Friday, April 30, 2010

Guest Article: Economic Data, Oil Spill Push Crude Prices Higher at End of Week

Oil Market Summary for: 04/26/2010 to 04/30/2010

Stubbornly high crude oil inventories continued to stymie bulls through the middle of the week, but the market seized on positive economic data to push prices higher toward the end of the week.

The oil spill from a collapsed rig off the Gulf coast may also have played a role in firming prices. Analysts said that the spill could have a short-term impact on supply if it interfered with oil deliveries to Gulf coast refineries, and a longer-term impact if it led to new restrictions on offshore drilling.

The gains on Thursday and Friday enabled oil futures to offset the decline in the first part of the week and finish higher on the week, with the West Texas Intermediate benchmark June contract settling at $86.15 a barrel on Friday, compared with $85.12 a week ago. The contract traded below $82 at one point during the week.

The news Friday that consumer spending powered U.S. GDP growth to a 3.2% annual rate in the first quarter spurred oil prices to further gains after Thursday’s report of a continuing decline in jobless claims also boosted the outlook for oil demand. Analysts also cited the Federal Reserve’s upbeat assessment of the economic situation following the Federal Open Market Committee meeting on Wednesday.

But the weekly inventory report from the Energy Information Administration showed crude stocks up nearly 2 million barrels, with inventories at the New York Mercantile Exchange depot in Cushing , Oklahoma up by 450,000 barrels, and this weighed on the Nymex contract.

The high inventories at Cushing have enabled the European benchmark contract, the ICE Brent crude, which normally trades at a discount to the WTI contract, to overtake the Nymex contract, with the gap this week at times widening to more than $3 a barrel in favor of Brent oil. Brent crude settled at $87.11 on Friday.

The situation has also kept oil futures in contango – later-dated contracts are priced higher than the nearest month because traders expect prices to improve when inventories decline. The July contract on Nymex closed at $88.36 a barrel on Friday.

Oil prices rose on Friday even as stocks plummeted, with the Dow Jones Industrial Index accelerating its decline in late trading to finish down 158 points to 11,008 as financials were hit by news of a criminal probe of Goldman Sachs.

Source: http://oilprice.com/Energy/Oil-Prices/Economic-Data-Oil-Spill-Push-Crude-Prices-Higher-at-End-of-Week.html

By. Darrell Delamaide for Oilprice.com who offer detailed analysis on Crude oil, Geopolitics, Gold and most other Commodities. They also provide free political and economic intelligence to help investors gain a greater understanding of world events and the impact they have on certain regions and sectors. Visit: http://www.oilprice.com

Guest Article: Is the DOW getting ready to crater again?

Is the DOW getting ready to crater again?
------------------------------------------------------------

The DOW has had a remarkable recovery from the lows that were seen in March of '09. The question now is, are we headed higher, or is the move over for now?

In this new short video, I will show you some important aspects that I think will warrant your attention. The video is three minutes long and was created on the last day of trading in April.

While we are not saying that the market is going to crater, it's in everyone's best interest to be aware of this one key level that we point out in the video.

As always you can watch our videos without registration and there are no fees involved.

http://www.ino.com/info/550/CD3111/&dp=0&l=0&campaignid=3

All the best,

Adam Hewison
President, INO.com
Co-creator, MarketClub.com

Stocks for Mother's Day


Sunday, May 9, 2010 is Mother's Day, so if you haven't done the shopping for your mother and/or wife, then you should start now. You may want to consider a gift of some shares in companies that may participate in sales of Mother's Day related products. Why not buy her some chocolate, flowers, and jewelry. Don't forget the greeting card and gift wrap.

Hershey (HSY), founded in 1894, is the largest manufacturer of chocolate in North America and one of the largest chocolate and candy companies in the world. Hershey's Kisses were invented in 1901. Hershey chocolate chips were introduced in 1928. The stock has a P/E of 21, a PEG of 2.92, with a favorable yield of 2.7%.

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Inc. (RMCF) is a very low cap stock [and should therefore be considered very speculative], based in Durango, Colorado, which makes and markets caramels, creams, mints, and truffles. The company, which was founded in 1981, has over 300 franchise locations in 40 states, along with Canada and the United Arab Emirates. The P/E is 17, and the company pays a nice yield of 4.1%.

1-800-Flowers.com Inc. (FLWS), the largest publicly traded flower seller, also sells plants, gourmet foods, cookies, cakes, candies, wine, gift baskets, and other gifts. They have a P/E of 15 and a PEG of 3.88.

Tiffany & Co. (TIF), founded in 1837, is one of the top jewelry companies in the world, with over 60 U.S. stores and over 100 international locations. The metric carat as a weight standard for gems was developed by a Tiffany gemologist. The New York City flagship store is home to the 128-carat Fancy Yellow Tiffany Diamond. The stock has a PE of 23, a PEG of 1.76, and a yield of 1.6%.

Blue Nile Inc. (NILE), founded in 1999, is a leading web based retailer of diamonds and fine jewelry, and the largest online retailer of certified diamonds. The stock has a PE of 64 and a PEG of 2.71.

A couple other jewelry companies are Signet Group plc (SIG), with a PE of 17, and Zale Corporation (ZLC) which has recently generated negative earnings.

American Greetings Corp. (AM), founded in 1906 and based in Cleveland, Ohio, is the largest publicly-traded greeting card company in the world. The stock has a PE of 12, a PEG of 0.93, and a yield of 2.2%.

CSS Industries Inc. (CSS) markets gift wrap, gift bags, boxed greeting cards, gift tags, tissue paper, decorations, and decorative ribbons and bows. The stock has a PE of 17, and a yield of 2.8%.

Don't forget to include a trillion dollar bill in the greeting card.

If you like interesting lists like this, you should check out the various stock lists, including high yield stocks, at WallStreetNewsNetwork.com.

Author does not own any of the above

By Stockerblog.com

What Oddsmakers are Saying about Goldman Sachs

In light of recent tense Goldman Sachs hearing and in advance of the Senate’s third attempt to move forward with a sweeping financial reform bill, oddmakers at YouWager.com, a leading sportsbook, has put together odds on how it will all play out. According to the experts, look for Goldman’s stock to continue to soar, more executives to take the fall and a failure to pass broad reaching financial legislation. Full results below:

What will happen to Goldman stock at the end of the trial, one week after the results are announced?

Go down +100 (50%)

Go up -200 (67%)

Stay the same +100 (50%)


In addition to Fabrice Tourre – how many more Goldman execs will get specifically charged in conjunction to the Goldman fraud case by the end of the year?

0 +500 (18%)

1 +200 (33%)

2 +100 (50%)

3 -200 (67%)

4 or more -150 (60%)


Will the SEC regulation laws change as a result of the Goldman case only in the event the bank and Tourre are not found guilty?

Yes +300 (25%)

No -400 (80%)


[The +/- Indicates the Return on the Wager. For Example: Betting on the odd least likely to win would earn the most amount of money, should that happen. The percentage is the likelihood the odd will happen.]

Guest Article: Is it all over for the Euro?

Is it all over for the Euro?
--------------------------------------------------------------

Things have been bad in Europe recently. Between the travel restrictions due to the volcano and ash, as well as Greece not wanting to conform to strict fiscal policies, problems are adding up and adding weight onto the euro.


It is interesting to note that in the beginning of 2010, everyone was bearish on the dollar. Looking at the market action alone we could see that the dollar has done very well vis-à-vis the euro. This is where technical analysis shines as it is an unbiased viewpoint of the collective wisdom of all market participants.

In this new video I show you how you can trade the euro/USD cross using our "Trade Triangle" technology and come out of winner no matter what happens to Greece, Portugal, or Spain.

http://www.ino.com/info/549/CD3111/&
dp=0&l=0&campaignid=3

As always you can watch our videos without registration and there are no fees involved.

Enjoy the video.

All the best,
Adam Hewison
President, INO.com
Co-creator, MarketClub

Thursday, April 29, 2010

What Forbes is Saying About Municipal Bonds

If you haven't read the recent April 26, 2010 issue of Forbes Magazine yet, you should check it out. The Editor, William Baldwin, wrote about the four upcoming tax increases, and describes a multi-step technique to reduce taxes, which includes investing in a municipal bond money market fund.

Then on page 38, Ashlea Ebeling wrote an informative and extensive article called "How to Duck ObamaTax." This is a very concise and easy to understand article which should be read by anyone who pays taxes, especially someone who is in a high bracket. In the section on the Surtax on Investment Income, she makes the recommendation "buy tax-exempt municipal bonds for taxable account."

