Justin M. Hall - Seeking Alpha © seekingalpha.com. Use of this feed is limited to personal, non-commercial use and is governed by Seeking Alpha's Terms of Use (http://seekingalpha.com/page/terms-of-use). Publishing this feed for public or commercial use and/or misrepresentation by a third party is prohibited. SeekingAlpha.com http://seekingalpha.com/author/justin-m-hall Bank Of America Well Positioned For A Big Move (Follow-Up) http://seekingalpha.com/article/320522-bank-of-america-well-positioned-for-a-big-move-follow-up?source=feed 320522 The Big Move is a series I provide exclusively at Seeking Alpha. Over the past several years, I have studied and played big moves. As evidenced by my public track record, I’ve got a knack for calling ‘em right most of the time – silver , biotech , oil , corn , and now the financials (banks). Results of all my recommendations, from 2009 to current, are reported and updated regularly here .

Bank of America (BAC)


click to enlarge

PRELIMINARY NOTE

Before getting started, please take a moment to review my first article on BAC published here at Seeking Alpha last week, Tuesday, January 10, 2012.

RECOMMENDATIONS AND TARGET RANGE

I am sticking with the recommendations I provided in the article above.

  • Stock Investors: I like both BAC’s common and preferred shares right now at their respective asking prices.

  • Options

]]> Thu, 19 Jan 2012 06:57:43 -0500 Justin M. Hall The Big Move is a series I provide exclusively at Seeking Alpha. Over the past several years, I have studied and played big moves. As evidenced by my public track record, I’ve got a knack for calling ‘em right most of the time – silver , biotech , oil , corn , and now the financials (banks). Results of all my recommendations, from 2009 to current, are reported and updated regularly here .

Bank of America (BAC)


click to enlarge

PRELIMINARY NOTE

Before getting started, please take a moment to review my first article on BAC published here at Seeking Alpha last week, Tuesday, January 10, 2012.

RECOMMENDATIONS AND TARGET RANGE

I am sticking with the recommendations I provided in the article above.

  • Stock Investors: I like both BAC’s common and preferred shares right now at their respective asking prices.

  • Options


Complete Story »]]> BAC Justin M. Hall Bank Of America Potentially Setting Up For Big Move http://seekingalpha.com/article/318531-bank-of-america-potentially-setting-up-for-big-move?source=feed 318531 The Big Move is a series I provide exclusively at Seeking Alpha. Over the past several years, I have studied and played big moves. As evidenced by my public track record, I’ve got a knack for calling ‘em right most of the time – silver , biotech , oil , corn , and now the financials (banks). Results of all my recommendations , from 2009 to current, are reported and updated regularly here.

Bank of America (BAC)

Before getting started, I’d like to direct you to Regarded Solutions’ article on BAC that was just published yesterday (1/9/12) here at Seeking Alpha. I enjoyed his take and share his sentiment on the banks, namely BAC. A slew of other investors and commentators have covered the merits for and against investing in BAC, ad nauseam. So, I am going to take a different approach, one that I hope other

]]> Tue, 10 Jan 2012 08:31:58 -0500 Justin M. Hall The Big Move is a series I provide exclusively at Seeking Alpha. Over the past several years, I have studied and played big moves. As evidenced by my public track record, I’ve got a knack for calling ‘em right most of the time – silver , biotech , oil , corn , and now the financials (banks). Results of all my recommendations , from 2009 to current, are reported and updated regularly here.

Bank of America (BAC)

Before getting started, I’d like to direct you to Regarded Solutions’ article on BAC that was just published yesterday (1/9/12) here at Seeking Alpha. I enjoyed his take and share his sentiment on the banks, namely BAC. A slew of other investors and commentators have covered the merits for and against investing in BAC, ad nauseam. So, I am going to take a different approach, one that I hope other


Complete Story »]]> BAC Justin M. Hall New Kids' Tablet Should Help LeapFrog Jump Higher http://seekingalpha.com/article/314336-new-kids-tablet-should-help-leapfrog-jump-higher?source=feed 314336 Since its late-June launch, the demand for LeapFrog Enterprise’s (LF) LeapPad Explorer (LeapPad), a new tablet for kids, has been impressive, to put it mildly. Two weeks post launch, the company announced the tablet had already sold out.

Back in August, John Barbour, LF’s CEO, explained:

“July pre-order sales of LeapPad provided a good read on consumer demand, and we expect it to be a top-seller during the holidays.”

CONSISTENT DEMAND

Six months after its debut, the LeapPad remains in short supply. After the shelves have been restocked, buyers clean them out. Retailers have not been able to keep LF’s tablet in stock for more than a day or so. In late November, for example, I got lucky and was able to pick up one of the LeapPad bundles - a gift for my niece – on the company’s website. Just for fun, I made it

]]> Fri, 16 Dec 2011 09:38:52 -0500 Justin M. Hall Since its late-June launch, the demand for LeapFrog Enterprise’s (LF) LeapPad Explorer (LeapPad), a new tablet for kids, has been impressive, to put it mildly. Two weeks post launch, the company announced the tablet had already sold out.

