Paul Price's Comments RSS Syndication from SeekingAlpha.com http://seekingalpha.comuser/166130/comments http://seekingalpha.com/instablog/166130-paul-price/42218-an-intelligent-way-to-play-intel?source=feed#comment-835255 835255
Never sell covered calls at strike prices that are below true fair value. Wait for a rebound and then write only strike prices that reflect your assessment of what the shares are worth.]]> Wed, 06 Jan 2010 06:34:26 -0500
Never sell covered calls at strike prices that are below true fair value. Wait for a rebound and then write only strike prices that reflect your assessment of what the shares are worth.]]> http://seekingalpha.com/instablog/166130-paul-price/42218-an-intelligent-way-to-play-intel?source=feed#comment-835251 835251
If you had merely let them 'put' the shares to you and held on to them, you'd now be ahead on your investment.

Buying the puts back for the loss was the problem- not the strategy itself.

Now, with earnings expected to more than double over the next year, this looks like a good time to be doing this.]]> Wed, 06 Jan 2010 06:31:37 -0500
If you had merely let them 'put' the shares to you and held on to them, you'd now be ahead on your investment.

Buying the puts back for the loss was the problem- not the strategy itself.

Now, with earnings expected to more than double over the next year, this looks like a good time to be doing this.]]> http://seekingalpha.com/instablog/166130-paul-price/41768-the-proof-of-the-pudding-for-buy-write-strategies?source=feed#comment-833188 833188 Mon, 04 Jan 2010 21:56:16 -0500 http://seekingalpha.com/instablog/166130-paul-price/41768-the-proof-of-the-pudding-for-buy-write-strategies?source=feed#comment-833187 833187
2008 was my toughest year in more than 32 years of doing this. 2003 and 2009 turned out to be my best years.]]> Mon, 04 Jan 2010 21:55:02 -0500
2008 was my toughest year in more than 32 years of doing this. 2003 and 2009 turned out to be my best years.]]> http://seekingalpha.com/instablog/166130-paul-price/41743-cgm-focus-fund-good-or-bad-for-investors?source=feed#comment-828574 828574
The edit feature is not working to fix this typo.]]> Thu, 31 Dec 2009 18:31:31 -0500
The edit feature is not working to fix this typo.]]> http://seekingalpha.com/article/180403/comments?source=feed#comment-827732 827732 Thu, 31 Dec 2009 08:42:29 -0500 http://seekingalpha.com/article/180133/comments?source=feed#comment-826612 826612
They have a very diversified energy production base.]]> Wed, 30 Dec 2009 12:56:06 -0500
They have a very diversified energy production base.]]> http://seekingalpha.com/article/180133/comments?source=feed#comment-824995 824995 beatingbuffett.com .

I have many trades due to close/expire on January 15, 2010.
The full record of every closed-out trade will be fully documented and posted shortly after that date. ]]> Tue, 29 Dec 2009 11:21:03 -0500 beatingbuffett.com .

I have many trades due to close/expire on January 15, 2010.
The full record of every closed-out trade will be fully documented and posted shortly after that date. ]]> http://seekingalpha.com/article/179715/comments?source=feed#comment-820506 820506 seekingalpha.com/artic...]]> Thu, 24 Dec 2009 12:01:55 -0500 seekingalpha.com/artic...]]> http://seekingalpha.com/article/179715/comments?source=feed#comment-820499 820499
Waiting for the 'strong trend' just cost momentum investors $4 /share.]]> Thu, 24 Dec 2009 12:00:41 -0500
Waiting for the 'strong trend' just cost momentum investors $4 /share.]]> http://seekingalpha.com/article/171589/comments?source=feed#comment-815434 815434
Do you still think the next stop for FUN is Chapter 11?

All you did was miss a great short-term gain.]]> Mon, 21 Dec 2009 07:32:17 -0500
Do you still think the next stop for FUN is Chapter 11?

All you did was miss a great short-term gain.]]> http://seekingalpha.com/article/178281/comments?source=feed#comment-811899 811899
It's too cheap to stay anywhere near $14.
All the factors you mentioned were present in October when the shares were above $21.]]> Fri, 18 Dec 2009 08:36:20 -0500
It's too cheap to stay anywhere near $14.
All the factors you mentioned were present in October when the shares were above $21.]]> http://seekingalpha.com/article/171589/comments?source=feed#comment-809929 809929
SANDUSKY, Ohio (TheStreet) — Cedar Fair(FUN Quote), an operator of amusement parks that saw a large drop off in visitors because of the tough economy, will be acquired by an affiliate of Apollo Global Management for about $2.4 billion.

