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 |
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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 |