Monday, February 24, 2014

Tesla to reveal details of battery 'gigafactory'

Tesla Motors' CEO Elon Musk says that this week he will detail his plans to build a huge plant to make electric car batteries -- so big that he calls it the "gigafactory."

Compared to Tesla's swoopy electric luxury cars, making lithium-ion battery packs sounds decidedly unsexy. But Tesla apparently views the plant as critical to its strategy. Reasons:

•Steady supply. Tesla will make the case that it needs its own source of battery packs. It has made no secret of its inability to get enough batteries through its deal with Panasonic to keep up with demand for its Model S electric sedan. It says the current shortage will last through the first half the year.

•Other revenue streams. The plant could supply batteries for other carmakers and other uses. Musk also is chairman of SolarCity, which has announced plans to sell Tesla battery packs to companies to use for emergency backup power storage.

•Future models. Tesla is developing a more mainstream electric car for sale in several years. But it will need to dramatically lower battery costs and increase supply to create a mass-market vehicle.

Musk told analysts last week that he expects "there'd be more than one partner in the plant," noting that Panasonic already is Tesla's chief battery supplier. But his comment came only days after it was reported that Musk he met with Apple last year, raising speculation about whether the computer giant might be looking to partner for its battery needs.

Hot Safest Stocks To Watch For 2014

As to where the plant and its jobs would land, Musk assured the analysts that the gigafactory will be "heavily powered by renewables, wind and solar, " which would seem to point to a desert location in the West.

Some question the need for more battery making capacity. A 2102 study by consultants RolandBerger found overcapacity for large-format lithium-ion battery market and a couple of big makers h! ave gone through bankruptcy reorganization.

But Tesla uses a different battery pack design than most other makers and electric car sales have grown. The number of plug-in cars sold last year almost doubled from the previous year to 96,702, the Electric Drive Transportation Association reports.

Analysts also are weighing the implications for Tesla.. Efraim Levy, equity analyst for S&P CapitalIQ, worries that a Tesla-owned plant would lock the automaker into a single battery type, making it difficult to pivot if a more promising technology emerges.

But Barclays analyst Brian Johnson notes that the cost of building the factory could be offset by creating new revenue for Tesla in marketing its batteries to other companies.

Friday, February 21, 2014

Hot Beverage Stocks To Own Right Now

With shares of Coca-Cola (NYSE:KO) trading around $42, is KO an OUTPERFORM, WAIT AND SEE or STAY AWAY? Let�� analyze the stock with the relevant sections of our CHEAT SHEET investing framework:

T = Trends for a Stock’s Movement

Coca-Cola is�a beverage company that engages in the manufacture, marketing, and sale of nonalcoholic beverages worldwide. The company primarily offers sparkling beverages and still beverages. Its sparkling beverages include nonalcoholic ready-to-drink beverages with carbonation, such as carbonated energy drinks, and carbonated waters and flavored waters. The company�s still beverages comprise nonalcoholic beverages without carbonation, including noncarbonated waters, flavored and enhanced waters, noncarbonated energy drinks, juices and juice drinks, ready-to-drink teas and coffees, and sports drinks. It also provides flavoring ingredients, sweeteners, powders for purified water products, beverage ingredients, and fountain syrups. Coca-Cola Company sells its products primarily under the Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Coca-Cola Light, Coca-Cola Zero, Sprite, Fanta, Minute Maid, Powerade, Aquarius, Dasani, Glac茅au Vitaminwater, Georgia, Simply, Del Valle, Ayataka, and I Lohas brand names. Consumers around the world love the products offered by Coca-Cola and enjoy them almost on a daily basis. Through its brands, Coca-Cola is able to reach a wide consumer base in just about every corner of the world that will continue to enjoy its products for years to come.

Hot Beverage Stocks To Own Right Now: Tsingyuan Brewery Ltd (BEER)

Tsingyuan Brewery Ltd., formerly Sabre Industrial, Inc., incorporated on July 25, 1996, is a manufacturer and distributor of brewer's malt and beer throughout northern and eastern China. The Company has two business lines: brewer's malt and beer production.

The brewer's malt is shipped to brewers in 10 provinces across China. The beer products are distributed throughout six provinces. The Company utilizes the German brewing techniques and uses barley, water and hops. Tsingyuan Brewery Ltd. promotes nine products under its brand names Qinglin, Qingyi, and Qingyuan.

Hot Beverage Stocks To Own Right Now: Marani Brands Inc (MRIB)

Marani Brands, Inc. (Marani), incorporated on May 30, 2001, is engaged in the importation and sale of alcoholic beverage products, primarily Marani Vodka, its flagship product. The Company�� primary business is the business of Margrit Enterprises International, Inc. (MEI), which is in the distribution of wine and spirit products manufactured in Armenia. Marani Vodka is made from winter wheat harvested in Armenia, distilled three times, aged in oak barrels lined with honey and skimmed dried milk, then filtered 25 times. Bottling of the product occurs at the Eraskh distillery in Armenia. On April 4, 2008, the Company, FFBI Merger Sub Corp. and MEI executed, and on April 7, 2008, the parties closed, a three party Merger Agreement.

The Company purchases all of its products from a single supplier, Eraskh Winery, Ltd., under an exclusive distribution agreement with Eraskh, an Armenian manufacturer of wine and other spirits. The new bottles for Marani Vodka are being manufactured in France by Saver Glass Company and China by Universal Group Co., Ltd. and shipped to Armenia to be filled at Eraskh. The Company�� product is being distributed by Southern Wine & Spirits of America, Inc. (SWS), in Southern California, in conjuction with PLCB Pennsylvania and Nevada. SWS is an alcoholic beverage distributor in the United States. The Company has established additional distributors, such as QV Distributors in Arizona and Wein-Baur in Illinois.

The Company competes with Diageo, Pernod Ricard, Bacardi and Brown-Forman.

Best Cheap Stocks To Buy For 2015: DNA Brands Inc (DNAX.PK)

DNA Brands, Inc. (DNA), incorporated on May 23, 2007, produces, markets and sells a line of four carbonated blends of DNA Energy Drinks, as well as a line of meat snacks made up of two beef jerky flavors and four flavors of beef sticks. These drinks are sold in 16 ounce cans. The beef jerky is packaged in a three ounce sealable pouch and the beef stick is one ounce stick form. Its product flavors include DNA Energy Drink, DNA Beef Jerky and DNA Shred Stix.DNA Energy Drink provides citrus, green, citrus sugar free and cranberry raspberry sugar free flavors DNA Beef Jerk provides original and teriyaki flavors. DNA Shred Stix flavors includes original, pizza, jalapeno and taco.

In Florida, distribution is handled by Grass Roots Beverage Company, Inc. (Grass Roots), its wholly owned subsidiary and select Anheuser Bush distributors. In Southern California distribution is covered by Energized Distribution, Inc. CJW Distributing, a Miller Brewing operation, is res ponsible for the Wisconsin (Midwest) area.

The Company competes with Jack Link��.

Hot Beverage Stocks To Own Right Now: Coca-Cola Enterprises Inc. (CCE)

Coca-Cola Enterprises Inc. produces, distributes, and markets non-alcoholic beverages in Europe. It provides a range of beverage categories, including energy drinks, still and sparkling waters, juices, sports drinks, fruit drinks, coffee-based beverages, and teas. The company primarily offers its products under Coca-Cola, Diet Coke/Coke light, Fanta, Coca-Cola Zero, Capri Sun, Schweppes, Sprite, Chaudfontaine, MinuteMaid, and Dr. Pepper brands. It provides its products to customers and consumers through licensed territory agreements in Belgium, continental France, Great Britain, Luxembourg, Monaco, the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden. Coca-Cola Enterprises Inc. was founded in 1986 and is based in Atlanta, Georgia.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Dan Caplinger]

    Indeed, consumer-oriented stocks are among the weakest performers in the Dow today. Coca-Cola (NYSE: KO  ) is down 2%, likely in response to a reduced forecast from independent bottler Coca-Cola Enterprises (NYSE: CCE  ) . The bottling company said continued trouble in the European economy combined with cold, rainy weather throughout much of the region led to volume declines of 2.5% for the quarter, confirming Coca-Cola's own 4% decline in soda sales in North America that it reported last week. Coke investors need to remember that Coke, with its global operations, is not influenced by U.S.-centric consumer figures so much as domestically focused companies.

