Friday, March 18, 2011

DailyMarkets.com - How Large, New Shale Oil Formations Around The Globe Are Estimated

DailyMarkets.com - How Large, New Shale Oil Formations Around The Globe Are Estimated

How Large, New Shale Oil Formations Around The Globe Are Estimated

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 05:45 PM PDT

How much oil is there in newly economic shale oil deposits around the world?

We won't know that for 50 years or more, but it's not stopping energy companies from publicizing some extremely large prospective resource estimates – like, tens of billions of barrels of oil – with almost no data to back it up, and only one similar play on earth with any operating history.  A prospective resource is an estimate of the amount of oil that might be the recoverable volume of oil in an … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Telus To Invest In Ottawa

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 05:35 PM PDT

Telus Corporation (NYSE:TU) will invest $4.5 million in Ottawa.
The second largest Canadian telecommunications company expects the investment to enhance its networking system in the capital city, in turn promoting faster wireless and wireline services for consumers, businesses and healthcare providers. The investment in Ottawa is an addition to the $20 billion capital invested in Ontario over a decade.
The Ottawa investment will facilitate the advanced communications technology with enhanced … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Shuffle: Wait Ends For CEO

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 05:05 PM PDT

Shuffle Master Inc. (NASDAQ:SHFL) recently announced the appointment of Gavin Isaacs as its chief executive officer (CEO) after an extensive search process. Isaacs will assume his new responsibility on April 1, 2011. However, his appointment still awaits regulatory approvals.
Former CEO, Timothy Parrott stepped down last April on medical grounds and during this one-year period the company saw two interim CEO changes. The first interim CEO was chairman Phillip Peckman who served from April to … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

UTX Propeller Control System For US Navy

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 05:05 PM PDT

Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation, a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX), has been awarded a contract by Naval Air Systems Command for the procurement and installation of as many as 25 electronic propeller control system (EPCS) aircraft kits.
This will make available 20 kits for the U.S. Navy Reserve’s C-130T aircraft and five kits for the U.S. Air National Guard’s LC-130H aircraft. 
The kits have been flying for the Air National Guard in an operational evaluation for four … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

ERTS Musters 1.5 Million Beta Users

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 05:05 PM PDT

Electronic Arts (NASDAQ:ERTS) and Bioware, a Canadian electronic entertainment company, have received nearly 1.5 million signups for the beta version of their upcoming massive multi-player online game (MMO) Star Wars: The Old Republic.
The players selected to play the Beta version will be informed through emails. The beta testers will have access to the game and provide valuable inputs to the company in order to enhance every aspect of the game play to ensure a better gaming experience when the game … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Monetary Policy Week In Review – 19 March 2011

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 04:41 PM PDT

The past week saw a lot of monetary policy announcements but only a few changes. Of those making changes, India increased +25bps to 6.75%, Chile increased +50bps to 4.00%, and Colombia increased +25bps to 3.50%. Meanwhile the rest held their rates steady (Latvia, Hong Kong, US, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland), but Japan – thought it held its rate unchanged – announced it would undertake further purchases as part of its asset purchase program to give its economy and financial markets a much needed … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Transocean’s Rig Status

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 04:40 PM PDT

In the March fleet update report, Transocean Ltd. (RIG) announced the completed sale of its shallow-water rig, Transocean Mercury. The company did not divulge the financial terms and other details of the deal. This sale comes close on the heels of the disposal of the high-specification jackup Trident 20 in February 2010.
Constructed in the Scottish shipyard Upper Clyde Shipbuilders in 1969, the Mercury rig had the capacity to drill at a total depth of 20,000 feet while operating in up to 250 … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Reinsurance Group Reiterated At Neutral

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 04:35 PM PDT

We are reiterating a Neutral recommendation on the shares of Reinsurance Group of America Inc. (RGA) following the release of fourth quarter and fiscal 2010 results.
Reinsurance Group's fourth quarter 2010 results were significantly ahead of the Zacks Consensus Estimate, aided by higher net written premiums coupled with an increase in net investment income.
Reinsurance Group has diversified its operations and holds a significant position in the U.S and Canada.It has fully geared itself to … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Banks Under Probe In LIBOR Case

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 04:35 PM PDT

TheFinancial Times recently reported that regulators investigating manipulations in the London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) during 2006-2008 are now focused on probing five global banks.
Four of these banks – Bank of America Corporation (NYSE:BAC), Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:C), UBS AG (NYSE:UBS) and Barclays PLC (NYSE:BCS) – have received subpoenas. Though the fifth bank, Germany's WestLB AG, did not receive a subpoena, investigators have demanded information from it.
The agencies involved in the probe … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

GE Turbine Technology Gets Russian Nod

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 04:35 PM PDT

Power generation company TGK-9 has chosen the advanced gas turbine technology from General Electric Company (NYSE:GE) for a combined-cycle plant meant for supplying heat and electricity to the residents of Berezniki in Russia.
GE will supply two-frame 6FA gas turbines and associated generators plus provide technical assistance, on-site training and performance testing for the combined-cycle project. It is expected that there will be an addition of 220 megawatts of new power for the region.
GE has … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Mack-Cali Extends Lease

