The PBR1000 May 2017 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots

June 9, 2017 by

May 2017: Calm Overcomes a Mid Month Panic

Panic Calm-Stuart Miles ID-10088148

May: 12 days of Calm, 1 day of Panic, 9 more days of relative Calm. Not bad in times of unpredictability.

 

By Larry C. Paxton

The first half of May saw the NASDAQ and S&P 500 stocks reaching new record highs and the DJIA slightly ahead for the month. But the market reacted very negatively on Wednesday, May 17th, with the political news that former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn may have misrepresented his involvement with Russian business and leaders. When the day was finished the implications and concerns were somewhat diminished and all 3 major US stock exchanges followed with 6-7 day positive runs that overtook the drastic 1 day drop and the NASDAQ and S&P500 establishing more record highs.

Here’s a repeat from April: The US economy continues to grow at a modest/moderate rate, with job growth, wage growth and the unemployment rate being reasonable. Business and consumer sentiment indexes show growing confidence.

Because of the current volatility and unpredictability of the US political environment investment in stocks opinions continue to range widely. There are clearly opportunities for the economy to grow and strengthen, but will political turmoil force us to start over? As the drama continues to unfold and evolve don’t wear out the edge of your seat!

Here are some May summaries on the US stock exchanges:

Number of Trading Days: 22

Number of Gain(+)/Loss(-) Days: DJIA 11+/11-; NASDAQ 17+/5-; SPX 14+/8-.

Record Days: DJIA 0, NASDAQ 10, SPX 7

Longest Gain Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 6, NASDAQ 7, SPX 7

Longest Loss Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 4, NASDAQ 2, SPX 2

Big Swing Up Days(>1.00%): 0

Big Swing Down Days(<-1.00%): 1, 05/17/17(Russia influence in US elections, Mike Flynn issues)

The following are Top 5 partial tables excerpts from The PBR1000 May Snapshots. The price for stocks is for the close of trading on May 31, Month % Chg is compared to April 28, YTD % Chg is compared to December 31, 2016, and the 17 Months % Chg is compared to December 31, 2015. The PBR Rank is by annual revenues.

To get the complete The PBR1000 Snapshots  just click here to get your 2 month or significantly discounted 13 month subscription and automatically download the May 2017 edition with the complete 15 Snapshots.

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

Table 1 Summary: The range was +38% to -55%. 474 out of 1,012 stocks were up 0.00% or more. The average was a gain of 0.4%, the median was a loss of 0.6%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
05/31/17		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 17 Mos
% Chg
NVIDIA
 365 NVDA 144.35 +38 +35 +338
Cenveo
 906 CVO 6.05 +36 -13 -13
First Solar
 682 FSLR 38.51 +30 +20 -42
Molina Healthcare
 148 MOH 64.57 +30 +19 +7
Dynegy
 522 DYN 8.25 +29 -2 -38

 

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

Table 2 Summary: The range was +130% to -71%. 579 out of 1,010 stocks were up 0.00% or more. The average was a gain of 7.5%, the median was a gain of 3.1%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
05/31/17		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 17 Mos
% Chg
Weight Watchers
 995 WTW 26.30 +26 +130 +15
Restoration Hardware
 818 RH 56.27 +17 +83 -29
Systemax
 903 SYX 15.93 +20 +82 +85
iHeartMedia
 400 IHRT 1.89 -12 +70 +110
Vertex Pharmaceuticals 898 VRTX 123.60 +4 +68 -2

 

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

Table 3 Summary: The range was +338% to -89%. 729 out of 1,007 stocks were up 0.00% or more. The average was a gain of 20.3%. The median was a gain of 17.9%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
05/31/17		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 17 Mos
% Chg
NVIDIA 365 NVDA 144.35 +38 +35 +338
AMD
 526 AMD 11.19 -16 -1 +290
Tronox 827 TROX
 15.20 -8 +47 +289
Cliffs Natural Resources 823 CLF 5.89 -12 -30 +273
Navistar Intl
 321 NAV 25.87 -4 -18 +193

 

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

Table 4 Summary: The range was $796.47 billion to $0.01 billion. The average is $23.3 billion, median is $7.1 billion, out of 1,012 companies.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Market Cap($B)
05/31/17		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 17 Mos
% Chg
Apple
 4 AAPL 796.47 +6 +29 +36
Alphabet
 27 GOOG 667.44 +7 +25 +28
Microsoft
 29 MSFT 539.20 +2 +12 +22
Amazon 12 AMZN 475.40 +8 +33 +50
Facebook 94 FB 438.96 +1 +32 +48
The PBR1000
   23,622.33 +1 +7 +16

 

Table 5: The PBR1000 Index & Selected Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company Price
05/31/17		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 17 Mos
% Chg
The PBR1000 80,090.17 +0.4 +7.5 +20.3
DJIA 21,008.65 +0.3 +6.3 +20.6
NASDAQ 6,198.52 +2.5 +15.2 +23.4
S&P500 2,411.80 +1.2 +7.7 +18.0
GOLD 1,275.40 +0.5 +10.7 +20.3
SILVER 17.41 +1.1 +8.9 +26.1
OIL            48.32 -1.8 -10.0 +30.5

Have questions on The PBR1000 or The PBR US Economic Indices Monthly Snapshots? Please contact us at Sales@PBRMarketTools.com or call us in the US at 520-282-4100.

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

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

(Image courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net, Stuart Miles.)

Copyright © 2017 by Pax Business Resources, LLC, Tucson, AZ, USA, All Rights Reserved.

Filed Under: Snapshots Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The PBR1000 April 2017 Stocks/Comodities Snapshots

May 19, 2017 by

April 2017: The Bull Keeps Running

Bull Analysis-ddpavumba ID-100188041

Yes, the Stock Market Bull says the charts show he has a long time to keep going, but can he really read?

 

By Larry C. Paxton

April continued the upward trend for stocks with all 3 major US stock exchanges finishing up without much volatility during the month. Technology stocks were particularly kind to NASDAQ, which finished up significantly. The only big swing was what was perceived as a positive sign when centrist Emmanuel Marcon was elected President of France.

The US economy continues to grow at a modest/moderate rate, with job growth, wage growth and the unemployment rate being reasonable. Business and consumer sentiment indexes show growing confidence.

Investment professionals continue to be all over the place with opinions ranging from the Bull Market has a long more way to run to a severe Bear Market is right around the corner.

Here are some April summaries on the US stock exchanges:

Number of Trading Days: 19

Number of Gain(+)/Loss(-) Days: DJIA 8+/11-; NASDAQ 10+/9-; SPX 8+/11-.

Record Days: DJIA 0, NASDAQ 4, SPX 0

Longest Gain Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 2, NASDAQ 2, SPX 2

Longest Loss Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 3, NASDAQ 3, SPX 3

Big Swing Up Days(>1.00%): 1, 04/24/17: Day after centrist Emmanuel Macron wins French Presidential election

Big Swing Down Days(<-1.00%): 0

The following are Top 5 partial tables excerpts from The PBR1000 April Snapshots. The stock price is for the close of trading on April 28, Month % Chg is compared to March 31, YTD % Chg is compared to December 31, 2016, and the 16 Months % Chg is compared to December 31, 2015. The PBR Rank is by annual revenues.

To get the complete The PBR1000 Snapshots  just click here to get your 2 month or significantly discounted 13 month subscription and automatically download the April 2017 edition with the complete 15 Snapshots.

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

Table 1 Summary: The range was +101% to -85%. 583 out of 1,010 stock prices were up 0.00% or more. The average was a gain of 1.4%, the median was a gain of 0.7%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
04/28/17		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 16 Mos
% Chg
Conn’s
 918 CONN 17.60 +101 +39 -25
Weight Watchers
 993 WTW 20.88 +34 +82 -8
Alere
 749 ALR 49.17 +24 +26 +26
CR Bard
 575 BCR 307.48 +24 +37 +62
Invacare
 1005 IVC 14.70 +24 +13 -15

 

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

Table 2 Summary: The range was +94% to -61%. 623 out of 1,007 stock prices were up 0.00% or more. The average was a gain of 7.0%, the median was a gain of 3.9%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
04/28/17		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 16 Mos
% Chg
iHeartMedia
 400 IHRT 2.15 -41 +94 +139
Weight Watchers
 993 WTW 20.88 +34 +82 -8
Scientific Games
 689 SGMS 23.75 +0 +70 +165
Tronox
 824 TROX 16.51 -11 +60 +322
Restoration Hardware
 814 RH 47.97 +4 +56 -40

 

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

Table 3 Summary: The range was +363% to -89%. 768 out of 1,005 stock prices were up 0.00% or more. The average was a gain of 19.8%. The median was a gain of 18.4%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
04/28/17		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 16 Mos
% Chg
AMD 524 AMD 13.30 -9 +17 +363
Cliffs Natural Resources
 821 CLF 6.72 -18 -20 +325
Tronox 824 TROX
 16.51 -11 +60 +322
NVIDIA 365 NVDA 104.30 -4 -2 +216
Navistar Intl
 319 NAV 26.91 +9 -14 +204

 

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

Table 4 Summary: The range was $753.67 billion to $0.01 billion. The average is $23.2 billion, median is $7.1 billion, out of 1,008 companies.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Market Cap($B)
04/28/17		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 16 Mos
% Chg
Apple
 4 AAPL 753.67 -0 +22 +28
Alphabet
 27 GOOG 626.40 +9 +18 +20
Microsoft
 29 MSFT 529.03 +4 +9 +19
Amazon 12 AMZN 441.38 +4 +24 +39
Facebook 94 FB 434.22 +6 +31 +47
The PBR1000
   23,340.34 +1 +6 +15

 

Table 5: The PBR1000 Index & Selected Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company Price
04/28/17		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 16 Mos
% Chg
The PBR1000 79,606.60 +1.4 +7.0 +19.8
DJIA 20,940.51 +1.3 +6.0 +20.2
NASDAQ 6,047.61 +2.3 +12.3 +20.8
S&P500 2,384.20 +0.9 +6.5 +16.7
GOLD 1,269.50 +1.4 +10.2 +19.7
SILVER 17.22 -5.8 +7.7 +24.8
OIL            49.19 -3.3 -8.4 +32.8

Have questions on The PBR1000 or The PBR US Economic Indices Monthly Snapshots? Please contact us at Sales@PBRMarketTools.com or call us in the US at 520-282-4100.

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

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

(Image courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net, ddpavumba.)

Copyright © 2017 by Pax Business Resources, LLC, Tucson, AZ, USA, All Rights Reserved.

Filed Under: Snapshots Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The PBR1000 April 2017 Breaking News Recap

May 14, 2017 by

April 2017: Are We Having Fun Yet?

Juggling Group-Gandini-2

In these interesting times it is necessary for most of us to learn or enhance some critical skills.

 

By Larry C. Paxton

Business, economic, political, and just about any kind of news continues to swirl around decisions and activities, especially the interesting tweets, of US President Trump. April concluded with the first 100 days of the Trump presidency and there was a lot of action as indicated in the partial list in the National and International summaries below. A lot of balls are being juggled and up in the air. While this should not be unexpected with a new US presidency, this cycle is certainly more active and created more aggressive activism as controversial executive orders are signed, challenged, appointments made, and strong statements are made.

Business, political, economic, and key investment leaders around the world are still adjusting to this new way of doing and saying. They are urgently seeking predictability and stability so that they can make intelligent and coherent decisions. Realistically we are far more than another 100 days off for a less volatile environment and being more settled down. If you want a more stable situation perhaps spending a fun day taking roller coaster rides at a major theme park might give you some comfort. 

Here’s a quick April 2017 summary on key activities that relate to The PBR1000:

Mergers & Acquisitions: 35 deals worth at least $1 billion initiated, closed, or updated. Total transaction value was $192 billion.

Spinoffs: 3

Share Repurchase Programs: 3 announced, total $2.2 billion.

Bankruptcies: 3 initiated or updated

CEO Changes: 10 announced.

Jobs: Modest growth.

US Economy: Modest/moderate growth continues, stable but fragile.

Federal Reserve Federal Funds Rate Changes: 0, remains 0.75-1.00%, more increases anticipated in 2017.

National: US House reactivates new healthcare plan effort, new tax plan introduced, Trump/China’s Xi meet, Neil Gorsuch confirmed for the  Supreme Court, Russia vote meddling hearings continue, NAFTA to be renegotiated and not cancelled at this time, President Trump marks 1st 100 days on 04/29/17.

International: Brexit negotiations start, UK elections announced for June, France candidates campaigning for May election, oil price fluctuations, Middle East conflicts, refugee crisis, N Korea missile tests, climate change, US President Trump actions continue to be the headliners.

For more details here are The PBR1000 corporate and economic related breaking news items of interest with hotlinks to the sources for April 2017, starting with the last active business day.

***Friday, April 28:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 04/28/17:
DJIA ends week at 20,940.51, +1.91% from last Friday, +1.34% MTD/QTD, +5.96% YTD, -0.83% from record 21,115.55 set 03/01/17.
NASDAQ ends week at 6,047.61, +2.32% from last Friday, +2.30% MTD/QTD, +12.34% YTD, -0.02% from record 6,048.94 set 04/27/17.
SPX ends week at 2,384.20, +1.51% from last Friday, +0.91% MTD/QTD, +6.49% YTD, -0.49% from record 2,395.96 set 03/01/17.

Anthem(PBR38) responds to the US Court Appeals decision against its acquisition of Cigna(PBR85 $CI), is committed to closing the transaction, reviewing options. $ANTM PR link.

Enterprise Products(PBR59) completes $189 million bankruptcy acquisition of E Texas/N Louisiana midstream business and assets of Azure Midstream Partners. $EPD PR link.

Emerson Electric(PBR109) completes $3.15 billion acquisition of valves & controls business from Pentair(PBR363 $PNR). $EMR PR link.

Sunoco Logistics(PBR158 $SXL) completes $1.8 billion acquisition of Energy Transfer Equity(PBR52) Partner’s unit. $ETE PR link.

CenturyLink(PBR160) $66.50/share, $34 billion acquisition of Level 3 Communications(PBR375 $LVT) on track to close by 09/30/17, new management team of merger announced. $CTL PR link.

Lear Corp(PBR165) completes $308 million cash acquisition of France based $324 million/yr 2,273 employee/contract workers in 14 facilities Grupo Antolin‘s automotive seating business. $LEA PR link.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR185) gets China FDA approval for all-oral regimen for Chronic Hepatitis C, Daklinza® (daclatasvir) in combination with Sunvepra® (asunaprevir). $BMY PR link.

Allergan(PBR219) completes $56.50/share, $2.47 billion cash acquisition of proprietary controlled-cooling fat reducing treatment, CoolSculpting® developer ZELTIQ Aesthetics(NASDAQ: ZLTQ). $AGN PR link.

WellCare Health Plans(PBR221) completes $10.00/share, $600 million cash acquisition of Universal American(PBR882 $UAM). $WCG PR link.

Royal Caribbean(PBR329) authorizes up to $500 million share repurchase program. $RCL PR link.

Enbridge Energy Partners(PBR333) to sell its interest in Midcoast assets to Enbridge(NYSE: ENB) for $1.3 billion, finalizes Bakken Pipeline System joint funding agreement, repay $1.6 billion Series 1 Preferred Units obligations. $EEP PR link.

TimeInc(PBR631) decides not to sell itself, to pursue its strategic plan. $TIME PR link.

Hain Celestial(PBR712) completes acquisition of UK based premium soup brands producer The Yorkshire Provender. $HAIN PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US Total National Debt on 04/27/17 was $19.847 trillion, same as 03/31/17, -0.7% YTD, +3.4% from 04/29/16. Treasury PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says US 1Q17 Advance Estimate of Annual Gross Domestic Product Annual Rate at +0.7%, 4Q16 was +2.1%, 1Q16 +0.8%. Commerce PR link.

The US Dept of Labor US March Employment Cost Index(2005=100) is at 129.0, +0.9% from December, +2.4% from March 2016. USDOL PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago estimates the March Midwest Economic Index at +0.60, February was +0.28, January +0.10. ChiFed PR link.

The U of Michigan US April Final Consumer Sentiment Index at 97.0, March was 96.9, April 2016 89.0. UMich PR link.

AAA says the US 04/28/17 National Average Price/Gallon of Gas-Regular at $2.398, +3.6% from 03/31/17, +9.2% from 04/29/16. AAA PR link.

The April MNI Chicago Business Barometer(50=Neutral) is at 58.3, March was 57.7, April 2016 50.4. MNI/ISM Chicago PR link.

***Thursday, April 27:

Micron Technology(PBR180) hires SanDisk co-founder and former president and CEO Sanjay Mehrotra as president/CEO, effective 05/08/17, succeeds retiring Mark Durcan. $MU PR link.

Barnes & Noble(PBR408) promotes COO Demos Parneros to CEO, succeeds Leonard Riggio who retains chairman role. $BKS PR link.

H&R Block(PBR669) Chief Innovation Officer Jason L. Houseworth leaving by mutual agreement on 04/30/17. $HRB PR link.

DSW(PBR778) hires Michele Love as EVP/COO, announces two other merchandising leadership appointments. $DSW PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US 04/15/17 Total 4 Week Moving Average Total Insured Unemployed is 2,007,250, -1.2% from March, -7.0% from April 2016. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says US 1Q17 Total Housing Units at 136.1 million, 87.3% occupied, 63.6% home ownership rate. USDOC PR link.

The US Energy Information Administration says US Crude Oil Stocks on 04/21/17 were at 528.7 millions of barrels, -1.0% from 03/24/17, +3.8% from 04/22/16. EIA PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) says US Average 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rate on 04/27/17 was 4.03%, 03/30/17 was 4.14%, 04/28/16 3.66%, 0.5 points/fees. $FMCC PR link.

***Wednesday, April 26:

Office Depot(PBR182) completes sale of its S Korea business, part of plan to focus on N America business.
$ODP PR link.

Charter Communications(PBR297) gets exclusive initial window in the US for co-produced and co-funded content developed by AMC Networks(PBR851 $AMCX) AMC Studio unit. $CHTR PR link.

NCR(PBR383) rolls out record 350,000th ATM from its Hungarian manufacturing facility. $NCR PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Tulsa, OK, property/casual & employee benefit products and services provider Commercial Insurance Brokers, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

HSN(PBR609) CEO Mindy Grossman leaving effective 05/24/17, interim Office of the CEO formed from current management team as CEO search starts. $HSNI PR link.

Weight Watchers(PBR988) hires Mindy Grossman to be President/CEO, starts in 07/17. $WTW PR link.

***Tuesday, April 25:

AT&T(PBR12) had 2.7 million wireless net new adds in 1Q17, revenues were $39.4 billion with record low wireless equipment sales, 1Q16 was $40.5 billion. $T PR link.

Tyson Foods(PBR80) to acquire Cincinnati, OH, based $1.6 billion/2016, national sandwich maker AdvancePierre Foods Holdings(NYSE:APFH) for $40.25/share, $4.2 billion cash, includes $1.1 billion of debt. $TSN PR link.

Rite Aid(PBR105) in 4Q17 report says merger with Walgreens Boots Alliance(PBR36) moved to 07/31/17 because of remaining FTC issues. $RAD PR link.

Allergan(PBR219) gets FDA marketing authorization for TrueTear™, the first intranasal neurostimulating device proven to temporarily increase tear production. $AGN PR link.

Noble Energy(PBR471) completes $2.7 billion cash/stock acquisition of Clayton Williams Energy(NYSE: CWEI), includes 71,000 net contiguous acres in the Delaware Basin & 100,000 acres in the Permian Basin. $NBL PR link.

Perrigo(PBR565) to restate 10-Ks and 10-Qs statements, some dating back to 2013. $PRGO PR link.

TreeHouse Foods(PBR690) to sell its $210 million/yr Soup and Infant Feeding business to affiliate of Insight Equity, terms not disclosed. $THS PR link.

Regeneron(PBR708) and Sanofi get FDA approval for monthly Praluent® (alirocumab) Injection for the treatment of adults with high low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. $REGN PR link.

UPS(PBR47) Chief Marketing/Business Services Officer Teresa Finley to retire, a UPS employee for 34 years. $UPS PR link.

Popular(PBR886) appoints Richard Carrión as Executive Chairman and Ignacio Alvarez as CEO, effective 07/01/17. $BPOP PR link.

The US Department of Commerce/HUD estimates US March New Homes Sold Annual Rate at 621,000, +5.8% from February, +15.6% from March 2016, Median Price $315,100, 5.2 months supply available. HUD PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond says the April 5th District Annualized Manufacturing Index at 20%, March was 22%, February 17%. RichmondFed PR link.

The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller US February National Home Price Index at 185.56, January was 185.11, February 2016 175.46(01/2000=100). CoreLogic PR link.

The Conference Board US April Consumer Confidence Index at 120.3, March was 124.9, April 2016 94.7(1985=100). TCB PR link.

***Monday, April 24:

GE(PBR9) gets $3 billion upgrades/training over 20 years deal with Algerian power company Sonelgaz. $GE PR link.

Express Scripts(PBR22) releases 1Q17 results, says that based on current negotiations Anthem(PBR38 $ANTM) might not renew its contract after current expiration in 2019 for pharmacy benefits management. $ESRX PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) launches self-service marketplace for subscription providers called Subscribe with Amazon. $AMZN PR link.

Tyson Foods(PBR80) exploring the sale of three non-protein businesses, Sara Lee® Frozen Bakery, the Kettle, and Van’s®, to focus on core protein businesses. $TSN PR link.

Sprint(PBR86) to add 79 retail locations, create 550+ jobs, by end of 2017 in Texas. $S PR link.

Conagra Brands(PBR166) completes acquisition of protein-based snacking businesses Thanasi Foods, maker of Duke’s® meat snacks, and BIGS LLC, maker of BIGS® seeds, terms not disclosed. $CAG PR link.

PPG Industries(PBR190) revises proposal from $96.61/share to $105.50/share $28.8 billion cash/stock for European based specialty paints, coatings and chemicals provider AkzoNobel. $PPG PR link.

Arconic(PBR215) postponing 05/16/17 annual meeting date to later in the month as it resolves proxy issues with activist investor Elliott Management. $ARNC PR link.

Ameriprise(PBR231) to acquire San Antonio, TX, based 200 financial advisors in 29 states 8+ billion in assets independent broker-dealer for financial institutions Investment Professionals, terms not disclosed. $AMP PR link.

JCPenney(PBR234) partners with SEPHORA to expand beauty retail offerings with 70 new locations and 32 expansions nationwide, to hire over 800 beauty consultants. $JCP PR link.

Becton Dickinson(PBR318) to acquire medical technologies developer CR Bard(PBR637) for $317/share, $24 billion cash/stock. $BDX PR link.

Darden Restaurants(PBR398) completes $780 million cash acquisition of 165 casual dining locations averaging $4.4 million/year each Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen. $DRI PR link.

Becton Dickinson(PBR318) promotes Tom Polen to President, to oversee all operating units. $BDX PR link.

Pinnacle Foods(PBR751) promotes Mark Schiller to EVP and new role of Chief Commercial Officer, Michael Barkley to EVP & President/Boulder who succeeds leaving Michael Allen. $PF PR link.

Aerojet Rocketdyne(PBR969) hires Mohammed Khan as SVP of the Defense Business unit, reports to CEO Eileen Drake. $AJRD PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago March National Activity Index is +0.08, February was +0.27, March 2016 -0.50. Chicago Fed PR link.

***Friday, April 21:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Week Ending 04/21/17:
DJIA ends week at 20,547.76, +0.46% from last Friday, -0.56% MTD/QTD, +3.97% YTD, -2.69% from record 21,115.55 set 03/01/17.
NASDAQ ends week at 5,910.52, +1.82% from last Friday, -0.02% MTD/QTD, +9.80% YTD, -0.11% from record 5,916.78 set 04/20/17.
SPX ends week at 2,348.69, +0.85% from last Friday, -0.59% MTD/QTD, +4.91% YTD, -1.97% from record 2,395.96 set 03/01/17.

Amazon(PBR29) to open 3 additional fulfillment centers in New Jersey, to create 2,500+ full-time jobs. $AMZN PR link.

Wells Fargo(PBR30) expands class-action settlement for retail sales practices to $142 million, adds accounts as early as May 2002. $WFC PR link.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR37)’s DePuy Synthes unit acquires Tissue Regeneration System’s 3D printing technologies to treat bone defects, terms not disclosed. $JNJ PR link.

Dow Chemical(PBR48) releases statement on Associated Press story on pesticide chlorpyrifos, says EPA did not apply its own standards of data quality, nor did it follow its own procedures. $DOW PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97 $M) celebrates completion of 21 SunPower(PBR680) solar systems during Earth Week dedication events. $SPWR PR link.

iHeartMedia(PBR397 $IHRT) warns it may not survive another year. MarketWatch PR link.

Republic Airways(PBR951) Plan of Reorganization gets final approval, expects to emerge from Chapter 11 as a private company by 04/30/17. $RJETQ PR link.

Viacom(PBR212) promotes Julia Phelps to SVP/Communications & Culture. $VIA PR link.

The Natl Assn of Realtors US April Existing Home Sales Annual Rate at 5.71 million, +4.4% from March, +5.9% from April 2016, Median Price at $236,400. NAR PR link.

***Thursday, April 20:

GM(PBR8) ceases operations in Venezuela after seizure of its plant by authorities. $GM PR link.

GE(PBR9) completes $1.65 billion acquisition of Denmark’s global designer & manufacturer of wind turbine blades LM Wind Power. $GE PR link.

CVS Health(PBR11) going to new store format, adding hearing/optical centers in some stores, developing new standards for vitamins/supplements. $CVS PR link.

Verizon(PBR15) at 108.5 million retail postpaid connections, up 1.2% from 1Q16, net decline of 307,000 in 1Q17. $VZ PR link.

Allstate(PBR84) estimates 1Q17 catastrophic losses of $781 million pre-tax, $516 million from March alone. $ALL PR link.

CSX(PBR226) authorizes new $1 billion share repurchase program, expects to complete by 1Q18 end. $CSX PR link.

Gannett(PBR414) acquires Montreal based major brands location and reputation management software company SweetIQ Analytics, terms not disclosed. $GCI PR link.

Skechers(PBR808) announces its first $1 billion quarter, plans to open 50-75 new stores in 2017. $SKX PR link.

Ocwen Financial(PBR869) to vigorously defend itself against the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau related to allegations concerning Ocwen’s mortgage servicing business. $OCN PR link.

Buffalo Wild Wings(PBR981) activist investor Marcato Capital Management files SEC document presenting case for change in executive management. $BWLD PR link.

Tyson Foods(PBR80) hires Justin Whitmore for newly created position Chief Sustainability Officer, effective 05/01/17. $TSN PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia April Manufacturing General Activity Indicator at 22.0, March was 32.8, April 2016 -1.2. PhillyFed PR link.

The Conference Board US March Leading Economic Index(2010=100) at 126.7, February was 126.3, March 2016 123.1. TCB PR link.

AIG(PBR46) Global M&A Insurance Claims Study: 23 Percent of Deals over $1 Billion End in a Claim; Highest Severity Claim Payouts Average $22 Million. $AIG PR link.

***Wednesday, April 19:

Caterpillar(PBR54) names Deerfield, IL, as its new global headquarters. $CAT PR link.

Alcoa(PBR115) to consolidate admin locations, move global headquarters from NYC to existing Pittsburgh location by 09/01/17, close 7 more admin offices in US, Europe, Asia over next 18 months. $AA PR link.

PPG Industries(PBR190) issues statement regarding AkzoNobel‘s plan to split into 2 companies. $PPG PR link.

TripAdvisor(PBR928) reaches 500 million reviews and opinions. $TRIP PR link.

21st Century Fox(PBR91) issues statement saying popular commentator Bill O’Reilly will not be returning to the Fox News Channel. $FOX PR link.

Devon Energy(PBR143) promotes Jeff Ritenour to EVP/CFO, succeeds leaving Tom Mitchell. $DVN PR link.

AutoNation(PBR148) promotes Coleman Edmunds to EVP/General Counsel & Secretary. $AN PR link.

Buffalo Wild Wings(PBR981) EVP/President N America Judy Shoulak to retire 06/30/17, position to then be eliminated. $BWLD PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Board releases Beige Book for data through 04/10/17, split on modest to moderate growth in the 12 districts. FRB PR link.

The ADP(PBR235) US 1Q17 Workforce Vitality Index at 113.5(3Q13=100), +3.4% from 1Q16. $ADP PR link.

The Natl Assn of Homebuilders US April Housing Market Index at 68, March was 71, April 2016 58. NAHB PR link.

***Tuesday, April 18:

Verizon(PBR15) agrees to $1.05 billion three-year 12.4 million miles of fibre optic cable/year minimum purchase agreement with Corning(PBR281 $GLW). $VZ PR link.

Cardinal Health(PBR26) to acquire Medtronic(PBR133)’s Patient Care, Deep Vein Thrombosis and Nutritional Insufficiency businesses for $6.1 billion cash. $CAH PR link.

Oracle(PBR78) acquires digital measurement cloud company Moat, terms not disclosed. $ORCL PR link.

CBRE(PBR301) acquires 90,000 users in 50 countries facilities management operations mobile & SaaS technologies provider Mainstream Software, terms not disclosed. $CBG PR link.

Charles Schwab(PBR409) adds 362,000 new accounts in 1Q17, most in 17 years. $SCHW PR link.

Post Holdings(PBR486) to acquire UK based global packaged ready-to-eat cereals producer Weetabix for $1.75 billion. $POST PR link.

Yahoo!(PBR519) $4.48 billion cash acquisition by Verizon(PBR15) on track for closing in 06/17. $YHOO PR link.

Keysight Technologies(PBR660) completes $19.65/share, $1.6 billion cash acquisition of networks services provider Ixia(NASDAQ: XXIA). $KEYS PR link.

