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February 2004
Moderate Trader
Contents
Back Issues
Oct. 2003
Nov. 2003
Dec. 2003
Jan. 2004
Investing
Buy & Sell
The high momentum Dow stocks
Model Portfolio
Buy Alert
Model Portfolio Chart
New Investors
Model Portfolio II
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Your New Year’s resolution may have been to lose weight, exercise, and contribute to your 401(k) plan. If you haven’t done the first two, make sure you do the latter. Although at this time the market could be overvalued, each individual who has a chance to contribute to a 401(k) plan should do so (continued in: Investing).
Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ symbol: CMCSK) is the largest cable TV operator in the United States. During the boom cycle this stock reached a lofty level of $56.50 per share in December 1999. Afterwards this equity proceeded in a slow downtrend. (continued in: Buy & Sell).
In this section we will feature stocks that either have appreciated at a fast pace, tumbled to a low level, or depending on the money flow could ascend or descend at a fast pace during the next five months.
Caterpillar, Inc., (NYSE symbol: CAT) is a major supplier of agricultural equipment and engines for trucks and locomotives. The company sells its equipment worldwide.
This stock closed at $59.79 per share on March 15, 2002. As the money flow fell $4.18 billion during the following seven months, this stock proceeded to descend and closed at a low level (continued in: The High Momentum Dow Stocks).
Applied Materials, Inc. (NASDAQ symbol: AMAT) is a major supplier of wafer processing equipment that is used to produce semiconductors. The company produces systems that use physical vapor deposition technology, (continued in: Model Portfolios).
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Editor's Page
Welcome to the Moderate Trader. Within these pages a potential investor can easily find information that will be helpful when making the
decision to buy or sell a stock. These factors are explored in detail in the section titled “Investing.”
On February 17, 2004, Comcast Corporation., (NASDAQ symbol: CMCSK), closed at $29.80 per share. Read on to see how we rate this stock. We are also featuring the stock of Novellus Systems, Inc., (NASDAQ symbol: NVLS) that closed at $33.76 per share on February 17, 2004. Those wondering whether to buy or sell these stocks will want to read the “Buy & Sell” section.
In November 2002, we started a new section titled “The High Momentum Dow Stocks.” In this section we feature Dow Jones Industrial stocks that either have appreciated at a fast pace, tumbled to a low level, or, depending on the money flow, could ascend or descend at a fast pace during the next five months.
In our Model Portfolio section, investors will find a brief description about each stock in our portfolio,
our target level at which to buy these stocks, approximately when to sell them, and at what price level.
Read our Buy Alert section to find out which stocks will be bought when they reach our target level.
For your convenience we have listed the stock split dates and change in value for each one of the stocks held in
our Model Portfolio in the section titled Model Portfolio Chart.
In May 2002, we started a section called New investors with a list of five stocks provided
in Model Portfolio II that may be bought by investors who are just starting to build their stock portfolio.
On July 10, 2002, we added one more stock to the list and now there is a total of six stocks in our Model Portfolio II.
We welcome your questions, or comments. Please E-mail them to: webmaster@moderatetrader.com
 JESSICA BEZOLD, Editor
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Investing
Your New Year’s resolution may have been to lose weight, exercise, and contribute to your 401(k) plan. If you haven’t done the first two, make sure you do the latter. Although at this time the market could be overvalued, each individual who has a chance to contribute to a 401(k) plan should do so.
Investors who are risk averse and afraid to invest their money in a stock mutual fund at this time may invest in a short-term bond fund or a money market fund. Many employers offer a matching contribution that could be as high as 40 cents per each dollar that you contribute. At such a rate, for each $1,000 that you contribute annually your employer will give you $400.00 and add it to your 401(k) plan. That’s like receiving 40 percent interest on your money at a time when bank CD’s are yielding as little as 0.75 percent.
Furthermore, your funds in the 401(k) will grow, free of taxes, until you start making withdrawals when you retire. Individuals who are already in a 401(k) plan should continue making their contributions and ones who aren’t should join the 401(k) plan offered by their employer as soon as possible.
As investors continued to commit money into stocks and stock mutual funds in January, the market continued its uptrend. It is surprising, because the market may have already reached its top. Many stocks are trading at sky-high P/E ratios but it seems that investors’ fear of missing the last leg of the rally is much greater than the fear of market correction. Perhaps these investors do not take market correction into consideration and that is why they don’t acknowledge that stocks could fall, causing them to incur a loss of capital. Does anyone remember the year 2000 and the euphoria that was prevalent among investors?
Last month we stated: [Many money managers are advising their clients to remain fully invested in stocks, and they believe that stocks are headed higher. From a contrarian’s point of view, this is a negative sign. The S&P 500 stock index is already trading at 27 times trailing earnings, above the historic average of 16. Some investors are asking this question: “Can this rally last, and if not, when will it end?”]
On February 17, 2004, the Dow Jones industrial average closed at 10714.88, up 87.03 points, while the Nasdaq composite index closed at 2080.35, up 26.79 points. Speculators who have cash on the sidelines should wait patiently and then start buying stocks when they may reach their low levels. Many tech stocks may test their support levels by mid August 2004, or October 2004. Some of these tech stocks may never again reach such low levels. On the contrary, two years from now some of these tech stocks may revisit their previous highs and reward investors with gains as high as 400 percent.
As far back as in January 2002, we stated in Investing, “Warning! Speculators who have marginal accounts should minimize the margin level as soon as possible. Sell some of the stocks in your account during the market rallies in January 2002. Bring your margin level to zero, if possible. Speculators who do not bring their margin level to zero should be prepared to have enough cash on hand to add to their marginal account.”
We believe that the market is still in a secular long-term bear market and the extensive gains achieved during 2003 were due to a short-term bear market rally. Speculators who are still on margin should sell some of their blue chip stocks before they generate a loss. Continue to build your cash position. The market is overdue for a correction and when that happens the Dow could fall 15 percent, while the Nasdaq composite index could fall 30 percent. In a worst case scenario, some of the technology stocks could fall as much as 70 percent. If that were to happen these marginal accounts could generate margin calls and many speculators may not be financially ready to meet them.
Cash is king! Investors should preserve the cash they have on hand and then start to accumulate equities at a moderate pace when they reach our buy target levels. Initially, do not commit more than 20 percent of your cash to equities because it could take this lengthy bear market several more months to reach its bottom.
As of Tuesday, February 17, 2004, after the market closed, the asset allocation in our Model Portfolio was 16 percent equities and 84 percent cash.
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Buy & Sell
Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ symbol: CMCSK) is the largest cable TV operator in the United States. During the boom cycle this stock reached a lofty level of $56.50 per share in December 1999. Afterwards this equity proceeded in a slow downtrend.
On August 5, 2002, this stock closed at a low of $16.80 per share, down $2.76 for the day. As the money flow rose $2.1 billion during the next two weeks, this equity proceeded to ascend and closed at $25.11 per share on August 22, 2002.
Afterwards, this stock proceeded to test its support level and closed at $16.93 per share on October 9, 2002. As the money flow rose $2 billion during the next four weeks the stock built a strong upward momentum and closed at $26.24 per share on November 5, 2002. Afterwards, even though the money flow proceeded to fall the stock maintained its uptrend and closed at a high of $28.09 per share on February 28, 2003.
On March 14, 2003, this stock closed at $27.38 per share and we stated in Buy & Sell: “This stock could test its resistance level of $35.20 per share. At such a level this stock would be fully valued.” Ten months later, on January 21, 2004, this equity closed at a high of $35.10 per share.
On February 11, 2004, Comcast Corporation made an all stock offer to acquire Walt Disney Company (NYSE symbol: DIS). Initially this deal was worth $54 billion, but as the stock of Comcast Corporation fell $2.84 after the announcement, the deal was worth approximately $49 billion at the end of the day.
In our opinion, this hostile takeover will never be finalized as long as Michael Eisner who is the CEO of Walt Disney Company has the backing of its board of directors. Furthermore, the stock of Comcast Corporation was already in a downtrend, and fell from a close of $35.10 per share reached on January 21, 2004, to a close of $32.32 on February 9, 2004. Although there is a slight probability that this stock could revisit its recent high level of $35.10 per share, the downside risk is much greater than the upside potential. If the money flow were to fall $31.5 billion during the next 7 months, this stock could drop below $15.25 per share.
On February 17, 2004, this equity closed at $29.80 per share. Speculators who own this stock should monitor it on a daily basis. If this equity does not fall below $27.15 per share it could proceed to rebound. Depending on money flow and other technical indicators there is a slight probability that this stock could revisit its 50-day Moving Average during the next four weeks and close at $32.00 per share. At such a level speculators who bought this stock below $22.26 per share should sell it immediately to lock in their gains.
In March 2003, we stated: “There is a slight probability that this stock could fall to $7.95 per share by July 2004. At such a level we would rate this stock accumulate.” Depending on earnings, money flow and other technical indicators, this equity could reach such a low level, perhaps by March 2005.
