A lawsuit brought by organic farmers against Monsanto (NYSE:MON) has been dismissed by a federal court in New York.
Although a lot of the cotton corn, canola and soy in the United States is genetically modified, the major concern and probability is for corn to be the main crop which could migrate to nearby fields, which the lawsuit was about.
The two major concerned aired by organic farmers was over the possibility of being sued by Monsanto over the drifting of their genetically modified genes into the fields of the farmers, which of course hadn't paid for them.
Second, was the potential for organic farmers' crops to lose value because of the inclusion of some of the genetically modified crops mixed with theirs.
As of 2011, anywhere from half a percent to 2 percent of GMOs are mixed in with organic corn, generating some of the concerns from organic farmers.
The judge ruled against the organic farmers because "not one single plaintiff claims to have been so threatened" by Monsanto concerning a lawsuit.
According to the ruling, the judge added that the farmers overstated the magnitude of patent enforcement" by Monsanto, which on average brings about 13 patent-enforcement lawsuits annually. The judge said that "is hardly significant when compared to the number of farms in the United States, approximately two million."
In regard to patent rights, Monsanto asserted they don't bring lawsuits against farmers where small amounts of traits from their genes land in the fields of the organic farmers, or others.
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Concho (CXO) (GXP) (LPI) (WLL) (BRY) (DTE) (SWN) Ratings, Price Targets
Concho Resources Inc. (CXO), Great Plains Energy (GXP), Laredo Petroleum Holdings (LPI), Whiting Petroleum Co. (WLL), Berry Petroleum Comp (BRY), DTE Energy (DTE) and Southwestern Energy (SWN) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Tudor Pickering downgraded Concho Resources Inc. (CXO). They placed a "Hold" rating on the company.
Gabelli downgraded Great Plains Energy (GXP) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Tudor Pickering downgraded Laredo Petroleum Holdings (LPI). They placed a "Hold" rating on the company.
Capital One downgraded Whiting Petroleum Co. (WLL). They placed a "Strong-Buy" rating on the company.
SunTrust upgraded Berry Petroleum Comp (BRY) from a "Neutral" rating to a "Buy" rating. They have a price target of $65.00 on the company.
Edward Jones upgraded DTE Energy (DTE). They have a "Buy" rating on the company.
Stifel Nicolaus downgraded Southwestern Energy (SWN) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Tudor Pickering downgraded Concho Resources Inc. (CXO). They placed a "Hold" rating on the company.
Gabelli downgraded Great Plains Energy (GXP) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Tudor Pickering downgraded Laredo Petroleum Holdings (LPI). They placed a "Hold" rating on the company.
Capital One downgraded Whiting Petroleum Co. (WLL). They placed a "Strong-Buy" rating on the company.
SunTrust upgraded Berry Petroleum Comp (BRY) from a "Neutral" rating to a "Buy" rating. They have a price target of $65.00 on the company.
Edward Jones upgraded DTE Energy (DTE). They have a "Buy" rating on the company.
Stifel Nicolaus downgraded Southwestern Energy (SWN) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Newmont (NEM) (ENOC) (EPB) (TC) (REGI) (TRP) (ATW) Ratings, Price Targets
Newmont Mining Co. (NEM), EnerNOC, Inc. (ENOC), El Paso Pipeline Partners (EPB), Thompson Creek Metals (TC), Renewable Energy Group (REGI), TransCanada Co. (TRP) and Atwood Oceanics, Inc. (ATW) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
TD Securities downgraded Newmont Mining Co. (NEM) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Needham & Company downgraded EnerNOC, Inc. (ENOC) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Citigroup downgraded El Paso Pipeline Partners (EPB) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Credit Suisse downgraded Thompson Creek Metals (TC) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Piper Jaffray initiated coverage on Renewable Energy Group (REGI). They placed an "Overweight" rating and price target of $17.00 on the company.
TD Securities downgraded TransCanada Co. (TRP) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Morgan Stanley initiated coverage on Atwood Oceanics, Inc. (ATW). They placed an "Equal Weight" rating on the company.
TD Securities downgraded Newmont Mining Co. (NEM) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Needham & Company downgraded EnerNOC, Inc. (ENOC) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Citigroup downgraded El Paso Pipeline Partners (EPB) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Credit Suisse downgraded Thompson Creek Metals (TC) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Piper Jaffray initiated coverage on Renewable Energy Group (REGI). They placed an "Overweight" rating and price target of $17.00 on the company.
TD Securities downgraded TransCanada Co. (TRP) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Morgan Stanley initiated coverage on Atwood Oceanics, Inc. (ATW). They placed an "Equal Weight" rating on the company.
Monday, February 27, 2012
China Corn Import Speculation Supporting Prices
Speculation that China may boost its corn imports from the United States has offered support to corn prices, even though other factors point to weakening conditions going forward.
For now though, corn futures for May delivery climbed to $6.485 a bushel, a gain of 0.7 percent.
As for China, the assumption is it will want to build up diminished inventory before the corn season in that country begins.
At this time it's less expensive for China to import corn from the United States than to use its domestic supply.
Drought conditions in crucial corn-producing areas of South America make the United States a probable choice for Chinese corn imports.
For now though, corn futures for May delivery climbed to $6.485 a bushel, a gain of 0.7 percent.
As for China, the assumption is it will want to build up diminished inventory before the corn season in that country begins.
At this time it's less expensive for China to import corn from the United States than to use its domestic supply.
Drought conditions in crucial corn-producing areas of South America make the United States a probable choice for Chinese corn imports.
Westar (WR) (CEG) (BHI) (HAL) (WLL) (SD) (MDAS) Ratings
Westar Energy, Inc. (WR), Constellation Energy Group (CEG), Baker Hughes (BHI), Halliburton (HAL), Whiting Petroleum Co. (WLL), SandRidge Energy Inc. (SD) and MedAssets, Inc. (MDAS) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
TheStreet downgraded Constellation Energy Group (CEG) to a "Hold" rating.
Raymond James downgraded Baker Hughes (BHI) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Market Perform" rating.
Raymond James downgraded Halliburton (HAL) from a Strong-Buy rating to an "Outperform" rating.
Credit Agricole downgraded Whiting Petroleum Co. (WLL) to an "Outperform" rating.
Caris & Co. upgraded Westar Energy, Inc. (WR) from an "Average" rating to an "Above Average" rating.
Global Hunter Securities upgraded SandRidge Energy Inc. (SD) from an "Accumulate" rating to a "Buy" rating. They raised their price target from $8.50 to $13.00 on the company.
Caris & Co. downgraded MedAssets, Inc. (MDAS) from an "Above Average" rating to an "Average" rating.
TheStreet downgraded Constellation Energy Group (CEG) to a "Hold" rating.
Raymond James downgraded Baker Hughes (BHI) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Market Perform" rating.
Raymond James downgraded Halliburton (HAL) from a Strong-Buy rating to an "Outperform" rating.
Credit Agricole downgraded Whiting Petroleum Co. (WLL) to an "Outperform" rating.
Caris & Co. upgraded Westar Energy, Inc. (WR) from an "Average" rating to an "Above Average" rating.
Global Hunter Securities upgraded SandRidge Energy Inc. (SD) from an "Accumulate" rating to a "Buy" rating. They raised their price target from $8.50 to $13.00 on the company.
Caris & Co. downgraded MedAssets, Inc. (MDAS) from an "Above Average" rating to an "Average" rating.
Friday, February 24, 2012
Allied (ANV) (BLDP) (CLR) (EROC) (FSLR) (PACW) (DB) Ratings, Price Targets
Allied Nevada Gold Corp (ANV), Ballard Power System (BLDP), Continental Resources, Inc. (CLR), Eagle Rock Energy Partners (EROC), First Solar, Inc. (FSLR), PacWest Bancorp (PACW) and Deutsche Bank (DB) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Barclays Capital initiated coverage on Allied Nevada Gold Corp (ANV). They placed an "Equal Weight" rating on the company.
Ardour Capital downgraded Ballard Power System (BLDP) from an "Accumulate" rating to a "Hold" rating. They have a price target of $1.75 on the company.
Pritchard downgraded Continental Resources, Inc. (CLR) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Wells Fargo & Co. downgraded Eagle Rock Energy Partners (EROC) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Market Perform" rating.
Susquehanna downgraded First Solar, Inc. (FSLR) from a "Positive" rating to a "Neutral" rating. They slashed their price target from $55.00 to $40.00 on the company.
Wunderlich downgraded PacWest Bancorp (PACW) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating. They have a price target of $23.00 on the company.
Bank of America upgraded Deutsche Bank (DB) from a "Neutral" rating to a "Buy" rating.
Barclays Capital initiated coverage on Allied Nevada Gold Corp (ANV). They placed an "Equal Weight" rating on the company.
Ardour Capital downgraded Ballard Power System (BLDP) from an "Accumulate" rating to a "Hold" rating. They have a price target of $1.75 on the company.
Pritchard downgraded Continental Resources, Inc. (CLR) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Wells Fargo & Co. downgraded Eagle Rock Energy Partners (EROC) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Market Perform" rating.
Susquehanna downgraded First Solar, Inc. (FSLR) from a "Positive" rating to a "Neutral" rating. They slashed their price target from $55.00 to $40.00 on the company.
Wunderlich downgraded PacWest Bancorp (PACW) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating. They have a price target of $23.00 on the company.
Bank of America upgraded Deutsche Bank (DB) from a "Neutral" rating to a "Buy" rating.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Fuel Tech (FTEK) (CEO) (JNPR) (VOLC) (DTV) (SINA) (TEN) Ratings, Price Targets
Fuel Tech Inc. (FTEK), CNOOC (CEO), Juniper Networks (JNPR), Volcano (VOLC), DirecTV (DTV), Sina (SINA) and Tenneco Inc. (TEN) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Brean Murray initiated coverage on Fuel Tech Inc. (FTEK). They have a "Buy" rating and a price target of $8.00 on the company ,
Credit Suisse downgraded CNOOC (CEO) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
FBR Capital downgraded Juniper Networks (JNPR) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Market Perform" rating. They cut their price target from $25.00 to $21.00 on the company.
Feltl & Co. downgraded Volcano (VOLC) from a "Strong-Buy" rating to a "Buy" rating.
Atlantic Equities upgraded DirecTV (DTV) from a "Neutral" rating to an "Overweight" rating.
Barclays Capital downgraded Sina (SINA) from an "Overweight" rating to an "Equal Weight" rating.
Credit Agricole initiated coverage on Tenneco Inc. (TEN). They have an "Outperform" rating on the company.
Brean Murray initiated coverage on Fuel Tech Inc. (FTEK). They have a "Buy" rating and a price target of $8.00 on the company ,
Credit Suisse downgraded CNOOC (CEO) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
FBR Capital downgraded Juniper Networks (JNPR) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Market Perform" rating. They cut their price target from $25.00 to $21.00 on the company.
Feltl & Co. downgraded Volcano (VOLC) from a "Strong-Buy" rating to a "Buy" rating.
Atlantic Equities upgraded DirecTV (DTV) from a "Neutral" rating to an "Overweight" rating.
Barclays Capital downgraded Sina (SINA) from an "Overweight" rating to an "Equal Weight" rating.
Credit Agricole initiated coverage on Tenneco Inc. (TEN). They have an "Outperform" rating on the company.
SM Energy (SM) (AGPPY) (KYO) (ZUMZ) (CM) (HGSI) (ICON) Ratings, Price Targets
SM Energy (SM), Anglo Platinum Limited (AGPPY), Kyocera Co. (KYO), Zumiez (ZUMZ), CIBC (CM), Human Genome Sciences (HGSI) and Iconix Brand Group (ICON) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
HSBC downgraded Anglo Platinum Limited (AGPPY) from a "Neutral" rating to an "Underweight" rating.
Bank of America downgraded Kyocera Co. (KYO) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Caris & Co. downgraded SM Energy (SM) to an "Average" rating.
DA Davidson downgraded Zumiez (ZUMZ) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Credit Suisse downgraded CIBC (CM) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Collins Stewart downgraded Human Genome Sciences (HGSI) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating. They cut their price from $17.00 to $10.00 on the company.
Lazard Capital downgraded Iconix Brand Group (ICON) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
HSBC downgraded Anglo Platinum Limited (AGPPY) from a "Neutral" rating to an "Underweight" rating.
Bank of America downgraded Kyocera Co. (KYO) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Caris & Co. downgraded SM Energy (SM) to an "Average" rating.
DA Davidson downgraded Zumiez (ZUMZ) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Credit Suisse downgraded CIBC (CM) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Collins Stewart downgraded Human Genome Sciences (HGSI) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating. They cut their price from $17.00 to $10.00 on the company.
Lazard Capital downgraded Iconix Brand Group (ICON) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Yingli (YGE) (YHOO) (DELL) (DOW) (FTR) (GILD) (GMLP) (GPC) (HGSI) Ratings, Price Targets
Yingli Green Energy Hold. Co. Ltd. (YGE), Yahoo! Inc. (YHOO), Dell Inc. (DELL), The Dow Chemical Company (DOW), Frontier Communications (FTR), Gilead Sciences, Inc. (GILD), LNG Partners (GMLP), Genuine Parts Company (GPC) and Human Genome Sciences (HGSI) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Yingli Green Energy Hold. Co. Ltd. (YGE) was downgraded by Miller Tabak from a "Neutral" rating to a "Sell" rating.
Yahoo! Inc. (YHOO) was downgraded by Credit Agricole from a "Buy" rating to an "Underperform" rating.
Dell Inc. (DELL) was downgraded by Citigroup (C) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
The Dow Chemical Company (DOW) was downgraded by Gilford Securities from a "Hold" rating to a "Sell" rating.
Frontier Communications (FTR) was downgraded by Hudson Securities from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Gilead Sciences, Inc. (GILD) was downgraded by Sanford C. Bernstein from an "Outperform" rating to a "Market Perform" rating.
Golar LNG Partners (GMLP) was downgraded by Citigroup from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Genuine Parts Company (GPC) was downgraded by Gabelli from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Human Genome Sciences (HGSI) was downgraded by RBC Capital from an "Outperform" rating to a "Sector Perform" rating. They placed a price target of $10.00 on the company, down from $15.00.
Yingli Green Energy Hold. Co. Ltd. (YGE) was downgraded by Miller Tabak from a "Neutral" rating to a "Sell" rating.
Yahoo! Inc. (YHOO) was downgraded by Credit Agricole from a "Buy" rating to an "Underperform" rating.
Dell Inc. (DELL) was downgraded by Citigroup (C) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
The Dow Chemical Company (DOW) was downgraded by Gilford Securities from a "Hold" rating to a "Sell" rating.
Frontier Communications (FTR) was downgraded by Hudson Securities from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Gilead Sciences, Inc. (GILD) was downgraded by Sanford C. Bernstein from an "Outperform" rating to a "Market Perform" rating.
Golar LNG Partners (GMLP) was downgraded by Citigroup from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Genuine Parts Company (GPC) was downgraded by Gabelli from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Human Genome Sciences (HGSI) was downgraded by RBC Capital from an "Outperform" rating to a "Sector Perform" rating. They placed a price target of $10.00 on the company, down from $15.00.
Nucor (NUE) (OKS) (STLD) (PCG) (PEG) (WBMD) (WMT) (NFX) Ratings, Price Targets
Nucor Co. (NUE), Oneok Partners LP (OKS), Steel Dynamics, Inc. (STLD), PG&E Co. (PCG), Public Service Enterprise Group Inc. (PEG), Webmd Health (WBMD), Wal-Mart Stores (WMT) and Newfield Exploration Co. (NFX) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Nucor Co. (NUE) was downgraded by Longbow Research from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Oneok Partners LP (OKS) was downgraded by Credit Suisse from an "Outperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Steel Dynamics, Inc. (STLD) was downgraded by Longbow Research from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
PG&E Co. (PCG) was downgraded by Goldman Sachs from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Public Service Enterprise Group Inc. (PEG) was downgraded by Atlantic Equities from an "Overweight" rating to an "Underweight" rating.
Webmd Health Corp (WBMD) was downgraded by Goldman Sachs from a "Neutral" rating to a "Sell" rating.
Wal-Mart Stores (WMT) was downgraded by Raymond James from a "Strong Buy" rating to a "Market Perform" rating.
Newfield Exploration Co. (NFX) was downgraded by Citigroup from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Nucor Co. (NUE) was downgraded by Longbow Research from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Oneok Partners LP (OKS) was downgraded by Credit Suisse from an "Outperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Steel Dynamics, Inc. (STLD) was downgraded by Longbow Research from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
PG&E Co. (PCG) was downgraded by Goldman Sachs from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Public Service Enterprise Group Inc. (PEG) was downgraded by Atlantic Equities from an "Overweight" rating to an "Underweight" rating.
Webmd Health Corp (WBMD) was downgraded by Goldman Sachs from a "Neutral" rating to a "Sell" rating.
Wal-Mart Stores (WMT) was downgraded by Raymond James from a "Strong Buy" rating to a "Market Perform" rating.
Newfield Exploration Co. (NFX) was downgraded by Citigroup from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Newfield (NFX) (PER) (PM) (SONS) (WTS) (RCI) (ROC) Ratings, Price Targets
Newfield Exploration Co. (NFX), SandRidge Permian Trust (PER), Philip Morris (PM), Sonus Networks, Inc. (SONS), Watts Water Technologies, Inc. (WTS), Rogers Communications Inc. (RCI) and Rockwood Holdings, Inc. (ROC) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Newfield Exploration Co. (NFX) was downgraded by Deutsche Bank (DB) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
SandRidge Permian Trust (PER) was downgraded by Raymond James (RJF) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Market Perform" rating.
Philip Morris (PM) was downgraded by Nomura (NMR) from a "Neutral" rating to a "Reduce" rating.
Sonus Networks, Inc. (SONS) was downgraded by Miller Tabak from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Watts Water Technologies, Inc. (WTS) was downgraded by Sterne Agee from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Rogers Communications Inc. (RCI) was downgraded by BMO Capital Markets from an "Outperform" rating to a "Market Perform" rating.
Rockwood Holdings, Inc. (ROC) was downgraded by JPMorgan Chase & Co. (JPM) from an "Overweight" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Newfield Exploration Co. (NFX) was downgraded by Deutsche Bank (DB) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
SandRidge Permian Trust (PER) was downgraded by Raymond James (RJF) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Market Perform" rating.
Philip Morris (PM) was downgraded by Nomura (NMR) from a "Neutral" rating to a "Reduce" rating.
Sonus Networks, Inc. (SONS) was downgraded by Miller Tabak from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Watts Water Technologies, Inc. (WTS) was downgraded by Sterne Agee from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Rogers Communications Inc. (RCI) was downgraded by BMO Capital Markets from an "Outperform" rating to a "Market Perform" rating.
Rockwood Holdings, Inc. (ROC) was downgraded by JPMorgan Chase & Co. (JPM) from an "Overweight" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Walter Energy (WLT) (APO) (DDR) (BX) (HVT) (LGF) Ratings, Price Targets
Walter Energy (WLT), American Community Properties Trust (APO), DDR Corp. (DDR), The Blackstone Group L.P. (BX), Haverty Furniture Companies, Inc. (HVT) and Lions Gate (LGF) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Walter Energy (WLT) was upgraded by Davenport from a "Neutral" rating to a "Buy" rating. They placed a price target of $80.00 on the company.