Mondelez(PBR87) EVP & president/N America Roberto Marques will leave company, Chief Growth Officer Tim Cofer to also serve as interim president/N America until successor found. $MDLZ PR link.

Air Products(PBR267) hires Sean Major as EVP/General Counsel, effective 05/01/17. $APD PR link.

AAR Corp(PBR883) CFO/Vice Chairman Tim Romenesko to retire effective 12/31/17 after 36 years with the company. $AIR PR link.

AAR Corp(PBR883) promotes John Holmes to president/COO, effective 06/01/17. $AIR PR link.

Presidential Executive Order: President Trump signs “Buy American and Hire American” executive order. WhiteHouse PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD estimates US March Building Permits Annual Rate at 1.260 million, +3.6% from February, +17.0% from March 2016. USDOC PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Board estimates US March Industrial Production Capacity at 76.1%, February was 75.7%, March 2016 74.9%. FRB PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) April Outlook lowers 2017 home sales to 5.9 million due to low housing for sale inventory. $FMCC PR link.

FannieMae(PBR17) says US 2017 Growth Forecast remains at modest 2.0%. $FNMA PR link.

***Monday, April 17:

Williams Cos(PBR348) Partners unit(NYSE: WPZ) to sell its 88.46% interest in the Geismar, Louisiana, olefins facility to NOVA Chemicals for $2.1 billion cash; gets long-term feedstock supply/transportation agreements with NOVA Chemicals. $WMB PR link.

Blackstone(PBR352) Energy Partners unit to acquire EagleClaw Midstream Ventures, largest private operator in Permian’s Delaware Basin in W Texas, for $2 billion cash. $BX PR link.

Peabody Energy(PBR372) to retain 2 million ton/year Metropolitan hard coking coal mine In New South Wales Australia. $BTU PR link.

Ashland(PBR407) to acquire private New Jersey based $300 million/year custom/branded nutritional & fragrance products manufacturer Pharmachem Laboratories for $660 million cash. $ASH PR link.

Netflix(PBR447) says it added 5 million new subscribers worldwide in 1Q17. $NFLX PR link.

Crown Castle(PBR603) to acquire private S California 1,900 miles of fiber services provider Wilcon for $600 million. $CCI PR link.

Cabela’s(PBR606) revises transaction agreements. Synovus Financial(PBR972 $SNV) to acquire certain assets and liabilities for $1.2 billion, which will then sell credit card assets/related liabilities to Capital One(PBR116 $COF), which will become exclusive VISA(PBR224 $V) card provider. Acquisition by Bass Pro Shops amended to $61.50/share, $5 billion, expects to close in 3Q17. $CAB PR link.

Skechers(PBR808) launches new brand YOU by Skechers footwear collection. $SKX PR link.

Revlon(PBR900) hires Christopher Peterson as COO, Operations. $REV PR link.

Regis Corp(PBR912) hires Hugh Sawyer as president/CEO, succeeds leaving Dan Hanrahan. $RGS PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of NY April Empire State Manufacturing General Business Conditions Index at 5.2, March was 16.4, April 2016 8.4. NYFed PR link.

***Friday, April 14:

***US Stock Markets closed in observance of Good Friday.

Abbott Labs(PBR134) acquisition of Alere(PBR752) amended to $51/share, $5.3 billion, originally was $5.8 billion, expects to close by 09/30/17. $ABT PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR142) and Incyte(NASDAQ: INCY) get US FDA Complete Response Letter for New Drug Application for baricitinib rheumatoid arthritis therapy, wants more data. $LLY PR link.

Baxter Intl(PBR176) gets grand jury subpoena requesting information on IV saline sales. $BAX PR link.

Finish Line(PBR927) gets SEC notice that UK based Sports Direct has acquired 7.9% of its stock. $FINL PR link.

Kelly Services(PBR443) President/CEO Carl Camden stepping down effective 05/10/17 to pursue public service opportunities, to be succeeded by EVP/COO George Corona. $KELYA PR link.

The US Dept of Labor estimates US March Average Current Weekly Earnings at $896.60, +0.2% from February, +2.4% from March 2016. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US March Consumer Price Index was -0.3%, February was +0.1%, last 12 months +2.4%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US February Total Manufacturer/Retail/Wholesale Sales at $1.361 trillion, +0.2% from January, +7.1% from February 2016. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce advance estimate of US March Retail and Food Sales at $470.8 billion, -0.2% from February, +5.1% from March 2016. USDOC PR link.

Autonomous Vehicles: California has approved 30 vendors for autonomous vehicle testing. CADMV PR link.

***Thursday, April 13:

The PBRMarketTools US Stock Exchanges Recap for the Trading Week Ending 04/13/17:
DJIA ends week at 20,453.25, -0.98% from last Friday, -1.02% MTD/QTD, +3.49% YTD, -3.14% from record 21,115.55 set 03/01/17.
NASDAQ ends week at 5,805.15, -0.24% from last Friday, -1.80% MTD/QTD, +7.84% YTD, -1.85% from record 5,914.34 set 03/30/17.
SPX ends week at 2,328.95, -1.13% from last Friday, -1.43% MTD/QTD, +4.03% YTD, -2.80% from record 2,395.96 set 03/01/17.

General Motors(PBR8) to add 1,100+ new jobs and invest $14 million in a new research and development facility for Cruise Automation in San Francisco. $GM PR link.

ConocoPhillips(PBR53) to sell San Juan Basin assets for $2.7 billion plus up to $0.3 billion contigent payment. $COP PR link.

Abbott Labs(PBR134 $ABT) gets FDA Warning Letter regarding cardiovascular medical devices manufacturing in Sylmar, CA, facility. FDA PR link.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR185) gets separate deals with Biogen(PBR282 $BIIB) and Roche to license Anti-eTau and Anti-Myostatin compounds, respectively, includes combined payments of $470 million upfront plus milestone and royalties payments. $BMY PR link.

PVH(PBR328) announces licensing agreement with USA Legwear for Warner’s Socks and Hosiery. $PVH PR link.

Windstream(PBR426) to acquire Rye Brook, NY, based cloud-based unified communications for small/medium sized businesses provider Broadview Networks for $227.5 million cash. $WIN PR link.

Salesforce(PBR453) opens 2nd data center in Japan, to serve Japan and broader Asia-Pacific market. $CRM PR link.

Polaris Industries(PBR531) voluntarily recalling 51,000 model year 2015 Ranger 900s due to faulty fasteners on a heat shield and 3,800 2017 Sportsman ATVs for potentially faulty power steering unit. $PII PR link.

CIT Group(PBR608) hires John Fawcett as EVP/CFO, effective early 05/17, succeeds leaving Carol Hayles. $CIT PR link.

La-Z-Boy(PBR918) SVP & President/Brands Mark Bacon, Sr, resigns, effective 04/30/17. $LZB PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US March Producer Price Index was -0.1%, February was +0.3%, March 2016 -0.2%, last 12 months +2.3%. USDOL PR link.

The U of Michigan US April Preliminary Consumer Sentiment Index at 98.0, March was 96.9, April 2016 89.0. UMich PR link.

***Wednesday, April 12:

Walmart(PBR1) introduces Pickup Discount on 10,000 online items, expanding to over 1 million items by 06/30/17, offers discount on items and free pick up service or ship 2 day free, no membership required. $WMT PR link.

Lockheed(PBR64) gets US Air Force authorization extending service life of F-16’s from 8,000 to 12,000 equivalent flight hours, extends life of F-16 to at least 2048. $LMT PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) to refund $814.9 million plus interest and attorney fees to Blackberry related to royalties for certain past sales of subscriber units. $QCOM PR link.

NRG Energy(PBR186) begins deployment of 60 megawatts of commercial & industrial preferred resource programs in S California with its Ice Bear ice battery and NRG Lockheed(PBR64 $LMT) Martin Energy Efficiency Program. $NRG PR link.

Valspar(PBR526) to sell N American Industrial Wood Coatings business to Axalta Coating Systems(NYSE: AXTA) for $420 million, addresses US/Canadian regulatory concerns regarding $113.00/share, $11.3 billion acquisition by Sherwin-Williams(PBR251 $SHW). $VAL PR link.

CME Group(PBR664) intents to close CME Europe and CME Clearing Europe by end of 2017, clients prefer to use its US services. $CME PR link.

Domino’s(PBR889) opens store in Cyberjaya, Malaysia near capital Kuala Lumpur, 14,000th store worldwide. $DPZ PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US March Receipts were $216.6 billion, Outlays $392.8 billion, Deficit $176.2 billion, YTD(6 months) Deficit is $526.9 billion. Treasury PR link.

The US Dept of Labor estimates US March Import Prices were -0.2%, February was +0.4%, last 12 months +4.2%. USDOL PR link.

International Monetary Fund‘s Managing Director Christine Lagarde says world economy is up for both developed and emerging countries, warns of protectionism. IMF PR link.

E*Trade(PBR930) Streetwise quarterly tracking study says investor bullish sentiment is at 63%, -2% from 1Q17 highs. $ETFC PR link.

Investing: You’re not too busy and it’s not too complicated: 5 simple tips for investing. MarketWatch PR link.

***Tuesday, April 11:

United Continental(PBR77) CEO Oscar Munoz apologizes for the forced passenger removal incident on United Express Flight 3411, promises to do better. $UAL PR link.

Loews Corp(PBR200) to acquire Atlanta, GA, based rigid plastic packaging manufacturer Consolidated Container Co for $1.2 billion from Bain Capital. $L PR link.

MasterCard(PBR291) gets UK regulatory approval for $920 million acquisition of 92.4% of UK based payments provider VocaLink, expects to close in a few weeks. $MA PR link.

Mylan(PBR346 $MYL) gets US FDA warning letter about manufacturing facility in India. FDA PR link.

NuStar(PBR673) to acquire crude oil transportation, pipeline gathering and storage assets in the Midland Basin of W Texas holder Navigator Energy Services for $1.475 billion. $NS PR link.

Scientific Games(PBR937) acquires private mobile and social game developer Spicerack Media, creator of Bingo Showdown, terms not disclosed. $SGMS PR link.

CarMax(PBR202) promotes Diane Long Cafritz to SVP & newly created position of Chief Human Relations Officer. $KMX PR link.

Coty(PBR524) hires Sean Foster as Global SVP/eCommerce, to oversee digital marketing in all 3 divisions. $COTY PR link.

The US Dept of Labor estimates US February Non-Farm Labor Hires were at 5.314 million, -2.0% from January, -2.4% from February 2016. USDOL PR link.

The US Energy Information Agency says 2016 US Crude Oil Production averaged 8.9 million barrels/day(mb/d), forecasts 2017 to be 9.2 mb/d, 2018 9.9 mb/d. EIA PR link.

***Monday, April 10:

Ford(PBR10) to invest $4.5 billion globally on 13 new electric vehicles over next 5 years, reveals industry’s first pursuit-rated hybrid police car in New York and Los Angeles. $F PR link.

AT&T(PBR12) to acquire Straight Path Communications, with its nationwide portfolio of millimeter wave spectrum, for $95.63/share, $1.6 billion. $T PR link.

Hackers hit Amazon(PBR29)’s third-party sellers in fraud blitz. MarketWatch PR link.

Wells Fargo(PBR30) investigation into retail banking sales results in $180 million in clawbacks from previous executives. $WFC PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) files Answer and Counterclaims to Apple(PBR5 $AAPL) lawsuit. $QCOM PR link.

SuperValu(PBR164) to acquire $3.8 billion/yr 6 distribution centers Unified Grocers for $375 million, includes $261 million in debt. $SVU PR link.

Penske Automotive(PBR170) gets its 9th US Mercedes-Benz dealership with acquisition of $250 million/yr Phoenix, AZ, based Schumacher European. $PAG PR link.

JCPenney(PBR234) says 50 additional salon locations are rebranding to The Salon By InStyle® this year, part of reinvention of 750 salons in the US, rolling out an online salon scheduling system, and offering incentives to attract nearly 4,000 stylists. $JCP PR link.

Avis Budget(PBR316) completes transaction to operate Budget brand directly in Poland, Avis brand already directly operated, terms not disclosed. $CAR PR link.

Lennar(PBR340) plans to take an up to $140 million charge in settlement over dispute in a 2008 purchase of a Maryland property. $LEN PR link.

KBR(PBR395) gets $435 million settlement pertaining to EPC 1 construction project executed for Mexico based PEMEX. $KBR PR link.

Newell Brands(PBR434) to sell its $87 million/year Pine Mountain fire starters & Diamond matches related units to Royal Oak Enterprises, terms not disclosed. $NWL PR link.

Abercrombie & Fitch(PBR595) announces wholesale agreement with Asia 800+ million members online fashion destination ZALORA. $ANF PR link.

Intl Flavors & Fragrances(PBR666) acquires Oregon based PowderPure with its patented Infidri drying technology to create all-natural food ingredients, terms not disclosed. $IFF PR link.

Knight Transportation(PBR977) and Swift Transportation(PBR547) to merge in all stock deal valued at $6 billion, to be called Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings, symbol KNX, companies to maintain distinct brands and operations. $SWFT PR link.

Parker Hannifin(PBR218) promotes VP/Controller & Acting CFO Catherine A. Suever to EVP/Finance & Admin/CFO, succeeds retiring Jon Marten. $PH PR link.

DaVita Healthcare(PBR302) hires hires Robert Lang as president/International. $DVA PR link.

AmTrust Financial(PBR564) hires and promotes several people to senior financial/treasury positions. $AFSI PR link.

Rent A Center(PBR657) chairman/founder/interim CEO Mark Speese now also CEO, had previously served as CEO from 10/01 until 01/14. $RCII PR link.

Jack in the Box(PBR987) CFO Jerry Rebel to retire in 2018, search for new CFO starts. $JACK PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) US March Renters Profile indicates that although their finances are better, renters are comfortable with continuing to rent. $FMCC PR link.

TD Ameritrade(PBR662) March Investor Movement Index(IMX) is 6.22, new high after February’s 6.15, investors continue to be actively engaged. $AMTD PR link.

***Friday, April 7:

The PBRMarketTools Week Ending 04/07/17 US Stock Exchanges Recap:
DJIA ends week at 20,656.10, -0.03% from last Friday/MTD/QTD, +4.52% YTD, -2.18% from record 21,115.55 set 03/01/17.
NASDAQ ends week at 5,877.81, -0.57% from last Friday/MTD/QTD, +9.19% YTD, -0.62% from record 5,914.34 set 03/30/17.
SPX ends week at 2,355.54, -0.30% from last Friday/MTD/QTD, +5.21% YTD, -1.69% fromrecord 2,395.96 set 03/01/17.

Merck(PBR70) receives Complete Response Letter from the US FDA for TECOS cardiovascular study with Sitagliptin. $MRK PR link.

21st Century Fox(PBR91) $14.8 billion cash acquisition of European entertainment 30,000 employee Sky plc gets European Union approval, needs UK approval to complete the deal. $FOX PR link.

Gilead Sciences(PBR107) gets US FDA approval for new indications for Harvoni® and Sovaldi® in pediatric patients 12 years and older with Chronic Hepatitis C Infection. $GILD PR link.

Carnival Corp(PBR184) authorizes an additional up to $1.0 billion share repurchase program. $CCL PR link.

Fifth Third Bancorp(PBR387) transfers EVP/Wealth & Asset Management Phil McHugh to EVP/Consumer Bank, succeeds leaving Chad Borton. $FITB PR link.

Netflix(PBR447) to promote Greg Peters to Chief Product Officer in 07/17, succeeds leaving Neil Hunt. Also, Chief Talent Officer Tawni Cranz is leaving. $NFLX PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US March Civilians Employed at 153.0 million, +142,000 from February, +1.7 million from March 2016, Unemployment Rate at 4.5%, February was 4.7%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US February Total Wholesale Sales at $464.9 billion, +0.6% from January, +9.9% from February 2016. USDOC PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Board estimates US February Total Outstanding Consumer Credit Outstanding at $3.792 trillion, +0.4% from January, +6.5% from February 2016. FRB PR link.

The Fannie Mae(PBR17) US March Home Purchase Sentiment Index at 84.5, February was 88.3, March 2016 80.2. $FNMA PR link.

FreddieMac says Total Multifamily Origination Volumes could increase by 3-6% this year, and even top $295 billion. $FMCC PR link.

***Thursday, April 6:

Amazon(PBR29) to create 5,000 new part-time, work-from-home Virtual Customer Service jobs over the next year, part of 30,000 part-time jobs plan over next year. $AMZN PR link.

Comcast(PBR42) announces Xfinity Mobile for its wifi customers. $CMCSA PR link.

Sprint(PBR86) introduces new unlimited data, talk, and text plans, $50/mo 1 line, 2 lines for $40 month/line, 4 lines for $30 month/line. $S PR link.

CarMax(PBR202) plans to open 15 new stores in fiscal 2018, 13-16 stores in fiscal 2019. $KMX PR link.

Allergan(PBR219) $56.50/share, $2.47 billion cash acquisition of ZELTIQ Aesthetics(NASDAQ: ZLTQ) expected to close soon after 04/27/17 ZELTIQ shareholders vote meeting. $AGN PR link.

VISA(PBR224) announces its VISA Checkout online service has 20 million enrolled customers. $V PR link.

WestRock(PBR278) completes $1.025 billion sale of its Home, Health and Beauty business to Silgan(PBR576 $SLGN). $WRK PR link.

Becton Dickinson(PBR318) gets FDA 510(k) clearance for BD FACSVia™ system flow cytometer system with Leucocount Reagent Assay used in residual white blood cell enumeration. $BDX PR link.

American Axle & Mfg(PBR602) completes $1.6 billion cash/stock acquisition of lightweight components for powertrain/suspensions manufacturer Metaldyne Performance Group(NYSE: MPG), assumes $1.7 billion in net debt. $AXL PR link.

HB Fuller(PBR870) authorizes up to $200 million share repurchase program for up to 5 years. $FUL PR link.

Gartner(PBR885) completes $77.25/share, $2.6 billion stock/cash acquisition of talent management insights provider CEB(NYSE: CEB). $IT PR link.

Coach(PBR496) moves Ian Bickley to newly created role of president, Global Business Development & Strategic Alliances, effective 07/02/17. $COH PR link.

Coach(PBR496) hires Joshua Schulman to newly created role of president/CEO of Coach Brand unit, effective 06/05/17. $COH PR link.

AAR Corp(PBR883) hires Dylan Wolin as VP, Strategy & Acquisitions. $AIR PR link.

Ruby Tuesday(PBR990) hires Jim F. Hyatt, II, as president/CEO. $RT PR link.

FDA allows marketing of first direct-to-consumer tests that provide genetic risk information for certain conditions. FDA PR link.

***Wednesday, April 5:

PPG Industries(PBR190) reiterates invitation to AkzoNobel to discuss combination of the two companies. $PPG PR link.

Joy Global(PBR590) $3.7 billion cash acquisition by Japan based Komatsu is completed. $JOY PR link.

SunPower(PBR680) evaluating strategic options for its joint venture 8point3 Energy Partners after partner First Solar(PBR630 $FSLR) says it is reviewing alternatives for the sale of its interest. $SPWR PR link.

Panera Bread(PBR768) to be acquired by JAB Holding for $315/share, $7.5 billion cash. $PNRA PR link.

Greenbrier Cos(PBR846) gets Tokyo based Mitsubishi UFJ Lease & Finance deal for more than $1.0 billion in railcar business in N America. $GBX PR link.

Varian Medical(PBR678) hires Gary E. Bischoping, Jr, as CFO, effective 05/08/17, succeeds retiring Elisha Finney. $VAR PR link.

The US Federal Reserve releases it FOMC minutes from the 03/14-15/17 meeting. FOMC PR link.

ADP says US March Change In National Employment was +263,000, February was +298,000, March 2016 +200,000. $ADP PR link.

The ISM US March Non-Manufacturing Index(NMI) is 55.2%, February was 57.6%, March 2016 54.5%. ISM PR link.

***Tuesday, April 4:

Boeing(PBR27) gets $3 billion order for 30 737 MAXs from Iran Aseman Airlines, includes purchase rights for an additional 30 737 MAXs. $BA PR link.

VF Corp(PBR232) to sell its Licensed Sports Group business to Fanatics, terms not disclosed. $VFC PR link.

Computer Sciences(PBR237) & Enterprise Services business of Hewlett Packard Enterprise(PBR55) complete merger, now called DXC Technology(NYSE: DXC). $DXC PR link.

Liberty Interactive(PBR263) to acquire General Communication(NASDAQ: GNCMA) for $32.50/share, $2.68 billion enterprise value, then split-off as GCI Liberty. $QVCA PR link.

Becton Dickinson(PBR318) completes acquisition of Israel based infusion pump systems manufacturer Caesarea Medical Electronics, had 40% stake with acquisition of CareFusion. $BDX PR link.

Ralph Lauren(PBR349) to close its 711 Fifth Avenue store in NYC, move to an e-commerce platform, explore new retail concepts, develop new store formats. $RL PR link.

CIT Group(PBR608) completes $10.4 billion sale of CIT Commercial Air leasing unit to Avolon Holdings. $CIT PR link.

Brinker Intl(PBR697) EVP/CFO Tom Edwards resigns, VP Investor Relations/Treasurer Joe Taylor is interim CFO. $EAT PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US February International Trade Exports YTD at $385.4 billion, Imports $477.1 billion, Deficit $91.7 billion, February 2016 YTD Deficit was $88.8 billion. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US February Manufactures New Orders were $476.5 billion, +1.0% from January, +2.5% from February 2016. USDOC PR link.

The PurdueU/CME US March Ag Barometer Composite Index at 124, February was 134, March 2016 85. PurdueU PR link.

International Economics: Rising energy prices continue to push OECD annual inflation upwards. OECD PR link.

***Monday, April 3:

McKesson(PBR6) completes $1.1 billion acquisition of private healthcare electronic prior authorization systems developer CoverMyMeds. $MCK PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) Web Services to open data centers in Sweden in 2018. $AMZN PR link.

UPS(PBR47) to offer Saturday pickup & delivery services to 4,700+ cities by holiday season, to hire 6,000 employees by end of 2018. $UPS PR link.

Intel(PBR51) completes spin-off of cybersecurity unit McAfee as a separate standalone company. $INTC PR link.

Peabody Energy(PBR372) has emerged from Chapter 11, to start trading on NYSE on 04/04/17 with stock symbol BTU. $BTUUQ PR link.

Avery Dennison(PBR396) gets global Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) partnership agreement with Target(PBR40 $TGT). $AVY PR link.

Newell Brands(PBR434) completes $470 million acquisition of New Zealand based food storage containers provider Sistema Plastics; completes sale of the Rubbermaid consumer storage business to United Solutions; to sell its small central European Teutonia baby stroller business to a private investor. $NWL PR link.

United Rentals(PBR438) completes $965 million cash acquisition of Chicago based 1,100 employee, 73 branches, $369 million/2016 general rental equipment company NES Rentals. $URI PR link.

Berry Plastics(PBR488) changing name to Berry Global on 04/13/17, new mission and values statement, keeps ticker symbol BERY. $BERY PR link.

Coty(PBR524) to acquire for around $160 million exclusive long-term global development, manufacturing, and distribution license for UK based Burberry Beauty luxury fragrances, cosmetics, and skincare products. $COTY PR link.

CA Technologies(PBR550) completes $614 million cash acquisition of private SaaS-based secure DevOps platform provider Veracode. $CA PR link.

Tesla(PBR651) delivers record 25,000+ vehicles in 1Q17, 69% over 1Q16. $TSLA PR link.

GoDaddy(PBR905) completes acquisition of European small business cloud services provider Host Europe Group. $GDDY PR link.

Group 1 Automotive(PBR276) promotes Daryl Kenningham to new position of president, US Operations, effective 05/01/17. $GPI PR link.

M&T Bank(PBR504) assigns additional duties held by deceased president Mark Czarnecki to vice chairmen Richard Gold, Rene Jones, & Kevin Pearson, promotions to EVP also named. $MTB PR link.

HCP(PBR834) president Justin Hutchens leaving 06/01/17 to be CEO of UK based Operator HC-One. $HCP PR link.

Griffon Corp(PBR890) Clopay Plastics subsidiary president Alan Koblin to retire on 09/30/17, its COO Ron Zinco to be successor. $GFF PR link.

Pier 1 Imports(PBR916) hires Alasdair James as president/CEO, effective 05/01/17. $PIR PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US February Total Construction Spending Annual Rate at $1.193 trillion, +0.8% from January, +3.0% from February 2016. USDOC PR link.

The ISM Report On Business US March Manufacturing PMI Index at 57.2%, February was 57.7%, March 2016 51.7%. ISM PR link.

The Markit US March Manufacturing PMI at 53.3, February was 54.2, March 2016 51.2. Markit PR link.

Automotive News estimates US March New Vehicle Sales at 1,554,998 units, -1.7% from March 2016, Annual Rate at 16,600,000 units. AutoNews PR link.

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

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Copyright © 2017 by Pax Business Resources, LLC, Tucson, AZ, USA, All Rights Reserved.

Filed Under: Recaps Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The PBR1000 March 2017 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots

April 24, 2017 by

March 2017: Mixed Results

Invest Button 87976-20131105

Investing has been strong for quite some time. What will keep investors interested? How will the economy and politics affect investment decisions?

 

By Larry C. Paxton

March 1st started with a strong uptick after President Trump’s speech the previous evening to the US Congress and citizens. During the rest of the month there were really no wild swings, and a slight trend down. Businesses and people are still trying to figure out the current and future impact of the Trump presidency, how the many personal controversies and issues will be resolved. Overall perhaps March could really be labeled as the “Wait & See Month.”

The US economy does continue to appear to be growing at a modest to moderate pace, but still shows some fragility. Business and consumer surveys indicate optimism.

Investors continue to pretty much tread along, keeping alert for some sure up and down signals.

Here are some March summaries on the US stock exchanges:

Number of Trading Days: 23

Number of Gain(+)/Loss(-) Days: DJIA 7+/16-; NASDAQ 16+/ 7-; SPX 10+/13-.

Record Days: DJIA 1, NASDAQ 2, SPX 1

Longest Gain Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 2, NASDAQ 5, SPX 3

Longest Loss Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 8, NASDAQ 2, SPX 4

Big Swing Up Days(>1.00%): 1, 03/01/17: Day after President Trump speech to Congress/Nation

Big Swing Down Days(<-1.00%): 1, 03/21/17: Banking sector, options expirations

The following are Top 5 partial tables excerpts from The PBR1000 March Snapshots. The stock price is for the close of trading on March 31, Month % Chg is compared to February 28, YTD % Chg is compared to December 31, 2016, and the 15 Months % Chg is compared to December 31, 2015. The PBR Rank is by annual revenues.

To get the complete The PBR1000 Snapshots  just click here to get your 2 month or significantly discounted 13 month subscription and automatically download the March 2017 edition with the complete 15 Snapshots.

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

Table 1 Summary: The range was +198% to -69%. 480 out of 1,017 stock prices were up 0.00% or more. The average was a gain of 0.9%, the median was a loss of 0.4%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
03/31/17		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 15 Mos
% Chg
iHeartMedia
 383 IHRT 3.64 +198 +228 +304
Restoration Hardward
 806 RH 46.26 +52 +51 -42
Ruby Tuesday
 990 RT 2.81 +48 -13 -49
Sears Holding
 109 SHLD 11.49 +47 +24 -44
Systemax
 857 SYX 11.09 +40 +26 +29

 

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

Table 2 Summary: The range was +258% to -91%. 630 out of 1,016 stock prices were up 0.00% or more. The average was a gain of 5.5%, the median was a gain of 2.9%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
03/31/17		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 15 Mos
% Chg
Republic Airways
 951 RJETQ 0.22 -2 +258 -95
iHeartMedia
 383 IHRT 3.64 +198 +228 +304
Tronox
 805 TROX 18.45 +6 +79 +372
Scientific Games
 688 SGMS 23.65 +15 +69 +164
Aeropostale
 920 AROPQ 0.03 -18 +60 -88

 

Table 3(S13): The PBR1000 Top 5 13 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: The range was +420% to -96%. 780 out of 1,014 stock prices were up 0.00% or more. The average was a gain of 17.1%. The median was a gain of 18.3%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
03/31/17		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 15 Mos
% Chg
Cliffs Natural Resources
 828 CLF 8.21 -23 -2 +420
AMD
 509 AMD 14.55 +1 +28 +407
Tronox 805 TROX
 18.45 +6 +79 +372
US Steel 230 X 33.81 -13 +2 +324
iHeartMedia
 383 IHRT 3.64 +198 +228 +304

 

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

Table 4 Summary: The range was $753.72 billion to $0.01 billion. The average is $22.8 billion, median is $7.0 billion, out of 1,016 companies.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Market Cap($B)
03/31/17		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 15 Mos
% Chg
Apple
 4 AAPL 753.72 +5 +22 +28
Alphabet
 26 GOOG 573.57 +1 +8 +10
Microsoft
 30 MSFT 508.94 +3 +5 +15
Amazon 12 AMZN 423.03 +5 +19 +34
Berkshire Hathaway 3 BRK 413.43 -2 +3 +27
The PBR1000
   23,134.32 -0 +5 +14

 

Table 5: The PBR1000 Index & Selected Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company Price
03/31/17		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 15 Mos
% Chg
The PBR1000     78,715.41 +0.9 +5.5 +18.2
DJIA     20,663.22  -0.7 +4.6 +18.6
NASDAQ        5,911.74 +1.5 +9.8 +18.1
S&P500        2,362.72 -0.0 +5.5 +15.6
GOLD        1,251.60 +0.7 +8.7 +18.1
SILVER              18.28 -0.2 +14.3 +32.5
OIL              50.85 -6.0 -5.3 +37.3

Have questions on The PBR1000 or The PBR US Economic Indices Monthly Snapshots? Please contact us at Sales@PBRMarketTools.com or call us in the US at 520-282-4100.