Novellus Systems, Inc., (NASDAQ symbol: NVLS) makes equipment used in the production of semiconductors. In March 2000, this stock reached a high level of $69.93 per share when the demand was at its highest level. As semiconductor manufacturers proceeded to cut expenses and cancel orders, the revenues and earnings proceeded to fall.
On May 16, 2002, NVLS closed at $51.55 per share and then proceeded to fall at a fast pace. Between May 16 and June 21, 2002, money flow fell $5.56 billion and the stock closed at $32.23 per share on June 21, 2002. In July 2002, we stated: “On July 12, 2002, NVLS closed at $30.99 per share. If money flow were to continue falling at such a fast pace this stock could test the $23.70 support level during the next two months.
Later on, if money flow continues to fall, this stock could break through its support level of $17.98 and may fall to approximately $8.78 per share by November 2002. At such a low level we would rate this stock a strong long-term buy. When the chip manufacturers start upgrading their manufacturing facilities, the orders for equipment made by Novellus Systems, Inc. could start expanding in 2003. During the next three years this stock could test its resistance level of $41.17 per share, perhaps in the first half of 2005.”
It appears that we were correct only about the first estimate. This stock fell below our projected level of $23.70 and on September 23, 2002, closed at a low of $20.77 per share. This equity did not reach our projected low level of $8.78 per share because the money flow stopped falling.
Then, as the money flow rose $1.76 billion between September 2002 and November 2003, this stock proceeded to ascend at a fast pace and closed at a high level of $45.03 on November 6, 2003. In November 2003 we stated: “Although NVLS is trading at an extremely high P/E ratio, if the money flow were to rise an additional $1.4 billion during the next 6 weeks, this stock could reach a high of approximately $49.95 per share.”
Furthermore, we stated in November 2003, “Speculators who own this stock should monitor it on a daily basis. If this stock were to reach approximately $49.95 per share, speculators may want to sell it. On November 20, 2003, NVLS closed at $41.82 per share and we rate it a weak sell.”
The money flow fell $29 million during the next three weeks and this stock proceeded to descend. On December 15, 2003, this equity closed at $38.92 per share, down $1.38 for the day. Afterwards, as the money flow rose $351 million during the next four weeks this stock proceeded to rebound and closed at a high of $44.44 per share on January 12, 2004.
Then, as the money flow fell $2.6 billion during the next three weeks, NVLS dropped at a fast pace and closed at a low of $31.97 per share on February 4, 2004. Afterwards, as the money flow rose $497 million during the next two weeks this stock proceeded to rebound at a slow pace and on February 17, 2004, closed at $33.76 per share, up $0.50.
Speculators who sold this stock in November 2003, when we rated it a weak sell were able to lock in a price of over $42.25 per share. These speculators who are still holding this equity should monitor it on a daily basis. There is a very slight probability that the money flow could rise approximately $1.4 billion during the next three weeks, and this stock could rebound to its 50-day Moving Average of $38.92 by March 9, 2004.
Speculators should be aware that if the money flow does NOT rise, this equity could continue falling. By the end of September 2004, NVLS could trade at a low level of $20.77 per share, depending on earnings, money flow, and other technical indicators.
Xilinx, Inc., (NASDAQ symbol: XLNX) is the world’s largest manufacturer of Programmable Logic Devices (PLD). These are semiconductor chips that can be programmed by customers for specific functions through the use of software. Among the company’s major customers is Cisco Systems, Lucent Technologies, Nortel Networks, EMC Corporation, IBM, Sun Microsystems, and Hewlett-Packard.
The twelve-month average revenue per employee reached $560,000 in 1999, and was among the highest in the chip sector. In 1999, Xilinx redeemed $250 million of convertible notes, and since then the company debt level was minimal.
The company split its stock twice in 1999 and each split was 2 for 1. Furthermore, Xilinx shares have outperformed the S&P 500 index for eight out of the ten years the stock has been publicly traded. Between June 12, 1990, and December 31, 1999, the stock has risen 5,358 percent. On March 23, 2000, the stock closed at a high of $84.38 per share, and then proceeded to descend. This stock proceeded to break through its support levels and closed at $39.00 per share on November 30, 2000.
On September 26, 2001, this stock closed at a low level of $21.64 per share, down $3.25 for the day. Afterwards, money flow rose $3.7 billion and the stock closed at $45.71 per share on January 4, 2002. Due to profit taking this stock reversed its upward trend and closed at $34.01 on February 21, 2002.
As the money flow improved, this equity proceeded in an upward trend and closed at a high of $45.80 per share on March 8, 2002. Due to the selling pressure this stock proceeded in a downtrend. Then, although slow at first, as money flow fell $234 million between April 17, and June 25, 2002, this stock fell at a fast pace and closed at $23.17 on June 25, 2002.
On July 12, 2002, this stock closed at $22.19 per share. In the July 2002 issue we stated “If money flow continues to fall, XLNX could test its support level of $8.19 by November 2002. At such a level we would rate this stock a strong long-term buy.”
On October 8, 2002, this equity closed at a low level of $13.75 per share. As the money flow rose $4.6 billion during the next five months, the stock closed at a high of $27.09 per share on March 17, 2003, and was fully valued at that level.
The long-term fast stochastic indicator issued a sell signal on March 17, 2003, as the stock proceeded to descend. This equity fell from $27.09 per share as of March 17, 2003, to $23.41 per share as of March 31, 2003. Then, as the money flow rose $1.4 billion during the next two weeks the stock proceeded to ascend and closed at $26.07 per share on April 17, 2003.
In April 2003 we stated: “This short-term uptrend could be temporary and if the money flow were to fall $2.9 billion during the next five months, this equity could test its support level of $13.75 per share. Speculators may want to accumulate XLNX at such a level. If this equity were to break below that level it could reach a low of $8.19 per share, perhaps by October 2003. At such a level we would rate this stock a strong long-term buy.”
Although money flow fell $2.5 billion during the next four months, this equity was very resilient and closed at a low of $24.78 on August 8, 2003. Furthermore, it is very unusual but as the money flow proceeded to fall an additional $530 million during the next 11 weeks, this stock continued its uptrend. This equity closed at $28.79 per share on October 24, 2004, up $4.01 during these 11 weeks. As the money flow rose $2.8 billion during the next 15 weeks, this stock continued its uptrend and closed at a high of $42.90 on February 11, 2004.
On February 17, 2004, this equity closed at $41.81 per share and we rate it a weak sell. If the money flow were to rise an additional $1.4 billion during the next five weeks, there is a slight probability that XLNX could reach a high of $45.75 per share. At such a level this stock would be fully valued and speculators who bought this stock in 2003 below $22.50 per share should sell it immediately to lock in their gains of 100 percent. Remember: It never hurts to lock in your gains.
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The high momentum Dow stocks
In this section we will feature stocks that either have appreciated at a fast pace, tumbled to a low level, or depending on the money flow could ascend or descend at a fast pace during the next five months.
Caterpillar, Inc., (NYSE symbol: CAT) is a major supplier of agricultural equipment and engines for trucks and locomotives. The company sells its equipment worldwide.
This stock closed at $59.79 per share on March 15, 2002. As the money flow fell $4.18 billion during the following seven months, this stock proceeded to descend and closed at a low level of $33.86 per share on October 9, 2002.
Afterwards, as the money flow rose $1.6 billion during the next eight weeks, this stock proceeded to ascend and closed at $49.90 per share on November 29, 2002. As the money flow fell during the next 12 weeks, this stock closed at a low of $42.04 per share on February 12, 2003.
Afterwards, this equity reversed its downtrend and as the money flow rose, this stock closed at $47.02 per share on March 14, 2003.
In March 2003, we stated “If this equity were to maintain its strong upward momentum it could reach a high of $55.45 per share during the next eight weeks.” On May 12, 2003, this stock closed at $54.25 per share. This equity continued to ascend and in June 2003, this stock rose above our projected level of $55.45 and closed at $57.89 on June 16, 2003.
During the following 8 weeks the money flow rose $1.8 billion and the stock continued to ascend. On August 21, 2003, CAT closed at $73.41 per share. At that level the stock was fully valued and we stated: “Speculators who bought CAT below $49.95 per share may want to sell it to lock in their short-term gain of 40 percent.”
Afterwards, the money flow fell $1.6 billion during the next four weeks and this equity fell to $68.25 per share on September 26, 2003. During the next three weeks the money flow rose $1.4 billion and the stock rose to a high level. On October 15, 2003, this stock closed at $78.72 per share, but it fell the next day when the company reported earnings that were below analysts’ expectations. On October 16, 2003, CAT closed at $74.33 per share, down $4.39, or 5.5 percent, on a heavy volume of 13.7 million shares.
In October 2003 we stated: “On October 20, 2003, CAT closed at $74.00 per share. Speculators who still hold this stock in their portfolios may want to sell it to lock in their short-term gains.”
To our surprise, during the next 10 weeks, money flow rose $1.6 billion and the stock closed at a high of $84.90 per share on January 5, 2004. On January 26, 2004, this equity closed at a high of $85.01 per share. Afterwards, as the money flow fell $385 million during the next 9 days this equity proceeded to descend and closed at $75.90 on February 4, 2004.
