If you are looking for very cheap stocks, you may want to look for stocks that are selling below cash per share. What this means is if you take all the cash a company has and divide it by the number of shares, you get the cash per share. There are actually over 60 stocks out there, discovered by WallStreetNewsNetwork.com, which are trading below that cash amount.
The following are a list of 11 stocks, all with market caps over $400 million, which are trading way below cash per share, therefore, with a Price to Cash per Share [PCS] ratio of way below 1. Keep in mind that many of these are foreign companies, many have high debt, and many are in struggling industries. Financials are based on several sources, but should be investigated before investing in any of these stocks.
Mitsubishi UFJ ( MTU ) is a financial services and banking company based in Tokyo, Japan. The stock has a price to cash per share ratio of 0.208 , with a PE ratio of 11.7 .
Gov Bank of Ireland ( IRE ) is an Irish banking and other financial services firm. The stock has a price to cash per share ratio of 0.218 , with a PE ratio of 0.95 and a PEG of 0.09 .
Banco Santander ( STD ) is a commercial and private bank based in Madrid, Spain. The stock has a price to cash per share ratio of 0.233 , with a PE ratio of 5.15 and a PEG of 0.36 .
Allied Irish Banks Plc ( AIB ) is an Irish based banking, investment banking, and asset management company. The stock has a price to cash per share ratio of 0.248 , with a PE ratio of 1.56 and a PEG of 0.1 .
Genworth Financial ( GNW ) is a provider of various types of insurance, including life insurance, long term care insurance, Medicare supplement insurance, and mortgage insurance. The stock has a price to cash per share ratio of 0.298 , with a PE ratio of 3.93 and a PEG of 0.2 .
Liberty Media Capital ( LCAPA ) is a provider of video programming through cable, satellite, telephone, and the Internet. The stock has a price to cash per share ratio of 0.355 , with a PE ratio of 2.41 .
Banco Bilbao ( BBV ) is a Bilbao, Spain based bank. The stock has a price to cash per share ratio of 0.356 , with a PE ratio of 5.17 and a PEG of 0.36 .
Yazhou Coal Mining ( YZC ) is a Chinese based coal mining company. The stock has a price to cash per share ratio of 0.385 , with a PE ratio of 0.41 and a PEG of 0.35 .
Sadia S.A. ( SDA ) is a Brazil based manufacturer and marketer of processed products, poultry, and pork. The stock has a price to cash per share ratio of 0.491 , with a PE ratio of 1.08 .
Discover Financial Svcs ( DFS ) is an Illinois based credit card company. The stock has a price to cash per share ratio of 0.517 , with a PE ratio of 12.25 and a PEG of 1.01 .
Health Net Inc ( HNT ) is a provider of managed health care services and health plans. The stock has a price to cash per share ratio of 0.604 , with a PE ratio of 27.38 and a PEG of 0.38 .
You can download an Excel database spreadsheet list of over 60 stocks trading below cash per share at WallStreetNewsNetwork.com. Please note that many of the stocks on that list are very low cap and therefore very speculative.
Author does not own any of the above.
By Stockerblog.com
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Alabama Stocks
Although Alabama is best known as a cotton growing state, the state produces much more, from poultry to automobiles. As a matter of fact manufacturing accounts for more than half of the total income produced within the state. Some interesting facts about Alabama follow:
1. Alabama’s GDP of $160.6 billion is the 25th largest in the country.
2. The transportation, equipment and manufacturing industry employ over 30,000 workers.
3. The agribusiness sector provides the state with 21% (476,000) jobs.
4. The aerospace industry in Alabama has grown to provide $6 billion in revenue and employ over 139,000 workers.
5. The state offers several incentives to new businesses and businesses relocating to Alabama. The Income tax capital credit, and the property & sales tax abatements are just two of the most common.
6. With the second largest contiguous forest is in America, Alabama’s paper industry is a vital industry in the state economy.
7. More than 150 banks are headquartered in Alabama.
8. The tourism industry of Alabama employs over 160,000 individuals.
9. During 2006 tourists in Alabama spent over $8 billion in the state
10. Alabama produces approximately 2.13% of total nonfuel mineral production in the United States.
The following companies are headquartered in Alabama:
Regions Financial Corporation (RF) is the holding company of Regions Bank, a retail and commercial bank in the United States. The stock has a market cap of $7.4 billion, a PE of 7, a PEG of 1.29, and it pays a yield of 3.5%.
Vulcan Materials Company (VMC) makes construction materials in the United States and Mexico. The stock has a market cap of $6.12 billion, a PE of 16, a PEG of 2.17, and it pays a yield of 3.8%.
Energen Corporation (EGN) buys, develops and produces oil, and natural gas in the United States. The stock has a market cap of $2.15 billion, a PE of 7, a PEG of 0.65, and it pays a dividend of 1.6%.
ProAssurance Corporation (PRA) is a liability insurance corporation; its clients are physicians and other health care providers. The stock has a market cap of $1.65 billion, a PE of 10, and a PEG of 0.98.
Colonia BankGroup, Inc. (CNB) is a commercial banking company, it offers mortgages and insurance services in the United States. The stock has a market cap of $1.59 billion, a PE of 14, a PEG of 11.70, and it pays a yield of 4.6%.
Health South Corporation (HLS) provides patient rehabilitation services in hospitals throughout the United States. The stock has a market cap of $1.06 billion, a PE of 4, and a PEG of 0.90.
ADTRAN, Inc. (ADTN) provides network access solutions in the United States. The stock has a market cap of $969.15 million, a PE of 13, a PEG of 1.20, and it pays a yield of 2.2%.
Protective Life Corporation (PL) is in the business of administrating insurance and investment services in the United States. The stock has a market cap of $839.97 million, a PE of 4, a PEG of 0.36, and it pays a yield of 8.1%.
Avocent Corporation (AVCT) produces, and markets hardware and software products worldwide. Its products include management software among others. The stock has a market cap of $661.17 million, a PE of 21, and a PEG of 0.59.
Infinity Property and Casualty Corporation (IPCC) is an insurance company that provides automobile insurance for individuals, commercial and industrial customers. The stock has a market cap of $611.21 million, a PE of 11, a PEG of 1.48, and it pays a yield of 1.1%.
Don't forget to check out the stocks from the states of Wisconsin, Louisiana, Michigan, and Kentucky.
Author does not own any of the above.
By Stockerblog.com
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Top Yielding Gas Utility Stocks
The one bill that consumers will do everything they can to pay is their utility bill. Most people can't do without their electricity or natural gas. I previously wrote about the high yielding electric utilities; here is a list of the top natural gas utilities with high yields.
Amerigas Partners ( APU ) is a a retail propane distributor structured as a limited partnership. The stock has a forward PE of 10.9 and a yield of 8.6% .
National Grid Plc ( NGG ) is a London based company which has a gas national transmission system in Great Britain and also distributes electricity. The stock has a forward PE of 11.5 and a yield of 7.1% .
Atmos Energy Cp ( ATO ) is a Dallas based distributor of natural . The stock has a forward PE of 11.0 and a yield of 5.8% .
Oneok Inc ( OKE ) is a Tulsa, Oklahoma based transporter and distributor of natural gas. The stock has a forward PE of 8.7 and a yield of 5.3% .
WGL Holdings Inc ( WGL ) based in Washington, DC, distributes and markets natural gas. The stock has a forward PE of 12.5 and a yield of 5.0% .
Transcanada Corp ( TRP ) is a Calgary, Alberta company which operates natural gas pipelines The stock has a forward PE of 12.7 and a yield of 4.8% .
Nicor Inc ( GAS ) based in Illinois, distributes natural gas. The stock has a forward PE of 17.0 and a yield of 4.2% .
Chesapeake Utilities ( CPK ) is a Delaware based distributor and marketer of natural gas. The stock has a forward PE of 14.3 and a yield of 3.9% .
Southwest Gas Cp ( SWX ) is a Las Vegas, Nevada based distributor and marketer of natural gas. The stock has a forward PE of 11.6 and a yield of 3.6% .
Natl Fuel Gas Co ( NFG ) is a New York based operator of natural gas transportation services. The stock has a forward PE of 11.3 and a yield of 3.6% .
You can find a downloadable Excel spreadsheet database of all the high yield natural gas utilities at WallStreetNewsNetwork.com, which can be changed, updated, and sorted.
Author does not own any of the above.
By Stockerblog.com
Guest Article: What the heck is going on with Gold?
What the heck is going on with Gold?
Dear Trader,
Gold at the moment is perplexing to a great many traders. To many it was a shock when gold recently traded below the $700 an ounce level. So the question is, what happened to the $2,000 an ounce target that most gold bugs were calling for?
In my just released video, we explore that question and look at what we think will be this markets next move. You might find our analysis and conclusions rather surprising.
Enjoy the video!
http://www.ino.com/info/256/CD3111/&dp=0&l=0&campaignid=3
Adam Hewison
President INO.com and Co-creator of INO.com
Dear Trader,
Gold at the moment is perplexing to a great many traders. To many it was a shock when gold recently traded below the $700 an ounce level. So the question is, what happened to the $2,000 an ounce target that most gold bugs were calling for?
In my just released video, we explore that question and look at what we think will be this markets next move. You might find our analysis and conclusions rather surprising.
Enjoy the video!
http://www.ino.com/info/256/CD3111/&dp=0&l=0&campaignid=3
Adam Hewison
President INO.com and Co-creator of INO.com
Guest Article: Lessons Learned from Second Life
Lessons Learned from Second Life
By Dr. Tracy Tuten,
Author of Advertising 2.0: Social Media Marketing in a Web 2.0 World
Virtual worlds give participants an opportunity to be whoever they want, wish or hope to be. With a custom designed "avatar," you can look, behave and speak any way you want. It's your "second life," after all.
Brands, however, don't have that luxury. They bring established reputations and perceptions into a realm where everything is new and anything goes.
The "Wild West" nature of virtual worlds frightens brand managers schooled in carefully crafted and controlled messages, and Second Life indeed chased many away.
But with technology -- and especially social media -- becoming more and more pervasive in consumers' lives, virtual worlds will get a second chance. Here's how to capitalize on it.
Second Life and other virtual worlds have enormous branding opportunities. In terms of social media, virtual worlds really are communities in the most literal sense, and it is the level of interaction and engagement that creates such a strong platform for branding. Some brands (like Vodaphone) have found ways to develop interactive spaces in world that intrigue and engage prospective customers. For these brands, virtual world marketing is much like participating in a sponsorship: the presence is valuable if there's a good fit between the space, the target market and the brand -- and if the brand can find a way to add value for those visiting the space.
For some brands, though, virtual worlds are not the most friendly of communities. They may find that other forms of social media marketing are better suited -- or at least simpler to manage (particularly if the virtual world in question is Second Life)! Here are a few factors that can help you understand "why" . . . or "why not."
Ease of Use
Second Life is complex and user-unfriendly. Time magazine called it a case of Fortune 500 companies trying too hard to be hip. A recent report from Forrester suggests that marketing in virtual worlds is still too complex for broad adoption as a business strategy, but that this is likely to change in the next five years. Complexity is an issue, not only from the marketer's perspective, but also from the consumer perspective. It is one of the primary characteristics that can slow the rate of adoption for innovators. Some virtual worlds are easier to learn than others; Second Life is likely the most difficult to learn.
Software Requirements
Second Life, and some other virtual worlds, requires users to install its software. Software installation could be a deterrent to growth beyond the innovators and early adopters already a part of the virtual world phenomenon.
Number of Active Members
Second Life, for example, does not have the reach that other online advertising venues garner. Despite the claim of millions of residents (with continual growth), under a million are active and engaged.
Opportunities for Negative Response
Residents of Second Life are known to dislike and distrust big brand promotion. "Griefing," vandalizing and harassing in world, is a common problem for brands. Linden Labs takes a hands-off approach to managing griefer attacks, relying instead on resident governance. How bad can griefing be? A helicopter crashed into a Nissan building, starting a fire that left a couple of dead bodies, and American Apparel customers were attacked by members of the Second Life Liberation Army armed with virtual guns.
Accuracy of Results Reporting
Second Life offers publicity and the value of free media impressions as social and other media cover new developments. However, no distinction is made between positive coverage and negative coverage. When the media attention is negative, such as reporting attacks on customers, the publicity does not build brand equity.
User Security
Aside from the security from griefers, Second Life has struggled to provide security to the real life people behind the avatars. In 2006, hackers obtained credit card information for some residents.
User Capacity
Second Life's infrastructure limits the capacity at some events. Your brand might do a phenomenal job of planning and executing a relevant brand experience with an outpouring of enthusiasm, only to find the system crashes when more than 70 avatars are present at a time.
Number of User Interactions
Of course, capacity concerns are only an issue if things go well. Spend some time walking or flying around Second Life. It is filled with exquisitely detailed representations of real and fantasy locations. Yet seeing other avatars is rare unless one is spending time earning free Linden $ (the currency of Second Life) at Money Island.