Several other advisors are making similar recommendations. However, don't just jump into any munis. States, cities, and other local governmental agencies are still suffering from the recession, higher expenses, and lower revenues. If you have a large enough portfolio, you can buy individual munis. If not, you can invest in tax free mutual funds or tax free closed end funds, also known as CEFs. The advantages of the funds over individual bonds are that greater diversification can be achieved, more liquidity is available in the event you want to sell, and the tax free income can be easily reinvested. The disadvantage is the lack of a yield to maturity, so if interest rates go up, the funds will drop in value, whereas individual bonds will eventually be paid off at par upon maturity.

One advantage that the CEFs can have over the mutual funds is that CEFs can often be bought at a discount to Net Asset Value, meaning that, in simple terms, you are buying the portfolio of bonds below what they are currently trading at. There are numerous muni funds to choose from. A list of over 200 tax free CEF stocks is available at WSNN.com. The database contains extensive information including the company, the symbol, the yield, the net asset value, recent price, premium or discount, the leverage, the management fee, when the CEF was founded, the fund's focus (state or national), percent subject to Alternative Minimum Tax, and other information.

By Stockerblog.com

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Kentucky Derby Stocks


The Kentucky Derby, probably the most famous horse race in the world, will be held on May 1, in in Louisville, Kentucky. It is the first segment of the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing and will be followed by the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes.

The Kentucky Derby is hosted by Churchill Downs Inc. (CHDN), the holding company of the Churchill Downs Racetrack that originally opened in 1875. It also owns Arlington Park, the Calder Race Course, the Fair Grounds Race Course, and the Trackside Off-Track-Betting Facilities. The stock has a forward P/E of 23, and pays a yield of 1.3%. The company will be announcing earnings on May 5.

Of course, there are plenty of other publicly traded companies in the horse racing industry. Canterbury Park Holding Corp. (CPHC) operates year-round pari-mutuel wagering on simulcast and live horse races, along with track concessions and card games, at the Canterbury Park Racetrack in Minnesota which it owns and operates. The stock has a P/E of 579. This is a low cap stock and should be considered speculative.

Dover Downs Gaming & Entertainment Inc. (DDE) owns Dover Downs Raceway, a harness racing track with pari-mutuel wagering. The company has a forward P/E of 10.8 and pays a yield of 2.9%.

Magna Entertainment Corp. (MECAQ.PK) owns several horse racetracks and off track facilities. The company just won approval of its Chapter 11 reorganization. This is a very low cap stock and should therefore be considered very speculative.

MTR Gaming Group Inc. (MNTG) owns racetracks in West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. Earnings have recently been negative. This is a low cap stock and should be considered speculative.

Penn National Gaming Inc. (PENN) owns racetracks and off-track wagering facilities in Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Maine, Mississippi, Missouri, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Ontario. The stock has a forward PE of 22.

By the way, if you want a free horse race handicapping program, check out the one at horsetip.com.

Author does not own any of the above.

By Stockerblog.com

Stocks Going Ex Dividend the First Week of May


Here is our latest update on the stock trading technique called 'Buying Dividends'. This is the process 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. In flat or choppy markets, your have to be extremely careful.

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. WallStreetNewsNetwork.com has compiled a free downloadable and sortable Excel list of the stocks going ex dividend during the next week or two. The list contains many dividend paying companies, all with market caps over $500 million, and yields over 3%. Here are a few examples showing the stock symbol, the ex-dividend date and the yield.

Hudson City Bancorp, Inc. (HCBK) ex div date: $7.0B market cap: 5/3/2010 yield: 4.51%

Global Partners LP (GLP) ex div date: $304.3M market cap: 5/3/2010 yield: 8.56%

FirstEnergy Corp. (FE) ex div date: $11.4B market cap: 5/5/2010 yield: 5.96%

American Electric Power Company, Inc. (AEP) ex div date: $15.9B market cap: 5/6/2010 yield: 4.92%

Olin Corporation (OLN) ex div date: $1.7B market cap: 5/6/2010 yield: 3.95%

The additional ex-dividend stocks can be found at wsnn.com. (If you have been to the website before, and the latest link doesn't show up, you may have to empty your cache.) If you like dividend stocks, you should check out the high yield utility stocks and the Monthly Dividend Stocks at WallStreetNewsNetwork.com or WSNN.com.

Dividend definitions:

Declaration date: the day that the company declares that there is going to be an upcoming dividend.

Ex-dividend date: the day on which if you buy the stock, you would not be entitled to that particular dividend; or the first day on which a shareholder can sell the shares and still be entitled to the dividend.

Record date: the day when you must be on the company's books as a shareholder to receive the dividend. The ex-dividend date is normally set for stocks two business days before the record date.

Payment date: the day on which the dividend payment is actually made, which can be as long at two months after the ex date.

Don't forget to reconfirm the ex-dividend date with the company before implementing this technique.

Author does not own any of the above.

By Stockerblog.com

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Over 100 Stocks Pay Tax Free Dividends Over 6%

Nothing pleases an investor more than receiving a lot of dividends, and realizing that you don't have to pay any tax on that income.

There are many stocks, which are primarily closed end funds or CEFs, which pay dividends that are tax free. This tax exempt income is generated from municipal bonds in the portfolio. Although many of the Canadian oil income trusts pay income that may be partially or completely tax deferred due to depletion and depreciation deductions, the tax free stocks that invest in munis usually generate dividends that are completely exempt from Federal taxes, and may be exempt from state income taxes as well.

Municipal bonds are issued by states, counties, cities, and other governmental agencies. Income from these bonds is exempt from Federal income taxes, and if the bonds are issued in your state of residence, the income is exempt from state income taxes also. Municipal bonds issued by Puerto Rico and other U. S. dependencies are exempt from state income taxes for residents of most states. There are over 200 different tax free income stocks, according to the recently updated list at WallStreetNewsNetwork.com, with over 30 of them yielding 7% or more, and over 100 generating yields greater than 6%.

Beware of extremely high yield municipal bond CEFs which may use high leverage to attain their high yields. The higher the leverage, the higher the risk. Other issues to watch out for are high management fees, whether the bonds are subject to the Alternative Minimum Tax, and if the closed end fund is selling at a premium or discount.

CEFs are similar to bond mutual funds, in that they own a large portfolio of bonds. However, unlike mutual funds which are priced at the Net Asset Value at the end of the day, CEFs may trade at a premium or discount to Net Asset Value. Obviously, the better buys are the ones that sell at a discount, since it is like buying the portfolio of bonds at less than what they are currently trading at.

For example, the Morgan Stanley Municipal Premium Income Trust (PIA) yields 6.6% tax free from Federal taxes, and trades at a 3.8% discount to net asset value. The management fee is on the low side at 0.4%, but unfortunately the leverage is on the high side at 41.95%. It has been paying dividends since 1989.

The Nuveen California Performance Plus Municipal Fund Inc. (NCP), pays a yield of 6.9%, which is exempt from Federal and California state income taxes. The CEF sells at a 7% discount to NAV and has a management fee of 0.65%. Although it uses leverage at 31.5%, the CEF uses a much lower amount of leverage than many other funds. 17.7% of the portfolio is subject to AMT. The fund has been around since 1989.

For New York investors, you might want to take a look at the Nuveen New York Dividend Advantage Municipal Fund 2 (NXK), yielding 5.8% tax free from both Federal and New York State income tax, and trading at a 7% discount to net asset value. Leverage is only 26.54%, and the fund sports a favorable 0.59% management fee. Only 7.26% of the bonds in the portfolio are subject to AMT. Dividends have been paid since 1999.

You can download an Excel database spreadsheet list of over 200 tax free stocks at WSNN.com. The database contains extensive information including the company, the symbol, the yield, the net asset value, recent price, premium or discount, the leverage, the management fee, when the CEF was founded, the fund's focus (state or national), percent subject to Alternative Minimum Tax, and other information. Keep in mind that both yields and share prices fluctuate, and there is the possibility of bonds in the portfolios defaulting.

Author does not own any of the above.


By Stockerblog.com

Guest Article: U.S. Housing Data Spurs Late Gains in Oil Prices after Mixed Week

OilPrice.com Oil Market Summary for 04/19/2010 to 04/23/2010

After languishing most of the week, crude oil prices galloped to the finish line on Friday, tacking on 1.7% and recouping most of last week’s losses as positive new-housing sale data spurred most markets forward.