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

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

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Copyright © 2017 by Pax Business Resources, LLC, Tucson, AZ, USA, All Rights Reserved.

Filed Under: Snapshots Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The PBR1000 March 2017 Breaking News Recap

April 13, 2017 by

March 2017: Keeping Promises

Capital Building-Vichaya Kiatying-Angsulee ID-100286160

President Trump needs Congress to help keep his promises. The Capital building is beautiful, but what happens inside can sometimes be very ugly.

 

By Larry C. Paxton

Once again most corporate,  economic, government, and investing news in the month seemed to revolve around the early days and actions of a new US President and the US Congress. On the very first day of March the major US stock exchanges skyrocketed to new highs based on President Trump’s speech to Congress and the nation the night before. Throughout March the pace continued by President Trump carrying out, or trying to carry out, his campaign promises. There was controversy over his new executive order regarding immigrants, a new healthcare bill was introduced but failed to gain passage, a budget was introduced, A Supreme Court nominee was named and the path to confirmation has some possible potholes, N Korea continued to take worrisome actions, and the list goes on, some more are in the paragraphs below. A lot happened in March, but the ramifications will probably not be known or clear for some time and April looks like it will provide more of the same.

Here’s a quick March 2017 summary on key activities that relate to The PBR1000:

Mergers & Acquisitions: 26 deals worth at least $1 billion initiated, closed, or updated. Total transaction value was $306 billion.

Spinoffs: None

Share Repurchase Programs: 13 announced, total $13.6 billion.

Bankruptcies: 4 initiated or updated

CEO Changes: 9 announced.

Jobs: Modest growth.

US Economy: Modest/moderate growth continues, stable but fragile.

Federal Reserve Federal Funds Rate Changes: 1, +0.25% to 0.75-1.00%, more increases anticipated in 2017.

National: US House unable to pass new healthcare plan, Obamacare continues, proposed budget released, Trump/Germany’s Merkel meet, Neil Gorsuch nominated to Supreme Court, Russia vote meddling hearings.

International: Brexit formal notice given to the European Union, UK Parliament attack, oil price fluctuations, Middle East conflicts, refugee crisis, N Korea missile tests, European elections, climate change, US President Trump actions continue to be the headliners.

For more details here are The PBR1000 corporate and economic related breaking news items of interest with hotlinks to the sources for March 2017, starting with the last active business day.

***Friday, March 31:

The PBRMarketTools Week Ending 03/31/17 US Stock Exchanges Recap:
DJIA ends March at 20,663.22, +0.32% from last Friday, -0.72% MTD, +4.56% QTD/YTD, -2.14% from record 21,115.55 set 03/01/17.
NASDAQ ends March at 5,911.74, +1.42% from last Friday, +1.48% MTD, +9.82% QTD/YTD, -0.04% from record 5,914.34 set 03/30/17.
SPX ends March at 2,362.72, +0.80% from last Friday, -0.04% MTD, +5.53% QTD/YTD, -1.39% from record 2,395.96 set 03/01/17.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR37) declares $280/share, $30 billion cash tender offer for Swiss based pharmaceutical company Actelion(SIX:ATLN) successful, expects to close transaction in 2Q17. $JNJ PR link.

Pfizer(PBR56) gets FDA approval for its IBRANCE® (palbociclib) metastic breast cancer therapy. $PFE PR link.

DuPont(PBR82) merger with Dow Chemical(PBR48 $DOW) transaction close date amended to be by 08/31/17, first of three spinoffs to be Material Science. $DD PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) provides update on expanded worldwide voluntary recall of certain lots of EpiPen® Auto-Injector. $MYL PR link.

The Andersons(PBR525) completes sale of Florida farm center locations to Wedgworth’s, terms not disclosed. $ANDE PR link.

FMC Corp(PBR566) to acquire portion of DuPont(PBR82 $DD)’s Crop Protection business to satisfy European Union requirements for DuPont’s merger with Dow Chemical(PBR48 $DOW), DuPont to acquire FMC Health and Nutritiion, FMC to make a $1.2 billion cash payment to DuPont. $FMC PR link.

WhiteWave Foods(PBR624) $56.25/share, $12.5 billion cash acquisition by France based global food company Danone gets US Dept of Justice approval, transaction to close soon. $WWAV PR link.

Verizon(PBR15) announces new operating structure with focused in 3 areas, hires Hans Vestberg as EVP/Network & Technology, Marni Walden is EVP/Media & Telematics, John Stratton EVP/Customer & Product Operations. $VZ PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US National Debt on 03/30/17 was $19.847 trillion, -0.4% from 02/27/17, +3.0% from 03/31/16. Treasury PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US 1 Year Treasury Bill Yield on 03/31/17 was 1.03%, 02/28/17 was 0.88%, 03/31/16 0.59%. Treasury PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US February Total Personal Income Annual Rate at $16.439 trillion, +0.4% from January, +4.6% from February 2016. USDOC PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago estimates the 7th District February Midwest Economy Index at +0.27, January was +0.01, December +0.06. ChicagoFed PR link.

The University of Michigan US March Final Consumer Sentiment Index was 96.9, February was 96.3, March 2016 91.0. UMich PR link.

The MNI March Chicago Business Barometer at 57.7, February was 57.4, March 2016 53.6(>50 gaining). MNI/ISM PR link.

The AAA Regular Gas Average Gallon Price for 03/31/17 is $2.314, +1.1% from 02/28/17, +12.4% from 03/31/16. AAA PR link.

***Thursday, March 30:

ExxonMobil(PBR2) announces new oil discovery on the Snoek well offshore Guyana, part of Stabroek Block. $XOM PR link.

AT&T(PBR12) selected by FirstNet for 25 year $6.5 billion agreement to build & manage America’s first nationwide public safety broadband network dedicated to first responders. $T PR link.

VF Corp(PBR232) introduces 2021 strategic growth plan, authorizes $5 billion share repurchase program. $VFC PR link.

JCPenney(PBR234) to celebrate 100 years in Texas on 03/31/17 at a store in Wichita Falls, where the first store opened. $JCP PR link.

Celanese(PBR369) sues 3 Chinese high-potency sweetner competitors in Europe for patent infringement, seeks additional US patent rights. $CE PR link.

Rent A Center(PBR657) not renewing Acceptance Now agreement with Conn Appliances because of under performance, expires 06/06/17, involves 115 kiosks. $RCII PR link.

Analog Devices(PBR701) acquires private San Jose, CA, based broadband GaAs and GaN amplifier expert OneTree Microdevices, terms not disclosed. $ADI PR link.

Kaman Corp(PBR934) increases stake from 26% to 49% in India based advanced composite structures manufacturing joint venture with Kineco Ltd. $KAMN PR link.

Six Flags(PBR962) to repurchase $500 million of its common stock, does not anticipate pursuing an real estate investment trust structure. $SIX PR link.

Facebook(PBR228 $FB) Oculus unit co-founder Palmer Luckey leaves. TechCrunch PR link.

Vail Resorts(PBR908) hires Lynanne Kunkel as Chief Human Relations Officer, effective 05/15/17. $MTN PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says US 4Q16 GDP 3rd Estimate is +2.1%, $18.869 trillion annual rate, +1.0% from 3Q16, +3.6% from 4Q15. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor US Initial Unemployment Insurance Claims 4 Week Moving Average for 03/25/17 is 254,250, +5.5% from February, -5.1% from March 2016. USDOL PR link.

The US Energy Information Administration says US Crude Oil Stocks on 03/24/17 were 534.0 million barrels, +3.0% from 02/17/17, +6.0% from 03/25/16. EIA PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) says US 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rate Average for 03/30/17 is 4.14%, 02/23/17 was 4.16%, 03/31/16 was 3.71%. $FMCC PR link.

The US Congressional Budget Office says Federal Budget Deficit at 77% of GDP, could rise to 150% by 2047 if no changes made. CBO PR link.

***Wednesday, March 29:

Amazon(PBR29) to open 2nd Houston area fulfillment center, 10th in Texas, to be 1 million sf, employ 1,000 fulltime employees. $AMZN PR link.

Intel(PBR51) promotes Aicha Evans to Chief Strategy Officer. $INTC PR link.

ConocoPhillips(PBR53) to sell its 50% interest in Foster Creek Christina Lake partnership interest and Western Canada Deep Basin gas assets to Cenovus for $13.3 billion cash/stock. $COP PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) completes acquisition of Cold-EEZE(R) brand with several OTC cold remedies. $MYL PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) reviewing Complete Response Letter from FDA not approving its generic of GlaxoSmithKline’s Advair Diskus® asthma medication. $MYL PR link.

HCP(PBR834) completes $1.125 billion sale of 64 properties leased to Brookdale Senior Living(PBR587 $BKD) to Blackstone(PBR352 $BX) affiliates. $HCP PR link.

LabCorp(PBR413) promotes Gary Huff to CEO/LabCorp Diagnostics, one of LabCorp’s two primary business segments. $LH PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US 4Q16 Assets at $23.917 trillion, Liabilities $32.026 trillion, Deficit $8.109 trillion, USDOC PR link.

International News: The UK officially notifies the European Union that it is leaving the organization, expects the Brexit process to take two years.

***Tuesday, March 28:

General Motors(PBR8) board rejects investor Greenlight Capital’s proposal for dual class stock structure and four board nominees for upcoming annual shareholder meeting. $GM PR link.

Ford(PBR10) to invest $1.2 billion in 3 Michigan facilities. $F PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) to open 1 million sf fulfillment center in Clear Brook, VA, to employ 1,000 fulltime. $AMZN PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) to acquire Middle East e-commerce leader SOUQ.com, terms not disclosed. $AMZN PR link.

Wells Fargo(PBR30) agrees to settle class action lawsuit regarding retail sales practices for $110 million. $WFC PR link.

American Airlines(PBR69), largest airline in the world, makes $200 million equity investment in China’s largest airline, China Southern Airlines. $AAL PR link.

Delta Air(PBR72) and Korean Air to implement a joint venture arrangement to grow trans-Pacific network serving 290+ destinations in the Americas and 80+ in Asia. $DAL PR link.

BlackRock(PBR252) investing in data science technologies as part of investment teams, segmenting into 4 active equity products. $BLK PR link.

Salesforce(PBR453) launches Financial Services Cloud Einstein for financial advisors. $CRM PR link.

Tesla(PBR651) gets $1.8 billion investment for 5% ownership by China’s Tencent internet company. $TSLA PR link.

Rent A Center(PBR657) adopts stockholder rights plan. $RCII PR link.

Regeneron(PBR708) & Sanofi get FDA approval of DUPIXENT® (dupilumab) Injection, the first and only biologic medicine approved for the treatment of adults with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. $REGN PR link.

AMC Entertainment(PBR728) completes $929 million cash acquisition of Sweden based largest Northern Europe 7 country region theatre exhibitor Nordic Cinema Group. $AMC PR link.

KB Home(PBR802) chairman/president/CEO Jeffrey Mezger rings NYSE opening bell in celebration of company’s 60th(Diamond) anniversary. $KBH PR link.

AIG(PBR46) announces Donna DeMaio rejoining company as EVP/Chief Auditor. succeeds Martha Gallo who is now CIO. $AIG PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR314) promotes Christian Stewart to newly created role of EVP/Gaming & Interactive Entertainment. $CZR PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) hires former SEC commissioner Daniel M. Gallagher as Chief Legal Officer, effective 04/17/17. $MYL PR link.

Tailored Brands(PBR643) elects Dinesh Lathi as non-executive chairman of the board, succeeds William Sechrest who remains a member of the board. $TLRD PR link.

Treehouse Foods(PBR690) hires Moe Alkemade to be SVP/Chief Strategy Officer, succeeds Rachel Bishop who is now president/Snacks division. $THS PR link.

Itron(PBR896) EVP/CFO Mark Schmitz resigns, VP/Strategic Planning & Treasury Robert Farrow named interim CFO until successor found. $ITRI PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond says 5th District March Manufacturing Index at 22%, February was 17%, January 12%. RichmondFed PR link.

The Conference Board US March Preliminary Consumer Confidence Index(1985=100) is at 125.6, February was 116.1, March 2016 96.1. TCB PR link.

The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller US January National Home Price NSA Index is 185.51(01/2000=100), December was 185.21, January 2016 175.23. CoreLogic PR link.

Fitch Ratings research indicates US auto insurer underwriting results tumble; return to profit a long haul. Fitch PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) US March Outlook says house pricing increasing faster than income, mortgage rates going up, expects mortgage originations to drop, cap 2017 home sales. $FMCC PR link.

***Monday, March 27:

Dow Chemical(PBR48 $DOW) and DuPont(PBR82) merger gets EU approval conditioned on divesting some business units. $DD PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) to be exclusive US department store for G-III Apparel Group’s DKNY women’s apparel & accessories brand starting 02/18. $M PR link.

Computer Sciences(PBR237) shareholders approve acquisition of Enterprise Services business of Hewlett Packard Enterprise(PBR55 $HPE), to be called DXC Technology, will create $26 billion/yr global IT services company. $CSC PR link.

Ball Corp(PBR312) sells Hubbard, OH, 70 employee paint & general line plant to BWAY, was part of US Can acquisition in 2006. $BLL PR link.

Sealed Air(PBR344) to sell its Diversey Care division & food hygience and cleaning services units of its Food Care division to Bain Capital for $3.2 billion; increases share repurchase program by $1.5 billion, balance is $2.2 billion. $SEE PR link.

Darden Restaurants(PBR398) to acquire 165 casual dining locations averaging $4.4 million/year each Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen for $780 million cash. $DRI PR link.

Perrigo(PBR565) completes up to $2.85 billion divesture of muscular sclerosis drug Tysabri® royalty stream to affiliate of Royalty Pharma. $PRGO PR link.

GEO Group(PBR953) to do 3:2 stock split payable on 04/24/17. $GEO PR link.

Viacom(PBR212) hires Jim Gianopulos as chairman/CEO of its Paramount Pictures division effective 04/03/17. $VIA PR link.

Alexion Pharmaceutical(PBR840) hires Ludwig Hantson, PhD, as CEO, succeeds David Brennan who is expected to be appointed chairman on 05/10/17. $ALXN PR link.

***Friday, March 24:

The PBRMarketTools Week Ending 03/24/17 US Stock Exchanges Recap:
DJIA ends week at 20,596.72, -1.52% from last Friday, -1.04% MTD, +4.22% QTD/YTD, -2.46% from record 21,115.55 set 03/01/17.
NASDAQ ends week at 5,828.74, -1.22% from last Friday, +0.06% MTD, +8.28% QTD/YTD, -1.28% from record 5,904.03 set 03/01/17.
SPX ends week at 2,343.98, -1.44% from last Friday, -0.83% MTD, +4.70% QTD/YTD, -2.17% from record 2,395.96 set 03/01/17.

Tesoro(PBR71) $37.30/share all stock deal, $6.4 billion transaction, acquisition of Western Refining(PBR193 $WNR) approved by stockholders of each company, expects to close 1H2017. $TSO PR link.

SeaWorld(PBR948) gets long-term investment with Beijing, China, based tourism real estate firm Zhonghong Group acquiring the 21% equity stake held by Blackstone(PBR352 $BX) for $23.00/share. SeaWorld to also provide advisory services to Zhonghong. $SEAS PR link.

***Thursday, March 23:

Amazon(PBR29 $AMZN) wins $1.5 billion tax dispute with IRS. MarketWatch PR link.

GameStop(PBR294) 2017 plan includes opening 35 new Collectibles stores, 65 new Technology Brand stores, to close 2-3% of global store footprint. $GME PR link.

KKR(PBR332) completes $1.28 billion tender offer acquisition of Japan based power tool/life sciences equipment manufacturer Hitachi Koki. $KKR PR link.

KKR(PBR332) completes tender offer acquisition of 20,000 employees worldwide Japanese automotive components manufacturer Calsonic Kansei Corp. $KKR PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Novato, CA, based retail property/casual insurance broker Farallone Pacific Insurance Services, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

Brunswick(PBR584) to close Bayliner & Sea Ray Joinville boat manufacturing facility in Brazil due to South America weak economy. $BC PR link.

Walt Disney(PBR57) extends chairman/CEO Bob Iger’s contract to 07/02/19. $DIS PR link.

Coca-Cola(PBR63) names Francisco Crespo to new position of Chief Growth Officer, Robert Long to Chief Innovation Officer, SVP/CIO Barry Simpson to report to CEO, Jennifer Mann to Chief People Officer, Bea Perez to Chief Public Affairs, Communications and Sustainability Officer. Retirements announced include EVP/Chief Marketing Officer Marcos de Quinto, SVP/Chief People Officer Ceree Eberly, SVP/Chief Public Affairs/Communications Officer Clyde Tuggle. $KO PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) board elects Jeff Gennette as president/CEO, succeeds Terry Lundgren who retains executive chairman role. $M PR link.

The US Dept of HUD says US February New Homes Sold Annual Rate at 592,000 units, Median Price $296,200, -3.9% from January, -4.9% from February 2016. HUD PR link.

***Wednesday, March 22:

Apple(PBR5) acquires iPad/iPhone automation tool Workflow. Techcrunch PR link.

Microsoft(PBR31) gets patent license agreement with Toyota primarily for connected car technologies. $MSFT PR link.

Philip Morris Intl(PBR35) to invest $322 million in Greek cigarette factory to convert to tobacco sticks producer for smoke-free IQOS, to make 20 billion tobacco sticks/year. $PM PR link.

Cisco(PBR60) completes $3.7 billion acquisition of private application performance monitoring developer AppDynamics. $CSCO PR link.

Merck(PBR70) Animal Health unit acquires controlling interest in privately held leading Brazil animal health products producer Vallee SA, terms not disclosed. $MRK PR link.

Sears(PBR93) CFO Jason Hollar reiterates company focus is on long-term profitability in response to some press regarding 2017 Annual Report comments. $SHLD PR link.

Medtronic(PBR133) receives FDA approval for CoreValve(TM) Evolut(TM) Pro Transcatheter Valve with Advanced Sealing. $MDT PR link.

Starbucks(PBR178) plans to create 240,000+ jobs globally(68,000 in the US), open 12,000 new stores(3,400 in the US) by fiscal year 2021. $SBUX PR link.

PNC Financial(PBR189) meets 30% Carbon Reduction Goal ahead of plan, reports results of 2016 Corporate Social Responsibility Plan. $PNC PR link.

PPG Industries(PBR190) makes revised proposal of $96.61/share, $26.3 billion cash/stock for European based specialty paints, coatings and chemicals provider AkzoNobel, gets rejected again. $PPG PR link.

Campbell Soup(PBR326) authorizes new up to $1.5 billion share repurchase program to start 05/01/17 with no expiration date. $CPB PR link.

Alaska Air(PBR454) to incorporate many Virgin America brand elements, phase out VA name in 2019. $ALK PR link.

Hologic(PBR767) completes $66.00/share, $1.65 billion cash acquisition of medical aesthetics systems developer Cynosure(NASDAQ: CYNO). $HOLX PR link.

GoDaddy(PBR905) to acquire website security products and services provider Sucuri, terms not disclosed. $GDDY PR link.

Williams Cos(PBR348) hires US Magistrate Judge T Lane Wilson as its SVP/General Counsel, succeeds resigned Sarah Miller. $WMB PR link.

HRG Group(PBR420) president/CEO Omar Asali to resign 04/14/17, chairman Joseph Steinberg to add CEO role. $HRG PR link.

Tailored Brands(PBR643) promotes EVP/COO Bruce Thorn to president/COO. $TLRD PR link.

Brinker Intl(PBR697) promotes Steve Provost to Chili’s Chief Marketing/Innovation Officer. $EAT PR link.

The Natl Assn of Realtors says US February Existing Home Sales Annual Rate at 5.48 million, -3.7% from January, +7.7% from February 2016. Realtor PR link.

***Tuesday, March 21:

Apple(PBR5) introduces iPhone7 & iPhone7 Plus RED Special Edition; new 9.7 inch iPad with Retina display; Clips app for creating videos. $AAPL PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) introduces Alexa with Prime Now to order items by voice and get 2 hour free delivery. $AMZN PR link.

Progressive(PBR145)’s Direct Insurance Company subsidiary selling its Australian business to The Hollard Insurance Company, terms not disclosed. PRG PR link.

Cummins(PBR146) to cut its global water use by 50% by 2020. $CMI PR link.

Marathon Oil(PBR250) to acquire 21,000 net surface acres in Permian’s Northern Delaware basin in New Mexico for $700 million. $MRO PR link.

AutoZone(PBR290) increases share repurchase program by $750 million. $AZO PR link.

SunPower(PBR680) to supply 31% of solar panels in projects awarded and 130 MW in solar capacity in 1st round of French tender. $SPWR PR link.

Cooper Cos(PBR950) increases share repurchase program by $500 million, has $618.5 million available with no expiration date. $COO PR link.

YRC Worldwide(PBR472) promotes Jason Ringgenberg to Chief Information Officer. $YRCW PR link.

CNO Financial(PBR559) promotes Mike Heard to President of Washington National, Gerardo Monroy Chief Marketing Officer, and Joel Schwartz as President of Colonial Penn. $CNO PR link.

Denbury Resources(PBR963) CEO Phil Rykhoek to retire on 06/30/17, board to recommend COO Christian S. Kendall as successor. $DNR PR link.

***Monday, March 20:

eBay(PBR163) to roll out 3-day or less guaranteed delivery for 20 million items. $EBAY PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Springfield, IL, based Nicoud Insurance Services, serves central US as property/casualty broker & employee benefits consultant, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

Comcast(PBR42) promotes Dave Watson to president/CEO Comcast Cable, succeeds Neil Smit who becomes Comcast vice chairman on 04/01/17. $CMCSA PR link.

Avery Dennison(PBR396) elects Greg Lovins to VP/Interim CFO, retains Treasurer role, succeeds leaving SVP/CFO Anne Bramman. $AVY PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago US February National Activity Index(CFNAI) is +0.34, January was +0.02, February 2016 -0.17. ChiFed PR link.

***Friday, March 17:

The PBRMarketTools Week Ending 03/17/17 US Stock Exchanges Recap:
DJIA ends week at 20,914.62, +0.06% from last Friday, +0.49% MTD, +5.83% QTD/YTD, -0.95% from record 21,115.55 set 03/01/17.
NASDAQ ends week at 5,901.00, +0.67% from last Friday, +1.30% MTD, +9.62% QTD/YTD, -0.05% from record 5,904.03 set 03/01/17.
SPX ends week at 2,378.25, +0.24% from last Friday, +0.62% MTD, +6.23% QTD/YTD, -0.74% from record 2,395.96 set 03/01/17.

Walmart(PBR1) acquires women’s fashion and accessories online specialty retailer ModCloth, terms not disclosed. $WMT PR link.

Huntsman Corp(PBR244) to close remaining operations at its titanium dioxide facility in Calais, France, in 3Q17, affects 108 positions. $HUN PR link.

KKR(PBR332) and CDPQ to jointly acquire 4,400 US professionals in 140 offices USI Insurance Services from Onex, transaction values USI at $4.3 billion. $KKR PR link.

Bon-Ton Stores(PBR707) says NASDAQ to withdraw its deficiency notice, company meets minimum market value standard to continue to be listed. $BONT PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US December Average Hourly Wages and Benefits was $34.90, +2.2% from September, +3.9% from December 2015, USDOL PR link.

The Federal Reserve estimates US February Industrial Production Capacity was at 75.4%, January was 75.5%, February 2016 75.6%. FRB PR link.

The Conference Board says the US February Leading Economic Index was 126.2(2010=100), 6th monthly gain, highest in over a decade. TCB PR link.

The U of Michigan US March Preliminary Consumer Sentiment Index is 97.3, February was 96.3, March 2016 91.7. UMich PR link.

***Thursday, March 16:

3M(PBR92) to acquire 1,500 employees worldwide safety devices provider Scott Safety from Johnson Controls(PBR68 $JCI) for $2.0 billion. $MMM PR link.

Dollar General(PBR151) to open 1,000 new stores, relocate/remodel 900 stores in fiscal 2017. $DG PR link.

CenturyLink(PBR160) and to be acquired Level 3 Communications(PBR375 $LVLT) shareholders approve $66.50/share, $34 billion merger, expects to close by 09/30/17. $CTL PR link.

ConAgra Foods(PBR166) to acquire Thanasi Foods, maker of Duke’s® Meat Snacks and BIGS® Seeds, terms not disclosed. $CAG PR link.

PVH(PBR328) to acquire direct-to-consumer intimate women’s apparel e-commerce retailer True&Co., terms not disclosed. $PVH PR link.

Peabody Energy(PBR372) presiding Chapter 11 judge to confirm Plan of Reorganization, on track to emerge from Chapter 11 in early 04/17. $BTUUQ PR link.

Hyatt Hotels(PBR537) doing $300 million accelerated share repurchase agreement with Deutsche Bank affiliate. $H PR link.

AmTrust Financial(PBR564) delays 2016 10-K report, 2015 & 2014 reports being restated, should not be relied upon. $AFSI PR link.

hhgregg(PBR864) terminates Letter of Intent with anonymous party to buy its assets, has others to talk to during Chapter 11 reorganization. $HGGG PR link.

PharMerica(PBR911) acquires national CareMed Specialty Pharmacy, terms not disclosed. $PMC PR link.

Dollar General(PBR151) EVP/Chief Merchandising Officer Jim Thorpe to retire on 04/15/17. $DG PR link.

Ameren(PBR410) promotes Shawn Schukar to Chairman/President of Ameren Transmission subsidiary starting 05/01/17, succeeds retiring Maureen Borkowski. $AEE PR link.

PulteGroup(PBR428) hires Todd Sheldon as EVP/General Counsel, succeeds retired Steve Cook. $PHM PR link.

Knowles Corp(PBR990) hires Mike Polacek as president of it Intelligent Audio unit, succeeds retiring Paul Dickinson. $KN PR link.

The US Dept of Labor estimates US January Job Openings at 5.625 million, +1.6% from December, -1.5% from January 2016. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD estimates US February Private Housing Building Permits Annual Rate at 1.213 million, -6.2% from January, +4.4% from February 2016. USDOC/HUD PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia says March Philadelphia Manufacturing General Activity Indicator is at 32.8, February was 43.6, March 2016 10.6. PhillyFed PR link.

International Data Corporation forecasts that the Augmented and Virtual Reality Headsets Market will grow from 10.1 million units shipped worldwide in 2016 to 99.4 million units in 2021. IDC PR link.

***Wednesday, March 15:

AT&T(PBR12) gets European Commission approval for $85.4 billion cash/stock acquisition of Time Warner(PBR103 $TWX). $T PR link.

Enterprise Products(PBR59) wins bankruptcy bid for $189 million for E Texas/N Louisiana midstream business and assets of Azure Midstream Partners. $EPD PR link.

Barnes & Noble(PBR408) authorizes up to $50 million share repurchase program. $BN PR link.

Pioneer Natural Resources(PBR476) to sell NE Texas Martin County acreage with 1,500 barrels of oil/day equivalent for $266 million. $PXD PR link.

NVIDIA(PBR510) partners with Germany based Bosch, world’s largest automotive supplier, to develop artificial intelligence self-driving systems for mass market cars. $NVDA PR link.

Tempur Sealy(PBR687) amends Rights Plan to add Qualified Offer Exemption Provision, to be voted on at 2017 annual meeting. $TPX PR link.

GoPro(PBR902) to restructure, cut 270 positions, on track for new hardware, software and international growth in 2017. $GPRO PR link.

Marathon Petroleum(PBR23) EVP/Corporate Strategy Randy Nickerson to retire on 04/01/17. $MPC PR link.

Peabody Energy(PBR372) promotes Charles Meintjes to new position of EVP/Corporate Services & Chief Commercial Officer; George Schuller to succeed Meintjes as president-Australia. $BTUUQ PR link.

Williams-Sonoma(PBR508)’s Pottery Barn Brands president Sandra Stangl resigning 03/31/17 after 23 years at company. Marta Benson promoted to president/Pottery Barn brand, Jennifor Kellor promoted to president/Pottery Barn Kids & PBteen brands. $WSM PR link.

The Federal Open Market Committee votes 9-1 to increase by 0.25% the US federal funds rate to 0.75-1.00%. Many financial institutions raise their Prime Lending Rate from 3.75% to 4.00%. FOMC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US February Consumer Price Index-Urban was +0.1% from January, January was +0.6% from December, last 12 months is +2.7%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor estimates US February Current Average Earnings/Hr at $26.09, +0.2% from January, +2.8% from February 2016. $USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US January Manufacturers/Retail/Wholesale Sales at $1.359 trillion, +0.2% from December, +6.4% from January 2016. $USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce US February Advance Retail Sales Estimate at $474.0 billion, +0.1% from January, +5.7% from February 2016. USDOC PR link.

,p>
The Federal Reserve Bank of New York says the March Empire State Manufacturing General Business Index is at 16.4, February was 18.7, March 2016 -1.5. NYFed PR link.

The Natl Assn of Homebuilders says US March Housing Market Composite Index at 71, February was 65, March 2016 was 58. NAHB PR link.

***Tuesday, March 14:

Merck(PBR70) gets FDA approval for KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) for treatment of adult and pediatric patients with refractory classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL), or who have relapsed after three or more prior lines of therapy. $MRK PR link.

Community Health Systems(PBR125) to sell 4 Pennsylvania hospitals to Pinnacle Health, terms not disclosed. $CYH PR link.

Medtronic(PBR133) gets FDA approval for Melody(TM)Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve (TPV) for implantation in patients whose surgical bioprosthetic pulmonary heart valves have failed. $MDT PR link.

Medtronic(PBR133) gets FDA clearance for Kyphon(TM) Xpede Bone Cement, a new bone cement indication for treating sacral fractures. $MDT PR link.