Cedar Fair shareholders will receive 11.50 a share, a 27% premium to Cedar Fair’s closing stock price Wednesday of $9.08.

“We have considered a wide range of strategic alternatives over the past several years. After considering these strategic alternatives, we have concluded that the transaction with Apollo is in the best interest of our unit holders,” said Cedar Fair Chairman and CEO Dick Kinzel, in a statement.

Cedar Fair owns and operates 11 amusement parks, as well as water parks and hotels.

The deal is expected to close at the start of the second quarter next year.]]> Thu, 17 Dec 2009 07:39:01 -0500
SANDUSKY, Ohio (TheStreet) — Cedar Fair(FUN Quote), an operator of amusement parks that saw a large drop off in visitors because of the tough economy, will be acquired by an affiliate of Apollo Global Management for about $2.4 billion.

Cedar Fair shareholders will receive 11.50 a share, a 27% premium to Cedar Fair’s closing stock price Wednesday of $9.08.

“We have considered a wide range of strategic alternatives over the past several years. After considering these strategic alternatives, we have concluded that the transaction with Apollo is in the best interest of our unit holders,” said Cedar Fair Chairman and CEO Dick Kinzel, in a statement.

Cedar Fair owns and operates 11 amusement parks, as well as water parks and hotels.

The deal is expected to close at the start of the second quarter next year.]]> http://seekingalpha.com/article/178281/comments?source=feed#comment-809385 809385 Wed, 16 Dec 2009 20:54:04 -0500 http://seekingalpha.com/article/178311/comments?source=feed#comment-807930 807930
Here are the past 4 years' EPS numbers for BJs and PSMT...
......................... BJ ................ PSMT
FY 2005 ........... $1.85 ................ $0.30
FY 2006 ........... $1.53 ................ $0.44
FY 2007 ........... $1.82 ............... $1.30
FY 2008 ........... $2.23 ................ $1.45

4 Yr increase ..... 20.5% .............. 383.3%

Which deserves a bigger mulitple?]]> Wed, 16 Dec 2009 07:38:41 -0500
Here are the past 4 years' EPS numbers for BJs and PSMT...
......................... BJ ................ PSMT
FY 2005 ........... $1.85 ................ $0.30
FY 2006 ........... $1.53 ................ $0.44
FY 2007 ........... $1.82 ............... $1.30
FY 2008 ........... $2.23 ................ $1.45

4 Yr increase ..... 20.5% .............. 383.3%

Which deserves a bigger mulitple?]]> http://seekingalpha.com/article/174838/comments?source=feed#comment-807675 807675
MUMBAI (MarketWatch) -- For anyone who took stakes in Indian car makers at the start of this year, there should hardly be any reason to complain, since on several counts, 2009 has been the best year the industry has ever witnessed.

Shares of three major auto makers -- Nano-producer Tata Motors /quotes/comstock/13*!t... (TTM 15.05, -0.10, -0.66%) (up 347% this year), utility vehicles maker Mahindra & Mahindra /quotes/comstock/11i!m... (MAHD.Y 21.76, -0.50, -2.24%) (up 275%), and Maruti Suzuki /quotes/comstock/11i!m... (MUDGF 31.15, +0.30, +0.96%) , the local unit of Japan's Suzuki Motor Corp. /quotes/comstock/11i!s... (SZKMF 26.35, +2.25, +9.34%) (up 205%) -- are among the top percentage gainers on the benchmark 30-stock BSE Sensex, which has itself gained 77.5% in 2009.

The stocks have prospered as stimulus measures by the government and the Reserve Bank of India to spur domestic consumption have helped car sales stage a strong recovery in 2009. The year before, higher interest rates and banks' reluctance to lend in a slowing economy had crimped demand.

The government reduced factory levies, waived farm loans and spent heavily to guard the country from the global economic crisis, while the RBI slashed its key lending rates, prompting local banks to cut rates too.

Local car sales, which have been rising sharply over the past few months, soared 61% in November to 133,687 units from 83,121 a year earlier -- their fastest pace in more than five years since a 73% rise in monthly sales in February 2004. This, albeit on a much lower base as sales in November last year had slumped 19% from the year earlier.

Sales had climbed 34% on year to 132,615 cars October, and 21% to 129,683 in September.

As 2010 knocks on the door, most analysts feel that the party for those shares may be drawing to a close as headwinds lay ahead with the growing possibility of a reversal of three key themes -- lower raw-material costs, benefits of fiscal stimulus measures and lower interest rates -- that marked the auto story in 2009.