The decision by the Greek government on Friday to activate a bailout plan from the European Union and the International Monetary Fund eased pressure on the euro, contributing to oil price gains as the dollar slipped against the joint European currency.

The benchmark West Texas Intermediate contract gained $1.42 Friday to end the week at $85.12 a barrel, compared with the benchmark’s finish of $83.24 in the previous week.

An unexpectedly strong gain of 27% in U.S. new housing sales in March – the strongest monthly gain in nearly five years – galvanized a market looking for any sign of a pickup in U.S. demand for oil. Stock markets also advanced on the news, led by energy stocks.

The week started with oil prices taking a hit in the wake of Iceland ’s volcano grounding most northern European flights and then bounced back on Tuesday as authorities began to ease flight restrictions. Some analysts also cited lingering concern about U.S. fraud charges against Goldman Sachs for Monday’s decline, after the announcement of the civil suit last Friday pushed most markets down.

The weekly U.S. inventory report on Wednesday was bearish for oil prices, showing high stockpiles of crude in the Midwest , where influx of new Canadian oil and a temporary slump in demand due to refinery maintenance led to a build-up in stocks.

For much of the week, the exchange rate between the euro and the dollar tended to drive oil prices amid mixed economic data. The euro trended lower through Thursday with the uncertainty about Greece maintaining pressure on it. The formal announcement on Friday that Greece would in fact seek the funds removed some of that uncertainty.

The IMF said in its World Economic Outlook that relatively strong economic growth would keep upward pressure on most commodities prices. However, the multilateral lending agency cautioned that in the case of oil, OPEC could increase its production if it wanted to keep oil prices in the $70 to $80 trading range.

Source: http://www.oilprice.com/article-us-housing-data-spurs-late-gains-in-oil-prices-after-mixed-week-304.html

By. Darrell Delamaide for Oilprice.com who focus on Geopolitical analysis, Energy markets, Crude oil, Alternative Energy and Finance. They also have a Free Investment intelligence newsletter that informs investors of the most breaking events taking place around the world. Visit http://www.oilprice.com

Thursday, April 22, 2010

11 Under 10: Debt Free, Good Financials, Under $10 per Share

Surprisingly, there are still debt free stocks with good financials, that trade for less than $10 per share. WallStreetNewsNetwork.com has just turned up eleven of these low priced debt free stocks with low PE ratios, low PEG ratios and low Price Sales ratios. Some of these stocks have market caps that are very low and should be considered very speculative. All have PE ratios of 15 or less and PEG ratios of 0.75 or less.

Joe's Jeans Inc. (JOEZ) is a manufacturer of women's, men's, and children's denim jeans, along with other apparel. The stock has a PE ratio of 6.9, a price earnings to growth ratio of 0.58, and a Price Sales ratio of 1.89. The stock sells for around 2.75 per share.

Continucare Corp. (CNU) is a provider of primary care physician services on an outpatient basis. The stock, which is trading for around 3.75 per share, has a PE ratio of 11.5, a PEG ratio of 0.58, and a Price Sales ratio of 0.73.

GT Solar International, Inc. (SOLR) designs and makes the equipment to produce solar photovoltaics, wafers, cells and modules. The stock has a PE of 12.2, a PEG of 0.20, and a PS ratio of 1.61. It trades for around 5.50 a share.

To see the rest of the low priced debt free stocks, go to wsnn.com.

Author does not own any of the above.

By Stockerblog.com

Top Stocks of Pennsylvania


Pennsylvania is a state that offers affordable living costs and top schools. It provides affordable health care and medical assistance. No wonder so many large corporations are headquartered in Pennsylvania!

These are some facts about the state:

1. Pennsylvania is the third largest exporter of goods in the country. Total 2009 exports were $28.3 billion.
2. Pennsylvania exports were primarily made of Chemical products and machinery and transportation equipment.
3. Pennsylvania per capital personal income for 2009 was $39,578, ranking 18th in the nation.
4. The state’s GDP of $450 billion rank Pennsylvania as the 17th largest economy in the world.
5. Pennsylvania is one of the top producers of nonfuel mineral, such as crushed stone, and Portland cement.
6. Pennsylvania produced 68 million tons of coal in 2009. Coal reserves in the state are the fourth largest in the country.
7. Tourists and Visitors contributed $28 billion to the economy in 2007.
8. 115,000 new green Jobs are estimated to be created by year 2012 in Pennsylvania.
9. Pennsylvania’s top commodities are dairy products, cattle and calves and mushrooms.
10. The state is the number one producer of commercially grown mushrooms, supplying the domestic market with 59% of total domestic production.

The following companies are headquartered in Pennsylvania:

Comcast Corporation (CMCSA) is a diversified company. It has two main segments, the cable segment and the high speed Internet segment. The company provides cable TV, high speed Internet and phone service in the United States. The stock has a market cap of $38 billion, a PE of 15, a PEG of 1.4, and it pays a yield of 2.0%.

PNC Financial Services Group Inc. (PNC) is a diversified financial company. It provides retail banking services, lending, mortgages and cash management services. The stock has a market cap of $33.1 billion, a PE of 2.48, and it pays a yield of 0.6%.

Air Products & Chemicals Inc. (APD) sells oxygen, nitrogen, argon, and other gases worldwide. The stock has a market cap of 15.7 billion, a PE of 15, a PEG of 1.37, and it pays a yield of 2.6%.

HJ Heinz Co. (HNZ) is a food company. It makes and sells ketchup, condiments, soups, deserts, and frozen foods. The stock has a market cap of $14.4 billion, a PE of 16, a PEG of 1.99, and it pays a yield of 3.7%.

PPG Industries Inc. (PPG) makes and sells protective coatings used in the automobile and aviation industries. The stock has a market cap of $11.2 billion, a PE of 17, a PEG of 7.90, and it pays a yield of 3.2%.

PPL Corporation (PPL) produces and distributes energy to residential, commercial and industrial customers in the northeast. The stock has a market cap of $10.5 billion, a PE of 8, a PEG of 0.73, and it pays a yield of 5%.

Cigna Corp (CI) is a health care company that operates in the United States and abroad. The company operates five different but related segments. The stock has a market cap of $10 billion, a PE of 9, a PEG of 0.99, and it pays a yield of 0.1%.

Lincoln National Corporation (LNC) is an insurance company in the United States. The company offers various products including annuities, universal life insurance, mutual funds and group life insurance. The stock has a market cap of $9.6 billion, a PE of 9, a PEG of 1.51 and it pays a yield of 0.1%.

United States Steel Corp. (X) makes and sells steel related products. The company operates three segments and conducts business in the United States and Europe. The stock has a market cap of $9.5 billion, a PE of 116, and a PEG of 11.62.

AmericsourceBergen Corporation (ABC) is in the pharmaceutical industry. The company works with healthcare providers and pharmaceutical companies to provide drug distribution in the United States, Canada and England. The stock has a market cap of $8.2 billion, a PE of 15, a PEG of 1.14, and it pays a yield of 1.1%.

For stocks from other states check out Alabama stocks, Wisconsin Stocks, and Kansas Stocks.

Author does not own any of the above.


By Stockerblog.com

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Highest Yielding Electric Utilities


There are 30 electric utilities that yield 4% or more, in addition to providing relative safety, security, and stability. WallStreetNewsNetwork.com has come up with a list of numerous electric utility stocks that pay high dividends. Historically, utilities have paid favorable dividends for many years with low volatility.

Here are some examples of utility stocks with decent CD beating yields.

Duke Energy Corporation (DUK) has a yield of 5.9%, and has a forward PE of 12.3.

Ameren Corporation (AEE) has a yield of 5.8%, and has a forward PE of 11.8.

Consolidated Edison, Inc. (ED) has a yield of 5.3%, and has a forward PE of 13.

American Electric Power Company, Inc. (AEP) has a yield of 4.8%, and has a forward PE of 10.5.

You can access a free downloadable Excel database of high yield electric utility stocks, which you can add to, change, and sort, at WSNN.com.

Author does not own any of the above.

By Stockerblog.com

Top Stocks of New Jersey


Centrally located on the East Coast New Jersey is in a region where 100 million people reside with a collective purchasing power of over $2 trillion. Two major airports, the largest seaport complex (Port of New York and New Jersey) in the eastern United States and 35,000 miles of roads may explain why some of the world’s largest companies chose New Jersey as their home.

