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DrStockPick.com Stock Report! 11/23/09, HCEI, MILR, OCCF, MITK, IGLB, CX

Dr. Stock Pick — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:31:49 +0000

Dr Stock Pick HOT News & Alerts! _______________________________________ FREE Daily Stock Alerts From DrStockPick.com _______________________________________ Monday Nov 23, 2009 DrStockPick.com Stock Report! ************************************************************** Healthy Coffee International, Inc. (Other OTC: HCEI.PK) has established offices in Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Canada, Pilipinas, Sweden, UK, and many more countries to achieve the company’s short term goal of $1 million a month in sales. Healthy Coffee [...]

MWW Automotive Group (MWWC.OB) Subsidiary Signs Major Distribution Agreement

QualityStocks — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 14:31:36 +0000

MWW Automotive Group is a young corporation that has gained notoriety across the globe for producing and delivering their products, design and Class A painting services to automobile manufacturers and assembly lines across the world. Today, MWW announced that Modelworxx, its wholly owned subsidiary located in Germany, signed an executive agreement with Isomotive BV, [...]

Zacks Analyst Blog Highlights: Dell Inc., Berkshire Hathaway, Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corporation, JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo – Press Releases

Zacks Market Commentaries — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:49:16 +0000

For Immediate Release

Chicago, IL – November 23, 2009 – Zacks.com announces the list of stocks featured in the Analyst Blog. Every day the Zacks Equity Research analysts discuss the latest news and events impacting stocks and the financial markets. Stocks recently featured in the blog include: Dell Inc. (DELL), Berkshire Hathaway (BRK.A), Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corporation (BNI), JPMorgan Chase (JPM) and Wells Fargo (WFC).

Get the most recent insight from Zacks Equity Research with the free Profit from the Pros newsletter: http://at.zacks.com/?id=5513

Here are highlights from Friday’s Analyst Blog:

Dell Falls Short of Expectations

Dell Inc. (DELL) reported third quarter 2010 EPS of 23 cents, below the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 27 cents.

Revenue for the quarter was $10.75 billion, down 17.0% from $12.97 billion reported in the year-ago quarter and up 1.0% from $10.62 billion reported in the previous quarter. The company’s third quarter reported revenue was adversely affected by the timing of the Windows 7 launch and due to backlog buildup in the company’s SMB and consumer businesses.

Large Enterprise posted revenue of $3.4 billion, an increase of 4.0% sequentially and decline of 23.0% year-over-year. In the last quarter, the company expended its networking partnership with Brocade and Juniper, and introduced products like PowerEdge 11g servers and expanded PowerVault storage systems.

Public revenue for the quarter was $3.7 billion, down 3.0% on sequentially and 7.0% from the year-ago quarter. Shipments were down 12.0% on a sequential basis, due to seasonality in the U.S. public sector business.

Small and Medium Business revenue for the quarter was $3.0 billion, up 5.0% sequentially and down 19.0% from the year-ago quarter. Shipments increased 9% sequentially. The segment benefited from steadily improving demand in both the Americas and the Asia-Pacific region, as well as better performance in EMEA during the second half.

Revenues for Consumer Business were down 10.0% year-over-year, but flat sequentially to $2.8 billion with shipments growing 4% sequentially.

Dell’s total sales in China, India, Brazil and Russia increased 18.0% sequentially and 5.0% over last year. China, the second-largest revenue generating country for Dell, reported revenue increase of 20.0% sequentially and 8.0% from the year-ago quarter.

Buffett Borrows for Rail Acquisition

Warren Buffett, the CEO and Chairman of Berkshire Hathaway (BRK.A) announced on Thursday to borrow $8 billion of loan for the acquisition of Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corporation (BNI). Berkshire Hathaway, which already owns a 22% stake in Burlington Northern, announced earlier this month it would acquire the rest for a total value of $34 billion. Buffet agreed to pay $100 a share in cash and stock to buy the rest of the company.

The $8 billion loan that will be provided by JPMorgan Chase (JPM) and Wells Fargo (WFC) is intended to be paid back in three years’ time.

For Berkshire, the acquisition of Burlington Northern, or BNSF, the second largest railroad, will be its biggest to date. With it, Berkshire is adding a railroad transportation business with its already diverse range of businesses including retail, manufacturing and insurance, as well as several regional electric and gas utilities.

The acquisition is expected to close in early 2010 and is subject to Burlington Northern’s shareholder approval. Post acquisition, Burlington Northern will operate from its headquarters as a wholly owned subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway.

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About Zacks Equity Research

Zacks Equity Research provides the best of quantitative and qualitative analysis to help investors know what stocks to buy and which to sell for the long-term.

Continuous coverage is provided for a universe of 1,150 publicly traded stocks. Our analysts are organized by industry which gives them keen insights to developments that affect company profits and stock performance. Recommendations and target prices are six-month time horizons.

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Zacks.com is a property of Zacks Investment Research, Inc., which was formed in 1978 by Leonard Zacks. As a PhD in mathematics Len knew he could find patterns in stock market data that would lead to superior investment results. Amongst his many accomplishments was the formation of his proprietary stock picking system; the Zacks Rank, which continues to outperform the market by nearly a 3 to 1 margin. The best way to unlock the profitable stock recommendations and market insights of Zacks Investment Research is through our free daily email newsletter; Profit from the Pros. In short, it's your steady flow of Profitable ideas GUARANTEED to be worth your time! Register for your free subscription to Profit from the Pros at http://at.zacks.com/?id=5518.

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Zacks Investment Research

SEED, CVAT, HZHI, DrStockPick.com Watch List! for Monday Nov 23, 2009, Origin Agritech Limited, Cavitation Technologies Inc. and Horizon Health International Corp.

Dr. Stock Pick — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 23:30:46 +0000

Dr Stock Pick HOT News & Alerts! _________________________________________ FREE Daily Stock Alerts From DrStockPick.com _________________________________________ DrStockPick.com Watch List! My Picks for Monday Nov 23, 2009 are: ************************************************************** SEED, Origin Agritech Limited SEED, a leading agricultural biotechnology company and a top player in seed industry, specializes in research and development, production, sale and distribution of agricultural crop seeds. The Company’s major seed products [...]

Buffett Borrows for Rail Acquisition – Analyst Blog

Zacks Market Commentaries — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 20:11:51 +0000

Warren Buffett, the CEO and Chairman of Berkshire Hathaway (BRK.A)/(BRK.B), announced on Thursday to borrow $8 billion of loan for the acquisition of Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corporation (BNI). Berkshire Hathaway, which already owns a 22% stake in Burlington Northern, announced earlier this month it would acquire the rest for a total value of $34 billion. Buffet agreed to pay $100 a share in cash and stock to buy the rest of the company.

The $8 billion loan that will be provided by JPMorgan Chase (JPM) and Wells Fargo (WFC) is intended to be paid back in three years’ time.

For Berkshire, the acquisition of Burlington Northern, or BNSF, the second largest railroad, will be its biggest to date. With it, Berkshire is adding a railroad transportation business with its already diverse range of businesses including retail, manufacturing and insurance, as well as several regional electric and gas utilities.

The acquisition is expected to close in early 2010 and is subject to Burlington Northern’s shareholder approval. Post acquisition, Burlington Northern will operate from its headquarters as a wholly owned subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway.

Based in Fort Worth, Texas, Burlington Northern operates one of the largest railroad networks in North America through its subsidiary, with 33,500 route miles covering 28 U.S. states and two Canadian provinces. This network covers two-thirds of the western United States, stretching from major Pacific Northwest and Southern California. The company employs more than 40,000 people.
Read the full analyst report on "BNI"
Read the full analyst report on "BRK.A"
Read the full analyst report on "BRK.B"
Read the full analyst report on "JPM"
Read the full analyst report on "WFC"
Zacks Investment Research

Acquisition by Green Mountain – Analyst Blog

Zacks Market Commentaries — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 17:44:29 +0000

Green Mountain Coffee Roasters, Inc. (GMCR) recently acquired Timothy’s Coffees of the World, Inc., an affiliate of Sun Capital Partners, Inc. The acquisition was a cash transaction of approximately $157 million.

The acquisition includes the Timothy’s World Coffee brand and the wholesale business. However, the deal does not include retail operations. The retail portion of the Timothy’s business has been purchased by Bruegger’s Enterprises, Inc. and will continue to support the Timothy’s brand across Canada . The acquisition includes a five-year coffee supply agreement with Bruegger’s Canadian affiliate and management expects to expand its relationship with Bruegger’s Enterprises as it already supplies to all of GMCR’s 290 locations in the U.S.

Timothy’s Coffees of the World, Inc will operate as a wholly owned Canadian subsidiary and the operations will be integrated into GMCR’s Specialty Coffee Business Unit. Timothy’s became a licensed roaster of Keurig, Incorporated, a wholly owned subsidiary of GMCR, in 2000.

GMCR expects the acquisition to be accretive to its earnings per share in fiscal year 2010. The acquisition is considered to be a strategic fit for GMCR as Timothy’s is a premium coffee company that produces specialty coffee, tea and other beverages in a variety of packaged forms. Timothy’s also produces K-Cup portion packs for the Keurig Single-Cup Brewing System that are sold under the Timothy’s World Coffee, Emeril’s and Kahlua Original K-Cup brands.

Furthermore, the acquisition will not only give GMCR a Canadian presence but also will provide a coffee roasting facility in Toronto . This will enable GMCR to accelerate its geographic expansion with a Canadian brand platform that includes manufacturing and distribution synergies.

After the acquisition, GMCR revised its estimates for fiscal 2010. The company now expects consolidated net sales growth in the range of 55% to 60% compared to the previous guidance of 50% to 55%. Annual GAAP earnings are now expected to be in the range of $1.85 to $1.95 per share. Previous guidance was $1.75 to $1.85. The guidance include $14 million pre-tax or $0.18 per share non-cash amortization expenses related to the identifiable intangibles of the company’s acquisitions.The guidance also includes estimated acquisition expenses related to the Timothy’s acquisition.

In addition, capital expenditures for fiscal 2010 are expected in the range of $95 million to $115 million compared to $90 million to $110 million stated earlier.

The company also revised its guidance for the first quarter of fiscal 2010. Net sales growth is expected in the range of 65% to 70% compared to the previous estimate of 61% to 66%. Quarterly GAAP earnings are expected in the range of $0.12 to $0.16, up from the previous guidance of $0.11 to $0.15 per share. The guidance includes estimated acquisition transaction expenses related to the Timothy’s acquisition.
Read the full analyst report on "GMCR"
Zacks Investment Research

Canadian Pacific Issues Debt – Analyst Blog

Zacks Market Commentaries — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 22:12:58 +0000

Canadian Pacific Railway Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Canadian Pacific Railway Limited (CP), has announced a debt offering of $379 million.