On February 17, 2004, this stock closed at $79.52 per share and was fully valued. Speculators who are still holding this stock in their portfolios may want to sell it now to lock in their gains. As mutual fund managers start rotating out of cyclical stocks, this equity could be sold heavily and its price could drop substantially.
This stock could fall at a pace much slower than we originally projected. If the money flow were to fall $6.1 billion during the next 5 months, CAT could fall to a low level of $56.22 per share, perhaps by August 2004. At such a level we would rate this stock accumulate.
Altria Group, Inc., (NYSE symbol: MO), formerly known as Philip Morris Companies, is the world’s largest tobacco company and its Marlboro brand has worldwide recognition. The company has an 83 percent stake in Kraft Foods, the world’s second largest food company.
This stock closed at a high level of $57.72 on June 4, 2002, and then proceeded to fall. By October 4, 2002, money flow had fallen $8.9 billion in four months. This stock closed at a low level of $36.17 per share on October 10, 2002.
Afterwards, as money flow rose $1.7 billion during the following four weeks, this stock proceeded to ascend. On October 11, 2002, this stock closed at $42.98 per share and then the following day this equity tumbled $5.95 and closed at $37.03 per share. Then, MO proceeded to ascend and closed at $41.80 per share on December 26, 2002.
The first time we featured MO was in the December 2002 issue of the Moderate Trader in which we stated “This stock is still in an overall downtrend. Although this stock is trading at a low P/E ratio of 7 times earnings and the quarterly dividend payout is $0.64 per share, investors should avoid this stock.”
As the money flow fell $4.5 billion during the following eight weeks, this equity proceeded to reach lower levels. On January 30, 2003, this stock closed at a low of $36.85 per share.
In February we stated “On February 14, 2003 this stock closed at $38.14 per share and it could test its October 2002 low of $36.17 this month. If this equity were to break below this level it could continue to descend and reach a low of $21.88 by mid September 2003. Speculators should wait patiently until this stock reaches its low and then buy it.”
As the money flow fell, this equity closed at a low of $37.02 per share on February 20, 2003. Then, as the money flow rose $995 million, this stock proceeded to ascend and closed at $38.99 per share on March 5, 2003. Since this equity did not break through its 50-day moving average, investors and money managers proceeded to sell this stock. As the money flow fell $5.4 billion during the next four weeks, this stock closed at a low of $28.10 per share on April 1, 2003.
This equity was affected negatively by the ruling of an Illinois judge who on March 21, 2003, ordered Altria Group, Inc., to pay $10.1 billion in fines and to post $12 billion bond while it appeals the verdict.
In our opinion the company has three options. If the company were to have sufficient cash on hand it could pay the fine of $10.1 billion, post the $12 billion bond, and continue its business as usual.
The second option is for the company to top its line of credit (if it is sufficient enough to cover both of these expenses) and continue its business as usual.
In a worst case scenario, there is a third option. If the company does not have sufficient cash on hand and is not able to borrow $22.1 billion, it could file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. This is a worst case scenario that we hope does not happen because in such a case stockholders and bondholders could incur substantial losses.
Although the judge lowered the amount of the appeal bond from $12 billion bond to a $6 billion term note on April 14, 2003, the short-term risk remains. On April 17, 2003, this equity closed at $32.19 per share and we rated it neutral.
On May 1, 2003, this stock tested its support level and closed at $30.45 per share. Afterwards, as the money flow rose, this equity proceeded to ascend and closed at $33.74 per share on May 15, 2003, and we stated: “If the money flow continues to ascend, this stock could test its resistance level of $38.15 and then once again resume its long-term downtrend.”
As the money flow rose $4.5 billion during the following four weeks, this equity proceeded to ascend and closed at a high of $44.24 per share on June 18, 2003. In June 2003, we stated: “This stock is fully valued and investors who still own it may want to sell it.”
In June 2003, the Illinois highest court declined to accept a direct appeal of the verdict against Philip Morris USA, a unit of Altria Group, Inc. On July 7, 2003, MO closed at $46.87 per share. Now the court of appeals in Illinois is hearing the appeal of the class action verdict against Philip Morris USA and it could be a lengthy process that may take several months.
During the following four weeks the money flow proceeded to descend but the stock was very resilient and traded in a range between $41.00 and $38.97 per share. On August 21, 2003, MO closed at $39.89 per share.
On September 16, 2003, the Illinois Supreme Court issued a ruling that ordered a lower court to reinstate a reduced bond while Philip Morris appeals the lower court ruling over marketing of light cigarettes. The next day, September 17, 2003, the stock of Altria Group, Inc., (the parent of Philip Morris) jumped on this good news and closed at $44.65 per share, up $4.19 for the day.
This equity closed at $44.48 per share on September 22, 2003. Afterwards, money flow fell over the course of a few days, but later on as money flow proceeded to ascend, this equity remained in its short-term uptrend. On October 20, 2003, MO closed at $45.47 per share.
In October 2003, we stated: “If this stock were to break through its resistance level of $46.87 it could continue its short-term uptrend and reach a high of $50.75 per share, depending on the money flow and other technical indicators. Otherwise, this equity could reverse its uptrend and start to fall. If the money flow were to fall $13 billion during the next five months, then this stock could drop drastically and test the $28.10 level, perhaps by April 2004.”
Short-term, money flow continued to ascend and between October 20, 2003, and December 19, 2003, money flow rose $5.44 billion. The stock proceeded to reach higher levels and on December 19, 2003, closed at a high of $54.92 per share.
In November 2003 we stated: “Although there is a slight probability that this stock could continue to ascend short-term, and perhaps reach a high of approximately $55.25 per share during the next 6 weeks, eventually MO could fall to a much lower level.”
In December 2003 we stated: “This equity neared the $55.25 level slightly sooner than we projected and is fully valued at this level. Speculators who bought this stock below $41.25 per share may want to sell it now to lock in their short-term gains.”
As the money flow continued to ascend, this stock maintained its uptrend and closed at a high of $55.95 per share on January 29, 2004. Afterwards, this equity pulled back and on February 17, 2004, closed at $55.15 per share. If the money flow were to rise $1.9 billion during the next four weeks, this stock could ascend and may revisit its 2002 high of $57.72 per share. Speculators’, who are still holding this stock in their portfolios should monitor it on a daily basis and if it were to fall below $51.42 per share, sell immediately.
If the money flow were to fall $10.8 billion during the next five months, this equity could descend to a low level of $33.30 per share, perhaps by August 2004. The risk of owning MO even at such a low level would be above average, therefore if this equity were to reach such a level we would rate it accumulate.
The Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE symbol: PG) is the largest manufacturer of household products, including Folgers coffee, Pringles potato chips, Crest toothpaste, Pantene shampoo, Bounty, Charmin, and Downy.
This high flying stock closed at a lofty level of $117.00 per share on January 14, 2000, and then proceeded to tumble to a low level. On March 10, 2000, PG closed at $ 53.25 per share.
As the money flow rose, this stock proceeded to ascend and closed at $94.40 per share on June 19, 2002. Then as the money flow fell $3.5 billion during the next four weeks, this stock tumbled and closed at a low of $74.46 per share on July 19, 2002.
On November 15, 2002, we stated “This stock closed at $87.28 per share and is fully valued at this level. Investors may want to sell this stock. If the money flow were to fall $15.2 billion during the next eight months, this stock could tumble to a low level of $56.75 per share.”
This stock was falling at a very slow pace. Since this equity was featured in November 2002, the money flow fell $910 million and the stock descended from $87.28 as of November 15, 2002, to a low of $79.79 per share on March 10, 2003. Afterwards, as the money flow rose $6.4 billion during the following three months, this equity proceeded to ascend and on June 16, 2003, closed at a high of $92.40 per share.
During the next two months, money flow fell $2.1 billion and this equity proceeded to fall. On August 21, 2003, PG closed at a low of $86.70 per share. As the money flow rose $2.6 billion during the following two months, this stock proceeded to reach a high level and on October 31, 2003, closed at $98.29 per share.
Afterwards, this equity proceeded to fall due to profit taking and on November 20, 2003, this stock closed at $95.41 per share. In December 2003, we stated: “There is a slight probability that the money flow could rise $1.6 billion during the next five weeks and PG could reach a high of $100.45 per share, perhaps by January 6, 2004. If this stock were to reach such a level, speculators who own this stock may want to sell it immediately to lock in their gains.”
While the money flow rose $1.8 billion, this stock continued to ascend and closed at a high of $100.25 per share on January 12, 2004. On January 16, 2004, this equity closed at $99.00 per share. Afterwards, as the money flow rose $1.8 billion, this stock maintained its uptrend and closed at a high of $103.20 per share on February 4, 2004.
In January 2004, we stated: “This stock could revisit its recent high, and depending on the money flow and other technical indicators could reach a high of $105.25 during the second week of February 2004. Although such a scenario is probable, the downside risk is much greater than the upside potential. Investors who bought this stock below $82.55 per share may want to sell it now to lock in their gains.”
