Thursday, April 26, 2012

DailyMarkets.com - Hot Option Plays: AMZN Defies Newton

DailyMarkets.com - Hot Option Plays: AMZN Defies Newton

Hot Option Plays: AMZN Defies Newton

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 04:48 PM PDT

Cusick’s Corner 04-26-2012
The market rallied back from the lows of the morning — Tech, QQQ, S&Ps, SPY, and even Small Caps, IWM, all resumed their upside climb. This comes after some decent battles with a gap down on the 23rd and gap up on the 25th, and action like this potentially gives the bulls the upper hand, making many traders respect the dips and at this stage causing some buyers to step in. Another beat after the close in Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN) has the stock up $22 in Extended Hours … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Reddit AMA

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 04:08 PM PDT

Reddit AMA: I'll be answering questions on Reddit for the next few hours.  Come join … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Walmart Unveils ‘Pay With Cash’ Option

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 03:58 PM PDT

04/26/12 Walmart launched its “Pay with Cash” payment option for online shoppers without a credit, debit or prepaid card. The retailer announced the shopping option for the “Underbanked” and … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

If Separate, America’s Manufacturing Sector Would Rank As The Tenth Largest Economy In The World

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 03:37 PM PDT

 Rank 
Country
GDP in 2011
Millions ($)

1
United States
$15,094,025

2
China
$7,298,147

3
Japan
$5,869,471

4
Germany
$3,577,031

5
France
$2,776,324

6
Brazil
$2,492,908

7
United Kingdom
$2,417,570

8
Italy
$2,198,730

9
Russia
$1,850,401

10
U.S. Manufacturing
$1,837,031

11
Canada
$1,736,869

The BEA released data today on “GDP by industry” for 2011, and reported that U.S. manufacturing output last year reached $1.837 trillion, which was a new record for … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

The GOP’s Death Wish: Why Republicans Can’t Stop Pissing Off Hispanics, Women, And Young People

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 03:32 PM PDT

What are the three demographic groups whose electoral impact is growing fastest? Hispanics, … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Mixed Bag From Cliffs Natural

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 03:23 PM PDT

Cliffs Natural Resources Inc. (NYSE:CLF) posted earnings of $2.63 per share in the first quarter of 2012, down from $3.11 a year ago. The results outshone the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.12 per share.
Sales for the quarter came in at $1,264.7 million, up 7% from $1,183.2 million posted in the prior year quarter. The increase was driven by higher sales volumes across all the segments. However, revenues missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1,333 million.
Segment Performance
U.S. Iron Ore: U.S. … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

US GDP, Consumer Data On Tap

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 03:20 PM PDT

04/26/12 Q1 GDP from the US will be in the spotlight on Friday morning, alongside the University of Michigan’s consumer sentiment … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Markets In Everything: Slugging Goes Digital

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 03:10 PM PDT

Slugging to work? There’s an app for that.

The “slugs” (pictured above) are part of the informal Washington, D.C.-area commuting phenomenon in which drivers heading into the city pick up riders (“slugs”) along Interstate 95 so they can take the faster, 3-person, high-occupancy lanes.  Here’s a website, Slug-Lines.com, with more information. 

The Washington Examiner reports today that “Slug lines are moving into the virtual age”:

“Technology is helping companies and the government … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Catalyst Health Stays Neutral

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 03:08 PM PDT

We maintain our 'Neutral' recommendation on Catalyst Health Solutions Inc. (CHSI) based on its imminent takeover by SXC Health Solutions Corp. (NASDAQ:SXCI), which is expected to boost the merged company's competitive strength. The Invest Now program should also be beneficial to earnings.
However, weak financial leverage and dependence on a couple of clients for a large portion of revenue are the downsides.
Catalyst Health reported fourth-quarter operating earnings per share of 69 cents, … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

IPG Reports Loss

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 03:03 PM PDT

On April 26, Interpublic Group of Companies Inc. (NYSE:IPG) reported financial results for the first quarter of 2012. For the quarter, the company reported a loss of 10 cents per basic and diluted share in line with the loss recorded in the first quarter of 2011 and with that of the Zacks Consensus Estimate.
Revenue: Revenue in the first quarter inched up 2.2% year over year to $1,506.8 million, with 1.7% growth in the U.S. and 2.9% internationally. Revenue in the reported quarter marginally … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

NASDAQ To Divest IDCG

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 02:53 PM PDT

New York-based NASDAQ OMX Group Inc. (NASDAQ:NDAQ) is currently in discussion with London-based LCH.Clearnet to divest its International Derivatives Clearing Group ("IDCG"). The acquisition of IDCG is consistent with LCH.Clearnet's strategy of enhancing its presence in the US market. However, the financial terms remained undisclosed.
Following the completion of the deal, a likely exchange of shares between NASDAQ and LCH.Clearnet will take place. However, in a separate development, London … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Stericycle Beats Estimates

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 02:53 PM PDT

Stericycle Inc. (NASDAQ:SRCL) delivered adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of 78 cents in the first quarter of fiscal 2012, up 13% from 69 cents in the prior-year quarter. Adjusted EPS surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 76 cents.
The quarter noted some special items including acquisition expenses of 2 cents per share and adjustments of contingent consideration to fair value, and other items of 1 cent per share. The prior-year quarter noted acquisition costs of 7 cents per share and a benefit … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Stocks Rise As Housing Trumps Jobs Data

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 02:40 PM PDT

04/26/12 US stocks edged higher as better-than-expected housing data overshadowed disappointing readings on the job … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Dismal 1Q For NII Holdings

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 02:38 PM PDT

Latin American wireless operator NII Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:NIHD) declared dismal financial results for the first quarter of 2012 on the back of higher operating expenses, arising from the roll out of 3G networks and stiff competition mainly in Brazilian market.
Net income in the reported quarter was $10.9 million or 6 cents per share compared with a net income of $96.8 million or 56 cents per share in the prior-year quarter. Reported EPS per share of 6 cents was much below the Zacks Consensus … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