Parker Hannifin(PBR218) installs 30 MW 4 hour duration lithium ion battery-based energy storage facility, the largest in the world, in S California. $PH PR link.

Cognizant(PBR272) launches $1.5 billion accelerated share repurchase agreement with Barclays, Citibank, and UBS AG. $CTSH PR link.

Sonoco Products(PBR480) completes $230 million cash acquisition of thermoformed packaging for fruit/vegetables manufacturer Peninsula Packaging Co. $SON PR link.

NASDAQ(PBR618) announces NYIAX, world’s first advertising contract exchange, to transform ad inventory into standardized and durable securities in $72 billion US digital advertising marketplace. $NDAQ PR link.

Gap Inc(PBR179) hires Mark Breitbard as president/CEO of Banana Republic unit, starts in early May, succeeds Andi Owen who has left. $GPS PR link.

Universal Corp(PBR833) CFO David Moore returns from temporary medical leave of absence. $UVV PR link.

Revlon(PBR900) hires Serge Jureidini as president, Elizabeth Arden & Fragrances. $REV PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US February Producer Price Index was +0.3% from January, January was +0.6% from December, December +0.2% from November, last 12 months +1.8%. USDOL PR link.

Manpower(PBR132) Report: Global Job Outlook Improving as Employers in 39 of 43 Countries Report Positive Hiring Plans for Q2 2017. $MAN PR link.

Manpower(PBR132) Report: U.S. Employer Confidence Remains Positive as One in Five Plan to Increase Staff in Q2 2017. $MAN PR link.

***Monday, March 13:

Intel(PBR51) to acquire autonomous vehicle computer vision products developer Mobileye NV(NYSE: MBLY) for $63.54/share, $15.3 billion cash. $INTC PR link.

Travelers Cos(PBR104) to acquire UK based small business insurance policies distributor Simply Business for $490 million. $TRV PR link.

Staples(PBR122) to focus on N American business, selling its Australian and New Zealand business to Platinum Equity, terms not disclosed. $SPLS PR link.

Medtronic(PBR133) gets FDA clearance for Reveal LINQ(TM) Insertable Cardiac Monitor (ICM) with TruRhythm(TM) Detection. $MDT PR link.

Parker Hannifin(PBR218) celebrates 100th year of its founding and being an engineering innovator. $PH PR link.

JCPenney(PBR234) accelerates expansion of Home Services by testing 6 replacement and remodeling programs in select markets. $JCP PR link.

AGCO(PBR280) to acquire European balers and loader wagons forage division of Lely Group, terms not disclosed. $AGCO PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) launches Exemestane Tablets, 25 mg, a generic version of the reference listed drug, Pfizer(PBR56)’s Aromasin® Tablets, a post menopausal breast cancer therapy. US market is $100 million/yr. $MYL PR link.

NCR(PBR383) to acquire 49% of Blackstone(PBR352) stake, 14.4 million shares, extends lockup of 51% remaining balance for 6 months; increases 2017 planned share repurchase from $300 million to $350 million. $NCR PR link.

Ruby Tuesday(PBR990) to explore strategic alternatives, including sale or merger. $RT PR link.

Viacom(PBR212) promotes Kern Schireson to newly created position of EVP/Chief Data Officer. $VIA PR link.

Lincoln Financial(PBR213) hires Raj Chakraborty to newly created position of Chief Digital Officer. $LNC PR link.

Owens & Minor(PBR292) hires Stuart Morris-Hipkins as EVP/Global Manufacturing Services. $OMI PR link.

Hershey(PBR354) hires Mary Beth West as SVP/Chief Growth Officer, effective 05/01/17. $HSY PR link.

Under Armour(PBR668) hires Clay Dean as Chief Innovation Officer. $UA PR link.

Personal Investing: Investing and retirement investing attitudes results from Capital One(PBR116)’s Financial Freedom Annual Survey. $COF PR link.

***Friday, March 10:

The PBRMarketTools Week Ending 03/10/17 US Stock Exchanges Recap:
DJIA ends week at 20,902.98, -0.49% from last Friday, +0.44% MTD, +5.77% QTD/YTD, -1.01% from record 21,115.55 set 03/01/17.
NASDAQ ends week at 5,861.73, -0.15% from last Friday, +0.62% MTD, +8.89% QTD/YTD, -0.72% from record 5,904.03 set 03/01/17.
SPX ends week at 2,372.60, -0.44% from last Friday, +0.38% MTD, +5.97% QTD/YTD, -0.97% from record 2,395.96 set 03/01/17.

Stanley Black & Decker(PBR249) completes $1.95 billion cash acquisition of Tools business of Newell Brands(PBR434 $NWL). $SWK PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) launches generic of Pfizer(PBR56 $PFE)’s Pristiq tablets for major depressive disorder treatment, $853 million/yr US market. $MYL PR link.

HARMAN Intl(PBR456) $112.00/share, $8.0 billion cash acquisition by S Korea based Samsung Electronics(KRX: 005930) is completed. $HAR PR link.

Analog Devices(PBR701) completes $60/share, $14.8 billion stock/cash acquisition of high performance analog integrated circuits developer Linear Technology(PBR1011 $LLTC). $ADI PR link.

AMC Entertainment(PBR728) in compliance with the US Dept of Justice Final Order on AMC’s acquisition of Carmike Cinemas, reaches 20 year agreement for National CineMedia to provide cinema advertising at most legacy and future AMC theatres. $AMC PR link.

Viacom(PBR212) promotes Christa D’Alimonte to EVP/General Counsel & Secretary, effective 04/15/17, succeeds leaving Michael Fricklas. $VIA PR link.

Facebook(PBR228) to live stream at least 22 2017 regular season Major League Soccer matches in English on the Univision Deportes Facebook page. MLS PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US February FYTD(5 months) Federal Government Receipts are $1.257 trillion, Outlays $1.606 trillion, Deficit $349.0 billion, February 2016 FYTD Deficit was $353.0 billion. Treasury PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US February Total Employed at 152.5 million, +0.3% from January, +1.0% from February 2016, Unemployment rate at 4.7%. USDOL PR link.

***Thursday, March 9:

Kroger(PBR20) approves incremental $500 million share repurchase program, balance is $620 million. $KR PR link.

Comcast(PBR42) completes acquisition of Icontrol Networks & its IoT Converge home security service, terms not disclosed. $CMCSA PR link.

Staples(PBR122) says it will close around 70 stores in N America, targets $500 million free cash flow in 2017. $SPLS PR link.

PPG Industries(PBR190 $PPG) unsolicited proposal of $87/share, $22 billion for European based specialty paints, coatings and chemicals provider AkzoNobel is turned down as undervalued. AkzoNobel PR link.

Stanley Black & Decker(PBR249) completes $775 million plus ongoing royalties acquisition of Craftsman Tools from Sears Holdings(PBR93 $SHLD). $SWK PR link.

Marathon Oil(PBR250) sells Canadian Oil Sands subsidiary to Shell/Canadian Natural Resources for $2.5 billion cash, to acquire 70,000 net acres in Permian Basin from BC Operating for $1.1 billion cash. $MRO PR link.

Avis Budget(PBR316) adds 11 US states to consumer used car sales program, now has nearly 40 states in program. $CAR PR link.

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

Ulta Salon(PBR646) authorizes new $425 million share repurchase program, plans to open 100 net new stores in fiscal 2017, grow e-commerce sales by 40%. $ULTA PR link.

BE Aerospace(PBR748) stockholders approve $64.38/share $8.3 billion cash/stock acquisition by Rockwell Collins(PBR495 $COL), expects to close deal after regulatory approvals in spring, 2017. $BEAV PR link.

Marathon Petroleum(PBR23) promotes Rod Nichols to EVP/Human Resources, Health and Administrative Services. $MPC PR link.

AIG(PBR46) President/CEO Peter Hancock to resign upon appointment of CEO successor. $AIG PR link.

LKQ(PBR376) president/CEO Robert Wagman steps down for health reasons, CFO Nick Zarcone selected as new president/CEO. $LKQ PR link.

The US Dept of Labor estimates US February Imports Price Index was +0.2% from January, +4.6% from February 2016, Exports Price Index +0.3% from January, +3.1% from February 2016. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve estimates 4Q16 Networth of Households/Non-Profits is $92.804 trillion, +2.3% from 3Q16, +6.3% from 4Q15. FRB PR link.

***Wednesday, March 8:

GE(PBR9) to sell Water & Process Technologies business to France based Suez and Canadian Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec for $3.4 billion cash. Suez PR link.

Colfax(PBR517) to acquire Siemens Turbomachinery Equipment GmbH from Siemens AG for a cash consideration of approximately $205 million. $CFX PR link.

Scientific Games(PBR937) signs exclusive James Bond licensing deal with EON Productions and MGM. $SGMS PR link.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR185) hires Dr. Tom Lynch, Jr, as EVP/Chief Scientific Officer, effective 03/16/17, succeeds retiring Dr. Francis Cuss. $BMY PR link.

The US Dept of Labor estimates US 2016 Labor Productivity Output/Hr-All Persons was +0.3%, 2015 was +0.8%, 2014 +0.6%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US January Wholesale Sales were $463.7 billion, -0.1% from December, +8.4% from January 2016. USDOC PR link.

The ADP US February National Employment Report says 298,000 jobs created, 104,000 from small businesses, 122,000 from medium sized, 72,000 from large sized. $ADP PR link.

The Conference Board US February Total Online Advertised Job Vacancies were at 4,537,613, -7.4% from January, -17.3% from February 2016. TCB PR link.

***Tuesday, March 7:

The PBR1000 February Snapshot 11
Top 5 Month Stock Price Gainers Summary:

1. Community Health Systems(PBR115), $CYH, +52%
2. AMD(PBR536), $AMD, +39%
3. Tronox(PBR808), $TROX, +38%
4. Kindred Healthcare(PBR343), $KND, +35%
5. SunPower(PBR912), $SPWR, +32%

Range: +52% to -57%
Companies >+0%: 651/1,000
Average: +2.51%
Median: +2.4%

Get the full Snapshot 11 list with many more details and the 14 other analytical snapshots today with a 2 month or significantly discounted annual The PBR1000 subscription! Subscribe link.

Penske Automotive(PBR170) acquires Jaguar and Land Rover dealerships In Paramus, New Jersey, from the Prestige Family of Fine Cars, generate $215 million revenues/year. $PAG PR link.

AutoNation(PBR148) EVP/General Counsel, Corporate Secretary, & Human Resources Jon Ferrando to retire 03/31/17. $AN PR link.

JetBlue(PBR429) announces 8 executive leadership promotions. $JBLU PR link.

Juniper Networks(PBR516) announces new organizational structure, appoints Kevin Hutchins to new position of SVP/Strategy & Product Line Management, engineering organization now reports to chief development officer Andy Athreya, EVP/GM Development/Innovation Jonathan Davidson has resigned. $JNPR PR link.

Coty(PBR524) hires Laurent Kleitman as President/Consumer Beauty, succeeds leaving Esi Eggleston Bracey. $COTY PR link.

Nu Skin(PBR756) hires Mark Lawrence as CFO, effective 03/27/17, succeeds Ritch Wood who will become CEO. $NUS PR link.

The US Federal Reserve estimates US January Consumer Credit Outstanding at $3.774 trillion, +0.2% from December, +6.3% from January 2016. FRB PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US January Exports were $192.1 billion, Imports $240.5 billion, Deficit $48.4 billion, January 2016 was $43.3 billion. USDOC PR link.

The US Energy Information Administration says 2016 US Crude Oil Production Average was 8.9 million barrels/day, forecasts 9.2 million b/d in 2017, 9.7 million b/d in 2018. EIA PR link.

FannieMae(PBR13) says US February Home Purchase Sentiment Index at 88.3, January was 82.7, February 2016 was 82.7. $FNMA PR link.

The PurdueU/CME US February Ag Barometer Index is 134, January was 153, February 2016 was 96. PurdueU/CME PR link.

***Monday, March 6:

ExxonMobil(PBR2) plans $20 billion of investments over 10 years to expand manufacturing in US Gulf region. $XOM PR link.

General Motors(PBR8) selling Opel/Vauxhall subsidiary & GM Financial’s European operations to France based PSA Group(Paris: UG) for $2.3 billion. $GM PR link.

GE(PBR9 $GE) and Baker Hughes(PBR108) receive expected second round of requests from US Dept of Justice regarding pending $7.4 billion merger deal, transaction still expected to close mid 2017. $BHI PR link.

Ross Stores(PBR253) opens 23 Ross Dress for Less and 5 dd’s DISCOUNTS stores across 15 states in February/March, part of 90 stores planned for 2017. $ROST PR link.

PSEG(PBR257) outlines 5 year $15 billion investment in energy infrastructure upgrade plans. $PEG PR link.

Advance Auto Parts(PBR279) 2017 plans include opening a new distribution center, open 75-85 new stores, hire 15,000+ team members. $AAP PR link.

Casey’s General Stores(PBR342) authorizes up to $300 share repurchase program over 2 years, fiscal year 2017 goal is to build/acquire 77-116 stores, replace 35 existing locations, complete 100 major remodels. $CASY PR link.

Peabody Energy(PBR372) names post chapter 11 emergence new board members. Reorganization plan hearing scheduled for 03/16/17. $BTUUQ PR link.

Peabody Energy(PBR372) has US reclamation bonding assurances in place upon emergence from Chapter 11. $BTUUQ PR link.

The Andersons(PBR525) to sell Florida farm center locations to Wedgworth’s, terms not disclosed. $ANDE PR link.

CA Technologies(PBR550) to acquire private SaaS-based secure DevOps platform provider Veracode for $614 million cash. $CA PR link.

Analog Devices(PBR701) gets final regulatory approval from China for $60.00/share, $14.8 billion stock/cash acquisition of high performance analog integrated circuits developer Linear Technology(PBR1011 $LLTC), plans to complete transaction on 03/10/17. $ADI PR link.

Universal Forest Products(PBR733) acquires certain assets of first operation devoted to hardwood products, Indiana based $30 million/2016 Quality Hardwood Sales, completes acquisition of Florida based $86 million/2016 treated wood products manufacturer Robbins Manufacturing. $UFPI PR link.

Applied Industrial Technologies(PBR787) acquires hydraulic and lubrication components, systems & solutions distributor Sentinel Fluid Controls, terms not disclosed. $AIT PR link.

hhgregg(PBR864) files for Chapter 11 Reorganization, expects smooth process to emerge in around 60 days. $HGGG PR link.

Barnes Group(PBR977) to acquire private Virginia based hot runner temperature and sequential valve gate control systems for the plastics industry supplier Gammaflux, terms not disclosed. $B PR link.

Wells Fargo(PBR30) hires Allen Parker as SrEVP/General Counsel, effective 03/27/17, succeeds retiring James Strother. $WFC PR link.

AIG(PBR46) promotes Martha Gallo to Chief Information Officer, succeeds Philip Fasano who has left the company. $AIG PR link.

Halliburton(PBR90) CFO Mark McCollum has left for a CEO position, EVP/General Counsel Robb Voyles adds interim CFO role, promotes Lyn Beaty to SVP/Finance. $HAL PR link.

CSX(PBR226) hires E. Hunter Harrison as CEO, succeeds chairman/CEO Michael Ward who has retired, shareholders to provide input on CEO compensation package, board reconstituted per agreement with investor Mantle Ridge. $CSX PR link.

Fitbit(PBR870) in reorganization hires Jeff Devine as EVP/Operations, Chief Business Officer Woody Scal & EVP/Interactive Tim Roberts leaving by end of March; to focus on two business areas, Consumer Health/Fitness and Enterprise Health. $FIT PR link.

Lands’ End(PBR976) new CEO Jerome Griffith starts today. $LE PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US January Manufacturers’ Total New Orders at $470.2 billion, +1.2% from December, +3.8% from January 2016. USDOC PR link.

***Friday, March 3:

The PBRMarketTools Week Ending 03/03/17 US Stock Exchanges Recap:
DJIA ends week at 21,005.71, +0.88% from last Friday, +0.93% MTD, +6.29% QTD/YTD, -0.52% from record 21,115.55 set 03/01/17.
NASDAQ ends week at 5,870.75, +0.44% from last Friday, +0.78% MTD, +9.06 QTD/YTD, -0.56% from record 5,904.03 set 03/01/17.
SPX ends week at 2,383.12, +0.67% from last Friday, +0.82% MTD, +6.44% QTD/YTD, -0.54% from record 2,395.96 set 03/01/17.

The February Non-Manufacturing ISM NMI Index is 57.6%, January was 56.5%, February 2016 was 53.4%(>50%=Growing). ISM PR link.

***Thursday, March 2:

McKesson(PBR6) has 70% stake upon completion of combining its Technology Solutions unit with IT services provider Change Healthcare. $MCK PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) to install solar systems on 50 fulfillment facility rooftops worldwide by 2020, 15 of those by end of 2017. $AMZN PR link.

Caterpillar(PBR54) issues statement saying it is cooperating with law enforcement authorities who entered 3 Peoria, IL, facilities, including headquarters, with search and seizure warrants. $CAT PR link.

Alcoa(PBR115) consolidates to 3 business units, Bauxite, Alumina, & Aluminum. Aluminum a consolidation of smelting, cast products, rolled products, and most energy segments. $AA PR link.

Office Depot(PBR182) retains Zimmerman Advertising as its advertising and media agency of record in 2 year agreement. $ODP PR link.

hhgregg(PBR864) to close 3 distribution centers and 88 stores to refocus on core markets and goals. $HGG PR link.

E*Trade(PBR930) lowers trade commissions rate from $9.99 to $6.95/trade, active traders(30+/qtr) have $4.95 rate plus $0.50/option. $ETFC PR link.

Alexion Pharmaceutical(PBR840) founder/chairman Leonard Bell, MD, to retire 05/10/17, Interim CEO David Brennan expected to be appointed chairman at that time. $ALXN PR link.

Cincinnati Bell(PBR981) CEO Ted Torbeck to retire on 05/31/17, Leigh Fox to be successor as president/CEO. $CBB PR link.

***Wednesday, March 1:

Marathon Petroleum(PBR23) drops down terminal, pipeline and storage assets to MPLX(NYSE: MPLX) for $2 billion cash/stock. $MPC PR link.

General Dynamics(PBR94) authorizes additional 10 million shares for repurchase program. $GD PR link.

McDonald’s(PBR101) unveils new global growth plan, to refranchise 4,000 restaurants in 2017, a year ahead of schedule, focus on digital, expand delivery services, to have 2,500 Experience of the Future restaurants by end of 2017. $MCD PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR142) completes $46.50/share, $960 million acquisition of pain management for migraine developer CoLucid(NASD: CLCD). $LLY PR link.

Icahn Enterprises(PBR147) to keep Tropicana Casino & Resort in Atlanta City, selling the former Trump Taj Mahal Casino Resort to investor group lead by Hard Rock International. $IEP PR link.

LKQ(PBR376) completes $310 million sale of its OEM glass manufacturing business to Mexico based Vitro SAB. $LKQ PR link.

AmTrust Financial(PBR564) completes $92.8 million cash acquisition of Pennsylvania/New Jersey workers’ compensation specialist $116 million/2015 gross written premiums firm AmeriHealth Casualty Insurance from Independence Health Group. $AFSI PR link.

Perrigo(PBR565) gets FDA final approval for generic version of Eli Lilly(PBR142)’s Axiron®(Testosterone) Topical Solution, 30 mg/1.5 mL. $PRGO PR link.

Fortune Brands(PBR569) authorizes new up to $300 million share repurchase program, expires in 2 years. Current authorization has $196 million available, expires early 2018. $FBHS PR link.

Monster Beverage(PBR785) authorizes new up to $500 million share repurchase program. $MNST PR link.

Beacon Roofing(PBR818) has 10 locations in Michigan with acquisition of 3 branches Eastern Michigan based ACME Building Materials. $BECN PR link.

CenterPoint Energy(PBR295) promotes Scott Doyle to SVP/Natural Gas Distribution, Joe Vortherms SVP/Energy Services. $CNP PR link.

The US Federal Reserve releases the Beige Book, modest to moderate economic growth, some tightening of the labor market. BeigeBook PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US January Total Personal Income Annual Rate at $16.371 trillion, +0.4% from December, +4.0% from January 2016. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US January Total Construction Spending Annual Rate at $1.180 trillion, -1.0% from December, +3.1% from January 2016. USDOC PR link.

The US February Manufacturing ISM Report on Business PMI Index at 57.7%, January was 56.0%, February 2016 was 49.5%. ISM PR link.

Automotive News says US February Total New Auto Sales were at 1,333,128 vehicles, +16.7% from January, -1.1% from February 2016. Auto News PR link.

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

(Photo courtesy of Vichaya Kiatying-Angsulee, FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

Copyright © 2017 by Pax Business Resources, LLC, Tucson, AZ, USA, All Rights Reserved.

Filed Under: Recaps Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The PBR1000 February 2017 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots

March 20, 2017 by

February 2017: Investors Continue To Ride The Bull

Bull Riding ID-100291982-hywards

The Stock Market Bull Ride has lasted several years now. How much longer can it go?

 

By Larry C. Paxton

With a new US President in the White House initiating some controversial major changes and legislation, and issuing executive orders that rip apart previous administration policies, it would make sense that the stock market, which prefers not rocking the boat, would show some volatility.  Surprisingly, the Stock Market Bulls continued to run ahead of the pack each day with all 3 major US stock exchanges staying pretty much between the + & – 0.50% during the month, and finishing ahead quite comfortably year-to-date.

Maybe that’s because at the same time the US economy continues to plod along at a modest to moderate pace and shows some encouraging signs of strengthening. 

It could also be that investors are cautiously optimistic, but keeping their eyes and ears open. Let’s hope for the best!

Here are some February summaries on the US stock exchanges:

Number of Trading Days: 19

Number of Gain(+)/Loss(-) Days: DJIA 15+, 4-; NASDAQ 13+, 6-; SPX 15+, 4-.

Record Days: DJIA 12, NASDAQ 10, SPX 9

Longest Gain Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 12, NASDAQ 7, SPX 7

Longest Loss Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 1, NASDAQ 2, SPX 1

Big Swing Up Days(>1.00%): None

Big Swing Down Days(<-1.00%): None

The following are Top 5 partial tables excerpts from The PBR1000 February Snapshots. The stock price is for the close of trading on February 28, Month % Chg is compared to January 31, YTD % Chg is compared to December 31, 2016, and the 14 Months % Chg is compared to December 31, 2015. The PBR Rank is by annual revenues.

To get the complete The PBR1000 Snapshots  just click here to get your 2 month or significantly discounted 13 month subscription and automatically download the February 2016 edition with the complete 15 Snapshots.

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

Table 1 Summary: The range was +52% to -57%. 651 out of 1,000 stock prices were up 0.00% or more. The average was a gain of 2.5%, the median was a gain of 2.4%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
02/28/17		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 14 Mos
% Chg
Community Health Systems
 119 CYH 9.75 +52 +74 -63
AMD
 509 AMD 14.46 +39 +28 +404
Tronox
 805 TROX 17.33 +38 +68 +343
Kindred Healthcard
 346 KND 9.00 +35 +15 -24
SunPower
 911 SPWR 8.76 +33 +33 -71

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

Table 2 Summary: The range was +267% to -84%. 661 out of 1,000 stock prices were up 0.00% or more. The average was a gain of 4.5%, the median was a gain of 3.6%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
02/28/17		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 14 Mos
% Chg
Republic Airways
 951 RJETQ 0.22 -15 +267 -94
Aeropostale
 920 AROPQ 0.04 -46 +95 -86
Community Health Systems
 119 CYH 9.75 +52 +74 -63
Tronox
 805 TROX 17.33 +38 +68 +343
Scientific Games
 688 SGMS 20.65 +21 +48 +130

Table 3(S13): The PBR1000 Top 5 13 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: The range was +575% to -85%. 786 out of 994 stock prices were up 0.00% or more. The average was a gain of 17.2%. The median was a gain of 18.3%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
02/28/17		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 14 Mos
% Chg
Cliffs Natural Resources
 828 CLF 10.66 +22 +27 +575
AMD
 509 AMS 14.46 +39 +28 +404
US Steel 230 X
 38.72 +18 +17 +385
Tronox 805 TROX 17.33 +38 +68 +383
AK Steel
 401 AKS 8.33 +3 -18 +271

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

Table 4 Summary: The range was $712.72 billion to $0.01 billion. The average is $23,031 billion, median is $7.14 billion, out of 1,000 companies.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Market Cap($B)
02/28/17		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 14 Mos
% Chg
Apple
 4 AAPL 712.72 +11.1 +16.4 +22.5
Alphabet
 26 GOOG 569.18 +3.3 +7.0 +9.1
Microsoft
 30 MSFT 494.41 -1.0 +2.3 +11.6
Berkshire Hathaway
 3 BRK 420.84 +3.7 +4.7 +29.3
Amazon 12 AMZN 403.23 +3.0 +13.2 +27.3
The PBR1000
   23,030.52 +3.4 +5.0 +14.3

Table 5: The PBR1000 Index & Selected Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company Price
02/28/17		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 14 Mos
% Chg
The PBR1000     77,348.15 +2.5 +4.5 +17.2
DJIA     20,812.24  +4.8 +5.3 +16.2
NASDAQ        5,825.44 +3.8 +8.2 +19.4
S&P500        2,363.64 +3.7 +5.6 +16.3
GOLD        1,243.40 +2.9 +8.0 +17.3
SILVER              18.31 +4.8 +14.5 +32.7
OIL              54.07 +2.5 +0.7 +46.0

 

Have questions on The PBR1000 or The PBR US Economic Indices Monthly Snapshots? Please contact us at Sales@PBRMarketTools.com or call us in the US at 520-282-4100.

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

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

(Photo courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net, hywards.)

Copyright © 2017 by Pax Business Resources, LLC, Tucson, AZ, USA, All Rights Reserved.

Filed Under: Snapshots Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The PBR1000 February 2017 Breaking News Recap

March 10, 2017 by

February 2017: Business As Unusual

ID-10094980 Order Chaos Buttons-Stuart Miles

Maybe the Green Button Should Be a Lot Larger.

 

By Larry C. Paxton

The highlight for February was President Trump’s speech the evening of the last day of the month to a joint session of the US Congress. During that speech he briefly addressed hot topics like illegal immigration, refugees, healthcare, infrastructure projects, personal and corporate income tax reforms, international trade, military preparedness, and a few other topics that could have a significant impact not only on people and businesses in the US, but worldwide. During his first full month President Trump has generated a lot of executive orders, made some interesting and often controversial appointees, and the Republican Congress has started introducing legislation based on Trump’s directives. These should not be surprising since he is doing what he promised during the presidential campaign. Now there is some not unexpected organized resistance building. Predictions are all over the place. Make yours, but also guard your wallet! One thing for sure, there will be changes in the way businesses are run.

Here’s a quick February 2017 summary on key activities that relate to The PBR1000:

Mergers & Acquisitions: 24 deals worth at least $1 billion initiated, closed, or updated. Total transaction value was $136 billion.

Spinoffs: 2 completed or announced.

Share Repurchase Programs: 28 announced, total $36.6 billion.

Bankruptcies: 2 actions

CEO Changes: 14 announced.

Jobs: Modest growth.

US Economy: Modest/moderate growth continues, stable but fragile.

Federal Reserve Federal Funds Rate Changes: 0, remains 0.50-0.75%, increases anticipated in 2017.

International: Brexit, oil price fluctuations, Middle East conflicts, refugee crisis, N Korea nuclear/missile tests, upcoming European elections, climate change, US President Trump actions continue to be the headliners.

For more details here are The PBR1000 corporate and economic related breaking news items of interest with hotlinks to the sources for February 2017, starting with the last active business day.

***Tuesday, February 28:

The PBRMarketTools February 2017 US Stock Exchanges Recap:
DJIA ends February at 20,812.24, -0.05% from last Friday, +4.77% MTD, +5.31% QTD/YTD, -0.12% from record 20,837.44 set 02/27/17.
NASDAQ ends February at 5,825.44, -0.34% from last Friday, +3.75% MTD, +8.22% QTD/YTD, -0.69% from record 5,865.95 set 02/21/17.
SPX ends February at 2,363.64, -0.16% from last Friday, +3.72% MTD, +5.57% QTD/YTD, -0.26% from record 2,369.75 set 02/27/17.

Target(PBR40) committing over $7 billion to enhance digital shopping, reimagine 600 stores, opening 130 small format stores by 2019, add 12 new exclusive brands. $TGT PR link.

Avnet(PBR100) adds $500 million to share repurchase program. $AVT PR link.

Staples(PBR122) keeps 15% equity in sale of $1.9 billion/yr European business to Cerberus Capital Management. $SPLS PR link.

Parker-Hannifin(PBR218) completes $83/share, $4.3 billion cash acquisition of filtration company CLARCOR(PBR983 $CLC). $PH PR link.

Ross Stores(PBR253) authorizes new 2 year $1.75 billion stock repurchase program. $ROST PR link.

Hershey(PBR354) strategy for future growth includes reducing global primarily hourly workforce outside of US by around 15%. $HSY PR link.

Oshkosh(PBR368) plans several activities and celebrations for it founding in 1917 and 100th year in business. $OSK PR link.

Charles Schwab(PBR409) lowers online equity/ETF trade commissions rate from $6.95 to $4.95/trade plus $0.65/option. $SCHW PR link.

LINN Energy(PBR484) emerges from Chapter 11 bankruptcy with $730 million in liquidity, debt reduced from $5 billion to $962 million. $LINEQ PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires retail insurance broker Ace IRM Broking Group in Beenleigh, Queensland, Australia. $AJG PR link.

Orbital ATK(PBR655) authorizes additional $200 milllion share buyback, balance is $450 million, expires 03/31/18. $OA PR link.

TD Ameritrade(PBR662) reducing online equity & ETF trade commissions from $9.99 to $6.95, options pricing is $0.75/trade. $AMTD PR link.