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 04:05 PM PDT

Mack-Cali Realty Corporation (NYSE:CLI), one of the largest office REITs in the U.S has recently extended its lease agreement with Movado Group Inc. (NYSE:MOV).  The agreement extends the 90,050-square-foot lease held by Movado at the Mack-Cali Centre II, in Paramus, New Jersey for a period of five years expiring in 2018.
Movado, among the top premier watchmakers in the world, has its corporate headquarters at the Mark-Cali Centre II, a class A property with an overall area of 348,510 … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Xcel, SunPower Start Solar Unit

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 04:05 PM PDT

Solar power producer SunPower Corp. (SPWRA) said that it has completed a 19-megawatt photovoltaic (PV) solar power plant in Colorado’s Alamosa County. The plant will supply solar power to Xcel Energy Inc. (NYSE:XEL).
The Greater Sandhill solar power plant commenced operations on December 22, 2010. Capable of generating power sufficient to serve the annual electricity needs of nearly 5,000 homes, the plant is the largest operating PV solar power plant in Colorado.
SunPower said the Greater … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Qualcomm To Divest Indian Venture

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 04:05 PM PDT

Qualcomm Inc. (NASDAQ:QCOM), the leading chipset maker for mobile handsets worldwide, intends to dispose of its remaining 76% stake in Broadband Wireless Access (BWA) spectrum in India to the local operator Bharti Airtel for around $1.2 billion–$1.3 billion.
In July 2010, Qualcomm sold 24% stake of its Indian broadband venture to Indian telecom operators Global Holdings Corp. and Tulip Telecom Ltd. for a consideration of around $58 million.
In 2010, the Government of India concluded a spectrum … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Kodak Teams Up With IBML

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 04:05 PM PDT

Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE:EK) and Imagine Business Machines, LLC (IBML), a document imaging solutions entity based in Alabama, U.S.A., have recently signed an agreement to expand their global reseller and worldwide service relationships.
Based in New York, Eastman Kodak Company provides imaging technology products and services to the photographic and graphic communications markets across the globe.
Under the new agreement, the reseller and service and support network will serve customers … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Southwest Seeks Mediation

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 03:35 PM PDT

Low-cost carrier Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE:LUV) has decided to seek assistance from the National Mediation Board. This will be through a mediation process defined by the Railway Labor Act.
The request follows Southwest's failed attempts to strike a deal with Transport Workers Union's (TWU) local 550, which represents 185 Southwest dispatchers. The company has been in negotiations with TWU local 550 since December 2009.
Southwest Airlines is highly unionized like its peer United Continental … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Hot Option Plays: Market Both Popped Then Faded On News

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 03:18 PM PDT

Cusick’s Corner
Stocks rose earlier on the day after G7 central banks agreed to coordinate efforts in the currency markets to help weaken the Japanese yen. Japan continues to struggle with their crisis – however, there was not much focus on the news that Japan's nuclear alert level rose from 4 to 5 (on a 7 point scale). The buying later faded shortly after President Obama stated that the US and some of its allies were prepared to launch military action in Libya if the cease fire does not … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Equifax Issues Small Biz Database

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 03:10 PM PDT

Proprietary financial database provider Equifax Inc. (NYSE:EFX) recently conducted an extensive study on the bankruptcy trends of 24 million U.S. small businesses for the year 2010. The data gathered by the company reveals that small business bankruptcy rates have dropped in many areas including different coastal region, with other western regions.
While the rate of bankruptcy has decelerated in many U.S. regions, the small business economic turmoil in California stayed high throughout 2010, … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Airport Trouble For St. Jude CEO

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 03:05 PM PDT

Global medical devices major, St. Jude Medical (NYSE:STJ) recently reported that its CEO, Mr. Daniel Starks, was arrested by New Delhi airport police for carrying ammunition. He was held at the airport after a lone shell was accidentally left in his clothes and discovered as he was moving through the airport.
Mr. Starks, a marksman, was subsequently released by police. Mr. Starks, who respects the local law, has chosen to delay his departure from the country until the matter is completely … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Airport Trouble For St. Jude CEO

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 03:05 PM PDT

Global medical devices major, St. Jude Medical (NYSE:STJ) recently reported that its CEO, Mr. Daniel Starks, was arrested by New Delhi airport police for carrying ammunition. He was held at the airport after a lone shell was accidentally left in his clothes and discovered as he was moving through the airport.
Mr. Starks, a marksman, was subsequently released by police. Mr. Starks, who respects the local law, has chosen to delay his departure from the country until the matter is completely … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

El Paso Offers To Redeem Notes

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 03:05 PM PDT

El Paso Corporation (NYSE:EP) announced a cash tender offer to redeem its seven series of outstanding senior notes. The cash tender offer expires on April 13, 2011. The coupon rate of the outstanding notes ranges from 7.75% to 12.00% and the maturity dates vary from 2012 to 2032.
The company has fixed an early tender date of March 29, 2011. The notes tendered on the scheduled date will receive $30 each per $1,000 principal amount of notes tendered and accepted for purchase.
In October 2010, the … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Earnings Scorecard: Hot Topic

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 03:05 PM PDT

On March 7, 2011, specialty retailer Hot Topic Inc. (NASDAQ:HOTT) announced its financial results for the fourth-quarter and year-end 2010.
Street analysts had more than a week to ponder on the news. In the paragraphs that follow, we cover the recent earnings announcement, subsequent analysts' estimate revisions as well as the Zacks Rank and long-term recommendation for the stock.
Earnings Review
Hot Topic reported fourth quarter fiscal 2010 earnings of 12 cents a share, in line with the Zacks … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