AET Lags EPS Est, Affirms Outlook

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 02:38 PM PDT

U.S. health insurer Aetna Inc.'s (NYSE:AET) first quarter 2012 earnings of $1.34 cents per share missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 6 cents. Earnings declined 6.3% year over year. Despite an increase in revenues, the growth did not trickle down to the bottom-line results due to higher health care cost and operating expenses.
Aetna's total revenue for the reported quarter grew 6% year over year to $8.86 billion, led by higher Health Care premium and higher fees and other revenue. Reported … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Equity Residential Marginally Misses

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 02:38 PM PDT

Equity Residential (NYSE:EQR), a leading real estate investment trust (REIT), reported fiscal 2012 first quarter funds from operations (FFO) of $191.8 million or 60 cents per share, compared to $176.9 million or 56 cents per share in the year-ago quarter. Funds from operations, a widely used metric to gauge the performance of REITs, is obtained after adding depreciation and amortization and other non-cash expenses to net income.
Excluding certain one-time items, recurring FFO for the reported … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

AIZ Gains On Higher Bottomline

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 02:38 PM PDT

Assurant Inc. (AIZ) reported first quarter 2012 operating earnings of $1.76 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate by a good 33 cents and also significantly ahead of the prior-year quarter's earnings of $1.36 per share.
The outperformance was the result of significant contributions from all its business lines – Specialty Property, Health and Solutions as well as Employee Benefits. A lower share count also boosted the bottom-line results. Earnings also benefited from lower share … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Cabot Performs As Expected

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 02:38 PM PDT

Independent energy exploration and production company Cabot Oil and Gas (NYSE:COG) reported solid first quarter 2012 results, aided by improved production, higher realized oil prices and lower per-unit costs.
Quarterly earnings per share (excluding special items) came in at 14 cents, on par with the Zacks Consensus Estimate. Comparing year over year, earnings increased 40% from 10 cents per share.
During the quarter, Cabot generated revenue of $272.1 million, in line with our expectation. On a … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Amazon Beats Big On Top And Bottom

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 02:38 PM PDT

For the second time this week, one of the world's biggest and most well known companies blew past quarterly expectations at a time when many were doubtful. On Tuesday it was Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL), and today it was Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN), the world's largest online retailer.
AMZN announced earnings per share of 28 cents for the first quarter, compared to the Zacks Consensus Estimate at 7 cents. That accounts for a surprise of 300%!. Some analysts were expecting a loss in the quarter.
As anticipated, the … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Equinix Breezes Past Estimates

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 02:33 PM PDT

Equinix Inc. (NASDAQ:EQIX) reported first quarter 2012 earnings per share of $1.33, way ahead of the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 49 cents.
Revenues
Revenues in the reported quarter were $452.2 million, up 24.6% from the year-ago quarter. The company's strong first quarter results reflect growth across three of its geographical regions. The company also witnessed strong business trends across mobility, cloud computing and data management, and is well positioned to achieve its objective in 2012.
On … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

EQT Disappoints In 1Q

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 02:33 PM PDT

EQT Corporation's (NYSE:EQT) first quarter 2012 earnings declined 24.2% year over year to 50 cents and missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 61 cents. The earnings decline was primarily due to an 11% reduction in the average wellhead sales price to EQT Corporation as well as unseasonal warm weather in the Distribution segment's service area. 
Net operating revenue in the quarter was $365.9 million, exhibiting a 2.4% year-over-year improvement. However, reported revenue fell short of the … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Stocks Watchlist For Friday, April 27

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 02:33 PM PDT

( click to enlarge )

Agnico-Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE:AEM) broke out across the key line today ! The 50 day moving average has been resistance for weeks. Today price finally broke through the 50-day. Use the 50-day as your stop if you play this. Next target 38

 ( click to enlarge ) 

PepsiCo, Inc. (NYSE:PEP) is consolidating its big run-up from the 62 to 67 area. A break of 67 would confirm continuation of the upmove with a target in the 68.72 to 69 area. Stop loss would be … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Colgate’s 1Q Meets Consensus

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 02:23 PM PDT

Colgate-Palmolive Company (NYSE:CL) reported first-quarter 2012 adjusted earnings of $1.24 per share, which rose 7% from the year-ago quarter while meeting the Zacks Consensus Estimate.
Global sales of $4,200 million surged nearly 5% from the prior-year quarter, breezing past the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $4,168 million. Sales growth in the quarter mainly resulted from a 3.5% upside in both pricing and global unit volumes, partially offset by a 2% negative impact from foreign exchange. On an … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Terex Ahead Of Estimates

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 02:14 PM PDT

Terex Corp. (NYSE:TEX) reported first quarter 2012 adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of 29 cents, a stark contrast to the loss per share of 17 cents in the year-ago quarter. The EPS in the reported quarter surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 23 cents.
Including the impact of a write-down of an acquisition-related note receivable, EPS was 18 cents in the reported quarter. Including the net effect of restructuring costs, loss on early extinguishment of debt and gain from sale of Bucyrus stock, … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Vulcan Loss Narrows, Sales Up

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 02:09 PM PDT

Vulcan Materials Company (NYSE:VMC) posted a loss of 42 cents per share in the first quarter of 2012 narrower than a loss of 62 cents per share in the same quarter of 2011 (excluding special items) and the Zacks Consensus Estimate of a loss of 44 cents share. Improved top line and gross margins led to the curtailed loss in the quarter.
Total revenue in the quarter rose 10% to $535.9 million driven by meaningful gains in every segment, especially the Aggregates business. Revenues were also higher … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Mixed Quarter For Bemis

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 02:09 PM PDT

Bemis Company Inc. (NYSE:BMS) reported first quarter 2012 adjusted earnings of 49 cents per share, up 4.3% from the 47 cents in the year-ago quarter. The result surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 47 cents and were at the higher end of management's EPS guidance in the range of 43 cents – 49 cents.
Unit volumes in the Flexible Packaging segment declined, affecting the company's financial performance during the quarter.
Including charges of 2 cents related to acquisitions and a charge of 5 … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Expect 2Q Trough For Corning