American Community Properties Trust (APO) was upgraded by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) from a "Neutral" rating to a "Buy" rating.
The Blackstone Group L.P. (BX) was upgraded by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) from a "Neutral" rating to a "Buy" rating.
DDR Corp. (DDR) was upgraded by Bank of America from a "Neutral" rating to a "Buy" rating.
Haverty Furniture Companies, Inc. (HVT) was upgraded by Sidoti from a "Neutral" rating to a "Buy" rating.
Lions Gate (LGF) was upgraded by Miller Tabak from a "Neutral" rating to a "Buy" rating.
Walter Energy (WLT) was upgraded by Davenport from a "Neutral" rating to a "Buy" rating. They placed a price target of $80.00 on the company.
American Community Properties Trust (APO) was upgraded by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) from a "Neutral" rating to a "Buy" rating.
The Blackstone Group L.P. (BX) was upgraded by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) from a "Neutral" rating to a "Buy" rating.
DDR Corp. (DDR) was upgraded by Bank of America from a "Neutral" rating to a "Buy" rating.
Haverty Furniture Companies, Inc. (HVT) was upgraded by Sidoti from a "Neutral" rating to a "Buy" rating.
Lions Gate (LGF) was upgraded by Miller Tabak from a "Neutral" rating to a "Buy" rating.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Rackspace (RAX) (NVR) (MDRX) (MXWL) (RP) (SFG) (VCI) (WSH) Ratings, Price Targets
Rackspace Hosting, Inc. (RAX), Allscripts Healthcare Solutions (MDRX), Maxwell Technologies (MXWL), Realpage (RP), StanCorp Financial Group, Inc. (SFG), Valassis Communications, Inc. (VCI), NVR, Inc. (NVR) and Willis Group Holdings PLC (WSH) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Raymond James downgraded Allscripts Healthcare Solutions (MDRX) from a "Strong-Buy" rating to an "Outperform" rating.
Robert W. Baird downgraded Maxwell Technologies (MXWL) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating. They placed a price target of $21.00 on the company.
MKM Partners downgraded NVR, Inc. (NVR) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Bank of America downgraded Rackspace Hosting, Inc. (RAX) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Pacific Crest Realpage (RP) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Sector Perform" rating.
Morgan Stanley downgraded StanCorp Financial Group, Inc. (SFG) from an "Equal Weight" rating to an "Underweight" rating.
Goldman Sachs downgraded The J.M. Smucker Company (SJM) to a "Buy" rating.
Raymond James downgraded Valassis Communications, Inc. (VCI) from an "Outperform" rating to an "Market Perform" rating.
Sandler O'Neill downgraded Willis Group Holdings PLC (WSH) from a "Buy" rating to an "Hold" rating.
Raymond James downgraded Allscripts Healthcare Solutions (MDRX) from a "Strong-Buy" rating to an "Outperform" rating.
Robert W. Baird downgraded Maxwell Technologies (MXWL) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating. They placed a price target of $21.00 on the company.
MKM Partners downgraded NVR, Inc. (NVR) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Bank of America downgraded Rackspace Hosting, Inc. (RAX) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Pacific Crest Realpage (RP) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Sector Perform" rating.
Morgan Stanley downgraded StanCorp Financial Group, Inc. (SFG) from an "Equal Weight" rating to an "Underweight" rating.
Goldman Sachs downgraded The J.M. Smucker Company (SJM) to a "Buy" rating.
Raymond James downgraded Valassis Communications, Inc. (VCI) from an "Outperform" rating to an "Market Perform" rating.
Sandler O'Neill downgraded Willis Group Holdings PLC (WSH) from a "Buy" rating to an "Hold" rating.
GFI (GFIG) (AKZOY) (ARTC) (BUSE) (HCN) (JWN) (KNOL) (KONA) Ratings, Price Targets
GFI Group Inc. (GFIG), Akzo Nobel (AKZOY), ArthroCare Co. (ARTC), First Busey (BUSE), Health Care REIT (HCN), Nordstrom, Inc. (JWN), Knology, Inc. (KNOL) and Kona Grill Inc. (KONA) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Macquarie downgraded Akzo Nobel (AKZOY) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Jefferies Group downgraded ArthroCare Co. (ARTC) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Raymond James downgraded First Busey (BUSE) from a "Market Perform" rating to a "Underperform" rating.
Raymond James downgraded GFI Group Inc. (GFIG) from a "Market Perform" rating to a "Underperform" rating.
Hilliard Lyons downgraded Health Care REIT (HCN) from a "Neutral" rating to a "Underperform" rating.
CLSA downgraded Nordstrom, Inc. (JWN) from a "Buy" rating to a "Underperform" rating.
BWS Financial downgraded Knology, Inc. (KNOL) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating. They have a price target of $15.00 on the company.
B. Riley downgraded Kona Grill Inc. (KONA) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Macquarie downgraded Akzo Nobel (AKZOY) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Jefferies Group downgraded ArthroCare Co. (ARTC) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Raymond James downgraded First Busey (BUSE) from a "Market Perform" rating to a "Underperform" rating.
Raymond James downgraded GFI Group Inc. (GFIG) from a "Market Perform" rating to a "Underperform" rating.
Hilliard Lyons downgraded Health Care REIT (HCN) from a "Neutral" rating to a "Underperform" rating.
CLSA downgraded Nordstrom, Inc. (JWN) from a "Buy" rating to a "Underperform" rating.
BWS Financial downgraded Knology, Inc. (KNOL) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating. They have a price target of $15.00 on the company.
B. Riley downgraded Kona Grill Inc. (KONA) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Valero (VLO) (HFC) (PBR) (UPL) (HSP) (GM) Ratings, Price Targets
Valero Energy Co. (VLO), HollyFrontier (HFC), Petroleo Brasileiro SA (PBR), Ultra Petroleum Corp. (UPL), Hospira, Inc. (HSP) and General Motors (GM) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
UBS AG downgraded Valero Energy Co. (VLO) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
UBS AG downgraded HollyFrontier (HFC) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Barclays Capital downgraded Petroleo Brasileiro SA (PBR) from an "Overweight" rating to an "Equal Weight" rating. They placed a price target of $33.00 on the company
Jefferies Group downgraded Ultra Petroleum Corp. (UPL) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Citigroup (NYSE:C) downgraded Hospira, Inc. (HSP) from a "Neutral" rating to a "Sell" rating.
Craig Hallum downgraded General Motors (GM) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
UBS AG downgraded Valero Energy Co. (VLO) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
UBS AG downgraded HollyFrontier (HFC) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Barclays Capital downgraded Petroleo Brasileiro SA (PBR) from an "Overweight" rating to an "Equal Weight" rating. They placed a price target of $33.00 on the company
Jefferies Group downgraded Ultra Petroleum Corp. (UPL) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Citigroup (NYSE:C) downgraded Hospira, Inc. (HSP) from a "Neutral" rating to a "Sell" rating.
Craig Hallum downgraded General Motors (GM) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Toro (TTC) (CROX) (AIMC) (DHI) (MHS) (ARUN) Ratings, Price Targets
Toro (TTC), Crocs (CROX), Altra Holdings, Inc. (AIMC), D.R. Horton, Inc. (DHI), Medco Health Solutions Inc. (MHS) and Aruba Networks, Inc. (ARUN) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Standpoint Research downgraded Crocs (CROX) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Jefferies Group downgraded Altra Holdings, Inc. (AIMC) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
MKM Partners downgraded D.R. Horton, Inc. (DHI) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Morgan Stanley downgraded Medco Health Solutions Inc. (MHS) from an "Overweight" rating to a "Equal Weight" rating.
CL King downgraded Toro (TTC) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
TheStreet downgraded Aruba Networks, Inc. (ARUN) to a "Hold" rating.
Standpoint Research downgraded Crocs (CROX) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Jefferies Group downgraded Altra Holdings, Inc. (AIMC) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
MKM Partners downgraded D.R. Horton, Inc. (DHI) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Morgan Stanley downgraded Medco Health Solutions Inc. (MHS) from an "Overweight" rating to a "Equal Weight" rating.
CL King downgraded Toro (TTC) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
TheStreet downgraded Aruba Networks, Inc. (ARUN) to a "Hold" rating.
Statoil (STO) (ITRI) (CBEY) (OVTI) (ACOR) (WOOF) Ratings, Price Targets
Statoil (STO), Itron, Inc. (ITRI), Cbeyond (CBEY), OmniVision Technologies, Inc. (OVTI), Acorda Therapeutics Inc. (ACOR) and VCA Antech, Inc. (WOOF) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Credit Suisse downgraded Statoil (STO) from a "Neutral" rating to an "Underperform" rating.
KeyBanc downgraded Itron, Inc. (ITRI) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Craig Hallum downgraded Cbeyond (CBEY) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
JPMorgan Chase & Co. downgraded OmniVision Technologies, Inc. (OVTI) from an "Overweight" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Citigroup downgraded Acorda Therapeutics Inc. (ACOR) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
First Analysis downgraded VCA Antech, Inc. (WOOF) from an "Overweight" rating to an "Equal Weight" rating.
Credit Suisse downgraded Statoil (STO) from a "Neutral" rating to an "Underperform" rating.
KeyBanc downgraded Itron, Inc. (ITRI) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Craig Hallum downgraded Cbeyond (CBEY) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
JPMorgan Chase & Co. downgraded OmniVision Technologies, Inc. (OVTI) from an "Overweight" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Citigroup downgraded Acorda Therapeutics Inc. (ACOR) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
First Analysis downgraded VCA Antech, Inc. (WOOF) from an "Overweight" rating to an "Equal Weight" rating.
Agnico (AEM) (BTI) (DELL) (JWN) (HCN) (LEAP) Ratings, Price Targets
Agnico-Eagle Mines Limited (AEM), British American Tobacco (BTI), Dell Inc. (DELL), Nordstrom, Inc. (JWN), Health Care REIT (HCN) and Leap Wireless (LEAP) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
TheStreet downgraded Agnico-Eagle Mines Limited (AEM) to a "Sell" rating.
Societe Generale downgraded British American Tobacco (BTI) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Robert W. Baird downgraded Dell Inc. (DELL) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating. They have a price target of $20.00 on the company.
Credit Agricole downgraded Nordstrom, Inc. (JWN) from a "Buy" rating to an "Underperform" rating.
Sandler O'Neill downgraded Health Care REIT (HCN) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Collins Stewart downgraded Leap Wireless (LEAP) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating. They have a price target of $12.00 on the company.
TheStreet downgraded Agnico-Eagle Mines Limited (AEM) to a "Sell" rating.
Societe Generale downgraded British American Tobacco (BTI) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Robert W. Baird downgraded Dell Inc. (DELL) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating. They have a price target of $20.00 on the company.
Credit Agricole downgraded Nordstrom, Inc. (JWN) from a "Buy" rating to an "Underperform" rating.
Sandler O'Neill downgraded Health Care REIT (HCN) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Collins Stewart downgraded Leap Wireless (LEAP) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating. They have a price target of $12.00 on the company.
Suncor (SU) (PFCB) (ROG) (SJM) (UMBF) (CFN) Ratings, Price Targets
Suncor Energy Inc. (SU), P.F. Chang's China Bistro (PFCB), Rogers Co. (ROG), The J.M. Smucker Company (SJM), UMB Financial Co. (UMBF) and CareFusion Co. (CFN) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Raymond James upgraded P.F. Chang's China Bistro (PFCB) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Strong-Buy" rating.
DA Davidson upgraded Rogers Co. (ROG) from a "Neutral" rating to a "Buy" rating. They raised their price target from $42.00 $48.00 on the company.
Stephens upgraded The J.M. Smucker Company (SJM) from an "Equal Weight" rating to an "Overweight" rating.
Stifel Nicolaus upgraded Suncor Energy Inc. (SU) from a "Hold" rating to a "Buy" rating. They have a price target of $42.00 on the company.
Raymond James upgraded UMB Financial Co. (UMBF) from an "Underperform" rating to a "Market Perform" rating.
Morgan Keegan upgraded CareFusion Co. (CFN) from a "Market Perform" rating to an "Outperform" rating. They raised their price from $26.00 to $31.00 on the company.
Raymond James upgraded P.F. Chang's China Bistro (PFCB) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Strong-Buy" rating.
DA Davidson upgraded Rogers Co. (ROG) from a "Neutral" rating to a "Buy" rating. They raised their price target from $42.00 $48.00 on the company.
Stephens upgraded The J.M. Smucker Company (SJM) from an "Equal Weight" rating to an "Overweight" rating.
Stifel Nicolaus upgraded Suncor Energy Inc. (SU) from a "Hold" rating to a "Buy" rating. They have a price target of $42.00 on the company.
Raymond James upgraded UMB Financial Co. (UMBF) from an "Underperform" rating to a "Market Perform" rating.
Morgan Keegan upgraded CareFusion Co. (CFN) from a "Market Perform" rating to an "Outperform" rating. They raised their price from $26.00 to $31.00 on the company.
Gold, Silver Would Be Legal Tender Under Colorado Bill
If a bill sponsored by Colorado Sen. Kent Lambert, R, passes, it'll make Colorado the second state in the nation to recognize gold and silver as currency. Utah is the first and only state at this time to recognize gold and silver as a medium of exchange.
The growing movement of states to move in this direction is precipitated by the out of control spending of the Obama administration and the ongoing creation of money out of thin air by Ben Bernanke and the Federal Reserve.
That combination always ends up weakening the value of the U.S. dollar, or any currency where that is the standard practice of leaders of a country.
Along with the devaluation of the U.S. dollar, Senator Lambert also noted the growing public debt as a reason behind recognizing gold and silver as currency in the state.
Colorado is one of a dozen states in the U.S. to consider allowing gold and silver coins to be once again used as legal tender.
The growing movement of states to move in this direction is precipitated by the out of control spending of the Obama administration and the ongoing creation of money out of thin air by Ben Bernanke and the Federal Reserve.
That combination always ends up weakening the value of the U.S. dollar, or any currency where that is the standard practice of leaders of a country.
Along with the devaluation of the U.S. dollar, Senator Lambert also noted the growing public debt as a reason behind recognizing gold and silver as currency in the state.
Colorado is one of a dozen states in the U.S. to consider allowing gold and silver coins to be once again used as legal tender.
Monanto (MON) Battles France Over MON810 Corn
Monsanto (NYSE:MON) has won legal battle after legal battle in its pursuit of introducing MON810 corn into the French market, and with little recourse left to it, France continues to fight against the release of the genetically modified (GM) corn into the country.
MON810 is the only genetically modified crop that has been approved by the EU for planting in EU member countries.
After being ruled against by the European Court of Justice in September, 2011, France was also ruled against by the highest court in November, leaving them with just a plea to the EU that they not allow the rulings to go forward.
The question is what legal standing does France have left, as the plea has already been addressed and legally rejected.
It appears the only recourse for France is hopes of the EU deciding to allow individual countries in the region to decide. The problem with that is of course whenever the population of a certain country in the EU resists decisions, it undermines the group of countries who are fighting to keep the EU from collapsing altogether.
If France has no desire to abide by the rulings, the best thing the country could do is just quit pretending it's part of the EU and leave it; then begin to use its own currency again, while reasserting its own sovereignty.
Trying to have it both ways, even with something as small and relatively insignificant as GM corn, underscores the weakness of the EU, which is continuing to teeter on the precipice of collapse.
MON810 is the only genetically modified crop that has been approved by the EU for planting in EU member countries.
After being ruled against by the European Court of Justice in September, 2011, France was also ruled against by the highest court in November, leaving them with just a plea to the EU that they not allow the rulings to go forward.
The question is what legal standing does France have left, as the plea has already been addressed and legally rejected.
It appears the only recourse for France is hopes of the EU deciding to allow individual countries in the region to decide. The problem with that is of course whenever the population of a certain country in the EU resists decisions, it undermines the group of countries who are fighting to keep the EU from collapsing altogether.
If France has no desire to abide by the rulings, the best thing the country could do is just quit pretending it's part of the EU and leave it; then begin to use its own currency again, while reasserting its own sovereignty.
Trying to have it both ways, even with something as small and relatively insignificant as GM corn, underscores the weakness of the EU, which is continuing to teeter on the precipice of collapse.
CSX (CSX) (ACHN) (ARMH) (AUTH) (CHK) (PFCB) Ratings, Price Targets
CSX Corp. (CSX), Achillion Pharmaceuticals (ACHN), ARM Holdings plc (ARMH), AuthenTec (AUTH), Chesapeake Energy (CHK) and P.F. Chang's China Bistro (PFCB) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
JMP Securities upgraded Achillion Pharmaceuticals (ACHN) to an "Outperform" rating.
Natixis upgraded ARM Holdings plc (ARMH) from a "Reduce" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Raymond James upgraded AuthenTec (AUTH) from a "Market Perform" rating to an "Outperform" rating.
Stifel Nicolaus upgraded Chesapeake Energy (CHK) from a "Hold" rating to a "Buy" rating. They placed a price target of $29.00 on the company.
Avondale Partners upgraded CSX Corp. (CSX) from a "Market Perform" rating to an "Outperform" rating.
RBC Capital upgraded P.F. Chang's China Bistro (PFCB) from a "Sector Perform" rating to an "Outperform" rating.
JMP Securities upgraded Achillion Pharmaceuticals (ACHN) to an "Outperform" rating.
Natixis upgraded ARM Holdings plc (ARMH) from a "Reduce" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Raymond James upgraded AuthenTec (AUTH) from a "Market Perform" rating to an "Outperform" rating.
Stifel Nicolaus upgraded Chesapeake Energy (CHK) from a "Hold" rating to a "Buy" rating. They placed a price target of $29.00 on the company.
Avondale Partners upgraded CSX Corp. (CSX) from a "Market Perform" rating to an "Outperform" rating.
RBC Capital upgraded P.F. Chang's China Bistro (PFCB) from a "Sector Perform" rating to an "Outperform" rating.
Friday, February 17, 2012
Iowa 2012 Corn Acre Planting Projections
With a tight supply and declining production in South America because of an ongoing drought, farmers in the United States are expected to boost the amount of acres they plant in corn, with Iowa farmers contributing significantly to those upwardly revised numbers.
Even so, the results of a coupld of recent surveys, one an online survey and the second a survey conducted at the Iowa Power Farming Show, show farmers in Iowa are looking to plant about 300,000 more acres than originally thought, a smaller increase than expected.
Iowa farmers also said they'll probably plant an additional 50,000 acres of beans.
What surprised those conducting the surveys is there has been a lot of talk by farmers in Iowa about boosting the number of acreage planted in corn. Evidently that was more talk than action being seriously considered by the farmers.
At the national level, farmers have been estimated they're going to boost corn acres planted by about 94.9 million acres, an increase of 2.9 million acres over 2011.
For soybeans, there isn't near as much change, with the number of acres projected to be planted nationally to rise by just over 500,000 to 75.5 million for 2012. In 2011, the number of acres planted in soybeans in the United States was just under 75 million.
The decision to plant more acreage isn't without risk though. If weather conditions are good, the increased number of acres planted in corn could push the price down.
Even so, the results of a coupld of recent surveys, one an online survey and the second a survey conducted at the Iowa Power Farming Show, show farmers in Iowa are looking to plant about 300,000 more acres than originally thought, a smaller increase than expected.
