity interests in its Peruvian businesses, including its 83.6% stake in Luz del Sur, to China Yangtze Power International (Hongkong). $SRE PR link.

SkyWest(PBR732) to receive $438 million through the Payroll Support Program Under CARES Act. $SKYW PR link.

AT&T(PBR9) Chairman/CEO Randall Stephenson to retire as CEO, will be Executive Chairman until 01/21, President/COO John Stankey elected to become CEO on 07/01/20, will become a Board member on 06/01/20. $T PR link.

The U of Michigan Final April 2020 Index of Consumer Sentiment is at 71.8, March 2020 was at 89.1, February 2020 101.0, March 2019 98.4. “In the weeks ahead, as several states reopen their economies, more information will reach consumers about how reopening could cause a resurgence in coronavirus infections. Consumers’ reactions to relaxing restrictions will be critical… ” UM PR link.

***Thursday, April 23

Kroger(PBR22) Health division is expanding free COVID-19 testing sites to Colorado, Michigan, Ohio and Tennessee, joining existing sites in Kentucky and Tennessee, for all priority groups, including healthcare workers, first responders and symptomatic groups. $KR PR link.

DTE Energy(PBR217) says its mid-Michigan’s Gratiot County Polaris Wind park is operational, providing enough clean energy to power more than 64,000 homes, its 68 turbines generating 168 megawatts and is now the largest operating wind park in Michigan, the first of four new wind parks DTE will commission in 2020. $DTE PR link.

Baxter(PBR273) gets US FDA Emergency Use Authorization for its Oxiris Blood Purification Filter for COVID-19 treatment$BAX PR link.

Chesapeake Energy(PBR355) adopts a shareholder rights plan to protect the availability of its net operating loss carryforwards valued at around $7.6 billion. $CHK PR link.

Agilent Technologies(PBR523) gets US FDA approval for PD-L1 IHC 22C3 pharmDx as a companion diagnostic (CDx) to identify patients with non-small cell lung cancer who are appropriate for first-line monotherapy with KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab) on the Dako Omnis platform. $A PR link.

Cooper Tire & Rubber(PBR763) to reopen US and Serbia plants, Mexico facility to return to temporary shutdown. $CTB PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says the Preliminary March 2020 US New Family Homes Sold Annual Rate is at 627,000, February 2020 was at 741,000, January 2020 777,000, March 2019 693,000; Median Home Price is at $321,400, February 2020 was at $330,100, January 2020 $328,900, March 2019 $310,600; Months Supply is at 6.4. More data at the link. USDOC PR link.

***Wednesday, April 22

Tyson(PBR75) to indefinitely suspend operations at its Waterloo, IA, pork plant this week due to worker absenteeism, company’s largest pork plant with 2,800 team members, will provide COVID-19 testing. $TSN PR link.

L Brands(PBR241) receives notice from Sycamore Partners purporting to terminate 55% interest acquisition of Victoria’s Secret unit for $525 million and is seeking a declaratory judgment that its termination of the Transaction Agreement is valid; L Brands contends the termination is invalid. $LB PR link.

PG&E(PBR184) President/CEO Bill Johnson to retire 06/30/20, Board member Bill Smith to be interim CEO at that time until replacement hired. $PCG PR link.

The ADP Workforce Vitality Report says 1Q20 Average Wage Level is at $29.18, 4Q19 was at $28.93, 3Q19 $28.71, 1Q19 $28.40. ADP PR link.

***Tuesday, April 21

AbbVie(PBR94) gets US FDA approval for IMBRUVICA® (ibrutinib) in combination with rituximab for the treatment of previously untreated patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) or small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL); is 11th US FDA approval for IMBRUVICA since first approved in 2013. $ABBV PR link.

Netflix(PBR158) in 1Q20 report says it has 182.86 million global streaming paid memberships, 4Q19 was at 167.09 million, 1Q19 148.86 million. $NFLX PR link.

Quest Diagnostics(PBR392) has begun to perform antibody testing for coronavirus (COVID-19) using blood samples, expects to do 150,000 tests/day by early-May. $DGX PR link.

Chipotle(PBR489) in 1Q20 report says digital sales grew 80.8%, accounted for 26.3% of sales; agrees to pay $25 million fine related to past food safety incidents beginning in 2015. $CMG PR link.

Express(PBR882) adopts limited duration shareholder rights plan because of impact of COVID-19 pandemic on company, expires 04/19/21. $EXPR PR link.

The Natl Assn of Realtors says the Preliminary March 2020 Existing Home Sales Annual Rate is at 5,270,000, February 2020 was at 5,760,000, March 2019 5,230,000; Median Sales Price is at $280,600, February 2020 was at 270,100, March 2019 $259,700. “More temporary interruptions to home sales should be expected in the next couple of months, though home prices will still likely rise.” NAR PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia says the April 2020 3rd District Non-Manufacturing General Activity Index is at -96.4, March 2020 was at -35.1, February 2020 +31.0, April 2019 +18.9. “The respondents expect overall declines over the next six months, as future activity indexes fell further to historic lows.” PhillyFed PR link.

***Monday, April 20

Alphabet(PBR11 $GOOG)’s Google unit and Facebook(PBR46 $FB) being forced by Australia to pay for news content. MarketWatch PR link.

Tyson(PBR72) will resume limited operations at its pork plant in Columbus Junction, IA, on 04/21/20 after being idle for two weeks due to COVID-19 concerns. $TSN PR link.

Uber(PBR226) gets $810 million federal govermentwide Rideshare/Ride-hail Passenger Services contract. $UBER PR link.

The Cheesecake Factory(PBR837) gets $200 million convertible preferred investment from affiliates of Roark Capital. $CAKE PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says the Preliminary March 2020 US National Activity Index is at -4.19, February 2020 was at +0.06, January 2020 -0.27, March 2019 -0.04. “Index suggests economic growth decreased substantially in March.” ChiFed PR link.

***Friday, April 17

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 16 ending 04/17/20:

DJIA ends Week 16 at 24,242.49, +2.21% from last Friday, +10.61% MTD/QTD, -15.05% YTD, -17.97% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends Week 16 at 8,650.14, +6.09% from last Friday, +12.34% MTD/QTD, -3.59% YTD, -11.89% from record 9,817.18 set 02/19/20.

SPX ends Week 16 at 2,874.56, +3.04% from last Friday, +11.22% MTD/QTD, -11.03 YTD, -15.11% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The Week 16 News Summary: The primary news headliner continues to be the Coronavirus pandemic, now with over 2.2 million confirmed cases worldwide, and over 150,000 deaths, with the US being the leader with over 680,000 cases and over 32,000 deaths, the primary hot spot being New York City, according to John Hopkins University CSSE. But there is some cautious optimism as cases and death rates seem to have plateaued. Pharmaceuticals are working on therapies that have shown some initial positive results, and manufactures are coming together to make ventilators, face masks, and gowns. On Thursday US President Trump announced a 3 phase plan to re-open the economy starting soon. Over 80 million US stimulus checks have been delivered and more are in process. US economic data, which usually lags 1-2 months, is starting to show the short term negative effects, including more millions of unemployment claims, sales across all sectors showing significant declines, and business and consumer survey indices showing large drops. Expert opinions are mixed in forecasting a recovery, some saying it will happen quickly, some saying 2 years or more, some proclaiming there will be some profound changes in economic makeup as a result of people working and schooling from home, people eating at home, a reorganization of manufacturing, and supply logistics for just about everything. With the news of the leveling off of cases, plans to re-open the economy, and initial stimulus checks having been delivered, the US stock markets had another good weekly rebound. The major US stock exchanges alternated up and down volatile days, but Friday was a big up and The Stock Market Bull prevailed to win Week 16 with a 3-0 result, but still lags significantly The Stock Market Bear year-to-date and from the amazing record highs established in February. Stay safe, and let’s see what happens next week!

The Week 16 of 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 8 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 7 weeks
Mixed Results: 1 week

The total market capitalization(stock value) of The PBR25 Top Buy Stocks is $4.9 trillion, the range is $2.99 billion to $1+ trillion, the median is $58 billion. More details on The PBR25 info page.

Walmart(PBR1) hires over 150,000 temporary workers over 30 day period, had over 1 million applicants, plans to hire 50,000 more. $WMT PR link.

TravelCenters(PBR464) says its travel centers remain open, providing essential services to drivers across the nation with fuel, showers, restrooms, quick-serve restaurants and convenience stores, but as a result of having to close full service restaurants is furloughing around 2,900 field employees and 122 corporate staff. $TA PR link.

Altria(PBR114) Chairman/CEO Howard Willard, who is recovering from COVID-19, retires after 28 years with the company, Vice Chairman/CFO Billy Gifford elected as new CEO, Thomas Farrell named Independent Chairman. $MO PR link.

The Conference Board Preliminary March 2020 US Leading Economic Index((2016=100) is at 104.2, February 2020 was at 110.9, January 2020 111.1, March 2019 111.7. “The sharp drop in the LEI reflects the sudden halting in business activity as a result of the global pandemic and suggests the US economy will be facing a very deep contraction.” TCB PR link.

***Thursday, April 16

Looking for the best stocks in which to consider investing? Check out The PBR25 to find out how our independent researchers select the Top 25 Buy StocksHere’s the link!

Chevron(PBR15) affiliates have sold non-operating interests in the Azeri-Chirag-Deepwater Gunashli (ACG) oil fields (including interests in the Western Export Route Pipeline) and the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) oil pipeline located in Azerbaijan, to MOL Hungarian Oil and Gas PLC for $1.57 billion, part of $5-10 billion 2018-2020 divestment program. $CVX PR link.

Verizon(PBR19) to acquire enterprise-grade cloud-based video conferencing and event platform provider BlueJeans, will be deeply integrated into Verizon’s 5G product roadmap, providing secure and real-time engagement solutions for high growth areas such as telemedicine, distance learning and field service work, terms not disclosed. $VZ PR link.

Boeing(PBR40) will resume all Commercial Airplanes production in a phased approach at its Puget Sound-region facilities next week, after suspending operations last month in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. $BA PR link.

Southern Co(PBR145) to reduce its workforce by around 20%(about 6,000) in response to coronavirus pandemic effect on its business, expects reduction to last into the summer. $SO PR link.

Goodyear Tire(PBR214) in response to coronavirus pandemic affect on business to reduce its payroll costs through a combination of furloughs, temporary salary reductions and salary deferrals covering over 9,000 of its corporate and business unit associates, including substantial salary reductions and deferrals for the company’s CEO, officers and directors. $GT PR link.

VF Corp(PBR229)’s Dickies unit to shift production, manufacture by 09/20 3.4 million FDA-compliant isolation gowns for US hospitals and healthcare workers. $VFC PR link.

eBay(PBR287) as a result of hiring Jamie Iannone as eBay ‘s new CEO, activist investor Starboard has withdrawn its nomination of director candidates for election at eBay ‘s 2020 Annual Meeting of Stockholders. $EBAY PR link.

Frontier Communications(PBR375) has received approvals on an interim basis from the US Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York for the “First Day” motions related to the Company’s voluntary Chapter 11 petitions filed on 04/14/20. $FTR PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says the Preliminary March 2020 US Housing Permits Issued Annual Rate is at 1,353,000 units, -6.8% from February, +5.1% from March 2019. For Housing Starts and Completions go to the link. USDOC PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia says the April 2020 3rd District Manufacturing General Activity Indicator is at -56.6, March 2020 was at -12.7, February 2020 +36.7, April 2019 +11.0. “Responses indicated a continued prominent weakening in manufacturing activity… The survey’s future indexes, however, remained elevated, suggesting that respondents expect growth in manufacturing activity to pick back up over a horizon of six
months.” PhillyFed PR link.

***Wednesday, April 15

The average estimated 12 month return on a The PBR25 Top Buy Stock is currently +20.2%. A financial institution has the highest estimate at +99.5%. Find out more here!

Apple(PBR4) announces the second-generation iPhone SE, 4.7 inch Retina HD display, features the best single-camera system ever in an iPhone, starts at $399. $AAPL PR link.

Best Buy(PBR71) to temporarily furlough 51,000 employees, including nearly all part-time employees, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. $BBY PR link.

United Airlines(PBR73) expects to receive $5.0 billion through the Payroll Support Program under CARES Act, includes federal government getting 4.6 million shares of UAL common stock. $UAL PR link.

GoPro(PBR988) to lay off 20% of its workforce, around 200 employees, in response to effect of coronavirus pandemic on its business. $GPRO PR link.

The US Federal Reserve releases its Beige Book from information collected through 04/06/20, reports “All Districts reported highly uncertain outlooks among business contacts, with most expecting conditions to worsen in the next several months.” USFed PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says the Preliminary March 2020 US % of Manufacturing Production Capacity is at 72.7%, February 2020 was at 77.0%, January 2020 76.7%, March 2019 78.4%; Capacity Growth Last 12 Months is at +1.9%. Go to the link for Industrial ProductionUSFed PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the Preliminary February 2020 Total Sales-Manufacturers is at $500.3 billion, Retail $463.2 billion, Wholesalers $500.7 billion, Total $1.464 trillion, -0.5% from January 2020, +1.4% from February 2019. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the Advance March 2020 US Sales-Retail is at $434.5 billion, Food Services & Drinking Places $48.6 billion, Total $483.1 billion, -8.7% from February 2020, -6.2% from March 2019. USDOC PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank of New York says the April 2020 Empire State Manufacturing General Business Conditions Index is at -78.2, March 2020 was at -21.5, February 2020 +12.9, April 2019 +9.4. “The headline general business conditions index plummeted fifty-seven points to -78.2, its lowest level in the history of the survey—by a wide margin… Though current conditions were extremely weak, firms expected conditions to be slightly better six months from now.” NYFed PR link.

The Natl Assn of Home Builders says the Preliminary April 2020 Composite Housing Market Index(<50=conditions are poor rather than good) is at 30, March 2020 was at 72, February 2020 74, April 2019 63. “Reflecting the growing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, builder confidence in the market for newly-built single-family homes plunged 42 points in April to 30… was the largest single monthly change in the history of the index and marks the lowest builder confidence reading since June 2012.” NAHB PR link.

***Tuesday, April 14

The PBR25 Top Buy Stocks is compiled monthly from 15,000 analyst estimates. Average return over 60+ months is 153%, S&P 500 average was 34%. Find out more here!

American Airlines(PBR67) approved by US Treasury for $5.8 billion in financial assistance from the Payroll Support Program (PSP) created through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, expects to separately apply for a loan from the US Treasury of approximately $4.75 billion. $AAL PR link.

3M(PBR98) is partnering with Cummins(PBR127) to increase the production of high efficiency particulate filters for use in 3M’s powered air purifying respirator(PAPRs). $MMM PR link.

Devon Energy(PBR456) agreement to sell it Barnett Shale unit to Banpu Kalnin Ventures has been amended from $770 million to up to $830 million, includes $570 million cash and contingent payments of up to $260 million, closing date changed from 04/15/20 to 12/31/20. $DVN PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the Preliminary March 2020 US Monthly All Imports Prices are at -2.3%, Exports -1.6%; Last 12 Months All Imports Prices are at -4.1%, Exports -3.6%. USDOL PR link.

CoreLogic says the January 2020 US House Loans 30 Days or More Delinquent is at 3.5%, December 2019 was at 3.7%, November 2019 3.9%, January 2019 4.0%. “The mortgage market experienced a strong year of improvement in loan performance during 2019 – carrying over into the first month of 2020. However, mounting job losses since the COVID-19 pandemic was declared a national emergency has raised the possibility of many borrowers falling behind on their mortgage payments in coming months.” CoreLogic PR link.

***Monday, April 13

Because of volatility the monthly The PBR25 Top Stock Buy Recommendations has been updated for 04/09/20 and gives you the ability to do the updates yourself at any time. Find out more here!

Amazon(PBR2) says it has filled the 100,000 full/part time positions announced on 03/16/20, is now planning to hire for an additional 75,000 jobs. $AMZN PR link.

Ford(PBR12) to design and produce urgently needed medical equipment and supplies for health care workers, first responders and patients fighting coronavirus, including face shields, powered air-purifying respirators, reusable gowns, and COVID-19 collection test kits in collaborations with 3M(PBR98) and Thermo Fisher Scientific(PBR112)$F PR link.

Chesapeake Energy(PBR355) approves 1-for-200 reverse stock split, will be effective for start of trading on 04/15/20. $CHK PR link.

Blackstone(PBR401) to provide up to $2 billion to support Alnylam Pharmaceuticals(Nasdaq: ALNY), the leading RNAi therapeutics company, in a broad strategic collaboration for Alnylam’s advancement of innovative RNA interference (RNAi) medicines that have the potential to transform the lives of patients suffering from a range of debilitating diseases. $BX PR link.

Groupon(PBR797) adopts a limited duration rights plan as a result of market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, expires 03/10/21. $GRPN PR link.

AutoNation(PBR148) President/CEO since 07/19 Cheryl Miller taking a leave of absence for health reasons, Executive Chairman Mike Jackson to add President/CEO role until she returns. $AN PR link.

eBay(PBR287) hires Jamie Iannone as CEO and member of the Board effective 04/27/20. $EBAY PR link.

***Friday, April 10

Prudential Financial(PBR53) to sell Prudential of Korea to KB Financial Group for $1.9 billion, to close by 12/31/20. $PRU PR link.

3M(PBR98) files lawsuit against New Jersey based Performance Supply LLC, alleging illegal price gouging and deceptive trade practices in the sales of N95 respirators, charging 500-600% over 3M list prices on $45 million in orders from New York. $MMM PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says the March 2020 US Federal Government Receipts are at $236.8 billion, Outlays $355.9 billion, for a Deficit of $119.1 billion, March 2019 Deficit was at $146.9 billion; 2020 YTD(6 months) Receipts are at $1.604 trillion, YTD Outlays $2.347 trillion, for a YTD Deficit of $743.6 billion, 2019 YTD Deficit was at $691.2 billion. USTreasury PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the Preliminary March 2020 Employee Current Average Earnings Per Hour is at $28.62, Average Hours Worked Per Week at 34.2, for Average Weekly Earnings of $978.80, -0.2% from February 2020, +2.2% from March 2019. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the March 2020 Consumer Price Index Monthly Change is at -0.4%, February 2020 was at +0.1%, January 2020 +0.1%, March 2019 +0.4%, March 2020 Last 12 Months Change is at +1.5%, February 2020 was at +2.3%, January 2020 +2.5%, March 2019 +1.9%. USDOL PR link.

***Thursday, April 9

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 15 ending 04/09/20:
(***Note: US stock exchanges are closed on 04/10/20 in observance of Good Friday.)

DJIA ends Week 15 at 23,719.37, +12.67% from last Friday, +8.22% MTD/QTD, -16.89% YTD, -19.74% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends Week 15 at 8,153.58, +10.59% from last Friday, +5.89% MTD/QTD, -9.13% YTD, -16.95% from record 9,817.18 set 02/19/20.