Tie-In to Real World Sales
Some brands have sold digital versions of their products. Toyota, Reebok, Adidas, and Dell are all examples. No brand has yet announced success at using the in world branding site as a direct response tool for real world sales. Bob Tedeschi, in his article entitled "Awaiting Real Sales from Virtual Shoppers," explains that brands experience little measurable influence on real world sales that can be tracked to virtual branding efforts.
Number of Media Outlets
There are still a limited number of Second Life media outlets and advertising opportunities (beyond supporting retail space, experiential facilities, and events). NPR and Reuters are there, along with the AvaStar newspaper, but for brands accustomed to buying ad space in hundreds of television networks, consumer and trade magazines, and national, regional, and local newspapers, this is not a rich media landscape. Ad inventory will develop over time. A "MetaAdverse" network has been established to provide in-world billboard advertising.
Scalable Branding Initiatives
It is difficult to gain economies of scale in branding initiatives. One cannot lower the average costs of products by making mass amounts of products, and there are no huge media buys to lower the costs of advertising.
Design Costs
There are expenses to brand building in Second Life. Linden Labs sells land and then requires ongoing maintenance fees. Those are minimal compared to the design expenses brands encounter. Alex Veiga points out that brand building requires artists, designers, writers, and marketers to develop all aspects of the brand's identity in Second Life. Scion City, a Toyota initiative, took about 10 weeks and probably cost in the range of $100,000. Importantly, brands that enter Second Life must be committed to operating there. It does no good (and in fact could harm a brand) to have a presence there that is not manned, managed, and leveraged towards accomplishing the brand's objectives.
In open worlds, economies are free markets. Brands are welcome to compete and the spoils go to the brands with the best strategy, the best targeting and the best engagement propositions for their target audiences (mindful, of course, to ensure the strategy is suitable for the virtual culture in question). The brands with the wherewithal to strategically plan a social media marketing campaign will also know to commit to the campaign and to provide ample time for the strategy to work prior to making judgments of success or failure and redirecting resources to other marketing executions.
In other words, they'll understand and capitalize on why . . . or why not.
©2008 Dr. Tracy L. Tuten
Author Bio
Dr. Tracy L. Tuten is Associate Professor of Marketing at Longwood University and the author of "Advertising 2.0: Social Media Marketing in a Web 2.0 World." Tuten's research interests include Web-based survey methods, branding and identity, and online advertising. She serves on the editorial review board for Psychology and Marketing.
By Dr. Tracy Tuten,
Author of Advertising 2.0: Social Media Marketing in a Web 2.0 World
Virtual worlds give participants an opportunity to be whoever they want, wish or hope to be. With a custom designed "avatar," you can look, behave and speak any way you want. It's your "second life," after all.
Brands, however, don't have that luxury. They bring established reputations and perceptions into a realm where everything is new and anything goes.
The "Wild West" nature of virtual worlds frightens brand managers schooled in carefully crafted and controlled messages, and Second Life indeed chased many away.
But with technology -- and especially social media -- becoming more and more pervasive in consumers' lives, virtual worlds will get a second chance. Here's how to capitalize on it.
Second Life and other virtual worlds have enormous branding opportunities. In terms of social media, virtual worlds really are communities in the most literal sense, and it is the level of interaction and engagement that creates such a strong platform for branding. Some brands (like Vodaphone) have found ways to develop interactive spaces in world that intrigue and engage prospective customers. For these brands, virtual world marketing is much like participating in a sponsorship: the presence is valuable if there's a good fit between the space, the target market and the brand -- and if the brand can find a way to add value for those visiting the space.
For some brands, though, virtual worlds are not the most friendly of communities. They may find that other forms of social media marketing are better suited -- or at least simpler to manage (particularly if the virtual world in question is Second Life)! Here are a few factors that can help you understand "why" . . . or "why not."
Ease of Use
Second Life is complex and user-unfriendly. Time magazine called it a case of Fortune 500 companies trying too hard to be hip. A recent report from Forrester suggests that marketing in virtual worlds is still too complex for broad adoption as a business strategy, but that this is likely to change in the next five years. Complexity is an issue, not only from the marketer's perspective, but also from the consumer perspective. It is one of the primary characteristics that can slow the rate of adoption for innovators. Some virtual worlds are easier to learn than others; Second Life is likely the most difficult to learn.
Software Requirements
Second Life, and some other virtual worlds, requires users to install its software. Software installation could be a deterrent to growth beyond the innovators and early adopters already a part of the virtual world phenomenon.
Number of Active Members
Second Life, for example, does not have the reach that other online advertising venues garner. Despite the claim of millions of residents (with continual growth), under a million are active and engaged.
Opportunities for Negative Response
Residents of Second Life are known to dislike and distrust big brand promotion. "Griefing," vandalizing and harassing in world, is a common problem for brands. Linden Labs takes a hands-off approach to managing griefer attacks, relying instead on resident governance. How bad can griefing be? A helicopter crashed into a Nissan building, starting a fire that left a couple of dead bodies, and American Apparel customers were attacked by members of the Second Life Liberation Army armed with virtual guns.
Accuracy of Results Reporting
Second Life offers publicity and the value of free media impressions as social and other media cover new developments. However, no distinction is made between positive coverage and negative coverage. When the media attention is negative, such as reporting attacks on customers, the publicity does not build brand equity.
User Security
Aside from the security from griefers, Second Life has struggled to provide security to the real life people behind the avatars. In 2006, hackers obtained credit card information for some residents.
User Capacity
Second Life's infrastructure limits the capacity at some events. Your brand might do a phenomenal job of planning and executing a relevant brand experience with an outpouring of enthusiasm, only to find the system crashes when more than 70 avatars are present at a time.
Number of User Interactions
Of course, capacity concerns are only an issue if things go well. Spend some time walking or flying around Second Life. It is filled with exquisitely detailed representations of real and fantasy locations. Yet seeing other avatars is rare unless one is spending time earning free Linden $ (the currency of Second Life) at Money Island.
Tie-In to Real World Sales
Some brands have sold digital versions of their products. Toyota, Reebok, Adidas, and Dell are all examples. No brand has yet announced success at using the in world branding site as a direct response tool for real world sales. Bob Tedeschi, in his article entitled "Awaiting Real Sales from Virtual Shoppers," explains that brands experience little measurable influence on real world sales that can be tracked to virtual branding efforts.
Number of Media Outlets
There are still a limited number of Second Life media outlets and advertising opportunities (beyond supporting retail space, experiential facilities, and events). NPR and Reuters are there, along with the AvaStar newspaper, but for brands accustomed to buying ad space in hundreds of television networks, consumer and trade magazines, and national, regional, and local newspapers, this is not a rich media landscape. Ad inventory will develop over time. A "MetaAdverse" network has been established to provide in-world billboard advertising.
Scalable Branding Initiatives
It is difficult to gain economies of scale in branding initiatives. One cannot lower the average costs of products by making mass amounts of products, and there are no huge media buys to lower the costs of advertising.
Design Costs
There are expenses to brand building in Second Life. Linden Labs sells land and then requires ongoing maintenance fees. Those are minimal compared to the design expenses brands encounter. Alex Veiga points out that brand building requires artists, designers, writers, and marketers to develop all aspects of the brand's identity in Second Life. Scion City, a Toyota initiative, took about 10 weeks and probably cost in the range of $100,000. Importantly, brands that enter Second Life must be committed to operating there. It does no good (and in fact could harm a brand) to have a presence there that is not manned, managed, and leveraged towards accomplishing the brand's objectives.
In open worlds, economies are free markets. Brands are welcome to compete and the spoils go to the brands with the best strategy, the best targeting and the best engagement propositions for their target audiences (mindful, of course, to ensure the strategy is suitable for the virtual culture in question). The brands with the wherewithal to strategically plan a social media marketing campaign will also know to commit to the campaign and to provide ample time for the strategy to work prior to making judgments of success or failure and redirecting resources to other marketing executions.
In other words, they'll understand and capitalize on why . . . or why not.
©2008 Dr. Tracy L. Tuten
Author Bio
Dr. Tracy L. Tuten is Associate Professor of Marketing at Longwood University and the author of "Advertising 2.0: Social Media Marketing in a Web 2.0 World
." Tuten's research interests include Web-based survey methods, branding and identity, and online advertising. She serves on the editorial review board for Psychology and Marketing.
Quote of the Day from a Fund Manager
Quote of the day from a fund manager:
'This is worse than a divorce... I've lost half of my net worth and I still have my wife..'
'This is worse than a divorce... I've lost half of my net worth and I still have my wife..'
Forest Gump Explanation of the Economy
This is an email that has been floating around the Internet.
Mortgage Backed Securities are like boxes of chocolates. Criminals on Wall Street stole a few chocolates from the boxes and replaced them with turds. Their criminal buddies at Standard & Poor rated these boxes AAA Investment Grade chocolates. These boxes were then sold all over the world to investors. Eventually somebody bites into a turd and discovers the crime. Suddenly nobody trusts American chocolates anymore worldwide. Hank Paulson now wants the American taxpayers to buy up and hold all these boxes of turd-infested chocolates for $700 billion dollars until the market for turds returns to normal. Meanwhile, Hank's buddies, the Wall Street criminals who stole all the good chocolates are not being investigated, arrested, or indicted. Mama always said: 'Sniff the chocolates first, Forrest'.
Mortgage Backed Securities are like boxes of chocolates. Criminals on Wall Street stole a few chocolates from the boxes and replaced them with turds. Their criminal buddies at Standard & Poor rated these boxes AAA Investment Grade chocolates. These boxes were then sold all over the world to investors. Eventually somebody bites into a turd and discovers the crime. Suddenly nobody trusts American chocolates anymore worldwide. Hank Paulson now wants the American taxpayers to buy up and hold all these boxes of turd-infested chocolates for $700 billion dollars until the market for turds returns to normal. Meanwhile, Hank's buddies, the Wall Street criminals who stole all the good chocolates are not being investigated, arrested, or indicted. Mama always said: 'Sniff the chocolates first, Forrest'.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
The MacWorld Expo Apple Stock Correlation
I started writing about the MacWorld Expo Apple (AAPL) Stock correlation back in January 14, 2007, in an article called the 'MacWorld Expo Apple Stock Price Indicator' which I have been following for years. This is the stock trend which has historically shown that the price of Apple Computer (AAPL) stock increases as the San Francisco MacWorld Expo convention approaches. My previous articles described how in the previous five out of the last six years, Apple Computer stock has increased by at least 8% and as much as 37%, measured from November 15 to the last day of the Expo in January.
What causes this to happen? Probably strong year-end sales of Apple products from holiday shopping, anticipation and release of new products to be released at the Expo, and the heavy promotion of the MacWorld Expo which is indirect stock promotion. As I mentioned in a previous article, 'the product buzz created the stock buzz'.
The following table shows the results since 2001. A few notes about this analysis. For the 2008 Expo, the stock was down slightly, although on January 15 at the beginning of the conference, the stock closed higher than the previous November 15 date. This just looks at the 'effect' of the MacWorld Expo in San Francisco, not New York or Boston. If a date fell on a weekend, it was moved to the next business day to determine pricing. All prices were adjusted for splits and all returns rounded to the nearest percent.
11/15/2001 ...... 9.73 ..... 1/11/2002 ..... 10.52 ....... 8%
11/15/2002 ...... 7.97 ..... 1/10/2003 ...... 7.36 ...... -8%
11/15/2003 ..... 10.56 ...... 1/8/2004 ..... 11.50 ....... 9%
11/15/2004 ..... 27.62 ..... 1/14/2005 ..... 35.10 ..... 27%
11/15/2005 ..... 62.28 ..... 1/13/2006 ..... 85.59 ..... 37%
11/15/2006 ..... 84.05 ..... 1/12/2007 ..... 94.62 ..... 13%
11/15/2007 .....164.30 ..... 1/18/2008 ..... 161.36 ... -1.8%
Average Return .................................................. 12%
By the way, Apple was one of my screaming buys.
Keep in mind that past performance is not a guarantee of future results. No recommendation is expressed or implied.
Author owns AAPL.
By Stockerblog.com
What causes this to happen? Probably strong year-end sales of Apple products from holiday shopping, anticipation and release of new products to be released at the Expo, and the heavy promotion of the MacWorld Expo which is indirect stock promotion. As I mentioned in a previous article, 'the product buzz created the stock buzz'.
The following table shows the results since 2001. A few notes about this analysis. For the 2008 Expo, the stock was down slightly, although on January 15 at the beginning of the conference, the stock closed higher than the previous November 15 date. This just looks at the 'effect' of the MacWorld Expo in San Francisco, not New York or Boston. If a date fell on a weekend, it was moved to the next business day to determine pricing. All prices were adjusted for splits and all returns rounded to the nearest percent.
