The View From the Summit

The Investing Daily Summit

This week I will speak about energy investing at Investing Daily's annual Investing Summit in Alexandria, Virginia. Last year's presentation in Scottsdale, Arizona was my first since joining Investing Daily, and I laid out my personal philosophies for creating long-term wealth. They are:

Spend less than I earn and invest the rest

Minimize personal debt

Invest in businesses I understand

Understand the risk level

Avoid investments that are dependent on government subsidies and/or mandates

Identify long-term trends and invest accordingly

Have an exit strategy

I will cover a number of long-term trends in the energy business. One is that oil will continue to be hard to replace, and even though new supplies are coming online, voracious demand from developing countries and the higher costs of developing unconventional reserves will keep prices high. Another is that coal and nuclear power both face a lot of headwinds, and investors have to be extremely picky if they choose to invest in these sectors. On the other hand, solar power's prospects look bright, and solar will in the long run become perhaps our most important source of energy.

Natural Gas Powers Ahead

But the story of the year for me is the developing picture with natural gas. In my presentation last year, I had a slide that simply said "Natural gas is cheap." I went on to explain why I felt like natural gas was undervalued, and I made the case for investing in natural gas producers on the basis of several long-term bullish drivers.

What has happened since then?

Natural gas prices are up about 20 percent since I wrote that, and natural gas producers — undervalued for so long in my opinion — have begun to surge. Over the course of the year we added a number of natural gas producers to the various Energy Strategist portfolios, and by my count now! hold 10 of the country's top 20 as shown in the table below:

Top 20 natural gas producers in 2013. Source: Natural Gas Supply Association

For example, we added Chesapeake Energy (NYSE: CHK) — the country's second-largest natural gas producer — to our Aggressive Portfolio on May 13 and have gained 42 percent since. (Check the latest Energy Strategist for our current advice on Chesapeake and the other natural gas producers.)

Devon Finally Bounces

But Chesapeake isn't an exception to the rule. All of our natural gas producers in the portfolios — 100 percent — are sitting on gains. I personally bought the nation's fourth-largest natural gas producer — Devon Energy (NYSE: DVN) — last September because I felt the market was discounting both the potential for higher gas prices and Devon's moves toward even more lucrative liquids production. Devon's shares were pretty flat from the time I bought them until early February. I was in no hurry, because remember, I am targeting long-term trends and positioning accordingly.

But the very cold winter meant I didn't have to wait for investors to recognize the long-term bullish factors that I believe will support a natural gas price rise. The short-term factors lined up as well, as natural gas inventories depleted at a record pace this winter. Since Feb. 1, Devon shares have surged by more than 20 percent, and are regularly breaking through new 52-week highs:

Devon Energy’s share price, Feb. 3 through April 25

A similar picture has emerged for other natural gas stocks. They have all begun to move higher over the past few months. Since most natural gas producers also ha! ve substa! ntial liquids production, oil prices that are stubbornly clinging to $100 a barrel have helped.

Cabot's Production Surges

As I have been saying for months, most of these producers will report better year-over-year results versus last year. Last week Cabot Oil & Gas (NYSE: COG) — with most of its focus in Pennsylvania's gas-rich Marcellus Shale and the Eagle Ford crude oil shale of Texas — reported first-quarter results. Some highlights for the quarter were:

Natural gas and liquids production of 119.9 billion cubic feet equivalent (Bcfe), an increase of 34 percent over last year’s comparable quarter

Discretionary cash flow of $319.5 million, an increase of 36 percent over last year’s comparable quarter

Net income excluding selected items of $109.7 million, an increase of 102 percent over last year’s comparable quarter

Total unit costs of $2.66 per thousand cubic feet equivalent (Mcfe), a 19 percent improvement over last year’s comparable quarter

Despite what was shaping up to be a good quarter, shares had recently sold off after Cabot announced production would be flat during the first half of the year as a result of a transition to the more efficient pad drilling. Several brokerage houses even downgraded the company on the basis of this short-term outlook, but shares have surged since last week's earnings report, and are now up 17 percent in the last 10 trading days.

Conclusions

Based on my forecast for natural gas prices this year, I expect this to be a great year for the shares of most major natural gas producers. Some have already made strong advances, but many are still undervalued. For the long-term investor especially, it's certainly not too late to buy in.

(Follow Robert Rapier on Twitter, LinkedIn, or Facebook.)

Top 5 Dow Dividend Companies To Buy Right Now

In the past I've written countless articles about gold (GLD) and silver (SLV), claiming they're going to be great long-term bets no matter what they currently trade for, and that they're both looking relatively cheap to purchase in 2013 after their prices fell significantly over the past few years. For months, people have informed me that I've looked like an idiot. Now it's starting to look like ole' QTR may have been onto something after all.

To reiterate, for the millionth time, let me just set the record straight on where I sit with precious metals. I come from the "old school" of Austrian economics. Austrian economics dictate that market corrections and pullbacks are good things. They represent the actual supply and demand of products and services and how they correspond to a company's valuation. This is important because the one time that precious metals always flourish is during market corrections and pullbacks. While Keynesian could be great for gold and silver as people should be realizing the bubbles that we make, what it really does is create big downtrends in the precious metals like the last few years, as people stupidly take on the attitude that "the Fed won't let anything bad happen to us".

Top 5 Dow Dividend Companies To Buy Right Now: Deutsche Bank AG(DB)

Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft provides investment, financial, and related products and services. The company?s Corporate and Investment Bank division engages in the origination, sale, structuring, and trading of bonds, equities and equity-linked products, exchange-traded and over-the-counter derivatives, foreign exchange, money market instruments, securitized instruments, and commodities to sovereign countries and multinational organizations; and medium-sized companies and multinational corporations. It also offers mergers and acquisitions advisory, corporate finance, and transaction banking, as well as trade finance, cash management, and trust and securities services for financial institutions and other companies. The company?s Private Clients and Asset Management division provides mutual funds and alternative investment products; manages real estate and infrastructure investments and private equity funds; offers advisory and portfolio management services to insurance companies; and provides investment solutions to institutional customers, high net worth individuals, and families. This division also offers a range of banking products and services, including current accounts, deposits and loans, and investment management and pension products to private and self-employed individuals, and small to medium-sized businesses. Its Corporate Investments division?s principal investment activities comprise private equity and venture capital investments, corporate real estate investments, a minority stake in Deutsche Postbank AG, credit exposures, and other non-strategic investments. As of December 31, 2010, the company operated 3,083 branches in approximately 74 countries worldwide, including 2,087 in Germany. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft was founded in 1870 and is headquartered in Frankfurt am Main, Germany.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Dan Carroll]

  Deutsche Bank (NYSE: DB  ) also dropped with Germany's financial sector, with shares falling 3.2%. The firm posted a strong first quarter that saw net income rise year over year, but like Commerzbank, Deutsche Bank is still on the lookout to increase capital in order to guard against exactly the kind of slowdown investors panicked about earlier in the week. The firm's leadership said at its annual meeting this week that the bank is on pace with cost-cutting measures, but so long as Europe remains mired in a slump, Deutsche Bank and other European financial institutions will be vulnerable.

• [By Louie Grint]

  The impact of a slowdown in Germany, however, is still uncertain, as Siemens generates a significant portion of its revenue outside the country.
  
  This isn't play money
  Finally, here's�German financial institution Deutsche Bank AG (NYSE: DB  ) .

Top 5 Dow Dividend Companies To Buy Right Now: Biosev SA (BSEV3)

Biosev SA, formerly LDC Bioenergia SA, is a Brazil-based company active in the sugar and energy business. It is primarily engaged in the sugarcane processing. The Company produces sugar and ethanol, and supplies its products to domestic and international markets. Its refined sugar is sold under the Estrela brand name on the Brazilian retail market. The ethanol products comprise: hydrous ethanol, anhydrous ethanol and neutral ethanol. Other products from its plants include animal feed, dry yeast, molasses powder and bioelectricity from sugarcane bagasse. The Company�� customers include Nestle, Coca-Cola, AmBev, Kraft, Dori and Unilever, among others. The Company's production units are present in five Brazilian states: Mato Grosso do Sul, Sao Paulo, Minas Gerais, Paraiba and Rio Grande do Norte. Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Lucia Kassai]

  Biosev SA (BSEV3), Louis Dreyfus Holding BV�� Brazil unit, tumbled in its debut after giving investors in its initial public offering a money-back guarantee.

Best Investments For 2015: Einstein Noah Restaurant Group Inc (BAGL)

Einstein Noah Restaurant Group, Inc. (ENRGI), incorporated on October 21, 1992, is an owner/operator, franchisor and licensor of bagel specialty restaurants in the United States. ENRGI operates under the Einstein Bros. Bagels (Einstein Bros.), Noah�� New York Bagels (Noah��) and Manhattan Bagel Company (Manhattan Bagel) brands. ENRGI operates in three business segments: the Company-owned restaurants segment, the manufacturing and commissary segment, and the franchise and license segment. The Company-owned restaurants segment includes the restaurants that it owns. The manufacturing and commissary segment produces and distributes bagel dough and other products to its Company-owned restaurants, licensees and franchisees and other third parties. The franchise and license segment earns royalties and other fees from the use of trademarks and operating systems developed for the Einstein Bros., Noah�� and Manhattan Bagel brands.

During the fiscal year ended January 1, 2013 (fiscal 2012), ENRGI acquired eight restaurants and opened an additional 15 Company-owned restaurants. It closed one Company-owned restaurant during fiscal 2012. On January 31, 2012, the Company sold a Company-owned restaurant. As of January 1, 2013, it had 816 restaurants in 39 states and in the District of Columbia. In January 2013, the Company opened an Einstein Bros. franchise in Montana. Its product offerings include fresh-baked bagels and other bakery items baked onsite, ma de-to-order breakfast and lunch sandwiches on a range of bagels, breads or wraps, gourmet soups and salads, assorted pastries, premium coffees and an assortment of snacks. Its manufacturing and independent distribution network delivers ingredients that are delivered fresh to its restaurants.