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 02:04 PM PDT

Corning's (NYSE:GLW) first quarter 2012 earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 3 cents, or 10.7%. Estimates dropped a penny over the last couple of months making the comparison easier. The positive earnings surprise, positive display market trends and a strengthening Gorilla Glass (GG) business drove shares up 7.1%.
Revenue
Corning reported revenue of $1.92 billion, which was up 1.7% sequentially and flat year over year. The stronger yen helped results in the last quarter. 
Revenue … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Raymond James Tops Estimates

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 02:04 PM PDT

Raymond James Financial Inc.’s (NYSE:RJF) fiscal second quarter 2012 (ended March 31) earnings per share came in at 64 cents, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 56 cents. Moreover, this exceeded the prior-quarter earnings of 53 cents and came at par with the prior-year quarter earnings of 64 cents.
Earnings for the reported quarter exclude one-time charge of $21 million (pre-tax) primarily related to acquisition. Considering this charge, the company reported earnings of 52 cents per … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Weak Quarter For CMS Energy

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 01:55 PM PDT

Michigan-based CMS Energy Corporation (NYSE:CMS) announced adjusted earnings of 37 cents per share for the first quarter 2012, just missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 39 cents. However, the results were below the year-ago earnings of 51 cents per share. On a reported basis, the company recorded earnings of 25 cents per share versus 52 cents in the year-ago quarter.
The variance of 12 cents between earnings on reported and adjusted basis in the reported quarter was owing to the one-time items; … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Leap Misses On Higher Client Churn

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 01:55 PM PDT

Leap Wireless International Inc. (NASDAQ:LEAP) declared weak financial results for the first quarter of 2012, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimates. In the previous quarter, the company's customer churn rate was 3.3% compared with 3.1% in the prior-year quarter.
Even worse is management’s prediction that the second quarter churn rate will be much higher at 4.2% (at par with the second quarter of 2011).
The major concern for Leap Wireless is the growing competition in the U.S. low-cost prepaid … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Alcatel Reports Weak 1Q

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 01:55 PM PDT

Alcatel-Lucent (NYSE:ALU) reported net earnings from continuing operations of €0.14 per share (19 cents per ADS) for the first quarter, compared to the Zacks Consensus of $0.00. However, earnings include a net capital gain €659 million on the disposal of Genesys.
Total Revenue
In the first quarter of 2012, Alcatel-Lucent posted revenues €3.2 billion ($4.2 billion), which declined 12.3% year over year and 22.7% sequentially. The decline in sales was primarily due to double digit declines … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

No Punches Pulled

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 01:51 PM PDT

(Image: source)
In a must-read interview with King World News, Bloomberg Brief senior economist Richard Yamarone doesn’t pull any punches:
When asked what's really happening with the US economy, Yamarone responded, "I think people are just running out of money.  We have contracting, real disposable incomes.  Most of the job creation that we have is from minimum wage type jobs."
"I'm fortunate enough to travel and speak to chambers of commerce with 300 to 500 people in the … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Cameron Misses Estimate, Grows Y-Y

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 01:41 PM PDT

Oil drilling equipment maker Cameron International Corp. (NYSE:CAM) reported first quarter earnings per share of 54 cents, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by a penny. The weaker-than-expected results were mainly due to tepid performance from the company's 'Process & Compression Systems' unit.
However, compared with the year-ago period, Cameron's earnings per share improved by a handsome 17.4% – from 46 cents (adjusted) to 54 cents – on the back of robust profitability from its … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Cameron Misses Estimate, Grows Y-Y

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 01:41 PM PDT

Oil drilling equipment maker Cameron International Corp. (NYSE:CAM) reported first quarter earnings per share of 54 cents, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by a penny. The weaker-than-expected results were mainly due to tepid performance from the company's 'Process & Compression Systems' unit.
However, compared with the year-ago period, Cameron's earnings per share improved by a handsome 17.4% – from 46 cents (adjusted) to 54 cents – on the back of robust profitability from its … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Entergy Starts Low In 2012

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 01:41 PM PDT

Before the bell, Entergy Corporation (NYSE:ETR) reported its first quarter 2012 results. In the reported quarter, the company reported operational EPS of 44 cents, which fell short of the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 54 cents. Earnings also came lower than the year-ago quarter's $1.38.
The wide variance of $1.30 per share between operational and reported numbers was due to a non-cash item arising from an asset impairment charge of $1.26 per share in Entergy Wholesale Commodities … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

AmerisourceBergen Posts Modest 2Q

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 01:41 PM PDT

AmerisourceBergen Corporation (NYSE:ABC) posted second quarter fiscal 2012 earnings of 81 cents per share, in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate. However, earnings increased 5.2% from the year-ago period, spurred by higher revenues and a lower share count.
Revenues
Total revenue for the second quarter edged up 1.6% to $20.1 billion, which were also in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate. The modest advance in revenues was the result of a 6% increase in AmerisourceBergen Specialty Group's … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Watson Nears Heavyweight Status

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 01:30 PM PDT

Watson Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NYSE:WPI) recently announced its plans to acquire Iceland-based Actavis Group for an upfront payment of €4.25 billion.
As part of the acquisition agreement, Actavis shareholders can receive up to 5.5 million shares of Watson Pharma in 2013, on the achievement of certain pre-negotiated performance targets in 2012. The companies expect the transaction to close in the fourth quarter of 2012.
We note that this acquisition will make Watson Pharma the third largest global … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Skechers Tops Expectations

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 01:25 PM PDT

Skechers USA Inc. (NYSE:SKX), which has lately been grappling with the clearance of its excess toning inventory, is now showing some signs of stability as evident by its better-than-expected first-quarter 2012 results.
The company delivered a quarterly loss of 7 cents a share that fared far better than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of loss of 27 cents, and showed a substantial improvement from a loss of 54 cents incurred in the fourth quarter of 2011. The company had earned 24 cents in the first … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Target Continues Remodeling Program

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 01:20 PM PDT

Target Corporation (NYSE:TGT) plans to sustain its remodeling program at existing general merchandise locations this year by adding an expanded food layout along with a deeper assortment of dry dairy and frozen items, improved store layout and enhancement of in-store shopping experience across departments, such as apparel, home, beauty, shoes and baby.
During fiscal 2011, Target remodeled 400 locations, bringing the total count to 900 stores. In 2012, the company plans to complete about 230 more … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Coca-Cola Enterprises Profits Soar