With costs of key inputs like steel, aluminum, rubber and plastic starting to move up, companies plan to hike prices to save margins. Mahindra & Mahindra, Honda Siel Cars India Ltd. -- a joint venture between Honda Motor Co. /quotes/comstock/13*!h... (HMC 34.09, +0.08, +0.24%) and India's Siel Ltd -- and the Indian units of Toyota Motor Corp. /quotes/comstock/13*!t... (TM 83.20, -0.29, -0.35%) and Czech carmaker Skoda Auto A.S. have already said they will raise vehicle prices in January to offset higher input costs, and others may follow suit.

Analysts say that price hikes may not significantly dent sales, as they will be offset by continuing strong demand. Also, price hikes generally accompany discount schemes and value offers, thereby not making a new buy too heavy on the consumer's pocketbook.

However, the real test of sales volume will be when the government and the RBI tighten their accommodative policy stances.

The RBI has sent signals that it may be forced to start tightening rates as inflationary pressures pick up. Wholesale price index inflation rose to 1.34% on year in October and is widely expected by economists to outpace the central bank's projection of 6.5% by the end of the fiscal year in March 2010.

Further, with demand being robust, there are chances that the government may consider rolling back, either fully or partly, the excise benefit for small cars, which will shave off some margins. It had reduced the excise duty to 8% from 12% in December last year.

"Our economists think there is a 70% probability of a partial roll-back in excise duties with the budget," Citigroup said in a recent report.

As the trend of launching cars in India continues to gain traction, mounting competition is also likely to weigh on sales.

At least four new models -- Ford India Pvt. Ltd's Figo, Nissan Motor India Pvt. Ltd.'s Micra, Volkswagen India Pvt. Ltd.'s Polo, and General Motors India Pvt. Ltd.'s Chevrolet Beat -- will hit Indian roads in 2010.

The positive momentum in sales will most likely continue for another three to four months, as demand is strong and the impact from a likely stimulus withdrawal and competition will be felt with a lag, analysts say.

The caution regarding stocks seems to stem more from the fact that they have gained so sharply. It is interesting to note here that valuations for Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra and Maruti Suzuki are still below their peak price-to-earnings multiples, and the three stocks currently trade at discounts of 26.4%, 6.3% and 8.8%, respectively, to their all-time highs.

However, analysts rule out any significant upside in the near term, except if the above hypothesis of rising interest rates and withdrawal of the fiscal stimulus does not play out.

"There are no triggers for the stocks to rise, as all the positives are priced in," says Vaishali Jajoo, auto analyst at Mumbai-based brokerage Angel Broking. She prefers Maruti Suzuki (12-month price target of 1,750 rupees or $37.67) for its strong national distribution network and Mahindra & Mahindra (target of 1,130 rupees or $24.32) for its diversified business model (tractors, sports-utility vehicles and cars).

Of course, it would be naïve to expect car makers to match this year's performance in 2010, as growth in 2009 was measured against the much lower base of 2008. As Ambareesh Baliga, vice-president, Karvy Stock Broking says: "For the industry to see a year like 2009, there will have to be an year like 2008."

The markets, he says, will increasingly focus on the month-on-month performance, and stocks will most likely correct if companies fail to match expectations]]> Tue, 15 Dec 2009 22:57:29 -0500
MUMBAI (MarketWatch) -- For anyone who took stakes in Indian car makers at the start of this year, there should hardly be any reason to complain, since on several counts, 2009 has been the best year the industry has ever witnessed.

Shares of three major auto makers -- Nano-producer Tata Motors /quotes/comstock/13*!t... (TTM 15.05, -0.10, -0.66%) (up 347% this year), utility vehicles maker Mahindra & Mahindra /quotes/comstock/11i!m... (MAHD.Y 21.76, -0.50, -2.24%) (up 275%), and Maruti Suzuki /quotes/comstock/11i!m... (MUDGF 31.15, +0.30, +0.96%) , the local unit of Japan's Suzuki Motor Corp. /quotes/comstock/11i!s... (SZKMF 26.35, +2.25, +9.34%) (up 205%) -- are among the top percentage gainers on the benchmark 30-stock BSE Sensex, which has itself gained 77.5% in 2009.

The stocks have prospered as stimulus measures by the government and the Reserve Bank of India to spur domestic consumption have helped car sales stage a strong recovery in 2009. The year before, higher interest rates and banks' reluctance to lend in a slowing economy had crimped demand.

The government reduced factory levies, waived farm loans and spent heavily to guard the country from the global economic crisis, while the RBI slashed its key lending rates, prompting local banks to cut rates too.

Local car sales, which have been rising sharply over the past few months, soared 61% in November to 133,687 units from 83,121 a year earlier -- their fastest pace in more than five years since a 73% rise in monthly sales in February 2004. This, albeit on a much lower base as sales in November last year had slumped 19% from the year earlier.