The debt offering carries a coupon interest rate of 6.45% and will expire in November 2039. The offering will result in net proceeds of $377 million, which will be used for general corporate purposes including payment of debt and pension fund obligations.

The offering is being made in Canada under a shelf prospectus issued in June 2009 for up to $1.42 billion in medium-term notes.

Debt issued during the second quarter of 2009 included $350 million 7.25% 10-year notes for net proceeds of $408.5 million.

As of Sept. 30, 2009, the debt-to-capital ratio stood at 38.1%, fairly lower than targeted levels of 50.0%. However, interest coverage ratio at 3.2x was lower than the comfort levels of 4.0x. The interest coverage ratio has decreased due to a reduction in earnings and the unfavourable impact of a weakening Canadian dollar. The interest coverage ratio is below the management target due to lower volumes as a result of the global recession that occurred during the period.

Also as of Sept. 30, 2009, the company remains in compliance with all external financial covenants. In addition, earlier during the year, Canadian Pacific issued 13.9 million common shares, generating net proceeds of $488.9 million. The company also monetized certain assets to reduce indebtedness and further augment its cash position due to ongoing uncertainty about the timing of the economic recovery.
Read the full analyst report on "CP"
Zacks Investment Research

Tata and Sikorsky Ink JV – Analyst Blog

Zacks Market Commentaries — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 20:09:49 +0000

Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. and Tata Advanced Systems Ltd. (TASL) today announced creation of a joint venture that will manufacture aerospace components for Sikorsky in India, including components for S-92® helicopter cabins. The joint venture agreement builds upon a long-term contract signed in Jun 2009 for TASL to assemble Sikorsky S-92® helicopter cabins. Sikorsky is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (UTX) and TASL is a wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Sons.

Both the joint venture agreement and the cabin assembly contract stem from a MOU signed in Feb 2007 by the companies to explore the creation of aerospace operations in India. The cabin assembly contract signed in June 2009 has led to ongoing construction in Hyderabad, in the state of Andhra Pradesh, where TASL will assemble S-92 helicopter cabins starting in 2010.

The new joint venture will be positioned to manufacture components for other aerospace Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) as well as detailed parts for the Sikorsky S-92® helicopter cabin. It is expected that the joint venture operations will be housed in a second greenfield facility that will be constructed in Hyderabad, next to the cabin assembly building. Construction for the joint venture company's facility is targeted for completion by 2011, with production beginning in late 2012.

Tata companies operate in seven business sectors: communications and information technology, engineering, materials, services, energy, consumer products and chemicals. They are, by and large, based in India and have significant international operations. The total revenue of Tata companies, taken together, was $70.8 billion in 2008-09, with 64.7% of this coming from business outside India, and they employ around 357,000 people worldwide.

United Technologies provides high technology products and services to the building systems and aerospace industries worldwide. Operating units include businesses with operations throughout the world. Otis, Carrier and UTC Fire & Security (collectively referred to as the commercial businesses) serve customers in the commercial and residential property industries worldwide; Carrier also serves commercial, industrial, transport refrigeration and food service equipment customers.

Pratt & Whitney, Hamilton Sundstrand and Sikorsky (collectively referred to as the aerospace businesses) primarily serve commercial and government customers in both the original equipment and aftermarket parts and services markets of the aerospace industry; Hamilton Sundstrand and Pratt & Whitney also serve customers in certain industrial markets. Major competitor is Boeing Co. (BA).

We currently have a Neutral recommendation on UTX.

Read the full analyst report on "TASL"
Read the full analyst report on "UTX"
Zacks Investment Research

Clenergen India Private Limited Appoints Merchant Bank for Public Floatation in India and Listing on National Stock Exchange of India Limited (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exhange Limited (BSE)

Dawn Van Zant — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 13:00:00 +0000

November 12, 2009 - The Chennai (India) based Clenergen India Private Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Clenergen Corporation (OTCBB: CRGE), a pioneer in clean energy generation, announces today that ICICI Securities Limited has agreed to the engagement as the Lead Merchant Banker for the fund raising exercise through issuance of equity shares in India

Loews Upgraded – Analyst Blog

Zacks Market Commentaries — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 17:53:18 +0000

We are upgrading our recommendation on the shares of Loews Corp. (L) to Neutral. The company’s third-quarter earnings of $1.08 per share was well ahead of the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 87 cents a share. Loews reported a loss of 33 cents a share in the year-ago quarter.

The improved earnings were driven by increased investment income and a considerable reduction in investment losses at CNA Financial Corp. (CNA), besides strong results at Diamond Offshore Drilling Inc. (DO).

While the spin-off of Lorillard in 2008 eliminated the company’s overhang of tobacco litigation and the strong rebound in investment income is impressive, we think that the continuation of a stressed economic environment will have a restrictive effect on the top-line growth of the company.

The recent financial market appreciation bodes well for Loews. Both the holding company as well as the subsidiary, CNA, has experienced significant improvements in their investment income. Increase in the mark-to-market value of the investment portfolio has also resulted in considerable expansion of the company’s book value.

Diamond Offshore experienced a strong quarter with $170 million of earnings, up 17% year over year. Though it is currently experiencing a weak demand brought about by the fall in oil and natural gas prices, we think that Diamond's existing contract backlog should help mitigate the impact of the softening demand in the marketplace.

Also, in September, Diamond Offshore purchased a newly constructed, dynamically positioned drilling rig that is capable of operating in 7,500 feet of water. This rig has been named Ocean Valor This acquisition is consistent with Diamond's successful strategy of buying attractive assets at a time when pricing is favorable. Diamond was able to acquire the rig for approximately $490 million at an auction, well below the current cost to construct a similar new build rig.

While the management at CNA Financial has begun to focus on profitability instead of revenue generation, CNA’s operating income over the past few quarters has remained under pressure as a result of lower net investment income, economic slowdown and higher catastrophe losses. Though with the appreciation of the financial markets, the company is able to experience improved investment income, the premium volume still remains restricted as a result of the economic slowdown.

In June 2008, Loews had disposed of its entire ownership interest in Lorillard Inc. through the redemption of Carolina Group stock in exchange for Lorillard common stock and an exchange of its remaining Lorillard common stock for Loews common stock. In the recent years, Loews is looking to grow in areas such as natural gas exploration. So this spin-off decision was in line with the company’s strategy.

Loews, a holding company, is one of the largest diversified corporations in the United States. Its principal subsidiaries are CNA Financial Corp., a 90% owned subsidiary; Diamond Offshore Drilling Inc., a 50.4% owned subsidiary; HighMount Exploration & Production LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary; Boardwalk Pipeline Partners LP (BWP), a 72% owned subsidiary; and Loews Hotels, a wholly owned subsidiary.

Read the full analyst report on "L"
Read the full analyst report on "CNA"
Read the full analyst report on "DO"
Read the full analyst report on "BWP"
Zacks Investment Research

Clenergen Corp. (CRGE.OB) Subsidiary Selects Merchant Bank for Public Floatation in India and Listing on National Stock Exchange of India Limited (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exhange Limited (BSE)

QualityStocks — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 13:39:43 +0000

The Chennai (India) based Clenergen India Private Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Clenergen Corporation, announced today that ICICI Securities Limited has agreed to be the Lead Merchant Banker for the fund raising exercise through issuance of equity shares in India for Clenergen’s 16MW and 64MW gasification technology based power plants. The cost of the two [...]

DrStockPick.com Stock Report! 11/06/09, AOI, CSRH, ERTS, ROP, AEE, PDCO

Dr. Stock Pick — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 20:11:36 +0000

Dr Stock Pick HOT News & Alerts! _______________________________________ FREE Daily Stock Alerts From DrStockPick.com _______________________________________ Friday November 6, 2009 DrStockPick.com Stock Report! ************************************************************** Consorteum Holdings Inc. (OTCBB: CSRH) announced that it has proceeded to launch its consumer stored value rebate card. The consumer rebate card program will offer manufacturers and retailers a new way to process mail-in rebates that [...]

Loews Corp Reports Profit – Analyst Blog

Zacks Market Commentaries — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 19:09:20 +0000

Loews Corporation’s (L) third quarter income from continuing operations came in at $1.08 per share compared to a loss of 33 cents in the year-ago quarter. Results primarily reflected a 26% year-over-year increase in revenues.

The improved results were driven by increased investment income and a considerable reduction in investment losses at CNA Financial Corporation (CNA) and strong results at Diamond Offshore Drilling Inc. (DO). Also, the results reflect a strong rebound in investment income, primarily from improved limited partnership results.

CNA Financial Corporation’s operating income increased to $304 million from $76 million in the prior-year period. Diamond Offshore experienced a strong quarter with $170 million of earnings, up 17% year-over-year.

However, Boardwalk Pipeline Partners, LP’s (BWP) earnings decreased to $9 million from $31 million in the year-ago period. Reported earnings for the quarter were significantly reduced due to the shutting down of portions of its pipeline as part of its remediation efforts. HighMount Exploration & Production LLC’s earnings decreased to $40 million from $47 million reported a year earlier. Also, Loews Hotels incurred a loss of $15 million compared to earnings of $6 million, primarily due to impairment charges related to two properties.

Net investment income from the holding company came in at $41 million, compared to a loss of $57 million reported a year ago. Reported book value increased to $39.54 per share at Sept. 30, 2009, from $34.60 at June 30, 2009 and $30.18 at Dec. 31, 2008. The increase was due primarily to a $1.7 billion (after tax) improvement in fair value of the company’s fixed maturities investment portfolio.

During the reported quarter, Loews acquired 3.5 million shares of its common stock for about $111 million. From Oct. 1, 2009 through Oct. 28, 2009, the company purchased an additional 991,500 shares of its common stock for roughly $33 million.

Loews Corporation, a holding company, is one of the largest diversified corporations in the United States. Its principal subsidiaries are CNA Financial Corporation, a 90% owned subsidiary; Diamond Offshore Drilling, Inc., a 50.4% owned subsidiary; HighMount Exploration & Production LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary; Boardwalk Pipeline Partners, LP, a 72% owned subsidiary; and Loews Hotels, a wholly owned subsidiary.
Read the full analyst report on "L"
Read the full analyst report on "CNA"
Read the full analyst report on "DO"
Read the full analyst report on "BWP"
Zacks Investment Research

EU Nod for Merck-Schering Merger – Analyst Blog

Zacks Market Commentaries — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 14:34:48 +0000

Recently, the European Union (EU) approved the proposed $41.1 billion merger between Schering-Plough (SGP) and Merck & Co. (MRK). The deal is awaiting approval from the U.S. Federal Trade Commission. The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of this year.

While approving the merger, the EU clarified that the tie-up will not hinder effective competition significantly in Europe, even though both participants in the merger operate in the field of prescription pharmaceuticals. While checking for overlaps in Europe, particularly in the fields of asthma and allergic rhinitis, the European body did not find the products to be close competitors. Consequently, the merger would not be considered to hog the market and choke other companies.