Company-owned restaurants

Einstein Bros. offers a menu that provides food for breakfast and lunch, including fresh-baked bagels and hot breakfast sandwiches, freshly prepared lunch sandwiches, cream cheese and other spreads, specia! lty coffees and teas, soups, salads and other menu offerings. Noah�� is a neighborhood-based bakery/deli restaurant that serves fresh-baked bagels, hot breakfast sandwiches, made-to-order deli-style sandwiches, cream cheese and other spreads, specialty coffees and teas, soups, salads and other menu offerings. Manhattan Bagel provides a traditional New York style boil and baked bagel. Manhattan Bagel also serves a range of grilled sandwiches, freshly made deli sandwiches, freshly prepared breakfast sandwiches, soups, and a range of other fresh-baked sweets. Similar to Einstein Bros. and Noah��, Manhattan Bagel also features a line of fresh brewed coffees and specialty coffee/espresso beverages. During fiscal 2012, ENRGI generated approximately 90% of its total revenue from restaurant sales at its Company-owned restaurants.

Manufacturing and Commissaries

ENRGI operates a bagel dough manufacturing facility in Whittier, California and has contracts with two suppliers to produce bagel dough and sweets to the specifications. These facilities provide frozen dough, partially-baked frozen bagels and fully baked sweets for its Company-owned restaurants, franchisees and licensees. These operations provide the restaurants with food products, such as sliced meats, cheeses, and/or certain salad ingredients. It has recipes and production processes for the bagel dough, cream cheese and coffee. Frozen, or partially baked and frozen, bagel dough is shipped to all of its Company-owned, franchised and licensed restaurants where the dough is then baked onsite. Its purchases other ingredients used in the restaurants, such as meat, lettuce, tomatoes and condiments, from a select group of third party suppliers.

Franchise and Licensing

ENRGI offers Einstein Bros. franchises to qualified area developers. As of January 1, 2013, the Company was registered to offer Einstein Bros. franchises in 49 states and the District of Columbia. It also has a franchise base in the Manhatt! an Bagel ! brand. Its licensees are located primarily in colleges and universities, hospitals, airports and military bases. As of February 25, 2013, it had 28 development agreements in place for 136 total restaurants, 34 of which have already opened. During fiscal 2012, it opened 13 franchised locations and 27 licensed locations. During fiscal 2012, approximately 3% of its total revenue was generated by the Company�� franchise and license operations.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By MARKETWATCH]

  SAN FRANCISCO (MarketWatch) -- Wall Street hedge-fund investor David Einhorn was active in the last quarter of 2013, taking new stakes in technology and energy companies, while trimming existing holdings in insurer Aetna (AET) , NCR Corp (NCR) and WPX Energy (WPX) , according to an SEC filing Friday. Einhorn's Greenlight Capital picked up stakes in Anadarko Petroleum (APC) , BP (BP) , McDermott Intl. (MDR) , Micron Technolgy (MU) and Take-Two Interactive (TTWO) , according to the latest 13F filing. He trimmed stakes in Aetna, Einstein Noah (BAGL) and WPX Energy, according to the filing.

• [By John Udovich]

  At the end of last week, small cap sandwich stock Potbelly Corp (NASDAQ: PBPB) had a delicious surge of 120% for its IPO���meaning its probably a good idea to see whether its still worth getting in on the action plus take a look at the performance of peers�Cosi Inc (NASDAQ: COSI), Panera Bread Co (NASDAQ: PNRA) and Einstein Noah Restaurant Group, Inc (NASDAQ: BAGL) as Subway remains private. I should mention that competing with Subway in the sandwich business is a tall order as they have 40,229 restaurants in 102 countries and territories as of early September���making them the�largest single-brand restaurant chain and the largest restaurant operator globally. However, Potbelly Corp and its peers Cosi Inc, Panera Bread Co and Einstein Noah Restaurant Group aren�� slugging it out directly with Subway.

Top 5 Dow Dividend Companies To Buy Right Now: Revett Mining Company Inc (RVM)

Revett Mining Co Inc, formerly Revett Minerals Inc., is a silver-copper producer. The Company owns and operates the producing Troy Mine and the development-stage Rock Creek project; both properties are located in northwestern Montana. Troy is an underground copper and silver mine. Rock Creek is a development-stage underground copper and silver project. Revett Silver owns all of Troy and Rock Creek through two wholly owned Montana subsidiaries, Troy Mine Inc. and RC Resources Inc., respectively. Rock Creek is located in Sanders County, Montana, approximately 5 miles northeast of the town of Noxon. The Troy Mine is located in Lincoln County, Montana. During the year ended December 31, 2011, RC Resources Inc. acquired eight claims (the JE claims) and staked an additional 200 claims (the Lost Girl claims) northwest of Rock Creek increasing the property position at Rock Creek by approximately 4,000 acres. Advisors' Opinion:

• [By James E. Brumley]

  If you've never heard of Revett Minerals Inc. (NYSEMKT:RVM) before right now, don't worry about it - you're not alone. The $25 million silver and copper miner doesn't have enough size to merit much media attention, and to make things more difficult, silver and miner has spent the better part of 2013 being out of favor. Yet, things are slowing changing for RVM and its shareholders.... for the better. Though a little more work needs to be done, this stock's knocking on the door of a monster breakout.

Top 5 Dow Dividend Companies To Buy Right Now: Capital Bank Financial Corp (CBF)

Capital Bank Financial Corp, formerly North American Financial Holdings, Inc., incorporated in 2009, is a bank holding Company. The Company focuses on creating a regional banking franchise in the southeastern region of the United States through organic growth and acquisitions of other banks. As of March 31, 2011, the Bank operated 82 branches in Florida, North Carolina and South Carolina. On July 16, 2010, the Bank acquired approximately $1.2 billion of assets and assumed approximately $960.1 million of deposits of three banks from the federal deposit insurance corporation (FDIC): First National Bank of the South in Spartanburg, South Carolina, Metro Bank of Dade County in Miami, Florida and Turnberry Bank in Aventura, Florida. On September 30, 2010 and January 28, 2011, the Bank consummated controlling investments in TIB Financial and Capital Bank Corp., respectively. The Bank�� products and services included commercial bank business, consumer bank business, Mortgage Banking, and Private Banking, Trust and Investment Management. In October 2012, it acquired Southern Community Financial Corp.

Lending activities

As of March 31, 2011, the Bank�� loans included: Real estate mortgage loans, Commercial and agricultural loans and Home equity loans. Real estate mortgage loans include: Commercial, Residential, and Construction and vacant land. As of March 31, 2011, covered loans were $656.6 million, representing 22.3% of its loan portfolio. As of March 31, 2011, non-covered loans were $2.3 billion, representing 77.6% of its loan portfolio. As of March 31, 2011, loans related to real estate totaled $2.6 billion (or 87% of the Bank�� total loan portfolio). At March 31, 2011, commercial real estate loans in all regions totaled $1.8 billion.

Investment activities

Investment securities represent a major portion of the Bank�� assets. As of March 31, 2011, the Bank�� investment securities included mortgage backed securities, United States government agen! cies, states and political subdivisions, corporate bonds, equity, collateralized debt obligations and foreign government. Of the securities in the portfolio, 94% were rated AAA, and 97% were rated A or higher.

Sources of Funds

As of March 31, 2011, the Bank�� deposits included Non-interest demand deposit accounts, Interest Bearing demand deposit accounts, Savings and Money Market. It also included Customer Time Deposits and Wholesale Time Deposits. At March 31, 2011, total deposits were $3.5 billion of which $3.4 billion (or 97%) were non-brokered deposits and $94.4 million (or 3%) were brokered deposits. At March 31, 2011, the Bank�� core deposits (which are all deposits other than time deposits) consisted of $463.2 million of non-interest checking, $430.7 million of negotiable order of withdrawal accounts, $157.5 million of savings accounts and $456.2 million of money market deposits.

The Bank competes with Bank of America, Wells Fargo, BB&T, First Citizens, Royal Bank of Canada, SunTrust, Regions, FNB United Corp., Toronto-Dominion, Synovus, First Financial, SCBT, JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup, EverBank, Fifth Third Bancorp, First Horizon, Pinnacle Financial, First South and U.S. Bancorp.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Tim Melvin]

  The year ahead should be a great one for the smaller bank stocks. Larger regionals like Huntington Bancorp (HBAN) and Capital Ban Financial (CBF) have made it clear they intend to grow by acquisition in the years ahead. Banks like First Merit (FMER) and First Merchants (FRME) have done deals in the past year and are open to doing more to increase their market share and footprints. This should be the year the floodgates open and we see the first wave of merger activity in small banks.

LinkedIn Helps Marketers Connect With Its Members

Today, LinkedIn (NYSE: LNKD  ) launched its new Sponsored Updates feature that allows the site's 3 million Company Pages to deliver content to LinkedIn members who don't necessarily follow a particular company.

LinkedIn said in a press release that marketers can't always get their slideshows, articles, videos, and whitepapers in front of perspective customers, and that Sponsored Updates will help them achieve that goal. "With Sponsored Updates, marketers will be able to distribute this content directly to relevant professionals in a place their customers and prospects are already consuming professionally relevant content," the company said. 

Marketers who sign up for the Sponsored Updates feature will be able to drill down into the professional profile data of 225 million LinkedIn members in order to target the best audience. 