Sales had climbed 34% on year to 132,615 cars October, and 21% to 129,683 in September.

As 2010 knocks on the door, most analysts feel that the party for those shares may be drawing to a close as headwinds lay ahead with the growing possibility of a reversal of three key themes -- lower raw-material costs, benefits of fiscal stimulus measures and lower interest rates -- that marked the auto story in 2009.

With costs of key inputs like steel, aluminum, rubber and plastic starting to move up, companies plan to hike prices to save margins. Mahindra & Mahindra, Honda Siel Cars India Ltd. -- a joint venture between Honda Motor Co. /quotes/comstock/13*!h... (HMC 34.09, +0.08, +0.24%) and India's Siel Ltd -- and the Indian units of Toyota Motor Corp. /quotes/comstock/13*!t... (TM 83.20, -0.29, -0.35%) and Czech carmaker Skoda Auto A.S. have already said they will raise vehicle prices in January to offset higher input costs, and others may follow suit.

Analysts say that price hikes may not significantly dent sales, as they will be offset by continuing strong demand. Also, price hikes generally accompany discount schemes and value offers, thereby not making a new buy too heavy on the consumer's pocketbook.

However, the real test of sales volume will be when the government and the RBI tighten their accommodative policy stances.

The RBI has sent signals that it may be forced to start tightening rates as inflationary pressures pick up. Wholesale price index inflation rose to 1.34% on year in October and is widely expected by economists to outpace the central bank's projection of 6.5% by the end of the fiscal year in March 2010.

Further, with demand being robust, there are chances that the government may consider rolling back, either fully or partly, the excise benefit for small cars, which will shave off some margins. It had reduced the excise duty to 8% from 12% in December last year.

"Our economists think there is a 70% probability of a partial roll-back in excise duties with the budget," Citigroup said in a recent report.

As the trend of launching cars in India continues to gain traction, mounting competition is also likely to weigh on sales.

At least four new models -- Ford India Pvt. Ltd's Figo, Nissan Motor India Pvt. Ltd.'s Micra, Volkswagen India Pvt. Ltd.'s Polo, and General Motors India Pvt. Ltd.'s Chevrolet Beat -- will hit Indian roads in 2010.

The positive momentum in sales will most likely continue for another three to four months, as demand is strong and the impact from a likely stimulus withdrawal and competition will be felt with a lag, analysts say.

The caution regarding stocks seems to stem more from the fact that they have gained so sharply. It is interesting to note here that valuations for Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra and Maruti Suzuki are still below their peak price-to-earnings multiples, and the three stocks currently trade at discounts of 26.4%, 6.3% and 8.8%, respectively, to their all-time highs.

However, analysts rule out any significant upside in the near term, except if the above hypothesis of rising interest rates and withdrawal of the fiscal stimulus does not play out.

"There are no triggers for the stocks to rise, as all the positives are priced in," says Vaishali Jajoo, auto analyst at Mumbai-based brokerage Angel Broking. She prefers Maruti Suzuki (12-month price target of 1,750 rupees or $37.67) for its strong national distribution network and Mahindra & Mahindra (target of 1,130 rupees or $24.32) for its diversified business model (tractors, sports-utility vehicles and cars).

Of course, it would be naïve to expect car makers to match this year's performance in 2010, as growth in 2009 was measured against the much lower base of 2008. As Ambareesh Baliga, vice-president, Karvy Stock Broking says: "For the industry to see a year like 2009, there will have to be an year like 2008."

The markets, he says, will increasingly focus on the month-on-month performance, and stocks will most likely correct if companies fail to match expectations]]> http://seekingalpha.com/article/173446/comments?source=feed#comment-803649 803649
They noted, as I did, that ITG is not too much above its March lows while its prospects look extremely good. They see a $27 price target for ‘fair value’ without assuming any improvement in business fundamentals.

They also noted that ITG holds $295 million in cash - net of all debt- or $6.69 /share. They see little risk and very good upside.

I have continued to add to my ITG position and stick with my original goal of at least a 40 - 50% upside move.]]> Sun, 13 Dec 2009 09:42:51 -0500
They noted, as I did, that ITG is not too much above its March lows while its prospects look extremely good. They see a $27 price target for ‘fair value’ without assuming any improvement in business fundamentals.

They also noted that ITG holds $295 million in cash - net of all debt- or $6.69 /share. They see little risk and very good upside.

I have continued to add to my ITG position and stick with my original goal of at least a 40 - 50% upside move.]]> http://seekingalpha.com/article/176021/comments?source=feed#comment-786041 786041
I would add to HI [or write some puts] if it pulled back to where I wrote about it earlier.