Iowa farmers also said they'll probably plant an additional 50,000 acres of beans.
What surprised those conducting the surveys is there has been a lot of talk by farmers in Iowa about boosting the number of acreage planted in corn. Evidently that was more talk than action being seriously considered by the farmers.
At the national level, farmers have been estimated they're going to boost corn acres planted by about 94.9 million acres, an increase of 2.9 million acres over 2011.
For soybeans, there isn't near as much change, with the number of acres projected to be planted nationally to rise by just over 500,000 to 75.5 million for 2012. In 2011, the number of acres planted in soybeans in the United States was just under 75 million.
The decision to plant more acreage isn't without risk though. If weather conditions are good, the increased number of acres planted in corn could push the price down.
Midwest Farm Values Soar on High Crop Prices, Low Debt
A report from the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago said farm land in the midwest of the United States has jumped the highest for a one-year period in 36 years, soaring 25 percent during that time.
Confirming the numbers, the Kansas City Fed also reported a 25 percent gain in farmland prices in the region year-over-year.
Most of this has been the result of price jumps in many areas of farming, including dairy, livestock and various crops.
The report from the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago asserted that "... 2011 may go down in the annals of U.S. agriculture as a once-in-a-generation phenomenon."
Another key factor in rising farm prices is the interest by investors in farm land, as the realization there isn't going to be any more land to farm even as the world population increases.
In the short term the soaring farm prices have generated concern over the possibility of a bubble, but because of lower debt loads by farmers than they held in the 1980s, as well as what appears to be sustainable prices of crops, has a number of analysts believing a bubble in farm land is an unlikely scenario.
Farmland prices have also slowed down in growth, rising in value by 4 percent over the last quarter of 2011. Expectations are farmland prices will continue to climbe in the first quarter of 2012.
Confirming the numbers, the Kansas City Fed also reported a 25 percent gain in farmland prices in the region year-over-year.
Most of this has been the result of price jumps in many areas of farming, including dairy, livestock and various crops.
The report from the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago asserted that "... 2011 may go down in the annals of U.S. agriculture as a once-in-a-generation phenomenon."
Another key factor in rising farm prices is the interest by investors in farm land, as the realization there isn't going to be any more land to farm even as the world population increases.
In the short term the soaring farm prices have generated concern over the possibility of a bubble, but because of lower debt loads by farmers than they held in the 1980s, as well as what appears to be sustainable prices of crops, has a number of analysts believing a bubble in farm land is an unlikely scenario.
Farmland prices have also slowed down in growth, rising in value by 4 percent over the last quarter of 2011. Expectations are farmland prices will continue to climbe in the first quarter of 2012.
South Dakota Corn Production Soars 36 percent
Corn production in South Dakota climbed in a big way in 2011, as the value of corn soared for the year.
According to estimates from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, corn jumped in value in South Dakota to $3.95 billion, a huge improvement of 36 percent over corn value in the state for 2010.
Other production results had soybeans ending 2011 valued at $1.72 billion, while hay came in at a value of $1 billion. Wheat came in just shy of $800 million, finishing the year at $799.5 million. Alfalfa hay was just behind wheat in value for South Dakoto, closing 2011 at $793.1 million.
According to estimates from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, corn jumped in value in South Dakota to $3.95 billion, a huge improvement of 36 percent over corn value in the state for 2010.
Other production results had soybeans ending 2011 valued at $1.72 billion, while hay came in at a value of $1 billion. Wheat came in just shy of $800 million, finishing the year at $799.5 million. Alfalfa hay was just behind wheat in value for South Dakoto, closing 2011 at $793.1 million.
Petrobras (PBR) (JEF) (CISG) (ARMH) (ARTC) (LEAP) Ratings, Price Targets
Petrobras Brasileiro (NYSE:PBR), Jefferies Group (NYSE:JEF), CNinsure (NASDAQ:CISG), ARM Holdings (NASDAQ:ARMH), ArthroCare (NASDAQ:ARTC) and Leap Wireless (NASDAQ:LEAP) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Raymond James (NYSE:RJF) initiated coverage on Jefferies Group (JEF). They placed a "Market Perform" rating on the company.
Oppenheimer (NYSE:OPY) initiated coverage on CNinsure (CISG). They placed a "Perform" rating on the company.
ARM Holdings (ARMH) was upgraded by Natixis from a "Reduce" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Petrobras Brasileiro (PBR) was downgraded by Barclays (NYSE:BCS) from an "Overweight" rating to an "Equal Weight" rating.
ArthroCare (ARTC) was downgraded by Jefferies from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Leap Wireless (LEAP) was downgraded by Collins Stewart from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral rating. They slashed their price target on the company from $18.00 to $12.00.
Raymond James (NYSE:RJF) initiated coverage on Jefferies Group (JEF). They placed a "Market Perform" rating on the company.
Oppenheimer (NYSE:OPY) initiated coverage on CNinsure (CISG). They placed a "Perform" rating on the company.
ARM Holdings (ARMH) was upgraded by Natixis from a "Reduce" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Petrobras Brasileiro (PBR) was downgraded by Barclays (NYSE:BCS) from an "Overweight" rating to an "Equal Weight" rating.
ArthroCare (ARTC) was downgraded by Jefferies from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Leap Wireless (LEAP) was downgraded by Collins Stewart from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral rating. They slashed their price target on the company from $18.00 to $12.00.
Valero (VLO) (UPL) (HFC) (MSPD) (WOOF) (NILE) (FRT) Ratings, Price Targets
Valero Energy (NYSE:VLO), Ultra Petroleum (NYSE:UPL), HollyFrontier (HFC), Mindspeed (NASDAQ:MSPD), VCA Antech (NASDAQ:WOOF), Blue Nile (NASDAQ:NILE) and Frontier Communications (NASDAQ:FTR) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Cantor Fitzgerald initiated coverage on Mindspeed (MSPD). They placed a "Buy" rating on the company.
UBS (NYSE:UBS) downgraded Valero Energy (VLO) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
UBS (NYSE:UBS) downgraded HollyFrontier (HFC) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
VCA Antech (WOOF) was downgraded by First Analysis from an "Overweight" rating to an "Equal Weight" rating.
Ultra Petroleum (UPL) was downgraded by Jefferies (NYSE:JEF) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Blue Nile (NILE) was upgraded by RBC Capital Markets from a "Sector Perform" rating to an "Outperform" rating.
Frontier Communications (FRT) was downgraded by Macquarie from an "Underperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Cantor Fitzgerald initiated coverage on Mindspeed (MSPD). They placed a "Buy" rating on the company.
UBS (NYSE:UBS) downgraded Valero Energy (VLO) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
UBS (NYSE:UBS) downgraded HollyFrontier (HFC) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
VCA Antech (WOOF) was downgraded by First Analysis from an "Overweight" rating to an "Equal Weight" rating.
Ultra Petroleum (UPL) was downgraded by Jefferies (NYSE:JEF) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Blue Nile (NILE) was upgraded by RBC Capital Markets from a "Sector Perform" rating to an "Outperform" rating.
Frontier Communications (FRT) was downgraded by Macquarie from an "Underperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Suncor (SU) (NXY) (FL) (FINL) (MHS) (JWN) Ratings, Price Targets
Suncor Energy (NYSE:SU), Nexen (NYSE:NXY), Foot Locker (NYSE:FL), Finish Line (NASDAQ:FINL), Medco Health Solutions (NYSE:MHS) and Nordstrom (NYSE:JWN) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Suncor Energy (SU) was upgraded by Stifel Nicolaus from a "Hold" rating to a "Buy" rating. They have a price target of $42.00 on the company.
Nexen (NXY) was upgraded by Raymond James (NYSE:RJF) from a "Market Perform" rating to an "Outperform" rating.
Deutsche Bank (NYSE:DB) initiated coverage on Foot Locker (FL). They have a "Hold" rating on the company.
Deutsche Bank initiated coverage on Finish Line (FINL). They have a "Hold" rating and a price target of $28.00 on the company.
Medco Health Solutions (MHS) was downgraded by Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS) from an "Overweight" rating to an Equal Weight" rating.
Nordstrom (JWN) was downgraded by Crédit Agricole from a "Buy" rating to an "Underperform" rating.
Suncor Energy (SU) was upgraded by Stifel Nicolaus from a "Hold" rating to a "Buy" rating. They have a price target of $42.00 on the company.
Nexen (NXY) was upgraded by Raymond James (NYSE:RJF) from a "Market Perform" rating to an "Outperform" rating.
Deutsche Bank (NYSE:DB) initiated coverage on Foot Locker (FL). They have a "Hold" rating on the company.
Deutsche Bank initiated coverage on Finish Line (FINL). They have a "Hold" rating and a price target of $28.00 on the company.
Medco Health Solutions (MHS) was downgraded by Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS) from an "Overweight" rating to an Equal Weight" rating.
Nordstrom (JWN) was downgraded by Crédit Agricole from a "Buy" rating to an "Underperform" rating.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Barrick (ABX) Misses on Rising Costs
The ongoing rise in cost continues to weigh on the mining sector, as evidenced again by the performance of Barrick Gold (NYSE:ABX) in the latest quarter, where it missed its EPS estimates by a huge 10 cents a share.
For the fourth quarter ended December 31, Barrick earned $1.17 billion, or $1.17 a share. Analysts had been looking for $1.27 a share.
The rise in gold prices during the quarter wasn't enough to offset the soaring cost of doing business, although they did boost revenue to a huge $3.79 billion or 26 percent increase. Gold price increases accounted for 22 percent of the gains.
Net income fell from $961 million, or 96 cents a share last year to $959 million, or 96 cents a share in the latest quarter.
Fourth quarter gold production came to 1.81 million ounces, at $505.00 an ounce. For all of 2011 gold production reached 7.68 million ounces, at an average cost of $460.00 an ounce.
Gold production estimates for 2012 are from 7.3 million to 7.8 million ounces at a cah cost range of $520 to $560 an ounce. Barrick said the higher costs in production are the consequences of rising labor costs and inflation, as well as a change in the production mix.
The most recent analyst activity on Barrick was a downgraded from Canaccord Genuity on January 30, where they were taken from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating, with a price target of $57.50 on the gold mining giant.
Barrick was trading at $47.65, up $0.22, or 0.46 percent, as of 12:45 PM EST.
For the fourth quarter ended December 31, Barrick earned $1.17 billion, or $1.17 a share. Analysts had been looking for $1.27 a share.
The rise in gold prices during the quarter wasn't enough to offset the soaring cost of doing business, although they did boost revenue to a huge $3.79 billion or 26 percent increase. Gold price increases accounted for 22 percent of the gains.
Net income fell from $961 million, or 96 cents a share last year to $959 million, or 96 cents a share in the latest quarter.
Fourth quarter gold production came to 1.81 million ounces, at $505.00 an ounce. For all of 2011 gold production reached 7.68 million ounces, at an average cost of $460.00 an ounce.
Gold production estimates for 2012 are from 7.3 million to 7.8 million ounces at a cah cost range of $520 to $560 an ounce. Barrick said the higher costs in production are the consequences of rising labor costs and inflation, as well as a change in the production mix.
The most recent analyst activity on Barrick was a downgraded from Canaccord Genuity on January 30, where they were taken from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating, with a price target of $57.50 on the gold mining giant.
Barrick was trading at $47.65, up $0.22, or 0.46 percent, as of 12:45 PM EST.
Teekay (TNK) (SWK) (CLSN) (DLR) (FSRV) (Z) (NRP) (NVDA) (WSO) Ratings, Price Targets
Teekay Tankers (TNK), Stanley Black & Decker (SWK), Celsion (CLSN), Digital Realty Trust (DLR), FirstService (FSRV), Zillow (Z), Natural Resource (NRP), NVIDIA (NVDA) and Watsco (WSO) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Macquarie initiated coverage on Stanley Black & Decker (SWK). They placed an "Outperform" rating on the company.
Brean Murray initiated coverage on Celsion (CLSN). They placed a "Buy" rating and price target of $7.00 on the company.
DLR initiated coverage on Digital Realty Trust (DLR). They placed an "Overweight" rating on the company.
FirstService (FSRV) was upgraded by Raymond James (NYSE:RJF) from a "Market Perform" rating to an "Outperform" rating.
Teekay Tankers (TNK) was upgraded by Wells Fargo (NYSE:WFC) from a "Market Perform" rating to an "Outperform" rating.
Zillow (Z) was upgraded by Craig Hallum from a "Sell" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Natural Resource (NRP) was downgraded by Wells Fargo from an "Outperform" rating to a "Market Perform" rating.
NVIDIA (NVDA) was downgraded by Bank of America (NYSE:BAC) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Watsco (WSO) was downgraded by BB&T Capital (NYSE:BBT) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Macquarie initiated coverage on Stanley Black & Decker (SWK). They placed an "Outperform" rating on the company.
Brean Murray initiated coverage on Celsion (CLSN). They placed a "Buy" rating and price target of $7.00 on the company.
DLR initiated coverage on Digital Realty Trust (DLR). They placed an "Overweight" rating on the company.
FirstService (FSRV) was upgraded by Raymond James (NYSE:RJF) from a "Market Perform" rating to an "Outperform" rating.
Teekay Tankers (TNK) was upgraded by Wells Fargo (NYSE:WFC) from a "Market Perform" rating to an "Outperform" rating.
Zillow (Z) was upgraded by Craig Hallum from a "Sell" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Natural Resource (NRP) was downgraded by Wells Fargo from an "Outperform" rating to a "Market Perform" rating.
NVIDIA (NVDA) was downgraded by Bank of America (NYSE:BAC) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Watsco (WSO) was downgraded by BB&T Capital (NYSE:BBT) from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Deere (DE) (ELS) (PPS) (XEC) (DENN) (FMS) Ratings, Price Targets
Deere (DE), Equity Lifestyle Properties (ELS), Post Properties (PPS), Cimarex (XEC), Denny’s (DENN) and Fresenius Medical (FMS) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Cantor Fitzgerald initiated coverage on Equity Lifestyle Properties (ELS). They placed a "Hold" rating on the company.
Cantor Fitzgerald initiated coverage on Post Properties (PPS). They placed a "Hold" rating on the company.
Cimarex (XEC) was downgraded by Canaccord Genuity from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Deere (DE) was downgraded by Wells Fargo (NYSE:WFC) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Market Perform" rating.
Denny’s (DENN) was downgraded by Feltl & Co froma "Strong Buy" rating to a "Buy" rating.
Fresenius Medical (FMS) was downgraded by Citigroup (NYSE:C) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Cantor Fitzgerald initiated coverage on Equity Lifestyle Properties (ELS). They placed a "Hold" rating on the company.
Cantor Fitzgerald initiated coverage on Post Properties (PPS). They placed a "Hold" rating on the company.
Cimarex (XEC) was downgraded by Canaccord Genuity from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Deere (DE) was downgraded by Wells Fargo (NYSE:WFC) from an "Outperform" rating to a "Market Perform" rating.
Denny’s (DENN) was downgraded by Feltl & Co froma "Strong Buy" rating to a "Buy" rating.
Fresenius Medical (FMS) was downgraded by Citigroup (NYSE:C) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Comcast (CMCSA) (LO) (WFR) (BNPQY) (CEO) (CQB) Ratings, Price Targets
Comcast (CMCSA), Lorillard (LO), MEMC Electronics (WFR), BNP Paribas (BNPQY), CNOOC (CEO) and Chiquita Brands (CQB) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Jefferies (NYSE:JEF) initiated coverage on Lorillard (LO). They placed a "Buy" rating on the company.
MEMC Electronics (WFR) was upgraded by Jefferies from an "Underperform" rating to a "Hold" rating.
BNP Paribas (BNPQY) was downgraded by Société Générale from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
CNOOC (CEO) was downgraded by Jefferies from a "Market Perform" rating to an "Underperform" rating.
Comcast (CMCSA) was downgraded by Argus from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Chiquita Brands (CQB) was downgraded by BB&T Capital from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Jefferies (NYSE:JEF) initiated coverage on Lorillard (LO). They placed a "Buy" rating on the company.
MEMC Electronics (WFR) was upgraded by Jefferies from an "Underperform" rating to a "Hold" rating.
BNP Paribas (BNPQY) was downgraded by Société Générale from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
CNOOC (CEO) was downgraded by Jefferies from a "Market Perform" rating to an "Underperform" rating.
Comcast (CMCSA) was downgraded by Argus from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Chiquita Brands (CQB) was downgraded by BB&T Capital from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Amylin (AMLN) (RL) (EXPD) (AMZN) (ACOM) (RLOC) Ratings, Price Targets
Amylin Pharmaceuticals (AMLN), Polo Ralph Lauren (RL), Expeditors International (EXPD), Amazon.com (AMZN), Ancestry.com (ACOM) and ReachLocal (RLOC) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Credit Suisse (NYSE:CS) initiated coverage on Amylin Pharmaceuticals (AMLN). They placed an "Outperform" rating on the company.
Polo Ralph Lauren (RL) was upgraded by Argus from a "Hold" rating to a "Buy" rating. They have a price target of $202 on the company.
Expeditors International (EXPD) was upgraded by Jefferies (NYSE:JEF) from a "Hold" rating to a "Buy" rating.
Amazon.com (AMZN) was downgraded by Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS) from an "Overweight" rating to an "Equal Weight" rating.
Ancestry.com (ACOM) was downgraded by Bank of America (NYSE:BAC) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
ReachLocal (RLOC) was downgraded by Bank of America (NYSE:BAC) from a "Neutral" rating to a "Underperform" rating.
Credit Suisse (NYSE:CS) initiated coverage on Amylin Pharmaceuticals (AMLN). They placed an "Outperform" rating on the company.
Polo Ralph Lauren (RL) was upgraded by Argus from a "Hold" rating to a "Buy" rating. They have a price target of $202 on the company.
Expeditors International (EXPD) was upgraded by Jefferies (NYSE:JEF) from a "Hold" rating to a "Buy" rating.
Amazon.com (AMZN) was downgraded by Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS) from an "Overweight" rating to an "Equal Weight" rating.
Ancestry.com (ACOM) was downgraded by Bank of America (NYSE:BAC) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
ReachLocal (RLOC) was downgraded by Bank of America (NYSE:BAC) from a "Neutral" rating to a "Underperform" rating.
Deere & Co. (DE) Projects Lower Corn Prices
Agriculture equipment maker Deere & Co. (NYSE:DE) said on Wednesday they see corn prices dropping for 2012-2013, along with the price of soybeans, cotton and wheat.
Using a date for the starting the year of September 1, Deere said they see corn prices falling on average to $5.30 a bushel for 2012-2013, down from the average of $6.40 a bushel in 2011.
Soybeans are expected to drop significantly by Deere, with estimates of price per bushel falling from $13 a bushel in 2011 to $10.50 a bushel for 2012-2013. That's down from the November estimate of $11.25 a bushel.
For wheat, Deere sees prices dropping from $7.40 a bushel in 2011 to an average of $6.70 a bushel for 2012-2013. That's a little up from the November estimates of $6.60 a bushel for wheat.
Cotton is forecast to plummet from 88 cents a pound in 2011 to 75 cents a pound on average for 2012-2013.
Using a date for the starting the year of September 1, Deere said they see corn prices falling on average to $5.30 a bushel for 2012-2013, down from the average of $6.40 a bushel in 2011.
