Currently, there are around seven billion hungry people inhabiting our planet, but that number is forecasted to rise to nine billion by 2040. With populations rising in both developed and emerging markets, producing enough food to feed the world's citizens is becoming a paramount issue and recent events have led to an unprecedented opportunity to play that rising food demand.
That opportunity lies within the potash, nitrogen and phosphate miners and producers.
As one of the largest cartels of potash producers have agreed to disband, the entire fertilizer sector has been thrown into turmoil. That's caused share prices to plummet. For longer term investors, that drop could signal one of the best buying opportunities in decades.
SEE: Don't Dismiss Fertilizer
A Big Break-Up
The potash sector was hit with a bomb shell as the Belarusian Potash Company (BPC) -a joint venture between Belarus's Belaruskali and Russia's Uralkali- decided that they would end their mining cartel. The group- along with Canada's Canpotex- were responsible for 70% of the world's potash production and worked in tandem to help keep prices for the critical fertilizer from floating too much.
However, with the cartel now ending, potash prices will be subject to more market forces and could dramatically fall in the short term. Analysts now peg that the end of the BPC joint venture could send the price of potash down to the $300 per metric ton range. That's about a $100 drop from current prices and about $540 lower than potash's peak reached in 2009.
Needless to say, stocks within the sector didn't take to the news quite kindly. Leading producers Mosaic (NYSE:MOS) and Potash of Saskatchewan (NYSE:POT) decreased 24.5% and 23%, respective on the news. While several non-potash based fertilizer stocks also saw huge declines as investor's worried about spill-over price decreases in nitrogen and phosphates.
Opportunity Presents Itself
While lower prices for potash and other fertilizers aren't necessarily bullish catalysts for sector, investors shouldn't give up hope. The main reason being that production of the vital feed ingredient is still in the hands of just a few players. Post breakup, 50% of global potash capacity will be controlled by Canpotex- including producer Agrium (NYSE:AGU) -and Uralkali. Canpotex has already signaled that it has no desire to break-up its J.V. That's still a hefty majority of the market controlled by just a few individuals.
Secondly, a tumble in potash prices could also halt several of the numerous global potash project currently on the docket like BHP Billiton's (NYSE:BHP) $14 billion new mine in Saskatchewan. Meanwhile, Uralkali estimates that falling prices will to consolidation among the industry. Stalled projects and rising M&A will eventually help keep supplies low and raise prices.
All of this is in the face of rising long-term demand. Trade group the International Fertilizer Industry Association (IFA) predicts that fertilizer consumption will rise by 11% by 2016. Likewise, researcher Freedonia predicts similar findings. The group predicts that global demand for fertilizers will increase by 3.8% per year through 2014, with the Asia/Pacific region leading that demand.
Time To Buy
Given the longer term demand for fertilizer and just how beat-up stocks within the sector are, investors may want to take a look at some of the values now available. Potash of Saskatchewan for example is now sporting a 4.8% dividend yield and P/E of just 11. Likewise, CF Industries (NYSE:CF),which has nothing to do with potash and producers nitrogen/phosphate fertilizers- fell roughly 3% on the BCP break-up news.
Perhaps the best way to profit from all of this is through the Global X Fertilizers/Potash ETF (NASDAQ:SOIL). The ETF tracks 26 different fertilizer focused firms, including the Canpotex trio as well as global players such as Norway's Yara (OTCBB:YARIY). The fund sank roughly 9% the day the BCP news hit the wire. However, it represents the best all-in-one play on the sector given that it covers all areas of fertilizer production and could be the best way to capitalize on the sectors long term rebound. SOIL charges just 0.69% in expenses.
SEE: Choosing An Agriculture ETF
The Bottom Line
While the Belarusian Potash Company (BPC) cartel's break-up shook the entire fertilizer industry, the long term picture is still rosy. That's helping create some of the best values in the commodity sector today. The previous picks, along with beaten down producers like Terra Nitrogen (NYSE:TNH), make ideal ways to play the sector.
Disclosure: At the time of writing, the author did not own shares of any company mentioned in this article.
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Will BP Continue to Trade Near Highs for the Year?
With shares of BP (NYSE:BP) trading around $45, is BP an OUTPERFORM, WAIT AND SEE, or STAY AWAY? Let's analyze the stock with the relevant sections of our CHEAT SHEET investing framework:
T = Trends for a Stock’s MovementBP is an integrated oil and gas company. The firm provides its customers with fuel for transportation, energy for heat and light, lubricants, and the petrochemicals products used to make items like paints, clothes, and packaging. It operates in two business segments: exploration and production, and refining and marketing. BP provides energy products to consumers and companies worldwide. Without the oil and gas products provided, many consumers and businesses would not be able to operate on a daily basis.
BP had some good news for shareholders in its third quarter earnings report. Underlying replacement profit came in ahead of estimates despite dropping from $5 billion a year ago to $3.7 billion. BP also promised to sell off $10 billion in assets over the next two years and return the proceeds to shareholders, and the company's dividend was up 5.6 percent to 9.5 cents a share. But the Deepwater Horizon oil spill was still looming over BP, which raised the total cost of the spill from $42.4 to $42.5 billion.
T = Technicals on the Stock Chart Are StrongBP stock has not made significant progress in recent years. The stock is currently trading near highs for the year. Analyzing the price trend and its strength can be done using key simple moving averages. What are the key moving averages? The 50-day (pink), 100-day (blue), and 200-day (yellow) simple moving averages. As seen in the daily price chart below, BP is trading above its rising key averages, which signal neutral to bullish price action in the near-term.
(Source: Thinkorswim)
Taking a look at the implied volatility (red) and implied volatility skew levels of BP options may help determine if investors are bullish, neutral, or bearish.
| Implied Volatility (IV) | 30-Day IV Percentile | 90-Day IV Percentile | |
| BP Options | 16.25% | 0% | 0% |
What does this mean? This means that investors or traders are buying a minimal amount of call and put options contracts as compared to the last 30 and 90 trading days.
| Put IV Skew | Call IV Skew | |
| November Options | Flat | Average |
| December Options | Flat | Average |
As of today, there is an average demand from call buyers or sellers and low demand by put buyers or high demand by put sellers, all neutral to bullish over the next two months. To summarize, investors are buying a minimal amount of call and put option contracts and are leaning neutral to bullish over the next two months.
On the next page, let’s take a look at the earnings and revenue growth rates and the conclusion.
E = Earnings Are Mixed Quarter-Over-QuarterRising stock prices are often strongly correlated with rising earnings and revenue growth rates. Also, the last four quarterly earnings announcement reactions help gauge investor sentiment on BP’s stock. What do the last four quarterly earnings and revenue growth (Y-O-Y) figures for BP look like and more importantly, how did the markets like these numbers?
| 2013 Q3 | 2013 Q2 | 2013 Q1 | 2012 Q4 | |
| Earnings Growth (Y-O-Y) | N/A | 233.67% | 192.30% | -78.97% |
| Revenue Growth (Y-O-Y) | -50.71% | -0.74% | 10.06% | 7.51% |
| Earnings Reaction | 4.99%* | -3.20% | 2.28% | 1.35% |
BP has seen increasing earnings and mixed revenue figures over the last four quarters. From these numbers, the markets have mostly been pleased with BP’s recent earnings announcements.
* As of this writing
P = Excellent Relative Performance Versus Peers and SectorHow has BP stock done relative to its peers,Chevron (NYSE:CVX), Exxon Mobil (NYSE:XOM), Royal Dutch Shell (NYSE:RDSA), and sector?
| BP | Chevron | Exxon Mobil | Royal Dutch Shell | Sector | |
| Year-to-Date Return | 9.26% | 12.28% | 2.35% | 1.07% | 7.24% |
BP has been a relative performance leader, year-to-date.
ConclusionBP is an oil and gas company that supplies energy products and services worldwide. The company had good news for shareholders in its third quarter earnings report with profit coming in ahead of estimates. The stock has not made significant progress in recent years however, it’s currently trading near highs for the year. Over the last four quarters, earnings have been rising while revenues have been mixed, which has left investors mostly pleased about recent earnings announcements. Relative to its weak peers and sector, BP has been a relative year-to-date performer. Look for BP to OUTPERFORM.
Sunday, October 27, 2013
Western Union Soars On Q2 Beat
Western Union (WU) jumped nearly 10% after its better-than-expected second-quarter earnings report.
The money-transfer firm said that it earned $198.6 million, or 36 cents a share, down 44 cents a share a year earlier.
Revenue dropped 2.8% to $1.39 billion.
Analysts were expecting earnings of 34 cents per share on revenue of $1.37 billion.
Operating margin fell to 20% from 24.3%.
However, investors seemed to be mollified that the company is taking steps to regain market share amid an environment of increasing competition as well as investing in the expansion of digital and mobile applications.
The company's largest consumer-to-consumer business saw transactions rise 3%, despite a 4% fall in revenue as he company has cut prices to win back customers from rivals and boost volumes.
Consumer-to-business sales increased 2%, and business-solutions revenue rose 6%.
Western Union is still in the red for the past year, down about 2%. However, it’s gained 29% since the start of 2013 and the stock edging toward its September 2012 52-week high of $19.14.
Rival MoneyGram (MGI) has been on a tear recently as it has put itself up for sale.