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 01:20 PM PDT

Coca-Cola Enterprises Inc. (NYSE:CCE) posted first quarter 2012 adjusted earnings (excluding the impact of restructuring charges and mark-to-market commodity hedges) of 36 cents per share. The result exceeded both the Zacks Consensus Estimate and the prior-year quarter earnings of 33 cents per share. The results were driven by an improved top line.
Quarterly Details
During the quarter, Coca-Cola Enterprises’ sales increased 2.5% to $1.868 billion on a currency neutral basis, excluding the impact … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Earnings Preview: Zynga

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 01:15 PM PDT

Zynga Inc. (ZNGA) is scheduled to release its fiscal first-quarter 2012 results after market closes today. In the run up to the earnings results, no substantial movement in analysts' estimates for the quarter was noticed.
Prior Quarter Recap
Zynga reported dismal fourth quarter loss of 56 cents per share (including stock-based compensation expense), which were miles short of the Zacks Consensus earnings estimate of 3 cents per share. Earnings (excluding stock-based compensation) declined … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

L-3 Beats On Orders, Ups View

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 01:15 PM PDT

L-3 Communications Holdings Inc. (NYSE:LLL) reported first quarter 2012 earnings per share of $2.01, comfortably surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.88 and last year’s $1.85. The bottom line was driven by strong sales and orders.
Operating Statistics
Quarterly net sales fell marginally by 0.4% year over year to $3.59 billion. Sales growth in the Command, Control, Communications, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance ("C3ISR") and Aircraft Modernization and Maintenance … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Alexion Beats, Raises Outlook

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 01:09 PM PDT

Alexion Pharmaceuticals Inc.'s (NASDAQ:ALXN) first quarter 2012 earnings (excluding special items but including stock-based compensation expense) of 38 cents per share beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 6 cents and the year-ago adjusted earnings by 15 cents per share. Higher product sales boosted first quarter earnings.
Alexion's revenues jumped 47.3% to approximately $244.7 million in the reported quarter driven by strong Soliris sales. Revenues surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $241 … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Penske Beats Expectations

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 01:09 PM PDT

Penske Automotive Group Inc.(NYSE:PAG) recorded a 41% increase in profits to 55 cents per share in the first quarter of 2012 from 39 cents in the previous year. The profit surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 7 cents per share.
In absolute terms, profits increased 37.6% to $50.2 million from $36.5 million in the first quarter of 2011.
The higher profits were attributable to strong performance in both the U.S. and international markets. Higher new and used vehicle sales and improvement in … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Honeywell’s Chinese Contract

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 01:09 PM PDT

Honeywell International Inc.'s (NYSE:HON) group company, UOPLLC, will help China’s Shandong Chambroad Petrochemicals Co. to produce key petrochemicals through its UOP C3 ­and C4 Oleflex™ processes. This is the first plant in China which combines the two processes to produce propylene, and second in the world to produce isobutylene.
In 2014, the new unit is expected to start production. The units will produce 133,000 metric tons of propylene and 87,000 metric tons of isobutylene annually. The … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Michigan’s Economy Shifts Into High Gear: February Economic Activity Index Highest Since 2005

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 01:04 PM PDT

From Comerica Bank: “Michigan Economic Activity Index increased by four points in February, spiking to a level of 102. The February index level is 42 points, or 70 percent, above the index cyclical low of 60. February marks the highest index reading since April 2005 (see chart above). Year-to-date the index has averaged 100 points, nine points above the index average for all of 2011.

"Our Michigan Economic Activity Index has broken sharply higher, showing rapid gains in the Michigan … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

BorgWarner Misses Estimates

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 01:03 PM PDT

BorgWarner Inc. (NYSE:BWA) witnessed a 28% increase in profit to $1.28 per share in the first quarter of 2012 from $1.00 per share in the same quarter of 2011. With this, the auto parts maker missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 2 cents per share.
Revenues in the quarter hiked 10.5% to $1.9 billion from $1.7 billion in the first quarter of 2011. It was in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate. The impact of foreign currencies, primarily the Euro, reduced net sales by about $45 million in the … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Helmerich & Payne Lags Bottom Line

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 01:03 PM PDT

Contract drilling services provider Helmerich & Payne Inc. (NYSE:HP) reported mixed results for the second quarter of fiscal 2012 (three months ended March 31, 2012), reflecting sound U.S. land drilling, partially offset by weak offshore business and steeper operating costs.
Earnings per share from continuing operations (excluding special items) came in at $1.13, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.21. However, compared with the year-ago adjusted profit, the result increased 27.0% from … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Ball Corp. Beats Estimates

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 01:03 PM PDT

Ball Corporation's (NYSE:BLL) first-quarter 2012 adjusted earnings were 63 cents per share, which exceeded the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 59 cents per share, as well as the year-ago adjusted earnings of 58 cents.
Including business consolidation charges and other one-time items, the company reported earnings of 55 cents compared with the year-ago earnings of 53 cents per share.
Total revenues increased 1.6% year over year to $2.043 billion, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.038 … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

AvalonBay Surpasses Estimates

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 12:53 PM PDT

AvalonBay Communities Inc. (NYSE:AVB), a leading multifamily real estate investment trust (REIT), reported fiscal 2012 first quarter funds from operations (FFO) of $122.0 million or $1.28 per share, compared with $93.5 million or $1.08 in the year-earlier quarter. Funds from operations, a widely used metric to gauge the performance of REITs, is obtained after adding depreciation and amortization and other non-cash expenses to net income.
Excluding certain non-recurring items, FFO for the reported … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Raytheon Beats, Ups EPS Guidance

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 12:53 PM PDT

Raytheon Company (NYSE:RTN) reported first quarter 2012 adjusted earnings per share of $1.46, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.16. The result was also higher than the year-ago quarterly earnings of $1.37 per share.
During the quarter, on a reported basis, earnings were $1.33 as compared to $1.06 in first quarter of 2011. The difference between reported and adjusted was due to FAS/CAS Adjustment.
Operational Performance
Revenue was $5.94 billion, down 2% from $6.05 billion in the year-ago … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Oil Prices, New Projects Lift Shell