Back in August, John Barbour, LF’s CEO, explained:

“July pre-order sales of LeapPad provided a good read on consumer demand, and we expect it to be a top-seller during the holidays.”

CONSISTENT DEMAND

Six months after its debut, the LeapPad remains in short supply. After the shelves have been restocked, buyers clean them out. Retailers have not been able to keep LF’s tablet in stock for more than a day or so. In late November, for example, I got lucky and was able to pick up one of the LeapPad bundles - a gift for my niece – on the company’s website. Just for fun, I made it


Complete Story »]]> LF Justin M. Hall The Big Move: The End Of The 2011 Corn Bubble Nears http://seekingalpha.com/article/293276-the-big-move-the-end-of-the-2011-corn-bubble-nears?source=feed 293276 The Big Move is a series I provide exclusively at Seeking Alpha. Over the past several years, I have studied and played big moves. As evidenced by my public track record, I’ve got a knack for calling ‘em right most of the time – Silver, Biotech, Oil, and now Corn. Results of all my recommendations, from 2009 to current, are reported and updated regularly on my membership site, Rx Investors.com.

Two Plays to Short Corn

Before getting started, let’s go over the two recommended plays. While there are other ways to get exposure to a short corn position, I recommend taking positions in one or both of the exchange traded notes (ETNs) below.

#1 Teucrium Corn (CORN): I now own and recommend playing near-the-money puts on CORN. While the preferred expiration is February 2012, I anticipate shares or units of CORN will begin to come down sooner

]]> Tue, 13 Sep 2011 07:34:46 -0400 Justin M. Hall The Big Move is a series I provide exclusively at Seeking Alpha. Over the past several years, I have studied and played big moves. As evidenced by my public track record, I’ve got a knack for calling ‘em right most of the time – Silver, Biotech, Oil, and now Corn. Results of all my recommendations, from 2009 to current, are reported and updated regularly on my membership site, Rx Investors.com.

Two Plays to Short Corn

Before getting started, let’s go over the two recommended plays. While there are other ways to get exposure to a short corn position, I recommend taking positions in one or both of the exchange traded notes (ETNs) below.

#1 Teucrium Corn (CORN): I now own and recommend playing near-the-money puts on CORN. While the preferred expiration is February 2012, I anticipate shares or units of CORN will begin to come down sooner


Complete Story »]]> CORN AGA Justin M. Hall The Big Move (Part 3): The 2011 Corn Bubble Will Burst http://seekingalpha.com/article/291746-the-big-move-part-3-the-2011-corn-bubble-will-burst?source=feed 291746 <<Click here for Part 2<<

Over the past six days, I have tried to present the case for why I believe corn prices are headed lower.

On September 1, 2011, I explained that corn prices will likely correct in the near future. While prices are high, South American farmers – namely those in Argentina and Brazil - are planting corn like crazy. I contend that South American corn will help offset potential supply constraints should such constraints actually materialize.

In a September 5, 2011article, I provided my readers with a game plan for playing the falling price of corn. Corn demand should come down some next year (2012) as subsidies and tariffs on foreign ethanol expire at year-end (2011). The spike in farmland prices coupled with a significant increase in farm income suggests that a corn bubble has formed.

Long and Short ETF Plays

To play the falling price

]]> Tue, 06 Sep 2011 09:11:43 -0400 Justin M. Hall <<Click here for Part 2<<

Over the past six days, I have tried to present the case for why I believe corn prices are headed lower.

On September 1, 2011, I explained that corn prices will likely correct in the near future. While prices are high, South American farmers – namely those in Argentina and Brazil - are planting corn like crazy. I contend that South American corn will help offset potential supply constraints should such constraints actually materialize.

In a September 5, 2011article, I provided my readers with a game plan for playing the falling price of corn. Corn demand should come down some next year (2012) as subsidies and tariffs on foreign ethanol expire at year-end (2011). The spike in farmland prices coupled with a significant increase in farm income suggests that a corn bubble has formed.

Long and Short ETF Plays

To play the falling price


Complete Story »]]> CORN AGA Justin M. Hall The Big Move (Part 2): Playing The Corn Bubble With These 2 ETFs http://seekingalpha.com/article/291630-the-big-move-part-2-playing-the-corn-bubble-with-these-2-etfs?source=feed 291630 <<Click here for Part 1<<

The Big Move is a new series that I plan to periodically post exclusively at Seeking Alpha. Over the past several years, I have closely studied and played big moves. As evidenced by my public track record , I have a knack for calling ‘em right most of the time – Silver, Biotech, Oil, and now Corn.