Saturday, October 26, 2013
Under new structure, fewer MetLife advisers pushed to produce more
MetLife Inc. is revamping its distribution group, giving its two remaining broker-dealers higher required minimum production levels with the expectations of selling more proprietary products with fewer reps.
The insurer is placing MetLife Securities Inc., New England Securities Inc. and MetLife Resources, a retirement services distributor, under a new banner called The MetLife Premier Client Group.
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As part of the restructuring, the firm will further cut its adviser corps by 300 to 600 reps after eliminating about 2,300 since last year.
(See also: MetLife adviser ranks thinning out fast after cuts)
“The goal for the end of 2015 is about 4,700 to 5,000 advisers with an average of $185,000 in production,” said Paul LaPiana, senior vice president of MetLife Premier Client Group.
In 2012, MetLife had 7,600 advisers with an average production of $127,000 per rep. Today, that number is down to 5,300, with an average of $165,000 in production for each adviser.
Advisers under the new structure will be expected to meet higher sales minimums. Last year, brokers needed to generate $60,000 in production to make their minimum. That number is now $90,000 – and of that, at least $60,000 must come from proprietary products, whether MetLife's asset management platform or the sale of disability, annuity or life insurance products.
“If someone doesn't have the $90,000, but they've made $75,000 in proprietary product sales, we'll allow them to make the minimum production requirement,” Mr. LaPiana said.
The company announced the name change on Oct. 15 but details are just now emerging.
Friday, October 25, 2013
Bank of America’s Truce and 2 Surging Stocks
In this segment from Thursday's episode of The Motley Fool's everything-financials show, Where the Money Is, banking analysts Matt Koppenheffer and David Hanson go through a rapid-fire round of three top headlines. The newsmakers included KKR (NYSE: KKR ) , Bank of America (NYSE: BAC ) , Morgan Stanley (NYSE: MS ) , Lazard (NYSE: LAZ ) , and Evercore (NYSE: EVR ) .
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Get everything Wall Street, Buffett, and more on the AUDIO podcast version of Where the Money Is! http://t.co/SdAGfmYCf3 #iTunes
— MotleyFoolFinancials (@TMFFinancials) October 5, 2013Thursday, October 24, 2013
Petition Supporting Tesla on White House Radar
A petition submitted to the White House demanding that Tesla Motors (NASDAQ: TSLA ) be allowed to sell cars directly to consumers has passed the 100,000-signature mark in 30 days required for the White House to release an official response.
Created June 5, the petition had 111,496 signers as of this writing.
Tesla Motors' direct sales model has come to a regulatory standstill in some states that require vehicles to be sold through a dealership. Tesla's storefront model consists largely of shopping-mall-like commercial experiences, and consumers can make their actual Tesla purchase online through the company's website.
120 words in length, the petition states:
States should not be allowed to prevent Tesla Motors from selling cars directly to customers. The state legislators are trying to unfairly protect automobile dealers in their states from competition. Tesla is providing competition, which is good for consumers.
The White House began its "We the People" platform in 2011 in an effort to make the White House more accessible to the general public. When it began, the administration required just 5,000 signatures to elicit an official response.
The cut-off mark was raised as the site grew in popularity, most notably when the petition to "Secure resources and funding, and begin construction of a Death Star by 2016" reached 34,435 signatories. In its official response, the administration noted that it "does not support blowing up planets."
The Tesla petition has enough signers to qualify for an administration response, however the White House notes that "to avoid the appearance of improper influence, the White House may decline to address certain procurement, law enforcement, adjudicatory, or similar matters properly within the jurisdiction of federal departments or agencies, federal courts, or state and local government in its response to a petition."
link
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
High Yield with Icahn
Hot Cheap Stocks To Buy Right Now
One of the most successful money managers is paying investors a 6.6% yield for the privilege of multiplying their money, asserts Igor Greenwald, editor of MLP Profits.
I'm describing, of course, Carl Icahn, who's known for raiding cash-rich and mismanaged companies. His savvy picks are working out great for investors who hold shares of Icahn Enterprises (IEP).
Better still, IEP is a master limited partnership, with all the tax-deferred benefits of a boring pipeline company.
Icahn Enterprises isn't boring. The man can't seem to live without drama, whether it's dressing down Ackman regarding Herbalife (HLF) or trying to take Dell (DELL) away from Michael Dell.
But the truth is, Icahn Enterprises has turned into a cash machine because Icahn bought on the cheap, less famous companies throwing off under-appreciated profits.
He paid $30 a share for refiner and fertilizer maker CVR Energy (CVI) and that stock has appreciated 43% in 18 months, earning Icahn a total return of $2.9 billion through June.
More than a decade ago, Icahn paid pennies on the dollar for the unsecured bonds of Federal-Mogul (FDML), an auto parts supplier then mired in an asbestos-related bankruptcy. Today, his stake is worth nearly $2 billion.
A majority stake in casino operator Tropicana Entertainment (TPCA) also began with a Chapter 11 restructuring.
From January 1, 2000 to June 10, 2013, Icahn Enterprises has averaged a 20% annual return, multiplying investors' money nearly 12-fold. Berkshire-Hathaway (BRK-B) has managed only a triple over the same span.
With typical modesty, Icahn let slip earlier this year that he's felt under-appreciated relative to the Oracle of Omaha. Maybe that's why Icahn Enterprises, which has traditionally paid a piddly distribution, ramped it up to a $1 per share, per quarter, earlier this year and $1.25 more recently.
At the current share price, that works out to a 6.6% yield. Not bad coming from a guy who's beaten Buffett pretty consistently.
The stock is up 70% year-to-date and 36% since April. Icahn still owns 90% of Icahn Enterprises, and Forbes pegged his net worth earlier this year at $20 billion.
And despite the generous dividend yield and the big gains this year, Icahn Enterprises has a lot of unspent firepower.
It earned $331 million in net income attributable to the partnership during the first half of the year, and adding back $224 million in depreciation and amortization suggests minimum cash flow of $555 million.
At the current $1.25 per quarter distribution rate, distributions for six months amount to $288 million. So the distribution coverage is roughly two. Cash and investments exceed debt, which fell in the most recent quarter, even as the cash balance rose.
All this, including the suddenly large yield, is part of Icahn's plan to unlock even more value he claims is being held hostage by self-interested corporate executives and boards.
Like any complicated business story, this one is not without risks and there's no guarantee that 6.6% yield will stay around. This is a speculative capital appreciation play, and not an MLP you'd want to buy and forget.
Still, even an insecure payout this large to invest alongside one of the all-time greats is no chopped liver. We're adding it to our Aggressive Portfolio.
Subscribe to MLP Profits here…
More from MoneyShow.com:
Apple Still a Strong Buy
Invest Better with Icahn
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Monday, October 21, 2013
Time to Switch Gears With SolarCity (SCTY)
It's not going to be a popular idea, but if you were lucky enough to get into a SolarCity Corp. (NASDAQ:SCTY) position at any time between October 10th and Thursday of last week, then congratulations. Now get out. Although you're up anywhere between 8.0% and 52%, SCTY is overdue for a pullback, and there are some hints that today's the day that sizeable pullback is beginning.
If the company name and ticker rings a bell, it might be because yours truly took an honest, unbiased trading look at it back on the 11th. The conclusion then? While SCTY looked like it was bullish enough to make for a great short-term trade, that rally was never going to be built to last. Here we are ten days later, and sure enough, it looks like the SolarCity runup is done, and reversing today.
The other clue is today's bar, which actually opened at a new multi-month high, and then faded back into the red. Think of it as a "last hurrah" of sorts, where the last of any would-be buyers file in, but the first of the profit-takers are immediately ready and willing to start filing out. The irony of that event is that the more the SCTY bear/bull balance dips to the bearish side of the fence, the heavier the bearish weight gets as fewer buyers remain interested in catching a falling knife, and as more and more traders become profit-takers, not wanting to give up any more ground than they already have.
You'll also notice the volume behind today's pullback from SolarCity is pretty heavier... heavier than the volume we've seem for most of the last few bullish days. Point being, the bull/bear imbalance may well already be tipped in favor of the bears.
Suggesting anything less than perpetual and perfect bullishness is in the cards for SCTY won't be any less popular today than it was a week and a half ago. But, this was always the inevitable reality. The good news for fans of SolarCity Inc. is, this pullback isn't apt to last any longer than the overheated runup was. Timing is still everything.
If you'd like to get more trading ideas and insights like this one, sign up for the free SmallCap Network daily e-newsletter. It's full of stock picks, market calls, and more.
Twitter Follows Apple, Google & Facebook To Irish Holy Grail
Lucky Charms (Photo credit: ToddMorris)
The IRS seeks new ways to pursue "stateless" income. Meanwhile, Ireland is backpedaling over claims it enables tax cheats. Pre-IPO Twitter is trying to get in on Irish loopholes like Apple, Google, HP and Facebook before it's too late. Such is the push-me-pull-you of global tax "planning."
In May 2013, the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations said Apple avoided $9 billion in U.S. taxes in 2012 alone via offshore units with no tax home. Apple's CEO Tim Cook testified it was nothing illegal. But Ireland hates being called a facilitator of tax cheats and says it's pulling up the ladder on tax gimmicks.
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Apple isn't the only one to grab the luck of the Irish, something Senator Carl Levin called the "holy grail of tax avoidance." The Senate claimed Apple saved billions by claiming companies registered in Ireland are not tax resident in any country. Google and Facebook use Ireland too.