Weight Watchers(PBR988) reports 2,621,100 subscribers at end of 2016, up 9.7% from 2015. $WTW PR link.

Waste Management(PBR206) elects board member Brad Anderson to chairman, succeeds deceased Bob Reum; VP Devina Rankin promoted to SVP/CFO. $WM PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce in 2nd estimate say US 4Q16 GDP Annual Rate remained at +1.9%, $18.856 trillion, +1.0% from 3Q16, +3.5% from 4Q15. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says 02/27/17 US National Debt at $19.931 trillion, -0.03% from 01/31/17, -0.23% YTD, +4.21% from 02/29/16. Treasury PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) US February Outlook examines how the US economy could be affected by which direction inflation goes. $FMCC PR link.

The Conference Board US February Consumer Confidence Index at 114.8(1985=100), January was 111.6, February 2016 94.0. TCB PR link.

The February MNI Chicago Business Barometer at 57.4, January was 50.3, February 2016 47.6(50=Neutral). MNI/ISM PR link.

The S&P Case-Shiller US December National Home Price Index is at 185.54(01/2000=100), November was 185.16, December 2015 175.29. Case-Shiller PR link.

AAA says 02/28/17 US Regular Gas Average Price/Gallon is $2.289, +0.7% from 01/31/17, +30.9% from 02/29/16. AAA PR link.

Gold(Electronic GCJ7 04/17) price at 02/28/17 close was $1,243. 40, +2.9% from 01/31/17, -0.1% from 02/29/17. GOLD PR link.

The Euro Price at the close of 02/28/17 was $1.0556, -2.2% from 01/31/17, -3.0% from 02/29/16. EURO PR link.

***Monday, February 27:

AT&T(PBR12) introduces new Unlimited Plus wireless and entertainment deals. $T PR link.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR37) completes $4.325 billion cash acquisition of Abbott Labs(PBR134 $ABT)’s Medical Optics vision care unit. $JNJ PR link.

T-Mobile(PBR95) customers with 2 lines or more get 3rd line free, or 3 lines for $100/month, starts 03/01/17. $TMUS PR link.

Avnet(PBR100) completes $2.6 billion cash/stock sale of global IT distributor Technology Solutions unit to Tech Data(PBR99 $TECD). $AVT PR link.

Spectra Energy(PBR422) $28 billion acquisition by Enbridge(NYSE: ENB) has been completed. $SE PR link.

Windstream(PBR426) completes $1.1 billion for 51% ownership of network services provider EarthLink(NASDAQ: ELNK). $WIN PR link.

Perrigo(PBR565) selling muscular sclerosis drug Tysabri® royalty stream to affiliate of Royalty Pharma for $2.2 billion cash plus up to $650 million based on future sales. $PRGO PR link.

SunPower(PBR680) starts construction on 56 megawatts Gala Solar Power Plant in Crook County, OR, to be largest operating solar facility in OR at end of 2017. $SPWR PR link.

Northrop Grumman(PBR113) promotes Janis Pamiljans to corporate VP & president, Aerospace Systems, effective 04/01/17, succeeds retiring Thomas Vice. $NOC PR link.

Allergan(PBR219) VP/Investor Relations Lisa DeFrancesco to leave for other opportunities after successor found. $AGN PR link.

M&T Bank(PBR504) president/COO Mark Czarnecki dies after extended illness. $MTB PR link.

Perrigo(PBR565) EVP/Business Operations/CFO Judy Brown leaving 04/01/17, SVP Ron Winowiecki appointed interim CFO; Svend Andersen promoted to EVP/president of Consumer Healthcare International unit. $PRGO PR link.

Olin Corp(PBR838) chairman Joseph Rupp to retire 04/27/17, president/CEO John Fischer to then add chairman role. $OLN PR link.

Kimco Realty(PBR982) promotes Ross Cooper to president & David Jamieson to COO. $KIM PR link.

***Friday, February 24:

The PBRMarketTools Week Ending 02/24/17 US Stock Exchanges Recap:
DJIA ends week at 20,821.76, +0.96% from last Friday, +4.82% MTD, +5.36% QTD/YTD, +0.00% from record 20,821.76 set 02/24/17.
NASDAQ ends week at 5,845.31, +0.12% from last Friday, +4.11% MTD, +8.59 QTD/YTD, -0.35% from record 5,865.95 set 02/21/17.
SPX ends week at 2,367.34, +0.69% from last Friday, +3.88% MTD, +5.74% QTD/YTD, +0.00% from record 2,367.34 set 02/24/17.

AES Corp(PBR171) and Alberta Investment Management Corp to acquire largest independent owner, operator, and developer of utility solar scale assets in the US( 1,274 MW) FTP Power from Fir Tree Partners for $853 million cash plus assumption of $724 million debt. $AES PR link.

JCPenney(PBR234) has net profit for 1st time since 2010, to close 2 distribution centers, 130-140 stores in next few months, offering early retirement to 6,000 eligible employees. $JCP PR link.

Hilton Worldwide(PBR262) authorizes up to $1 billion share repurchase program. $HLT PR link.

Wabash Natl(PBR917) authorizes an additional up to $100 million share repurchase program, balance is $115 million, expires in 2 years. $WNC PR link.

SunTrust Banks(PBR307) appoints 4 key executives to new roles, effective 04/03/17, in streamlining push. $STI PR link.

Flowserve(PBR492) EVP/CFO Karyn Ovelmen has left, VP/Investor Relations/Treasurer Jay Roueche III assumes interim CFO role during search for new CFO. $FLS PR link.

Graphic Packaging(PBR553) promotes Spencer Maurer to SVP/Supply Chain. $GPK PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce/HUD estimates US January New Family Home Sales/For Sale Annual Rate at 555,000 units, Median Price $312,900, -1.0% from December, +7.5% from January 2016. HUD PR link.

The U of Michigan says US Final February Consumer Sentiment Index at 96.3, January was 98.5, February 2016 was 91.7. UMich PR link.

***Thursday, February 23:

Merck(PBR70) to take $2.9 billion asset impairment charge in 2016 for Hepatitis Cuprifosbuvir study. $MRK PR link.

Sprint(PBR86) and Puerto Rico based 300 employee, 309 locations Open Mobile doing Puerto Rico & Virgin Islands joint venture. $S PR link.

Capital One(PBR116) in 10-K report says it withdrew its application for acquisition of Cabela’s(PBR606) credit card business due to regulatory issues, will re-apply when resolved. $COF PR link.

Stanley Black & Decker(PBR249) completes $725 million cash sale of majority Of Its Mechanical Security businesses to dormakaba. $SWK PR link.

Herbalife(PBR354) & Tianjin, China, 1,000+ patents, 18,000+ worldwide employees traditional Chinese medicine health products/services provider Tasly Holding Group to form joint venture within next 60 days. $HLF PR link.

LabCorp(PBR413) to acquire Spokane, WA, based 8 states lab services provider Pathology Associates Medical Laboratory from Providence Health & Catholic Health Initiatives, terms not disclosed. $LH PR link.

Spectra Energy(PBR422) $28 billion acquisition by Enbridge(NYSE: ENB) set to close 02/27/17. $SE PR link.

Rent A Center(PBR657) receives from key shareholder Engaged Capital a list of 5 nominees for 3 available board positions at next annual meeting. $RCII PR link.

Carter’s(PBR699) acquires global children’s products producer Skip Hop Holdings for $140 million cash & future performance payments up to $10 million. $CRI PR link.

Synopsys(PBR879) initiates $100 million accelerated share repurchase agreement by 05/27/17 with Wells Fargo(PBR30), follows $100 million ASR settled 02/16/17. $SNPS PR link.

Restoration Hardware(PBR915) authorizes up to $300 million share repurchase program, no expiration date. $RH PR link.

Hillenbrand(PBR962) adds $100 million to existing share repurchase program, balance is $129 million. $HI PR link.

Cigna(PBR85) promotes Christopher Hocevar to president/Strategy, Segments and Solutions; Michael Triplett to president/US Markets; Chief Medical Officer Alan Muney joins executive team; Eric Palmer to Deputy CFO, who will become CFO upon retirement of Thomas McCarthy this summer. $CI PR link.

Marathon Oil(PBR250) hires Dane Whitehead as EVP/CFO, starting around 03/06/17, interim CFO Patrick Wagner returns to SVP/Corporate Development & Strategy. $MRO PR link.

Celgene(PBR347) president/COO Jacqualyn Fouse, PhD, to retire on 06/30/17, Scott Smith being promoted to president/COO on 04/01/17. $CELG PR link.

Hershey(PBR354) incoming president/CEO Michele Buck names 8 person executive leadership team. $HSY PR link.

Wynn Resorts(PBR427) hires Craig Billings to be CFO starting 03/01/17, succeeds leaving Stephen Cootey. $WYNN PR link.

TeleFlex()PBR923) CEO Benson Smith to retire on 12/31/17, successor is president/COO Liam Kelly. $TFX PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US 02/18/17 Total 4-Week Moving Average Unemployment Claims at 2,069,000, -1.1% from January, -7.7% from last year. USDOL PR link.

The US Energy Information Administration says US 02/17/17 Crude Oil Stocks were at 518.7 million barrels, +6.2% from 01/20/17, +8.9% from 02/19/16. EIA PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago US January National Activity Index estimated at -0.05, December was +0.18, January 2016 was +0.12. ChiFed PR link.

Freddie Mac(PBR41) says US Average 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rate on 02/23/17 is 4.16% with 0.5 points/fees, 01/26/17 was 4.19%, 02/29/16 was 3.62%. $FMCC PR link.

***Wednesday, February 22:

ExxonMobil(PBR2) reports 20 billion oil-equivalent barrels of proven reserves at the end of 2016. $XOM PR link.

Aetna(PBR49) to do $3.3 billion accelerated share repurchase program of 20.8 million shares through two dealers. $AET PR link.

TJX Cos(PBR96) plans $1.3-1.8 billion in share repurchases by 02/03/18, has done $18 billion since 1997. $TJX PR link.

Dollar General(PBR151) to build its 16th distribution center, a 750,000 sf facility, in Amsterdam, NY, to employ 430 when completed in Fall 2018. $DG PR link.

Carnival Corp(PBR184) joint venture in China orders 2 new cruise ships to be built in China with option to order 4 more ships. $CCL PR link.

DISH(PBR196) reports 2016 revenues of $15.09 billion, ended with 13.671 million Pay-TV subscribers. $DISH PR link.

Henry Schein(PBR270) Medical unit gets exclusive distributor agreement for Rijuven’s CardioSleeve digital diagnostic device for use by medical practitioners. $HSIC PR link.

AMD(PBR446) taking pre-orders for its high performance 8 core AMD Ryzen™ 7 desktop processors, to be available 03/02/17. $AMD PR link.

Greenbrier Cos(PBR846) manufactures its 100,000th intermodal double stack railcar unit at its Gunderson facility in Portland, OR. $GBX PR link.

TeleFlex(PBR923) gets FDA 510(k) clearance for US commercialization of TrapLiner Catheter for vascular therapies. $TFX PR link.

Community Health Systems(PBR125) president of Financial Services/CFO W Larry Cash to retire 05/16/17, SVP/Finance Thomas Aaron to be CFO successor. $CYH PR link.

Viacom(PBR212) Paramount Pictures unit chairman/CEO Brad Grey to step down, search starts. $VIA PR link.

Tesla(PBR651) CFO Jason Wheeler leaving in 04/17 for public policy position, 1st CFO Deepak Ahuja returns to Tesla and CFO role in 03/17. $TSLA PR link.

The Federal Reserve issues the Federal Open Market Committee report from its 01/31-02/01/17 meeting, says labor market strengthening, economic activity expanding at a moderate rate, still below 2% goal. FOMC PR link.

The Natl Assn of Realtors says US January Existing Home Sales Annual Rate was at 5.69 million, +3.3% from December, +3.8% from January 2016. NAR PR link.

Harris Poll releases its 2017 Reputation Quotient Ratings of 100 companies, Amazon(PBR29 $AMZN) is #1 with RQ of 86.27. Harris PR link.

***Tuesday, February 21:

Verizon(PBR15) acquisition of Yahoo!(PBR519) reduced by $350 million to $4.48 billion cash, will share liabilities related to Yahoo breaches, expects to close in 2Q17. $VZ PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) launches up to 1 hour restaurant delivery service for Prime members in Las Vegas area, over 100 restaurants taking part. $AMZN PR link.

UPS(PBR47) to start 6 day ground service, rolling out delivery & pickup services on Saturdays in major metropolitan areas. $UPS PR link.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR185) names 3 new independent directors per conversations with investor JANA Corp, authorizes $2 billion accelerated share repurchase program through 2Q17. $BMY PR link.

PNC Financial(PBR189) to acquire the $1.1 billion US portfolio of commercial & vendor finance business of ECN Capital. $PNC PR link.

KKR(PBR332) to acquire up to 40% stake in Europe & the Americas 16,000 towers telecom infrastructure owner & service provider Telxius. $KKR PR link.

Terex(PBR357) authorizes up to $350 million share repurchase program, to start when current $70 million balance is used. $TEX PR link.

Ashland(PBR407) eliminates 2 executive positions and consolidates leadership in anticipation of spinoff of Valvoline this spring. $ASH PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Madison, WI, retirement plan/wealth management firm Kelly Financial. $AJG PR link.

Thor Ind(PBR616) subsidiary Heartland to expand recreational vehicle products manufacturing & pre-delivery inspection by 500,000 sf across 3 facilities by 2017 end. $THO PR link.

TSYS(PBR790) to provide its PRIME platform to International Bank of Qatar for Visa/MasterCard & debit card issuing, and ATM acquiring business. $TSS PR link.

Vail Resorts(PBR908) makes first acquisition on the East Coast, Stowe Mountain Resort in Vermont, for $50 million. $MTN PR link.

Tronox(PBR946) to acquire the TiO2 business of private global mining company Cristal for $1.673 billion cash/stock. $TROX PR link.

SeaWorld(PBR948), in preliminary 2016 report, says it had 22.0 million visitors, looking at a debt refinancing transaction. $SEAS PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) CEO transition scheduled for 03/23/17, president Jeff Gennette to become CEO, Terry Lundgren keeps executive chairman role. $M PR link.

CSX(PBR226) Chairman/CEO Michael Ward & President Clarence Gooden to retire 05/31/17, Fredrik Eliasson appointed President. $CSX PR link.

JetBlue(PBR429) promotes Steve Priest to EVP/CFO. $JBLU PR link.

Navient(PBR443) hires Christian Lown to be EVP/CFO starting 03/27/17, succeeds Somsak Chivavibul who becomes EVP/Chief Decision Management Officer. $NAVI PR link.

E*Trade(PBR930) study of self-directed investors with at least a $10,000 account balance shows that nearly seven out of ten conservatives surveyed believe the new administration will benefit their retirement portfolio, compared to only three out of ten liberals. $ETFC PR link.

***Monday, February 20:

***US Stock Markets Closed.
***Federal Holiday: Presidents’ Day

Freeport-McMoRan(PBR128) provides update on PT Freeport Indonesian operations, unable to reach a new agreement with government, to reduce investment and workforce. $FCX PR link.

Kraft Heinz(PBR156) amicably agrees to withdraw its $143 billion acquisition proposal for Unilever plc/NV in joint statement. $KHC PR link.

Cincinnati Bell(PBR981) acquires Troy, MI, based regional network security, data connectivity, and unified communications provider SunTel Services. $CBB PR link.

Brown-Forman(PBR563) hires Rachel Barrie as Whisky Maker for BenRiach, The GlenDronach, and Glenglassaugh distilleries. $BFB PR link.

***Friday, February 17:

The PBRMarketTools Week Ending 02/17/17 US Stock Exchanges Recap:
DJIA ends week at 20,624.05, +1.75% from last Friday, +3.83% MTD, +4.36% QTD/YTD, +0.00% from record 20,624.05 set 02/17/17.
NASDAQ ends week at 5,838.58, +1.82% from last Friday, +3.99% MTD, +8.46 QTD/YTD, +0.00% from record 5,838.58 set 02/17/17.
SPX ends week at 2,351.16, +1.51% from last Friday, +3.17% MTD, +5.02% QTD/YTD, +0.00% from record 2,351.16 set 02/17/17.

Aetna(PBR49) adds $4 billion to share repurchases program, balance is $5.1 billion. $AET PR link.

AbbVie(PBR136) authorizes an additional $5 billion for its share repurchase program, no time limit. $ABBV PR link.

Kraft Heinz(PBR156 $KHC) proposes $49.61/share, $143 billion acquisition of Unilever plc/NV, which issues statement saying offer is undervalued. Unilever PR link.

Nordstrom(PBR214) authorizes new $500 million share repurchase program through 08/31/18, current authorization has $529 million balance, expires 03/31/17. $JWN PR link.

Bloomin’ Brands(PBR536) 4Q16 revenues down 4.3%, plans to close 43 underperforming restaurants. $BLMN PR link.

Perrigo(PBR565) gets FDA approval for Hydrocodone Bitartrate and Homatropine Methylbromide Oral Solution(syrup) for symptomatic relief of cough. $PRGO PR link.

TeleFlex(PBR923) completes $56.00/share, $1 billion cash acquisition of medical devices developer Vascular Solutions(NASDAQ: VASC). $TFX PR link.

Aerojet Rocketdyne(PBR969) promotes Jerry Tarnacki to SVP of newly formed Space Business Unit. $AJRD PR link.

The Conference Board US January Leading Economic Index at 125.5(2010=100), +0.6% from December, which was +0.5% from November, which was +0.2% from October. TCB PR link.

***Thursday, February 16:

AT&T(PBR12) expands access to unlimited data, 4 lines for $180/month. $T PR link.

Sprint(PBR86) announces 4 line unlimited talk, text and data family plan for $90/month, includes $0/month for 18 months iPhone7 upgrade. $S PR link.

Medtronic(PBR133) gets FDA approval for Freezor® Xtra Cryoablation Catheter for abnormal heart rhythm treatment. $MDT PR link.

Penske Automotive(PBR170) completes acquisition of UK‘s 5 locations $340 million/year used vehicles retailer CarShop. $PAG PR link.

BB&T(PBR277) breaks ground in Mauldin, SC, on $30 million 140,000 sf mortgage servicing center, to have 600 employees. $BBT PR link.

Live Nation(PBR366)’s TicketMaster unit acquires 1 million tickets sold/year Poland/Czech Republic based TicketPro. $LYV PR link.

Blackstone(PBR352) acquires majority stake in UK based global cloud enabler Cloudreach, serves mid-market & large enterprises. $BX PR link.

Spectra Energy(PBR422) gets FTC approval for $28 billion acquisition by Enbridge(NYSE: ENB), expects to close in 1Q17. $SE PR link.

Sonoco Products(PBR480) to acquire thermoformed packaging for fruit/vegetables manufacturer Peninsula Packaging Co for $230 million cash. $SON PR link.

SunPower(PBR680) to supply 64.4 megawatts of solar power panels for 7 La Compagnie du Vent France based solar power plants. $SPW PR link.

Tempur Sealy(PBR687) adds $200 million to share repurchase program, balance is $227 million. $TPX PR link.

Universal American(PBR882) shareholders agree to $10/share, $600 million cash acquisition by Wellcare Health Plans(PBR221 $WCG), expects to close in 2Q17. $UAM PR link.

Verisk Analytics(PBR943) acquires UK based Healix Intl automated medical risk assessment for the travel industry subsidiary Healix Risk Rating. $VRSK PR link.

Cree(PBR964) terminates $850 million cash sale of Wolfspeed Power and RF division to Infineon Technologies AG(FSE: IFX) due to regulatory national security issues. $CREE PR link.

Kate Spade(PBR970) reports 4Q16 &2016 results, no forward looking guidance because reviewing strategic alternatives. $KATE PR link.

Avnet(PBR100) president/Electronics Marketing Gerry Fay leaving; in reorganization regional presidents to report to CEO. $AVT PR link.

Ralph Lauren(PBR349) hires Jonathon Bottomley to newly created role of Chief Marketing Officer and Tom Mendenhall to new position of Brand President, Men’s Polo, Purple Label, and Double RL. $RL PR link.

Alaska Air(PBR454) hires Charu Jain as VP/Chief Information Officer, promotes Chris Berry to VP/Finance & Controller. $ALK PR link.

Diebold Nixdorf(PBR676) promotes Dr. Juergen Wunram to COO; president Eckard Heidloff resigning effective 03/31/17. $DBD PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US January Housing Permits Issued Annual Rate at 1,285,000 units, +4.6% from December, +8.2% from January 2016. USDOC PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia February Manufacturing General Activity Indicator is 43.6, January was 23.6, December 19.7. PhillyFed PR link.

Fannie Mae(PBR17) February Economic Forecast: Policy Uncertainty Remains at the Center of 2017 Modest Growth Expectations. $FNMA PR link.

***Wednesday, February 15:

Walmart(PBR1) acquires ecommerce outdoor retailer 400 brands Michigan based Moosejaw for $51 million. $WMT PR link.

Boeing(PBR27) S Carolina employees vote by 74% to not unionize. $BA PR link.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR37) to commence $280/share, $30 billion cash tender offer for Swiss based pharmaceutical company Actelion(SIX: ATLN) on 03/03/17, expires 03/30/17, may be extended. $JNJ PR link.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR37 $JNJ) to sell Codman Neurosurgery business to Integra LifeSciences for $1.045 billion cash. $IART PR link.

Anthem(PBR38) files suit against Cigna(PBR85 $CI) seeking a temporary restraining order to enjoin Cigna from terminating the $48 billion merger agreement. $ANTM PR link.

Time Warner(PBR103) shareholders approve $107.50/share, $85.4 billion cash/stock acquisition by AT&T(PBR12 $T), close planned by 2017 end. $TWX PR link.

Manpower(PBR132) acquires Ciber(NYSE: CBR) Spain unit. $MAN PR link.

Peabody Energy(PBR372) closes on $1.0 billion aggregate principal amount of secured notes, to be used in reorganization and emerging from bankruptcy. $BTUUQ PR link.

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

Groupon(PBR652) adds 5.2 million net new customers in N America, has 31.1 million N America active users, 52.7 million globally, at end of 2016. $GRPN PR link.

Intl Flavors & Fragrances(PBR666) in 2016 report says it will reduce workforce by 5%, around 350 employees. $IFF PR link.

Hologic(PBR767) gets FDA PMA approval for Aptima® Hepatitis C Quant Dx Assay therapy. $HOLX PR link.

Carlisle Cos(PBR650) hires Bob Roche as VP/CFO. $CSL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US January Consumer Price Index was +0.6%, December was +0.3%, +2.5% from January 2016. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor estimates US January Average Currently Weekly Earnings at $894.40, +0.1% from December, +1.9% from January 2016. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US December Manufacturing/Retail/Wholesaler Sales were $1.356 trillion, +2.0% from November, +5.2% from December 2015. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce Advance Estimate of US January Total Retail Sales were $472.1 billion, +0.3% from December, +5.5% from January 2016. USDOC PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Board estimates US January Industrial Production % of Capacity at 75.3%, December was 75.6%, January 2016 75.7%. FRB PR link.

The New York Federal Reserve Bank says February Empire State Manufacturing General Business Conditions Index at 18.7, +12.2 from January, +33.2 from February 2016. NYFRB PR link.

The Natl Assn of Home Builders says US February Composite Housing Market Index is 65, January was 67, February 2016 was 58. NAHB PR link.

***Tuesday, February 14:

Amazon(PBR29) Web Services announces Amazon Chime online video/audio/chat/screen sharing meetings service. $AMZN PR link.

Proctor & Gamble(PBR33) gets SEC notification that The Vanguard Group owns 6.62% of outstanding stock. $PG PR link.

AIG(PBR46) authorizes additional up to $3.5 billion in share repurchase program, balance is now $4.7 billion. $AIG PR link.

Aetna(PBR49) to pay Humana(PBR58 $HUM) $1 billion in mutual agreement to terminate $37 billion stock/cash acquisition. $AET PR link.

Humana(PBR58) authorizes $2 billion share buyback program for 2017, $1.5 billion in 1Q17. $HUM PR link.

Cigna(PBR85) terminates $48 billion acquisition by Anthem(PBR38 $ANTM), seeks $1.85 billion reverse termination fee plus $13+ billion in damages, expands share repurchase program to $3.7 billion. $CI PR link.

T-Mobile(PBR95) has 2.1 million customer net adds in 4Q17, has 71.5 million customers. $TMUS PR link.

CenturyLink(PBR160) gets first regulatory approvals for $66.50/share, $34 billion acquisition of Level 3 Communications(PBR375 $LVLT) from Ohio & Utah; special stockholders meeting scheduled for 03/16/17; close planned for 3Q17. $CTL PR link.

CSX(PBR226) calls special meeting for 03/16/17 to seek shareholder guidance on certain extraordinary requests by investor Mantle Ridge & CEO candidate Hunter Harrison and his $300 million compensation package. $CSX PR link.

Air Products(PBR267) sends public letter of concern to Hong Kong based Yingde Gases board in response to recent public disclosures by Yingde. $APD PR link.

Dover(PBR343) completes $150 million sale of its Performance Motorsports International unit to Race Winning Brands. $DOV PR link.

Mattel(PBR412) to promote toys, learning resources & educational content to China’s Alibaba(NYSE: BABA) 440 million active e-commerce Chinese buyers. $MAT PR link.

Hologic(PBR767) to acquire medical aesthetics systems developer Cynosure(NASDAQ: CYNO) for $66.00/share, $1.65 billion cash. $HOLX PR link.

Williams Cos(PBR348) hires Micheal Dunn as EVP/COO, effective 02/27/17. $WMB PR link.

General Cable(PBR418) hires Shruti Singhal as SVP/President of Europe, effective 02/27/17. $BGC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US January Producer Price Index was +0.6%, last 12 months +1.6%. USDOL PR link.

CoreLogic estimates US December Housing Serious Delinquency Units at 1,027,000, -0.5% from November, -19.5% from December 2015. CoreLogic PR link.

***Monday, February 13:

Verizon(PBR15) introduces unlimited data, calls, text plans, 1 line $80/mo, 4 lines $45/line, cellphone trade-in options. $VZ PR link.

Delta Air Lines(PBR72) to pay out $1+ billion to employees for third year in a row in profit sharing, on 02/14/17. $DAL PR link.

Delta Air Lines(PBR72) launches cash tender offer to acquire 49% stake in Grupo Aeromexico. $DAL PR link.

Dupont(PBR82) to split with spinoff Chemours a $670.7 million global settlement of 3,500+ personal injury claims arising from environmental releases of PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid and its salts) from the Washington Works plant in W Virginia. $DD PR link.

T-Mobile(PBR95) announces T-Mobile ONE new pricing, 2 line service for $100/month, includes taxes, compares to Verizon‘s $140/month before taxes. $TMUS PR link.

Dollar General(PBR151) opens 1st store in N Dakota, plans to open 6 more in 2017, now in 44 states. $DG PR link.

Lear Corp(PBR165) increases share repurchase program from $341 million balance to $1 billion, expires 12/31/19. $LEA PR link.

NRG Energy(PBR186) in agreement with 9.4% stakeholders Elliott Management & Bluescape Energy Partners names Lawrence Coben as Chairman, succeeds Howard Cosgrove who has left the board, forms 5 person ad-hoc committee to review business. $NRG PR link.

Allergan(PBR219) to acquire body contouring provider ZELTIQ Aesthetics(NASDAQ: ZLTQ) for $56.50/share, $2.47 billion cash. $AGN PR link.

CBRE(PBR301) acquires US 6 offices nationwide boutique commercial real estate finance and consulting firm Capstone Financial. $CBG PR link.

KKR(PBR332) to acquire TUI AG‘s UK based global high end experiential travel groups specialist Travelopia. $KKR PR link.

Dana(PBR382) to acquire US Manufacturing‘s Warren, MI, axle housing & driveline shaft manufacturing operations for $100 million cash. $DAN PR link.

Sonoco Products(PBR480) announces 10% price increase on expanded polystyrene products because of industry styrene production outages. $SON PR link.

AMC(PBR728) Stubs Reward Program now has over 6 million members, plans 3x growth over 12 months by this summer. $AMC PR link.

Macerich(PBR957) authorizes $500 million share repurchase program. $MAC PR link.

Terex(PBR357) hires John Sheehan as SVP/CFO, starts 02/27/17, succeeds leaving Kevin Bradley. $TEX PR link.

Vornado(PBR738) CFO Stephen Theriot to become CFO of spinoff & its merger with JBG SMITH Properties; Vornado EVP/former CFO Joseph Macnow named interim CFO. $VNO PR link.

Scientific Games(PBR937) hires Karin-Joyce Tjon as President/COO. $SGMS PR link.

CBL & Assoc(PBR998) promotes Katie Reinsmidt to EVP/Chief Investment Officer. $CBL PR link.

***Friday, February 10:

The PBRMarketTools Week Ending 02/10/17 US Stock Exchanges Recap:
DJIA ends week at 20,269.37, +0.99% from last Friday, +2.04% MTD, +2.56% QTD/YTD, +0.00% from record 20,269.37 set 02/10/17.
NASDAQ ends week at 5,734.13, +1.19% from last Friday, +2.13% MTD, +6.52 QTD/YTD, +0.00% from record 5,734.13 set 02/10/17.
SPX ends week at 2,316.10, +0.81% from last Friday, +1.63% MTD, +3.45% QTD/YTD, +0.00% from record 2,316.10 set 02/10/17.

Ford(PBR10) to invest $1 billion over 5 years in new artificial intelligence company Argo AI in development of autonomous vehicles. $F PR link.

Sears(PBR93) streamlining operations, expects to save $1 billion in 2017, to close 108 KMart & 42 Sears stores, evaluating strategic options for Kenmore & Diehard brands, Sears Home Services, & Sears Auto Centers. $SHLD PR link.