On February 17, 2004, PG closed at $103.12 per share. There is a very slight probability that this equity could maintain its uptrend for a few more weeks and could reach a high of $110.45 per share, depending on the money flow and other technical indicators. Once again, we would like to reiterate that the downside risk is much greater than the upside potential for this equity, therefore speculators who still hold it in their portfolios may want to sell it now to lock in their gains.
Eventually, there will be rotation among the Dow stocks but no one knows whether this could happen two weeks from now, or two months from now. Furthermore, mutual fund managers will not rotate out of all of the stocks at the same time. They may start selling some of the stocks a month or two before they sell other equities. We project that PG could be among the stocks that mutual fund managers could start selling, and that may happen sometime during the next two months.
If the money flow were to fall $15.6 billion during the next five months, PG could fall to $56.75, perhaps by the end of July 2004. At such a level we would rate this stock accumulate.
International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE symbol: IBM) is the world’s largest manufacturer of computer hardware. The stock of Big Blue closed at a high of $133.62 per share on September 1, 2000, and then proceeded to fall.
On October 9, 2002, this stock closed at a low of $55.07 per share. Then, as the money flow rose $8.9 billion during the following three weeks, the stock proceeded to ascend and closed at $82.50 per share on November 4, 2002.
In the November 2002 issue we stated “The stock of Big Blue closed at $80.01 per share on November 15, 2002, and at this level is fully valued. Investors who own shares of International Business Machines Corporation may want to sell them now and hold cash in their accounts.”
To our surprise, this equity continued its uptrend and closed at $87.70 per share on November 27, 2002. Afterwards, as the money flow fell $4.4 billion during the following four weeks, this equity proceeded to descend and closed at $76.25 per share on December 30, 2002.
As the money flow rose $4.4 billion during the following fourteen days, this stock proceeded to ascend and closed at $88.58 per share on January 14, 2003. Investors who did not sell this stock when it closed at $87.70 per share on November 27, 2002, had another chance to sell it.
On April 17, 2003, this equity closed at $84.26 per share and we stated: “Although short-term this stock appears to have a strong upward momentum and could test its resistance level of $87.70, long-term this equity is still in a slow downtrend. If the money flow were to fall $12 billion, this stock could test its October 2002 low of $55.07 by the end of September 2003 and we would rate it a strong buy.”
We stated on April 17, 2003, that short-term this timely stock could test its resistance level of $87.70. On May 12, 2003, this equity broke through that level and closed at $89.00 per share, up $1.45 for the day. As the money flow continued to ascend, this stock closed at $89.98 per share on May 13, 2003. On the following day this equity edged lower and then on May 15, 2003, tried to test its resistance level and closed at $89.90 per share.
On May 16, 2003, this stock closed at $88.99 per share and we stated: “Investors who own this stock may want to sell it to lock in their gains.” During the following three weeks money flow fell $6.1 billion and the stock proceeded to descend. On June 6, 2003, this equity closed at $80.05 per share. Afterwards, this stock tried to test its recent resistance level and closed at $86.74 per share on July 16, 2003.
In June 2003, we stated: “This stock could continue its downtrend until July 20, 2003, and may fall to an intraday low of $72.95 per share. Although this equity could try to test its recent resistance level and may reach approximately $80.05 per share by August 18, 2003, the long-term trend is still down.”
As the money flow proceeded to descend, this equity fell and closed at a low of $79.85 per share on August 5, 2003. Then, as the money flow rose $2.3 billion during the next 12 days, the stock of Big Blue closed at a high of $83.52 per share on August 18, 2003, slightly above our level of $80.05 projected in June 2003.
Afterwards, money flow rose $6.5 billion during the next four weeks and this equity proceeded to rise at a fast pace. This stock broke through its previous resistance level and closed at a high of $93.28 per share on September 19, 2003. Just 11 days later, on September 30, 2003, this equity tested its support level and closed at a low of $88.33 per share.
As the money flow reversed its course and once again proceeded to ascend, the stock of Big Blue proceeded to rise and closed at $93.20 per share on October 13, 2003. Afterwards, as the money flow fell $3.4 billion during the next five weeks, this equity proceeded to descend and closed at $88.26 per share on November 7, 2003.
Then, as the money flow rose $1.4 billion during the next six days, the stock of Big Blue proceeded to ascend and closed at $91.09 per share on November 13, 2003. As the money flow reversed its course, the stock proceeded to fall and closed at $88.39 per share on November 20, 2003.
This stock did not fall below its previous support level of $88.26 and as the money flow proceeded to rise, this equity proceeded to ascend. On December 16, 2003, this stock closed at a high of $93.98 per share. If the money flow were to fall $1.65 billion during the next two weeks, this equity could descend to $88.62 by December 30, 2003.
In December we stated: “Depending on the positive money flow and several other factors, this equity could reach a high of approximately $102.75 per share, perhaps by January 14, 2004, and at such a level would be fully valued. At such a level speculators may want to sell this stock to lock in their gains.”
After this equity reached a high of $93.98 per share on December 16, 2003, it proceeded to trade in a narrow range. On January 13, 2004, this stock closed at a low of $89.70 per share, below its 50-day moving average of $91.09.
Then, as the money flow rose $3.2 billion during the next three days, this stock ascended at a fast pace and closed at a high of $95.32 per share on January 16, 2004. In January 2004, we stated: “Depending on the money flow and several other technical indicators, there is a slight probability that this stock could reach a high of approximately $102.75 per share by the end of January 2004. At such a level speculators may want to sell this stock to lock in their gains.”
On February 4, 2004, this equity closed at $100.19 per share, near our projected sell target level of $102.75. As the money flow edged lower during the next 13 days, this stock closed at $99.37 per share on February 17, 2004.
We are maintaining our buy target level of $55.07. This stock could fall at a slow pace and reach such a level by the end of July 2004. At such a level investors who owned this stock previously and sold it above the $80.00 level in 2003 may want to buy this stock again for a short-term trade. Investors should consider committing all of the cash received from the previous sale of this stock to buying approximately 50 percent more shares than they owned previously.
United Technologies Corporation (NYSE symbol: UTX) is a diversified behemoth that manufactures a variety of products through its subsidiaries, starting with air conditioners made by Carrier, airplane engines made by Pratt and Whitney, and last but not least, helicopters made by Sikorsky.
This equity reached a high level of $87.21 per share on May 18, 2001. Afterwards, as the money flow started to descend, this stock proceeded in a downtrend. On September 20, 2001, this equity closed at a low of $41.64 per share. During the following five months, the money flow rose $15 billion and the stock closed at a high of $75.68 per share on March 11, 2002.
As the money flow fell $13 billion during the following six months this stock reversed its uptrend and descended to lower levels. This equity fell and closed at a low level of $55.98 per share on September 24, 2002.
The stock found strong support and did not break below the $51.85 support level. As the money flow rose $6 billion during the following three months, this equity proceeded to ascend. On January 16, 2003, this stock closed at a high of $66.21 per share and then once again proceeded to fall.
On March 12, 2003, this stock closed at a low of $54.15 per share. As the market rallied, this stock proceeded to ascend. On May 12, 2003, this stock broke through its resistance level of $66.21 and closed at $66.85, up $2.05 for the day.
In May 2003, we stated: “If the money flow continues to ascend, this stock could test its resistance level of $71.10 by June 2003.” On June 16, 2003, this stock closed at a high of $73.51 per share.
During the following 6 weeks money flow rose $912 million and the stock proceeded to ascend. On July 29, 2003, this equity closed at a high of $76.74 per share.
On November 6, 2003, UTX closed at a high of $87.33 per share and was fully valued at that level. As the money flow fell $766 million during the following 13 days, this equity proceeded to descend and on November 20, 2003, closed at $83.30 per share.
In November 2003, we stated: “This equity could retest its recent high of $87.33 in December 2003 and speculators may want to sell UTX at that level.” To our surprise, money flow rose $1.8 billion during the next four weeks and the stock proceeded to ascend at a fast pace. In December 2003, we stated: “On December 19, 2003, UTX closed at a high of $94.10 per share. Speculators who bought this stock in 2003 below $65.53 per share may want to sell it now, to lock in a short-term gain of 43 percent or higher.”
On January 16, 2004, UTX closed at $97.50 per share. As the money flow edged lower, this stock pulled back and closed at $95.53 per share on February 17, 2004. If the money flow were to fall $16.7 billion during the next 16 weeks, there is a very slight possibility that this equity could fall to a low level of $65.54 by mid June 2004. At such a level we would rate this stock a speculative short-term buy.
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Model Portfolio
Applied Materials, Inc., (NASDAQ symbol: AMAT) is a major supplier of wafer processing equipment that is used to produce semiconductors. The company produces systems that use physical vapor deposition technology, chemical vapor deposition, and oxide etching.
The demand for semiconductors could accelerate in 2004 and along with it the sales of chip processing equipment could grow. Although short-term there may be a temporary decline in demand for the equipment made by Applied Materials, in our opinion long-term outlook for the company is excellent.