I have done very well with CBRL from much lower levels. [See my earlier write-ups on BeatingBuffett.com ] I'm not adding to that right here but still like the company.]]> Wed, 02 Dec 2009 08:36:17 -0500
I would add to HI [or write some puts] if it pulled back to where I wrote about it earlier.

I have done very well with CBRL from much lower levels. [See my earlier write-ups on BeatingBuffett.com ] I'm not adding to that right here but still like the company.]]> http://seekingalpha.com/article/136926/comments?source=feed#comment-784305 784305
The shares gained 14.1% over the same period showing the benefit of the buy/write strategy over the straight purchase of shares only.]]> Tue, 01 Dec 2009 09:59:52 -0500
The shares gained 14.1% over the same period showing the benefit of the buy/write strategy over the straight purchase of shares only.]]> http://seekingalpha.com/article/165598/comments?source=feed#comment-780555 780555
By KOPIN TAN - Barrons Nov. 28, 2009

Monsanto's having a dry spell, but it's sowing the seeds of future growth.

PLANTING SEEDS IS AN ACT OF FAITH, an investment in a future you can't yet see. That's something Monsanto shareholders need to keep in mind.

The agricultural giant is weathering an uncharacteristic dry spell: The 2009 stock-market rally that has lifted everything seems to have shortchanged agriculture, and falling grain prices limit farmers' willingness to pay up for crop seeds. At the same time, Monsanto's profits from selling herbicides have plummeted, while spending is increasing as the company prepares to launch two crucial new batches of genetically modified corn and soybeans.

T. Rowe Price New America Growth Fund (PRWAX), a major Monsanto shareholder. "The world is not blessed with an unlimited supply of water and arable land, and so farmers need better seed technology to improve crop yield." And unlike fertilizer, the market for genetically tweaked seeds still is largely underpenetrated outside the U.S.

China, for instance, has 22% of the world's population but just 7% of its arable land and 8% of its water. China already has to feed 12.5 people per hectare of arable land, compared with just 1.7 in the U.S., and it is rapidly losing farmland to industrialization.

Morgan Stanley's Andrews figures Monsanto's seed business will grow at an 18% pace in the next three years, with new products, increased pricing and a growing market share.

The Bottom Line

Monsanto shares are worth a bite. Although the company faces several near-term obstacles, especially in herbicides, its long-term prospects are very bright.

One big concern is that Monsanto has failed to gain U.S. market share in corn and soy while rival DuPont's (DD) Pioneer seed business did. But field trials show Monsanto's top three hybrids producing a higher yield of 10.6 bushels per acre compared with Pioneer's. That edge could help Monsanto in the future. Monsanto is expected to earn $4.40 a share in 2011 after a disappointing $3.29 in 2010. That's a future worth investing in.]]> Sat, 28 Nov 2009 09:51:56 -0500
By KOPIN TAN - Barrons Nov. 28, 2009

Monsanto's having a dry spell, but it's sowing the seeds of future growth.

PLANTING SEEDS IS AN ACT OF FAITH, an investment in a future you can't yet see. That's something Monsanto shareholders need to keep in mind.

The agricultural giant is weathering an uncharacteristic dry spell: The 2009 stock-market rally that has lifted everything seems to have shortchanged agriculture, and falling grain prices limit farmers' willingness to pay up for crop seeds. At the same time, Monsanto's profits from selling herbicides have plummeted, while spending is increasing as the company prepares to launch two crucial new batches of genetically modified corn and soybeans.

T. Rowe Price New America Growth Fund (PRWAX), a major Monsanto shareholder. "The world is not blessed with an unlimited supply of water and arable land, and so farmers need better seed technology to improve crop yield." And unlike fertilizer, the market for genetically tweaked seeds still is largely underpenetrated outside the U.S.

China, for instance, has 22% of the world's population but just 7% of its arable land and 8% of its water. China already has to feed 12.5 people per hectare of arable land, compared with just 1.7 in the U.S., and it is rapidly losing farmland to industrialization.

Morgan Stanley's Andrews figures Monsanto's seed business will grow at an 18% pace in the next three years, with new products, increased pricing and a growing market share.

The Bottom Line

Monsanto shares are worth a bite. Although the company faces several near-term obstacles, especially in herbicides, its long-term prospects are very bright.