SPX ends Week 15 at 2,789.82, +12.10% from last Friday, +7.94% MTD/QTD, -13.65 YTD, -17.61% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The Week 15 News Summary: At the start of the shortened week there appeared some encouraging signs globally that the Coronavirus pandemic may be slowing, even though the US has not seen that yet in major hit areas like New York. Social distancing, wearing facemasks, and frequent washing of hands seems to be helping. Scientists working for major pharmaceuticals, research organizations and government labs are working hard and cooperatively to find cures and develop vaccines for Coronavirus. Manufacturers are ramping up to make more face masks, ventilators, and protective gear. Global economic news is still not solid but everyone pretty much agrees that there will be at least a short term major hit with some saying a full recovery might not happen until well into 2021 based on assumptions that could change rapidly and dramatically one way or another. The US economy took another big hit as the week’s initial unemployment jobs claims were over 6.6 million. Companies are still doing layoffs, furloughs, taking out loans, suspending share buyback programs, and senior executives are taking significant salary cuts as strategies for preserving cash at this time. Retailers and restaurants are adapting to and promoting curbside pickup and delivery services. Besides the US $2.2 trillion stimulus bill which is starting to be implemented, the US Fed at the end of the week announced a $2.3 trillion loan package for lenders, primarily to be used by the major banking systems to support businesses. The Saudi Arabia-Russia oil production and prices war continues, but there was some news that negotiations are ongoing and the issues could be resolved soon. The major US stock exchanges reacted positively in Week 15. The Stock Market Bull charged onto the pasture, appearing to be COVID-19 free now, and severely gored The Stock Market Bear, as all exchanges were up over 10% for the week. Nevertheless, The Stock Market Bear still has a significant lead year-to-date. The Markets experts are all over the place on whether to buy stocks now, hold off, or get out altogether. This is Holy Week for many people across the world, and there are many prayers being lifted up for health and minimal economic impact. Let’s hope those prayers continue to be lifted and answered in a positive way in the weeks to come.

The Week 15 of 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 7 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 7 weeks
Mixed Results: 1 week

Pfizer(PBR62) to pay an $185 million up front fee to BioNTech SE (Nasdaq: BNTX) to jointly develop a COVID-19 vaccine, to pay a total of up to $748 million based on milestone achievements. $PFE PR link.

The US Federal Reserve takes additional actions to provide up to $2.3 trillion in loans to support the economy. USFed PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the Preliminary March 2020 Producer Price Index Total Monthly Final Demand is at -0.2%, February 2020 was at -0.6%, January 2020 +0.5%, March 2019 +0.4%, Last 12 Months +0.7%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the Preliminary February 2020 Wholesale Sales-Durables is at $238.1 billion, Non-Durables $262.5 billion, Total $500.6 billion, -0.8% from January 2020, +1.1% from February 2019. USDOC PR link.

The U of Michigan Preliminary April 2020 Consumer Sentiment Index is at 71.0, March 2020 was at 89.1, February 2020 101.0, April 2019 97.2. “Consumers need to be prepared for a longer and deeper recession rather than the now discredited message that pent-up demand will spark a quick, robust, and sustained economic recovery.” UMichigan PR link.

***Wednesday, April 8

Wells Fargo(PBR26) gets approval from the US Federal Reserve to expand its participation in the Paycheck Protection Program and offer loans to a broader set of its small business and nonprofit customers subject to the terms of the program. $WFC PR link.

Walt Disney(PBR49)’s Disney+ streaming service now has 50+ million subscribers, launched 5 months ago, available in over dozen countries. $DIS PR link.

Medtronic(PBR101) gets US FDA Emergency Use Authorization for its Puritan Bennett™ 560 (PB560) ventilator, expects to manufacture over 25,000 ventilators across all product lines over next 6 months. $MDT PR link.

Spirit AeroSystems(PBR385) receives notice that deliveries to Boeing(PBR40)‘s facilities have been suspended because of coronavirus pandemic, Spirit reducing workforce by 3,200, initiates voluntary retirement program for 850 employees, plus additional cost cutting actions. $SPR PR link.

The Federal Open Market Committee releases the minutes from its 03/15/20 Special Meeting when it lowered the federal funds rate from 1.00-1.25% to 0.00-0.25%. FOMC PR link.

***Tuesday, April 7

Greenbrier(PBR720) has orders for 8,500 railcars valued at $815+ million, has a $3.2 billion backlog, because of coronavirus pandemic has reduced global workforce by 3,500, primarily in Mexico. $GBX PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the Preliminary February 2020 Job Openings-Private is at 6,101,000, Government 782,000, Total Openings 6,883,000, January 2020 was at 7,012,000, February 2019 7,047,000. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says the Preliminary February 2020 Consumer Credit Outstanding-Revolving is at $1.096 trillion, Non-Revolving $3.129 trillion, Total $4.226 trillion, +0.5% from January 2020, +4.6% from February 2019. USFed PR link.

FannieMae says the March 2020 US Home Purchase Sentiment Index is at 80.8, February 2020 was at 92.5, January 2020 93.0, February 2019 84.3. “… the HPSI dropped to its lowest level since December 2016, with Americans reporting greater concern about their job security than at any point in the last six years… ” FannieMae PR link.

The Purdue U/CME Group March 2020 US Ag Economy Barometer is at 121, February 2020 was at 168, January 2020 167, March 2019 133. “The point drop was the largest one-month fall in the life of the index, which dates to October 2015. Declines in agricultural commodity prices and concerns about the coronavirus crisis impact on the U.S. economy and agricultural sector weighed heavily on farmer sentiment in March.” PurdueU/CME Group PR link.

***Monday, April 6

3M(PBR98) and Trump Administration announce a plan to import 166.5 million respirators over the next three months primarily from China to support healthcare workers in the US, will work together to ensure that this plan does not create further humanitarian implications for countries currently fighting the COVID-19 outbreak, and committed to further collaborate to fight price gouging and counterfeiting, also enables 3M to continue US production of 35 million N25 respirators which can be distributed to Canada and Latin America markets. $MMM PR link.

Fifth Third Bancorp(PBR310) is hiring for nearly 1,000 positions in retail banking centers, mortgage and operations, including a significant number in its Cincinnati headquarters market. $FITB PR link.

Tractor Supply(PBR358) plans to immediately fill more than 5,000 full-time and part-time Team Member positions across its nearly 1,900 stores in 49 states and eight distribution centers. $TSCO PR link.

Stericycle(PBR659) completes $462.5 million cash sale of its 2,000 employees Domestic Environmental Solutions business, excluding the healthcare customer and unused consumer pharmaceutical take-back services, to Harsco(PBR943)$SRCL PR link.

Woodward(PBR749) and Hexcel(PBR866) have mutually agreed to terminate their all stock merger of equals agreement, cite business uncertainties as a result of coronavirus pandemic. $WWD PR link.

IBM(PBR38) has new CEO, Arvind Krishna, has interview with CNBC. $IBM PR link.

Calumet Specialty(PBR657) accelerates CEO transition, appoints board member Steve Mawer as CEO, effective immediately. $CLMT PR link.

SeaWorld(PBR971) CEO Serge Rivera resigns as CEO and Board member, CFO/Treasurer Marc Swanson appointed Interim CEO, Chief Accounting Officer Elizabeth Castro Gulacsy appointed Interim CFO/Treasurer, all effective immediately. $SEAS PR link.

***Friday, April 3

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 14 ending 04/03/20:

DJIA ends Week 14 at 21,052.53, -2.70% from last Friday, -3.94% MTD/QTD, -26.23% YTD, -28.76% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends Week 14 at 7,373.08, -1.72% from last Friday, -4.25% MTD/QTD, -17.83% YTD, -24.90% from record 9,817.18 set 02/19/20.

SPX ends Week 14 at 2,488.65, -2.08% from last Friday, -3.71% MTD/QTD, -22.97 YTD, -26.51% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The Week 14 News Summary: With 1.1 million cases and nearly 59,000 deaths worldwide, and growing exponentially, the COVID-19 virus dominates the news. The US now has the most cases with nearly 274,000, deaths are just under 7,100. The effect is now starting to show up in the US economy. Initial unemployment cl.aims have hit nearly 10,000,000 in the past 2 weeks. Jobs reports by ADP and the US government this week started to show considerable work losses as well as companies of all sizes furlough or layoff their employees. The pandemic is expected to grow significantly in April, there are more and more supply chain logistics issues, stores are still having trouble keeping inventories of important items. At the same time Saudi Arabia and Russia are locked in battle over oil prices, which have nosedived. The US is in the middle of the negotiations, and it appears there might be a helpful resolution soon. US stock market exchanges were mixed going into Friday, but The Stock Market Bull was exhausted, confused, and a no-show. The Stock Market Bear takes Week 14 3-0, now leads the weekly tally, is totally dominate year-to-date, and near-term looks like he will continue to do so.

The Week 14 of 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 6 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 7 weeks
Mixed Results: 1 week

3M(PBR98) issues statement saying it is in compliance and working with US government to be in compliance with the Defense Production Order Act regarding its manufacturing of N25 respirators during the COVID-19 virus pandemic, says it has secured approval from China to export to the US 10 million N95 respirators manufactured by 3M in China, expresses concerns that its production in the US not be made available to Canadian and Latin American markets is a humanitarian issue, and could result in retaliation. $MMM PR link.

Chico’s FAS(PBR872) adopts a limited duration shareholder rights plan, expires 04/01/21, response to COVID-19 virus pandemic and affect it might have financially. $CHS PR link.

Ocwen Financial(PBR997) provides an update on its financial situation, plans to have shareholders vote on a reverse stock split at 2020 annual meeting, date not yet set. $OCN PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the March 2020 US Total Employed is at 155,772,000, -2,987,000 from February 2020, -976,000 from March 2019; Total Unemployed is at 7,141,000, +1,354,000 from February 2020, +929,000 from March 2019, Unemployment Rate is at 4.4%, February 2020 was at 3.5%, March 2019 3.8%. USDOL PR link.

The Institute for Supply Management says the March 2020 US Non-Manufacturing Index(>50% economy growing) is at 52.5%, February 2020 was at 57.9%, January 2020 55.5%, March 2019 56.1%. ISM PR link.

IHS Markit says the March 2020 US Composite PMI Output Index is at 40.9, February 2020 was at 49.6, January 2020 53.3, March 2019 54.6. “The marked decrease in business activity stemmed mainly from the outbreak of COVID-19 and the impact of measures to contain the virus spread on companies and households across the country.” IHS Markit PR link.

The John Hopkins U CSSE Dept says the Global COVID-19 Virus Cumulative Case Tally on 04/03/20 is at 1.07 million, with 55,761 deaths. JHU CSSE PR link.

***Thursday, April 2

DaVita Healthcare(PBR273) to hire at least 15,000 new employees throughout 2020, available positions range from care giving roles in centers across the US to corporate support roles. $DVA PR link.

Perrigo(PBR539) completes $113 million in cash acquisition in bankruptcy sale of the oral care assets of High Ridge Brands, assets include leading children’s oral care value brand, Firefly®, in addition to the REACH® and Dr. Fresh® brands. $PRGO PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US Initial Unemployment Claims for the Week Ending 03/28/20 is 6,648,000, for 03/21/20 it was 3,307,000, 03/14/20 282,000. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the Preliminary February 2020 US New Orders-Durable Goods is at $249.5 billion, Non-Durable Goods $247.9 billion, Total $497.4 billion, -0.0% from January 2020, +0.1% from February 2019. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the Preliminary February 2020 Exports-Goods is at $137.2 billion, Services $70.3 billion, Total Exports $207.5 billion; Imports-Goods is at $198.4 billion, Services $49.1 billion, Total Services $247.5 billion, Total Deficit $39.9 billion, Total Exports YTD(2 months) is at $415.9 billion, Total Imports YTD $501.3 billion, Total Deficit YTD $85.4 billion, Total February 2019 Deficit YTD was at $105.1 billion. USDOC PR link.

***Wednesday, April 1

T-Mobile US(PBR69) completes $59 billion acquisition of Sprint(PBR90), John Legere hands off CEO role to Mike Sievert. $TMUS PR link.

Altria(PBR116) says it will defend its $12.8 billion minority investment in JUUL after the US Federal Trade Commission files an administrative complaint. $MO PR link.

Genworth Financial(PBR349) sale to China Oceanwide for $5.43/share, $2.7 billion cash close extended from 03/31/20 to 06/30/20, but hopes to close sometime in 05/20, needs Delaware regulatory approval, approval of financing by China regulators. $GNW PR link.

Whiting Petroleum(PBR877) files for Chapter 11 in US Bankruptcy Court, has more than $585 million of cash on its balance sheet and will continue to operate its business in the normal course without material disruption. $WLL PR link.

ADP says the Preliminary March 2020 US Change in Private Sector Employment-Small Sized Businesses(1-49 Employees) is at -90,000, Mid Sized(50-499) +7,000, Large Sized(500 or more) +56,000, Total -27,000, February 2020 was at +179,000, January 2020 +205,000, March 2019 +165,000. ADP PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the Preliminary February 2020 US Construction Spending-Residential is at $571.6 billion, Non-Residential $795.1, Total $1.367 trillion, -1.3% from January 2020, +6.0% from February 2019. USDOC PR link.

The Institute for Supply Management says the Preliminary March 2020 US Manufacturing PMI Index(,50% economy contracting) is at 49.1%, February 2020 was at 50.1%, January 2020 50.9%, March 2019 55.3%. “Comments from the panel were negative regarding the near-term outlook, with sentiment clearly impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and energy market volatility.” ISM PR link.

IHS Markit says the March 2020 US Manufacturing PMI Index is at 48.5, February 2020 was at 50.7, January 2020 51.9, March 2019 52.4. “March data indicated a moderate deterioration in operating conditions across the U.S. manufacturing sector. Driving the overall decline were the sharpest downturns in output and new orders since the financial crisis in 2009 amid weak domestic and foreign demand conditions following the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).” IHS Markit PR link.

***Tuesday, March 31

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the month of March ending 03/31/20:
DJIA ends March at 21,917.16, +1.30% from last Friday, -13.74% MTD, -23.20% QTD/YTD, -25.83% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends March at 7,700.10, +2.64% from last Friday, -10.12% MTD, -14.18% QTD/YTD, -21.57% from record 9,817.18 set 02/19/20.

SPX ends March at 2,584.59, +1.70% from last Friday, -12.51% MTD, -20.00% QTD/YTD, -23.67% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The March 2020 News Summary: The news of the month was dominated by the COVID-19 virus pandemic. Stock exchanges worldwide have taken a significant dip. World and US economic data, which usually lags 1-3 months, is starting to show some of the impact. Supply chains are becoming disrupted. There is a run at grocery stores on almost all items, essential and non-essential. In the US manufacturing of face masks and much needed ventilators is ramping up. New York City has been especially hard hit, as well as California and the State of Washington. People are being strongly encouraged, and in some states it has been mandated, to stay at home and avoid contact with others as much as possible. A massive national $2 trillion coronavirus stimulus bill was created, passed and was signed into law quickly and with bipartisan support, another $2 trillion is being suggested for infrastructure issues. In China the rate of new cases has started dropping dramatically, in the US the forecast is that April will be the big month. The Stock Market Bear and his friend COVID-19 had several big feast days during the month. The Stock Market Bull tried to fight back and did have a few significant recovery days, but it was not nearly enough. The Stock Market Bear is undefeated so far in 2020, seems to have the momentum and appears energized to possibly do more of the same in April. Expert opinions vary, many of whom have their own agendas. Stay safe, do your research and due diligence, and wish you all the best in April!

The Month of March 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 0 months
The Stock Market Bear: 2 months
Mixed Results: 1 month

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The PBR1000 March 2020 Stocks & Commodities Snapshots

March 2020 The PBR1000: Coronavirus Gets Another Big Win

PBR1000 Stocks Coronavirus

Coronavirus is now The Stock Market Bear’s best buddy, having erased all major stock exchanges gains for the past year and more.

By Larry C. Paxton

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the month of March ending 03/31/20:
DJIA ends March at 21,917.16, +1.30% from last Friday, -13.74% MTD, -23.20% QTD/YTD, -25.83% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends March at 7,700.10, +2.64% from last Friday, -10.12% MTD, -14.18% QTD/YTD, -21.57% from record 9,817.18 set 02/19/20.

SPX ends March at 2,584.59, +1.70% from last Friday, -12.51% MTD, -20.00% QTD/YTD, -23.67% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The March 2020 News Summary: The news of the month was dominated by the COVID-19 virus pandemic. Stock exchanges worldwide have taken a significant dip. World and US economic data, which usually lags 1-3 months, is starting to show some of the impact. Supply chains are becoming disrupted. There is a run at grocery stores on almost all items, essential and non-essential. In the US manufacturing of face masks and much needed ventilators is ramping up. New York City has been especially hard hit, as well as California and the State of Washington. People are being strongly encouraged, and in some states it has been mandated, to stay at home and avoid contact with others as much as possible. A massive national $2 trillion coronavirus stimulus bill was created, passed and was signed into law quickly and with bipartisan support, another $2 trillion is being suggested for infrastructure issues. In China the rate of new cases has started dropping dramatically, in the US the forecast is that April will be the big month. The Stock Market Bear and his friend COVID-19 had several big feast days during the month. The Stock Market Bull tried to fight back and did have a few significant recovery days, but it was not nearly enough. The Stock Market Bear is undefeated so far in 2020, seems to have the momentum and appears energized to possibly do more of the same in April. Expert opinions vary, many of whom have their own agendas. Stay safe, do your research and due diligence, and wish you all the best in April!

The Month of March 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 0 months
The Stock Market Bear: 2 months
Mixed Results: 1 month

 

The March 2020 US Major Stock Market Exchanges Summary

Number of Trading Days: 2

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

Record Days: DJIA 0, NASDAQ 0, SPX 0

Longest Gain Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 3 days(03/24-26/20), NASDAQ 2 days(02/28-03/02/20),  and SPX 3 days(03/24-26/20)

Longest Loss Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 3 days(03/05-09/20), NASDAQ 3 days(03/05-09/20), and SPX 3 days(03/05-09/20)

Big Swing Up Days(>1.00%): 9 days, 03/02/20(D +5.09%, N +4.49%, S +4.60%), 03/04/20(D +4.53%, N +3.85%, S +4.22%), 03/13/20(D +9.36%, N +9.35%, S +9.29%), 03/17/20(D +5.20%, N +6.23%, S +6.00%), 03/19/20(N +2.30%), 03/24/20(D +11.37%, N +8.12%, S +9.38%), 03/25/20(D +2.39%, S +1.15%), 03/26/20(D +6.38%, N +5.60%, S +6.24%), 03/30/20(D +3.19%, N +3.62%, S +3.35%)

Big Swing Down Days(<-1.00%): 12 days, 03/03/20(D -2.94, N -2.99%, S -2.81%), 03/05/20(D -3.58%, N -3.10%, S -3.39%), 03/06/20(N -1.87%, S -1.71%), 03/09/20(D -7.79%, N -7.29%, S -7.60%), 03/11/20(D -5.86%, N -4.70%, S -4.89%), 03/12/20(D -9.99%, N -9.43%, S -9.51%), 03/16/20(D -12.93%, N -12.32%, S -11.98%), 03/18/20(D -6.30%, N -4.70%, S -5.18%), 03/20/20(D -4.55%, N -3.79%, S -4.34%), 03/23/20(D -3.04%, S -2.93%), 03/27/20(D -4.06%, N -3.79%, S -3.37%), 03/31/20(D -1.84%, S -1.60%)

The PBR1000 March 2019 Snapshots

The following are Top 5 partial tables excerpts from The PBR1000 March 2020 Snapshots. The price for stocks is for the close of trading on March 31, 20201 Month % Chg is compared to February 28, 202012 Months % Chg is compared to March 29, 2019, and the 24 Months % Chg is compared to March 29, 2018. The PBR Rank is by annual revenues.

To get the complete The PBR1000 Snapshots  just click here to get your 12 month subscription and automatically download the March 2020 edition with the complete 15 Snapshots and 28 rankings and the bonuses The PBRMarketTools US Monthly Indices Snapshots and The PBR25 Top Buy Stocks.

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

Table 1 Summary: The range was +42% to -85%80 out of 998 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a loss of 17.32%, the median was a loss of 22.08%. The DJIA was -13.74%, NASDAQ -10.12%, SPX -12.51%.

