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The PBR1000 July 2015 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots

August 19, 2015 by admin

ID-100235617 Stock Market Chart-cooldesign

What Trends Will the Graph Show
at the End of August?

By Larry C. Paxton

The PBR1000 July 2015 Snapshots include news and stocks data on 1,059 companies in 15 analytical reports.

Current The PBR1000 Subscribers should have already received the MS Excel workbook. If you are not a current Subscriber just click here to get your 13 month subscription and automatically download the July edition of The PBR1000 Snapshots.

Many of you have suggested we include a table on Market Capitalization. PBRMarketTools.com has moved some tables around and made Table 4 that summary. For The PBR1000 Subscribers it is a summary of Report 15.

The second half of 2015 started out with the markets climbing to near record highs by mid-month, but then a retreat. There is still mixed news on the US economy, uncertain and unresolved world events, and the marathon US Presidential Race is starting to gain momentum. Are we looking forward to all those political ads over the next 15 months?

In the following tables the stock price is for the close of trading on July 31st, Month % Chg is compared to June 30th, YTD % Chg is compared to December 31, 2014, and the 19 Mos % Chg is compared to December 31, 2013.

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

Table 1 Summary: The range was +59.70% to -61.70%. 538 out of 1,057 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 50.90% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of 0.16%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 07/31/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	19 Mos % Chg
Apollo Global Management	902	APO	20.57	+59.70	-39.70	-34.93
StanCorp Financial	718	SFG	114.02	+50.80	+63.21	+72.11
YRC Worldwide	469	YRCW	19.30	+48.69	-14.18	+11.11
Education Management	829	EDMC	0.09	+41.67	-48.48	-99.16
Skechers USA	805	SKX	150.45	+37.03	+172.31	+354.12

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

Table 2 Summary: The range was +172.31% to -89.88%. 517 out of 1,057 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 48.91% of the companies tracked. The median was a loss of 0.50%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 07/31/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	19 Mos % Chg
Skechers USA	805	SKX	150.45	+37.03	+172.31	+354.12
Netflix	444	NFLX	114.31	+21.80	+134.24	+117.32
Conn’s	983	CONN	34.52	-13.05	+84.70	-56.13
Pinnacle Entertainment	842	PNK	38.50	+3.27	+73.03	+48.13
Amazon.com	29	AMZN	536.15	+23.51	+72.76	+34.44

Table 3: The PBR1000 Top 5 19 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: Range was +354.12% to -99.16%. 634 out of 1,051 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 60.32% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of 8.35%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 07/31/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	19 Mos % Chg
Skechers USA	805	SKX	150.45	+37.03	+172.31	+354.12
Electronic Arts	525	EA	71.55	+7.59	+52.19	+211.90
JetBlue Airways	427	JBLU	22.98	+10.69	+44.89	+169.09
Freescale Semiconductor	511	FSL	39.87	-0.25	+58.03	+148.41
Centene	175	CNC	70.13	-12.77	+35.05	+137.89

Table 4: The PBR1000 Top 5 Market Capitalization

Table 4 Summary: Range was $691.74 billion to $0.01 billion. The average is $20.25 billion, median is $6.39 billion, out of 1,059 companies tracked.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Market Cap($B) 07/31/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	19 Mos % Chg
Apple	5	AAPL	691.74	-4.27	+6.85	+37.03
Google	44	GOOGL	428.88	+20.74	+20.10	+14.55
Microsoft	31	MSFT	374.86	+4.96	-2.10	+20.03
Berkshire Hathaway	4	BRK.A	351.79	+4.52	-2.71	+20.06
ExxonMobil	2	XOM	331.19	-4.79	-15.40	-25.09
The PBR1000			21,445.44	+1.91	+2.35	+11.67

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

Company	Price 07/31/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	19 Mos % Chg
The PBR1000	74,508.52	+0.90	+1.61	+12.51
DJIA	17,689.86	+0.40	-0.75	+6.72
NASDAQ	5,128.28	+2.84	+8.28	+22.79
S&P500	2,103.84	+2.11	+2.18	+13.82
Gold	1,095.00	-6.66	-7.59	-8.92
Silver	14.76	-5.75	-5.38	-23.80
Oil	46.77	-20.28	-12.20	-48.72

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

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

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

(Photo made available through freedigitalphotos.net, cooldesign.)

Filed Under: Snapshots Tagged With: Commodities, DJIA, Economy, Investing, Money, NASDAQ, Personal Finance, S&P 500, Stock Market, Stocks, The PBR1000, Trading

The PBR1000 July 2015 Breaking News Recap

August 3, 2015 by admin

ID-100335902 Business Word Head-Sujin Jetkasettakorn

As A Business Leader There Is A Lot To Think About.

By Larry C. Paxton

The PBR1000 in July 2015 had a lot of highlights in several areas.

Most of the mega deals involved the continuing consolidation of health related businesses. There were also some long awaited completion of deals like AT&T/DirecTV and Dollar Tree/Family Dollar.

More spinoffs occurred or were announced, with PayPal getting most of the press.

The US economy is still regarded as somewhat fragile but showing modest growth, enough to keep everyone guessing when the Federal Reserve will increase interest rates.

World issues had an affect as well. The stock markets displayed volatility based on the still unresolved Greece debt issues, the slowdown of the China economy and the dramatic downward dip in its markets towards the end of the month. Nevertheless, all US stock markets showed good increases over June with the NASDAQ hitting new highs. Other issues that didn’t seem to have a direct effect, but could have a longer range impact include the nuclear weapons negotiations with Iran, and the battles against extremist warring organizations like ISIL in the Middle East.

August has a history of volatility, let’s see if that’s true again in 2015.

Following are The PBR1000 and economic related news items of note for July 2015, starting with the last active day.

Friday, July 31:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 17,689.86, +0.69% from last Friday, +0.40% MTD/QTD, -.75% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,128.28, +0.78% from last Friday, +2.84% MTD/QTD, +8.28% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,103.84, +1.16% from last Friday, +1.97% MTD/QTD, +2.18% YTD.

UPS(PBR47) to acquire truckload freight brokerage company Coyote Logistics for $1.8 billion. $UPS PR link.

Jarden(PBR324) completes $1.35 billion acquisition of disposable tableware manufacturer The Waddington Group from private equity firm Olympus Partners. $JAH PR link.

Berry Plastics(PBR488) to acquire specialty materials provider AVINTIV from Blackstone Group(PBR352) for $2.45 billion cash. $BERY PR link.

Yahoo!(PBR519) to acquire social shopping site Polyvore, terms not disclosed. $YHOO PR link.

Penn National Gaming(PBR750) to acquire Illinois 1,100 video gaming terminals operator Prairie State Gaming. $PENN PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the 2nd Quarter Employment Cost Index decelerated sharply to 0.2% from the 1st Quarter. MarketWatch article link.

Thursday, July 30:
MasterCard(PBR291) extends partnership with Samsung to deliver Samsung Pay in Europe. $MA PR link.

Intl Flavors & Fragrances(PBR666) completes $311 million acquisition of Lucas Meyer Cosmetics. $IFF PR link.

Ventas(PBR671) to spinoff of most of its post-acute/skilled nursing facility portfolio as an independent publicly held REIT called Care Capital Properties, NYSE: CCP, after 08/17/15. $VTR PR link.

Kroger(PBR20) 1st female corporate executive Group VP for Corporate Affairs Lynn Marmer retiring in early 2016. $KR PR link.

Raytheon(PBR118) promotes Wesley Kremer as President, Integrated Defense Systems. $RTN PR link.

Diebold(PBR676) EVP/COO George Mayes, Jr, leaving, position to be eliminated in streamlining effort. $DBD PR link.

Avista Corp(PBR990) announces 3 changes to its officer team in finance, strategy, & development. $AVA PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says that the 2nd Quarter Advance GDP estimate is at a 2.3%, $17.840 trillion, annual rate. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says for the week ending 07/18/15 the Total Insured Unemployment was at 2.266,000, 4 week moving average at 2,255,250. USDOL PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR41) says on 07/30/15 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rate averaged 3.98% with 0.6 points/fees. $FMCC PR link.

Wednesday, July 29:
Mylan(PBR346) receives unconditional clearance by European Commission for purchase of Perrigo(PBR565). $MYL PR link.

Apollo Education Group(PBR681) files notice disclosing an FTC civil investigation on business practices. MarketWatch article link.

Cytec(PBR887) to be merged into Brussels based global chemical company Solvay for $75.25/share, $5.5 billion. $CYT PR link.

Manitowoc(PBR579) hires Hubertus Muelhaeuser as CEO for the Manitowoc Foodservice unit. $MTW PR link.

Tuesday, July 28:
AIG(PBR46) acquires private First Principles Capital Management, names its CEO Douglas Dachille as AIG’s next EVP/Chief Investment Officer, succeeds William Dooley, who is retiring. $AIG PR link.

Caterpillar(PBR54) to do $1.5 billion accelerated stock repurchase program by end of 3rd quarter. $CAT PR link.

Caterpillar(PBR54) announces new strategy for its vocational truck product family, to expand production at its Victoria, TX, facility. $CAT PR link.

Honeywell Intl(PBR74) to acquire gas heating, controls, metering, and advanced technologies provider Elster Division from Melrose Industries plc for $5.1 billion. $HON PR link.

SuperValu(PBR164) considering spinoff of its Save-A-Lot unit into a stand-alone publicly traded company. $SVU PR link.

Proctor & Gamble(PBR33) promotes David Taylor as President/CEO, effective 11/01/15, succeeds AG Lafley who becomes Executive Chairman. $PG PR link.

Citrix(PBR658) President/CEO Mark Templeton to retire when successor appointed, search firm retained. $CTXS PR link.

Scientific Games(PBR937) hires David Smail as EVP/Chief Legal Officer, effective 08/03/15. $SGMS PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says the 2nd Quarter Homeownership Rate was 63.4%, -1.3% from 2nd quarter 2014, -0.4% from 1st quarter 2015. USDOC PR link.

Monday, July 27:
Allergan(PBR219) selling its global generics business to Teva Pharmaceutical($TEVA) for $40.5 billion cash/stock. $AGN PR link.

Allergan(PBR219) to acquire depression therapies developer Naurex for $560 million cash. $AGN PR link.

Mylan(PBR346) comments on Israel based Teva Pharmaceuticals acquisition of generics business of Allergan(PBR219) & unsolicited offer withdrawal for Mylan. $MYL PR link.

McGraw Hill(PBR477) to acquire data, analytics, & research firm SNL Financial for $2.225 billion cash. $MHFI PR link.

Arch Coal(PBR691) postpones 1:10 reverse stock split from 07/27/15 close to 08/03/15 close. $ACI PR link.

Beacon Roofing(PBR818) to acquire roofing products distributor Roofing Supply Group for $1.1 billion cash/stock. $BECN PR link.

SandRidge Energy(PBR975) receives NYSE notice of potential delisting because share price less than $1.00 for 30 days, considering reverse stock split. $SD PR link.

Darden Restaurants(PBR398) announces Todd Burrowes is rejoining LongHorn Steakhouse unit as President, reports to CEO. $DRI PR link.

Friday, July 24:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 17,568.53, -2.86% from last Friday, -0.29% MTD/QTD, -1.43% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,088.83, -2.33% from last Friday, +2.04% MTD/QTD, +7.45% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,079.65, -2.21% from last Friday, +0.80% MTD/QTD, +1.01% YTD.

AT&T(PBR12) completes $67 billion acquisition of DirecTV(PBR89), now the largest pay TV provider in the US & world. $T PR link.

Anthem(PBR38) to acquire Cigna(PBR85) for $188/share, $54.2 billion, creates company with 53 million medical members, $115 billion revenues/year. $ANTM PR link.

Enterprise Products(PBR59) completes sale of its offshore Gulf of Mexico assets to Genesis Energy(PBR553) for $1.5 billion cash. $EPD PR link.

Cisco(PBR60) to stop selling flash memory data-storage business known as Invicta. MarketWatch article link.

Johnson Controls(PBR68) plans to spinoff $22 billion in 2014 revenues Automotive Experience business as an independent publicly traded company within 12 months. $JCI PR link.

American Airlines(PBR69) ups shares repurchase program to $4 billion. $AAL PR link.

Charles River Labs(PBR1025) completes acquisition of rapid bacterial detection equipment provider Celsis International for $212 million cash. $CRL PR link.

Public Service Enterprise(PBR257) EVP/CFO Caroline Dorsa to retire in 4th quarter, search firm retained for new CFO. $PEG PR link.

The US Dept of HUD says June New Single-Family Houses Sales were at a 482,000 annual rate, -6.8% from May, +18.1% over June 2014. HUD PR link.

Thursday, July 23:
Cisco(PBR60) to sell its set-top box business unit to France based Technicolor for $604 million. $CSCO PR link.

Alcoa(PBR115) completes acquisition of titanium & specialty metal products manufacturer RTI(NYSE: RTI) in $1.5 billion stock deal. $AA PR link.

Starbucks(PBR178) adds 50 million shares for repurchase to existing 11 million available. $SBUX PR link.

EnerSys(PBR776) completes acquisition of Australia based equipment facilities manufacturer ICS Industries. $ENS PR link.

DuPont(PBR82) promotes Marc Doyle to SVP-Safety/Protections unit upon resignation of Matthew Trerotola. $DD PR link.

Crown Holdings(PBR298) CEO John Conway retiring effective 01/01/16, Timothy Dunne elected to succeed him as President/CEO. $CCK PR link.

Celanese(PBR369) Interim CFO Chris Jensen officially named CFO. $CE PR link.

Colfax Corp(PBR517) hires Matt Trerotola as CEO, effective 07/24/15, succeeds retiring Steve Simms. $CFX PR link.

Yahoo!(PBR519) promotes Lisa Utzschneider to Chief Revenue Officer. $YHOO PR link.

CA Technologies(PBR550) hires Ayman Sayed as Chief Product Officer, reports to CEO Mike Gregoire. $CA PR link.

Graham Holdings(PBR615) Kaplan unit CEO Tom Leppert resigning effective 08/21/15, Chairman Andy Rosen to add CEO responsibilities. $GHC PR link.

Wednesday, July 22:
Home Depot(PBR32) to acquire national distributor/direct marketer of maintenance, repair & operational products Interline Brands for $1.625 billion cash. $HD PR link.

Genworth Financial(PBR287) in negotiations to sell its lifestyle protection insurance business to France based AXA SA for $510 million. $GNW PR link.

Discovery Communications(PBR399) to acquire full ownership of Europe/Asia sports channels group Eurosport from TFI Group for $535 million per 2012 agreement. $DISCA PR link.

St Jude Medical(PBR440) to acquire medical devices for heart failure developer Thoratec for $63.50/share, $3.4 billion cash. $STJ PR link.

Bank of America(PBR24) CFO Bruce Thompson stepping down, Paul Donofrio to become CFO on 08/01/15; other key management changes announced. $BAC PR link.

The National Assn of Realtors reports June Existing Home Sales at a 5.49 million annual rate, $236,400 median price. NAR PR link.

Tuesday, July 21:

KKR(PBR332) to acquire an 80% stake in $1 billion total enterprise valued photovoltaic developer/operator Gestamp Solar from Gestamp Renewables. $KKR PR link.

Lexmark(PBR601) to eliminate 500 positions worldwide as part of restructuring program. $LXK PR link.

CIT Group(PBR608) gets federal & states regulatory approval for $3.4 billion acquisition of OneWest Bank, expected to close 08/03/15. $CIT PR link.

Henry Schein(PBR270) promotes Peter McCarthy to President, Global Animal Health Group. $HSIC PR link.

Corning(PBR281) Vice Chairman/CFO Jim Flaws to retire on 11/30/15. $GLW PR link.

Corning(PBR281) elects Lawrence McRae as Vice Chairman & Corporate Development Officer, Tony Tripeny as SVP/CFO effective 09/01/15, & Dr. Jeffrey Evenson SVP/Chief Strategy Officer. $GLW PR link.

Royal Caribbean(PBR329) hires Jim Berra as Chief Marketing Officer, reports to President/CEO Michael Bayley. $RCL PR link.

HARMAN Intl(PBR456) promotes Phillip Eyler as EVP & President, Infotainment division, reports to Chairman/President/CEO Dinesh Paliwal. $HAR PR link.

Iron Mountain(PBR663) hires Deirdre Evens as Chief People Officer, reports to President/CEO William Meaney. $IRM PR link.

Bon-Ton Stores(PBR707) hires Bill Tracy as COO, effective 07/27/15. $BONT PR link.

AMC Entertainment(PBR728) President/CEO Gerry Lopez leaving, effective 08/06/15, CFO Craig Ramsey to become Interim President/CEO at that time. $AMC PR link.

Elizabeth Arden(PBR1043) hires JuE Wong as President, Elizabeth Arden Brand, effective 08/03/15. $RDEN PR link.

Monday, July 20:
United Technologies(PBR45) to do 75 million shares repurchase program, $8.3 billion, with sale of Sikorsky Aircraft unit to Lockheed Martin(PBR64) for $9 billion. $UTX PR link.

Lockheed Martin(PBR64) to acquire Sikorsky Aircraft unit from United Technologies(PBR45) for $9 billion. $LMT PR link.

Ross Stores(PBR253) to open 19 Ross Dress for Less and 8 dd’s Discount stores in July as part of plan for 90 new stores in 2015. $ROST PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR314) reaches agreement on debt restructuring with a group of 2nd lien holders, makes changes to 01/14/15 Restructuring Support Agreement. $CZR PR link.

Calpine Corp(PBR330) to expand in Texas & NE US with acquisition of retail electric provider Champion Energy Marketing for $240 million. $CPN PR link.

CF Industries(PBR502) confirms it is in preliminary discussions with OCI NV regarding a potential combination involving certain of OCI’s businesses. $CF PR link.

Arch Coal(PBR691) announces 1:10 reverse stock split after 07/27/15 market close, will maintain listing status on NYSE. $ACI PR link.

SunEdison(PBR782) to acquire Vivint Solar(NYSE: VSLR) for $16.50/share, $2.2 billion in cash/stock/notes, to close in 4th quarter 2015. $SUNE PR link.

Synopsis(PBR879) completes acquisition of the Seeker security product and its R&D team from Quotium(NYSE Euronext: QTE).
$SNPS PR link.

eBay(PBR163) spinoff PayPal(NASDAQ: PYPL) in first day of public trading opens at $41.46, range $39.80-$42.55, closes at $40.47. MarketWatch PayPal stock info.

Adobe Systems(PBR557) hires Abhay Parasnis as Chief Technology Officer & SVP/platform technology and services. $ADBE PR link.

HealthSouth(PBR800) EVP/General Counsel & Secretary John Whittington retiring on 12/31/15. $HLS PR link.

Friday, July 17:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 18,086.54, +1.84% from last Friday, +2.65% MTD/QTD, +1.48% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,210.14(R), +4.25% from last Friday, +4.48% MTD/QTD, +10.01% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,126.64, +2.41% from last Friday, +3.08% MTD/QTD, +3.29% YTD.

GameStop(PBR287) completes acquisition of ThinkGeek retailer parent Geeknet(NASDAQ: GKNT) for $20/share, $140 million. $GME PR link.

Yahoo!(PBR500) files with SEC to spinoff remaining holdings in Alibaba Group into an independent, publicly traded, registered investment company, as announced on 01/27/15, to close in 4th quarter. $YHOO PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says June Employee Average Earnings were $24.95/hour, 34.5 hours/week, $860.78/week, +2.0% from June 2014. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the June Consumer Price Index for All Items was +0.3% over May, +0.1% over the last 12 months. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of HUD says the June Private Housing Units Building Permits were at a 1,343,000 annual rate, +7.4% over May, +30.0% over June 2014 HUD PR link.

Thursday, July 16:
Amazon’s(PBR37) first Prime Day sales exceed Black Friday 2014 by 18%, 34.4 million items sold. $AMZN PR link.

Enterprise Products(PBR56) to sell its offshore Gulf of Mexico assets to Genesis Energy(PBR553) for $1.5 billion cash. $EPD PR link.

Mondelez(PBR85) completes acquisition of 80% stake in Vietnam’s leading snacks business Kinh Do for $370 million. $MDLZ PR link.

Hertz(PBR249) completes restatements of annual reports, to separate its equipment rental business, implementing cost reduction program. $HTZ PR link.

McGraw Hill(PBR477) Platts division acquires shipping & oil industries news & analysis provider Petromedia. $MHFI PR link.

Groupon(PBR750) acquires OrderUp to power nationwide food ordering & delivery. $GRPN PR link.

Dollar Tree(PBR329) promotes Mike Witynski to COO. $DLTR PR link.

Fifth Third Bancorp(PBR345) hires Lars Anderson to be EVP/COO on 08/03/15. $FITB PR link.

Hershey Co(PBR347) hires Peter Horst as new Chief Marketing Officer, effective 07/27/15. Mike Wege now SVP/Chief Admin Officer. $HSY PR link.

Domino’s Pizza(PBR927) promotes Jeff Lawrence to EVP/CFO, succeeds Mike Lawton who is retiring at the end of August. $DPZ PR link.

Wednesday, July 15:
Amazon(PBR37) Studios announces Spike Lee’s Chi-Raq as first ever Amazon original movie. $AMZN PR link.

Nike(PBR98) gets $169 million apparel deal from 08/01/16 through 2027 with University of Michigan, MarketWatch article link.

Kinder Morgan(PBR198) to purchase 100% of Shell’s equity interest in the Elba LNG Liquefaction joint venture for $630 million. $KMI PR link.