11/15/2001 ...... 9.73 ..... 1/11/2002 ..... 10.52 ....... 8%
11/15/2002 ...... 7.97 ..... 1/10/2003 ...... 7.36 ...... -8%
11/15/2003 ..... 10.56 ...... 1/8/2004 ..... 11.50 ....... 9%
11/15/2004 ..... 27.62 ..... 1/14/2005 ..... 35.10 ..... 27%
11/15/2005 ..... 62.28 ..... 1/13/2006 ..... 85.59 ..... 37%
11/15/2006 ..... 84.05 ..... 1/12/2007 ..... 94.62 ..... 13%
11/15/2007 .....164.30 ..... 1/18/2008 ..... 161.36 ... -1.8%
Average Return .................................................. 12%
By the way, Apple was one of my screaming buys.
Keep in mind that past performance is not a guarantee of future results. No recommendation is expressed or implied.
Author owns AAPL.
By Stockerblog.com
Monday, October 27, 2008
Book Review: Conspiracy of Paper
A Conspiracy of Paper: A Novel
was first recommended to me by a young history professor. When she first told me it was a historical novel, my first thought was "uh-oh, gag me with a bookmark". But I decided to give the book a try because she said it involved the South Sea Company, considered to be the first major publicly traded stock. Much to my delight, I really enjoyed the book and highly recommend it.
If you like Sherlock Holmes, financial history, mysteries, and the stock market, you will like A Conspiracy of Paper by David Liss. The book takes place in the early 1700's (way before Sherlock Holmes, but it has the same Doyle style) in London, and the main character, Benjamin Weaver, is about the closest thing to a consulting detective at that time; he is actually an ex-boxer, a retriever of stolen goods, and a "constable-for-hire". The plot involves the South Sea Company and the possibility of fake shares in the company being circulated, and the activity around Exchange Alley, the "stock exchange" of the era. There are two murders that Weaver is investigating, one he was hired to solve, the other is the murder of his father.
This historically accurate novel has several sub-plots weaved through the novel. If you want a great enjoyable read, or you are looking for a gift for the financial history buff, then A Conspiracy of Paper is for you.
was first recommended to me by a young history professor. When she first told me it was a historical novel, my first thought was "uh-oh, gag me with a bookmark". But I decided to give the book a try because she said it involved the South Sea Company, considered to be the first major publicly traded stock. Much to my delight, I really enjoyed the book and highly recommend it.If you like Sherlock Holmes, financial history, mysteries, and the stock market, you will like A Conspiracy of Paper
by David Liss. The book takes place in the early 1700's (way before Sherlock Holmes, but it has the same Doyle style) in London, and the main character, Benjamin Weaver, is about the closest thing to a consulting detective at that time; he is actually an ex-boxer, a retriever of stolen goods, and a "constable-for-hire". The plot involves the South Sea Company and the possibility of fake shares in the company being circulated, and the activity around Exchange Alley, the "stock exchange" of the era. There are two murders that Weaver is investigating, one he was hired to solve, the other is the murder of his father.This historically accurate novel has several sub-plots weaved through the novel. If you want a great enjoyable read, or you are looking for a gift for the financial history buff, then A Conspiracy of Paper
is for you.
Sunday, October 26, 2008
How Many Stocks Are There?
There are almost 10,000 different stocks that trade on all the various exchanges and venues. The following is an approximation of the count of actively traded stocks:
NASDAQ: 2,975
NYSE: 2,844
AMEX: 894
OTCBB: 1,219
Pink Sheets: 1,834
for a total of 9,766.
By Stockerblog.com
NASDAQ: 2,975
NYSE: 2,844
AMEX: 894
OTCBB: 1,219
Pink Sheets: 1,834
for a total of 9,766.
By Stockerblog.com
Top Yielding Electric Utilities over 6%
When the stock market is volatile and in recessionary times, investors often turn to electric utilities as investments. The advantages are the high income, less volatility than other stocks, they are monopolies, they provide a product that everyone requires, and during a recession when people are cutting back, one of the last things they cut back on are their electric bills.
The following electric utility stocks all have yields over 6%, PE ratios below 18, and PEG ratios below 3.
Great Plains Energy Incorporated ( GXP ) is a Kansas City based generator of electricity from coal, nuclear, natural gas, oil, and wind. It pays a yield of 8.70% , and has a PE of 10 and a PEG of 1.42 .
Ameren Corporation ( AEE ) is a utility that serves Missouri and Illinois. It pays a yield of 8.10% , and has a PE of 9 and a PEG of 2.54 .
Constellation Energy Group, Inc. ( CEG ) is a Baltimore based utility which operates fossil fuel, nuclear, and renewable energy generating facilities It pays a yield of 7.70% , and has a PE of 5 and a PEG of 0.26 .
The Empire District Electric Company ( EDE ) provides electricity to Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. It pays a yield of 6.80% , and has a PE of 17 and a PEG of 2.18 .
Pinnacle West Capital Corporation ( PNW ) is a Phoenix, Arizona based utility. It pays a yield of 6.60% , and has a PE of 9 and a PEG of 2.84 .
CenterPoint Energy, Inc. ( CNP ) is a Houston, Texas based utility. It pays a yield of 6.60% , and has a PE of 9 and a PEG of 0.51 .
Progress Energy, Inc. ( PGN ) provides electricity in North Carolina, South Carolina, and west central Florida. It pays a yield of 6.50% , and has a PE of 11 and a PEG of 2.01 .
Westar Energy, Inc. ( WR ) is a Topeka, Kansas based utility. It pays a yield of 6.30% , and has a PE of 10 and a PEG of 2.97 .
DTE Energy Company ( DTE ) is a Detroit, Michigan based utility. It pays a yield of 6.10% , and has a PE of 8 and a PEG of 1.89 .
Integrys Energy Group, Inc. ( TEG ) is a Chicago, Illinois based utility which uses coal, natural gas, fuel oil, hydroelectric, nuclear, and wind sources to generate electricity. It pays a yield of 6.00% , and has a PE of 12 and a PEG of 1.36 .
If you want to download an Excel spreadsheet database which lists all the high yielding electric utilities that you can add to and sort, go to WallStreetNewsNetwork.com.
Author owns PGN.
By Stockerblog.com
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Highest Yielding Stocks Going Ex Dividend Mid November
Investors occasionally use a stock trading technique called 'Buying Dividends,' which is the technique of buying stocks before the ex dividend date and selling the stock shortly after the ex date at about the same price, yet still being entitled to the dividend. This technique generally works only in bull markets.
If you are interested in buying dividends, there are many stocks in many different industries to choose from. In order to be entitled to the dividend, you have to buy the stock before the ex-dividend date, and you can't sell the stock until after the ex date. The actual dividend may not be paid for another few weeks.
All of the following stocks have market caps over $500 million, and yields over 4.5%.
The Student Loan Corp. (STU) Ex-dividend date: 11/12/2008 Yield: 12.64% .
CIT Group Inc. (CIT) Ex-dividend date: 11/12/2008 Yield: 12.16% .
Deluxe Corporation (DLX) Ex-dividend date: 11/13/2008 Yield: 10.47% .
Highwoods Properties, Inc. (HIW) Ex-dividend date: 11/13/2008 Yield: 7.89% .
TOTAL S.A. (TOT) Ex-dividend date: 11/14/2008 Yield: 6.93% .
International Paper Company (IP) Ex-dividend date: 11/13/2008 Yield: 6.05% .
Astoria Financial Corporation (AF) Ex-dividend date: 11/13/2008 Yield: 5.99% .
Eli Lilly & Co. (LLY) Ex-dividend date: 11/12/2008 Yield: 5.62% .
Shaw Communications Inc. (SJR) Ex-dividend date: 11/13/2008 Yield: 5.11% .
Principal Financial Group, Inc. (PFG) Ex-dividend date: 11/12/2008 Yield: 4.84% .
For more details on dividend definitions, check out definitions of dividend dates. If you like dividend stocks, you should check out the the High Yield Utility stocks and the Monthly Dividend Stocks at WallStreetNewsNetwork.com.
Author does not own any of the above.
By Stockerblog.com
If you are interested in buying dividends, there are many stocks in many different industries to choose from. In order to be entitled to the dividend, you have to buy the stock before the ex-dividend date, and you can't sell the stock until after the ex date. The actual dividend may not be paid for another few weeks.
All of the following stocks have market caps over $500 million, and yields over 4.5%.
The Student Loan Corp. (STU) Ex-dividend date: 11/12/2008 Yield: 12.64% .
CIT Group Inc. (CIT) Ex-dividend date: 11/12/2008 Yield: 12.16% .
Deluxe Corporation (DLX) Ex-dividend date: 11/13/2008 Yield: 10.47% .
Highwoods Properties, Inc. (HIW) Ex-dividend date: 11/13/2008 Yield: 7.89% .
TOTAL S.A. (TOT) Ex-dividend date: 11/14/2008 Yield: 6.93% .
International Paper Company (IP) Ex-dividend date: 11/13/2008 Yield: 6.05% .
Astoria Financial Corporation (AF) Ex-dividend date: 11/13/2008 Yield: 5.99% .
Eli Lilly & Co. (LLY) Ex-dividend date: 11/12/2008 Yield: 5.62% .
Shaw Communications Inc. (SJR) Ex-dividend date: 11/13/2008 Yield: 5.11% .
Principal Financial Group, Inc. (PFG) Ex-dividend date: 11/12/2008 Yield: 4.84% .
For more details on dividend definitions, check out definitions of dividend dates. If you like dividend stocks, you should check out the the High Yield Utility stocks and the Monthly Dividend Stocks at WallStreetNewsNetwork.com.
Author does not own any of the above.
By Stockerblog.com
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Highest Yielding Income Partnership Stocks over 8%
Income partnerships, generally known as Master Limited Partnerships or MLP's or US Income Partnerships, are investments that are similar to income royalty trusts, except that they are structured as limited partnerships. MLP's have certain advantages over regular stocks with high dividends. There is no double taxation because the income is passed through without being taxed at the corporate level. Also, they can pass through tax deductions. However, there are a couple issues you should be aware of, that make them different from income trusts.
For example, income partnerships don't send out 1099 forms, they send out a Schedule K-1 Form, and the income is reported on your tax return differently from regular dividends. In addition, you should never, ever put an MLP into a retirement plan because of the UBTI or Unrelated Business Taxable Income problem, which could put the tax deferred status of your retirement plan in jeopardy, based on what I understand. MLP closed end funds should not be a problem. However, since I am not an accountant, please discuss MLP's with your accountant or CPA for clarification, before investing in MLPs.
Most MLP's are generally involved in pipeline businesses, usually oil and gas, and usually have very high dividends. Here are some with some high yields.
Terra Nitrogen Company, L.P. (TNH) a Sioux City, Iowa based company producer and distributor of nitrogen fertilizer products, has a yield of over 16.9%. They distribute anhydrous ammonia and urea ammonium nitrate solutions. This New York Stock Exchange company has a P/E of 6.
Atlas Pipeline Partners LP (APL) is a Pennsylvania based company natural gas distributor with approximately 7,900 miles of intrastate gas gathering pipelines, that yields 16.5%. They have a forward P/E of 7 and a PEG of 2.56.
Rio Vista Energy Partners LP (RVEP), a producer of oil and natural gas, yields 16%. Earnings have recently been negative.
Teekay LNG Partners LP. (TGP) is a marine transportation company which yields 15%. They transport liquefied natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas, and crude oil. The stock has a forward PE of 9 and a PEG of 1.99.
Ferrellgas Partners LP (FGP), the propane distribution company, has a yield of 12.3%. This Overland Park, Kansas company distributes gas throughout the US. The stock has a P/E of 40 and a PEG of 2.88.
Another high yield partnership is Energy Transfer Partners L.P. (ETP) which has a payout of 9.8%. The company is in the business of transporting and storing natural gas through its pipelines. The stock, which trades on the NYSE, has a P/E of 9.
You can find an Excel spreadsheet list of over a dozen master limited partnerships, which can be downloaded, sorted, added to and changed, at WallStreetNewsNetwork.com.
Author does not own any of the above.
By Fred Fuld at Stockerblog.com
For example, income partnerships don't send out 1099 forms, they send out a Schedule K-1 Form, and the income is reported on your tax return differently from regular dividends. In addition, you should never, ever put an MLP into a retirement plan because of the UBTI or Unrelated Business Taxable Income problem, which could put the tax deferred status of your retirement plan in jeopardy, based on what I understand. MLP closed end funds should not be a problem. However, since I am not an accountant, please discuss MLP's with your accountant or CPA for clarification, before investing in MLPs.
Most MLP's are generally involved in pipeline businesses, usually oil and gas, and usually have very high dividends. Here are some with some high yields.