These are some interesting facts about New Jersey:

1. New Jersey’s per capita personal income was $50,313, the second largest in the United States in 2009.
2. 12.8% of New Jersey’s adult population has a master’s, professional, or doctorate degree.
3. Rhode Island exported goods during 2009 totaled $27.3 billion.
4. Chemical products were the state’s top export.
5. There are more high speed lines (wireless, ADSL and other) in New Jersey per one million people than in any other state, 614,814 lines per one million people.
6. The state of New Jersey is considered the seventh safest state in the country.
7. The agricultural industry contributed $1.12 billion to the state economy in 2008.
8. New Jersey is a top producer of peaches, tomatoes, cucumbers and blueberries.
9. 15 large pharmaceutical companies have operating facilities in the state.
10. New Jersey has the largest number of scientific professionals in the country, 184,000.

The following companies are headquartered in New Jersey:

Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) is a developer and seller of pharmaceutical, baby care, skin care, oral care, and other products. The stock has a market cap of $178.7 billion, a PE of 13, a PEG of 1.73, and it pays a yield of 3.0%.

Merck & Co Inc (MRK) is a company that researches, develops and sells medicines and vaccines for people and animals. The stock has a market cap of $114.6 billion, a PE of 11, a PEG of2.40, and it pays a yield of 4.1%.

Honeywell International Inc. (HON) is a producer and seller of turbine propulsion engines, auxiliary power units, and other electric power systems used in the aerospace industry. The stock has a market cap of $34.8 billion, a PE of 18, a PEG of 2.22, and it pays a yield of 2.7%.

Medco Health Solutions Inc. (MHS) is a company that provides pharmacy services to employers, health plans, government agencies and the general public. The stock has a market cap of $29.9 billion, and a PE of 19, a PEG of 1.15.

Prudential Financial Inc. (PRU) is a diversified financial company that operates in the United States, Latin America, Europe, and Asia. It offers retirement management services, investment services, and other financial related services. The stock has a market cap of $29.4 billion, a PE of 11, a PEG of 1.47, and it pays a yield of 1.1%.

Celgene Corp (CELG) is a biotechnology company that researches, produces and markets new therapies to treat cancer and immune-inflammatory patients. The stock has a market cap of $29 billion, a PE of 27, and a PEG of 1.19.

Automatic Data Processing Inc. (ADP) is an outsourcing company that provides several business functions to employers in the United States and abroad. The stock has a market cap of $22.1 billion, a PE of 18, a PEG of 1.66, and it pays a yield of 3.1%.

Becton, Dickinson and Company (BDX) is a developer and seller of medical instruments and devices in the United States and other countries. The stock has a market cap of $18.5 billion, a PE of 15, a PEG of 1.34, and it pays a yield of 1.9%.

Chubb Corp. (CB) is a property and casualty insurance company. The stock has a market cap of $17 billion, a PE of 10, a PEG of 1.11, and it pays a yield of 2.9%.

Public Service Enterprise Group Inc. (PEG) is a diversified energy company. It generates and sales electric energy and natural gas to customers in the United States. The stock has a market cap of $15.4 billion, a PE of 10, a PEG of 9.71 and it pays a yield of 4.5%.

For stocks from other states check out Georgia stocks, Louisiana stocks, and Alaska stocks.

Author does not own any of the above.

By Stockerblog.com

Green Stocks for Earth Day Tomorrow


It was twenty years ago, on April 22, 1970, when U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson founded Earth Day, for environmental awareness and appreciation of the Earth. Earth Day, which is celebrated in over 175 countries every year, has inspired many countries to become environmentally conscious and to develop and produce alternative sources of energy, other than the polluting oil and coal fuels.

Many of the alternative energy stocks have suffered in price during the last year, primarily due to reduced subsidies, higher costs, and increased competition. However, this may have created a buying opportunity, especially for investors who are look for green stocks for the long term.

There are numerous solar energy stocks to pick from, but very few large solar companies. The one with the greatest market cap and considered a leader in its field is First Solar (FSLR), which differentiates itself from other solar companies in that it is the major producer of cadmium telluride solar panels, as opposed to the more common silicon panels. The company, which is the largest manufacturer of thin-film cells in the world, has a market capitalization of $11.4 billion.

Quarter: First Solar will announce its latest quarter earnings on April 28. However, for the previous quarter, the fourth-quarter profit was up 6.7%, amounting to $7.53 per share, as revenue grew 47.9%. The company holds a substantial $784 million of cash and $176 million of debt.

Stock: It has drop 4.1% in the past year, grossly underperforming the S&P 500 which was up over 43%. It trades at a forward price-to-projected-earnings ratio of 18.2, a price-to-sales ratio of 5.5 and a very favorable price-earnings-growth ratio of 0.89.

Consensus: Of the analysts covering the stock, 21, or 47%, advise purchasing its shares with either a Strong Buy or a Buy recommendations, 17 recommend holding the shares, and six give it a Sell or Underperform rating. The analysts' mean price target for the stock is 135.86.

Some of the top windmill companies are based in Europe, and unfortunately are available for trading on the Pink Sheets. However, American Superconductor Corporation (AMSC), a $1.35 billion market cap company, markets electrical systems used in wind turbines, electronic power products that regulate wind farm voltage, proprietary wind energy system designs to wind farm manufacturers, and consulting services to the wind farm industry. The company just received another follow-on order for 30 sets of wind turbine power electronic components from the world’s largest shipbuilder, Hyundai Heavy Industries Co., Ltd.

Quarter: Record revenues were reported for the latest quarter ending December 31, jumping 95.1%. The company also reported $0.11 per diluted share for the quarter, versus a loss for the same quarter last year.

Stock: The stock has been on a tear this year, rising 42.8%, slightly outperforming the S&P 500. It carries a 25.7 forward PE ratio and a PEG ratio which unfortunately is a bit on the high side at 2.22.

Consensus: Deutche Bank recently upgraded the stock to a Buy, believing that the shares could double. In the last year, the stock has received Buy upgrades from Jefferies, Needham, Kaufman Bros., and Piper Jaffray.

The leading geothermal company is Ormat Technologies Inc. (ORA). In addition to generating electricity from their own geothermal wells, they also make and market equipment for geothermal and recovered energy-based electricity generation. Ormat ios currently subject to a class action lawsuit relating to the reporting of earnings.

Quarter: The company will announce its first quarter 2010 earnings on Wednesday, May 5, 2010. Previous quarter's earnings were a 168% increase on a slight drop in revenues.

Stock: The stock was down about 2% for the last twelve months. It sports a forward PE of 21.9, and a PEG ratio of 2.27.

Consensus: Ormat was just upgraded by Avondale from Market Perform to Market Outperform. Five out of 16 analysts believe that it is a Buy or a Strong Buy, ten think it is a Hold, and one ranks it an Underperform.

If you like green stocks, you can find several free downloadable Excel databases of various green stocks at WallStreetNewsNetwork.com.

Author does not own any of the above.

By Stockerblog.com

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Chocolate Good for Your Liver per Researchers


According to researchers in Spain, eating cocoa-rich dark chocolate after a big meal can help people with cirrhosis of the liver. The antioxidant flavanols in chocolate are supposed to be good for your blood pressure. Of course, chocolate will always be popular since it can reduce free radicals, increase serotonin levels, and it tastes good. Now investors have a valid excuse for eating more chocolate and buying chocolate stocks. Here are some stocks in the chocolate business that may be worth taking a bite out of.

Hershey (HSY), founded in 1894, is the largest manufacturer of chocolate in North America and one of the largest chocolate and candy companies in the world. Hershey's Kisses were invented in 1901 and their chocolate chips were introduced in 1928. The stock has a P/E of 24, with a flavorful, I mean favorable yield of 2.9%.

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Inc. (RMCF) is a very low cap stock [and should therefore be considered very speculative], based in Durango, Colorado, which makes and markets caramels, creams, mints, and truffles. The company, which was founded in 1981, has over 300 franchise locations in 40 states, along with Canada and the United Arab Emirates. The P/E is 18, and their yield is 64.2%. This is a very low cap stock and should be considered very speculative.

Cadbury plc (CDSCY.PK)) is a London based confectionery and beverage company, which was founded in 1783. Some of their products include cocoa powder and milk chocolate bars. Their brands include Cadbury Creme Egg, Cadbury Dairy Milk, Clorets, and Dentyne. The stock has a net profit margin of 6.1% and a return on average equity of 11.9%.

The Swiss based company Nestle (NSRGY.PK) is involved in a lot of businesses including pharmaceuticals and nutrition products, but most consumers know it for its chocolate and candy business. Their net profit margin was 23%.