Corning(PBR332) authorizes $2 billion shares repurchase program, expires 12/31/16. $GLW PR link.

Molina Healthcare(PBR375) to enter Chicago market with acquisition of Medicaid assets of 61,000 member MyCare Chicago. $MOH PR link.

Anixter(PBR398) to acquire the distributor Power Solutions segment of HD Supply for $825 million. $AXE PR link.

Netflix(PBR534) grows by 3.3 million subscribers in 2nd Quarter, now has over 65 million subscribers worldwide. $NFLX PR link.

Walter Energy(PBR920) reaches restructuring agreement with senior lendors, files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. $WLTG PR link.

Gannett(PBR458) hires Kevin Gentzel as its first Chief Revenue Officer. $GCI PR link.

Juniper Networks(PBR501) hires Susan Lovegren as SVP/Human Resources, Bob Worrall as SVP/CIO. $JNPR PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says the June Producer Price Index for final demand was +0.4% over May, -0.7% for 12 months ended in June. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Board in its G17 report says June Industrial Production was +0.3%, +1.5% over June 2014; Capacity Utilization was at 78.4% USFRB PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Board releases its latest Beige Book, overall districts are generally optimistic. USFRB PR link.

Tuesday, July 14:
Danaher(PBR139) completes $2.6 billion deal that combines its Communications unit with a subsidiary of NetScout Systems(NASDAQ: NTCT). $DHR PR link.

Molina Healthcare(PBR375) to acquire Medicaid assets of 25,000 member S. Florida firm Preferred Medical Plan. $MOH PR link.

Celgene(PBR381) to acquire immune/metabolics therapeutics developer Receptos(NASDAQ: RCPT) for $232/share, $7.2 billion. $CELG PR link.

Barnes & Noble(PBR388) approves publicly held Barnes & Noble Education spinoff, scheduled for 08/02/15, to start trading on 08/03/15 with symbol NYSE: BNED. $BKS PR link.

IAC(PBR669) soon to be spinoff The Match Group to acquire fellow dating site PlentyOfFish for $575 million. $IACI PR link.

WPX Energy(PBR713) to acquire privately held Permian Basin assets based RKI Exploration for $2.35 billion. $WPX PR link.

Guess?(PBR751) Co-Founder/CEO Paul Marciano announces that Victor Herroro to be new CEO in August. $GES PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce in advance report says June Retail & Food Sales were at $442.0 billion, -0.3% from May, +1.4% from June 2014. USDOC PR link.

Monday, July 13:
Valero Energy(PBR10) adds $2.5 billion to its available $400 million for stock repurchases. $VLO PR link.

Comcast(PBR44) to roll out $15/month TV streaming service across the US by the end of 2016, starting in Boston. $CMCSA PR link.

Medtronic(PBR161) to acquire detection/prevention of retained surgical items device company RF Surgical Systems for $235 million. $MDT PR link.

Computer Sciences(PBR209) files Form 10 for government services spinoff Computer Sciences GS, separation planned for October. $CSC PR link.

BorgWarner(PBR339) to acquire rotating electrical components producer Remy International for $29.50/share, $1.2 billion, to close in 4th quarter. $BWA PR link.

Jarden(PBR341) to acquire disposable tableware manufacturer The Waddington Group from private equity firm Olympus Partners for $1.35 billion. $JAH PR link.

PG&E(PBR175) announces promotion of several senior officers as part of restructuring program. $PCG PR link.

Jacobs Engineering(PBR213) hires Steven Demetriou as President/CEO, effective 08/17/15, to succeed retiring Craig Martin. $JEC PR link.

Dana Holding(PBR367) hires Jim Kamsickas as President/CEO, effective 08/11/15, succeeds retiring Roger Wood. $DAN PR link.

Xylem(PBR581) appoints Shashank Patel as Interim CFO upon resignation of Mike Speetzen, effective 07/30/15. $XYL PR link.

The US Dept of the Treasury says the June Surplus was $51.8B on Receipts of $342.9B. YTD Deficit is $313.4B. Treasury PR link.

Friday, July 10:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 17,760.41, +0.17% from last Thursday, +0.80% MTD/QTD, -0.35% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,997.70, -0.23% from last Thursday, +0.22% MTD/QTD, +5.52% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,076.62, -0.01% from last Thursday, +0.65% MTD/QTD, +0.86% YTD.

Halliburton(PBR94) $34.6 billion acquisition of Baker Hughes(PBR124) deadline extended to 12/01/15 for time to satisfy US Dept of Justice requirements. $BHI PR link.

Edwards Lifesciences(PBR879) to acquire CardiAQ Valve Technologies for up to $400 million. $EW PR link.

Biogen(PBR358) R&D leader Doug Williams, PhD, leaving to become CEO of a startup, new R&D co-leaders announced. $BIIB PR link.

Tesla(PBR887) hires Ganesh Srivats to be in charge of North American Sales. $TSLA PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says that May Merchant Wholesalers Sales were $449.8 billion, +0.3% from April, -3.8% from May 2014. USDOC PR link.

Thursday, July 9:
T-Mobile US(PBR115) adds 2.1 million customers in 2nd quarter, up 41% over previous year. $TMUS PR link.

eBay(PBR170) trying to sell e-commerce Enterprise unit, losing Toys R Us as a major client who plans to do its own e-commerce. MarketWatch article link.

Avon(PBR267) sells its UK based natural skincare line Liz Earle to Walgreens Boots Alliance(PBR36) for $215 million cash. $AVP PR link.

Coty(PBR524) to merge Proctor & Gamble’s(PBR32) Beauty Business into Coty in deal valued at $12.5 billion. $COTY PR link.

Charles River Labs(PBR1058) to acquire rapid bacterial detection equipment provider Celsis International for $212 million cash. $CRL PR link.

Walgreens Boots Alliance(PBR36) Interim CEO Stefano Pessina named CEO. $WBA PR link.

Conn’s(PBR1052) hires Thomas Moran as CFO, effective 07/27/15. $CONN PR link.

Wednesday, July 8:
The PBR1000 June 2015 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots summary is posted. Blog post.

Microsoft(PBR30) restructuring phone hardware business, to reduce staff by up to 7,800. $MSFT PR link.

Enterprise Products(PBR56) completes purchase of all Eagle Ford Shale member interests of EFS Midstream for $2.15 billion. $EPD PR link.

Ingredion(PBR371) to acquire privately held natural fruits and vegetables concentrates producer Kerr Concentrates for $100 million. $INGR PR link.

CA Technologies(PBR520) completes $480 million acquisition of Agile software development & services provider Rally Software(NYSE: RALY). $CA PR link.

Curtiss-Wright(PBR771) expands stock repurchase program to $300 million. $CW PR link.

Walter Energy(PBR920) gets delisting notice from NYSE because of stock price non-compliance. $WLT PR link.

Micron Technology(PBR166) hires Trevor Schulze as Chief Information Officer. $MU PR link.

Fifth Third Bancorp(PBR345) President/COO Greg Carmichael to become President/CEO on 11/01/15, will succeed retiring Kevin Kabat. $FITB PR link.

Darden Restaurants(PBR393) hires Jeff Davis as SVP/CFO, effective 07/16/15, reports to CEO Gene Lee. $DRI PR link.

Sprouts Farmers Market(PBR789) hires Shawn Gensch as Chief Marketing Officer, Dan Sanders as EVP of store operations. $SFM PR link.

Acxiom(PBR1073) hires Jeremy Allen as President of $445 million Marketing Services Division. $ACXM PR link.

The US Federal Reserve says May Consumer Credit increased at 5.75% annual rate, Revolving Credit 2%, Nonrevolving Credit 7%. FRB PR link.

The US Federal Reserve in its Federal Open Market Committee minutes of its 06/16-17/15 meeting says that economic activity is expanding moderately after little 1st quarter change. FRB PR link.

Tuesday, July 7:
Cisco(PBR58) to acquire private cloud based service renewals firm MaintenanceNet for $139 million. $CSCO PR link.

Carnival Corp(PBR176) gets US approval for travel to Cuba, expects to start in May, 2016. $CCL PR link.

Allergan(PBR297) gets exclusive worldwide rights licensing agreement for Merck(PBR63) CGRP migraine development program for $250 million plus incentives. $MRK PR link.

Frontier Communications(PBR497) hires Kathleen Weslock as EVP/Chief People Officer, effective 07/13/15, reports to President/CEO Daniel McCarthy. $FTR PR link.

Xylem(PBR581) hires Kairus Tarapore as SVP/Chief Human Resources Officer, effective 07/27/15, reports to President/CEO Patrick Decker. $XYL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says May Job Openings were at 5.4 million, hires at 5.0 million, separations at 4.7 million. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says May International Trade deficit was -$41.9 billion on exports of $188.6 billion, imports of $230.5 billion. USDOC PR link.

Monday, July 6:
Cardinal Health(PBR27) completes acquisition of generics/OTC medications distributor The Harvard Drug Group for $1.115 billion. $CAH PR link.

Dollar Tree(PBR329) completes $9.2 billion cash/stock acquisition of discount retailer Family Dollar(PBR252). $DLTR PR link.

Advance Auto Parts(PBR382) to replace recently acquired Family Dollar on the S&P500 on 07/08/15. $AAP PR link.

LINN Energy(PBR810) sells remaining Permian Basin Wolfcamp acreage for $281 million. $LINE PR link.

SunEdison(PBR888) and spinoff TerraForm Power to acquire 930 megawatt contracted wind portfolio from Invenergy for $2 billion. $SUNE PR link.

JPMorgan Chase(PBR20) Stacey Friedman to succeed Steve Cutler next year as General Counsel; Cutler to be appointed Vice Chairman. $JPM PR link.

Axiall(PBR503) EVP Timothy Mann appointed Interim President/CEO upon immediate retirement of Paul Carrico, new CEO search starts. $AXLL PR link.

Friday, July 3:
US Stock Markets Closed
in Observance of Independence Day.
Give Thanks & Celebrate
Our History and Freedoms.

Humana(PBR71) to be acquired by Aetna(PBR57) for $230/share, $37 billion cash/stock. $HUM PR link.

Thursday, July 2:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 17,730.11, -1.21% from last Friday, +0.63% MTD/QTD, -0.52% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,009.21, -1.40% from last Friday, +0.45% MTD/QTD, +5.77% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,076.78, -1.18% from last Friday, +0.66% MTD/QTD, +0.87% YTD.

Kraft Foods(PBR145) & HJ Heinz complete merger, new company is Kraft Heinz Co, to start trading as NASDAQ: KHC on 07/06/15. $KRFT PR link.

Centene(PBR244) to acquire health care plans provider Health Net(PBR239) for $6.8 billion cash/stock, to close in early 2016. $CNC PR link.

Biogen(PBR358) & AGTC(NASDAQ: AGTC) enter collaboration to develop gene therapies in ophthalmology, Biogen payments could exceed $1 billion. $BIIB PR link.

Barnes & Noble(PBR388) names Ron Boire CEO of Retail, effective 09/08/15; spinoff of College unit planned for August. $BKS PR link.

Freescale Semiconductor(PBR548) & Netherlands based NXP Semiconductor(NASDAQ: NXPI) stockholders approve $11.8 billion merger, to close 2nd half 2015. $FSL PR link.

Aeropostale(PBR868) continues aggressive expansion in Asia with new licensing agreements in India & Indonesia. $ARO PR link.

SunEdison(PBR888) & Gamesa(BME: GAM) form joint venture to develop 1 gigawatt of wind power plants by 2018. $SUNE PR link.

Intel(PBR52) President Renee James leaving, other executive leadership changes announced. $INTC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says Total June Nonfarm Employment rose by 223,000, compared with an average monthly gain of 250,000 over the prior 12 months. June Unemployment Rate drops 0.2% to 5.3%. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says May New Manufactured Goods Orders were down $4.5 billion, -1.0%, to $470.5 billion, down 9 of last 10 months. USDOC PR link.

Wednesday, July 1:
General Electric(PBR9) $3.3 billion sale of Appliances unit dened by US Dept of Justice; Swedish based Electrolux to fight decision. Electrolux PR link.

Hewlett-Packard(PBR19) Enterprise files Form 10 to become a separate publicly traded company, planned for November. $HPQ PR link.

INTL FCStone(PBR64) merges 3 US subsidiaries into INTL FCStone Financial Inc. $INTL PR link.

DuPont(PBR83) completes spinoff of its Performance Chemicals unit as The Chemours Company, trading as NYSE: CC. $DD PR link.

Hess Corp(PBR114) completes $2.675 billion sale of Bakken midstream assets, establishes Bakken Midstream joint venture with Global Infrastructure Partners valued at $5.35 billion. $HES PR link.

eBay(PBR170) PayPal unit buying international money transfers/remittances processor Xoom(NASDAQ: XOOM) for $25/share, $890 million. $EBAY PR link.

Baxter Intl(PBR179) spinoff Baxalta starts 1st day as biopharmaceutical with base of $6 billion in annual sales. $BXLT PR link.

Chubb Corp(PBR200) to be acquired by Ace Ltd(NYSE: ACE) for $28.3 billion cash/stock, expects to close in 1st quarter 2016. $CB PR link.

MeadWestvaco(PBR439) & Rock-Tenn(PBR278) complete merger, name combined company WestRock(NYSE: WRK)(PBR278). $WRK PR link.

CF Industries(PBR438) to acquire remaining 50% in UK based nitrogen production company GrowHow from Yara Intl for $580 million. $CF PR link.

McGraw Hill(PBR477) JD Power division acquires NADA Used Car Guide. $MHFI PR link.

Constellation Brands(PBR483) to acquire Napa Valley wine brand Meiomi from Copper Cane for $315 million. $STZ PR link.

Energizer Holdings(PBR527) completes spinoff of Household Products division, changes name to Edgewell Personal Care Company, now trading as NYSE: EPC. $EPC PR link.

Energizer Holdings(PBR527) completes spinoff as a public company from parent Edgewell Personal Care Co. $ENR PR link.

Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR531) acquires 2 million clients business/home security firm Protection 1 & also ASG Security. $APO PR link.

Patterson Cos(PBR563) to sell its medical business to Madison Dearborn Ptnrs for $715 million cash. $PDCO PR link.

Graham Holdings(PBR610) completes spin-off of separate publicly traded company Cable ONE(NYSE: CABO). $GHC PR link.

American Tower(PBR625) closes acquisition of 4,700 communication sites in Nigeria from Bharti Airtel. $AMT PR link.

Caesars Entertainment(PBR301) announces Mark Frissora has assumed role of President/CEO. $CZR PR link.

Peabody Energy(PBR355) promotes Amy Schwetz to EVP/CFO, upon resignation of Michael Crews. $BTU PR link.

Men’s Wearhouse(PBR781) hires Bruce Thorn as COO, reports to CEO Doug Ewert. $MW PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that May Construction Spending was at a $1,035.8 billion annual rate, +0.8% from April, +8.2% from May 2014. USDOC PR link.

The PBR1000 June 2015 Breaking News Recap is posted on the BLOG page. You can also click here.

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

(Photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net, Sujin Jetkasettakorn.)

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

The PBR1000 June 2015 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots

July 9, 2015 by admin

ID-100213365 Profit Loss Risk-jscreationzs

Welcome to the World of Stock Trading!
What is Your Risk Level?

By Larry C. Paxton

The PBR1000 June 2015 Snapshots include news and stocks data on 1,062 companies in 15 analytical reports.

Current The PBR1000 Subscribers should have already received the MS Excel workbook. If you are not a current Subscriber just click here to get your 13 month subscription and download the June edition of The PBR1000 Snapshots.

The first half of 2015 was finishing pretty strong. The NASDAQ had reached new highs, the S&P500 was closing in on a new record, and the DJIA was climbing. Then the bottom dropped out on the last few trading days, especially on June 29th. The Greek drama took most of the blame, but the moderately growing US economy still feels a little fragile, and the rest of the world appears more shaky.

This sets the stage for the 2nd half of the year. Will the Federal Reserve raise interest rates once or twice, or not at all? Will there be a Greek exit? A few other Eurozone countries continue to struggle, could there be a domino effect?

Nevertheless, every month there are a significant number of gainers over the previous month and year-to-date. There are investment opportunities.

In the following tables the stock price is for the close of trading on June 30th, Month % Chg is compared to May 29th, YTD % Chg is compared to December 31, 2014, and the 18 Mos % Chg is compared to December 31, 2013.

Table 1: The PBR1000 Stock Price Composite

Table 1 Summary: Made up of the sum of the stock prices of the 1,062 companies currently tracked by The PBR1000.

Company	Price 06/30/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	18 Mos % Chg
The PBR1000	74,815.34	-1.19	+1.12	+13.29

Table 2: The PBR1000 Top 5 Month Stock Price % Gainers

Table 2 Summary: The range was +75.81% to -70.73%. 361 out of 1,062 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 33.99% of the companies tracked. The median was a loss of 2.17%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 06/30/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	18 Mos % Chg
Alliance One Intl	804	AOI	23.91	+75.81	+51.33	-21.61
HCC Insurance	760	HCC	76.84	+34.38	+43.57	+66.54
Coty	524	COTY	31.97	+28.24	+54.74	+109.64
OM Group	1059	OMG	33.60	+26.60	+12.75	-7.72
Pep Boys	874	PBY	10.13	+21.13	+24.95	+1.07

Table 3: The PBR1000 Top 5 Year-To-Date Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: The range was +112.41% to -84.20%. 535 out of 1,062 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 50.38% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of 0.04%

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 06/30/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	18 Mos % Chg
Conn’s	1052	CONN	39.70	+7.33	+112.41	-49.55
Skechers USA	922	SKX	109.79	+3.70	+98.71	+231.39
Netflix	534	NFLX	6566.94	+5.27	+92.31	+78.43
McDermott Intl	734	MDR	5.34	-2.20	+83.51	-41.70
Pinnacle Entertainment	993	PNK	37.28	+0.84	+67.55	+43.44

Table 4: The PBR1000 Top 5 18 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 4 Summary: Range was +231.39% to -99.41%. 655 out of 1,056 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 62.03% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of 7.26%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 06/30/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	18 Mos % Chg
Skechers USA	922	SKX	109.79	+3.70	+98.71	+231.39
Electronic Arts	603	EA	66.50	+5.97	+41.44	+189.89
Centene	244	CNC	80.40	+6.72	+54.82	+172.73
Freescale Semiconductor	548	FSL	39.97	-11.41	+58.42	+149.03
Hawaiian Holdings	849	HA	23.75	-1.94	-8.83	+146.63

Table 5: The PBR1000 Selected Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company	Price 06/30/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	18 Mos % Chg
DJIA	17,619.51	-2.17	-1.14	+6.29
NASDAQ	4,986.87	-1.64	+5.30	+19.40
S&P500	2,060.36	-2.23	+0.07	+11.47
Gold	1,173.10	-1.46	-1.00	-2.43
Silver	15.66	-6.28	+0.38	-19.15
Oil	58.67	-2.57	+10.14	-35.67

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

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

(Photo made available through freedigitalphotos.net, jscreationzs.)

Filed Under: Snapshots Tagged With: Commodities, DJIA, Economy, Investing, Money, NASDAQ, Personal Finance, Rankings, S&P 500, Stock Market, Stocks, The PBR1000, Trading

The PBR1000 June 2015 Breaking News Recap

July 2, 2015 by admin

In the Digital Age We Still Shake Hands When Making the Big Deal.

By Larry C. Paxton

There were the usual number of interesting acquisitions/mergers among The PBR1000 during June 2015. The energy sector saw some activity as well with the companies continuing to adjust to lower oil prices, which look like they might be here to stay.

Spin-offs were a major theme as well, with several scheduled to be concluded during the second half of the year.

The US economy continues to send mixed signals, but overall it continues to show moderate growth, and appears to be not quite as fragile. The Federal Reserve seems to indicate that if the numbers continue to show some growth that there will most likely be a very modest increase or two in interest rates in 2015.

However, on the international scene the Greece/Eurozone drama continues. It will be difficult for all parties involved, whatever the resolution.

The revelation late in the month that the US territory of Puerto Rico also has severe economic issues was a surprise for most of us. It will be interesting to see how that plays out.

Following are The PBR1000 and economic related news items of note for June 2015, starting with the last active day.

Tuesday, June 30:
The PBR1000 June 2015 Monthend US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes month at 17,619.51, -1.82% from last Friday, -2.17% MTD, -0.88% QTD, -1.14% YTD.
NASDAQ closes month at 4,986.87, -1.84% from last Friday, -1.64% MTD, +1.75% QTD, +5.30% YTD.
SPX closes month at 2,060.36, -1.96% from last Friday, -2.23% MTD, -0.36% QTD, +0.07% YTD.

Apple(PBR4) launches Apple Music streaming service, men most likely to try it. $AAPL PR link.

General Electric(PBR9) selling its European Sponsor Finance unit to Sumitomo Mitsui Banking for $2.2 billion. $GE PR link.

Cisco(PBR58) announces intent to acquire privately held advanced threat protection provider OpenDNS for $635 million. $CSCO PR link.

Emerson Electric(PBR112) to spinoff Network Power as a separate public company, exploring other strategic actions. $EMR PR link.

ConAgra Foods(PBR149) announces plan to exit Private Brands operations. $CAG PR link.

Blackstone Group(PBR374) selling security services provider AlliedBarton unit to Wendel SE for $1.67 billion. $BX PR link.

JetBlue(PBR441) starts charging baggage fees, $20-35/bag. $JBLU PR link.