TAM’s Traffic Surges

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 03:05 PM PDT

Brazilian airline company, TAM S.A. (NYSE:TAM), recently reported passenger traffic for the month of February 2011 in comparison with the year-ago quarter and the previous quarter.
The company experienced a 1.5% year-over-year increase in domestic demand and 11.6% rise in the international demand. Compared with this, supply rose by 11.6% and 12.1%, respectively. Supply exceeding demand led to a 6.2% year-over-year decrease in load factor in the domestic market and roughly 0.3% decline in the … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Quests Test Gets NY Approval

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 03:05 PM PDT

Recently, Quest Diagnostics (NYSE:DGX) received approval for its ColoVantage test from New York State’s Department of Health for testing samples of patients. This will prove to be a convenient option for patients aged 50 years or more who resist detection of colorectal cancer by recommended screening methods.
Although the American Cancer Society recommends screening people above 50 years who are at risk of colorectal cancer, only half of this population is up-to-date on screening.
It has been … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Value Addition By Research In Motion

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 03:05 PM PDT

Research In Motion Ltd. (NASDAQ:RIMM) plans to upgrade its service offerings by introducing another value-added service to its portfolio.
The new service will enable the company's business clients to perform  back-office management of email traffic and other BlackBerry services while abroad. This improved service will allow its consumers to save money and time. Additionally, it will provide a solution to the security concern as smartphone usage ramps up among employees.  
Research In … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Sprint Stays Neutral

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 02:35 PM PDT

We are maintaining our long-term Neutral recommendation on Sprint Nextel Corp. (NYSE:S) shares to reflect the absence of a directional momentum in the company’s earnings estimates.
Sprint is experiencing a turnaround in its post-paid wireless business after several years of focussing on cost containment and business stabilization issues.
Sprint added 58,000 net post-paid customers during the fourth quarter, reflecting considerable improvement from a net loss of 504,000 in the year-ago quarter and … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

P&G Stays Neutral

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 02:35 PM PDT

Procter & Gamble (NYSE:PG) aims at driving its long-term growth, mainly by accelerating new product innovation, expanding deeper into emerging markets, and continuing cost-cutting through process simplification and productivity enhancement.
A major growth driver for Procter & Gamble has been the continual expansion of its portfolio of brands, both through internal development and acquisition. Product innovation is strongly supported by management, and the company has had a strong tradition … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

The Central Banker’s Conundrum

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 02:35 PM PDT

With unemployment rates starting to fall in the developed world and inflation rates starting to rise, will central banks finally start to raise their historically low key interest rates?
Don’t count on it.
In the U.S., the Fed has the dual mandate of price stability and full employment. But this can be particularly tricky in a stagflationary environment of high unemployment and high inflation, which some argue we might be entering.
As a result, central banks have been hesitant to raise rates in … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Airport Trouble For St. Jude CEO

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 02:35 PM PDT

Global medical devices major, St. Jude Medical (NYSE:STJ) recently reported that its CEO, Mr. Daniel Starks, was arrested by New Delhi airport police for carrying ammunition. He was held at the airport after a lone shell was accidentally left in his clothes and discovered as he was moving through the airport.
Mr. Starks, a marksman, was subsequently released by police. Mr. Starks, who respects the local law, has chosen to delay his departure from the country until the matter is completely … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

St. Jude CEO Released In New Delhi

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 02:35 PM PDT

Global medical devices major, St. Jude Medical (NYSE:STJ) recently reported that its CEO, Mr. Daniel Starks, was arrested by New Delhi airport police for carrying ammunition. He was held at the airport after a lone shell was accidentally left in his clothes and discovered as he was moving through the airport.
Mr. Starks, a marksman, was subsequently released by police. Mr. Starks, who respects the local law, has chosen to delay his departure from the country until the matter is completely … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Mylan Rests At Neutral

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 02:35 PM PDT

We have maintained our Neutral recommendation on Mylan Inc. (NYSE:MYL) with a target price of $23.00 after appraising fourth quarter and fiscal year 2010 financial results.
Mylan's fourth quarter 2010 earnings (excluding special items) of 45 cents per share were at par with the Zacks Consensus Estimate. Higher operating expenses offset the increase in revenue to deliver in line earnings growth. Earnings were however well above the year-ago figure of 33 cents per share. Revenues climbed 6% to … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Airgas Appoints At Top Level

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 02:35 PM PDT

Airgas Inc. (NYSE:ARG) announced Tony Simonetta as the new President of Airgas East, who will report to Shaun Powers, the President of Airgas Eastern Division. Fred Manley is the former President who has been replaced by Simonetta. Manley joined the Company's national sales leadership team as Vice President – technology and services markets.
Simonetta has worked for 20 years in almost all the diverse fields and functions. As a President of Airgas East, Simonetta will now lead 1,000 employees … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Genomic’s Success On Oncotype DX