Lindt & Sprungli AG (LDSVF.PK) is another Swiss based company. They produce premium chocolate, which includes the brands Lindt, Ghirardelli, and Caffarel.

Barry Callebaut (BYCBF.PK) is yet another Switzerland based company, which produces cocoa, chocolate and candy products.

Even Tootsie Roll Industries Inc. (TR) produces chocolate candy. The stock has a P/E of 29.5 and a yield of 1.2%.

Make sure you check out Valentines Day Stocks, and Getting Married Stocks. Also, don't forget that Mothers Day is coming up next month.

Full Disclosure: Author doesn't own any of the above.

By Stockerblog.com

Apple Wants Its iPhone Prototype Back

A prototype of Apple's (AAPL) next generation iPhone ended up in a bar. No, it's not the beginning of a joke and Apple isn't laughing. Apparently, the iPhone was left in the bar by a software engineer. Now, Apple wants that prototype back.

Top Stocks of Massachusetts


Massachusetts is the third most densely populated state with a per capita personal income that is the third highest in the country. The state economy is diversified and encompasses the financial, higher education, and high tech industries.

Some interesting facts about Massachusetts follow:

1. Massachusetts imposes a 5.3% personal income tax on earned wages, salaries unemployment compensation, alimony, rents and royalties and certain other income.
2. Clay, lime, marble, and sand and gravel are mined in Massachusetts.
3. Milk, nursery and greenhouse, eggs and vegetables are the state’s major farm products.
4. Massachusetts has a per capita personal income of $49,875 and it ranks third nationally.
5. More than 178,000 people worked for foreign owned companies in 2007.
6. Massachusetts is a major exporter of computers and electronic products. Its main market is the United Kingdom.
7. Massachusetts ranks number one for percent of adults with a Master’s, Professional or Doctorate Degree.
8. Massachusetts workers are the nation’s fourth most productive employees, producing a per capita gross state product of $61,742.
9. 92.9% of the state population has access to primary health care.
10. The finance and insurance industry employ 7% of the population.

The following companies are headquartered in Massachusetts:

EMC Corporation (EMC) is a technology company. It develops information infrastructure, information storage systems and software. The stock has a market cap of $37.7 billion, a PE of 21, and a PEG of 1.41.

State Street Corp. (STT) is in the financial sector and its services include administration, master trust and master custody, recordkeeping, shareholder services, brokerage, and trading services among many others. The stock has a market cap of $22.9 billion, a PE of 13, and a PEG of 1.21.

Raytheon Co. (RTN) is an aerospace company that develops and sells command, control, communication and intelligence systems. The stock has a market cap of $21.5 billion, a PE of 11, a PEG of 1.36, and it pays a yield of 2.6%.

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc. (TMO) distributes software and analytical instruments, laboratory information management systems and security applications (among other services and products). The stock has a market cap of $21 billion, a PE of 15, and a PEG OF 1.27.

The TJX Companies, Inc. (TJX) is a retailer that offers merchandise at discounted prices in the United States and abroad. The company sells apparel, shoes, accessories, and home fashions. The stock has a market cap of $18.3 billion, a PE of 0.98, and it pays a yield of 1.3%.

Staples Inc. (SPLS) is a retailer of office products. The company sells office supply, equipment, furniture and provides services such as copying and scanning. The stock has a market cap of $17.6 billion, a PE of 18, a PEG of 1.25 and it pays a yield of 1.5%.

American Tower Corp. (AMT) is a diversified wireless and broadcast communications company. The stock has a market cap of $16.9 billion, a PE of 50, and a PEG of 2.78.

Biogen Idec Inc. (BIIB) is a biotechnology company in the business of developing and selling neurologic, oncologic, immunologic, and cardiopulmonary drugs. The stock has a market cap of $15.2 billion, a PE of 12, and a PEG of 1.38.

Genzyme Corp. (GENZ) is a biotechnology company that designs and markets drugs for treating genetic disorders, cancers, and immune diseases. The stock has a market cap of $13.9 billion, a PE of 25, and a PEG of 1.58.

Boston Properties Inc. (BXP) is a real estate investment trust that invests in office properties located in Boston, Washington D.C., New York City, and San Francisco, among other select cities. The stock has a market cap of $10.7 billion, a PE of 18, a PEG of 2.63, and it pays a yield of 2.6%.

For stocks from other states check out Alaska stocks, Hawaii stocks and South Carolina stocks. For stocks from other countries, check out WallStreetNewsNetwork.com.

Author does not own any of the above.

By Stockerblog.com

Colleges are Banning the Apple iPads

You would think that colleges would be encouraging students to use Apple (AAPL) iPads. As a matter of fact, there is one college that is giving free iPads to students. However, at some universities, the iPad is a no-no.

Apparently, the wireless connection of the iPads to some university computers is causing a DHCP problem for other wireless users, so Princeton University is blocking about one fifth of the campus iPads. iPad networking problems have also been experienced by George Washington University.

Monday, April 19, 2010

Top 20 Stock Market Trading Tips

These are the Top 20 Stock Market Trading Tips Gathered from Numerous Web Sites:

1a. Put your trading money in as many stocks as you can afford. The more diversification the better, as it helps reduce risk.
1b. Don't invest in more than five stocks, as it is hard to keep track of them when you get beyond that number.

2a. Use limit orders to sell. As a trader, you should already know your exit price, and you could miss getting the price you want, just by getting up to go to the bathroom.
2b. Never use limit orders when you sell. Good news could come out on the stock, and you will end up being the first one to sell after the stock takes off, causing you to miss a lot of the upside. Always use market orders.

3a. Use limit orders when you buy. When a stock spikes downward, you may not be fast enough to get in your Buy order, so with a limit order, you are sure to get it at the price you want it at.
3b. Never use a limit order to buy a stock. The company could come out with bad news, triggering your limit, and dragging you down with the stock price.

4a. Never chase a stock that gaps up; it usually always drops back down shortly thereafter.
4b. Always look for stocks that gap up as they usually continue to run up more for a while.

5a. When a stock makes a big unexpected move up, sell and don't look back.
5b. If your stock moves up substantially, sell half your position and hold the other half to let it run.

6a. Look for stocks to buy just before they go ex-dividend, in order to capture that dividend.
6b. Never buy a stock just before it goes ex-dividend as the stock usually drops by the amount of the dividend and more on the ex-dividend date.

7a. Look for stocks trading at new highs. They are the strongest stocks with the most investor backing.
7b. Look for stocks trading at new lows, and you will find plenty of bargains and dead cat bounces.

8a. Always trade on margin as you get much more bang for the buck.
8b. Never use margin. You can easily get wiped out.

9a. Never let your emotions interfere with your trading decisions.
9b. Usually, your gut decisions about trading are your best ones.

10a. Read as many newspapers, watch as much business TV, and look at as many online financial web sites as you can in order to get trading ideas.
10b. Ignore all external financial sources. Develop your own trading ideas.

By Fred Fuld at Stockerblog.com

New Coca Colla Drink Made with Coca Competing with Coca Cola


The new Coca Colla drink produced in Bolivia gives new meaning to the old saying "It's the Real Thing." The drink, which comes in a red label bottle, is made with coca leaves. Coca is also the primary ingredient of cocaine.

The first half of the name of the drink obviously comes from coca, but the second half of the name, Colla, comes from the name of the indigenous people in the hills and mountains of Bolivia.

The drink is fully supported by the new president of Bolivia, Evo Morales. No word yet on the opinion of the drink from Coca Cola (KO), which trades on the New York Stock Exchange.

Author does not own any of the above.

By Stockerblog.com

Sunday, April 18, 2010

Top Stocks of Maryland


The state of Maryland is centrally located in the mid Atlantic region, close to the Nation’s capital and some of the most populated areas of the United States. Its economy has grown to include the aerospace and defense sector which is made up of 2,600 companies and pays an average salary of $93,000. Other interesting facts about Maryland follow:

1. Agriculture is Maryland’s largest economic activity, employing a total of 350,000 people.
2. Broiler chicken accounted for 40% of Maryland’s total agricultural cash flows.
3. The High-Tech industry contributed almost 10,000 new jobs to the state of Maryland in 2009 alone.
4. Maryland per capita personal income was $48,285, ranking number 4 in the country.
5. Maryland’s total 2009 exports were $9.2 billion. The state’s biggest consumer of exports is Canada.
6. Transportation equipment, chemical products and computer and electronics are Maryland’s main exports.
7. Foreign companies in the state contributed a total of 106,000 jobs to the state economy in 2007.
8. Forbes magazine ranked Frederick, MD, as the second smartest city in the United States.
9. Maryland is the number one spender nationwide in research and development.
10. The state’s has a large aerospace and defense clusters with the top 16 aerospace companies (out of 25), and 70 top defense contractors (out of 100).

