Sony: The Bulls May Finally Be Right - Barron's

Annotated article summary from this weekend's Barron's; receive all our Barron's summaries by signing up here:

Sony's Revival by Kopin Tan

Summary: Sony (SNE) has built an 'unwieldy empire' that dabbles in everything from movies to insurance, which many feel caused it to lose focus. Predictions of its resurgence have often proven premature, but a recent surge in share prices sees its stock already up 23% this year (it now trades above its 50- and 200-day moving averages) and has Barron's The Trader column calling for a closer look. Recent cost-cutting in its semiconductor unit and market-share gains from its LCD section has given investors renewed hope. Natexis Bleichroeder's analyst John Roque has tried for months to bring Sony's brightening chart to the attention of clients. Credit-Suisse analysis pegs Sony shares at 22% above today's prices, based on a sum-of-the-parts evaluation. Barron's: "Its push to improve efficiency will eventually pay off, and investors' decade-long disregard hints at the potential upside should they come around."

Related Links: Sony Backs Away From the Semis • Sony Soars on Goldman Upgrade • Nintendo's Wii Leaves Sony's PS3 In the Dust • Sony F3Q06 (Qtr End 12/31/06) Earnings Call Transcript