As a reminder, Merck filed for EU approval last month after the completion of the sale of its 50% interest in animal health company Merial Limited (Merial) to Sanofi-Aventis (SNY) for a cash consideration of $4 billion (US).

Merial, founded in 1997, was a 50/50 joint venture between Merck and Sanofi-Aventis, and is now a wholly owned subsidiary of the latter. In 2008, Merial was ranked third in the animal health market, with a market share estimated at 13.8% and sales of $2.7 billion. This was just behind Schering’s animal health business, which registered sales of approximately $3 billion.

The sale of Merck's interest in Merial was a prerequisite for the European approval of the deal because Schering-Plough also sells animal health products. As per the terms of the $4 billion deal, Sanofi-Aventis has the option to buy Schering-Plough's animal health business after the merger of Merck and Schering-Plough is completed. This will expand Sanofi’s animal health business considerably and expand its presence in the sector even further.

In general, the merger between Schering-Plough and Merck will enable the combined entity to have a more diverse portfolio across important therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular, respiratory, oncology, neuroscience, infectious disease, immunology, women’s health and other areas.

Top-selling products of both companies will come under one umbrella following the merger. The merger should enable the combined entity to become one of the top drugmakers in the world.

Currently, we are Neutral on both Schering-Plough and Merck.
Read the full analyst report on "SGP"
Read the full analyst report on "MRK"
Read the full analyst report on "SNY"
Zacks Investment Research

Lab Corp Beats Estimates – Analyst Blog

Zacks Market Commentaries — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 21:54:49 +0000

This morning, Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings (LH) reported strong third quarter financials. The company’s earnings per share of $1.22 surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.15 as well as the $1.10 reported in the year-ago period. Revenues recorded a 4.4% year-over-year increase to $1.2 billion, driven by a 0.7% increase in testing volume (measured by accessions) and a 3.7% increase in revenue per accession.

Lab Corp’s gross margin reported an improvement of 137 basis points during the reported quarter. While revenues increased 4.4%, cost of goods sold grew by 2%. The company recorded an improvement in operating margin (excluding restructuring and other special charges) by 60 basis points to 20% compared to 19.4% in the year-ago period.

At the end of the September quarter, Lab Corp had $126.8 million of cash and short-term investments, down from $219.7 million at the end of December 2008. Free cash flow position improved significantly to $560.6 million at the end of the reported quarter compared to $445.2 million in the corresponding period.

To enhance shareholder value, the company repurchased $165.1 million of stock representing approximately 2.4 million shares during the quarter with another 180.2 million of repurchase authorization remaining under its share repurchase plan. Lab Corp had $70.8 million remaining under its $500 million revolving credit facility.

Back in August, Lab Corp announced the completion of the formalities related to the acquisition of Monogram Biosciences. Following this, Monogram became a wholly owned subsidiary of Lab Corp. Per the deal, announced in June 2009 all outstanding shares of Monogram were to be acquired by Lab Corp at $4.55 per share.

In addition to posting a strong third quarter performance, Lab Corp provided its 2009 full-year guidance. The company now expects its earnings per share in the range of $4.84 - $4.89, not taking into consideration the dilution due to the acquisition of Monogram.
Read the full analyst report on "LH"
Zacks Investment Research

DrStockPick.com Stock Report! 10/21/09, CSRH, FNF, PHG, GEO, HHS, HYWS

Dr. Stock Pick — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 13:05:56 +0000

Dr Stock Pick HOT News & Alerts! _______________________________________ FREE Daily Stock Alerts From DrStockPick.com _______________________________________ Wednesday October 21, 2009 DrStockPick.com Stock Report! ************************************************************** Consorteum Holdings Inc. (OTCBB: CSRH) announced that it has signed a Letter of Intent with Tactical Connections Inc. to provide various financial services to major tier one US, Canadian and European manufacturing and retail industries. ServiceLink , [...]

Clenergen Corp. (CRGE.OB) Reaches Agreement to Terms to Acquire 1.5MW Biomass Power Plant in Tamil Nadu, India

QualityStocks — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 12:18:49 +0000

Today it was announced that Clenergen Corporation India Private Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Clenergen Corporation, has agreed on the terms to acquire a 1.5MW/Hr biomass power plant in Namakkal, Tamilnadu, which will be operational by yearend 2009. Recognized as one of India’s National Demonstration Projects, the plant was shut down in 2007 due to [...]

GMX to Sell Stake to Kinder Morgan – Analyst Blog

Zacks Market Commentaries — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 21:49:03 +0000

GMX Resources Inc. (GMXR) recently agreed to sell a 40% interest in its gas gathering and compression business to Kinder Morgan Energy Partners L.P. (KMP) for $36 million. The closing of the transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to conclude in early November.

This transaction will fund GMX’s addition of a second rig to the Haynesville/Bossier Shale horizontal drilling program. The salt water disposal assets and other poly pipelines will not be part of the transaction and will continue to be wholly owned by Endeavor Pipeline Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of GMX Resources.

The gas gathering and compression business provides gathering services to the company in its Cotton Valley Sands and Haynesville/Bossier Shale horizontal developments in East Texas. It will provide funding for future infrastructure needs to support GMX's anticipated production growth.

Separately, GMX said its second FlexRig 3 rig from Helmerich & Payne Inc. is in transit and will start the company's eleventh horizontal well in the Haynesville/Bossier Shale.

GMX said that partnering with Kinder Morgan in the midstream business will also give it access to additional capital for midstream growth.

GMX Resources Inc is a 'pure play' exploration and production (E&P) company with one of the most leveraged Haynesville/Bossier Horizontal Shale Operations in East Texas. The company, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the exploration, development and production of properties for the production of crude oil and natural gas in Texas, Louisiana and New Mexico.

Kinder Morgan Energy Partners L.P. is a leading pipeline transportation and energy storage company in North America. One of the largest publicly traded pipeline limited partnerships in America, Kinder Morgan has an enterprise value of approximately $25 billion.
Read the full analyst report on "GMXR"
Read the full analyst report on "KMP"
Zacks Investment Research

DrStockPick.com Stock Report! 10/16/09, IIN, WHLM, MDP, MWA, TLP, CCI

Dr. Stock Pick — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 18:54:31 +0000

Dr Stock Pick HOT News & Alerts! _______________________________________ FREE Daily Stock Alerts From DrStockPick.com _______________________________________ Friday October 16, 2009 DrStockPick.com Stock Report! ************************************************************** IntriCon Corporation (NASDAQ: IIN), a designer, developer, manufacturer and distributor of body-worn medical and electronics devices, today announced that it will release its 2009 third-quarter results on Wednesday, October 28, 2009, at 3:00 p.m. CT. Wilhelmina International, Inc. [...]

CDC’s License Revenue to Drop – Analyst Blog

Zacks Market Commentaries — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 17:17:01 +0000

CDC Software Corp (CDCS), a wholly owned subsidiary of CDC Corp. (CHINA) said that it expects a decline in its license revenue. The company expects software license revenue to fall in the range of $7.4 – $7.6 million in the third quarter of 2009. The mid-point of the range is a decline of 37% from the year-ago period and 4% from the previous quarter.

We believe this fall is mainly due to the declining business activity the company felt during this economic downturn, which had a negative impact on the overall enterprise software industry.

Despite the sequential and year-over-year decline in license revenue, the overall revenue estimates are in line with the First Call Consensus estimates of $7.4 million. The company also said that the license revenue from new logo business increased to 24% in the forecasted quarter, up from 12% reported in the previous quarter.

CDC Software’s top 10 deals in the quarter included six deals in the food and beverage and financial services/insurance markets.

CDC Software is a leading provider of enterprise software applications and services. The company generates software revenues from the sale of software licenses and the maintenance and services for such software licenses. CDC has historically achieved 15.0% to 20.0% organic license revenue growth, which may be among the strongest in the industry.

With a strong organic growth in its software business, we believe CDC is poised to grow. With a continuous focus on vertical industries, cost reduction initiatives in its software segment, new launches and upgrades in its product line as well as integration efforts, CDC should develop a significant competitive advantage in 2009 and beyond.

Also, an increase in license bookings and a strong pipeline of sales opportunities at CDC Software should drive growth. Moreover, the company remained upbeat on its fourth quarter of 2009 outlook but did not provide any specific guidance.
Read the full analyst report on "CDCS"
Read the full analyst report on "CHINA"
Zacks Investment Research

Raven’s Aerostar Wins T-11 Contract – Analyst Blog

Zacks Market Commentaries — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 15:05:00 +0000

Aerostar International, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Raven Industries, Inc. (RAVN), has been awarded $12.2 million under a five-year, IDIQ (indefinite delivery indefinite quantity) contract for the production of US Army T-11 personnel parachutes.

The company expects the shipment of parachutes under this first order during the fiscal year beginning February 2010. The contract is expected to have annual releases that will continue through 2014. Despite securing an order for the first year and expected annual reorders, the company is not certain about the magnitude of the entire contract as it is an indefinite delivery and indefinite quantity contract.

Management stated that this contract came at a good time for Aerostar as the MC-6 contract is expected to complete during the fourth quarter of the current fiscal year ending January 2010. Aerostar believes that the common components between the T-11 and the MC-6 will help it in controlling start up costs on the new contract. The $12 million produced over the next year from T-11 will replace the MC-6 revenue and help Aerostar's operating income, margins and overall profitability.

Given the continued shipments under the two-year $20.7 million MC-6 Army parachute contract, sales of high-altitude airships and aerostats, and now the T-11 contract, Raven believes that of all its operations, Aerostar is in the best position to weather the recession.

Aerostar International, Inc. provides aerospace products, military parachutes, tethered aerostats, protective wear and custom-shaped inflatable products for public and commercial research to public agencies, such as the NASA.
Read the full analyst report on "RAVN"
Zacks Investment Research

DrStockPick.com Stock Report! 10/15/09, CAG, PWRM, ZLUS, GOVX, MBLX, AET

Dr. Stock Pick — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 19:41:40 +0000

Dr Stock Pick HOT News & Alerts! _______________________________________ FREE Daily Stock Alerts From DrStockPick.com _______________________________________ Thursday October 15, 2009 DrStockPick.com Stock Report! ************************************************************** Power3 Medical Products, Inc. (OTCBB: PWRM), a leader in neurodegenerative disease and cancer biomarkers and diagnostic tests, announces further international recognition of validity as the company’s President and CSO, Dr. Ira Goldknopf, will deliver an [...]

Barrick to Acquire Chilean Mine – Analyst Blog

Zacks Market Commentaries — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 22:14:05 +0000

Barrick Gold Corporation (ABX), the largest gold mining company in the world, has entered into an agreement with Xstrata Copper Chile S.A., a wholly owned subsidiary of Xstrata Plc, to acquire Xstrata’s 70% interest in the El Morro project for $465 million in cash. Another Canadian miner, New Gold Inc. (NGD) owns the remaining 30% interest in El Morro.

