Quick, who is the world’s largest exporter? China? Japan? Would you be shocked to learn it is the U.S.? Contrary to the “Made in China” stamps on clothing labels in Wal-Mart (WMT) and on the bottom of McDonald’s (MCD) Happy Meal toys, the U.S. still leads the world in exports. To be a successful investor, we must keep things in perspective.
Tue. May. 26, 2009
classics, commentary
News of the U.S.’s Demise May Be Premature *
Tue. Apr. 14, 2009
classics, commentary
Nucor Corp. (NUE): Forging A Different Path *
In a recent article looking at early warning signs of a dividend cut, two companies concerned me over their potential for a future dividend cut: Nucor Corp. (NUE) and Caterpillar Inc. (CAT). The economic downturn lowered demand for the companies products which has resulted in sharply lower earnings. It is interesting to contrast their responses to the slowdown. In short, the actions taken couldn’t have been more different.
Wed. Mar. 25, 2009
process
Early Warning Signs of a Dividend Cut *
It seems each week another dividend Aristocrat, Achiever or Champion cuts its dividend after increasing it for 10 or more years. In most cases the companies’ investors were not surprised because they saw the early warning signs that indicated a dividend cut was imminent. Here are three signs that a company is heading toward a dividend cut:
Read more…
Thu. Nov. 20, 2008
commentary
Stock Screen For Improving Dividends *
Standard & Poor’s has speculated that the dollar amount of S&P 500 dividend payments will drop 10% in the fourth quarter, the biggest drop since 1958. However, more than half of companies will pay more in 2008 vs. 2007. This oddity is driven by the banks, which have historically paid some of the highest dividends. As any dividend investor can tell you, the banks have led the way in dividend cuts. In September and October, 16 financial companies cut their dividend payments by $14.6 billion.
Tue. Oct. 21, 2008
analysis
Buying Stocks On The Rebound: Four To Consider *
The current financial downturn has caused consternation for many investors. However, it does have a good side – it has provided access to stocks that have been overvalued for some time. Below are several stocks that I previously rated weak or avoid (0-3 Stars), but are now in the buy zone based on their current share price (as of 10/20/2008 close):
Wed. Sep. 10, 2008
analysis
Stock Analysis: Caterpillar Inc. (CAT) *
Linked here is a PDF copy of my detailed analysis of Caterpillar Inc. (CAT). Below are some highlights from the above linked analysis:
Company Description: Caterpillar Inc. is the world’s largest producer of earthmoving equipment, is also a big maker of electric power generators and engines used in petroleum markets.
Read more…
9 Stocks With A Vision Of Higher Dividends *
Read more…