One big concern is that Monsanto has failed to gain U.S. market share in corn and soy while rival DuPont's (DD) Pioneer seed business did. But field trials show Monsanto's top three hybrids producing a higher yield of 10.6 bushels per acre compared with Pioneer's. That edge could help Monsanto in the future. Monsanto is expected to earn $4.40 a share in 2011 after a disappointing $3.29 in 2010. That's a future worth investing in.]]> http://seekingalpha.com/article/151590/comments?source=feed#comment-777445 777445 November 25, 2009

DeVry Inc. (DV - Analyst Report) continues to top estimates and the Zacks Consensus Estimate is on the rise.
Company Description

DeVry is the parent company for several schools and other educational services including DeVry University, Apollo College, Becker Professional Education, and others.

Net Income Up 57%

The company released first-quarter results for fiscal 2010 on Oct 27 that included revenues of $431 million, a 42% jump. Net income also surged and was 57% higher to $54.7 million.

Earnings per share came in at 76 cents, 11 cents higher than the Zacks Consensus Estimate. This was the third consecutive earnings surprise.

Excellent Growth

President and CEO, Daniel Hamburger, commented on the great quarter. "Our financial results this quarter were driven largely by exceptional revenue growth," said Daniel Hamburger. He added, "Our institutions continue to experience strong enrollment and student retention..."

Rising Estimates

Full-year estimates are up for 2010 and 2011. Currently the Zacks Consensus Estimate for this year is $3.19, up from $3.01 over the past 2 months. Next year's projections are averaging $3.86, up from $3.63.

These levels represent year-over-year growth of 38% and 21%, respectively.

Valuation

Shares are trading at just 17 times forward earnings, not a bad value for such a hot sector. Also, the company's PEG ratio is 0.9 times, so the growth is reasonably priced.

The Chart

The Zacks Consensus Estimate has been climbing consistently for the past 5 years and shows no signs of slowing.

Bill Wilton is the Growth Stock Strategist for Zacks.com. He is also the Editor in charge of the market-beating Zacks Growth Trader service]]> Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:50:42 -0500 November 25, 2009

DeVry Inc. (DV - Analyst Report) continues to top estimates and the Zacks Consensus Estimate is on the rise.
Company Description

DeVry is the parent company for several schools and other educational services including DeVry University, Apollo College, Becker Professional Education, and others.

Net Income Up 57%

The company released first-quarter results for fiscal 2010 on Oct 27 that included revenues of $431 million, a 42% jump. Net income also surged and was 57% higher to $54.7 million.

Earnings per share came in at 76 cents, 11 cents higher than the Zacks Consensus Estimate. This was the third consecutive earnings surprise.

Excellent Growth

President and CEO, Daniel Hamburger, commented on the great quarter. "Our financial results this quarter were driven largely by exceptional revenue growth," said Daniel Hamburger. He added, "Our institutions continue to experience strong enrollment and student retention..."

Rising Estimates

Full-year estimates are up for 2010 and 2011. Currently the Zacks Consensus Estimate for this year is $3.19, up from $3.01 over the past 2 months. Next year's projections are averaging $3.86, up from $3.63.

These levels represent year-over-year growth of 38% and 21%, respectively.

Valuation

Shares are trading at just 17 times forward earnings, not a bad value for such a hot sector. Also, the company's PEG ratio is 0.9 times, so the growth is reasonably priced.

The Chart

The Zacks Consensus Estimate has been climbing consistently for the past 5 years and shows no signs of slowing.

Bill Wilton is the Growth Stock Strategist for Zacks.com. He is also the Editor in charge of the market-beating Zacks Growth Trader service]]> http://seekingalpha.com/article/157295/comments?source=feed#comment-776665 776665 DE): FQ4 EPS of $0.23 beats by $0.20. Revenue of $4.73B (-29.8%) vs. $4.44B. Sees sales down just 1% in F2010.

DE closed at $52.22 yesterday - up 19.3% since my August 20th write-up.]]> Wed, 25 Nov 2009 08:26:07 -0500 DE): FQ4 EPS of $0.23 beats by $0.20. Revenue of $4.73B (-29.8%) vs. $4.44B. Sees sales down just 1% in F2010.

DE closed at $52.22 yesterday - up 19.3% since my August 20th write-up.]]> http://seekingalpha.com/article/175195/comments?source=feed#comment-776621 776621
Today's investors should do very well from the present quote going forward.]]> Wed, 25 Nov 2009 08:06:04 -0500
Today's investors should do very well from the present quote going forward.]]> http://seekingalpha.com/article/109813/comments?source=feed#comment-775175 775175 Value: Avnet, Inc. NYSE:$28.58 /share

By: Tracey Ryniec of ZACKS

November 24, 2009

Avnet, Inc. (AVT - Analyst Report) recently saw quarter over quarter growth as the global recession eased. The company is trading with a forward P/E of 13.2.