The El Morro gold project is located in the Atacama Region in Chile. The project has total measured and indicated resources of about 8.3 million ounces of gold and about 6.3 billion pounds of copper. The acquisition will add another large, high quality gold-copper resource to Barrick’s portfolio.

In Chile, Barrick already controls a project, which is entering construction, called Pascua-Lama. It also has a 50% stake in another mine, the Cerro Casale project. El Morro is located near the Pascua-Lama and Cerro Casale projects. Xstrata has already spent about $70 million on a feasibility study, which Barrick is acquiring directly from Xstrata as part of this transaction.

New Gold holds a right of first refusal to purchase Xstrata’s 70% interest in El Morro and has until Jan. 11, 2010, to exercise the right. Barrick’s agreement to purchase Xstrata’s interest in El Morro is subject to the expiration or waiver of the New Gold’s right of first refusal. The transaction is expected to close prior to Jan. 30, 2010.

Going forward, Barrick Gold is hoping to benefit from three owned projects in the pipeline − Cortez Hills, Buzwagi and Pueblo Viejo. Barrick is also paying off its hedges to benefit from the rising gold prices.

However, lower realized prices and higher cash costs are expected to continue to weigh on near-term earnings. The company also expects lower production for full year 2009. Additionally, we are concerned about the slowdown in the global economy, especially in India , which absorbs about 50% of world gold production.

We maintain our Neutral recommendation on the stock.
Read the full analyst report on "ABX"
Read the full analyst report on "NGD"
Zacks Investment Research

Clenergen Corp. (CRGE.OB) Creates Renewable Energy Solutions Using Biomass Advanced Gasification Technologies

QualityStocks — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 16:45:36 +0000

Clenergen Corp., developer of innovative clean energy generation systems, has created a way to produce power, steam, hydrogen, and various other useful products, all through the use of advanced gasification and steam technologies. Instead of dealing with the issue of energy resources – specifically biomass processing – by simply applying engineering principles, Clenergen approaches it [...]

Constellation Divesting Assets – Analyst Blog

Zacks Market Commentaries — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 22:43:00 +0000

Constellation Energy Group Inc. (CEG) and EDF Development Inc. recently announced that the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has approved the investment structure and license transfer related to EDF’s investment in Constellation Energy Nuclear Group LLC.

EDF Development Inc. -- the wholly owned subsidiary of French energy major EDF S.A. -- is planning to acquire 49.99% stake in Constellation Energy’s nuclear assets for $4.5 billion. Subsequently, EDF’s interest in Constellation Energy Nuclear Group will be structured as a new joint venture between the companies.

The deal has received the necessary federal approvals and clearance from the New York Public Service Commission. However, regulatory approval from the Public Service Commission in Maryland is pending. A final decision will be taken by the Maryland Public Service Commission in October 2009.

Constellation Energy is pursuing the divestment of its nuclear assets to improve liquidity position and strengthen balance sheet. The company has more than $1.5 billion of debt lined up for maturity this fiscal year. The debt-loaded company with a debt-to-equity ratio of 134.6% after the first half of fiscal 2009 dished out $143.9 million in interest expenses during the second quarter compared to only $78.8 million in the year-ago quarter.

Based in Baltimore, MD, Constellation Energy supplies energy products and services to wholesale customers as well as retail commercial, industrial and governmental customers in North America. It is a North American energy company that includes a merchant energy business and the Baltimore Gas and Electric Company (BGE), a regulated electric and gas public utility in central Maryland. Its merchant energy business is a provider of energy solutions.

Constellation Energy also has other non-regulated businesses, which design, construct and operate heating, cooling and cogeneration facilities for commercial, industrial and governmental customers throughout North America. Moreover, it provides home improvements, service heating, air conditioning, plumbing, electrical and indoor air-quality systems, besides providing natural gas to the residential customers in central Maryland. We maintain our market Neutral recommendation on the shares.
Read the full analyst report on "CEG"
Zacks Investment Research

United’s September Traffic Down – Analyst Blog

Zacks Market Commentaries — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 20:23:56 +0000

Yesterday, United Airlines, a wholly owned subsidiary of UAL Corp. (UAUA) announced preliminary mainline traffic results for September. The company reported mainline passenger load factor of 81.2%. Total scheduled mainline revenue passenger miles (RPMs) decreased 1.1% on a capacity decrease of 3.7% in scheduled mainline available seat miles (ASMs) compared with the same period in 2008.

The airline has been threatened by volatile oil prices, increased competition, increasing maintenance expenses and a disgruntled workforce. During the second quarter, the company initiated a fleet modernization review to replace its older fleet types. This process could present a unique opportunity for the company to improve its cost structure and fleet strategy.

United Airlines is taking appropriate actions to respond to the current economic environment as indicated by its significant capacity reductions. However, consolidated passenger revenue per ASM was also down 1.1% and 3.7% during September.

In order to maintain liquidity flexibility, United Airlines raised more than $1309 million since Jan 1, in new liquidity through various activities. These include aircraft and engine financing, spare parts financing, airport facility relocations, equity issuances and asset sales.

Peer Continental Airlines (CAL) reported Thursday that its total traffic jumped 7% in September. Its traffic during the month jumped to 6.9 billion RPMs from 6.5 billion RPMs one year ago.

United Airlines expects to report third quarter results on Oct 20. Prior to the results, we maintain a Neutral recommendation on the shares.
Read the full analyst report on "UAUA"
Read the full analyst report on "CAL"
Zacks Investment Research

HITR Announces Over $80 Million in Potential Sales

Stuart T. Smith — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 14:08:11 +0000

NEW YORK, NY — (Marketwire) — 10/08/09 — Nano-Jet Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Hitor Group Inc. (OTCBB: HITR), announced today that it potentially has over $80,000,000.00 in sales from three Class 1 North American Railroads interested in the Nano-Jet Fuel Module. Locomotive engines are significant contributors to air pollution in many of our nation’s [...]

DrStockPick.com Stock Report! 10/01/09, FIMA, SLH, KEX, VRTU, JKHY, OVTI

Dr. Stock Pick — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 14:21:55 +0000

Dr Stock Pick HOT News & Alerts! _______________________________________ FREE Daily Stock Alerts From DrStockPick.com _______________________________________ Thursday October 1st, 2009 DrStockPick.com Stock Report! ************************************************************** FIMA, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: FIMA), an emerging land development company, announced today that in spite of the continued persistent negative economic climate, the Company’s assets have remained steady. FIMA management, in order to control expenditures in [...]

SANUWAVE Inc. (RBME.OB) Completes Reverse Merger with Rub Music Enterprises

QualityStocks — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 13:53:14 +0000

SANUWAVE Inc. is an emerging medical technology company engaged in the development and commercialization of non-invasive, biological response activating devices. The company yesterday announced it is now the subsidiary of a publicly traded company through a reverse merger with a wholly owned subsidiary of Rub Music Enterprises Inc. (RME), effective September 25, 2009. Per the merger, [...]

Baywood International, Inc. (BAYW.OB) Subsidiary Increases Distribution Network to Arkansas

QualityStocks — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 14:14:08 +0000

New Leaf Brands, a wholly owned subsidiary of Baywood International, Inc., announced that a new distributor, New Age Distributing in Little Rock, AR, has begun distributing its New Leaf Tea through a network of retailers including Doublebee’s Exxon, Knight’s Super Foods, LRAFB Shoppettes, USA Drug, as well as numerous other independent accounts. “We brought in [...]

Merck Seeks EU Approval – Analyst Blog

Zacks Market Commentaries — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:00:21 +0000

Yesterday, Merck & Co. (MRK) announced that it is seeking approval from the European Union (EU) for its $41.1 billion acquisition of Schering-Plough Corp. (SGP). The regulatory authorities in the EU are expected to pass a verdict on the matter by Oct. 23.

Merck filed for approval of the merger in the EU after the completion of the sale of its 50% interest in animal health company Merial Limited (Merial) to Sanofi-Aventis (SNY) for a cash consideration of $4 billion ( US ).

As a reminder, Merial was founded in 1997. It was a 50/50 joint venture between Merck and Sanofi-Aventis and is now a wholly owned subsidiary of the latter. In 2008, Merial was ranked third in the animal health market, with a market share estimated at 13.8% and sales of $2.7 billion just behind Schering’s animal health business, which registered sales of approximately $3 billion.

Merial sells two widely used pet medicines, flea-and-tick blocker Frontline and chewable heartworm preventer Heartgard. Its product portfolio also includes Ivomec, which kills parasites in hogs and cattle in addition to other medicines and vaccines for livestock.

The sale of Merck's interest in Merial was a prerequisite for the European approval of the $41.1 billion deal because Schering-Plough also sells animal health products. As per the terms of the $4 billion deal, Sanofi-Aventis has the option to buy Schering-Plough's animal health business after the merger of Merck and Schering-Plough is completed, which is expected in the fourth quarter of this year. This will expand Sanofi’s animal health business considerably and expand its presence in the sector even further.

In general, the merger between Schering-Plough and Merck will enable the combined company to have a more diverse portfolio across important therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular, respiratory, oncology, neuroscience, infectious disease, immunology, women’s health and other areas. Top-selling products of both companies will come under one roof following the merger. The merger should enable the combined entity to become one of the top five drugmakers in the world.

Currently, we are Neutral on both Schering-Plough and Merck
Read the full analyst report on "MRK"
Read the full analyst report on "SGP"
Read the full analyst report on "SNY"
Zacks Investment Research

DIRECTV Announces Note-Buyback – Analyst Blog

Zacks Market Commentaries — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 20:25:54 +0000

On September 14, 2009, DIRECTV Holdings, a wholly owned subsidiary of the DIRECTV Group Inc. (DTV) announced the commencement of its cash tender offer. The company plans to purchase all or part of its outstanding 8.375% senior notes of $910 million due 2013. The offer will expire on Sep 21, 2009.

Citigroup Global Markets, Credit Suisse Securities and J.P. Morgan Securities are managing the tender offer.

To fund its cash tender offer, DIRECTV agrees to sell senior notes amounting to $2 billion in two parts - 4.75% senior notes of $1 billion due 2014 (issue price of $99.729) and another 5.875% senior notes of $1 billion due 2019 (issue price of $99.259). The company also expects to use the proceeds for general business purposes.

The holders of senior notes will receive $1,031.25 per $1,000 principal amount. The company will also pay any interest due and outstanding on the notes purchased pursuant to the offer to the date prior to the settlement date of Sep 22, 2009.