Company PBR
Rank
Symbol Price
03/31/20
Mo
% Chg
12 Mos
% Chg
24 Mos
% Chg
United Natural Foods 147 UNFI $ 9.18 +42 -31 -79
Citrix
804 CTXS $ 141.55 +37 +42 +53
Owens & Minor
333 OMI $ 9.15 +34 +123 -41
A-Mark
550 AMRK $ 12.28 +33 +3 +0
Core-Mark 191 CORE $ 28.57 +24 -23 +34

Table 2(S12): The PBR1000 Top 5 12 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 2 Summary: The range was +123% to -99%170 out of 994 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a loss of 17.03%, the median was a loss of 27.16%. The DJIA was -15.47%, NASDAQ -0.38%, SPX -8.81%.

Company PBR
Rank
Symbol Price
03/31/20
Mo
% Chg
12 Mos
% Chg
24 Mos
% Chg
Owens & Minor 333 OMI $ 9.15 +34 +123 -41
Tesla 117 TSLA $ 524.00 -22 +87 +97
Legg Mason 749 LM $ 48.85 -2 +78 +20
AMD 434 AMD $ 45.48 +0 +78 +353
Anixter 348 AXE $ 87.87 -10 +57 +16

Table 3(S13): The PBR1000 Top 5 24 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: The range was +353% to -99%259 out of 975 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a loss of 12.42%. The median was a loss of 28.45%. The DJIA was -9.07%, NASDAQ +9.01%, SPX -2.13%.

Company PBR
Rank
Symbol Price
03/31/20
Mo
% Chg
12 Mos
% Chg
24 Mos
% Chg
AMD 434 AMD $ 45.48 +0 +78 +353
Roku 992 ROKU $ 87.48 -23 +36 +181
FTI Consulting 882 FCN $ 119.77 +6 +56 +147
Twilio 991 TWLO $ 89.49 -21 -31 +134
Veeva Systems 993 VEEV $ 156.37 +10 +23 +114

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

Table 4 Summary: The range was $1,219 billion to $0.01 billion. The average is $24.380 billionmedian is $5.54 billion, out of 1,000 companies.

Company PBR
Rank
Symbol Market Cap($B)
02/28/20
Mo
% Chg
12/19
% Chg
12/17
% Chg
Microsoft 20 MSFT $ 1,219 B +1 +1 +85
Apple 4 AAPL $ 1,115 B -7 -13 +28
Amazon 2 AMZN $ 978 B +4 +7 +76
Alphabet 11 GOOG $ 788 B -13 -15 +8
Facebook 46 FB $ 473 B -13 -19 -8
The PBR1000
  $ 24,380 B -13 -19 -6

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

Company Price
03/31/20
Mo
% Chg
12 Mos
% Chg
24 Mos
% Chg
The PBR1000 73,806.20 -17.3 -17.0 -12.4
DJIA 21,917.16 -13.7 -15.5 -9.1
NASDAQ 7,700.10 -10.1 -0.4 +9.0
S&P500 2,584.59 -12.5 -8.8 -2.1
GOLD 1,591.00 +0.2 +22.7 +19.7
SILVER 14.16 -15.1 -6.3 -13.4
OIL            20.10 -55.6 -66.6 -69.0

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(Graphic courtesy of US Center for Disease Control(CDC).)

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The PBR1000 March 2020 Breaking News Recap

The PBR1000: Another Version of March Madness

PBR1000 Stocks Investing

The coronavirus respiratory disease has grabbed the attention of the world, interrupted global supply chains, and is affecting bottomlines of international companies. Governmental and Corporate responses have remained relatively calm, but stock exchanges appear to be in a panic. Who will prevail?

By Larry C. Paxton

The March 2020 breaking news items of interest for The PBR1000 follow with the most current date first.

***Tuesday, March 31

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the month of March ending 03/31/20:
DJIA ends March at 21,917.16, +1.30% from last Friday, -13.74% MTD, -23.20% QTD/YTD, -25.83% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends March at 7,700.10, +2.64% from last Friday, -10.12% MTD, -14.18% QTD/YTD, -21.57% from record 9,817.18 set 02/19/20.

SPX ends March at 2,584.59, +1.70% from last Friday, -12.51% MTD, -20.00% QTD/YTD, -23.67% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The March 2020 News Summary: The news of the month was dominated by the COVID-19 virus pandemic. Stock exchanges worldwide have taken a significant dip. World and US economic data, which usually lags 1-3 months, is starting to show some of the impact. Supply chains are becoming disrupted. There is a run at grocery stores on almost all items, essential and non-essential. In the US manufacturing of face masks and much needed ventilators is ramping up. New York City has been especially hard hit, as well as California and the State of Washington. People are being strongly encouraged, and in some states it has been mandated, to stay at home and avoid contact with others as much as possible. A massive national $2 trillion coronavirus stimulus bill was created, passed and was signed into law quickly and with bipartisan support, another $2 trillion is being suggested for infrastructure issues. In China the rate of new cases has started dropping dramatically, in the US the forecast is that April will be the big month. The Stock Market Bear and his friend COVID-19 had several big feast days during the month. The Stock Market Bull tried to fight back and did have a few significant recovery days, but it was not nearly enough. The Stock Market Bear is undefeated so far in 2020, seems to have the momentum and appears energized to possibly do more of the same in April. Expert opinions vary, many of whom have their own agendas. Stay safe, do your research and due diligence, and wish you all the best in April!

The Month of March 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 0 months
The Stock Market Bear: 2 months
Mixed Results: 1 month

Macy’s(PBR118 $M) to move from S&P 500 to the S&P SmallCap 600 on 04/03/20.

Danaher(PBR176) completes $21.4 billion cash acquisition of Biopharma business of bioprocessing technologies and solutions provider GE(PBR19) Life Sciences unit, will be called Cytiva and will be a standalone operating company within Danaher’s Life Sciences segment. $DHR PR link.

Truist Financial(PBR215) completes acquisition of Truist Center, formerly Hearst Tower, in Charlotte, NC, for $455.5 million. $TFC PR link.

News Corp(PBR307) to sell its News America Marketing business to private equity firm Charlesbank Capital Partners for up to $235 million, will have option to retain up to 15% equity in the business, to close by 06/30/20. $NWS PR link.

Newmont Goldcorp(PBR315) completes $375 million sale of its Red Lake complex in Ontario, Canada, to Evolution Mining. $NEM PR link.

Xerox(PBR336) says current global COVID-19 health care crisis is not conducive to pursue an acquisition of HP(PBR55), is withdrawing its tender offer and will no longer seek to nominate it suggested board members. https://bit.ly/XRXtc31$DHR PR link.

Tailored Brands(PBR749) re-opens its fulfillment centers, stores remain closed, to make 50,000 cotton washable facemasks at its New Bedford, MA, factory. https://bit.ly/TLRDtc31b$DHR PR link.

Tailored Brands(PBR749) adopts a short-term shareholder rights plan. https://bit.ly/TLRDtc31$DHR PR link.

The International Olympic Committee announces that the Tokyo 2020 Olympics dates have been moved to 07/23/21-08/08/21, will still be called the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. IOC PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says the US National Debt-Public on 03/30/20 is at $17.555 trillion, Intragovernmental $6.010 trillion, Total Debt $23.565 trillion, +0.7% from 02/28/20, +1.6% from 12/31/19, +7.0% from 03/29/19. USTreasury PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says the US 10 Year Treasury Note Yield on 03/31/20 is at 0.70%, 02/28/20 was at 1.13%, 01/31/20 1.99%, 03/29/19 2.41%. USTreasury PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/BEA says the Preliminary 4Q19 US Net International Assets are at $29.318 trillion, Liabilities $40.309 trillion, Net International Investment Position is at -$10.991 trillion, +0.1% from 3Q19, +15.0% from 4Q18. USDOC PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says the Preliminary February 2020 7th District Midwest Economic Index is at -0.08, January 2020 was at -0.35, December 2019 -.51, February 2019 +0.04. “The data through February were unlikely to have been affected much by the Covid-19 outbreak.” ChiFed PR link.

The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller January 2020 US National Home Price Index(01/2000=100) is at 212.43, December 2019 was at 212.39, November 2019 212.31, December 2017 195.97 December 2016 184.50. The 20 City and 10 City are at the link and will be on The PBRMarketTools March 2020 US Indices SnapshotsCase-Shiller PR link.

The Conference Board says the Preliminary March 2020 US Consumer Confidence Index(1985=100) is at 120.0, February 2020 was at 132.6, January 2020 130.4, March 2019 124.2. “… the intensification of COVID-19 and extreme volatility in the financial markets have increased uncertainty about the outlook for the economy and jobs. March’s decline in confidence is more in line with a severe contraction – rather than a temporary shock – and further declines are sure to follow.” TCB PR link.

The American Automobile Assn says the US Average Price for a Gallon of Regular Gas on 03/31/20 is at $1.997, 02/29/20 was at $2.447, 01/31/20 $2.485, 03/29/19 $2.691. “The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline dropped below $2 for the first time in four years… AAA expects gas prices to push cheaper, with the national price average hitting $1.75 or less in April… The decline is due to COVID-19’s chilling effect on the global economy and the crude oil price war between Saudi Arabia and Russia.” AAA PR link.

***Monday, March 30

Dow(PBR74) to expand hand sanitizer production at additional sites in North America, Europe and Latin America, will produce equivalent of 880,000 8 oz bottles per week, will be donated to local health systems and government agencies. $DOW PR link.

PBF Energy(PBR119) to sell off five hydrogen plants to Air Products(PBR341) for $530 million cash, to close in 04/20. $PBF PR link.

Spirit Airlines(PBR630) adopts a limited duration stockholder rights agreement in response to coronavirus pandemic. $SAVE PR link.

Hillenbrand(PBR922) completes around $224 million cash sale of its Cimcool business to DuBois Chemicals. $HI PR link.

BNY Mellon(PBR196) appoints Todd Gibbons as CEO, had been serving as Interim CEO. $BK PR link.

***Friday, March 27

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 13 ending 03/27/20:

DJIA ends Week 13 at 21,636.78, +12.84% from last Friday, -14.85% MTD, -24.18% QTD/YTD, -26.78% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends Week 13 at 7,502.38, +9.05% from last Friday, -12.43% MTD, -16.39% QTD/YTD, -23.58% from record 9,817.18 set 02/19/20.

SPX ends Week 13 at 2,541.47, +10.26% from last Friday, -13.97% MTD, -21.34% QTD/YTD, -24.95% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The Week 13 News Summary: It’s all about the COVID-19 virus. Cumulative confirmed worldwide cases are at nearly 600,000 and deaths at over 26,000. The US now has the most active cases with just under 100,000 reported. In response, in a quick and bipartisan effort, both houses of Congress passed a $2+ trillion stimulus bill which President Trump has signed. Companies are forging strategic partnerships for the rapid production of ventilators, masks, and other medical supplies. But many companies have announced layoffs and furloughs, resulting in a record initial unemployment claims of over 3 million people in the past week, significantly over the around 220,000 from previous weeks. Other US economic news was good, but still preliminary and just before the outbreak was labelled a pandemic. President Trump has indicated an ambitious plan, which health officials have strongly denounced, to get the country to start producing again, with a timeline of Easter, which is just a couple of weeks away. The US stock exchanges were again wildly volatile both up and down. But at the end of Week 13 The Stock Market Bull was the clear victor with a 3-0 mark after a 3 days strong rally, but with The Stock Market Bear still way ahead year-to-date, and still with a strong appetite to dine on more cash, according to several respected pundits.

The Week 13 of 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 6 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 6 weeks
Mixed Results: 1 week

Sysco(PBR55) furloughed workers in the US because of the coronavirus pandemic may have opportunities to temporarily work at Kroger(PBR22) stores in partnership agreement. $SYY PR link.

Pfizer(PBR59)’s Upjohn division and Mylan(PBR273) plan to combine as Viatris by around mid-2020 now anticipated to close 2H20 because of coronavirus pandemic. $PFE PR link.

Abbott(PBR99) gets US FDA Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the fastest available molecular point-of-care test for the detection of novel coronavirus (COVID-19), delivering positive results in as little as five minutes and negative results in 13 minutes. $ABT PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/BEA says the Preliminary February 2020 Personal Income Annual Rate is $19.095 trillion, +0.6% from January 2020, +4.0% from February 2019. More on Table 1 of the link. USDOC PR link.

The U of Michigan Final March 2020 Consumer Sentiment Index is at 89.1, February 2020 was at 101.0, January 2020 99.8, March 2019 98.4. “… Stabilizing confidence at its month’s end level will be difficult given surging unemployment and falling household incomes. The extent of additional declines in April will depend on the success in curtailing the spread of the virus and how quickly households receive funds to relieve their financial hardships.” UMichigan PR link.

The John Hopkins University Center for Systems Science and Engineering provides the latest counts on COVID-19 virus. On 03/27/20 11:54:13 Eastern the worldwide counts were 586,140 cumulative confirmed cases, 26,865 deaths. JHU-CSSE PR link.

***Thursday, March 26

Ford(PBR12) is aiming to restart production at select plants in N America as early as 04/06/20. $F PR link.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR108) gets US FDA approval for ZEPOSIA® (ozanimod) 0.92 mg for the treatment of adults with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (RMS). $BMY PR link.

Weyerhaeuser(PBR440) completes $145 million cash sale of its 630,000 acres of timberland in Montana to a private timberland investment company. $WY PR link.

Chipotle(PBR489) announces The 2020 Chipotle Challenger Series with new online competition for e-sports fans, will connect fans across the country with their favorite gaming and celebrity personalities for a chance to win $50,000 and free Chipotle for a year. $CMG PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US Initial Unemployment Insurance Claims for the Week Ending 03/21/20 is at 3,283,000, 02/22/20 was at 219,000, 01/25/20 216,000, 03/23/19 211,000. The large increase is primarily due to layoffs from the COVID-19 virus pandemic. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/BEA says the 4Q19-3rd Estimate Gross Domestic Product is at +2.1%, same as 2nd Estimate, 4Q19 Annual GDP Rate is at $21.729 trillion, +0.87% from 3Q19, +3.98% from 4Q18. USDOC PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR40) says the US Weekly Average 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rate on 03/26/20 is at 3.50% with 0.7 points/fees, was 3.45% on 02/27/20, 3.51% 01/29/20, 4.06% 03/28/19. “… the combination of the Fed’s actions and pending economic stimulus will provide substantial support to the mortgage markets.” $FMCC PR link.

***Wednesday, March 25

Fluor(PBR166) adopts a limited duration stockholder rights agreement. $FLR PR link.

Occidental Petroleum(PBR149) enters into an agreement with Carl C. Icahn and affiliates to add three new Icahn designated directors to Occidental’s Board. $OXY PR link.

Groupon(PBR797) President/N America Aaron Cooper appointed Interim CEO, succeeds Rich Williams who remains as an employee. https://bit.ly/GRPNtc25$F PR link.

The US Energy Information Administration says the 03/20/20 US Millions of Barrels of Crude Oil Stocks are at 455.4, 02/21/20 was at 443.3, 01/24/20 431.7, 03/22/20 442.3. USEIA PR link.

***Tuesday, March 24

Ford(PBR12) is working with 3M(PBR98), GE(PBR33), and the United Auto Workers to speed production of respirators for healthcare workers, ventilators for coronavirus patients. $F PR link.

Mondelez(PBR110) in response to COVID-19 pandemic to hire 1,000 frontline US employees to ensure the uninterrupted functioning of its US distribution and sales network in the coming months. $MDLZ PR link.

Occidental Petroleum(PBR149) elects its former CEO Steve Chazen as Non-Executive Chairman. $OXY PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says the Preliminary February 2020 New Family Home Sales Annual Rate is at 765,000, January 2020 was at 800,000, December 2019 724,000, February 2019 669,000; Median Home Price is at $345,900, +6.3% from January 2020, +7.8% from February 2019. USDOC PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia says the March 2020 3rd District Non-Manufacturing Current General Activity Index is at -35.1, February 2020 was at +31.0, January 2020 +13.4, March 2019 +20.5. “The survey’s indexes for general activity at the firm level, sales/revenues, new orders, and full-time employment all fell sharply and into negative territory this month, coinciding with developments related to the coronavirus.” PhillyFed PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond says the March 2020 5th District Manufacturing Index(Annualized) is at +2%, February 2020 was at -2%, January 2020 +20%, March 2019 +10%. “Survey respondents were pessimistic, expecting weaker business conditions and a drop in shipments and new orders in the coming months.” RichmondFed PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond says the March 2020 5th District Service Sector Revenue Index(Annualized) is at +1%, February 2020 was at +26%, January 2020 +10%, March 2019 +5%. “Survey respondents were pessimistic, expecting business conditions to worsen in the next six months.” RichmondFed PR link.

***Monday, March 23

PBRMarketTools.com welcomes pioneer TV streaming service Roku to The PBR1000, ranked 993 by revenues. More details at the Roku Spotlight page.

CVS Health(PBR5) to provide $150-500 in bonuses, add benefits and hire 50,000 in response to pandemic. $CVS PR link.

GE(PBR33) in response to COVID-19 pandemic to reduce around 10% of its US GE Aviation workforce, furlough around 50% maintenance, repair and overhaul employees for 90 days. $GE PR link.

PG&E(PBR184) has resolved all state charges related to the 2018 Camp Fire through a plea agreement with the Butte County District Attorney, will pay maximum fine of $4 million and fund efforts to restore access to water for the next five years for residents impacted by the loss of the Miocene Canal. $PCG PR link.

MGM Resorts(PBR242) Chairman/CEO Jim Murren steps down per his announcement in 02/20, President/COO Bill Hornbuckle appointed interim CEO, Board member Paul Salem named Chairman. https://bit.ly/MGMtc23$HI PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says the Preliminary February 2020 US National Activity Index is at +0.16, January 2020 was at -0.33, December 2019 -0.46, February 2019 -0.60. “Index suggests economic growth picked up in February… The data through February were unlikely to have been affected much by the COVID-19 outbreak.” ChiFed PR link.

***Friday, March 20

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 12 ending 03/20/20:

DJIA ends Week 12 at 19,173.98, -17.30% from last Friday, -24.54% MTD, -32.81% QTD/YTD, -35.12% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends Week 12 at 6,879.52, -12.64% from last Friday, -19.70% MTD, -23.33% QTD/YTD, -29.92% from record 9,817.18 set 02/19/20.

SPX ends Week 12 at 2,304.92, -14.98% from last Friday, -21.98% MTD, -28.66% QTD/YTD, -31.93% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The Week 12 News Summary: The world continues to be inundated with the COVID-19 pandemic related news, including school and business closures, strong “stay at home” messaging, only pick-up or delivery at restaurants if they are not closed, panic buying in grocery stores, and dramatic government efforts to figure out a way to spend their way out of what could be economic catastrophes. The escalation of news, government actions and resulting consumer behaviors will make for some interesting studies in the future. Health authorities continue to sound the alarm, contrarians are saying this is way overblown, especially when compared to past outbreaks. Time will bring out the truth. US economic news continues to be mostly positive, but is still based on results prior to the COVID-19 scare. For example, existing home sales had a big upturn in February. Last Sunday the Federal Open Market Committee in response to the COVID-19 scare dropped the key federal funds rate a full percent to 0.00% to 0.25%. US politics never stops and presidential candidate Democrat Joe Biden continues to outrun his competition with endorsements from dropouts in what is now a 2 person race. Either The Stock Market Bull is a victim of COVID-19 or is practicing the “stay at home” strategy to avoid it. The Stock Market Bear took big advantage of this and gorged on a large chunk of cash from the markets and overwhelmingly wins a volatile Week 12 3-0. Some say he has overindulged and can’t sustain it. Next week we will find out how big his appetite is.

The Week 12 of 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 5 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 6 weeks
Mixed Results: 1 week

Hillenbrand(PBR922) to sell its Cimcool business to DuBois Chemicals for around $224 million cash, to close on 03/30/20. $HI PR link.