The company said its Sponsored Updates will be shown on desktop, tablet and smartphone platforms, and will be clearly labeled as sponsored content. The new service is available today to companies with an account representative and will be available to all companies on LinkedIn by the end of July. The new updates will be available for purchase through cost per click (CPC) or cost per thousand impressions (CPM).

link

Shares Of Growlife Down 50 Percent After Two-Week Halt

Related PHOT A Look At 2014's Leading Cannabis Stocks (Part II) Marketfy to Host the 1st Annual Cannabis Investor Conference

Shares of Growlife (OTC: PHOT) on April 10 were halted by the SEC for a period of two weeks due to "questions that have been raised about the accuracy and adequacy of information in the marketplace and potentially manipulative transactions in PHOT's common stock."

Since April 3, Growlife's Executive Vice President Robert Hunt has sold more than 500,000 shares of Growlife according to OTCMarkets.com.

A total of 7.7 million shares have been sold by insiders over the last six months compared to only 2.22 million shares bought.

Shares of GrowLife rose from just over $0.10 in the beginning of 2014, reaching a 52-week high of $0.78 on March 17.

It was not immediately known why shares were halted, as the SEC is not obligated to provide information to the company or shareholders. Many investors assumed that the insider selling activity following the large run-up in share price may prove to be the culprit.

Related: AnythingIT CEO Explains The Move Into The Marijuana Space

A press release issued by GrowLife on April 14 stated that the company does not know why shares were halted and that it is "actively engaged in outreach to the SEC in an effort to first understand and then address the concerns."

The press release further added, "all that said, GrowLife has no knowledge of any irregularities that may warrant a suspension of trading in our securities and the fact remains that the SEC ordered a trading halt."

The timing of the halt couldn't have come at a worse time as shares of Advanced Cannabis Solutions (OTC: CANN) were halted just two weeks earlier due to concerns "regarding whether certain undisclosed affiliates and shareholders of Advanced Cannabis common stock engaged in an unlawful public distribution of securities."

One day following GrowLife's suspension in trading, RXNB, a company that "possess proprietary, cutting-edge systems in the field of agriculture, applicable to medical marijuana," notified the board of directors of GrowLife that it plans to terminate its business relationship.

GrowLife has shown a willingness to address any shareholder concerns stemming from the halt. The company revealed on Thursday it has created shareholder hotlines and an email communication system to address shareholder questions.

"While information is still greatly limited, we want to have more resources available as more information emerges," said GrowLife CEO Sterling Scott. "Investors should also understand that our support staff has no additional information beyond what we have provided to the market via our recent shareholder letter and cannot opine as to future valuations of GrowLife's share price."

Benzinga has inquiries in to several brokerage houses for commentary on how the stock is trading.

Shares of GrowLife resumed trading on Friday at $0.12 and traded as low as $0.10 and as high as $0.28.

Shareholders are invited to use the following to contact GrowLife directly:

Shareholder Support Hotline: (866) 632-3111
Email: shareholdersupport@growlifeinc.com

Posted-In: Advanced Cannabis Solutions GrowLife Pot Stocks RXNB SEC Sterling Scott Trading HaltNews Markets Best of Benzinga

© 2014 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

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PC Stocks Drop During the Day and Keep Falling After-Hours

As we move deeper into earnings season and investors seem to be focusing more on results and less on what the Federal Reserve may or may not do in the coming months, the major indexes all managed to pull out a win today. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJINDICES: ^DJI  ) closed the day higher by 18 points, or 0.12%, despite fluctuating between positive and negative territory for most of the day. The index now sits at 15,470. The S&P 500 and the Nasdaq performed slightly better, gaining 0.28% and 0.32%, respectively, with each staying above water during the whole trading session.

That all happened after the government released housing data this morning indicating that housing starts declined in June, slowing to a seasonally adjusted rate of 836,000, from 928,000 in May. This figure has such a huge impact on the U.S. economy because economists project that for every new home that's built, 1.5 new jobs are created. That's a big deal, with the jobless rate still above 7.5%.  

Onward to earnings reports
Shares of Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT  ) , Hewlett-Packard (NYSE: HPQ  ) , and Intel (NASDAQ: INTC  ) all closed lower today as investors awaited Intel's second-quarter earnings report and a brief insight into what's happening within the PC industry. As the closing bell rang, shares of Microsoft had lost 1.46%, Hewlett-Packard was down 0.53%, and Intel slid lower by 0.41%.

When Intel's report came out, we learned that earnings per share registered at $0.39, in line with analysts' estimates, while revenue was slightly lower than the $12.9 billion Wall Street wanted to see, at $12.8 billion. The bad news is that EPS declined from $0.54 last year, while revenue dropped by 5%. Intel is now forecasting revenue of $13.5 billion for the third quarter while most analysts are looking for sales of $13.7 billion during the current quarter. Shares of Intel are now down 3.6% in the after-hours trading session.  

Microsoft and HP continued their descent in after-hours trading, down another 0.28% and 0.42%, respectively. They're in a similar predicament to Intel, as they initially missed out on the mobile revolution and are only now pushing into that market, although they still rely heavily on PC sales to drive revenue and profits. And since Intel warned of a possibly slower-than-expected third quarter, investors are surely feeling that Microsoft and HP will experience similar results from their PC-related businesses.

5 Best Heal Care Stocks To Buy Right Now

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Outerwall's Culture of Innovation

The Motley Fool is on the road in Seattle! Recently we visited Coinstar -- now officially renamed Outerwall  (NASDAQ: OUTR  ) -- to speak with CFO-turned-CEO Scott Di Valerio about the 22-year-old company's well-known coin-cashing machines, as well as its more recent acquisition of Redbox, and future initiatives to expand into other aspects of the automated retail market.

In this video segment, Scott describes Coinstar's innovation and openness to new ideas, balanced with the structure and discipline to evaluate trial programs and prototypes realistically and know when it's time to move on. The full version of the interview can be watched here.

A full transcript follows the video.

The retail space is in the midst of the biggest paradigm shift since mail order took off at the turn of last century. Only the most forward-looking and capable companies will survive, and they'll handsomely reward investors who understand the landscape. You can read about the 3 Companies Ready to Rule Retail in The Motley Fool's special report. Uncovering these top picks is free today; just click here to read more.

Eric Bleeker: Great. First generation of the company Coinstar, second Redbox, and really beginning a third one right now. You talked about making low bets across the business. How would you establish what you want to put manpower behind, versus when you're going to move on beyond an idea?

As we know, one thing that can concern shareholders a lot of the time is companies chasing some too far. How are you going to establish the discipline for the right moves to make?

Scott Di Valerio: Right. Well, we are very structured in how we make investments in our new business innovations, and what the metrics are that are required for them to continue, for us to continue, to invest. We do kind of run them on a survivalist basis.

There are key metrics that each of the businesses that we decide to move forward with are on. They have to hit them on a monthly/quarterly basis. If they're not hitting those metrics, we make some tough decisions. We're looking for alternative solutions for our Orango business, which was our used/refurbished electronics business. We shut down Chirp about two years ago.

Again, it's around being very structured. Once a business isn't doing, consistently, what it needs to do, we turn it off and move on to others. We have a team that really does focus on bringing new businesses to marketplace. We set up card tables and test them out, and then begin to figure out how that business might work if it's successful.

We have enough to keep churning those through, so we don't need to hang on one that that might not be doing what it needs to.

Bleeker: Got you. I guess that would lead into, from a leadership perspective -- and I know you're new on the job here -- but how would you foster that kind of culture, where people are always looking for new ideas?

You're clearly looking to take advantage of some of these verticals, and what you see as a huge opportunity in automated retail. How do you build out a culture within a company, that people are trying new things and not afraid of failure, and being really innovative?

Di Valerio: We're lucky because it's in our DNA, because of how we started the company, both the coin and the Redbox businesses, as well as some of these newer businesses. What we try to do -- you mentioned it -- allowing people to fail, but to learn from those failures and then keep making the right investments going forward.

We really do try to foster a company where people feel like they have the power to make decisions. They're empowered to go after businesses, but they also are empowered to make mistakes and then to learn from those mistakes. I think we've been successful at that.

We've structured, in order to be able to do that, we have a team that's really focused on the new business innovation. We have teams within each of the lines of business that are focused on that, that continue to extend out our brands and not sit back on our haunches.

Again, it's a matter of just allowing that openness and really being -- as we talk about -- being inventive, being intuitive with our businesses, and then also being inclusive, both from our employee base but really also inclusive by understanding what our customers want.

Why Trulia (TRLA) Stock Is Up Today

5 Best Industrial Disributor Stocks To Invest In Right Now

NEW YORK (TheStreet) -- Trulia (TRLA) was gaining 9.2% to $34.82 Monday after signing a direct data license with My Florida Regional MLS.

The deal will let brokers directly syndicate their listings to the Trulia service. My Florida Regional MLS is one of the top five largest MLSs in the U.S., and powers more than 100,000 listings.

"By entering into a direct license agreement, MFRMLS is ensuring the integrity of their brokers' listings and creating transparency with Trulia," Trulia vice president of Industry Services Alon Chaver said in a press release. "Brokers choosing to send their listings direct to Trulia no longer need to worry about having to update information and can focus on engaging consumers and supporting their agents in converting consumer inquiries into closed transactions."