Hot Beverage Stocks To Own Right Now: SABMiller PLC (SBMRY.PK)

SABMiller plc, incorporated on March 17, 1998, is a holding company, which has brewing and beverage interests across six continents. The Company together with its subsidiaries is engaged in the manufacture, distribution and sale of beverages. The Company is a brewer with more than 200 beer brands. The Company�� portfolio of brands includes international beers, such as Pilsner Urquell, Peroni Nastro Azzurro, Miller Genuine Draft and Grolsch, as well as local brands, such as Aguila, Castle, Miller Lite, Snow, Tyskie and Victoria Bitter. It is a bottler for the Coca-Cola Company in Africa and Central America. It operates in Latin America, Europe, North America, Africa, Asia Pacific, and South Africa.

Latin America

The Company�� primary brewing and beverage operations cover six countries across South and Central America (Colombia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama and Peru). The Company is brewer in Argentina, and it exports to Bolivia, Ch ile and Paraguay. It bottles soft drinks for The Coca-Cola Company in El Salvador and Honduras, and for Pepsico International in Panama.

Europe

The Company�� primary brewing operations cover eight countries: the Czech Republic, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Spain (Canary Islands) and the Netherlands. A further 16 countries, including Russia, Turkey and the Ukraine are covered in a strategic alliance with Anadolu Efes through brewing, soft drinks or export operations. The Company exports volumes to a further seven European markets, of which the largest are the United Kingdom and Germany.

North America

The Company�� North America segment includes its 58% owned MillerCoors and 100% of Miller Brewing International and the its North American holding companies. The Company�� wholly owned Miller Brewing International business is based in Milwaukee, the United States and exports its brands to Canada and Mexico and throu ghout the Americas.

Africa

The ! Co! mpany�� brewing and beverage operations in Africa cover 15 countries. A further 21 are covered through a strategic alliance with the Castel group and it also has an associated undertaking in Zimbabwe. The Company bottles soft drinks for The Coca-Cola Company in 20 of its African markets (in alliance with Castel in 14 of these markets).

Asia Pacific

The Company�� partners with China Resources Enterprise, Limited in China. The Company is engaged in brewing business in India. The Company has operation in Vietnam and it exports to various markets, including South Korea and Singapore.

South Africa

The Company�� South African Breweries (Pty) Ltd (SAB) is South Africa�� producer and distributor of lager and soft drinks. It also exports brands for distribution across Namibia. Its soft drinks division is bottler of products for The Coca-Cola Company. The Company has hotel and gaming interests through its associate, Tsogo S un Holdings Ltd, a hotel and gaming group in South Africa.

Hot Beverage Stocks To Own Right Now: Monster Beverage Corp (MNST.O)

Monster Beverage Corporation, formerly Hansen Natural Corporation, incorporated on April 25, 1990,is a holding company. The Company develops, markets, sells and distributes alternative beverage. The alternative beverage category combines non-carbonated ready-to-drink iced teas, lemonades, juice cocktails, single-serve juices and fruit beverages, ready-to-drink dairy and coffee drinks, energy drinks, sports drinks, and single-serve still water (flavored, unflavored and enhanced) with new age beverages, including sodas that are considered natural, sparkling juices and flavored sparkling beverages. It has two reportable segments, namely Direct Store Delivery (DSD), whose principal products comprise energy drinks, and Warehouse (Warehouse), whose principal products comprise juice-based and soda beverages. The DSD segment develops, markets and sells products primarily through an exclusive distributor network, whereas the Warehouse segment develops, markets and sells products primarily directly to retailers. Corporate and unallocated amounts that do not relate to the DSD or Warehouse segments specifically, have been allocated to Corporate and Unallocated.

During the year ended December 31, 2012, it continued to expand its existing product lines and flavors and further develop its distribution markets. In particular, it continued to focus on developing and marketing beverages that fall within the category generally described as the alternative beverage category. During the year ended December 31, 2012, it introduced a number of new products, including Monster Rehab Tea + Orangeade + Energy, a non-carbonated energy drink with electrolytes, Monster Energy Zero Ultra, a carbonated energy drink which contains zero calories and zero sugar, bermonster Energy Brew, a non-alcoholic energy drink, manufactured using a brewed fermentation process, Hansen�� Coconut Water, in original and tropical flavors, packaged in re-sealable Tetra Prisma b oxes, Peace Tea Cranberry, Pink Lemonade and Texas-Style Sw! e! et Tea, ready-to-drink iced teas, Monster Cuba-Lima, a carbonated lime flavored non-alcoholic energy drink, Monster Energy Dub Edition Baller�� Blend, a carbonated punch + energy drink and Monster Energy Dub Edition Mad Dog, a carbonated punch + energy drink.

DSD Segment

Monster Energy Drinks offers products under the Monster Energy drink product line: Monster Energy, Lo-Carb Monster Energy, Monster Energy Assault, Monster Khaos, Monster M-80 (named Ripper in certain countries), Monster MIXXD, Monster Energy Absolutely Zero, Monster Energy Import and Import Light, Monster Energy Dub Edition Baller�� Blend, Monster Energy Dub Edition Mad Dog, M3 Monster Energy Super Concentrate energy drinks, bermonster Energy Brew, Monster Energy Zero Ultra and Monster Cuba-Lima.

Java Monster Coffee + Energy Drinks - A line of non-carbonated dairy based coffee + energy drinks. It offers products under the Java Monster product line: Java Monster Kon a Blend, Java Monster Loca Moca, Java Monster Mean Bean, Java Monster Vanilla Light, Java Monster Irish Blend and Java Monster Toffee. Monster Energy Extra Strength Nitrous Technology Energy Drinks - A line of carbonated energy drinks containing nitrous oxide. It offer products under the Monster Energy Extra Strength Nitrous Technology product line: Super Dry, Anti Gravity and Black Ice.

-Presso Monster Coffee + Energy Drinks - A line of non-carbonated dairy based coffee + energy drinks. It offers products under the X-Presso Monster coffee + energy drinks product line: X-Presso Monster Hammer and X-Presso Monster Midnite.

Monster Rehab Tea + Energy Drinks - A line of non-carbonated energy drinks with electrolytes. It offers products under the Monster Rehab drink line: Monster Rehab Tea + Lemonade + Energy, Monster Rehab Rojo Tea + Energy, Monster Rehab Green Tea + Energy, Monster Rehab Protean + Energy and Monster Rehab Tea + Orangeade + Energy.

Worx Energy Energy Shots - A line of energy ! suppl! em! ents wh! ich contains zero calories and zero sugar. It offers products under the Worx Energy energy shot product line: Original Formula and Extra Strength.

Peace Tea Iced Teas - A line of ready-to-drink iced teas. It offers products under the Peace Tea product line: green tea, imported Ceylon tea, sweet lemon tea, razzleberry tea, cranberry tea, pink lemonade tea, Texas-style sweet tea and Caddy Shack tea + lemonade.

Warehouse Segment

Hansen�� brand sodas have been a natural soda brand on the West Coast of the United States for more than 30 years and are made with natural flavors. Hansen�� brand sodas, sweetened with cane sugar, and Hansen�� Diet Sodas, sweetened with Splenda no calorie sweetener and Acesulfame-K, contain no preservatives, sodium, caffeine or artificial colorings. It offers sodas under the Hansen�� brand name: Hansen�� Sodas, Hansen�� Diet Sodas and Hansen�� Natural Mixers, as well as Hansen�� Sparkling W aters, in a variety of flavors.