Facebook flipped more than $700 million to the Cayman Islands as part of a "Double Irish" tax reduction strategy. Recall that former Zuckerberg pal and co-founder Eduardo Saverin took considerable heat when he exited the U.S. for Singapore. Sure, Facebook Funneled Nearly Half a Billion Pounds Into the Cayman Islands Last Year, yet Facebook's technique may not be overly aggressive.
Google used the Double Irish and the Dutch Sandwich, saving billions in U.S. taxes. The Double Irish involves forming a pair of Irish companies to turn payments on intellectual property into tax-deductible royalty payments. The U.S. parent company forms a subsidiary in Ireland. The parent signs a contract giving European rights to its intangible property to the new company.
In return, the new subsidiary agrees to market or promote the products in Europe. Thus, all the European income–that previously would have been taxed in the U.S.—is taxed in Ireland instead. Then the Irish company changes its headquarters to Bermuda. No Irish tax, no Bermuda tax, and no U.S. tax.
Finally, the parent forms a second Irish subsidiary that elects to be treated as disregarded under U.S. tax law–by filing a one-page form. The first Irish company (now in Bermuda) can license products to the second Irish company for royalties. The net result is one low 12.5% Irish tax compared to 35% in the U.S.
Even this tax can be reduced, since the royalties going to the Bermuda company are deductible. Some of these steps are circuitous, but tax treaties allow them. And the Dutch Sandwich is even more complex.
Start with a Double Irish, but add a third subsidiary in the Netherlands. Instead of licensing the parent's products directly to the second Irish subsidiary, the Bermuda-based subsidiary grants them to the Dutch subsidiary, which pays the third subsidiary. Fortunately, Ireland does not tax money as it moves between European countries.
The Netherlands collects a small fee on monies moving from the Netherlands company to the Bermuda subsidiary. In the end, there is virtually no tax. And while Ireland's Parliamentary hearings are reviewing Ireland's tax rules, it seems unlikely it will all change overnight, if at all. Irish Finance Minister Michael Noonan has said he plans to make it illegal for a company registered in Ireland to have no tax domicile.
Yet even if this happens companies are likely to be able to list any country as their tax residence, including zero tax jurisdictions such as Bermuda. Google and Microsoft have cut their overseas tax rates to single digits by establishing Dublin-registered subsidiaries, which they have designated as tax resident in Bermuda. Google and Apple have Irish-registered and tax resident subsidiaries that make sales to customers.
They pay large, tax-deductible royalties to their Bermuda tax-resident affiliates. In the end, profits wind up in zero-tax jurisdiction. The IRS isn't alone in not liking Apple, Starbucks and Hewlett-Packard plopping income where it can't be taxed. The OECD advises the G20 on tax and economic policy, and it says existing national tax enforcement regimes just don't work. See G-20 Nations 'Fully Endorse' OECD Action Plan on Tax Evasion.
The OECD plan claims that companies like Apple and Google avoid billions in taxes. The G20 is made up of 19 leading world economies plus the European Union. It too has voiced support for a fundamental reassessment of the rules on taxing multinationals.
As for Twitter, it will go public on the NYSE in November. But it seems to be planning for the time when it will have income that could be taxed. See Like Everyone Else, Twitter Hides from U.S. Taxes in Ireland. At least Twitter's Irish outpost employs 100 Dubliners, and is looking to expand.
You can reach me at Wood@WoodLLP.com. This discussion is not intended as legal advice, and cannot be relied upon for any purpose without the services of a qualified professional.
Saturday, October 19, 2013
4 Stocks Under $10 Moving Much Higher
DELAFIELD, Wis. (Stockpickr) -- At Stockpickr, we track daily portfolios of stocks that are the biggest percentage gainers and the biggest percentage losers.
>>5 Big Stocks to Trade for Big Gains
Stocks that are making large moves like these are favorites among short-term traders because they can jump into these names and try to capture some of that massive volatility. Stocks that are making big-percentage moves either up or down are usually in play because their sector is becoming attractive or they have a major fundamental catalyst such as a recent earnings release. Sometimes stocks making big moves have been hit with an analyst upgrade or an analyst downgrade.
Regardless of the reason behind it, when a stock makes a large-percentage move, it is often just the start of a new major trend -- a trend that can lead to huge profits. If you time your trade correctly, combining technical indicators with fundamental trends, discipline and sound money management, you will be well on your way to investment success.
>>5 Stocks With Big Insider Buying
With that in mind, let's take a closer look at a several stocks under $10 that are making large moves to the upside today.
On Track Innovations
On Track Innovations (OTIV) designs, develops and markets turnkey and OEM solutions based on its secure contactless microprocessor-based smart card technology. This stock closed up 11.1% to $1.70 in Thursday's trading session.
Thursday's Range: $1.55-$1.72
52-Week Range: $0.80-$1.98
Thursday's Volume: 656,000
Three-Month Average Volume: 139,154
From a technical perspective, OTIV skyrocketed higher here right above some near-term support at $1.48, and back above its 50-day moving average of $1.65 with heavy upside volume. This stock has been downtrending over the last month and change, with shares falling from its high of $1.88 to its recent low of $1.48. During that move, shares of OTIV have been consistently making lower highs and lower lows, which is bearish technical price action. That said, shares of OTIV have now broken out of that downtrend, and its downside volatility looks over in the short-term.
Traders should now look for long-biased trades in OTIV as long as it's trending above Thursday's low of $1.55 and then once it sustains a move or close above Thursday's high of $1.72 to more resistance at $1.74 with volume that hits near or above 139,154 shares. If we get that move soon, then OTIV will set up to re-test or possibly take out its next major overhead resistance levels at $1.88 to its 52-week high at $1.98. Any high-volume move above those levels will then give OTIV a chance to trend well north of $2.
CEL-SCI
CEL-SCI (CVM) is engaged in the research and development directed at improving the treatment of cancer and other diseases by utilizing the immune system, the body's natural defense system. This stock closed up 8.8% to 86 cents per share in Thursday's trading session.
Thursday's Range: $0.76-$0.86
52-Week Range: $0.75-$3.90
Thursday's Volume: 1.44 million
Three-Month Average Volume: 368,432
From a technical perspective, CVM ripped sharply higher here right above its recent low of 75 cents per share with heavy upside volume. This stock has been downtrending badly for the last two months and change, with shares plunging lower from its high of $2.75 to that low of 75 cents. During that downtrend, shares of CVM have been consistently making lower highs and lower lows, which is bearish technical price action. That move has pushed shares of CVM into oversold territory, since its current relative strength index reading is 24.96. Oversold can always get move oversold, but it's also an area where a stock can experience a powerful rebound higher from.
Traders should now look for long-biased trades in CVM as long as it's trending above its 52-week low of 75 cents and then once it sustains a move or close above Thursday's high of 86 cents to more near-term resistance levels at 88 cents to 95 cents per share with volume that hits near or above 368,432 shares. If we get that move soon, then CVM will set up to re-fill some of its previous gap down zone from earlier this month that started $1.35.
Nanosphere
Nanosphere (NSPH) develops, manufactures and markets an advanced molecular diagnostics platform, the Verigene System, which enables simple, low-cost and highly sensitive genomic and protein testing on a single platform. This stock closed up 5% to $2.04 a share in Thursday's trading session.
Thursday's Range: $1.91-$2.06
52-Week Range: $1.72-$4.49
Thursday's Volume: 535,000
Three-Month Average Volume: 635,089
From a technical perspective, NSPH spiked sharply higher here right above some near-term support at $1.88 and back above its 50-day moving average of $2.01 with decent upside volume. This stock has been trending sideways inside of a consolidation pattern for the last two months and change, with shares moving between $1.77 on the downside and just above $2.25 on the upside. This consolidation pattern is coming after shares of NSPH gapped down sharply back in August from just over $3 to $1.95. Shares of NSPH are now quickly moving within range of triggering a big breakout trade above the upper end of its recent sideways trading chart pattern. That trade will hit if NSPH manages to take out some near-term overhead resistance levels at $2.16 to $2.20, and then just above $2.25 with high volume.
Traders should now look for long-biased trades in NSPH as long as it's trending above Thursday's low of $1.91 or above more support at $1.88 and then once it sustains a move or close above those breakout levels with volume that hits near or above 635,089 shares. If that breakout hits soon, then NSPH will set up to re-fill some of its previous gap down zone from August that started just above $3.
Pendrell
Pendrell (PCO) is a fully integrated intellectual property investment and advisory firm. This stock closed up 5.4% to $2.14 in Thursday's trading session.
Thursday's Range: $2.01-$2.16
52-Week Range: $1.04-$2.71
Thursday's Volume: 232,000
Three-Month Average Volume: 393,038
From a technical perspective, PCO jumped higher here right off its 50-day moving average of $2.03 with lighter-than-average volume. This stock recently formed a major bottoming chart pattern at $1.88, $1.84, $1.89 and $1.85. Since forming that bottom, shares of PCO have started to uptrend and move within range of triggering a near-term breakout trade. That trade will hit if PCO manages to take out some near-term overhead resistance levels at $2.20 to $2.22 with high volume.
Traders should now look for long-biased trades in PCO as long as it's trending above its 50-day at $2.03 or its 200-day at $1.95 and then once it sustains a move or close above those breakout levels with volume that hits near or above 393,038 shares. If that breakout hits soon, then PCO will set up to re-test or possibly take out its next major overhead resistance levels at $2.50 to $2.70. Shares of PCO could even tag $3 if those levels get taken out with strong volume.