Asbury Automotive(PBR449) acquires Jacksonville, FL, $90 million/yr Mike Davidson Ford, to be renamed Coggin Ford. $ABG PR link.

Towers Watson(PBR613) & Willis to merge by year end in stock transaction valued at $18 billion. $TW PR link.

Brookdale Senior Living(PBR692) & HCP(PBR866) complete acquisition of 35 private pay senior living communities from Chartwell Retirement Residences for $847 million. $BKD PR link.

Nortek(PBR822) acquires private Numera’s mobile personal emergency response system/ telehealth assets. $NTK PR link.

Pep Boys(PBR874) board reviewing strategic alternatives, including sale, merger, or other plan. $PBY PR link.

Hewlett-Packard(PBR19) Enterprise Group EVP Bill Veghte leaving this summer, Antonio Neri to be EVP/GM, Chris Hsu COO upon separation from HP. $HPQ PR link.

Kroger(PBR25) President/COO Mike Ellis has retired, no successor named. $KR PR link.

Walt Disney(PBR54) promotes treasurer Christine McCarthy to CFO, Kevin Mayer named SVP/Chief Strategy Officer. $DIS PR link.

Nike(PBR98) & Chairman Phil Knight announce start of succession plan, President/CEO Mark Parker recommended. $NKE PR link.

Cummins(PBR157) Chief Technical Officer John Wall is retiring, Jennifer Rumsey is successor. $CMI PR link.

Domino’s Pizza(PBR927) hires Troy Ellis as EVP/Supply Chain, reports to CEO, succeeds retiring John Macksood. $DPZ PR link.

Pier 1 Imports(PBR933) hires Jeff Boyer as EVP/CFO, effective 07/27/15. $PIR PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says that at the end of the 1st quarter the US Net International Investment Position was -$6,794.0 billion, 4th quarter 2014 was -$7,019.7 billion. USDOC PR link.

Monday, June 29:
General Electric(PBR9) selling its US, Mexico, Australia, & New Zealand fleet businesses to Canada based Element Financial for $6.9 billion. $GE PR link.

Microsoft(PBR30) selling its mapping assets & making available employees to ridesharing company Uber. MarketWatch article link.

Comcast(44) NBC Universal unit reports it has terminated its business arrangements with business man/presidential candidate Donald Trump because of his derogatory statements on immigrants. $CMCSA article link.

Sysco(PBR60) terminates $8.2 billion merger agreement with US Foods(NR), announces $3 billion shares repurchase program. $SYY PR link.

Kraft Foods(PBR145) announces executive leadership team for upcoming $10 billion Kraft Heinz merger. $KRFT PR link.

Campbell Soup(PBR315) completes $231 million acquisition of salsa and organic foods company Garden Fresh. $CPB PR link.

Celgene(PBR381) makes $1 billion initial $93/share investment in Juno Therapeutics(NASDAQ: JUNO) for immunotherapeutics collaboration. $CELG PR link.

Gannett(PBR458) completes TEGNA spinoff, new Gannett focus is now being largest local-to-national media company, flagship unit is USA Today. Robert Dickey is CEO. $GE PR link.

TEGNA announces completion of spinoff from Gannett(PBR458), trading as NYSE: TGNA.
$TGNA PR link.

Dresser-Rand(PBR664) gets approval by European Commission to be acquired by Germany’s Siemens AG for $7.6 billion, to close 06/30/15. $DRC PR link.

Friday, June 26:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 17,946.68, -0.38% from last Friday, -0.36% MTD, +0.96% QTD, +0.69% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,080.51, -0.71% from last Friday, +0.21% MTD, +3.67% QTD, +7.27% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,101.49, -0.40% from last Friday, -0.28% MTD, +1.62% QTD, +2.07% YTD.

eBay(PBR170) sets 07/17/15 for spinoff of independent publicly traded PayPal, to start trading on 07/20/15, symbol PYPL. $EBAY PR link.

NII Holdings(PBR495) has emerged from Chapter 11 Reorganization, soon to be traded on NASDAQ, symbol NIHD. $NIHDQ PR link.

Thursday, June 25:
Kroger(PBR25) increases quarterly dividend, to do 2:1 stock split 07/13/15, approves new $500 million share repurchase program. $KR PR link.

General Mills(PBR148) plans to cut up to 725 jobs as part of a restructuring. MarketWatch article link.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR165) to expand R&D with opening/closing of facilities. $BMY PR link.

Rumor: Valeant Pharmaceuticals has made preliminary approach to buy Zoetis(PBR514). MarketWatch article link.

IAC(PBR669) to pursue an IPO for its dating industry The Match Group unit. Also promotes Joey Levin as IAC CEO; CFO Jeff Kip resigning, will continue to serve on interim basis. $IACI PR link.

Brinker Intl(PBR688) acquires franchisee Pepper Dining with its 103 Chili’s Grill & Bar Restaurants for $106.5 million. $EAT PR link.

Target(PBR38) EVP/Chief Merchandising Officer Kathee Tesija to move to advisory role effective 07/06/15, internal/external search to start for position. $TGT PR link.

Dollar General(PBR153) appoints John Garratt as Interim CFO, effective 07/01/15, replaces retiring David Tehle. $DG PR link.

Medtronic(PBR161) promotes Geoff Martha to EVP & President, Restorative Therapies Group & Bill Burke as Chief Integration Officer for Covidien unit, both report to Chairman/CEO Omar Ishrak. $MDT PR link.

Donaldson Co(PBR780) VP/Global Operations Joe Lehman retiring 08/01/15, Rich Lewis to take role at that time. $DCI PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the May Total Personal Income was at a $15.307 trillion annual rate, +0.5% over April, Personal Savings at 5.1% rate. USDOC PR link.

Wednesday, June 24:
IBM(PBR24) & Box(NYSE: BOX) form global partnership to integrate their products & services in a cloud based environment. $IBM PR link.

Zimmer(PBR506) completes $14 billion acquisition of Biomet, renamed Zimmer Biomet, to start trading as NYSE: ZBH on 06/29/15. $ZMH PR link.

Ferrellgas(BR791) completes acquisition of integrated crude oil midstream services company Bridger Logistics for $837 million. $FGP PR link.

Cree(PBR965) to restructure LED business, authorizes $500 million buyback program. $CREE PR link.

AFLAC(PBR117) hires Fred Crawford as EVP/CFO, effective 06/30/15, reports to Chairman/CEO Daniel Amos. $AFL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce in 3rd estimate says 1st Quarter 2015 Gross Domestic Product was revised from -0.7% to -0.2%, $17.693 trillion. USDOC PR link.

Tuesday, June 23:
Fun Fact: In 2014 The PBR1000 employed 33.7 million people worldwide, up 2.68% from 2013.

Verizon(PBR15) completes $50/share, $4.4 billion acquisition of digital content/advertisiing company AOL(PBR812), which is now a wholly owned subsidiary. $ANTM PR link.

Canada based mobile communications company Blackberry(NASDAQ: BBRY) and Cisco(PBR58, NASDAQ: CSCO) sign broad patent cross-licensing agreement. BlackBerry PR link.

3M(PBR92) to acquire personal protective equipment provider Capital Safety from KKR(PBR272) for $2.5 billion. $MMM PR link.

Wholly owned subsidiary Freeport-McMoRan(PBR132) Oil & Gas files for IPO, requests trading symbol FMOG. $FCX PR link.

Darden Restaurants(PBR393) to spinoff 430 restaurants into a separate publicly held REIT. $DRI PR link.

Netflix(PBR534) to do 7:1 stock split on 07/14/15. $NFLX PR link.

Jordan Spieth(Pro Golfer): Under Armour(PBR809) took a chance on me MarketWatch article link.

Boeing(PBR31) President/COO Dennis Muilenberg to become President/CEO on 07/01/15, Jim McNerney to remain Chairman. $BA article link.

The Dept of HUD says that May New Single-Family Home Sales were at a 546,000 annual rate, 2.2% above April, 19.5% above May 2014. HUD PR link.

Monday, June 22:
Anthem(PBR40) offers to acquire fellow health benefits company Cigna(PBR88) for $184/share, $53.8 billion. $ANTM PR link.

Cigna(PBR88) says Anthem’s(PBR40) $184/share unsolicited offer is undervalued. $CI PR link.

Pfizer(PBR53) to acquire quadrivalent meningitis ACWY vaccines Nimenrix & Mencevax from GlaxoSmithKline for $130 million. $PFE PR link.

Energy Transfer Equity(PBR55) confirms $64/share, $53.1 billion unsolicited offer to acquire Williams Cos(PBR361). $ETE PR link.

Williams Cos(PBR361) advises stockholders that the Energy Transfer Equity(PBR55) $64/share offer is undervalued. $WMB PR link.

General Mills(PBR148) to remove artificial flavors & colors from remaining 40% of cereal products by the end of 2017. $GIS PR link.

Fifth Third Bancorp(PBR345) to consolidate/sell 100 branch offices to improve efficiency. $FITB PR link.

Gannett(PBR458) soon to be spinoff broadcasting/digital provider TEGNA to trade as NYSE:TGNA starting 06/29/15. $GCI PR link.

Gannett(PBR458) announces plans after TEGNA spinoff. $GCI PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) acquires California workers compensation insurer Monument. $AJG PR link.

Global Payments(PBR756) to roll out American Express(PBR86) OptBlue merchant program in Canada on 06/24/15. $GPN PR link.

Brookdale Senior Living(PBR692) President/CFO Mark Ohlendorf to focus on being President, COO Richard Gregory leaving 09/30/15. $BKD PR link.

The National Assn of Realtors reports that May Existing Home Sales were at a 5.35 million annual rate, +5.1% over April, median price at $228,700. NAR PR link.

Friday, June 19:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 18,015.95, +0.65% from last Friday, +0.03% MTD, +1.35% QTD, +1.08% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,117.00, +1.30% from last Friday, +0.93% MTD, +4.41% QTD, +8.04% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,109.00, +0.76% from last Friday, +0.12% MTD, +2.04% QTD, +2.48% YTD.

Medtronic(PBR161) has acquired assets of privately held medical device manufacturer Aptus Endosystems for $110 million. $MDT PR link.

Medtronic(PBR161) increases dividend payout, authorizes 80 million shares buyback program. $MDT PR link.

Medtronic(PBR161) acquires privately held medical device manufacturer CardioInsight Technologies for $93 million. $MDT PR link.

L Brands(PBR248) authorizes new $250 million shares buyback program. $LB PR link.

Hershey Co(PBR347) simplifies structure, makes executive leadership changes, 300 jobs to be cut. $HSY PR link.

Enbridge(PBR352) transfers $30.4 billion of Canadian pipelines & energy business to its Income Fund. $EEP PR link.

NII Holdings(PBR495) gets confirmation of Plan of Reorganization by Bankruptcy Court. $NIHDQ PR link.

Aeropostale(PBR868) EVP Design/Merchandising Emilia Fabricant is leaving, no replacement planned. $ARO PR link.

Apache Corp(PBR169) EVP/Executive Advisor to CEO Rod Eichler retiring at the end of June after 21 years with the company. $APA PR link.

Thursday, June 18:
Allstate(PBR87) pays out $178 million in May claims for 8 events. $ALL PR link.

PBF Energy(PBR138) to purchase New Orleans area 189,000 barrels/day Chalmette Refining for $322 million. $PBF PR link.

News Corp(PBR299) to cut jobs, shift resources to digital media $NWS PR link.

News Corp(PBR299) extends stockholder rights plan to 06/18/18. $NWS PR link.

Health Care REIT(PBR693) joint venture with Canada’s Revera to acquire 23 senior housing communities with 3,600 units Canada based Regal Lifestyle Communities for $623 million. $HCN PR link.

HCP(PBR866) EVP/Chief Investment Officer Paul Gallagher has resigned, effective 06/30/15. $HCP PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says May average earnings/hour was at $24.96, weekly earnings $861.12 for a 34.5 hour week. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the May Consumer Price Index was +0.4%, 0.0% over the last 12 months. USDOL PR link.

Wednesday, June 17:
The PBR1000 Fun Fact: Through May ThePBR1000 companies had $3.467 trillion in earnings per share over the past year, paid out $0.955 trillion in dividends, for a payout of 27.55%.

Marriott Intl(PBR210) global hotel portfolio added to TripAdvisor(NASDAQ: TRIP) Instant Booking platform in partnership. $MAR PR link.

Allergan(PBR297) to acquire facial aesthetics developer KYTHERA Pharmaceuticals(NASDAQ: KYTH) for $2.1 billion. $AGN PR link.

Celgene(PBR381) adds $4 billion to its $5.2 billion shares repurchase program. $CELG PR link.

Patterson Cos(PBR563) completes acquisition of production distribution company Animal Health International for $1.1 billion cash, will double revenues. $PDCO PR link.

Tesla(PBR887) partners with leading researcher to cut battery costs, report MarketWatch article link.

Hill-Rom(PBR954) to acquire privately held medical diagnostic equipment manufacturer Welch Allyn for $2.05 billion cash/stock. $HRC PR link.

Microsoft(PBR30) announces senior leadership changes to align engineering to corporate strategy. $MSFT PR link.

Priceline(PBR365) hires Maelle Gavet as EVP, Global Operation, reports to President/CEO Darren Huston. $PCLN PR link.

The US Federal Open Market Committee says the US economy is expanding moderately, anticipates small rate increase this year. FOMC PR link.

Tuesday, June 16:
Coty($COTY) buys 3 businesses from P&G(PBR32, $PG) for $12 billion. MarketWatch article link.

Starbucks(PBR164) Mobile Order & Pay service expands to 3,400 additional US stores. $SBUX PR link.

Starbucks(PBR164) to close all 23 La Boulange retail bakery locations & 2 manufacturing facilities by Sept. $SBUX PR link.

Discover Financial(PBR281) closing mortgage origination business, offer 460 employees severance packages. $DFS PR link.

Starwood Hotels(PBR405) files SEC Form 10 for publicly traded 4th quarter spinoff vacation ownership business named Vistana Signature Experiences. $HOT PR link.

Under Armour(PBR809) to issue Class C non-voting shares with 2:1 stock split effect. $UA PR link.

21st Century Fox(PBR89) Co-COO James Murdoch to become CEO on 07/01/15, Rupert Murdoch & Lachlan Murdoch to be Executive Co-Chairman, Chase Carey Executive Vice Chairman. $FOX PR link.

Magellan Health(PBR606) hires John Littel as SVP, Government Affairs & Communications. $MGLN PR link.

US Dept of HUD reports that May Private Housing Units Bldg Permits are at a 1,275,000 annual rate, +11.8% over April, +25.4% over May 2014. USHUD PR link.

Monday, June 15:
CVS Health(PBR13) to acquire Target’s(PBR38) 1, 660 locations pharmacy/clinical services businesses for $1.9 billion, rebrand. $CVS PR link.

United Technologies(PBR45) to decide by 3rd quarter end to sell or spinoff Sikorsky Aircraft unit. $UTX PR link.

Gap Inc(PBR168) to close 175 N. American stores, reduce headquarters staff by 250. $GPS PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) to acquire $50 million/yr Boston based William Gallagher Associates Insurance Brokers. $AJG PR link.

Standard Pacific(PBR908) and Ryland Group(PBR856) to merge, form 4th largest US homebuilder. $SPF PR link.

Constellation Brands(PBR483) CFO Bob Ryder is leaving, Beer Division CFO David Klein to succeed Ryder. $STZ PR link.

Pep Boys(PBR874) hires Scott Sider as CEO, effective immediately. $PBY PR link.

Lumber Liquidators(PBR1093) Chief Marketing Officer Marco Pescara given additional Merchandising responsibilities, William Schlegel employment being terminated. $LL PR link.

Friday, June 12:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 17,898.84, +0.28% from last Friday, -0.62% MTD, +0.69% QTD, +0.43% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,051.10, -0.34% from last Friday, -0.37% MTD, +3.06% QTD, +6.65% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,094.11, +0.06% from last Friday, -0.63% MTD, +1.27% QTD, +1.71% YTD.

FedEx(PBR61) to take a $2.2 billion charge in 4th quarter for change in pension accounting. $FDX PR link.

Reynolds American(PBR316) completes $27.4 billion acquisition of fellow cigarette manufacturer Lorillard(PBR357), British American Tobacco retains 42% ownership stake in RAI with $4.7 billion equity investment. $RAI PR link.

International Flavors & Fragrances(PBR677) to expand into cosmetics ingredients, to acquire Lucas Meyer Cosmetics for $311 million. $IFF PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the US May Producer Price Index for final demand was +0.5%, -1.1% for 12 months. USDOL PR link.

Thursday, June 11:
Google’s(PBR46, $GOOGL) next project is fixing congested cities. MarketWatch article link.

Hess(PBR114, $HES) to net $3 billion in Bakken midstream joint venture deal MarketWatch article link.

PayPal gears up to tap global payments market after split from eBay(PBR170, $EBAY). MarketWatch article link.

Whole Foods(PBR195, $WFM) lower-cost stores to be named ‘365 by Whole Foods Market’. MarketWatch article link.

HealthSouth(PBR827, $HLS) to buy in patient rehab hospital operator for $730 million. MarketWatch article link.

Tesla(PBR887) snaps up former Solyndra plant: report. MarketWatch article link.

Rupert Murdoch to step down as CEO of 21st Century Fox(PBR89, $FOX) MarketWatch article link.

Kohl’s(PBR141) announces senior executive leadership changes for CFO, COO, Chief Admin Officer, Chief Merchandise/Customer Service Officer, structure. $KSS PR link.

Campbell Soup(PBR315) hires Adam Ciongoli as SVP/General Counsel, reports to president/CEO Denise Morrison. $CPB PR link.

Orbital ATK(PBR494) promotes Scott Lehr as president of Flight Systems Group, effective 07/01/15. $OA PR link.

Pep Boys(PBR874, $PBY) and GAMCO reach understanding. MarketWatch article link.

US retail sales jump 1.2% in May. MarketWatch article link.

US import prices surge 1.3% in May, flat minus fuel. MarketWatch article link.

Corporate debt continues to mount as household wealth climbs $1.3 trillion MarketWatch article link.

Wednesday, June 10:
Johnston Controls(PBR65) announces it is exploring strategic options for the separation of its automotive business. $JCI PR link.

Nike(PBR98) wins NBA sponsorship deal away from Adidas MarketWatch article link.

Visteon(PBR338) hires Sachin Lawande as president/CEO, effective 06/29/15. $VC PR link.

Netflix(PBR534) shares skyrocket with talk of looming stock split. MarketWatch article link.

Hawaiian Electric(PBR639) shareholders approve acquisition by NextEra Energy(PBR181), still need regulatory approvals. $HE PR link.

Men’s Wearhouse(PBR781) gets agreement to operate 300 Macy’s(PBR97) tuxedo shops & online rentals. $MW PR link.

Dollar General(PBR153) announces Jeff Owen rejoining as EVP Store Operations. $DG PR link.

Tesla(PBR887) annual stockholders meeting highlights; CFO Deepak Ahuja to retire. MarketWatch article link.

The US Dept of the Treasury reports am $82 billion budget deficit in May. MarketWatch article link.

US healthcare spending falls 0.4% in first quarter. MarketWatch article link.

Employee compensation grew 4.9% in first quarter. MarketWatch article link.

World Bank revises 2015 global growth, forecasts US at 2.0%. WorldBank PR link.

Tuesday, June 9:
General Motors(PBR7, $GM) says not interested in merger with FiatChrysler MarketWatch article link.

General Electric(PBR9, $GE) to sell buyout unit to Canada pension fund for $12 billion MarketWatch article link.

Commercial Int’l Bank buys CitiGroup’s(PBR26, $C) Egypt retail ops MarketWatch article link.

Amazon(PBR37, $AMZN) to open fulfillment center in #Dallas, create more than 1,500 #jobs MarketWatch article link.

Prudential Financial(PBR70) authorizes $1 billion shares repurchase program over next 12 months. $PRU PR link.

McDonald’s(PBR96, $MCD) names ex-Obama press secretary Robert Gibbs as global communications officer MarketWatch article link.

Kraft Foods(PBR145) special stockholders meeting set for 07/01/15 to vote on acquisition by HJ Heinz. $KRFT PR link.

Campbell Soup(PBR315, $CPB) to acquire salsa and organic foods company Garden Fresh for $231 million. MarketWatch article link.

Visteon(PBR338, $VC) completes $3.6B deal, to return up to $2.6B to shareholders MarketWatch article link.

WhiteWave Foods(PBR758) to acquire Canada based plant-based nutrition products provider Vega for $550 million. $WWAV PR link.

April job openings rise to record high of 5.38 million MarketWatch article link.

US wholesale inventories climb 0.4% in April MarketWatch article link.

Foreclosure inventory down by 25% over the last year, CoreLogic says MarketWatch article link.

Monday, June 8:
The PBR1000 May Snapshots Fact: The Market Capitalization for 05/29/15 was $21.622 trillion, the Top 10 companies totaled $3.527 trillion(16.31%), the median was $6.63 billion.

Humana(PBR71) mum on takeover talk, to stay quiet till July 29. MarketWatch article link.

Swiss based crop protection & seeds company Syngenta rejects Monsanto’s(PBR173) 2nd unsolicitied CHF449/share, $45 billion, offer. Syngenta PR link.

RR Donnelley(PBR253) completes acquisition of digital printing, publishing co Courier Corp(NASDAQ: CRRC) for $261 million. $RRD PR link.

Masco(PBR319) to spin-off Installation & Other Services assets & operations to TopBuild Corp(NYSE: BLD), to start regular trading on 07/01/15. $MAS PR link.