Terra Nitrogen Company, L.P. (TNH) a Sioux City, Iowa based company producer and distributor of nitrogen fertilizer products, has a yield of over 16.9%. They distribute anhydrous ammonia and urea ammonium nitrate solutions. This New York Stock Exchange company has a P/E of 6.
Atlas Pipeline Partners LP (APL) is a Pennsylvania based company natural gas distributor with approximately 7,900 miles of intrastate gas gathering pipelines, that yields 16.5%. They have a forward P/E of 7 and a PEG of 2.56.
Rio Vista Energy Partners LP (RVEP), a producer of oil and natural gas, yields 16%. Earnings have recently been negative.
Teekay LNG Partners LP. (TGP) is a marine transportation company which yields 15%. They transport liquefied natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas, and crude oil. The stock has a forward PE of 9 and a PEG of 1.99.
Ferrellgas Partners LP (FGP), the propane distribution company, has a yield of 12.3%. This Overland Park, Kansas company distributes gas throughout the US. The stock has a P/E of 40 and a PEG of 2.88.
Another high yield partnership is Energy Transfer Partners L.P. (ETP) which has a payout of 9.8%. The company is in the business of transporting and storing natural gas through its pipelines. The stock, which trades on the NYSE, has a P/E of 9.
You can find an Excel spreadsheet list of over a dozen master limited partnerships, which can be downloaded, sorted, added to and changed, at WallStreetNewsNetwork.com.
Author does not own any of the above.
By Fred Fuld at Stockerblog.com
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Top Stocks for Day Traders
Beta is one measurement of risk. Beta, also known as the beta coefficient, measures how the expected return of a stock is correlated to the performance of the stock market as a whole. A positive beta, such as a 1 or 2, means that the stock usually tracks the market in general. A zero beta means that the stock price is not correlated with the stock market at all. And a negative beta means that the stock tracks the market inversely.
A beta of 1 means the stock tracks the market directly, e.g. 1% up in the market means 1% up for the stock. The higher the beta, the more riskier the stock, yet the greater the return potential. For example, if the stock market increases by 3%, a stock with a beta of 2 should increase by 6%; in other words, twice as much. So for day traders, high beta stocks may be the way to go.
The following stocks have betas above 2.5, PE ratios less than 20, PEG ratios less than 1, and market caps greater than $500 million.
GrafTech International Ltd. (GTI) The stock has a beta of 3.1 It has a PE of 5.3 and a PEG of 0.49 .
United States Steel Corporation (X) The stock has a beta of 2.8 It has a PE of 4.2 and a PEG of 0.62 .
DryShips Inc. (DRYS) The stock has a beta of 2.8 It has a PE of 1.1 and a PEG of 0.01 .
Arris Group, Inc. (ARRS) The stock has a beta of 2.7 It has a PE of 12.6 and a PEG of 0.72 .
Joy Global Inc. (JOYG) The stock has a beta of 2.7 It has a PE of 9.0 and a PEG of 0.43 .
Teck Cominco Limited (TCK) The stock has a beta of 2.7 It has a PE of 4.6 and a PEG of 0.92 .
ON Semiconductor Corp. (ONNN) The stock has a beta of 2.6 It has a PE of 8.6 and a PEG of 0.58 .
PMC-Sierra, Inc. (PMCS) The stock has a beta of 2.6 It has a PE of 7.7 and a PEG of 0.54 .
Yanzhou Coal Mining Co. (YZC) The stock has a beta of 2.6 It has a PE of 3.8 and a PEG of 0.76 .
NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA) The stock has a beta of 2.6 It has a PE of 8.1 and a PEG of 0.56 .
Another way to get a much higher return than what a sector or industry is doing, without buying on margin, is by using Ultra Long ETFs, a list of which can be found at WallStreetNewsNetwork.com.
Author does not own any of the above.
By Stockerblog.com
A beta of 1 means the stock tracks the market directly, e.g. 1% up in the market means 1% up for the stock. The higher the beta, the more riskier the stock, yet the greater the return potential. For example, if the stock market increases by 3%, a stock with a beta of 2 should increase by 6%; in other words, twice as much. So for day traders, high beta stocks may be the way to go.
The following stocks have betas above 2.5, PE ratios less than 20, PEG ratios less than 1, and market caps greater than $500 million.
GrafTech International Ltd. (GTI) The stock has a beta of 3.1 It has a PE of 5.3 and a PEG of 0.49 .
United States Steel Corporation (X) The stock has a beta of 2.8 It has a PE of 4.2 and a PEG of 0.62 .
DryShips Inc. (DRYS) The stock has a beta of 2.8 It has a PE of 1.1 and a PEG of 0.01 .
Arris Group, Inc. (ARRS) The stock has a beta of 2.7 It has a PE of 12.6 and a PEG of 0.72 .
Joy Global Inc. (JOYG) The stock has a beta of 2.7 It has a PE of 9.0 and a PEG of 0.43 .
Teck Cominco Limited (TCK) The stock has a beta of 2.7 It has a PE of 4.6 and a PEG of 0.92 .
ON Semiconductor Corp. (ONNN) The stock has a beta of 2.6 It has a PE of 8.6 and a PEG of 0.58 .
PMC-Sierra, Inc. (PMCS) The stock has a beta of 2.6 It has a PE of 7.7 and a PEG of 0.54 .
Yanzhou Coal Mining Co. (YZC) The stock has a beta of 2.6 It has a PE of 3.8 and a PEG of 0.76 .
NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA) The stock has a beta of 2.6 It has a PE of 8.1 and a PEG of 0.56 .
Another way to get a much higher return than what a sector or industry is doing, without buying on margin, is by using Ultra Long ETFs, a list of which can be found at WallStreetNewsNetwork.com.
Author does not own any of the above.
By Stockerblog.com
A Gift for the Investor who has Everything: 18K Gold USB Drive
If you are looking for that perfect gift, how about a diamond studded 18K gold USB flash drive. BillionairesLife.com found one for only $6,000.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Highest Yielding Big Pharma Stocks
Investors turn to the large drug company stocks for several reasons. They are considered recession proof, they are a play on the ageing of the baby boomers, and they are often considered safer and less volatile than most other stocks. Since dividends are so vital to many investors they days, the high yielding big pharmas are of interest. All of the following have yields over 2.5%, PE's below 20, and PEGs below 3.
Pfizer Inc. (PFE) Its drugs include Lipitor, Norvasc Caduet, Chantix/Champix, Lyrica, Geodon/Zeldox, Aricept, Zoloft, Celebrex, Vfend, Zyvox, Viagra, Detrol, and Zyrtec, and for animals; Clavamox/Synulox, RespiSureOne/StellamuneOne, Bovi-Shield Gold, Dectomax, and Draxxin. The stock yields 7.5% It has a PE of 12.7 and a PEG of 2.12 .
Bristol Myers Squibb Co. (BMY) Its drugs include PLAVIX, AVAPRO/AVALIDE, PRAVACHOL, COUMADIN, REYATAZ, SUSTIVA, BARACLUDE, ERBITUX, TAXOL, SPRYCEL, IXEMPRA, ABILIFY, ORENCIA, and EFFERALGAN. The stock yields 7.2% It has a PE of 16.3 and a PEG of 1.54 .
GlaxoSmithKline plc (GSK) Its drugs include Seretide/Advair, Avandia, Lamictal, Wellbutrin, Zofran, Valtrex, Coreg, Imigran/Imitrex, Augmentin, Seroxat/Paxil, and Flixotide/Flovent. The stock yields 5.5% It has a PE of 11.9 and a PEG of 1.99 .
Eli Lilly & Co. (LLY) Its drugs include Zyprexa, Cymbalta, Strattera, Prozac, Symbyax, Humalog, Actos, Byetta, Evista, Forteo, Gemzar, Alimta and Cialis. The stock yields 5.5% It has a PE of 9.9 and a PEG of 1.39 .
Merck & Co., Inc. (MRK) Its drugs include Singulair, Cozaar, Hyzaar, Vasotec, and Vaseretic, Fosamax, Zocor, Cosopt, Trusopt, Primaxin, Cancidas, Januvia, Maxalt, and Proscar. The stock yields 5.4% It has a PE of 12.4 and a PEG of 2.48 .
Bayer AG (BAYRY.PK) Its drugs include the famous Bayer aspirin. The stock yields 3.8% It has a PE of 13.2 and a PEG of 1.26 .
Wyeth (WYE) Its drugs include neuroscience therapies, vaccines, musculoskeletal therapies, nutrition products, gastroenterology drugs, anti-infectives, oncology therapies, hemophilia treatments, and immunological products. The stock yields 3.5% It has a PE of 9.6 and a PEG of 2.48 .
Roche Holding Ltd. (RHHBY) Its drugs include Xenical, Valium, Zenapax, Valcyte, Bactrim, Tarceva, CellCept, and Boniva. The stock yields 3.3% It has a PE of 14.6 and a PEG of 1.91 .
Novartis AG (NVS) Its drugs include those for cardiovascular, metabolism, oncology, hematology, neuroscience; respiratory, infectious diseases, transplantation, immunology; ophthalmics, dermatology, gastrointestinal, urinary, arthritis and bones. The stock yields 3.2% It has a PE of 16.0 and a PEG of 2.34 .
Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) Its drugs include RISPERDAL, INVEGA, REMICADE, PROCRIT, TOPAMAX, LEVAQUIN and FLOXIN. There brands also include AVEENO, BAND-AID, CAREFREE, CLEAN & CLEAR, LISTERINE, MOTRIN IB, NEUTROGENA, RoC, PEPCID AC, REMBRANDT, SPLENDA, STAYFREE, SUDAFED, and TYLENOL. The stock yields 2.9% It has a PE of 14.4 and a PEG of 1.65 .
If you like high yield stocks, you should check out Top Yielding Debt Free Stocks, and Highest Yielding Electric Utilities. And if you like monthly dividend stocks, check out the list at WallStreetNewsNetwork.com.
Author owns PFE and BAYRY.PK.
By Stockerblog.com
Guest Article: Shedding Light on Dark Marketing
Shedding Light on Dark Marketing
By Dr. Tracy Tuten,
Author of Advertising 2.0: Social Media Marketing in a Web 2.0 World
Dark Marketing is slowly making its way into the advertising lexicon, and for good reason. Rock bands like Nine Inch Nails and burger giant McDonalds (MCD) have unleashed its brand engagement and reinforcement capabilities with results marketing chiefs can cheer.
But, for many in the industry, the term is still more likely to conjure an image of Darth Vader opening a bag of Cool Ranch Doritos instead of what the concept delivers: legions of brand enthusiasts actively participating in an artfully designed and carefully executed brand marketing campaign that spans countries and continents.
It's powerful stuff.
Here's a brief primer, and, for brands that can, a "how-to-market darkly" checklist.
Let there be Light
Dark Marketing isn't sinister, but it borders on covert. At its core is the alternative reality game [ARG], a complex, creative and purposeful scenario that brings brands to life.
ARGs are interactive narratives that comprise fiction and nonfiction, mystery and detection and scripted and unscripted activities that invite participation. The games unfold on (and are made possible by) multiple forms of traditional and online media. ARGs may use telephones, e-mail, outdoor signage, t-shirts, television, social networks, music, blogs and more to introduce an engaging storyline, motivate behavior, reveal game clues and advance the narrative in ways that hold player interest.
Take, for example, Microsoft's (MSFT) "I Love Bees" campaign used to promote the launch of Halo 2, a hit video game. It's a great illustration of how ARGs go under the radar of traditional marketing to rally consumers to the brand.
Microsoft launched the game by FedEx-ing (FDX) jars of honey to several Halo players. A few days later, the promotional trailer for Halo 2 referenced a Web site, ilovebees.com/xbox.com. The Web site provided lists of pay phone numbers, GPS coordinates for the phones and times when each listed number would be called, driving the curious to find the phones and answer the calls. The calls delivered additional clues that advanced the ARG, promoted Halo 2 and reinforced the brand.
From the start of the game until its conclusion (with players earning a preview experience of the Halo 2 game), players and observers visited the I Love Bees Web site for updates on the narrative and new clues about the game. Independent Web sites and forums sprang up, generating game theories, conspiracies, storylines and, of course, marketing buzz.
Not for Everyone
ARGs work best for brands with target markets that enjoy the aspects of interactive, social games with online components. Commenting on why "I Love Bees" was so successful for Microsoft, James Hilton, creative director for AKQA, the agency that developed the ARG, said, "It worked well for Xbox because its audience is inclined to investigate further, hack into sites and solve problems." There must be a good fit between the brand, the meaning the brand wishes to communicate, the target market and the story and plot that anchor the ARG.
After determining fit, roll up your sleeves. ARGs demand substantial work -- from initial conception through planning and execution. Further, because the storyline can change depending on response from players, ARGs require agility, quick writing and responsiveness from game architects (known as puppet masters) through the game's conclusion.
