Investment Research Insights

China Architectural Engineering Inc. (CAEI) received a contact worth $3.2 million from Overseas Chinese Town Group for their Joy Coast project. Per the contract, China Architectural will now implement the design as well as construct the Innovation Exhibition Center, one of the regional landmarks within Joy Coast. The contract is expected to be completed within five months. The company was earlier contracted to provide design and consulting services for this project.

China Architectural also provided reviews on other contracts received on August 16.

• The company expects The Terrace Garden Project in Beijing to be completed by the end of the first quarter of 2011. The project, worth $10.4 million, was received from COSCO Real Estate and Swire Group. The contract requires China Architectural to design, manufacture and construct the structural steel and building envelope of the exhibition hall within the terrace garden of Jiangtai Commercial Center.

• The company won two project contracts from Guangxi Municipal Government in Liuzhou. The projects are together valued at $3.3 million. The contracts entail the construction of metal roofs and walls of both Li Ning Sports Stadium and Li Ning Aquatics Center. These are counted among the top ten construction projects of Liuzhou City.

• The company also won The Xinhai Revolution Museum project, a government contract worth $5.2 million in Wuhan, the capital of Hubei. The company will construct the full curtain wall, including a GRC exterior panel roof system, glass curtain wall system, and stone cladding curtain wall system. The overall building scheme of this memorial museum fuses traditional Chinese and modern architectural technologies.

China Architectural reported a loss of 6 cents during the second quarter of 2010. A decrease in contract revenue due to fewer number of projects along with higher raw material and labor and administrative costs contributed to the loss in the quarter.

Based on the company's technical capabilities and focus on more large-scale design programs, we expect China Architectural to win additional contracts, going forward, thus generating healthy results.

Zhuhai, China-based China Architectural Engineering Inc. specializes in high-end curtain wall systems (including glass, stone and metal curtain walls), roofing systems, steel construction systems, eco-energy saving building conservation systems and related products, for public works and commercial real estate projects.

 
CHINA ARCHITECT (CAEI): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
Zacks Investment Research

Unum Group (UNM) sold senior unsecured notes worth $400 million bearing a coupon of 5.625% and maturing on June 15, 2020. The company increased the offer size from $300 million planned earlier.   Unum Group offered the debentures at 99.879% of face value to yield 5.641% if held till maturity.   Unum Group intends to deploy the proceeds from the offering to repay in full $225 million 7.625% senior notes maturing in March 2011 as well as for general corporate purposes.   Rating agency A.M. Best Co. assigned a debt rating of "bbb-" to the senior unsecured notes. The rating outlook is positive.   Also, rating agencies Standard & Poor's Ratings Services (S&P) has issued a "BBB-" rating to these senior notes, Moody's Investor Service of Moody's Corp. (MCO) assigned a "Baa3" rating to the same, while another rating agency Fitch assigned a "BBB" rating to the notes.   Unum Group ended the second quarter of 2010 with a total debt balance of $2.49 billion, compared with $2.55 billion at the end of fiscal 2009, reflecting a reduction of $6 billion in the first half of 2010. The debt-to-capital ratio was 21.9% at second quarter-end, lower than 23.1% at fiscal 2009 end.   With the issuance of $400 million of debt, the debt-to-capital ratio will increase to 24.6%.   As the company is repaying debt bearing a higher coupon rate by issuing debt with a lower coupon, the interest cost incurred by the company will go down. Interest and debt expenses were $34.1 million in the second quarter, higher than $30.4 million in the prior-year quarter.   Unum Group reported its strong second-quarter operating earnings of 69 cents per share, surpassing both the Zacks Consensus Estimate and the prior-year results. Improved performance in Unum U.S., Colonial Life and Individual Disability-Closed Block segments, partially offset by a decline in Unum UK, aided the outperformance.   The company anticipates operating earnings growth for full-year 2010 in a range of 4%-6%, which implies an EPS range of $2.67-$2.72.   The Zacks Consensus Estimate for third-quarter 2010 earnings is 68 cents per share. For full year 2010 and 2011, the Zacks Consensus Estimates are, $2.74 per share and $3.02 per share, respectively.   We maintain a "Neutral" recommendation on Unum Group. The quantitative Zacks #3 Rank (short-term Hold rating) for the company indicates no clear directional pressure on the shares over the near term.   Headquartered in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Unum Group was created following the June 1999 merger of Provident Companies Inc. and Unum Corporation. Along with disability insurance, the company provides long-term care insurance, life insurance, employer- and employee-paid group benefits and related services.  
 