On July 16, 2001, this stock fell to a low of $41.95 per share and then closed at $45.86 on July 31, 2001. In the September issue of 2001, we stated that AMAT could fall to $39.00 per share in September and at such a level would be a strong buy. Due to the horrific events of September 11, 2001, this stock fell tremendously and closed at $27.87 on September 27, 2001.
The company issued a 2-for-1 stock split on April 17, 2002. After the stock split there were 320 shares in our Model Portfolio. Immediately after the company issued the stock split, this stock reversed its uptrend and proceeded to fall. On May 10, 2002, this stock closed at $23.70 per share.
During the next four weeks money flow fell $1.4 billion and the stock closed at $19.83 per share on June 14, 2002.
In July 2002 we stated, “This stock could test its support level of $13.75 by October 2002.” This equity broke through this support level sooner than we projected and closed at $12.76 per share on August 5, 2002. Afterwards, this stock proceeded to test its resistance level and closed at $14.70 per share on August 16, 2002.
On November 15, 2002, AMAT closed at $15.83 per share. To our surprise, money flow rose $701 million during the next twelve days and this stock closed at a high of $17.49 per share on November 27, 2002. Afterwards, money flow proceeded to fall and this equity closed at $14.31 per share on May 16, 2003. On July 21, 2003, AMAT closed at $17.87 per share.
To our surprise, the money flow rose $4.2 billion during the following four weeks and AMAT proceeded to test its resistance level. This equity closed at a high of $20.73 per share on August 21, 2003, and we stated: “At such a level this equity is overvalued and short-term may have no other way to go but down.” On September 22, 2003, AMAT closed at $19.67 per share.
Afterwards, as the money flow rose $5 billion, the stock reversed its short-term downtrend and proceeded to ascend. On October 20, 2003, this equity closed at $21.60 per share. During the next three weeks, as the money flow rose $5.4 billion, this stock proceeded to ascend. On November 6, 2003, AMAT closed at a high level of $25.61 per share. At that price level this equity was trading at 206 times earnings, which is almost unimaginable (does anyone remember the stock market bubble?). On November 6, 2003, this stock closed at $25.61 per share and was fully valued.
On January 16, 2004, AMAT closed at $24.41 per share and we stated: “While there is a very slight probability, depending on the positive money flow and other factors, that this equity could ascend and reach approximately $27.31 per share by February 17, 2004, afterwards this stock could fall.”
The money flow fell $3.7 billion during the past four weeks and the stock proceeded to pull back. On February 17, 2004, AMAT closed at $21.94 per share. Although there is a very slight probability that this stock could still ascend and reach a high of approximately $27.31 per share during the next three weeks, the downside risk outweighs the upside potential.
If the money flow were to fall $16.7 billion during the next three months, this equity could fall to a low level. This equity could fall at a slower pace than we originally believed and although it may not reach our initial projected low of $6.27 per share, it could close at a low of $10.35 per share by May 2004.
Long-term, this stock could reach $48.25 per share, perhaps by 2007.
There are 160 shares of AMAT left in our Model Portfolio and these will be held long-term.
CMGI, Inc., (NASDAQ symbol: CMGI) finds, acquires, develops, and operates Internet companies. It is one of the world’s largest Internet investment companies. CMGI consists of three venture capital funds.
CMGI, Inc., has developed a strategy to acquire start-up Internet companies, and then either sell them outright, or sell a minority interest and reinvest the cash proceeds. The company has a history of acquiring successful Internet companies. To find out more about CMGI, Inc., visit the company’s web site at www.CMGI.com.
Last year, CMGI, Inc., has sold some of its core holdings. Among them were the Alta Vista unit and uBid, Inc. Due to these sales we have revised our long-term sell target level from $59.75 to $17.50 per share.
The shares of CMGI, Inc., closed at a low of $0.29 per share on August 19, 2002. Afterwards, as the money flow rose $534 million during the following 11 months, this equity proceeded to ascend. On November 14, 2003, this stock closed at a high of $2.12 per share. As the money flow fell, this equity edged to a lower level and closed at $1.80 per share on December 19, 2003.
On December 19, 2003, we revised our rating for CMGI from a speculative long-term buy to a speculative long-term accumulate. On February 17, 2004, CMGI closed at $2.65 per share. Speculators may establish half of their position at this price level, and if this stock were to fall below $1.02 per share, then buy the remaining half. We would like to remind investors that the risk of owning this stock is high; therefore it should only be bought by speculators and should not account for more than three percent of one’s portfolio.
Cisco Systems, Inc., (NASDAQ symbol: CSCO) makes data networking equipment, data switches, and networking gear. Cisco Systems continues to expand its market share. As John T. Chambers, the CEO of Cisco Systems, continues to steer the company on a path to high growth, the long-term outlook for the company is good.
This stock closed at a low of $11.24 per share on September 27, 2001. It then proceeded to rebound and closed at $21.79 on December 6, 2001. Afterwards, as the money flow fell, this stock reversed its uptrend and proceeded to descend.
On July 21, 2003, this stock closed at $17.93 per share. We have been projecting that this equity may test its $8.60 support level by mid September 2003. It hasn’t happened because the money flow started rising at a fast pace and since June 2003, it rose $10.3 billion by November 12, 2003. Although we may have been wrong about the time frame when this equity could reach its low level, only time will tell if we were correct about the price that this stock could drop to.
This equity had risen at a slow pace and it could also fall at a slow pace. In November 2003, we stated: “On November 20, 2003, this equity closed at $21.94 per share and is fully valued.” To our surprise, the money flow rose $6.9 billion during the following three weeks and CSCO continued its uptrend. On December 8, 2003, this stock closed at a high of $24.29 per share.
On January 16, 2004, this equity closed at $29.13 per share and we stated: “Speculators who own it may want to sell it.” During the next three weeks money flow fell $16.3 billion and this stock fell at a fast pace. On February 5, 2004, CSCO closed at a low of $23.82 per share. As the money flow edged slightly higher, this stock closed at $24.25 per share on February 17, 2004.
In our opinion the stocks in the technology sector are overvalued and if the money flow were to fall, CSCO could slowly descend and fall below $15.25 per share. At such a level we would rate this stock a strong buy. Investors who already own this stock could add to their position.
In our opinion, Cisco Systems, Inc., could resume its acquisition spree and its annual revenues may reach approximately $50 billion in six years. Cisco Systems, Inc., is positioned to offer the latest equipment to service providers. IP internetworking technology, which allows any company to host Internet applications and expand their service from basic voice traffic to broadband (which can carry data and provide Internet access and video conferencing), is among their innovations.
Previously we stated that this stock should be held at least ten years. Although patient investors may want to hold this stock five years, speculators may achieve a better return by trading this equity. There are still 100 shares of CSCO left in our Model Portfolio and these will be held long-term.
Compuware Corporation (NASDAQ symbol: CPWR) makes software that manages corporate networks and improves productivity. The stock of Compuware Corporation reached a high of $40.00 per share in December 1999.
This stock closed at a high of $13.75 per share on January 24, 2002, and then proceeded to fall.
Due to the weakness in the sector this stock maintained its downtrend and closed at $12.20 per share on March 15, 2002.
On April 4, 2002, this stock broke through its support level of $9.90 and closed at $8.28 per share, down $2.82 for the day. This equity continued its downtrend and closed at a low of $2.56 per share on August 13, 2002. Afterwards, as the money flow rose $460 million during the following 10 months, this equity proceeded to ascend and closed at a high of $6.38 per share on June 18, 2003.
On September 3, 2003, this stock closed at a high of $6.40 per share. Afterwards, as the money flow proceeded to descend, CPWR fell and closed at $5.22 per share on November 20, 2003. As the money flow rose, this equity proceeded to ascend and on February 17, 2004 closed at $8.14 per share. Investors should wait patiently and buy this stock on a pullback, preferably below $2.95 per share.
Elan Corporation, plc, (NYSE symbol: ELN) is a pharmaceutical manufacturer that develops and distributes a variety of prescription drugs. During the past seven years the company has expanded by making aggressive acquisitions. On April 12, 2002, five hundred warrants of Elan Corporation, plc, were bought at $0.50 per warrant.
These warrants trade under the symbol ELANZ and expire on August 31, 2005. As this stock tumbled, the price of warrants fell along with it and on October 22, 2002, ELANZ closed at a low of $0.06 per warrant. As the money flow rose $182,000 these warrants proceeded to ascend and closed at $0.60 on January 13, 2003.
On May 16, 2003, we lowered our buy target level from $0.15 to $0.10 per warrant. These warrants continued to descend at a slow pace. On August 21, 2003, these warrants closed at $0.10 per warrant and could continue to descend; therefore we lowered our buy target level to $0.05 per warrant.
On January 16, 2004, these warrants closed at $0.25 per warrant. As the money flow edged lower these warrants closed at $0.20 on February 17, 2004, down $0.05 for the day. The risk of owning these warrants is high; therefore only speculators should buy them when they reach our buy target level, perhaps by mid April 2004.
Internet Capital Group (NASDAQ symbol: ICGE) is a venture capital group that owns a stake in approximately 30 Internet companies.