Additionally, if player response takes ARGs in unintended directions, marketers charged with tightly controlling brand meaning may find themselves taking unwanted risks.
Finally, compared to some marketing options, an ARG's reach can be small. For example, measures of Audi's success with an ARG referred to reaching 500,000 people. A display ad on the MySpace homepage, for example, could have reached millions. Of course, the attention and involvement components are entirely different for these two examples, and it is important to consider the entire range of benefits and disadvantages associated ARGs and other marketing activities.
Getting to the Dark Side
ARGs engage brand enthusiasts, drive publicity and create buzz. They allow brands to tell their stories creatively, interactively and virally. If you're ready to give one a shot, follow these guidelines:
* Have a story to tell. ARGs are first and foremost an interactive story that should be captivating, dynamic and inviting.
* Ensure that there is a clear match between the brand, the target audience and the notion of an interactive game.
* Plan, plan, and plan more. Begin by assessing how the ARG can facilitate accomplishment of the brand’s marketing goals. Then figure out the back story (the pregame narrative), the primary narrative, and the forward story. Perplex City (http://seasonone.perplexcitystories.com/story.html) offers a detailed overview of its architects' planning process.
* Reveal the story narrative over time using obscure clues and messages that will require player interaction to decipher the scenes.
* Include plot lines that are nonlinear and can be revealed sporadically. The development of the narrative must not be predictable and must not rely on a linear unfolding of events to make sense.
* Design a story that will enhance the sense of reality in the story. Players should not be reminded of the game but should be invited to make the game part of their reality.
* Utilize a variety of media, and carefully design game elements to leverage the characteristics of the delivery medium. Past ARGs have utilized code on T-shirts and posters, Web sites identified in video trailers, posts to blogs, e-mail, text messages and mass media advertising.
* Be prepared to change the direction of the narrative in response to player input and response to past clues and events.
* Commit to the ARG and its management. ARGs take time and continued involvement and management as the story unfolds.
* Consider an agency with ARG experience, including 42 Entertainment, Mind Candy and McKinney & Silver.
* Measure the effectiveness of the ARG based on the objectives for the promotional campaign, not just according to game participation.
As TIVO, iPods and the Internet continue squeezing traditional advertising methods, dark marketing strategies will become a bigger part of the mix.
And for marketers that get it right, this dark side promises plenty of sun.
©2008 Dr. Tracy L. Tuten
Author Bio
Dr. Tracy L. Tuten is Associate Professor of Marketing at Longwood University and the author "Advertising 2.0: Social Media Marketing in a Web 2.0 World
." Tuten's research interests include Web-based survey methods, branding and identity, and online advertising. She serves on the editorial review board for Psychology and Marketing.
By Dr. Tracy Tuten,
Author of Advertising 2.0: Social Media Marketing in a Web 2.0 World
Dark Marketing is slowly making its way into the advertising lexicon, and for good reason. Rock bands like Nine Inch Nails and burger giant McDonalds (MCD) have unleashed its brand engagement and reinforcement capabilities with results marketing chiefs can cheer.
But, for many in the industry, the term is still more likely to conjure an image of Darth Vader opening a bag of Cool Ranch Doritos instead of what the concept delivers: legions of brand enthusiasts actively participating in an artfully designed and carefully executed brand marketing campaign that spans countries and continents.
It's powerful stuff.
Here's a brief primer, and, for brands that can, a "how-to-market darkly" checklist.
Let there be Light
Dark Marketing isn't sinister, but it borders on covert. At its core is the alternative reality game [ARG], a complex, creative and purposeful scenario that brings brands to life.
ARGs are interactive narratives that comprise fiction and nonfiction, mystery and detection and scripted and unscripted activities that invite participation. The games unfold on (and are made possible by) multiple forms of traditional and online media. ARGs may use telephones, e-mail, outdoor signage, t-shirts, television, social networks, music, blogs and more to introduce an engaging storyline, motivate behavior, reveal game clues and advance the narrative in ways that hold player interest.
Take, for example, Microsoft's (MSFT) "I Love Bees" campaign used to promote the launch of Halo 2, a hit video game. It's a great illustration of how ARGs go under the radar of traditional marketing to rally consumers to the brand.
Microsoft launched the game by FedEx-ing (FDX) jars of honey to several Halo players. A few days later, the promotional trailer for Halo 2 referenced a Web site, ilovebees.com/xbox.com. The Web site provided lists of pay phone numbers, GPS coordinates for the phones and times when each listed number would be called, driving the curious to find the phones and answer the calls. The calls delivered additional clues that advanced the ARG, promoted Halo 2 and reinforced the brand.
From the start of the game until its conclusion (with players earning a preview experience of the Halo 2 game), players and observers visited the I Love Bees Web site for updates on the narrative and new clues about the game. Independent Web sites and forums sprang up, generating game theories, conspiracies, storylines and, of course, marketing buzz.
Not for Everyone
ARGs work best for brands with target markets that enjoy the aspects of interactive, social games with online components. Commenting on why "I Love Bees" was so successful for Microsoft, James Hilton, creative director for AKQA, the agency that developed the ARG, said, "It worked well for Xbox because its audience is inclined to investigate further, hack into sites and solve problems." There must be a good fit between the brand, the meaning the brand wishes to communicate, the target market and the story and plot that anchor the ARG.
After determining fit, roll up your sleeves. ARGs demand substantial work -- from initial conception through planning and execution. Further, because the storyline can change depending on response from players, ARGs require agility, quick writing and responsiveness from game architects (known as puppet masters) through the game's conclusion.
Additionally, if player response takes ARGs in unintended directions, marketers charged with tightly controlling brand meaning may find themselves taking unwanted risks.
Finally, compared to some marketing options, an ARG's reach can be small. For example, measures of Audi's success with an ARG referred to reaching 500,000 people. A display ad on the MySpace homepage, for example, could have reached millions. Of course, the attention and involvement components are entirely different for these two examples, and it is important to consider the entire range of benefits and disadvantages associated ARGs and other marketing activities.
Getting to the Dark Side
ARGs engage brand enthusiasts, drive publicity and create buzz. They allow brands to tell their stories creatively, interactively and virally. If you're ready to give one a shot, follow these guidelines:
* Have a story to tell. ARGs are first and foremost an interactive story that should be captivating, dynamic and inviting.
* Ensure that there is a clear match between the brand, the target audience and the notion of an interactive game.
* Plan, plan, and plan more. Begin by assessing how the ARG can facilitate accomplishment of the brand’s marketing goals. Then figure out the back story (the pregame narrative), the primary narrative, and the forward story. Perplex City (http://seasonone.perplexcitystories.com/story.html) offers a detailed overview of its architects' planning process.
* Reveal the story narrative over time using obscure clues and messages that will require player interaction to decipher the scenes.
* Include plot lines that are nonlinear and can be revealed sporadically. The development of the narrative must not be predictable and must not rely on a linear unfolding of events to make sense.
* Design a story that will enhance the sense of reality in the story. Players should not be reminded of the game but should be invited to make the game part of their reality.
* Utilize a variety of media, and carefully design game elements to leverage the characteristics of the delivery medium. Past ARGs have utilized code on T-shirts and posters, Web sites identified in video trailers, posts to blogs, e-mail, text messages and mass media advertising.
* Be prepared to change the direction of the narrative in response to player input and response to past clues and events.
* Commit to the ARG and its management. ARGs take time and continued involvement and management as the story unfolds.
* Consider an agency with ARG experience, including 42 Entertainment, Mind Candy and McKinney & Silver.
* Measure the effectiveness of the ARG based on the objectives for the promotional campaign, not just according to game participation.
As TIVO, iPods and the Internet continue squeezing traditional advertising methods, dark marketing strategies will become a bigger part of the mix.
And for marketers that get it right, this dark side promises plenty of sun.
©2008 Dr. Tracy L. Tuten
Author Bio
Dr. Tracy L. Tuten is Associate Professor of Marketing at Longwood University and the author "Advertising 2.0: Social Media Marketing in a Web 2.0 World
." Tuten's research interests include Web-based survey methods, branding and identity, and online advertising. She serves on the editorial review board for Psychology and Marketing.
Book Review: Advertising 2.0
It is rare that I find a non-fiction book that is hard to put down, but Advertising 2.0: Social Media Marketing in a Web 2.0 World by Tracy Tuten, is one of those books. Whether you work for a large company or have your own small business, whether you have a product, service, or web site you are trying to promote, this book is well worth reading.
This book goes into extensive detail about all the various ways to advertise using Web 2.0, with many, many examples. I thought I knew a lot about advertising, but I was unaware of such advertising content as cCGM, CFM, CGM, CGM2, and CSM, which the book covers in easy to understand language. The author also talks about how Friendvertising can be done on the social networking sites, not just the big ones, but the lesser known ones such as Dogster, Gather, and Xanga.
She even covers advertising in virtual worlds, social news media, consumer provided brand folklore, and even alternate reality games and social games.
If you are looking for concise and complete coverage of advertising in the 2.0 Web world, get the book Advertising 2.0: Social Media Marketing in a Web 2.0 World. I highly recommend it.
By Stockerblog.com
by Tracy Tuten, is one of those books. Whether you work for a large company or have your own small business, whether you have a product, service, or web site you are trying to promote, this book is well worth reading.This book goes into extensive detail about all the various ways to advertise using Web 2.0, with many, many examples. I thought I knew a lot about advertising, but I was unaware of such advertising content as cCGM, CFM, CGM, CGM2, and CSM, which the book covers in easy to understand language. The author also talks about how Friendvertising can be done on the social networking sites, not just the big ones, but the lesser known ones such as Dogster, Gather, and Xanga.
She even covers advertising in virtual worlds, social news media, consumer provided brand folklore, and even alternate reality games and social games.
If you are looking for concise and complete coverage of advertising in the 2.0 Web world, get the book Advertising 2.0: Social Media Marketing in a Web 2.0 World
. I highly recommend it.By Stockerblog.com
Friday, October 17, 2008
Stocks Going Ex Dividend Early November
In bull markets, investors sometimes use a stock trading technique called 'Buying Dividends,' which is the technique of buying stocks before the ex dividend date and selling the stock shortly after the ex date at approximately the same price, yet still being entitled to the dividend. This technique usually only works in bull markets.
If you are interested in buying dividends, there are several stocks in several different sectors and industries to choose from. In order to be entitled to the dividend, you have to buy the stock before the ex-dividend date, and you can't sell the stock until after the ex date. The actual dividend may not be paid for another month.
All of the following stocks have market caps over $500 million, and yields over 3%.
NuStar GP Holdings, LLC (NSH) is going ex-dividend on 11/3/2008. The stock has a PE of 17 , a PEG of 1.51 and a yield of 8.40% .
Autoliv Inc. (ALV) is going ex-dividend on 11/4/2008. The stock has a PE of 5 , a PEG of 0.54 and a yield of 6.88% .
Enbridge Energy Partners, L.P. (EEP) is going ex-dividend on 11/4/2008. The stock has a PE of 13 , a PEG of 3.29 and a yield of 12.16% .
Penn Virginia Resources (PVR) is going ex-dividend on 11/4/2008 The stock has a PE of 14 , a PEG of 1.61 and a yield of 12.61% .
Penn Virginia GP Holdings, L.P. (PVG) is going ex-dividend on 11/4/2008. The stock has a PE of 18 , a PEG of 0.99 and a yield of 8.78% .
Alcoa Inc. (AA) is going ex-dividend on 11/5/2008. The stock has a PE of 6 , a PEG of 0.73 and a yield of 5.57% .
FirstEnergy Corp. (FE) is going ex-dividend on 11/5/2008. The stock has a PE of 12 , a PEG of 1.69 and a yield of 4.47% .
Magellan Midstream Partners, L.P. (MMP) is going ex-dividend on 11/5/2008. The stock has a PE of 10 , a PEG of 1.45 and a yield of 9.23% .
Inergy, L.P. (NRGY) is going ex-dividend on 11/5/2008. The stock has a PE of 28 , a PEG of 4.00 and a yield of 12.65% .
Overseas Shipholding Group Inc. (OSG) is going ex-dividend on 11/5/2008. The stock has a PE of 5 , a PEG of 0.28 and a yield of 4.09% .
Magellan Midstream Holdings, L.P. (MGG) is going ex-dividend on 11/5/2008. The stock has a PE of 13 , a PEG of 0.77 and a yield of 8.05% .
Sunoco, Inc. (SUN) is going ex-dividend on 11/6/2008. The stock has a PE of 13 , a PEG of 1.75 and a yield of 4.74% .
Fortune Brands, Inc. (FO) is going ex-dividend on 11/7/2008. The stock has a PE of 12 , a PEG of 1.25 and a yield of 4.43% .