MOODYS CORP (MCO): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
UNUM GROUP (UNM): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
Zacks Investment Research

Unum Group (UNM) sold senior unsecured notes worth $400 million bearing a coupon of 5.625% and maturing on June 15, 2020. The company increased the offer size from $300 million planned earlier.   Unum Group offered the debentures at 99.879% of face value to yield 5.641% if held till maturity.   Unum Group intends to deploy the proceeds from the offering to repay in full $225 million 7.625% senior notes maturing in March 2011 as well as for general corporate purposes.   Rating agency A.M. Best Co. assigned a debt rating of "bbb-" to the senior unsecured notes. The rating outlook is positive.   Also, rating agencies Standard & Poor's Ratings Services (S&P) has issued a "BBB-" rating to these senior notes, Moody's Investor Service of Moody's Corp. (MCO) assigned a "Baa3" rating to the same, while another rating agency Fitch assigned a "BBB" rating to the notes.   Unum Group ended the second quarter of 2010 with a total debt balance of $2.49 billion, compared with $2.55 billion at the end of fiscal 2009, reflecting a reduction of $6 billion in the first half of 2010. The debt-to-capital ratio was 21.9% at second quarter-end, lower than 23.1% at fiscal 2009 end.   With the issuance of $400 million of debt, the debt-to-capital ratio will increase to 24.6%.   As the company is repaying debt bearing a higher coupon rate by issuing debt with a lower coupon, the interest cost incurred by the company will go down. Interest and debt expenses were $34.1 million in the second quarter, higher than $30.4 million in the prior-year quarter.   Unum Group reported its strong second-quarter operating earnings of 69 cents per share, surpassing both the Zacks Consensus Estimate and the prior-year results. Improved performance in Unum U.S., Colonial Life and Individual Disability-Closed Block segments, partially offset by a decline in Unum UK, aided the outperformance.   The company anticipates operating earnings growth for full-year 2010 in a range of 4%-6%, which implies an EPS range of $2.67-$2.72.   The Zacks Consensus Estimate for third-quarter 2010 earnings is 68 cents per share. For full year 2010 and 2011, the Zacks Consensus Estimates are, $2.74 per share and $3.02 per share, respectively.   We maintain a "Neutral" recommendation on Unum Group. The quantitative Zacks #3 Rank (short-term Hold rating) for the company indicates no clear directional pressure on the shares over the near term.   Headquartered in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Unum Group was created following the June 1999 merger of Provident Companies Inc. and Unum Corporation. Along with disability insurance, the company provides long-term care insurance, life insurance, employer- and employee-paid group benefits and related services.  
 
MOODYS CORP (MCO): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
UNUM GROUP (UNM): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
Zacks Investment Research

Crude inventories decreased by 1.9 million barrels, for the week ending September 3, from the previous week to 359.9 million barrels and were above the upper limit of the average range for that time of year. U.S. crude oil refinery inputs averaged 14.9 million barrels per day during this period, 90 thousand barrels per day above the previous week's average. U.S. crude oil imports were averaging 8.9 million barrels per day, down by 794 thousand barrels per day from the previous week. Upcoming Releases Wholesale Inventories (09/10 at 10:00 AM EST)
Treasury Budget (09/13 at 2:00 PM EST)
Retail Sales (09/14 at 8:30 AM EST)
Business Inventories (09/14 at 10:00 AM EST)
 
Zacks Investment Research

Crude inventories decreased by 1.9 million barrels, for the week ending September 3, from the previous week to 359.9 million barrels and were above the upper limit of the average range for that time of year. U.S. crude oil refinery inputs averaged 14.9 million barrels per day during this period, 90 thousand barrels per day above the previous week's average. U.S. crude oil imports were averaging 8.9 million barrels per day, down by 794 thousand barrels per day from the previous week. Upcoming Releases Wholesale Inventories (09/10 at 10:00 AM EST)
Treasury Budget (09/13 at 2:00 PM EST)
Retail Sales (09/14 at 8:30 AM EST)
Business Inventories (09/14 at 10:00 AM EST)
 