To see more stocks that are making notable moves higher today, check out the Stocks Under $10 Moving Higher portfolio on Stockpickr.
-- Written by Roberto Pedone in Delafield, Wis.
RELATED LINKS:
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At the time of publication, author had no positions in stocks mentioned.
Roberto Pedone, based out of Delafield, Wis., is an independent trader who focuses on technical analysis for small- and large-cap stocks, options, futures, commodities and currencies. Roberto studied international business at the Milwaukee School of Engineering, and he spent a year overseas studying business in Lubeck, Germany. His work has appeared on financial outlets including
CNBC.com and Forbes.com. You can follow Pedone on Twitter at www.twitter.com/zerosum24 or @zerosum24.Friday, October 18, 2013
Fiserv Brings Model Portfolio Data to Unified Wealth Platform
Fiserv announced earlier this month the launch of Model Management: Reporting, a module that provides investment managers with model portfolio data within the company’s Unified Wealth Platform.
The new module from Fiserv (FISV), a financial services technology solutions company based in Brookfield, Wis., provides investment managers data about the use of their models-only portfolios by participating broker-dealer sponsor firms.
Reported data as provided by the sponsor firms includes assets under management, weekly and monthly asset flows and information about the financial advisors using the models. In addition, an optimized login process provides single sign-on access to the middle-office component of the Fiserv platform.
“This technology gives investment manager clients access to key metrics about the use, penetration and movement of their portfolios,” said Cheryl Nash, Fiserv’s president of Investment Services, in a statement. “With the largest lineup of models-only sponsors in the industry, this data enables managers to measure their models’ penetration in a particular region or financial advisor, allowing them to measure their performance relative to competitors.”
Managers like the module’s timeliness, transparency and year’s worth of rolling data, while sponsors like the efficiency of the application since they don’t have to provide data and maintain email lists of their managers anymore, according to Michael Snizek, product manager of Investment Services.
“Once additional sponsors begin to use this component of Model Management from Fiserv, managers will be able to retrieve timely, accurate data that provides powerful insight into the use of their funds,” Snizek said in a statement. “With more than 60 managers already using the technology, we’ll be able to readily add additional managers, making Model Management: Reporting a very robust source for models-only manager data.”
Read Fiserv Launches Online Retirement Illustrator Tool at ThinkAdvisor.
Thursday, October 17, 2013
Is Alcatel-Lucent a Buy After Recent News?
With shares of Alcatel-Lucent (NYSE:ALU) trading around $3, is ALU an OUTPERFORM, WAIT AND SEE, or STAY AWAY? Let's analyze the stock with the relevant sections of our CHEAT SHEET investing framework.
T = Trends for a Stock’s MovementAlcatel-Lucent is a France-based company that proposes solutions used by service providers, businesses, and governments worldwide to offer voice, data, and video services to their own customers. It is also engaged in mobile, fixed, Internet protocol, optics technologies, applications, and services. The company operates in three business segments: Networks; Software, Services and Solutions; and Enterprise. As consumers and businesses continue to connect at an increasing rate, communications companies like Alcatel-Lucent stand to see rising profits. However, the company must adapt to new technologies if it is to see a rising consumer base.
Alcatel-Lucent CEO Michel Combes has warned that the company is in trouble, having steadily incurred losses since Alcatel merged with Lucent in 2006. The French-American wireless company has missed key technological changes and announced it's cutting 10,000 jobs despite protests from the French government. "This company could disappear," Combes told Europe 1 radio, according to Reuters. Alcatel-Lucent saw 1,500 workers protest in Paris on Tuesday against the job cuts.
T = Technicals on the Stock Chart Are StrongAlcatel-Lucent stock has been declining in the past several years. The stock is currently surging higher and trading slightly below yearly highs. Analyzing the price trend and its strength can be done using key simple moving averages. What are the key moving averages? The 50-day (pink), 100-day (blue), and 200-day (yellow) simple moving averages. As seen in the daily price chart below, Alcatel-Lucent is trading above its rising key averages, which signals neutral to bullish price action in the near-term.
Source: Thinkorswim
Taking a look at the implied volatility and implied volatility skew levels of Alcatel-Lucent options may help determine if investors are bullish, neutral, or bearish.
| Implied Volatility (IV) | 30-Day IV Percentile | 90-Day IV Percentile | |
| Alcatel-Lucent Options | 73.8% | 86% | 84% |
What does this mean? This means that investors or traders are buying a very significant amount of call and put options contracts as compared to the last 30 and 90 trading days.
| Put IV Skew | Call IV Skew | |
| November Options | Flat | Average |
| December Options | Flat | Average |
As of Wednesday, there is average demand from call buyers or sellers and low demand by put buyers or high demand by put sellers, all neutral to bullish over the next two months. To summarize, investors are buying a very significant amount of call and put option contracts and are leaning neutral to bullish over the next two months.
E = Earnings Are Mixed Quarter-Over-QuarterRising stock prices are often strongly correlated with rising earnings and revenue growth rates. Also, the last four quarterly earnings announcement reactions help gauge investor sentiment on Alcatel-Lucent’s stock. What do the last four quarterly earnings and revenue growth (Y-O-Y) figures for Alcatel-Lucent look like and, more importantly, how did the markets like these numbers?
| 2013 Q2 | 2013 Q1 | 2012 Q4 | 2012 Q3 | |
| Earnings Growth (Y-O-Y) | -133.84% | -254.09% | -423.67% | -171.56% |
| Revenue Growth (Y-O-Y) | 6.73% | -3.17% | 0.94% | -7.32% |
| Earnings Reaction | 3.25% | -1.42% | -7.55% | -9.9% |
Alcatel-Lucent has seen decreasing earnings and increasing revenue figures over the last four quarters. From these numbers, the markets have not been pleased with Alcatel-Lucent’s recent earnings announcements.
P = Excellent Relative Performance Versus Peers and SectorHow has Alcatel-Lucent stock done relative to its peers – Cisco (NASDAQ:CSCO), Nokia (NYSE:NOK), and Ericsson (NASDAQ:ERIC) — and sector?
| Alcatel-Lucent | Cisco | Nokia | Ericsson | Sector | |
| Year-to-Date Return | 162.6% | 17.33% | 76.33% | 10 Best Biotech Stocks To Buy Right Now28.61% | 40.67% |
Alcatel-Lucent has been a relative performance leader, year-to-date.
ConclusionAlcatel-Lucent is a provider of mobile and communications solutions to growing businesses and consumers worldwide. A warning that the company may be in trouble may be a negative catalyst for the company. The stock has been surging higher in 2013 and is currently trading slightly below highs for the year. Over the last four quarters, earnings have been decreasing while revenues have been increasing, which has not pleased investors in the company. Relative to its peers and sector, Alcatel-Lucent has been a year-to-date performance leader. Look for Alcatel-Lucent to continue to OUTPERFORM.
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
4 Stocks Spiking on Big Volume
DELAFIELD, Wis. (Stockpickr) -- Professional traders running mutual funds and hedge funds don't just look at a stock's price moves; they also track big changes in volume activity. Often when above-average volume moves into an equity, it precedes a large spike in volatility.
>>5 Stocks Ready to Break Out
Major moves in volume can signal unusual activity, such as insider buying or selling -- or buying or selling by "superinvestors."
Unusual volume can also be a major signal that hedge funds and momentum traders are piling into a stock ahead of a catalyst. These types of traders like to get in well before a large spike, so it's always a smart move to monitor unusual volume. That said, remember to combine trend and price action with unusual volume. Put them all together to help you decipher the next big trend for any stock.
>>5 Hated Earnings Stocks You Should Love
With that in mind, let's take a look at several stocks rising on unusual volume today.
Matador Resources
Matador Resources (MTDR) is an independent energy company engaged in the exploration, development, production and acquisition of oil and natural gas resources in the U.S. This stock closed up 4.8% to $18.10 in Monday's trading session.
Monday's Volume: 1.39 million
Three-Month Average Volume: 708,697
Volume % Change: 109%
>>5 Stocks Under $10 Set to Soar
From a technical perspective, MTDR ripped higher here and broke out above some near-term overhead resistance levels at $17.41 to $17.89 with above-average volume. This move also pushed shares of MTDR into new all-time-high territory, which is bullish technical price action. That means there's no resistance above on shares of MTDR, since the stock is trading in uncharted territory.
Traders should now look for long-biased trades in MTDR as long as it's trending above its 50-day at $16.43 and then once it sustains a move or close above its new all-time high at $18.25 with volume that hits near or above 708,697 shares. If we get that move soon, then MTDR will set up to enter new all-time-high territory, which is bullish technical price action. Some possible upside targets off that move are $23 to $25.
Dunkin Brands Group
Dunkin Brands Group (DNKN) is a franchisor of quick service restaurants serving hot and cold coffee and baked goods, as well as hard-serve ice cream. This stock closed up 1.7% at $46.47 in Monday's trading session.
Monday's Volume: 1.46 million
Three-Month Average Volume: 871,508
Volume % Change: 87%
>>5 Big Stocks to Trade for Big Gains
From a technical perspective, DNKN rose modestly higher here and broke out above some near-term overhead resistance at $46.50 with above-average volume. This move also pushed shares of DNKN into new all-time high territory, which is bullish technical price action. Whenever a stock makes a new all-time high, then it means that everyone who has ever gone long is making money. That's good company to be in, since it means a stock has no overhead sellers that are stuck from higher prices to contend with.