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 12:43 PM PDT

Europe's largest oil company Royal Dutch Shell plc (RDS.A) reported strong first quarter 2012 results, thanks to higher oil prices and contribution from new projects.
Earnings per ADR (on a current cost of supplies basis), excluding one-time items and gains or losses from inventories, came in at $2.33, above the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.29 and comfortably ahead of the year-ago result of $2.04. Revenues were up 9.1% to $119.9 billion.
Segmental Performance
Upstream: Upstream segment … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Dominion EPS In Line, Revs Falter

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 12:43 PM PDT

Dominion Resources Inc. (NYSE:D) reported first quarter 2012 operating earnings of 85 cents per share, in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate. Dominion achieved the low end of the guidance.
Earnings dipped 8.6% below 93 cents earned in the prior-year quarter. Operating earnings for the quarter dropped 10% year over year to $487 million.
The year-over-year decline was largely due to lower weather-related sales in the regulated electric service territory and lower merchant generation margins. … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Fidelity’s EPS In Line, Rev Beats

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 12:43 PM PDT

Fidelity National Information Services Inc. (NYSE:FIS) reported first quarter 2012 earnings (including stock based compensation) of 51 cents per share, which was in-line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate. However, the reported earnings increased 13.3% from 45 cents reported in year-ago quarter. The quarterly result was aided by top-line growth during the quarter.
Quarter Details
Revenues in the first quarter climbed 4.6% year over year to $1.45 billion and squeaked past the Zacks Consensus … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

O’Reilly Surpasses, EPS Up 37%

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 12:43 PM PDT

O'Reilly Automotive Inc. (NASDAQ:ORLY) revealed a 25% increase in profit to $147 million in the first quarter of 2012 from $118 million in the same quarter of 2011. These are equivalent to earnings per share of $1.14 during the quarter, up 37% from 83 cents in the first quarter of 2011 and the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.04 (all excluding non-recurring items).
Sales during the quarter scaled up 11% to $1.5 billion from $1.4 billion in the same period a year ago. Comparable store sales (adjusted … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Waste Management Misses By An Inch

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 12:43 PM PDT

Waste Management Inc. (NYSE:WM) reported earnings per share (EPS) of 38 cents (excluding special items) in the first quarter, a penny below the year-ago quarter and two cents short of the Zacks Consensus Estimate.
Quarterly results suffered from lower commodity prices at its recycling operations (3 cents), higher fuel prices (1 cent) and a dilutive impact from its waste-to-energy operations (2 cents). 
Including after-tax restructuring charges and integration costs related to the Oakleaf … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Low Cat Loss Boosts RE’s Earnings

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 12:33 PM PDT

Everest Re Group, Ltd. (NYSE:RE) reported first quarter 2012 operating earnings of $4.48 per share, substantially higher than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.51. Results were in contrast to an operating loss of $5.95 per share recorded in the prior-year quarter. The quarter's earnings primarily benefited from lower claims expenses along with a modest revenue increase.
Total revenue for the quarter came in at $1.25 billion, up 3.3% year over year, primarily attributable to higher net realized … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Noble Energy Rides On Higher Sales

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 12:28 PM PDT

Noble Energy Inc. (NYSE:NBL) reported adjusted earnings per share of $1.75 for the first quarter of 2012, which surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.42. The quarterly results were above the year-ago earnings of $1.35 per share reported by the company.
The year-over-year growth in earnings was mainly driven by an increase in sales volume both in the U.S. and in international operations.
GAAP earnings during the quarter were $1.47 per share versus 8 cents per share in the year-ago … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Goodrich Reports Mixed Quarter

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 12:28 PM PDT

Goodrich Corporation (NYSE:GR) reported first quarter 2012 adjusted earnings of $1.60 per share, falling short of the Zacks Consensus estimate by 7 cents.  Results also compare unfavorably with $1.69 earned in the year-ago quarter.
Including-merger-related costs, Goodrich reported net income of $188.2 million or $1.46 per share in the quarter, compared to $194.8 million or $1.52 per share in first quarter 2011. The prior year quarter includes tax benefit of 17 cents per share.
Operational … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Varian EPS Matches, Alters Outlook

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 12:23 PM PDT

Varian Medical Systems (NYSE:VAR) recorded second-quarter fiscal 2012 (ended March 30) net earnings of 96 cents a share matching the Zacks Consensus Estimate and beating the year-ago earnings of 86 cents a share. Adjusted earnings exclude certain restructuring charges associated with operations in emerging economies.
Net earnings for the quarter rose 4.6% year over year to $107.8 million (or 94 cents a share).
Revenues & Orders
Revenues for the second quarter moved up roughly 11% year over … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Gas Prices Are Falling, But Media Has Had 65 Times Greater Coverage Of Rising Prices Over Last Month?

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 12:21 PM PDT

The chart above from GasBuddy.com shows that the national average retail gas price has been falling slowly, but steadily over the last three weeks, from about $3.92 per gallon in early April to $3.82 today, which is a 2.5% decline.    