Soybeans are expected to drop significantly by Deere, with estimates of price per bushel falling from $13 a bushel in 2011 to $10.50 a bushel for 2012-2013. That's down from the November estimate of $11.25 a bushel.
For wheat, Deere sees prices dropping from $7.40 a bushel in 2011 to an average of $6.70 a bushel for 2012-2013. That's a little up from the November estimates of $6.60 a bushel for wheat.
Cotton is forecast to plummet from 88 cents a pound in 2011 to 75 cents a pound on average for 2012-2013.
Kinross Gold (KGC) Short of Expectations for Quarter
Kinross Gold (NYSE:KGC) missed analysts' expectations in its latest quarter by $0.04, as the company reported earnings of $0.17 a share, down from the $0.21 a share analysts from Thomson Reuters were looking for.
The gold miner said they had a loss of $2.78 billion, citing a write down of its Tasiast mine in West Africa, which they inherited when they acquired Red Back Mining.
Kinross CEO and president Tye Burt said Tasiast is on the front burner for projects of the company, because of "its high returns."
From there, Burt said the company will work the Dvoinoye project in Russia, Lobo Marte in Chile and FDN in Ecuador ... in that order.
For the quarter ending December 31, Kinross reported a loss of $2.45 a share, compared to a loss of $72.9 million, or six cents a share in the same quarter last year.
Revenue jumped from $920.4 million to $949.4 million during that same period.
The charge against Tasiast was $2.49 billion, with an additional charge of $447.5 million from its Chirano project. Last month the company said the Tasiast project could be delayed as long as nine months.
Minus the one-off charges, Kinross said earnings came in at $196.6 million, or 17 cents a share, in comparison to $158.5 million, or 14 cents a share in the same quarter last year.
Costs of sales are also challenging company results, as they jumped from $535 an ounce of gold to $636 an ounce.
Kinross also said it was lowering its capex for 2012, cutting spending estimates from $2.5 billion to $2.2 billion. Originally they had set aside $1.3 billion for growth project, which is now slashed to $1 billion for 2012.
Gold production estimates for 2012 from Kinross are from $2.6 million to $2.8 million gold-equivalent ounces, although it'll be at a higher cost of between $670 to $715 an ounce.
Silver production for 2012 is estimated to come in at between $7.5 million to 8.0 million ounces.
Recent analyst action had Deutsche Bank (NYSE: DB) cutting its price target on Kinross Gold to $85.00 a share.
Veritas Investment Research just announced they have a "Sell" rating on Kinross now, citing free cash flow concerns and its vulnerability.
Kinross closed Wednesday at $10.31, falling $0.08, or 0.77 percent.
The gold miner said they had a loss of $2.78 billion, citing a write down of its Tasiast mine in West Africa, which they inherited when they acquired Red Back Mining.
Kinross CEO and president Tye Burt said Tasiast is on the front burner for projects of the company, because of "its high returns."
From there, Burt said the company will work the Dvoinoye project in Russia, Lobo Marte in Chile and FDN in Ecuador ... in that order.
For the quarter ending December 31, Kinross reported a loss of $2.45 a share, compared to a loss of $72.9 million, or six cents a share in the same quarter last year.
Revenue jumped from $920.4 million to $949.4 million during that same period.
The charge against Tasiast was $2.49 billion, with an additional charge of $447.5 million from its Chirano project. Last month the company said the Tasiast project could be delayed as long as nine months.
Minus the one-off charges, Kinross said earnings came in at $196.6 million, or 17 cents a share, in comparison to $158.5 million, or 14 cents a share in the same quarter last year.
Costs of sales are also challenging company results, as they jumped from $535 an ounce of gold to $636 an ounce.
Kinross also said it was lowering its capex for 2012, cutting spending estimates from $2.5 billion to $2.2 billion. Originally they had set aside $1.3 billion for growth project, which is now slashed to $1 billion for 2012.
Gold production estimates for 2012 from Kinross are from $2.6 million to $2.8 million gold-equivalent ounces, although it'll be at a higher cost of between $670 to $715 an ounce.
Silver production for 2012 is estimated to come in at between $7.5 million to 8.0 million ounces.
Recent analyst action had Deutsche Bank (NYSE: DB) cutting its price target on Kinross Gold to $85.00 a share.
Veritas Investment Research just announced they have a "Sell" rating on Kinross now, citing free cash flow concerns and its vulnerability.
Kinross closed Wednesday at $10.31, falling $0.08, or 0.77 percent.
C&J Energy (CJES) Reports Quarterly Earnings
C&J Energy Services (NYSE:CJES) released its fourth quarter earnings results on Wednesday, reporting net income of $53.4 million, or $1.00 per diluted share.
That was a big increase over fourth quarter results in 2011, where the company produced net income of $14.5 million, or $0.30 per diluted share.
Revenue in the latest quarter came to $220.1 million, down from the third quarter revenue of $229 million. That was attributed to customers of C&J deciding to provide their own sand on some of the jobs, as well as under utilization of some of the guaranteed pumping hours because of holidays and delays on some wells.
Josh Comstock, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, said in a press release, "Demand for our services remained strong. We generated higher net income despite a slight dip in revenue as our high margin service revenue grew and our lower margin sand revenue declined. Our fourth quarter profitability demonstrates the benefits associated with the flexibility of our business model and our contracts that adjust to changing customer needs while still providing solid margins and bottom-line returns."
"Our debt free balance sheet, approximately $65 million in cash currently on hand and full access to our $200.0 million revolving credit facility provide exceptional flexibility to take advantage of growth opportunities. In addition to actively evaluating opportunities for organic growth, we are also well positioned to pursue strategic acquisitions that could support our geographic expansion in unconventional resource plays," he added.
Morgan Stanley (NYSE: MS) initiated coverage on C&J Energy Services on Thursday, February 9th. They placed an “Equal Weight” rating on the company.
C&J closed Wednesday at $19.85, falling $0.14, or 0.70 percent. They gained all that back in after hours trading.
That was a big increase over fourth quarter results in 2011, where the company produced net income of $14.5 million, or $0.30 per diluted share.
Revenue in the latest quarter came to $220.1 million, down from the third quarter revenue of $229 million. That was attributed to customers of C&J deciding to provide their own sand on some of the jobs, as well as under utilization of some of the guaranteed pumping hours because of holidays and delays on some wells.
Josh Comstock, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, said in a press release, "Demand for our services remained strong. We generated higher net income despite a slight dip in revenue as our high margin service revenue grew and our lower margin sand revenue declined. Our fourth quarter profitability demonstrates the benefits associated with the flexibility of our business model and our contracts that adjust to changing customer needs while still providing solid margins and bottom-line returns."
"Our debt free balance sheet, approximately $65 million in cash currently on hand and full access to our $200.0 million revolving credit facility provide exceptional flexibility to take advantage of growth opportunities. In addition to actively evaluating opportunities for organic growth, we are also well positioned to pursue strategic acquisitions that could support our geographic expansion in unconventional resource plays," he added.
Morgan Stanley (NYSE: MS) initiated coverage on C&J Energy Services on Thursday, February 9th. They placed an “Equal Weight” rating on the company.
C&J closed Wednesday at $19.85, falling $0.14, or 0.70 percent. They gained all that back in after hours trading.
First Majestic Silver (AG): Time to Invest?
Of the silver miners out there, the stock with the most significant leverage to silver is First Majestic Silver (NYSE:AG), with a leverage of 95 to 96 percent of its revenue to the direct price of silver.
That's not to say there aren't by-product to silver, as other products mined include diamonds, gold, lead, iron ore and zinc. The inclusion of these of course help to stabilize the performance of First Majestic by offering more price continuity to balance the more volatile silver prices.
First Majestic continues to be weighed down some by the news from its La Encantada mine, where in the third quarter of 2011, high manganese was run into, slowing down silver exploration, which caused production estimates to fall short, whereby an expected sell off followed.
Even so, 2011 was a good year for the company, as ended at 7,562,493 equivalent ounces of silver, up 8 percent from the 7,024,056 equivalent ounces of silver produced in 2010.
Lead production for 2011 jumped significantly, climbing to 7,888,943 pounds, an increase of 23 percent. Gold production was at 1,537 ounces, down 29 percent from 2010.
Keith Neumeyer, President and CEO, said this in an interview concerning 2011, "The year, 2011 marks the eighth year in a row that First Majestic has achieved record production of silver. Not only is this a great achievement, but our growth is not slowing down. There appears to be no end in sight of our growth in silver production. As the fastest growing and purest silver producer in the world, management's focus and top priority remains to continually deliver shareholder value."
Guidance for 2012 has silver production at First Majestic projected to reach 8.9 to 9.4 million silver equivalent ounces, or 8.3 to 8.7 million ounces of pure silver. Looking further out, projections are for production to reach 16 million silver equivalent ounces for 2014.
Drivers for 2012 include the opening of the Del Toro mine, expansion at La AParrilla, and improvements scheduled at La Encantada. A total of $20 million in capex has been set aside for these projects.
By 2014, Del Toro should be the largest operation of First Majestic Silver, producting an estimated 6 million ounces of silver annually.
The point is First Majestic is positioned for aggressive growth over the next several years,
As to management, it has one of the top teams in the industry, with virtually no attrition at the top levels once a person is placed. That's rare in the industry, and a definite competitive advantage and differentiator.
After the shares took a hit in early October of 2011, they have steadily fought back to where it is today. The good news is it's still way off its highs, and it may be wise if you're considering starting a position in silver or expanding it, to give First Majestic a serious look before it begins to run up, which it is on its way to doing.
First Majestic closed Wednesday at $19.26, gaining $0.17, or 0.89 percent. After hours it fell to $18.91, down $0.35, or 1.82 percent.
That's not to say there aren't by-product to silver, as other products mined include diamonds, gold, lead, iron ore and zinc. The inclusion of these of course help to stabilize the performance of First Majestic by offering more price continuity to balance the more volatile silver prices.
First Majestic continues to be weighed down some by the news from its La Encantada mine, where in the third quarter of 2011, high manganese was run into, slowing down silver exploration, which caused production estimates to fall short, whereby an expected sell off followed.
Even so, 2011 was a good year for the company, as ended at 7,562,493 equivalent ounces of silver, up 8 percent from the 7,024,056 equivalent ounces of silver produced in 2010.
Lead production for 2011 jumped significantly, climbing to 7,888,943 pounds, an increase of 23 percent. Gold production was at 1,537 ounces, down 29 percent from 2010.
Keith Neumeyer, President and CEO, said this in an interview concerning 2011, "The year, 2011 marks the eighth year in a row that First Majestic has achieved record production of silver. Not only is this a great achievement, but our growth is not slowing down. There appears to be no end in sight of our growth in silver production. As the fastest growing and purest silver producer in the world, management's focus and top priority remains to continually deliver shareholder value."
Guidance for 2012 has silver production at First Majestic projected to reach 8.9 to 9.4 million silver equivalent ounces, or 8.3 to 8.7 million ounces of pure silver. Looking further out, projections are for production to reach 16 million silver equivalent ounces for 2014.
Drivers for 2012 include the opening of the Del Toro mine, expansion at La AParrilla, and improvements scheduled at La Encantada. A total of $20 million in capex has been set aside for these projects.
By 2014, Del Toro should be the largest operation of First Majestic Silver, producting an estimated 6 million ounces of silver annually.
The point is First Majestic is positioned for aggressive growth over the next several years,
As to management, it has one of the top teams in the industry, with virtually no attrition at the top levels once a person is placed. That's rare in the industry, and a definite competitive advantage and differentiator.
After the shares took a hit in early October of 2011, they have steadily fought back to where it is today. The good news is it's still way off its highs, and it may be wise if you're considering starting a position in silver or expanding it, to give First Majestic a serious look before it begins to run up, which it is on its way to doing.
First Majestic closed Wednesday at $19.26, gaining $0.17, or 0.89 percent. After hours it fell to $18.91, down $0.35, or 1.82 percent.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
John Paulson's Barrick (ABX) (GLD) (GOLD) (IAG) Positions Changed
After a rough 2011, which followed a record-breaking 2010, John Paulson changed his positions in gold-related stocks SPDR Gold Trust ETF (NYSE:GLD), Randgold Resources (NASDAQ:GOLD), Iamgold (NYSE:IAG) and Barrick Gold (NYSE:ABX).
SPDR Gold Trust ETF (GLD), which continues to remain his largest holding, was lowered by Paulson by close to 3 million shares, now owning 17.3 million shares in the gold ETF. As of December 31, SPDR Gold Trust shares held by Paulson had a market value $2.6 billion.
Randgold Resources (GOLD), Iamgold (IAG) and Barrick Gold (ABX) were among the 10 positions Paulson increased his holdings in, a nod towards the continued belief that some gold miners are still undervalued when measured against the price of gold.
Other gold holdings of Paulson include NovaGold (AMEX:NG), Gold Fields (NYSE:GFI) and AngloGold Ashanti (NYSE:AU).
SPDR Gold Trust ETF (GLD), which continues to remain his largest holding, was lowered by Paulson by close to 3 million shares, now owning 17.3 million shares in the gold ETF. As of December 31, SPDR Gold Trust shares held by Paulson had a market value $2.6 billion.
Randgold Resources (GOLD), Iamgold (IAG) and Barrick Gold (ABX) were among the 10 positions Paulson increased his holdings in, a nod towards the continued belief that some gold miners are still undervalued when measured against the price of gold.
Other gold holdings of Paulson include NovaGold (AMEX:NG), Gold Fields (NYSE:GFI) and AngloGold Ashanti (NYSE:AU).
Generac (GNRC) (FMS) (DBOEY) (WTW) (ZNGA) (BXP) (COH) (AAT) Ratings, Price Targets
Generac (NYSE:GNRC), Fresenius Medical (NYSE:FMS), Deutsche Börse (OTC:DBOEY), Weight Watchers International (NYSE:WTW), Zynga (NASDAQ:ZNGA), Boston Properties (NYSE:BXP), WSM Coach, Inc. (NYSE:COH) and American Assets Trust (NYSE:AAT) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
TheStreet Ratings initiated coverage on American Assets Trust (AAT). They placed a "Hold" rating on the company.
Generac (GNRC) was downgraded by Baird from an "Outperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating. They have a price target of $28.00 on the company.
Fresenius Medical (FMS) was downgraded by WestLB from an "Add" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Deutsche Börse (DBOEY.PK) was downgraded by WestLB from an "Add" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Weight Watchers International (WTW) was downgraded by Wedbush from an "Outperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Zynga (ZNGA) was downgraded by Robert W. Baird from an "Outperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating. They have a price target of $13.00 on the company.
Boston Properties (BXP) had its price target raised by Jefferies (NYSE:JEF) to $95.00. They have a "Hold" rating on the company.
WSM Coach, Inc. (COH) had its price target raised at Jefferies to $90.00. They have a "Buy" rating on the company.
TheStreet Ratings initiated coverage on American Assets Trust (AAT). They placed a "Hold" rating on the company.
Generac (GNRC) was downgraded by Baird from an "Outperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating. They have a price target of $28.00 on the company.
Fresenius Medical (FMS) was downgraded by WestLB from an "Add" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Deutsche Börse (DBOEY.PK) was downgraded by WestLB from an "Add" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Weight Watchers International (WTW) was downgraded by Wedbush from an "Outperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Zynga (ZNGA) was downgraded by Robert W. Baird from an "Outperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating. They have a price target of $13.00 on the company.
Boston Properties (BXP) had its price target raised by Jefferies (NYSE:JEF) to $95.00. They have a "Hold" rating on the company.
WSM Coach, Inc. (COH) had its price target raised at Jefferies to $90.00. They have a "Buy" rating on the company.
Solazyme (SZYM) (FIO) (KMB) (LMT) (PUBGY) (HAS) Ratings, Price Targets
Solazyme (NASDAQ:SZYM), Fusion-io (NYSE:FIO), Kimberly-Clark (NYSE:KMB), Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT), Publicis Groupe (OTC:PUBGY) and Hasbro (NASDAQ:HAS) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Canaccord Genuity initiated coverage on Solazyme (SZYM). They placed a "Buy" rating on the company.
Fusion-io (FIO) was upgraded by The Benchmark Company from a "Hold" rating to a "Buy" rating. They placed a price target of $30.00 on the company.
Kimberly-Clark (KMB) was downgraded by Janney Montgomery Scott from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Lockheed Martin (LMT) was downgraded by Bernstein from an "Outperform" rating to a "Market Perform" rating.
Publicis Groupe (PUBGY) was downgraded by HSBC Securities from an "Overweight" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Hasbro (HAS) was downgraded by Sterne Agee from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Canaccord Genuity initiated coverage on Solazyme (SZYM). They placed a "Buy" rating on the company.
Fusion-io (FIO) was upgraded by The Benchmark Company from a "Hold" rating to a "Buy" rating. They placed a price target of $30.00 on the company.
Kimberly-Clark (KMB) was downgraded by Janney Montgomery Scott from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Lockheed Martin (LMT) was downgraded by Bernstein from an "Outperform" rating to a "Market Perform" rating.
Publicis Groupe (PUBGY) was downgraded by HSBC Securities from an "Overweight" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Hasbro (HAS) was downgraded by Sterne Agee from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Golar (GMLP) (CPA) (FIS) (BBVA) (PLCE) (FOSL) Ratings, Price Targets
Golar LNG Partners (NASDAQ:GMLP), Copa Holdings (NYSE:CPA), Fidelity National Information Services (NYSE:FIS), Banco Bilbao Vizcaya (NYSE:BBVA), Children’s Place (NASDAQ:PLCE) and Fossil (NASDAQ:FOSL) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Dahlman Rose initiated coverage on Golar LNG Partners (GMLP). They placed a "Buy" rating and price target of $40.00 on the company.
Copa Holdings (CPA) was upgraded by Barclays (NYSE:BCS) from an "Equal Weight" rating to an "Overweight" rating.
Fidelity National Information Services (FIS) was upgraded by JP Morgan (NYSE:JPM) from an "Underweight" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Banco Bilbao Vizcaya (BBVA) was downgraded by BNP Paribas from a "Market Perform" rating to an "Underperform" rating.
Children’s Place (PLCE) was downgraded by Wedbush from an "Outperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Fossil (FOSL) was downgraded by Benchmark Company from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Dahlman Rose initiated coverage on Golar LNG Partners (GMLP). They placed a "Buy" rating and price target of $40.00 on the company.
Copa Holdings (CPA) was upgraded by Barclays (NYSE:BCS) from an "Equal Weight" rating to an "Overweight" rating.
Fidelity National Information Services (FIS) was upgraded by JP Morgan (NYSE:JPM) from an "Underweight" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Banco Bilbao Vizcaya (BBVA) was downgraded by BNP Paribas from a "Market Perform" rating to an "Underperform" rating.
Children’s Place (PLCE) was downgraded by Wedbush from an "Outperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Fossil (FOSL) was downgraded by Benchmark Company from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
eBay (EBAY) (HWD) (MOV) (SWY) (BAC) (DELL) Ratings, Price Targets
eBay (NASDAQ:EBAY), Harry Winston Diamond (NYSE:HWD), Movado Group (NYSE:MOV), Safeway (NYSE:SWY), Bank of America (NYSE:BAC) and Dell (NASDAQ:DELL) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Wedbush raised eBay (EBAY) to its "Best Ideas List."