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 02:35 PM PDT

Recently, Genomic Health  (NASDAQ:GHDX), an oncology-based biotech company, presented positive result from nine international studies on the effectiveness of OncotypeDX test in early-stage breast cancer patients at a conference in Switzerland. The result was based on the data of UK, Germany and Spain.
Similar results had been observed in the US earlier. Also the data of Greece, Hungary and Singapore were considered in the presentation.
The result based on these region-specific data, showed that … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Capital One Remains Neutral

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 02:35 PM PDT

We are maintaining our Neutral recommendation on Capital One Financial Corp. (NYSE:COF) in the absence of any significant positive or negative catalyst. While we anticipate continued synergies from the company's geographic diversification and resilience in almost all its businesses, rising marketing expenses and weak loan demand will remain the downside.
Capital One's fourth quarter earnings from continuing operations of $1.53 per share were substantially ahead of the Zacks Consensus Estimate … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Forex – EUR/USD Up At The End Of U.S. Session

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 02:10 PM PDT

Forex Pros – The Euro was higher against the U.S. Dollar on Friday.

EUR/USD was trading at 1.4182, up 1.15% at time of writing.

The pair was likely to find support at 1.3856, Tuesday's low, and resistance at 1.4184, today's high.

Meanwhile, the Euro was up against the British Pound and the Japanese Yen, with EUR/GBP gaining 0.54% to hit 0.8736 and EUR/JPY rising 3.31% to hit … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Earnings Preview: First Clues To First Quarter

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 02:05 PM PDT

Earnings Preview 3/18/11

The fourth quarter earnings season is over, but now we are starting to get a few first quarter reports (and a few stragglers for the fourth quarter, many of which are ADRs). That makes for a very light overall earnings week. A total of just 76 firms are due to report. However, an unusually high number of those are members of the S&P 500 — 17.

The fourth quarter earnings season was a strong one, and this week should start to provide clues if that will be true for … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

CGNH: Q1 2011 Results

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 02:05 PM PDT

Brian Marckx, CFA
Q1 2011 Results – No Material Surprises Relative to Our Estimates
 
CardioGenics (CGNH) filed their 10-Q for the period ending January 31, 2011 on March 17, 2011. Results were generally in-line with our expectations with no meaningful surprises. Operating loss was $461k, slightly better than our $515k loss estimate. The difference mostly attributable to $157k in investment tax credits received during the quarter (accounted for as a reduction to R&D expense), … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Edwards Reaffirmed At Neutral

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 02:05 PM PDT

Recently, we reaffirmed our Neutral recommendation on Edwards Lifesciences (NYSE:EW) with a target price of $91.00.
Edwards in one of the leading players in the field of heart valve therapy which accounted for 59% of total revenues in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2010. Contribution from this segment has increased steadily over the past; from 47% in 2007 to 54% in 2009.
The company has a strong product portfolio with many of them having been launched in the recent past. Increased acceptance of … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

GM Shuts Plant For Parts Shortage

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 02:05 PM PDT

General Motors Co. (NYSE:GM) announced that it would temporarily shut down its pick-up truck plant in Louisiana on the back of a parts shortage due to damages caused by earthquake and tsunami in Japan. The plant, which produces Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon, will be closed for the week ending March 21.
However, the automaker asserted that it has sufficient vehicles in its inventory to meet consumer demand. It expects to open the plant as soon as possible, although it did not mention a … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Delta Invests In Infrastructure

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 02:05 PM PDT

The second largest U.S. airline, Delta Air Lines (NYSE:DAL) will invest over $2 billion through 2013 on improving airport facilities and aircraft.
The aircraft improvements will include incorporating more seat recline and legroom  in the economy section on long international flights, adding full-flat business class seats to over 150 international transoceanic aircraft, enhancing movie, music, game options on international and domestic flights. Moreover, the company will expand Wi-Fi to all … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Magellan To Reverse Texas Pipeline

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 02:05 PM PDT

Oil pipeline and storage partnership Magellan Midstream Partners L.P. (MMP) has decided to reverse the direction of flow on a section of a south Texas refined petroleum pipeline and start using it to transport crude oil to Houston area refineries. The initiative – which aims to take advantage of the supply glut at the key delivery hub of Cushing, Oklahoma – is likely to be operational within 18 to 24 months.      
Magellan said that it is moving forward with … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Forex – GBP/USD Up At The End Of U.S. Session

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 02:05 PM PDT

Forex Pros – The British Pound was higher against the U.S. Dollar on Friday.

GBP/USD was trading at 1.6233, up 0.60% at time of writing.

The pair was likely to find support at 1.5979, Tuesday's low, and resistance at 1.6256, today's high.

Meanwhile, the British Pound was down against the Euro and up against the Japanese Yen, with EUR/GBP gaining 0.54% to hit 0.8736 and GBP/JPY rising 2.76% to hit … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Closing Bell Market Monitor: CRA, NKE

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 02:00 PM PDT

03/18/11 The latest in news, commentary, and information on what’s moving the US equities … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Forex – USD/JPY Up At The End Of U.S. Session

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 02:00 PM PDT

Forex Pros – The U.S. Dollar was higher against the Japanese Yen on Friday.

USD/JPY was trading at 80.58, up 2.14% at time of writing.