Its Blue Sky products contain no preservatives, artificial sweeteners, caffeine (other than its Blue Sky energy drinks) or artificial coloring and are made with sugar and natural flavors. It offers products under the Blue Sky product line: Blue Sky Natural Soda, Blue Sky Zero Calorie Sodas (sweetened with Truvia brand stevia extract, an all natural sweetener), Blue Sky Premium Sodas, Blue Sky Organic Natural Sodas, Blue Sky Seltzer Waters, Blue Sky Blue Energy drinks, Blue Sky Zero Calorie Blue Energy drinks, Blue Sky Caf Energy drinks and Blue Sky Recover Energy drinks.

Its original Hansen�� energy drinks compete in the functional beverage category, namely, beverages that provide a benefit in addition to simply delivering refreshment. It offers products under the Hansen�� energy drink product line: Hansen�� Natural Energy Pro, Hansen�� Energy Diet Red and Hansen�� Natural Stamina Pro.

Its fruit juice product line includes Hansen�� Natural Ap! ple Juice! ,! Hansen

Hot Beverage Stocks To Own Right Now: DNA Brands Inc (DNAX)

DNA Brands, Inc. (DNA), incorporated on May 23, 2007, produces, markets and sells a line of four carbonated blends of DNA Energy Drinks, as well as a line of meat snacks made up of two beef jerky flavors and four flavors of beef sticks. These drinks are sold in 16 ounce cans. The beef jerky is packaged in a three ounce sealable pouch and the beef stick is one ounce stick form. Its product flavors include DNA Energy Drink, DNA Beef Jerky and DNA Shred Stix.DNA Energy Drink provides citrus, green, citrus sugar free and cranberry raspberry sugar free flavors DNA Beef Jerk provides original and teriyaki flavors. DNA Shred Stix flavors includes original, pizza, jalapeno and taco.

In Florida, distribution is handled by Grass Roots Beverage Company, Inc. (Grass Roots), its wholly owned subsidiary and select Anheuser Bush distributors. In Southern California distribution is covered by Energized Distribution, Inc. CJW Distributing, a Miller Brewing operation, is responsible for the Wisconsin (Midwest) area.

The Company competes with Jack Link��.

Hot Beverage Stocks To Own Right Now: Craft Brew Alliance Inc (BREW)

Craft Brew Alliance, Inc., incorporated on May 4, 1981, is an independent craft brewer. The Company is engaged in brewing, marketing and selling of craft beers in the United States. The Company operates two segments: Beer related operations and Pubs and Other. Beer related operations include the brewing and sale of craft beers from its five breweries. Pubs and Other operations primarily include its five pubs, four, of which are located adjacent to its breweries. The Company brews its Widmer Brothers, Redhook and Kona beers in each of its three mainland production breweries, including New Hampshire Brewery, Oregon Brewery and Washington Brewery. The Company also owns and operates a small manual style brewery, primarily used for small batch production at the Rose Quarter in Portland, Oregon. The Company�� beer portfolio is consisted of the Widmer Brothers, Redhook and Kona brand families. On May 2, 2011, the Company sold 42% interest in Fulton Street Brewery, LLC.

The Company�� Widmer Brothers Hefeweizen is a golden, cloudy wheat beer with a pronounced citrus aroma and flavor. This beer is usually served with a lemon slice. Its Drifter Pale Ale is brewed with generous amounts of summit hops. It also includes Drop Top Amber Ale and Rotator India Pale Ale. Initial beers in the series 924 series include the Nelson Imperial IPA and the Pitch Black IPA, which is a Pacific Northwest twist on a traditional IPA, brewed in the style of a Cascadian Dark. Beers in this brand are offered as a draft product and as a four pack for bottles. Widmer Brothers beers include Brothers��Reserve and Alchemy Project. Widmer Brothers seasonal beers are Citra Blonde, Okto, Brrr and W series.

The Redhook family of beers is consisted of sessionable (lower alcohol by volume) and approachable beers. Its Long Hammer IPA is the beer within the brand family and is English pub-style bitter ale with a bold hop aroma and profile that is not overpoweringly bitter. Its

Redhook Pilsner is a crisp, easy-! drinking, golden lager that is modeled after beers originally brewed in Plzen, Czechoslovakia. Redhook ESB is rich, full-bodied amber ale with a smooth flavor profile featuring toasted malts and a pleasant finishing sweetness. Its Copperhook Ale is copper-colored ale with caramel notes and a clean refreshing finish. The Company�� Blueline Series brand is offering from the Redhook brand family for the West Coast beer drinker. These beers are hand crafted by the brewers and are available at its Washington Brewery pub, as well as at select restaurants, bottle shops and public houses in the Seattle, Washington area. Its Brewery Backyard Series is produced at its New Hampshire brewery as a draft product available at the brewery�� pub and at select local establishments. Redhook seasonal beers include Nut Brown Ale, Winterhook Winter Ale and Wit.

The Company�� Kona Beers brand family is consisted of beers that deliver the essence of the Hawaiian Islands that is Always Aloha. The Company�� Longboard Island Lager is a traditionally brewed lager with a delicate, slightly spicy hop aroma that is complimented by a fresh, malt-forward flavor and a smooth, refreshing finish. Its Fire Rock Pale Ale is a crisp, Hawaiian Style pale ale with pronounced citrus and floral hop aromas and flavors that are backed up by a generous malt profile.

Kona seasonal beers include Koko Brown Ale, American brown ale with a deep amber color and rich mahogany hues. This ale has a smoky, roasted nut aroma and flavor, with a coconut twist. Koko Brown Ale is Kona�� spring seasonal. Its Pipeline Porter is smooth and dark, with a roasty aroma and earthy flavor. This ale is brewed with fresh 100% Kona coffee. Its Wailua Wheat is golden, sun-colored ale with a bright, citrusy flavor. This beer is brewed with a touch of tropical passion fruit to impart a slightly tart and crisp finish. Kona offers two variety packs: Island Hopper variety 12-packs and Big Kahuna variety 24-packs. Both packages include the brewe! ry�� Lo! ngboard Island Lager along with Fire Rock Pale Ale and then two of its Aloha series seasonal offerings: Koko Brown, Wailua Wheat and Pipeline Porter.

The Company competes with Heineken, Corona Extra and Guinness.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Chris Katje]

    Publicly traded Craft Brew Alliance (BREW) is the owner of three key craft beer brands. The company, through two mergers, owns the brands Redhook, Widmer, and Kona. One of those brands (Redhook) has a partnership coming with Buffalo Wild Wings that could create coverage of the company's stock and blow revenue estimates out of the water.

Hot Beverage Stocks To Own Right Now: Alkaline Water Company Inc (WTER.OB)

The Alkaline Water Company Inc., formerly Global Lines Inc, incorporated on June 6, 2011, is a developer of electrolysis beverage process, packaged and branded as Alkaline84. Alkaline84 is the Company's flagship product designed to encourage daily consumption of Alkaline Water through a consumer oriented bulk delivery system. The Company is engaged in the development of a national retail bulk distribution network delivering Electrochemically Activated Water (ECA) to consumers everywhere. The Company is focused on the business of distributing and marketing the retail sale of its packaged Alkaline84 branded beverage products.

Alkaline84 is available in two sizes: three liters and one gallon. Alkaline84 is a pH balanced bottled alkaline drinking water enhanced with 84 trace minerals and electrolytes. Alkaline84 is available for consumer sales at a number of major retail locations across the southwestern United States.