Where’s the news coverage of falling gas prices?  There’s almost none.  A Google News search for the phrase “falling gas prices” over the last month produced only 24 results, compared to 1,550 results for the phrase “rising gas prices,” for … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

HGSI Cuts Loss On Benlysta Sales

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 12:13 PM PDT

Human Genome Sciences Inc.'s (NASDAQ:HGSI) first quarter 2012 loss of 47 cents per share was above the Zacks Consensus Estimate of a loss of 40 cents but lower than the year-ago loss of 69 cents. Loss in the quarter narrowed from the prior year, helped by higher revenues and lower research and development expenses.
Human Genome's revenues in the reported quarter jumped 77.1% to $47.1 million, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $46 million. Revenues were boosted by Benlysta.
The Quarter in … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Starwood Outshines, Guides Higher

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 12:03 PM PDT

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc. (NYSE:HOT) has reported first-quarter 2012 adjusted earnings from continuing operations of 63 cents, which comprehensively surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 53 cents as well as the year-ago level of 30 cents.
On a reported basis, earnings from continuing operations were 65 cents compared to 15 cents in the first quarter of 2011.
Revenues spiked 32.4% year over year to $1,715 million in the quarter, with revenue per available room (RevPAR) … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Molex Tops, Guidance Disappoints

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 11:53 AM PDT

Molex Inc's (NASDAQ:MOLX) earnings for the third quarter of fiscal 2012 beat the Zacks Consensus by 4 cents, or 10.5%. Weaker-than-expected revenue pulled down results, despite increasing cost efficiencies.
Revenue
Molex reported revenue of $837.1 million, which was down 2.4% sequentially and 4.3% year over year, just within management expectations of $830-860 million, or down 0-3% sequentially. However, it fell short of the consensus expectation of around $848.6 million. The telecom and consumer … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Xcel Beats EPS, Lags Revs

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 11:53 AM PDT

Electricity and natural gas company Xcel Energy Inc.'s (NYSE:XEL) operating earnings for the first quarter of 2012 of 41 cents per share was down 4 cents from the year-ago quarter. It modestly surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 4 cents.
Earnings during the quarter declined, factored by a fall in demand for natural gas and electric sales due to warmer weather conditions. A surge in depreciation, property taxes and interest expenses also negatively impacted earnings in the current quarter. … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

CONSOL Lags EPS, Issues Guidance

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 11:53 AM PDT

Diversified fuel producer CONSOL Energy Inc. (NYSE:CNX) reported earnings of 42 cents per share for the first quarter of 2012, falling short of the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 56 cents. Earnings were substantially lower than the year-ago figure of 84 cents per share.
Earnings during the quarter were hit by an increase in the cost per ton of coal production and lower realized unit gas prices.
Revenue
CONSOL Energy's quarterly revenue decreased 2.6% to $1.43 billion from $1.47 billion in the … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Mylan Beats, Reaffirms Outlook

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 11:43 AM PDT

Mylan, Inc.'s (NYSE:MYL) first quarter 2012 earnings (excluding special items) of 52 cents per share beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by a penny. First quarter earnings increased 18.2% from a year ago.
Higher revenues and gross margin expansion led to the rise in first quarter 2012 earnings. On a reported basis (including special items), the generic player earned 30 cents per share as compared with 23 cents in the year-ago quarter.
The Quarter in Detail
Revenues climbed 10% to $1.59 billion, … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

MDCO Beats, Ties With AstraZeneca

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 11:43 AM PDT

The Medicines Company (NASDAQ:MDCO) reported first quarter earnings of 21 cents per share, including the impact of stock-based compensation expense. First quarter earnings, while well above the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 11 cents, declined 65% from the year-ago earnings.
Although first quarter 2012 revenues were higher, higher operating expenses led to the year-over-year decline in earnings. Revenues, up 12.9% at $126.6 million, were above the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $124 million.
The Quarter … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Occidental Reports Mixed Results

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 11:43 AM PDT

Occidental Petroleum Corporation (NYSE:OXY) reported first quarter 2012 operating earnings of $1.92 per share, up 1.1% year over year from $1.90 per share in first quarter 2011. The quarterly earnings missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by a penny.
Total Revenue
Occidental’s quarterly revenue increased 9.5% to $6,268 million from $5,726 million in the year-ago quarter. Revenue increased on the back of higher contributions from the Oil and Gas segment. This was partially offset by a decline in … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Encana Overcomes Low Nat Gas Prices

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 11:28 AM PDT

Canada's largest natural gas producer Encana Corporation (NYSE:ECA) reported strong first quarter results, primarily reflecting higher production and gains from a shift towards liquids output while cutting on natural gas production in response to decade-low prices.
The company announced operating earnings per share (excluding one-time items) of 33 cents, above the year-ago income of 30 cents and blowing away the Zacks Consensus Estimate of a loss of 3 cents.
Revenues (net of royalties) came in … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Williams Beats, Guidance Revised

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 11:28 AM PDT

Williams Companies (NYSE:WMB) announced stellar first quarter 2012 results, backed by strong performances from fee based business units along with substantial margin growth.
For the first quarter, Williams' earnings per share, excluding special items, came in at 39 cents, breezing past the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 36 cents. Comparing year over year, earnings improved 39.3% from 28 cents.
The company generated revenues of $2,019 million, ahead of our expectation of $1,847 million. Quarterly … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Zimmer Meets EPS, Beats On Sales

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 11:28 AM PDT

Zimmer Holdings (NYSE:ZMH) reported earnings per share ("EPS") of $1.17 in the first quarter of fiscal 2012 compared with $1.08 in the year-ago quarter. After taking into account certain one-time items, adjusted EPS came in at $1.30, in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate and surpassing the previous year's $1.19.
Revenues were $1.141 billion, up 2.2% on a reported basis and 2.7% at constant exchange rates (“CER”), beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.135 billion. Revenues generated … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

China Unicom Lags Est, Ups Y/Y

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 11:13 AM PDT

China Unicom (NYSE:CHU), China’s second largest mobile operator, announced first quarter 2012 results with earnings per share of RMB 0.04 (or 6 cents), which missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 19 cents. However, earnings saw a three-fold jump from the year-ago earnings of RMB 0.01 per share.
Adjusted net income showed an enormous increase from RMB 145 million to RMB 1.0 billion ($158.6 million). High costs associated with 3G service deployments and network expansions were compensated by strong … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Handset Subsidy Hurts MetroPCS’ 1Q

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 11:13 AM PDT

MetroPCS Communications Inc. (NYSE:PCS) reported lower-than-expected first quarter 2012 results. Earnings per share of 6 cents missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 17 cents and registered a steep 60% fall from 15 cents in the year-ago quarter on higher subsidies to customers for handset upgrades.
Total revenue climbed 7% year over year to $1,277 million in the first quarter, but failed to match our expectation of $1,295 million. Adjusted EBITDA dropped 8% year over year to $262 million. … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Altria Reports In Line