Interpublic(PBR350) announces new up to $300 million share repurchase program. $IPG PR link.

Blackstone(PBR352) acquires Aon plc(NYSE: AON)‘s technology-enabled benefits & HR platform unit for $4.3 billion plus up to $500 million based on future performance. $BX PR link.

Mead Johnson(PBR539) agrees to be acquired by global consumer health & hygiene company Reckitt Benckiser Group plc for $90/share, $17.9 billion(includes debt), to close in 3Q17. $MJN PR link.

Owens & Minor(PBR292) Chairman Craig Smith to retire 05/05/17, board intends to name President/CEO P Cody Phipps as Chairman. $OMI PR link.

Insurance Industry: Willis Towers Watson(PBR621) report says major natural catastrophe losses totaled $39.5 billion in 2016, highest since 2012. $WLTW PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US January Receipts FY YTD(4 months) is $1.085 trillion, Outlays $1.242 trillion, Deficit $156.9 billion, January 2016 Deficit was $160.4 trillion. Treasury PR link.

The US Dept of Labor estimates US January Import Prices Index was +0.4% from December, +3.7% from January 2016, similarly Exports were +0.1%, +2.3%. USDOL PR link.

The U of Michigan US Preliminary February Consumer Sentiment Index is at 95.7, January was 98.5, February 2016 was 91.7. UMich PR link.

***Thursday, February 9:

The PBR1000 January 2017
Top 5 Shares Outstanding
(PBR Rankings by Revenues;
B=billions, M=millions):

1. Bank of America(PBR25), $BAC, 10.5B shares
2. General Electric(PBR16), $GE, 8.8B shares
3. Microsoft(PBR30), $MSFT, 7.7B shares
4. AT&T(PBR11), $T, 6.1B shares
5. Pfizer(PBR56), $PFE, 6.1B shares

Total The PBR1000: 374.4B shares
Range: 10.5B to 1.1M shares
Companies >1B shares: 75/1,002
Average: 373.7M shares
Median: 140.2M shares

Not a The PBR1000 Subscriber? Get the full The PBR1000 big business intelligence service with many more details in 15 insightful snapshots and 22 rankings today with an affordable investment in a 2 month or significantly discounted annual The PBR1000 subscription! Subscribe link.

Amazon(PBR29) to create 2,000 new full-time jobs at two new California fulfillment centers, making 12 in the state. $AMZN PR link.

Anthem(PBR38) comments on blocking of $48 billion acquisition of Cigna(PBR85 $CI) by US District Court, to work aggressively to complete the transaction. $ANTM PR link.

Kellogg(PBR198) US Snacks unit to exit Direct Store Delivery business. $K PR link.

AGCO(PBR280) makes tender offer of $7.03/share, $185 million for Brazil based grain storage & handling equipment manufacturer Kepler Weber SA. $AGCO PR link.

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

Activision Blizzard(PBR540) reports 447 million Monthly Active Users in 4Q16, authorizes up to $1 billion over 2 years share repurchase program. $ATVI PR link.

Tempur Sealy(PBR687) adopts Stockholder Rights Plan, to expire 02/07/18. $TPX PR link.

Twitter(PBR786) reports 4Q16 Average Monthly Active Users were 319 million, +4% from 4Q15, 67 million from the US. $TWTR PR link.

Hexcel(PBR921) adds $300 million to share repurchase program, balance is $393 million. $HXL PR link.

Caterpillar(PBR54) EVP/Chief Legal Officer Jim Buda to retire 05/01/17. $CAT PR link.

SunPower(PBR680) promotes Bill Mulligan to EVP/Global Operations, succeeds leaving Marty Neese. $SPWR PR link.

Revlon(PBR900) hires Linda Wells to newly created post of Chief Creative Officer, effective 02/13/17. $REV PR link.

Radian(PBR978) hires Rick Thornberry as CEO, effective 03/06/17, to succeed retiring SA Ibrahim. $RDN PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US December Wholesale Sales at $464.9 billion, +2.6% from November, +6.8% from December 2015. USDOC PR link.

***Wednesday, February 8:

Anthem(PBR38)‘s $48 billion purchase of Cigna(PBR85) blocked by judge as anticompetitive. MarketWatch PR link.

Dow Chemical(PBR48 $DOW), Dupont(PBR82 $DD) tell EU they’ll sell businesses to get greenlight for merger. MarketWatch PR link.

Intel(PBR51) to invest $7 billion to complete Fab 42 semiconductor factory in 3-4 years in Chandler, AZ, to create 10,000 long-term jobs. $INTC PR link.

Energy Transfer Equity(PBR52) Partner’s unit receives Lake Oahe easement notice from US Army to complete 1,172 mile long Dakota Access pipeline. $ETE PR link.

Goodyear Tire(PBR157) spends $500 million for 16.7 million share repurchases in 2016, adds $1 billion to share repurchase program, balance is $2.1 billion. $GT PR link.

Cognizant(PBR272) agrees to replace 3 board members with 3 selected by key investor Elliott Management. $CTSH PR link.

Peabody Energy(PBR372) upsizes term loan from $500 million to $950 million, will have $1.95 billion long-term debt capitalization upon emergence from Chapter 11 bankruptcy. $BTUUQ PR link.

USG Corp(PBR599) celebrates the 100th Anniversary of Sheetrock® brand wallboard. $USG PR link.

W.R. Grace(PBR625) authorizes new $250 million share repurchase program over 24-36 months, starts upon completion of $34 million balance. $GRA PR link.

Regeneron(PBR708) & Sanofi get appeals court stay of permanent injunction against Amgen(PBR135) for cardiovascular disease therapy Repatha/Praluent patent infringement. $REGN PR link.

Deckers Outdoor(PBR929) gets SEC notice that Marcato Capital owns 6.0% of shares. $DECK PR link.

Iron Mountain(PBR663) hires Fidelma Russo as Chief Technology Officer, effective mid 03/17. $IRM PR link.

IDC Technology Forecast: Worldwide IT Spending Forecast to Sustain Growth of More Than 3% Through 2020 Led by Financial Services and Manufacturing Industries. IDC PR link.

***Tuesday, February 7:

Kroger(PBR20) acquires cheese/charcuterie purveyor Murray’s Cheese, in 350 Kroger locations nationwide, terms not disclosed. $KR PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) says 33+ million customers in 170 countries used Amazon Payments in 2016, almost double from 2015, average transaction was $80. $AMZN PR link.

Amgen(PBR135) gets FDA approval for Parsabiv™ (etelcalcetide) for the treatment of secondary hyperparathyroidism (HPT) in adult patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on hemodialysis. $AMGN PR link.

Priceline(PBR319) to acquire leading European travel meta engine provider Momondo Group for $550 million, will report to KAYAK unit. $PCLN PR link.

ABM Industries(PBR478) agrees to $110 million class action settlement against its former Security Services unit. $ABM PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Visalia, CA, retail insurance broker/employee benefits firm Lewis & Associates. $AJG PR link.

Perrigo(PBR565) to add 5 independent directors to board per agreement with 6.7% sharesholder Starboard Value. $PRGO PR link.

Perrigo(PBR565) confirms patent challenge for generic version of acne therapy medication Onexton® Gel. $PRGO PR link.

Dynegy(PBR777) completes $3.3 billion, $378/kW acquisition of ENGIE’s US portfolio of 9,017 megawatts of generation capacity in New England area. $DYN PR link.

Waste Management(PBR206) issues statement on passing this past weekend of non-executive chairman Bob Reum. $WM PR link.

Autodesk(PBR773) CEO Carl Bass steps down as president/CEO, remains on board, interim Office of CEO formed as search begins with SVPs Amar Hanspal & Andrew Anagnost appointed interim co-CEOs. $ADSK PR link.

Greenbrier Cos(PBR846) hires Greg Bretzing as Director, Global Security/Special Projects, reports to CEO. $GBX PR link.

The US Federal Reserve estimates US December Consumer Debt Outstanding is $3.763 trillion, +0.4% from November, +6.4% for 2016. FRB PR link.

The US Dept of Labor estimates US December Job Openings at 5.500 million, -0.1% from November, +4.2% from December 2015. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US 2016 Exports were $2.209 trillion, Imports $2.712 trillion, Trade Deficit $502.3 billion. USDOC PR link.

The PurdueU/CME US January Ag Barometer Composite Index at 153, December was 132, January 2016 98. PurdueU PR link.

***Monday, February 6:

Occidental Petroleum(PBR123) says at end of 2016 it had worldwide proven reserves of 2.4 billion barrels of oil equivalent. $OXY PR link.

Lear Corp(PBR165) to acquire France based $324 million/yr 2,273 employee/contract workers in 14 facilities Grupo Antolin‘s automotive seating business for $308 million cash. $LEA PR link.

Avery Dennison(PBR396) to acquire China based $160 million/2016 industrial specialty tapes manufacturer Yongle Tape Company for $190 million plus up to $55 million earnouts. $AVY PR link.

Hasbro(PBR549) gets first year of $5+ billion revenues in 2016, returns $400 million to shareholders. $HAS PR link.

Abercrombie & Fitch(PBR595) to unveil new store concept, first in 15 years, with opening of first of seven stores planned in 2017. $ANF PR link.

Crown Holdings(PBR298) to promote Jerry Gifford to EVP/COO & Didier Sourisseau to President CROWN Europe, effective 04/01/17. $CCK PR link.

Tiffany(PBR551) CEO Frederic Cumenal steps down, chairman/former CEO Michael Kowalski adds interim CEO role. $TIF PR link.

Wolverine Worldwide(PBR722) hires Todd Spaletto as President/Outdoor & Lifestyle Group; promotes Jim Zwiers to EVP/Strategic Initiatives. $WWW PR link.

***Sunday, February 5:

***Super Bowl LI***
The New England Patriots win over The Atlanta Falcons 34-28 in a dramatic come from behind overtime win, with several records being broken. QB Tom Brady wins his 5th Super Bowl, 4th MVP. Lady Gaga is the featured halftime entertainment show.

***Friday, February 3:

The PBRMarketTools Week Ending 02/03/17 US Stock Exchanges Recap:
DJIA ends week at 20,071.46, -0.11% from last Friday, +1.04% MTD, +1.56% QTD/YTD, -0.15% from record 20,100.91 set 01/26/17.
NASDAQ ends week at 5,666.77, +0.11% from last Friday, +0.93% MTD, +5.27 QTD/YTD, +0.00% from record 5,666.77 set 02/03/17.
SPX ends week at 2,297.42, +0.12% from last Friday, +0.81% MTD, +2.62% QTD/YTD, -0.04% from record 2,298.37 set 01/25/17.

Energy Transfer Equity(PBR52) Partner’s unit gets FERC approval for Rover Pipeline Project, will transport 3.25 billion cubic feet per day of natural gas from Appalachian supply area to Michigan. 2 phase project to be completed by 11/17. $ETE PR link.

Pfizer(PBR56) gets accelerated $5 billion share repurchase agreement with Citigroup(PBR28)‘s Citibank. $PFE PR link.

Dollar General(PBR151) to create around 10,000 jobs in 2017, plans to open 1,000 new stores, 2 distribution centers. $DG PR link.

Computer Sciences(PBR237) announces board of new company to be formed on 04/03/17 with merger of CSC & Enterprise Services segment of HP Enterprises, will create a $26 billion/yr global IT services company. $CSC PR link.

Williams Cos(PBR348) Partners unit gets FERC approval for nearly $3 billion Atlantic Sunrise 200 mile pipeline project, will transport natural gas from Pennsylvania to Mid-Atlantic/Southeastern states. $WMB PR link.

hhgregg(PBR864) gets listing non-compliance notice from NYSE, market capitalization under $50 million, stock trading under $1/share. $HGG PR link.

The US Dept of Labor estimates the US January Civilian Non-Farm Employed at 152,081,000 people, -0.02% from December, +1.03% from January 2016. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US December Manufacturers’ New Orders were $464.9 billion, +1.3% from November, +3.6% from December 2015. USDOC PR link.

The Markit US January Composite PMI Output Index is 55.8, December was 54.1, November 54.9. Markit PR link.

The ISM US January Non-Manufacturing Index(NMI) is at 56.5%, December was 57.2%, January 2016 53.5%. ISM PR link.

***Thursday, February 2:

Dow Chemical(PBR48) agrees to divest its global Ethylene Acrylic Acid (EAA) copolymers and ionomers business to SK Global Chemical upon its merger with DuPont(PBR82 $DD) as part of regulatory requirement. $DOW PR link.

Abbott Labs(PBR134) gets FDA approval for emergency use for first whole blood molecular test for Zika virus. $ABT PR link.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR185) gets FDA approval for Opdivo (nivolumab) as a bladder cancer therapy . $BMY PR link.

CBS(PBR210) to merge Radio unit with Entercom Communications(NYSE: ETM) in stock deal, create $1.7 billion/year 244 stations company. $CBS PR link.

L Brands(PBR247) authorizes new $250 million share repurchase program, repurchased $438 million in 2016. $LB PR link.

Dana(PBR382) completes 80% acquisition of 2,300 employee, $419 million/2015 power-transmission, fluid power businesses of Europe’s Brevini Group SpA, to buy remaining 20% by 2020. $DAN PR link.

Amkor Technology(PBR659) to acquire Portugal based 550 employees $40 million/2016 wafer-level fan-out (WLFO) semiconductor packaging manufacturer NANIUM. $AMKR PR link.

Dynegy(PBR777)/Energy Capital Partners gets FERC okay to complete $3.3 billion, $378/KW acquisition of ENGIE‘s US portfolio of 9,017 megawatts of generation capacity in New England area. $DYN PR link.

Dynegy(PBR777) indirect wholly owned subsidiary Illinois Power Generating Co emerges from Chapter 11 restructuring. $DYN PR link.

Carpenter Technology(PBR856) to acquire all assets of W Virginia based titanium powders producer Puris for $35 million. $CRS PR link.

La-Z-Boy(PBR918) to build new $26 million, 70,000 sf Innovation Center at its 1.2 million sf Dayton, TN, campus, its largest US manufacturing location with 1,400 employees. $LZB PR link.

MDC Holdings(PBR952), parent of Richmond American, celebrates 40 years of building single family homes, has built 190,000. $MDC PR link.

Micron Technology(PBR180) CEO Mark Durcan to retire upon appointment of new CEO, search committee formed. $MU PR link.

Tenneco(PBR321) chairman/CEO Gregg Sherrill to become executive chairman on 05/17/17, COO Brian Kesseler to become CEO. $TEN PR link.

Ralph Lauren(PBR349) president/CEO Stefan Larsson leaving on 05/01/17 because of creative differences. $RL PR link.

Ingredion(PBR415) EVP/CFO Jack Fortnum to retire on 06/30/17 after 33 years with company, successor will be Jim Gray. $INGR PR link.

Boston Beer(PBR1004) CEO Martin Roper to retire in 2018 after 17+ years, successor search starts. $SAM PR link.

The US Dept of Labor estimates US 4Q16 Business Sector Productivity Output was +2.0%, +0.3% for 2016. USDOL PR link.

***Wednesday, February 1:

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

1. Republic Airways(PBR955), $RJETQ, +333%
2. Aeropostale(PBR921), $AROPQ, +261%
3. Allegheny Technology(PBR559), $ATI, +36%
4. NRG Energy(PBR179), $NRG, +35%
5. Alcoa(PBR116), $AA, +30%

Range: +333% to -62%
Companies >+0%: 610/1,004
Average: +1.88%
Median: +1.28%

Get the full Snapshot 11 list with many more details and the 14 other analytical snapshots today with a 2 month or significantly reduced annual The PBR1000 subscription! Subscribe link.

Apple(PBR5) reclaims top spot over Samsung in 2016 for smartphone shipments says IDC, shipped 78.3 million iPhones in 4Q16, +4.7% over 4Q15. IDC PR link.

Verizon(PBR15) completes $1.8 billion purchase of XO Communications’ fiber-optic network business. $VZ PR link.

Abbott Labs(PBR134) gets FDA approval for Assurity MRI-TM Pacemaker, worlds smallest longest lasting wireless MRI compatible pacemaker. $ABT PR link.

HollyFrontier(PBR140) completes $845 million acquisition of Suncor Energy‘s 15,600 barrels/day Group III base oils Petro-Canada Lubricants business. $HFC PR link.

Parker-Hannifin(PBR218) acquires Enumclaw, WA, based $75 million/2016 300 employees helical rotary actuators manufacturer Helac. $PH PR link.

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

ONEOK(PBR236) to acquire all remaining common stock it does not already own in ONEOK Partners(NYSE: OKS) for $9.3 billion in all stock deal. $OKE PR link.

BlackRock(PBR252) acquires energy infrastructure franchise from First Reserve, has has $3.7 billion in committed capital. $BLK PR link.

Biogen(PBR282) completes spinoff of global hemophilia business Bioverativ(NASDAQ: BIVV). $BIIB PR link.

Tenneco(PBR321) authorizes new $400 million shares repurchase program over 3 years. $TEN PR link.

Celanese(PBR369) to expand global nylon solutions presence with acquisition of Nilit‘s nylon compounding Plastics division, terms not disclosed. $CE PR link.

Peabody Energy(PBR372) to offer up to $1.0 billion of senior secured notes to be used to fund a portion of distribution to creditors upon approval of reorganization plan. $BTUUQ PR link.

FIS(PBR394) completes $850 million sale of SunGard Public Sector and Education businesses to Vista Equity Partners. $FIS PR link.

Coty(PBR524) completes $600 million acquisition of 60% stake in online peer-to-peer social selling platform in beauty provider Younique. $COTY PR link.

Activision Blizzard(PBR540) creates new Consumer Products Division, hires Tim Kilpin as its CEO & president. $ATVI PR link.

Tesla(PBR651) changes name from Tesla Motors, Inc to Tesla, Inc. $TSLA PR link.

Citrix(PBR658) completes $65.31/share, $1.8 billion spin-off and merger deal of GoTo family of service offerings with LogMeIn(NASDAQ: LOGM). $CTXS PR link.

Apollo Education(PBR681) $1.14 billion acquisition by investor group lead by Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR906 $APO) is completed. $APOL PR link.

WABCO(PBR704) extends longterm agreement to provide advanced braking systems to Russia’s largest heavy duty vehicle manufacturer KAZAM. $WBC PR link.

Chemtura(PBR849) stockholders approve $33.50/share, $2.5 billion cash acquisition by Germany based global specialty chemicals company LANXESS AG, to close mid 2017. $CHMT PR link.

Berry Plastics(PBR488) promotes president/COO Tom Salmon to CEO, effective 02/03/17, succeeds Jon Rich who remains Executive Chairman. $BERY PR link.

Triumph Group(PBR578) hires Gary Tenison as VP/Business Development, effective 02/13/17. $TGI PR link.

Abercrombie & Fitch(PBR595) promotes president/Chief Merchandising Officer Fran Horowitz to CEO. EVP/CFO Joanne Crevoiserat adds COO role. $ANF PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US December New Construction Spending Annual Rate at $1.182 trillion, -0.3% from November, +4.94% from December 2015. USDOC PR link.

ADP(PBR235) says US January Change In Employment was +247,000, 46,000 from Goods Producing Sector, 201,000 from Services Sector. $ADP PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Board releases its FOMC statement from the 01/31-02/01/17 meeting, notes labor market continues to strengthen, economy growing at a moderate pace, will keep federal funds rate at 0.50-0.75%. FRB PR link.

The Conference Board says US January New Online Help Wanted Ads were 2,248,702, +4.3% from December, -11.9% from January 2016. TCB PR link.

The ISM US January PMI was 56.0%, December was 54.5%, January 2015 was 48.2%. ISM PR link.

The Markit US January Manufacturing PMI was 55.0, December was 54.3, November 54.1. Markit PR link.

TrueCar estimates US January New Auto Sales were at $37 billion, +1.6% from January 2015, Average Transaction Price at $33,127, +1.4% YoY. $TRUE PR link.

Automotive News says US January New Auto Sales were 1,142,568 units, -32.3% from December, -1.9% from January 2016. AutoNews PR link.

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

(Photo courtesy of Stuart Miles, FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

Copyright © 2017 by Pax Business Resources, LLC, Tucson, AZ, USA, All Rights Reserved.

Filed Under: Recaps Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The PBR1000 January 2017 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots

February 20, 2017 by

January 2017: How Much More Bull Is Left In The Trump Bump?

Bull Growth Trend-hywards ID-100395863

It’s One Month Into 2017. How Long Can The Trump Bull Keep Climbing?

 

By Larry C. Paxton

While a good month overall, January was a particularly good month for the NASDAQ as key technology players made some big advances. Perhaps the upswing for the US stock exchanges is the anticipation of the Trump administration dropping barriers to business by eliminating some particular distasteful regulations like Dodd-Frank. Perhaps it’s the promise of lowering corporate taxes to be more competitive with the rest of the world and hopefully bring back trillions of dollars to the US parked in foreign markets.   Or maybe it’s the trade agreements currently in place, or in the process of being approved, which are now potentially on the chopping block.

At the same time the economy keeps plugging along at a modest rate for most of the country.

So, for stocks and commodities, the question remains about the potential continued gain in the markets, and the concern that this level of growth can’t be sustained for much longer. There is the sentiment that many key stocks are close, if not already, to being overvalued, and there will have to be a major adjustment.  On the otherhand, if President Trump can get his way, the bulls might still have room to run, and we are in an interesting ride as the year continues to unfold in unpredictable ways.

Here are some January summaries on the US stock exchanges:

Number of Trading Days: 20

Number of Gain(+)/Loss(-) Days: DJIA 8+, 12-; NASDAQ 14+, 6-; SPX 10+, 10-.

Record Days: DJIA 2, NASDAQ 9, SPX 3

Longest Gain Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 3, NASDAQ 7, SPX 2

Longest Loss Streak(Consecutive Days): DJIA 3, NASDAQ 1, SPX 4

Big Swing Up Days(>1.00%): None

Big Swing Down Days(<-1.00%): None

The following are Top 5 partial tables excerpts from The PBR1000 January Snapshots. The stock price is for the close of trading on January 31, Month % Chg is compared to December 30, YTD % Chg is compared to December 31, 2016, and the 13 Months % Chg is compared to December 31, 2015. The PBR Rank is by annual revenues.

To get the complete The PBR1000 Snapshots  just click here to get your 2 month or significantly discounted 13 month subscription and automatically download the December 2016 edition with the complete 15 Snapshots.

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

Table 1 Summary: The range was +333% to -62%. 609 out of 1,003 stock prices were up 0.00% or more. The average was a gain of 1.9%, the median was a gain of 1.27%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
01/31/17		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 13 Mos
% Chg
Republic Airways
 955 RJETQ 0.26 +333 +333 -93
Aeropostale
 921 AROPQ 0.07 +261 +261 -74
Allegheny Technologies
 559 ATI 21.73 +36 +36 +93
NRG Energy
 179 NRG 16.54 +35 +35 +41
Alcoa
 116 AA 36.45 +30 +30 +23

 

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

Table 2 Summary: The range was +333% to -62%. 609 out of 1,003 stock prices were up 0.00% or more. The average was a gain of 1.9%, the median was a gain of 1.27%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
01/31/17		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 13 Mos
% Chg
Republic Airways
 955 RJETQ 0.26 +333 +333 -93
Aeropostale
 921 AROPQ 0.07 +261 +261 -74
Allegheny Technologies
 559 ATI 21.73 +36 +36 +93
NRG Energy
 179 NRG 16.54 +35 +35 +41
Alcoa
 116 AA 36.45 +30 +30 +23

 

Table 3(S13): The PBR1000 Top 5 13 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: Range was +455% to -85%. 747 out of 998 stock prices were up 0.00% or more. The average was a gain of 14.2%. The median was a gain of 16.3%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
01/31/17		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 13 Mos
% Chg
Cliffs Natural Resources
 831 CLF 8.77 +4 +4 +455
US Steel
 230 X 32.71 -1 -1 +310
AMD 536 AMD
 10.37 -9 -9 +261
AK Steel
 355 AKS 8.08 -21 -21 +261
Titan Intl
 944 TWI 13.29 +19 +19 +237

 

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

Table 4 Summary: Range was $647.08 billion to $0.01 billion. The average is $22.22 billion, median is $7.03 billion, out of 1,002 companies.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Market Cap($B)
01/31//17		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 13 Mos
% Chg
Apple
 3 AAPL 647.08 +4.8 +4.8 +10.3
Alphabet
 33 GOOG 550.82 +3.5 +3.5 +5.5
Microsoft
 30 MSFT 499.58 +3.4 +3.4 +12.7
Berkshire Hathaway
 4 BRK 405.94 +0.1 +0.1 +24.7
Amazon 20 AMZN 391.29 +9.8 +9.8 +23.50
The PBR1000
   22,288.55 +1.7 +1.7 +10.5

 

Table 5: The PBR1000 Index & Selected Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company Price
01/31/17		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 13 Mos
% Chg
The PBR1000     75,839.49 +1.9 +1.9 +14.2
DJIA     19,864.09 +0.5 +0.5 +14.0
NASDAQ        5,614.79 +4.3 +4.3 +12.1
S&P500        2,278.87 +1.8 +1.8 +11.5
GOLD        1,209.00 +5.0 +5.0 +14.0
SILVER              17.47 +9.3 +9.3 +26.6
OIL              52.74 -1.8 -1.8 +42.4

 

Have questions on The PBR1000 or The PBR US Economic Indices Monthly Snapshots? Please contact us at Sales@PBRMarketTools.com or call us in the US at 520-282-4100.

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

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

(Photo courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net, hywards.)

Copyright © 2017 by Pax Business Resources, LLC, Tucson, AZ, USA, All Rights Reserved.

Filed Under: Snapshots Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The PBR1000 January 2017 Breaking News Recap

February 10, 2017 by

January 2017: The Big Ball Gets Rolling

Business Sphere ID-100278111-Stuart Miles

Which way will the Big Ball roll? How will it overcome the inevitable obstacles?

By Larry C. Paxton

January’s focus by the US and the world was clearly on US President-Elect Trump and he did not disappoint. On January 20th he officially became President and came charging out of the gate with many controversial executive orders, ongoing nominations of accomplished people with strong opinions, and continuing to baffle everyone through his use of social media, especially Twitter. So the Big Ball is now rolling. Let’s see how it handles the dips, hills, water hazards, and unanticipated obstacles as it rolls through its first term knowing that it will definitely not be in a straight line.

Here’s a quick January 2017 summary on key activities that relate to The PBR1000:

US Presidency:  Donald J. Trump is inaugurated as the 45th President of the United States on Friday, January 20, 2017. Cabinet appointees are being confirmed, being announced, heavy emphasis on business experience, major policy changes expected in healthcare, immigration, infrastructure programs, and international trade.

Mergers & Acquisitions: 32 deals worth at least $1 billion initiated, closed, or updated. Total transaction value is $234 billion.

Spinoffs: 4 completed or announced.

Share Repurchase Programs: 16 announced, total $27.8 billion.

Bankruptcies: 4 actions

CEO Changes: 7 announced.

Jobs: Modest growth.

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

Federal Reserve Federal Funds Rate Changes: 0, remains 0.50-0.75%, increases anticipated in 2017.

International: Brexit, oil price fluctuations, Middle East conflicts, refugee crisis, N Korea nuclear/missile tests, upcoming European elections, climate change, US President Trump actions continue to be the headliners.

For more details here are The PBR1000 corporate and economic related breaking news items of interest with hotlinks to the sources for January 2017, starting with the last active business day.

Tuesday, January 31:

The PBRMarketTools January 2017 US Stock Exchanges Recap:
DJIA ends January at 19,864.09, -1.14% from last Friday, +0.51% MTD/QTD/YTD, -1.18% from record 20,100.91 set 01/26/17.
NASDAQ ends January at 5,614.79, -0.81% from last Friday, +4.30% MTD/QTD/YTD, -0.81% from record 5,660.78 set 01/27/17.
SPX ends January at 2,278.87, -0.69% from last Friday, +1.79% MTD/QTD/YTD, -0.85% fromrecord 2,298.37 set 01/25/17.

Amazon(PBR29) to create 2,000 jobs at new air cargo hub in Hebron, KY. $AMZN PR link.

Caterpillar(PBR54) to establish global headquarters with 300 employees in more accessible, strategic location Chicago, most employees to remain in Peoria, IL. $CAT PR link.

Merck(PBR70) gets European Commission approval for lung cancer therapy KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab). $MRK PR link.

Sprint(PBR86) reports 1,694,000 wireless net additions in 2016, 59,515,000 total platform connections. $S PR link.

DISH(PBR196) acquires DBS and OTT assets from EchoStar(PBR622) in exchange for 80% economic interest in Hughes Retail Group. $DISH PR link.

Harley-Davidson(PBR400) in 4Q16 report says 262,221 motorcycles shipped in 2016, -1.6% from 2015. $HOG PR link.

Dr Pepper Snapple(PBR406) completes $1.7 billion cash acquisition of antioxidant infused beverages provider Bai Brand. $DPS PR link.

JM Smucker(PBR437) to build additional Smucker’s® Uncrustables® Sandwiches manufacturing facility in Longmont, CO, $340 million investment, will employ up to 500 in 2019. $SJM PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Salt Lake City, UT, based retail insurance broker The Presidio Group. $AJG PR link.

Hologic(PBR767) completes divestiture of blood screening business to partner Grifols(NASDAQ: GRFS) for $1.85 million cash.$HOLX PR link.

Invacare(PBR984) to reduce workforce by 100 from continued restructuring. $IVC PR link.

PharMerica(PBR911) hires Bob Dries as EVP/CFO. $PMC PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago says the December Midwest Economy Index was +0.06, November was -0.02, slightly higher than national growth rate. ChiFed PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) Multifamily 2017 Outlook: Commentary and analysis on apartments; rental demand expecting to grow at a more moderate rate. $FMCC PR link.