Zacks Investment Research

RC2 Corporation (RCRC) is planning a retail launch of its Chuggington die-cast toy line in the United States in October. RC2 Corporation is a leading designer and producer of innovative, high-quality toys, collectibles and infant and toddler products, primarily marketed under its Learning Curve family of brands.   Chuggington is a computer generated 3D series as well as a fully immersive interactive website. The series fascinates preschoolers with the adventures of three trainee engines, Wilson, Brewster and Koko. Ludorum, a global media company that builds quality children's entertainment franchises, is the creator of Chuggington.   Following the recent success and encouraging television ratings of Chuggington train play products in U.S. Playhouse Disney, RC2 Corporation is all set to launch its new Chuggington line exclusively at Toys"R"Us stores across the country and online at Toysrus.com. The new Chuggington toy line will feature action packed toys with developmental messages and storylines.   Earlier this year, Chuggington made its retail launch in the U.K., Germany, France, Australia and Canada and has been well received.   In addition to the Chuggington master toy licensing rights, RC2 holds a 50% interest in Chuggington's intellectual property rights with Ludorum.   RC2's overall sales and profit were lower in the second quarter of 2010 compared with the prior-year period due to the transition in its preschool, youth and adult products categories. Nevertheless, we believe that the company will benefit from Chuggington and Dinosaur Train product launches in international as well as U.S. markets in the second half of the year.   We are also positive about the Chuggington franchise. Following the show's successful run on Playhouse Disney and the product lines' ongoing oversees success; management expects Chuggington to enjoy robust demand and high sales in 2010 and beyond. We have a Zacks Rank of #2 (short-term Buy recommendation) on the shares. We also reiterate our long-term Outperform rating.   
 
RC2 CORP (RCRC): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
Zacks Investment Research

RC2 Corporation (RCRC) is planning a retail launch of its Chuggington die-cast toy line in the United States in October. RC2 Corporation is a leading designer and producer of innovative, high-quality toys, collectibles and infant and toddler products, primarily marketed under its Learning Curve family of brands.   Chuggington is a computer generated 3D series as well as a fully immersive interactive website. The series fascinates preschoolers with the adventures of three trainee engines, Wilson, Brewster and Koko. Ludorum, a global media company that builds quality children's entertainment franchises, is the creator of Chuggington.   Following the recent success and encouraging television ratings of Chuggington train play products in U.S. Playhouse Disney, RC2 Corporation is all set to launch its new Chuggington line exclusively at Toys"R"Us stores across the country and online at Toysrus.com. The new Chuggington toy line will feature action packed toys with developmental messages and storylines.   Earlier this year, Chuggington made its retail launch in the U.K., Germany, France, Australia and Canada and has been well received.   In addition to the Chuggington master toy licensing rights, RC2 holds a 50% interest in Chuggington's intellectual property rights with Ludorum.   RC2's overall sales and profit were lower in the second quarter of 2010 compared with the prior-year period due to the transition in its preschool, youth and adult products categories. Nevertheless, we believe that the company will benefit from Chuggington and Dinosaur Train product launches in international as well as U.S. markets in the second half of the year.   We are also positive about the Chuggington franchise. Following the show's successful run on Playhouse Disney and the product lines' ongoing oversees success; management expects Chuggington to enjoy robust demand and high sales in 2010 and beyond. We have a Zacks Rank of #2 (short-term Buy recommendation) on the shares. We also reiterate our long-term Outperform rating.   
 
RC2 CORP (RCRC): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
Zacks Investment Research

Chinese energy giant, PetroChina Company Limited (PTR) announced the start-up of Qinzhou refinery in Guangxi region of south China. The refinery has a daily processing capacity of 200,000 barrels of oil or 10 million tones annually.   Qinzhou is PetroChina's first large-scale refinery in the region and also the largest industrial project in Guangxi. It aims at accelerating the supply of oil products in southwestern China as well as enhancing sectors such as infrastructure construction and logistics.   The refinery was initially scheduled to begin operations in June 2010. Though the start-up is delayed, PetroChina is now keen to focus on upgrading the refinery to avoid importation of inputs.   Key facilities of the refinery include 70,000 barrels per day (BPD) heavy residue catalytic cracker, a 44,000 BPD continuous reforming unit and a 44,000 BPD hydrocracking unit, which together cost 15.1 billion yuan ($2.2 billion). The entire output from the refinery met emission standards of Euro III, while 70% met the Euro-IV standard.   Recently, the Upstream segment of PetroChina posted strong first half results on the back of higher realized prices and production. On an annualized basis, crude oil and marketable natural gas output rose 1.7% and 12.9%, respectively. The refinery division processed 439.1 million barrels (MMBbl) during the six-month period, up from 389.3 MMBbl in the comparable period in 2009.   China's robust economic growth has raised its demand for oil, natural gas and chemicals considerably. This growth momentum offers attractive opportunities for industry players that can meet the country's mounting energy needs. PetroChina appears well positioned to benefit from these favorable trends; given it is one of the two integrated oil companies in the country.   Moreover, China's burgeoning middle class and growing automobile ownership is expected to increase consumption of refined petroleum products.   However, we believe these positives are somewhat offset by heavy exposure to significantly mature producing areas, high-priced gas imports in the face of low domestic gas sale prices and uncertainty regarding the rollout of a new national resources tax.    Consequently, we have a Zacks Rank of #3 (short-term Hold recommendation) for PetroChina.
 