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 11:03 AM PDT

Altria Group Inc. (NYSE:MO) delivered earnings of 49 cents per share in the first quarter of 2012, in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate. However, the quarterly earnings surpassed the year-ago results of 44 cents by 11.4%.
The upswing in earnings came as a result of long-term premium brand building initiatives by PM USA as well as strong performance and increased market share of the company's iconic Marlboro brand. New products launched in the smokeless product segment also helped drive … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Impressive 1Q For Moody’s

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 11:03 AM PDT

Moody's Corp. (NYSE:MCO) reported first quarter 2012 earnings of 76 cents per share, which surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by seven cents. Earnings increased 13.4% year over year, primarily driven by strong top-line growth.
Quarter Details
Revenue climbed 12.1% year over year to $646.8 million and exceeded the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $621.0 million. The better-than-expected result was driven by strong performance from both Moody's Investors Service (MIS) and Moody’s Analytics (MA) … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Sluggish 1Q For Safeway

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 10:53 AM PDT

Safeway Inc. (NYSE:SWY) reported EPS of 30 cents in the first quarter of fiscal 2012, in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate. Quarterly earnings, however, were well above the year-ago level of 7 cents, which included a tax charge of 22 cents per share related to the repatriation of $1.1 billion from Safeway’s Canadian subsidiary.
Despite the New Year’s holiday shift, weather patterns and high gasoline prices leading to sluggish sales, several cost reduction initiatives during the quarter helped … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Whirlpool Reports Mixed Quarter

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 10:53 AM PDT

Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE:WHR) recorded an increase in adjusted net income to $1.41 per share for the first quarter of 2012 from 64 cents in the same period last year, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.12. However, before adjustments, net income slumped 46% to $92 million, or $1.17 per share in the quarter, from $169 million, or $2.17 in the first quarter of 2011.
Revenues in the quarter fell marginally to $4.35 billion from $4.4 billion as improving product price/mix was offset by … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Mixed 1Q For Range Resources

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 10:53 AM PDT

Range Resources Corp.'s (NYSE:RRC) first-quarter 2012 results were aided by a higher production level and lower unit costs, partly mitigated by lower realized prices. The company posted adjusted earnings of 15 cents a share, comprehensively beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 6 cents. However, results decreased almost 32% from the year-earlier profit of 22 cents a share.
First quarter total revenue of $246.9 million failed to reach our $309 million projection but grew 16% year over … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Hot Option Plays: Gold On The Move

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 10:45 AM PDT

Cusick’s Corner
The equities are grinding into the Midday, but the action is hot in Currencies, FXE, UUP, and Gold, GLD. In the Euro currency, shorts are getting squeezed into the $1.32 level. There is inverse pressure in the buck; weaker longs are being pressured as the Dollar broke early, challenging support at $78.90 which is a positive to the bulls as we grind in equity land. See you After Hours.
Stock market averages shook off morning weakness along with disappointing jobless claims … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

China Offers Corn Traders Some Hope

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 10:45 AM PDT

Thursday, April 26th
Corn futures have been in the doldrums due to the massive acreage and brisk planting pace. Because of these factors, many traders believed that the only forces that could move the market higher were either an act of God (severe weather conditions) or record export demand. It looks as though China may be obliging with the latter, but the extent of future purchases remains an unknown. Technically, prices have held key psychological and technical support at the 600 level, but … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Poor Top Line Spoils CME’s 1Q

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 10:43 AM PDT

CME Group Inc. (NASDAQ:CME) reported its first-quarter 2012 operating earnings per share of $4.02, which stood at par with the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $4.02, but lagged the earnings of $4.36 reported in the year-ago quarter. Net income slipped 8.9% to $266.6 million.
Moreover, the year-ago quarter's net operating income of $292.6 million excluding the $164 million benefit within tax expense associated with a change in the expected effective tax rate and its impact on the deferred tax expense … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Keating: “Don’t See Catalyst…for Rest Of The Day”

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 10:42 AM PDT

04/26/12 James E. Coffey Securities’ Gregory Keating weighs in on today’s “mixed bag” of economic data and earnings reports. Bernanke’s press conference following the FOMC rate decision are also … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Celgene Misses, Reaffirms

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 10:38 AM PDT

Celgene Corporation's (NASDAQ:CELG) first quarter 2012 earnings (excluding special items but including stock-based compensation expense) of 96 cents per share beat the year-ago earnings by 35%. Higher revenues drove earnings in the reported quarter. The Zacks Consensus Estimate was $1.02 per share.
Quarter in Details
Total revenue climbed 13.2% to $1.27 billion in the first quarter of 2012. Revenues were boosted by the impressive performance of Celgene's cancer drugs Revlimid, Abraxane and … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Delta Meets, Guidance Firm

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 10:38 AM PDT

The second largest U.S. airline Delta Air Lines Inc. (NYSE:DAL) has surprised us by reporting first quarter 2012 adjusted loss of 5 cents per share, in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate. Fare hikes and ongoing cost-cutting measures fully offset surging fuel prices.
Adjusted loss per share excludes gains of 18 cents from fuel hedging and 2 cents from other streamlining actions. Including these gains, earnings per share jumped to 15 cents in the quarter from the loss of 38 cents in the year-ago … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Kellogg Dips On Weak Top Line

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 10:33 AM PDT

As previously announced on April 24, Kellogg Company (NYSE:K) has posted first quarter 2012 earnings per share of 95 cents (excluding the impact from the pending Pringles acquisition), 3 cents below the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 98 cents due to weak top-line results.
The world's largest cereal maker reported revenue of $3.4 billion, down 1.3% in the quarter, owing to the decline in International sales. However, organically (excluding impact of acquisitions, dispositions and foreign exchange), … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Pepsi EPS Beats On Lower Numbers

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 10:28 AM PDT

PepsiCo Inc.'s (NYSE:PEP) first quarter 2012 earnings per share (EPS) declined 7%  to 69 cents per share from 74 cents reported in the previous year quarter.  However, EPS edged past the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 67 cents. The better-than-expected earnings was driven by positive pricing and packaging initiatives that drove higher sales in the quarter.
Top Line and Margin Details
Total sales in the quarter increased 4% to $12.4 billion from $11.9 billion in the prior-year quarter, on … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Pulte Loss Narrows, Orders Up