The following companies are headquartered in Maryland.

Lockheed Martin Corporation (LMT) is an aerospace company that produces and sells technology systems. The stock has a market cap of $30.8 billion, a PE of 11, a PEG of 1.30, and it pays a yield of 3.07%.

Marriott International Inc. (MAR) is a worldwide company in the hospitality industry. The company owns and franchises hotels, and other properties under 14 different brand names. The stock has a market cap of $11.8 billion, a PE of 35, a PEG of 5.18, and it pays a yield of 0.5%.

Host Hotels & Resorts Inc. (HST) is a real estate investment trust. The company invests in properties in The United States, Canada, Mexico, Chile, The U.K, Italy, Spain and Poland. The stock has a market cap of $9.7 billion, a PE of 26, and it pays a yield of 0.3%.

Constellation Energy Group, Inc (CEG) is an electric utility company. It operates in the United States, the company sells energy to other companies including utilities cooperatives. The stock has a market cap of $7.4 billion, a PE of 11, a PEG of 2.26, and it pays a yield of 2.6%.

Human Genome Sciences Inc. (HGSI) is a biotechnology company that develops and sells drugs to treat hepatitis C, cancer, lupus and other illnesses. The stock has a market cap of $6 billion.

Legg Mason Inc. (LM) is a company in the financial industry that provides asset management services to clients around the world. The stock has a market cap of $4.9 billion, a PE of 21, a PEG of 3.05, and it pays a yield of 0.4%.

Discovery Communications Inc. (DISCA) is a media company that delivers programming in the United States and internationally. It operates cable stations like the Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, and the Science Channel among many others. The stock has a market cap of $4.6 billion, a PE of 21, and a PEG of 1.17.

McCormick & Co. Inc. (MKC) is a producer and seller of processed and packaged flavor products. The stock has a market cap of $4.6 billion, a PE of 15, a PEG of 1.51, and it pays a yield of 2.7%.

Federal Realty Investment Trust (FRT) is a real estate trust that buys and redevelops retail properties in the United States. The stock has a market cap of $4.5 billion, a PE of 19, a PEG of 3.19 and it pays a yield of 3.6%.

Coventry Health Care Inc. (CVH) is a company that operates under the following three segments: the Health Plan and Medical services, Specialized Managed Care, and Workers Compensation. The stock has a market cap of $3.6 billion, a PE of 11, and a PEG of 1.11.

For stocks from other states check out Minnesota stocks, Kentucky stocks, and Nevada stocks.


Author does not own any of the above.

By Stockerblog.com

Stocks Going Ex Dividend the Last Week of April


Here is our latest update on the stock trading technique called 'Buying Dividends'. This is the process 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. In flat or choppy markets, your have to be extremely careful.

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. WallStreetNewsNetwork.com has compiled a free downloadable and sortable Excel list of the stocks going ex dividend during the next week or two. The list contains many dividend paying companies, all with market caps over $500 million, and yields over 3%. Here are a few examples showing the stock symbol, the ex-dividend date and the yield.

The Clorox Company (CLX) ex div date: 4/26/2010 market cap: $9.0B yield: 3.1%
ConAgra Foods, Inc. (CAG) ex div date: 4/28/2010 market cap: $11.3B yield: 3.2%
Northwest Natural Gas (NWN) ex div date: 4/28/2010 market cap: $1.3B yield: 3.5%
Paychex, Inc. (PAYX) ex div date: 4/29/2010 market cap: $11.3B yield: 4.0%

The additional ex-dividend stocks can be found at wsnn.com. (If you have been to the website before, and the latest link doesn't show up, you may have to empty your cache.) If you like dividend stocks, you should check out the high yield utility stocks and the Monthly Dividend Stocks at WallStreetNewsNetwork.com or WSNN.com.

Dividend definitions:

Declaration date: the day that the company declares that there is going to be an upcoming dividend.

Ex-dividend date: the day on which if you buy the stock, you would not be entitled to that particular dividend; or the first day on which a shareholder can sell the shares and still be entitled to the dividend.

Record date: the day when you must be on the company's books as a shareholder to receive the dividend. The ex-dividend date is normally set for stocks two business days before the record date.

Payment date: the day on which the dividend payment is actually made, which can be as long at two months after the ex date.

Don't forget to reconfirm the ex-dividend date with the company before implementing this technique.

Author does not own any of the above.

By Stockerblog.com

Friday, April 16, 2010

Top Stocks of Connecticut


The state of Connecticut is home to the BioScience cluster, the Aerospace, Software and information technology, Metal Manufacturing, Maritime, Plastics, Agricultural, and Insurance and financial services clusters. These clusters symbolize the state’s diversified economy, and are evident in the companies that call Connecticut home.

Some interesting facts about the state follow:

1. The state of Connecticut has the largest per capita personal income in the country. In 2009 it was $54,397.
2. Connecticut exports for the year 2009 totaled $14 billion, the 11th largest exporter of merchandise in the country.
3. France and Canada were the main consumers of Connecticut total exports.
4. The Connecticut aerospace industry employs more than 44,000 people.
5. The state’s mineral resources include crushed stone and construction sand and gravel.
6. The tourism industry contributes $9.9 billion a year to the state economy and employs 146,000 individuals.
7. The metal manufacturing industry employs 127,000 people
8. 27 of the fortune 1000 companies are located in Connecticut.
9. United Technologies Corp. is the largest private employer in the state with 25,000 employees.
10. The state ranks third in percentage of population with Master’s, professional or doctorate degrees in the United States.

The following companies are headquartered in Connecticut:

General Electric Company (GE) is a diversified technology, media and financial company. It operates different segments worldwide. The company has an energy infrastructure segment, capital finance segment, technology infrastructure, GN NBC Universal segment, and a consumer and industrial segment. The stock has a market cap of $198.1 billion, a PE of 18, a PEG of 2.56, and it pays a yield of 2.2%.

United Technologies Corp. (UTX) is a worldwide provider of services and products to the building and aerospace industries. The stock has a market cap of $69 billion, a PE of 16, a PEG of 1.58, and it pays a yield of 2.3%.

Praxair Inc. (PX) produces and sells oxygen, nitrogen, argon and other rare gases. The company operates in North and South America, Europe and Asia. The stock has a market cap of $25.9 billion, a PE of 18, a PEG of 1.57 and it pays a yield of 2.1%.

Aetna Inc. (AET) is a company that provides medical, dental, pharmacy and group life insurance. The company operates various segments. The stock has a market cap of $14.5 billion, a PE of 13, a PEG of 1.36, and it pays a yield of 0.12%.

Priceline.com Incorporated (PCLN) is a travel company that operates online. It conducts business in the domestic market, Europe and Asia. The stock has a market cap of $11.8 billion, a PE of 25, and a PEG of 1.3.

Hartford Financial Services Group Inc. (HIG) is an insurance company. It serves customers in the United States and other countries. The stock has a market cap of $10.9 billion, a PE of 10, a PEG of 1.46 and it pays a yield of 0.7%.

Xerox Corp. (XRX) makes and sells document systems and provides services such as support. The company makes and sells copiers, printers, and software and fax machines among other products. The stock has a market cap of $9.1 billion, a PE of 13, a PEG of 6.529, and it pays a yield of 1.63%.

Amphenol Corporation (APH) produces and sells cables, fiber optic, electric and electronic connectors worldwide. The stock has a market cap of $7.4 billion, a PE of 19, a PEG of 1.1, and it pays a yield of 0.1%.

People’s United Financial Inc. (PBCT) is the holding company of the People’s United Bank. The stock has a market cap of $6.1 billion, a PE of 42, a PEG of 4.57, and it pays a yield of 3.7%.

Pitney Bowes Inc. (PBI) is a worldwide provider of mail equipment and solutions. It offers equipment, supplies and software. The stock has a market cap of $5.1 billion, a PE of 10, and it pays a yield of 5.9%.

Author does not own any of the above.

By Stockerblog.com

Guest Article: SEC Charge Against Goldman has Volcanic Impact on Energy Markets

Oil Market Summary for 04/12/2010 to 04/16/2010

Oil prices plunged on Friday after the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission charged Goldman Sachs with fraud in its marketing of certain subprime mortgage securities, amid a general sell-off in financial and commodity markets.