Starwood Hotels(PBR405) sells Scottsdale, AZ, luxury resort The Phoenician to Host Hotels(PBR456) for $400 million. $HOT PR link.

Host Hotels(PBR456) announces acquisition of The Phoenician, asset sales, stock repurchases, other strategic initiatives. $HST PR link.

Gannett(PBR458) board approves spin-off of TEGNA, to start trading as NYSE: TGNA on 06/29/15. $GCI PR link.

Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR531) acquiring worldwide France based glass bottles & jars manufacturer Verallia from Saint-Gobain for $3.24 billion. $APO PR link.

Babcock & Wilcox(PBR637) Power Generation publicly traded spinoff to be named Babcock & Wilcox Enterprises(NYSE: BW), remaining company BWX Technologies(NYSE: BWXT), to start trading 07/01/15. $BWC PR link.

Stifel Financial(PBR885) to acquire Barclays’ Wealth and Investment Management, Americas, with its 180 US advisers managing $56 billion in client assets, to close mid November. $SF PR link.

General Cable(PBR385) CEO Gregory Kenny retiring 07/01/15, Michael McDonnell hired to be president/CEO at that time. $BGC PR link.

Friday, June 5:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 17,849.46, -0.90% from last Friday & MTD, +0.41% QTD, +0.15% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,068.46, -0.03% from last Friday & MTD, +3.42% QTD, +7.02% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,092.83, -0.69% from last Friday & MTD, +1.21% QTD, +1.65% YTD.

Cardinal Health(PBR27) to acquire generics/OTC medications distributor The Harvard Drug Group for $1.115 billion, to close in beginning of 2016. $CAH PR link.

Comcast(PBR44) has agreed to acquire ad tech company Visible World. MarketWatch article link.

DuPont(PBR83) Performance Chemicals spin-off The Chemours Company to begin regular trading as a separate public company on 07/01/15 with symbol NYSE: CC. $DD PR link.

Apache Corp(PBR169) completes sale of Australian subsidiary Apache Energy Limited to a consortium of private equity funds managed by Macquarie Corporate Holdings Limited and Brookfield Asset Management Inc. (NYSE: BAM) for $1.9 billion. $APA PR link.

Baxter Intl(PBR179) board approves spin-off of biopharmaceuticals unit Baxalta, to begin trading as a separate public company 07/01/15, symbol NYSE: BXLT. $BAX PR link.

Apollo Global Mgmt(PBR531) & Italy based insurance company Banca Carige sell Carige Vita Nuova & Carige Assicurazioni for $341 million, sign long term agreements. $APO PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) acquires national employee benefits brokerage & consulting firm Solid Benefit Guidance. $AJG PR link.

Walmart(PBR1): Rob Walton resigns as chairman, remains a director, Greg Penner elected new chairman. $WMT PR link.

Dick’s Sporting Goods(PBR400) hires Teri List-Stoll as EVP/CFO, starts in August. $DKS PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says in May Employment Situation that 280,000 new jobs were created, unemployment rate at 5.5%. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve in its April G19 report says consumer credit was up at a +7.25% annual rate, revolving credit +11.5%, nonrevolving credit +5.75%. USFRB PR link.

Thursday, June 4:
The PBR1000 Fun Fact: The PBR1000 End of May Market Capitalization Total was $21.622 trillion, +0.98% over April, +2.44% YTD, for 1,062 cos.

Amazon(PBR37) receives Most Reputable US Retailer for the 3rd year in a row by the Reputation Institute. MarketWatch article link.

Goodyear Tire(PBR137) & Japan’s Sumitomo Rubber Industries dissolve global alliance of 4 joint ventures, provides details. $GT PR link.

Facebook(PBR327) to start rolling out Facebook Lite. $FB PR link.

CA Technologies(PBR520) acquires private test data management company Grid-Tools, terms not disclosed. $CA PR link.

Intuit’s(PBR521) QuickBooks Online passes 1 million paid subscribers. $INTU PR link.

Carlyle Group(PBR528) completes acquisition of public UK based 2,500 employee Nationwide Accident Repair Services. $CG PR link.

Magellan Health(PBR606) restructuring into 2 units, new CEO for Rx unit on 07/01/15. $MGLN PR link.

Graham Holdings(PBR610) to spin-off its Cable One subsidiary as a public company, effective 07/01/15, with symbol NYSE: CABO. $GHC PR link.

Cisco(PBR58) incoming CEO Chuck Robbins names 10 of the new executive management team. $CSCO PR link.

Delta Air Lines(PBR78) hires Peter Carter as EVP/Chief Legal Officer, reports to CEO Richard Anderson, effective 07/13/15. $DAL PR link.

Carnival Corp(PBR176) names Tara Russell to lead new ‘fathom’ brand for global sustained social impact travel. $CCL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that Unemployment Claims for the Week Ending 05/30/15 were at 276,000, -8,000 from 05/23/15, was 314,000 a year ago. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the 1st Quarter Nonfarm Labor Productivity was at a -3.1% annual rate, output -1.6%, hrs worked +1.6%. USDOL PR link.

Wednesday, June 3:
CBS Corp(PBR178) SHOWTIME unit to launch a standalone internet streaming service in early July initially to Apple(PBR4) customers for $10.99/mo. $CBS PR link.

Yahoo!(PBR500) selected by National Footbal League to deliver first global live stream of an NFL football game 10/25/15. $YHOO PR link.

Wendy’s(PBR777) authorizes $1.4 billion shares buyback program, updates 2015 & long term outlook. $WEN PR link.

E*TRADE Financial(PBR947) exceeds $50 billion in retirement assets. $ETFC PR link.

Groupon(PBR750) promotes Rich Williams to COO; CFO Jason Child leaving 07/31/15, VP Bryan Kayman named Interim CFO. $GRPN PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the April International Goods and Services deficit was $40.9 billion, down $9.7 billion from March. USDOC PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank releases the Beige Book, outlook generally optimistic, economy expected to grow at a modest to moderate pace. FRB PR link.

Tuesday, June 2:
GameStop(PBR287) to acquire ThinkGeek retailer parent Geeknet(NASDAQ: GKNT) for $20/share, $140 million. $GME PR link.

Anixter(PBR398) completes sale of its OEM Supply-Fasteners segment to American Industrial Partners(NR) for $380 million cash. $AXE PR link.

Energizer Holdings(PBR527) doing 10 million shares, $1.4 billion stock buyback purchase program, to carry over to Edgewell Personal Care Company after spin-off completed on 07/01/15. $ENR PR link.

Wendy’s(PBR777) completes sale of bakery business to East Balt Bakeries. $WEN PR link.

AOL(PBR812) introduces new homepage with emphasis on mobile first, video-driven destination & content. $AOL PR link.

CNA Financial(PBR263) hires Kevin Leidwinger as President/COO CNA Commercial, reports to CNA Chairman/CEO Tom Motamed, effective 06/22/15. $CNA PR link.

Hershey Co(PBR347) International President Bert Alfonso retiring by 06/30/15. $HSY PR link.

Mattel(PBR383) CEO reshuffles top execs to jumpstart turnaround. MarketWatch article link.

Carpenter Technology(PBR842) promotes SVP/CFO Tony Thene to CEO, effective 07/01/15. $CRS article link.

Cimarex Energy(PBR890) CFO Paul Korus to retire by 09/01/15, VP Mark Burford to become CFO at that time. $XEC article link.

Griffon Corp(PBR891) promotes VP/Controller Brian Harris to SVP/CFO reporting to President/COO Robert Mehmel. $GFF article link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that April New Orders for Manufactured Goods was -0.4% to $476.7 billion, was +2.2% in March. USDOC PR link.

Monday, June 1:
General Electric(PBR9) begins sale process for $40 billion chunk of U.S. lending unit. MarketWatch article link.

Microsoft(PBR30) making Windows 10 available as a free upgrade on 07/29/15. $MSFT PR link.

Intel(PBR52) to acquire field-programmable gate array technology company Altera(PBR942) for $54/share, $16.7 billion cash, to close in 6-9 months. $INTC PR link.

Enterprise Products(PBR56) to purchase all Eagle Ford Shale member interests of EFS Midstream for $2.15 billion. $EPD PR link.

Humana(PBR71) completes sale of wholly owned subsidiary Concentra to a joint venture of Select Medical & Welsh Carson for $1.055 billion cash. $HUM PR link.

Icahn Enterprises(PBR133) completes acquisition of nearly all assets of autoparts distributor Uni-Select USA. $IEP PR link.

Dollar General(PBR153) opens its 12,000th store. $DG PR link.

PPL Corp(PBR227) completes spinoff of energy business, now focused on utility business in US & UK. $PPL PR link.

BlackRock(PBR262) & Pemex sign agreement to accelerate development of energy infrastructure projects in Mexico. $BLK PR link.

Gannett(PBR458) acquires 11 media organizations in 3 states from Digital First Media. $GCI article link.

Energizer Holdings(PBR527) split into 2 public companies gets go ahead, should be trading on NYSE under symbols ENR & EPC on 07/01/15. $ENR PR link.

Apollo Global Management(PBR531) affiliates to acquire diversified technology company OM Group(PBR1060) for $34/share cash, to close by end of 2015. $APO PR link.

Curtiss-Wright(PBR771) sells off all assets & liabilities of downstream oil & gas businesses to Sun Capital Partners Group. $CW PR link.

A. Schulman(PBR787) completes acquisition of specialty engineered plastics company Citadel Plastics for $800 million. $SHLM PR link.

Ferrellgas(PBR791) to acquire integrated crude oil midstream services company Bridger Logistics for $837 million. $FGP PR link.

Zions Bancorp(PBR824) announces restructuring plan, key leadership changes. $ZION PR link.

Crestwood Equity(PBR1005) makes organizational changes, promotes several key executives. $CEQP PR link.

Lumber Liquidators(PBR1093) explains why it relabeled products; shares bounce. MarketWatch article link.

Walt Disney Company(PBR54): James A. Rasulo to step down as CFO, effective 06/30/15. Bloomberg article link.

Two Cisco(PBR58) presidents to depart on 07/25/15. MarketWatch article link.

Cisco(PBR58) CTO Padmasree Warrior planning to leave on 07/25/15. Re/Code article link.

Time Warner Cable(PBR125) CFO William Minson leaving; William Osbourn, Matthew Siegel to serve as Acting Co-CFOs. $TWC article link.

NetApp(389) Chairman/CEO Tom Georgens resigns, EVP George Kurian promoted to CEO, lead independent director Mike Nevens elected Chairman. $NTAP article link.

Advanced Micro Devices(PBR451) hires Jim Anderson as SVP/GM Computing & Graphics business, reports to CEO Dr. Lisa Su. http://bit.ly/1KAgBjE$AMD article link.

CA Technologies(PBR520) hires Otto Berkes as Chief Technology Officer, effective 06/15/15, reports to CEO Mike Gregoire. $CA PR link.

Men’s Wearhouse(PBR781) hires Ben Baum as Chief Digital Officer, reports to CEO Doug Ewert. $MW PR link.

E*Trade(PBR947) CFO Matt Audette leaving, Mike Pizzi promoted to CFO, reports to CEO Paul Idzik. $ETFC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says April Personal Income was up $59.4B, +0.4% over March, Disposable Personal Income up +0.4%. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says April Construction Spending was at a $1,006.1B annual rate, +2.2% over March. USDOC PR link.

The Institute for Supply Management says the May 2015 Manufacturing PMI was at 52.8%, +1.3% from April. ISM PR link.

The PBR1000 May Stocks Index ended at 76,157.82, +0.86% over April, +2.44% YTD, for 1,062 companies.

The PBR1000 May 2015 Breaking News Recap is posted on the BLOG page. You can also click here.

(Photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net, Stuart Miles.)

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

The PBR1000 May 2015 Breaking News Recap!

June 3, 2015 by admin

ID-100259380 Strategy World-Stuart Miles

A Key The PBR1000 Growth Strategy in May 2015
Was The Use Of Mergers and Acquisitions.
What Will Be The Long Term Results?

By Larry C. Paxton

After the falling apart of the Comcast(PBR44)/Time Warner Cable(PBR125) merger in April, May 2015 saw a new, but not unexpected, Charter Communications(PBR320)/Time Warner Cable(PBR93) deal for $78 billion. It will be interesting to see what conditions are required for that deal to occur. But May 2015 was also a significant month for other over $10 billion dollar deals, like Avago Technology/Broadcom(PBR313), Pfizer(PBR53)/Hospira(PBR570), and Danaher(PBR139)/Pall Corp(PBR708). It was also a sad month that saw the collapse of Radio Shack(PBR619) as it goes through the bankruptcy process.

The US economy continues to give mixed signals. When the Federal Reserve will start to raise interest rates continues to be a topic of much discussion and conjecture.

The C-level suite had a lot of action as well. With active mergers and acquisitions, and mixed annual and quarterly results, this is not a big surprise.

Following are The PBR1000 and economic related news items of note for May 2015 starting with the last active day.

Friday, May 29:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 18,010.68, -1.21% from last Friday, +0.95% MTD, +1.32% QTD, +1.05% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,070.03, -0.38% from last Friday, +2.60% MTD, +3.45% QTD, +7.05% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,107.39, -0.88% from last Friday, +1.05% MTD, +1.91% QTD, +2.36% YTD.

Raytheon(PBR118) completes $1.9 billion investment for 80% ownership in venture with Vista Equity Partners’ Websense unit to provide cyber security services. $RTN PR link.

Dollar Tree(PBR329) to sell 330 Family Dollar(PBR252) stores to private equity fund firm Sycamore Partners, contingent on completion of acquisition. $DLTR PR link.

Harman Intl(PBR448) completes acquisition of Denmark based high end car audio systems provider Bang & Olufsen, terms not disclosed. $HAR PR link.

Harris Corp(PBR469) completes acquisition of global aerospace, defense, information & other technologies Exelis(PBR487) for $23.75/share, $4.75 billion. $HRS PR link.

Brown Shoe(PBR770) rebranding, now known as Caleres(PBR770) per 04/16/15 announcement. $CAL PR link.

Equinix(PBR852) agrees to acquire UK based data centers provider Telecity for $3.6B. MarketWatch article link.

American Express(PBR86) announces unexpected death of its president, Ed Gilligan. $AXP PR link.

International Flavors & Fragrances(PBR677) hires Alison Cornell as EVP/CFO, effective 07/08/15. $IFF article link.

The US Dept of Commerce in 2nd estimate says 1st Quarter 2015 GDP grew at a -0.7%, $17.665 trillion annual rate. USDOC PR link.

Thursday, May 28:
JPMorgan Chase(PBR20) expected to lay off more than 5,000 by next year. MarketWatch article link.

Energy Transfer Equity(PBR55) to do 2-1 stock split on 07/24/15. $ETE PR link.

Broadcom(PBR313) to be acquired by Singapore based analog semiconductor devices provider Avago Technologies(NASDAQ: AVGO) for $37 billion cash/stock. $BRCM PR link.

Crown Castle(PBR670) completes sale of Australian subsidiary to investment group headed by Macquarie Infrastructure(PBR1086) for $1.6 billion. $CCI PR link.

Alliance One Intl(PBR804) to do 1-for-10 reverse stock split effective 06/29/15. $AOI PR link.

Tesla(PBR887), Southern Co(PBR160) partner in utility-scale battery-storage projects. MarketWatch article link.

Freddie Mac(PBR33) reports that the average 30 year fixed mortgage rate is at 3.87%, fees/points at 0.6. Freddie Mac PR link.

Dollar General(PBR153) promotes COO Todd Vasos to CEO, effective 06/03/15, Rick Dreiling to remain Chairman. $DG PR link.

Hawaiian Airlines(PBR849) promotes Shannon Okinaka to EVP/CFO. $HA PR link.

Wednesday, May 27:
Ford Motor(PBR8) recalls 423,000 vehicles for potential intermittent loss of electrical power steering assist while driving. $F PR link.

CA Technologies(PBR520) to acquire Agile software development & services provider Rally Software(NYSE: RALY) for $19.50/share, $480 million. $CA PR link.

Dealerships are ‘quietly supporting’ Tesla’s(PBR887) Elon Musk MarketWatch article link.

City National Corp(PBR1045) stockholders approve merger with Royal Bank of Canada for $5.4 billion cash/stock, expected to close in 4th quarter. $CYN PR link.

Carnival Corp(PBR176) hires Jim Heaney as SVP/CFO, effective 06/22/15, reports to President Christine Duffy. $CCL PR link.

Domino’s Pizza(PBR927) names Chief Marketing Officer, Chief Digital Officer, USA VP Strategy, VP Team USA. $DPZ PR link.

Obamacare to add billions in insurance overhead costs, study says. MarketWatch article link.

Tuesday, May 26:
Amazon(PBR37) to create more than 6,000 jobs at its US fulfillment centers. $AMZN PR link.

Amazon(PBR37) changes tax practices in Europe. MarketWatch article link.

EMC Corp(PBR119) to acquire privately held managed cloud services company Virtustream for $1.2 billion. $EMC PR link.

AbbVie(PBR142) completes $21 billion acquisition of hematology oncology Imbruvica developer Pharmacyclics(NASDAQ: PCYC). $ABBV PR link.

Hormel Foods(PBR294) to acquire privately held natural/organic meat processor Applegate Farms for $775 million, expected to close in 60 days. $HRL PR link.

Reynolds American(PBR316) & Lorillard(PBR357) get FTC approval for merger, federal court case is final major hurdle. $RAI PR link.

Charter Communications(PBR320) to acquire Time Warner Cable(PBR125) for $78.7 billion stock/cash. $CHTR PR link.

Priceline(PBR365) to invest an additional $250 million in China online travel service Ctrip(NASDAQ: CTRP), will then have a 10.5% of a maximum allowable 15% stake. $PCLN PR link.

Brunswick(PBR577) completes sale of its Bowling Products unit to private investment firm BlueArc Capital Management, terms not disclosed. $BC PR link.

Apple(PBR4) names Jony Ive chief design officer. MarketWatch article link.

Anthem(PBR40) EVP/President Commercial/Specialty Business Division Ken Goulet retiring this summer. $ANTM PR link.

C.H. Robinson(PBR211) hires Andrew Clarke as CFO, effective 06/01/15, reports to president/CEO John Wiehoff. $CHRW PR link.

SeaWorld(PBR1002) Chief Accounting Officer Marc Swanson appointed Interim CFO effective 06/01/15 upon announcement by Jim Heaney that he is returning to the cruise industry. $SEAS PR link.

The US Dept of HUD reports that April New Single-Family Houses Sales were at a 517,000 annual rate, +6.8% over March, +26.1% over April 2014 HUD PR link.

Monday, May 25:
US Memorial Day Observed.
US Stock Exchanges Closed.

Friday, May 22:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 18,232.02, -0.22% from last Friday, +2.19% MTD, +2.56% QTD, +2.29% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,089.36, +0.81% from last Friday, +2.99% MTD, +3.85% QTD, +7.46% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,126.06, +0.16% from last Friday, +1.95% MTD, +2.81% QTD, +3.26% YTD.

Amgen(PBR144) terminating participation with AstraZeneca(NYSE:AZN) to co-develop & commercialize brodalumab for plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis. $AMGN PR link.

Exelis(PBR487) shareholders approve acquisition by Harris Corp(PBR469) for $23.75/share, $4.75 billion cash/stock, expected to close on 05/29/15. $ENR PR link.

Energizer Holdings(PBR527) adopts limited duration shareholder rights plan in preparation for Personal Care Division spin-off. $ENR PR link.

Arch Coal(PBR671) receives continued listing standard notice from NYSE; taking steps to regain compliance with minimum share price standard. $ACI PR link.

ITT Educational(PBR1078) issues statement: ‘Day in Court Long Overdue for ITT Tech.’ $ESI PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that April Employee Avg Current Earnings were $24.87/hr, +2.2% from April 2014, $858.02/wk. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the April Consumer Price Index was +0.1% over March, -0.2% over the last 12 months. USDOL PR link.

Thursday, May 21:
CVS Health(PBR13) to acquire long term care facilities pharmacy provider Omnicare(PBR408) for $98/share, $12.7 billion cash. $CVS PR link.

QUALCOMM(PBR104) initiates accelerated $5 billion share repurchase program with two financial institutions. $QCOM PR link.

Spectrum Brands(PBR529) completes acquisition of HRG Group(PBR412) Armored AutoGroup unit for $1.4 billion cash. $SPB PR link.

Graham Holdings(PBR610) sells the African American emphasis TheRoot.com to a division of Univision Interactive Media. $GHI PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) acquires Midwest based retail insurance broker James R Weir Insurance Agency. $AJG PR link.

Chico’s FAS(PBR748) President/CEO David Dyer retiring in Spring 2016, search firm retained to find a successor. $CHS PR link.

Nortek(PBR822) CFO Almon Hall to retire at year end 2015, search among internal/external candidates begins. $NTK PR link.

Lumber Liquidators(PBR1093) founder Thomas Sullivan named Acting CEO upon the unexpected resignation of Robert Lynch. $LL PR link.

The National Assn of Realtors reports that April Existing Home Sales were at a 5.04 million annual rate, -3.3% from Marc, +6.1% from April 2014 NAR PR link.

Wednesday, May 20:
JPMorgan Chase(PBR20) announces settlements with the US Dept of Justice & the Federal Reserve related to foreign exchange activities $JPM PR link.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR39) to file 10 new drugs by 2019, each with the potential to generate more than $1 billion in revenues. $JNJ PR link.

