What Are The Odds Of Scoring A Winning Trade?

When many of us think of probabilities, the first thing that comes to mind is a coin toss - having a 50% chance at being right on a given toss. Can something as simple as a coin toss be effectively applied to the market? It can at least provide us with some tools for approaching the markets, and it can be applied in many more ways than one might expect. A trader's current views of probability could be completely wrong, and they could very well be why they are not making money in the markets. This article is an introduction to the probabilities of trading and to a commonly overlooked but integral part of the financial system - statistics. Don't be scared by the word "statistics"; everything will be explained in plain English and without many numbers or formulas.

Understanding the Coin Toss
In the short term, anything can happen; this is why the coin toss is an appropriate analogy for the stock market. Let's assume that at a given moment in time the stock could just as easily move up as it could move down (even in a range, stocks move up and down). Thus our probability of making a profit (whether short or long) on a position is 50%.

While hopefully no one would make completely random short-term trades, we will start with this scenario. If we a have an equal probability of making a quick profit (like a coin toss), does a run of profits or losses signal what future outcomes will be? No! Not on random trades. This is a common misconception. Each event still has a 50% probability, no matter what outcomes came prior.

Runs do happen in random 50/50 events. A run refers to a number of identical outcomes that occur in a row. Here is a table displaying the probabilities of such a run; in other words, the odds of flipping a given number of heads or tails in a row.

Run Length	Chance
1	50%
2	25%
3	12.5%
4	6.25%
5	3.125%
6	1.5625%

Here is where we run into problems. Let's say we have just made five profitable trades in a row. According to our table, which is giving us the probability of being right (or wrong) five times in a row based on a 50% chance, we have already overcome some serious odds. The odds of getting the sixth profitable trade looks extremely remote, but actually that is not the case. Our odds of success are still 50%! People lose thousands of dollars in the markets (and in casinos) by failing to realize this. The reason is that the odds from our table are based on uncertain future events and the likelihood they will occur. Once we have completed a run of five successful trades, those trades are no longer uncertain. Our next trade starts a new potential run, and after the results are in for each trade, we start back at the top the table, every time. This means every trade has a 50% chance of working out.

The reason this is so important is that often, when traders get into the market, they mistake a string of profits or losses as either skill or lack of skill. This is simply not true. Whether a short-term trader makes multiple trades or an investor makes only a few trades a year, we need to analyze the outcomes of their trades in a different way to understand if they are simply "lucky" or actual skill is involved. Statistics apply on all time lines, and this is what we must remember.

Long-Term Results
The above example gave a short-term trade example based on a 50% chance of being right or wrong. But does this apply to the long term? Very much so. The reason is that even though a trader may only take long-term positions, he or she will be doing fewer trades. Thus, it will take longer to attain data from enough trades to see if simple luck is involved or if it was skill. A short-term trader may make 30 trades a week and show a profit every month for two years. Has this trader overcome the odds with real skill? It would seem so, as the odds of having a run of 24 profitable months is extremely rare unless the odds have shifted more in his favor somehow.

Now what about a long-term investor who has made three trades over the last two years that have been profitable? Is this trader exhibiting skill? Not necessarily. Currently, this trader has a run of three going, and that is not difficult to accomplish even from totally random results. The lesson here is that skill is not just reflected in the short term (whether that is one day or one year, it will differ by trading strategy); it will also be reflected in the long term. We need enough trade data to accurately determine whether a strategy is significant enough to overcome random probabilities. And even with this, we face another challenge: While each trade is an event, so is a month and year in which trades were placed.

A trader who placed 30 trades a week has overcome the daily odds and the monthly odds for a good number of periods. Ideally, proving the strategy over a few more years would erase all doubt that luck was involved due to a certain market condition. For our long-term trader making trades that last more than a year, it will take several more years to prove that his strategy is profitable over this longer time frame and in all market conditions.

When we consider all time frames and all market conditions, we actually begin to see how to be profitable on all time frames and how to move the odds more on our side, attaining greater than a random 50% chance of being right. It is worth noting that if profits are larger than losses, a trader can be right less than 50% of the time and still make a profit.

How Profitable Traders Make Money
So, obviously people do make money in the markets, and it's not just because they have had a good run. How do we get the odds in our favor? The profitable results come from two concepts. The first is based on what was discussed above - being profitable in all time frames or at least winning more in certain periods than is lost in others.

The second concept is the fact that trends exist in the markets, and this no longer makes the markets a 50/50 gamble as in our coin toss example. Stock prices tend to run in a certain direction over periods of time, and they have done this repeatedly over market history. For those of you who understand statistics, this proves that runs (trends) in stocks occur. Thus we end up with a probability curve that is not normal (remember that "bell curve" your teachers always talked about) but is skewed and commonly referred to as a curve with a fat tail (see the chart below). This means that traders can be profitable on a consistent basis if they use trends, even if it is on an extremely short time frame.