PETROCHINA ADR (PTR): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
Zacks Investment Research

Chinese energy giant, PetroChina Company Limited (PTR) announced the start-up of Qinzhou refinery in Guangxi region of south China. The refinery has a daily processing capacity of 200,000 barrels of oil or 10 million tones annually.   Qinzhou is PetroChina's first large-scale refinery in the region and also the largest industrial project in Guangxi. It aims at accelerating the supply of oil products in southwestern China as well as enhancing sectors such as infrastructure construction and logistics.   The refinery was initially scheduled to begin operations in June 2010. Though the start-up is delayed, PetroChina is now keen to focus on upgrading the refinery to avoid importation of inputs.   Key facilities of the refinery include 70,000 barrels per day (BPD) heavy residue catalytic cracker, a 44,000 BPD continuous reforming unit and a 44,000 BPD hydrocracking unit, which together cost 15.1 billion yuan ($2.2 billion). The entire output from the refinery met emission standards of Euro III, while 70% met the Euro-IV standard.   Recently, the Upstream segment of PetroChina posted strong first half results on the back of higher realized prices and production. On an annualized basis, crude oil and marketable natural gas output rose 1.7% and 12.9%, respectively. The refinery division processed 439.1 million barrels (MMBbl) during the six-month period, up from 389.3 MMBbl in the comparable period in 2009.   China's robust economic growth has raised its demand for oil, natural gas and chemicals considerably. This growth momentum offers attractive opportunities for industry players that can meet the country's mounting energy needs. PetroChina appears well positioned to benefit from these favorable trends; given it is one of the two integrated oil companies in the country.   Moreover, China's burgeoning middle class and growing automobile ownership is expected to increase consumption of refined petroleum products.   However, we believe these positives are somewhat offset by heavy exposure to significantly mature producing areas, high-priced gas imports in the face of low domestic gas sale prices and uncertainty regarding the rollout of a new national resources tax.    Consequently, we have a Zacks Rank of #3 (short-term Hold recommendation) for PetroChina.
 
PETROCHINA ADR (PTR): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
Zacks Investment Research

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Read full story for details.

For Immediate Release

Chicago, IL – September 9, 2010 – Four free stock picks are being made available today on Zacks.com. The industry’s leading independent research firm highlights one Zacks #1 Rank Strong Buy or a Zacks #2 Rank Buy stock for each of the four main styles of investing: Aggressive Growth, Growth & Income, Momentum, and Value.

The four highlighted picks are: The Timberland Company (TBL), The J.M. Smucker Company (SJM), Dupont & Co. (DD) and Arch Chemicals Inc (ARJ).

Today, Zacks informs investors of its ''Buy'' stock recommendations. Four daily picks are offered free at http://at.zacks.com/?id=5607.

Zacks #1 Rank Stocks have nearly tripled the S&P 500 since 1988, producing an average annual return of +28%. Performance has been notable even during volatile and down times. For example, during the last bear market, 2000-2002, the market tumbled -37.6% – but Zacks #1 Rank stocks gained +43.8%.

Here is a summary of today's selected stocks that are now highly rated by Zacks:

Aggressive Growth – The Timberland Company (TBL)
The Timberland Company reported solid growth in its latest quarterly report, which was also its fourth consecutive earnings surprise.

Zacks Guide to Aggressive Growth Investing (free!): http://at.zacks.com/?id=4309

Growth & Income – The J.M. Smucker Company (SJM)
The J.M. Smucker Company recently beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 9%, which was its ninth consecutive earnings surprise. Sales are expected to increase 22% next year.

Zacks Guide to Growth & Income Investing (free!): http://at.zacks.com/?id=4310

Momentum – Dupont & Co. (DD)
Dupont & Co. recently hit a new multi-year high at $42.75 after reporting a solid 24% Q2 earnings surprise in late July. With a dividend yield of 3.9% and rising estimates, Dupont has some very solid upward momentum.

Zacks Guide to Momentum Investing (free!): http://at.zacks.com/?id=4311

Value – Arch Chemicals Inc (ARJ)
Arch Chemicals Inc. recently raised full year guidance after it saw strong demand across all its business segments as the global recovery continued.