The Natl Assn of Realtors says the February 2020 US Existing Home Sales Annual Rate is at 5,770,000, +6.5% from January 2020, +7.2% from February 2019; Median Home Price is at $270,100, +1.4% from January 2020, +8.0% from February 2019. NAR PR link.

***Thursday, March 19

Walmart(PBR1) to give $300 for US full-time hourly associates and $150 for part-time hourly associates as a special cash bonus on 04/02/20 for people employed by 03/01/20, also plans to hire 150,000 more people. $WMT PR link.

Fluor(PBR166) gets non-compliance letter from the NYSE for not filing 10-k on timely basis, has 6 months to remedy. $FLR PR link.

eBay(PBR287) says letter from minority investor Starboard nominating 4 more people for the Board is unwarranted, unreasonable and detrimental to the company. $EBAY PR link.

Acadia Healthcare(PBR724) puts effort to sell UK business on hold because of COVID-19 crisis. $ACHC PR link.

Cigna(PBR13 $CI) moves up from 24 to 22 on the mid-March 2020 update to The PBR25 Top Buy Recommendations with a 4.65/5.00 rating based on 26 analyst recommendations. For more go to The PBR25 information page.

The US Dept of Labor says the 4Q19 US Average Wages & Salaries-All Workers is at $25.47, Benefits $11.63, Total $37.10, +0.2% from 3Q19, +2.2% from 4Q18. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/BEA says the Preliminary 4Q19 US Exports(Goods, Services, Income Receipts) is at $936.1 billion, Imports(Goods, Services, Income Payments) is at $1.046 trillion, Deficit is at $109.8 billion, -12.4% from 3Q19, -23.7% from 4Q18. USDOC PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia says the March 2020 3rd District Manufacturing General Activity Indicator is at -12.7, February 2020 was at +36.7, January 2020 +17.0, March 2019 +14.9. Responses to the March Manufacturing Business Outlook Survey indicated a notable weakening in manufacturing activity… The survey’s future indexes suggest that respondents expect declines to be short-lived, inasmuch as they continue to expect growth in manufacturing activity over a horizon of six months.” PhillyFed PR link.

The Conference Board says the Preliminary February 2020 US Leading Economic Index(2016=100) is at 112.1, January 2020 was at 112.0, December 2019 111.3, February 2019 111.5. “The U.S. LEI rose slightly in February, but it doesn’t reflect the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic which began to hit the U.S. economy in full by early March.” TCB PR link.

***Wednesday, March 18

Abbott(PBR99) gets US FDA Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the company’s molecular test for novel coronavirus (COVID-19), scaling up production at its US manufacturing location to reach capacity for 1 million tests per week by end of 03/20. $ABT PR link.

Starbucks(PBR107) authorizes up to 40 million shares repurchase program, is in addition to the approximately 16 million shares that remained available as of 12/29/19 under the previous authorization. $SBUX PR link.

YUM!(PBR488) completes $14/share cash, around $375 million, acquisition of The Habit Burger Grill(NASDAQ:HABT), with nearly 300 company-owned and franchised restaurants across the US and in China. $YUM PR link.

Granite Construction(PBR681) gets NYSE letter saying by not filing its 10-K annual report with the SEC it is not in compliance, has 6 months to file 10-K. $GVA PR link.

Maximus(PBR748) authorizes the expansion of purchases of MAXIMUS common stock of up to an aggregate of $200 million, which includes the remaining balance from the 2018 authorization of $37.2 million as of 03/17/20. $MMS PR link.

The US Federal Housing Finance Administration directs FannieMae(PBR23) and FreddieMac(PBR41) to suspend foreclosures and evictions for at least 60 days due to the coronavirus national emergency, is in addition to previously directed payment forbearance to borrowers for a mortgage payment to be suspended for up to 12 months due to hardship caused by the coronavirus. FHFA PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says the Preliminary February 2020 New Residential Construction-Building Permits Issued Annual Rate is at 1,464,000, -5.6% from January 2020, +13.8% from February 2019. Go to link for Housing Starts and Housing CompletionsUSDOC PR link.

***Tuesday, March 17

Facebook(PBR46) to offer $100 million in cash grants, ad credits to 30,000 small businesses in 30+ countries due to coronavirus. $FB PR link.

AbbVie(PBR94) and Allergan(PBR197) sign a consent decree agreement with the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) agreeing to divest brazikumab, an investigational IL-23 inhibitor in development for autoimmune diseases, to AstraZeneca and Zenpep, a treatment for exocrine pancreatic insufficiency due to cystic fibrosis and other conditions, to Nestle who will also be acquiring Viokace, another pancreatic enzyme preparation, as part of the same transaction; AbbVie $63 billion acquisition of Allergan now expected to close in 05/20. $ABBV PR link.

Fox Corp(PBR269) to acquire Tubi, a leader in the fast-growing free ad-supported streaming category, for approximately $440 million in net cash, to close by 06/30/20. $FOX PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the Preliminary January 2020 Jobs Openings-Private are at 6,208,000, Government 755,000, Total Openings 6,963,000, +6.3% from December 2019, -7.4% from January 2019. For Hires and Separations go to the link. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the Preliminary February 2020 US Sales-Manufacturers is $501.8 billion, Retailers $464.8 billion, Wholesalers $504.6 billion, Total $1.471 trillion, +0.6% from January 2020, +2.1% from February 2019. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the Advance February 2020 US Sales-Retail is at $462.3 billion, Food Services & Drinking Places $65.8 billion, Total $528.1 billion, -0.5% from January 2020, +4.4% from February 2019. USDOC PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says the Preliminary February 2020 US Manufacturing % of Capacity is at 77.0%, January 2020 was at 76.6%, December 2019 77.1%, February 2019 78.5%, Capacity Growth Over Previous Year is at 2.0%. USFed PR link.

The Natl Assn of Home Builders/Wells Fargo say the Preliminary March 2020 US Housing Market Composite Index(>50=more builders view conditions as good than poor) is at 72, February 2020 was at 74, January 2020 75, March 2019 62. “Builder confidence remains solid, although sales expectations for the next six months dropped four points on economic uncertainty stemming from the coronavirus…” NAHB PR link.

***Monday, March 16

Amazon(PBR2) to hire 100,000 for full/part time positions across the US for fulfillment and delivery services because of increased orders during the coronavirus pandemic. $AMZN PR link.

Apple(PBR4 $AAPL) fined $1.3 billion by France over competition concerns. MarketWatch PR link.

Thermo Fisher Scientific(PBR112) gets US FDA emergency use authorization (EUA) for its diagnostic test that can be used immediately by CLIA high-complexity laboratories in the US to detect nucleic acid from SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, and not for any other viruses or pathogens, total test time takes 4 hours. $TMO PR link.

McDonald’s(PBR150 $MCD) shifts to take-out only mode over coronavirus. MarketWatch PR link.

Kohl’s(PBR159) to offer Lands’ End(PBR961 $LE)‘s entire assortment of women’s, men’s, kids, and home merchandise on Kohls.com, directly fulfilled and shipped by Lands’ End, and to offer LE seasonal merchandise in 150 stores, both beginning fall 2020. $KSS PR link.

PG&E(PBR184 $PCG) wins court approval of $23 billion bankruptcy financing package. MarketWatch PR link.

Lockheed(PBR56) elects James D. Taiclet, 59, as President/CEO, effective 06/15/20, succeeds Chairman/President/CEO Marillyn A. Hewson who will become Executive Chairman. $LMT PR link.

The US Federal Open Market Committee in a special meeting on 03/15/20 lowers the federal funds rate from 1.00-1.25% to 0.00-0.25% in response to concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic. FOMC PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York says the March 2020 Empire State Manufacturing General Business Conditions Index is at -21.5, February 2020 was at +12.9, January 2020 +4.8, March 2019 +5.1. “Optimism about the six-month outlook fell sharply, with firms less optimistic than they have been since 2009.” NYFed PR link.

***Friday, March 13

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 11 ending 03/13/20:

DJIA ends Week 11 at 23,185.62, -10.36% from last Friday, -8.75% MTD, -18.76% QTD/YTD, -21.54% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends Week 11 at 7,874.85, -8.17% from last Friday, -8.08% MTD, -12.23% QTD/YTD, -19.78% from record 9,817.18 set 02/19/20.

SPX ends Week 11 at 2,711.02, -8.79% from last Friday, -8.23% MTD, -16.09% QTD/YTD, -19.94% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The Week 11 News Summary: Across the globe the COVID-19 respiratory illness news dominated as it has for several weeks now. Key cultural events are being cancelled or postponed. The World Health Organization has labelled it a pandemic. The data is starting to come in and initial impacts on the global economy are starting to be measured. It doesn’t look pretty. At the same time oil prices are dipping because of the potential oil glut caused by the rift between Saudi Arabia and Russia. Former US Vice President Joe Biden is clearly ahead as the challenger to Donald Trump for the US presidency, but Bernie Sanders continues to push back, but now looks like his bid is coming up short. The stock exchanges reacted with scary high and low fluctuations. In the end The Stock Market Bear easily outbullied The Stock Market Bull to easily take Week 11 with a 3-0 victory.

The Week 11 of 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 5 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 5 weeks
Mixed Results: 1 week

Microsoft(PBR20 $MSFT) $10 billion cloud-computing award by the US Dept of Defense over Amazon(PBR2 $AMZN)‘s bid to be reconsidered over next 120 days. MarketWatch PR link.

Occidental Petroleum(PBR149) adopts limited duration stockholder rights plan, expires in 1 year, to be voted on at annual meeting. $OXY PR link.

Xerox(PBR336) puts its tender offer to acquire HP(PBR55) on hold because of coronavirus pandemic. https://bit.ly/XRXtc13$ORCL PR link.

Huntsman(PBR427) to acquire CVC Thermoset Specialties, a N American specialty chemical manufacturer serving the industrial composites, adhesives and coatings markets, from Emerald Performance Materials LLC which is majority owned by affiliates of American Securities, for around $300 million cash, to close mid 2020. https://bit.ly/HUNtc13$ORCL PR link.

Cleveland-Cliffs(PBR841) completes $3.36/share $1.1 billion acquisition of producer of flat-rolled carbon, stainless and electrical steel products AK Steel(PBR424). http://bit.ly/CLFtc13$ORCL PR link.

Cincinnati Bell(PBR968) to be acquired by Macquarie Infrastructure(PBR933) for $15.50/share cash, around $2.9 billion, includes debt, to close in 1H21. https://bit.ly/CBBtc13$ORCL PR link.

Microsoft(PBR20) co-founder Bill Gates steps down as a board member of Microsoft and Berkshire Hathaway(PBR6) to dedicate more time to his philanthropic priorities, will remain a technical advisor for Microsoft’s CEO Satya Nadella and other leaders. https://bit.ly/MSFTtc13b$ORCL PR link.

Verso Corp(PBR786) CEO Adam St. John elected to also be President, effective immediately. https://bit.ly/VRStc13$ORCL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the Preliminary February 2020 US Import Prices Index is at -0.5%, January 2020 was at +0.1%, December 2019 +0.2%, February 2020 +1.0%; the US Export Prices Index is at -1.1%, January 2020 was at +0.6%, December 2019 -0.2%, February 2019 +0.6%; Last 12 Months-Imports is at -1.2%, Exports -1.3%. USDOL PR link.

The U of Michigan Preliminary March 2020 Consumer Sentiment Index is at 95.9, February 2020 was at 101.0, January 2020 99.8, March 2019 98.4. “… the initial response to the pandemic has not generated the type of economic panic among consumers that was present in the runup to the Great Recession. Nonetheless, the data suggest that additional declines in confidence are still likely to occur as the spread of the virus continues to accelerate.”
UMichigan PR link.

***Thursday, March 12

Oracle(PBR78) increases share buyback program by $15.0 billion. $ORCL PR link.

Devon Energy(PBR289) $770 million sale of the Barnett Shale to Banpu Kalnin Ventures is scheduled to close on 04/15/20. $DVN PR link.

McDermott Intl(PBR432) gets US Bankruptcy Court approval for Plan of Reorganization and for sale of its Lummus Technology unit to a joint partnership between The Chatterjee Group and Rhône Capital for $2.725 billion, expects to emerge from Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2Q20 with more cash than debt. $MDR PR link.

UPS(PBR42) Chairman/CEO David Abney to become Executive Chairman on 06/01/20 and will retire from the Board on 09/30/20 when William Johnson, UPS Lead Independent Director will become Non-Executive Chairman; Board member Carol Tome to be hired as new CEO. $UPS PR link.

Party City(PBR829) CEO Jim Harrison to become Vice Chairman on 04/01/20, President/PCHI and CEO/Party City Retail Group Brad Weston is named as CEO successor. $PRTY PR link.

Tupperware(PBR880) hires Miguel Fernandez as President/CEO, effective 04/06/20, succeeds Interim CEO Chris O’Leary who returns to the Board, Rich Goudis appointed Executive Vice Chairman, effective 03/12/20. $TUP PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Z1 Report says the Preliminary 4Q19 US Networth of Households & Non-Profits is at $118.368 trillion, +2.7% from 3Q19, +10.4% from 4Q18. USFed PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the Preliminary February 2020 Total Monthly Final Demand Producer Price Index is at -0.6%, January 2020 was at +0.5%, December 2019 +0.2%, February 2019 +0.2%; Total Last 12 Months is at +1.3%, January 2020 was at +2.1%, December 2019 +1.3%, February 2019 +1.9%. USDOL PR link.

***Wednesday, March 11

Pepsi(PBR50) to acquire Rockstar Energy Beverages, the popular energy drink maker, for $3.85 billion, to close in 1H20. $PEP PR link.

HanesBrands(PBR424) CEO Gerald W. Evans Jr to retire, effective 01/02/21, new CEO search starts. $HBI PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the February 2020 US Monthly Change in the Consumer Price Index is at +0.1%, January 2020 was at +0.1%, December 2019 +0.2%, February 2019 +0.2%; Last 12 Months Change is at +2.3%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the Preliminary February 2020 Employee Current Average Earnings Per Hour is at $28.52, Average Hours Worked Per Week is at 34.4, Current Average Weekly Earnings is at $981.09, +0.6% from January 2020, +3.0% from February 2019. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says the February 2020 US Fed Govt Receipts are at $188.0 billion, Outlays $423.3 billion, Deficit $235.3 billion, YTD Receipts(5 Months) are at $1.367 trillion, YTD Outlays $1.991 trillion, YTD Deficit $624.5 billion, February 2019 was at $544.2 billion. USTreasury PR link.

The World Health Organization characterizes COVID-19 as a pandemic. WHO PR link.

The US Natl Collegiate Athletic Assn announces Division I men’s and women’s basketball tournaments will be limited to essential staff, family attendance due to COVID-19 concerns. NCAA PR link.

The Natl Basketball Assn suspends season play until further notice as a precaution per a positive COVID-19 test by a player. NBA PR link.

***Tuesday, March 10

CVS Health(PBR5) Pharmacy unit to acquire Schnuck Markets‘ retail and specialty pharmacy businesses, 110 locations in the Midwest, terms not disclosed, to close in 2Q20. $CVS PR link.

McKesson(PBR8) completes split-off of its interest in Change Healthcare(NASDAQ: CHNG)$MCK PR link.

Wells Fargo(PBR26 $WFC) CEO Charles Scharf tells the US House Financial Services Committee that the bank’s cultural issues won’t be fixed until 2021. MarketWatch PR link.

DXC Technology(PBR155) to sell its US State and Local Health and Human Services business to Veritas Capital for $5.0 billion in cash, to close by end of 2020. $DXC PR link.

PG&E(PBR183 $PCG) says it has settled dispute with FEMA over California wildfire money. MarketWatch PR link.

Royal Caribbean(PBR323) is bolstering its liquity as a precaution to the COVID-19 outbreak, increases revolving credit capacity by $550 million, reducing capital expenditures, operating expenses and taking other actions to improve liquidity by at least a further $1.7 billion in 2020. $RCL PR link.

Dick’s Sporting Goods(PBR350) to close an additional 440 hunt departments in its stores in 2020. $DKS PR link.

Cracker Barrel(PBR719) authorizes up to $25 million share repurchase program, expires 03/05/21. $CBRL PR link.

Take-Two Interactive(PBR793)’s 2K publishing unit gets multi-year partnership deal with the US Natl Football League, encompasses multiple future non-simulation football video game experiences. $TTWO PR link.

Cleveland-Cliffs(PBR842) $3.36/share $1.1 billion acquisition of producer of flat-rolled carbon, stainless and electrical steel products AK Steel(PBR424) gets approval by shareholders of both companies, transaction to be completed 03/13/20. $CLF PR link.

CoreLogic says the December 2019 % of Homes Mortgages 30 or more Days Delinquent is at 3.7%, November 2019 was at 3.9%, October 2019 3.7%, December 2018 4.1%. “Despite recent stress in some areas of the country, mortgage delinquency rates continue to stay at near-record lows.” CoreLogic PR link.

***Monday, March 9

Ross Stores(PBR205) opened 19 Ross Dress for Less® and 7 dd’s DISCOUNTS® stores across 9 different states in February and March, part of plans to add approximately 100 new stores – 75 Ross and 25 dd’s DISCOUNTS locations – during fiscal 2020. $ROST PR link.

Jacobs(PBR243) completes $325 million acquisition of UK based 2,000 employees, $285 million in revenues/2019 program management technical and consulting services in areas such as decommissioning, nuclear new build and operational support in the civil nuclear and defense segments provider John Wood Group’s Nuclear business$J PR link.

Willis Towers Watson(PBR346) to be acquired by UK based Aon plc(NYSE: AON) in all stock transaction, will create an $80 billion equity value company, to close in 1H21. $WLTW PR link.

Fifth Third Bancorp(PBR373) gets hit with civil lawsuit by the US Consumer Financial Protection Bureau saying it open fake accounts, denies allegations, says controls are designed to prevent and detect unauthorized account openings, looks forward to court proceedings. $FITB PR link.

Burlington Stores(PBR435 $BURL) to shut down e-commerce site, represented only 0.5% of sales, aims to open net 54 new stores in fiscal year 2020. MarketWatch PR link.

Twitter(PBR727) announces that Silver Lake will make a $1 billion investment in Twitter, will be used in an up to $2 billion share repurchase program; also enters into an agreement with 4% stakeholder Elliott Management to add 2 of its designees to the board. $TWTR PR link.

Wells Fargo(PBR26) Chairman Elizabeth Duke has resigned from the Board, Charles Noski appointed Chairman. $WFC PR link.

FannieMae(PBR23) says the February 2020 Home Purchase Sentiment Index is at 92.5, January 2020 was at 93.0, December 2019 91.7, February 2019 84.3. “The HPSI remained relatively steady in February, reflecting another month of robust consumer sentiment consistent with strong housing market data to start the year… the late February stock market decline, precipitated in part by evolving expectations of the potential economic impact of the coronavirus, is not fully reflected in this month’s results due to the timing of our survey data collection, which ended February 22.” $FNMA PR link.

***Friday, March 6

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 10 ending 03/06/20:

DJIA ends Week 10 at 25,864.78, +1.79% from last Friday/MTD, -9.37% QTD/YTD, -12.48% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends Week 10 at 8,575.62, +0.10% from last Friday/MTD,
-4.42% QTD/YTD, -12.65% from record 9,817.18 set 02/19/20.