Hot Beverage Stocks To Own Right Now: Central European Distribution Corp (CEDCQ.PK)

Central European Distribution Corporation (CEDC), incorporated on September 4, 1997, operates primarily in the alcohol beverage industry. CEDC is a producer of vodka and is Central and Eastern Europe�� integrated spirit beverages business. During the year ended December 31, 2011, as measured by total volume, the Company produced and distributed approximately 33.2 million nine-liter cases . The Company�� business primarily involves the production and sale of its own spirit brands (principally vodka), and the importation on a basis of a range of spirits, wines and beers. Its primary operations are conducted in Poland and Russia. In addition the Company also has operations in Hungary and Ukraine. CEDC has six manufacturing facilities located in Poland and Russia. On February 7, 2011, the Company completed purchasing of the remaining stake of the Whitehall Group.

CEDC is an importer of spirits, wines and beers in Poland, Russia and Hungary. The Company mai ntains import contracts for a number of internationally recognized brands, including Jim Beam Bourbon, Campari, Jagermeister, Remy Martin Cognac, Corona, Budweiser (Budvar), E&J Gallo wines, Carlo Rossi wines, Sutter Home wines, Metaxa Brandy, Sierra Tequila, Teacher�� Whisky, Cinzano, Old Smuggler, Grant�� Whisky and Concha y Toro wines. In addition to its operations in Poland, Russia, and Hungary the Company has Ukraine and distribution agreements for its vodka brands in a number of key export markets including the United Kingdom, Ukraine, the Baltics and the CIS for Green Mark, Zhuravli, Parliament and Zubrowka, the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, France for Zubrowka and many other Western European countries. In 2011, exports represented 11% of its sales by value.

Poland

In Poland, CEDC is the vodka producers with a brand portfolio that includes Absolwent, Zubrowka, Zubrowka Biala, Bols, Palace and Soplica brands, each of which it p roduces at its Polish distilleries. It produces and sells ! vo! dkas primarily in three vodka sectors: premium, mainstream, and economy. The Company owns two production sites in Poland: one in Oborniki and one in Bialystok. In the Oborniki distillery, it produces the Bols and Soplica vodka brands, among other spirit brands. In Bialystok it produces Absolwent and Zubrowka. Zubrowka is also exported out of Poland to many markets around the world, including the United States, England, Japan and also France. In addition to the Absolwent and Zubrowka brands, in Bialystok it produces the Zubrowka Biala brand. The Company has rights to import and distribute approximately 70 brands of spirits, wine and beer into Poland. It also provides marketing support to the suppliers. During 2011, the Company sold approximately 10.7 million nine-liter cases of vodka, wine and spirits through its Polish business during 2011 including both its own produced vodka brands as well as its exclusive agency import brands. During 2011, the Company sold approximately 1 91 thousand nine-liter cases of Zubrowka outside of Poland. During 2011, the Company�� Polish operations accounted for 26.3% of its revenue.

Russia

CEDC produces Green Mark in Russia and the sub-premium vodkas in Russia, Parliament and Zhuravli. During 2011 the Company introduced new brands to the Russian market Talka, Sotka and Silver Blend. The Company also produces Yamskaya, the economy vodka in Russia, and premixed alcohol drinks, or long drinks. The Company also owns Whitehall, which holds the exclusive rights to the import of such leading premium wine and spirit brands as Concha y Toro, Paul Masson, Robert Mondavi, DeKuyper, Jose Cuervo and Label 5. In addition to these import activities, Whitehall has distribution centers in Moscow, Saint Petersburg, and Rostov as well as a wine and spirits retail network located in Moscow. During 2011, the Company�� Russian operations accounted for 70.2% of its revenue. During 2011,the Company produced a nd sold approximately 16.6 million nine-liter cases of! vodka! t! hrough ! its Russian business in the main vodka segments in Russia: premium, sub-premium, mainstream, economy and cheap. In addition it produced and sold approximately 2.8 million nine-liter cases of long drinks.

Hungary

The Company sells Royal Vodka in Hungary through its Bols Hungary subsidiary. The imported brands to Hungary include Bols Vodka, Zubrowka, Royal Vodka, Campari, Cinzano, Jaegermeister, Bols Liqueurs, Cointreau, Carolans, Galliano, Irish Mist, Jose Cuervo, Calvados Boulard, Remy Martin, Metaxa, St Remy, Grant��, Glenfiddich, Tullamore Dew and Old Smuggler.

Hot Beverage Stocks To Own Right Now: Attitude Drinks Inc (ATTD)

Attitude Drinks Incorporated (Attitude), incorporated on May 10, 1988, is a brand-development company. The Company focuses on the non-alcoholic single serving beverage business, developing and marketing of milk based products in two segments: sports recovery and functional dairy. The Company does not directly manufacture its products but instead outsources the manufacturing process to third party packers.

Attitude has developed its second product, which is branded as Phase III Recovery is a milk-based protein drink which is available in chocolate and vanilla flavors. The Company�� co-packer for its dairy based product is O-AT-KA Milk Products Cooperative, Inc. in Batavia, New York. This product contains 35 grams of protein that are inherent in filtered milk. The product is packaged as a retort-processed shelf stable dairy-based 100% milk-based sports recovery drink in both chocolate and vanilla flavors.

The Company competes with The Coca-Cola Company and Pepsico Inc.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Peter Graham]

    Small cap stocks Attitude Drinks Inc (OTCMKTS: ATTD), Axiologix, Inc (OTCMKTS: AXLX) and Unisource Corporation (OTCMKTS: USRC) have all been getting some attention lately in investment emails or investor alerts thanks in part to paid promotions. And while there is nothing wrong with properly disclosed paid promotions or investor relations activity, such activity can backfire on unwary investors or traders. With that in mind, here is a closer look at all three small cap stocks to help you decide whether they are truly hot or not:

Hot Beverage Stocks To Own Right Now: Central European Distribution Corp (CEDCQ)

Central European Distribution Corporation (CEDC), incorporated on September 4, 1997, operates primarily in the alcohol beverage industry. CEDC is a producer of vodka and is Central and Eastern Europe�� integrated spirit beverages business. During the year ended December 31, 2011, as measured by total volume, the Company produced and distributed approximately 33.2 million nine-liter cases . The Company�� business primarily involves the production and sale of its own spirit brands (principally vodka), and the importation on a basis of a range of spirits, wines and beers. Its primary operations are conducted in Poland and Russia. In addition the Company also has operations in Hungary and Ukraine. CEDC has six manufacturing facilities located in Poland and Russia. On February 7, 2011, the Company completed purchasing of the remaining stake of the Whitehall Group.

CEDC is an importer of spirits, wines and beers in Poland, Russia and Hungary. The Company maintains import contracts for a number of internationally recognized brands, including Jim Beam Bourbon, Campari, Jagermeister, Remy Martin Cognac, Corona, Budweiser (Budvar), E&J Gallo wines, Carlo Rossi wines, Sutter Home wines, Metaxa Brandy, Sierra Tequila, Teacher�� Whisky, Cinzano, Old Smuggler, Grant�� Whisky and Concha y Toro wines. In addition to its operations in Poland, Russia, and Hungary the Company has Ukraine and distribution agreements for its vodka brands in a number of key export markets including the United Kingdom, Ukraine, the Baltics and the CIS for Green Mark, Zhuravli, Parliament and Zubrowka, the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, France for Zubrowka and many other Western European countries. In 2011, exports represented 11% of its sales by value.

Poland

In Poland, CEDC is the vodka producers with a brand portfolio that includes Absolwent, Zubrowka, Zubrowka Biala, Bols, Palace and Soplica brands, each of which it produces at its Polish distilleries. It produces and sells vodka! s primarily in three vodka sectors: premium, mainstream, and economy. The Company owns two production sites in Poland: one in Oborniki and one in Bialystok. In the Oborniki distillery, it produces the Bols and Soplica vodka brands, among other spirit brands. In Bialystok it produces Absolwent and Zubrowka. Zubrowka is also exported out of Poland to many markets around the world, including the United States, England, Japan and also France. In addition to the Absolwent and Zubrowka brands, in Bialystok it produces the Zubrowka Biala brand. The Company has rights to import and distribute approximately 70 brands of spirits, wine and beer into Poland. It also provides marketing support to the suppliers. During 2011, the Company sold approximately 10.7 million nine-liter cases of vodka, wine and spirits through its Polish business during 2011 including both its own produced vodka brands as well as its exclusive agency import brands. During 2011, the Company sold approximately 191 thousand nine-liter cases of Zubrowka outside of Poland. During 2011, the Company�� Polish operations accounted for 26.3% of its revenue.