Zacks Guide to Value Investing (free!): http://at.zacks.com/?id=4312

How to Regularly Access Top Zacks Rank Picks Free: http://at.zacks.com/?id=7156

Underlying the four free stock picks is a simple truth that first appeared in a Financial Analysts Journal article published in 1979. Leonard Zacks, a Ph.D. in Mathematics from M.I.T. found that "earnings estimate revisions are the most powerful force impacting stock prices." Zacks #1 Rank is awarded to a stock when analysts sharply upgrade their estimates of what the company will earn.

Today, Zacks releases stock recommendations by offering four daily picks free to those who register at http://at.zacks.com/?id=7157

About Zacks

Zacks.com is a property of Zacks Investment Research, Inc., which was formed in 1978 by Len Zacks. The company continually processes stock reports issued by 3,000 analysts from 150 brokerage firms. It monitors more than 200,000 earnings estimates, looking for changes.

Then, when changes are discovered, they’re applied to help assign more than 4,400 stocks into five Zacks Rank categories: #1 Strong Buy, #2 Buy, #3 Hold, #4 Sell, and #5 Strong Sell. This proprietary stock-picking system continues to outperform the market by a nearly 3-to-1 margin.

More Free Stock Picks

Each weekday, new Zacks #1 Rank or Zacks #2 Rank stock picks are released on the free email newsletter, Profit from the Pros. Investors are invited to register for their free subscription at http://at.zacks.com/?id=5642

Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/zacksresearch

Join us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/pages/Zacks-Investment-Research/57553657748?ref=ts

Zacks Investment Research is under common control with affiliated entities (including a broker-dealer and an investment adviser), which may engage in transactions involving the foregoing securities for the clients of such affiliates.

Disclaimer: Past performance does not guarantee future results. Investors should always research companies and securities before making any investments. Nothing herein should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any security.

Zacks.com

Aggressive Growth Stocks:
Contact: Bill Wilton
Phone: 312-265-9277

or

Growth & Income Stocks:
Contact: Rob Plaza
Phone: 312-265-9442

or

Momentum Stocks:
Contact: Michael Vodicka
Phone: 312-265-9226

or

Value Stocks:
Contact: Tracey Ryniec
Phone: 312-265-9232

Email: pr@zacks.com
Visit: www.zacks.com

Visit http://www.zacks.com/performance for information about the performance numbers displayed in this press release.

 

 
ARCH CHEMICALS (ARJ): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
DU PONT (EI) DE (DD): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
SMUCKER JM (SJM): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
TIMBERLAND CO A (TBL): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
Zacks Investment Research

For Immediate Release

Chicago, IL – September 9, 2010 – Four free stock picks are being made available today on Zacks.com. The industry’s leading independent research firm highlights one Zacks #1 Rank Strong Buy or a Zacks #2 Rank Buy stock for each of the four main styles of investing: Aggressive Growth, Growth & Income, Momentum, and Value.

The four highlighted picks are: The Timberland Company (TBL), The J.M. Smucker Company (SJM), Dupont & Co. (DD) and Arch Chemicals Inc (ARJ).

Today, Zacks informs investors of its ''Buy'' stock recommendations. Four daily picks are offered free at http://at.zacks.com/?id=5607.

Zacks #1 Rank Stocks have nearly tripled the S&P 500 since 1988, producing an average annual return of +28%. Performance has been notable even during volatile and down times. For example, during the last bear market, 2000-2002, the market tumbled -37.6% – but Zacks #1 Rank stocks gained +43.8%.

Here is a summary of today's selected stocks that are now highly rated by Zacks:

Aggressive Growth – The Timberland Company (TBL)
The Timberland Company reported solid growth in its latest quarterly report, which was also its fourth consecutive earnings surprise.

Zacks Guide to Aggressive Growth Investing (free!): http://at.zacks.com/?id=4309

Growth & Income – The J.M. Smucker Company (SJM)
The J.M. Smucker Company recently beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 9%, which was its ninth consecutive earnings surprise. Sales are expected to increase 22% next year.

Zacks Guide to Growth & Income Investing (free!): http://at.zacks.com/?id=4310

Momentum – Dupont & Co. (DD)
Dupont & Co. recently hit a new multi-year high at $42.75 after reporting a solid 24% Q2 earnings surprise in late July. With a dividend yield of 3.9% and rising estimates, Dupont has some very solid upward momentum.

Zacks Guide to Momentum Investing (free!): http://at.zacks.com/?id=4311

Value – Arch Chemicals Inc (ARJ)
Arch Chemicals Inc. recently raised full year guidance after it saw strong demand across all its business segments as the global recovery continued.