Company Description

Avnet distributes electronic components and computer products to customers in 70 countries worldwide. It also provides services such as supply-chain and design-chain services, logistics solutions, product assembly, device programming, computer system configuration and integration and technical seminars to allow its customers to operate efficiently.

Avnet Surprised By 29.41% in the Fiscal First Quarter

On Oct 29, Avnet reported better than expected fiscal first quarter 2010 results. It beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 10 cents. Earnings per share were 44 cents compared to the consensus of 34 cents. This was under the year ago period, however, which saw 67 cents.

Revenue fell 3.1% to $4.36 billion compared to the year ago period. The Electronics Marketing segment was the weaker segment with revenue falling 9.8% to $2.44 billion from the fiscal first quarter of 2009.

The Technology Solutions segment saw improvement as revenues rose 6.9% compared to last year.

Like every business, the company is still being impacted by the global recession but it saw growth rates rise sequentially which is improving confidence.

Second Quarter Guidance

Sales are expected to be between $4.1 billion and $4.7 billion in the second quarter with normal seasonality in the Technologies Segment and slightly better than normal in the Electronics Marketing segment.

Earnings per share are expected in the range of 52 cents to 60 cents per share assuming the average Euro to U.S. Dollar currency rate is $1.48 to 1.00 euro.

Zacks Consensus Estimates Rise

In the last month, analysts have raised both the second quarter and fiscal 2010 estimates. The second quarter Zacks Consensus Estimate jumped 6 cents to 56 cents.

The 2010 Zacks Consensus rose 13.7% to $2.08 from $1.83 with 10 out of the 11 covering analysts raising during the last 30 days.

Value Fundamentals

Avnet is a Zacks #1 Rank (strong buy) stock. It is trading with a price-to-book of 1.43. The company has a solid 5-year return on equity (ROE) of 10.82%.

Tracey Ryniec is the Value Stock Strategist for Zacks.com. She is also the Editor in charge of the market-beating Zacks Value Trader service.]]> Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:52:11 -0500 Value: Avnet, Inc. NYSE:$28.58 /share

By: Tracey Ryniec of ZACKS

November 24, 2009

Avnet, Inc. (AVT - Analyst Report) recently saw quarter over quarter growth as the global recession eased. The company is trading with a forward P/E of 13.2.

Company Description

Avnet distributes electronic components and computer products to customers in 70 countries worldwide. It also provides services such as supply-chain and design-chain services, logistics solutions, product assembly, device programming, computer system configuration and integration and technical seminars to allow its customers to operate efficiently.

Avnet Surprised By 29.41% in the Fiscal First Quarter

On Oct 29, Avnet reported better than expected fiscal first quarter 2010 results. It beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 10 cents. Earnings per share were 44 cents compared to the consensus of 34 cents. This was under the year ago period, however, which saw 67 cents.

Revenue fell 3.1% to $4.36 billion compared to the year ago period. The Electronics Marketing segment was the weaker segment with revenue falling 9.8% to $2.44 billion from the fiscal first quarter of 2009.

The Technology Solutions segment saw improvement as revenues rose 6.9% compared to last year.

Like every business, the company is still being impacted by the global recession but it saw growth rates rise sequentially which is improving confidence.

Second Quarter Guidance

Sales are expected to be between $4.1 billion and $4.7 billion in the second quarter with normal seasonality in the Technologies Segment and slightly better than normal in the Electronics Marketing segment.

Earnings per share are expected in the range of 52 cents to 60 cents per share assuming the average Euro to U.S. Dollar currency rate is $1.48 to 1.00 euro.

Zacks Consensus Estimates Rise

In the last month, analysts have raised both the second quarter and fiscal 2010 estimates. The second quarter Zacks Consensus Estimate jumped 6 cents to 56 cents.

The 2010 Zacks Consensus rose 13.7% to $2.08 from $1.83 with 10 out of the 11 covering analysts raising during the last 30 days.

Value Fundamentals

Avnet is a Zacks #1 Rank (strong buy) stock. It is trading with a price-to-book of 1.43. The company has a solid 5-year return on equity (ROE) of 10.82%.

Tracey Ryniec is the Value Stock Strategist for Zacks.com. She is also the Editor in charge of the market-beating Zacks Value Trader service.]]> http://seekingalpha.com/article/174838/comments?source=feed#comment-774155 774155
TTM is losing big money with no signs of a near-term improvement.
Debt is excessive.

At $3 it was a good speculation. At $14 it's a good short.]]> Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:52:56 -0500
TTM is losing big money with no signs of a near-term improvement.
Debt is excessive.