The pair was likely to find support at 76.41, Wednesday's low, and resistance at 82.46, Monday's high.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Dollar was down against the Euro and the British Pound, with EUR/USD gaining 1.15% to hit 1.4182 and GBP/USD rising 0.60% to hit … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

YRCW Continues To Suffer

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 01:40 PM PDT

The struggling trucking company YRC Worldwide Inc. (NASDAQ:YRCW) continues to suffer from one setback. after another. Last Monday, management announced that the company was suffering from a serious bankruptcy threat since it missed a restructuring milestone.
YRC Worldwide failed to satisfy its Pension Fund condition by the required date. This may prompt the company's creditors to declare YRC Worldwide having defaulted on its credit agreements. If this actually happens, management will have no … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Sprint Stays Neutral

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 01:40 PM PDT

We are maintaining our long-term Neutral recommendation on Sprint Nextel Corp. (NYSE:S) shares to reflect the absence of a directional momentum in the company’s earnings estimates.
Sprint is experiencing a turnaround in its post-paid wireless business after several years of focussing on cost containment and business stabilization issues.
Sprint added 58,000 net post-paid customers during the fourth quarter, reflecting considerable improvement from a net loss of 504,000 in the year-ago quarter and … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

SanDisk Taps New Opportunities

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 01:40 PM PDT

The largest flash card and hard disk manufacturing company SanDisk Corporation (NASDAQ:SNDK) is currently banking on the growth of the smartphone market, which is expected to reach a level of 900 million units by the year 2014.
The company should also benefit from the increased usage of online videos by companies such as Youtube and Netflix (NASDAQ:NFLX), which requires additional storage space through the cloud computing network. The company is of the opinion that this segment offers a great business … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Forex – USD/JPY Up Toward The End Of U.S. Session

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 01:40 PM PDT

Forex Pros – The U.S. Dollar was higher against the Japanese Yen on Friday.

USD/JPY was trading at 80.60, up 2.17% at time of writing.

The pair was likely to find support at 76.41, Wednesday's low, and resistance at 82.46, Monday's high.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Dollar was down against the Euro and the British Pound, with EUR/USD gaining 1.14% to hit 1.4181 and GBP/USD rising 0.64% to hit … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

YRCW Continues To Suffer

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 01:35 PM PDT

The struggling trucking company YRC Worldwide Inc. (NASDAQ:YRCW) continues to suffer from one setback. after another. Last Monday, management announced that the company was suffering from a serious bankruptcy threat since it missed a restructuring milestone.
YRC Worldwide failed to satisfy its Pension Fund condition by the required date. This may prompt the company's creditors to declare YRC Worldwide having defaulted on its credit agreements. If this actually happens, management will have no … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

GOL’s February Traffic Surges

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 01:35 PM PDT

Brazil’s largest low-fare airline operator, GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes S.A. (NYSE:GOL), recently reported positive February passenger traffic details. The company experienced a 4.5% year-over-year increase in demand with domestic demand rising by 4.4% and international by about 5.9%. Recovery in market conditions, particularly Latin America’s return to economic stability, has brought about this sudden spurt in passenger traffic.
International traffic was also influenced by the continuous … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Maxwell Module Gets UK OK

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 01:35 PM PDT

Maxwell Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:MXWL) received European Economic Community (EEC)-Type Approval and Conformity of Production (CoP) for its 125-volt Heavy Transportation Module (HTM125) from the North American office of United Kingdom’s Vehicle Certification Agency.
The EEC-Type Approval confirms that the module meets the EEC vehicle electromagnetic compatibility requirements of Council Directive 72/245/EEC. The CoP clearance certifies that Maxwell’s internal production and documentation control … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Everest Estimates Losses

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 01:35 PM PDT

Yesterday, Bermuda-based reinsurer Everest Re Group Ltd., (NYSE:RE) estimated its first quarter 2011 pre-tax losses to range between $140 million and $210 million, owing to the deadly February 2011 New Zealand earthquake. The estimate is based on a projected industry loss of $8–$12 billion, resulting from the catastrophe.
The Australian floods will likely cause a gross loss of another $45 million to Everest Re, which writes 7% of its Reinsurance business in the Asia/Australia region.
For Everest … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Sprint Stays Neutral

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 01:35 PM PDT

We are currently maintaining our long-term Neutral recommendation on Sprint Nextel Corp. (NYSE:S) based on an uptick in its post-paid business.
Sprint is trading near the upper end of its 52-week high price ($5.31). Yesterday, the share price of Sprit rose 4.12% to $5.06 from the last closing. We believe there can be further appreciation in the share price on a turnaround in post-paid wireless business after several years of focussing on cost containment and business stabilization.
Sprint added … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

General Dynamics Wins Army Contract

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 01:35 PM PDT

General Dynamics Corporation’s (NYSE:GD) Ordnance and Tactical Systems unit received a contract worth $46 million from the U.S. Army Contracting Command, Rock Island III.
The unit will supply 120mm M865 Target Practice, Cone Stablilized, Discarding Sabot-Tracer (TPCSDS-T) and M1002 (Target Practice Multi-Purpose Trace) TPMP-T tank cartridges.
The M865 TPCSDS-T and M1002 TPMP-T tank cartridges offer the army the means for a cost-effective training without the use of high-explosive … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Covidien Escapes Japan Disaster

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 01:35 PM PDT

Covidien (NYSE:COV) recently summarized the impact of the disaster in Japan on its operations in that country. The company stated that its almost 1,500-strong Japan-based workforce is not in danger. Its office in Tokyo is open to business, its plant in Shizuoka is operational and its distribution centers are unharmed. Covidien derived approximately 8% of its revenues in fiscal 2010 from sales in Japan.    
The company is working in tandem with humanitarian and relief organizations … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Forex – EUR/USD Up Toward The End Of U.S. Session

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 01:25 PM PDT

Forex Pros – The Euro was higher against the U.S. Dollar on Friday.