The allegations against one of the biggest market makers in virtually every markets dampened speculation heading into the weekend. Much like the volcanic eruption in Iceland spewed a cloud of dust over northern Europe that grounded all air travel, the SEC charge cast a pall over financial markets.

The May contract for West Texas Intermediate, which expires next week, settled down $2.27 or 2.7% at $83.24 after briefly dipping below $83 in the wake of the SEC announcement. The benchmark contract settled at $84.92 a week earlier.

Goldman Sachs had no immediate comment. Prices had been drifting lower in equities and other markets prior to the announcement, but fell sharply afterwards, led by a plunge of more than 10% in Goldman shares.

Some analysts speculated that prices could rebound on Monday once the dust has settled, but market participants remained uncertain about the long-term impact of the SEC charge on Goldman’s business and on that of other major banks.

In the past, Goldman has rejected charges of misleading investors when it sold securities that it subsequently shorted in its own trading, asserting that that is the role of a market maker. Goldman is one of the biggest participants in the energy futures markets.

Oil prices started the week soft, but firmed up after Wednesday’s inventory report from the U.S. Energy Information Administration, which showed a small decline in crude inventories after 10 successive weeks of increases.

An unexpected decline in April consumer sentiment reported on Friday, however, led to new doubts about the strength of the economic recovery and depressed prices. The market had been expecting a reading of 75 after 73.6 in the previous month, but instead the index came in at 69.5.

The inventory report on Wednesday pushed oil prices up 2.1%, to $85.84. But the monthly outlook from OPEC released the same day actually revised its forecast for 2010 demand for OPEC oil downward by 135,000 barrels a day from the previous month, to 28.8 million barrels a day. The group’s expectation for the overall growth in oil consumption also trails that of other analysts.

By. Darrell Delamaide for Oilprice.com who offer detailed analysis on Crude oil, Geopolitics, Gold and most other Commodities. They also provide free political and economic intelligence to help investors gain a greater understanding of world events and the impact they have on certain regions and sectors. Visit: http://www.oilprice.com

A New Very High Priced Stock

I love researching extremely high priced shares of stock. And I'm not just talking about the company founded by Warren Buffett, Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (BRK-A), the stock that currently trades for way over $100,000 a share.

WallStreetNewsNetwork.com has an extensive report on high priced stocks, and one of the striking things that I noticed was that three of the highest priced shares are California companies, Mechanics Bank (MCHB.OB), Farmers & Merchants Bank of Long Beach (FMBL.OB), and Sunwest Bank (SWBC.OB). Leave it to California to stand out.

But now there is another stock that has joined the 'Over $1000 Share' club. The stock is PVC Container Corporation (PVCO.PK), a manufacturer of molded plastic bottles and containers made from high-density polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate and polyvinyl chloride. The company has two wholly owned subsidiaries, Novapak Corporation and Airopak Corporation, which handle the marketing of its products.

Back on January 15 of this year, the stock was trading at $510 per share. The stock's last trading price was $7,000 per share. Cash flow was $1,656.53 per share for the last 12 months, up from $106.25 the previous year.

***

As I was doing research for this article, I discovered a couple more extremely high priced shares. There is Sterling Sugars (STSU.PK) at $19,300 a share. And American Bank Holdings (ABKH.OB) at $9,600 per share. ACAP Corp. (ACPC.PK) at $4,350. Also the telecom company LICT Corporation (LICT.PK) at $2,575.

***

Even though I like researching these stocks, it doesn't necessarily mean that they are good investments. As a matter of fact, I recommend that you stay away from these stocks, as most have extremely low liquidity. You are lucky if you see some of these trade more than once a week. But if you like reading about them, WallStreetNewsNetwork.com has an article on additional high priced shares.

Author does not own any of the above.

By Stockerblog.com

The National Bureau of Economic Research Dating Committee Report

No, this report has nothing to do with how many single people are going out on dates or how the economy has affected the amount of money spent on dates. Actually, the National Bureau of Economic Research Business Cycle Dating Committee determines when U.S. economic expansions and recessions exactly begin and end.

Their report stated that they still don't know if we are out of the recession trough yet. They did say that the recession officially began in November 2007.

When I was in college, we learned that recessions couldn't last longer than a year. As a matter of fact, a one quarter downturn of the Gross Domestic Product (called the Gross National Product back then) was considered a correction, a two or three quarter drop was a recession, and four quarters or more was a depression.

Top Stocks of North Carolina


North Carolina is a state with an increasingly diversified economy. The state is home to one of the largest financial institutions in the country as well as home to important biotechnology companies. Agriculture is still an important economic activity in the state.

Some interesting facts about North Carolina:

1. North Carolina’s top commodities by cash receipts for the year 2008 were broilers, hogs, greenhouse, floriculture and tobacco.
2. The state ranked 5th in burley tobacco production in the United States.
3. The state ranked 5th in cotton production in the United States.
4. 97% of all farms in North Carolina are considered family farms and 85% are classified as small family farms.
5. North Carolina’s Gross domestic product was $400 billion for the year 2008, the ninth largest in the country.
6. North Carolina is the sixth most visited state in the United States.
7. The state is the number one producer of sweet potatoes.
8. Asheville, NC was ranked sixth best place for business and careers by Forbes in 2009.
9. North Carolina’s attractions include Mt. Mitchell, the Great Smoky Mountains and Fort Bragg.
10. The nation’s second largest banking center is in Charlotte, NC.

The following companies are headquartered in North Carolina:

Bank Of America Corp. (BAC) is a banking company providing banking and non-banking services in the United States and abroad. Its customers are individuals, businesses, and government. The stock has a market cap of $188 billion, a PE of 24, a PEG of 4.07, and it pays a yield of 0.2%.

Lowe’s Companies Inc. (LOW) is in the business of selling home improvement products in the U.S. and Canada. The stock has a market cap of $37 billion, a PE of 18, a PEG of 1.63, and it pays a yield of 1.4%.

BB & T Corp. (BBT) is the holding company of Branch Banking and Trust Company, which is a company that delivers banking services to individuals, and businesses in the United States. The stock has a market cap of $23 billion, a PE of 23, a PEG of 3.33, and it pays a yield of 1.8%.

Duke Energy Corporation (DUK) produces, and sells electric power and gas in the United States and internationally. The stock has a market cap of $21 billion, a PE of 13, a PEG of 2.88, and it pays a yield of 5.9%.

Reynolds American Inc. (RAI) is a producer of tobacco and seller of cigarettes and other related products. It offers products under the names of Camel, Pall, Winston, Kool, Salem Misty, Doral and Capri. The company has a market cap of $15 billion, a PE of 11, a PEG of 1.84, and it pays a yield of 6.7%.

Nucor Corp. (NUE) is a manufacturer and distributor of steel and related products. The company sells its products in the United States and abroad. The stock has a market cap of $15 billion, a PE of 27, a PEG of 1.8, and it pays a yield of 3%.

Lorillard Inc. (LO) is a producer and seller of tobacco products in the United States. It sells cigarettes under the following names: Newport, Kent, True, Max, Maverick, and Old Gold. The stock has a market cap of $11.8 billion, a PE of 12, a PEG of 2.02, and it pays a yield of 5.2%.

Progress Energy Inc. (PGN) produces and sells electricity in North and South Carolina and Florida. The company generates electricity through coal, oil, hydroelectric, natural gas and nuclear power as well as several sources of alternative energy including solar, and hydrogen. The stock has a market cap of $11.1 billion, a PE of 13, a PEG of 3.3, and it pays a yield of 6.3%.

VF Corp. (VFC) is a company that designs and produces clothing for men and women. The company sells jeans under the names Lee, Lee Europe, and Wrangler among others. It also sells clothing under the following brand names: Vans, The North Face, and Lucy Brands among others. The stock has a market cap of 9.1 billion, a PE of 14, a PEG of 1.43, and it pays a yield of 2.9%.

Goodrich Corp. (GR) is an aerospace company. It delivers aerospace products and services worldwide to the aviation industry and defense and space industry. The stock has a market cap of $8.7 billion, a PE of 16, a PEG of 2.04, and it pays a yield of 1.6%.

For stocks from other states, check out Louisiana stocks, Puerto Rico stocks, and Arizona stocks.

Author owns BAC and PGN.

By Stockerblog.com

States That Pay the Highest Taxes

Ever wonder if ou are paying higher taxes than your neighbors in other states? Check out the chart below.