For more details on dividend definitions, check out definitions of dividend dates. If you like dividend stocks, you should check out the the High Yield Utility stocks and the Monthly Dividend Stocks at WallStreetNewsNetwork.com.
Author does not own any of the above.
By Stockerblog.com
If you are interested in buying dividends, there are several stocks in several different sectors and industries to choose from. In order to be entitled to the dividend, you have to buy the stock before the ex-dividend date, and you can't sell the stock until after the ex date. The actual dividend may not be paid for another month.
All of the following stocks have market caps over $500 million, and yields over 3%.
NuStar GP Holdings, LLC (NSH) is going ex-dividend on 11/3/2008. The stock has a PE of 17 , a PEG of 1.51 and a yield of 8.40% .
Autoliv Inc. (ALV) is going ex-dividend on 11/4/2008. The stock has a PE of 5 , a PEG of 0.54 and a yield of 6.88% .
Enbridge Energy Partners, L.P. (EEP) is going ex-dividend on 11/4/2008. The stock has a PE of 13 , a PEG of 3.29 and a yield of 12.16% .
Penn Virginia Resources (PVR) is going ex-dividend on 11/4/2008 The stock has a PE of 14 , a PEG of 1.61 and a yield of 12.61% .
Penn Virginia GP Holdings, L.P. (PVG) is going ex-dividend on 11/4/2008. The stock has a PE of 18 , a PEG of 0.99 and a yield of 8.78% .
Alcoa Inc. (AA) is going ex-dividend on 11/5/2008. The stock has a PE of 6 , a PEG of 0.73 and a yield of 5.57% .
FirstEnergy Corp. (FE) is going ex-dividend on 11/5/2008. The stock has a PE of 12 , a PEG of 1.69 and a yield of 4.47% .
Magellan Midstream Partners, L.P. (MMP) is going ex-dividend on 11/5/2008. The stock has a PE of 10 , a PEG of 1.45 and a yield of 9.23% .
Inergy, L.P. (NRGY) is going ex-dividend on 11/5/2008. The stock has a PE of 28 , a PEG of 4.00 and a yield of 12.65% .
Overseas Shipholding Group Inc. (OSG) is going ex-dividend on 11/5/2008. The stock has a PE of 5 , a PEG of 0.28 and a yield of 4.09% .
Magellan Midstream Holdings, L.P. (MGG) is going ex-dividend on 11/5/2008. The stock has a PE of 13 , a PEG of 0.77 and a yield of 8.05% .
Sunoco, Inc. (SUN) is going ex-dividend on 11/6/2008. The stock has a PE of 13 , a PEG of 1.75 and a yield of 4.74% .
Fortune Brands, Inc. (FO) is going ex-dividend on 11/7/2008. The stock has a PE of 12 , a PEG of 1.25 and a yield of 4.43% .
For more details on dividend definitions, check out definitions of dividend dates. If you like dividend stocks, you should check out the the High Yield Utility stocks and the Monthly Dividend Stocks at WallStreetNewsNetwork.com.
Author does not own any of the above.
By Stockerblog.com
Top Yielding Debt Free Stocks
With the extreme market volatility that has been taking place lately, investors are looking toward high yield stocks, so they have income coming in while waiting for their stocks to appreciate. In addition, investors prefer companies with no debt for additional safety. Combine those two features together, and look for the stocks with low PE ratios and low PEG ratios and you get the following list.
United Online, Inc. (UNTD) is an Internet and media services companies which owns the NetZero and Juno brands. The stock has a PE of 10 , a PEG ratio of 0.86 , and pays a yield of 9.84%.
Williams Pipeline Partners L.P. (WMZ) is a natural gas transportation and storage company. The stock has a PE of 2 , a PEG ratio of 0.24 , and pays a yield of 9.29%.
Pioneer Southwest Energy Partners L.P. (PSE) owns oil and gas properties. The stock has a PE of 5 , a PEG ratio of 0.68 , and pays a yield of 8.56%.
Starlims Technologies Limited (LIMS) creates and markets laboratory information management systems software solutions. The stock has a PE of 9 , a PEG ratio of 0.60 , and pays a yield of 7.17%.
NutriSystem Inc. (NTRI) is a provider of weight management and fitness products and services. The stock has a PE of 6 , a PEG ratio of 0.34 , and pays a yield of 5.86%.
Maxim Integrated Products Inc. (MXIM) makes and sells linear and mixed-signal integrated circuits. The stock has a PE of 14 , a PEG ratio of 0.92 , and pays a yield of 5.71%.
Electro Rent Corporation (ELRC) rents, leases, and sells electronic equipment. The stock has a PE of 15 , a PEG ratio of 0.99 , and pays a yield of 5.22%.
Patterson-UTI Energy, Inc. (PTEN) is a provider of onshore contract drilling services. The stock has a PE of 6 , a PEG ratio of 0.57 , and pays a yield of 5.10%.
Christopher & Banks Corporation (CBK) designs and markets women's apparel. The stock has a PE of 12 , a PEG ratio of 0.88 , and pays a yield of 4.67%.
Safety Insurance Group, Inc. (SAFT) is a provider of automobile insurance in Massachusetts. The stock has a PE of 7 , a PEG ratio of 0.49 , and pays a yield of 4.36%.
If you like high yield stocks, you should check out the the High Yield Utility stocks and the Monthly Dividend Stocks at WallStreetNewsNetwork.com. You should also take a look at Top Yielding Defense and Aerospace Stocks.
Author owns UNTD.
By Stockerblog.com
United Online, Inc. (UNTD) is an Internet and media services companies which owns the NetZero and Juno brands. The stock has a PE of 10 , a PEG ratio of 0.86 , and pays a yield of 9.84%.
Williams Pipeline Partners L.P. (WMZ) is a natural gas transportation and storage company. The stock has a PE of 2 , a PEG ratio of 0.24 , and pays a yield of 9.29%.
Pioneer Southwest Energy Partners L.P. (PSE) owns oil and gas properties. The stock has a PE of 5 , a PEG ratio of 0.68 , and pays a yield of 8.56%.
Starlims Technologies Limited (LIMS) creates and markets laboratory information management systems software solutions. The stock has a PE of 9 , a PEG ratio of 0.60 , and pays a yield of 7.17%.
NutriSystem Inc. (NTRI) is a provider of weight management and fitness products and services. The stock has a PE of 6 , a PEG ratio of 0.34 , and pays a yield of 5.86%.
Maxim Integrated Products Inc. (MXIM) makes and sells linear and mixed-signal integrated circuits. The stock has a PE of 14 , a PEG ratio of 0.92 , and pays a yield of 5.71%.
Electro Rent Corporation (ELRC) rents, leases, and sells electronic equipment. The stock has a PE of 15 , a PEG ratio of 0.99 , and pays a yield of 5.22%.
Patterson-UTI Energy, Inc. (PTEN) is a provider of onshore contract drilling services. The stock has a PE of 6 , a PEG ratio of 0.57 , and pays a yield of 5.10%.
Christopher & Banks Corporation (CBK) designs and markets women's apparel. The stock has a PE of 12 , a PEG ratio of 0.88 , and pays a yield of 4.67%.
Safety Insurance Group, Inc. (SAFT) is a provider of automobile insurance in Massachusetts. The stock has a PE of 7 , a PEG ratio of 0.49 , and pays a yield of 4.36%.
If you like high yield stocks, you should check out the the High Yield Utility stocks and the Monthly Dividend Stocks at WallStreetNewsNetwork.com. You should also take a look at Top Yielding Defense and Aerospace Stocks.
Author owns UNTD.
By Stockerblog.com
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Wisconsin Stocks
Wisconsin is a popular tourist destination. The most visited places within the state are: The Wisconsin Dells, House on The Rock, and the Circus World Museum. Some interesting facts about Wisconsin follow:
1. Wisconsin’s largest forest product is papermaking, and it employs more than 100,000 people.
2. Gravel and construction sand represent 80% of Wisconsin’s nonfuel mineral production.
3. Wisconsin’s top agricultural products are dairy beef and calves, and corn
4. Workers in the papermaking industry of Wisconsin are the highest paid within the manufacturing industry.
5. Wisconsin tourism industry employs 177,000 workers and generated about $6 billion in revenue.
6. Wisconsin’s major exporter industries are the computer, machinery, and the transportation.
7. Wisconsin’s main exports go to Canada, Japan, and Mexico.
8. One of the largest ore bodies of zinc copper is located in Wisconsin.
9. Wisconsin offers property tax exemptions for certain manufacturing companies.
10. Business taxes in Wisconsin are among the 15 lowest in the country.
The following companies are headquartered in Wisconsin:
Johnson Controls, Inc. (JCI) develops and sells energy saving technologies, among other services. The stock has a market cap of $12.37 billion, a PE of 9, a PEG of 0.73, and it pays a yield of 2.0%.
Kohl’s Corporation (KSS) is a retail chain with operations throughout the United States. The stock has a market cap of $9.79 billion, a PE of 10, and a PEG of 0.74.
Harley-Davidson, Inc. (HOG) develops and manufactures motorcycles, accessories and parts for motorcycles worldwide. The stock has a market cap of $6.45 billion, a PE of 8, a PEG of 0.88, and it pays a yield of 4.5%.
Fiserv, Inc. (FISV) renders information management systems services in the United States. The stock has a market cap of $5.79 billion, a PE of 9, and a PEG of 0.70.
Wisconsin Energy Corporation (WEC) delivers natural gas and electric services in Wisconsin and Michigan. The stock has a market cap of $4.24 billion, a PE of 12, a PEG of 1.51, and it pays a yield of 2.6%.
Marshall & Ilsley Corporation (MI) is a bank providing financial services to corporate, institutional, and government customers. The stock has a market cap of $3.62 billion, a PE of 8, and it pays a dividend of 7.3%.
Rockwell Automation, Inc. (ROK) designs and provides software and solutions for industrial automation of different processes. The stock has a market cap of $3.75 billion, a PE of 6, a PEG of 0.52, and it pays a yield of 4.0%.
Joy Global, Inc. (JOYG) makes, and sells mining gear. The stock has a market cap of $3.00 billion, a PE of 9, a PEG of 0.67, and it pays a dividend of 2.2%.
Alliant Energy Corporation (LNT) generates, delivers and sells electric power in Minnesota, and Iowa. The stock has a market cap of $2.66 billion, a PE of 6, a PEG of 1.74, and it pays a yield of 5.1%.
Manpower Inc. (MAN) offers employment services in the United States, Canada, Europe, Mexico, Japan, Australia, and Argentina. The stock has a market cap of $2.26 billion, a PE of 5, a PEG of 0.46, and it pays a yield of 2.2%.
Don't forget to check out stocks from some of the other states, such as Missouri stocks, Minnesota stocks, Kansas stocks, and Iowa stocks.
Author owns HOG.
By Stockerblog.com
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Louisiana Stocks
Louisiana, unlike any of the other states of the union is made up of Parishes, as opposed to counties. A state of subtropical temperatures, and wild hurricanes is also a land of great riches. Louisiana refines more oil than any other state. Here are some interesting facts about Louisiana:
1. Petroleum and natural gas are Louisiana’s number one mined products, and together they account for 90% of the total state mining income.
2. Louisiana ranks number one in shrimp production.
3. The production of chemical products are one of Louisiana’s top manufacturing industries.
4. Sugar cane is Louisiana’s top farm product.
5. 19 refineries are located within the state of Louisiana, and together they are responsible for 15% of the total refining capacity of America.
6. The state imposes a $0.20 per gallon tax on oil.
7. Almost 9,000 people are employed by refineries, and the average employee makes over $20,000 more than employees in any other industries in the state.
8. Louisiana’s fishing industry accounts for 25% of the total seafood production in the country.
9. The state produces 25% of the total U.S. production of petrochemicals
10. Louisiana is the top fur producer, including furs from nutria, muskrat and mink.
The following companies are headquartered in Louisiana:
CenturyTel, Inc. (CTL) is a telecommunications company in the United States. It provides voice, Internet and broadband services. The stock has a market cap of $3.29 billion, a PE of 9, a PEG of 1.60, and it pays a yield of 7.9%.
Lamar Advertising Company (LAMR) delivers advertising services in the United States and Canada. The stock has a market cap of $2.36 billion, a PE of 77, and a PEG of 8.94.
Tidewater, Inc. (TDW) is a support company to the offshore energy industry. It provides vessels and other marine support. The stock has a market cap of $2.08 billion, a PE of 6, a PEG of 0.12, and it pays a yield of 2.3%.
Superior Energy Services, Inc. (SPN) is a service and support company. It provides equipment to oil and gas companies drilling in the United States. The stock has a market cap of $1.42 billion, a PE of 4, and a PEG of 0.25.
The Shaw Group, Inc. (SGR) is an engineering company providing industrial services to several companies worldwide. The stock has a market cap of $1.38 billion, a PE of 21, and a PEG of 0.41.
