The Linchpin For Growth


roots in Ohio and branches in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, and Pennsylvania. National has benefited from low interest rates and a booming mortgage market. Currently, it has a ROE of 20.1 with a dividend yield of 4.4%.

Derek Batts’ Private Screening Picks

Company
Exchange: Symbol
Price* 12-18 Month
Price-Target
P/E on Projected
2003 Earnings
Est. 5-Yr.
Annual EPS
Growth Rate
Why Stock Will Outperform
Abbott Laboratories
NYSE: ABT
$42.94 $50 19.7 12.5 Abbott’s pipeline of high-profile treatments is well stocked.
Barr Laboratories
NYSE: BRL
66.26 79 16.5 23 The company’s generic lineup should work well to keep profits strong.
General Motors
NYSE: GM
37.25 42 5.8 5.9 GM’s pension plan troubles are priced in the stock, while a 5% yield provides good compensation for investors.
Plantronics
NYSE: PLT
17.51 23 20.0 13 Consumer and government worries over traditional cellular phone handsets works in Plantronics’ favor.
National City
NYSE: NCC
27.72 32 10.5 8.6 Low rates and strong demand for mortgages has helped National sail in 2002.
*AS OF DEC. 6, 2002
SOURCES: DEREK BATTS, UNION HERITAGE; MORNINGSTAR INC.;
YAHOO! FINANCE; ZACKS INVESTMENT RESEARCH

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