Monday, January 30:

Citigroup(PBR28) to exit US mortgage servicing operations by end of 2018, will focus on originations. $C PR link.

Archer-Daniels-Midland(PBR34) selling Crop Risk Services business to Validus Holdings(NYSE: VR) for $127.5 million. $AMD PR link.

Walgreens Boots Alliance(PBR36) to acquire Rite Aid(PBR105 $RAD) for amended $6.50-7.00/share, to divest 1,200 Rite Aid stores to meet regulatory approval, moves acquisition by date from 01/27/17 to 07/31/17. $WBA PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) sells ownership of Frango chocolates to Garrett Brands, terms not disclosed, will continue to be sold at Macy’s stores and online. $M PR link.

Whirlpool(PBR138) secures 4-year appliances renewal with Meritage Homes(PBR858 $MTH). $WHR PR link.

American Electric Power(PBR174) completes $2.1 billion sale of 4 power plants totaling 5,200 MW to Blackstone(PBR352 $BX)/ArcLight joint venture. $AEP PR link.

Starbucks(PBR178) chairman/CEO Howard Schultz in partners message says Starbucks will hire 10,000 refugees over 5 years worldwide, will start in US. $SBUX PR link.

PNC Financial(PBR189) adds $300 million to share repurchase plan, balance is now $2.3 billion, expires 06/30/17. $PNC PR link.

Allergan(PBR219) gets FDA approval for sNDA for AVYCAZ® (ceftazidime and avibactam) for patients with complicated urinary tract infections. $AGN PR link.

Jacobs Engineering(PBR225) acquires Australia based integrated project services provider, 220 employees, Aquenta Consulting, terms not disclosed. $JEC PR link.

BlackRock(PBR252 $BLK) discloses 6% stake in GoPro(PBR903). $GPRO PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) wins US District Court ruling related to Copaxone® 40 mg/mL patents, serves $3.3 billion/year US market. $MYL PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Syracuse, NY, regional retail insurance broker Eagle Insurance Agency, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

Keysight Technologies(PBR660) to acquire networks services provider Ixia(NASDAQ: XXIA) for $19.65/share, $1.6 billion cash. $KEYS PR link.

Varian Medical(PBR678) completes spinoff of independent public company Varex Imaging(NASDAQ: VREX), receives $200 million cash transfer. $VAR PR link.

Tempur Sealy(PBR687) and Mattress Firm unable to come to new agreement, contracts terminated, to be effective by 1Q17 end. $TPX PR link.

Endo Intl(PBR700) gets FDA approval of new Ephedrine Sulfate Injection, for $177 million/year US marketplace. $ENDP PR link.

HB Fuller(PBR870) acquires $100 million/2016 Wisdom Worldwide Adhesives for $122 million. $FUL PR link.

Fitbit(PBR870) preliminarily says 6.5 million devices sold in 4Q16, lower than expected, reorganizing, to reduce workforce by 6%, 110 employees. $FIT PR link.

Woodward(PBR888) authorizes up to $500 million share repurchase program, expires 11/30/19. $WWD PR link.

Intel(PBR51) promotes Steven Rogers to EVP/General Counsel, Aicha Evans to SVP/GM Communications & Devices Group, Leslie Gulbertson to SVP/Human Resources. $INTC PR link.

Office Depot(PBR182) hires Gerry Smith as CEO, effective 02/27/17, to succeed retiring Roland Smith. $ODP PR link.

Cincinnati Financial(PBR490) lists promotions & new appointments of subsidiary companies directors, officers & general counsel. $CINF PR link.

Synopsys(PBR879) EVP/Business Operations & Chief Administrative Officer Brian Beattie to retire on 12/22/17. $SNPS PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US December Personal Income Annual Rate at $16.290 trillion, +0.3% from November, +3.5% from December 2015.
USDOC PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) January Outlook: An interesting read with comments about uncertainties regarding new fiscal policies, foreign US real estate investments, and the mortgage market. $FMCC PR link.

President Trump: A summary with hotlinks on President Trump’s many actions in his 1st week in office. WhiteHouse PR link.

Friday, January 27:

The PBRMarketTools Week Ending 01/27/17 US Stock Exchanges Recap:
DJIA ends week at 20,093.78, +1.34% from last Friday, +1.68% MTD/QTD/YTD, -0.04% from record 20,100.91 set 01/26/17.
NASDAQ ends week at 5,660.78, +1.90% from last Friday, +5.16% MTD/QTD/YTD, +0.00% from record 5,660.78 set 01/27/17.
SPX ends week at 2,294.69, +1.03% from last Friday, +2.50% MTD/QTD/YTD, -0.16% fromrecord 2,298.37 set 01/25/17.

Lowe’s(PBR50) authorizes additional $5 billion for share repurchase program, balance is $5.627 billion, no expiration set. $LOW PR link.

American Airlines(PBR69) approves new $2.0 billion share repurchase program, expires 12/31/18. $AAL PR link.

McDonald’s(PBR101 $MCD): Private-equity pioneer Guy Hands buys Nordic McDonald’s 435 restaurants. MarketWatch PR link.

Peabody Energy(PBR372) gets US Bankruptcy Court approval for disclosure statement, plan support, private placement and backstop commitment agreements, creditors vote to be held no later than 03/03/17. $BTUUQ PR link.

Ulta Salon(PBR646) implementing a holding company reorganization, named Ulta Beauty, effective 01/29/17, no other changes. $ULTA PR link.

Celanese(PBR369) hires Peter Edwards as General Counsel, succeeds leaving Gjon Nivica. $CE PR link.

Knowles Corp(PBR990) hires Helmut Vogler SVP/Global Sales. $KN PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates 4Q16 GDP Annual Rate(Advance Report) at +1.9%, $18.861 trillion, +1.0% from 3Q16, +3.50% from 4Q15. USDOC PR link.

The University of Michigan Final January Consumer Sentiment Index is at 98.5, December was 98.2, January 2016 92.0. UMich PR link.

Thursday, January 26:

Johnson & Johnson(PBR37) to acquire Swiss based pharmaceutical company Actelion(SIX: ATLN) for $280/share, $30 billion cash. $JNJ PR link.

Comcast(PBR42) increases stock repurchase program to $12 billion, to use $5 billion in 2017, to do 2:1 stock split payable 02/17/17. $CMCSA PR link.

Allergan(PBR219) gets FDA approval for 72 mcg dose of LINZESS® (linaclotide) for adults with Chronic Idiopathic Constipation. $AGN PR link.

Sherwin-Williams(PBR251) to divest under $650 million/year revenues to gain FTC approval on $11.3 billion acquisition of Valspar(PBR526), expects to close within 90 days. $SHW PR link.

Celgene(PBR347) to acquire autoimmune disease therapies developer Delinia for $300 million plus up to $475 million in contigent payments. $CELG PR link.

Endo Intl(PBR700) initiates restructuring US corporate & branded R&D functions, to reduce fulltime workforce by 90. $ENDP PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says Total Insured Unemployment on 01/14/17 was 2,100,000, +2.4% from December, -6.2% from January 2016. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US December New Family Homes Sold Annual Rate was 536,000, -10.4% from November, -0.4% from December 2015. USDOCPR link.

The US Energy Information Administration says 01/20/17 US Crude Oil Reserves at 488.3 million barrels, +0.5% from 12/23/16, +5.3% from 01/22/16. EIAPR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago shows the December Chicago Fed National Activity Index at 0.14, November was -0.33, December 2015 -0.17. ChiFed PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) says 30 Year Fixed Rate Housing Mortgage averaged 4.19% for week ending 01/26/17, 12/29/16 was 4.32%, 01/28/16 was 3.79%. $FMCC PR link.

The Conference Board estimates US December Leading Economic Index at 124.6(2010=100), +0.5% from November. TCB PR link.

Wednesday, January 25:

McKesson(PBR6) to acquire private healthcare electronic prior authorization systems developer CoverMyMeds for $1.1 billion. $MCK PR link.

AT&T(PBR12) wireless net adds was 9.5 million in 2016, 6.2 million from the US, 3.3 million from Mexico. $T PR link.

JP Morgan Chase(PBR21 $JPM) to become custodian for $1 trillion in BlackRock(PBR252 $BLK) transfer of assets from State Street(PBR260 $STT). MarketWatch PR link.

United Technologies(PBR45) 2017 plans include share repurchases of $3.5 billion, $1-2 billion for acquisitions. $UTX PR link.

Cisco(PBR60) to acquire private application performance monitoring developer AppDynamics for $3.7 billion. $CSCO PR link.

INTL FCStone(PBR88) gets #1 ranking by Bloomberg for dollar value traded OTC and for around 2,500 securities. $INTL PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) extends Ideology activewear brand to men with ID Ideology, in 250 stores, online, $25-$70 retail. $M PR link.

Textron(PBR207) to acquire ATV/snowmobiles & accessories manufacturer Arctic Cat(NASDAQ: ACAT) for $247 million plus debt; authorizes a new up to 25 million shares repurchase program. $TXTPR link.

United Rentals(PBR438) to acquire Chicago based 1,100 employee, 73 branches, $369 million/2016 general rental equipment company NES Rentals for $965 million cash. $URIPR link.

WGL Holdings(PBR717) to be acquired by Canadian based energy infrastructure provider AltaGas(TSX: ALA) for $88.25/share, $6.4 billion cash. $WGLPR link.

Dynegy(PBR777) indirect wholly owned subsidiary Illinois Power Generating Co to emerge from Chapter 11 per confirmation of plan by US Bankruptcy Court. $DYNPR link.

BlueLinx(PBR892) completes sale/15 year leaseback of Tampa distribution facility, looks to do more sale/leaseback deals. $BXC PR link.

Chevron(PBR3) names Mike Wirth as Vice Chairman, effective 02/01/17. $CVX PR link.

FirstEnergy(PBR195) promotes Ebony Yeboah-Amankwah VP, State and Federal Regulatory Legal Affairs. $FE PR link.

Constellation Brands(PBR377) promotes Bill Newlands to EVP & newly created role of COO. $STZ PR link.

Asbury Automotive(PBR424) CFO Keith Style leaving 03/07/17, William Stax to then be interim Principal Financial Officer. $ABG PR link.

The Natl Retail Federation poll shows American consumers will spend an average of $75 each for a total of $14.1 billion as an estimated 188.5 million watch Super Bowl LI on 02/05/17. NRF PR link.

Tuesday, January 24:

Verizon(PBR15) ends 2016 with 114.2 million retail connections, +1.9% from 2015. 2016 revenues almost $126.0 billion, -4.3% from 2015. $VZ PR link.

Assurant(PBR268) to restructure into 4 reporting segments, starting with 4Q2016 results. $AIZ PR link.

Core-Mark(PBR271) supply agreement with 680 stores Kroger Convenience to expire in 04/17. Core-Mark serves 44,000 locations. $CORE PR link.

WestRock(PBR278) to acquire $1.6 billion/2016 Multi Packaging Solutions(NYSE: MPSX) for $18.00/share, $2.28 billion, includes $873 million net debt. $WRK PR link.

Concho Resources(PBR734) to net $800 million in $1.215 billion sale of the Alpha Crude Connector System to Plains All American Pipeline(PBR66). $CXO PR link.

Popular(PBR886) approves common stock repurchases of up to $75 million. $BPOP PR link.

Bob Evans(PBR954) to sell Bob Evans Restaurants unit for around $605 million to Golden Gate Capital; to acquire potato products producer Pineland Farms Potato Co for $115 million; Mike Downsley to be President/CEO upon completion of transactions expected late 04/17. $BOBE PR link.

Buffalo Wild Wings(PBR981) expands share repurchase program by $400 million, balance is now $900 million. $BWLD PR link.

Ford(PBR10) hires Musa Tariq as VP/Chief Brand Officer, effective 01/30/17. $F PR link.

Kroger(PBR20) promotes Jerry Clontz to President/Mid-Atlantic Division, effective 02/10/17, succeeds retiring Joe Fey. $KR PR link.

Microsoft(PBR31) names Kevin Scott to newly created role of Chief Technology Officer. $MSFT PR link.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR37) evaluating potential strategic options for its Diabetes Care Companies. $JNJ PR link.

DuPont(PBR82) merger with Dow Chemical(PBR48 $DOW) re-planned for 1H2017. $DD PR link.

Sprint(PBR86) hires Néstor Cano for newly created position of COO. $S PR link.

Kimberly-Clark(PBR141) plans to repurchase $800 million to $1 billion in shares in 2017. $KMB PR link.

Gap Inc(PBR179) Banana Republic Brand President Andi Owen to depart in late 02/17. $GPS PR link.

Texas Instruments(PBR220) promotes Brian Crutcher to COO. $TXN PR link.

Celanese(PBR369) General Counsel Gjon Nivica to leave during 1Q2017. $CE PR link.

Ciena Corp(PBR829) SVP/COO François Locoh-Donou to step down 03/23/17. $CIEN PR link.

MGIC Investment(PBR993) subsidiary Mortgage Guaranty Insurance Corp promotes James Hughes to EVP-Sales & Business Development and Salvatore Miosi to EVP-Business Strategy & Operations, 4 other VP promotions also named. $MTG PR link.

President Trump signs executive orders to proceed with the building of the Keystone and Dakota pipelines using US built materials. WhiteHouse PR link.

The Natl Assn of Realtors says December Existing Home Sales at a 5,490,000 annual rate, -2.8% from November, +0.7% from December 2015. NAR PR link.

Monday, January 23:

Ford(PBR10) to sell parts for Ford & non-Ford vehicle brands at Ford dealerships through new Omicraft service. $F PR link.

Kroger(PBR20) to fill 10,000 permanent positions in its family of stores in 2017, hired 12,000+ in 2016. $KR PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) to open first fulfillment center in Colorado, to be in Aurora, will have 1,000+ full-time employees. $AMZN PR link.

US District Court blocks Aetna(PBR49)’s acquisition of Humana(PBR58), says it would stifle competition. USDOJ PR link.

Sprint(PBR86) to acquire 33% stake in music artist Jay Z’s 42.5 million song catalog, 140,000 videos TIDAL artist content service. $S PR link.

JCPenney(PBR234) extends Stockholder Rights Plan for additional 3 years to protect $2.6 billion net operating loss carryforwards tax benefits. $JCP PR link.

Henry Schein(PBR270) enters S America animal healthcare market with 51% stake acquisition in Brazil based private 130 employees, 5,000 customers, $24 million/2016 animal health products distributor Tecnew. $HSIC PR link.

WestRock(PBR278) to sell Home, Health and Beauty business to Silgan(PBR576 $SLGN) for $1.025 billion. $WRK PR link.

Avis Budget(PBR316) adopts short-term stockholder rights plan while in discussions with 9.7% voting rights investor SRS Investment Management. $CAR PR link.

Yahoo!(PBR519) $4.83 billion cash acquisition by Verizon(PBR15) being moved from 1Q17 to 2Q17 because of integration issues. $YHOO PR link.

Liberty Media(PBR534) completes $8 billion acquisition of Formula 1. $LMCA PR link.

Endo Intl(PBR700) resolves certain patent issues with the FTC, no admission of wrongdoing, no monetary payments involved. $ENDP PR link.

AMC Entertainment(PBR728) to acquire Sweden based largest Northern Europe 7 country region theatre exhibitor Nordic Cinema Group for $929 million cash. $AMC PR link.

SunEdison(PBR782 $SUNEQ) spinoff TerraForm(NASDAQ: $TERP) gets Memorandum of Understanding outlining potential separate settlements of claims in connection with the SunEdison Chapter 11 bankruptcy case. $TERP PR link.

Edwards Lifesciences(PBR819) completes $340 million plus up to $350 million over 10 years acquisition of Israel based private Valtech Cardio. $EW PR link.

Lowe’s(PBR50) promotes Jocelyn Wong to Chief Marketing Officer, succeeds Marci Grebstein. $LOW PR link.

HCP(PBR834) hires Peter Scott as EVP/CFO, effective 02/13/17, succeeds Tom Herzog who is now CEO. $HCP PR link.

Minerals Tech(PBR949) hires Matthew Garth as SVP/Finance & Treasury, CFO. $MTX PR link.

Legg Mason(PBR709) Forecast: Global Economic Growth Will Be “Sturdy but Unspectacular,” Potentially Enhanced by U.S. Boost Under Trump Administration. $LM PR link.

Friday, January 20:

***Donald J Trump is inaugurated as the 45th President of the United States.***

The PBRMarketTools Week Ending 01/20/17 US Stock Exchanges Recap:
DJIA ends week at 19,827.25, -0.29% from last Friday, +0.33% MTD, QTD, & YTD, -0.74% from record 19,974.62 set 12/20/16.
NASDAQ ends week at 5,555.33, -0.34% from last Friday, +3.20% MTD, QTD, & YTD, -0.34% from record 5,574.12 set 01/13/17.
SPX ends week at 2,271.31, -0.15% from last Friday, +1.45% MTD, QTD, & YTD, -0.25% fromrecord 2,276.98 set 01/06/17.

Ford(PBR10) expects 2016 pension plans to be underfunded by $8.9 billion, OPEB by $5.9 billion. $F PR link.

AT&T(PBR12) to record $1 billion loss from annual remeasurement of pension & postemployment benefit plans; reports 900,000 branded net adds of domestic wireless subscribers. $T PR link.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR37) Ethicon Endo-Surgery unit acquires private electrosurgical tools developer Megadyne Medical Products, terms not disclosed. $JNJ PR link.

AIG(PBR46) to pay Berkshire Hathaway(PBR4 $BRKA) subsidiary National Indemnity Company $9.8 billion for reinsurance agreement. $AIG PR link.

Merck(PBR70) to pay $625 million plus continuing royalties to Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR185) and Ono Pharmaceutical to resolve PD-1 antibody Keytruda patent litigation. $BMY PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) says $1 billion lawsuit filed by Apple(PBR5) claiming monopolistic practices is baseless. $QCOM PR link.

PG&E(PBR172) submits $253 million 7 projects proposal to the California Public Utilities Commission to expand support for electric vehicles. $PCG PR link.

Air Products(PBR267) proposes to buy Hong Kong based Yingde Gases for $7.09/share, $13.4 billion. $APD PR link.

AutoZone(PBR290) to hire 12,000+ new part-time, full-time employees nationwide through April for its 5,300 stores. $AZO PR link.

Berry Plastics(PBR488) completes $765 million cash/stock acquisition of flexible plastic packaging films manufacturer AEP Industries(NASDAQ: $AEPI). $BERY PR link.

Carnival Corp(PBR184) Costa Group CEO Michael Thamm now also CEO of Carnival Asia. $CCL PR link.

Thursday, January 19:

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR185) to not accelerate regulatory pathway for the combination of Opdivo plus Yervoy in first-line lung cancer in the US. $BMY PR link.

FirstEnergy(PBR195) to sell 4 Pennsylvania natural gas generating plants & a portion of a Virginia hydroelectric power station to LS Power Equity Partners for $925 million cash. $FE PR link.

YUM!(PBR217 $YUM)’s Pizza Hut unit plans to fill 11,000 jobs in the US. MarketWatch PR link.

Allergan(PBR219) gets FDA approval of RHOFADE™ 1% cream for the topical treatment of persistent facial redness(Rosacea) in adults. $AGN PR link.

Western Union(PBR441) to pay federal government $582 million for misconduct of agents & 3rd parties from 2004 to 2012. Funds to be reimbursed to fraud victim consumers. $WU PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Denver based wholesale insurance broker Adco General Corporation, terms not disclosed. $AJG PR link.

CA Technologies(PBR550) completes around $640 million acquisition of Austria based 600 employees business automation software provider Automic. $CA PR link.

Chipotle(PBR561) selects agencies Venables Bell & Partners for advertising responsibilities and MullenLowe Mediahub for media planning & buying. $CMG PR link.

Total System(PBR790) renews long-term payments services agreement with BBVA Compass Bank. $TSS PR link.

Domino’s(PBR889) corporate locations throughout New York City to hire 200 new Team Members. $DPZ PR link.

Macerich(PBR957) sells Burlington, WA, and San Rafael, CA, malls for $170 million, nets $100 million. $MAC PR link.

Target(PBR40) promotes Rick Gomez to EVP/Chief Marketing Officer, effective 01/29/17. $TGT PR link.

PPG Industries(PBR190) promotes Vincent Morales to SVP/CFO, effective 03/01/17, succeeds retiring Frank Sklarsky. $PPG PR link.

HNI Corp(PBR841) SVP/CFO Kurt Tjaden appointed President/HNI International, retains SVP corporate title, succeeds retiring Marco Molinari; Marshall Bridges promoted to VP/CFO. $HNI PR link.

Allscripts(PBR944) hires Lisa Khorey as Chief Client Delivery Officer, Alan Fowles as President-International. $MDRX PR link.

Minerals Tech(PBR949) promotes Brett Argirakis to VP/GM Minteq International & member of executive team. $MTX PR link.

The US Dept of HUD estimates US December Private Housing Permits Issued Annual Rate at 1,210,000, -0.2% from November, +0.75% from December 2015. HUD PR link.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia says the January Philadelphia Manufacturing General Activity Index at 23.6, December was 19.7, January 2016 -5.3. PhillyFed PR link.

Wednesday, January 18:

GE(PBR9) gets >$1.4 billion in power generation orders with Iraq’s Ministry of Electricity. $GE PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) to open 9th fulfillment center in Texas, 6th in DFW metroplex; robotics site will employ 1,000+ full-time jobs. $AMZN PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) to open 3rd fulfillment center in Maryland, 1.2 million sf, will create 700 new full-time jobs. $AMZN PR link.

Mondelez(PBR87) selling Australian VEGEMITE & other iconic brands to Bega Cheese(ASX: BGA) for $361 million. $MDLZ PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR142) to acquire pain management for migraine developer CoLucid(NASD: CLCD) for $46.50/share, $960 million cash. $LLY PR link.

Netflix(PBR447) letter to shareholders says ended 2016 with 93.8 million subscribers, includes 19.0 million net additions, 7.05 million in 4Q16. $NFLX PR link.

Salesforce(PBR453) opens new Engineering & Innovation Hub in Bellevue, WA, to double workforce to 500. $CRM PR link.

Liberty Media(PBR534) gets Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile(FIA) approval for $8 billion acquisition of Formula 1, now expected to close by 01/31/17. $LMCA PR link.

KB Home(PBR802) recognized by EPA for building Its 100,000th ENERGY STAR® certified home. $KBH PR link.

La Quinta(PBR998) considering separating into two public companies, one being owned real estate assets. $LQ PR link.

Community Health Systems(PBR125) EVP/Secretary & General Counsel Rachel Seifert to retire at 1Q17 end. $CYH PR link.

SuperValue(PBR164) hires Anne Dament as SVP of Retail, Merchandising and Marketing. $SVU PR link.

Host Hotels(PBR455) promotes Nathan Tyrrell to EVP/Investments, Bret McLeod to SVP/Corporate Strategy & Investor Relations, SVP Sourav Ghosh to head new enterprise analytics group. $HST PR link.

NVIDIA(PBR510) hires Tim Teter as SVP/General Counsel & Company Secretary, succeeds retiring David Shannon. $NVDA PR link.

Brunswick(PBR584) hires Jaime Irick as President-Fitness Division, succeeds leaving Christopher Clawson. $BC PR link.

New York Times(PBR971) promotes David Perpich to President/General Manager of The Wirecutter. $NYT PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US December Consumer Price Index was +0.3% from November, +2.1% from December 2015. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor estimates US December Average Current Weekly Earnings at $891.80, +0.4% from November, +2.3% from December 2015. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve estimates US December Total Industry % of Capacity was 75.5%, +0.4% from December 2015. USFRB PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank Beige Book for data through 01/09/17 indicates continued modest economic growth, generally tightening of the job market. USFRB PR link.

ADP(PBR235) Workforce Vitality Index-4Q16 at 112.4(3Q13=100), indicates wages were +4.0% from 4Q15. $ADP PR link.

The Natl Assn of Homebuilders/Wells Fargo US January Housing Market Index at 67, December was 69, January 2015 61. NAHB PR link.

Commercial Real Estate Market: Jones Lang LaSalle(PBR449) says 2017 Commercial Real Estate Global Investment to reach $700 billion, was $650 billion in 2016. $JLL PR link.

Tuesday, January 17:

Walmart(PBR1) to open 59 US stores in 2017, will support 34,000 new retail & construction jobs, planning $6.8 billion of US capital investments. $WMT PR link.

ExxonMobil(PBR2) to acquire companies doubling Permian Basin resource to 6 billion barrels of oil, to be purchased with $5.6 billion in shares upfront. $XOM PR link.

McKesson(PBR6) agrees to $150 million settlement with US Dept of Justice & US Drug Enforcement Agency for suspicious controlled substances orders reporting dating back to 2009. $MCK PR link.

General Motors(PBR8) to add 7,000 US jobs, invest additional $1 billion in manufacturing facilities, move axle production from Mexico to the US. $GM PR link.

Morgan Stanley(PBR79)‘s 15,763 Wealth Managers annualized average was $1+ million in fees per rep in 4Q16. $MS PR link.

Qualcomm(PBR106) says FTC complaint of business practices in violation of competition law is based on flawed legal theory. $QCOM PR link.

Altria(PBR110) acquires N Carolina based private super-premium cigarettes & premium cigars manufacturer Sherman Group Holdings, terms not disclosed. $MO PR link.

JCPenney(PBR234) to open 500 sf Nike(PBR98 $NKE) brand shops in 600+ retail stores. $JCP PR link.

Huntsman Corp(PBR244) to spinoff Pigments & Additives business as Venator Materials Corp(NYSE: VNTR) in 2Q17, excludes Textile Effects business. $HUN PR link.

Henry Schein(PBR270) completes acquisition of majority interest in Brazil’s dental supplies/equipment distributor $145 million/year Dental Cremer. $HSIC PR link.

Biogen(PBR282) agrees to settlement & licensing agreement with Forward Pharma, to pay $1.25 billion cash, plus future royalties on muscular sclerosis therapy. $BIIB PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR314), Caesars Entertainment Operating Co get US Bankruptcy Court confirmation of CEOC’s Plan of Reorganization. $CZR PR link.

Reynolds American(PBR317) accepts $59.64/share, $49 billion cash/stock offer by British American Petroleum(BSE: BAT) to acquire 57.8% of stock it doesn’t own. $RAI PR link.

Liberty Media(PBR534) stockholders approve $8 billion acquisition of Formula 1 Racing, expected to close by end of 1Q17. $LMCA PR link.

FMC Technologies(PBR334) & France based Technip(EUROnext: TEC) complete $13 billion merger, now called TechnipFMC plc(NYSE: FTI), registered in England, headquarters in Houston, London, Paris. $FTI PR link.

Adobe Systems(PBR557) authorizes new up to $2.5 billion share repurchase program through end of FY 2019. $ADBE PR link.

Crown Castle(PBR603) completes $1.5 billion cash acquisition of NextEra Energy(PBR178)‘s fiber services provider FPL FiberNet. $CCI PR link.

Intl Flavors & Fragrances(PBR666) completes acquisition of $75 million/year private specialty fine fragances developer Fragrance Resources, terms not disclosed. $IFF PR link.

Werner(PBR862) celebrates 25,000th truck driving apprenticeship program veteran hire since partnership with US Dept of Labor & Dept of Veterans Affairs in 2006. $WERN PR link.

Revlon(PBR900) reorganizing into 4 brands structure, 5 regions, reorganizing corporate support functions. $REV PR link.

Lowe’s(PBR50) promotes Marshall Croom to CFO, succeeds retiring Robert Hull, Jr. $LOW PR link.

US Bancorp(PBR129) president/COO Andy Cecere to become CEO 04/18/17, succeeds Richard Davis who will be exedutive chairman. $USB PR link.

Mattel(PBR412) hires Margo Georgiadis as CEO, effective 02/08/17, succeeds Christopher Sinclair who will be executive chairman. $MAT PR link.

Zimmer Biomet(PBR512) promotes Rob Delp to President, Americas, succeeds retiring Stuart Kleopfer. $ZBH PR link.

Tiffany(PBR551) appoints Reed Krakoff to the newly created role of Chief Artistic Officer. $TIF PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank of New York says the January General Business Conditions Index at 6.5, -1.1 from December, +23.3 from January 2016. NYFed PR link.

Monday, January 16:
***US Stock Markets Closed.
***Federal Holiday: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Observed.

Noble Energy(PBR471) to acquire Clayton Williams Energy(NYSE: CWEI) for $2.7 billion cash/stock. Includes 71,000 net contiguous acres in the Delaware Basin & 100,000 acres in the Permian Basin. $NBL PR link.

The Andersons(PBR525) to exit retail business, affects 1,050 people in Ohio, 75% part-timers. $ANDE PR link.

Aerojet Rocketdyne(PBR969) delivers 2,500th PAC-3 CRI Missile(aka Patriot) and 500,000th PAC-3 ACM. $AJRD PR link.

CF Industries(PBR502) hires Martin Jarosick as VP/Investor Relations. $CF PR link.

Diebold Nixdorf(PBR676) hires Devora Henderson as VP Retail-Americas. $DBD PR link.

Friday, January 13:

The PBRMarketTools Week Ending 01/13/17 US Stock Exchanges Recap:
DJIA ends week at 19,885.73, -0.39% from last Friday, +0.62% MTD, QTD, & YTD, -0.45% from record 19,974.62 set 12/20/16.
NASDAQ ends week at 5,574.12, +0.96% from last Friday, +3.55% MTD, QTD, & YTD, +0.00% from record 5,574.12 set 01/13/17.
SPX ends week at 2,274.64, -0.10% from last Friday, +1.60% MTD, QTD, & YTD, -0.10% fromrecord 2,276.98 set 01/06/17.

Boeing(PBR27) gets order for up to 205 airplanes from low cost carrier SpiceJet. $BA PR link.