Must read: Warren Buffett's 10 Favorite Growth Stocks STOCKS TO BUY: TheStreet Quant Ratings has identified a handful of stocks that can potentially TRIPLE in the next 12 months. Learn more. TheStreet Ratings team rates TRULIA INC as a Hold with a ratings score of C. TheStreet Ratings Team has this to say about their recommendation: "We rate TRULIA INC (TRLA) a HOLD. The primary factors that have impacted our rating are mixed ? some indicating strength, some showing weaknesses, with little evidence to justify the expectation of either a positive or negative performance for this stock relative to most other stocks. The company's strengths can be seen in multiple areas, such as its robust revenue growth, good cash flow from operations and expanding profit margins. However, as a counter to these strengths, we also find weaknesses including deteriorating net income, a generally disappointing performance in the stock itself and feeble growth in the company's earnings per share." Highlights from the analysis by TheStreet Ratings Team goes as follows: TRLA's very impressive revenue growth greatly exceeded the industry average of 11.7%. Since the same quarter one year prior, revenues leaped by 141.9%. This growth in revenue does not appear to have trickled down to the company's bottom line, displayed by a decline in earnings per share. Net operating cash flow has significantly increased by 143.58% to $4.39 million when compared to the same quarter last year. In addition, TRULIA INC has also vastly surpassed the industry average cash flow growth rate of 22.18%. TRLA's debt-to-equity ratio of 0.60 is somewhat low overall, but it is high when compared to the industry average, implying that the management of the debt levels should be evaluated further. Even though the debt-to-equity ratio shows mixed results, the company's quick ratio of 6.55 is very high and demonstrates very strong liquidity. The share price of TRULIA INC has not done very well: it is down 5.11% and has underperformed the S&P 500, in part reflecting the company's sharply declining earnings per share when compared to the year-earlier quarter. The fact that the stock is now selling for less than others in its industry in relation to its current earnings is not reason enough to justify a buy rating at this time. The company, on the basis of change in net income from the same quarter one year ago, has significantly underperformed when compared to that of the S&P 500 and the Internet Software & Services industry. The net income has significantly decreased by 600.2% when compared to the same quarter one year ago, falling from -$1.59 million to -$11.15 million. You can view the full analysis from the report here: TRLA Ratings Report STOCKS TO BUY: TheStreet Quant Ratings has identified a handful of stocks that can potentially TRIPLE in the next 12 months. Learn more.

Stock quotes in this article: TRLA 

How Many Homes Does Hovnanian Sell?

Sometimes the most important data is the hardest to come by. In this case, I'm referring to historic sales figures from homebuilder Hovnanian Enterprises (NYSE: HOV  ) , one of the nation's largest builders by units sold. As I've noted previously, while this is arguably the single most accurate reflection of a homebuilder's performance, not to mention the overall housing market, a comprehensive data set containing the data is nowhere to be found.

It's for this reason I decided to collect the information and share it in the chart below -- to see similar figures for D.R. Horton, PulteGroup, Lennar, NVR, and KB Homes click on the associated links. While researching the health of the broader economy, I dug through the quarterly filings of the largest homebuilders. My purpose was to gauge how well the market for new homes had recovered. While the market had struggled to date, the chart above, along with Lennar's stellar earnings earlier this week, show that things are on the mend.

There are two reasons investors should care about this. First, if you own shares of Hovnanian, it goes without saying that the more homes it sells, the higher its stock will climb. And second, because Hovnanian is a dominant player in the housing market, its success and/or failure is somewhat indicative of both that industry and the economy more generally. As my colleague Morgan Housel has previously observed, "there hasn't been a strong economy without a strong housing market in modern history."

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3 More Blue-Chip Dividend Bargains

LONDON -- The FTSE 100 has put the "Summer Sale Now On!" signs up. The index has fallen 8% from its recent high, and I've been rummaging through the clearance section looking for some blue-chip dividend bargains.

Some companies' shares have fallen more heavily than the index, but at the same time, the City consensus on their forecast dividends has risen. The combination of a lower share price and a higher dividend means you're getting much more income bang for your buck than just a few weeks ago.

British American Tobacco (LSE: BATS  ) (NYSEMKT: BTI  ) , Tesco (LSE: TSCO  ) (NASDAQOTH: TSCDY  ) , and Severn Trent (LSE: SVT  ) fit the bill, and the table below gives the low-down on them.

Company

Recent Share-Price High

Current Share Price

Change

Forecast Dividend One Month Ago

Current Forecast Dividend

Current Forecast Yield

British American Tobacco	3,807 pence	3,469 pence	(9%)	149.59 pence	149.61 pence	4.3%
Tesco	388 pence	337 pence	(13%)	15.10 pence	15.16 pence	4.5%
Severn Trent	2,200 pence	1760 pence	(20%)	80.34 pence	80.37 pence	4.6%

British American Tobacco
The shares of British American Tobacco, the world's second-largest tobacco company, don't tend to track the wilder gyrations of the stock market. The owner of global top-10 cigarette brands Dunhill and Lucky Strike is known as one of the "Steady Eddies" of the FTSE 100.

However, the recent downswing has seen BAT's shares drop with the market and then some. As a result, the company's forecast dividend yield has risen to 4.3% -- a full percentage point higher than the market average. I'd say 4.3% isn't a bad starting income for a company that has grown its dividend by double digits for the past five years and is forecast to continue doing so.

Tesco
I have to admit that I didn't go along with the general Foolish wisdom that Tesco was a good bet after its shares were hammered by a profit warning some 18 months ago. My view was that Tesco's problems are more deep-rooted than many fans would like to believe and that struggling supermarkets take an awful long time to turn around. As such, I felt my money could be more profitably employed elsewhere.

Having said that, if you believe in Tesco's long-term future and are prepared to tough it out, the shares have dropped 13% from their recent high -- they began falling a week or so before unimpressive first-quarter results announced on June 5 -- and are now yielding a forecast 4.5%.

Severn Trent
Severn Trent, the water utility that takes its name from the catchment area of two of Britain's largest rivers, is something of a special case. Ever since Northumbrian Water was acquired by leading Hong Kong infrastructure group Cheung Kong Infrastructure Holdings a couple of years ago, it's been clear that U.K. regulated water utilities are coveted by foreign cash-rich investors prepared to take a long-term investment view.

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From the middle of May, Severn Trent's shares were driven up by a series of offers from a Canadian-led consortium. The price has fallen back after the consortium withdrew its interest last week following Severn Trent's rejection of a final £22-per-share proposal. The U.K. water company's shares are now 20% below that level, which has pushed the forecast dividend yield up to 4.6%.

To wind up, let me tell you that while Severn Trent sports a pretty decent yield after the recent drop in its shares, another FTSE 100 utility offers an even better income of 5.7% -- and has just been declared the Motley Fool's No. 1 dividend stock. Our top income analyst believes this company will provide investors with steady annual dividend growth for many years to come. Not only that, but he calculates the stock is trading today at more than 100 pence a share below current fair value of 850 pence. To read the in-depth analysis of this dividend dynamo for free, simply click here.

Move Over 'Frozen' - This Could Be Disney's Next $1 Billion Movie

It's not often you see a movie exceeding $1 billion in global box office sales.

Of the nearly 700 films released over the past year, only two were able to do so. Curiously enough, both came from the creative minds at The Walt Disney Company (NYSE: DIS  ) : First with $1.125 billion last summer from Disney Marvel's Iron Man 3, and more recently with $1.11 billion (and counting) from Walt Disney Animation's Frozen.

In fact, Disney accounts for seven of the 18 films that have ever managed to top the $1 billion mark worldwide -- unadjusted for inflation, that is -- with some of its other massive titles including Marvel's The Avengers, Pixar's Toy Story 3, and two films from the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise.

But this begs the question: What will Disney's next $1 billion movie be? 

I think investors and movie fans need look no further than the May 30 debut of Maleficent:

Angelina Jolie stars in Disney's Maleficent, launching May 30. Credit: Disney. 

If the name sounds familiar, it's because Maleficent is the same thorn-manifesting, dragon-morphing, prince-kidnapping antagonist you've known and loathed ever since Disney first released Sleeping Beauty in 1959.

This in mind, nobody can guarantee Maleficent will ultimately be massive enough to reach $1 billion at the box office this year. But I love its chances considering Disney enlisted the exceptional writing talents of Linda Woolverton, whose work includes 1994's The Lion King and 2010's Alice in Wonderland. Even unadjusted for inflation, The Lion King achieved an incredible $987.5 million in worldwide box office sales 20 years ago, while Alice in Wonderland managed to reach $1.025 billion.

Regarding the latter, it appears Disney has identified an intriguing recipe for success: spend buckets of money to create convincing live-action takes on classic animated properties. While Disney hasn't released official production budget numbers for Maleficent, it seems fair to assume it must be in the neighborhood of the $200 million Disney spent bringing Alice in Wonderland to life.

Only this time, Disney has replaced Johnny Depp's supporting role as the Mad Hatter with Angelina Jolie headlining as Maleficent. Just take a look at Maleficent's latest goosebump-inducing trailer:

What's more, there's a notable lack of closely scheduled big-budget competition for Maleficent in its crucial first weekends.

By the time Maleficent is released in the U.S., News Corp's  (NASDAQ: NWS  ) 20th Century Fox will have already enjoyed the spoils of X-Men: Days of Future Past for a full week. Meanwhile, the only other film simultaneously entering wide release will be Comcast (NASDAQ: CMCSA  ) Universal's A Million Ways to Die in The West. 

Nobody expects Comcast's western comedy to set any records, but X-Men: Days of Future Past could be huge -- and it had better be for the sake of News Corp., which is rumored to have spent upwards of $240 million on the production. But even then, it's not as though the target audiences will overlap to a great degree between News Corp's mutant-powered action flick and Disney's princess-infused fantasy. 

After that, it's not until three weekends following Maleficent's release audiences will be able to enjoy DreamWorks Animation's (NASDAQ: DWA  ) worthy sequel in How to Train Your Dragon 2. By the time DreamWorks tries its hand at grabbing movie-goers' attention, Maleficent will have already secured the lions share of its early sales.