Source: Stockcharts.com

The Bottom Line
If trends exist, and we can no longer have a random sampling of data (trades) because a bias in those trades will likely reflect a trend, why is the 50% chance example above useful? The reason is that the lessons are still valid. A trader should not increase his or her position size or take on more risk (relative to position size) simply because of a string of wins, which should not be assumed to occur as a result of skill. It also means that a trader should not decrease position size after having a long, profitable run.

This information should be good news. New traders can take solace in the fact that their researched trading system may not be faulty, but rather is experiencing a random run of bad results (or it may still need some refining). It also should put pressure on those who have been profitable to continually monitor their strategies so they remain profitable.

This information can also aid investors when they are analyzing mutual funds or hedge funds. Trading results are often published showing spectacular returns; knowing a little more about statistics can help us gauge whether those returns are likely to continue or if the returns just happened to be a random event.

Hot Quality Stocks To Watch For 2015

The American middle class is shrinking. According to a report released earlier this year, an estimated 51% of the population was in the middle class at the start of the decade, down from 61% 40 years earlier. It also appears that even as the economy recovers, jobs are being added for low-wage positions much faster. Despite economic growth in the United States, income inequality appears to be worsening nationwide.

The gap between the wealthy and the poor varies across the country. Some areas have much more extreme poverty, extreme wealth or both, and very little in between. Using data collected in the Census Bureau's 2012 American Community Survey, 24/7 Wall St. examined the metropolitan areas with the highest Gini coefficient, a figure used to measure income inequality. A low Gini coefficient closer to zero means relative income equality. A higher Gini coefficient closer to one means a limited middle class and concentrated wealth or poverty. As of 2012, Sebastian and Vero Beach, Fla., had the highest level of income inequality in the country.

Hot Quality Stocks To Watch For 2015: EcoloCap Solutions Inc (ECOS.PK)

EcoloCap Solutions Inc. (EcoloCap), incorporated on March 18, 2004, is a development stage company. The Company is an integrated network of environmentally focused technology companies that design, develop, manufacture and sell cleaner alternative energy products.

The Company through its subsidiary Micro Bubble Technologies Inc. (MBT), developed and manufactures M-Fuel. The Company also developed the Carbon Nano Tube Battery (CNT-Battery), and the Nano Li- Battery both recyclable, rechargeable batteries. MBT has also developed a process that blends non-miscible liquids (oil and water) on a submicron level in order to create a non-emulsified fuel product that it calls EM-Fuel.

Hot Quality Stocks To Watch For 2015: Templeton Dragon Fund Inc.(TDF)

Templeton Dragon Fund, Inc. is a closed ended equity mutual fund launched and managed by Templeton Asset Management Ltd. It invests in the public equity markets of China. The fund invests in stocks of companies operating across diversified sectors. It invests in value stocks of companies. The fund typically employs fundamental analysis focusing on factors like growth prospects, competitive positions in export markets, technologies, research and development, productivity, labor costs, raw material costs and sources, profit margins, returns on investment, capital resources, government regulation and management. Templeton Dragon Fund, Inc was formed on September 20. 1994 and is domiciled in Singapore.

Top 5 Cheap Companies To Watch In Right Now: Nomad Ventures Inc (NMD.V)

Nomad Ventures Inc. engages in the acquisition, exploration, and development of copper, gold, and silver properties in Canada. It has option agreements to acquire a 100% interest in four mining claims in the Dorothea and Sandra Townships, Thunder Bay Mining Division, Ontario, Canada; and Tulameen Mountain silver property in British Columbia. The company was founded in 2007 and is based in North Vancouver, Canada.

Hot Quality Stocks To Watch For 2015: Highway Holdings Limited(HIHO)

Highway Holdings Limited, through its subsidiaries, manufactures and supplies metal, plastic, electric, and electronic components, as well as subassemblies and finished products for original equipment manufacturers and contract manufacturers. The company?s products are used in the manufacture of various products, including photocopiers, laser printers, compact disc players, laser disc players, cassette players, computer equipment, electrical components, electrical connectors, cameras, automobile accessories, vacuum cleaners, light fixtures, electro motors, air pumps, automobiles, and dishwasher and other washing machine components. It also manufactures consumer products, such as cases for mobile phones; and assists its customers in the design and development of the tooling used in the metal and plastic manufacturing process, as well as provides other manufacturing and engineering services. In addition, Highway Holdings Limited provides manufacturing services, including me tal stamping, screen printing, plastic injection molding, and pad printing services, as well as electronic assembly services comprising chip on board assembly, IC-bonding, and SMT automatic components assembly of printed circuit boards. It offers its products and services primarily in Hong Kong and China, Europe, the United States, and other Asian countries. The company was founded in 1990 and is headquartered in Sheung Shui, Hong Kong.