Citigroup (NYSE:C) initiated coverage on Harry Winston Diamond (HWD). They placed a "Buy" rating on the company.
Citigroup (NYSE:C) initiated coverage on Movado Group (MOV). They placed a "Buy" rating on the company.
Safeway (SWY) was upgraded by Credit Suisse (NYSE:CS) from a "Neutral" rating to an "Outperform" rating.
Bank of America (BAC) was downgraded by Sanford Bernstein from an "Outperform" rating to a "Market Perform" rating
Dell (DELL) was downgraded by Stern Agee from a "Neutral" rating to an "Underperform" rating. They have a price target of $15.00 on the company.
Wedbush raised eBay (EBAY) to its "Best Ideas List."
Citigroup (NYSE:C) initiated coverage on Harry Winston Diamond (HWD). They placed a "Buy" rating on the company.
Citigroup (NYSE:C) initiated coverage on Movado Group (MOV). They placed a "Buy" rating on the company.
Safeway (SWY) was upgraded by Credit Suisse (NYSE:CS) from a "Neutral" rating to an "Outperform" rating.
Bank of America (BAC) was downgraded by Sanford Bernstein from an "Outperform" rating to a "Market Perform" rating
Dell (DELL) was downgraded by Stern Agee from a "Neutral" rating to an "Underperform" rating. They have a price target of $15.00 on the company.
Murphy Oil (MUR) (GPRO) (HD) (CRM) (ABC) (BMC) Ratings, Price Targets
Murphy Oil (NYSE:MUR), Gen-Probe (GPRO), Home Depot (NYSE:HD), Salesforce.com (CRM), AmerisourceBergen (ABC) and BMC Software (BMC) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Brean Murray initiated coverage on Murphy Oil (MUR). They have a "Buy" rating and a price target of $71.00 on the company.
Gen-Probe (GPRO) had its EPS estimates lowered by Oppenheimer (NYSE:OPY). They have a "Perform" rating on the company.
Home Depot (HD) had its price target boosted by Bank of America (NYSE:BAC) to $50.00.
Salesforce.com (CRM) had its price target raised by Jefferies (NYSE:JEF) to $152.00. They have a "Buy rating on the company.
AmerisourceBergen (ABC) was downgraded by Baird from an "Outperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating. They have a price target of $43.00 on the company.
BMC Software (BMC) had its price target raised b Jefferies to $42.00. They have a "Buy" rating on the company.
Brean Murray initiated coverage on Murphy Oil (MUR). They have a "Buy" rating and a price target of $71.00 on the company.
Gen-Probe (GPRO) had its EPS estimates lowered by Oppenheimer (NYSE:OPY). They have a "Perform" rating on the company.
Home Depot (HD) had its price target boosted by Bank of America (NYSE:BAC) to $50.00.
Salesforce.com (CRM) had its price target raised by Jefferies (NYSE:JEF) to $152.00. They have a "Buy rating on the company.
AmerisourceBergen (ABC) was downgraded by Baird from an "Outperform" rating to a "Neutral" rating. They have a price target of $43.00 on the company.
BMC Software (BMC) had its price target raised b Jefferies to $42.00. They have a "Buy" rating on the company.
Lowe's (LOW) (TSO) (HME) (PLCE) (RAX) (REGN) Ratings, Price Targets
Lowe's (NYSE:LOW), Tesoro Corporation (NYSE:TSO), Home Properties (NYSE:HME), Children's Place (NASDAQ:PLCE), Rackspace (NYSE:RAX) and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:REGN) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Home Properties (HME) had its price target raised by UBS (NYSE:UBS) to $57.00. They have a "Sell" rating on the company.
Lowe's (LOW) had its price target raised by Bank of America (NYSE:BAC) to $29.00.
Children's Place (PLCE) was cut from the "Best Ideas List" of Janney Montgomery.
Rackspace (RAX) has its price target raised by Piper Jaffray (NYSE:PJC) to $60.00. They have an "Overweight" rating on the company.
Regeneron Pharmaceuticals (REGN) had its price target boosted by Jefferies (NYSE:JEF) to $127.00. They have a "Buy" rating on the company.
Tesoro Corporation (TSO) had its price target raised by Oppenheimer (NYSE:OPY) to $33.00. They have an "Outperform" rating on the company.
Home Properties (HME) had its price target raised by UBS (NYSE:UBS) to $57.00. They have a "Sell" rating on the company.
Lowe's (LOW) had its price target raised by Bank of America (NYSE:BAC) to $29.00.
Children's Place (PLCE) was cut from the "Best Ideas List" of Janney Montgomery.
Rackspace (RAX) has its price target raised by Piper Jaffray (NYSE:PJC) to $60.00. They have an "Overweight" rating on the company.
Regeneron Pharmaceuticals (REGN) had its price target boosted by Jefferies (NYSE:JEF) to $127.00. They have a "Buy" rating on the company.
Tesoro Corporation (TSO) had its price target raised by Oppenheimer (NYSE:OPY) to $33.00. They have an "Outperform" rating on the company.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Bunge Limited (BG) 2012 Outlook Better
After quarterly earnings plummeted by 34 percent in 2011, Bunge Limited (NYSE: BG) appears poised to rebound nicely in 2012.
Bunge is looking for a 15 percent boost in its share price in 2012, with analysts having a mixed outlook recently.
Bunge Limited had its price target cut by Barclays Capital (NYSE:BCS) from $81.00 to $79.00. They have an “Overweight” rating on the company.
Bunge Limited had its “Sell” rating reiterated by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS).
Bunge Limited was upgraded by TheStreet to a “Buy” rating.
Bunge Limited had its price target raised by Credit Suisse (NYSE:CS) to $80.00. They have an “Outperform” rating on the company.
The agribusiness company has placed an estimate of $73.25 on its shares for 2012, with some analysts looking at $80.00 a share for the year. They have a dividend of $1.00, yielding 1.7 percent.
Amrit Banaspati Co Ltd., the edible oils and fats business, will be soon acquired by Bunge.
That and the organic push at the end of the year bodes well for the food company.
Bunge is looking for a 15 percent boost in its share price in 2012, with analysts having a mixed outlook recently.
Bunge Limited had its price target cut by Barclays Capital (NYSE:BCS) from $81.00 to $79.00. They have an “Overweight” rating on the company.
Bunge Limited had its “Sell” rating reiterated by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS).
Bunge Limited was upgraded by TheStreet to a “Buy” rating.
Bunge Limited had its price target raised by Credit Suisse (NYSE:CS) to $80.00. They have an “Outperform” rating on the company.
The agribusiness company has placed an estimate of $73.25 on its shares for 2012, with some analysts looking at $80.00 a share for the year. They have a dividend of $1.00, yielding 1.7 percent.
Amrit Banaspati Co Ltd., the edible oils and fats business, will be soon acquired by Bunge.
That and the organic push at the end of the year bodes well for the food company.
Regal Entertainment (RGC) (CZR) (TRIP) (P) (BBBY) (IHG) Ratings, Price Targets
Regal Entertainment (NYSE:RGC), Caesars Entertainment (NASDAQ:CZR), TripAdvisor (NASDAQ:TRIP), Pandora Media (NYSE:P), Bed Bath & Beyond (NASDAQ:BBBY) and Intercontinental Hotels Group (NYSE:IHG) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Imperial Capital initiated coverage on Caesars Entertainment (CZR). They placed an "Outperform" rating and a price target of $16.20 on the company.
Capstone initiated coverage on TripAdvisor (TRIP). They placed a "Strong Buy" rating on the company.
Capstone initiated coverage on Pandora Media (P). They placed a "Hold" rating on the company.
Regal Entertainment (RGC) was upgraded by Piper Jaffray (NYSE:PJC) from a "Neutral" rating to an "Overweight" rating.
Bed Bath & Beyond (BBBY) was downgraded by Citigroup (NYSE:C) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Intercontinental Hotels Group (IHG) was downgraded by Jefferies Group (NYSE:JEF) form a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Imperial Capital initiated coverage on Caesars Entertainment (CZR). They placed an "Outperform" rating and a price target of $16.20 on the company.
Capstone initiated coverage on TripAdvisor (TRIP). They placed a "Strong Buy" rating on the company.
Capstone initiated coverage on Pandora Media (P). They placed a "Hold" rating on the company.
Regal Entertainment (RGC) was upgraded by Piper Jaffray (NYSE:PJC) from a "Neutral" rating to an "Overweight" rating.
Bed Bath & Beyond (BBBY) was downgraded by Citigroup (NYSE:C) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Intercontinental Hotels Group (IHG) was downgraded by Jefferies Group (NYSE:JEF) form a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Bank of America (BAC) (KFT) (GIS) (MJN) (HNZ) (CPB) Ratings, Price Targets
Bank of America (NYSE:BAC), Kraft Foods (NYSE:KFT), General Mills (NYSE:GIS), Mead Johnson Nutrition (NYSE:MJN), HJ Heinz (NYSE:HNZ) and Campbell Soup (CPB) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Bank of America (BAC) was downgraded by Citigroup (NYSE:C) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS) initiated coverage on Kraft Foods (KFT). They placed an "Overweight" rating on the company.
Morgan Stanley initiated coverage on General Mills (GIS). They placed an "Overweight" rating on the company.
Morgan Stanley initiated coverage on Mead Johnson Nutrition (MJN). They placed an "Overweight" rating on the company.
Morgan Stanley initiated coverage on HJ Heinz (HNZ). They placed an "Underweight" rating on the company.
Morgan Stanley initiated coverage on Campbell Soup (CPB). They placed an "Underweight" rating on the company.
Bank of America (BAC) was downgraded by Citigroup (NYSE:C) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS) initiated coverage on Kraft Foods (KFT). They placed an "Overweight" rating on the company.
Morgan Stanley initiated coverage on General Mills (GIS). They placed an "Overweight" rating on the company.
Morgan Stanley initiated coverage on Mead Johnson Nutrition (MJN). They placed an "Overweight" rating on the company.
Morgan Stanley initiated coverage on HJ Heinz (HNZ). They placed an "Underweight" rating on the company.
Morgan Stanley initiated coverage on Campbell Soup (CPB). They placed an "Underweight" rating on the company.
El Paso (EP) (WPZ) (CHKM) (TRP) (RRMS) (ENB) (SE) Ratings, Price Targets
El Paso (EP), Williams Partners (WPZ), Chesapeake Midstream (CHKM), TransCanada (TRP) Rose Rock Midstream (RRMS), Enbridge Inc (ENB), and Spectra Energy (SE) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Deutsche Bank initiated coverage on El Paso (EP). They placed an "Hold" rating on the company.
Deutsche Bank initiated coverage on Williams Partners (WPZ). They placed an "Hold" rating on the company.
Deutsche Bank initiated coverage on Chesapeake Midstream (CHKM). They placed an "Hold" rating on the company.
Deutsche Bank initiated coverage on TransCanada (TRP). They placed an "Hold" rating on the company.
Deutsche Bank initiated coverage on Rose Rock Midstream (RRMS). They placed an "Buy" rating on the company.
Deutsche Bank initiated coverage on Enbridge (ENB). They placed an "Buy" rating on the company.
Deutsche Bank initiated coverage on Spectra Energy (SE). They placed an "Buy" rating on the company.
Deutsche Bank initiated coverage on El Paso (EP). They placed an "Hold" rating on the company.
Deutsche Bank initiated coverage on Williams Partners (WPZ). They placed an "Hold" rating on the company.
Deutsche Bank initiated coverage on Chesapeake Midstream (CHKM). They placed an "Hold" rating on the company.
Deutsche Bank initiated coverage on TransCanada (TRP). They placed an "Hold" rating on the company.
Deutsche Bank initiated coverage on Rose Rock Midstream (RRMS). They placed an "Buy" rating on the company.
Deutsche Bank initiated coverage on Enbridge (ENB). They placed an "Buy" rating on the company.
Deutsche Bank initiated coverage on Spectra Energy (SE). They placed an "Buy" rating on the company.
Arch Coal (ACI) (GOOG) (DPZ) (BCS) (HFC) (STI) Ratings, Price Targets
Arch Coal (NYSE:ACI), Google (NASDAQ:GOOG), Domino’s Pizza (NYSE:DPZ), Barclays (NYSE:BCS), HollyFrontier (HFCHFC) and SunTrust Banks (NYSE:STI) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Arch Coal (ACI) was downgraded by Argus from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Capstone initiated coverage on Google (GOOG). They have a "Buy" rating on the company.
Miller Tabak initiated coverage on Domino’s Pizza (DPZ). They have a "Hold" rating and a price target of $36.00 on the company.
BNP Paribas upgraded Barclays (BCS) from a "Neutral" rating to an "Outperform" rating.
Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) raised HollyFrontier (HFC) to its "Conviction Buy" list.
ISI Group downgraded SunTrust Banks (STI) from a "Hold" rating to a "Sell" rating.
Arch Coal (ACI) was downgraded by Argus from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Capstone initiated coverage on Google (GOOG). They have a "Buy" rating on the company.
Miller Tabak initiated coverage on Domino’s Pizza (DPZ). They have a "Hold" rating and a price target of $36.00 on the company.
BNP Paribas upgraded Barclays (BCS) from a "Neutral" rating to an "Outperform" rating.
Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) raised HollyFrontier (HFC) to its "Conviction Buy" list.
ISI Group downgraded SunTrust Banks (STI) from a "Hold" rating to a "Sell" rating.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Exxon Mobil (XOM) Flex Muscles in Iraq
After signing an exploration deal with Kurdistan in the latter part of 2011, Exxon Mobil (NYSE:XOM), not unexpectedly, won't be allowed to bid in the next round of oil and gas exploration contracts in Iraq.
That's of little consequence, as the inept and corrupt Iraqi government only allows energy Western businesses in the country to take somewhere around $2 a barrel, regardless of what the price of oil is.
Many Western energy companies have foolishly went along with the Iraqis in hope of getting better deals later, but that could be playing a fool's game, something Exxon Mobil is wise not to engage in.
The decision to work with Kurdistan and its better deals has to be seen as the energy giant sending a message to Iraq, no matter how it all turns out. It also points to the outrageous actions of the Iraqi government towards the West, as the companies participating in the production in the country aren't making any money there.
As long as they are willing to grab onto the carrot, they won't profit in the region until they force the hand of the Iraqi government, as Exxon is wisely attempting to do.
It was extremely premature for other western energy companies to enter into deals with Iraq before decisions were made as to how the oil royalties would be divided up.
This is the reason Iraq has opposed any Western company doing business with the Kurds, as the competition forces them to react to the offer of the Kurds, which is superior to the laughable 'offer' of Iraq to the western oil companies.
Deputy Prime Minster for Energy Hussein al-Shahristani has said he would like to have Exxon working in the country, but noted the company knows the terms of working there.
To work in Iraq is the equivalent of doing charity in the country, and until the government changes their mind, it would be better for any energy company not to deal with a country that doesn't allow businesses to profit there.
That's of little consequence, as the inept and corrupt Iraqi government only allows energy Western businesses in the country to take somewhere around $2 a barrel, regardless of what the price of oil is.
Many Western energy companies have foolishly went along with the Iraqis in hope of getting better deals later, but that could be playing a fool's game, something Exxon Mobil is wise not to engage in.
The decision to work with Kurdistan and its better deals has to be seen as the energy giant sending a message to Iraq, no matter how it all turns out. It also points to the outrageous actions of the Iraqi government towards the West, as the companies participating in the production in the country aren't making any money there.
As long as they are willing to grab onto the carrot, they won't profit in the region until they force the hand of the Iraqi government, as Exxon is wisely attempting to do.
It was extremely premature for other western energy companies to enter into deals with Iraq before decisions were made as to how the oil royalties would be divided up.
This is the reason Iraq has opposed any Western company doing business with the Kurds, as the competition forces them to react to the offer of the Kurds, which is superior to the laughable 'offer' of Iraq to the western oil companies.
Deputy Prime Minster for Energy Hussein al-Shahristani has said he would like to have Exxon working in the country, but noted the company knows the terms of working there.
To work in Iraq is the equivalent of doing charity in the country, and until the government changes their mind, it would be better for any energy company not to deal with a country that doesn't allow businesses to profit there.
Infantry Soldier Silver Dollars to be Released February 16
The new United States Mint 2012 Infantry Soldier Silver Dollar will be released on February 16, according to the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center.
Designing the front of the coin was United States Mint Artistic Infusion Program (AIP) Master Designer Joel Iskowitz, which displays a running infantry soldier holding his weapon. On the reverse side is the branch insignia of the infantry, represented by
two crossed rifles. That was designed by US Mint AIP Associate Designer Ronald D. Sanders.
The front of the coin was sculpted by United States Mint Sculptor-Engraver Michael Gaudioso, and the back by US Mint Sculptor-Engraver Norman E. Nemeth.
Inscriptions on the silver dollar include E Pluribus Unum, United States of America, 2012, and One Dollar.
Silvercorp Metals (SVM) Remains Under Pressure
Whether justified or not, Silvercorp Metals (SVM) has been under pressure lately over ongoing rumors as to the health of the company, which are probably being circulated by those shorting the company, as they did last year.
More than that, it is the response of Silvercorp to those unwarranted rumors that may be of more concern to those following the company.
Lawsuits and internal investigations could be looked upon as distractions to the company, as some are saying a strong performance is the best medicine to counter the alleged fraudulent and false rumors.
In response to that, BMO Capital was the latest brokerage to downgraded Silvercorp, this time from an "Outperform" rating to a "Market Perform" rating.
Silvercorp was trading at $7.05, falling 0.11, or 1.54 percent, as of 10:50 AM EST.
More than that, it is the response of Silvercorp to those unwarranted rumors that may be of more concern to those following the company.
Lawsuits and internal investigations could be looked upon as distractions to the company, as some are saying a strong performance is the best medicine to counter the alleged fraudulent and false rumors.
In response to that, BMO Capital was the latest brokerage to downgraded Silvercorp, this time from an "Outperform" rating to a "Market Perform" rating.
Silvercorp was trading at $7.05, falling 0.11, or 1.54 percent, as of 10:50 AM EST.
Weatherford (NYSE:WFT) Cleared of Gulf Spill Claims
U.S. district court judge Carl Barbier has ruled that Weatherford (NYSE:WFT) wasn't part of the cause leading to the Macondo well oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.
The decision centered around the float collar provided by Weatherford for the well. The judge said its performance had no part in the failure of the well or the resulting oil spill.
Consequently, all charges against the company have been dismissed.
Weatherford had paid BP (NYSE:BP) $75 million in order to indemnify it against any claims related to the spill. Any other claims against the company are now cleared.
Weatherford was trading at $17.83, up $0.03, or 0.20 percent, as of 10:41 AM EST.
The decision centered around the float collar provided by Weatherford for the well. The judge said its performance had no part in the failure of the well or the resulting oil spill.
Consequently, all charges against the company have been dismissed.
Weatherford had paid BP (NYSE:BP) $75 million in order to indemnify it against any claims related to the spill. Any other claims against the company are now cleared.
Weatherford was trading at $17.83, up $0.03, or 0.20 percent, as of 10:41 AM EST.