Scotts Miracle-Gro(PBR701) pays $300 million to Monsanto(PBR173) for RoundUp brand extension into new lawn & garden categories & geographies. $SMG PR link.

Owens & Minor(PBR285) hires P Cody Phipps as President/CEO, effective 07/01/15, succeeds retiring James Bierman. $OMI PR link.

The Federal Open Market Committee releases its April meeting minutes, still wait & see on interest rates, based on employment, inflation rates. FOMC PR link.

Tuesday, May 19:
Computer Sciences Corp(PBR209) to split into 2 public companies, Global Commercial & US Public Sector, will pay special dividend of $10.50/share upon closing, expected by October. $CSC PR link.

Big Lots(PBR450) hires “Rocky” Robins, Jr, as General Counsel/Corporate Secretary, reports to President/CEO David Campisi. $BIG PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR33) in its May Economic and Housing Market Outlook sees interest rate volatility, higher home prices, slower growth. $FMCC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that April Private Housing Starts were at an annual rate of 1,135,000, +20.2% from March, +9.2% from April 2014. USDOC PR link.

Monday, May 18:
Apple(PBR4) buys high-precision GPS firm Coherent Navigation. BetaNews article link.

Archer-Daniels-Midland(PBR28) growing sweetener business in central & western China with acquisition of privately held Meiweiyuan Biotechnology. $ADM PR link.

Starbucks(PBR164) & Spotify to connect music streaming service to stores, rewards members, & users. $SBUX PR link.

Hertz(PBR249) to raise car-rental rates. MarketWatch article link.

The Andersons(PBR428) purchases Kay Flo Industries’ Plant Nutrient Group, sells 200,000 tons of liquid fertilizers. $ANDE PR link.

Ascena Retail(PBR493) to acquire women’s specialty fashion retail company ANN(PBR775) for $47/share, $2 billion. $ASNA PR link.

Endo International(PBR741) to acquire private generics company Par Pharmaceutical from TPG for $8.05 billion. $ENDP PR link.

GrafTech(PBR1056) to be acquired by Brookfield Asset Management(NYSE: BAM) for a tender offer of $5.05/share, $695 million. $GTI PR link.

Amgen(PBR144) hires Jon Graham as SVP, General Counsel/Secretary, effective 07/13/15, succeeds retiring David Scott, reports to Chairman/CEO Robert Bradway. $AMGN PR link.

C.H. Robinson(PBR211) promotes Mike Short to President, Global Forwarding division, reports to CEO John Wiehoff. $CHRW PR link.

Friday, May 15:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 18,272.56, +0.45% from last Friday, +2.42% MTD, +2.79% QTD, +2.52% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,048.29, +0.89% from last Friday, +2.16% MTD, +3.01% QTD, +6.59% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,122.73(R), +0.31% from last Friday, +1.78% MTD, +2.65% QTD, +3.10% YTD.

TRW Automotive(PBR154) acquisition by Germany auto supplier ZF Friedrichshafen AG for around $11 billion is completed.

Molina Healthcare(PBR375) to acquire Medicaid and MIChild assets of HealthPlus in the State of Michigan. $MOH PR link.

General Dynamics(PBR91) Gulfstream Aerospace unit President Larry Flynn retiring on 06/30/15, Mark Burns to become President. $GD PR link.

The US Federal Reserve System G17 report says that April Industrial Production decreased 0.3%, 5th consecutive monthly loss. USFRS PR link.

Thursday, May 14:
eBay(PBR170) PayPal unit to trade as NASDAQ: PYPL, its original symbol before being acquired by eBay, upon spinoff later this year. PayPal article link.

The Mosaic Co(PBR265) authorizes $1.5 billion shares repurchase program, $500 million fast tracked. $MOS PR link.

Crown Castle(PBR670) selling Australian subsidiary to investment group headed by Macquarie Infrastructure(PBR1086) for $1.6 billion. $CCI PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the April Producer Price Index fell 0.4%, last 12 mos final demand fell 1.3%. USDOL PR link.

Wednesday, May 13:
Hospira(PBR570) shareholders approve acquisition by Pfizer(PBR53) for $90/share, $17 billion, expects to close in 2nd half 2015. $HSP PR link.

Delta Air Lines(PBR78) authorizes new $5 billion shares repurchase program to be completed by 12/31/17. $DAL PR link.

Danaher(PBR139) to acquire filtration, separation, & purification products & services provider Pall Corp(PBR708) for $127.20/share, $13.8 billion. $DHR PR link.

Danaher(PBR139) to split into two public companies, a science/technology firm, & a diversified industrial growth company. $DHR PR link.

Southwest Airlines(PBR150) announces $1.5 billion shares repurchase program. $LUV PR link.

Precision Castparts(PBR275) authorizes additional $2 billion shares repurchase program through 06/30/17. $PCP PR link.

Owens-Illinois(PBR356) to acquire largest food & beverage glass container provider in Mexico, Vitro, for $2.15 billion cash. $OI PR link.

Williams Cos(PBR361) to acquire all public equity of natural gas products/services company Williams Partners(NYSE: WPZ) in $13.8 billion stock deal. $WMB PR link.

RadioShack(PBR619) brand name & customer data auctioned off to Standard General for $26.2 million. Dallas Morning News article link.

AIG(PBR41) promotes Brian Schreiber to new position of Chief Strategy Officer, reports to President/CEO Peter Hancock. $AIG PR link.

The Mosaic Co(PBR265) to promote EVP/COO Joc O’Rourke to President/CEO on 08/05/15, succeeds James Prokopanko, who is retiring. $MOS PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that April Retail & Food Services Sales were $436.8 billion, same as March, 0.9% higher than April 2014. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says April Import Prices fell 0.3%, -10.7% last 12 mos; Export Prices fell 0.7%, -6.3% last 12 mos. USDOL PR link.

Tuesday, May 12:
Verizon(PBR15) to acquire digital content/advertising company AOL(PBR812) for $50/share, $4.4 billion. $VZ PR link.

American Express(PBR86) authorizes 150 million shares buyback program, replaces previous program. $AXP PR link.

ConAgra Foods(PBR149) has acquired Concord, NH, based 60 employee natural & organic frozen meals maker Blake’s All Natural Foods, terms not disclosed. $CAG PR link.

ITT Educational(PBR1078) disputes SEC suit filed today regarding accounting irregularities. $ESI PR link.

ITT Educational(PBR1078), CEO Modany & CFO Fitzpatrick sued by SEC on fraud charges for accounting irregularities. SEC PR link.

FMC Technologies(PBR350) promotes EVP/COO Doug Pferdehirt to President, John Gremp keeps Chairman/CEO responsibilities. $FTI PR link.

Calpine Corp(PBR391) hires Trey Griggs III as EVP/Chief Commercial Officer, effective 06/01/15, reports to President/CEO Thad Hill. $CPN PR link.

The US Dept of Labor says end of March Job Openings were at 4.99 million, was 5.14 million at the end of February. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury reports that the US Government April Receipts were at $471.8 billion, Surplus of $156.7 billion, Fiscal YTD Deficit now $282.8 billion. Treasury PR link.

Monday, May 11:
General Electric(PBR9) says it is open to concessions to get the European Union to okay the pending $13.5 billion deal for France based Alstom. MarketWatch article link.

Noble Energy(PBR467) enters Eagle Ford & Permian oil fields through acquisition of Rosetta Resources(NASDAQ: ROSE) for $2.1 billion in stock. $NBL PR link.

Comcast(PBR44) hires Carlyle Group(PBR528) executive Mike Cavanaugh to become CFO this summer. $CMCSA PR link.

Cameron Intl(PBR269) Pres/COO R Scott Rowe to become CEO on 10/05/15, Chairman/CEO Jack Moore to remain Chairman. $CAM PR link.

Tempur Sealy(PBR783) appoints COO Tim Yaggi as Interim CEO, elects Frank Doyle as Chairman. $TPX PR link.

Panera Bread(PBR794) hires former Darden(PBR393) Pres/COO Drew Madsen as President, former McDonald’s(PBR96) exec Ken Koziol as EVP. $PNRA PR link.

The US Dept of Interior conditionally approves Royal Dutch Shell Arctic drilling plan. MarketWatch article link.

Friday, May 8:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 18,191.11, +0.93% from last Friday, +1.97% MTD, +2.33% QTD, +2.06% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,003.55, -0.04% from last Friday, +1.26% MTD, +2.09% QTD, +5.65% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,116.10, +0.37% from last Friday, +1.47% MTD, +2.33% QTD, +2.78% YTD.

Walmart(PBR1) Canada to acquire & renovate 13 former Target(PBR38) Canada stores, add 4,900 jobs. $WMT PR link.

Swiss based crop protection & seeds company Syngenta rejects Monsanto’s(PBR173) unsolicitied CHF449/share offer, says undervalued. Syngenta PR link.

Monsanto(PBR173) makes unsolicited offer for Swiss based crop protection & seeds company Syngenta for CHF449/share. $MON PR link.

Priceline(PBR365) announces acquisition of real-time hotel analytics firm PriceMatch. $PCLN PR link.

RadioShack(PBR619) name & intellectual property up for auction on Monday, 05/11/15. MarketWatch article link.

Tempur Sealy(PBR783) stockholders do not re-elect Chairman P Andrews McLane, President/CEO Mark Sarvary, & Director Christopher Masto to board. $TPX PR link.

The US Dept of Labor in April Employment Situation reports that 148.5 million people were employed at the end of April, 8.5 million unemployed, 5.4% unemployment rate. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says March Wholesale Sales were at $441.6B, -0.2% from February, -4.0% from March 2014. USDOC PR link.

Thursday, May 7:
Starbucks(PBR164) moving Ethos Water production from California to Pennsylvania because of drought. $SBUXL PR link.

Biogen(PBR358) authorizes $5 billion shares repurchase program with no expiration date. $BIIB PR link.

Asbury Automotive(PBR449) has acquired $70 million/yr Atlanta, GA, based Capital City Nissan, to be renamed Nalley Nissan Atlanta. $ABG PR link.

Alaska Air(PBR459) to be Gevo’s(NASDAQ: GEVO) commercial launch partner for renewable alcohol-based jet fuel. $ALK PR link.

SunEdison(PBR888) to acquire 7 renewable energy portfolios & corporate platforms In Brazil, China, India, Peru, Chile, South Africa, & Uruguay. $SUNE PR link.

Lumber Liquidators(PBR1093) provides update on laminate flooring sourced from China. $LL PR link.

Walt Disney(PBR54) promotes Leslie Ferraro to President, Disney Consumer Products, reports to Chairman/CEO Robert Iger & COO Thomas Staggs. $DIS PR link.

Church & Dwight(PBR645) to promote COO/CFO Matt Farrell to CEO, effective 01/01/16, upon retirement of James Craigie, who will continue to serve as non-executive Chairman. $CHD PR link.

The US Federal Reserve in its G19 report says 1st Quarter 2015 Consumer Credit was up at a 5.5% annual rate. FRB PR link.

Wednesday, May 6:
Whole Foods(PBR195) announces plans to open new brand stores in 2016 geared towards millenial shoppers. $WFM PR link.

Discover Financial(PBR281) selling its Diners Club Italia & Diner Club Card transaction processor Dinit to Swiss private bank Corner Bank. $DFS PR link.

Starwood Hotels(PBR405) plans to add 50 hotels by 2019 in the Middle East. $HOT PR link.

Wendy’s(PBR777) to sell non-core bakery business, on track to sell 540 corporate restaurants to franchisees. $WEN PR link.

Alexion Pharmaceuticals(PBR986) to acquire rare diseases therapies developer Synageva BioPharma(NASDAQ: GEVA) for $230/share, $8.4 billion net cash. $ALXN PR link.

AGL Resources(PBR507) appoints EVP/CFO Andrew Evans to President/COO. Elizabeth Reese promoted to EVP/CFO. $GAS PR link.

Dynegy(PBR1000) extends employment agreement with President/CEO Robert Flexon through April 2018. $DYN PR link.

Atmel(PBR1013) CEO Steven Laub to retire as of 08/31/15, search for internal/external candidates starts. $ATML PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the 1st Quarter Labor Productivity Annual Rate was -1.9%, output -0.2%, hours worked +1.7%. USDOL PR link.

Tuesday, May 5:
Archer-Daniels-Midland(PBR28) to acquire full ownership of strategically located Black Sea export terminals. $ADM PR link.

Wells Fargo(PBR29) is sued by the City of Los Angeles for opening unauthorized accounts. $WFC PR link.

HCA(PBR76) approves $1 billion shares buyback program, 3 year capital plan upped to $7.7 billion. $HCA PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) to open 4 30,000 sf Backstage pilot off-price stores in metro New York City in the fall of 2015. $M PR link.

Sprint(PBR162) reports 1.2 million net additions in 4th quarter 2014 compared to net losses of 383,000 in 4th quarter 2013. $S PR link.

Pitney Bowes(PBR579) to acquire global ecommerce solutions company Borderfree for $14/share, $395 million cash in aggregate. $PBI PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) acquires Toronto, ON, based McDowall Associates Human Resource Consultants. $AJG PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) acquires Calgary, AB, based employee benefits provider Vital Benefits. http://bit.ly/1c3JR6M$AJG PR link.

Occidental Petroleum(PBR107) promotes Vicki Hollub to President of Worldwide Oil & Gas operations, to succeed Stephen Chazen as CEO after a transition period. $OXY PR link.

Micron Technology(PBR166) hires Ernie Maddock as CFO & VP of Finance effective 06/01/15. $MU PR link.

Hubbell(PBR646) appoints Kevin A. Poyck, Rodd R. Ruland and Darrin S. Wegman Group Presidents for its Lighting, Construction and Energy, and Commercial and Industrial businesses, respectively, effective June 1, 2015, all report to Chairman/President/CEO David Nord. $HUBA PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that March US International Trade Exports were at $187.8 billion, Imports $239.2 billion, for a deficit of $51.4 billion, February deficit was $35.9 billion. USDOC PR link.

Monday, May 4:
Comcast(PBR44) plans to use $6.75 billion in 2015 for shares repurchase program. $CMCSA PR link.

Google(PBR46) acquires Timeful to develop scheduling apps for its products. $GOOGL PR link.

McDonald’s(PBR96) to restructure on 07/01/15 into 4 business units: US, International Lead, High-Growth, & Foundational Markets. $MCD PR link.

Coach(PBR490) completes acquisition of women’s luxury footwear designer & manufacturer Stuart Weitzman from private equity firm Sycamore Partners for up to $574 million cash. $COH PR link.

Patterson Cos(PBR563) to acquire production distribution company Animal Health International for $1.1 billion cash. $PDCO PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) acquires Charlotte, NC, based credit union executive compensation consulting services firm Burns-Fazzi, Brock & Associates. $AJG PR link.

Ciena Corp(PBR870) to acquire network management software developer Cyan(NYSE: CYNI) for $400 million. $CIEN PR link.

Corinthian Colleges(PBR974) files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Reuters article link.

Cisco Systems(PBR58) SVP Worldwide Operations Chuck Robbins to become CEO 07/26/15; Chairman/CEO John Chambers to become Executive Chairman. $CSCO PR link.

Chesapeake Energy(PBR152) hires Frank Patterson as EVP Exploration, Land & Subsurface Technology, reports to CEO Doug Lawler. $CHK PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) hires Sean Connelly as Global Chief Information Officer. $AJG PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that March New Orders for Manufactured Goods were at $476.5 billion, +2.1% from February, 1st increase in 7 months. USDOC PR link.

Friday, May 1:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 18,024.06, -0.31% from last Friday, +1.03% MTD, +1.39% QTD, +1.13% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,005.39, -1.70% from last Friday, +1.29% MTD, +2.13% QTD, +5.69% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,108.29, -0.44% from last Friday, +1.09% MTD, +1.95% QTD, +2.40% YTD.

The PBR1000 April 2015 Breaking News Recap is at: Link.

Arrow Electronics(PBR129) completes acquisition of Taiwan based $500 million/yr Asian electronic component distributor ATM Electronic Corp. $ARW PR link.

Harley-Davidson(PBR417) President/COO Matt Levatich now President/CEO. $HOG PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) acquires Kansas City, MO, national healthcare human resources consulting company Integrated Healthcare Strategies. $AJG PR link.

International Flavors & Fragrances(PBR677) completes acquisition of flavors technologies company Henry H. Ottens Manufacturing. $IFF PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says March US Construction Annual Spending Rate at $966.6B, -0.6% from Feb, +2.0% from March 2014. USDOC PR link.

(Photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net, Stuart Miles.)

Filed Under: Recaps Tagged With: acquisitions, Business, business news, Economy, Investing, mergers, Rankings, The PBR1000

The PBR1000 April 2015 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots

May 20, 2015 by admin

ID-100326596 World Stocks Chart-jscreationzs

Which Directions Did Your Stocks Go In April?

By Larry C. Paxton

The PBR1000 April 2015 Snapshots include news and stocks data on 1,065 companies in 15 analytical reports.

Current The PBR1000 Subscribers should have already received the MS Excel workbook.

At the end of April it was good to see that the stock exchanges were in the black in all time ranges. However, the journey to get there still involved a lot of fluctuations throughout the month. One highlight was NASDAQ reaching a new high close during the month, the first time in years.

Economic indicators are still mixed. The Federal Reserve continues to be cautious about when it will inevitably have to start to increase interest rates and the rationale for doing justifying that action. This sets the stage for May. It will be interesting to see how investors respond as a new set of indicators come out and company quarterly SEC reports are filed.

In the following tables the stock price is for the close of trading on April 30th, Month % Chg is compared to March 31st, YTD % Chg is compared to December 31, 2014, and the 16 Mos % Chg is compared to December 31, 2013.

Table 1: The PBR1000 Stock Price Composite

Table 1 Summary: Made up of the sum of the stock prices of the 1,065 companies currently tracked by The PBR1000.

Company	Price 04/30/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	16 Mos % Chg
The PBR1000	288,901.61	-1.76	-3.81	+17.88

Table 2: The PBR1000 Top 5 Month Stock Price % Gainers

Table 2 Summary: The range was +75.00% to -30.67%. 443 out of 1,065 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 41.60% of the companies tracked. The median was a loss of 1.12%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 04/30/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	16 Mos % Chg
NII Holdings	495	NIHDQ	0.07	+75.00	+250.00	-97.45
Windstream	410	WIN	11.68	+57.84	+41.75	+46.37
Tidewater	1004	TDW	27.69	+44.67	-14.56	-53.28
iHeartRadio	396	IHRT	6.75	+42.11	-18.18	+3.37
McDermott Intl	734	MDR	5.25	+36.72	+80.41	-42.69

Table 3: The PBR1000 Top 5 Year-To-Date Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: The range was +250.00% to -65.58%. 573 out of 1,065 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 53.80% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of 1.09%

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 04/30/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	16 Mos % Chg
NII Holdings	495	NIHDQ	0.07	+75.00	+250.00	-97.45
McDermott Intl	734	MDR	5.25	+36.72	+80.41	-42.69
Pinnacle Entertainment	993	PNK	36.76	+1.86	+65.21	+41.44
Netflix	534	NFLX	556.50	+33.55	+62.91	+51.15
Skechers USA	922	SKX	89.92	+25.05	+62.75	+171.42

Table 4: The PBR1000 Top 5 16 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 4 Summary: Range was +171.42% to -97.65%. 688 out of 1,060 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 64.91% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of 9.94%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 04/30/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	16 Mos % Chg
Skechers USA	922	SKX	89.92	+25.05	+62.75	+171.42
Electronic Arts	603	EA	58.09	-1.23	+23.56	+153.23
Freescale Semiconductor	548	FSL	39.09	-4.10	+54.93	+143.55
JetBlue Airways	441	JBLU	20.53	+6.65	+29.45	+140.40
Hawaiian Holdings	849	HA	23.08	+4.79	-11.40	+139.67

Table 5: The PBR1000 Selected Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company	Price 04/30/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	16 Mos % Chg
DJIA	17,840.52	+0.36	+0.10	+7.62
NASDAQ	4,941.42	+0.83	+4.34	+18.31
S&P500	2,085.51	+0.85	+1.29	+12.83
Gold	1,181.10	-0.18	-0.32	-1.76
Silver	16.16	-2.65	+3.59	-16.57
Oil	59.74	+25.50	+12.15	-34.50

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

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

(Photo made available through freedigitalphotos.net, jscreationzs.)

Filed Under: Snapshots Tagged With: Commodities, DJIA, Economy, Investing, Money, NASDAQ, S&P 500, Stock Market, Stocks, The PBR1000, Trading

The PBR1000: The April 2015 Breaking News Recap!

May 3, 2015 by admin

The 2016 Race for the US Presidency Has Started.
What Promises for Economic and Business Growth Can We Expect?

By Larry C. Paxton

Activity in The PBR1000 companies during April 2015 was a bit like the start of the 2016 race for the US presidency. There was some activity, like Hillary Clinton announcing her bid and then the quiet followup with her initial road trip. On the business side perhaps Apple(PBR4) came the closest by announcing the Apple Watch and accepting initial orders. The falling apart of the Comcast(PBR44)/Time Warner Cable(PBR125) merger provided some excitement and the Mylan(PBR36) dance with Perrigo(PBR564) and Israel based Teva Pharmaceuticals has provided some entertainment, too.

Following are The PBR1000 and economic news items of note for April 2015 starting with the last active day.

Thursday, April 30:
The PBR1000 Monthly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes month at 17,840.52, -1.33% from last Friday, +0.36% MTD/QTD, +0.10% YTD.
NASDAQ closes month at 4,941.42, -2.96% from last Friday, +0.83% MTD/QTD, +4.34% YTD.
SPX closes month at 2,085.51, -1.52% from last Friday, +0.85% MTD/QTD, +1.29% YTD.