EUR/USD was trading at 1.4174, up 1.09% at time of writing.

The pair was likely to find support at 1.3856, Tuesday's low, and resistance at 1.4184, today's high.

Meanwhile, the Euro was up against the British Pound and the Japanese Yen, with EUR/GBP gaining 0.48% to hit 0.8732 and EUR/JPY rising 3.32% to hit … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

GOL’s February Traffic Surges

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 01:15 PM PDT

Brazil’s largest low-fare airline operator, GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes S.A. (NYSE:GOL), recently reported positive February passenger traffic details. The company experienced a 4.5% year-over-year increase in demand with domestic demand rising by 4.4% and international by about 5.9%. Recovery in market conditions, particularly Latin America’s return to economic stability, has brought about this sudden spurt in passenger traffic.
International traffic was also influenced by the continuous … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

General Mills Gets 50% Of Yoplait

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 01:15 PM PDT

General Mills Inc. (NYSE:GIS) has won a 50% stake in world’s number two dairy company, Yoplait, for $2.2 billion. The Minneapolis, Minnesota-based retail giant had to fight a tough battle with Switzerland’s Nestle and China’s Bright Food Group who were in the race for the buyout.
While China’s Bright Dairy & Food Co reportedly placed the highest offer for Yoplait, it was unable to get final approval from the Chinese authorities.
General Mills is buying Yoplait from Private equity fund PAI … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Colombian Central Bank Raises Rate 25bps To 3.50%

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 01:12 PM PDT

The Banco de la Republica de Colombia increased its key monetary policy rate by 25 basis points to 3.50 percent from 3.25 percent. The move follows Colombia’s credit rating upgrade by one-step to BBB- by Standard & Poor’s this week. Colombia reported consumer price inflation of 0.6% month on month in February, or 3.17% year on year, compared to the central bank’s 2 percent to 4 percent … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

U.S. Markets Mixed At Close; Dow Jones Up 0.71%

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 01:10 PM PDT

Forex Pros – U.S. stocks were mixed after the closing bell on Friday.

At the close of U.S. trade, the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.71%, the S&P 500 index gained 0.43%, while the Nasdaq 100 index declined 0.19%.

Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, European stock markets closed higher. France's CAC 40 was up 0.63%; Germany's DAX gained 0.27%; Britain's FTSE 100 climbed 0.45%; and the EURO STOXX 50 rose … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Earnings Scorecard: Smithfield Foods

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 01:06 PM PDT

On March 9, 2011, world's largest pork and hog producer, Smithfield Foods Inc. (NYSE:SFD) announced its financial results for the fourth-quarter and year-end 2010.
Earnings Review
Smithfield Foods Inc. posted robust earnings of 84 cents per share for the third quarter of fiscal 2011. The result surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 66 cents by 27.3%.
GAAP earnings per share was reported at $1.21 per share, up by 4.5% from the year-ago quarter. The record increase in proforma earnings was … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Earning Preview: Tiffany

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 01:06 PM PDT

Tiffany & Company (NYSE:TIF) is scheduled to report its fourth-quarter 2010 financial results before the bell on Monday, March 21, 2011. The current Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter is $1.39 per share with revenue at $1,092 million.
Third-Quarter 2010, a Synopsis
Tiffany, a high-end jewelry designer, manufacturer and retailer, posted stronger-than-expected third-quarter 2010 results buoyed by a growth in demand for luxury items worldwide. The quarterly earnings of 46 cents per … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

China Raises Reserve Requirements 50bps

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 01:01 PM PDT

The People’s Bank of China increased the required reserve ratio by another 50bps, the third increase this year, placing the ratio at as much as 20% for large banks. The move, intended to restrict Chinese bank lending, takes effect on March 25. China reported inflation of 4.9% in February, compared to the government’s target for 2011 of 4%. This increase in the reserve ratio will likely lock up as much as Rmb370bn in funds that banks would otherwise have been able to lend, as the Bank attempts … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

FDIC Sues 3 WaMu Execs

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 12:55 PM PDT

On Wednesday, The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. (FDIC) sued three former top executives of Washington Mutual (WaMu). Federal regulators accused the executives for taking excessive and historically unmatched risks with the failed bank’s home loan portfolio.
FDIC filed the civil lawsuit in federal court in Seattle against former WaMu CEO Kerry Killinger, Chief Operating Officer Stephen Rotella, Home Loans PresidentDavid Schneider and Killinger’s and Rotella’s wives. The suit alleges that they … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

GOL’s February Traffic Surges

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 12:55 PM PDT

Brazil’s largest low-fare airline operator, GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes S.A. (NYSE:GOL), recently reported passenger traffic for the month of February 2011 in comparison with the year-ago quarter and the previous quarter.
The company experienced a 4.5% year-over-year increase in demand with domestic demand rising by 4.4% and international by about 5.9%. Recovery in market conditions, particularly Latin America’s return to economic stability, has brought about this sudden spurt in passenger … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Intuit Provides ConsumerTax Update

