Tuesday, July 23, 2013

Lockheed Martin Advances Deal With Pentagon; Apple Drops Before Earnings

July 23, 2013
        Wendy's(WEN) topped estimates this morning, sending the stock up a staggering 10%. The company hasn't been doing so well in recent quarters due to stiff competition from larger rivals like McDonald's, who recently reported disappointing fast-food data yesterday. Wendy's plans to decrease expenses and up profit margins through the sale of approximately 400 more of its restaurants to private owners. This would decrease the number of restaurants owned by the company to 15%, but could significantly improve quarterly reports. WEN is up 50% this year.
        Starbucks(SBUX) announced today that it would enter into a strategic partnership with Dannon to sell yogurt through its coffee stores. This partnership allows for Starbucks to expand its product line and helps Dannon gain access to a new demographic. Starbucks is currently moving its way into healthier foods and drinks, and this new effort allows for the company to increase its presence in other areas of the food industry. SBUX dropped 2% as investors take profits before the company's next earnings date.

        Apple(AAPL) dropped 1.4% today ahead of its earnings to be released after the market closes. The company has been performing extremely well in the past few years, but has recently faced a series of revenue decreases, stock downgrading, and short sales. Investors are cautiously waiting for the report, which is unpredictable as companies like Samsung gain foothold in the global mobile market. Investors are expecting to hear news on the company's future prospects and the eagerly awaited iWatch.
        Cisco(CSCO) will buy SourceFire for $2.7 billion, representing a near 30% premium on its stock price as of Monday's close. This acquisition will help it improve its marketable security which has caused worries this year. With Snowden's release of government data collected through technology giants such as Google and Microsoft, personal security has become a rapidly growing industry. This acquisition may give Cisco an advantage over larger rivals as they compete to recapture user confidence.
        Lockheed Martin(LMT) reported profit rises of 10%, sending the stock up nearly 2%. The company has reported that it has progressed its discussions with the government on its line of F-35 fighter jets. If it is able to close this deal with the pentagon, it may represent an increased  revenue of nearly $5 billion. In addition, the growing drone industry has propelled the stock up 33% this year.

Sources:
http://wallstcheatsheet.com/

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