SPX ends Week 10 at 2,972.37, +0.61% from last Friday/MTD, -8.00% QTD/YTD, -12.22% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The Week 10 News Summary: The novel coronavirus respiratory disease continues to be the news headliner as it is detected in additional countries. While still not labelled as pandemic, the news reporting would almost have you believe otherwise. At the end of the week US President Trump signed an $8.3 billion emergency bill to fund coronavirus research and development. On the US political front the Democrat Party surprisingly narrowed the list of presidential candidates on Super Tuesday when former Vice President Joe Biden took 10 out of 14 states. Senator Bernie Sanders is now a distant 2nd. The other leading candidates have dropped out. The US Federal Open Market Committee surprised everyone with a drastic 0.50% drop in the federal funds rate which is now 1.00-1.25%. It is in response to coronavirus and there have been mixed reactions to the move. US economic indices are still showing modest to moderate growth, but they also did not include much coronavirus effect yet. The jobs reports were especially strong. The Stock Market Bull was in charge on Monday and Wednesday, The Stock Market Bear on Tuesday and Thursday. On Friday at the opening of the stock exchanges it appeared that the Bear would end up victorious, but The Stock Market Bull quietly took enough away that he narrowly took the week. Perhaps The Stock Market Bear took an afternoon nap in his lounger.

The Week 10 of 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 5 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 4 weeks
Mixed Results: 1 week

US Foods(PBR119) to acquire 70 small-format cash and carry stores across the US Northwest that serve small and mid-sized restaurants and other food business customers with $1.1 billion in revenues in 2019 Smart Foodservice Warehouse Stores from Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR995) for $970 million cash. $USFD PR link.

Briggs & Stratton(PBR920) strategic repositioning includes a sharp focus on its global expertise in power application, a simpler organization through strategic divestitures, and a streamlined overall business to drive improved capital returns. $BGG PR link.

Cincinnati Bell(PBR973) says new bid to be acquired by Macquarie Infrastructure(PBR933) for $15.50/share cash is a superior offer, Brookfield Infrastructure says it will not put in a counter offer, CBB to enter agreememt with Macquarie on 03/13/20. $CBB PR link.

Chipotle(PBR533) Founder/Executive Chairman Steve Ells steps down from position and Board, CEO Brian Niccol appointed to additional role of Chairman, effectively immediately. $CMG PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the February 2020 US Total Employed is at 158,759,000, +45,000 from January 2020, +1,810,000 from February 2019, Total Unemployed is at 5,787,000, -105,000 from January 2020, -448,000 from February 2019, Unemployment Rate is at 3.5%, February 2019 was at 3.8%. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says the Preliminary January 2020 Consumer Credit Outstanding Annual Rate-Revolving is at $$1.090 trillion, Non-Revolving $3,113 trillion, Total $4.203 trillion, +0.3% from December 2019, +4.4% from January 2019. USFed PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the Preliminary January 2020 US Wholesale Sales-Durable Goods is at $238.0 billion, Non-Durable Goods $266.5 billion, Total $504.5 billion, +1.6% from December 2019, +2.2% from January 2019. For Wholesale Inventories click on the PR link. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the Preliminary January 2020 US Exports-Goods is at $136.4 billion, Services $72.2 billion, Total Exports $208.6; US Imports-Goods is at $203.4 billion, Services $50.5 billion, Total Imports $253.9 billion; Deficit-Goods is at $67.0 billion, Surplus-Services $21.7 billion, Total Deficit $45.3 billion, December 2019 Total Deficit was $48.6 billion, November 2019 Total Deficit $43.8 billion, January 2019 Total Deficit was $53.8 billion. USDOC PR link.

***Thursday, March 5

HP(PBR55) rejects Xerox(PBR308 $XRX)‘s latest proposal to be acquired for $24.00/share cash & stock, says Xerox offer meaningfully undervalues HP and disproportionately benefits Xerox shareholders. $HPQ PR link.

Allergan(PBR198) gets US FDA approval for New Drug Application (NDA) for DURYSTA™ (bimatoprost implant) 10 mcg for intracameral administration, becomes the first intracameral, biodegradable sustained-release implant indicated to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with open-angle glaucoma (OAG) or ocular hypertension (OHT). $AGN PR link.

Newmont Goldcorp(PBR400) completes $260 million sale of its 19.9% equity stake in Continental Gold, was part of a contractual arrangement to support Zijin Mining Group’s acquisition of Continental. $NEM PR link.

Chipotle(PBR533) is increasing its Paid Parental Leave for Restaurant Support Center and eligible field employees to 12 weeks for birth moms and four weeks for new dads and individuals adopting children; also testing unlimited paid time off (PTO) for Restaurant Support Center Directors and above as well as Executive Team Directors and Team Directors in 2020. $CMG PR link.

Tailored Brands(PBR696) completes $115 million sale of its Joseph Abboud trademarks to WHP Global, has also entered into a licensing agreement with WHP for the exclusive rights to sell and rent Joseph Abboud branded apparel and related merchandise in the US and Canada. $TLRD PR link.

La-Z-Boy(PBR939) to acquire the business that operates six independently owned La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries® stores, with approximately $30 million in annual retail volume, and one warehouse in the Seattle, WA market, is a result of the planned retirement of independent dealers, to close in 06/20, terms not disclosed. $LZB PR link.

JPMorgan Chase(PBR24) colleagues, shareholders & clients sent letter saying Chairman/CEO Jamie Dimon had succeessful emergency heart operation, is doing well, Co-Presidents & COO’s to lead company during Dimon’s recuperation. $JPM PR link.

Gap Inc(PBR186)’s Old Navy unit CEO Sonia Syngal to become Gap CEO and Board member on 03/23/20. $GPS PR link.

Western Digital(PBR187) hires David Goeckeler as CEO and member of the Board, effective 03/09/20. $WDC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the 4Q19 US Business Sector Labor Productivity Output/Hour Percent Change From Previous Quarter Annual Rate is at +1.0%, 3Q19 was -0.4%, 2Q19 +2.9%, 1Q19 +3.9%, 2019 Annual Rate is +1.9%, 2018 was +1.4%, 2017 +1.4%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the Preliminary January 2020 Manufacturers New Sales-Durables is $246.0 billion, Non-Durables $251.9 billion, Total $497.9 billion, -0.5% from December 2019 and -0.5% from January 2019. See the report for Shipments and Inventories. USDOC PR link.

***Wednesday, March 4

General Motors(PBR17) reveals its Ultium battery with energy options ranging from 50 to 200 kWh, which could enable a GM-estimated range up to 400 miles or more on a full charge with 0 to 60 mph acceleration as low as 3 seconds. Motors designed in-house will support front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive and performance all-wheel drive applications. Chevrolet, Cadillac, GMC and Buick will all be launching new EVs starting late 2020. $GM PR link.

AMD(PBR442) with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) and Hewlett Packard Enterprises(PBR103) announce El Capitan, the upcoming exascale class supercomputer at LLNL, will be powered by next generation AMD EPYC™ CPUs, AMD Radeon™ Instinct GPUs and open source AMD ROCm heterogeneous computing software, will exceed 2 exaflops, expected to be more powerful than today’s 200 fastest supercomputers combined, will support National Nuclear Security Administration requirements for its primary mission of ensuring the safety, security and reliability of the nation’s nuclear stockpile, to be available in early 2023. $AMD PR link.

Align Technology(PBR894) to acquire privately held global leader in the dental CAD/CAM software market exocad Global Holdings GmbH for around $415 million cash, to close in 2Q20. $ALGN PR link.

Cincinnati Bell(PBR973) acquisition by Brookfield Infrastructure and its institutional partners amended, raised from $12.50/share to $13.50/share cash, $2.797 billion, including debt, selected over similar bid from Macquarie Infrastructure(PBR933), to close by end of 2020. $CBB PR link.

Advance Auto Parts(PBR317) Independent Chair Jeffrey Smith will not stand for re-election at the 05/20 annual meeting of shareholders, Eugene Lee, Jr expected to be appointed successor. $AAP PR link.

The US Federal Reserve releases its Beige Book for data through 02/24/20, says, “Economic activity expanded at a modest to moderate rate over the past several weeks, according to the majority of Federal Reserve Districts… Outlooks for the near-term were mostly for modest growth with the coronavirus and the upcoming presidential election cited as potential risks.” USFed PR link.

ADP(PBR219) says the Preliminary February 2020 US Change In Non-Farm Private Employment is +183,000, +24,000 from Small Businesses(1-49 employees), +26,000 from Medium-Sized Businesses(50-499), +133,000 from Large Businesses(500 and more); +11,000 are from the Goods Producing Sector, +172,000 from the Services Sector. $ADP PR link.

The Institute for Supply Management says the February 2020 US Non-Manufacturing Index(>50 is economy is growing) is at 57.9%, January 2020 was at 55.5%, December 2019 55.0%, February 2019 59.7%. “Most respondents are concerned about the coronavirus and its supply chain impact. They also continue to have difficulty with labor resources. They do remain positive about business conditions and the overall economy.” ISM PR link.

IHS Markit says the February 2020 US Composite PMI Output Index is at 49.6, January 2020 was at 53.3, December 2019 52.7, February 2019 55.5. “Political and economic uncertainty, the coronavirus outbreak and financial market turmoil all risk building into a cocktail of risk aversion that has severely heightened downside risks to the economy in coming months.” IHS Markit PR link.

***Tuesday, March 3

Ford(PBR12) announces that its best-selling cargo van in the world, the Ford Transit, is going digital, with an all-electric version coming for the 2022 model year, will be manufactured in the US. $F PR link.

Chevron(PBR15) expects to return to shareholders $75-80 billion over the next five years through disciplined capital spending, improved cost efficiency, and continued cash flow growth. $CVX PR link.

Lockheed(PBR61) delivers 500th F-35 aircraft, surpasses 250,000 flight hours. $LMT PR link.

Honeywell(PBR74) on track to release a quantum computer with a quantum volume of at least 64, twice that of the next alternative in the industry, to be available in mid-2020. $HON PR link.

AbbVie(PBR94) $63 billion acquisition of Allergan(PBR197) gets European Commission‘s final approval, US Federal Trade Commission decision is expected in early 2Q20. $ABBV PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR116) says it sees no interuption in the production and distribution of its medicines, including all forms of insulin, due to coronavirus spread concerns, most manufacturing and raw supplies do not come from China. $LLY PR link.

Thermo Fisher Scientific(PBR118) to acquire Netherlands based global provider of molecular diagnostics and sample preparation technologies QIAGEN NV(NYSE: QGEN; Frankfurt Prime Standard: QIA) for around $11.5 billion, includes $1.2 billion in debt, to close in 1H21. $TMO PR link.

Equinix(PBR489) completes $335 million acquisition of bare metal automation platform provider Packet$EQIX PR link.

OneMain(PBR538) authorizes an up to $100 million share repurchase program with no expiration date. $OMF PR link.

East West Bancorp(PBR916) authorizes an up to $500 million share repurchase program, is inclusive of the Company’s $100 million stock repurchase authorization currently outstanding. $EWBC PR link.

Deere & Co(PBR79) Chairman Samuel R. Allen to retire 05/01/20 after a 45 year career, CEO John May to add Chairman role at that time. $DE PR link.

The US Federal Open Market Committee in an emergency session regarding the potential economic impact of the potential spread of the coronavirus disease authorizes a 0.50% reduction rate in the federal funds rate, which is now 1.00%-1.25%, FOMC PR link.

The PurdueU/CME Group February 2020 Ag Economy Barometer Composite Index is at 168, a new high, January 2020 was at 167, December 2019 150, February 2019 136. “Producers were more optimistic about current conditions on their farms and in U.S. agriculture and retained most of the improvement in expectations for the future that they exhibited in January.” PurdueU/CME Group PR link.

***Monday, March 2

Apple(PBR4 $AAPL) to pay up to $500 million to settle US lawsuit for quietly slowing down older iPhones as it launched new models, to induce owners to buy replacement phones or batteries, will be $25 per iPhone, Apple denies wrongdoing. yahoo finance PR link.

Alphabet(PBR11 $GOOG) self-driving unit Waymo raises $2.25 billion from investors. MarketWatch PR link.

Anthem(PBR31) completes acquisition of Beacon Health Options, the largest independently held behavioral health organization in the US, serving 36+ million individuals across all 50 states, from Bain Capital Private Equity and Diamond Castle Holding, terms not disclosed. $ANTM PR link.

Gilead Sciences(PBR139) to acquire Forty Seven for $95.50/share cash, $4.9 billion, will strengthen Gilead’s immuno-oncology research and development portfolio, to close in 2Q20. $GILD PR link.

Ingersoll-Rand(PBR200) completes spinoff its Industrial segment to IR shareholders, combine it with Gardner Denver(PBR758), will be called Ingersoll-Rand, retain IR ticker; remainder of IR Climate company renamed Trane Technologies plc, starts trading on NYSE with symbol TT, received $1.9 billion. $IR PR link.

JCPenney(PBR260) will expand Style on the Go Curbside Pickup services to 50 additional locations across the US. $JCP PR link.

Xerox(PBR308) launches a tender offer to acquire all outstanding shares of HP(PBR55) for $24.00/share, comprising $18.40 in cash and 0.149 Xerox shares for each HP share. $XRX PR link.

Constellation Brands(PBR334) completes sale of its Ballast Point brand and a number of its associated production facilities and brewpubs, excluding Constellation’s Craft & Specialty operations in Daleville, VA, to Chicagoland-based Kings & Convicts Brewing Co. $STZ PR link.

Avery Dennison(PBR404) completes $252 million acquisition of Amsterdam, Netherlands based around 900 employees Smartrac’s Transponder (RFID Inlay) Division$AVY PR link.

Toro(PBR710) completes $167.5 million in cash acquisition of privately-held Orrville, OH based $100 million in 2019 revenues manufacturer of articulating turf, landscape, and snow and ice management equipment for the grounds, landscape contractor, golf, municipal and rural acreage markets Venture Products$TTC PR link.

GE(PBR33) Chairman/CEO Larry Culp issues statement on passing of former Chairman/CEO John F. Welch, Jr. $GE PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the Preliminary January 2020 Construction Spending Annual Rate-Residential is at $562.3 billion, Non-Residential $807.0 billion, Total $1.369 trillion, +1.8% from December 2019, +6.6% from January 2019. USDOC PR link.

The Institute for Supply Management says the Preliminary February 2020 US Manufacturing PMI Index(>50% economy expanding) is at 50.1%, January 2020 was at 50.9%, December 2019 47.8%, February 2019 54.2%. “… Overall, sentiment this month is marginally positive regarding near-term growth…” ISM PR link.

IHS Markit says the February 2020 US Manufacturing PMI Index is at 50.7, January 2020 was at 51.9, December 2019 52.4, February 2019 53.0. IHS Markit PR link.

***Friday, February 28

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 9 and February ending 02/28/20:

DJIA ends Week 9 and February at 25,409.36, -12.36% from last Friday, -10.07 MTD, -10.96% QTD/YTD, -14.02% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends Week 9 and February at 8,567.37, -10.54% from last Friday, -6.38% MTD, -4.52% QTD/YTD, -12.73% from record 9,817.18 set 02/19/20.

SPX ends Week 9 and February at at 2,954.22, -11.49% from last Friday, -8.41 MTD, -8.56% QTD/YTD, -12.76% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The Week 9 and February of 2020 News Summary: The primary focus globally has escalated to be just the novel coronavirus respiratory disease, still mostly in China, but increasing numbers in other countries of the world. Containment is still uncertain, the economic impact still unmeasurable to any degree of accuracy. In the US President Trump gave a speech and took questions at a press conference, and appointed Vice President Pence to lead the effort to continue to contain coronavirus. President Trump also had a state visit to India, the largest democracy in the world, negotiated for a new treaty, and announced India’s purchase of $3 billion of US military goods. In the US economic indices continue to be mostly positive, but most surveys and analyses are based on results prior to the increased news about the coronavirus. The same can be said for US corporate earnings reports, which were mostly positive, but many provided guidance with caveats about future earnings based on, once again, coronavirus. The Stock Market Bull was noticeably absent during the week, The Stock Market Bear, aka SARS CoV-2, prevailed significantly every day to take a big win 3-0 for Week 9 and for February.

The Week 9 of 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 4 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 4 weeks
Mixed Results: 1 week

The Month of February 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 0 months
The Stock Market Bear: 1 month
Mixed Results: 1 month

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

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PBRMarketTools.com provides news, data, and analysis on 1,000 of the largest publicly held companies with primary operations in the US. The data and analysis is included in The PBR1000 Monthly Snapshots, an MS-Excel workbook with 15 snapshot worksheets, 28 rankings, and over 200 fields of data and information on each company. Click here to find out more! 

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Copyright © 2020, All Rights Reserved, Pax Business Resources, LLC.

The PBR1000 February 2020 Stocks & Commodities Snapshots

February 2020 The PBR1000:
A Win for the Coronavirus

PBR1000 Coronavirus

At the end of February The Stock Market Bear found a new buddy, the COVID-19 virus, which is causing the Coronavirus respiratory disease outbreak worldwide. How long will it last and what damage will it cause to people, the markets, and economies?

By Larry C. Paxton

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for February 2020 ending 02/28/20:

DJIA ends Week 9 and February at 25,409.36, -12.36% from last Friday, -10.07 MTD, -10.96% QTD/YTD, -14.02% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends Week 9 and February at 8,567.37, -10.54% from last Friday, -6.38% MTD, -4.52% QTD/YTD, -12.73% from record 9,817.18 set 02/19/20.

SPX ends Week 9 and February at at 2,954.22, -11.49% from last Friday, -8.41 MTD, -8.56% QTD/YTD, -12.76% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The Week 9 and February of 2020 News Summary: The primary focus globally has escalated to be just the novel coronavirus respiratory disease, still mostly in China, but increasing numbers in other countries of the world. Containment is still uncertain, the economic impact still unmeasurable to any degree of accuracy. In the US President Trump gave a speech and took questions at a press conference, and appointed Vice President Pence to lead the effort to continue to contain coronavirus. President Trump also had a state visit to India, the largest democracy in the world, negotiated for a new treaty, and announced India’s purchase of $3 billion of US military goods. In the US economic indices continue to be mostly positive, but most surveys and analyses are based on results prior to the increased news about the coronavirus. The same can be said for US corporate earnings reports, which were mostly positive, but many provided guidance with caveats about future earnings based on, once again, coronavirus. The Stock Market Bull was noticeably absent during the week, The Stock Market Bear, aka SARS CoV-2, prevailed significantly every day to take a big win 3-0 for Week 9 and for February.

The Week 9 of 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 4 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 4 weeks
Mixed Results: 1 week

The Month of February 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 0 months
The Stock Market Bear: 1 month
Mixed Results: 1 month

 

The February 2020 US Major Stock Market Exchanges Summary

Number of Trading Days: 19

Number of Gain(+)/Loss(-) Days: DJIA 7+/12-; NASDAQ 12+/7-; SPX 9+/10-.

Record Days: DJIA 1, NASDAQ 8, SPX 6

Longest Gain Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 4 days(02/03-06/20), NASDAQ 4 days(02/03-06/20),  and SPX 4 days(02/03-06/20)

Longest Loss Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 7 days(02/20-28/20), NASDAQ 4 days(02/20-25/20), and SPX 7 days(02/20-28/20)

Big Swing Up Days(>1.00%): 4 days, 02/03/20(N +1.34%), 02/04/20(D +1.44%, N +2.10%, S +1.50%), 02/05/20(D +1.68%, S +1.13%), 02/10/20(N +1.13%)

Big Swing Down Days(<-1.00%): 5 days, 02/21/20(N -1.79%, S -1.05%), 02/24/20(D -3.56%, N -3.71%, S -3.35%), 02/25/20(D -3.15%, N -2.77%, S -3.03%), 02/27/20(D -4.42%, N -4.61%, S -4.42%), 02/28/20(D -1.39%)

The PBR1000 February 2019 Snapshots

The following are Top 5 partial tables excerpts from The PBR1000 February 2020 Snapshots. The price for stocks is for the close of trading on February 28, 2020, 1 Month % Chg is compared to January 31, 202012 Months % Chg is compared to February 28, 2019, and the 24 Months % Chg is compared to February 28, 2018. The PBR Rank is by annual revenues.