AmerisourceBergen(PBR16) authorizes $1 billion shares buyback program. $ABC PR link.

Boulevard Acquisition(NASDAQ: BLVD) to acquire AgroFresh business from Dow Chemical(PBR48) for $810 million, make it a public company. $BLVD PR link.

Harley-Davidson(PBR417) to begin direct distribution to Canadian independent dealers in August per agreement with current exclusive distributor. $HOG PR link.

NII Holdings(PBR495) completes $1.875 billion sale of its Nextel Mexico operations to AT&T(PBR12). $NIHDQ PR link.

Crown Castle(PBR670) to acquire Quanta Services(NYSE: PWR) subsidiary fiber networks provider Sunesys for $1.0 billion cash. $CCI PR link.

Tesla(PBR887) CEO Elon Musk announces new Tesla battery energy storage emphasis for homes & businesses. $TSLAI PR link.

Sears Holdings(PBR82) & Macerich(PBR1090) create 50/50 joint venture Involving 9 Sears properties located at Macerich malls. $MAC PR link.

Discover Financial(PBR281) promotes Julie Loeger to SVP, Chief Marketing Officer for US Cards, reports to president/COO. $DFS PR link.

Booz Allen Hamilton(PBR437) promotes VP Gary Voellger to Chief Ethics & Compliance Officer, reports to President/CEO Horacio Rozanski. $BAH PR link.

Analog Devices(PBR738) promotes John Hassett to SVP Worldwide Manufacturing, reports to President/CEO Vincent Roche. $ADI PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that March Personal Income & Personal Disposable Income was up less than 0.1% over February. USDOC PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR33) says homeowners who refinanced through the HARP program in 1Q15 are saving $290/mo on a $200,000 loan in the first year. $FMCC PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR33) says the Average 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rate at 3.68% with 0.6 fees/points. $FMCC PR link.

Wednesday, April 29:
Express Scripts(PBR21) announces $5.5 billion accelerated shares repurchase transaction. $ESRX PR link.

Ashland(PBR404) completes $1.35 billion shares buyback program, authorizes a new $1 billion program to expire 12/31/17. $ASH PR link.

Perrigo(PBR564) rejects Mylan(PBR360) $75/share plus 2.3 Mylan shares offer, says still effectively below 1st offer. $PRGO PR link.

Israeli based Teva Pharmaceuticals(NYSE: TESA) sends letter to Mylan(PBR360) board justifying its $82/share, $43 billion offer. $TEVA PR link.

Mylan(PBR360) sends 3rd acquisition offer to Perrigo(PBR564), $75/share plus 2.3 Mylan shares, effective $232.23/share. $MYL PR link.

ITT Educational(PBR1078) CFO Dan Fitzpatrick retiring 10/29/15; 2015 enrollment at 51,201. $ESI PR link.

Kellogg Co(PBR188) promotes Paul Norman to President, North America, reports to Chairman/CEO John Bryant. $K PR link.

GrafTech(PBR1056) CFO Erick Asmussen leaving, VP Finance/Treasurer Quinn Coburn to also be Interim CFO. $GTI PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the 1Q15 Gross Domestic Product was at 0.2% annual rate, $17.71T, down from 4Q14 2.2%. GDP PR link.

The US Federal Reserve System Open Market Committee issues its latest statement on the US economy, no set timeframe to up interest rates from 0%, long term goal is 2%. FOMC PR link.

Tuesday, April 28:
Tyson Foods(PBR80) to eliminate human antibiotics from broiler chicken flocks by 2017. $TSN PR link.

T-Mobile US(PBR115) has 1.8 million net wireless subscriber adds during 1st quarter 2015, 8th consecutive quarter over 1 million. $TMUS PR link.

MasterCard(PBR310) to acquire cloud-based analytics provider Applied Predictive Technologies for $600 million. $MA PR link.

HRG Group(PBR412) completes $1.4 billion sale of Armored AutoGroup to subsidiary Spectrum Brands(PBR529). $HRG PR link.

Iron Mountain(PBR666) to acquire Australian based digital/physical document information management firm Recall Holdings for $2 billion. $IRM PR link.

UPS(PBR50) promotes Corporate Controller/Treasurer Richard Peretz to CFO, effective 07/01/15, succeeds retiring Kurt Kuehn. $UPS PR link.

Anadarko Petroleum(PBR193) promotes Darrell Hollek to EVP, US Onshore Production & Exploration, reports to Chairman/President/CEO Al Walker. $APC PR link.

JCPenney(PBR228) board member Mary Beth West joins as EVP, Chief Customer & Marketing Officer. $JCP PR link.

Apollo Education Group(PBR668) SVP/CFO Brian Swartz resigning effective 05/15/15, Joseph D’Amico named Interim CFO. $APOL PR link.

Endo International(PBR741) hires Matthew Maletta as EVP/Chief Legal Officer, effective 05/04/15, succeeds retiring Caroline Manogue. $ENDP PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the US Homeownership Rate for 1st quarter 2015 was at 63.7%, -1.1% from 1st quarter 2014, -0.3% from 4th quarter 2014. USDOC PR link.

Monday, April 27:
Freddie Mac(PBR33) reaches the $100 billion milestone in multifamily K-Deal securitizations. $FMCC PR link.

ESPN goes to court to force Verizon(PBR15) to change pay-TV offering The Street article link.

Applied Materials(PBR335) & Tokyo Electron terminate $29 billion merger agreement per US Dept of Justice requirements. $AMAT PR link.

Applied Materials(PBR335) authorizes $3 billion 3 year shares buyback program to start in the 3rd quarter. $AMAT PR link.

Mylan(PBR360) rejects Teva Pharmaceuticals(NYSE: TEVA) $82/share, $40 billion buyout offer as undervalued & risky. $MYL PR link.

Celgene(PBR381) to acquire private biotech cancer discovery company Quanticel Pharmaceuticals for $100 million plus up to $385 million based on milestones achieved. $CELG PR link.

Corinthian Colleges(PBR974) announces cessation of effectively all operations, all campuses now closed. $COCO PR link.

Flowserve(PBR477) hires Karyn Ovelmen as EVP/CFO, effective 06/01/15. $FLS PR link.

Fortune Brands(PBR551) hires Nicholas Fink as SVP of Global Growth & Development, effective 06/01/15. http://bit.ly/1dmvCL8$FBHS PR link.

Friday, April 24:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 18,080.14, +1.42% from last Friday, +1.71% MTD/QTD, +1.44% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,092.09(R), +3.25% from last Friday, +3.90% MTD/QTD, +7.52% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,117.69(R), +1.75% from last Friday, +2.41% MTD/QTD, +2.86% YTD.

Comcast(PBR44) terminates $45 billion merger agreement with Time Warner Cable(PBR125) & transactions agreement with Charter Communications(PBR320). $CMCSA PR link.

DISH(PBR201) comments on termination of Comcast(PBR44)/Time Warner Cable(PBR125) merger. $DISH PR link.

Dover(PBR295) completes sale of its precision-engineered components Sargent Aerospace & Defense unit to RBC Bearings(NASDAQ: ROLL) for $500 million. $DOV PR link.

Mylan(PBR360) makes 2nd unsolicited bid for Perrigo(PBR564) for $60/share & 2.2 shares of Mylan, $33 billion cash/stock deal. $MYL PR link.

Perrigo(PBR564) rejects Mylan’s(PBR360) 2nd unsolicited $60 share & 2.2 shares acquisition offer saying it is less than the initial rejected offer. $PRGO PR link.

Scholastic Corp(PBR923) to sell educational technology & services business unit to Houghton Mifflin for $575 million. $SCHL PR link.

Riverbed Technology(PBR1085) acquisition by private equity firm Thomas Bravo & Ontario(Canada) Teachers Pension Plan for $21/share, $3.6 billion cash is completed, now a private company. $RVBD PR link.

Thursday, April 23:
Happy 451st Birthday, Shakespeare!

NASDAQ closes at 5,056.06, first new record close in over 15 years. NASDAQ PR link.

The US Dept of HUD reports that the March New Family Home Sales Annual Rate was at 481,000, -11.4% from February, +19.4% from March 2014. HUD PR link.

Wednesday, April 22:
45th Anniversary of Earth Day. Do something nice for the environment today.

AT&T(PBR12) reports 1.2 million total wireless net adds in 1st quarter, DIRECTV(PBR90) $67 billion acquisition on target for 2nd quarter. $T PR link.

Google(PBR46) announces Project Fi which includes a partnership with T-Mobile(PBR115) & Sprint(PBR162) to provide an optimal fast and easy wireless service. $GOOG PR link.

Coca-Cola Co(PBR59) signs additional letters of intent with Coca-Cola bottlers in refranchising effort. $KO PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) does exclusive US launch of intimate apparel brand HEIDI by model/TV personality Heidi Klum. $M PR link.

Ashland(PBR404) promotes Luis Fernandez-Moreno to SVP & President of Chemicals Group, reports to chairman/CEO. $ASH PR link.

SunEdison(PBR888) promotes Pancho Perez to EVP/COO. $SUNE PR link.

The National Association of Realtors reports that the March Existing Home Sales were at a 5.19 million annual rate, +6.1% from February, +10.4% from March 2014. NAR PR link.

Tuesday, April 21:
General Motors(PBR7) sold 2.4 million vehicles worldwide in 1st quarter 2015. $GM PR link.

Verizon(PBR15) announces new FiOS customizable pay-TV service. $VZ PR link.

Archer-Daniels-Midland(PBR28) acquires corn processing plants in Bulgaria, Turkey, increases ownership stake in Hungary, for $258 million. $ADM PR link.

Humana(PBR71) acquires multi-state nurse practitioner in home visits provider Your Home Advantage, terms not disclosed. $HUM PR link.

Baker Hughes(PBR124) is cutting 17% of workforce, 10,500 positions, due to drop in oil prices. $BHI PR link.

Mylan(PBR360) is sent an $82/share, $40 billion in cash/stock offer to be acquired by Israel based Teva Pharmaceuticals(NYSE: TEVA). $MYL PR link.

Gannett(PBR458) says TEGNA is to be name of spin-off broadcasting/digital company, will trade as NYSE: TGNA. $GCI PR link.

Perrigo(PBR564) rejects unsolicited $205/share, $29 billion bid from Mylan(PBR360), says offer is undervalued. $PRGO PR link.

FMC Corp(PBR578) completes $1.8 billion acquisition of Denmark based multinational crop protection company Cheminova. $FMC PR link.

Monday, April 20:
Raytheon(PBR118) to invest $1.57 billion for majority ownership in venture with Vista Equity Partners’ Websense unit to provide cyber security services. $RTN PR link.

Groupon(PBR750) to sell 46% stake, retain a 41% stake, in Ticket Monster to partnership of KKR(PBR272)/Anchor Equity for $360 million. $GRPN PR link.

Prologis(PBR937) unit partnership to acquire real estate assets & operating platform of KTR Capital Partners for $5.9 billion. $PLD PR link.

Hyatt Hotels(PBR549) appoints Atish Shah as SVP, Interim CFO. $H PR link.

Friday, April 17:
The PBR1000 Weekly US Stock Exchanges Snapshot:
DJIA closes week at 17,826.30, -1.28% from last Friday, +0.28% MTD/QTD, +0.02% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,931.81, -1.28% from last Friday, +0.63% MTD/QTD, +4.13% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,081.18, -0.99% from last Friday, +0.64% MTD/QTD, +1.08% YTD.

Ford Motor(PBR8) to invest $2.5 billion to build new engine & transmission plants in Mexico. $F PR link.

Costco(PBR18) reauthorizes up to $4 billion shares repurchase program to expire in April, 2019. $COST PR link.

Raytheon(PBR118) awarded an over $2 billion contract for an international Patriot Air & Missile Defense System. $RTN PR link.

Alpha Natural Resources(PBR478) plans to restore compliance with NYSE minimum stock price average of $1.00/share over last 30 days. $ANR PR link.

Hudson City Bancorp(PBR1022) & M&T Bank Corp(PBR516) agree to extend merger deadline from 04/30/15 to 10/31/15, waiting for regulatory approval. $HCBK PR link.

New York Times(PBR982) promotes Meredith Kopit Levien to Chief Revenue Officer, reports to President/CEO Mark Thompson. $NYT PR link.

Centrus Energy(PBR1035) SVP/COO Bob Van Namen is stepping down on 05/29/15. $LEU PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the March Current Average/Hour Earnings were at $24.86, up from February’s $24.79, up from March 2014’s $24.34. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the March Consumer Price Index-Urban was +0.2%, was -0.1% over the last 12 months. USDOL PR link.

Thursday, April 16:
PPG Industries(PBR183) to do 2:1 stock split after close on 06/12/15. $PPG PR link.

Ecolab(PBR204) to acquire the Travelers North Tower in St. Paul, MN, as new world headquarters. $ECL PR link.

Discover Financial(PBR281) authorizes $2.2 billion shares repurchase program. $DFS PR link.

Alliance Data(PBR540) increases 2015 stock repurchase program from $600 million to $1 billion. $ADS PR link.

Carlyle Group(PBR528) names former WalMart(PBR1) President/CEO Mike Duke as Operating Executive for the Consumer & Retail Group. $CG PR link.

SunEdison(PBR888) hires Cathy Zoi as CEO of its Rural Electric Utility Company unit. $SUNE PR link.

Cytec Industries(PBR901) promotes Carmelo Lo Faro, PhD, to VP/Chief Technology Officer. $CYT PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the March rate for Private Housing Building Permits was at 1,039,000/year, -5.7% from February, +2.9% from March 2014 USDOC PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR33) reports that 30 year fixed rate mortgages averaged 3.67% with 0.7 point for the week ending 04/16/15, was 4.27% a year ago FreddieMac PR link.

The American Petroleum Institute reports that March petroleum deliveries averaged 19.2 million barrels/day, -0.6% from February, +3.4% from March 2014. API PR link.

Wednesday, April 15:
Happy Income Tax Day!

Panera Bread(PBR794) increases shares repurchase program to $750 million, to sell/refranchise 73 company owned stores. $PNRA PR link.

Rackspace(PBR989) hires Scott Crenshaw as SVP Strategy & Product, reports to President/CEO Taylor Rhodes. $RAX PR link.

Freddie Mac(PBR33) hires Anil Hinduja as EVP/Chief Enterprise Risk Officer, reports to CEO Donald Layton. $FMCCX PR link.

CNA Financial(PBR263) hires Andrew Pinkes to be EVP CNA Worldwide Property & Casualty, reports to Chairman/CEO Tom Motamed, effective 05/18/15. $CNA PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank reports that Industrial Production was -0.6% in March, was +0.1% in February, -1.0% annual rate, effect of oil. FRB PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Bank releases the April Beige Book, summary of comments from businesses. FRB PR link.

Tuesday, April 14:
CSX(PBR224) authorizes $2 billion shares repurchase program over 24 months. $CSX PR link.

Host Hotels(PBR456) announces leadership reorganization in investment team for US West & East coasts. $HSTPR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the March Producer Price Index for Final Demand, a measure of inflation, was +0.2%, after -0.5% in February, -0.8% in January, -0.8% for the past 12 months. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports in the Advance Report for Monthly Retail & Food Sales that March was at $441.4 billion, +0.9% from February, +1.3% over March 2014. USDOC PR link.

Monday, April 13:
Apple(PBR4) is estimated to have presold 1 million Apple Watches in the first weekend according to digital media analytics firm Slice Intelligence. SI PR link.

PepsiCo(PBR43) & NBA enter multiyear partnership; Chinese partner Tingyi’s Master Kong becomes basketball league beverage provider. $PEP PR link.

Sears Holding(PBR82) contributes 10 properties in 50/50 real estate partnership with Simon Property(PBR455). $SHLD PR link.

Citigroup(PBR26) CEO of Global Consumer Bank Manuel Medina-Mora retiring, Stephen Bird to succeed him on 06/01/15; other management changes announced. $C PR link.

Microsoft(PBR30) hires Kurt DelBene as EVP Corporate Strategy and Planning, reports to the CEO. $MSFT PR link.

Best Buy(PBR67) Chairman Hatim Tyabji to retire 06/09/15, CEO Hubert Joly to add role at that time. $BBY PR link.

eBay(PBR170) hires 3 executives to key leadership roles in preparation for spin-off. $EBAY PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury reports that for the 6 months through March Fiscal YTD Receipts were $1.42 trillion, Outlays $1.86 trillion, deficit $0.44 trillion. USDOT PR link.

Republican Senator from Florida Marco Rubio makes it official that he is a candidate to be the next US President. MR campaign link.

Sunday, April 12:
Former First Lady, Senator from New York, and Secretary of State Democrat Hillary Clinton announces that she is a candidate to be the next US President. HC campaign link.

Friday, April 10:
DJIA closes week at 18,057.65, +1.65% from last Thursday, +1.58% MTD/QTD, +1.31% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,995.98, +2.23% from last Thursday, +1.94% MTD/QTD, +5.49% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,102.06, +1.70% from last Thursday, +1.65% MTD/QTD, +2.10% YTD.

Ford Motor(PBR8) reports it sold 296,825 vehicles in China during the 1st quarter, up 9% from last year. $F PR link.

General Electric(PBR9) in major restructuring to sell most of its GE Capital real estate assets for $26.5 billion to Blackstone(PBRPBR374) & Wells Fargo(PBR29); authorizes $50 billion shares buyback program through 2018. $GE PR link.

Blackstone Group(PBR374) to acquire retail REIT firm Excel Trust(NYSE: EXL) for $15.85/share, $2 billion. $EXL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the March US Import Prices Index was -0.3%, was +0.2% in February; the March US Exports Prices Index was +0.1%, was -0.2% in February. USDOL PR link.

Thursday, April 9:
eBay(PBR170) provides further information on plan to separate PayPal & working arrangements. $EBAY PR link.

Sprint(PBR162) to open 1,435 Sprint-RadioShack locations acquired by General Standard, to add 3,500 employees. $S PR link.

PG&E(PBR175) fined $1.6 billion by the California Public Utilities Commission for unsafe gas transmission lines operation, including the 2010 San Bruno pipeline rupture. CPUC PR link.

PG&E(PBR175) responds to CPUC $1.6 billion fine, says lessons will not be forgotten. $PCG PR link.

Avis Budget(PBR326) completes $160 million acquisition of largest independent Italian car rental company The Maggiore Group. $CAR PR link.

Harman Intl(PBR448) completes $780 million acquisition of private 8,000 employee $370 million/year software services company Symphony Teleca. $HAR PR link.

Acxiom(PBR1073) hires Rick Erwin to be President/GM of new division Audience Solutions, reports to CEO Scott Howe. $ACXM PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce says February Monthly Wholesale Sales were $444.2 billion, -0.2% from January, -1.5% from February 2014. USDOC PR link.

Wednesday, April 8:
Mylan(PBR360) bids $205/share, $29 billion cash/stock, for fellow generic drugmaker Perrigo(PBR564). $MYL PR link.

HanesBrands(PBR505) completes $200 million acquisition of seller of licensed collegiate logo apparel retailer Knights Apparel. $HBI PR link.

Netherlands based world’s 4th largest oil producer Royal Dutch Shell to acquire UK based liquid natural gas company BG Group for $70 billion in cash/stock. RDS PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Board releases the Federal Open Market Committee minutes from the 03/17-18/15 meeting. FRB PR link.

Tuesday, April 7:
FedEx(PBR61) to acquire Netherlands based logistics provider TNT Express for $8.73/share, $4.8 billion cash. $FDX PR link.

Halliburton(PBR94) to market for sale its drill bits, directional drilling and LWD/MWD businesses in connection with its Baker Hughes(PBR124) acquisition. $HAL PR link.

International Game Techology(PBR876) $6.4 billion acquisition by Italian based GTECH completed, to keep IGT name with headquarters in London. $IGT PR link.

ABM Industries(PBR489) names SVP Treasurer Anthony Scaglione as CFO, succeeds James Lusk who is leaving. $ABM PR link.

Frontier Communications(PBR497) promotes John Lass to EVP Field Operations, reports to CEO Dan McCarthy. $FTR PR link.

The US Dept of Labor in preliminary report says that there were 5.1million US Job Openings in February, 4.9 million hires, and 4.7 million separations. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve reports that February Consumer Credit at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.6%, revolving credit at 5.0%, nonrevolving credit at 9.4%. USFRB PR link.

Monday, April 6:
Ventas(PBR707) to acquire private $2 billion/yr Ardent Health Care for $1.75 billion. $VTR PR link.

Ventas(PBR707) to spin-off post-acute/skilled nursing facility portfolio into a separate public REIT company 2nd half of 2015. $VTR PR link.

Health Care REIT(PBR693) VP Treasurer Mike Crabtree has retired as planned, Steve Schroeder promoted to the position. $HCN PR link.

Friday, April 3:
Good Friday Observed.
US Stock Exchanges Closed.

The PBR1000: The March 2015 Breaking News Recap is available. Click here for the blog post.

Tesla(PBR887) delivers 10,030 vehicles during the 1st quarter 2015, 55% more than in 2014. $TSLA PR link.

Hub Group(PBR623) promotes Vava Dimond to Chief Information Officer. $HUBG PR link.

BOK Financial(PBR1023) promotes Marc Maun to Chief Credit Officer, reports to President/CEO Steve Bradshaw. $BOKF PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that March Total Nonfarm Payroll Employment increased by only 126,000, unemployment rate stays at 5.5% USDOL PR link.