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 12:55 PM PDT

Intuit Inc. (NASDAQ:INTU) recently released the second update for its fiscal year 2011 consumer tax offerings.
Intuit stated that TurboTax federal units grew 23% year over year from February 13 to March 12. TurboTax products and services from Intuit are designed to enable individuals and small business owners to prepare and file their own federal and state personal and small business income tax returns quickly and accurately.
Management stated that the company continues to see strong momentum since … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

First Solar Builds Module Factory

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 12:55 PM PDT

First Solar Inc. (NASDAQ:FSLR) is planning to build its new U.S. manufacturing center in Mesa, Arizona. With an investment of $300 million, the manufacturing center will include four manufacturing lines with a capacity to produce more than 250 megawatts (MW) of advanced thin-film photovoltaic (PV) modules per year.
This facility, located on a 135-acre site, will be designed to accommodate future expansion. It will include a 3MW rooftop solar installation and an extensive ground-mounted PV … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

EUR Hits 2011 High As Trichet Re-affirms ECB Rate Hike In April

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 12:53 PM PDT

In a speech today, Trichet helped support the Euro, as he iterated that the ECB continues on its path of hiking interest rates. When asked about a possible April rate hike, he said the ECB's message has not changed.

From Bloomberg: Trichet Says His Message on ECB's Rate Stance Hasn't Changed
European Central Bank President Jean-Claude Trichet indicated the bank still plans to raise interest rates next month, saying he doesn't want to change his message on the need to … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Forex – GBP/USD Up During The U.S. Session

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 12:45 PM PDT

Forex Pros – The British Pound was higher against the U.S. Dollar on Friday.

GBP/USD was trading at 1.6224, up 0.54% at time of writing.

The pair was likely to find support at 1.5979, Tuesday's low, and resistance at 1.6256, today's high.

Meanwhile, the British Pound was down against the Euro and up against the Japanese Yen, with EUR/GBP gaining 0.48% to hit 0.8732 and GBP/JPY rising 3.10% to hit … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Will Banks Get Addicted To TARP?

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 12:35 PM PDT

Considering the effectiveness in easing credit and capital market pressure and restoring confidence in the financial system as well as a near 99% recovery of the injected money at a lower-than-expected cost, there is no doubt that the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) is a success story. However, will this become a bad habit for big bailed out institutions?
The unclear goals of the program strengthened the perception that some big institutions are "too big to fail", the Congressional … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Fitch Upgrades Whirlpool

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 12:35 PM PDT

The leading manufacturer of home appliances worldwide, Whirlpool Corp. (NYSE:WHR), has been recently upgraded by Fitch Ratings. Fitch raised the investment-grade credit ratings of Whirlpool to “BBB” from “BBB-,” based on the company's improving financial performance, strong balance sheet and growing opportunities in the global appliances industry. Moreover, the ratings outlook stays “stable” for Whirlpool.
A "BBB" rating implies a low risk to default on financial commitments, unless badly … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Manpower Joins With Microsoft

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 12:35 PM PDT

Manpower Inc. (NYSE:MAN), one of the leading employment services provider and Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT), the software giant, recently formed a coalition to promote youth employment and to create opportunities for the next generation leaders across the globe.
As per the MoU, teamwork will start in the Middle Eastand Africa, the part of the world having the maximum number of unemployed people.
The partnership will work toward finding a solution for one of the most critical challenge our society … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

EIA: Crude Builds, Fuels Drop

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 12:35 PM PDT

The U.S. Energy Department’s weekly inventory release showed a build-up in crude stockpiles on the back of climbing imports. At the same time, the agency's report added that fuel inventories were off significantly from the previous week levels, while refinery run-rates increased.
The Energy Information Administration ("EIA") Petroleum Status Report – which contains data for the previous week ending on Friday, outlines information regarding the weekly change in petroleum inventories held … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Monsanto’s New Collaborations

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 12:35 PM PDT

Monsanto (NYSE:MON) has entered into an agreement with BASF to collaborate on the advancement of dicamba (organochlorine compound used as an herbicide) tolerant cropping systems. The financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Headquartered in Germany, BASF is the world’s leading chemical company, with a portfolio of chemicals, plastics, performance products and agricultural products to oil and gas businesses.
Under the agreement, the companies have granted reciprocal licenses and BASF … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Glaxo Diabetes Candidate Disappoints

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 12:35 PM PDT

GlaxoSmithKline (NYSE:GSK) and Tolerx recently presented disappointing results on their late-stage diabetes candidate. Otelixizumab, which is being developed for the treatment of type I diabetes, failed to achieve its primary efficacy end-point in the phase III DEFEND-1 study.
Glaxo and Tolerx, however, said that no new or unexpected safety concerns were observed. While Glaxo intends to continue evaluating additional dosage regimens with the candidate, patient recruitment and dosing in another … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

MetLife Attempts To Exit Taiwan

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 12:35 PM PDT

MetLife Inc.'s (NYSE:MET), in its attempt to sell off its Taiwan unit got three bidders for the unit. Taishin Financial Holding Co. Mercuries Life Insurance Co. and Chinatrust Financial, Taiwan’s top credit card issuer have bid for the Taiwan unit.
MetLife is not the first foreign insurance company contemplating to exit Taiwan. In 2009, Dutch companies like ING Group NV (NYSE:ING) and Aegon NV (NYSE:AEG) are known to have pulled out their businesses from Taiwan.
Also, in January 2011, American … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Arris Remains Neutral