Traders should now look for long-biased trades in DNKN as long as it's trending above its 50-day at $44.14 and then once it sustains a move or close above its new all-time high at $46.96 with volume that hits near or above 871,508 shares. If we get that move soon, then DNKN will set up to enter new all-time-high territory, which is bullish technical price action. Some possible upside targets off that move are $52 to $55.
Stoneridge
Stoneridge (SRI) is a designer and manufacturer of highly engineered electrical and electronic components, modules and systems for the commercial vehicle, automotive, agricultural, motorcycle and off-highway vehicle markets. This stock closed up 0.82% at $12.36 in Monday's trading session.
Monday's Volume: 294,000
Three-Month Average Volume: 188,372
Volume % Change: 145%
>>5 Stocks Hedge Funds Love This Fall
From a technical perspective, SRI jumped modestly higher here back above its 50-day moving average of $12.16 with above-average volume. This stock has been uptrending for the last few weeks, with shares moving higher from its low of $10.75 to its intraday high of $12.42. During that move, shares of SRI have been consistently making higher lows and higher highs, which is bullish technical price action. This uptrend is coming after shares of SRI dropped from its August high of $13.63 to that $10.75 low.
Traders should now look for long-biased trades in SRI as long as it's trending above $11.50, and then once it sustains a move or close above Monday's high of $12.42 with volume that's near or above 188,372 shares. If we get that move soon, then SRI will set up to re-test or possibly take out its next major overhead resistance levels at $13.38 to its 52-week high at $13.63. Any high-volume move above those levels will then give SRI a chance to tag $15 to $16.
Geo Group
Geo Group (GEO) specializes in the ownership, leasing and management of correctional, detention and re-entry facilities, and the provision of community based services and youth services in the U.S., Australia, South Africa and the U.K. This stock closed up 0.72% at $33.35 in Monday's trading session.
Monday's Volume: 1.65 million
Three-Month Average Volume: 632,598
Volume % Change: 125%
>>5 Rocket Stocks to Buy This Earnings Season
From a technical perspective, GEO jumped higher here right off its 50-day moving average of $32.71 with above-average volume. This stock has been uptrending strong for the last month and change, with shares moving higher from its low of $30.11 to its recent high of $34.10. During that move, shares of GEO have been mostly making higher lows and higher highs, which is bullish technical price action. That move has now pushed shares of GEO within range of triggering a big breakout trade. That trade will hit if GEO manages to take out some near-term overhead resistance levels at $34 to $34.44 with high volume.
Traders should now look for long-biased trades in GEO as long as it's trending above its 50-day at $32.71 or above more support at $31.50 and then once it sustains a move or close above those breakout levels with volume that's near or above 632,598 shares. If that breakout trigger soon, then GEO will set up to re-test or possibly take out its next major overhead resistance levels $38 to $40.
To see more stocks rising on unusual volume, check out the Stocks Rising on Unusual Volume portfolio on Stockpickr.
-- Written by Roberto Pedone in Delafield, Wis.
RELATED LINKS:
>>Why I'm Sticking By Dow 55,000
>>4 Stocks Under $10 Making Big Moves
>>SolarCity Set to Soar Even Higher
Follow Stockpickr on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook.
At the time of publication, author had no positions in stocks mentioned.
Roberto Pedone, based out of Delafield, Wis., is an independent trader who focuses on technical analysis for small- and large-cap stocks, options, futures, commodities and currencies. Roberto studied international business at the Milwaukee School of Engineering, and he spent a year overseas studying business in Lubeck, Germany. His work has appeared on financial outlets including
CNBC.com and Forbes.com. You can follow Pedone on Twitter at www.twitter.com/zerosum24 or @zerosum24.Tuesday, October 15, 2013
We Can’t Stop: Dow Industrials Gain 200 Points as Debt Deal Nears
Miley Cyrus has it right–it’s our party and we can do what we want.
Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Clear Channel And what do we want? We want stocks to go up, up, up because a deal to raise the debt ceiling might be reached, never mind that the government shutdown looks set to drag on.
The Dow Jones Industrials have gained 243.01 points, or 1.6%, to 15,045.61, while the S&P 500 has climbed 1.7% to 1,684.82.
JP Morgan’s David Hensley and team explain what’s going on:
There has been some progress toward raising the US debt ceiling on a short-term basis (a number of weeks) to allow the President and Congressional leaders to discuss a range of budget and policy issues. The partial shutdown might remain in effect, but the more dangerous issue of default would be averted temporarily.
Citigroup’s Robert DiClemente and team worry about the long-term damage done by the combination of big debt and bad politics:
If the current trend that points to more intense and paralyzing political debates becomes perceived by global investors and rating agencies as a "new normal" for the US, then the consequences of hitting the debt ceiling may become dire. Instead of viewing each missed or late payment as a (forgettable) extraordinary event (as in 1979), a political risk premium will likely be embedded into the funding costs of US Treasuries. Such a premium would represent a risk of nonpayment associated with a dysfunctional government. We would enter an era where the US government is willing to hold payment of financial obligations hostage to achieving political ends.
Today, however, investors are having none of it. As of 1:42 p.m., just three Dow components are in the red, and even the defense contractors are gaining, despite the fact that the government shutdown doesn’t look to be ending. Boeing (BA), for instance has gained 2.9% to $117.74, and United Technologies (UTX) has advanced 2.3% to $105.16. And if I’ve counted correctly, just 17 S&P-500 stocks are now in negative territory–led higher by companies such as Best Buy (BBY), which has gained 7.3% to $38.90 after Stifel Nicolaus said more people expecting to shop in its stores, and Invesco (IVZ), which has risen 4.9% to $33.75 after saying assets-under-management grew. Even Tower Group International (TWGP), the seriously troubled insurer, is up p 9.9% at $4.10.
Crack open the champagne–it’s a party today.
Monday, October 14, 2013
Hot Medical Stocks To Invest In 2014
Erickson Air Crane Inc.�� (EAC) newly acquired subsidiary, Evergreen Helicopters Inc., received a contract extension from the U.S. Army�� Garrison in Hawaii for the supply of rotary wing aerial services to support air medical evacuation and training activities.
The Army Contracting Command in Fort Shafter, Hawaii is the contracting authority. With this order the total value of the contract will reach over $10.0 million. The federal contract was previously awarded in Jun 2013.
Erickson-Air Crane has been known to offer aircraft services to the U.S. military over the past four decades. The key factor that drives Erickson-Air Crane�� business is its diversified nature of operations. From transport to the energy sector, the company has been successful in spreading its business capabilities in the U.S. as well as in the international market.
Recently, Erickson-Air Crane cemented relations with Flour Corporation by clinching an annual contract extension for sharing project management capabilities and delivery of multiple aircraft, pilots and ground crew for both passenger and cargo transport to support ongoing military operations in Afghanistan.
The Army Contracting Command in Fort Shafter, Hawaii is the contracting authority. With this order the total value of the contract will reach over $10.0 million. The federal contract was previously awarded in Jun 2013.
Erickson-Air Crane has been known to offer aircraft services to the U.S. military over the past four decades. The key factor that drives Erickson-Air Crane�� business is its diversified nature of operations. From transport to the energy sector, the company has been successful in spreading its business capabilities in the U.S. as well as in the international market.
Recently, Erickson-Air Crane cemented relations with Flour Corporation by clinching an annual contract extension for sharing project management capabilities and delivery of multiple aircraft, pilots and ground crew for both passenger and cargo transport to support ongoing military operations in Afghanistan.
Hot Medical Stocks To Invest In 2014: Inovio Pharmaceuticals Inc (INO)
Inovio Pharmaceuticals, Inc., incorporated on June 29, 1983, is engaged in the development of a new generation of vaccines, called synthetic vaccines, focused on cancers and infectious diseases. The Company's SynCon technology enables the design of universal vaccines capable of providing cross-protection against existing or changing strains of pathogens, such as influenza and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The Company's electroporation delivery technology uses brief, controlled electrical pulses to increase cellular uptake of the vaccine. Its clinical programs include cervical dysplasia (therapeutic), avian influenza (preventive), prostate cancer (therapeutic), leukemia (therapeutic), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and HIV vaccines. It is advancing preclinical research and clinical development for a universal seasonal/pandemic influenza vaccine, as well as preclinical work for other products, including malaria and prostate cancer vaccines. Its partners and collaborators include University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University, National Microbiology Laboratory of the Public Health Agency of Canada, Program for Appropriate Technology in Health/Malaria Vaccine Initiative (PATH/MVI), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), Merck, ChronTech, University of Southampton, United States Military HIV Research Program (USMHRP), the United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID) and HIV Vaccines Trial Network (HVTN). As of December 31, 2011 it owned 16.1% interest in VGX Int��.
Inovio�� Solution
The Company�� synthetic vaccine platform consists of its SynCon vaccine design process and electroporation delivery technology. It has developed a preclinical and clinical stage pipeline of vaccines. The Company�� synthetic vaccines are designed to prevent a disease (prophylactic vaccines) or treat an existing disease (therapeutic vaccines). Its synthetic vaccine consists of a deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) plasmid encoding a selected antigen! (s), which is introduced into cells of humans or animals with the purpose of evoking an immune response to the encoded antigen. The Company�� synthetic vaccines are designed to generate specific antibody and/or T-cell responses.