EnerSys (ENS) (FSLR) (RHT) (RRGB) (SPR) (LO) (RYCEY) Ratings, Price Targets
EnerSys (NYSE: ENS), First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ: FSLR), Red Hat (NYSE: RHT), Red Robin Gourmet Burgers (NASDAQ: RRGB), Spirit AeroSystems Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: SPR), Lorillard Inc. (NYSE: LO) and Rolls-Royce Group plc (NASDAQ: RYCEY) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
First Solar, Inc. (FSLR) was downgraded by Collins Stewart from a “Buy” rating to a “Neutral” rating. They have a price target of $40.00 on the company.
EnerSys (ENS) had its price target raised by Needham & Company from $30.00 to $37.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Red Hat (RHT) had its price target raised by Evercore Partners from $52.00 to $56.00. They have an “Overweight” rating on the company.
Red Robin Gourmet Burgers (RRGB) had its price target raised by Bank of America (NYSE:BAC) from $33.00 to $37.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Spirit AeroSystems Holdings, Inc. (SPR) had its price target raised by Deutsche Bank (NYSE:DB) from $25.00 to $26.00. They have a “Hold” rating on the company.
Lorillard Inc. (LO) was downgraded by Stifel Nicolaus from a “Buy” rating to a “Hold” rating.
Rolls-Royce Group plc (RYCEY) was downgraded by BNP Paribas from an “Outperform” rating to a “Neutral” rating.
First Solar, Inc. (FSLR) was downgraded by Collins Stewart from a “Buy” rating to a “Neutral” rating. They have a price target of $40.00 on the company.
EnerSys (ENS) had its price target raised by Needham & Company from $30.00 to $37.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Red Hat (RHT) had its price target raised by Evercore Partners from $52.00 to $56.00. They have an “Overweight” rating on the company.
Red Robin Gourmet Burgers (RRGB) had its price target raised by Bank of America (NYSE:BAC) from $33.00 to $37.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Spirit AeroSystems Holdings, Inc. (SPR) had its price target raised by Deutsche Bank (NYSE:DB) from $25.00 to $26.00. They have a “Hold” rating on the company.
Lorillard Inc. (LO) was downgraded by Stifel Nicolaus from a “Buy” rating to a “Hold” rating.
Rolls-Royce Group plc (RYCEY) was downgraded by BNP Paribas from an “Outperform” rating to a “Neutral” rating.
Equifax (EFX) (CS) (HEOP) (JDSU) (ALNY) (AMSC) (ARX) Ratings, Price Targets
Equifax (NYSE: EFX), Credit Suisse (NYSE: CS), Heritage Oaks Bancorp (NASDAQ: HEOP), JDS Uniphase Co. (NASDAQ: JDSU), Alnylam Pharma (NASDAQ: ALNY), American Superconductor Co. (NASDAQ: AMSC) and Aeroflex Holding Corp. (NYSE: ARX) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Credit Suisse (CS) was upgraded by Societe Generale from a “Sell” rating to a “Hold” rating.
Equifax (EFX) was upgraded by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) from a “Sell” rating to a “Buy” rating. They have a price target of $50.00 on the company, up from $36.00.
Heritage Oaks Bancorp (HEOP) was upgraded by Raymond James (NYSE:RJF) from a “Market Perform” rating to an “Outperform” rating.
JDS Uniphase Co. (JDSU) was upgraded by Credit Suisse (NYSE:CS) from a “Neutral” rating to an “Outperform” rating. They have a price target of $17.00 on the company, up from $15.00.
Alnylam Pharma (ALNY) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by analysts at Needham & Company.
American Superconductor Co. (AMSC) had its “Hold” rating reiterated by Needham & Company.
Aeroflex Holding Corp. (ARX) had its “Hold” rating reiterated by Needham & Company.
Credit Suisse (CS) was upgraded by Societe Generale from a “Sell” rating to a “Hold” rating.
Equifax (EFX) was upgraded by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) from a “Sell” rating to a “Buy” rating. They have a price target of $50.00 on the company, up from $36.00.
Heritage Oaks Bancorp (HEOP) was upgraded by Raymond James (NYSE:RJF) from a “Market Perform” rating to an “Outperform” rating.
JDS Uniphase Co. (JDSU) was upgraded by Credit Suisse (NYSE:CS) from a “Neutral” rating to an “Outperform” rating. They have a price target of $17.00 on the company, up from $15.00.
Alnylam Pharma (ALNY) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by analysts at Needham & Company.
American Superconductor Co. (AMSC) had its “Hold” rating reiterated by Needham & Company.
Aeroflex Holding Corp. (ARX) had its “Hold” rating reiterated by Needham & Company.
Tesla (TSLA) (JEC) (SYMC) (TEX) (ACAT) (BDC) (CGNX) Ratings, Price Targets
Tesla Motors (NASDAQ: TSLA), Jacobs Engineering (NYSE: JEC), Symantec (NASDAQ: SYMC), Terex Co. (NYSE: TEX), Arctic Cat Inc. (NASDAQ: ACAT), Belden (NYSE: BDC) and Cognex Co. (NASDAQ: CGNX) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Tesla Motors (TSLA) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Needham & Company.
Citigroup (NYSE:C) initiated coverage on Jacobs Engineering (JEC). They placed a “Neutral” rating on the company.
Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) initiated coverage on Symantec (SYMC). They placed a “Neutral” rating on the company.
BB&T (NYSE:BBT) initiated coverage on Terex Co. (TEX). They placed a “Buy” rating and a price target of $30.00 on the company.
Arctic Cat Inc. (ACAT) had its price target raised by Wedbush from $29.00 to $33.00. They have a “Neutral” rating on the company.
Belden (BDC) had its price target raised by Longbow Research from $42.00 to $46.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Cognex Co. (CGNX) had its price target raised by Needham & Company from $38.00 to $48.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Tesla Motors (TSLA) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Needham & Company.
Citigroup (NYSE:C) initiated coverage on Jacobs Engineering (JEC). They placed a “Neutral” rating on the company.
Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) initiated coverage on Symantec (SYMC). They placed a “Neutral” rating on the company.
BB&T (NYSE:BBT) initiated coverage on Terex Co. (TEX). They placed a “Buy” rating and a price target of $30.00 on the company.
Arctic Cat Inc. (ACAT) had its price target raised by Wedbush from $29.00 to $33.00. They have a “Neutral” rating on the company.
Belden (BDC) had its price target raised by Longbow Research from $42.00 to $46.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Cognex Co. (CGNX) had its price target raised by Needham & Company from $38.00 to $48.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Echelon (ELON) (CNI) (ENS) (GPN) (STT) (ZFSVY) (IR) (RA) Ratings, Price Targets
Echelon Co. (NASDAQ: ELON), Canadian National Railway (NYSE: CNI), EnerSys (NYSE: ENS), Global Payments Inc. (NYSE: GPN), State Street Co. (NYSE: STT), Zurich Financial Services (NASDAQ: ZFSVY), Ingersoll-Rand (NYSE: IR) and RailAmerica, Inc. (NYSE: RA) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Canadian National Railway (CNI) had its “Market Perform” rating reiterated by BMO Capital Markets.
EnerSys (ENS) had its price target raised by Ardour Capital from $31.00 to $38.00. They have an “Accumulate” rating on the company.
Echelon Co. (ELON) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Jefferies Group (NYSE:JEF).
Global Payments Inc. (GPN) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Nomura (NYSE:NMR).
State Street Co. (STT) had its “Neutral” rating reiterated by Nomura.
UBS AG (NYSE:UBS) initiated coverage on Zurich Financial Services (ZFSVY). They placed a “Neutral” rating on the company.
Ingersoll-Rand (IR) had its price target raised by Bank of America (NYSE:BAC) from $40.00 to $46.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
RailAmerica, Inc. (RA) had its price target raised by JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM) from $17.00 to $21.00. They have an “Overweight” rating on the company.
Canadian National Railway (CNI) had its “Market Perform” rating reiterated by BMO Capital Markets.
EnerSys (ENS) had its price target raised by Ardour Capital from $31.00 to $38.00. They have an “Accumulate” rating on the company.
Echelon Co. (ELON) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Jefferies Group (NYSE:JEF).
Global Payments Inc. (GPN) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Nomura (NYSE:NMR).
State Street Co. (STT) had its “Neutral” rating reiterated by Nomura.
UBS AG (NYSE:UBS) initiated coverage on Zurich Financial Services (ZFSVY). They placed a “Neutral” rating on the company.
Ingersoll-Rand (IR) had its price target raised by Bank of America (NYSE:BAC) from $40.00 to $46.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
RailAmerica, Inc. (RA) had its price target raised by JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM) from $17.00 to $21.00. They have an “Overweight” rating on the company.
Teck (TCK) (BHP) (PAA) (SM) (AKS) (PQ) (SVM) (TRI) Ratings, Price Targets
Teck Resources Limited (NYSE: TCK), BHP Billiton (NYSE: BHP), Plains All American (NYSE: PAA), SM Energy (NYSE: SM), AK Steel Holding Co. (NYSE: AKS), PetroQuest Energy, Inc. (NYSE: PQ), Silvercorp Metals (NYSE: SVM) and Thomson Reuters Co. (NYSE: TRI) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Plains All American (PAA) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Wunderlich.
SM Energy (NYSE: SM) had its “buy” rating reiterated by Canaccord Genuity.
BHP Billiton (BHP) had its price target lowered by Dahlman Rose from $116.00 to $96.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Teck Resources Limited (TCK) had its price target raised by Dahlman Rose from $47.00 to $52.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
AK Steel Holding Co. (AKS) was downgraded by Citigroup (NYSE:C) from a “Buy” rating to a “Neutral” rating. They have a price target of $9.00 on the company, down from $12.00.
PetroQuest Energy, Inc. (PQ) was downgraded by FBR Capital from an “Outperform” rating to a “Market Perform” rating.
Silvercorp Metals (SVM) was downgraded by UBS AG (NYSE:UBS) to a “Neutral” rating.
Thomson Reuters Co. (TRI) was downgraded by TD Securities to a “Buy” rating.
Plains All American (PAA) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Wunderlich.
SM Energy (NYSE: SM) had its “buy” rating reiterated by Canaccord Genuity.
BHP Billiton (BHP) had its price target lowered by Dahlman Rose from $116.00 to $96.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Teck Resources Limited (TCK) had its price target raised by Dahlman Rose from $47.00 to $52.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
AK Steel Holding Co. (AKS) was downgraded by Citigroup (NYSE:C) from a “Buy” rating to a “Neutral” rating. They have a price target of $9.00 on the company, down from $12.00.
PetroQuest Energy, Inc. (PQ) was downgraded by FBR Capital from an “Outperform” rating to a “Market Perform” rating.
Silvercorp Metals (SVM) was downgraded by UBS AG (NYSE:UBS) to a “Neutral” rating.
Thomson Reuters Co. (TRI) was downgraded by TD Securities to a “Buy” rating.
Devon (DVN) (XCO) (ENS) (GPOR) (CIE) (ELON) (CARB) Ratings, Price Targets
Devon Energy Co. (NYSE: DVN), EXCO Resources, Inc. (NYSE: XCO), EnerSys (NYSE: ENS), Gulfport Energy Co. (NASDAQ: GPOR), Cobalt International Energy (NYSE: CIE), Echelon Co. (NASDAQ: ELON) and Carbonite (NASDAQ: CARB) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
EXCO Resources, Inc. (XCO) was downgraded by Robert W. Baird from an “Outperform” rating to a “Neutral” rating. They have a price target of $8.00 on the company, down from $13.00.
EnerSys (ENS) had its “buy” rating reiterated by Jefferies Group (NYSE:JEF).
RBC Capital initiated coverage on Gulfport Energy Co. (GPOR). They placed a “Sector Perform” rating on the company.
Cobalt International Energy (CIE) had its price target raised by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) from $24.00 to $31.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Echelon Co. (ELON) had its price target lowered by Needham & Company from $11.00 to $9.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Devon Energy Co. (DVN) was downgraded by FBR Capital from an “Outperform” rating to a “Market Perform” rating.
Carbonite (CARB) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Canaccord Genuity.
EXCO Resources, Inc. (XCO) was downgraded by Robert W. Baird from an “Outperform” rating to a “Neutral” rating. They have a price target of $8.00 on the company, down from $13.00.
EnerSys (ENS) had its “buy” rating reiterated by Jefferies Group (NYSE:JEF).
RBC Capital initiated coverage on Gulfport Energy Co. (GPOR). They placed a “Sector Perform” rating on the company.
Cobalt International Energy (CIE) had its price target raised by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) from $24.00 to $31.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Echelon Co. (ELON) had its price target lowered by Needham & Company from $11.00 to $9.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Devon Energy Co. (DVN) was downgraded by FBR Capital from an “Outperform” rating to a “Market Perform” rating.
Carbonite (CARB) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Canaccord Genuity.
Friday, February 10, 2012
Moodys (MCO) (BIG) (GRPN) (IR) (RIMM) (CVS) (RAX) Ratings, Price Targets
Moodys Corporation (NYSE: MCO), Big Lots, Inc. (NYSE: BIG), Groupon (NASDAQ: GRPN), Ingersoll-Rand (NYSE: IR), Research In Motion (NASDAQ: RIMM), CVS Caremark (NYSE: CVS) and Rackspace Hosting, Inc. (NYSE: RAX) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM) initiated coverage on Big Lots, Inc. (BIG). They placed a “Neutral” rating and a price target of $48.00 on the company.
Groupon (GRPN) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS).
Ingersoll-Rand (IR) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Jefferies Group (NYSE:JEF).
Research In Motion (RIMM) had its “Hold” rating reiterated by Canaccord Genuity.
CVS Caremark (CVS) had its price target raised by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) from $46.00 to $48.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Moodys Corporation (MCO) had its price target raised by JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM) from $43.00 to $45.00. They have an “Overweight” rating on the company.
Rackspace Hosting, Inc. (RAX) had its price target raised by Evercore Partners from $52.00 to $58.00. They have an “Overweight” rating on the company.
JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM) initiated coverage on Big Lots, Inc. (BIG). They placed a “Neutral” rating and a price target of $48.00 on the company.
Groupon (GRPN) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS).
Ingersoll-Rand (IR) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Jefferies Group (NYSE:JEF).
Research In Motion (RIMM) had its “Hold” rating reiterated by Canaccord Genuity.
CVS Caremark (CVS) had its price target raised by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) from $46.00 to $48.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Moodys Corporation (MCO) had its price target raised by JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM) from $43.00 to $45.00. They have an “Overweight” rating on the company.
Rackspace Hosting, Inc. (RAX) had its price target raised by Evercore Partners from $52.00 to $58.00. They have an “Overweight” rating on the company.
Boyd (BYD) (ATML) (CODE) (AAPL) (ALR) (CTSH) (DIS) Ratings, Price Targets
Boyd Gaming (NYSE: BYD), Atmel (NASDAQ: ATML), Spansion Inc. (NASDAQ: CODE), Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL), Alere (NYSE: ALR), Cognizant (NASDAQ: CTSH) and Walt Disney (NYSE: DIS) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Nomura (NYSE:NMR) initiated coverage on Boyd Gaming (BYD). They placed a “Neutral” rating on the company.
Atmel (ATML) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS). They have a price target of $12.00 on the company, up from $10.00.
Spansion Inc. (CODE) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Needham & Company.
Apple (AAPL) had its price target raised by Needham & Company from $540.00 to $620.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Alere (ALR) had its price target raised by Mizuho from $23.00 to $27.00. They have a “Neutral” rating on the company.
Cognizant (CTSH) had its price target raised by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) from $71.00 to $73.00. They have a “Neutral” rating on the company.
Walt Disney (DIS) had its price target raised by Hilliard Lyons from $50.00 to $52.00. They have a “Long-Term Buy” rating on the company.
Nomura (NYSE:NMR) initiated coverage on Boyd Gaming (BYD). They placed a “Neutral” rating on the company.
Atmel (ATML) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS). They have a price target of $12.00 on the company, up from $10.00.
Spansion Inc. (CODE) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Needham & Company.
Apple (AAPL) had its price target raised by Needham & Company from $540.00 to $620.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Alere (ALR) had its price target raised by Mizuho from $23.00 to $27.00. They have a “Neutral” rating on the company.
Cognizant (CTSH) had its price target raised by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) from $71.00 to $73.00. They have a “Neutral” rating on the company.
Walt Disney (DIS) had its price target raised by Hilliard Lyons from $50.00 to $52.00. They have a “Long-Term Buy” rating on the company.
Visa (V) Ratings, Price Targets
Visa Inc. (NYSE: V) had ratings and price targets on it adjusted by analysts.
Visa Inc. (V) had its price target raised by Meredith Whitney from $105.00 to $117.00. They have an “Outperform” rating on the stock.
Visa Inc. had its price target raised by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) from $114.00 to $125.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the stock.
Visa Inc. had its price target raised by Morgan Keegan from $120.00 to $125.00. They have an “Outperform” rating on the stock.
Visa Inc. had its price target raised by Oppenheimer from $110.00 to $126.00. They have an “Outperform” rating on the stock.
Visa Inc. had its price target raised by FBR Capital from $96.00 to $120.00. They have a “Market Perform” rating on the stock.
Visa Inc. had its price target raised by Wedbush from $83.00 to $90.00. They have a “Neutral” rating on the stock.
Visa Inc. had its price target raised by Deutsche Bank (NYSE:DB) from $107.00 to $125.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the stock.
Visa Inc. had its price target raised by Citigroup (NYSE:C) from $104.00 to $115.00. They have a “Neutral” rating on the stock.
Visa Inc. (V) had its price target raised by Meredith Whitney from $105.00 to $117.00. They have an “Outperform” rating on the stock.
Visa Inc. had its price target raised by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) from $114.00 to $125.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the stock.
Visa Inc. had its price target raised by Morgan Keegan from $120.00 to $125.00. They have an “Outperform” rating on the stock.
Visa Inc. had its price target raised by Oppenheimer from $110.00 to $126.00. They have an “Outperform” rating on the stock.
Visa Inc. had its price target raised by FBR Capital from $96.00 to $120.00. They have a “Market Perform” rating on the stock.
Visa Inc. had its price target raised by Wedbush from $83.00 to $90.00. They have a “Neutral” rating on the stock.
Visa Inc. had its price target raised by Deutsche Bank (NYSE:DB) from $107.00 to $125.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the stock.
Visa Inc. had its price target raised by Citigroup (NYSE:C) from $104.00 to $115.00. They have a “Neutral” rating on the stock.
Akamai Technologies (AKAM) Ratings, Price Targets
Akamai Technologies (NASDAQ: AKAM) had ratings and price targets on it adjusted by analysts.
Akamai Technologies (AKAM) had its price target raised by Stifel Nicolaus from $32.00 to $43.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the stock.
Akamai Technologies had its price target raised by Piper Jaffray (NYSE:PJC) from $26.00 to $36.00. They have a “Neutral” rating on the stock.
Akamai Technologies had its price target raised by DA Davidson from $36.00 to $40.00. They have a “Neutral” rating on the stock.
Akamai Technologies had its price target lowered by FBR Capital from $32.00 to $25.00. They have a “Market Perform” rating on the stock.
Akamai Technologies had its price target raised by Jefferies Group (NYSE:JEF) from $36.00 to $41.00. They have a “Hold” rating on the stock.
Akamai Technologies was upgraded by Credit Agricole from an “Outperform” rating to a “Buy” rating.
Akamai Technologies was upgraded by CLSA from an “Outperform” rating to a “Buy” rating.