DIRECTV Group is the world's leading provider of satellite delivered digital television, video, and broadband. The company provides advanced communication services and develops a broad range of entertainment, information, and communication services for home and business use, including video, data, voice, multimedia, and Internet services. DIRECTV provides digital television service to more than 18.3 million customers in the United States and over 5.9 million customers in Latin America.
Read the full analyst report on "DTV"
Zacks Investment Research

HRAL, HearAtLast Holdings, Inc. Sales targets have been increased by upwards of 15 percent

Dr. Stock Pick — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 18:16:04 +0000

HRAL, HearAtLast Holdings, Inc., HRAL.PK DrStockPick News Report! Dr Stock Pick HOT News & Alerts! HRAL, HearAtLast Holdings, Inc. Sales targets have been increased by upwards of 15 percent Friday September 11, 2009 ************************************************************** HRAL, HearAtLast Holdings, Inc. Sales targets have been increased by upwards of 15 percent HearAtLast Holdings, Inc. is a Nevada corporation that owns and operates its wholly owned subsidiary [...]

HRAL, HearAtLast Holdings, Inc. Sales targets have been increased by upwards of 15 percent

Dr. Stock Pick — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 19:47:53 +0000

HRAL, HearAtLast Holdings, Inc., HRAL.PK DrStockPick News Report! Dr Stock Pick HOT News & Alerts! HRAL, HearAtLast Holdings, Inc. Sales targets have been increased by upwards of 15 percent Thursday September 10, 2009 ************************************************************** HRAL, HearAtLast Holdings, Inc. Sales targets have been increased by upwards of 15 percent HearAtLast Holdings, Inc. is a Nevada corporation that owns and operates its wholly owned [...]

HRAL, HearAtLast Forecasts Significant Sales Growth for 2009/2010

Dr. Stock Pick — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 19:22:37 +0000

HRAL, HearAtLast Holdings, Inc., HRAL.PK DrStockPick News Report! Dr Stock Pick HOT News & Alerts! HearAtLast Forecasts Significant Sales Growth for 2009/2010 Wednesday September 9, 2009 ************************************************************** HearAtLast Forecasts Significant Sales Growth for 2009/2010 MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO–(CRWENEWSWIRE ) - HearAtLast Holdings, Inc. (Pinksheets:HRAL), a leading provider of suitable affordable solutions to clients with hearing needs in the billion dollar hearing loss market, announced [...]

HearAtLast Forecasts Significant Sales Growth for 2009/2010

Stuart T. Smith — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 23:59:44 +0000

MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO — (Marketwire) — 09/08/09 — HearAtLast Holdings, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: HRAL), a leading provider of suitable affordable solutions to clients with hearing needs in the billion dollar hearing loss market, announced today that the Company is forecasting for significant sales growth for the balance of 2009 and 2010 year based on improved market conditions [...]

EXXI, VIP, MDCO Stock-PR Stock Headlines September 4, 2009

Stock-PR — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 12:07:09 +0000

Energy XXI (Bermuda) Limited (EXXI) Gulf Coast, Inc. (the “Company”) today September 4, 2009 announced it has commenced an exchange offer and consent solicitation in respect of its 10% Senior Notes due 2013 (the “Senior Notes”). The Company has commenced an offer to exchange up to $360 million principal amount outstanding Senior Notes properly tendered (and [...]

VRTC, HXBPF, EONGY Stock-PR OTC Stock Headlines September 4, 2009

Stock-PR — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 11:55:46 +0000

Veritec Moves from Pink Sheets to OTC Bulletin Board -Veritec, Inc. (OTCBB:VRTC), a pioneer and developer of proprietary two-dimensional matrix technology and developer of mobile banking debit card solutions, today September 4, 2009 announced that its common stock has begun trading on the OTC Bulletin Board (OTCBB). Veritec’s common stock was previously quoted on the Pink [...]

Dainippon Acquires Sepracor – Analyst Blog

Zacks Market Commentaries — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 16:38:24 +0000

Today morning, Japanese pharmaceutical company Dainippon Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd. confirmed that it signed a definitive agreement to buy U.S. pharmaceutical company Sepracor Inc. (SEPR). The deal has been valued at $23 per share or $2.6 billion.

The market was abuzz with rumors yesterday regarding the potential takeover. The rumors led to a 26.46% increase in Sepracor’s stock price. Trading was halted in the afternoon with Sepracor shares closing at $22.80.

This acquisition is the latest in a series of deals conducted by Japanese companies that are looking to tap the U.S. pharmaceutical market – the biggest in the world. Last year, we saw four such deals take place including Eisai’s acquisition of MGI Pharma, Takeda’s acquisition of Millennium Pharma and Shionogi’s acquisition of Sciele. Finally, Daiichi-Sankyo acquired a stake in India’s Ranbaxy Labs.

Following the completion of the acquisition, Sepracor will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Dainippon Sumitomo Pharma America Holdings, Inc., and will continue its operations in the U.S. and Canada. The offer price of $23 represents a 48% premium to Sepracor’s average stock price over the last six month period ending Sept 1, and a 27.6% premium over the closing price on Sept 1.

Meanwhile, Dainippon is looking to increase its penetration in the U.S. market through the Sepracor acquisition. The completion of this acquisition will give Dainippon access to Sepracor’s 1,200 person sales force, which should help support the launch of antipsychotic drug, lurasidone, currently in phase III development. Besides this, Sepracor will bring with it several marketed products like Lunesta, Xopenex/HFA, Brovana, Omnaris and Alvesco.

Once launched, lurasidone will be competing with schizophrenia drugs like AstraZeneca’s (AZN) Seroquel, Schering-Plough’s (SGP) Saphris, Eli Lilly’s (LLY) Zyprexa, and Bristol-Myers’ (BMY) Abilify among others.

The acquisition should not only help Dainippon develop its U.S. commercial structure but also strengthen its research & development (R&D) capabilities. Sepracor has several interesting candidates in its mid-stage central nervous system (CNS) pipeline, which should contribute to revenues from 2012.

The boards of both the companies have approved the deal. The tender offer, scheduled to commence no later than Sept 15 will close in the fourth quarter.

Read the full analyst report on "SEPR"
Read the full analyst report on "AZN"
Read the full analyst report on "SGP"
Read the full analyst report on "LLY"
Read the full analyst report on "BMY"
Zacks Investment Research

Update for August 31, 2009 on HearAtLast Goes Mainstream With Exclusive Offering of “The QSound EarBud”

Stock-PR — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 15:15:36 +0000

MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO–(CRWE Newswire - 08/31/09) - HearAtLast Holdings, Inc. (Pinksheets:HRAL - News), a leading provider of suitable affordable solutions to clients with hearing needs in the billion dollar hearing loss market, announced today the exclusive offering of the “The QSound EarBud” throughout its Hearing Store Clinics located across Canada. The new QSound is based on the [...]

HRAL, HearAtLast Goes Mainstream With Exclusive Offering of “The QSound EarBud” (PennyOmega.com Stock Report)

PennyOmega.com — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 14:33:43 +0000

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HRAL, HearAtLast Goes Mainstream With Exclusive Offering of “The QSound EarBud”

Dr. Stock Pick — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 14:26:56 +0000

HRAL, HearAtLast Holdings, Inc., HRAL.PK DrStockPick News Report! Dr Stock Pick HOT News & Alerts! HearAtLast Goes Mainstream With Exclusive Offering of “The QSound EarBud” Monday August 31, 2009 ************************************************************** HearAtLast Goes Mainstream With Exclusive Offering of “The QSound EarBud” MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO–(CRWENEWSWIRE - 08/31/09) - HearAtLast Holdings, Inc. (Pinksheets:HRAL), a leading provider of suitable affordable solutions to clients with hearing needs in [...]

HearAtLast Goes Mainstream With Exclusive Offering of “The QSound EarBud”

Stuart T. Smith — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 13:52:04 +0000

MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO–(Marketwire – 08/31/09) – HearAtLast Holdings, Inc. (Pinksheets:HRAL), a leading provider of suitable affordable solutions to clients with hearing needs in the billion dollar hearing loss market, announced today the exclusive offering of the “The QSound EarBud” throughout its Hearing Store Clinics located across Canada. The new QSound is based on the same miniature in [...]

IR BioSciences Holdings, Inc. (IRBS.OB) Subsidiary Explores Possibility of Partnership with Archimedes Development Ltd.

QualityStocks — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 14:30:55 +0000

ImmuneRegen BioSciences, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of IR BioSciences Holdings, Inc., announced this morning that it has executed a Material Transfer Agreement (MTA) with Archimedes Development Limited. This collaboration enables the companies to identify possible synergies between their technology platforms. “Multiple studies in different model systems have shown that Homspera can protect experimental animals and [...]

PennyOmega.com Stock Report! 8/26/09, RZ, TIBX, GDTI, NRPI, IRBS, OMTR

PennyOmega.com — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 12:39:42 +0000

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PennyOmega.com Stock Report! 8/24/09, PONE, HFFI, HSC, XDSL, XCELE, JBT

PennyOmega.com — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 18:30:09 +0000

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DrStockPick.com Stock Report! 8/24/09, USNA, WCC, CGNV, WTSLA, AAI, WCAA

Dr. Stock Pick — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 17:47:52 +0000

DrStockPick.com Stock Report! Monday August 24, 2009 ************************************************************** USANA Health Sciences, Inc. (NASDAQ: USNA) would like to congratulate USANA-sponsored Olympian Steve Hooker of Australia for his gold medal finish at the track and field world championships in Berlin, Germany. WESCO International, Inc. (NYSE: WCC), a leading provider of electrical MRO products, construction materials [...]

BBV, PWRM, DrStockPick Watch List! for Monday August 24, 2009, Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria, S.A. and Power 3 Medical Products Inc, PWRM.OB

Dr. Stock Pick — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 20:35:40 +0000

BBV, Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria, S.A. PWRM, Power 3 Medical Products Inc, PWRM.OB DrStockPick Watch List! DrStockPick Watch List! for Monday August 24, 2009 My Picks for Monday August 24, 2009 are: ************************************************************** BBV, Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria, S.A. BBV is a financial services group with more than $750 billion in total assets, 48 million clients, 8,000 branches and approximately 108,000 [...]

CHGI, CRGE, ECOB Stock-PR Stock Report August 20, 2009

Stock-PR — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 16:31:30 +0000

China Carbon Graphite Group, Inc. (OTCBB:CHGI), one of China’s largest producers and wholesale suppliers of fine grain and high purity graphite, announced that it received the government’s approval to reduce the registered capital of its subsidiary from $4,000,000 to $100,000, which reduces the Company’s obligation to make a capital contribution to its subsidiary from $4,000,000 [...]