The Company�� SynCon technology provides processes that employ bioinformatics, which combine extensive genetic data and sophisticated algorithms. Its design process uses the genetic make-up of a common antigen(s) from multiple strains of a virus within a viral sub-type or taxonomic group (family) of pathogens, such as HIV, hepatitis C virus (HCV), human papillomavirus (HPV), influenza and other diseases to synthetically create a new antigen for the desired pathogen target that does not exist in nature. Its synthetic vaccine candidates are being delivered into cells of the body using its electroporation (EP) DNA delivery technology.
Cancer Synthetic Vaccines
The Company has two broad types of cancer vaccines: preventive (or prophylactic) vaccines, which are intended to prevent cancer from developing in healthy people, and treatment (or therapeutic) vaccines, which are intended to treat an existing cancer by strengthening the body�� natural defenses against the cancer. Two types of cancer preventive vaccines are available in the United States. The United States Food and Drug Administration (the FDA) has approved two vaccines, Gardasil and Cervarix that protect against infection by the two types of HPV-types 16 and 18-that cause approximately 70% of all cases of cervical cancer worldwide. In addition, Gardasil protects against infection by two additional HPV types, 6 and 11, which are responsible for about 90% of all cases of genital warts in males and females but do not cause cervical cancer.
Cervarix manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline, is composed of virus-like particles (VLPs) made with proteins from HPV types 16 and 18. Cervarix is approved for use in females��ages 10 to 25 for the prevention of cervical cancer caused by! HPV type! s 16 and 18. Gardasil manufactured by Merck, is approved for use in females for the prevention of cervical cancer, and some vulvar and vaginal cancers, caused by HPV types 16 and 18 and for use in males and females for the prevention of genital warts caused by HPV types 6 and 11. The vaccine is approved for these uses in females and males ages 9 to 26. The FDA has also approved a cancer preventive vaccine that protects against hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection.
Inovio�� VGX-3100 is designed to raise immune responses against the E6 and E7 genes of HPV types 16 and 18 that are present in both pre-cancerous and cancerous cells transformed by these HPV types. E6 and E7 are oncogenes that play an integral role in transforming HPV-infected cells into cancerous cells. In March 2011, it initiated a randomized, double-blind Phase II study of VGX-3100 delivered using the CELLECTRA intramuscular electroporation device in women with HPV Type 16 or 18 and diagnosed with, but not yet treated for, cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) 2/3. The study is designed to enroll 148 subjects. In January 2011, it announced the publication of a scientific paper in the journal Human Vaccines detailing potent immune responses in a preclinical study of its SynCon vaccine for prostate cancer targeting two antigens, prostate specific antigen (PSA) and prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA).
In January 2011, the Company announced the regulatory approval of a Phase II clinical trial (WIN Trial) to treat leukemia utilizing its new ELGEN 1000 automated vaccine delivery device. The single dose level, Phase II study, called WT1 immunity via DNA fusion gene vaccination in haematological malignancies by intramuscular injection followed by intramuscular electroporation. Cancer Vaccines encodes for hTERT, an antigen related to non-small cell lung, breast and prostate cancers. The vaccine is delivered using its electroporation delivery technology.
Infectious Disease Synthetic Vaccines
In Marc! h 2011, the Company announced the initiation of a follow-on open label, single dose Phase II clinical study in collaboration with ChronTech of the ChronVac-C HCV DNA vaccine delivered using its electroporation technology in treatment naive HCV infected individuals. Its HIV vaccines consist of candidates for HIV prevention, as well as therapy or treatment. PENNVAX-B is designed to target HIV clade B (most commonly found in the United States, North America, Australia and the European Union (EU). PENNVAX-G is designed to target HIV clades A, C and D, which are more commonly found in Asia, Africa, Russia and South America. This Phase I clinical study of PENNVAX-B (HVTN-080) vaccinated 48 healthy, HIV-negative volunteers to assess safety and levels of immune responses generated by Inovio�� PENNVAX-B vaccine delivered with its CELLECTRA electroporation device. PENNVAX-B is a SynCon vaccine that targets HIV gag, pol, and env proteins.The Company�� VGX-3400X targets H5N1. The vaccine consists of three distinct DNA plasmids coded for a consensus hemagglutinin (HA) antigen derived from different H5N1 virus strains; a consensus neuraminidase (NA) antigen derived from different N1 sequences; and a consensus nucleoprotein (NP) fused to a small portion of the m2 protein (m2E) based on a broader cross-section of influenza viruses in addition to H5N1 and H1N1. Conventional vaccines are strain-specific and have limited ability to protect against genetic shifts in the influenza strains they target. They are therefore modified annually in anticipation of the next flu season�� new strain(s). It is focused on developing DNA-based influenza vaccines able to provide broad protection against known as well as newly emerging, unknown seasonal and pandemic influenza strains.
Animal Health/Veterinary
VGX Animal Health, Inc. (VGX AH), a majority-owned subsidiary, has licensed LifeTide, a plasmid-based growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH) technology for swine. LifeTide is one of onl! y four DN! A-based treatments approved for use in animals and is the only DNA-based agent delivered using electroporation that has been granted marketing approval (Australia). VGX AH is also developing a GHRH-based treatment for cancer and anemia in dogs and cats. It is developing a synthetic vaccine for foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) administered by its vaccine delivery technology. The FMD virus is one of the most infectious diseases affecting farm animals, including cattle, swine, sheep and goats, and is a serious threat to global food safety.
The Company competes with Crucell N.V, Sanofi-Aventis, Novartis, Inc., GlaxoSmithKline plc, Merck, Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Inc., Novartis, Inc., MedImmune and CSL.
Advisors' Opinion:- [By Sean Williams]
No fairytale ending
Fairytale endings work great in the movies, but you rarely see them come to fruition in the real world. Small-cap biopharmaceutical Inovio Pharmaceuticals (NYSEMKT: INO ) has seen shares nearly triple since April on the heels of multiple intriguing studies, but will the glass slipper fit over the long term?
Hot Medical Stocks To Invest In 2014: DiaMedica Inc (DMA)
DiaMedica Inc. (DiaMedica) is a development-stage company. The Company is a biopharmaceutical company engaged in the discovery and development of drugs for the treatment of diabetes and related diseases. DiaMedica's compound, DM-199, is a recombinant human protein for the treatment of both Type I and Type II diabetes and their complications. DiaMedica is starting a Phase I/II clinical trial for DM-199. DM-199 is a recombinant human protein, which improves glucose control, protects beta cells through the expansion of a population of antigen-specific immunosuppressive cells (Tregs), and proliferates insulin producing beta cells through the activation of certain growth factors. The Company�� DM-204 is a G-protein-coupled receptor agonist (GPCR) monoclonal antibody to treat Type II diabetes and some of the associated complication's. activating a receptor resulted in insulin sensitivity, insulin secretion and vasodilation.Top 5 Blue Chip Stocks To Invest In Right Now: Dyadic International Inc (DYAI)
Dyadic International, Inc. (Dyadic), incorporated in September 2002, is a holding company. The Company is a global biotechnology company. The Company has operations at the United States and the Netherlands. Dyadic uses its technologies to conduct research and development (R&D) and commercial activities for the discovery, development, manufacture and sale of enzymes and proteins for the bioenergy, industrial enzyme, and biopharmaceutical industries. The Company derives all of its revenues from the licensing of its technologies, the sale of its enzymes and conducting research and development (R&D) activities for third parties. The Company operates in two segments: the United States operations and The Netherlands operations. The United States segment includes a subsidiary in Poland.
The United States operating segment is a developer, manufacturer and distributor of enzyme products, proteins, peptides and other bio-molecules derived from genes and a collaborative licensor of enabling technologies for the development and manufacturing of biological products and use in R&D. The Netherlands operating segment is also a researcher and developer of enzyme products, proteins, peptides and other bio-molecules derived from genes and, to date, has mainly invested in R&D activities.
Dyadic�� R&D activities focus on its fungal strains and associated technologies. Dyadic uses its Trichoderma and C1 fungal strains in the production of its industrial enzymes. Dyadic manufactures and sells liquid and dry enzyme products to global customers for use within the animal feed, pulp and paper, starch and alcohol, food and brewing, textiles, and biofuels industries.
Dyadic also utilizes a technology platform based on its patented and C1 fungus (the C1 Platform Technology), which enables the development and manufacture of proteins and enzymes for diverse market opportunities. The C1 Platform Technology can also be used to screen for the discovery of novel genes and proteins. The C1 Platf! orm Technology also has the potential of developing and producing other biological products such as antibodies, vaccines, proteins and polypeptides for the biopharmaceutical industry.
Hot Medical Stocks To Invest In 2014: Zynex Inc (ZYXI)
Zynex, Inc. operates under three primary business segments: Zynex Medical, Zynex NeuroDiagnostics and Zynex Monitoring Solutions. Zynex Medical engineers, manufactures, markets and sells its design of electrotherapy medical devices used for pain management and rehabilitation. Zynex Medical�� product lines are cleared by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and sold worldwide. Zynex NeuroDiagnostics, sells the Company's NeuroMove device designed to help stroke and spinal cord injury patients and is seeking opportunities into markets for electromyogram (EMG), electroencephalogram (EEG), sleep pattern, auditory and nerve conductivity neurological diagnosis devices through product development and acquisitions. As of January 30, 2012, Zynex Monitoring Solutions was in the development-stage and was established to develop and market medical devices for non-invasive cardiac monitoring. In February 2012, the Company announced the creation of a European wholly owned subsidiary in Denmark. In June 2012, the Company acquired ZYNEX.com Internet domain.