Akamai Technologies (AKAM) had its price target raised by Stifel Nicolaus from $32.00 to $43.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the stock.
Akamai Technologies had its price target raised by Piper Jaffray (NYSE:PJC) from $26.00 to $36.00. They have a “Neutral” rating on the stock.
Akamai Technologies had its price target raised by DA Davidson from $36.00 to $40.00. They have a “Neutral” rating on the stock.
Akamai Technologies had its price target lowered by FBR Capital from $32.00 to $25.00. They have a “Market Perform” rating on the stock.
Akamai Technologies had its price target raised by Jefferies Group (NYSE:JEF) from $36.00 to $41.00. They have a “Hold” rating on the stock.
Akamai Technologies was upgraded by Credit Agricole from an “Outperform” rating to a “Buy” rating.
Akamai Technologies was upgraded by CLSA from an “Outperform” rating to a “Buy” rating.
Teekay (TNK) (WFT) (CMP) (ERF) (TAT) (RRC) Ratings, Price Targets
Teekay Tankers Ltd. (NYSE: TNK), Weatherford (NYSE: WFT), Compass Minerals International, Inc. (NYSE: CMP), Enerplus Resources Fund (NYSE: ERF), Transatlantic Petroleum Limited (NYSE: TAT) and Range Resources (NYSE: RRC) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Teekay Tankers Ltd. (TNK) had its price target lowered by Evercore Partners from $6.50 to $6.00. They have an “Overweight” rating on the company.
Weatherford (WFT) had its price target raised by Bank of America (NYSE:BAC) from $21.00 to $25.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Compass Minerals International, Inc. (CMP) was downgraded by JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM) from a “Neutral” rating to an “Underweight” rating. They have a price target of $66.00 on the company, down from $71.00.
Enerplus Resources Fund (ERF) was downgraded by Macquarie from an “Outperform” rating to a “Neutral” rating.
Transatlantic Petroleum Limited (TAT) was downgraded by Global Hunter Securities from an “Accumulate” rating to a “Neutral” rating.
Range Resources (RRC) was upgraded by Capital One to a “Neutral” rating.
Teekay Tankers Ltd. (TNK) had its price target lowered by Evercore Partners from $6.50 to $6.00. They have an “Overweight” rating on the company.
Weatherford (WFT) had its price target raised by Bank of America (NYSE:BAC) from $21.00 to $25.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Compass Minerals International, Inc. (CMP) was downgraded by JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM) from a “Neutral” rating to an “Underweight” rating. They have a price target of $66.00 on the company, down from $71.00.
Enerplus Resources Fund (ERF) was downgraded by Macquarie from an “Outperform” rating to a “Neutral” rating.
Transatlantic Petroleum Limited (TAT) was downgraded by Global Hunter Securities from an “Accumulate” rating to a “Neutral” rating.
Range Resources (RRC) was upgraded by Capital One to a “Neutral” rating.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Corn Stockpile Estimates Cut by USDA for 2012
Projections for corn stockpiles in the United States has been lowered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for 2012.
The downwardly revised U.S. corn stockpile estimates come from the continuing dry weather in South America, especially Argentina, which will probably result in inventories being down because of exports going up as countries gravitate to the American corn supply to make up for the shrinking South American corn yield.
Officials at the USDA slashed expected 2012 domestic corn inventory to 801 million bushels, a drop of 5.3 percent.
Argentina corn production estimates were cut by the USDA to 22 million metric tons, a decline of 15 percent. Brazil, which analysts had believed would also have corn production estimates lowered by the USDA, was kept the same, although that could be downwardly revised as the impact of weather conditions on the corn yield are clearer.
Since the middle of December, corn prices have climbed about 10 percent, in response to the first news reports dry weather was having a significant impact on the South American corn crop.
The second-largest producer of corn in the world, behind the United States, is Argentina.
The downwardly revised U.S. corn stockpile estimates come from the continuing dry weather in South America, especially Argentina, which will probably result in inventories being down because of exports going up as countries gravitate to the American corn supply to make up for the shrinking South American corn yield.
Officials at the USDA slashed expected 2012 domestic corn inventory to 801 million bushels, a drop of 5.3 percent.
Argentina corn production estimates were cut by the USDA to 22 million metric tons, a decline of 15 percent. Brazil, which analysts had believed would also have corn production estimates lowered by the USDA, was kept the same, although that could be downwardly revised as the impact of weather conditions on the corn yield are clearer.
Since the middle of December, corn prices have climbed about 10 percent, in response to the first news reports dry weather was having a significant impact on the South American corn crop.
The second-largest producer of corn in the world, behind the United States, is Argentina.
Dick’s (DKS) (VPHM) (ADSK) (AGN) (MTSN) (V) (CNL) Ratings, Price Targets
Dick’s Sporting Goods (NYSE: DKS), ViroPharma Incorporated (NASDAQ: VPHM), Autodesk (NASDAQ: ADSK), Allergan, Inc. (NYSE: AGN), Mattson Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ: MTSN), Visa Inc. (NYSE: V) and Cleco Co. (NYSE: CNL) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Dick’s Sporting Goods (DKS) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Canaccord Genuity.
ViroPharma Incorporated (VPHM) had its “buy” rating reiterated by analysts at Brean Murray.
Autodesk (ADSK) had its price target raised by RBC Capital from $38.00 to $42.00. They have a “Sector Perform” rating on the company.
Allergan, Inc. (AGN) had its price target raised by Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS) from $90.00 to $98.00. They have an “Overweight” rating on the company.
Mattson Technology, Inc. (MTSN) had its price target raised by Rodman & Renshaw from $3.00 to $4.50. They have an “Outperform” rating on the company.
Visa Inc. (V) had its price target raised by Stifel Nicolaus from $109.00 to $125.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Cleco Co. (CNL) was downgraded by Ladenburg Thalmann from a “Buy” rating to a “Neutral” rating. They have a price target of $40.00 on the company, down from $41.00.
Dick’s Sporting Goods (DKS) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Canaccord Genuity.
ViroPharma Incorporated (VPHM) had its “buy” rating reiterated by analysts at Brean Murray.
Autodesk (ADSK) had its price target raised by RBC Capital from $38.00 to $42.00. They have a “Sector Perform” rating on the company.
Allergan, Inc. (AGN) had its price target raised by Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS) from $90.00 to $98.00. They have an “Overweight” rating on the company.
Mattson Technology, Inc. (MTSN) had its price target raised by Rodman & Renshaw from $3.00 to $4.50. They have an “Outperform” rating on the company.
Visa Inc. (V) had its price target raised by Stifel Nicolaus from $109.00 to $125.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Cleco Co. (CNL) was downgraded by Ladenburg Thalmann from a “Buy” rating to a “Neutral” rating. They have a price target of $40.00 on the company, down from $41.00.
Hasbro (HAS) (DIS) (CERN) (PNRA) (YUM) (BZH) Ratings, Price Targets
Hasbro, Inc. (NYSE: HAS), Walt Disney (NYSE: DIS), Cerner (NASDAQ: CERN), Panera Bread Company (NASDAQ: PNRA), Yum! Brands, Inc. (NYSE: YUM) and Beazer Homes Inc. (NYSE: BZH) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Walt Disney (DIS) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Nomura (NYSE:NMR).
Hasbro, Inc. (HAS) had its “buy” rating reiterated by Needham & Company.
Cerner (CERN) had its price target raised by Credit Suisse (NYSE:CS) to $71.00.
Panera Bread Company (PNRA) had its price target raised by Morgan Keegan from $160.00 to $170.00. They have an “Outperform” rating on the company.
Yum! Brands, Inc. (YUM) had its price target raised by Jefferies Group (NYSE:JEF) from $55.00 to $60.00. They have a “Hold” rating on the company.
Beazer Homes Inc. (BZH) was downgraded by Guggenheim from a “Neutral” rating to a “Sell” rating.
Walt Disney (DIS) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Nomura (NYSE:NMR).
Hasbro, Inc. (HAS) had its “buy” rating reiterated by Needham & Company.
Cerner (CERN) had its price target raised by Credit Suisse (NYSE:CS) to $71.00.
Panera Bread Company (PNRA) had its price target raised by Morgan Keegan from $160.00 to $170.00. They have an “Outperform” rating on the company.
Yum! Brands, Inc. (YUM) had its price target raised by Jefferies Group (NYSE:JEF) from $55.00 to $60.00. They have a “Hold” rating on the company.
Beazer Homes Inc. (BZH) was downgraded by Guggenheim from a “Neutral” rating to a “Sell” rating.
BP (BP) (APC) (MMP) (SD) (SPN) (SLH) (WLL) (CAM) Ratings, Price Targets
BP PLC (NYSE: BP), Anadarko Petroleum (NYSE: APC), Magellan Midstream (NYSE: MMP), SandRidge Energy Inc. (NYSE: SD), Superior Energy Services (NYSE: SPN), Solera Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: SLH), Whiting Petroleum Co. (NYSE: WLL) and Cameron (NYSE: CAM) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Anadarko Petroleum (APC) had its price target raised by RBC Capital from $100.00 to $103.00. They have an “Outperform” rating on the company.
Magellan Midstream (MMP) had its price target raised by RBC Capital from $74.00 to $78.00. They have an “Outperform” rating on the company.
SandRidge Energy Inc. (SD) had its price target lowered by Deutsche Bank (NYSE:DB) to $9.00.
Superior Energy Services (SPN) had its price target raised by Citigroup (NYSE:C) from $38.00 to $41.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Solera Holdings, Inc. (SLH) had its price target raised by JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM) from $53.00 to $54.00. They have an “Overweight” rating on the company.
Whiting Petroleum Co. (WLL) had its price target raised by Stifel Nicolaus from $70.00 to $75.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
BP PLC (BP) was downgraded by Societe Generale from a “Buy” rating to a “Hold” rating.
Cameron (NYSE: CAM) was downgraded by analysts at HSBC from an “overweight” rating to a “neutral” rating.
Anadarko Petroleum (APC) had its price target raised by RBC Capital from $100.00 to $103.00. They have an “Outperform” rating on the company.
Magellan Midstream (MMP) had its price target raised by RBC Capital from $74.00 to $78.00. They have an “Outperform” rating on the company.
SandRidge Energy Inc. (SD) had its price target lowered by Deutsche Bank (NYSE:DB) to $9.00.
Superior Energy Services (SPN) had its price target raised by Citigroup (NYSE:C) from $38.00 to $41.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Solera Holdings, Inc. (SLH) had its price target raised by JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM) from $53.00 to $54.00. They have an “Overweight” rating on the company.
Whiting Petroleum Co. (WLL) had its price target raised by Stifel Nicolaus from $70.00 to $75.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
BP PLC (BP) was downgraded by Societe Generale from a “Buy” rating to a “Hold” rating.
Cameron (NYSE: CAM) was downgraded by analysts at HSBC from an “overweight” rating to a “neutral” rating.
Freeport (FCX) (KGC) (SMG) (NOR) (NSU) (MLM) (MMP) Ratings, Price Targets
Freeport McMoRan Copper and Gold (NYSE: FCX), Kinross Gold (NYSE: KGC), Scotts Miracle-Gro (NYSE: SMG), Noranda Aluminum Holding Co. (NYSE: NOR), Nevsun Resources Ltd (NYSE: NSU), Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. (NYSE: MLM) and Magellan Midstream (NYSE: MMP) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Freeport McMoRan Copper and Gold (FCX) had its price target raised by Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS) from $43.00 to $55.00. They have an “Overweight” rating on the company.
Kinross Gold (KGC) had its price target lowered by Deutsche Bank (NYSE:DB) to $85.00.
Scotts Miracle-Gro (SMG) had its price target raised by RBC Capital from $43.00 to $46.00. They have a “Sector Perform” rating on the company.
Noranda Aluminum Holding Co. (NOR) was downgraded by Bank of America (NYSE:BAC) from a “Buy” rating to a “Neutral” rating.
Nevsun Resources Ltd (NSU) was downgraded by CIBC from a “Sector Perform” rating to an “Underperform” rating.
Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. (MLM) was downgraded by DA Davidson from a “Neutral” rating to an “Underperform” rating.
Magellan Midstream (MMP) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Wunderlich. They have a price target of $69.00 on the company.
Freeport McMoRan Copper and Gold (FCX) had its price target raised by Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS) from $43.00 to $55.00. They have an “Overweight” rating on the company.
Kinross Gold (KGC) had its price target lowered by Deutsche Bank (NYSE:DB) to $85.00.
Scotts Miracle-Gro (SMG) had its price target raised by RBC Capital from $43.00 to $46.00. They have a “Sector Perform” rating on the company.
Noranda Aluminum Holding Co. (NOR) was downgraded by Bank of America (NYSE:BAC) from a “Buy” rating to a “Neutral” rating.
Nevsun Resources Ltd (NSU) was downgraded by CIBC from a “Sector Perform” rating to an “Underperform” rating.
Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. (MLM) was downgraded by DA Davidson from a “Neutral” rating to an “Underperform” rating.
Magellan Midstream (MMP) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Wunderlich. They have a price target of $69.00 on the company.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
U.S. Corn Farmers to Plant Large Acreage Say Analysts
In a Reuters poll of 24 analysts, consensus is U.S. farmers will plant the largest amount of acres in corn in 68 years. Expectations are a faster than usual planting because of mild and drier weather will help raise the corn acreage planted.
Estimates are a total of 94.2 million acres will be planted, which could result in a record crop of 13.8 billion bushels produced, based upon a yield of 161.4 bushels an acre. The previous record is 13.1 billion bushels.
If the estimates are accurate, it'll be the largest amount of acreage planted in corn since 1944.
Some think the higher corn planting estimates are premature, citing farmers who haven't made a decision yet on whether to go with soybeans or corn. Corn is expected to be more profitable, but also has higher input costs.
Most believe higher corn prices are sustainable, which should drive up the earnings per acre by about $100 more than soybeans, matching performance over the last three years.
That assumption is based upon low supply and high demand. The drought in Argentina is also considered a major support for corn prices this year, and a reason for U.S. farmers boosting the number of acres planted.
The thought is if corn is above $6.50 a bushel, farmers will plant more acreage in 2012.
Estimates are a total of 94.2 million acres will be planted, which could result in a record crop of 13.8 billion bushels produced, based upon a yield of 161.4 bushels an acre. The previous record is 13.1 billion bushels.
If the estimates are accurate, it'll be the largest amount of acreage planted in corn since 1944.
Some think the higher corn planting estimates are premature, citing farmers who haven't made a decision yet on whether to go with soybeans or corn. Corn is expected to be more profitable, but also has higher input costs.
Most believe higher corn prices are sustainable, which should drive up the earnings per acre by about $100 more than soybeans, matching performance over the last three years.
That assumption is based upon low supply and high demand. The drought in Argentina is also considered a major support for corn prices this year, and a reason for U.S. farmers boosting the number of acres planted.
The thought is if corn is above $6.50 a bushel, farmers will plant more acreage in 2012.
BP (BP) Earnings Appear Under Pressure for 2012
BP (NYSE:BP) had a couple of analysts express concern over the performance of the company in 2012, pressuring the stock in early trading.
Jefferies (NYSE:JEF) said the oil giant is unlikely to boost production before 2014, which will probably mean earnings estimates will be lower than projected. They also cited higher tax rates and charges as another factor in the earnings performance of BP.
Consequently, Jefferies cut its earnings estimate on BP from $1.24 a share to $1.20 a share. For 2013, it raised its EPS estimate from 94 cents a share to 95 cents a share. Even so, the brokerage reiterated its "Buy" rating on the energy company.
Societe Generale downgraded BP on Wednesday from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating, citing uncertainties surrounding legal liabilities as the Macondo trial date of February 27 approaches.
"The key risk is the start of the Macondo trial on February 27. The impossibility of 'calling' the legal outcome, leads us tactically to a hold rating, following a year of outperformance," the analysts said.
Societe Generale also noted that BP will be the last entity to offer its evidence, meaning the news cycle will probably be negative in the early part of the trial, suggesting pressure on the stock.
Possibly in anticipation of this, BP boosted its dividend to a quarterly rate of 8 cents a share after a solid quarter, where the earnings of the company rose to $7.69 billion on revenue of $96.3 billion.
BP was trading at $46.59, falling $0.01, or 0.02 percent, as of 11:10 AM EST.
Jefferies (NYSE:JEF) said the oil giant is unlikely to boost production before 2014, which will probably mean earnings estimates will be lower than projected. They also cited higher tax rates and charges as another factor in the earnings performance of BP.
Consequently, Jefferies cut its earnings estimate on BP from $1.24 a share to $1.20 a share. For 2013, it raised its EPS estimate from 94 cents a share to 95 cents a share. Even so, the brokerage reiterated its "Buy" rating on the energy company.
Societe Generale downgraded BP on Wednesday from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating, citing uncertainties surrounding legal liabilities as the Macondo trial date of February 27 approaches.
"The key risk is the start of the Macondo trial on February 27. The impossibility of 'calling' the legal outcome, leads us tactically to a hold rating, following a year of outperformance," the analysts said.
Societe Generale also noted that BP will be the last entity to offer its evidence, meaning the news cycle will probably be negative in the early part of the trial, suggesting pressure on the stock.
Possibly in anticipation of this, BP boosted its dividend to a quarterly rate of 8 cents a share after a solid quarter, where the earnings of the company rose to $7.69 billion on revenue of $96.3 billion.
BP was trading at $46.59, falling $0.01, or 0.02 percent, as of 11:10 AM EST.
Beazer (BZH) (MTH) (MS) (RBS) (UBS) (ING) Ratings and Price Targets
Beazer Homes (NYSE:BZH), Meritage Homes (NYSE:MTH), Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS), Royal Bank of Scotland (NYSE:RBS), UBS AG (NYSE:UBS) and ING Groep (NYSE:ING) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Beazer Homes (BZH) was downgraded by Guggenheim from a "Neutral" rating to a "Sell" rating.
Meritage Homes (MTH) was downgraded by Guggenheim from a "Neutral" rating to a "Sell" rating.
Morgan Stanley (MS) was downgraded by Collins Stewart from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) was downgraded by Citigroup (NYSE:C) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
UBS AG (UBS) was downgraded by Deutsche Bank (NYSE:DB) from a "Hold" rating to a "Sell" rating.
ING Groep (ING) was downgraded by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Beazer Homes (BZH) was downgraded by Guggenheim from a "Neutral" rating to a "Sell" rating.
Meritage Homes (MTH) was downgraded by Guggenheim from a "Neutral" rating to a "Sell" rating.
Morgan Stanley (MS) was downgraded by Collins Stewart from a "Buy" rating to a "Hold" rating.
Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) was downgraded by Citigroup (NYSE:C) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
UBS AG (UBS) was downgraded by Deutsche Bank (NYSE:DB) from a "Hold" rating to a "Sell" rating.
ING Groep (ING) was downgraded by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) from a "Buy" rating to a "Neutral" rating.
Fossil (FOSL) (PENN) (PETM) (BMTI) (CSTR) (TMK) (TRLG) Ratings, Price Targets
Fossil (NASDAQ: FOSL), Penn National Gaming (NASDAQ: PENN), Petsmart (NASDAQ: PETM), BioMimetic Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: BMTI), Coinstar (NASDAQ: CSTR), Torchmark Co. (NYSE: TMK) and True Religion Apparel, Inc. (NASDAQ: TRLG) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Penn National Gaming (PENN) had its “Sell” rating reiterated by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS).