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 10:23 AM PDT

Pulte Group, Inc. (NYSE:PHM) reported an adjusted loss of 3 cents per share in the first quarter of 2012. It was narrower than the loss of 10 cents per share in the same quarter of 2011. Improved net revenue and reduced costs led to the narrower loss in the quarter. The results were in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate.
The company conducts its operations in two primary business segments – Homebuilding and Financial Services. Pulte Group reported total revenue of $881 million in the first … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

GGG Misses On Bottom Line

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 10:22 AM PDT

Graco Inc. (NYSE:GGG) reported first quarter 2012 earnings per share of 58 cents, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 62 cents.  This compares with 61 cents in the previous year quarter and 50 cents in the last quarter. Net income came in at $35.4 million, down 5% year over year but up 16.5% sequentially.
Revenues
Net sales came in at $234.1 million, up 7.5% year over year and 8.6% sequentially. This, however, marginally missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $235 million. Growth was … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Solid Start For Lockheed In 2012

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 10:08 AM PDT

The world's largest stand-alone defense contractor, Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE:LMT) started fiscal 2012 on a strong footing. The company posted first-quarter 2012 operating earnings of $2.02 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.70. This was also higher than the year-ago quarterly earnings of $1.57. The upcast in earnings year over year was mainly due to strong numbers from Aeronautics and Electronic Systems segments. However, this was partially offset by a lower figure … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Oil Above $104 On Weak Dollar, Fed Statements

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 10:00 AM PDT

04/26/12 Front month crude prices rose to trade above $104 a barrel this afternoon led by a weaker dollar and after yesterday’s Fed … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Tarsus Drives Joint Venture With Chinese Exhibition Organiser

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 08:38 AM PDT

Business-to-business media group Tarsus (LON:TRS) has agreed the terms of an £11.2 million deal to buy a 50 percent stake in a Chinese trade fair for the automotive aftermarket.
The joint venture involves the China International Automotive Aftermarket Industry and Tuning (Guangzhou) Trade Fair (GZ Auto) and other associated business assets. It gives Tarsus exposure to the rapidly growing automotive industry in China, which overtook the US in 2009 as the largest consumer of new automobiles.
The … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

Vodafone Sends A Message To The Market

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 05:53 AM PDT

FTSE 100 telecoms giant Vodafone (LON:VOD) this week swooped on Cable amp; Wireless Worldwide (LON:CW.) in a £1.04 billion deal that now seems likely to bring a modestly priced end to a particularly miserable couple of years for the flagging communications group and its shareholders. For Vodafone – currently among the best dividend payers in London – the deal offers some interesting new avenues in the all-important Enterprise market. 
What's the story? 
Vodafone's offer of … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

The Trend Trader For Stock Trading On Friday, April 27, 2012

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 05:02 AM PDT

By ForexMansion.com

The Trend Trader for the Dow 30 Stocks
For Trading On Friday, April 27, 2012

In alphabetical order by symbol

Close
%
Change

3×1

7×5
Minor
Trend
Major
Trend
Trend Reading

AA – Alcoa Inc
9.86
+ 0.41
9.76
9.81

Bullish

AXP – American Express Company
59.59
+ 1.15
58.48
57.74

Bullish

BA – Boeing Co
76.99
− 0.12
75.55
73.40

Bullish

BAC – Bank of America Corporation
8.27
+ 0.12
8.24
8.62

Neutral

CAT – Caterpillar Inc
104.39
+ … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

The Trend Trader For ETF Trading On Friday, April 27, 2012

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 05:02 AM PDT

By ForexMansion.com

The Trend Trader for ETFs
For Trading On Friday, April 27, 2012

The top 40 ETFs by net assets
In alphabetical order by symbol

Close
%
Change

3×1

7×5
Minor
Trend
Major
Trend
Trend Reading

AGG – iShares Lehman Aggregate Bd Fd
110.65
+ 0.15
110.50
110.43

Bullish

BND – Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF
83.82
+ 0.13
83.75
83.72

Bullish

DBC – DB Commodity Index Tracking Fd
28.21
+ 0.21
28.12
28.04

Bullish

DIA – SPDR DJ Industrial Average ETF
131.85
+ … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

The Trend Trader For Forex Trading On Friday, April 27, 2012

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 05:02 AM PDT

By ForexMansion.com

The Trend Trader for Forex
For Trading On Friday, April 27, 2012

THE BIG SIX

Close
%
Change

3×1

7×5
Minor
Trend
Major
Trend
Trend Reading

AUDUSD – Aust Dollar / US Dollar
1.0387
+ 0.36
1.0337
1.0367

Bullish

EURUSD – Euro / US Dollar
1.3223
+ 0.06
1.3207
1.3145

Bullish

GBPUSD – British Pound / US Dollar
1.6187
+ 0.16
1.6154
1.6031

Bullish

USDCAD – US Dollar / Canadian Dollar
0.9844
+ 0.13
0.9855
0.9938

Bearish

USDCHF – US Dollar / Swiss … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards

The Trend Trader For Futures Trading On Friday, April 27, 2012

Posted: 26 Apr 2012 05:02 AM PDT

By ForexMansion.com

The Trend Trader for Futures
For Trading On Friday, April 27, 2012

INDICES

Close
%
Change

3×1

7×5
Minor
Trend
Major
Trend
Trend Reading

S&P 500 – Jun ESM2
1396.75
+ 0.68
1380.31
1374.83

Bullish

Dow Jones – Jun YMM2
13160
+ 0.92
13023
12935

Bullish

Nasdaq – Jun NQM2
2720.25
+ 0.58
2678.75
2687.83

Bullish

Russell – Jun TFM2
815.80
+ 0.77
805.41
801.20

Bullish

INTEREST RATES

US T-Bond – Jun ZBM2
142-09
+ … [visit site to read more] or compare Credit Card Rewards and Best Credit Cards
at

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