STATE-TAXES
Free Tax Filing, Efile Taxes, Income Tax Returns – TurboTax.com

Earnings Surprise Stocks (and Low Priced, Pay Dividends)

So what is an earnings surprise stock, you might ask? It is a company that has exceeded its (or missed its) earnings estimate by a certain percentage. WallStreetNewsNetwork.com has turned up a list of stocks that exceeded their estimates by more than 20%. In addition, all these stocks pay dividends and sell for less than $10 per share. Shown below is the earnings surprise, the yield, and recent price.

Cogdell Spencer Inc. (CSA) +166.67% yield: 5.01% $7.97

Bank Mutual Corporation (BKMU) +100.00% yield: 3.96% $7.17

Advance America, Cash Advance Centers (AEA) +77.78% yield: 3.81% $6.71

Cedar Shopping Centers Inc (CDR) +74.07% yield: 4.35% $7.84

EarthLink, Inc. (ELNK) +57.14% yield: 6.40% $8.64

Inland Real Estate Corporation (IRC) +45.83% yield: 5.80% $9.35

BGC Partners, Inc. (BGCP) +29.63% yield: 3.66% $6.50

Himax Technologies, Inc. (HIMX) +27.66% yield: 9.23% $3.16

Resource Capital Corp. (RSO) +21.43% yield: 14.03% $6.79

If you like interesting stock lists like this, you should check out all the lists, especially the high dividend lists, at WallStreetNewsNetwork.com.

Author does not own any of the above.

By Stockerblog.com

Guest Article: Subject: Can We Keep Going Higher Forever?

We owe trillions of dollars, but Crude oil is at $86 a barrel, the DOW, S&P, and NASDAQ are making new highs almost everyday and unemployment is officially at 9.7%.

Everything is great! Happy days are here again... Right?

So is the DOW, S&P, and NASDAQ all going to keep going higher forever? Or are the teachings of a dead mathematician going to reverse this juggernaut of a market?

In my new video I show you exactly what I mean and how the these indices could be very close to a very important tipping point.

This is without a doubt, one of the most important videos I have ever made and if you are concerned about your financial future, you don't want to miss it.

As always, our videos are free to watch and there are no registration requirements.

http://www.ino.com/info/544/CD3111/&dp=0&l=0&campaignid=3

All the best,
Adam Hewison
President, INO.com
Co-creator, MarketClub

Top Stocks of Vermont


Vermont was the first state to join the original thirteen states of the Union in 1791. In the years that followed, Vermont produced grain and beef cattle. Today the state economy has grown to include the tourism industry, the manufacturing of electrical equipment, food products, and granite.

Some interesting facts about Vermont are:

1. Vermont offers a no-cost or low cost health insurance program to state residents regardless of how much they earn.
2. Vermont is the number one producer of Maple syrup in the country.
3. 90% of the milk produced in Vermont is exported to other states.
4. Vermont employees rank 24th best paid in the nation.
5. Higher education is the 4th largest economic activity in the state.
6. Vermont’s capital city, Montpelier is the smallest capital of any state with fewer than 10,000 residents.
7. Burlington is the largest city in the state with 40,000 residents and 150,000 in the greater Burlington area.
8. Agriculture contributes 12% to the state’s economy.
9. IBM is the state’s largest employer.
10. A 2000 census determined that about 15% of all housing units in the state were vacant and labeled for seasonal recreational or occasional use.

The following companies are headquartered in Vermont:

Green Mountain Coffee Roasters Inc. (GMCR). Green Mountain Coffee Roasters is in the business of selling coffee, tea, and cocoa, both in the domestic and international markets. The stock has a market cap of $4.2 billion, a PE of 47, and a PEG of 1.35.

Central Vermont Public Service Corporation (CV) is an electric utility company in Vermont. The company buys and distributes energy throughout the state. The stock has a market cap of $240 million, a PE of 13, and it pays a yield of 4.5%.

Casella Waste Systems Inc. (CWST) is in the business of collecting, recycling and disposing of waste in the east coast. The company provides residential and commercial waste management services. The stock has a market cap of $129 million.

Merchants Bancshares Inc. (MBVT) is a holding company for the Merchants Bank (a Vermont commercial bank). The stock has a market cap of $127 million, a PE of 10, a PEG of 2.04, and it pays a yield of 5.2%.

Union Bankshares Inc. (UNB) is the holding company of Union Bank, a bank engaged in providing retail and commercial banking services in Vermont and New Hampshire. The stock has a market cap of $79 million, a PE of 14, and it pays a yield of 5.7%. This is a low cap stock and should be considered speculative.

Rock of Ages Corp. (ROAC) produces and sells granite memorial products for use in cemeteries. The stock has a market cap of $15 million. This is a low cap stock and should be considered speculative.

For stocks from other states, check out Georgia stocks, South Carolina stocks, and Missouri stocks.

Author does not own any of the above.

By Stockerblog.com

Thursday, April 15, 2010

Zimbabwe Stocks Outperform the S&P 500


Zimbabwe, home of the $100 trillion bill, has its own stock exchange, which trades stocks in U. S. cents and operates Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM Zimbabwe local time.

During the last twelve months, the S&P 500 was up 42.2%, but the Zimbabwe Industrial Index was up an amazing 68.1%.

Ultra Short ETFs Have Reverse Split

If you noticed that the UltraShort ETF in your portfolio was up several hundred percent today, don't get too excited. It was just a 5 for 1 or a 10 for 1 reverse split. The ETF sponsor, ProShares, reportedly did this to reduce the spread on the bid and asked price on the ETFs.

The following are the ones that had a reverse split:

Ultra Financials (UYG) - Split 1:10

Ultra Real Estate (URE) - Split 1:5

UltraShort Basic Materials (SMN) - Split 1:5

UltraShort FTSE/Xinhua China 25 (FXP) - Split 1:5

UltraShort Gold (GLL) - Split 1:5

UltraShort MSCI Emerging Markets (EEV) - Split 1:5

UltraShort Oil & Gas (DUG) - Split 1:5

UltraShort Real Estate (SRS) - Split 1:5

UltraShort Silver (ZSL) - Split 1:10

Author owns FXP.

The World's Most Life-like Female Robot

Hiroshi Ishiguro and researchers at Osaka University and robot builders Kokoro Co. Ltd., which is called Geminoid F. Look at the facial features and movements in her eyebrows, eye lashes, and cheeks; her face is extremely lifelike. She is modeled after another real life female in her early 20's, who you will also see in the video.



The robot is for sale for about $110,000. For many years, I have expected these humanoid robots would finally be developed by inventors, and I can see where this is leading.

Results of the Dot TV Auction

About a week ago, we wrote about the SEDO dot TV (.tv) domain auction. It looks like domain names, including the ones with the more unusual top level domains, such as .tv, are still hot.

.tv is the Internet country code top-level domain for the Polynesian island nation of Tuvalu. However, domainers like it because of the TV reference to 'television'.

Here are what the top twenty domains were sold at. As you can see, many of these are business and investment related.

Top 20 Names from the .tv auction:
1. business.tv $100,999
2. learn.tv $41,000
3. christmas.tv $32,000
4. home.tv $31,000
5. guide.tv $29,500
6. job.tv $25,500
7. stocks.tv $22,000
8. shows.tv $20,500
9. jobs.tv $20,500
10. beauty.tv $20,300
11. wine.tv $17,002
12. in.tv $16,550
13. real.tv $15,500
14. vacation.tv $14,000
15. stream.tv $13,755
16. loans.tv $13,600
17. fantasy.tv $10,600
18. re.tv $10,100
19. digital.tv $10,099
20. japan.tv $10,099

Jason Zweig Lecture at Museum of American Finance

Jason Zweig
The Little Book of Safe Money
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
5:30-7pm

MOAF
48 Wall Street
NYC, NY

RSVP
212-908-4110

Obama and Biden's Tax Returns

So you want to see how much the president and vice president pay in taxes, where they make most of their money from, and what causes they contribute to? Then you can see their entire tax returns (except for their Social Security numbers) at the links below:

Obama Tax Return

Biden Tax Return

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Where to Get a Tax Extension Form


Have you really waited to the last minute? Join the club. Here are some links to get extension forms:

IRS

California info - California Form

New York

Illinois

Massachusetts

By the way, McCormick & Schmick's (MSSR) restaurants are offering a free $10.40 gift certificate at the bar on April 15, and Starbucks (SBUX) is offering free coffee for taxpayers if they bring their own mugs.