ETF Long and Short Ideas: (1) Teucrium Corn (CORN) or (2) PowerShares Agriculture Double Short (AGA)

click to enlarge

I know - corn isn’t sexy. For this reason, many investors don’t follow it and most won't even look at it. That's crazy. When a good opportunity presents itself, who cares whether it's sexy or not?

That said, investors really need to sit up and pay attention here. A potentially very good opportunity exists right now with corn.

In this article, I will briefly try to state my case

]]> Mon, 05 Sep 2011 09:22:31 -0400 Justin M. Hall <<Click here for Part 1<<

The Big Move is a new series that I plan to periodically post exclusively at Seeking Alpha. Over the past several years, I have closely studied and played big moves. As evidenced by my public track record , I have a knack for calling ‘em right most of the time – Silver, Biotech, Oil, and now Corn.

ETF Long and Short Ideas: (1) Teucrium Corn (CORN) or (2) PowerShares Agriculture Double Short (AGA)

click to enlarge

I know - corn isn’t sexy. For this reason, many investors don’t follow it and most won't even look at it. That's crazy. When a good opportunity presents itself, who cares whether it's sexy or not?

That said, investors really need to sit up and pay attention here. A potentially very good opportunity exists right now with corn.

In this article, I will briefly try to state my case


Complete Story »]]> CORN AGA BFRE.OB BG Justin M. Hall The Big Move (Part 1): The Corn Correction Of 2011 http://seekingalpha.com/article/291154-the-big-move-part-1-the-corn-correction-of-2011?source=feed 291154

(Along with this article, I encourage readers to review my preliminary notes posted at my Seeking Alpha blog on August 30, 2011.)

Over the past two years, many of you have gotten to know me from my work covering various opportunities in the biotech space, namely optionable cancer drug makers.
In late May and early June 2011, I alerted investors to the biotech correction that actually occurred two months later in early August 2011. Some patient investors on my site did quite well playing the recommended iShares NASDAQ Biotech ETF (IBB) June $105 and September $100 put options which I commented on under my June 6, 2011 article.
This year, I have also been working to uncover other potentially good opportunities in optionable ETFs. And I believe I’ve found one.
Note: I use ETFs to get exposure to both long and short positions in
]]> Thu, 01 Sep 2011 11:31:35 -0400 Justin M. Hall

(Along with this article, I encourage readers to review my preliminary notes posted at my Seeking Alpha blog on August 30, 2011.)

Over the past two years, many of you have gotten to know me from my work covering various opportunities in the biotech space, namely optionable cancer drug makers.
In late May and early June 2011, I alerted investors to the biotech correction that actually occurred two months later in early August 2011. Some patient investors on my site did quite well playing the recommended iShares NASDAQ Biotech ETF (IBB) June $105 and September $100 put options which I commented on under my June 6, 2011 article.
This year, I have also been working to uncover other potentially good opportunities in optionable ETFs. And I believe I’ve found one.
Note: I use ETFs to get exposure to both long and short positions in

Complete Story »]]> IBB CORN Justin M. Hall Strategies for Pending Biotech Correction http://seekingalpha.com/article/273585-strategies-for-pending-biotech-correction?source=feed 273585 After having a very nice run, investors should anticipate defensive stocks to correct – efficiently - in the coming days and weeks. As indicated in an article late last month, I believe most biotech stocks have been setting up for a significant correction this month. In this article, I have briefly outlined a few simple strategies from which I believe like-minded biotech investors will likely benefit.

(Click charts to expand)
HEALTHCARE’S IMPRESSIVE RUN
In the past year, many healthcare stocks have nearly run straight up without a meaningful correction. Reference the Healthcare Select Sector SPDR (XLV) weekly chart above.

As of the close on Friday, June 3, 2011:

  • 73% (267/366) optionable healthcare stocks are trading above their 200-day moving averages (MA).
  • 66% (242/366) optionable healthcare stocks are sitting on a gain year-to-date (YTD).

Bottom Line: Following an outstanding performance, healthcare stocks are now due for a correction.

BIOTECH SEASONALITY

]]> Mon, 06 Jun 2011 16:46:14 -0400 Justin M. Hall After having a very nice run, investors should anticipate defensive stocks to correct – efficiently - in the coming days and weeks. As indicated in an article late last month, I believe most biotech stocks have been setting up for a significant correction this month. In this article, I have briefly outlined a few simple strategies from which I believe like-minded biotech investors will likely benefit.

(Click charts to expand)
HEALTHCARE’S IMPRESSIVE RUN
In the past year, many healthcare stocks have nearly run straight up without a meaningful correction. Reference the Healthcare Select Sector SPDR (XLV) weekly chart above.