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 12:35 PM PDT

We reaffirm our Neutral recommendation on Arris Group Inc. (NASDAQ:ARRS) following its fourth quarter of 2010 financial results that barely met the Zacks Consensus Estimates.  Arris has diversified its offering into digital video market.
In order to preempt competition, cable service providers are gradually shifting towards an all-IP triple-play converged architecture that will offer cost-effective solutions to their customers. In this context, Arris' innovative IP video gateway solutions may … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

YRCW Suffers Another Setback

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 12:35 PM PDT

The struggling trucking company YRC Worldwide Inc. (NASDAQ:YRCW) continues to suffer from one setback. after another. Last Monday, management announced that the company is suffering from a serious bankruptcy threat since it missed a restructuring milestone.
YRC Worldwide failed to satisfy its Pension Fund condition by the required date. This may prompt the company's creditors to declare YRC Worldwide having defaulted on its credit agreements. If this actually happens, management has no option but … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Tower Downgraded To Underperform

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 12:35 PM PDT

We are downgrading our recommendation on the Tower Group Inc. (NASDAQ:TWGP) to Underperform from Neutral. We believe that a lower interest rate environment and higher expense ratio will suppress earnings in the near term.
A weaker investment yield continues to be a concern for Tower. In response to this environment, management implemented a strategy to purchase dividend-paying common stocks during the fourth quarter of 2010 to enhance investment income. The company is also evaluating alternative … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Weekly Silver Update 3/18/2011 – At Critical 61.8% Retracement Level

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 12:22 PM PDT

Gold and Silver Pullbacks Look Complete (3/17)
Silver (XAG/USD)

- We were anticipating an end to the current pullback, but we see no sign until now, the end of the week.
- The 4H RSI is still below 60. The rally is still below 61.8% retracement in the 1H chart near 35.35.
- There is still a chance for further decline. The bearish outlook opens if the market breaks below 34.60. The target would be 33.55, then we can target the 32.50 swing projection, although there is support (78.6% and … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Forex – USD/CAD Up In U.S. Trade

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 12:10 PM PDT

Forex Pros – The U.S. Dollar was higher against the Canadian Dollar on Friday after the release of Canadian data on Core CPI.

USD/CAD was trading at 0.9855, up 0.07% at time of writing.

The pair was likely to find support at 0.9710, Monday's low, and resistance at 0.9974, Tuesday's high.

Earlier in the day, official data showed that Canadian core consumer price inflation rose less-than-expected to a seasonally adjusted 0.20% last month from 0.00% in the preceding month.

Analysts had … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Stock Market Summary For Friday, March 18, 2011 Special Alert UUP, EUO, NUAN

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 12:07 PM PDT

We are going to add to our watch list additional positions in the PowerShares Double US Dollar Index Bullish Fund (symbol: UUP), the ProShares UltraShort Euro (symbol: EUO), and Nuance Communications (symbol: NUAN) at today’s market closing … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Weekly Gold Update: Bullish Continuation To 1445?

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 11:54 AM PDT

Gold and Silver Pullbacks Look Complete (3/17)
Gold (XAU/USD)

- Gold is trading above 1418, where there should be resistance for a bearish attempt. However, if this pivot is broken, it does not necessarily mean a bullish attempt is to follow. Only a corrective decline fails to break below 1405 will let us know for sure a bullish impulse wave is developing, which means that sideways to bullish action is to follow, and the bearish correction would be over.
- A rally can test the all-time high … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Forex – EUR/USD Up In U.S. Trading Hours

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 11:45 AM PDT

Forex Pros – The Euro was higher against the U.S. Dollar on Friday.

EUR/USD was trading at 1.4166, up 1.03% at time of writing.

The pair was likely to find support at 1.3856, Tuesday's low, and resistance at 1.4184, today's high.

Meanwhile, the Euro was up against the British Pound and the Japanese Yen, with EUR/GBP gaining 0.43% to hit 0.8728 and EUR/JPY rising 3.59% to hit … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Great CPI Graph From WSJ

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 11:25 AM PDT

Great graph above that accompanies a story in today’s WSJ on yesterday’s CPI report.  The width of the bars represent the weights of different components in the CPI, and the height of the bars represent inflation rates (blue) or deflation rates (red) over the 12-month period ending in February 2011.  Obviously, gasoline prices have risen the most over the last year (almost 20%), but rent and the cost of home ownership have have remained fairly flat, and some prices are showing … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates

Japanese Nuclear Crisis Sparks Volatility For London Listed Uranium Players

Posted: 18 Mar 2011 08:59 AM PDT

London's FTSE 100 and AIM markets this week continued their steady decline that started in early March although both indexes bounced mid-week on signs that the UN was preparing to take action on the crisis in Libya, which it did on Thursday night. Ongoing uncertainty around the Middle East and North Africa combined with huge problems in Japan are expected to unsettle markets for some time.

For two years there has been a creeping inevitability that Kalahari Minerals (LON:KAH) would get taken … [visit site to read more] or compare Best Credit Cards and Best CD Rates
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