Russia

CEDC produces Green Mark in Russia and the sub-premium vodkas in Russia, Parliament and Zhuravli. During 2011 the Company introduced new brands to the Russian market Talka, Sotka and Silver Blend. The Company also produces Yamskaya, the economy vodka in Russia, and premixed alcohol drinks, or long drinks. The Company also owns Whitehall, which holds the exclusive rights to the import of such leading premium wine and spirit brands as Concha y Toro, Paul Masson, Robert Mondavi, DeKuyper, Jose Cuervo and Label 5. In addition to these import activities, Whitehall has distribution centers in Moscow, Saint Petersburg, and Rostov as well as a wine and spirits retail network located in Moscow. During 2011, the Company�� Russian operations accounted for 70.2% of its revenue. During 2011,the Company produced and sold approximately 16.6 million nine-liter cases of vodka th! rough its! Russian business in the main vodka segments in Russia: premium, sub-premium, mainstream, economy and cheap. In addition it produced and sold approximately 2.8 million nine-liter cases of long drinks.

Hungary

The Company sells Royal Vodka in Hungary through its Bols Hungary subsidiary. The imported brands to Hungary include Bols Vodka, Zubrowka, Royal Vodka, Campari, Cinzano, Jaegermeister, Bols Liqueurs, Cointreau, Carolans, Galliano, Irish Mist, Jose Cuervo, Calvados Boulard, Remy Martin, Metaxa, St Remy, Grant��, Glenfiddich, Tullamore Dew and Old Smuggler.

Hot Beverage Stocks To Own Right Now: Alkaline Water Company Inc (WTER)

The Alkaline Water Company Inc., formerly Global Lines Inc, incorporated on June 6, 2011, is a developer of electrolysis beverage process, packaged and branded as Alkaline84. Alkaline84 is the Company's flagship product designed to encourage daily consumption of Alkaline Water through a consumer oriented bulk delivery system. The Company is engaged in the development of a national retail bulk distribution network delivering Electrochemically Activated Water (ECA) to consumers everywhere. The Company is focused on the business of distributing and marketing the retail sale of its packaged Alkaline84 branded beverage products.

Alkaline84 is available in two sizes: three liters and one gallon. Alkaline84 is a pH balanced bottled alkaline drinking water enhanced with 84 trace minerals and electrolytes. Alkaline84 is available for consumer sales at a number of major retail locations across the southwestern United States.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Bryan Murphy]

    PepsiCo, Inc. (NYSE:PEP), consider your dominance in the bottled water arena - via Aquafina - under a serious attack. And for The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE:KO), well, your Dasani brand's #2 position in the market share race isn't as secure as you'd like it to be either. There's a new name in town you need to watch out for - Alkaline Water Company Inc. (OTCBB:WTER). This young company is hungry... well, thirsty, and with its impressive product already making a big splash in the few markets its been introduced to, WTER is not only positioned to make a dent in the bottled water revenue being generated by the likes of KO and PEP, this little company may be serving up some solid gains for its investors as well.

  • [By James E. Brumley]

    The initial thought may be that it's a bit of an awkward sales venue. The more one thinks about it - and digs - the more this relationship makes sense. And if you did really deep into the details (into a philosophical level), a "whole is greater than the sum of its parts" scenario surfaces. What's this not-really-unusual relationship? The Alkaline Water Company Inc. (OTCBB:WTER) is now selling its Alkaline88 brand of water through Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN). Take that Primo Water Corporation (NASDAQ:PRMW)!

  • [By CRWE]

    Today, WTER has shed (-4.26%) down -0.020 at $.450 with 2,336,294 shares in play thus far (ref. google finance Delayed: 1:28PM EDT September 17, 2013).

    The Alkaline Water Company Inc. previously reported that Ms. Brande Roderick has agreed to join the Company’s Advisory Board and will undertake an active role in upcoming public relations and awareness campaigns.

Tuesday, February 18, 2014

Top 5 Blue Chip Stocks To Own For 2015

LONDON -- I'm always searching for shares that can help ordinary investors like you make money from the stock market.

So right now I am trawling through the FTSE 100 and giving my verdict on every member of the blue chip index. Simply put, I'm hoping to pinpoint the very best buying opportunities in today's uncertain market.

Today I am looking at�Reed Elsevier� (LSE: REL  ) (NYSE: RUK  ) to determine whether you should consider buying the shares at 734 pence.

I am assessing each company on several ratios:

Price-to-earnings �ratio:�Does the share look good value when compared against its competitors?

Price/earnings to growth:�Does the share look good value factoring in predicted growth?

Yield:�Does the share provide a solid income for investors?

Dividend cover:�Is the dividend sustainable?

So let's look at the numbers:

Price

3-Year EPS Growth

Top 5 Blue Chip Stocks To Own For 2015: McDonald's Corporation(MCD)

McDonald?s Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a worldwide foodservice retailer. It franchises and operates McDonald?s restaurants that offer various food items, soft drinks, coffee, and other beverages. As of December 31, 2009, the company operated 32,478 restaurants in 117 countries, of which 26,216 were operated by franchisees; and 6,262 were operated by the company. McDonald?s Corporation was founded in 1948 and is based in Oak Brook, Illinois.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Diane Alter]

    Dividend Stocks That Increased Payout in September

    Accenture plc (NYSE: ACN) announced a 14.8%, or $0.12 per share, increase to its semiannual dividend. The management consulting firm will now pay a semiannual dividend of $0.93. Shares yield 2.53%. Agruim Inc. (NYSE: AGU) boosted its dividend by $1.00 per share to a total dividend of $3.00 on an annualized basis. Shares of the global retailer of agricultural products now sprout a 3.54% yield. Air Industries Group Inc. (NYSE: AIRI) doubled its dividend to $0.125 per share. The maker of airplane and helicopter parts now floats a lofty yield of 6.6%. Alexandria Real Estate Equities Inc. (NYSE: ARE) upped its dividend 4.6% to $0.68 per quarter for a yield of 4.21%. Banner Corp. (Nasdaq: BANR) boosted its quarterly dividend 25% to $0.15 per share. The parent company of Banner and Islander Bank serves the Pacific Northwest region. Brady Corp. (NYSE: BRC) lifted its quarterly dividend 2.6% to $0.78 per share. It was the 28th straight dividend increase from the identification solutions company. Shares yield 2.57%. Campbell Soup Co. (NSE: CPB) raised its quarterly dividend to $0.31 per share, up from $0.29. The company last raised its dividend in November 2010. Shares yield a hearty 3.06%. CLARCOR Inc. (NYSE: CLC) raised its quarterly dividend 26% to $0.17 per share. It's the largest percentage increase from the Tennessee-based diversified marketer of mobile filtration and packaging products in the last 20 years, and it continues the company's consecutive streak of increasing dividends for the last 30 years. Franklin Resources Inc. (NYSE: BEN) boosted its quarterly dividend 2.6% to $0.10 per share. Frisch's Restaurants Inc. (NYSE: FRS) increased its quarterly dividend 12.5% to $0.18. Shares yield 3.10% The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company (NYSE: GT), in a move that suggests good times are ahead, reinstated its dividend at $0.05 per share. Good

Top 5 Blue Chip Stocks To Own For 2015: International Business Machines Corporation(IBM)