As of the close on Friday, June 3, 2011:

  • 73% (267/366) optionable healthcare stocks are trading above their 200-day moving averages (MA).
  • 66% (242/366) optionable healthcare stocks are sitting on a gain year-to-date (YTD).

Bottom Line: Following an outstanding performance, healthcare stocks are now due for a correction.

BIOTECH SEASONALITY


Complete Story »]]> XLV BIS IBB BBH FBT XBI Justin M. Hall Biotech Stock ETF Due for a Correction http://seekingalpha.com/article/271967-biotech-stock-etf-due-for-a-correction?source=feed 271967 At the conclusion of QE2, many investors are expecting a broad market sell-off. The Economic Times just reported the results from a recent analyst survey. The survey found that a majority of analysts believe that the end of QE2, which is expected to occur next month, will likely hurt stocks and bonds.


(Click to enlarge)

Over the coming days, I anticipate others here at Seeking Alpha will continue to debate how the end of QE2 will affect the broader market.


(Click to enlarge)

What cannot be denied is that many stocks have seen nice runs this year. It also cannot be denied that many of the biotech names have had a super 2011. Look around and you’ll find a slew of individual biotech stocks that are way, way up.

When evaluating opportunities, long and short, in the biotech industry, I often reference the iShares Nasdaq biotechnology ETF (IBB) as

]]> Thu, 26 May 2011 08:56:31 -0400 Justin M. Hall At the conclusion of QE2, many investors are expecting a broad market sell-off. The Economic Times just reported the results from a recent analyst survey. The survey found that a majority of analysts believe that the end of QE2, which is expected to occur next month, will likely hurt stocks and bonds.


(Click to enlarge)

Over the coming days, I anticipate others here at Seeking Alpha will continue to debate how the end of QE2 will affect the broader market.


(Click to enlarge)

What cannot be denied is that many stocks have seen nice runs this year. It also cannot be denied that many of the biotech names have had a super 2011. Look around and you’ll find a slew of individual biotech stocks that are way, way up.

When evaluating opportunities, long and short, in the biotech industry, I often reference the iShares Nasdaq biotechnology ETF (IBB) as


Complete Story »]]> IBB AMGN TEVA CELG VRTX GILD VRUS ALXN BIIB ILMN Justin M. Hall Teva Positioned to Acquire Spectrum Pharmaceuticals? http://seekingalpha.com/article/270772-teva-positioned-to-acquire-spectrum-pharmaceuticals?source=feed 270772 While trading with a market value of $398 million, shares of Spectrum Pharmaceuticals (SPPI) have excellent upside potential going forward. In my article on May 16, I argued that shares of SPPI would likely rebound near-term.

Fast forward two days. In May 18 trading, SPPI closed up 1.87% to $7.64. Needless to say, I don’t think SPPI is done just yet. Right now, shares of SPPI are trading at 2.19 times its Q1 sales ($40 M+) plus cash ($141 M). See SPPI’s Q1 2011 results here. While shares are cheap and technically positioned to rebound, SPPI is likely to advance sharply in the coming days.

[Click all to enlarge]

After securing FDA approval for Fusilev late last month, I believe SPPI will be acquired, and possibly sooner than later.

Over the past two quarters, SPPI has significantly built up its cash position. Since Q3 2010, SPPI’s cash

]]> Thu, 19 May 2011 08:18:16 -0400 Justin M. Hall While trading with a market value of $398 million, shares of Spectrum Pharmaceuticals (SPPI) have excellent upside potential going forward. In my article on May 16, I argued that shares of SPPI would likely rebound near-term.

Fast forward two days. In May 18 trading, SPPI closed up 1.87% to $7.64. Needless to say, I don’t think SPPI is done just yet. Right now, shares of SPPI are trading at 2.19 times its Q1 sales ($40 M+) plus cash ($141 M). See SPPI’s Q1 2011 results here. While shares are cheap and technically positioned to rebound, SPPI is likely to advance sharply in the coming days.

[Click all to enlarge]

After securing FDA approval for Fusilev late last month, I believe SPPI will be acquired, and possibly sooner than later.

Over the past two quarters, SPPI has significantly built up its cash position. Since Q3 2010, SPPI’s cash


Complete Story »]]> SPPI TEVA Justin M. Hall Look for Spectrum Pharmaceuticals to Rebound Short-Term http://seekingalpha.com/article/270063-look-for-spectrum-pharmaceuticals-to-rebound-short-term?source=feed 270063 As predicted on February 16, 2011, the FDA did end up approving Spectrum Pharmaceuticals' (SPPI) colorectal cancer treatment, Fusilev, late on Friday, April 29, 2011. Post approval, shares of SPPI have dropped nearly 30%.