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What do you think? Will Maleficent be able to reach $1 billion in total sales? Even coming close would be a huge win for Disney, which has already rewarded investors handsomely by nearly quadrupling over the past five years alone.

But let's face it, every investor wants to get in on revolutionary ideas before they hit it big. Like buying PC-maker Dell in the late 1980s, before the consumer computing boom. Or purchasing stock in e-commerce pioneer Amazon.com in the late 1990s, when it was nothing more than an upstart online bookstore.

The problem is, most investors don't understand the key to investing in hyper-growth markets. The real trick is to find a small-cap "pure-play" and then watch as it grows in EXPLOSIVE lockstep with its industry. Our expert team of equity analysts has identified one stock that's poised to produce rocket-ship returns with the next $14.4 TRILLION industry. Click here to get the full story in this eye-opening report.

Best Defensive Stocks To Own For 2014

Best Defensive Stocks To Own For 2014: Osaka Gas Co Ltd (OSA)

OSAKA GAS CO., LTD. is primarily engaged in gas business. It operates in four business segments. The Gas segment is involved in the production, supply and sale of gas, the sale of gas equipment and housing equipment, the construction of gas piping works, the maintenance and inspection of gas equipment. The Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), Electric and Other Energy segment is engaged in the sale of LPG and the supply of electricity. The Oversea Energy segment is engaged in the leasing of liquefied natural gas (LNG) tankers, the oil and gas-related development and investment, the research and investment of energy supply business. The Environment and Non-energy segment is involved in the development, leasing, management and subdivision of real estates, the leasing and maintenance of automobiles, the manufacture and sale of fine materials and carbon materials, the staff dispatching business, the credit and insurance agency business and the operation of sports facilities. Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Damian Illia]

  The company is also aware that its ability to sell non-invase treatment products relies largely on the willingness of third parties to pay for treatment. Therefore, it not only focuses on developing devices to treat sleep apnea and other respiratory problem. It also does on increasing awareness among patients and healthcare professionals of the potentially serious health consequences of untreated SDB as well as educating caregivers about therapy options. It is estimated that SDB affects 20 percent of the adult population and that 90 percent who have obstructed sleep apnea (OSA) still are and most likely will remain undiagnosed and untreated. The company has therefore created a number of foundations and funds primary care physician programs to educate doctors on SDB. On the other hand, diagnosed COPD patients in America are ar! ound 12 million people, but is is estimated that another 12 milion may have the disease and hasn't been diagnosed yet. Also, ResMed looks forward to c apture those patients who formerly balked at costly, uncomfortable testing in a sleep lad through at-home sleep apnea testing. What this all really means actually, is that ResMed's potential markets have not really been penetrated and that the growth prospects for the coming years is huge.

source from Top Stocks Blog:http://www.topstocksblog.com/best-defensive-stocks-to-own-for-2014.html

Hot Healthcare Equipment Companies To Invest In Right Now

Yesterday when the Philly Fed number disappointed and the 10-year note yields moved down and the S&P took off to the upside, the 9:00 buy program showed us exactly what was going on. When we see buy programs on the half hour it usually means that mutual funds have stock to buy. The buying is executed electronically, buying baskets of stock on the half hour. When the big buy program hit at 9:00 and another buy program at 9:30 and 10:00 we knew there was a larger agenda and we pointed it out right away. After rallying, the ESZ stalled and eventually sold off a few handles and then immediately bounced into new highs. The Pit Bull says when it goes slow and the ESZ13 trades in a narrow range or what we call chop, it is actually the buyers accumulating futures. It's really hard to fight a tape when it's like that. Right now the S&P is still going up, but we do think that it may be nearing a threshold at the 1800 to 1850 level. Most traders we talk to think the S&P will correct in the first quarter and that a taper could come either at the end of December or going into the first Fed meeting in January. As always, use stops and keep an eye on the 10-handle rule. Don't forget to catch MrTopStep on The Closing Print video found under the OptionsTV page (top bar). We report directly from the SPX pits, wrapping up the day and positioning for trade tomorrow. OptionsProfits can be followed on Twitter at twitter.com/OptionsProfits MrTopStep can be followed on Twitter at twitter.com/MrTopStep For LIVE futures chat, more information on the 10-handle rule and futures educational content CLICK HERE FOR A SEVEN-DAY FREE TRIAL.

Hot Healthcare Equipment Companies To Invest In Right Now: OSI Systems Inc.(OSIS)

OSI Systems, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, designs and manufactures electronic systems and components for homeland security, healthcare, defense, and aerospace markets worldwide. The company operates in three divisions: Security, Healthcare, and Optoelectronics and Manufacturing. The Security division provides security and inspection systems under the Rapiscan Systems name. Its products include baggage and parcel inspection, cargo and vehicle inspection, hold baggage screening, and people screening products to search for weapons, explosives, drugs, and other contraband, as well as for the verification of cargo manifests for monitoring the export and import of controlled materials. This division also offers various turn-key security screening solutions under the S2 trade name. The Healthcare division provides patient monitoring, diagnostic cardiology, and anesthesia delivery and ventilation systems under the Spacelabs name that are used in critical care, emergency, and perioperative areas within hospitals, as well as physician?s offices, medical clinics, and ambulatory surgery centers. The Optoelectronics and Manufacturing division offers optoelectronic devices for the aerospace and defense, avionics, medical imaging and diagnostic, renewable energy, biochemistry analysis, pharmaceutical, nanotechnology, telecommunications, construction, and homeland security markets under the OSI Optoelectronics name; and electronics manufacturing services to original equipment manufacturers under the OSI Electronics name. This division also provides laser-based remote sensing devices to detect and classify vehicles in toll and traffic management systems under the OSI Laserscan name; blood pressure cuffs and unifusors under the Statcorp Medical name; and solid-state laser products for aerospace, defense, telecommunication, and medical applications under the OSI LaserDiode trade name. The company was founded in 1987 and is headquartered in Hawthorne, California.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Travis Hoium]

  What: Shares of electronics systems designer OSI Systems (NASDAQ: OSIS  ) jumped as much as 21% in afternoon trading after reaching a settlement with the government.

• [By John Udovich]

  Small cap security and surveillance stocks OSI Systems, Inc (NASDAQ: OSIS), Vimicro International Corporation (NASDAQ: VIMC), Analogic Corporation (NASDAQ: ALOG), Lifelock Inc (NYSE: LOCK) and View Systems Inc (OTCBB: VSYM) have been producing a steady flow of news lately that investors might want to take a closer look at. After all, the whole security and surveillance industry is pretty vast as it would include everything from airport scanners to security cameras to software securing everyone�� personal or online data. With that in mind, here is a look at the latest news from important small cap security and surveillance stocks:

• [By Stephen Quickel]

  We are also adding two previously successful technology picks: Skyworks Solutions (SWKS), a supplier of analog and mixed signal semiconductors, and OSI Systems (OSIS), a specialist in mission-critical electronic systems and components.

• [By James E. Brumley]

  For tech-savvy investors who know which companies make them, when they hear the words "weapons detection" or "body scanners", they tend to think of companies like American Science & Engineering, Inc. (NASDAQ:ASEI) and OSI Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:OSIS). And well they should. OSIS and ASEI are two of the biggest North American providers of the kind of equipment you might see being used by airport security personnel screening passengers before allowing them to their gate. There's just one challenge in the average school system tapping OSI Systems or American Science & Engineering to help defend their school grounds.... their hardware starts with a six-figure price tag, and rapidly works its way up to higher-capacity and more powerful versions. For a school with multiple doors, it's simply not feasible. View Systems Inc. is a viable alternative.

Hot Healthcare Equipment Companies To Invest In Right Now: Gartner Inc (IT)

Gartner, Inc. (Gartner), incorporated on June 1, 1990, is an information technology (IT) research and advisory company. The Company operates in three business segments: Research, Consulting and Events.

Research provides objective insight on critical and timely technology and supply chain initiatives for chief information officers (CIO), other IT professionals, supply chain leaders, technology companies and the investment community through reports, briefings, tools, access to its analysts, peer networking services and membership programs that enables its clients to make better decisions about their IT and supply chain investments. Consulting provides customized solutions to client needs through on-site, day-to-day support, as well as tools for measuring and improving IT performance with a focus on cost, performance, efficiency, and quality. Events provide IT, supply chain and business professionals the opportunity to attend various symposia, conferences and exhibitions to learn, contribute and network with their peers.

Research

Gartner delivers independent, objective IT research and insight primarily through a subscription-based, digital media service. Gartner Research is the fundamental building block for all Gartner services and covers all technology-related markets, topics and industries, as well as supply chain topics. The Company combines its research methodologies with industry and academic relationships to create Gartner solutions that address each role within an IT organization.

The Company�� research agenda is defined by clients��needs, focusing on the critical issues, opportunities and challenges they face every day. Research analysts provide in-depth analysis on all aspects of technology, including hardware; software and systems; services; IT management; market data and forecasts; and vertical-industry issues. The Company�� research content is presented in the form of reports, briefings, updates and related tools, is delivered direc! tly to the client�� desktop via its Website and/or product-specific portals.

Consulting

Gartner Consulting deepens relationships with its research clients by extending the reach of its research through custom consulting engagements. Gartner Consulting brings together its research insight, benchmarking data, problem-solving methodologies and hands-on experience to improve the return on a client�� IT investment. Consulting solutions capitalize on Gartner assets that are invaluable to IT decision making, including: its research, which ensures that its consulting analyses and advice are based on a deep understanding of the IT environment and the business of IT; its market independence, which keeps its consultants focused on its client�� success.