At $3 it was a good speculation. At $14 it's a good short.]]> http://seekingalpha.com/article/173897/comments?source=feed#comment-765905 765905 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:02:28 -0500 http://seekingalpha.com/article/171627/comments?source=feed#comment-765088 765088 AB) to a "5" rating, the service's highest.

The ValuEngine Rating is an overall assessment of a stock's attractiveness. It combines the following five factors: ValuEngine's proprietary valuation, risk-return tradeoff, momentum, market capitalization and ValuEngine's proprietary forecasted one-month return. Approximately 80 to 85 companies achieve this highest ValuEngine rating out of VE's total coverage of over 5,000 publicly traded companies.

ValuEngine is a subscription-based business intelligence, market and equity analysis firm that provides exclusive, customized research and analysis solutions directly to companies, investors, investment banks and broker-dealers. ]]> Wed, 18 Nov 2009 08:32:52 -0500 AB) to a "5" rating, the service's highest.

The ValuEngine Rating is an overall assessment of a stock's attractiveness. It combines the following five factors: ValuEngine's proprietary valuation, risk-return tradeoff, momentum, market capitalization and ValuEngine's proprietary forecasted one-month return. Approximately 80 to 85 companies achieve this highest ValuEngine rating out of VE's total coverage of over 5,000 publicly traded companies.

ValuEngine is a subscription-based business intelligence, market and equity analysis firm that provides exclusive, customized research and analysis solutions directly to companies, investors, investment banks and broker-dealers. ]]> http://seekingalpha.com/article/173897/comments?source=feed#comment-765029 765029 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 08:23:38 -0500 http://seekingalpha.com/article/153217/comments?source=feed#comment-763309 763309







Bull of the Day


Sealed Air Corp. (SEE)


By: Zacks Equity Research
November 17, 2009

Sealed Air Corporation ([url=javascript:void(... - Analyst Report) reported third quarter 2009 EPS of 38 cents, above the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 33 cents and the prior-year EPS of 28 cents. The company raised its full-year 2009 EPS guidance to a range between $1.37-$1.45.

The company expects to continue to realize benefits from its cost reduction and productivity programs in the fourth quarter. Also, the company is witnessing improved market conditions in developing nations. Sealed Air posted double-digit sales increases in some of these markets.

Based on the improved outlook, as well as the company's efforts to revitalize its bottom-line, we are upgrading the rating on the stock to Outperform.]]> Tue, 17 Nov 2009 08:19:37 -0500







Bull of the Day


Sealed Air Corp. (SEE)


By: Zacks Equity Research
November 17, 2009

Sealed Air Corporation ([url=javascript:void(... - Analyst Report) reported third quarter 2009 EPS of 38 cents, above the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 33 cents and the prior-year EPS of 28 cents. The company raised its full-year 2009 EPS guidance to a range between $1.37-$1.45.

The company expects to continue to realize benefits from its cost reduction and productivity programs in the fourth quarter. Also, the company is witnessing improved market conditions in developing nations. Sealed Air posted double-digit sales increases in some of these markets.

Based on the improved outlook, as well as the company's efforts to revitalize its bottom-line, we are upgrading the rating on the stock to Outperform.]]> http://seekingalpha.com/article/130974/comments?source=feed#comment-763308 763308







Bull of the Day


Sealed Air Corp. (SEE)


By: Zacks Equity Research
November 17, 2009

Sealed Air Corporation ([url=javascript:void(... - Analyst Report) reported third quarter 2009 EPS of 38 cents, above the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 33 cents and the prior-year EPS of 28 cents. The company raised its full-year 2009 EPS guidance to a range between $1.37-$1.45.

The company expects to continue to realize benefits from its cost reduction and productivity programs in the fourth quarter. Also, the company is witnessing improved market conditions in developing nations. Sealed Air posted double-digit sales increases in some of these markets.

Based on the improved outlook, as well as the company's efforts to revitalize its bottom-line, we are upgrading the rating on the stock to Outperform.]]> Tue, 17 Nov 2009 08:19:05 -0500







Bull of the Day


Sealed Air Corp. (SEE)


By: Zacks Equity Research
November 17, 2009

Sealed Air Corporation ([url=javascript:void(... - Analyst Report) reported third quarter 2009 EPS of 38 cents, above the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 33 cents and the prior-year EPS of 28 cents. The company raised its full-year 2009 EPS guidance to a range between $1.37-$1.45.

The company expects to continue to realize benefits from its cost reduction and productivity programs in the fourth quarter. Also, the company is witnessing improved market conditions in developing nations. Sealed Air posted double-digit sales increases in some of these markets.

Based on the improved outlook, as well as the company's efforts to revitalize its bottom-line, we are upgrading the rating on the stock to Outperform.]]>