Cleco Corporation (CNL) produces, delivers and markets electricity in the state of Louisiana. The stock has a market cap of $1.27 billion, a PE of 10, a PEG of 1.19, and it pays a yield of 4.0%.
Amedisys, Inc (AMED) renders home health services, such as nursing services, and occupational therapies in the United States. The stock has a market cap of $1.17 billion, a PE of 16, and a PEG of 0.72.
Whitney Holding Corporation (WTNY) is a banking institution providing services to retail and small business customers. The stock has a market cap of $1.12 billion, a PE of 10, a PEG of 2.34, and it pays a dividend of 6.2%.
McMoRan Exploration Co. (MMR) explores, and produces oil and natural gas. The stock has a market cap of $778.22 million, and a PE of 16.
Pool Corporation (POOL) is a wholesaler of swimming pool products and supplies, including chemicals and cleaning products. The stock has a market cap of $865.30 million, a PE of 15, a PEG of 1.49, and it pays a dividend of 2.8%.
Don't forget to check out stocks from some of the states, such as Missouri stocks, Minnesota stocks, Kansas stocks, and Iowa stocks.
Author does not own any of the above.
By Stockerblog.com
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Michigan Stocks
Michigan is best known for its auto industry and its beautiful shoreline, which is also the largest freshwater coastline in the world.
Although Michigan’s main industry today continues to be the manufacturing industry, the state government encourages different industries to locate in the state through its attractive incentive programs. Some interesting facts about Michigan follow:
1. Michigan’s manufacturing industry produces 30% of the total state revenue.
2. Recently enacted legislation mandates that by 2015, Michigan’s energy be produced from renewable sources.
3. Michigan has a tax-free zone designed for the food processing industry, the forestry industry and the renewable energy industry.
4. Michigan’s top agricultural products are dairy products, cattle and calves, hogs and chicken eggs.
5. Michigan is the top producer of automobiles in the United States. Its production accounts for 21% of all automobiles manufactured within the country.
6. In 2007 visitors to Michigan spent $18.1 billion.
7. Michigan is the top producer of tart cherries.
8. The state’s top agricultural export was soybeans, totaling $960 million.
9. There are more than 4,000 oil wells in production currently in Michigan.
10. The oil and gas industry generates over 10,000 jobs In the state.
The following companies are headquartered in Michigan:
The Dow Chemical Company (DOW) makes and markets chemicals, plastics, and agricultural products. The stock has a market cap of $23.85 billion, a PE of 10, a PEG of 1.53 and it pays a dividend of 5.9%.
Stryker Corporation (SYK) is a medical development company with operations worldwide. The stock has a market cap of $21.37 billion, a PE of 20, a PEG of 1.10, and it pays a yield of 0.6%.
Kellogg Company (K) makes and sales cereals and related products. The stock has a market cap of $18.45 billion, a PE of 17, a PEG of 1.93, and it pays a yield of 2.4%.
Ford Motor Company (F) develops and manufactures cars and trucks worldwide. Ford’s stock has a market value of $4.70 billion.
DTE Energy Company (DTE) is a utility company that produces, delivers and sells electric power and natural gas in the United States. The stock has a market cap of $5.22 billion, a PE of 8, a PEG of 2.02, and it pays a yield of 5.9%.
Masco Corporation (MAS) is a home improvement company with business in the U.S. and international markets. It makes, sells and installs different building products. The stock has a market cap of $4.86 billion, a PE of 35, a PEG of 1.80, and it pays a dividend of 5.9%.
Whirlpool Corporation (WHR) designs, makes and distributes home appliances worldwide. The stock has a market cap of $4.08 billion, a PE of 9, a PEG of 0.89, and it pays a yield of 2.6%.
General Motors Corporation (GM) develops and manufactures cars, trucks and automobile parts worldwide. The stock has a market cap of $2.69 billion, and it has a yield of 13.2% based on previous payments.
Perrigo Company (PRGO) is a pharmaceutical company. It produces both, over the counter medicines and prescription drugs. The stock has a market cap of $3.03 billion, a PE of 23, a PEG of 0.87, and it pays a yield of 0.6%.
Pulte Homes, Inc. (PHM) is a homebuilding company in the United States. It also provides financial services. The stock has a market cap of $2.7 billion, and it pays a dividend of 1.4% based on previous payments.
Don't forget to check out stocks from some of the states, such as Missouri stocks, Minnesota stocks, Kansas stocks, and Iowa stocks.
Author owns F.
By Stockerblog.com
Kentucky Stocks
Once, a part of Virginia, Kentucky is today one of only four states that calls itself a Commonwealth. It is also known as the Bluegrass State. Kentucky is one of the top producers of automobiles in the United States. Some interesting facts about the Commonwealth of Kentucky are:
1. Kentucky offers a $1 tax credit per gallon of biodiesel produced to companies in the state.
2. New and expanding service companies in the state may be entitled to a tax credit of up to 100% of its income tax liability.
3. Kentucky is the 15th state with the lowest cost of doing business.
4. Kentucky’s nonfuel mineral production revenue is $600 million, which ranks it number 24 nationally.
5. The service industry employs 34% of the labor force, followed by the utilities, trade and transportation utility employing 20% of the labor force.
6. Canada is Kentucky’s top international export market. In 2004 exports to that country totaled $4.63 billion. Following Canada are France, the United Kingdom and Japan.
7. Kentucky is a top producer of coal, with an approximate 400 mines throughout the state.
8. Mining (except oil and gas) produced $2.28 billion in 2002.
9. Kentucky’s Gross State Product is about $130 billion.
10. 96% of Kentucky’s export s are manufactured goods, followed by agricultural products (2.2%).
The following companies are headquartered in Kentucky:
Yum! Brands, Inc. (YUM) is a fast food restaurant chain. Its brands include: KFC, Pizza Hut, and Taco Bell among others. The stock has a market cap of $12.23 billion, a PE of 14, a PEG of 1.20, and it pays a yield of 2.7%.
Brown-Forman Corporation (BF-B) makes and sells alcoholic beverages. The stock has a market cap of $7.34 billion, a PE of 17, a PEG of 2.01, and it pays a yield of 2.0%.
Humana Inc. (HUM) is a provider of health benefits. Its clients are companies and individuals in the United States. The stock has a market cap of $5.08 billion, a PE of 6, and a PEG of 0.50.
Ventas, Inc. (VTR) operates and manages healthcare properties in the United State, mainly senior care facilities. The stock has a market cap of $4.59 billion, a PE of 28, a PEG of 1.68, and it pays a yield of 5.3%.
Omnicare, Inc. (OCR) is a pharmaceutical company. It provides pharmaceutical services to seniors. The stock has a market cap of $2.65 billion, a PE of 30, a PEG of 0.94, and it pays a yield of 0.3%.
Boardwalk Pipeline Partners, LP (BWP) delivers and stores natural gas in the United States. The stock has a market cap of $2.30 billion, a PE of 7, a PEG of 1.23, and it pays a yield of 11%.
Lexmark International, Inc. (LXK) makes and sells imaging and printing products worldwide. The stock has a market cap of $2.43 billion, a PE of 8, and a PEG of 1.16.
Ashland, Inc. (ASH) delivers chemicals, plastics in North America and Europe. The stock has a market cap of $1.44 billion, a PE of 7, a PEG of 0.83, and it pays a yield of 4.2%.
General Cable Corporation (BGC) sells fiber optic wires, aluminum, and copper wires worldwide. The stock has a market cap of $777.77 million, a PE of 3, and a PEG of 0.42.
Kindred Healthcare (KND) engages in the business of providing healthcare services in the United States. The stock has a market cap of $807.34 million, a PE of 19, and a PEG of 1.19.
Don't forget to check out stocks from some of the states, such as Missouri stocks, Minnesota stocks, Kansas stocks, and Iowa stocks.
Author does not own any of the above.
By Stockerblog.com
Guest Article: Fear
Video Lesson: Fear
"The only thing we have to fear is fear itself."
Thus spoke Franklin D. Roosevelt 75 years ago.
Looking back on Roosevelt's speech in 1933, 4 years after the infamous crash of '29, he was referring to the economic conditions of the time -- better known as The Great Depression. In essence he was saying that if we can't shake our pessimistic economic outlook, it will be tough to turn things around.
The question is... are things different this time?
http://www.ino.com/info/252/CD3111/
&dp=0&l=0&campaignid=3
The answer is yes and no. People are still fearful of what the future holds and they have very little confidence in the economy. The big difference between the crash of '08 and the crash of '29 is that we now have India and China on the world stage. Back in '29, both of these countries where not on the radar. In fact India was under British Rule.
Both India and China's economies will suffer with the turn down here in the US. They are now going to have to generate their own domestic consumption patterns for the goods and services they formally sold to the US. This is going to be hard to do as so much of their economy is based on exports which are evaporating quickly.
The fact of the matter is that the markets are extraordinarily turbulent. We do not expect, even with the worldwide bailout, for things will be rosy again anytime soon. However, that does not rule out some extraordinary trading opportunities in the markets. This is a time for rational thinking. It is also a time to eliminate fear from trading.
There is no need for fear in one's trading plan if you're running with a diversified program that has proven to be successful over time. What I mean by overtime is not just the last six months, or six years, but over a long period of time I mean as much as 30 years.
When you have a program that puts the odds on your side, you can trade with confidence knowing that you're going to lose some small skirmishes in the market, but overall you will make money based on your own trading decisions.
The MarketClub's "Trade Triangle" technology approach has proven successful in all types of markets, including the one's we are in now. I've put together a short 12 minute video to show you how we have fared in three different markets using this technology.
For a percentage of you, this video will be an eye-opening experience. There will also be some of you that are successful traders using your own system, and there is probably no need to watch this video.
Trading should be an unemotional experience. If you are trading for the excitement, odds are you're going to lose. If you are trading just to say that you trade, you're probably going to lose. If your trade for any other reason than to make money, you're probably going to lose.
The possibility of successfully trading any market is out there. This video will show you how our unemotional, time tested approach to the stock, future, forex, etf, and mutual fund market will put the odds in your favor that you are on the right side of these extraordinary trading times.
http://www.ino.com/info/252/CD3111/
&dp=0&l=0&campaignid=3
"The only limits to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today." Franklin D. Roosevelt
Every success,
Adam Hewison
President, INO.com
Co-creator of MarketClub
"The only thing we have to fear is fear itself."
Thus spoke Franklin D. Roosevelt 75 years ago.
Looking back on Roosevelt's speech in 1933, 4 years after the infamous crash of '29, he was referring to the economic conditions of the time -- better known as The Great Depression. In essence he was saying that if we can't shake our pessimistic economic outlook, it will be tough to turn things around.
The question is... are things different this time?
http://www.ino.com/info/252/CD3111/
&dp=0&l=0&campaignid=3
The answer is yes and no. People are still fearful of what the future holds and they have very little confidence in the economy. The big difference between the crash of '08 and the crash of '29 is that we now have India and China on the world stage. Back in '29, both of these countries where not on the radar. In fact India was under British Rule.
Both India and China's economies will suffer with the turn down here in the US. They are now going to have to generate their own domestic consumption patterns for the goods and services they formally sold to the US. This is going to be hard to do as so much of their economy is based on exports which are evaporating quickly.
The fact of the matter is that the markets are extraordinarily turbulent. We do not expect, even with the worldwide bailout, for things will be rosy again anytime soon. However, that does not rule out some extraordinary trading opportunities in the markets. This is a time for rational thinking. It is also a time to eliminate fear from trading.
There is no need for fear in one's trading plan if you're running with a diversified program that has proven to be successful over time. What I mean by overtime is not just the last six months, or six years, but over a long period of time I mean as much as 30 years.
When you have a program that puts the odds on your side, you can trade with confidence knowing that you're going to lose some small skirmishes in the market, but overall you will make money based on your own trading decisions.
The MarketClub's "Trade Triangle" technology approach has proven successful in all types of markets, including the one's we are in now. I've put together a short 12 minute video to show you how we have fared in three different markets using this technology.
For a percentage of you, this video will be an eye-opening experience. There will also be some of you that are successful traders using your own system, and there is probably no need to watch this video.
Trading should be an unemotional experience. If you are trading for the excitement, odds are you're going to lose. If you are trading just to say that you trade, you're probably going to lose. If your trade for any other reason than to make money, you're probably going to lose.