PennyOmega.com Stock Report! 8/20/09, CHGI, GPK, NWND, BDN, CRGE, HRZ

PennyOmega.com — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 15:36:38 +0000

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PennyOmega.com Stock Report! 8/19/09, PER, ENER, UTX, AF, TWTC, NYNY

PennyOmega.com — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 19:58:00 +0000

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DrStockPick.com Stock Report! 8/19/09, INMD, MYL, JAVA, RAVN, NTUR, HIMR

Dr. Stock Pick — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 13:54:17 +0000

DrStockPick.com Stock Report! Wednesday August 19, 2009 ************************************************************** IntegraMed America, Inc. (NASDAQ: INMD), the nation’s leading provider of specialty healthcare services in emerging, technology-focused niches, today announced that The Froedtert and Medical College of Wisconsin Reproductive Medicine Center has begun offering IntegraMed’s Attain(TM) IVF Program - a course of treatment approach that [...]

PennyOmega.com Stock Report! 8/19/09, OUTD, PRX, AAI, CACI, ATML, MSOL

PennyOmega.com — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 13:00:00 +0000

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Optical Systems, Inc. (OPSY.PK) is “One to Watch”

QualityStocks — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 17:59:12 +0000

Optical Systems, Inc. is a leading provider of software and services for the automotive retail industry. The Company develops technology and services designed to maximize productivity and increase profits at auto dealerships. They do this through their operating subsidiary, Automotive Software Designers, Inc. Optical Systems, Inc. trades on the Pink Sheets, and they have their [...]

Stock-PR Stock Report August 13, 2009 CNU, USB, IHS

Stock-PR — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 12:58:42 +0000

las Vegas CRWENewswire.com is pleased to announce a stock highlight on Continucare Corporation, Elavon, Iowa Health System Sign up to receive FREE Stock-PR alerts from CRWENewswire.com at http://www.crwenewswire.com/?tag=stock-pr Continucare Corporation (NYSE Amex:CNU) announced today August 13, 2009that it has expanded its service offerings through the acquisition of Professional Sleep Diagnostics, Inc., a full service operator of [...]

PennyOmega.com Stock Report! 8/13/09, CGXP, DEER, DCI, SMSC, USB, KSS

PennyOmega.com — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 11:40:22 +0000

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PennyOmega.com Stock Report! 8/11/09, SKYW, ATRO, ITRI, JBLU, BYFC, MHLD, BLL

PennyOmega.com — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 19:45:05 +0000

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A.M. Best Affirms AMEX Ratings – Analyst Blog

Zacks Market Commentaries — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 15:40:30 +0000

Based on AMEX Assurance Co.’s strong capital position and upward earnings trend, A.M. Best Company affirmed the financial strength rating and issuer credit rating of the company on Aug 10.

AMEX is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Express Co. (AXP). The company recently started retaining premiums from American Express Cardmembers, and as a result it is performing well with respect to earnings.

The ratings affirmed by the rating agency were A (Excellent) and “a" for financial strength and issuer credit, respectively.

A conservative investment risk profile and solid profit margins helped the company achieve a strong capital position. After it was reacquired by American Express on Sept 30, 2007, the company returned to stability with favorable underwriting and investment results. However, we are concerned about its significant dependence on American Express Cardmembers for revenue.

Despite continued weakness in Cardmembers spending and historically high levels of loan losses, American Express generated strong earnings, strengthened capital base and further expanded deposit gathering initiatives.

The results benefited from successful re-engineering efforts and from a diverse business model that combine the roles of card issuer, network and merchant processor. A healthy position of American Express Cardmembers will definitely benefit AMEX.
Read the full analyst report on "AXP"
Zacks Investment Research

CKXE, PUB Stock-PR Stock Highlights for Monday August 10, 2009

Stock-PR — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 11:45:04 +0000

CKX Inc. (CKXE) CKX, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, engages in the ownership, development, and commercial utilization of entertainment content worldwide. Web Site: http://www.ckx.com Recent News: 19 Entertainment, a wholly owned subsidiary of CKX, Inc. (Nasdaq: CKXE - News), today announces that it has acquired a 51% ownership stake in Storm Model Management Ltd, the leading UK-based model agency [...]

PennyOmega.com Stock Report! 8/06/09, SCLD, HUM, EBS, LNC, STR, KNOT

PennyOmega.com — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 18:57:52 +0000

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DrStockPick.com Stock Report! 8/06/09, SCLD, HUM, EBS, LNC, STR, KNOT

Dr. Stock Pick — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 18:53:43 +0000

DrStockPick.com Stock Report! Thursday August 6, 2009 ************************************************************** SteelCloud, Inc. (Nasdaq: SCLD), a leading integrator of mobility computing appliance services, today announced that it will be offering its SteelWorks(R) Mobile appliance for BlackBerry(R) Enterprise Server to hosting service providers in the Americas and EMEA markets. Humana Military Healthcare Services, a wholly owned subsidiary [...]

PennyOmega.com Stock Report! 8/06/09, GD, CDCS, ELN, LIZ, BMTI, MPS

PennyOmega.com — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 15:14:49 +0000

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DrStockPick.com Stock Report! 8/04/09, IRM, ARBA, LVLT, APKT, WRLS, IXYS

Dr. Stock Pick — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 12:45:22 +0000

DrStockPick.com Stock Report! Tuesday August 4, 2009 ************************************************************** Iron Mountain Incorporated (NYSE: IRM), the global leader in information protection and storage services, announced today that it has joined the PCI Security Standards Council as a participating organization. Iron Mountain will now work with the Council to evolve the PCI Data Security Standard (DSS) and [...]

DrStockPick.com Stock Report! 8/03/09, NOC, NATI, GD, QCOM, GFF, BKR

Dr. Stock Pick — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 14:56:12 +0000

DrStockPick.com Stock Report! Monday August 3, 2009 ************************************************************** Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) delivered the final, first stage solid rocket motor for the Minuteman Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) July 23 to the U.S. Air Force under the Propulsion Replacement Program (PRP). The delivery represents a significant milestone in the continuing modernization of the ICBM [...]

PennyOmega.com Stock Report! 8/03/09, MDSO, GILT, KSU, CSTR, ORBC, ZQK

PennyOmega.com — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 12:51:15 +0000

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BMY, AZN, FNXC, DrStockPick Watch List! for Monday August 3, 2009, Bristol-Myers Squibb Co., AstraZeneca plc and Fonix Corp, FNXC.OB

Dr. Stock Pick — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 00:36:05 +0000

BMY, Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. AZN, AstraZeneca plc FNXC, Fonix Corp, FNXC.OB DrStockPick Watch List! DrStockPick Watch List! for Monday August 3, 2009 My Picks for Monday August 3, 2009 are: ************************************************************** BMY, Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. and AZN, AstraZeneca plc BMY is a global biopharmaceutical company whose mission is to extend and enhance human life. AZN is a major international healthcare business engaged in [...]

OSK, FNXC, PennyOmega.com Watch List ! for Monday August 3, 2009, Oshkosh Corporation and Fonix Corp, FNXC.OB

PennyOmega.com — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 22:49:04 +0000

OSK, Oshkosh Corporation FNXC, Fonix Corp, FNXC.OB PennyOmega.com Watch List! PennyOmega.com Watch List ! for Monday August 3, 2009 Our Picks at PennyOmega.com for Monday August 3, 2009 are: ************************************************************** OSK, Oshkosh Corporation OSK is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of a broad range of specialty access equipment, commercial, fire & emergency and military vehicles and vehicle bodies. OSK manufactures, distributes [...]

HearAtLast Holdings, Inc., (HRAL.PK) Appoints Louis Isabella as New Chief Financial Officer (DrStockPick Stock Report!)

Dr. Stock Pick — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 20:18:03 +0000

HRAL, HearAtLast Holdings, Inc., HRAL.PK DrStockPick News Report! Dr Stock Pick HOT News & Alerts! HearAtLast Appoints Louis Isabella as New Chief Financial Officer Friday July 31, 2009 ************************************************************** HearAtLast Appoints Louis Isabella as New Chief Financial Officer HearAtLast Holdings, Inc. is a Nevada corporation that owns and operates its wholly owned subsidiary of hearing stores co-located within select Wal-Mart stores throughout [...]

DrStockPick.com Stock Report! 7/31/09, SBGI, PC, CLSN, TSYS, CAT, AZN

Dr. Stock Pick — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 17:49:58 +0000

DrStockPick.com Stock Report! Friday July 31, 2009 ************************************************************** Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: SBGI) was notified by Cunningham Broadcasting Corporation that Cunningham’s lenders under its $33.5 million term loan facility, which became due on July 31, 2009, have provided them an extension to October 30, 2009. The extension requires that Cunningham make $200,000 [...]

HearAtLast Holdings, Inc., (HRAL.PK) Appoints Louis Isabella as New Chief Financial Officer (DrStockPick Stock Report!)

Dr. Stock Pick — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 10:38:41 +0000

HRAL, HearAtLast Holdings, Inc., HRAL.PK DrStockPick Stock Report! Dr Stock Pick HOT News & Alerts! HearAtLast Appoints Louis Isabella as New Chief Financial Officer Thursday July 30, 2009 ************************************************************** HearAtLast Appoints Louis Isabella as New Chief Financial Officer HearAtLast Holdings, Inc. is a Nevada corporation that owns and operates its wholly owned subsidiary of hearing stores co-located within select Wal-Mart stores throughout [...]

HRAL, HearAtLast Holdings, Inc., Appoints Louis Isabella as New Chief Financial Officer (DrStockPick News Report!)

Dr. Stock Pick — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 12:38:21 +0000

HRAL, HearAtLast Holdings, Inc., HRAL.PK DrStockPick News Report! Dr Stock Pick HOT News & Alerts! HearAtLast Appoints Louis Isabella as New Chief Financial Officer Wednesday July 29, 2009 ************************************************************** HearAtLast Appoints Louis Isabella as New Chief Financial Officer MISSISSAUGA, ON–(CRWENEWSWIRE - 07/28/09) - (Pinksheets:HRAL) HearAtLast Holdings, Inc., a leading provider of suitable affordable solutions to clients with hearing needs in the billion [...]

HearAtLast Appoints Louis Isabella as New Chief Financial Officer

Stuart T. Smith — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 00:19:51 +0000

MISSISSAUGA, ON — (Marketwire) — 07/28/09 — (PINKSHEETS: HRAL) HearAtLast Holdings, Inc., a leading provider of suitable affordable solutions to clients with hearing needs in the billion dollar hearing loss market, announced today the appointment of Louis Isabella as the new CFO of the company. Mr. Isabella brings many years of experience assisting corporations with their [...]

HRAL, HearAtLast Holdings, Inc., Appoints Louis Isabella as New Chief Financial Officer (PennyOmega.com Stock Report!)

PennyOmega.com — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 20:05:49 +0000

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HRAL, HearAtLast Holdings, Inc., Appoints Louis Isabella as New Chief Financial Officer (DrStockPick News Report!)