Zacks Guide to Value Investing (free!): http://at.zacks.com/?id=4312

How to Regularly Access Top Zacks Rank Picks Free: http://at.zacks.com/?id=7156

Underlying the four free stock picks is a simple truth that first appeared in a Financial Analysts Journal article published in 1979. Leonard Zacks, a Ph.D. in Mathematics from M.I.T. found that "earnings estimate revisions are the most powerful force impacting stock prices." Zacks #1 Rank is awarded to a stock when analysts sharply upgrade their estimates of what the company will earn.

Today, Zacks releases stock recommendations by offering four daily picks free to those who register at http://at.zacks.com/?id=7157

About Zacks

Zacks.com is a property of Zacks Investment Research, Inc., which was formed in 1978 by Len Zacks. The company continually processes stock reports issued by 3,000 analysts from 150 brokerage firms. It monitors more than 200,000 earnings estimates, looking for changes.

Then, when changes are discovered, they’re applied to help assign more than 4,400 stocks into five Zacks Rank categories: #1 Strong Buy, #2 Buy, #3 Hold, #4 Sell, and #5 Strong Sell. This proprietary stock-picking system continues to outperform the market by a nearly 3-to-1 margin.

More Free Stock Picks

Each weekday, new Zacks #1 Rank or Zacks #2 Rank stock picks are released on the free email newsletter, Profit from the Pros. Investors are invited to register for their free subscription at http://at.zacks.com/?id=5642

Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/zacksresearch

Join us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/pages/Zacks-Investment-Research/57553657748?ref=ts

Zacks Investment Research is under common control with affiliated entities (including a broker-dealer and an investment adviser), which may engage in transactions involving the foregoing securities for the clients of such affiliates.

Disclaimer: Past performance does not guarantee future results. Investors should always research companies and securities before making any investments. Nothing herein should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any security.

Zacks.com

Aggressive Growth Stocks:
Contact: Bill Wilton
Phone: 312-265-9277

or

Growth & Income Stocks:
Contact: Rob Plaza
Phone: 312-265-9442

or

Momentum Stocks:
Contact: Michael Vodicka
Phone: 312-265-9226

or

Value Stocks:
Contact: Tracey Ryniec
Phone: 312-265-9232

Email: pr@zacks.com
Visit: www.zacks.com

Visit http://www.zacks.com/performance for information about the performance numbers displayed in this press release.

 

 
ARCH CHEMICALS (ARJ): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
DU PONT (EI) DE (DD): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
SMUCKER JM (SJM): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
TIMBERLAND CO A (TBL): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
Zacks Investment Research

Leading medical billing and records software provider Athenahealth Inc. (ATHN) has announced that it has been selected as a preferred vendor for electronic health record (EHR) solutions by Massachusetts e-Health Institute (MeHI), a unit of the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative ("MTC"), the state's incumbent development agency for renewable energy and innovation economy.

MeHI is a designated entity for health care innovation in Massachusetts and is responsible for the implementation of EHR systems across all healthcare provider settings. It was awarded federal stimulus funding of $13.4 million in February 2010 to help primary care provider migrate to the EHR platform.

The collaboration (between Athenahealth and MeHI) will enable MeHi affiliated physician practices to leverage Athenahealth's web-base technology as they aim to secure incentives offered by the HITECH Act, which was enacted as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).
Physicians and hospitals that adopt EHR and use them meaningfully are eligible for incentives under the ARRA, a federal stimulus package aimed at increasing the use of EHR by medical practitioners.

Following the release of the Government's final rules for "Meaningful Use" of EHR in July 2010, Athenahealth extended the timeline for physicians to participate in its "Federal Stimulus Bonus Payment Guarantee Program". As a result, physicians now have time until June 30, 2011 (instead of January 31, 2011) to join the guarantee program and implement the company's EHR solution to qualify for the incentive under the HITECH Act.

Massachusetts-based Athenahealth is a leading provider of web-based business services for physician practices. The company's services leverage proprietary web-native practice management and EHR software, integrated back-office service operations and automated patient communication services.

Athenahealth's principal product is athenaCollector, an Internet-based billing and practice management solution. The company has done a remarkable job in differentiating athenaCollector to build one of the leading brands in the Health IT market.

Athenahealth recently introduced its athenaClinicals EHR service on a stand-alone basis for hospitals and community physicians. Previously, the service was bundled with athenaCollector. Higher adoption of athenaCollector and athenaClinical by physicians and medical providers fueled a revenue growth of 28% in the recently reported quarter.

However, Athenahealth continues to face stiff competition across all of its operating platforms with established Health IT players such as Allscripts-Misys (MDRX) and Quality Systems Inc. (QSII) posing a major threat to the company. Nevertheless, Athenahealth remains optimistic about the growth prospects in each of its end-markets boosted by expanded adoption of its premium solutions.

