Weekly Market Overview
U.S.
markets started the week on a positive note yet again following strength in blue chips. The Dow stands at the apex of yet another record - 14,000 - amid continued strength in dealflows. Broader indexes fell, however, ahead of key earnings releases later in the week. Some are betting that the economy will begin to slow after retail reports last week indicated some initial weakness in consumer spending. Whether or not a slowdown materializes remains to be seen; however, investors should be careful this week amid such record gains.
Top 10 Stocks to Watch this Week
Fundamental Analysis
- Brinks Company (BCO)
– The Brink’s Company remains on our watchlist since both MMI and
Pirate Capital still hold significant stakes in the company. The
company recently announced higher than expected earnings along with a
dividend increase. We are still waiting to hear about the activist
situation.
- Ceridian Corporation (CEN)
– Bill Ackman’s activist play also continues to hold appeal with us
since the breakup could unlock substantial value. We have not seen an
announcement of an official date, but as of March 13th, Pershing Square
is still engaged in a proxy contest with the company’s board of
directors. Recently, Pershing Square lost its battle to obtain
questionable letters, but vowed to continue pursuing its objectives.
However, news came out today stating that one potential buyer of
Ceridian was able to obtain $3.5 billion in debt financing, which is
great news for shareholders holding out for a buyout. Meanwhile, shareholders recently won a lawsuit against the company that may level the competitive bidding landscape, paving the way for an increased bid.
- Hexcel Corporation (HXL)
– OSS Capital demanded today that the company engage an investment bank
to explore strategic alternatives. The company’s shares are worth $14
per share above the current market price if priced at its peers’
levels. All we are waiting on is the support of the board of directors!
Meanwhile, the company has received several analyst upgrades and sits
near its 52-week high.
- Applebees International (APPB)
– Breeden Capital Management first approached Applebees several months
ago suggesting that the company put itself up for sale. Three weeks
ago, the company announced that it had received several takeover offers
and would review the bids before taking final offers. Recently, the
company also agreed to yield two board seats to activist investor
Breeden Partners. The company finally announced a sale today at $2.1 billion - a 4% premium to Friday's close and a substantial increase from when we first mentioned the stock.
- Universal Power Group (UPG)
– 3V Capital Management announced last week that they weren’t pleased
with the company’s valuation. They recommended several changes that
they hope would enhance shareholder value. We are still waiting on more
details and a response from the company, but this was definitely a
stock worth following!
Technical Analysis
Stock of the Week : Target Corporation (TGT)Target Corporation
(NYSE:TGT) appears to be a big hit with Bill Ackman after his Pershing
Square Capital Management disclosed a 9.6 percent stake in the company,
confirming rumors that surfaced late last week. Investors are hoping
that the famed activist investor can help unlock value in the retail
giant that has been experiencing a lower valuation than many feel
deserved the company. (Read More)
Tip of the Week : The New Debt - Equity Linked Notes
The Dow Jones Industrial Average and NASDAQ have both hit new highs
amid a buying frenzy by retail and professional investors alike – who
wants to buy debt securities these days? Well, high net worth
individuals are quickly turning their attention to a sexy new debt
instrument that aims to redefine the debt landscape... (Read More)
Final Words
The
market remains optimistic despite questionable yields and other
economic data. While this is good news for investors in the short term,
be sure to use caution and only invest prudently.