On Thursday May 12, 2011, SPPI dipped slightly below its 100-day MA (click to enlarge images) and likely marked a near-term bottom for shares.

#1 FUSILEV APPROVED

Late on Friday April 29, 2011, SPPI’s supplemental new drug application (sNDA) for Fusilev was finally approved by the FDA.

On Friday, shares hit a high of $10.77 around 8:00 AM ET, but sold off on report of a possible Fusilev bubble. Those who regularly follow my StockTalks here at Seeking Alpha were warned about the possible sell-off on Thursday, April 28. Those who got out were able to protect their profits.

During the pre-market session on Monday, May 2, 2011, SPPI reached a high

]]> Mon, 16 May 2011 07:37:38 -0400 Justin M. Hall As predicted on February 16, 2011, the FDA did end up approving Spectrum Pharmaceuticals' (SPPI) colorectal cancer treatment, Fusilev, late on Friday, April 29, 2011. Post approval, shares of SPPI have dropped nearly 30%.

On Thursday May 12, 2011, SPPI dipped slightly below its 100-day MA (click to enlarge images) and likely marked a near-term bottom for shares.

#1 FUSILEV APPROVED

Late on Friday April 29, 2011, SPPI’s supplemental new drug application (sNDA) for Fusilev was finally approved by the FDA.

On Friday, shares hit a high of $10.77 around 8:00 AM ET, but sold off on report of a possible Fusilev bubble. Those who regularly follow my StockTalks here at Seeking Alpha were warned about the possible sell-off on Thursday, April 28. Those who got out were able to protect their profits.

During the pre-market session on Monday, May 2, 2011, SPPI reached a high


Complete Story »]]> SPPI Justin M. Hall Teva Positioned to Acquire Spectrum Pharmaceuticals After Fusilev Approval http://seekingalpha.com/article/266164-teva-positioned-to-acquire-spectrum-pharmaceuticals-after-fusilev-approval?source=feed 266164 PART I. THE APPROVAL

This Friday, April 29, 2011 Spectrum Pharmaceuticals (SPPI) will announce whether the FDA will approve its supplemental new drug application (sNDA) for Fusilev (levo-leucovorin) which is indicated for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC).

As argued back on February 16, 2011, I think the FDA is likely to approve the treatment.

Last Thursday, April 21, SPPI announced that the FDA approved the company’s sNDA for a ready-to-use version of Fusilev (RTU) under the approved osteosarcoma indication.

With a serious short supply of generic leucovorin, it looks like US regulators decided to go ahead and approve the RTU version several months in advance in order to offer additional supplies to a very needy market. Presuming supplies of Fusilev RTU exist, patients will now have access to treatment. From my view, the early RTU approval is a big deal and suggests that Friday (April 29) will likely be

]]> Thu, 28 Apr 2011 09:25:29 -0400 Justin M. Hall PART I. THE APPROVAL

This Friday, April 29, 2011 Spectrum Pharmaceuticals (SPPI) will announce whether the FDA will approve its supplemental new drug application (sNDA) for Fusilev (levo-leucovorin) which is indicated for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC).

As argued back on February 16, 2011, I think the FDA is likely to approve the treatment.

Last Thursday, April 21, SPPI announced that the FDA approved the company’s sNDA for a ready-to-use version of Fusilev (RTU) under the approved osteosarcoma indication.

With a serious short supply of generic leucovorin, it looks like US regulators decided to go ahead and approve the RTU version several months in advance in order to offer additional supplies to a very needy market. Presuming supplies of Fusilev RTU exist, patients will now have access to treatment. From my view, the early RTU approval is a big deal and suggests that Friday (April 29) will likely be


Complete Story »]]> SPPI TEVA Justin M. Hall Spectrum Pharmaceuticals Set to Beat Analyst Estimates Today http://seekingalpha.com/article/257439-spectrum-pharmaceuticals-set-to-beat-analyst-estimates-today?source=feed 257439 Last month, Spectrum Pharmaceuticals (SPPI) released preliminary results for Q4 2010. During the quarter, SPPI reported strong Fusilev sales, totaling $20 million (+/-) due to an ongoing shortage of a generic competitive drug.

For more details on Fusilev, take a moment to review my February 16 article.

Here are the unaudited results released by the company on February 15, 2011.

click to enlarge images

So, I was curious to see whether Wall Street analysts had adjusted their estimates following the company's mid-February announcement.

Apparently, most analysts, for whatever reason, haven't raised estimates. Surprised? No. Analysts are cautious. As such, their projections tend to be conservative and most are slow to recognize growth until after it is realized. They're not investors. So, it shouldn't be a surprise that most elected to maintain their existing estimates like SPPI had never said a thing.