International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) provides information technology (IT) products and services worldwide. Its Global Technology Services segment provides IT infrastructure and business process services, including strategic outsourcing, process, integrated technology, and maintenance services, as well as technology-based support services. The company?s Global Business Services segment offers consulting and systems integration, and application management services. Its Software segment offers middleware and operating systems software, such as WebSphere software to integrate and manage business processes; information management software for database and enterprise content management, information integration, data warehousing, business analytics and intelligence, performance management, and predictive analytics; Tivoli software for identity management, data security, storage management, and datacenter automation; Lotus software for collaboration, messaging, and so cial networking; rational software to support software development for IT and embedded systems; business intelligence software, which provides querying and forecasting tools; SPSS predictive analytics software to predict outcomes and act on that insight; and operating systems software. Its Systems and Technology segment provides computing and storage solutions, including servers, disk and tape storage systems and software, point-of-sale retail systems, and microelectronics. The company?s Global Financing segment provides lease and loan financing to end users and internal clients; commercial financing to dealers and remarketers of IT products; and remanufacturing and remarketing services. It serves financial services, public, industrial, distribution, communications, and general business sectors. The company was formerly known as Computing-Tabulating-Recording Co. and changed its name to International Business Machines Corporation in 1924. IBM was founded in 1910 and is based in Armonk, New York.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Cheryl Kaften]

    To remain relevant and competitive, current smart grid vendors -- among them ABB (NYSE: ABB  ) , General Electric (NYSE: GE  ) �, IBM� (NYSE: IBM  ) , �and�Siemens� (NYSE: SI  ) --�may have to make market adjustments, including partnerships, acquisitions, and advances of their own.

  • [By Louis Navellier]

    As you can tell, Oracle is not the only major software player to have issues. Oracle competes with the likes of computing giants International Business Machines (IBM) and Microsoft (MSFT). If you plug all three of these companies in my Portfolio Grader tool, you can see that Microsoft is the strongest right now in terms of buying pressure and fundamentals. So of the three, MSFT is the only stock I’d recommend at current prices.

  • [By Aaron Levitt]

    Buffett did Yacktman one step better and sunk a ton of money — $3.45 billion to be exact — into the integrated energy firm. That makes Berkshire�� buy of XOM the largest new holding since adding International Business Machines (IBM) back in 2011. Overall, the Oracle is now the proud owner of 40.1 million shares of Exxon.

Hot Industrial Conglomerate Stocks To Invest In Right Now: Apple Inc.(AAPL)

Apple Inc., together with subsidiaries, designs, manufactures, and markets personal computers, mobile communication and media devices, and portable digital music players, as well as sells related software, services, peripherals, networking solutions, and third-party digital content and applications worldwide. The company sells its products worldwide through its online stores, retail stores, direct sales force, third-party wholesalers, resellers, and value-added resellers. In addition, it sells third-party Mac, iPhone, iPad, and iPod compatible products, including application software, printers, storage devices, speakers, headphones, and other accessories and peripherals through its online and retail stores; and digital content and applications through the iTunes Store. The company sells its products to consumer, small and mid-sized business, education, enterprise, government, and creative markets. As of September 25, 2010, it had 317 retail stores, including 233 stores in the United States and 84 stores internationally. The company, formerly known as Apple Computer, Inc., was founded in 1976 and is headquartered in Cupertino, California.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Evan Niu, CFA]

    If Google intends to launch Android 5.0 along with the X Phone in October, it's going to be a busy fall. Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL  ) is launching new products "this fall" and if the Mac maker sticks to an approximate one-year product cycle, we could be talking about new iPhones and iPads all due out at the same time. Apple just announced iOS 7, the next major version of its own mobile operating system, which will likely launch alongside the new hardware also.

  • [By Dividends4Life]

    Memberships and Peers: MSFT is a member of the S&P 500. The company's peer group includes: Apple Inc. (AAPL) with a 2.5% yield, Oracle Corp. (ORCL) with a 1.5% yield and Google Inc. (GOOG) with a 0.0% yield.

  • [By Doug Ehrman]

    The recent statistics released by Gartner�regarding the worldwide sale of devices including smartphones, tablets, and PCs, could lead you to conclude that Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT  ) is in trouble. Rather than accept this as pure reality, Fool.com contributor Doug Ehrman discusses different perspectives on the numbers in the video below. While it would be difficult to argue that Microsoft is keeping pace with either Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL  ) or Google (NASDAQ: GOOG  ) on certain fronts, Microsoft continues to have its unique strengths.

  • [By Mike Deane]

    In advance of Apple Inc.’s (AAPL) launch of the iPhone 5c and 5s in China, the technology giant has cut the price of the phones for the Chinese market.

    Apple’s China website has prices listed at 4,938 yuan for the iPhone 5s and 4,138 yuan for the 5c, marking a 350 yuan price cut from both prices. In Hong Kong, Apple has cut the prices by HK$390 to HK$5,198 for the 5s and HK$4,298 for the the 5c.

    Apple’s iPhones are expected to launch in China on January 17. Apple and China Mobile made a deal last month for the Chinese phone company to start carrying Apple’s phones.

    Apple shares were up $2.98, or 0.56%, in pre-market trading. The company is just 6.71% off its 52-week high.

Top 5 Blue Chip Stocks To Own For 2015: Colgate-Palmolive Company(CL)

Colgate-Palmolive Company, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures and markets consumer products worldwide. It offers oral care products, including toothpaste, toothbrushes, and mouth rinses, as well as dental floss and pharmaceutical products for dentists and other oral health professionals; personal care products, such as liquid hand soap, shower gels, bar soaps, deodorants, antiperspirants, shampoos, and conditioners; and home care products comprising laundry and dishwashing detergents, fabric conditioners, household cleaners, bleaches, dishwashing liquids, and oil soaps. The company offers its oral, personal, and home care products under the Colgate Total, Colgate Max Fresh, Colgate 360 Advisors' Opinion:

  • [By Dividends4Life]

    Memberships and Peers: KMB is a member of the S&P 500, a Dividend Aristocrat, a member of the Broad Dividend Achievers��Index and a Dividend Champion. The company's peer group includes: The company's peer group includes: Procter & Gamble Co. (PG) with a 3.1% yield, Colgate-Palmolive Co. (CL) with a 2.3% yield, and Clorox Corporation (CLX) with a 3.4% yield.

  • [By Dan Caplinger]

    Investors have always been interested in stocks that pay dividends, but lately, low interest rates on bonds and other fixed-income investments have made solid dividend payers even more valuable. Among the most promising dividend stocks in the market is Colgate-Palmolive (NYSE: CL  ) , and one big reason is that it is one of the few exclusive companies to make the list of Dividend Aristocrats. In order to become a member of this elite group, a company must have raised its dividend payouts to shareholders every single year for at least a quarter-century. Only a few dozen stocks manage to make the cut, and those that do tend to stay there for a long time.

Top 5 Blue Chip Stocks To Own For 2015: Philip Morris International Inc(PM)

Philip Morris International Inc., through its subsidiaries, engages in the manufacture and sale of cigarettes and other tobacco products in markets outside of the United States. Its international product brand line comprises Marlboro, Merit, Parliament, Virginia Slims, L&M, Chesterfield, Bond Street, Lark, Muratti, Next, Philip Morris, and Red & White. The company also offers its products under the A Mild, Dji Sam Soe, and A Hijau in Indonesia; Diana in Italy; Optima and Apollo-Soyuz in the Russian Federation; Morven Gold in Pakistan; Boston in Colombia; Belmont, Canadian Classics, and Number 7 in Canada; Best and Classic in Serbia; f6 in Germany; Delicados in Mexico; Assos in Greece; and Petra in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. It operates primarily in the European Union, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Canada, and Latin America. The company is based in New York, New York.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Laura Brodbeck]

    Thursday

    Earnings Expected From: Credit Suisse Group (NYSE: CS), Expedia Inc. (NASDAQ: EXPE), Kellogg Company (NYSE: K), LinkedIn Corporation (NYSE: LNKD), Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE: PM) Economic Releases Expected: French trade balance, British trade balance, eurozone consumer confidence, German industrial production, Bank of England interest rate decision, European Central Bank interest rate decision, US initial and continuing jobless claims, Chinese trade balance

    Friday

  • [By Dividend]

    Philip Morris International (PM) has a market capitalization of $135.05 billion. The company employs 87,100 people, generates revenue of $77.393 billion and has a net income of $9.154 billion. Philip Morris International�� earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) amounts to $14.827 billion. The EBITDA margin is 19.16 percent (the operating margin is 17.89 percent and the net profit margin 11.83 percent).