In July 2000, this stock traded at $45.18 per share and then proceeded to fall. Due to the carnage in the Internet sector this stock closed at a low of $3.28 per share on December 29, 2000, down from its high of $143.55 reached in March 2000.
Afterwards, this stock proceeded to build a slow upward momentum and closed at $6.44 per share on January 31, 2001. It is highly unlikely that this stock will ever revisit its previous high of $143.55 per share.
On April 12, 2002, five hundred shares of Internet Capital Group were bought at $0.57 per share. These 500 shares will be held in our Model Portfolio long-term until this equity reaches our revised target level of $22.75 per share, perhaps by 2008. At such a level all of the shares will be sold immediately.
On June 2, 2003, ICGE closed at a high of $0.82 per share and then proceeded to descend. As the money flow fell $37 million during the following 25 days, this equity descended and closed at a low of $0.46 per share on June 27, 2003. On January 12, 2004, this stock closed at $0.61 per share. Afterwards, as the money flow fell $101 million during the next four weeks, this stock proceeded to fall and closed at $0.40 per share on February 17, 2004.
There is a high probability that this stock could fall below $0.15 per share during 2004, therefore on January 16, 2004, we revised our rating from speculative long-term buy to hold. We would like to remind investors that the risk of owning this stock is high; therefore it should not account for more than three percent of one’s portfolio.
JDS Uniphase Corporation (NASDAQ symbol: JDSU) makes components used in fiber-optic networks and is a leader in the sector.
Although our original objective was to buy 100 shares, due to the substantial amount of cash in our Model Portfolio, a decision was made to buy more shares. On February 6, 2002, two hundred shares of JDSU were bought at $6.33 per share.
Due to the negative outlook for this sector this stock continued to descend and closed at a low level of $1.62 per share on October 7, 2002. As the money flow rose $2.3 billion during the following 8 months, this stock proceeded to ascend and closed at a high of $4.28 per share on June 5, 2003.
As the money flow rose, this equity proceeded to ascend and closed at $4.28 per share on June 5, 2003. On August 21, 2003, JDSU closed at $3.50 per share and we stated: “If the money flow were to fall $420 million during the following 7 weeks, this stock could test its support level of $1.62 per share by mid October 2003 and speculators may want to buy it.”
The money flow rose by $1 billion during the next three weeks and the stock proceeded to ascend. On September 9, 2003, JDSU closed at $4.20 per share. The stock was not able to break through its resistance level of $4.28, reversed its course, and proceeded in a downtrend.
On December 19, 2003, this equity closed at $3.35 per share. As the money flow rose, JDSU proceeded to ascend and closed at $5.73 per share on January 20, 2004. Afterwards, as the money flow edged lower, this stock fell and closed at $5.10 per share on February 17, 2004. This stock could fall at a slow pace. If the money flow were to fall $2.4 billion during the next three months, this stock could fall to $1.62 per share, perhaps by May 2004.
Due to the unfavorable short-term outlook for this sector it may take this stock longer to reach our sell target level. These 200 shares of JDSU will be sold as soon as this stock reaches approximately $12.26 per share, perhaps in the second half of 2005.
WorldCom Group (NASDAQ symbol: WCOEQ) has grown from a small telecommunications provider to a behemoth through mergers and acquisitions. On September 14, 1998, WorldCom merged with MCI Communications Corporation. Once this merger was finalized, WorldCom was in possession of one of the world’s largest and most advanced digital networks that connects local markets in the United States to more than 280 countries and locations worldwide.
Due to the accounting debacle that pushed WorldCom to its bankruptcy, this stock became worthless. Although these shares will be cancelled when the company emerges from bankruptcy, we will keep the present stock symbol in our Model Portfolio as a reminder of what could happen to the stock of any company.
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Buy Alert
On September 22, 2003, we added several stocks to our list. Although there may not be enough cash in our Model Portfolio to buy all of these stocks, we do not anticipate that all of the equities that are on our buy list will reach our buy target levels. Our list is not in an alphabetical order. The stocks are listed with the most desirable to own listed first and the less desirable listed last.
On February 17, 2004, the Dow Jones industrial average closed at 10714.88, up 87.03 points, while Nasdaq composite index closed at 2080.35, up 26.79 points. The market is overdue for a correction and when that happens the Dow could fall 15 percent, while Nasdaq composite index could fall 30 percent. In a worst case scenario, some of the technology stocks could fall as much as 70 percent. While some of the tech stocks could drop sharply in a very short time, other stocks could fall at a slow pace; therefore we will wait patiently until the stocks on our list reach our buy target levels.
Nasdaq-100 Trust (AMEX symbol: QQQ) is a unit investment trust that invests in the largest companies traded on NASDAQ. The trust issues tracking stocks on the Nasdaq-100 Index called QQQ’s, or Q’s. At the height of the Internet frenzy, QQQ’s closed at a high level of $117.55 in April 2000, their price doubling in less than a year.
Then, as the money flow proceeded to fall, QQQ’s, or cubes, as the tracking stock is commonly called, closed at a low level of $28.19 on September 21, 2001. Afterwards, as money flow rose $20 billion, cubes proceeded to test their resistance level and closed at $42.85 on December 5, 2001.
As the money flow fell, QQQ’s closed at $33.52 on April 12, 2002. At that time we stated: “There is a probability that cubes may test their support level of $28.19 by the end of May 2002.”
Afterwards, money flow fell $18 billion during the next four weeks and QQQ”s closed at $28.70 on May 7, 2002.
Immediately afterwards, money flow rose $14.4 billion during the next ten days and QQQ’s closed at a high of $32.86 on May 16, 2002, then again resumed their downtrend. As the money flow fell, QQQ’s proceeded to descend and closed at a low of $20.35 on September 30, 2002.
In May 2003, we stated: “The risk of owning shares in this unit investment trust is much smaller than that of owning only a few stocks. Nevertheless, speculators who plan to trade cubes short-term will have to be aware that this unit investment trust could fall below its recent support level.”
To our surprise, money flow continued to rise and QQQ’s maintained their uptrend. Cubes closed at a high level of $38.59 on January 26, 2004. If the money flow were to fall $58 billion during the next 8 months, cubes could fall to a low of $20.75, perhaps by mid September 2004. At such a level we would rate these a short-term buy and 250 QQQ’s would be bought and added to our Model Portfolio.
International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE symbol: IBM) is the world’s largest manufacturer of computer hardware. The stock of Big Blue closed at a high of $133.62 per share on September 1, 2000. Since then this equity is in an overall long-term downtrend.
Depending on the positive money flow and several other factors, this equity could reach a high of approximately $102.75 per share, perhaps in January 2004, and at such level would be fully valued.
We are maintaining our buy target level of $55.07 and believe International Business Machines Corporation could reach it by April 2004.
On August 21, 2003, we decided to add International Business Machines Corporation to our buy list. If this stock were to fall to our projected buy target level of $55.07 per share, then 100 shares would be bought and added to our Model Portfolio.
Intel Corporation (NASDAQ symbol: INTC) is the leading manufacturer of microprocessors. The company continues to switch production to a 0.18 micron manufacturing process that yields more semiconductors from each wafer.
If the money flow were to fall $37 billion during the next five months, this equity could descend to a low level of $16.75 per share, perhaps by July 2004. At such a level 400 shares of Intel Corporation would be bought and added to our Model Portfolio.
Advanced Micro Devices, Inc., (NYSE symbol: AMD) manufactures microprocessors, flash memory devices, data communications products, and network products. While the demand for microprocessors continued to grow worldwide in the year 2000, Intel Corporation was not able to produce enough chips due to insufficient manufacturing capacity. During that time AMD was able to increase its market share. AMD and Intel continue their fierce competition.
AMD could continue to spend a large percentage of its gross revenues on research and development and try to keep pace with Intel by introducing faster processors to the market. As AMD sells a larger quantity of higher priced processors, the average selling price will continue to rise, thus improving profit margins.
There is a slight probability that AMD could reach our buy target level of $2.50 per share by mid September 2004. If this equity were to reach such a low level, 1,000 shares would be bought immediately and added to our Model Portfolio.
Rite Aid Corporation (NYSE symbol: RAD) is the third largest drug store chain in the United States. The company operates approximately 3,400 drug stores in 29 states.
In July 2003, we stated: “If the money flow were to rise sharply during the next four weeks, this equity could ascend to approximately $6.35 per share by the end of August 2003 and all of the shares held in our Model Portfolio would be sold.” The money flow did not rise sharply and RAD appeared to reverse its uptrend, that’s why 400 shares of RAD that were held in our Model Portfolio were sold at $4.41 per share. If this stock were to fall to approximately $2.45 per share, perhaps by July 2004, then 700 shares of RAD would be bought and once again added to our Model Portfolio.
Applied Materials, Inc., (NASDAQ symbol: AMAT) is a major supplier of wafer processing equipment that is used to produce semiconductors. If the money flow were to fall $17.6 billion during the next four months, this equity could fall to a low level. This equity could fall at a slower pace than we originally believed and although it may not reach our initial projected low of $6.27 per share, it could close at a low of $10.35 per share.