To get the complete The PBR1000 Snapshots  just click here to get your 12 month subscription and automatically download the February 2020 edition with the complete 15 Snapshots and 28 rankings and the bonuses The PBRMarketTools US Monthly Indices Snapshots and The PBR25 Top Buy Stocks.

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

Table 1 Summary: The range was +110% to -93%69 out of 1,000 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a loss of 8.49%, the median was a loss of 10.27%. The DJIA was -10.1%, NASDAQ -6.4%, SPX -8.4%.

Company PBR
Rank
Symbol Price
02/28/20
Mo
% Chg
12 Mos
% Chg
24 Mos
% Chg
Sprint 88 S $ 9.19 +110 +45 +77
UNISYS
764 UIS $ 15.53 +60 +15 +39
LSC Communications
624 LKSD $ 0.29 +34 -97 -98
Regeneron Pharma
431 REGN $ 444.57 +32 +3 +39
Tutor Perini 567 TPC $ 14.50 +29 -23 -40

Table 2(S12): The PBR1000 Top 5 12 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 2 Summary: The range was +109% to -99%401 out of 993 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 1.55%, the median was a loss of 5.98%. The DJIA was -1.95%, NASDAQ +13.74%, SPX +6.10%.

Company PBR
Rank
Symbol Price
02/28/20
Mo
% Chg
12 Mos
% Chg
24 Mos
% Chg
Tesla 146 TSLA $ 667.99 +3 +109 +95
AMD 442 AMD $ 45.48 -3 +93 +276
Sonic Auto 306 SAH $ 28.00 -11 +86 +43
NVIDIA 258 NVDA $ 270.07 +14 +75 +12
Roku 993 ROKU $ 113.67 -6 +71 +179

Table 3(S13): The PBR1000 Top 5 24 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: The range was +276% to -99%413 out of 977 stocks were up 0% or more. The average was a gain of 5.07%. The median was a loss of 8.18%. The DJIA was +1.52%, NASDAQ +17.80%, SPX +8.86%.

Company PBR
Rank
Symbol Price
02/28/20
Mo
% Chg
YTD
% Chg
24 Mos
% Chg
AMD 442 AMD $ 45.48 -3 +93 +276
Rent-A-Center 795 RCII $ 21.29 -27 +14 +183
Roku 993 ROKU $ 113.67 -6 +71 +179
Chipotle 532 CMG $ 773.58 -11 +27 +143
FTI Consulting 884 FCN $ 112.59 -6 +52 +136

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

Table 4 Summary: The range was $1,203 billion to $0.01 billion. The average is $27.994 billionmedian is $7.31 billion, out of 1,000 companies.

Company PBR
Rank
Symbol Market Cap($B)
02/28/20
Mo
% Chg
12/17
% Chg
12/14
% Chg
Microsoft 20 MSFT $ 1,203 B -8 +83 +214
Apple 4 AAPL $ 1,197 B -16 +37 +85
Amazon 2 AMZN $ 938 B +1 +69 +553
Alphabet 11 GOOG $ 905 B -10 +24 +153
Facebook 46 FB $ 541 B -9 +6 +149
The PBR1000
  $ 27,994 B -9 -8 +8

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

Company Price
02/28/20
Mo
% Chg
12 Mos
% Chg
24 Mos
% Chg
The PBR1000 89,284.21 -8.4 +1.6 +5.1
DJIA 25,409.36 -10.1 -2.0 +1.5
NASDAQ 8,567.37 -6.4 +13.7 +17.8
S&P500 2,954.22 -8.4 +6.1 +8.9
GOLD 1,587.30 -0.4 +20.7 +20.4
SILVER 16.68 -7.5 +6.7 +1.7
OIL            45.26 -12.3 -21.2 -26.6

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PBRMarketTools.com provides The PBR1000, a compilation of 1,000 of the largest publicly held companies with primary operations in the US. These companies generate $14 trillion in annual revenues, more than all other US companies combined. The PBR1000 Monthly Snapshots provides these 1,000 companies in Excel format, includes 15 worksheets with 28 rankings, over 200 data/information points, hotlinks to key data, and important news items per company. This service is used by astute business professionals and shrewd investors worldwide.

Disclaimers: The PBR1000 is compiled from a variety of publicly available resources. As such, PBRMarketTools.com is not responsible for the data itself. Any liability for the representations or decisions based on the data is solely the responsibility of the authorized user, not PBRMarketTools.com, its employees or affiliates. PBRMarketTools.com is an independent provider of news, data, and analysis. It is not a financial advisor firm or stock brokerage service, and is not affiliated with any such organization.

(Graphic courtesy of US Center for Disease Control(CDC).)

Copyright © 2020 by Pax Business Resources, LLC, All Rights Reserved, 

The PBR1000 February 2020 Breaking News Recap

The PBR1000: Sweetheart Deals In February?

PBR1000 Stocks

The PBR1000 in the Sweetheart Month of February 2020 will continue to test how much investors love their equities investments.

By Larry C. Paxton

The February 2020 breaking news items of interest for The PBR1000 follow with the most current date first.

***Friday, February 28

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 9 and February ending 02/28/20:

DJIA ends Week 9 and February at 25,409.36, -12.36% from last Friday, -10.07 MTD, -10.96% QTD/YTD, -14.02% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends Week 9 and February at 8,567.37, -10.54% from last Friday, -6.38% MTD, -4.52% QTD/YTD, -12.73% from record 9,817.18 set 02/19/20.

SPX ends Week 9 and February at at 2,954.22, -11.49% from last Friday, -8.41 MTD, -8.56% QTD/YTD, -12.76% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The Week 9 and February of 2020 News Summary: The primary focus globally has escalated to be just the novel coronavirus respiratory disease, still mostly in China, but increasing numbers in other countries of the world. Containment is still uncertain, the economic impact still unmeasurable to any degree of accuracy. In the US President Trump gave a speech and took questions at a press conference, and appointed Vice President Pence to lead the effort to continue to contain coronavirus. President Trump also had a state visit to India, the largest democracy in the world, negotiated for a new treaty, and announced India’s purchase of $3 billion of US military goods. In the US economic indices continue to be mostly positive, but most surveys and analyses are based on results prior to the increased news about the coronavirus. The same can be said for US corporate earnings reports, which were mostly positive, but many provided guidance with caveats about future earnings based on, once again, coronavirus. The Stock Market Bull was noticeably absent during the week, The Stock Market Bear, aka SARS CoV-2, prevailed significantly every day to take a big win 3-0 for Week 9 and for February.

The Week 9 of 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 4 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 4 weeks
Mixed Results: 1 week

The Month of February 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 0 months
The Stock Market Bear: 1 month
Mixed Results: 1 month

Taylor Morrison Homes(PBR592) authorizes up to $100 million for renewal of its stock repurchase program, expires 12/31/20. $TMHC PR link.

IDEX(PBR819) completes $125 million cash acquisition of privately-held $60 million in annual revenues provider of flow measurement systems in the oil and gas industry Flow Management Devices$IEX PR link.

W.R. Grace(PBR903) increases its share repurchase authorization to $250 million, includes approximately $83 million remaining under its previously-announced program. $GRA PR link.

Cincinnati Bell(PBR973) amends agreement to be acquired by Brookfield Infrastructure(NYSE: BIP) from $10.50/share to $12.50/share, around $2.745 billion cash, includes debt, to close by 12/31/20. $CBB PR link.

Harley-Davidson(PBR478) President/CEO/Director Matthew Levatich steps down from all his roles after 26 years with the company, Board member Jochen Zeitz appointed as Acting President and CEO, also appointed Chairman and will continue that role when a new CEO is onboard, former Chairman Michael Cave is now Presiding Director. $HOG PR link.

Arch Coal(PBR822) CEO John W. Eaves to retire at annual meeting on 04/30/20, become Executive Chairman, succeeds James N. Chapman who will become Lead Indpendent Director, President/COO Paul A. Lang to become President/CEO, becomes member of the Board. $ARCH PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says the US Government Natl Debt-Public on 02/27/20 is at $17.388 trillion, Intragovernmental Holdings $6.035 trillion, for Total US Government Debt of $23.423 trillion, +0.9% from 01/31/20, +5.9% from 02/28/19. USTreasury PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/BEA says the Preliminary January 2020 Personal Income Annual Rate is at $18.981 trillion, +0.6% from December 2019, +4.0% from January 2019. USDOC PR link.

The American Automobile Assn says the US Average Price/Gallon of Gas on 02/29/20 is at $2.447, on 01/31/20 it was at $2.485, 12/31/19 $2.583, 02/28/19 $2.413. AAA PR link.

The MNI February 2020 Chicago Business Barometer(<50 is declining) is at 49.0, January 2020 was at 42.9, December 2019 48.9, February 2019 64.7. “The index moved
closer to the 50-no-change-threshold, shifting the
three-month average up to 46.7.” MNI PR link.

The U of Michigan Final February 2020 Consumer Sentiment Index is at 101.0, January 2020 was at 99.8, December 2019 99.3, February 2019 93.8. “… the domestic spread of the (corona)virus could have a significant impact on consumer spending. Importantly, the early indications suggested only a very modest impact as the Sentiment Index among consumers who mentioned the coronavirus was still quite high (just over 90.0).” UMichigan PR link.

***Thursday, February 26

Wells Fargo(PBR29 $WFC) ordered to pay $35 million by the US Securities and Exchange Commission for for failing reasonably to supervise investment advisers and registered representatives who recommended single-inverse ETF investments to retail investors, and for lacking adequate compliance policies and procedures. SEC PR link.

Dell(PBR34) authorizes new up to $1 billion share buyback program, expires in 24 months. $DELL PR link.

Facebook(PBR57) cancels its annual F8 developer conference over coronavirus concerns. -CNet $FB PR link.

PG&E(PBR181 $PCG) gets slapped with increase from $1.7 billion to $2.1 billion fine by California Public Utilities Commission for igniting a series of deadly wildfires. MarketWatch PR link.

Bed Bath & Beyond(PBR250) announces strategic restructuring program to simplify operations and reset cost structure, expects to reduce workforce by around 500. $BBBY PR link.

Zoetis(PBR471) gets US FDA approval for Simparica TrioTM (sarolaner, moxidectin, and pyrantel chewable tablets), the first once-monthly, chewable tablet in the US that delivers all-in-one protection from heartworm disease, ticks and fleas, roundworms and hookworms in dogs. $ZTS PR link.

Gardner Denver(PBR788 $GDI) will replace Cimarex Energy(PBR839 $XEC) in the S&P 500, and Cimarex Energy will replace Chesapeake Energy(PBR298 $CHK) in the S&P MidCap 400 effective prior to the open of trading on 03/03/20.

Verso Corp(PBR789) authorizes up to $250 million share repurchase program. $VRS PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/BEA says the 4Q19 2nd Estimate Gross Domestic Product remains at +2.1%, $21.727 trillion, +0.9% from 3Q19, +4.0% from 4Q18. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US 4 Week Moving Average Initial Unemployment Insurance Claims for 02/22/20 is at 209,750, 01/25/20 was at 214,500, 12/21/19 219,750, 02/23/19 229,000. USDOL PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR40) says the US 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rate Average on 02/27/20 is at 3.45% with 0.7 fees & points, 01/29/20 was at 3.51%, 12/26/19 3.74%, 2/28/19 4.35%. $FMCC PR link.

***Wednesday, February 26

Chesapeake Energy(PBR298 $CHK) in 4Q20 earnings conference call says it will be filing for a reverse stock split in a few weeks. MotleyFool PR link.

Charles Schwab(PBR302) to acquire independent investment manager of fixed income separately managed accounts with $10.5 billion in assets under management Wasmer, Schroeder & Company, LLC in an all cash purchase, terms not disclosed. $SCHW PR link.

Insight(PBR409) authorizes up to $50 million share repurchase program, to retire the repurchased shares. $NSIT PR link.

Blackstone(PBR421 $BX) has purchased 28,000 student beds – along with a further 4,000 in the pipeline – for £4.7 billion ($6.1 billion) from Goldman Sachs(PBR85) in the UK’s largest ever private real estate transaction. MarketWatch PR link.

TreeHouse Foods(PBR473) to restructure from 3 divisions(Baked Goods, Beverages and Meal Solutions), to two divisions, Snacking & Beverages and Meal Preparation. $THS PR link.

Peabody Energy(PBR490) plan to own 66.5% Arch Coal(PBR826 $ARCH) 33.5% in joint venture to combine the companies’ Powder River Basin and Colorado coal assets gets negative split decision by the US Federal Trade Commission, Peabody/Arch will take the case to federal courts. $BTU PR link.

Brink’s(PBR659) to acquire for around $860 million the majority of the cash operations of UK-based $800 million in revenues in 2019 G4S plc (LSE: GFS), a global security and cash management company, acquisition to be accomplished in phases and be completed by 12/31/20. $BCO PR link.

Thermo-Fisher Scientific(PBR118) President/CEO Marc Casper elected to additional role of Chairman, effective immediately, succeeds Jim Manzi who remains on the Board. $TMO PR link.

Huntington Ingalls(PBR364) Chairman retired Adm. Thomas B. Fargo to retire from the board after the next annual meeting of shareholders on 04/28/20, retired Adm. Kirkland H. Donald elected to be successor. $HII PR link.

PPL Corp(PBR381) Chairman/CEO William H Spence to retire as CEO effective 06/01/20, will become Non-Executive Chairman, President/COO Vincent Sorgi to become President/CEO on 06/01/20. $PPL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD says the Preliminary January 2020 New Family Home Sales Annual Rate is at 764,000 units, +7.9% from December 2019, +18.6% from January 2019; Median Price is at $348,200, +7.4% from December 2019, +14.0% from January 2019; New Homes Available are at 324,000; Months Supply is at 5.1. USDOC PR link.

The US Energy Information Administration says the US Crude Oil Stocks on 02/21/20 are at 443.3 million barrels of oil, +2.7% from 01/24/20, -0.6% from 02/22/19. USEIA PR link.

The National Retail Federation says consumers continue to drive economy, forecasts retail sales will grow 3.5 percent to 4.1 percent. NRF PR link.

***Tuesday, February 25

Comcast(PBR32) has acquired the free, live and on-demand streaming entertainment, news, sports and more, organized in a channel guide, and features over 190 different genre-grouped channels XUMO, based in Irvine, CA, terms not disclosed. $CMCSA PR link.

Mondelez(PBR109) to acquire a significant majority interest in $500 million in revenues/2019 Give & Go, a N American provider of fully-finished sweet baked goods and owners of the famous “two-bite”® brand and the “Create-A-Treat”® brand known for cookie and gingerbread house decorating kits, to close in 2Q20. $MDLZ PR link.

Principal Financial(PBR215) authorizes up to $900 million common stock repurchase program, as of 12/31/19, approximately $168 million remained under prior authorization. $PFG PR link.

Walt Disney(PBR45) Chairman/CEO Bob Iger steps down as CEO, becomes Executive Chairman through 12/31/21, will also direct creative endeavors, Chairman/Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Bob Chapek named CEO, both effective immediately. $DIS PR link.

MasterCard(PBR206) President/CEO Ajay Banga to become Executive Chairman on 01/01/21, Chief Product Officer Michael Miebach to become President on 03/01/20, also become CEO and Board member on 01/01/21. $MA PR link.

Arconic(PBR225) CEO John Plant to be Executive Chairman/Co-CEO of spinoff Howmet Aerospace upon separation on 04/01/20 through 03/31/23, President/Arconic Engineered Structures Tolga Oal to be other Co-CEO. $ARNC PR link.

Salesforce(PBR236) Co-CEO Keith Block steps down, remaining as Advisor to the CEO, Marc Benioff now both Chairman and only CEO. $CRM PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond says the February 2020 US 5th District Manufacturing Index(Annualized) is at -2%, January 2020 was at +20%, December 2019 -5%, February 2019 +14%. “… the index for local business conditions remained positive, and manufacturers were optimistic that activity would improve in the coming months.” RichmondFed PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond says the February 2020 US 5th District Service Sector Revenue Index(Annualized) is at +26%, January 2020 was at +10%, December 2019 +17%, February 2019 +16%. “Survey participants were optimistic that activity would be strong in the next six months.” RichmondFed PR link.

The Conference Board Preliminary February 2020 Consumer Confidence Index(1985=100) is at 130.7, January 2020 was at 130.4, December 2019 128.2, February 2019 131.4. “Consumers’ short-term expectations improved, and when coupled with solid employment growth, should be enough to continue to support spending and economic growth in the near term.” TCB PR link.

The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller December 2019 US National Composite Home Price Index(01/2000=100) is at 212.59, November 2019 was at 212.42, October 2019 212.20, December 2018 204.90. Case-Shiller PR link.

***Monday, February 24

Intel(PBR43) makes several hardware and software announcements for 5G networks infrastructure, including the launch of the new Intel Atom® P5900, a 10nm system-on-chip (SoC) for wireless base stations. $INTC PR link.

HP(PBR55) increases its total share repurchase authorization to $15 billion, up from the $5 billion share repurchase authorization announced in 10/19, says revised Xerox(PBR308) proposal, announced on 02/10/20, meaningfully undervalues HP, creates significant risk, and compromises HP’s future, HP is reaching out to Xerox to explore if there is a combination that creates value for HP shareholders that is additive to HP’s strategic and financial plan. $HPQ PR link.

Cisco(PBR62) launches SecureX, says it unifies visibility, identifies unknown threats, and automates workflows to strengthen customers’ security across network, endpoint, cloud, and applications, is a ‘radical simplification,’ will be included in every Cisco security product. $CSCO PR link.

Intuit(PBR426) to acquire consumer technology platform with more than 100 million members in the US, Canada and UK and around $1 billion in revenues in 2019 Credit Karma for around $7.1 billion cash and stock, to close in 2H20. $INTU PR link.

Perrigo(PBR538) and partner Catalent Pharma Solutions get US FDA approval for generic albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol, the first AB-rated generic version of Teva Respiratory’s ProAir® HFA, indicated in patients 4 years of age and older for the treatment or prevention of bronchospasm with reversible obstructive airway disease and for the prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm. $PRGO PR link.

Perrigo(PBR538) to acquire the oral care assets of High Ridge Brands for $113 million in cash in bankruptcy sale, assets include leading children’s oral care value brand, Firefly®, in addition to the REACH® and Dr. Fresh® brands, to close in 1Q20. $PRGO PR link.

Avis Budget(PBR329) enters into a new cooperation agreement with largest shareholder SRS Investment Management, will result in SRS providing 3 people for the 9 member Board. $CAR PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says the Preliminary January 2020 US National Activity Index is at -0.25, December 2019 was at -0.51, November 2019 +0.49, January 2019 -0.07. “Index points to an uptick in economic growth in January.” ChiFed PR link.

***Friday, February 21

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 8 ending 02/21/20:

DJIA ends Week 8 at 28,992.41, -1.38% from last Friday, +2.61 MTD, +1.59% QTD/YTD, -1.89% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends Week 8 at 9,576.59, -1.59% from last Friday, +4.65% MTD, +6.73% QTD/YTD, -2.45% from record 9,817.18 set 02/19/20.

SPX ends Week 8 at at 3,337.75, -1.25% from last Friday, +3.48 MTD, +3.31% QTD/YTD, -1.43% from record 3,386.15 set 02/19/20.