 
ATHENAHEALTH IN (ATHN): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
ALLSCRIPTS-MISY (MDRX): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
QUALITY SYS (QSII): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
Zacks Investment Research

Leading medical billing and records software provider Athenahealth Inc. (ATHN) has announced that it has been selected as a preferred vendor for electronic health record (EHR) solutions by Massachusetts e-Health Institute (MeHI), a unit of the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative ("MTC"), the state's incumbent development agency for renewable energy and innovation economy.

MeHI is a designated entity for health care innovation in Massachusetts and is responsible for the implementation of EHR systems across all healthcare provider settings. It was awarded federal stimulus funding of $13.4 million in February 2010 to help primary care provider migrate to the EHR platform.

The collaboration (between Athenahealth and MeHI) will enable MeHi affiliated physician practices to leverage Athenahealth's web-base technology as they aim to secure incentives offered by the HITECH Act, which was enacted as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).
Physicians and hospitals that adopt EHR and use them meaningfully are eligible for incentives under the ARRA, a federal stimulus package aimed at increasing the use of EHR by medical practitioners.

Following the release of the Government's final rules for "Meaningful Use" of EHR in July 2010, Athenahealth extended the timeline for physicians to participate in its "Federal Stimulus Bonus Payment Guarantee Program". As a result, physicians now have time until June 30, 2011 (instead of January 31, 2011) to join the guarantee program and implement the company's EHR solution to qualify for the incentive under the HITECH Act.

Massachusetts-based Athenahealth is a leading provider of web-based business services for physician practices. The company's services leverage proprietary web-native practice management and EHR software, integrated back-office service operations and automated patient communication services.

Athenahealth's principal product is athenaCollector, an Internet-based billing and practice management solution. The company has done a remarkable job in differentiating athenaCollector to build one of the leading brands in the Health IT market.

Athenahealth recently introduced its athenaClinicals EHR service on a stand-alone basis for hospitals and community physicians. Previously, the service was bundled with athenaCollector. Higher adoption of athenaCollector and athenaClinical by physicians and medical providers fueled a revenue growth of 28% in the recently reported quarter.

However, Athenahealth continues to face stiff competition across all of its operating platforms with established Health IT players such as Allscripts-Misys (MDRX) and Quality Systems Inc. (QSII) posing a major threat to the company. Nevertheless, Athenahealth remains optimistic about the growth prospects in each of its end-markets boosted by expanded adoption of its premium solutions.

 
ATHENAHEALTH IN (ATHN): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
ALLSCRIPTS-MISY (MDRX): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
QUALITY SYS (QSII): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
Zacks Investment Research

Target Corporation (TGT), the operator of general merchandise and food discount stores in the United States, recently posted sales results for the four-week period ended August 28, 2010.

The company's comparable-store sales for August 2010 rose 1.8%, following an increase of 2% registered in July 2010 and reflecting a sharp improvement from a decline of 2.9% witnessed in August 2009.

The increase in comps was the result of growth in comparable store transactions, partly offset by a marginal fall in average transaction size. Target witnessed healthy traffic counts driven by the remodel program and its 'Expect More, Pay Less' brand initiative.

Year-to-date, comparable-store sales climbed 2.2% compared with a fall of 4.7% in the same period last year. Management expects a low single-digit increase in comparable-store sales for September.

By categories - apparel, food, healthcare and beauty reported robust sales. On the contrary, electronics, video games and music delivered sluggish sales. Target's sales were hit hard during the downturn as cash-strapped consumers focused more on food and essentials rather than discretionary purchases, which usually carry higher margins.

Based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Target stated that net retail sales for August rose 3.4% year-on-year to $5,023 million, whereas year-to-date, sales climbed 4.5% to $35,307 million.

Target's strategic initiatives should help drive comparable-store sales and operating margins in the long term. We expect the company to gain market share, and believe that increased focus on consumable items will boost sales in a sluggish retail environment. However, with the revival of the economy, the other merchandise categories are also gaining strength.

Target now tends to focus more on store renovations and enhancing store sales productivity, introducing smaller format stores, and eyeing opportunities in the international markets. However, unfavorable consumer spending patterns and increased competition still remain concerns.

Target, which currently operates 1,743 stores in 49 states, faces stiff competition from Wal-Mart Stores Inc. (WMT). We have a Neutral rating on Target. Moreover, the Zacks #3 Rank, which translates into a short-term 'Hold' rating, correlates with our long-term recommendation.