Ok, let's take a look at how

]]> Thu, 10 Mar 2011 03:47:51 -0500 Justin M. Hall Last month, Spectrum Pharmaceuticals (SPPI) released preliminary results for Q4 2010. During the quarter, SPPI reported strong Fusilev sales, totaling $20 million (+/-) due to an ongoing shortage of a generic competitive drug.

For more details on Fusilev, take a moment to review my February 16 article.

Here are the unaudited results released by the company on February 15, 2011.

click to enlarge images

So, I was curious to see whether Wall Street analysts had adjusted their estimates following the company's mid-February announcement.

Apparently, most analysts, for whatever reason, haven't raised estimates. Surprised? No. Analysts are cautious. As such, their projections tend to be conservative and most are slow to recognize growth until after it is realized. They're not investors. So, it shouldn't be a surprise that most elected to maintain their existing estimates like SPPI had never said a thing.

Ok, let's take a look at how


Complete Story »]]> SPPI Justin M. Hall FDA Likely to Approve Spectrum Pharma's Cancer Drug After Second Look http://seekingalpha.com/article/253129-fda-likely-to-approve-spectrum-pharma-s-cancer-drug-after-second-look?source=feed 253129 FUSILEV 2.0
On April 29, 2011, the FDA, upon reevaluation, will decide whether it will approve Spectrum Pharmaceuticals' (SPPI) supplemental new drug application (sNDA) for Fusilev, which is indicated for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC).

Cutting to the chase: After reviewing SPPI's sNDA resubmission, which is likely to consist of more than 10 years of data from colorectal cancer patients in countries all throughout Europe and some countries outside the EU, where the drug has been approved and administered to thousands of patients, I firmly believe US regulators will finally approve Fusilev for mCRC in the US.

Click to enlarge images
I know SPPI shareholders, as well as those who have followed my extensive coverage of the company over the past 20 months, will recall the first Fusilev setback back on October 9, 2009 . Prior to the 2009 decision, I was confident Fusilev would be approved
]]> Wed, 16 Feb 2011 05:38:04 -0500 Justin M. Hall FUSILEV 2.0
On April 29, 2011, the FDA, upon reevaluation, will decide whether it will approve Spectrum Pharmaceuticals' (SPPI) supplemental new drug application (sNDA) for Fusilev, which is indicated for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC).

Cutting to the chase: After reviewing SPPI's sNDA resubmission, which is likely to consist of more than 10 years of data from colorectal cancer patients in countries all throughout Europe and some countries outside the EU, where the drug has been approved and administered to thousands of patients, I firmly believe US regulators will finally approve Fusilev for mCRC in the US.

Click to enlarge images
I know SPPI shareholders, as well as those who have followed my extensive coverage of the company over the past 20 months, will recall the first Fusilev setback back on October 9, 2009 . Prior to the 2009 decision, I was confident Fusilev would be approved

Complete Story »]]> SPPI TEVA Justin M. Hall Spectrum Pharma: Zevalin Has Blockbuster Potential 2.0 http://seekingalpha.com/article/241947-spectrum-pharma-zevalin-has-blockbuster-potential-2-0?source=feed 241947 A little over one year ago, and just before the 2009 annual ASH meeting, I first argued that Spectrum Pharmaceuticals' (SPPI) radio-immunotherapeutic (RIT), Zevalin has blockbuster potential.

Zevalin is indicated for the treatment of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma ((NHL_) in both first-line consolidation and salvage settings

After the recent developments at this year's ASH meeting, my belief about Zevalin's long-term market potential has been further strengthened.

Click to enlarge all images.

During their Q3 2010 conference call, SPPI's management indicated that the biggest hurdle facing Zevalin in the market place is ignorance.

Ignorance isn't resistance or reluctance. This drug works well for most - a claim backed by (1) survivors like Betsy de Parry and (2) more, favorable clinical data than Rituxan. This means, an effective marketing strategy will ensure Zevalin's success in the market place. As evidenced by quarter over quarter sales growth, I argue that SPPI is executing

]]> Wed, 15 Dec 2010 03:17:42 -0500 Justin M. Hall A little over one year ago, and just before the 2009 annual ASH meeting, I first argued that Spectrum Pharmaceuticals' (SPPI) radio-immunotherapeutic (RIT), Zevalin has blockbuster potential.

Zevalin is indicated for the treatment of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma ((NHL_) in both first-line consolidation and salvage settings

After the recent developments at this year's ASH meeting, my belief about Zevalin's long-term market potential has been further strengthened.

Click to enlarge all images.

During their Q3 2010 conference call, SPPI's management indicated that the biggest hurdle facing Zevalin in the market place is ignorance.