Gartner Consulting provides solutions to CIOs and other IT executives, and to those professionals responsible for IT applications, enterprise architecture, go-to-market strategies, infrastructure and operations, programs and portfolio management, and sourcing and vendor relationships. Consulting also provides targeted consulting services to professionals in specific industries. Finally, the Company provides actionable solutions for IT cost optimization, technology modernization and IT sourcing optimization initiatives.

Events

Gartner Symposium/ITxpo events and Gartner Summit events are gatherings of technology�� senior IT professionals, business strategists and practitioners. Gartner Events offers relevant and actionable technology sessions led by Gartner analysts to clients and non-clients. These sessions are augmented with technology showcases, peer exchanges, analyst one-on-one meetings, workshops and keynotes by technology�� top leaders. They also provide attendees with an opportunity to interact with business executives from the technology companies.

Gartner Events attract high-level IT and business professionals who seek in-depth knowledge about technology products and serv! ices. Gar! tner Symposium/ITxpo events are strategic conferences held in various locations throughout the world for CIOs and other senior IT and business professionals. Gartner Summit events focus on specific topics, technologies and industries, providing IT professionals with the insight, solutions and networking opportunities to succeed in their job role. Finally, the Company offers targeted events for CIOs and IT executives, such as CIO Leadership Forum.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By ValueArtifex]

  Engaged in the Management Consulting industry, the Hackett group "provides advisory, benchmarking, and transformation consulting services, including shared services, offshoring and outsourcing advice. The Company operates in the business and technology consulting services segment." Unsurprisingly, as a firm with a focus towards outsourcing, the Hackett group serves the North American and European geographic regions in addition, "through its REL group, Hackett offers working capital solutions focused on delivering cash flow improvements. Through its enterprise resource planning solutions group (ERP Solutions), Hackett offers business application consulting services that help maximize returns on information technology (IT) investments." Quoted material is courtesy of Google Finance.

Hot India Companies To Buy Right Now: Groundstar Resources Ltd (GSA)

Groundstar Resources Limited (Groundstar) is a development-stage oil and gas company. The Company is engaged in exploration, development and production opportunities in international areas of interest. Through its subsidiaries, the Company�� primary operations are related to its interests in a production sharing contract in Kurdistan (Iraq), concession agreements in Egypt and a petroleum prospecting license in Guyana. Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Damian Illia]

  The company�� revenues come from the fees charged for operating different domain names. Most domain names��fees are charged as per agreement terms with ICANN; however, fees received for operating the .gov registry are based on the terms of agreement with the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA). As of September 2013, revenues of $125.9 million came from active domain names ending with .com and .net. Even though the company has presence all over the globe, the U.S. contributes 64.8% of revenues, while Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) contribute 15.5%, Australia, China, India and other Asia Pacific countries (APAC), 15.0%, and other countries such as Canada or Latin American countries, contribute 4.7%. Competition is increasing, especially with Latin script ccTLD registries and IDN ccTLD registries, as well as with other name service providers such as Neustar Inc. (NSR) or ARI Registry Services, and search engine providers such as Google Inc. (GOOG) Microsoft, Corp. (MSFT).

Hot Healthcare Equipment Companies To Invest In Right Now: Sify Technologies Limited(SIFY)

Sify Technologies Limited provides enterprise and consumer Internet services primarily in India. The company offers various corporate network/data services comprising e-commerce and network connectivity solutions, such as end-to-end services network, application, and security services; voice origination and termination services; co-location and managed hosting services; and system integration services for data centre build, hardware distribution, security solutions, and turnkey projects. It also provides application services, including SLEMS and Microsoft Exchange messaging platforms; I-test for online assessment and LiveWire, which enable management of training processes across the organization; document management system for the management of documents electronically; and Forum, a forward supply chain solution. In addition, the company operates e-Ports that offer browsing, chat, email, gaming, utility bill payment, travel ticketing, hotel booking, mobile recharge, Intern et telephony, and online share trading services; and portals, which provide news, views, reviews, interactions, and services in the areas of movies, sports, finance, food, videos, astrology, online games, shopping, and travel, as well as offers content offerings and broadband services. Further, it provides infrastructure management services, such as network management, datacenter and helpdesk outsourcing, desktop and storage outsourcing, IT security outsourcing, LAN and WAN outsourcing, database and telecom outsourcing, and application monitoring and management services to automotive, chemical, media, and financial enterprises; and virtualization design, integration, and deployment services for servers, storage, networks, and end user clients. Sify has approximately 1,278 e-Ports in 200 towns and cities; and serves 1,06,000 broadband subscribers through 1500 cable TV Operators. The company, formerly known as Sify Limited, was founded in 1995 and is based in Chennai, India. Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Jake L'Ecuyer]

  Leading and Lagging Sectors
  Technology stocks gained Tuesday, with Ku6 Media Co (NASDAQ: KUTV) leading advancers. Among leading tech stocks, gains came from Rubicon Technology (NASDAQ: RBCN), Bitauto Holdings (NYSE: BITA) and Sify Technologies (NASDAQ: SIFY). Utilities shares dropped by 0.11 percent in the US market today.

• [By Jake L'Ecuyer]

  Leading and Lagging Sectors
  Technology stocks gained Tuesday, with Ku6 Media Co (NASDAQ: KUTV) leading advancers. Among leading tech stocks, gains came from Rubicon Technology (NASDAQ: RBCN), Bitauto Holdings (NYSE: BITA) and Sify Technologies (NASDAQ: SIFY).

Hot Healthcare Equipment Companies To Invest In Right Now: Aristocrat Group Corp (ASCC)

ARISTOCRAT GROUP CORP. (AGC), incorporated on July 20, 2011, is a development-stage company. The Company has limited business operations. The development of its business has been limited to organizational matters, the preparation of its business plan, and the preparation of the financial statements and other information. Through Prenatal-Postpartum Supercare Centers, the Company is focused on to provide education services, health and fitness services, and emotional well-being spa services with the ability to purchase products designed especially for women who are in any phase of the childbearing process from planning a family through the newborn�� first year of life. As of July 25, 2011, the Company had not generated revenue.

The Company focused to engage certified childbirth educators and lactation consultants to provide on-site instructional services and educational expertise. Yoga Masters, licensed professional masseuses, nutritionists, licensed estheticians, as well as licensed professional therapists and certified fitness instructors will be engaged to provide their specific services. The Company is focused to offer a variety of educational and fitness and spa services with varying fees. The Company is focused to sell products designed for the expecting or new mother, as well as infant/toddler items. These products are focused to be sold through the Prenatal-Postpartum Supercare Center and on its Website, including maternity and infant products, nutritional, health and beauty products, and items regarding fitness and physical and emotional well-being. The Website focused to offer Education, Ask An Expert and On-line Communities (Chat Rooms)

The Company competes with R��Us, Toys R��Us, Wal-Mart, Curves for Women and Shapes for Women.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By CRWE]

  Today, ASCC surged (+11.11%) up +0.060 at $.600 with 83,411 shares in play thus far (ref. google finance Delayed: 12:23PM EDT June 27, 2013).

  As part of the big promotional push planned for the upcoming release of RWB Ultra-Premium Handcrafted Vodka, Luxuria Brands��he brand management division of the Aristocrat Group Corp. is investigating high-profile sponsorship opportunities in professional sports.

  The company is gearing up to compete in the $21 billion U.S. spirits industry, in which many top brands grow their consumer loyalty with sports sponsorships.

Hot Healthcare Equipment Companies To Invest In Right Now: Cecil Bancorp Inc (CECB)

Cecil Bancorp, Inc. is the holding company for Cecil Bank (the Bank). The Bank is a Maryland chartered commercial bank, is a member of the Federal Reserve System and the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) of Atlanta, and is an Equal Housing Lender. Its deposits are insured by the Deposit Insurance Fund (DIF) of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). The Bank conducts its business through its main office in Elkton, Maryland, and branches in Elkton, North East, Fair Hill, Rising Sun, Cecilton, Aberdeen, Conowingo and Havre de Grace, Maryland. On August 16, 2013, Cecil Bank completed the sale of its Aberdeen, Maryland branch office to Howard Bank, a wholly owned subsidiary of Howard Bancorp, Inc.

Lending Activities

The Bank offers mortgage loans on one-to four-family residential dwellings. Most of the loans are originated in amounts up to $350,000, on single-family properties located in the Bank�� primary market area. The Bank�� mortgage loan originations are generally for terms of 15, 20 and 30 years, amortized on a monthly basis with interest and principal due each month. The Bank offers adjustable-rate mortgage loans with terms of up to 30 years. The Bank also originates conventional fixed-rate mortgages with terms of 15, 20, 30 or 40 years. During the year ended December 31, 2011, the Bank originated $2,145,000 in adjustable-rate mortgage loans and $7,157,000 in fixed-rate mortgage loans. The Bank also offers second mortgage loans. These loans are secured by a junior lien on residential real estate. The total of first and second liens may not exceed a 90% loan to value ratio.

The Bank�� construction lending has primarily involved lending for construction of single-family residences, although the Bank does lend funds for the construction of commercial properties and multi-family real estate. Land loans granted to individuals have a term of up to 10 years and interest rates adjust every one, three or five years. Land loans granted to developers have te! rms of up to three years. The Bank originates loans on multi-family residential and commercial properties in its market area. The Bank�� permanent multi-family and commercial real estate loans are typically secured by retail or wholesale establishments, motels/hotels, service industries and industrial or warehouse facilities. Multi-family and commercial real estate loans generally have terms of 20 to 40 years, are either tied to the prime rate or have interest rate adjustments every one, three or five years.