The Week 8 of 2020 News Summary: The major international story continues to be the acute respiratory disease coronavirus, aka COVID-19, which is still primarily in China and has spread to some other countries as well, though still in much smaller numbers. As Chinese and world health organizations grapple with the issue the economies of countries that have major trade with China are starting to be impacted. In the US this is starting to show up in some of the 4Q19 earnings reports and guidance for 2020 comments. However, the US economy still looks very good to this point, US corporate earnings reports were still mostly positive, and business and consumer surveys continued to reflect optimism. In US politics the Democrats had a debate in Nevada, the first to include new candidate multi-billionaire Michael Bloomberg, who was immediately attacked for his trying to buy the nomination. It was a 4 day trading week with US Presidents Day being observed on Monday. The Stock Market Bull had a great day on Wednesday with the NASDAQ and SPX having record days. But The Stock Market Bear gorged himself on Thursday and Friday on the coronavirus news to take Week 8 3-0.

The Week 8 of 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 4 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 3 weeks
Mixed Results: 1 week

Wells Fargo(PBR29) in settlement with the US Dept of Justice and the US Securities and Exchange Commission has agreed to make payments totaling $3 billion for the Company’s historical Community Bank sales practices and related disclosures. $WFC PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR116) gets US FDA approval for Trulicity® (dulaglutide) for the reduction of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in adults with type 2 diabetes who have established cardiovascular (CV) disease or multiple cardiovascular risk factors. $LLY PR link.

Cleveland-Cliffs(PBR841) $3.36/share $1.1 billion acquisition of producer of flat-rolled carbon, stainless and electrical steel products AK Steel(PBR424) gets last regulatory approval from the Mexican Competition Commission, scheduled to close on 03/13/20 when shareholders of both companies vote on the deal. $CLF PR link.

AVX(PBR931) to be acquired by 72% shareholder Kyocera Corp through all stock purchase of the 28% of common shares it does not own for $21.75/share, to close by 03/31/20. $AVX PR link.

The Natl Assn or Realtors says the January 2020 US Existing Homes Sales Annual Rate is at 5,460,000, -1.4% from December 2019, +9.6% from January 2019; Median Price is at $266,300, -3.0% from December 2019, +6.8% from January 2019; Median Days on Market is at 43 Days; Available inventory is at 1,420,000, a 3.1 Months SupplyNAR PR link.

***Thursday, February 20

HP(PBR55) adopts a limited duration shareholder rights plan to discourage proposals from companies like Xerox(PBR308) without first negotiating with the Board. $HPQ PR link.

Morgan Stanley(PBR63) to acquire online brokerage E*Trade(PBR753) for $58.74/share, around $13 billion all stock, to close in 4Q20. $MS PR link.

T-Mobile US(PBR70) acquisition of Sprint(PBR90) amended, Softbank to get 11.00 Sprint shares per T-Mobile share, up from 9.75, will result in Deutsche Telekom and SoftBank to hold approximately 43% and 24%, respectively, of the fully diluted New T-Mobile shares, with the remaining approximately 33% held by public shareholders, trying to close deal by 04/01/20. $TMUS PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR116) completes $18.75/share around $1.1 billion cash acquisition of biopharmaceutical developer of new therapies for chronic skin conditions Dermira$LLY PR link.

L Brands(PBR237) selling 55% interest in Victoria’s Secret unit to Sycamore Partners for $525 million, will retain 45% minority stake, positions its Bath & Body Works unit as a highly profitable, standalone public company, upon closing Chairman/CEO Leslie Wexner to step down from his roles, remain a member of the Board as Chairman Emeritus, COO of Bath & Body Works Andrew Meslow to become CEO of L Brands. $LB PR link.

Hormel Foods(PBR320) to acquire family-owned pit-smoked meats company based in Henderson, TX witn $140 million in annual revenues Sadler’s Smokehouse for $270 million cash, to close in 03/20. $HRL PR link.

Huntsman(PBR324) completes $350 million cash acquisition of $230 million in annual revenues Icynene-Lapolla, a leading N American manufacturer and distributor of spray polyurethane foam (SPF) insulation systems for residential and commercial applications, from FFL Partners. $HUN PR link.

Wolverine World Wide(PBR858) to receive a payment of $55 million from 3M(PBR93) for Wolverine’s efforts to address PFAS remediation to ensure long-term water quality and continued environmental remediation per US District Court Consent Decree with the State of Michigan, Plainfield Charter Township, and Algoma Township. $WWW PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia says the February 2020 US 3rd District Manufacturing General Activity Indicator is at +36.7, January 2020 was at +17.0, December 2019 +2.4, February 2019 -0.7. “… highest reading since February 2017… future indexes indicate that respondents continue to expect growth in manufacturing activity over the next six months.” PhillyFed PR link.

The Conference Board says the January 2020 US Leading Economic Index(2016=100) is at 112.1, December 2019 was at 111.3, November 2019 111.6, January 2019 111.4. “The strong pickup in the January US LEI was driven by a sharp drop in initial unemployment insurance claims, increasing housing permits, consumers’ outlook on the economy and financial indicators… the COVID-19 outbreak may impact manufacturing supply chains in the US in the coming months.” TCB PR link.

***Wednesday, February 19

Lithia Motors(PBR255) acquires two Lexus stores in Sacramento and Roseville, CA, generate $160 million in annual revenues, terms not disclosed. $LAD PR link.

Fiserv(PBR472) completes $510 million in net after-tax proceeds sale of 60% stake in its Investment Services Business to Motive Partners, Fiserv retains a 40% equity interest in the business. $FISV PR link.

Harley-Davidson(PBR478) authorizes an additional 10 million shares for its repurchase program, which had 8.2 million shares available at the end of 2019. $HOG PR link.

Ascena Retail(PBR492) has completed the wind down of its Dressbarn brand operations, closing over 650 stores, eliminates over $300 million of lease liability. $ASNA PR link.

Scientific Games(PBR680) has developed, and Kentucky Horse Racing Commission has approved, their first generation of Historical Horse Racing machines, announces 3-way partnership with Churchill Downs and Ainsworth Game Technology$SGMS PR link.

Endo Intl(PBR739) EVP/CFO Blaise Coleman to become President/CEO and member of the Board effective 03/06/20, succeeds Paul Campanelli who will remain Chairman. $ENDP PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US Preliminary January 2020 Total Monthly Demand Producer Price Index is at +0.5%, December 2019 was at +0.2%, November 2019 -0.1%, January 2019 -0.3%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Labor says the US Preliminary January 2020 Building Permits Issued-Private Housing is at 1,551,000 annual rate, December 2019 was at 1,420,000, November 2019 1,474,000, January 2019 1,316,000. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Open Market Committee releases the minutes from the 01/28-29/20 meeting, says “Members agreed to maintain the target range for the federal funds rate at 1-1/2 to 1-3/4 percent. Members judged that the current stance of monetary policy was appropriate to support sustained expansion of economic activity, strong labor market conditions, and inflation returning to the Committee’s symmetric 2 percent objective.” FOMC PR link.

***Tuesday, February 18

Check out The PBR1000 Spotlight on salesforce.com, #9 on the current The PBR25! $CRM PR link.

Walmart(PBR1 $WMT) expects to save $60 million annually on shopping bags. MarketWatch PR link.

Dell(PBR34) to sell its risk, security and fraud teams provider RSA to a consortium led by Symphony Technology Group, Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan Board and AlpInvest Partners for $2.075 billion cash, to close in 6-9 months. $DELL PR link.

Fluor(PBR160) in 4Q19 report says it has reversed its decision to sell substantially all of its Government business, has gained confidence in its solid liquidity position and its viable options for generating cash flow. $FLR PR link.

Bed Bath & Beyond(PBR250) to sell its PersonalizationMall.com business to 1-800-FLOWERS.COM for $252 million. $BBBY PR link.

Group 1 Automotive(PBR262) increases share repurchase authorization by $52.4 million to $100 million. $GPI PR link.

Baxter(PBR279) completes $350 million cash acquisition of $100 million in annual revenues provider of adhesion prevention products, hemostats and sealants Seprafilm Adhesion Barrier and related assets from Sanofi$BAX PR link.

Ally Financial(PBR294) to acquire privately held Woodbury, NY based $4.7 billion in assets non-prime credit card and consumer finance lender with a full-spectrum unsecured servicing platform and robust merchant services capability provider CardWorks for $2.65 billion cash and stock, to close in 3Q20. $ALLY PR link.

Anixter(PBR354) shareholders to vote on 04/09/20 on being acquired by WESCO(PBR365) for $100.00/share, $4.5 billion cash & stock. $AXE PR link.

Franklin Resources(PBR476) to acquire $806 billion in assets on 01/31/20 Legg Mason(PBR746) for $50.00/share cash, will also assume about $2 billion of Legg Mason’s outstanding debt, to close in 3Q20. $BEN PR link.

Groupon(PBR798) in 4Q19 report says it is proposing a reverse stock split of common stock at a ratio of between 1-for-10 and 1-for-12, to be voted on at shareholders annual meeting in 06/20. $GRPN PR link.

SL Green Realty(PBR986) to sell its 315 West 33rd Street New York City property and an adjacent undeveloped parcel of land for a gross valuation of $446.5 million, or approximately $906 square foot, to an affiliate of Brookfield Asset Management, to close in 2Q20. $SLG PR link.

DuPont(PBR35) CEO Marc Doyle and CFO Jeanmarie Desmond are leaving the company, Executive Chairman and former CEO Ed Breen adds CEO role, new CFO appointed. $DD PR link.

Dow(PBR52) CEO Jim Fitterling expected to be appointed to additional role of Chairman after annual stockholders meeting on 04/09/20. $DOW PR link.

Facebook(PBR57 $FB) CEO Mark Zuckerberg and CFO Sheryl Sandberg should be “removed from control” of Facebook for its policy on political ads according to financier George Soros in a letter to the editor of the Financial Times. MarketWatch PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank of New York says the US February 2020 Empire State Manufacturing General Business Conditions Index is at +12.9, January 2020 was at +4.8, December 2019 +3.3, February 2019 +10.3. “Optimism about the six-month outlook continued to be somewhat subdued, and capital spending plans remained firm.” NYFed PR link.

The Natl Assn of Home Builders Preliminary February 2020 US Housing Market Composite Index(>50=more builders view conditions as good than poor) is at 74, January 2020 was at 75, December 2019 76, February 2019 62. “Steady job growth, rising wages and low interest rates are fueling demand but builders are still grappling with increasing construction and development costs…” NAHB/WF PR link.

***Monday, February 17

***US Federal Holiday.
***US Presidents Day.
***US Stock Exchanges Closed.

Apple(PBR3) revises down 1Q20 revenue forecast, experiencing a slower return to normal conditions in China from coronavirus issues than anticipated, worldwide iPhone supply will be temporarily constrained as China factories reopen, demand for its products within China has been affected by store closures. $AAPL PR link.

General Motors(PBR14) restructuring international operations, to wind down sales, design and engineering operations in Australia and New Zealand and retire the Holden brand by 2021, will focus on the GM specialty vehicle business for that market; to purchase GM’s Rayong vehicle manufacturing facility in Thailand; and to withdraw Chevrolet from the domestic market in Thailand by the end of 2020. $GM PR link.

Dean Foods(PBR383) to sell 44 of its fluid and frozen facilities and the real estate, inventory, equipment, and all other assets necessary to operate such facilities to the Dairy Farmers of America cooperative in a “stalking horse” agreement, needs to be approved by Bankruptcy Court scheduled for 03/12/20, any other bids would be due by 03/31/20. $DFODQ PR link.

Triumph Group(PBR678) combines its Integrated Systems and Product Support business units into one “Triumph Systems & Support” business effective immediately, as part of restructuring. $TGI PR link.

Pier 1 Imports(PBR957) has entered into a Plan Support Agreement with a majority of its term loan lenders and is pursuing a sale of the Company, has commenced voluntary Chapter 11 proceedings in the US Bankruptcy Court, to complete the previously announced closure of up to 450 store locations, which includes the closure of all its stores in Canada. $PIR PR link.

***Friday, February 14

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 7 ending 02/14/20:

DJIA ends Week 7 at 29,398.08, +1.02% from last Friday, +4.04 MTD, +3.01% QTD/YTD, -0.52% from record 29,551.42 set 02/12/20.

NASDAQ ends Week 7 at record 9,731.18, +2.21% from last Friday, 6.34% MTD, +8.45% QTD/YTD, +0.00% from record 9,731.18 set 02/14/20.

SPX ends Week 7 at record at 3,380.16, +1.58% from last Friday, +4.79 MTD, +9.62% QTD/YTD, +0.00% from record 3,380.16 set 02/14/20.

The Week 7 of 2020 News Summary:
The coronavirus, now also known as COV-19, was the overwhelming top news maker again this week as numbers of people affected and associated deaths continue to climb, but remains largely confined to China, which has calmed the world a little bit as it accepts that the outbreak in mostly isolated. Most economists say there will be an impact globally, and continue to try to measure what the affect has been so far and will be overall. US economic news was a little mixed on the good side. Jobs continue to be available, employee turnover is low, wages are up a little bit, and mortgage rates continue to be very reasonable. US corporate earnings continue to be mostly better than anticipated as 2019 annual reports keep pouring in. US politics was active as the first primary, New Hampshire, was pursued heavily by the Democrat candidates, and resulted in a narrow margin win by Bernie Sanders. Nevada and S Carolina are the next stops as the election cycle accelerates. The US stock exchanges responded positively the whole week. The Stock Market Bear made a brief appearance on Thursday, but The Stock Market Bull easily prevailed the other days and takes a Week 7 3-0 victory romp in the pasture.

The Week 7 of 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 4 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 2 weeks
Mixed Results: 1 week

MGM Resorts(PBR257) completes around $4.6 billion sale of MGM Grand Las Vegas and Mandalay Bay real estate assets to new joint venture between MGM Growth Properties and Blackstone(PBR423) Real Estate Income Trust, MGM Resorts has entered into a long-term triple net master lease for both properties, and will continue to manage, operate and be responsible for all aspects of the properties on a day-to-day basis, with the joint venture owning the properties and receiving rent payments. MGM PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US Preliminary January 2020 Monthly Imports Prices are at +0.0, Exports +0.7%; Last 12 Months Imports are at +0.3%, Exports +0.5%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the US Preliminary December 2019 Total Sales-Manufacturers are at $504.1 billion, Retail $462.6 billion, Wholesalers $494.4 billion, Total Sales $1.461 trillion, -0.1% from November 2019, +1.7% from December 2018. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the US Advance January 2020 Sales-Retail are at $463.3 billion, Food Services & Drinking Places $66.5 billion, Total $529.8 billion, +0.3% from December 2019, +4.4% from January 2019. USDOC PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says the US Preliminary January 2020 Industrial Production Capacity Utilization is at 76.8%, December 2019 was at 77.1%, November 2019 77.5%, January 2019 79.0%. USFed PR link.

The Natl Assn of Home Builders/Wells Fargo says the US Preliminary January 2020 Housing Market Composite Index(>50%=more builders view conditions as good than poor} is at 75%, December 2019 was at 76%, November 2019 71%, January 19 was at 58%. NAHB/WB PR link.

The U of Michigan US Preliminary February 2020 Consumer Sentiment Index is at 100.9, January 2020 was at 99.8, December 2019 99.3, February 2019 93.8. UMichigan PR link.

***Thursday, February 13

Microsoft(PBR19 $MSFT) US federal government $10 billion cloud services JEDI contract gets temporary restraining order by federal judge per lawsuit filed by Amazon(PBR5 $AMZN) who alleged the yearslong evaluation process included “clear deficiencies, errors and unmistakable bias.” MarketWatch PR link.

Boeing(PBR28) reaches a tentative agreement with the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA) on a new four-year contract extension that would run through 2026 covering approximately 18,000 engineering and technical employees, nearly all of whom are in Washington and Oregon, SPEEA membership to vote 02/24-03/09/20. $BA PR link.

Tyson(PBR72 $TSN) says pork exports to China soared nearly 600% in first quarter after swine fever outbreak, expects chicken exports to China to double, in restructuring will cut 500 jobs. MarketWatch PR link.

Tesla(PBR144) to offer approximately $2 billion of common stock, to use net proceeds to further strengthen its balance sheet, as well as for general corporate purposes. $TSLA PR link.

Kohl’s(PBR155 $KSS) restructuring program results in 250 job cuts, including regional store leaders and merchant team members, not closing any stores or corporate offices and is continuing to hire in key areas. MarketWatch PR link.

Molson Coors(PBR285 $TAP) is jumping into the hard seltzer category with Vizzy launch in 03/20. MarketWatch PR link.

eBay(PBR286) completes $4.05 billion cash sale of its StubHub unit to worldwide ticket marketplace for live sport, music and entertainment events viagogo. $EBAY PR link.

Newmont Goldcorp(PBR401) says it has gold Mineral Reserves of 100.2 million attributable ounces for 2019 compared to 65.4 million ounces at the end of 2018. $NEM PR link.

Wayfair(PBR428 $W) has cut about 3% of its global workforce, or about 550 jobs, as part of a restructuring, continues to hire for many roles. MarketWatch PR link.

Moody’s(PBR570) completes $700 million acquisition of anti-money laundering and know-your-customer data and due diligence services provider Regulatory DataCorp$MCO PR link.

Tempur Sealy(PBR786) increases share repurchase program by over $190 million, new balance available is $300 million, expects to purchase at least $50 million of its common stock per quarter in the near term. $TPX PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US January 2020 Consumer Price Index-All Items is at +0.1%, December 2019 was at +0.2%, November 2019 +0.2%, January 2019 +0.0%, The Last 12 Months(Unadjusted) is at +2.5%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US Preliminary January 2020 Current Average Earnings/Hour is at $28.44, Average Hours Worked/Week is at 34.3, Current Average Weekly Earnings is at $975.49, +0.3% from December 2019, +2.5% from January 2019. USDOL PR link.

***Wednesday, February 12

Here’s the link for a brief summary on global data centers firm Equinix(PBR524), ranked 16th on The PBR25 Top Buy Stocks list on 02/04/20. $EQIX Spotlight link.

Bausch Health(PBR358) to reduce debt by $100 million using cash generated from operations. $BHC PR link.

NVR(PBR404) authorizes $300 million share repurchase program. $NVR PR link.

Worthington Industries(PBR631) to consolidate its oil and gas equipment manufacturing operation in Wooster, OH into its existing facility in Bremen, OH, to be completed by 05/31/20, 122 employees affected have option to transfer. $WOR PR link.

Elanco Animal Health(PBR719) to divest the European Economic Area and UK rights to the de-wormers for dogs and cats Drontal® and Profender® product families from Bayer AG’s (ETR: BAYN) animal health business, to French pharmaceutical company Vetoquinol SA (EURONEXT: VETO), for $140 million cash, further advances Elanco’s efforts to gain European Commission clearance for the acquisition of Bayer AG’s global animal health business. $ELAN PR link.

C.H. Robinson(PBR184) Executive Chairman John Wiehoff to retire at the 05/07/20 annual meeting, successor to be named at a later date. $CHRW PR link.

MGM Resorts(PBR257) Chairman/CEO Jim Murren to step down from both roles before the end of his contract, will stay on until successor appointed, CEO search committee formed. $MGM PR link.

HNI Corp(PBR857) President/CEO Jeff Lorenger elected to also be Chairman, effective immediately, succeeds Larry Porcellato who has been appointed Lead Director. $HNI PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says the US January 2020 Federal Government Receipts were $372.3 billion, Outlays $404.9 billion, for Deficit of $32.6 billion; January 2019 Surplus was $8.7 billion; January 2020 YTD(4 months) Total Deficit is at $389.2 billion, January 2019 YTD Total Deficit was $310.3 billion. USTreasury PR link.

***Tuesday, February 11

Home Depot(PBR27) to hire 80,000 associates for spring. $HD PR link.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR36)’s Janssen unit to collaborate with the US Dept of Health & Human Services to accelerate development of a potential novel coronavirus vaccine. $JNJ PR link.