Thursday, April 2:
DJIA closes week at 17,763.24, +0.29% from last Friday, -0.07% MTD/QTD, -0.34% YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,886.94, -0.09% from last Friday, -0.28% MTD/QTD, +3.19% YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,066.96, +0.29% from last Friday, -0.04% MTD/QTD, +0.39% YTD.

Group 1 Automotive(PBR291) has acquired $160 million/yr Prestige Audi in N Miami Beach, FL. $GPI PR link.

Simon Property(PBR455) authorizes 24 month $2 billion shares buyback program. $SPG PR link.

Expedia(PBR496) purchasing Amgen(PBR144) Seattle waterfront campus as headquarters location in 2018. $EXPE PR link.

Dynegy(PBR1000) completes $2.8 billion acquisition of Duke Energy(PBR111) Midwest 7 MWhr commercial generation & retail assets. $DYN PR link.

Ralph Lauren(PBR337) promotes Christopher Peterson to President, Global Brands, Mitchel Kosh to Chief Administration Officer, Robert Madore to CFO. $RL PR link.

Hershey Co(PBR347) promotes President/CEO John Bilbrey to the additional post of Chairman. $HSY PR link.

Mattel(PBR383) Chairman/Interim CEO Christopher Sinclair now CEO, retains Chairman position. $MAT PR link.

Cliffs Natural Resources(PBR422) EVP Business Development P. Kelly Tompkins now EVP/CFO, Clifford Smith now EVP Business Development. $CLF PR link.

Transdigm(PBR798) hires Terrance Paradie as EVP/CFO, to succeed Greg Rufus who is retiring. $TDG PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the preliminary February International Trade Balance was $186.2 billion in exports, $221.7 billion in imports, US deficit was $35.4 billion. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the February New Orders for Manufactured Goods was up 0.2% over January to $468.3B, 1st up month in 6 months. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that Unemployment Insured Initial Claims were at 268,000 for the week ending 03/28/15, 20,000 less than the previous week. USDOL PR link.

Wednesday, April 1:
Target(PBR38) to shut all 133 Canadian stores by 04/12/15. $TGT PR link.

AIG(PBR41) completes acquisition of Ireland’s 2nd largest health insurance provider, Laya Healthcare. $AIG PR link.

McDonald’s(PBR96) USA to increase wages on 07/01/15 to $1 above minimum wage at corporate locations, to at least $10/hr by end of 2016; also expanding employee benefits. $MCD PR link.

US Commodity Futures Trading Commission charges Kraft Foods(PBR145) & Mondelez(PBR85) with manipulation of wheat futures & cash wheat prices. CFTC PR link.

Celgene(PBR381) appoints Gerald Masoudi EVP, General Counsel & Corporate Secretary, succeeds retiring Lawrence Stein. $CELG PR link.

FMC Corp(PBR578) completes sale of Alkali Chemicals business to Tronox(PBR907) for $1.64 billion. $FMC PR link.

Carlisle Cos(PBR679) completes acquisition of Graco(PBR1072) Liquid Finishing business assets for $590 million cash. $CSL PR link.

Dynegy(PBR1000) completes $3.45 billion purchase of 6.3 gigawatts of power from Energy Capital Partners. $DYN PR link.

ADP(PBR220) reports that March Private Sector Employment grew by 189,000. $ADP PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the February annual construction rate was at $967.2 billion, -0.1% from January, +2.1% over February 2014. USDOC PR link.

California governor Jerry Brown issues executive order for state to reduce its water usage by 25%. CA Governor Newsroom PR link.

(Photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net, Stuart Miles.)

Filed Under: Recaps Tagged With: acquisitions, business news, Economy, Investing, Leadership, mergers, Personal Finance, Rankings, Stock Market, The PBR1000

The PBR1000: The March 2015 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots

April 12, 2015 by admin

ID-100174853 Buy Sell Hold Dice on Computer Stuart Miles

Buy, Hold, or Sell? Use The PBR1000
To Help You Develop Your Strategy!

By Larry C. Paxton

The PBR1000 March 2015 Snapshots include news and stocks data on 1,076 companies in 15 analytical reports.

Current The PBR1000 Subscribers should have already received the MS Excel workbook.

The “Yo-Yo Syndrome” might be in effect in 2015. January was down, February back up, and March was down. The stock exchanges had a lot of big swing days. The DJIA was up 100 or more points on 8 trading days, and there were 7 down days. The biggest swing was a loss of 333 points on March 10. US economic growth and stability continues to be tepid and fragile as demonstrated by jobs related data. Rumors on when the Federal Reserve Board will raise interest rates seems to cause some of the up and downs. The Global economy has been somewhat shaky as well. Nevertheless, as shown in the tables below, there are some excellent results coming out of the stock market games.

Let’s see if April 2015 continues the “YoYo Syndrome” trend.

In the following tables the stock price is for the close of trading on March 31st, Month % Chg is compared to February 27th, YTD % Chg is compared to December 31, 2014, and the 15 Mos % Chg is compared to December 31, 2013.

Table 1: The PBR1000 Stock Price Composite

Table 1 Summary: Made up of the sum of the stock prices of the 1,076 companies currently tracked by The PBR1000.

Company	Price 03/31/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	15 Mos % Chg
The PBR1000	294,389.27	-1.17	-2.07	+19.99

Table 2: The PBR1000 Top 5 Month Stock Price % Gainers

Table 2 Summary: The range was +53.60% to -71.43%. 514 out of 1,076 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 47.77% of the companies tracked. The median was a loss of 0.25%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 03/31/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	15 Mos % Chg
McDermott Intl	734	MDR	3.84	+53.60	+31.96	-58.08
Pinnacle Entertainment	993	PNK	36.09	+40.21	+62.20	+38.86
Herbalife	486	HLF	42.76	+37.89	+13.42	-45.67
Kraft Foods	145	KRFT	87.12	+35.99	+39.03	+61.59
Travel Centers of America	325	TA	17.44	+27.77	+38.19	+79.06

Table 3: The PBR1000 Top 5 Year-To-Date Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: The range was +100.00% to -77.73%. 622 out of 1,076 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 57.81% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of 1.90%

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 03/31/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	15 Mos % Chg
NII Holdings	495	NIHDQ	0.04	-71.43	+100.00	-98.55
Pinnacle Entertainment	993	PNK	36.09	+40.21	+62.20	+38.86
Conn’s	1052	CONN	30.28	+17.14	+62.01	-61.52
Freescale Semiconductor	548	FSL	40.76	+12.88	+61.55	+153.96
Insperity	830	NSP	52.29	+0.95	+54.29	+44.73

Table 4: The PBR1000 Top 5 15 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 4 Summary: Range was +156.39% to -99.21%. 703 out of 1,071 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 65.64% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of 10.43%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 03/31/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	15 Mos % Chg
Electronic Arts	603	EA	58.82	+2.86	+25.10	+156.39
Freescale Semiconductor	548	FSL	40.76	+12.88	+61.55	+153.96
Centene	244	CNC	70.69	+15.02	+36.13	+139.79
Southwest Airlines	150	LUV	44.30	+2.45	+4.68	+135.14
Hawaiian Holdings	849	HA	22.03	+18.99	-15.45	+128.71

Table 5: The PBR1000 Selected Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company	Price 03/31/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	15 Mos % Chg
DJIA	17,776.12	-1.97	-0.26	+7.24
NASDAQ	4,900.89	-1.26	+3.48	+17.34
S&P500	2,067.89	-1.74	+0.44	+11.88
Gold	1,183.20	-2.42	-0.14	-1.59
Silver	16.60	+0.24	+6.41	-14.30
Oil	47.60	-4.34	-10.64	-47.81

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

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

(Photo made available through freedigitalphotos.net, Stuart Miles.)

Filed Under: Snapshots Tagged With: Commodities, DJIA, Economy, Investing, Money, NASDAQ, Personal Finance, Research, S&P 500, Stock Market, Stocks, The PBR1000, Trading

The PBR1000: The March 2015 Breaking News Recap!

April 4, 2015 by admin

ID-100270408 Under Construction Supertrooper

After The 1st Quarter, 2015 Is Still Very Much Under Construction.

By Larry C. Paxton

With the end of March 2015 the 1st Quarter is in the books and it is with mixed results. The economy continues to show slow but steady progress, oil and key commodities prices were pretty stable, and reflected at the gas pump, which seems to have lead to higher consumer optimism about the future. The Federal Reserve Board continues to show restraint on raising interest rates, and justifiably so, based on their careful analysis. However, any whisper of an increase in interest rate creates a lot of volatility in the markets, with wide swings on several days throughout March. On the international scene the European Union seems focused on trying to find a resolution with Greece and its obligations, Ukraine is rarely in the news. China is trying to bolster its own economy which is still growing, but certainly not at the rapid pace of years past. The capturing the headlines towards the end of March were the nuclear power countries negotiating with Iran to delay or end its development of nuclear bomb material. So, there are some big question marks as we enter the second quarter, and these can result in huge opportunities or major setbacks, but will probably be somewhere in between. Based on results so far this year, 2015 is still very much under construction.

Following are The PBR1000 and economic news items of note for March 2015 starting with the last active day.

Tuesday, March 31:
DJIA closes month at 17,776.12, +0.36% from last Friday, -1.97% MTD, -0.26% QTD/YTD.
NASDAQ closes month at 4,900.89, +0.20% from last Friday, -1.26% MTD, +3.48% QTD/YTD.
SPX closes month at 2,067.89, +0.33% from last Friday, -1.74% MTD, +0.44% QTD/YTD.

IBM(PBR24) to invest $3 billion over 4 years to establish a new Internet of Things unit. IBM PR link.

Comcast(PBR44) & CFO Michael Angelakis to invest $4.1 billion to create new investment/operating global company. New CFO search starting. CMCSA PR link.

Arrow Electronics(PBR129) completes acquisition of 800 partners government sales specialist immixGroup. ARW PR link.

Charter Communications(PBR320) to acquire 6th largest US cable operator Bright House Networks for $10.4 billion. CHTR PR link.

CBRE Group(PBR346) to acquire Johnson Controls(PBR65) Global Workplace Solutions unit for $1.475 billion cash. CBG PR link.

RadioShack(PBR619) gets okay from bankruptcy judge to sell stores to hedge fund Standard General. Associated Press article PR link.

GNC(PBR739) selects agencies Consigliere, CROSSMEDIA, & 22squared for branding & marketing efforts. GNC PR link.

Macerich(PBR1090) rejects new $95.50/share, $23.5 billion unsolicited offer from Simon Property(PBR455). MAC PR link.

Chevron(PBR3) Vice Chairman & EVP Upstream George Kirkland to retire 06/15/15, Jay Johnson to become EVP Upstream. CVX PR link.

Cameron Intl(PBR269) appoints Justin Rounce as VP Marketing & Chief Technology Officer, reports to Chairman/CEO Jack Moore. CAM PR link.

Campbell Soup(PBR315) promotes Ed Carolan to SVP in new Integrated Global Services unit. CPB PR link.

Equifax(PBR817) promotes Trey Loughran to Chief Marketing Officer, succeeds Paul Springman who is retiring after 24 years. EFX PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the 4th Quarter 2014 US Net International Position was assets $24.7 billion, liabilities $31.6 billion, deficit of $6.9 billion. USDOC PR link.

Monday, March 30:
UnitedHealthcare(PBR14) OptumRx pharmacy care services unit to acquire pharmacy benefit management company Catamaran(PBR189) for $61.50/share, $12.8 billion. UNH PR link.

Archer-Daniels-Midland(PBR28) to acquire private Belgium based edible oils bottler/distributor AOR NV. ADM PR link.

Best Buy(PBR67) Canadian unit to close Future Shops, consolidate to 192 Best Buy locations, layoff 1,500 employees. BBY PR link.

Alcoa(PBR122) to curtail smelting capacity in Brazil by 04/15/15. AA PR link.

Avis Budget(PBR326) marks 100 million rental days in N America over past 12 months. CAR PR link.

Fortune Brands(PBR551) to acquire kitchen/bathroom cabinetry manufacturer Norcraft for $25.50/share, $600 million. FBHS PR link.

Perrigo(PBR564) completes buy of Belgium based over-the-counter healthcare products company Omega Pharma NV for $4.5 billion cash & equity. PRGO PR link.

American Tower(PBR625) completes acquisition of exclusive rights to 11,448 wireless communications sites from Verizon(PBR15) for $5 billion cash. AMT PR link.

GNC(PBR739) herbal products are in full compliance with FDA regulations, reaches agreement with the NY Attorney General for further testing. GNC PR link.

Tesla(PBR887) CEO Elon Musk tweets that there will be a major announcement on 04/30/15 regarding a new non-automotive product.

Enterprise Products(PBR56) announces CEO Mike Creel to retire 12/31/15; COO Jim Teague to become CEO; Fowler, Bulawa and Nelly promoted. EPD PR link.

Yahoo!(PBR500) hires Bryan Power as SVP Human Resources, reports to CEO Marissa Mayer. YHOO PR link.

TD Ameritrade(PBR651) CFO Bill Gerber retiring, hires Steve Boyle to be CFO in July. AMTD PR link.

New York Times(PBR982) promotes Kinsey Wilson EVP Product & Technology, reports to President/CEO Mark Thompson & Executive Editor Dean Baquet. NYT PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the February US Annual Personal Income was at $15.130 trillion, +3.9% over January, savings rate was at 5.8% of disposable income, was 5.5% in January. USDOC PR link.

Friday, March 27:
DJIA closes week at 17,712.66, -2.29% from last Friday, -2.32% MTD, -0.62% QTD/YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,891.22, -2.69% from last Friday, -1.46% MTD, +3.28% QTD/YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,061.02, -2.23% from last Friday, -2.07% MTD, +0.10% QTD/YTD.

Chevron(PBR3) to sell off its 50% share in Caltex Australia. CVX PR link.

Johnson & Johnson(PBR39) Ethicon unit gets agreement to collaborate with Google(PBR46) on surgical robotics. JNJ PR link.

Dow Chemical(PBR48) to separate much of its chlor-alkali business which will merge with Olin Corp(PBR769) in $5 billion deal. DOW PR link.

Visteon(PBR338) receives antitrust approvals for sale of its 70% interest in S. Korea based 15,500 employee Halla Visteon Climate Control to Hahn & Co for $3.6 billion. VC PR link.

Dynegy(PBR1000) gets regulatory approval to buy 12,500 MW of coal & gas generation from Duke Energy(PBR111) & Energy Capital Partners(NR) for $6.25 billion. DYN PR link.

Davita Healthcare(PBR312) announces CFO Garry Menzel leaving, James Hilger named Interim CFO. DVA PR link.

Ascena Retail(PBR493) hires Brian Lynch as President/CEO of its Justice tween specialty retail unit. ASNA PR link.

QuikSilver(PBR925) President Pierre Agnes now CEO, Greg Healey promoted to President, founder Bob McKnight appointed Chairman. ZQK PR link.

Thursday, March 26:
Goodyear Tire(PBR137) has established its first Chinese development center in Pulandian. GT PR link.

Medtronic(PBR161) completes acquisition of minimally invasive hearing implant provider Sophono. MDT PR link.

Carnival Corp(PBR176) to add 9 new generation cruise ships over 4 year period starting in 2019. CCL PR link.

Dover(PBR295) selling its precision-engineered components Sargeant Aerospace & Defense unit to RBC Bearings(NASDAQ: ROLL) for $500 million. DOV PR link.

AAR Corp(PBR882) completes the sale of Telair Cargo Group to TransDigm(PBR798) for $725 million cash. AIR PR link.

Calumet Specialty(PBR443) promotes F William Grube to Executive Vice Chairman, hires Bill Hatch as Interim CEO, starting 04/01/15. CLMT PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR33) says 30 year fixed mortgage rates averaged 3.69% with 0.6 points in the last week. FreddieMac PR link.

Wednesday, March 25:
Comcast(PBR44) EVP/Chief Diversity Officer David Cohen says merger with Time Warner Cable(PBR125) moving to mid 2015 because of regulatory issues. CMCSA PR link.

Kraft Foods(PBR145) to be acquired by HJ Heinz with 51% ownership, to be Kraft Heinz, special $16.50/share dividend, $10 billion, to Kraft stockholders. KRFT PR link.

Brown-Forman(PBR575) increases share buyback program by $1 billion. BFB PR link.

Global Payments(PBR756) acquires European based Realex Payments for $110 million. GPN PR link.

Tuesday, March 24:
Merck(PBR63) adds $10 billion, total $11.7 billion, for shares buyback program. MRK PR link.

Hertz(PBR249) provides explanation for failure to file 10-K with SEC, has until 09/17/15. HTZ PR link.

Ross Stores(PBR260) to do 2:1 stock split on 06/11/15. ROST PR link.

AutoZone(PBR278) adds $750 billion to its ongoing shares buyback program. AZO PR link.

Group 1 Automotive(PBR291) has acquired $80 million/yr Dallas/Ft Worth area DFW Audi. GPI PR link.

Carlyle Group(PBR528) to acquire majority stake in 200 client $100 billion in assets Conifer Financial Services. CG PR link.

Lexmark Intl(PBR598) to acquire software developer Kofax(NASDAQ: KFX) for $11/share, $1 billion. LXK PR link.

Alliance One Intl(PBR804) responds to compliance issue by NYSE regarding strategies to get stock price at or above $1.00. AOI PR link.

Google(PBR46) hires Morgan Stanley(PBR81) CFO Ruth Porat as CFO, effective 05/26/15. GOOG PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the February current average earnings/hr is $24.78, +0.1% from January, +2.0% from February, 2014 USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the February Consumer Price Index-Urban was up 0.2% over January, 0.0% for the last 12 months. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of HUD reports that February sales of new single family homes were at a 539,000 annual rate, +7.8% over January, +24.8% over February, 2014. HUD PR link.

Monday, March 23:
Humana(PBR71) to sell wholly owned subsidiary Concentra to a joint venture of Select Medical & Welsh Carson for $1.055 billion cash. HUM PR link.

American Electric Power(PBR177) to review strategic alternatives for its barge transportation business. AEP PR link.

Tenet Healthcare(PBR223) to own 50.1% of a joint venture with United Surgical to form largest US ambulatory surgery provider valued at $2.6 billion. THC PR link.

Tenet Healthcare(PBR223) to acquire UK based 9 hospital/clinic facilities Aspen Healthcare for $215 million cash. THC PR link.

Biogen Idec(PBR358) changes name to Biogen, keeps stock symbol. BIIB PR link.

ON Semiconductor(PBR710) changing its NASDAQ stock symbol from ONNN to ON on 04/06/15. ONNN PR link.

Carnival Corp(PBR176) promotes James Chedgy to VP, Global Financial Planning & Analysis, reports to Treasurer Josh Weinstein. CCL PR link.

The National Association of Realtors says February Existing Home Sales were at a 4.88 million annual rate, +1.2% over January, +4.7% over February, 2014. NAR PR link.

The White House issues a statement marking the 5th year anniversary of the signing of The Affordable Care Act, aka Obamacare. WH PR link.

Friday, March 20:
DJIA closes week at 18,127.65, +2.13% from last Friday, -0.03% MTD, +1.71% QTD/YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 5,026.42, +3.17% from last Friday, +1.27% MTD, +6.13% QTD/YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,108.10, +2.66% from last Friday, 0.17% MTD, +2.39% QTD/YTD.

RadioShack(PBR619) notifies SEC of its intent to de-list from the NYSE on 03/31/15. RSHCQ PR link.

Macerich(PBR1090) confirms new $95.50/share, $23.5 billion unsolicited offer from Simon Property(PBR455). MAC PR link.

AVX(PBR1003) Chairman/CEO John Gilbertson resigning effective 03/31/15, John Sarvis to be promoted to CEO on 04/01/15. AVX PR link.

BOK Financial(PBR1023) announces resignation of COO Dan Ellinor, Stacy Kymes promoted to new position of EVP Corporate Banking. BOKF PR link.

Thursday, March 19:
American Express(PBR86) gets exclusive multi-year co-brand deal with Charles Schwab(PBR442). AMEX article link.

SeaWorld(PBR1002) hires Joel Manby to be CEO effective 04/07/15, David D’Alessandro to remain Chairman. SEAS article link.

FreddieMac(PBR33) says the 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rate averaged 3.78% with 0.6 point for week ending 03/19/15, was 4.32% year ago. Freddie Mac PR link.

Wednesday, March 18:
Target(PBR38) employees to receive $9 minimum wage next month UPI article link.

Starbucks(PBR164) reaffirms 7 strategies to grow market cap to $100 billion, to test delivery services. SBUX PR link.

Starbucks(PBR164) announces 2:1 stock split after 04/08/15 closing. SBUX PR link.

Ocwen Financial(PBR881) to sell $9.6 billion portfolio of mortgage servicing rights to Green Tree(NR). OCN PR link.

ITT Educational(PBR1078) provides update on failure to file required 10-K report to SEC. ESI PR link.

TreeHouse Foods(PBR819) promotes Christopher Sliva to EVP/COO. THS PR link.

Tuesday, March 17:
Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Actavis(PBR297) completes $70.5 billion acquisition of Allergan(PBR392), combined company expects $23 billion in 2015 revenues. ACT PR link.

Becton Dickinson(PBR305) completes $12.2 billion acquisition of CareFusion(PBR580). BDX PR link.

Charter Communications(PBR320) shareholders approve issuance of shares in transactions with Comcast(PBR44). CHTR PR link.