Dr. Stock Pick — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 18:34:58 +0000

HRAL, HearAtLast Holdings, Inc., HRAL.PK DrStockPick News Report! Dr Stock Pick HOT News & Alerts! HearAtLast Appoints Louis Isabella as New Chief Financial Officer Tuesday July 28, 2009 ************************************************************** HearAtLast Appoints Louis Isabella as New Chief Financial Officer MISSISSAUGA, ON–(CRWENEWSWIRE - 07/28/09) - (Pinksheets:HRAL) HearAtLast Holdings, Inc., a leading provider of suitable affordable solutions to clients with hearing needs in the billion [...]

Pro-Tech Industries, Inc. (PTCK.OB) Subsidiary Secures Approximately $1.3 Million in Additional Contracts for 2009

QualityStocks — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 16:12:42 +0000

Pro-Tech Fire Protection Systems Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of Pro-Tech Industries, Inc. and provider of design-build services for the fire protection, alarm and detection, telecommunications, network services, flooring and electrical contracting industries, recently announced that the company has secured new contracts totaling approximately $1.3 million for its fire protection business unit. Management anticipates that [...]

CMG Holdings, Inc. (CMGO.OB) is “One to Watch”

QualityStocks — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 19:46:38 +0000

CMG Holdings, Inc. is a full service global marketing, sports, entertainment, and management communications company. Trading on the OTCBB, the company operates in the sectors of talent management, event management, and commercial rights. CMG Holdings, Inc. has an office in New York, New York and an office in Miami, Florida. The company’s Talent Management division includes [...]

DrStockPick.com Stock Report! 7/22/09, THQI, ERFW, SNDA, EVSO, EML, MTL

Dr. Stock Pick — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 15:18:46 +0000

DrStockPick.com Stock Report! Wednesday, July 22, 2009 ************************************************************** Raptr (http://raptr.com), the social utility that allows you to connect with your gaming friends and see what the world is playing, today announced Activision Publishing, Inc. and THQ Inc. (NASDAQ: THQI) as the newest members of the Raptr Partners Program. Activision and THQ join leading [...]

DrStockPick.com Stock Report! 7/21/09, GSAT, PTEC, HHGP, MATH, LXK, MLI

Dr. Stock Pick — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 11:55:04 +0000

DrStockPick.com Stock Report! Tuesday, July 21, 2009 ************************************************************** SPOT LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc. (Nasdaq:GSAT) and a leader in personal satellite messaging and emergency communications, today introduced its new SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger(tm). The new SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger(tm) is 30% smaller and lighter than the original SPOT Satellite personal [...]

PennyOmega.com Stocks Upgraded, Downgraded and Short Highlights Before the Bell Monday July 20, 2009

PennyOmega.com — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 13:05:12 +0000

PennyOmega.com Short Highlights Before the Bell! PennyOmega.com Short Highlights Before The Bell! PennyOmega.com Stocks Upgraded, Downgraded and Short Highlights Before the Bell Monday July 20, 2009 ************************************************************** Affiliated Computer Services, Inc. (NYSE: ACS) today announced a five-year, $10 million information technology (IT) contract to extend its relationship with Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific. Conexant Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: CNXT), a leading [...]

TEG, ACS, ARP Stock-PR NYSE Stock Report Monday 07-20-09

Stock-PR — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 12:51:46 +0000

Integrys Energy Group, Inc. (NYSE: TEG) today announced that its nonregulated energy subsidiary, Integrys Energy Services Inc., has signed an agreement to sell its energy consulting business to Minneapolis-based U.S. Energy Services, Inc. for an undisclosed sum. Affiliated Computer Services, Inc. (NYSE: ACS) today announced a five-year, $10 million information technology (IT) contract to extend its [...]

Regions Financial Faces SEC – Analyst Blog

Zacks Market Commentaries — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 19:55:12 +0000

Regions Financial (RF) may face charges from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for possible violation of the federal securities laws associated with mutual funds that were formerly managed by Morgan Asset Management.

Regions Financial disclosed in an SEC filing yesterday that Morgan Keegan & Company, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Regions Financial, Morgan Asset Management, Inc. and three employees have each received a "Wells" notice from the Atlanta Regional Office of the SEC.

A Wells notice is neither a formal allegation nor a discovery of wrongdoing. The company receiving a Wells notice will have a chance to justify itself before being condemned. Regulators are investigating the roles of the fund managers in the credit crisis.

Last month, State Street Corp. (STT) had disclosed that it had received a Wells notice related to certain fixed income strategies. The strategies were finally backed by subprime mortgages that absorbed massive losses. Last year, large banks including JP Morgan Chase (JPM), Morgan Stanley (MS), Citigroup (C), Wachovia (now owned by Wells Fargo − (WFC) and Merrill Lynch (now owned by Bank of America − (BAC) had agreed to buy back auction-rate securities from investors as part of industry-wide settlements with federal and state regulators. The settlements involved securities abuses by the firms.

Prior to the Regions second quarter scheduled earnings release on July 21, we maintain our Hold recommendation on its shares.

Read the full analyst report on "RF"
Read the full analyst report on "STT"
Read the full analyst report on "JPM"
Read the full analyst report on "C"
Read the full analyst report on "WFC"
Read the full analyst report on "BAC"
Zacks Investment Research

Zacks Analyst Blog Highlights: Broadcom Corp., Emulex Corp., Primus Guaranty, Ltd., Ambac Financial and MBIA – Press Releases

Zacks Market Commentaries — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 13:58:29 +0000

For Immediate Release

Chicago, IL – July 13, 2009 – Zacks.com announces the list of stocks featured in the Analyst Blog. Every day the Zacks Equity Research analysts discuss the latest news and events impacting stocks and the financial markets. Stocks recently featured in the blog include: Broadcom Corp. (BRCM), Emulex Corp. (ELX), Primus Guaranty, Ltd. (PRS), Ambac Financial (ABK) and MBIA (MBI).

Get the most recent insight from Zacks Equity Research with the free Profit from the Pros newsletter: http://at.zacks.com/?id=5513

Here are highlights from Friday’s Analyst Blog:

Broadcom Stops Pursuing Emulex

Broadcom Corp. (BRCM) yesterday dropped all efforts to acquire Emulex Corp. (ELX) after the latter rejected its revised acquisition offer. Broadcom had earlier raised its hostile bid to acquire all outstanding shares of rival Emulex from $9.25 per share to $11.00 per share.

Broadcom has been involved in a fierce battle to acquire Emulex since May. The company had earlier said that the $912 million revised offer was the best it could offer Emulex.

On the other hand, Emulex stated that the offer significantly undervalued its long-term prospects and was not in the best interests of its shareholders. The company appealed to the investors to not tender their shares into the offer.

Primus Grows with CypressTree

Primus Asset Management, Inc. (PAM), a wholly owned subsidiary of Primus Guaranty, Ltd. (PRS), announced the closure of the acquisition of CypressTree Investment Management, LLP on July 9, 2009. We view this acquisition as positive for PRS as it will gain more scale with a leveraged platform.

With approximately $2.4 billion of assets under management, CypressTree will operate as a wholly-owned subsidiary of PAM. The nature of CypressTree’s business is managing leveraged loans and high yield bonds among various other investment products, including collateralized loan obligations (CLOs), collateralized swap obligations (CSOs), off-shore funds and separately managed accounts. Following the acquisition, PAM now has over $25 billion in assets under management in structured credit vehicles.

Focusing on the single niche area of credit swaps, Primus is able to maintain lean operations and leverage its employee base while growing its business. As the company grows its portfolio with such acquisitions, the ratio of the notional amount of its credit swap portfolio to the number of its employees will decline, which could offset some of the current margin pressures.

In view of the challenging market conditions, PRS has decided to manage its business in the amortization mode versus the growth mode earlier and has also taken several other initiatives to reduce the risk of its portfolio and conserve its capital. However, the company expects to perform better than its peers -- Ambac Financial (ABK) and MBIA (MBI) -- in the upcoming quarters due to current CDS spread tightening. We are thus maintaining our Hold recommendation.

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About Zacks Equity Research

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Zacks Investment Research

McDonald’s Lovin’ It in India – Analyst Blog

Zacks Market Commentaries — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 17:50:53 +0000

McDonald's Corp. (MCD) is a leading fast food chain operating more than 32,000 restaurants in over 118 countries. The company mainly operates and franchises quick-service restaurants (QSRs) under the McDonald's brand. Even in the midst of an economic crisis, the company has remained largely unruffled by the slowdown and is planning to accelerate its expansion in India.

McDonald's India, a wholly owned subsidiary of McDonald's Corporation is operated as a joint-venture managed by two Indians, Amit Jatia and Vikram Bakshi. They are the local partners responsible for running McDonald's in India. While Amit Jatia's company, Hardcastle Restaurants manages McDonald's operations in western and southern India, Vikram Bakshi's Connaught Plaza Restaurants manages restaurants' operations in northern and eastern India.

McDonald's plans to open 40 outlets in India during the current financial year of 2009-10, bringing the total to almost 200 restaurants. Currently, McDonald's operates over 160 restaurants in India. The Indian market has been recession-proof to some extent and provides ample growth opportunities. Moreover with the change in tastes and dining habits of people in India, restaurant traffic has been increasing in the range of 10% to 15% per month compared to the corresponding month last year.

By 2015, the company targets to open 180-190 company-owned restaurants with an estimated investment of up to $120.8 million (INR 570 crore). The proposed investment will be a blend of internal funds and debt. Amit Jatia, the managing director of Hardcastle Restaurants expects sales to increase by 35% in 2009.

McDonald's in the fast food segment competes with Yum Brands (YUM), Wendy's/Arby's Group (WEN), Jamba Inc. (JMBA) and Einstein Noah Restaurant Group (BAGL). McDonald's continues to report strong same-store sales, driven by the consumer trade down from casual dining and menu variety. Global comparable sales rose 4.3% in 1Q09 (U.S. +4.7%, Europe +3.2%, APMEA +5.5%). We maintain a Buy rating on the stock with a six-month target price of $59.00. Yesterday, MCD closed at $57.23, trading at P/E ratio of 14.95x based on TTM (trailing twelve months) EPS.

Read the full analyst report on "MCD"
Read the full analyst report on "YUM"
Read the full analyst report on "WEN"
Read the full analyst report on "JMBA"
Read the full analyst report on "BAGL"
Zacks Investment Research

Newmont Expands Australian Presence – Analyst Blog

Zacks Market Commentaries — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 17:41:54 +0000

Colorado-based Newmont Mining Corp. (NEM), the world's leading producer of gold, completed its acquisition of 100% of the Boddington project on June 25. Boddington - the largest gold project in Australia - is a large open pit mine, located 130 kilometres southeast of Perth. Previously, Newmont owned 66.66% of the project and completed 96% of the construction as of May.

In January, Newmont announced plans to purchase the remaining 33.33% interest in the project from AngloGold Ashanti Australia Ltd. - a wholly owned subsidiary of South Africa-based AngloGold Ashanti Ltd. (AU).