If the stock of Applied Materials, Inc., were to fall to approximately $11.85 per share, then 400 shares would be bought immediately and added to our Model Portfolio.
On April 17, 2003, we added the warrants of Elan Corporation, plc, to our buy list. These warrants trade on NASDAQ under the symbol ELANZ and expire on August 31, 2005. As the stock tumbled, the price of warrants fell along with it and on October 22, 2002, ELANZ closed at a low of $0.06 per warrant. As the money flow rose $182,000 these warrants proceeded to ascend and closed at $0.60 on January 13, 2003.
Our initial buy target level for these warrants was $0.15 per warrant. On August 21, 2003, we lowered our buy target level to $0.05 per warrant. As soon as these warrants reach our buy target level, perhaps by mid April 2004, then 5,000 warrants will be bought and added to the 500 warrants that are already held in our Model Portfolio. The risk of owning these warrants is high; therefore only speculators should buy them.
Cisco Systems, Inc., (NASDAQ symbol: CSCO) makes data networking equipment, data switches, and networking gear. Cisco Systems continues to expand its market share.
On January 16, 2004, this stock closed at a high of $29.13 per share. If the money flow were to fall $22.4 billion during the next 7 months, this stock could descend to a low of $10.60 per share by mid September 2004, and 300 shares would be bought and added to our Model Portfolio.
LSI Logic Corporation (NYSE symbol: LSI) makes chips for cellular phones, satellite set-top boxes, DVD products, and personal computers. LSI Logic has manufacturing facilities in the United States, Europe, and Japan. If the stock of LSI Logic Corporation were to fall below $2.95 per share, perhaps by mid September 2004, then 1,000 shares would be bought and added to our Model Portfolio.
Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ symbol: MSFT) is the largest maker of software. The operating system made by Microsoft is used in the majority of computers. The company has no
debt and has approximately $45 billion in cash and short-term investments. If this equity were to fall below $21.25 per share, perhaps by mid August 2004, then 200 shares of MSFT would be bought and added to our Model Portfolio.
Oracle Corporation (NASDAQ symbol: ORCL) is the world’s third largest software company. The company makes database management system software. Approximately 90 percent of corporate websites are using Oracle’s database software. If the money flow were to fall $12.6 billion during the next 8 months, this stock could descend to a low level of $5.75 per share. At such a level 800 shares of Oracle Corporation will be bought and added to our Model Portfolio.
RF Micro-Devices, Inc., (NASDAQ symbol: RFMD) designs, develops, manufactures, and markets semiconductors and components for the wireless handset market, wireless Local Area Networks (LAN), pagers, the broadband cable communications sector, and wireless security. The company offers a wide selection of products such as amplifiers, mixers, single chip transmitters, receivers, and transceivers.
Among the microprocessors made by the company are gallium arsenide-based chips that are the most expensive and generate the highest profit margin. The company’s largest customer is the Nokia Corporation.
If the money flow were to fall $3.4 billion during the next five months, then this stock could descend to approximately $1.65 per share. At such a price level 800 shares of RF Micro-Devices, Inc., will be bought and added to our Model Portfolio.
Hewlett-Packard Company (NYSE symbol: HPQ) is the second largest computer manufacturer in the world. The company designs and makes notebook personal computers, servers, consumer PC’s, and networking equipment. This stock could fall below $14.95 per share by mid May 2004. If this stock were to fall below $14.95 per share, 100 shares will be bought and added to our Model Portfolio.
Yahoo, Inc., (NASDAQ symbol: YHOO) is a global Internet media company that provides comprehensive information and shopping services to over 200 million users worldwide.
The company’s website, www.yahoo.com is the most visited site and has the highest name recognition.
This stock ascended at a very slow pace and it could also descend at a slow pace. If the money flow were to fall $10.7 billion during the next 7 months, this stock could fall to a low of $14.45, perhaps by mid September 2004. At such a level 100 shares would be bought and added to our Model Portfolio.
The stock of Motorola, Inc., (NYSE symbol: MOT) had run-up recently and closed at $16.95 per share on January 16, 2004. At such a level this stock is overvalued. We will continue to monitor this equity. If the money flow were to fall drastically, this stock could reverse its uptrend and drop to a low level of approximately $4.95 per share by August 2004. At such a level 300 shares would be bought and once again added to our Model Portfolio.
We will continue to monitor Dell Computer Corporation (NASDAQ symbol: DELL). This stock closed at $29.82 per share on November 15, 2002, and was trading at approximately 49 times earnings. In our May 2003 issue we stated: “On May 16, 2003, this stock closed at a high level of $31.19 per share and was fully valued.”
On February 10, 2003, this equity closed at a low level of $22.86 per share. Afterwards, as the money flow rose $15.6 billion during the next 8 months, this stock proceeded to ascend and on October 21, 2003, closed at $36.98 per share. This equity was overvalued at that level.
If the money flow were to fall $16.4 billion during the next 7 months, this stock could fall to a low of $17.75 per share, perhaps by mid September 2004. If this equity were to reach such a low level, 100 shares will be bought and added to our Model Portfolio. If this stock doesn’t reach our buy target level, then the cash will be used to buy more shares of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc., and another stock.
Nokia Corporation (NYSE symbol: NOK) is the world’s largest manufacturer of mobile phones. The company is located in Finland, with subsidiaries in the United Kingdom and China.
This equity is still in an overall long-term downtrend. If the money flow were to fall $11.3 billion during the next five months, in a worst case scenario this equity could descend to a low level of $4.95 per ADR. If this equity were to reach such a low level then 600 ADR’s of Nokia Corporation will be bought and once again added to our Model Portfolio.
On October 18, 2002, we added the stock of Juniper Networks, Inc., (NASDAQ symbol: JNPR) to our buy list. The company makes Internet Protocol routers. If this stock were to reach a low of approximately $2.15 per share, four hundred shares will be bought and added to our Model Portfolio. We will wait patiently until September 2004, for this stock to reach our buy target level.
We also added the stock of EMC Corporation (NYSE symbol: EMC) on October 18, 2002. If this stock were to reach a low of $2.55 per share, five hundred shares will be bought and added to our Model Portfolio. EMC Corporation is a major supplier of enterprise storage devices, software, and services. The company’s top of the line Symmetrix® system can hold 19 terabytes of data on 384 individual drives.
EMC Corporation acquired Data General in October 1999, and that added a selection of mid-priced storage devices. As the Internet continues to grow and hundreds of millions of people go online during the next decade, we predict that the need for storage devices could continue to grow in double-digits.
In our opinion, EMC Corporation’s annual revenues could grow ten-fold, and reach $60 billion in nine years. During the past decade, this was the top performing stock on the NYSE. The company consistently splits its stock, most recently on June 5, 2000. After the split, the stock continued to ascend and closed at $103.18 per share on September 20, 2000.
If this stock were to reach our buy target level of $2.55 per share, perhaps by September 2004, speculators may want to buy it and hold it at least two years. Do not commit more than five percent of your cash to this stock.
Corning Incorporated (NYSE symbol: GLW) is a major supplier of fiber-optic cable. Its inventory has been depleted to a low level and as the demand improves the company could sell more products. Afterwards this stock may establish a strong upward trend.
On March 11, 2002, this stock reached a high of $8.90 per share. Then, as money flow fell $631 million during the next four weeks, this equity proceeded to fall and closed at $6.38 per share on May 10, 2002. This stock continued its overall downtrend and closed at a low of $1.10 per share on October 8, 2002.
Afterwards, GLW established a strong uptrend and closed at a high of $13.41 per share on January 16, 2004. At that level this equity was fully valued. If the money flow were to fall $2.5 billion during the following 8 months, this stock could fall and reach our revised buy target level of $2.95 per share, perhaps by mid September 2004.
Vitesse Semiconductor Corporation (NASDAQ symbol: VTSS) makes gallium arsenide semiconductors that are used by manufacturers of networking equipment. On August 20, 2002, this equity was removed from the S&P 500 Index and 31.6 million shares were traded on that day.
At its height, this stock closed at $103.83 per share in February 2000 and then proceeded in a downtrend. Among the company’s major customers are Cisco Systems and Lucent Technologies. When that sector rebounds, the stock of Vitesse Semiconductor Corporation could ascend to a higher level, but at this time this equity is in an overall long-term downtrend. This stock could fall to approximately $1.55 per share by September 2004. At such a level 800 shares would be bought and added to our Model Portfolio.
Sun Microsystems, Inc., (NASDAQ symbol: SUNW) is among the major suppliers of hardware to the Internet. The company continues to introduce competitively priced new servers in order to expand its market share.
If the money flow were to fall, then this stock could descend and fall to $2.42 per share. Depending on the money flow and other technical indicators, this equity could maintain its downtrend and fall to a low level of $1.15 per share by mid September 2004. At such a level 1,000 shares would be bought and added to our Model Portfolio.