Brookdale Senior Living(PBR692) & HCP(PBR866) to acquire 35 private pay senior living communities from Chartwell Retirement Residences for $849 million. HCP PR link.

Greenbrier Cos(PBR839) gets $1.09 billion in orders for 10,100 railcars. GBX PR link.

Equinix(PBR852) to become an S&P 500 component after close on 03/20/15. EQIX PR link.

Macerich(PBR1090) board rejects Simon Property(PBR455) $91/share, $22.4 billion unsolicited offer, feels it was undervalued. MAC PR link.

Groupon(PBR750) hires Carol Campagnolo as SVP Human Resources & Jay Sullivan as SVP Consumer Product. GRPN PR link.

The Dept of HUD reports that preliminary February New Housing Permits were at a 1,092,000 annual rate, +3% over January, +7.7% over February 2014. HUD PR link.

Monday, March 16:
The PBR1000 February Snapshots, 15 analytical reports on 1,081 public companies in Excel format, has been released.

General Electric(PBR9) selling its GE Capital Australia & New Zealand Consumer Lending Business for $6 billion enterprise value to a consortium of investors that includes KKR(PBR272). GE PR link.

Henry Schein(PBR276) to become an S&P 500 component on 03/18/15. HSIC PR link.

Blackstone Group(PBR374) to acquire Chicago’s 3.8 million sf, 110 stories tall, 2nd tallest office building in the US, Willis Tower, terms not disclosed. BX PR link.

McGraw Hill(PBR482) S&P500 unit to add American Airlines Group(PBR103) to its index, will replace Allergan(PBR392) which is being acquired by Actavis(PBR297). MHFI PR link.

Babcock & Wilcox(PBR637) files registration statement to form an independent public spinoff of its power generation business. BWC PR link.

Diebold(PBR696) acquires Canada based ATM software developer 200 employee Phoenix Interactive. DBD PR link.

A. Schulman(PBR787) to acquire specialty engineered plastics company Citadel Plastics for $800 million. SHLM PR link.

Endo Health(PBR741) withdraws its $175/share, $11 billion cash & stock offer for Salix Pharmaceuticals(SLXP) because of competing Valeant bid. ENDP PR link.

Coca-Cola Enterprises(PBR317) EVP/Supply Chain Bill Douglas retiring, Ronald Lewis to rejoin as SVP/Supply Chain. CCE PR link.

Visteon(PBR338) President/CEO Timothy Leuliette to step down by end of 2015, search firm retained. VC PR link.

Spectrum Brands(PBR529) promotes COO Andreas Rouve to CEO, to succeed retiring Dave Lumly. SPB PR link.

Friday, March 13:
DJIA closes week at 17,749.31, -0.60% from last Friday, -2.11% MTD, -0.41% QTD/YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,871.76, -1.13% from last Friday, -1.85% MTD, +2.87% QTD/YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,053.40, -0.86% from last Friday, -2.43% MTD, -0.27% QTD/YTD.

MGM Resorts(PBR270) promotes Nik Rytterstrom to General Manager of the Las Vegas Luxor Resort; Renee West, president of Luxor & Excalibur Resorts, to retire on 04/24/15. MGM PR link.

Facebook(PBR327) acquires shopping site TheFind. TheFind PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that private industry employers spent an average of $31.32/hr worked for employee compensation in December 2014, $46.50/hr for union workers. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the February Producer Price Index for final demand fell 0.5%, decreased 0.6% for the 12 months ended in February. USDOL PR link.

Thursday, March 12:
Amazon(PBR37) launches Amazon Exclusives store featuring new innovative products from popular up and coming brands, including some from TV show “Shark Tank.” AMZN PR link.

Dollar General(PBR153) to open new 730 stores in 2015, move/remodel 875 stores, has $1.2 billion available for shares buyback. DG PR link.

Gannett(PBR458) on track to spin-off new publicly held broadcasting/digital company in mid 2015. GCI PR link.

RadioShack(PBR619) in 8-K filing states that since it is in Chapter 11 stockholders should not expect to receive any recovery funds. RSHCQ PR link.

Children’s Place Retail(PBR934) in outlook says it expects to close 200 stores in 2013-2017. PLCE PR link.

Dollar General(PBR153) EVP/CFO David Tehle resigning effective 07/01/15, internal/external search starts. DG PR link.

FreddieMac(PBR33) reports that 30 year fixed mortgage rates averaged 3.86% with 0.6 point for week ending 03/12/15, 3.75% last week, 4.37% a year ago. FreddieMac PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that advance estimate of February retail/food services sales were $437.0 billion, -0.6% from January, +1.7% above February 2014. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Treasury says February US government receipts were $139 billion, outlays $332 billion, deficit $192 billion, deficit YTD(5 mos) is $387 billion. Treasury PR link.

Wednesday, March 11:
United Technologies(PBR45) exploring strategic alternatives for its Sikorsky helicopter unit, including possible public spin-off. UTX PR link.

The US Federal Trade Commission charges DIRECTV(PBR90) with deceptively advertising the cost of its satellite television service. FTC PR link.

KKR(PBR272) to acquire Air Medical Group which handles 75,000 medical emergencies annually. KKR PR link.

PetSmart(PBR359) acquisition by a consortium led by pan-Euopean buyout investor BC Partners for $83/share, $8.7 billion cash is completed, being delisted from NASDAQ. PETM PR link.

Ingredion(PBR371) completes acquisition of specialty ingredients provider Penford Corp for $340 million. INGR PR link.

Endo Health(PBR741) makes unsolicited acquisition offer to Salix Phamaceuticals(SLXP) for $175/share cash & stock, $11 billion. ENDP PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Board completes evaluations of “stress tests”(CCAR) of major financial institutions. FRB PR link.

Because of the US Federal Reserve Board CCAR results the following organizations authorize shares buyback programs:
American Express(PBR86) up to $6.6 billion
Bank of America(PBR22) $4 billion
Bank of New York Mellon up to $3.1 billion
Citigroup(PBR26) up to $7.8 billion
Discover Financial(PBR281) up to $2.2 billion
JPMorgan Chase(PBR20) up to $6.4 billion
PNC Financial(PBR171) up to $2.875 billion
State Street(PBR259) up to $1.8 billion
US Bancorp(PBR131) $3 billion

FreddieMac(PBR33) in March US Economic/Housing Market Outlook says 2015 to be best year for home sales since 2007. FreddieMac PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that private industry employers spent an average of $31.32/hour worked in December 2014, $21.72/hour worked, $9.60/hour in benefits. USDOL PR link.

Tuesday, March 10:
Express Scripts(PBR21) reports that 2014 US prescription drug spending increased 13.1%, driven by Hepatitis C & compounded medications. ESRX PR link.

Target(PBR38) files 8-K announcing layoff of 1,700, to save $100 million. TGT PR link.

Actavis(PBR297) $66 billion acquisition of Allergan(PBR392) approved at both shareholders meetings, expected to close in 2-4 weeks. AGN PR link.

The Pantry(PBR331) shareholders approve acquisition by Quebec, Canada based Alimentation Couche-Tard for $36.75/share, $1.7 billion deal. PTRY PR link.

First Solar(PBR628) & SunPower(PBR772) forming 8point3 Energy Partners limited partnership to own/operate a portfolio of selected solar generation assets, IPO paperwork filed. FSLR PR link.

Sprouts Farmers Market(PBR789) announces closing of sale of all remaining shares held by affiliates of Apollo Global Management(PBR531). SFM PR link.

AmSurg(PBR1077) physician services division, Sheridan, completes acquisition of 50+ radiologists practice Radiology Associates of Hollywood, FL. AMSG PR link.

Google(PBR46) files 8-K regarding CFO Patrick Pichette’s retirement within next 6 months. GOOG PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that there were 5.0 million job openings on the last business day of January, little changed from December. Hires decreased to 5.0 million and separations were little changed at 4.8 million in January. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that January merchant wholesalers sales were $433.7 billion, down 3.1% from December, down 1.0% from the January 2014 level. USDOCL PR link.

Monday, March 9:
Apple(PBR4) announces Apple Watch, to be available 04/24/15 in 9 countries, retails for $349 to $10,000. AAPL PR link.

General Motors(PBR7) authorizes an initial $5 billion shares buyback program, targets $20 billion cash balance. GM PR link.

Macy’s(PBR97) completes acquisition of 60 locations luxury beauty products & spa services retailer Bluemercury for $210 million cash. M PR link.

QUALCOMM(PBR104) authorizes $15 billion shares buyback program, will use $10 billion over next 12 months. QCOM PR link.

Alcoa(PBR122) to acquire titanium & specialty metal products manufacturer RTI(NYSE: RTI) in a $1.5 billion stock deal. AA PR link.

Barnes & Noble(PBR388) investing in college study materials provider Flashnotes.com. BKS PR link.

Harbinger Group(PBR412) changes name to HRG Group; president Omar Asali adds CEO title. HRG PR link.

Simon Property(PBR455) proposes to buy fellow mall developer/manager Macerich(PBR1090) for $91/share, $22.4 billion, which includes $6.4 billion of debt. SPG PR link.

Gaming & Leisure Properties(NASDAQ: GLPI makes unsolicited $4.1 billion offer to buy Pinnacle Entertainment(PBR993) assets. GLPI PR link.

The US Congressional Budget Office estimates a deficit of 2.7% of GDP in 2015, 2.4% the next 3 yrs, then rise. By 2025 public debt is estimated to be at 77% of GDP. CBO PR link.

Friday, March 6:
DJIA closes week at 17,856.78, -1.52% from last Friday & MTD, +0.19% QTD & YTD.
NASDAQ closes week at 4,927.37, -0.73% from last Friday & MTD, +4.04% QTD & YTD.
SPX closes week at 2,071.26, -1.58% from last Friday & MTD, +0.60% QTD & YTD.

Dow Jones announces that Apple(PBR4) will replace AT&T(PBR12) on the DJIA on 03/19/15. DJ PR link.

Alcoa(PBR122) doing strategic review of smelting & refining capacity worldwide for possible divestiture. AA PR link.

PetSmart(PBR359) shareholders approve acquisition by a consortium led by pan-Euopean buyout investor BC Partners for $83/share, $8.7 billion cash, expected to close on 03/11/15. PETM PR link.

Orbital ATK(PBR494) designed & built Dawn spacecraft now orbiting dwarf planet Ceres. OA PR link.

NII Holdings(PBR495) announces a new restructuring plan to emerge from Chapter 11. NIHDQ PR link.

The US Food & Drug Administration approves its first biosimilar medication for use in the US, Sandoz’s Zarxio. FDA PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that Total Nonfarm Payroll Employment was up by 295,000 in February, the Unemployment Rate is at 5.5%. USDOL PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Board reports that January Consumer Credit increased at an annual rate of 4.25%, revolving credit -1.5%, nonrevolving credit +6.25%. FRB PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that the January International Trade of Goods and Services deficit was $41.8 billion, down $3.8 billion from December. USDOC PR link.

Thursday, March 5:
3M(PBR92) releases revised paper policy providing leading-edge protection for forests, endangered species, and forest communities worldwide. MMM PR link.

SunEdison(PBR888) acquires energy storage operating projects, pipeline, and project origination team from Solar Grid Storage. SUNE PR link.

Airgas(PBR463) to promote SVP/HR Pamela Claypool to President, Airgas North Division up retirement of Shaun Powers in August, will report to Andrew Cichocki, President, Airgas USA. ARG PR link.

Clearwater Paper(PBR913) VP of Supply Chain Patrick Burke to become President, Consumer Products Division, upon retirement of Thomas Colgrove at end of the quarter. CLW PR link.

Centrus Energy(PBR1035) hires Daniel Poneman, former US deputy secretary of energy, as president/CEO. LEU PR link.

The US Dept of Labor reports that the 4th quarter 2014 Nonfarm Business Sector Labor Productivity decreased at a 2.2 percent annual rate, output increased 2.6 percent and hours worked increased 4.9 percent. USDOL PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that New Orders for Manufactured Goods in January, down 6 consecutive months, was -$0.9 billion, or -0.2%, to $470.0 billion. USDOC PR link.

The PBR1000 Index for February is 298,638.22, +3.24% over January, -0.90% QTD/YTD, +21.46% over 12/31/13.

Wednesday, March 4:
McDonald’s(PBR96) USA announces new antibiotics policy & menu sourcing initiatives. MCD PR link.

AbbVie(PBR142) to acquire hematology oncology Imbruvica developer Pharmacyclics(NASDAQ: PCYC) for $21 billion. ABBV PR link.

Bristol-Myers Squibb(PBR165) gets FDA approval for lung cancer treatment Opdivo. BMY PR link.

Baxter Intl(PBR179) acquires German based private autoimmune& allergic disease treatment biopharma company SuperMol for $225 million. BAX PR link.

HanesBrands(PBR505) previously announced 4:1 stock split is effective today. HBI PR link.

Brocade Communication(PBR836) completes acquisition of Riverbed Technology’s(PBR1085) SteelApp assets. BRCD PR link.

Alcoa(PBR122) hires José Aurélio Drummond as President of Alcoa Latin America, effective 03/09/15. AA PR link.

AECOM(PBR309) CEO Michael Burke adds Chairman title, effective 03/04/15. ACM PR link.

ADP(PBR220) reports that the February private sector jobs increased by 212,000, down 38,000 from January. ADP PR link.

The US Federal Reserve Board releases latest Beige Book, reports moderate economic growth in most districts. FRB PR link.

Tuesday, March 3:
Citigroup(PBR26) selling its OneMain credit service to Springleaf(NYSE: LEAF) for $4.25 billion. C PR link.

Target(PBR38) to cut $2 billion in costs over next 2 years, grow digital channel by 40%/year, open stores with more flexible formats. TGT PR link.

Best Buy(PBR67) resumes authorized $5 billion shares buyback program, to use $1 billion over next 3 years. BBY PR link.

Alcoa(PBR122) completes acquisition of private German titanium products $100 million/yr, 600 employees, company TITAL. AA PR link.

Stryker Corp(PBR288) authorizes additional $2 billion shares buyback program to $583 million currently available. SYK PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) acquires NationAir Aviation Insurance of W Chicago, IL. AJG PR link.

Frontier Communications(PBR497) Pres/COO Daniel McCarthy to become Pres/CEO on 04/03/15, CEO Maggie Wilderotter to become Exec Chair. FTR PR link.

Hubbell(PBR646) hires Maria Lee as VP, Corporate Strategy & Investor Relations, reports to SVP/CFO William Sperry. HUBB PR link.

Brinker Intl(PBR688) hires Tom Edwards, Jr, as EVP/CFO, effective 03/16/15. EAT PR link.

Other News Highlights: House of Representatives passes the Homeland Security Funding bill passed by the Senate; Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warns US of Iran nuclear threats in historic joint meeting of Congress.

Monday, March 2:
Costco(PBR18) enters multi-year co-brand credit card agreement with Citigroup(PBR26) & co-brand incentive agreement with VISA(PBR212). COST PR link.

Cardinal Health(PBR27) to acquire Johnson & Johnson’s(PBR39) cardiac/endovascular medical products unit Cordis for $1.944 billion cash. CAH PR link.

Arrow Electronics(PBR129) to acquire 800 partners government sales specialist immixGroup. ARW PR link.

eBay’s(PBR170) PayPal unit is acquiring mobile payments provider Paydiant for $280 million. EBAY PR link.

Avis Budget(PBR326) to acquire the largest independent Italian car rental company The Maggiore Group for $170 million. CAR PR link.

Boston Scientific(PBR349) to acquire urology portfolio from Endo Intl’s(PBR741) American Medical Systems unit for up to $1.65 billion cash. BSX PR link.

Arthur J Gallagher(PBR647) acquires NJ based wholesale brokers Excel Insurance Services & Metcom Excess. AJG PR link.

Heartland Payment Systems(PBR859) acquires private national payroll service provider Payroll 1. HPY PR link.

Lumber Liquidators(PBR1093) responds to “60 Minutes” episode regarding product safety issues. LL PR link.

Archer-Daniels-Midland(PBR28) makes several leadership appts, including div presidents, SVP, & CTO. ADM PR link.

AECOM(PBR309) hires Carla Christofferson as EVP, General Counsel. ACM PR link.

Axiall(PBR503) announces departure of George Biltz, Chief Strategy Officer, to take a CEO position in another company. AXLL PR link.

DeVry(PBR906) hires Lisa Sodeika as SVP External Relations, succeeds Sharon Thomas Parrott who is retiring. DV PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that January Personal Income was at a $15.062 trillion annual rate, up 0.3% over December. USDOC PR link.

The US Dept of Commerce reports that January Construction Spending was at a $971.4 billion annual rate, -1.1% from December, +1.8% from January 2014. USDOC PR link.

Sunday, March 1:
The PBR1000: The February 2015 Breaking News Recap is available. Click here for the blog post.

Netherlands based NXP Semiconductor (NASDAQ: NXPI) & Freescale Semiconductor (PBR548) agree to merger in $11.8 billion deal, to close 2nd half of 2015. FSL PR link.

(Photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net, Supertrooper.)

Filed Under: Recaps Tagged With: acquisitions, Business, Investing, Leadership, mergers, Rankings, Stock Market, The PBR1000

The PBR1000: The February 2015 Stocks/Commodiies Snapshots

March 31, 2015 by admin

Where to Invest Next? Use The PBR1000!

By Larry C. Paxton

The PBR1000 February 2015 Snapshots include news and stock data on 1,081 companies in 15 analytical reports.

Current The PBR1000 Subscribers should have already received the MS Excel workbook.

February experienced a recovery from the down tick of January. The stock exchanges continue to fluctuate widely day to day. US economic indices continue to be mixed, but the Federal Reserve Board continues to show restraint in raising interest rates, but also by indicating optimism for the future. Global economics and conflicts have an impact on the markets as well, but are mostly unpredictable.

In the following tables the stock price is for the close of trading on February 27th, Month % Chg is compared to January 30th, YTD % Chg is compared to December 31, 2014, and the 14 Mos % Chg is compared to December 31, 2013.

Table 1: The PBR1000 Stock Price Composite

Table 1 Summary: Made up of the sum of the stock prices of the 1,081 companies currently tracked by The PBR1000.

Company	Price 02/27/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	14 Mos % Chg
The PBR1000	298,555.31	+3.24	-0.90	+21.47

Table 2: The PBR1000 Top 5 Month Stock Price % Gainers

Table 2 Summary: The range was +65.16% to -64.43%. 885 out of 1,081 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 81.87% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of 6.14%

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 02/27/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	14 Mos % Chg
Aeropostale	868	ARO	4.03	+65.16	+73.71	-55.67
Conn’s	1052	CONN	25.85	+64.23	+38.31	-67.15
Amkor Technology	676	AMKR	9.73	+53.23	+37.04	+58.73
ITT Exelis	487	XLS	24.20	+41.44	+38.05	+26.97
Arch Coal	671	ACI	1.31	+41.27	-26.40	-70.56

Table 3: The PBR1000 Top 5 Year-To-Date Stock Price % Gainers

Table 3 Summary: The range was +220.00% to -65.72%. 637 out of 1,081 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 58.93% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of 1.69%

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 02/27/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	14 Mos % Chg
NII Holdings	495	NIHDQ	0.064	+0.00	+220.00	-97.67
Aeropostale	868	ARO	4.03	+65.16	+73.71	-55.67
Insperity	830	NSP	51.80	+23.51	+52.85	+43.37
Education Mgmt Corp	826	EDMC	0.25	-9.38	+51.58	-97.52
Freescale Semiconductor	548	FSL	36.11	+12.53	+43.12	+124.98

Table 4: The PBR1000 Top 5 13 Months Stock Price % Gainers

Table 4 Summary: Range was +149.26% to -98.78%. 714 out of 1,076 stock prices were up 0.00% or more, or 66.36% of the companies tracked. The median was a gain of 10.54%.

Company	PBR Rank	Symbol	Price 02/27/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	14 Mos % Chg
Electronic Arts	603	EA	57.18	+4.23	+21.62	+149.26
Southwest Airlines	150	LUV	43.24	-4.29	+2.17	+129.51
Freescale Semiconductor	548	FSL	36.11	+12.53	+43.12	+124.98
The Pantry	331	PTRY	36.70	-0.54	-0.97	+118.71
Hospira	570	HSP	87.54	+38.01	+42.92	+112.06

Table 5: The PBR1000 Selected Stock Exchanges/Commodities

Company	Price 02/27/15	Mo % Chg	YTD % Chg	14 Mos % Chg
DJIA	18,132.70	+5.64	+1.74	+9.39
NASDAQ	4,963.53	+7.08	+4.80	+18.84
S&P500	2,104.50	+5.49	+2.21	+13.86
Gold	1,213.10	-5.17	+2.38	+0.90
Silver	16.56	-3.78	+6.15	-14.51
Oil	49.76	+3.15	-6.59	-45.44

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

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

Filed Under: Snapshots Tagged With: DJIA, Investing, NASDAQ, Rankings, S&P 500, Stock Market, The PBR1000

The PBR1000 July 2015 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots

The PBR1000 July 2015 Breaking News Recap

The PBR1000 June 2015 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots

The PBR1000 June 2015 Breaking News Recap

The PBR1000 May 2015 Breaking News Recap!

The PBR1000 April 2015 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots

The PBR1000: The April 2015 Breaking News Recap!

The PBR1000: The March 2015 Stocks/Commodities Snapshots

The PBR1000: The March 2015 Breaking News Recap!

The PBR1000: The February 2015 Stocks/Commodiies Snapshots

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