The possibility of successfully trading any market is out there. This video will show you how our unemotional, time tested approach to the stock, future, forex, etf, and mutual fund market will put the odds in your favor that you are on the right side of these extraordinary trading times.
http://www.ino.com/info/252/CD3111/
&dp=0&l=0&campaignid=3
"The only limits to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today." Franklin D. Roosevelt
Every success,
Adam Hewison
President, INO.com
Co-creator of MarketClub
Monday, October 13, 2008
Indiana Stocks
Indiana is perhaps best known by its world famous Indianapolis 500 motorsports race, but there is indeed much more to this state. It is also a fast growing and very diverse state. The following are interesting facts about Indiana:
1. Livestock and poultry occupations employ over 42,000 in Indiana.
2. There are three biodiesel plants in Indiana, and one under construction.
3. There are 12 ethanol plants operating within the state and together they produce over 1 billion gallons of ethanol.
4. A third of Indiana’s soybean production is exported.
5. Indiana’s tourism industry contributes almost $7 billion to the economy.
6. Indiana’s top manufacturing industries are: transportation equipment, chemicals, and primary metals.
7. The manufacturing industry employs approximately 640,000 workers in the state.
8. Indiana’s coal industry provides the state with over 2,000 jobs.
9. International manufacturing firms with operations in Indiana employ 90,000 people.
10. Indiana offers several attractive incentives to companies relocating to the state.
The following companies are headquartered in Indiana:
Eli Lilly and Company (LLY) develops makes and markets pharmaceutical drugs and products worldwide. The stock has a market cap of $34.43 billion, a PE of 9, a PEG of 1.43, and it pays a yield of 5%.
WellPoint, Inc. (WLP) is a health benefits company. Its customers are large and midsize employers in the United States. The stock has a market cap of $17.17 billion, a PE of 6, and a PEG of 0.65.
Simon Property Group Inc. (SPG) buys, owns, develops, and manages retail real estate in the United States. The stock has a market cap of $16.3 billion. Based on First Call Consensus FFO for 2008, SPG's P/E ratio is approximately 10.5. If using EPS (of which there are four analysts with EPS estimates for 2008), the P/E ratio is 34. They also have a PEG of 1.27 based on a five year period of growth, and their dividend yield ranges from 4.6% to 5.0% (based on the 2008 annual dividend rate of $3.60).
Zimmer Holdings, Inc. (ZMH) develops and sells orthopedic products in Latin America, Europe and Asia. The stock has a market cap of $11.13 billion, a PE of 15, and a PEG of 1.06.
Cummins, Inc. (CMI) makes and sells natural gas engines, and related services and products. The stock has a market cap of $6.18 billion, a PE of 7, a PEG of 0.39, and it pays a yield of 2.0%.
NiSource (NI) delivers natural gas and electricity to customers in the U.S. The stock has a market cap of $30.4 billion, a PEG of 3.48, and it pays a yield of 7.0%.
ITT Educational Services (ESI) offers study programs leading to Associate, bachelor, and masters degree in the United States. The stock has a market cap of $2.63 billion, a PE of 15, and a PEG of 0.81.
Duke Realty Corporation (DRE) leases and manages properties in the United States. The stock has a market cap of $2.04 billion, a PE of 15, a PEG of 1.31, and it pays a yield of 11.3%.
Steel Dynamics Incorporated (STLD) makes and sells steel products in the United States The stock has a market cap of $1.49 billion, a PE of 3, a PEG of 0.29, and it pays a yield of 4.2%.
Vectren Corporation (VVC) engages in the transportation and delivery of energy to customers in the United States. The stock has a market cap of $1.64 billion, a PE of 12, a PEG of 2.84, and it pays a yield of 5.7%.
Don't forget to check out stocks from some of the other central states, such as Missouri stocks, Minnesota stocks, Kansas stocks, and Iowa stocks.
Author does not own any of the above.
By Stockerblog.com
Illinois Stocks
Chicago the most populous city of Illinois is also home to the world’s second busiest airport, Chicago O’Hare. But this state’s economy does not depend on any particular city or industry. Read on to find out more:
1. Illinois is the top producer of nuclear power in the country.
2. The state offers several tax incentive programs for companies relocating to Illinois.
3. Almost 12,000 manufacturing firms are headquartered in the state, and together they operate 19,000 plants within the state.
4. The most important industries in Illinois are: food, chemicals machinery, and fabricated metals.
5. Over 2,000 banks and 1,000 savings institutions are headquartered in Illinois.
6. The agricultural industry produces more than $8 billion in income.
7. Illinois is the number one producer of soybeans and a top producer of corn.
8. More than 6,000 trucking companies call Illinois home.
9. 65% of the state soil beneath the surface is rich in coal.
10. The state is the 9th top producer of coal in the country.
The following companies are headquartered in Illinois:
Abbot Laboratories (ABT) designs, makes and sells health care products at an international level. The stock has a market cap of $77.46 billion, a PE of 19, a PEG of 1.41, and it pays a yield of 2.6%.
McDonald’s Corp. (MCD) is a chain food company, it operates not only in the US market, but also worldwide. The stock has a market cap of $58.57 billion, a PE of 14, a PEG of 1.45, and it pays a yield of 3.8%.
Kraft Foods, Inc. (KFT) makes and sells packaged foods in the United States and abroad. It also makes and sales beverages. The stock has a market cap of $42.05 billion, a PE of 17, a PEG of2.10, and it pays a yield of 3.8%
Baxter International, Inc. (BAX) is a healthcare provider company with operations worldwide. The stock has a market cap of $36.67 billion, a PE of 20, a PEG of 1.55, and it pays a yield of 1.4%.
The Boeing Company, (BA) develops, makes and markets parts and supports for commercial, and military aircraft. The stock has a market cap of $32.87 billion. It has a PE of 8, a PEG of 0.70, and it pays a yield of 3.2%.
Exelon Corporation (EXC) produces, delivers and sells electricity to residential, industrial and commercial customers in Illinois. The stock has a market cap of $31.66 billion, a PE of 12, a PEG of 1.90, and it pays a yield of 3.7%.
Caterpillar, Inc. (CAT) makes and markets mining and construction equipment. The stock has a market cap of $27.27 billion, a PE of 7, a PEG of 0.68, and it pays a yield of 3.5%.
Walgreen Co. (WAG) is a pharmacy chain throughout the U.S. The stock has a market cap of $25.02 billion, a PE 12, a PEG of 0.84, and it pays a yield of 1.7%.
CME Group Inc. (CME) manages two futures exchanges, CME, and CBOT. Some of its products are: futures and options, equity indexes, and foreign exchange. The stock has a market cap of $19.39billion, a PE of 22, a PEG of 1.19, and it pays a yield of 1.2%,
Illinois Tool Works, Inc. (ITW) makes industrial equipment. It also makes packaging products. The stock has a market cap of $18.18 billion, a PE of 11, a PEG of 0.89, and it pays a yield of 3.4%.
Don't forget to check out stocks from some of the other central states, such as Missouri stocks, Minnesota stocks, Kansas stocks, and Iowa stocks.
Author owns MCD.
By Stockerblog.com
Joe Biden Stock Index versus Sarah Palin Stock Portfolio
The most-watched vice-presidential debate in history recently took place between candidates Sarah Palin, the Governor of Alaska, and Joe Biden, the senior Senator for Delaware, at Washington University in St. Louis. There were reportedly 70 million viewers according to Nielsen Media Research. Stockerblog.com has put together a comparison of the Joe Biden Stock Index, which is made up of the companies that are connected to the billionaire contributors to the Joe Biden campaign, and the Sarah Palin Stock Portfolio, which is made up of the stocks in the Alaska State disclosure filing for her and her husband.
The Palin Portfolio was down 22% outperforming the Biden Index which was down 27%, which doesn't mean much since it a comparison of a contributor index to a stock portfolio, or in other words, apples to oranges. However, both grossly underperformed the Dow Jones Industrial Average which was down only 14%.
Joe Biden Stock Portfolio showing campaign donorsComcast (CMCSA) Amos Hostetter
Estee Lauder ( EL ) Leonard Lauder
Expedia Inc. (EXPE) Barry Diller
IAC/InterActiveCorp ( IACI ) Barry Diller
MGM Mirage (MGM) Kirk Kerkorian
Revlon (REV) Ronald Perelman
Scientific Games ( SGMS ) Ronald Perelman
Wynn Resorts Ltd (WYNN) Stephen Wynn
Sarah Palin Stock Portfolio
iShares MSCI Australia Index (EWA) is an ETF that invests in Australian stocks. It has a PE of 13 and pays a yield of 5.33% .
iShares MSCI Belgium Investable Market Index (EWK) is an ETF that invests in Belgium stocks. It has a PE of 9 and pays a yield of 9.98% .
iShares MSCI Spain Index (EWP) is an ETF that invests in Spanish stocks. It has a PE of 10 and pays a yield of 4.56% .
International Game Technology (IGT) makes and sells computerized gaming equipment. It has a PE of 14 and pays a yield of 3.10% .
Intuit Inc. (INTU) offers business and financial management applications for small and medium sized businesses, and financial institutions. It has a PE of 23 .
KBW Capital Markets ETF (KCE) is an ETF structured to track the total return performance of the Capital Markets index. It has a PE of 15 and pays a yield of 1.37% .
National Oilwell Varco, Incorporated (NOV) makes and markets systems and products for the oil and gas industry. It has a PE of 13 .
Roper Industries Inc. (ROP) makes and sells energy systems and controls, and scientific and industrial imaging products. It has a PE of 19 and pays a yield of 0.50% .
BP plc (BP) explores, produces, refines and sells petroleum. It has a PE of 7 and pays a yield of 6.20% .
Don't forget to check out the Barack Obama Stock Index versus John McCain Stock Index versus Dow Jones Industrial Average.
Assumptions:
These are price-weighted indices, similar to the Dow Jones Industrial Average.
Dividends were included.
Author does not own any of the above.
By Stockerblog.com
Arkansas Stocks
Arkansas is the birthplace of Bill Clinton, the 42nd President of the United States. Arkansas’ subtropical weather sounds very inviting for those who live in regions of extreme temperatures. The state has usually mild winters, but that is not the reason why some world renowned companies call Arkansas home. Here are some interesting facts about the state:
1. Arkansas main agricultural products are chicken, rice, soybeans, and cattle and calves.
2. The north west part of the state is rich in natural gas, which is the most important mined product in the state.
3. In 2007 tourism contributed a total of $5.4 billion to the state economy.
4. Agriculture employs 275,000 in Arkansas
5. Agriculture’s contribution to the state gross domestic product is the largest of any state, 12% of Arkansas’ GDP comes directly from agricultural activities.
6. Arkansas ranks 4th for timber production
7. Arkansas’ Little Rock is ranked 22nd best place to do business.
8. Arkansas is the number one state producer of bromine.
9. Arkansas is the number producer of silica stone (and the only one).
10. The state is one of the top producers of gemstones.
The following companies are headquartered in Arkansas:
Wal-Mart (WMT) is the largest retailer worldwide. Wal-Mart sells general merchandise, electronics, fabrics, stationery, shoes, housewares, etc. The stock has a market cap of $200 billion, a PE of 15, a PEG of 1.35, and its stock pays a yield of 1.7%.
Murphy Oil Corporation (MUR) explores and produces gas and oil throughout the world. The stock has a market cap of $9.52 billion, a PE of 7, a PEG of 0.17, and it pays a yield of 2%.
Windstream Corporation (WIN) is a telecommunications company. Its services include, telephone, Internet services, and wireless services. Its customers are rural communities throughout the United States. The stock has a market cap of $3.86 billion, it has a PE of 4, a PEG of 2.86 and it pays a yield of 10.4%.
Tyson Foods, In. (TSN) makes and markets prepared foods, from chicken, beef, and pork. The stock has a market cap of $3.80 billion, a PE of 54, a PEG of 2.43, and it pays a yield of 1.4%.
J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. (JBHT) is an industrial transportation company. It provides services to the paper industry, construction, and retail industries. The stock has a market cap of $3.27 billion, a PE of 18, a PEG of 1.46, and it pays a yield of 1.5%.
Baldor Electric Company (BEZ) makes and sells industrial electric motors, and generators. The stock has a market cap of $954.22 million, a PE of 9, a PEG of 1.29, and it pays a yield of 3.1%.
Acxiom CP (ACXM) delivers marketing databases, data integration services, and other management solutions services worldwide. The stock has a market cap of $649.40 million, a PE of 40, a PEG of 1.37, and it pays a yield of 2.3%.
Arkansas Best Corporation (ABFS) is a transportation service provider. Its services include national transportation of commodities . the stock has a market cap of $713.85 million, a PE of 12, a PEG of 1.51, and it pays a yield of 2.0%.
Dillard’s Inc. (DDS) is a major operator of retail stores in the southern United States. It carries men, women and children wear. The stock has a market cap of $624.36 million, a PE of 1,700, and it pays a yield of 1.7%.
Deltic Timber Corp. (DEL) plants and harvests timber. The company also leases oil and gas rights to its lands. The stock has a market cap of $608.24 million, a PE of 154, and it pays a yield of 0.6%.
Don't forget to check out stocks from some of the other central states, such as Missouri stocks, Minnesota stocks, Kansas stocks, and Iowa stocks.
Author owns WIN.
By Stockerblog.com