Lucent Technologies, Inc., (NYSE symbol: LU) is the largest manufacturer of telecommunications equipment. Lucent Technologies makes fiber-optic equipment and optical network equipment that allows phone companies to increase capacity and to provide high speed Internet access.
This high flying stock closed at a high of $81.75 per share in December 1999 and has been in a downtrend ever since. At that time no one would have thought that this equity could fall below $10.00 per share. As the money flow fell, this stock continued to plunge and closed at $0.58 per share on October 11, 2002.
On October 18, 2002, Lucent Technologies announced that it will seek shareholder approval to do a reverse stock split to bring its stock price between $15.00 and $25.00 per share. If this reverse stock split were approved it could be as bad as 1-for-36 shares. In such a horrendous scenario an investor who owns 100 shares would receive less than three shares.
We will monitor this equity and if the company were to issue a reverse stock split, the stock could pull back to a lower lever after two or three months. When this stock reaches its low level we may buy it again and add it to our Model Portfolio.
Nortel Networks Corp. (NYSE symbol: NT) is the leading provider of networking solutions, including optical networking solutions and wireless networking systems.
In September 2002, the company announced that it plans to do a reverse stock split of 1-for-20, or higher, in 2003.
We will monitor this equity and if the company were to issue a reverse stock split, the stock could pull back to a lower lever after two or three months. When this stock reaches its low level we may buy it again and add it to our Model Portfolio.
Our Model Portfolio is overweighed in the technology stocks. We advise investors against acquiring so many technology stocks in their portfolios. Investors may want to buy some of these stocks and add them to their portfolios while speculators who are below thirty years of age may consider allocating up to 50 percent of their portfolios to technology stocks.
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Model Portfolio Chart 1-16-2004
Stock Symbol |
Purchase date |
Purchase Price |
Shares Bought |
Recent Price |
Change % |
Market Value |
AMAT |
March 1996 |
$38.12 |
a 160 |
$21.94 |
360% |
$3,510 |
CMGI |
January 2001 |
$6.78 |
300 |
$2.60 |
- 60% |
$795 |
CSCO |
October 1999 |
$73.88 |
b 100 |
$24.25 |
- 34% |
$2,425 |
CPWR |
January 2000 |
$21.06 |
150 |
$8.14 |
- 61% |
$1,221 |
CPWR |
April 2000 |
$12.36 |
200 |
$8.14 |
- 34% |
$1,628 |
ELANZ |
April 2002 |
$0.50 |
500 |
$0.20 |
- 60% |
$100 |
ICGE |
October 2000 |
$11.63 |
200 |
$0.40 |
- 97% |
$80 |
ICGE |
April 2002 |
$0.57 |
500 |
$0.40 |
- 29% |
$200 |
JDSU |
February 2002 |
$6.33 |
200 |
$5.10 |
- 19% |
$1,020 |
WCOEQ |
January 2001 |
$22.50 |
100 |
$0.03/FONT> |
- 99% |
$3/FONT> |
Cash $58,353
Total $69,335
a) The quantity of shares was adjusted for a 100 percent stock dividend issued by Applied Materials, Inc., on October 14, 1997, a 2-for-1 stock split issued on March 16, 2000, and a 2-for-1 stock split issued on April 17, 2002.
On September 16, 2003, half of the shares of AMAT that were held in our Model Portfolio were sold at $21.40 per share. Now there are 160 shares of Applied Materials, Inc., in our Model Portfolio.
b) The quantity of shares was adjusted for a 2-for-1 stock split issued by Cisco Systems, Inc. on March 23, 2000.
After the trades done throughout the year 2001 and 2002, our Model Portfolio is heavily weighed in tech stocks. The risk of such asset allocation is much greater than owning a portfolio of stocks in several sectors. Furthermore, more stocks will be held short-term. Although it is not likely that a typical investor will acquire all of the stocks that are in our Model Portfolio, each investor has to be aware beforehand that short-term trading is risky, and will greatly increase tax liability.
Between April 1994 and July 1998, a total of $28,336 of cash was invested in the Model Portfolio. Due to the excellent performance of the technology stocks, over the course of six years the total value of the portfolio has risen to $145,374 as of June 30, 2000. Our Model Portfolio has generated a gain of $117,038, or 413 percent in just six years (as of June 30, 2000).
Investors who are just starting out should not be deterred by the size of our Model Portfolio. Notice that a total of $28,336 was invested over the course of four years, averaging an investment of $7,000 per year. Investors who are just starting out could invest as little as $2,000 each year but be consistent and invest that amount every year. After several years, an investor could have a portfolio consisting of several blue-chip stocks.
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New Investors
Investors who are just starting out should establish a Roth Individual Retirement Account (commonly called a Roth IRA) and
may buy equities listed below in our Model Portfolio II when they reach their lowest level. In the year 2002,
the annual contribution limit for Roth IRA for these taxpayers who were under age 50, was $3,000.
The Roth IRA has many advantages. One of the biggest advantages is that no taxes are due on qualified withdrawals,
while withdrawals from the traditional IRA are taxable.
By not having to pay taxes to the government, a retiree may be able to save over $200,000 throughout his or her retirement years. Surely, you could think of many ways to spend $200,000 on yourself and your family. Furthermore, an investor could trade stocks, knowing that any capital gains, short-term and long-term, achieved in the Roth IRA are not taxable. This allows each investor to reinvest these gains and to generate a much higher annual return on their portfolio.
Investors should be aware that Model Portfolio II is heavily weighed in the technology stocks.
The risk of such asset allocation is much greater than owning a portfolio of stocks in several sectors.
Model Portfolio II
Ericsson LM Telephone (NASDAQ symbol: ERICY) is a leading supplier of mobile
phones and telecommunications equipment. On May 10, 2002, two hundred American Depository Receipts were bought at $2.29.
On October 23, 2002, the company issued a 1-for-10 reverse stock split and afterwards instead of 200 ADR’s there were only 20 ADR’s in our Model Portfolio II. On December 16, 2002, twenty ADR’s of ERICY were sold at $8.53 per ADR. The cash proceeds from this trade will be held in the Model Portfolio II. When the stock of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc., (NYSE symbol: AMD) reaches our buy target level of approximately $2.50 per share, additional cash will be added and one hundred shares of AMD will be bought and added to Model Portfolio II.
Lucent Technologies, Inc. (NYSE symbol: LU) is the largest manufacturer of telecommunications equipment. Lucent Technologies makes fiber-optic equipment and optical network equipment that allows the phone companies to increase capacity and to provide high speed Internet access. On May 10, 2002, one hundred shares were bought at $4.46 per share.
On October 18, 2002, Lucent Technologies announced that it will seek shareholder approval to do a reverse stock split to bring its stock price between $15.00 and $25.00 per share. If shareholders were to approve this reverse stock split it could be as bad as 1-for-36 shares. In such a horrendous scenario an investor who owns 100 shares would receive less than three shares. On January 15, 2003, one hundred shares of LU were sold at $1.77 per share. The cash received from this trade will be held in Model Portfolio II.
Nortel Networks Corp. (NYSE symbol: NT) is the leading provider of networking solutions, including optical networking solutions and wireless networking systems. On May 10, 2002, one hundred shares were bought at $2.84 per share.
In September 2002, Nortel Networks announced that it plans to do a reverse stock split of 1-for-20, or higher, in the beginning of 2003. Due to this horrendous plan a decision was made to sell this stock. On January 15, 2003, one hundred shares of NT were sold at $2.43 per share. The cash received from this trade was added to the existing cash in Model Portfolio II.
Oracle Corporation (NASDAQ symbol: ORCL) is the world’s third largest software company. The company makes database management system software. Approximately 90 percent of corporate Web sites are using Oracle’s database software. On May 10, 2002, one hundred shares of Oracle Corporation were bought at $8.37 per share. This stock will be held long-term.
Rite Aid Corporation (NYSE symbol: RAD) is the third largest drug store chain in the United States. The company operates approximately 3,600 drug stores in 29 states.
This stock appears to have reversed its uptrend and that’s why a decision was made to sell all of the shares of Ride Aid Corporation held in the Model Portfolio II.
On August 20, 2003, all 100 shares of RAD were sold at $4.41 per share. This trade generated $421.50 in cash, after commission, and it was added to the existing cash in our Model Portfolio II.
Sun Microsystems, Inc.(NASDAQ symbol: SUNW) is among the major suppliers of hardware to the Internet. The company continues to introduce new servers, competitively priced, in order to expand its market share. On July 10, 2002, one hundred shares of Sun Microsystems were bought at $5.12 per share and added to the Model Portfolio II.
Our initial objective was to hold this stock long-term until it reaches approximately $41.25 per share. Although short-term trend for this stock appears to be upward, long-term this equity could continue to descend. Therefore, a decision was made to sell this stock. One hundred shares of SUNW were sold on June 12, 2003, at $5.47 per share and the cash was added to existing cash in Model Portfolio II.
A $2,000.00 contribution for the current year was made in December 2003. Afterwards, as of December 19, 2003, there was $3,485.88 cash in Model Portfolio II.
Cash continues to generate interest of only 0.005 percent.
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