Ignorance isn't resistance or reluctance. This drug works well for most - a claim backed by (1) survivors like Betsy de Parry and (2) more, favorable clinical data than Rituxan. This means, an effective marketing strategy will ensure Zevalin's success in the market place. As evidenced by quarter over quarter sales growth, I argue that SPPI is executing


Complete Story »]]> SPPI RHHBY.OB BIIB Justin M. Hall Optimistic About Endologix Following Nellix Acquisition http://seekingalpha.com/article/236839-optimistic-about-endologix-following-nellix-acquisition?source=feed 236839 Inside the healthcare sector sits Endologix (ELGX), an overlooked, unknown growth story that I believe deserves the attention of investors.

It should be noted that I first recommended ELGX as a buy back on July 5, 2010, when the stock was trading around $4.50. Since that time, shares of the company are up nearly 35%.

Needless to say, I still see more upside with this stock.

click to enlarge images

ELGX's primary focus is to become the market leader in minimally invasive treatments for aortic disorders. The company makes devices - stents - that are designed to treat and prevent abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA).

As seen in the image below, AAAs weaken the wall of the aorta and enlarge it (ballooning effect).

To learn more about AAA, check out this April 2010 publication.

Q3 2010

On October 27, ELGX posted up an impressive quarterly report.

Here are

]]> Mon, 15 Nov 2010 10:17:23 -0500 Justin M. Hall Inside the healthcare sector sits Endologix (ELGX), an overlooked, unknown growth story that I believe deserves the attention of investors.

It should be noted that I first recommended ELGX as a buy back on July 5, 2010, when the stock was trading around $4.50. Since that time, shares of the company are up nearly 35%.

Needless to say, I still see more upside with this stock.

click to enlarge images

ELGX's primary focus is to become the market leader in minimally invasive treatments for aortic disorders. The company makes devices - stents - that are designed to treat and prevent abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA).

As seen in the image below, AAAs weaken the wall of the aorta and enlarge it (ballooning effect).

To learn more about AAA, check out this April 2010 publication.

Q3 2010

On October 27, ELGX posted up an impressive quarterly report.

Here are


Complete Story »]]> ELGX Justin M. Hall EpiCept's Promising Leukemia Drug: A Buying Opportunity? http://seekingalpha.com/article/230311-epicept-s-promising-leukemia-drug-a-buying-opportunity?source=feed 230311 Over the past six weeks or so, my interest in EpiCept (EPCT) has heightened since the company was dealt a unexpected regulatory setback with their new drug application (NDA) for Ceplene, a novel cancer drug indicated to treat patients with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) following first remission or CR1.

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Regulators Punt

After carefully reviewing the facts surrounding Ceplene, it is evident that the FDA's first round team could not determine how Ceplene -- when combined with IL-2 -- prevents relapse in certain AML patients that have already achieved remission. Rather than reviewing Ceplene and giving EPCT a fair shake, US regulators dismissed the NDA and advised the company to conduct yet another expensive Phase 3 trial to evaluate the drug.

Why in the world the agency could not find some way to review the Ceplene application? What might AML patients, here in the US, say

]]> Fri, 15 Oct 2010 14:10:33 -0400 Justin M. Hall Over the past six weeks or so, my interest in EpiCept (EPCT) has heightened since the company was dealt a unexpected regulatory setback with their new drug application (NDA) for Ceplene, a novel cancer drug indicated to treat patients with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) following first remission or CR1.

Click images below to enlarge


Regulators Punt

After carefully reviewing the facts surrounding Ceplene, it is evident that the FDA's first round team could not determine how Ceplene -- when combined with IL-2 -- prevents relapse in certain AML patients that have already achieved remission. Rather than reviewing Ceplene and giving EPCT a fair shake, US regulators dismissed the NDA and advised the company to conduct yet another expensive Phase 3 trial to evaluate the drug.

Why in the world the agency could not find some way to review the Ceplene application? What might AML patients, here in the US, say


Complete Story »]]> EPCT.PK ESALY.PK Justin M. Hall Spectrum Pharmaceuticals: Packed With Opportunities http://seekingalpha.com/article/225501-spectrum-pharmaceuticals-packed-with-opportunities?source=feed 225501 In past coverage of Spectrum Pharmaceuticals (SPPI), I have primarily focused on the company's radio-immunotherapeutic, Zevalin, which is indicated to treat non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). After the drug was approved last September for use in the first-line consolidation setting, sales have continued to grow each quarter, albeit much slower than I anticipated and many shareholders would prefer.

I stand by the argument I made last fall: Zevalin will likely become apart of the standard of care treatment for NHL. The rational, here, is simple. All or nearly all cancer drugs that obtain first-line approval eventually become part of the standard of care treatment that a majority of treating physicians will administer to their patients.

Evidence: Refer to the following 23 cancer drugs that have been approved by the FDA for first-line use.