The Bank offers commercial business loans and both secured and unsecured loans and letters of credit, or lines of credit for businesses located in its primary market area. The business loans have a one year term, while lines of credit can remain open for longer periods. The Bank�� consumer loans consist of automobile loans, deposit account loans, home improvement loans, and other consumer loans. Consumer loans are generally offered for terms of up to five years at fixed interest rates.

Investment Activities

The Bank maintains a portfolio of mortgage-backed securities in the form of Government National Mortgage Association (GNMA) and Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (FHLMC) participation certificates. GNMA certificates are guaranteed as to principal and interest by the United States, while FHLMC certificates are guaranteed by the agency.

Sources of Funds

Deposits are attracted principally from the Bank�� market area through the offering of a range of deposit instruments, including savings accounts and certificates of deposit ranging in term from 91 days to 60 months, as well as regular checking, negotiable order of withdrawal (NOW), passbook and money market deposit accounts. Deposit account terms vary, principally on the basis of the minimum balance required; the time periods the funds must remain on deposit, and the interest rate. The Bank also offers individual retirement accounts (IRAs). Deposits have been the primary so! urce of f! unds for the Bank�� lending and investment activities and for its general business activities. The Bank is authorized, however, to use advances from the FHLB of Atlanta to supplement its supply of lendable funds and to meet deposit withdrawal requirements.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By CRWE]

  Today, CECB remains (0.00%) +0.000 at $.410 thus far (ref. google finance Delayed: 1:10PM EDT August 30, 2013).

  Howard Bancorp, Inc. and Cecil Bancorp, Inc. jointly previously reported their respective banking subsidiaries, Howard Bank and Cecil Bank, have completed the sale of Cecil Bank�� branch located at 3 West Bel Air Ave., Aberdeen, MD 21001 to Howard Bank pursuant to a purchase and assumption they entered into in March 2013.

  Pursuant to the sale, Howard Bank has acquired $37.1 million in loans and $35.2 million in deposits from Cecil Bank.

Hot Healthcare Equipment Companies To Invest In Right Now: NK Lukoil OAO (LKOH)

NK Lukoil OAO (Neftyanaya Kompaniya LUKOIL OAO or NK LUKOIL OJSC) is a Russia-based integrated oil and gas company. The Company is engaged in the business of oil exploration, production, refining, marketing and distribution. It is an owner of refineries, gas processing, petrochemical plants and gas stations network located in Russia, Eastern and Western Europe, as well as Africa. The Company�� petroleum products are sold in the Russian Federation, the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries, Eastern and Western Europe, Asia and the United States. NK Lukoil OAO operates through numerous subsidiaries and affiliated companies. In April 2013, the Company acquired a 100% of Samara-Nafta ZAO and completed acquisition of CJSC Kama-Oil. In June 2013, it sold a 99.57% stake in Lukoil Odes'kyi NPZ PAT. The Company�� major shareholder is NKO ZAO NRD with a stake of 91.60%. In December 2013, it consolidated a 100% stake in ISAB Srl. Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Julia Leite]

  Brazil�� Ibovespa (IBOV) fell to a six-week low, while the real slid to its weakest level in four years, spurring central bank intervention. Housing Development Finance Corp. drove India�� S&P BSE Sensex down, while the rupee completed its worst month in a year. OAO Lukoil (LKOH), Russia�� second-largest oil producer, slipped 2.3 percent as crude slumped.

• [By Maria Levitov]

  Russia�� Micex Index extended a five-day drop to 3.4 percent, led by OAO Lukoil (LKOH) and OAO Gazprom. Ukraine�� dollar-denominated bonds gained, sending yields to the lowest this week, as President Viktor Yanukovych announced possible investments from China. The PX Index slid to a seven-week low in Prague as Vienna Insurance Group AG plunged 4.2 percent.

Hot Healthcare Equipment Companies To Invest In Right Now: Communications Systems Inc.(JCS)

Communications Systems, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, manufactures and sells modular connecting and wiring devices, digital subscriber line filters, structured wiring systems, and media and rate conversion products primarily in North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The company?s Suttle segment manufactures and markets copper and fiber connectivity systems, enclosure systems, XDSL filters and splitters, and active technologies for voice, data, and video communications under the Suttle brand name; and residential structured wiring products under the SOHO Access brand name. This segment offers its products directly and through distributors to communication companies, smaller telephone companies, electrical/low voltage contractors, home builders, cable customers, and original equipment manufacturers. Its Transition Networks segment designs, assembles, and markets network interface devices, media converters, network interface cards, Ethernet switches, sma ll form factor pluggable modules, and other connectivity products under the Transition Networks and MILAN brand names. This segment sells its products through distributors, resellers, integrators, and original equipment manufacturers. The company?s JDL Technologies segment offers information technology (IT) solutions, including network design and integration IT service management, network security, desktop virtualization, and managed network operation center services. This segment serves educational clients, IT value added resellers, and managed service providers, as well as healthcare, enterprise, and government markets. Its Austin Taylor segment provides telephony and data networking products to telecommunications companies, distributors, and installers. This segment designs and manufactures external metal cabinets and internal metal boxes to industry standards and to customer specifications. The company was founded in 1969 and is headquartered in Minnetonka, Minnesota. Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Victor Selva]

  On Dec.24, Mario Gabelli, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of GAMCO Investors, Inc. added Communications Systems Inc. (JCS) at an average price of $11.05 and currently holds 330,172 shares of the stock. It was the 5th time he added the stock during this year, which makes me feel that he is betting in favor of a positive future for the consumption of network capacity.
  Recommendations of the Board
  Communications Systems is engaged in the manufacture and sale of modular connecting and wiring devices for voice and data communications, digital subscriber line filters, and structured wiring systems, and through its Transition Networks business unit in the manufacture of media and rate conversion products for telecommunications networks.
  Few months ago the firm announced�a series of actions to increase revenues and improve profitability. The first change was to operate as a holding company, monitoring and supporting all the business units: Suttle, Transition Networks (TN) unit and JDL Technologies. With this ��ew format�� each unit will operate with a high degree of autonomy. This will result in the reduction of labor costs, the emphasizing of accountability in the units as well as better recognition of performance. "While difficult decisions for the Board, we believe the changes we have taken to restructure our parent company as a holding company and to focus on individual business unit performance is in the best interest of our shareholders and will increase shareholder value" said Curtis A. Sampson, the Company's Board Chair and Interim CEO. Furthermore, strategic investments in the TN unit such as marketing, sales and product development will boost revenues in the future.
  Severe Warning Signs
  Not all are good news, we found three severe warning signs issued by GuruFocus: Piotroski F-Score of 2 is low, which usually implies poor business operation; revenue has been in decline over the past 3 years and operating margin has been in 5-year

Hot Healthcare Equipment Companies To Invest In Right Now: Deutsche Bank AG(DB)

Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft provides investment, financial, and related products and services. The company?s Corporate and Investment Bank division engages in the origination, sale, structuring, and trading of bonds, equities and equity-linked products, exchange-traded and over-the-counter derivatives, foreign exchange, money market instruments, securitized instruments, and commodities to sovereign countries and multinational organizations; and medium-sized companies and multinational corporations. It also offers mergers and acquisitions advisory, corporate finance, and transaction banking, as well as trade finance, cash management, and trust and securities services for financial institutions and other companies. The company?s Private Clients and Asset Management division provides mutual funds and alternative investment products; manages real estate and infrastructure investments and private equity funds; offers advisory and portfolio management services to insurance companies; and provides investment solutions to institutional customers, high net worth individuals, and families. This division also offers a range of banking products and services, including current accounts, deposits and loans, and investment management and pension products to private and self-employed individuals, and small to medium-sized businesses. Its Corporate Investments division?s principal investment activities comprise private equity and venture capital investments, corporate real estate investments, a minority stake in Deutsche Postbank AG, credit exposures, and other non-strategic investments. As of December 31, 2010, the company operated 3,083 branches in approximately 74 countries worldwide, including 2,087 in Germany. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft was founded in 1870 and is headquartered in Frankfurt am Main, Germany.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Teresa Rivas]

  Deutsche Bank (DB) was down 4.5% at recent check, after a disappointing second-quarter report.

  This morning, Deutsche said it earned to ��34 million ($443 million), o ��.32 per share, down from ��56 million in the same quarter last year.

  Revenue rose 2% to ��.22 billon from ��.02 billion.

  Analysts were looking for the company to earn ��.82 a share on revenue of ��.39 billion.

  Legal costs were the big drag in the quarter, as Deutsche is involved in investigations into the manipulation of interbank rates and the U.S. mortgage business, among other issues. The quarter included a ��30 million charge for potential litigation and related costs, and Deutsche said it now has litigation reserves of �� billion, up from ��.4 billion at the end of the first quarter.

  CFO Stefan Krause told analysts that the bank has already hit its targeted leverage ratio of 3% under European regulations put into law in June, but too many moving parts make calculating the ratio under new proposals impossible. Analysts are estimating the bank�� new leverage ratio is 2.3%.

  S&P Capital IQ�� Frank Braden maintained a Buy rating on Deutsche�� American depositary shares, but lowered his earnings estimates for the year. ���e view the lower fixed income results as a product of the operating environment and not a change in the bank’s competitive position. Capital ratio improvements are tracking ahead of our expectations as the bank reported a Basel 3 capital ratio of 10.0% during the quarter.��/p>

• [By William L. Watts]

  The highest echelons of the banking fraternity will be represented this year. In addition to Dimon, look for Goldman Sachs Group (GS) �CEO Lloyd Blankfein, Bank of America Corp. (BAC) �CEO Brian Moynihan, Deutsche Bank (DB) �co-CEO Anshu Jain and others.