The Company�� products include TruWave TENS, ValuTENS II, IF8100 Interferential Current, E-Wave Muscle Stimulator, NeuroMove NM900, PGS-123 Pulsed-Galvanic Stimulator, NuTrac Pelvator, Knapp Knee Brace and ValuTENS III. TruWave TENS is used for management and symptomatic relief of chronic intractable pain, post-traumatic and post-surgical Pain. ValuTENS II is used for the indications of chronic and acute pain symptoms and post-operative pain. IF8100 Interferential Current is used for symptomatic relief of chronic intractable pain, post-traumatic and post-surgical pain. E-Wave Muscle Stimulator is used for muscle re-education, prevention or retardation of disuse atrophy, increasing local blood circulation, maintaining or increasing range of motion and relaxation of muscle spasms. NeuroMove NM900 is used for stroke rehab by muscle re-education, relaxation of muscle spasms, prevention of retardation of disuse atrophy, increase local blo! od circulation, muscle re-education and maintaining range of motion. PGS-123 Pulsed-Galvanic Stimulator is used for muscle re-education, prevention of retardation of disuse atrophy, increase local blood circulation, maintain or increase range of motion and relaxation of muscle spasms. NuTrac Pelvator - Pelvic Floor Stimulator provides electrical stimulation and neuromuscular re-education for the purpose of rehabilitation of weak pelvic floor muscles for the treatment of stress, urge and mix urinary incontinence in women. ValuTENS III is used for chronic and acute pain symptoms and post-operative pain. Knapp Knee Brace is used for the indications of MCL and LCL Sprains, pre and post-op care of meniscus injuries, mild to moderate ACL and PCL Sprains and general knee instability.
Hot Medical Stocks To Invest In 2014: EntreMed Inc (ENMD.PH)
EntreMed, Inc. (EntreMed), incorporated in 1991, is a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company. EntreMed's drug candidate is ENMD-2076, an Aurora A and angiogenic kinase inhibitor for the treatment of cancer. ENMD-2076 has completed Phase I studies in patients with advanced solid tumors, multiple myeloma and leukemia and is completing data for a multi-center Phase II study in patients with platinum resistant ovarian cancer. The Company�� other product candidates have includes MKC-1, ENMD-1198 and 2-methoxyestrdiol (2ME2, Panzem) for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
ENMD-2076 is a novel orally-active, Aurora A/angiogenic kinase inhibitor with potent activity against Aurora A and multiple tyrosine kinases linked to cancer and inflammatory diseases. ENMD-2076 is relatively selective for the Aurora A isoform in comparison to Aurora B. Aurora kinases are key regulators of the process of mitosis, or cell division, and are often over-expressed in human cancers. E NMD-2076 exerts its effects through multiple mechanisms of action, including anti-proliferative activity and the inhibition of angiogenesis. ENMD-2076 has demonstrated significant, dose-dependent preclinical activity as a single agent, including tumor regression, in multiple xenograft models (such as breast, colon, leukemia), as well as activity towards ex vivo-treated human leukemia patient cells.
Hot Medical Stocks To Invest In 2014: Non-Invasive Monitoring Systems Inc (NIMU)
Non-Invasive Monitoring Systems, Inc. (NIMS), incorporated on July 16, 1980, along with its subsidiaries, is engaged in the research, development, manufacturing and marketing of a line of motorized, non-invasive, whole body, periodic acceleration platforms, which are intended as aids to increase local circulation and temporary relief of minor aches and pains, produce local muscle relaxation and reduce morning stiffness. The Company�� products are derivatives of its original acceleration platform, the AT-101, and are for use in homes, wellness centers and clinics. NIMS is focused on developing and marketing its Exer-Rest line of acceleration therapeutic platforms based upon whole body periodic acceleration (WBPA) technology. The Exer-Rest line of acceleration therapeutic platforms includes the Exer-Rest AT, AT3800 and AT4700 models. In addition, it receives royalty revenue from the sales of non-invasive diagnostic monitoring devices and related software.
Whole Body Periodic Acceleration (WBPA) Therapeutic Devices
The AT-101 is a device that moves a platform repetitively in a head-to-foot motion at a rapid pace. In January 2005, the Company ceased manufacturing the AT-101. The Exer-Rest AT therapeutic vibrator is based upon the design and concept of the AT-101 therapeutic vibrator, but has the dimensions and appearance of a commercial extra long twin bed. The Exer-Rest AT was manufactured by QTM Incorporated (QTM). The wired hand held controller provides digital values of speed, travel and time rather than analog values of speed and arbitrary force values as in the AT-101. the Company discontinued manufacturing of the Exer-Rest AT in July 2009. The Exer-Rest SL and Exer-Rest TL, which were manufactured by Sing Lin Technology Co., Ltd. (Sing Lin), are next generation versions of the Exer-Rest AT and advance the acceleration therapeutic platform technology.
LifeShirt
The LifeShirt is a wearable physiological computer that incorporates transducers, ele! ctrodes and sensors into a sleeveless garment. Pulse oximetry is an optional add-on. These sensors transmit vital and physiological signs to a miniaturized, battery-powered, electronic module which saves the raw waveforms and digital data to the compact flash memory of a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) attached to the LifeShirt. Users of the LifeShirt can enter symptoms (with intensity), mood and medication information directly into the PDA for integration with the physiologic information collected by the LifeShirt garment. Such data are then transmitted from the flash memory to a data collection center that transforms the data into minute-by-minute median trends of over 30 physical and emotional signs of health and disease. In addition, the monitored patient can enter symptoms with intensity, mood, and medication directly into the PDA for integration with the physiologic information collected with the LifeShirt garment. As of July 31, 2009, LifeShirt was not marketed. The LifeShirt was sold by VivoMetrics, but has not been marketed since VivoMetrics ceased operations in July 2009.
The Company competes with Power Plate of North America, Vibraflex and CERAGEM International, Inc.
Hot Medical Stocks To Invest In 2014: Cannabis Science Inc (CBIS)
Cannabis Science, Inc., incorporated on May 4, 2007, is a development-stage company. The Company is engaged in the creation of cannabis-based medicines, both with and without psychoactive properties, to treats disease and the symptoms of disease, as well as for general health maintenance. On February 9, 2012, the Company acquired GGECO University, Inc. (GGECO). On March 21, 2012, the Company acquired Cannabis Consulting Inc. (CCI Group).
The Company is engaged in medical marijuana research and development. The Company works with world authorities on phytocannabinoid science targeting critical illnesses, and adheres to scientific methodologies to develop, produce, and commercialize phytocannabinoid-based pharmaceutical products.
Advisors' Opinion:- [By Bryan Murphy]
The difference between Growlife's leadership and, say that of competitors like Cannabis Science Inc. (OTCMKTS: CBIS) or Medical Marijuana Inc. (OTCMKTS: MJNA), has been relatively well documented here at the SmallCap Network site. I think the way I - well, someone else - put it back on June 25th says it best...."Growlife is sort of the demure girl in the corner who doesn't do shots off her navel in the bar." It may not have sizzle, but it does have substance.
- [By John Udovich]
Although its summer, there has been a steady stream of good news about medical marijuana even though important small cap marijuana stocks�Medical Marijuana Inc (OTCMKTS: MJNA) and Cannabis Science Inc (OTCMKTS: CBIS) have been fairly quietly lately while Growlife Inc (OTCBB: PHOT), a more indirect play on the spread of legalized marijuana, has produced�some news for investors:
Hot Medical Stocks To Invest In 2014: LeMaitre Vascular Inc (LMAT)
LeMaitre Vascular, Inc. (LeMaitre Vascular), incorporated on November 28, 1983, is a global provider of medical devices and implants for the treatment of peripheral vascular disease. The Company develops, manufacture, and market vascular devices to addresses the needs of vascular surgeons. The Company's diversified portfolio of peripheral vascular devices consists of brand name products that are used in arteries and veins outside of the heart and are well known to vascular surgeons, including the Expandable LeMaitre Valvulotome, the Pruitt F3 Carotid Shunt, and VascuTape Radiopaque Tape. The Company sells 12 product lines, most of which are used in open vascular surgery and some of which are used in endovascular procedures. The Company sells its products primarily through a direct sales force. The Company�� products are used by vascular surgeons who treat peripheral vascular disease through both open surgical methods and endovascular techniques. In July 2013, Lemaitre Vascular Inc acquired the assets of Clinical Instruments International, Inc. In August 2013, Lemaitre Vascular Inc acquired the assets of InaVein, LLC.
In June 2011, the Company divested its TAArget and UniFit stent grafts to Duke Vascular, Inc. In August 2011, the Company terminated its distribution of Endologix�� aortic stent graft products in Europe. In November 2011, it launched the second-generation of The UnBalloon Non-Occlusive Modeling Catheter. In December 2011, the Company launched the Over-The-Wire LeMaitre Valvulotome.