 
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Zacks Investment Research

Target Corporation (TGT), the operator of general merchandise and food discount stores in the United States, recently posted sales results for the four-week period ended August 28, 2010.

The company's comparable-store sales for August 2010 rose 1.8%, following an increase of 2% registered in July 2010 and reflecting a sharp improvement from a decline of 2.9% witnessed in August 2009.

The increase in comps was the result of growth in comparable store transactions, partly offset by a marginal fall in average transaction size. Target witnessed healthy traffic counts driven by the remodel program and its 'Expect More, Pay Less' brand initiative.

Year-to-date, comparable-store sales climbed 2.2% compared with a fall of 4.7% in the same period last year. Management expects a low single-digit increase in comparable-store sales for September.

By categories - apparel, food, healthcare and beauty reported robust sales. On the contrary, electronics, video games and music delivered sluggish sales. Target's sales were hit hard during the downturn as cash-strapped consumers focused more on food and essentials rather than discretionary purchases, which usually carry higher margins.

Based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Target stated that net retail sales for August rose 3.4% year-on-year to $5,023 million, whereas year-to-date, sales climbed 4.5% to $35,307 million.

Target's strategic initiatives should help drive comparable-store sales and operating margins in the long term. We expect the company to gain market share, and believe that increased focus on consumable items will boost sales in a sluggish retail environment. However, with the revival of the economy, the other merchandise categories are also gaining strength.

Target now tends to focus more on store renovations and enhancing store sales productivity, introducing smaller format stores, and eyeing opportunities in the international markets. However, unfavorable consumer spending patterns and increased competition still remain concerns.

Target, which currently operates 1,743 stores in 49 states, faces stiff competition from Wal-Mart Stores Inc. (WMT). We have a Neutral rating on Target. Moreover, the Zacks #3 Rank, which translates into a short-term 'Hold' rating, correlates with our long-term recommendation.

 
TARGET CORP (TGT): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
WAL-MART STORES (WMT): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
Zacks Investment Research

OmniVision Technologies, Inc.’s (OVTI) share price has entered into oversold territory with a stochastic value of 10.23. The Zacks Consensus Estimate on the company’s earnings for the year ending April 2011 surged 41 cents over the past month to $1.29 per share. OmniVision Technologies, Inc. is a Zacks #1 Rank (“Strong Buy”) company.
 
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Zacks Investment Research

OmniVision Technologies, Inc.’s (OVTI) share price has entered into oversold territory with a stochastic value of 10.23. The Zacks Consensus Estimate on the company’s earnings for the year ending April 2011 surged 41 cents over the past month to $1.29 per share. OmniVision Technologies, Inc. is a Zacks #1 Rank (“Strong Buy”) company.
 
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Zacks Investment Research

Macy's Inc. (M) posted better-than-expected sales results for the four-week period ended August 28, 2010, on the heels of strong back-to-school business, driven by robust performances across Material Girl, Madonna's new apparel line, and American Rag, the private brand.

The company's comparable-store sales for August 2010 rose 4.3%, following an increase of 7.3% registered in July 2010, a sharp improvement from a decline of 8.1% witnessed in August 2009.

Cincinnati, Ohio-based company, Macy's, pointed that year-to-date comparable-store sales grew by 5%.

Macy's, one of the leading department store retailers in the United States, now expects comparable-store sales to rise in the range of 3% to 3.5% in the second half of 2010, which would result in comparable-store sales increase of 4% to 4.2% for fiscal 2010.

Macy's said that total sales for August jumped 6.2% to $1,638 million from $1,542 million in the same month last year. Year-to-date, sales were up 7.1% to $12,749 million from $11,905 million in the comparable year-ago period.

Online sales, which include macys.com and bloomingdales.com, continued their growth momentum in August and soared 22.2% for the month under review, and were up 29.8% year-to-date. Macy's is seeking to expand both the Macy's and Bloomingdale's brands.

Macy's department stores sell a wide range of merchandise. Macy's products include men's, women's, and children's apparel and accessories, cosmetics, home furnishings and other consumer goods.

Macy's currently operates nearly 850 department stores in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Guam and Puerto Rico.

The company is taking steps to increase sales, profitability and cash flow, which include integration of operations, consolidation of divisions and customer-centric localization initiatives. To help drive traffic, Macy's continues to focus on price optimization, inventory management and merchandise planning. However, intense competition and higher debt-to-capitalization ratio remain concerns.

We have a Neutral rating on Macy's. Moreover, the Zacks #3 Rank, which translates into a short-term 'Hold' rating, correlates with our long-term recommendation.

 
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Zacks Investment Research