The total consideration for the 33.33% interest consists of $750 million paid in cash at closing; $240 million payable in cash and/or Newmont common stock, at Newmont's option, in December 2009; and a royalty capped at $100 million, equal to 50% of the average realized operating margin (if any) exceeding $600 per ounce, payable on a third of gold sales from Boddington.

Newmont intends to finance this acquisition by using a part of the net proceeds of about $1.7 billion from its recent IPO of 34.5 million shares of common stock and $517.5 million principal amount of 3.00% convertible senior notes due 2012.

The start-up of the project is expected soon. It has an anticipated 12-month ramp-up schedule. Newmont continues to expect total capital expenditures of $2.6 billion-$2.9 billion on a 100% basis for the project. It also sees the project adding between 375,000 equity gold oz and 450,000 equity gold oz in 2009.

Post-acquisition, Newmont expects its proven and probable reserves to increase by 6.6 million oz. Further, the company expects that the completion of the acquisition will lead to average annual gold sales of approximately 1 million oz at costs applicable to sales of approximately $300 per oz (net of by-product credits) for the first 5 years of operation. The project with an expected mine life of more than 20 years will be the Australia's largest gold producer upon completion.

We continue to recommend Newmont as Hold with a target price of $44.00.

Read the full analyst report on "NEM"
Read the full analyst report on "AU"
Zacks Investment Research

HearAtLast to Launch Exclusive Groundbreaking Neuro-Compensator(TM) Technology Hearing Aids From VitaSound

Stuart T. Smith — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 19:46:56 +0000

MISSISSAUGA, ON — (Marketwire) — 06/26/09 — HearAtLast Holdings, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: HRAL), a leading provider of suitable affordable solutions to clients with hearing needs in the billion dollar hearing loss market, announced today that in keeping with its tradition of bringing innovative new products to consumers, the Company announces the unveiling of breakthrough hearing products [...]

Chinese Airlines Trading Stopped – Analyst Blog

Zacks Market Commentaries — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 14:52:45 +0000

Trading in shares of China Eastern Airlines Corporation Limited (CEA) and Shanghai Airlines Co., Ltd. (or SAL) have been suspended beginning on June 8, reportedly concerning a merger between the two.

Details are slim. Speculation includes three possible alternatives: (1) SAL will become a wholly owned subsidiary of CEA that is operated independently; (2) SAL's operations will be completely merged with CEA with the SAL brand ended; or (3) CEA will take a controlling interest in SAL.

The first two would be accomplished via a share exchange in which the shares of SAL would be delisted, while under the third option SAL would continue as a listed stock. The transaction is expected to be completed by the end of 2009 to assure China Eastern's service to the Shanghai World Expo to be held in 2010.

Any hook-up between the two would be positive for the surviving entity due to the potential for merger synergies since both companies are based in Shanghai operating at two separate airports, with CEA having a 40% share of that market and SAL a 15% share.

That said, the fundamental outlook for airline carriers remains weak and a CEA/SAL tie-up will not change that fact. This was demonstrated in the first quarter when CEA reported a 16% drop in revenues due to falling passenger and air cargo traffic. Despite this, CEA posted net income of RMB40.1 million (down 81% from RMB210.8 million a year ago), largely due to a RMB513.5 million positive swing in fuel hedging to a RMB422.0 million gain from a RMB91.6 million loss in the prior-year quarter, as well as a RMB874.3 million gain from a refund and reduction in aviation levies. Excluding these items, CEA would have posted a RMB1,256.1 million loss.

Both CEA and Shanghai Airlines shares are subject to special treatment, meaning that daily share price movements are limited to 5% on the Shanghai Stock Exchange. Moreover, the shares could be delisted should CEA and SAL continue to sustain losses in 2009.

We are maintaining our Sell recommendation on China Eastern Airlines Corporation Limited.
Read the full analyst report on "CEA"
Zacks Investment Research

HearAtLast Completes Latest Round of Financing and Converts $2 Million of Debt Into Preferred Series ‘B’ Shares

Stuart T. Smith — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 14:04:48 +0000

MISSISSAUGA, ON — (Marketwire) — 06/12/09 — HearAtLast Holdings, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: HRAL) announced today that it has completed its final round of financing from a private Investor for USD$1.9M by issuing the Company’s Series ‘B’ Preferred Shares at a stated value of $10.00 per share. Furthermore, the Company also converted USD$2.0M of debt into equity by [...]

Shareholders of Safeguard Security Holdings, Inc. Elect New Board of Directors

Stuart T. Smith — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 13:57:25 +0000

Safeguard Security Holdings, Inc. (OTC:SSHS), a provider of corporate and industrial security systems and personnel, announces today that the majority shareholders have elected Michael Gelmon and Cory Gelmon as Directors of the Board. R. Michael Lagow continues to serve his term as Director and CEO for the Company. Mr. Michael Gelmon has replaced Mr. Tom Montgomery [...]

Defense Solutions Holding Inc. / DFSH Adds GAF(R) Materials to its Offerings in Iraq

Stuart T. Smith — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 18:48:15 +0000

Defense Solutions, Inc., an international project management and executive consulting firm, a wholly owned subsidiary of Defense Solutions Holding, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: DFSH), announces that the Company is the preferred supplier of GAF Materials Corporation products to Iraq. GAF Materials Corporation (”GAF”) is North America’s largest manufacturer of residential and commercial roofing. Founded in 1886, [...]

Defense Solutions Holding Inc. (DFSH.OB) Subsidiary Named Preferred Supplier of GAF Materials to Iraq

QualityStocks — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 15:37:36 +0000

Defense Solutions, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Defense Solutions Holding, Inc., announced that it is the preferred supplier of GAF Materials Corporation products to Iraq. Founded in 1886, GAF Materials Corporation has established itself as North America’s largest manufacturer of residential and commercial roofing. GAF Materials Corporation is recognized the largest roofing manufacturer in North [...]

Safeguard Board Approves Formation of New Subsidiary for Background Investigations

Stuart T. Smith — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 00:06:36 +0000

Safeguard Security Holdings, Inc. (OTC:SSHS), a provider of corporate and industrial security systems and personnel, announced today that it has formed a new subsidiary named Search Global International, Inc., dba SEARCHglobal. The newly formed company specializes in background investigation services to include criminal background screening and comprehensive criminal checks, showing felonies, misdemeanors, sex offenses and [...]

Defense Solutions Holding Inc. / DFSH Awarded First Commercial Contract in Iraq

Stuart T. Smith — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 13:52:41 +0000

Defense Solutions, Inc., an international project management and executive consulting firm, a wholly owned subsidiary of Defense Solutions Holding, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: DFSH), announced today that the Company has signed a $750,000 contract to supply pipeline parts to North Gas Company, a state-owned company of Iraq. This contract represents Defense Solutions’ first commercial-based contract [...]

IR BioSciences Holdings, Inc. (IRBS.OB) Subsidiary Announces IND Submission for Homspera® for the Treatment of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis

QualityStocks — Fri, 29 May 2009 12:54:44 +0000

ImmuneRegen BioSciences, a development-stage biotechnology company and a wholly owned subsidiary of IR BioSciences Holdings, Inc. (IRBS.OB), announced the company’s submission of an Investigational New Drug Application (IND) to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to begin human clinical testing of Homspera® for the treatment of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Currently afflicting 5 million people worldwide [...]

Defense Solutions Holding, Inc. / DFSH Adds Eye Safety Systems Products to Its Offerings in Iraq

Stuart T. Smith — Wed, 27 May 2009 01:56:35 +0000

Defense Solutions, Inc., an international project management and executive consulting firm, a wholly owned subsidiary of Defense Solutions Holding, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: DFSH), announces that the Company is an authorized distributor of Eye Safety Systems’ (”ESSTM”) advanced eye protection systems to the military and law enforcement markets in Iraq. Headquartered in Sun Valley, Idaho and [...]

Zealous Inc. (ZLUS.OB) Subsidiary Launches into $4.8 Billion Market with Introduction of its Organic Herbal Supplements

QualityStocks — Fri, 22 May 2009 16:49:55 +0000

Health and Wellness Partners Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of online distribution and content management company Zealous Inc. (ZLUS.OB), today announced it has officially rolled out its certified organic brand of herbal vitamins and supplements. “We are extremely pleased to have these new herbal supplements to offer our customers and feel they will make a [...]

FFW Corp. (FFWC.OB) Approves Quarterly Cash Dividend

QualityStocks — Fri, 22 May 2009 15:10:17 +0000

FFW Corporation, parent corporation of Crossroads Bank, announced today that it has approved a quarterly cash dividend of $0.22 per share of common stock. Payable June 30, 2009 to shareholders of record on June 15, 2009, the dividend represents a 4.76% increase over the cash dividend of $0.21 paid the prior year’s same quarter. According [...]

Liberator Medical Holdings, Inc. (LBMH.OB) Launches New Division to Address Diabetes Educational Needs

QualityStocks — Thu, 21 May 2009 14:10:02 +0000

Liberator Medical Holdings, Inc. announced this morning that it has formed a new division to meet the educational needs of millions in the United States. The new Diabetes Self-Management Program is being led by industry veteran Evelyn P. Schumacher, MS, RD, CDE, who has agreed to serve as Vice-President of the new division, Liberator Health [...]

Defense Solutions Holdings Inc. / DFSH Adds CamelBak(R) Products to Its Offerings in Iraq

Stuart T. Smith — Wed, 20 May 2009 13:43:25 +0000

Defense Solutions, Inc., an international project management and executive consulting firm, a wholly owned subsidiary of Defense Solutions Holding, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: DFSH), announces that the Company is an authorized distributor of CamelBak® Hands-Free HydrationTM Systems to the military and law enforcement markets in Iraq. CamelBak Products, LLC, a privately-held company known for its cutting [...]

Defense Solutions Holdings Inc. / DFSH Announces Distribution Agreement with iRobot

Stuart T. Smith — Thu, 14 May 2009 19:18:01 +0000

Defense Solutions, Inc., an international project management and executive consulting firm, a wholly owned subsidiary of Defense Solutions Holding, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: DFSH), announces that the Company has signed an agreement with iRobot Corporation (Nasdaq: IRBT), to distribute its iRobot PackBot®, a multi-mission tactical mobile robot, in Iraq and Afghanistan. iRobot is a designer [...]

Defense Solutions Holding, Inc. Expands Commercial Scope to Include Energy Sector

Stuart T. Smith — Wed, 13 May 2009 16:43:53 +0000

Defense Solutions, Inc., an international project management firm and executive consulting firm, a wholly owned subsidiary of Defense Solutions Holding, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: DFSH), announces that the Company has expanded its commercial scope opportunities to include the facilitation of contracts within the energy sector. Through the Company’s continued ongoing relationship with the Iraqi Government [...]