Petsmart (PETM) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Nomura (NYSE:NMR).
BioMimetic Therapeutics, Inc. (BMTI) had its price target raised by Collins Stewart from $4.00 to $7.00.
Coinstar (CSTR) had its price target raised by Canaccord Genuity to $57.00.
Torchmark Co. (TMK) had its price target raised by FBR Capital from $48.00 to $57.00. They have an “Outperform” rating on the company.
True Religion Apparel, Inc. (TRLG) had its price target raised by Benchmark Co. from $38.00 to $43.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Fossil (FOSL) was downgraded by Brean Murray from a “Buy” rating to a “Hold” rating. They have a price target of $100.00 on the company.
Penn National Gaming (PENN) had its “Sell” rating reiterated by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS).
Petsmart (PETM) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Nomura (NYSE:NMR).
BioMimetic Therapeutics, Inc. (BMTI) had its price target raised by Collins Stewart from $4.00 to $7.00.
Coinstar (CSTR) had its price target raised by Canaccord Genuity to $57.00.
Torchmark Co. (TMK) had its price target raised by FBR Capital from $48.00 to $57.00. They have an “Outperform” rating on the company.
True Religion Apparel, Inc. (TRLG) had its price target raised by Benchmark Co. from $38.00 to $43.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Fossil (FOSL) was downgraded by Brean Murray from a “Buy” rating to a “Hold” rating. They have a price target of $100.00 on the company.
Humana (HUM) (LVS) (DIS) (LOW) (NWSA) (PEP) (RATE) Ratings, Price Targets
Humana (NYSE: HUM), Las Vegas Sands Corp. (NYSE: LVS), Walt Disney (NYSE: DIS), Lowe’s (NYSE: LOW), News Corp. (NASDAQ: NWSA), PepsiCo, Inc. (NYSE: PEP) and Bankrate (NASDAQ: RATE) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Humana (HUM) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Jefferies Group (NYSE:JEF).
Las Vegas Sands Corp. (LVS) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS).
Walt Disney (DIS) had its price target raised by Wunderlich from $39.00 to $43.00. They have a “Hold” rating on the company.
Lowe’s (LOW) had its price target raised by Longbow Research from $29.00 to $33.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
News Corp. (NWSA) had its price target raised by Wedbush from $20.00 to $21.00.
PepsiCo, Inc. (PEP) had its price target raised by Deutsche Bank (NYSE:DB) to $72.00.
Bankrate (RATE) was downgraded by Stifel Nicolaus from a “Buy” rating to a “Hold” rating.
Humana (HUM) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Jefferies Group (NYSE:JEF).
Las Vegas Sands Corp. (LVS) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS).
Walt Disney (DIS) had its price target raised by Wunderlich from $39.00 to $43.00. They have a “Hold” rating on the company.
Lowe’s (LOW) had its price target raised by Longbow Research from $29.00 to $33.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
News Corp. (NWSA) had its price target raised by Wedbush from $20.00 to $21.00.
PepsiCo, Inc. (PEP) had its price target raised by Deutsche Bank (NYSE:DB) to $72.00.
Bankrate (RATE) was downgraded by Stifel Nicolaus from a “Buy” rating to a “Hold” rating.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Anadarko (APC) (NFX) (MMP) (CRK) (GSM) (WYNN) (CSTR) Ratings, Price Targets
Anadarko Petroleum (NYSE: APC), Newfield Exploration Co. (NYSE: NFX), Magellan Midstream (NYSE: MMP), Comstock Resources (NYSE: CRK), Globe Specialty Metals, Inc. (NYSE: GSM), Wynn Resorts, Limited (NASDAQ: WYNN) and Coinstar (NASDAQ: CSTR) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Anadarko Petroleum (APC) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Jefferies Group (NYSE:JEF).
Newfield Exploration Co. (NFX) was downgraded by UBS AG (NYSE:UBS) from a “Buy” rating to a “Neutral” rating. They have a price target of $41.00 on the company, down from $44.00.
Magellan Midstream (MMP) was upgraded by Morgan Keegan from a “Market Perform” rating to an “Outperform” rating. They have a price target of $65.50 on the company, down from $76.00.
Comstock Resources (CRK) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Canaccord Genuity.
Globe Specialty Metals, Inc. (GSM) had its price target raised by Auriga from $17.00 to $20.00.
Wynn Resorts, Limited (WYNN) had its “Neutral” rating reiterated by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS).
Coinstar (CSTR) had its price target raised by Benchmark Co. from $70.00 to $75.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Anadarko Petroleum (APC) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Jefferies Group (NYSE:JEF).
Newfield Exploration Co. (NFX) was downgraded by UBS AG (NYSE:UBS) from a “Buy” rating to a “Neutral” rating. They have a price target of $41.00 on the company, down from $44.00.
Magellan Midstream (MMP) was upgraded by Morgan Keegan from a “Market Perform” rating to an “Outperform” rating. They have a price target of $65.50 on the company, down from $76.00.
Comstock Resources (CRK) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Canaccord Genuity.
Globe Specialty Metals, Inc. (GSM) had its price target raised by Auriga from $17.00 to $20.00.
Wynn Resorts, Limited (WYNN) had its “Neutral” rating reiterated by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS).
Coinstar (CSTR) had its price target raised by Benchmark Co. from $70.00 to $75.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Yamana (AUY) (CNC) (CSTR) (CVS) (PBY) (URBN) Ratings, Price Targets
Yamana Gold (NYSE: AUY), Centene Co. (NYSE: CNC), Coinstar (NASDAQ: CSTR), CVS Caremark (NYSE: CVS), Pep Boys (NYSE: PBY) and Urban Outfitters, Inc. (NASDAQ: URBN) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Yamana Gold (AUY) was downgraded by Dahlman Rose from a “Buy” rating to a “Hold” rating.
Centene Co. (CNC) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Citigroup (NYSE:C). They have a price target of $52.00 on the company.
Coinstar (CSTR) had its “Hold” rating reiterated by Needham & Company.
CVS Caremark (CVS) had its price target raised by Citigroup from $45.00 to $51.00.
Pep Boys (PBY) was downgraded by Argus from a “Buy” rating to a “Hold” rating.
Urban Outfitters, Inc. (URBN) was downgraded by Brean Murray from a “Hold” rating to a “Sell” rating. They have a price target of $23.00 on the company.
Yamana Gold (AUY) was downgraded by Dahlman Rose from a “Buy” rating to a “Hold” rating.
Centene Co. (CNC) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Citigroup (NYSE:C). They have a price target of $52.00 on the company.
Coinstar (CSTR) had its “Hold” rating reiterated by Needham & Company.
CVS Caremark (CVS) had its price target raised by Citigroup from $45.00 to $51.00.
Pep Boys (PBY) was downgraded by Argus from a “Buy” rating to a “Hold” rating.
Urban Outfitters, Inc. (URBN) was downgraded by Brean Murray from a “Hold” rating to a “Sell” rating. They have a price target of $23.00 on the company.
CNH (CNH) (BWLD) (CBRL) (MWIV) (RCI) (KELYA) (PPO) Ratings, Price Targets
CNH Global (NYSE: CNH), Buffalo Wild Wings (NASDAQ: BWLD), Cracker Barrel (NASDAQ: CBRL), MWI Veterinary Supply (NASDAQ: MWIV), Rogers Communications Inc. (NYSE: RCI), Kelly Services, Inc. (NASDAQ: KELYA) and Polypore (NYSE: PPO) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Buffalo Wild Wings (BWLD) was downgraded by Miller Tabak from a “Buy” rating to a “Hold” rating. They have a price target of $72.00 on the company, down from $78.00.
Cracker Barrel (CBRL) was downgraded by KeyBanc from a “Buy” rating to a “Hold” rating.
MWI Veterinary Supply (MWIV) was downgraded by Barrington Research from an “Outperform” rating to a “Market Perform” rating.
Rogers Communications Inc. (RCI) was downgraded by Macquarie from an “Outperform” rating to a “Neutral” rating.
Kelly Services, Inc. (KELYA) was upgraded by Citigroup (NYSE:C) from a “Neutral” rating to a “Buy” rating.
Polypore (PPO) was upgraded by Robert W. Baird from a “Neutral” rating to an “Outperform” rating. They have a price target of $58.00 on the company, up from $49.00.
CNH Global (CNH) was downgraded by ISI Group from a “Buy” rating to a “Hold” rating. They have a price target of $48.00 on the company.
Buffalo Wild Wings (BWLD) was downgraded by Miller Tabak from a “Buy” rating to a “Hold” rating. They have a price target of $72.00 on the company, down from $78.00.
Cracker Barrel (CBRL) was downgraded by KeyBanc from a “Buy” rating to a “Hold” rating.
MWI Veterinary Supply (MWIV) was downgraded by Barrington Research from an “Outperform” rating to a “Market Perform” rating.
Rogers Communications Inc. (RCI) was downgraded by Macquarie from an “Outperform” rating to a “Neutral” rating.
Kelly Services, Inc. (KELYA) was upgraded by Citigroup (NYSE:C) from a “Neutral” rating to a “Buy” rating.
Polypore (PPO) was upgraded by Robert W. Baird from a “Neutral” rating to an “Outperform” rating. They have a price target of $58.00 on the company, up from $49.00.
CNH Global (CNH) was downgraded by ISI Group from a “Buy” rating to a “Hold” rating. They have a price target of $48.00 on the company.
FedEx (FDX) (PNRA) (QCOR) (GLW) (KCP) (NVS) (PHM) Ratings, Price Targets
FedEx (NYSE: FDX), Panera Bread Company (NASDAQ: PNRA), Questcor Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: QCOR), Corning Inc. (NYSE: GLW), Kenneth Cole Productions (NYSE: KCP), Novartis (NYSE: NVS) and PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE: PHM) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Panera Bread Company (PNRA) had its price target raised by Oppenheimer (NYSE:OPY) from $150.00 to $175.00. They have an “Outperform” rating on the company.
Questcor Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: QCOR) had its price target lowered by Ladenburg Thalmann from $51.00 to $46.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
FedEx (FDX) was upgraded by Bank of America (NYSE:BAC) from a “Neutral” rating to a “Buy” rating.
Corning Inc. (GLW) was upgraded by Piper Jaffray (NYSE:PJC) from a “Neutral” rating to an “Overweight” rating. They have a price target of $16.00 on the company.
Kenneth Cole Productions (KCP) was upgraded by Sterne Agee from a “Neutral” rating to a “Buy” rating.
Novartis (NVS) was downgraded by Bank of America to an “Underperform” rating.
PulteGroup, Inc. (PHM) was downgraded by Raymond James (NYSE:RJF) from an “Outperform” rating to a “Market Perform” rating.
Panera Bread Company (PNRA) had its price target raised by Oppenheimer (NYSE:OPY) from $150.00 to $175.00. They have an “Outperform” rating on the company.
Questcor Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: QCOR) had its price target lowered by Ladenburg Thalmann from $51.00 to $46.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
FedEx (FDX) was upgraded by Bank of America (NYSE:BAC) from a “Neutral” rating to a “Buy” rating.
Corning Inc. (GLW) was upgraded by Piper Jaffray (NYSE:PJC) from a “Neutral” rating to an “Overweight” rating. They have a price target of $16.00 on the company.
Kenneth Cole Productions (KCP) was upgraded by Sterne Agee from a “Neutral” rating to a “Buy” rating.
Novartis (NVS) was downgraded by Bank of America to an “Underperform” rating.
PulteGroup, Inc. (PHM) was downgraded by Raymond James (NYSE:RJF) from an “Outperform” rating to a “Market Perform” rating.
Haynes (HAYN) (RVBD) (RWEOY) (AMLN) (AVB) (SNCR) (STT) Ratings, Price Targets
Haynes International, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAYN), Riverbed Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ: RVBD), RWE AG (NASDAQ: RWEOY), Amylin Pharma (NASDAQ: AMLN), AvalonBay Communities, Inc. (NYSE: AVB), Synchronoss Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: SNCR) and State Street Co. (NYSE: STT) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Riverbed Technology, Inc. (RVBD) was upgraded by Pacific Crest from a “Sector Perform” rating to an “Outperform” rating. They have a price target of $34.00 on the company.
RWE AG (RWEOY) was upgraded by HSBC (NYSE:HBC) from an “Underweight” rating to a “Neutral” rating.
Amylin Pharma (AMLN) had its price target lowered by Imperial Capital to $7.50.
AvalonBay Communities, Inc. (AVB) had its price target raised by Jefferies Group (NYSE:JEF) to $131.00.
Synchronoss Technologies, Inc. (SNCR) was downgraded by Avondale Partners from an “Outperform” rating to a “Market Perform” rating.
State Street Co. (STT) was downgraded by Evercore Partners from an “Overweight” rating to an “Equal Weight” rating.
Haynes International, Inc. (HAYN) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Auriga.
Riverbed Technology, Inc. (RVBD) was upgraded by Pacific Crest from a “Sector Perform” rating to an “Outperform” rating. They have a price target of $34.00 on the company.
RWE AG (RWEOY) was upgraded by HSBC (NYSE:HBC) from an “Underweight” rating to a “Neutral” rating.
Amylin Pharma (AMLN) had its price target lowered by Imperial Capital to $7.50.
AvalonBay Communities, Inc. (AVB) had its price target raised by Jefferies Group (NYSE:JEF) to $131.00.
Synchronoss Technologies, Inc. (SNCR) was downgraded by Avondale Partners from an “Outperform” rating to a “Market Perform” rating.
State Street Co. (STT) was downgraded by Evercore Partners from an “Overweight” rating to an “Equal Weight” rating.
Haynes International, Inc. (HAYN) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Auriga.
Micros (MCRS) (FLT) (GILD) (HGR) (KBH) (LEN) (DRC) Ratings, Price Targets
Micros Systems (NASDAQ: MCRS), FleetCor Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: FLT), Gilead Sciences, Inc. (NASDAQ: GILD), Hanger Orthopedic (NYSE: HGR), KB Home (NYSE: KBH), Lennar Co. (NYSE: LEN) and Dresser-Rand (NYSE: DRC) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
FleetCor Technologies, Inc. (FLT) had its price target raised by Citigroup (NYSE:C) to $36.00.
Gilead Sciences, Inc. (GILD) had its price target raised by ThinkEquity from $50.00 to $61.00.
Hanger Orthopedic (HGR) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Jefferies Group (NYSE:JEF).
Micros Systems (MCRS) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Jefferies Group.
KB Home (KBH) was downgraded by Raymond James (NYSE:RJF) from a “Market Perform” rating to an “Underperform” rating.
Lennar Co. (LEN) was downgraded by Raymond James from an “Outperform” rating to a “Market Perform” rating.
Dresser-Rand (DRC) was upgraded by Pritchard from a “Neutral” rating to a “Buy” rating.
FleetCor Technologies, Inc. (FLT) had its price target raised by Citigroup (NYSE:C) to $36.00.
Gilead Sciences, Inc. (GILD) had its price target raised by ThinkEquity from $50.00 to $61.00.
Hanger Orthopedic (HGR) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Jefferies Group (NYSE:JEF).
Micros Systems (MCRS) had its “Buy” rating reiterated by Jefferies Group.
KB Home (KBH) was downgraded by Raymond James (NYSE:RJF) from a “Market Perform” rating to an “Underperform” rating.
Lennar Co. (LEN) was downgraded by Raymond James from an “Outperform” rating to a “Market Perform” rating.
Dresser-Rand (DRC) was upgraded by Pritchard from a “Neutral” rating to a “Buy” rating.
Gap (GPS) (UL) (WHR) (TEVA) (TOL) (HITT) (ABMD) Ratings, Price Targets
The Gap Inc. (NYSE: GPS), Unilever (NYSE: UL), Whirlpool (NYSE: WHR), Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd (NASDAQ: TEVA), Toll Brothers, Inc. (NYSE: TOL), Hittite Microwave (NASDAQ: HITT) and Abiomed (NASDAQ: ABMD) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Unilever (UL) was upgraded by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) to a “Conviction Buy” rating.
Whirlpool (WHR) was upgraded by Longbow Research from a “Neutral” rating to a “Buy” rating. They have a price target of $81.00 on the company.
Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd (TEVA) was downgraded by Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS) from an “Overweight” rating to an “Equal Weight” rating.
Toll Brothers, Inc. (TOL) was downgraded by Raymond James (NYSE:RJF) from an “Outperform” rating to a “Market Perform” rating.
The Gap Inc. (GPS) was downgraded by Standpoint Research from a “Buy” rating to a “Hold” rating.
Hittite Microwave (HITT) was downgraded by Needham & Company from a “Buy” rating to a “Hold” rating.
Abiomed (ABMD) had its price target raised by Piper Jaffray (NYSE:PJC) to $25.00.
Unilever (UL) was upgraded by Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) to a “Conviction Buy” rating.
Whirlpool (WHR) was upgraded by Longbow Research from a “Neutral” rating to a “Buy” rating. They have a price target of $81.00 on the company.
Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd (TEVA) was downgraded by Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS) from an “Overweight” rating to an “Equal Weight” rating.
Toll Brothers, Inc. (TOL) was downgraded by Raymond James (NYSE:RJF) from an “Outperform” rating to a “Market Perform” rating.
The Gap Inc. (GPS) was downgraded by Standpoint Research from a “Buy” rating to a “Hold” rating.
Hittite Microwave (HITT) was downgraded by Needham & Company from a “Buy” rating to a “Hold” rating.
Abiomed (ABMD) had its price target raised by Piper Jaffray (NYSE:PJC) to $25.00.
Cubic (CUB) (MU) (NYT) (CIT) (CTSH) (DIS) Coach (COH) Ratings, Price Targets
Cubic (NYSE: CUB), Micron Technology, Inc. (NYSE: MU), New York Times Co. (NYSE: NYT), CIT Group Inc. (NYSE: CIT), Cognizant (NASDAQ: CTSH) Walt Disney (NYSE: DIS) and Coach (NYSE: COH) had ratings and price targets on them adjusted by analysts.
Cubic (CUB) had its price target raised by Benchmark Co. from $52.00 to $60.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Micron Technology, Inc. (MU) had its price target raised by Stifel Nicolaus from $7.50 to $9.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
New York Times Co. (NYT) had its price target raised by Benchmark Co. to $8.00.
CIT Group Inc. (CIT) had its “Neutral” rating reiterated by Nomura (NYSE:NMR).
Cognizant (CTSH) had its “Top Pick” rating reiterated by analysts at Needham & Company.
Walt Disney (DIS) was upgraded by Davenport from a “Neutral” rating to a “Buy” rating.
Coach (COH) had its price target raised by JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM) to $76.00.
Cubic (CUB) had its price target raised by Benchmark Co. from $52.00 to $60.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
Micron Technology, Inc. (MU) had its price target raised by Stifel Nicolaus from $7.50 to $9.00. They have a “Buy” rating on the company.
New York Times Co. (NYT) had its price target raised by Benchmark Co. to $8.00.
CIT Group Inc. (CIT) had its “Neutral” rating reiterated by Nomura (NYSE:NMR).
Cognizant (CTSH) had its “Top Pick” rating reiterated by analysts at Needham & Company.
Walt Disney (DIS) was upgraded by Davenport from a “Neutral” rating to a “Buy” rating.
Coach (COH) had its price target raised by JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM) to $76.00.
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