5 Ways to Maximize 401(k) Tax Benefits

It is tax time again, and many Americans are struggling to wade through the piles of W-2s and 1099s to beat the April deadline. Charles Schwab Retirement Plan Services believes now is a good time for employees to know what they can do to maximize the tax benefits they receive from participating in their employer-sponsored 401(k) plan. It recommends these top five tips (presented here from 5 to 1) for better utilizing workplace retirement plans:

5. Avoid 401(k) loans, even when money is tight. 

Borrowing from your 401(k) should be an absolute last resort. Loans from a 401(k) plan must be repaid with after-tax dollars, negating many of the tax benefits of a 401(k). And, if you leave your job and are unable to repay the loan in-full, the outstanding balance is treated like a withdrawal, triggering a tax bill and potentially a 10 percent penalty on top of the tax.

4. Don’t burden yourself with withdrawals.

Any withdrawal from a 401(k) plan can carry significant tax consequences. If you withdraw money from your employer-sponsored retirement plan before the age of 59½, you'll likely face a 10 percent federal penalty. What's more, the government will take 20 percent of your withdrawal as an advance on your tax bill. Plus, some plans may bar employees who have taken a withdrawal from contributing for the next six months, causing another blow to your savings that can impact your long-term financial goals.

3. Get to know the Roth. 

Top Income Companies To Buy Right Now

A Roth 401(k) can offer a different kind of strategic tax planning opportunity. In a traditional 401(k) plan, contributions are made on a pre-tax basis, and taxes are paid when you take distributions from the plan. In a Roth 401(k), contributions are made on an after-tax basis, and distributions of any investment earnings are tax-free after you meet certain requirements.

2. Get credit where credit’s due.

Depending on your income and filing status, contributions to a qualified 401(k) plan may further lower your tax bill through the Saver's Credit (formerly known as the Retirement Savings Contributions Credit). The credit was established in 2002 and directly reduces your taxable income by a percentage of the amount you put into your 401(k) plan. According to the IRS, those who meet eligibility requirements can take a credit of up to $2,000 if filing jointly.

1. Bump up or max out your contributions.

Traditional 401(k) plans are funded with pre-tax dollars, which lowers a person’s taxable income. Making a significant contribution could put you into a lower tax bracket entirely, allowing you to keep even more of your paycheck. Studies have shown that a mere 10 percent of participants max out their contributions, so there is definitely room for most Americans to get more aggressive with their savings rate.

Also read on ThinkAdvisor:

5 Best Dividend Stocks To Own For 2015

Investors love stocks that consistently beat the Street without getting ahead of their fundamentals and risking a meltdown. The best stocks offer sustainable market-beating gains, with robust and improving financial metrics that support strong price growth. Does Jamba (NASDAQ: JMBA  ) fit the bill? Let's take a look at what its recent results tell us about its potential for future gains.

What we're looking for
The graphs you're about to see tell Jamba's story, and we'll be grading the quality of that story in several ways:

Growth: Are profits, margins, and free cash flow all increasing? Valuation: Is share price growing in line with earnings per share? Opportunities: Is return on equity increasing while debt to equity declines? Dividends: Are dividends consistently growing in a sustainable way?

What the numbers tell you
Now, let's take a look at Jamba's key statistics:

5 Best Dividend Stocks To Own For 2015: Investors Real Estate Trust(IRET)

Investors Real Estate Trust, a real estate investment trust (REIT), engages in the ownership and operation of income-producing real estate properties in the United States. It owns multi-family residential properties and commercial office, medical, industrial, and retail properties located primarily in the upper midwest states of Minnesota and North Dakota. As of April 30, 2008, the company operated a real estate portfolio of 72 multi-family residential; 65 office; 48 medical; 17 industrial; and 33 retail properties. Investors Real Estate Trust has elected to be taxed as a REIT under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. As a REIT, the trust is not subject to federal corporate income taxes, if it distributes at least 90% of its taxable income to its shareholders. The company was founded in 1970 and is headquartered in Minot, North Dakota with additional offices in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Omaha, Nebraska; and Kansas City, Kansas, and St. Louis, Missouri.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Aaron Levitt]

  Here are five of the best.

  Investors Real Estate Trust (IRET)

  Real estate investment trusts (REITs) have garnered much attention from investors seeking income in our low interest rate environment. Energy investors may want to hone in on them as well. Specifically, Investors Real Estate Trust (IRET).

5 Best Dividend Stocks To Own For 2015: Resource Capital Corp.(RSO)

Resource Capital Corp. operates as a specialty finance company that focuses primarily on commercial real estate and commercial finance in the United States. The company?s commercial real estate-related investments include first mortgage loans, first priority interests in first mortgage real estate loans, subordinate interests in first mortgage real estate loans, mezzanine loans, and commercial mortgage-backed securities. It also invests in commercial finance assets, including senior secured corporate loans, other asset-backed securities, equipment leases and notes, trust preferred securities, and debt tranches of collateralized debt and loan obligations. The company qualifies as a real estate investment trust (REIT) for federal income tax purposes. As a REIT, it is not subject to federal corporate income tax to the extent that it distributes 90% of its REIT taxable income. The company was founded in 2005 and is based in New York, New York.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Wallace Witkowski]

  Shares of Resource Capital Corp. (RSO) �declined 3.8% to $5.82 in moderate volume after the real-estate investment trust said it would launch a $100 million offering in notes due 2018.

Top Low Price Stocks To Invest In Right Now: Gladstone Investment Corporation (GAIN)

Gladstone Investment Corporation specializes in buyouts and recapitalizations. It seeks to make debt and equity investments in small and mid-sized private businesses. The fund invests in junior subordinated loans, mezzanine debt, preferred stock, and warrants to purchase common stock of companies based in the the United States. It can also invest in senior secured loans and common stock. The fund prefers to invest between $3 million and $20 million. It invests individually as well as jointly with other buyout funds. The fund is treated as a business development company under the 1940 Act.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Monica Wolfe]

  Gladstone Investment Corporation (GAIN)

  Over the past week two corporate executives made buys into Gladstone Investment Corporation. COO Terry Brubaker made three different buys over the past week and CEO David Gladstone made one.

5 Best Dividend Stocks To Own For 2015: Sinclair Broadcast Group Inc.(SBGI)

Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc., a television broadcasting company, owns or provides certain programming, operating, or sales services to television stations in the United States. The company broadcasts free over-the-air programming, such as network provided programs, news produced locally, local sporting events, programming from program service arrangements, and syndicated entertainment programs. It owns or provides programming and operating services pursuant to local marketing agreements, or provides sales services pursuant to outsourcing agreements to 58 television stations in 35 markets. The company was founded in 1952 and is based in Hunt Valley, Maryland.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Westcott Rochette]

  Assuming all of its announced mergers are completed (as we anticipate), Maryland-based Sinclair Broadcast Group (SBGI) will soon own or operate some 162 stations in 77 markets that, together, reach about 40% of US television households.

• [By Brian Pacampara]

  What: Shares of television broadcasting company Sinclair Broadcast Group (NASDAQ: SBGI  ) sank as low as 11% today after�announcing disappointing quarterly results and a public offering of common stock. �

• [By John Udovich]

  Small cap media stock�LIN Media LLC (NYSE: LIN) might not be a household name, but there is a good chance you might be watching the company�� programs because like the Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc (NASDAQ: SBGI) and Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc (NASDAQ: NXST), its helping to consolidate the media industry plus its making investment in other forms of media like social media. The stock has also outperformed those two peers along with the�PowerShares Dynamic Media Portfolio ETF (NYSEARCA: PBS).

• [By Eric Volkman]

  In the latest of a string of acquisitions, Sinclair Broadcast Group (NASDAQ: SBGI  ) is to buy Fisher Communications (NASDAQ: FSCI  ) . The merger transaction will cost the former roughly $373 million. Fisher stockholders are to receive a cash payout of $41.00 per share, which, according to Sinclair, is a 44% premium to the stock's recent closing price.

5 Best Dividend Stocks To Own For 2015: Littelfuse Inc.(LFUS)

Littelfuse, Inc. designs, manufactures, and sells circuit protection devices for use in the automotive, electronic, and electrical markets in the Americas, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific. The company offers electronic circuit protection products, such as fuses and protectors, positive temperature coefficient resettable fuses, varistors, polymer electrostatic discharge suppressors, discrete transient voltage suppression diodes, TVS diode arrays and protection thyristors, gas discharge tubes, and power switching components, as well as fuseholders, blocks, and related accessories under PICO II, and NANO2 SMF, TECCOR, SIDACtor, and Battrax brand names. It offers its electronic circuit protection products for use in wireless telephones, consumer electronics, computers, modems, telecommunications equipment, telephones, data transmission lines, and alarm systems. The company also provides automotive fuses that are used in automobiles, trucks, buses, and off-road equipment to protec t electrical circuits and the wires that supply electrical power to operate lights, heating, air conditioning, radios, windows, and other controls, as well as offers fuses for the protection of electric and hybrid vehicles. It markets its automotive fuse products under ATO, MINI, MAXI, MIDI, MEGA, MasterFuse, JCASE, and CablePro brand names. In addition, Littelfuse manufactures various low-voltage and medium-voltage circuit protection products, such as power fuses that are used in the protection from over-load and short-circuit currents in motor branch circuits, heating and cooling systems, control systems, lighting circuits, and electrical distribution networks to electrical distributors and their customers in the construction, original equipment manufacturers, and industrial maintenance and repair and operating supplies markets. Littelfuse sells its products through direct sales force and manufacturers? representatives. The company was founded in 1927 and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Rich Smith]

  Littelfuse (NASDAQ: LFUS  ) has signed an agreement to acquire Key Safety Systems' Hamlin subsidiary for $145 million in cash, Littelfuse announced Monday.