Zevalin is now approved for use in first-line consolidation therapy, which follows shortly after initial]]> Thu, 16 Sep 2010 06:14:09 -0400 Justin M. Hall In past coverage of Spectrum Pharmaceuticals (SPPI), I have primarily focused on the company's radio-immunotherapeutic, Zevalin, which is indicated to treat non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). After the drug was approved last September for use in the first-line consolidation setting, sales have continued to grow each quarter, albeit much slower than I anticipated and many shareholders would prefer.

I stand by the argument I made last fall: Zevalin will likely become apart of the standard of care treatment for NHL. The rational, here, is simple. All or nearly all cancer drugs that obtain first-line approval eventually become part of the standard of care treatment that a majority of treating physicians will administer to their patients.

Evidence: Refer to the following 23 cancer drugs that have been approved by the FDA for first-line use.

Zevalin is now approved for use in first-line consolidation therapy, which follows shortly after initial
Complete Story »]]> SPPI BIIB RHHBY.OB Justin M. Hall Three Promising Small-Cap Cancer Plays http://seekingalpha.com/article/205427-three-promising-small-cap-cancer-plays?source=feed 205427 As a general rule, it is often smart to play defense when investor sentiment shifts and becomes negative. This means defensive sectors tend to perform better than cyclical sectors when the market heads south. Defensive sectors primarily include healthcare and consumer goods.

In this article, I have identified three healthcare companies that are working to improve the way that doctors diagnose and treat cancer. All three companies are trading under $3 and have market values below $100 million.

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#1 EPICEPT (EPCT)
Unlike most cancer drug makers with market values of less than $100 million, EPCT has recently obtained regulatory approval, albeit in the EU, for its lead drug Ceplene, which is indicated for Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). Ceplene is administered in conjunction with interleukin-2 (IL-2), a form of immunotherapy, to AML patients following their first remission. For more information, interested investors should also review

]]> Mon, 17 May 2010 08:28:07 -0400 Justin M. Hall As a general rule, it is often smart to play defense when investor sentiment shifts and becomes negative. This means defensive sectors tend to perform better than cyclical sectors when the market heads south. Defensive sectors primarily include healthcare and consumer goods.

In this article, I have identified three healthcare companies that are working to improve the way that doctors diagnose and treat cancer. All three companies are trading under $3 and have market values below $100 million.

Click all images to enlarge


#1 EPICEPT (EPCT)
Unlike most cancer drug makers with market values of less than $100 million, EPCT has recently obtained regulatory approval, albeit in the EU, for its lead drug Ceplene, which is indicated for Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). Ceplene is administered in conjunction with interleukin-2 (IL-2), a form of immunotherapy, to AML patients following their first remission. For more information, interested investors should also review


Complete Story »]]> RGDX OXGN EPCT.PK MYRX Justin M. Hall Anika: A Hidden Biotech Buy http://seekingalpha.com/article/200408-anika-a-hidden-biotech-buy?source=feed 200408 With a market value sub-$100 million, Anika Therapeutics (ANIK) is a hidden growth story in the biotech arena. Since ANIK represents a potentially good opportunity, I featured the company this week at Rx Investors.

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FINANCIALLY SOUND

ANIK is trading at low valuations compared to other biotech companies. The company is currently trading at 22.5 X earnings, 2.4 X sales, and 3.97 X its cash value. Unfortunately, ANIK is NOT optionable.

ANIK has been profitable for each of the past seven years. I don’t care who you are, that’s an impressive track record for a biotech company.

With only 13.4 million shares, shares are thinly traded. So exercise some discretion at entry and exit points. Additionally, ANIK’s short interest is relatively low to other biotech stocks at 0.58%.

PRODUCT PORTFOLIO

The company's products are primarily derived from hyaluronic acid (HA). HA is a naturally occurring biocompatible polymer

]]> Fri, 23 Apr 2010 06:36:00 -0400 Justin M. Hall With a market value sub-$100 million, Anika Therapeutics (ANIK) is a hidden growth story in the biotech arena. Since ANIK represents a potentially good opportunity, I featured the company this week at Rx Investors.

click to enlarge

FINANCIALLY SOUND

ANIK is trading at low valuations compared to other biotech companies. The company is currently trading at 22.5 X earnings, 2.4 X sales, and 3.97 X its cash value. Unfortunately, ANIK is NOT optionable.

ANIK has been profitable for each of the past seven years. I don’t care who you are, that’s an impressive track record for a biotech company.

With only 13.4 million shares, shares are thinly traded. So exercise some discretion at entry and exit points. Additionally, ANIK’s short interest is relatively low to other biotech stocks at 0.58%.

PRODUCT PORTFOLIO

The company's products are primarily derived from hyaluronic acid (HA). HA is a naturally occurring biocompatible polymer


Complete Story »]]> ANIK Justin M. Hall