T-Mobile US(PBR70) $59 billion all stock acquisition of Sprint(PBR90) gets favorable decision in Federal Court in New York, remains subject to possible additional court proceedings, could close as early as 04/01/20. $TMUS PR link.

Cleveland-Cliffs(PBR843) $3.36/share $1.1 billion acquisition of producer of flat-rolled carbon, stainless and electrical steel products AK Steel(PBR424) is now scheduled to close on 03/13/20. $CLF PR link.

SeaWorld(PBR974) agrees to pay $65.0 million settlement for claims alleging violations of the US Securities and Exchange Commission, does not include an admission of fault, court must still approve. $SEAS PR link.

Beacon Roofing(PBR408) Chairman Robert R. Buck retires from the position, remains a director on the Board, Philip W. Knisely appointed as new Chairman. $BECN PR link.

The US Federal Trade Commission issues Special Orders to Alphabet(PBR17)(including Google), Amazon(PBR5), Apple(PBR3), Facebook(PBR57), and Microsoft(PBR19) to provide information and documents on the terms, scope, structure, and purpose of transactions that each company consummated between 01/01/10 and 12/31/19. USFTC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US Preliminary December 2019 Job Openings-Private are at 5,739,000, Government 684,000, Total 6,423,000, -5.4% from November 2019, -14.1% from December 2018. USDOL PR link.

CoreLogic says the US November 2019 Housing Mortgages 30 Days or More Delinquent are at 3.9%, October 2019 was at 3.7%, September 2019 3.8%, November 2018 4.1%. “Overall delinquency rates remain at 20-year lows spurred on by tight underwriting standards following the onset of the Great Recession, a robust and accelerating economic cycle the past five years and the increasing underlying health of the housing economy… ” CoreLogic PR link.

***Monday, February 10

UPS(PBR41) and the Independent Pilots Association, which represents the company’s 2,959 flight crewmembers, reach a tentative agreement on a two-year contract extension, will go into effect 09/01/21, become amendable 09/01/23, if ratified. $UPS PR link.

ViacomCBS(PBR214)’s CBS Sports unit and sports book operator William Hill form a strategic partnership that makes William Hill the Official Sports Book and Wagering Data Provider across all CBS Sports platforms, will tip off with initial integrations in 03/20 on CBS Sports digital platforms, with a full rollout planned for the fantasy football season. $VIAC PR link.

Xerox(PBR308) to launch a tender offer on or around 03/02/20 for all of the outstanding shares of common stock of HP(PBR55) for $24.00/share, $18.40 in cash and 0.149 Xerox shares for each HP share. $XRX PR link.

Simon Property(PBR484) to acquire 80% of owners, managers and/or leasors of 26 super-regional shopping centers in the US and Asia Taubman Centers(NYSE: TCO) for $52.50/share cash, around $3.6 billion, Taubman family retains 20% ownership, to close mid-2020. $SPG PR link.

Equifax(PBR670) CEO Mark W. Begor issues a statement of thanks to the FBI for the US Dept of Justice’s indictment of four individual members of the People’s Liberation Army, the armed forces of the People’s Republic of China, in connection with the theft of consumer data in 2017. $EFX PR link.

Verso Corp(PBR790) has completed the $400 million sale of its Androscoggin Mill, located in Jay, ME, and its Stevens Point Mill, located in Stevens Point, WI, to Pixelle Specialty Solutions. $VRS PR link.

Genesco(PBR865) to move its current Nashville, TN, corporate headquarters into a new 310,000 sf facility in Nashville in early 2021. $GCO PR link.

Edgewell Personal Care(PBR873) terminates $1.37 billion cash/stock acquisition of New York, NY-based 900 employees razor products provider Harry’s because of recent US Federal Trade Commission lawsuit. $EPC PR link.

GATX(PBR976) to sell its American Steamship Company business, the operator of the largest fleet of US-flagged vessels on the Great Lakes, to Rand Logistics for $260 million. $GATX PR link.

Avis Budget(PBR329) appoints Bernardo Hees to the Board and as Independent Chairman, effective immediately, succeeds Leonard Coleman who remains a Board director. $CAR PR link.

***Friday, February 7

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 6 ending 02/07/20:

DJIA ends Week 6 at 29,102.51, +3.00% from last Friday/MTD, +1.98% QTD/YTD, -0.94% from record 29,379.77 set 02/06/20.

NASDAQ ends Week 6 at 9,520.51, +4.04% from last Friday/MTD, +6.11% QTD/YTD, -0.54% from record 9,572.15 set 02/07/20.

SPX ends Week 6 at 3,327.71, +3.17% from last Friday/MTD, +3.00% QTD/YTD, -0.54% from record 3,345.78 set 02/06/20.

The Week 6 of 2020 News Summary:
The major international news story continues to be the continuing increase of cases of and deaths from the coronavirus in China and concern for its spread throughout the world. In China many businesses have been shut down, including most multinational companies. Airlines have cut or reduced flights as well. Arrival destinations from China and some cruise ships are quarantined as well. Medical science is trying to catch up with vaccines and tests, but it will take some time for those to catch up. In other news, China is going to cut tariffs by 50% on $75 billion of US goods. The US economy continues to show strength, with a surprising robust set of jobs reports to end the week. 4Q19 corporate earnings reports are better than expected as well. 1Q20 should, however, be affected by the coronavirus threat. In US politics the US Senate impeachment trial came to an end and, as expected, President Trump was acquitted of the two charges leveled against him by the US House, with the vote along political party lines. Tuesday night President Trump gave the annual State of the Union address to rave reviews or disgust, once again along party lines. The 2020 presidential election started in earnest with caucuses in Iowa, but technology glitches prevented it from proclaiming a winner on a timely basis, but preliminary results for the Democratic party being a bit of surprise. Candidate Michael Bloomberg was not a part of this initial test for candidates, but is spending big time in the Super Tuesday states. The Stock Market Bear seemed to have come down with something like the coronavirus and disappeared for the first 4 days of Week 6, but came charging back on Friday. The Stock Market Bull easily prevailed for the week, however, with new closing highs recorded on all 3 major US exchanges on Thursday. Next week is up for grabs.

The Week 6 of 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 3 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 2 weeks
Mixed Results: 1 week

Fidelity Natl Financial(PBR388) to acquire annuity and life insurance products provider FGL Holdings (NYSE: FG) for $12.50/share, around $2.7 billion, to close by end of 3Q20. $FNF PR link.

HanesBrands(PBR424) authorizes new up to 40 million shares repurchase program, no expiration date, replaces previous authorization approved in 04/16. $HBI PR link.

Penn Natl Gaming(PBR650) gets its first pro league agreement with multi-year partnership to become the first authorized gaming operator of NASCAR in the US, also extends Kansas Speedway race title sponsorship through 2026. $PENN PR link.

Stericycle(PBR661) to sell its 2,000 employees Domestic Environmental Solutions business, excluding the healthcare customer and unused consumer pharmaceutical take-back services, to Harsco(PBR943) for $462.5 million in cash, to close in 1Q20. $SRCL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US January 2020 Employed is at 158,714,000, -89,000 from December 2019, +2,087,000 from January 2019; Unemployed is at 5,892,000, +139,000 from December 2019, -623,000 from January 2019; Unemployment Rate is at 3.6%, December 2019 was at 3.5%, January 2019 4.0%. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says the US Preliminary December 2019 Consumer Credit Outstanding-Revolving is at $1.098 trillion, Non-Revolving $3.099 trillion, Total $4.197 trillion, +0.5% from November 2019, +4.7% from December 2018. USFed PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the US Preliminary December 2019 Wholesale Sales-Durable Goods are at $232.7 billion, Non-Durable Goods $261.6 billion, Total $494.3 billion. USDOC PR link.

The FannieMae(PBR22) US January 2020 Home Purchase Sentiment Index is at 93.0, December 2019 was at 91.7, November 2019 91.5, January 2019 84.7. “Low rates continue to be a key driver of consumer optimism about both current homebuying and home-selling conditions. Favorable views on job security and personal financial expectations reflect the strength of the labor market, which we believe will continue to bolster housing demand.” $FNMA PR link.

***Thursday, February 6

The PBR25 Buy Stocks By Analyst Recommendations as of 01/31/20 has been released. Check out the summary!

Amazon(PBR5) to open first fulfillment center in Iowa, to be located in Bondurant, 645,000 sf facility, to create 1,000 new full-time jobs, to launch in late 2020. $AMZN PR link.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR36 $JNJ) ordered to pay $750 million in punitive damages to four people who said their use of the company’s talcum powders caused a rare cancer, New Jersey judge plans to reduce amount to around $187 million, JNJ plans to appeal. MarketWatch PR link.

Nike(PBR81) transitioning its Nike Brand business in Brazil, Argentina, Chile and Uruguay to strategic distributor partnerships, will recognize a one-time, non-recurring charge related to foreign exchange of approximately $425 million. $NKE PR link.

Lear Corp(PBR148) authorizes increase in share repurchase authorization to $1.5 billion, had $1.2 billion balance at end of 2019, extends expiration date to 12/31/22. $LEA PR link.

Arconic(PBR226) Board approves completion of separation into two independent, publicly traded companies, existing company will be renamed Howmet Aerospace Inc, to change ticker from ARNC to HWM, Arconic Rolled Products Corporation to be named Arconic Corporation with ticker ARNC, to be effective on 04/01/20. $ARNC PR link.

JCPenney(PBR261) announces a new assortment of jeans with a complete reimagination of its women oriented a.n.a brand, focused on denim customers, includes size-inclusive selection for all body shapes and sizes. $JCP PR link.

Intercontinental Exchange(PBR454) says following its earnings call it has decided to cease exploring strategic opportunities with eBay(PBR286)$ICE PR link.

Agilent Technologies(PBR517) to receive $22.5 million from Twist Bioscience in intellectual property litigation settlement. $A PR link.

Taylor Morrison Homes(PBR593) completes $21.45/share, $2.5 billion cash & stock acquisition of William Lyon Homes (NYSE: WLH), creates 5th largest US homebuilder. $TMHC PR link.

Brink’s(PBR660) authorizes a $250 million shares repurchase program, expires 12/31/21, replaces previous authorization. $BCO PR link.

Twitter(PBR726) in 4Q19 report says average monetizable daily active usage reached 152 million, +21% year-over-year, has first $1+billion in revenues quarter. $TWTR PR link.

UNISYS(PBR764) to sell its 1,900 employees $689 million in revenues for year ending 09/30/29 US Federal business to SAIC(PBR545) for $1.2 billion, to close in 1H20. $UIS PR link.

The New York Times(PBR938) in 4Q19 says it now has 5,251,000 digital subscribers, gained 1+ million subscribers in 2019. $NYT PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the US Preliminary 4Q19 Labor Productivity Output/Hour Annual Rate-Business Sector is at +1.1%, 3Q19 was at -0.2%, 2Q19 +2.8%, 4Q18 +0.0%. USDOL PR link.

***Wednesday, February 5

Merck(PBR73) to spin-off products from its Women’s Health, trusted Legacy Brands, and Biosimilars businesses into a new, yet-to-be-named, independent, publicly traded company with 10,000+ employees, to close in 1H21. $MRK PR link.

YUM China(PBR353) launches the “Restaurant Management Team (RMT) Family Care Fund” to provide additional health protection for family members of restaurant management employee, will start in 07/20 and cover an estimated 86,000 parents, spouses and children of more than 31,000 RMT employees. $YUMC PR link.

Ametek(PBR535) acquires Orange, CA based $40 million in annual sales high-reliability, ruggedized uninterruptible power systems provider IntelliPower for around $115 million. $AME PR link.

Barnes Group(PBR963) completes divestiture of its $60 million in annual revenues developer and producer of retaining rings, fasteners, snap rings Seeger-Orbis to the Kajo Neukirchen Group. $B PR link.

Peabody Energy(PBR487) and largest shareholder Elliott Management names 3 members of Elliott to the Board, as well as 1 to be mutually agreed upon in the future, to be effective at the 05/20 annual meeting. $BTU PR link.

Albermarle(PBR676) Chairman/CEO Luke Kissam to retire from his roles, effective 06/20, for health reasons. $ALB PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the US Preliminary December 2019 Exports-Goods are at $137.7 billion, Services $71.9 billion, Total Exports $209.6 billion; Imports-Goods are at $207.5 billion, Services $51.1 billion, Total Imports $258.6 billion; Deficit-Goods is at $69.8 billion, Surplus-Services $20.8 billion, Total Deficit $49.0 billion, December 2018 Total Deficit was $60.8 billion; Total 2019 Exports were $2.500 trillion, Imports $3.117 trillion, Total Deficit $616.9 billion, 2018 Total Deficit was $627.3 billion. USDOC PR link.

ADP(PBR220) says the US January 2020 Change In Employment is at +291,000, +94,000 from Small Businesses, +128,000 Mid-Sized Businesses, +69,000 Large Businesses; +54,000 came from the Goods Producing Sector, +237,000 from the Services Sector. $ADP PR link.

The Institute for Supply Management says the US January 2020 Non-Manufacturing Index(>50%=Economy Expanding) is at 55.5%, December 2019 was at 55.0%, November 2019 53.9%, January 2019 56.7%. “The respondents remain mostly positive about business conditions and the overall economy. Respondents continue to have difficulty with labor resources.” ISM PR link.

The IHS Markit US January 2020 Manufacturing & Services Composite PMI Output Index is at 53.3, December 2019 was at 52.7, November 2019 52.0, January 2019 54.4. “Business activity rose at the fastest pace since last March in January amid a sharper expansion in service sector output.” IHS Markit PR link.

***Tuesday, February 4

The January 2020 PBR US Economic Indices Snapshot has been released. USI info.

Amazon(PBR5) opens new 48,000 square foot office for Alexa tech teams located in downtown Santa Barbara, CA, plans to create 150 new tech jobs. $AMZN PR link.

Walt Disney(PBR45) announces new Disney+ streaming service has signed up 28.6 million subscribers since its start on 11/12/19. $DIS PR link.

Macy’s(PBR115) announces 3 year Polaris strategy, includes launch of next phase of successful Macy’s Star Rewards loyalty program, plans to build four $1 billion power private brands, closing approximately 125 stores in lower tier malls within three years, and exploring new off-mall formats, establishes single corporate headquarters and relocates digital business to New York City. $M PR link.

eBay(PBR286 $EBAY) gets letter from activist investor Starboard Value saying the Classifieds unit must be sold off and a more aggressive operating plan put in place. Starboard Value PR link.

eBay(PBR286) responds to Starboard Value letter, says it will review the letter, reviews actions taken in recent years. $EBAY PR link.

Leidos(PBR299) to acquire the L3Harris Technologies(PBR459) Security Detection and Automation businesses, have 1,200 employees, for $1 billion cash, to close by end of 2Q20. $LDOS PR link.

Huntington Ingalls(PBR371) to acquire Kongsberg Maritime’s wholly owned indirect subsidiary Pocasset, MA based advanced marine robotics technology provider Hydroid for $350 million, to close in 2Q20. $HII PR link.

Scientific Games(PBR681) confirms it has expanded its partnership with Flutter Entertainment to cover online and mobile sports betting and iGaming content offering with FanDuel in the US. $SGMS PR link.

Prologis(PBR768) completes $12.6 billion all stock acquisition of US logistics REIT Liberty Property Trust (NYSE: LPT)$PLD PR link.

Wendy’s(PBR954) introduces new breakfast menu, options include fresh, hand-cracked eggs on every sandwich, and savory Applewood smoked bacon, starts 03/02/20. $WEN PR link.

Oshkosh(PBR357) director Stephen D. Newlin appointed independent Chairman, succeeds Craig P. Omtvedt who remains on the Board. $OSK PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the US Preliminary December 2019 Manufacturers New Orders-Durable Goods is at $245.6 billion, Non-Durable Goods $253.8 billion, Total $499.4 billion, +1.8% from November 2019, -0.1% from December 2018. USDOC PR link.

The PurdueU/CME Group US January 2020 Ag Economy Composite Index is at 167, December 2019 was at 150, November 2019 153, December 2018 127. “Virtually all of the rise in this month’s barometer was attributable to a sharp rise in optimism about future conditions in agriculture… coincided with President Trump’s signing of the Phase One Trade Agreement between the U.S. and China on January 15th.” PurdueU/CME Group PR link.

***Monday, February 3

AECOM(PBR156) completes $2.405 billion sale of its Management Services business to affiliates of American Securities LLC and Lindsay Goldberg LLC, AECOM to focus on its higher-returning and lower-risk Professional Services business. $ACM PR link.

Alcoa(PBR235) completes $250 million sale of its 1,300-acre hazardous waste treatment business in Gum Springs, AR, to Veolia ES Technical Solutions. $AA PR link.

Brookdale Senior Living(PBR522) completes 3 transactions with Healthpeak Properties(PBR915), including sale of 14 community venture, acquisition of 18 previously leased communities, and restructure of remaining 24-community lease. $BKD PR link.

Edgewell Personal Care(PBR873) $1.37 billion cash/stock acquisition of New York, NY-based 900 employees razor products provider Harry’s is challenged by the US Federal Trade Commission, Edgewell says it will respond in due course. $EPC PR link.

Regis Corp(PBR998) will sell its 55% interest in Empire Education Group, an operator of accredited cosmetology schools, in exchange for de minimis cash compensation, an exclusive private label supply agreement, and an employer of choice arrangement. $RGS PR link.

Sonoco Products(PBR502) President/CEO/Director Robert C. Tiede retires from all roles, SVP Paper/Industrial Converted Products Howard Coker elected President/CEO/Director, effective immediately. $SON PR link.

Intuitive Surgical(PBR636) Chairman Lonnie M. Smith to retire at annual meeting in 04/20, independent lead director Dr. Craig H. Barratt to be successor. $ISRG PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/Census says the US Preliminary December 2019 Construction Spending Annual Rate-Residential is at $548.0 billion, Non-Residential $779.6, Total $1,327.7 billion, -0.2% from November 2019, +5.0% from December 2018. USDOC PR link.

The Institute for Supply Management says the US Preliminary January 2020 Manufacturing PMI Index(>50%=Economy Expanding) is at 50.9%, December 2019 was at 47.2%, November 2019 48.1%, January 2019 56.6%. “The PMI® returned to expansion territory for the first time since July 2019… Overall, sentiment this month is moderately positive regarding near-term growth..,” ISM PR link.

The IHS Markit US January 2020 Manufacturing PMI Index is at 51.9, December 2019 was at 52.4, November 2019 52.6, January 2019 54.9. “U.S. manufacturing firms indicated a slower overall improvement in operating conditions in January, in part stemming from a renewed drop in export orders.” IHS Markit PR link.

***Sunday, February 2

Super Bowl LIV: The Kansas City Chiefs come from behind to win over the San Francisco 49ers 31-20 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Florida. Highlights.

***Friday, January 31

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for Week 5 ending 01/31/20:

DJIA ends Week 5 at 28,256.03, -2.53% from last Friday, -0.99% MTD/QTD/YTD, -3.72% from record 29,348.10 set 01/17/20.

NASDAQ ends Week 5 at 9,150.94, -1.76% from last Friday, +1.99% MTD/QTD/YTD, -2.68% from record 9,402.48 set 01/23/20.

SPX ends Week 5 at 3,225.52, -2.12% from last Friday, -0.16% MTD/QTD/YTD, -3.13% from record 3,329.62 set 01/17/20.

The Week 5 of 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 2 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 2 weeks
Mixed Results: 1 week

The Month 1 of 2020 tally YTD is:
The Stock Market Bull: 0 weeks
The Stock Market Bear: 0 weeks
Mixed Results: 1 week

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