Top 5 Blue Chip Stocks To Own For 2015: Chevron Corporation(CVX)

Chevron Corporation, through its subsidiaries, engages in petroleum, chemicals, mining, power generation, and energy operations worldwide. It operates in two segments, Upstream and Downstream. The Upstream segment involves in the exploration, development, and production of crude oil and natural gas; processing, liquefaction, transportation, and regasification associated with liquefied natural gas; transportation of crude oil through pipelines; and transportation, storage, and marketing of natural gas, as well as holds interest in a gas-to-liquids project. The Downstream segment engages in the refining of crude oil into petroleum products; marketing of crude oil and refined products primarily under the Chevron, Texaco, and Caltex brand names; transportation of crude oil and refined products by pipeline, marine vessel, motor equipment, and rail car; and manufacture and marketing of commodity petrochemicals, plastics for industrial uses, and fuel and lubricant additives. It a lso produces and markets coal and molybdenum; and holds interests in 13 power assets with a total operating capacity of approximately 3,100 megawatts, as well as involves in cash management and debt financing activities, insurance operations, real estate activities, energy services, and alternative fuels and technology business. Chevron Corporation has a joint venture agreement with China National Petroleum Corporation. The company was formerly known as ChevronTexaco Corp. and changed its name to Chevron Corporation in May 2005. Chevron Corporation was founded in 1879 and is based in San Ramon, California.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Tony Daltorio]

    Although it may be hard to believe, the shale revolution is not being led by the major oil companies such as Exxon Mobil Corp. (NYSE: XOM), Chevron Corp. (NYSE: CVX), and Royal Dutch Shell plc (NYSE: RDS.A).

  • [By Jim Jubak]

    First, the jump in the stock was a recognition of the company's extraordinary exploration success over the last three years and its prospects going forward. In 2013, Statoil accounted for 10% of all new resources discovered by the entire global oil industry. In 2013, Statoil discovered new reserves of 1.25 billion barrels, a hefty amount for a company that produced 700 million barrels in 2013. For the last three years, the discoveries come to 3.9 billion barrels. Over that period, Statoil's average annual reserve replacement ratio is 119%. Among the global oil majors, only Chevron (CVX) has a higher reserve replacement ratio. And the company's success in finding more oil than it pumps looks set to continue going forward: Credit Suisse estimates that Statoil will grow production by 3.5% a year for the rest of the current decade. (Chevron is, again, the only global major projected to beat this production growth.)

Top 5 Blue Chip Stocks To Own For 2015: Visa Inc.(V)

Visa Inc., a payments technology company, engages in the operation of retail electronic payments network worldwide. It facilitates commerce through the transfer of value and information among financial institutions, merchants, consumers, businesses, and government entities. The company owns and operates VisaNet, a global processing platform that provides transaction processing services. It also offers a range of payments platforms, which enable credit, charge, deferred debit, debit, and prepaid payments, as well as cash access for consumers, businesses, and government entities. The company provides its payment platforms under the Visa, Visa Electron, PLUS, and Interlink brand names. In addition, it offers value-added services, including risk management, issuer processing, loyalty, dispute management, value-added information, and CyberSource-branded services. The company is headquartered in San Francisco, California.

Advisors' Opinion:
  • [By Chuck Carnevale]

    Visa Inc. (V)

    Even though Visa did not make my cut, I thought it would be interesting to showcase their phenomenal record. Therefore, dividend growth investors interested in total return might want to take a closer look at Visa.

  • [By Sital S. Patel]

    Ellison wants to hear from management about how they plan to reinvent the bank in the next few years. Companies like The Blackstone Group (BX) �and BlackRock Inc. (BLK) � or some of the processors like Visa (V) �and Discover Financial Services (DFS) � are doing new, innovative things that are working, notes the portfolio manager.

  • [By Sam Robson]

    LONDON: Following reports that�Verizon Communications (NYSE: V  ) �has hired advisors on a bid to buy out its stake in Verizon Wireless,�Vodafone (LSE: VOD  ) (NASDAQ: VOD  ) �soared in trading today, pushing 200p -- a height not previously seen since December 2001.

Friday, February 14, 2014

VF Corp Misses Estimates; Shares Fall (VFC)

Before the opening bell on Friday morning, VF Corp (VFC) reported its fourth quarter earnings, posting higher revenues and earnings from last year’s Q4, but still missing analysts’ expectations.

VFC’s Earnings in Brief

VFC reported fourth quarter revenues of $3.258 billion, which are up 9% from last year’s Q4 revenues of $3.003 billion. Net income for the quarter came in at $367.7 million, up 10% from the $334 million reported for last year’s Q4. VF Corp reported Q4 EPS of 82 cents, up 9% from the 75 cents reported for last year’s Q4. VFC missed analysts’ EPS estimates of 84 cents, and came in slightly below revenue views of $3.34 billion. Looking ahead to FY2014, VFC sees EPS in the range of $3 to $3.05, which is below analysts’ expectations of $3.09.

CEO Commentary

VF’s chairman and CEO, Eric Wiseman, had the following to say about the company’s earnings: "2013 was a terrific year for VF with record gross margin and earnings per share. The combined power of our brands and platforms remains our greatest competitive advantage enabling us to push the envelope on product innovation to connect even more intensely with consumers and providing stellar returns to our shareholders.”

VFC Declares Dividend

VF Corp declared its quarterly dividend of 26.25 cents, which is payable on March 20, 2014 to all shareholders on record as of March 10.

Stock Performance

VFC stock was down $3.59, or 5.99%, in pre-market trading. YTD, the company’s stock is down 3.99%.

Thursday, February 6, 2014

LabCorp: There Should Be a Test For Guidance This Bad

Any time a stock falls more than 10% in a single day, you know something has gone wrong. Such is the case with medical-testing provider Laboratory Corporation of America (LH), or LabCorp.

REUTERS

LabCorp released its earnings forecasts for 2014, and the market was not happy. It’s not hard to see why: LabCorp said it would earn a profit of $6.50 a share next year, below forecasts for $7.52.

As a result, LabCorp has dropped 11% to $87.79 and has helped drag down competitors like Quest Diagnostics (DGX), and BioReference Laboratories (BRLI).

Which begs the question: Who in their right mind would want to recommend buying LabCorp’s shares now?

Maxim Group’s Anthony Vendetti and Bryan Brokmeier, that’s who. They write:

Despite today's expected sell off, we recommend that investors Buy shares of LH following yesterday's disappointing guidance. The company attributed the lower guidance to a "very difficult operating environment" caused by higher deductible and co-pay plans, insurance reimbursement issues, and Obamacare uncertainties. While the pricing and healthcare utilization environment remains challenging, overall testing volumes should improve in 2015 with support from the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Moreover, LH's tight cost controls and diligent capital deployment, including share buybacks and small strategic acquisitions, should drive EPS and strong FCF.

Vendetti and Brokmeier reiterated their Buy on LabCorp, which trades at 12.6 times next year’s earnings, according to FactSet, below Quest Diagnostics 14.2 times and BioReference’s 16.4 times.

Wednesday, February 5, 2014

Go with a 'Recession Proof' Player

Top Solar Stocks For 2015

Sometimes, obvious is best: go with a "recession-proof" player.