NextEra Energy(PBR173) Florida Power & Light unit completes installation of 3 74.5 MW solar power plants, 4 more planned for 2017. $NEE PR link.

BlackRock(PBR252) authorizes up to an additional 6 million share buyback program, balance is 9 million. $BLK PR link.

KKR(PBR332) to acquire Japan based power tool/life sciences equipment manufacturer Hitachi Koki through $1.28 billion tender offer. $KKR PR link.

Newell Brands(PBR434) completes $100 million acquisition of WoodWick Candle; to sell $70 million/year Rubbermaid consumer storage business to United Solutions; puts up for sale Pine Mountain fire starters & Diamond matches related units, which generate $87 million/year. $NWL PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires N Carolina based employee benefits consulting firm Hill, Chesson, & Woody. $AJM PR link.

Moody’s(PBR636) to pay $863.8 million in fines to US DOJ, 21 states, & DC to resolve civil claims related to credit ratings assigned during financial crisis era. $MCO PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) involuntarily separates 34 year employee Chief Growth Officer Peter Sachse, effective 01/30/17, includes $2.7 million lump sum payment, other benefits under Executive Severance Plan. $M PR link.

HollyFrontier(PBR140) promotes Richard Voliva III to EVP/CFO effective 03/01/17, Mark Plake to become president of Petro-Canada Lubricants business upon completion of acquisition. $HFC PR link.

Kellogg(PBR198) hires Fareed Khan as CFO, effective 02/17/17, succeeds retiring Ron Dissinger. $K PR link.

Host Hotels(PBR455) EVP Asset Management Minaz Abji to retire on 04/30/17. $HST PR link.

CNO Financial(PBR559) promotes Doug Williams to VP, Finance & Administration. $CNO PR link.

Cinemark(PBR739) promotes Phillip Couch to EVP/Food & Beverage. $CNK PR link.

Conn’s(PBR986) hires Coleman R Gaines as president/COO of Retail, Casey Chung VP of Logistics, & David Hutchinson VP of Service. $CONN PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US December Producer Price Index Total Demand was +0.3%, November was +0.4%, October +0.0%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US November Total Manufacturing, Retail, Wholesale Sales at $1.327 trillion, +0.12% from October, +2.28% from November 2015 USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce advance estimate of US December Retail Sales is $469.1 billion, +0.6% from November, +4.1% from December 2015. USDOC PR link.

Natl Retail Federation says US Holiday Sales were +4% over 2015, $658.3 billion, exceeded expectations, includes non-store sales. NRF PR link.

The University of Michigan preliminary US January Consumer Sentiment Index at 98.1, December was 98.2, November 93.8. UMich PR link.

International Trade: China Raises Anti-Dumping, Anti-Subsidy Taxes on U.S.-Made Animal Feed. Caixin Global PR link.

Thursday, January 12:

CVS Health(PBR11) announces lowest cash price Epineprine auto-injector now available, $109.99 for a 2 pack. $CVS PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) to create more than 100,000 new, full-time, full-benefit jobs across the U.S. over the next 18 months. $AMZN PR link.

Sears(PBR93 $SHLD) is ‘one sick puppy,’ and there may be no remedy. MarketWatch PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR142) gets US Court of Appeals favorable ruling on Alimta vitamin regimen patent. $LLY PR link.

PG&E(PBR172) to eliminate 8 officers positions, 390 support services jobs, 800 non-employee contractors, and not fill 500 non-critical positions in streamlining effort. $PCG PR link.

Hess(PBR248) announces Payara-1 new oil discovery offshore Guyana. $HES PR link.

Blackstone(PBR352) & 50/50 partner Sanchez Energy(NYSE: SN) to acquire 318,000 gross oil/gas acreage in Western Eagle Ford for $2.3 billion from Anadarko(PBR154 $APC). $BX PR link.

TeamHealth(PBR498) stockholders approve $43.50/share, $6.1 billion cash acquisition by funds affiliated with Blackstone(PBR352 $BX). $TMH PR link.

Zimmer Biomet(PBR512) to pay $30.5 million penalty to DOJ and SEC regarding previously disclosed legacy Biomet FCPA matters. $ZBH PR link.

WPX Energy(PBR619) to add to Permian & Delaware oil/gas assets with $775 million cash buy of 19,000 net acres. $WPX PR link.

Tesla(PBR651) describes new national supercharging network plan. $TSLA PR link.

Cincinnati Bell(PBR1027) adding 300+ local call center agents. $CBB PR link.

Marathon Petroleum(PBR23) hires Dave Sauber as VP of Human Resources and Labor Relations, effective 02/01/17. $MPC PR link.

Salesforce(PBR453) hires Monica Langley as EVP/Global Strategic Affairs. $CRM PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) promotes Jim Durkin, Jr, from president to chairman, employee benefits division, Bill Ziebell becomes president. $AJM PR link.

Universal Corp(PBR833) CFO David Moore taking temporary medical leave of absence, other executive officers to cover position. $UVV PR link.

Brown & Brown(PBR972) promotes Julie Ryan to Chief People Officer. $BRO PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says US Government December Receipts YTD(3 months) at $740.8 billion, Outlays $949.1 billion, Deficit $208.4 billion. Treasury PR link.

The US Dept of Labor estimates US December Year-over-Year Import Prices were +1.8%, Exports +1.1%. USDOL PR link.

Wednesday, January 11:

Amazon(PBR29) and JPMorgan Chase(PBR21 $JPM) introduce new Prime Rewards Visa Card with 5% back on all Amazon.com purchases and rewards everywhere else you shop. $AMZN PR link.

Walgreens Boots Alliance(PBR36 $WBA) to offer FedEx(PBR65 $FDX) dropoff and pickup at Walgreens locations nationwide. MarketWatch PR link.

Penske Automotive(PBR170) completes acquisition 5 l ofocations $350 million/year Pennsylvania based used vehicles retailer CarSense. $PAG PR link.

JM Smucker(PBR437) announces 6% average increases on Folger’s, Dunkin Donuts, Cafe Bustelo retail coffee brands. $SJM PR link.

Carnival Corp(PBR184)’s Cruise Lines unit hires Sean Kenny as SVP/Chief Information Officer, reports to CFO James Heaney. $CCL PR link.

Viacom(PBR212) promotes David Lynn to president/CEO of Viacom International Media Networks. $VIA PR link.

KKR Outlook for 2017: Paradigm Shift. $KKR PR link.

Tuesday, January 10:

General Motors(PBR8) adds $5 billion to share repurchase program, balance is $14 billion, no expiration date. $GM PR link.

Archer-Daniels-Midland(PBR34) to acquire Kansas based 5 facilities 300 employees pet food producer Crosswind Industries. $ADM PR link.

Kellogg(PBR198) to launch 50+ new products across morning foods, snacks, and frozen items. $K PR link.

Visteon(PBR351) announces new up to $400 million share repurchase authorization through 03/18. $VC PR link.

Dana(PBR382) to provide Navistar(PBR258) driveline components in multi-year commercial sales agreement. $DAN PR link.

Coty(PBR524) to acquire 60% stake for $600 million in online peer-to-peer social selling platform in beauty provider Younique. $COTY PR link.

Chipotle(PBR561) authorizes additional $100 million for share repurchase program, current remaining authorization is $200 million. $CMG PR link.

Werner(PBR862) celebrates 35,000th truck driver apprenticeship program enrollee. $WERN PR link.

Teleflex(PBR923) receives FDA 510(k) clearance for its Arrow® VPS Rhythm™ Device with Optional TipTracker™ Technology. $TFX PR link.

Dun & Bradstreet(PBR957) acquires $60 million/2016 OneSource maker Avention for $150 million. $DNBPR link.

The US Dept of Labor says US November New Hires at 5.219 million, +1.1% from October, -0.7% from November 2015. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US November Wholesale Sales at $452.6 billion, +0.4% from October, +3.4% from November 2015. USDOC PR link.

US EIA estimates 2017 WTI oil price/barrel to average $52.50, 2018 $55.18, 2016 was $43.33. EIA PR link.

PurdueU/CME US Dec Ag Barometer at 132, Nov was 116, Oct 92. PurdueU/CME PR link.

FannieMae(PBR17) says US December Home Purchase Sentiment Index at 80.7, November was 81.2, December 2015 83.2. $FNMA PR link.

CoreLogic estimates US November Housing in Serious Delinquency at 1,004,000, -2.3% from October, -22.0% from November 2015. CoreLogic PR link.

Monday, January 9:

UnitedHealthGrp(PBR14) Optum unit to acquire Surgical Care Affiliates(NASDAQ: SCAI) for $57.00/share, $2.3 billion. $UNH PR link.

Cardinal Health(PBR26) agrees to pay $20 million to W Virginia in distribution of controlled substances lawsuit. $CAH PR link.

McDonald’s(PBR101) selling China/Hong Kong 20 year master franchise rights to CITIC Ltd, CITIC Capital, Carlyle Group(PBR581), McDonald’s partnership for up to $2.08 billion. $MCD PR link.

Southern Co(PBR155) Power subsidiary acquires 276 MW 120 wind turbines Texas based Bethel Wind Energy Center from Invenergy Services. $SO PR link.

Entergy(PBR227), NY State agree to close 1,000 employee Indian Point Energy Center in 2020-2021 for economic reasons. $ETR PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) to acquire Cold-EEZE® brand to further expand OTC business. $MYL PR link.

Williams Cos(PBR348) to convert economic general partner interest in Williams Partners(NYSE: WPZ) into 289 million non-economic units in $11.4 billion transaction, will then have 660 million common units, 72% of total outstanding. $WMB PR link.

Noble Energy(PBR471) completes $300 million acquisition of 7,200 net acres in the Reeves Cty, TX, S Delaware Basin. $NBL PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Maryland based national construction industry retail insurance broker Construction Risk Solutions. $AJG PR link.

Yahoo!(PBR519) at close of sale to Verizon(PBR15) to become Altaba, be an investment company. $YHOO PR link.

Beacon Roofing(PBR818) acquires NE region insulation distributor Eco Insulation Supply of Stamford, CT. $BECN PR link.

ResMed(PBR977) gets FDA approval for world’s smallest CPAP machine, the AirMini, to be launched later in 2017. $RMD PR link.

American Airlines(PBR69) promotes VP/Flight Service Hector Adler to SVP/Product & Service Delivery, being succeeded by Jill Surdek. $AAL PR link.

WellCare Health Plans(PBR221) hires Tim Trodden as SVP/Chief Human Resources Officer. $WCG PR link.

Rent A Center(PBR657) CEO Robert Davis resigns, chairman/founder/former CEO Mark Speese named interim CEO. $RCII PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank estimates US November Consumer Credit Outstanding at $3.750 trillion, +0.7% from October, +6.1% YTD. FRB PR link.

FannieMae(PBR17) says US December Home Purchase Sentiment Index® (HPSI) at 80.7, -0.5 from November. $FNMA PR link.

Friday, January 6:

The PBRMarketTools Week Ending 01/06/17 US Stock Exchanges Recap:
DJIA ends week at 19,963.80, +1.02% from last Friday, MTD, QTD, & YTD, -0.05% from record 19,974.62 on 12/20/16.
NASDAQ ends week at 5,521.06, +2.56% from last Friday, MTD, QTD, & YTD, +0.00% from record 5,521.06 on 01/06/17.
SPX ends week at 2,276.98, +1.70% from last Friday, MTD, QTD, & YTD, +0.00% from record 2,276.98 on 01/06/17.

Apple(PBR5 $AAPL) cuts CEO Tim Cook’s 2016 pay to $8.75 million from 2015’s $10.28 million, missed targeted revenue by 3.7%. MarketWatch PR link.

Penske Automotive(PBR170) to acquire UK’s 5 locations $340 million/year used vehicles retailer CarShop. $PAG PR link.

Pilgrim’s Pride(PBR310) completes $350 million cash acquisition of Upper Midwest premium branded chicken products GNP Company. $PPC PR link.

Insight(PBR460) completes $258 million acquisition of $771 million/year 570 employee IT services firm DataLink(NASDAQ: DTLK). $NSIT PR link.

Citrix(PBR658) GoTo business spinoff scheduled for 01/20/18, its merger with LogMein(NASDAQ: LOGM) on 01/31/17 in $65.31/share, $1.8 billion deal. $CTXS PR link.

Alexion Pharmaceutical(PBR840) gets FDA grant of Orphan Drug Designation for ALXN1210 for treatment of ultra rare blood disorder Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH). $ALXN PR link.

The US Dept of Labor estimates US December Employment at 152.1 million, +0.04% from November, +1.4% from December 2015, Unemployment Rate 4.7% USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US December Factory New Orders at $458.4 billion, -2.4% from November, -0.3% from December 2015. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US Total Exports Through November(11 months) at $2.022 trillion, Imports $2.476 trillion, Deficit $454 billion. USDOC PR link.

Thursday, January 5:

The PBR1000 December Snapshot 12
Top 5 Stock Price Gainers in 2016 Summary:

1. Cliffs Natural Resources(PBR830), $CLF +432%
2. AK Steel(PBR353), $AKS, +356%
3. US Steel(PBR229), $X, +314%
4. AMD(PBR533), $AMD, +295%
5. Navistar(PBR264), $NAV, +255%

Range: +432% to -80%
Companies >+0%: 730/1,000
Average: +12.1%
Median: +14.3%

Get the full Snapshot 12 list with more details and the 14 other analytical snapshots with a 2 month or significantly reduced annual The PBR1000 subscription today! Subscribe link.

Apple(PBR5) AppStore developers earned $20+ billion in 2016, +40% from 2015. $AAPL PR link.

T-Mobile(PBR95) has 8.2 million net adds in 2016, has 71.5 million subscribers at end of 2016. $TMUS PR link.

Amgen(PBR135) gets permanent injunction by courts against Sanofi & Regeneron(PBR708 $REGN) for cardiovascular disease therapy Repatha patent infringement, may be appealed. $AMGN PR link.

Stanley Black & Decker(PBR249) to acquire Craftsman Tools from Sears Holdings(PBR93 $SHLD) for $775 million plus ongoing royalties. $SWK PR link.

Iron Mountain(PBR663) acquires controlling interest in Dubai based 4 facilities records/information management company Endless DSS. $IRM PR link.

Gartner(PBR885) to acquire talent management insights provider CEB(NYSE: CEB) for $77.25/share, $2.6 billion stock/cash. $IT PR link.

Cenveo(PBR899) now in full compliance with NYSE listing standards, taken off watch list. $CVO PR link.

Staples(PBR122) hires Jeff Hall to newly created role of Chief Administration Officer and Vice Chairman. $SPLS PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR142) president/CEO is now David Ricks, Christi Shaw hired as SVP/Bio-Medicines effective 04/03/17, organizational changes made. $LLY PR link.

Viacom(PBR212) names Sarah Levy COO of its Global Entertainment Group. $VIA PR link.

Davita Healthcare(PBR302) hires Joel Ackerman as CFO effective 03/01/17. $DVA PR link.

Dollar Tree(PBR309) promotes Gary Philbin to Enterprise President; Duncan Mac Naughton hired as president/COO of Family Dollar unit, reports to Philbin. $DLTR PR link.

Fifth Third Bancorp(PBR387) hires Jelena Williams as Chief Legal Officer/Corporate Secretary. $FITB PR link.

General Cable(PBR418) hires Juan Picon as SVP & president/North America. $BGC PR link.

Calumet Specialty(PBR431) hires D. West Griffin as EVP/CFO. $CLMT PR link.

Graphic Packaging(PBR553) promotes Joe Yost to SVP & president/Americas. $GPK PR link.

ITT Corp(PBR735) promotes Luca Savi to new COO role; Industrial Process president Aris Chicles leaving. $ITT PR link.

Zions Bancorp(PBR813) promotes Terry Shirey to president/CEO of Nevada State Bank, Dallas Haun remains chairman. $ZION PR link.

Griffon Corp(PBR890) promotes Mike Sarrica to SVP/Operations, Mark Traylor succeeds Sarrica as president/The AMES Co. $GFF PR link.

Markit US December Composite PMI at 54.1, November was 54.9, October 54.9. Markit PR link.

ISM US December NMI Index at 57.2%, November also 57.2%, December 2015 55.8%. ISM PR link.

ADP estimates US December Non-Farm Employment Services Jobs +169,000 from November, Manufacturing -16,000, 153,000 net gain. $ADP PR link.

Wednesday, January 4:

Apple(PBR5) to invest $1 billion in Softbank Vision Fund. MarketWatch PR link.

Ford(PBR10) leads US automakers with sales of 2,614,697 vehicles sold in 2016, best in 10 years. $F PR link.

AT&T(PBR12) announces 5G Evolution plans for 2017, includes 1Gbps speeds. $T PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) delivered record 2+ billion items for sellers worldwide in 2016. $AMZN PR link.

Amazon(PBR29) opening 2nd Jacksonville, FL, fulfillment center, to add 1,000+ full time jobs. $AMZN PR link.

Alphabet(PBR44 $GOOGL) Google unit being sued by US Dept of Labor for refusing to provide requested compensation data. USDOL PR link.

Sears Holdings(PBR93) obtains $500 million loan facility, $321 million secured by 46 real properties. $SHLD PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) to close 68 of its 730 stores, eliminate 6,200 positions in 2017 in streamlining/efficiency effort. $M PR link.

Abbott Labs(PBR134) completes $25 billion cash/stock acquisition of cardiovascular medical devices developer St Jude Medical(PBR440 $STJ). $ABT PR link.

AutoNation(PBR148) holding 1 day hiring event on 01/10/17 in 15 cities, new hires start 01/23/17. $AN PR link.

Assurant(PBR268) to acquire housing protection products provider Green Tree Insurance for $125 million plus up to $25 million earn out. $AIZ PR link.

Blackstone(PBR352) to acquire only US based leading music rights organization SESAC. $BX PR link.

Terex(PBR357) completes $1.9 billion sale of Material Handling and Port Solutions Business to Finland based Konecranes. $TEX PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Chicago-based HR/benefits technology solutions provider Gruppo Marcucci. $AJG PR link.

Tesla(PBR651) & Panasonic begin mass production of lithium-ion batteries at Reno, NV, Gigafactory. $TSLA PR link.

Iron Mountain(PBR663) Crozier Fine Arts unit acquires arts/antiques storage provider Cirkers Williamsburg. $IRM PR link.

CME Group(PBR664) reached record average daily volume of 15.6 million contracts in 2016, up 12% from 2015. $CME PR link.

Albemarle(PBR792) receives final approval to expand lithium operations in Chile, 27 year agreement. $ALB PR link.

ResMed(PBR977) reaches historic one billionth night of sleep monitored. $RMD PR link.

Weight Watchers(PBR988) ranked #1 in four best diet categories by U.S. News & World Report. $WTW PR link.

TDS(PBR482) hires Dr. Daniel DeWitt as SVP/Human Resources effective 01/23/17, succeeds retiring Ted Herbert. $TDS PR link.

Coach(PBR496) hires Kevin Wills as CFO no later than 03/17. $COH PR link.

T Rowe Price(PBR570) CFO Kenneth Moreland to retire In 2017. $TROW PR link.

Hologic(PBR767) names Jan Verstreken as Regional President for Europe/EMEA/Canada. $HOLX PR link.

SeaWorld(PBR1013) hires Denise Godreau as Chief Marketing Officer. $SEAS PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Board releases FOMC minutes from 12/13-14/16 meeting, continued modest/moderate economic growth FRB PR link.

The Conference Board says US December New Help Wanted Online Jobs were 2.171 million, +2.5% from November, -9.7% from December 2015. TCB PR link.

Automotive News says US December New Auto Sales at 1,688,368, +22.5% from November, +3.0% from December 2015, Annual Rate at 18.38 million. Automotive News PR link.

Tuesday, January 3:

The PBR1000 December Snapshot 11
Top 5 Stock Price Gainers Summary:

1. Fred’s(PBR800), $Fred, +86%
2. Pier 1 Imports(PBR847), $PIR, +53%
3. Tailored Brands(PBR580), $TLRD, +36%
4. Bristow Group(PBR887), $BRS, +31%
5. Alliance One Intl(PBR843), $AOI, +30%

Range: +86% to -85%
Companies >+0%: 609/1,000
Average: +0.9%
Median: +1.35%

Get the full Snapshot 11 list with more details and the 14 other analytical snapshots with a 2 month or significantly reduced annual The PBR1000 subscription today! Subscribe link.

Ford(PBR10) adding electrified F-150, Mustang, Transit by 2020; Expanded US plant to add 700 jobs to make electrified vehicles, autonomous cars; cancels $1.6 billion Mexico plant investment. $F PR link.

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

Intel(PBR51) to acquire 15% ownership of Netherlands based digital mapping for luxury brand autonomous vehicles/IoT services provider HERE. $INTC PR link.

Community Health Systems(PBR125) completes $128 million sale of majority interest in Home Health division to Almost Family((NASDAQ: AFAM). $CYH PR link.

Eli Lilly(PBR142) Elanco Animal Health unit completes $885 million acquisition of Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica‘s US feline, canine and rabies vaccines portfolio. $LLY PR link.

Xerox(PBR144) completes separation of independent public business process outsourcing firm Conduent, now focused on digital print technology. $XRX PR link.

Icahn Enterprises(PBR147) increases tender offer for Federal-Mogul from $9.25/share to $10.00/share, expires 01/17/17. $IEP PR link.

Allergan(PBR219) gets FDA approval of NATRELLE INSPIRA® SoftTouch Breast Implants. $AGN PR link.

JCPenney(PBR234) sells 45 acre Plano, TX, home office campus for $353 million, will lease back 65% of the office building. $JCP PR link.

Air Products(PBR267) completes $3.8 billion Performance Materials Division sale to Germany based Evonik. $APD PR link.

Blackstone(PBR352) to acquire largest US outsourced skilled craftsman workforce provider, Tradesmen International, from Wellspring Capital Management. $BX PR link.

Ingredion(PBR415) completes $400 million acquisition of TIC Gums. $INGR PR link.

Alliance Data(PBR462) authorizes up to $500 million new share repurchase program for 2017. $ADS PR link.

Arthur J. Gallagher(PBR515) acquires Brisbane, Australia, financial services advisory firm Complete Financial Balance Pty Ltd. $AJG PR link.

Brunswick(PBR584)’s Mercury Marine announces exclusive Southeast Asia distribution agreement with Singapore based Supratechnic. $BC PR link.

H&R Block(PBR669) opens 10,000 offices nationwide for tax season. $HRB PR link.

Hologic(PBR767) gets FDA PMA approval for Aptima® HIV-1 Quant Assay. $HOLX PR link.

Albemarle(PBR792) completes $145 million acquisition of lithium salts production assets in China. $ALB PR link.

Southwest Gas(PBR867) completes holding company reorganization, now Southwest Gas Holdings, Inc, stock symbol stays SWX. $SWX PR link.

American Axle & Mfg(PBR602) promotes Donald E. Wright to VP/CIO. $AXL PR link.

Welltower(PBR635) extends CEO contract through 04/20, announces new organization structure, eliminates investment officer & COO positions. $HCN PR link.

HCP(PBR834) promotes CFO Tom Herzog to CEO, Justin Hutchens to president, CFO search starts. $HCP PR link.

IDEX(PBR861) promotes William Grogan to CFO. $IEX PR link.

hhgregg(PBR864) hires Aaron Trahan as Chief Merchandising Officer. $HGG PR link.

On Assignment(PBR918) promotes Ted Hanson to President. $ASGN PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce estimates US November Construction Spending Annual Rate at $1.182 trillion, +0.9% from October, +5.8% from November 2015. USDOC PR link.

Markit US December Final PMI at 54.3, November was 54.1, October 53.4. Markit PR link.

ISM US December PMI Index at 54.7%, November was 53.2%, October 51.9%. ISM PR link.

Monday, January 2:
***US Stock Markets Closed.
***Federal Holiday: New Year’s Day Observed.

Sunday, January 1:
***Happy New Year!***

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

(Photo courtesy of Stuart Miles, FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

Copyright © 2017 by Pax Business Resources, LLC, Tucson, AZ, USA, All Rights Reserved.

Filed Under: Recaps Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The PBR1000 December 2016 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots

January 16, 2017 by

December 2016: Ending On A High Note, Now What?

 

Welcome to 2017! What it means today is a little uncertain!

Welcome to 2017! What it means today as we take it on is a little uncertain. Let’s do our best!

 

By Larry C. Paxton

The Trump Bump continued its rise throughout December, expressing the relief of the end of a rather bizarre US Presidential campaign with the election being decided by the Electoral College. But hopefully it also reflected the hope and optimism that there will be positive changes in the new government.

All 3 major US stock exchanges hit record highs in December. The DJIA almost hit the 20,000 mark, but in the last 3 trading days all major US stock exchanges backed down by 1% or more to finish a year that ended up much higher than predicted at the beginning of 2016.

2016 ended on a high note but there is much confusion about what direction stocks and commodities will take in 2017. Trading can be expected to be volatile as the Trump administration gets settled in, the world gets used to a much different American style of dealing with important issues, and new policies start to be(or not to be) implemented. These actions will be further impacted by unpredictable international influences like energy production and prices, Brexit, regional wars, acts of terrorism, natural disasters, and innovative new technologies, to name just a few in no particular order.  We start 2017 anticipating an interesting ride into the unknown that will carry risks and some intended and unintended consequences from decisions made and actions taken, but also will provide some significant opportunities for alert leaders and investors. We wish you the best and look forward to The PBR1000 contributing to your success in 2017!

Here are some December summaries on the US stock exchanges:

Number of Trading Days: 21

Number of Gain(+)/Loss(-) Days: DJIA 13+, 8-; NASDAQ 12+, 9-; SPX 12+, 9-.

Record Days: DJIA 9, NASDAQ 5, SPX 2

Gain Streaks(Consecutive Days): DJIA 7, NASDAQ 6, SPX 6

Loss Streaks(Consecutive Days): DJIA 3, NASDAQ 3, SPX 3

Big Swing Up Days(>1.00%): 12/07/16(DJIA, NASDAQ, SPX)

Big Swing Down Days(<-1.00%): 12/01/16(NASDAQ)

The following are Top 5 partial tables excerpts from The PBR1000 December Snapshots. The stock price is for the close of trading on December 30th, Month % Chg is compared to November 30th, YTD % Chg is compared to December 31, 2015, and the 24 Months % Chg is compared to December 31, 2014.

To get the complete The PBR1000 Snapshots  just click here to get your 2 month or significantly discounted 13 month subscription and automatically download the December 2016 edition with the complete 15 Snapshots.

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

Table 1 Summary: The range was +86% to -85%. 609 out of 1,000 stock prices were up 0.00% or more. The average was a gain of 0.9%, the median was a gain of 1.35%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
12/30/16		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 24 Mos
% Chg
Fred’s
 800 FRED 18.56 +86 +13 +7
Pier 1 Imports
 847 PIR 8.54 +53 +68 -45
Tailored Brands
 580 TLRD 25.55 +36 +74 -42
Bristow Group
 887 BRS 20.48 +31 -21 -69
Alliance One Intl
 843 AOI 19.20 +30 +67 +22

 

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

Table 2 Summary: The range was +432% to -80%. 730 out of 1,000 stock prices were up 0.00% or more. The average was a gain of 12.1%. The median was a gain of 14.3%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
12/30/16		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 24 Mos
% Chg
Cliffs Natural Resources
 830 CLF 8.41 -5 +432 +18
AK Steel
 353 AKS 10.21 +12 +356 +72
US Steel
 229 X 33.01 +2 +314 +23
AMD
 533 AMD 11.34 +27 +295 +325
Navistar
 264 NAV 31.37 +2 +255 -6

 

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

Table 3 Summary: Range was +432% to -90%. 574 out of 1,000 stock prices were up 0.00% or more. The average was a gain of 6.2%. The median was a gain of 6.4%.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Price
12/30/16		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 24 Mos
% Chg
NVIDIA
 452 NVDA 106.74 +16 +224 +432
AMD 533 AMD 11.34 +27 +295 +325
SkyWest 634 SKYW
 36.45 -1 +92 +174
McDermott Intl
 635 MDR 7.39 +7 +121 +154
Netflix
 350 NFLX 123.80 +6 +8 +154

 

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

Table 4 Summary: Range was $617.59 billion to $0.00 billion. The average is $21.77 billion, median is $6.92 billion, out of 1,000 companies tracked.

Company PBR
Rank		 Symbol Market Cap($B)
12/30/16		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 24 Mos
% Chg
Apple
 3 AAPL 617.59 +4.8 +5.2 -4.6
Alphabet
 34 GOOG 531.97 +1.8 +1.9 +49.0
Microsoft
 31 MSFT 483.16 +3.1 +9.0 +26.2
Berkshire Hathaway
 4 BRK 402.11 +3.4 +23.5 +11.2
ExxonMobil 2 XOM 374.28 +3.4 +15.3 -4.4
The PBR1000
   21,773.35 +1.8 +8.6 +6.5

 

Table 5: The PBR1000 Index & Selected Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company Price
12/30/16		 Mo
% Chg		 YTD
% Chg		 24 Mos
% Chg
The PBR1000 73,918.58 +0.9 +12.1 +6.2
DJIA 19,762.60 +3.3 +13.4 +10.9
NASDAQ 5,383.12 +1.1 +7.5 +13.7
S&P500 2,238.83 +1.8 +9.5 +8.7
GOLD 1,151.70 -1.9 +8.6 -2.8
SILVER 15.99 -3.0 +15.9 +2.5
OIL 53.72 +8.7 +45.0 +0.8

 

Have questions on The PBR1000 or The PBR US Economic Indices Monthly Snapshots? Please contact us at Sales@PBRMarketTools.com or call us in the US at 520-282-4100.

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

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

(Photo made available by FreeDigitalPhotos.net, Idea go.)

Copyright © 2017 by Pax Business Resources, LLC, Tucson, AZ, USA, All Rights Reserved.

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