Open Vascular Products
The Company�� open vascular products are used primarily in conventional open vascular surgery for the treatment of peripheral vascular disease. LeMaitre line of embolectomy catheters are used to remove blood clots from arteries or veins. The Company manufactures single-lumen latex and latex-free embolectomy catheters, as well as dual-lumen latex embolectomy catheters. The dual-lumen embolectomy catheter allows clot removal and simultaneous irri! gation or guide-wire trackability. Its Pruitt line of occlusion and perfusion catheters reduces vessel trauma by using internal balloon fixation rather than traditional external clamp fixation.
Pruitt F3, Pruitt-Inahara, Inahara-Pruitt, and Flexcel Carotid Shunts are used to temporarily divert, or shunt, blood to the brain while the surgeon removes plaque from the carotid artery in a carotid endarterectomy surgery. Its Pruitt F3, Pruitt-Inahara, and Inahara-Pruitt shunts feature internal balloon fixation that eliminates the need for clamps, thereby reducing vessel trauma. Its Flexcel shunt is a non-balloon shunt offered for surgeons who prefer to secure their shunt using externally placed clamps.
EndoRE line of remote endarterectomy devices are used to remove severe atherosclerotic blockages from the major arteries of the leg in a minimally invasive procedure requiring a single incision in the groin. Its EndoRE devices are used to separate the sclerotic blockage from the vessel, cut the far end of the blockage to free it for removal, and then withdraw the blockage from the vessel.
Expandable LeMaitre Valvulotome and its Over-The-Wire LeMaitre Valvulotome cut valves in the saphenous vein, a vein that runs from the foot to the groin, so that the vein can function as a bypass vessel to carry blood past diseased arteries to the lower leg or the foot. The Expandable LeMaitre Valvulotome is the only self-sizing and self-centering valvulotome available, and the Over-The-Wire LeMaitre Valvulotome is the only over-the-wire self-sizing valvulotome available.
AlboGraft Woven and Knitted Vascular Grafts are collagen-impregnated polyester grafts used to bypass or replace diseased arteries. They are available in both straight tube and bifurcated versions. LifeSpan ePTFE Vascular Graft is an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) graft used to bypass or replace diseased arteries, and to create dialysis access sites. They are available in both regular and thin wall ! options a! nd with an optional full or partial external spiral support to increase resistance to compression or kinking. Its LifeSpan models are designed to reduce the risk of steal syndrome and high cardiac output, which are complications that may arise in dialysis access grafts.
AlboSure Vascular Patch is a polyester patch used in conjunction with endarterectomy and vascular reconstructions. Vascular surgeons use patches in conjunction with carotid endarterectomy, remote endarterectomy, and other vascular reconstructions. The Company also distributes the XenoSure Biologic Vascular Patch, a patch made from bovine pericardium.
AnastoClip VCS and AnastoClip GC Vessel Closure Systems allow surgeons to attach vessels, native and prosthetic, to one another by deploying titanium clips in place of suturing. These vessel closure systems create an interrupted anastomosis, or a vessel attachment that expands and contracts as the vessel pulses.
Endovascular and Other Products
The Company�� endovascular products are used primarily by vascular surgeons in minimally invasive endovascular procedures, such as stent-grafting, angioplasty, stenting, and atherectomy, and it also sells non-vascular medical devices used in general surgery procedures, primarily laparoscopic cholecystectomy. UnBalloon Non-Occlusive Modeling Catheter is used to apply radial pressure to the inside of an aortic stent graft in order to seal the outer lining of the stent graft against either the aorta or an adjacent stent graft.
VascuTape Radiopaque Tape is a flexible, medical-grade tape with centimeter or millimeter markings printed with its radiopaque ink that is visible both to the eye and to an X-ray machine or fluoroscope. VascuTape Radiopaque Tape is applied to the skin and provides interventionalists with a simple way to cross-reference between the inside and the outside of a patient�� body, allowing them to locate tributaries or lesions beneath the skin.
In some hosp! itals, va! scular surgery procedures are performed by general surgeons. The Company sells on-vascular medical devices used in general surgery procedures, primarily laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The Company�� general surgery product, the Reddick Cholangiogram Catheter is used to inject dye into the cystic duct during laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The Company also offers two laparoscopic accessories used in laparoscopic gall bladder removal.
The Company competes with Applied Medical Resources Corporation, Cardiovascular Systems Inc., Cook Group Incorporated, C.R. Bard, Inc., Edwards Lifesciences Corporation, Getinge AB, Jotec GmbH, Medtronic, Inc., Terumo Medical Corporation, Uresil, LLC and W. L. Gore & Associates.
Saturday, October 12, 2013
David Herro Comments on Incitec Pivot
Incitec Pivot (ASX:IPL) was the largest detractor from performance for the fiscal year and also a detractor for the quarter. Incitec supplies mining explosives products and services in Australasia and North America, and it is also Australia's largest fertilizer distributor and only phosphate fertilizer manufacturer. Fertilizer prices fell significantly over the period, which caused investors to lower earnings estimates for the company. However, we believe this simply reflects a move towards a more normal pricing environment. Also, in July, Incitec experienced a production outage at its Phosphate Hill ammonia plant. Management indicated that the outage would reduce production of ammonium phosphates during the second half of the year, estimating an earnings impact around $23.5 million (USD) after tax. This setback, combined with a production disruption at the new Moranbah explosives plant, caused investors to worry about near-term consequences for the company. Although these issues occurred in close succession, we believe that both were one-off events and that the company resolved them relatively quickly. Based on our research and discussions with management, we believe that outside of the difficulties at these two plants, the rest of Incitec's plants are operating well. The company is enacting a number of improvements that should help prevent such problems in the future, including changes of operations management and in the way that the engineering and operations groups interact. We remain confident in Incitec Pivot's management team, and we continue to believe that this investment will reward shareholders in the long term.
From David Herro's Oakmark International Small Cap Fund third quarter 2013 commentary.
Related links:Third quarter 2013 commentary
Friday, October 11, 2013
[video] Jim Cramer Quick Take: Get Defensive
NEW YORK (TheStreet) -- As the government shutdown continues without a resolution in sight, TheStreet's Jim Cramer told Debra Borchardt what investors should do in the current environment.
According to Cramer, some people just don't care what happens with the U.S. debt and wouldn't mind a default. Those people seem to think that's the price we need to pay and seem to have control of the House of Representatives, he added.
The political back-and-forth can wreak havoc on individual investors, but there's an alternative. Cramer, one of the few who has been against the government shutting down from the beginning, said investors could look to defensive sectors to weather the storm.
Best Financial Stocks To Invest In 2014
Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMY) can act as a rubric for what investors should be looking for in stocks, he said. Companies that are flush with cash and have no dependency on credit markets are the ones to be in when there's a risk of a default. Cramer concluded that investors should buy calls to limit risk and use stops to limit losses. This way, investors can risk less, while still having upside potential. -- Written by Bret Kenwell in Petoskey, Mich. Follow @BretKenwell
Thursday, October 10, 2013
Fidelity Cuts Tesla (TSLA) Stake
NEW YORK (TheStreet) -- Fidelity Investments, an early investor in Telsa (TSLA), cut its stake in the automaker to 9.61% from 15% according to a Securities and Exchange Commission filing. Fidelity accumulated its position in Tesla during 2011 when the company was relatively unknown and shares were less than one-sixth the price they are in 2013.
Tesla shares rose 2.3% to $172.66 on Thursday. Tesla shares have dropped 4.5% since Monday, suffering alongside other high-momentum stocks after investor fears over political uncertainty in Washington rattled markets.
TheStreet Ratings team rates Tesla Motors Inc as a Sell with a ratings score of D. TheStreet Ratings Team has this to say about its recommendation:
"We rate Tesla Motors Inc (TSLA) a SELL. This is driven by a few notable weaknesses, which we believe should have a greater impact than any strengths, and could make it more difficult for investors to achieve positive results compared to most of the stocks we cover. Among the areas we feel are negative, one of the most important has been poor profit margins." Highlights from the analysis by TheStreet Ratings Team goes as follows: The gross profit margin for Tesla Motors Inc is currently lower than what is desirable, coming in at 30.28%. It has decreased from the same quarter the previous year. Along with this, the net profit margin of -7.52% is significantly below that of the industry average. The company's current return on equity greatly increased when compared to its ROE from the same quarter one year prior. This is a signal of significant strength within the corporation. Compared to other companies in the Automobiles industry and the overall market, Tesla Motors Inc's return on equity significantly trails that of both the industry average and the S&P 500. Tesla Motors Inc reported significant earnings per share improvement in the most recent quarter compared to the same quarter a year ago. This company has reported somewhat volatile earnings recently. But, we feel it is poised for EPS growth in the coming year. During the past fiscal year, Tesla Motors Inc reported poor results of -$3.70 a share vs. -$2.52 a share in the prior year. This year, the market expects an improvement in earnings (54 cents vs. -$3.70). The net income growth from the same quarter one year ago has significantly exceeded that of the S&P 500 and the Automobiles industry. The net income increased by 71.1% when compared to the same quarter one year prior, rising from -$105.6 million to -$30.5 million. This stock has increased by 491.5% over the past year, outperforming the rise in the S&P 500 Index during the same period. Regarding the future course of this stock, we feel that the risks involved in investing in TSLA do not compensate for any future upside potential, despite the fact that it has seen nice gains over the past 12 months. You can view the full analysis from the report here: TSLA Ratings Report Written by Keris Alison Lahiff.
Monday, October 7, 2013
Shareholder Lawsuit Claims BlackBerry Misled Investors
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