Are you worried about slowing economic growth, or worse, looming on the horizon? If so, it might be good to play with a company that managed to show EPS growth during both of America's most recent official recessionary periods, in 2001 and 2008 to 2009.

What company managed to grow earnings even when the economy was tanking? It was the much-despised low price champion, Wal-Mart (WMT).

When recession struck in 2001 its EPS grew from $1.40 to $1.50. The more recent "Great Recession" barely slowed this juggernaut. EPS ticked up 7% to $3.66 in the year ended January 2009, then kept right on going, registering $4.07 the next year while the country hunkered down.

There has been no letup since. Wal-Mart's board was smart enough to massively increase their share buyback activity during 2010 to 2013 while the stock was trading at only 11 to 13 times earnings.

You might not shop there yourself or like Wal-Mart's style, but the company's statistics are impressive. Financial strength, share price stability and earnings predictability garner Value Line's highest possible ratings. The only reason WMT's long-term stock performance was about average was the premium P/E of around 40 that it commanded a decade ago.

A relatively well known value investor saw fit to make Wal-Mart his seventh largest holding.

Option-savvy investors can either lock in cash profits, or a great entry point, by selling WMT January 2016, $70 puts.

Late on Tuesday afternoon, Feb. 4, 2014, these options last traded at $7.00 per share with the underlying shares at $72.54. Sellers of these long-term puts collect $700 per contract for each 100 share commitment to buy, if exercised, at a net price of just $63.00 ($70 strike price - $7 put premium).

Wal-Mart hasn't been available to buy at that low an absolute price since just after it gapped higher, 21 months ago, in May of 2012. Trailing earnings at that time were $4.57 versus about $5.20 today. Quarterly dividends have risen by 26.4% since then.

Stop worrying about trying to call the bottom of the sell-off. Write a few long term WMT puts. That represents nothing more complicated than agreeing to buy shares of a outstanding company at a great price, if exercised.

Anyone willing to buy WMT at a net cost of $66.80 per share could consider writing the slightly more aggressive WMT Jan. 2016, $80 put at $13.20. That higher strike price trades away a little margin of safety, compared with the $70 strike, for an extra $6.20 per share in upside if WMT rebounds to $80 or better by expiration date.

Disclosure: Short WMT Jan. 2016, $70 puts

About the author:Dr. Paul Pricehttp://www.RealMoneyPro.com
http://www.MarketShadows.com
http://www.TalkMarkets.com

Visit Dr. Paul Price's Website


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Monday, February 3, 2014

How Green Are These Small Cap Green Stocks for Investors? HCTI, PGLO & TGGI

Small cap green stocks Hybrid Coating Technologies, Inc (OTCBB: HCTI), Pan Global Corp (OTCMKTS: PGLO) and Trans Global Group Inc (OTCMKTS: TGGI) have been getting some attention lately in various investment newsletters or alerts with two of these stocks also being the subject of some paid promotions. But will these small cap green stocks actually deliver some green in the form of greenbacks for investors? Let's take off the green eyeshades and take a closer look:

Hybrid Coating Technologies, Inc (OTCBB: HCTI) Has Expanded Its Green Technology

Small cap Hybrid Coating Technologies, Inc is a San Francisco-based innovator focused on improving the quality and safety of coatings and paint for industrial and commercial customers around the world and it's the exclusive licensee of Green Polyurethane(TM) coatings and paint - the world's first-ever patent protected polyurethane-based coatings and paint products which eliminate toxic isocyanates from the entire production process (licensed by Nanotech Industries, Inc). On Friday, Hybrid Coating Technologies, Inc rose 2.13% to $0.48 for a market cap of $44.27 million plus HCTI is up 20% over the past year and down 96.9% since August 2009 according to Google Finance.

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What's the Catch With Hybrid Coating Technologies, Inc? According to various disclosures, one promoter was compensated $1250 by non-controlling third party, Maximum Financial Partners for the video production, newsletter and SMM (Social Media Marketing) about Hybrid Coating Technologies, Inc. About a week and a half ago, Hybrid Coating Technologies, Inc announced that it had expanded its technology with a new UV curing formulation that allows the company's floor coating products to fully cure within an hour instead of 7 days which is currently the normal industry standard. The press release noted that the company's coating products address a $35 billion global industrial and specialty coatings market. Other than that press release, the newsfeeds for Hybrid Coating Technologies, Inc on Yahoo! Finance just contain the usual assortment of SEC filings. A quick look at Hybrid Coating Technologies, Inc's financials reveals revenues of $48k (most recent reported quarter), $5k, $3k and $53k for the past four reported quarters along with net losses of $821k (most recent reported quarter), $1,571k, $774k and $510k. At the end of last September, Hybrid Coating Technologies, Inc had no cash to cover $4,037k in current liabilities and $1,279k in long term debt. So while the coatings market might be worth $35 billion, Hybrid Coating Technologies, Inc has yet to grab even a tip the the iceberg for its products and investors might want to wait for more financials to appear.

Pan Global Corp (OTCMKTS: PGLO) is Investing in Indian Hydropower

Top 5 Construction Stocks To Own Right Now

Small cap Pan Global Corp through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Pan Asia Infratech, Corp., is focused on environmentally sustainable energy, infrastructure and technologies. On Friday, Pan Global Corp rose 4% to $0.260 for a market cap of $119.61 million plus PGLO is down 87% since last March according to Google Finance data.

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What's the Catch With Pan Global Corp? According to various disclosures, transactions of $5k, $9k and $17k have or will occur to mention Pan Global Corp in various investment newsletters. Last Tuesday, Pan Global Corp announced that it had recently consummated the Third Tranche of the First Closing of its previously announced staggered acquisition of 100% of the outstanding shares and convertible debt of Regency Yamuna Energy Limited - a privately held India corporation which is commissioning a 5.7 MW small-hydro project in northern India. RYEL is required to use the proceeds from the Third Tranche closing for the completion of the Project. In mid January, Pan Global Corp announced the commencement of its due diligence investigation process for a second potential small-hydro plant acquisition in northern India with a capacity of 9.5MW. Tractebel Engineering Pvt. Ltd. was reviewing the project on behalf of the company. A look at Pan Global Corp's financials reveals revenues of zero (most recent reported quarter), $15k, zero and zero for the past four quarters along with net losses of $64k (most recent reported quarter), $107k, $6k and $7k. At the end of September, Pan Global Corp had $7k in cash to cover $447k in current liabilities. So thus far, investing in Indian hydropower has yet to pay off for Pan Global Corp or for its investors.

Trans Global Group Inc (OTCMKTS: TGGI) Recently Announced It Was Buying a Solar Installation Company

Small cap Trans Global Group Inc combines science and technology to reduce customer energy consumption, lower their homes carbon footprint and increase the efficiency of their energy products which results in a reduction in energy costs. On Friday, Trans Global Group Inc closed at $0.0004 for a market cap of $1.42 million plus TGGI is up 100% over the past year and down 99.96% over the past five years according to Google Finance.

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What's the Catch With Trans Global Group Inc? According to various disclosures, no transactions have occurred to mention Trans Global Group Inc in various investment newsletters. Trans Global Group Inc has also been quiet since last November when it announced that subsidiary Green Energy Savings Corp had executed an agreement to acquire Prestige Solar Products Inc, a Florida company licensed with the State of Florida to install solar products, as a wholly owned subsidiary. The purchase price is $200,000 (apparently in the form of a private placement at $.05 per share) of which $50,000 was due at closing on December 15, 2013 with the balance of $150,000 spread out over a 12 month period beginning March 1, 2014. According to the press release, the purchase of Prestige Solar will add an additional 20% to the bottom line for Green Energy with a typical sale averaging about $12,000 (of which up to 50% will now go toward Green Energy's bottom line revenues). However, the most recent financials for Trans Global Group Inc on either Google Finance or Yahoo! Finance date from the end of September 2012 – meaning its investor beware.