Hot Quality Stocks To Watch For 2015: TomTom NV (OEM)

TomTom NV is a Netherlands-based supplier of location and navigation products and services. The Company�� structure consists of four customer facing business units, namely Consumer, Automotive, Business Solutions and Licensing. The first three business units provide targeted solutions for the Company�� customers, including private consumers, car manufacturers and fleet owners. Licensing sells its content and services to multiple customer groups including portable navigation devices (PNDs) and wireless companies, governments and enterprises. The Company�� business units embed 11 product units, such as digital maps, traffic intelligence, navigation software, PNDs, automotive systems, fleet management services (FMS), smart phone applications, sports watches, points of interest, location based services (LBS) and speedcam intelligence. As of December 31, 2011, the Company was active in 35 countries. In July 2013, it acquired Coordina (Gestion Electronica Logistica, S.L.). Advisors' Opinion:

• [By victorselva]

  In a macro view, revenues in the electronic equipment and instrument sub-industry will remain strong due to the rise in equipment and instrument manufacturers. Distributors, electronic manufacturing service (EMS) companies and original equipment manufacturers (OEM) are going to increase orders as the economy improves in the future. With this promising outlook, let's take a look at Gabelli麓s last trade and try to explain to investors the reasons of this appealing investment opportunity.

Hot Quality Stocks To Watch For 2015: Retail Star Ltd (RSL.AX)

Resource Star Limited engages in the exploration of uranium properties primarily in Malawi and Western Australia. The company�s key projects include 100% owned Edith River uranium project in the Northern Territory; and joint ventures with Globe Metals & Mining Limited on the Machinga Niobium-Rare Earths Project and the Livingstonia Uranium Project in Malawi. The company was formerly known as Retail Star Limited and changed its name to Resource Star Limited in July 2008. Resource Star Limited is headquartered in Melbourne, Australia.

Hot Quality Stocks To Watch For 2015: Caseys General Stores Inc.(CASY)

Casey?s General Stores, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, operates convenience stores under the Casey?s General Store, HandiMart, and Just Diesel names in 11 Midwestern states, primarily Iowa, Missouri, and Illinois. Its stores offer foods, beverages, dairy and bakery products, sandwiches, fountain drinks, donuts, cookies, brownies, Danish rolls, ham and cheese sandwiches, pork and chicken fritters, sausage sandwiches, chicken tenders, popcorn chicken, breakfast croissants and biscuits, breakfast pizza, hash browns, quarter-pound hamburgers and cheeseburgers, and potato cheese bites. The company?s stores also provide nonfood items, which include tobacco products, health and beauty aids, school supplies, house wares, pet supplies, photo supplies, and automotive products. In addition, it offers gasoline or gasohol for sale on a self-service basis. As of July 31, 2011, the company operated 1,665 stores. The company was founded in 1959 and is headquartered in Ankeny, Iowa.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Mike Deane]

  After the bell on Monday, Casey’s General Stores (CASY) announced its fiscal Q1 earnings, posting a strong increase in profits and overall revenues compared to the same time period last year.

  The Ankeny, IA-based convenience store company announced quarterly revenues of $2.11 billion, which were up from $1.87 billion in last year’s same quarter. Profits for the company came in at $55.71 million, or $1.43 per share, compared to $39.03 million, or $1.01 per share, in last year’s Q1.

  Both of these figures beat analysts’ estimates, which were EPS of $1.26 on revenues of $2.1 billion.

  CASY shares were up $1.01, or 1.49%, at market close on Monday. YTD, the stock is up more than 26%.

• [By Seth Jayson]

  Casey's General Stores (Nasdaq: CASY  ) is expected to report Q4 earnings around June 12. Here's what Wall Street wants to see:

  The 10-second takeaway
  Comparing the upcoming quarter to the prior-year quarter, average analyst estimates predict Casey's General Stores's revenues will expand 4.5% and EPS will expand 3.3%.

• [By Michael Lewis]

  For those who call the American midwest home, the convenience store chain Casey's General Stores (NASDAQ: CASY  ) is likely a part of everyday life. If you're like me, on the other hand, who grew up on one coast and lives on the other, the business could just as easily be something from Blazing Saddles. But, as it turns out, the stores, which span more than 1,700 locations in 11 states, are doing well, and may be poised for further performance as earnings grow and margins expand. Does your portfolio need a quick stop into Casey's General Stores?

• [By Seth Jayson]

  Casey's General Stores (Nasdaq: CASY  ) reported earnings on June 13. Here are the numbers you need to know.

  The 10-second takeaway
  For the quarter ended April 30 (Q4), Casey's General Stores met expectations on revenues and beat expectations on earnings per share.

Hot Quality Stocks To Watch For 2015: Combined Group Contracting Co SAKC (CGCK.KW)

Combined Group Contracting Company KSCC is a Kuwait-based public shareholding company that operates in the construction industry. The Company�� activities include general contracting, mechanical and engineering works, construction of industrial and commercial buildings, bridges, and highways; manufacture and import of building materials; trade and packaging of cement, sand and related materials; ready-mix works; asphalt production; owning the transportation intermediaries for the Company�� activities, and the investment of excess funds in portfolios managed by specialized companies. The Company operates mainly in the State of Kuwait and other Gulf countries. As of December 31, 2011, the Company�� subsidiaries included Combined Group for Trading and Contracting Co WLL, Combined International Real Estate Company KSCC and Combined Group Contracting Company KSC, among others.

David Marsh: Tests looming for Janet Yellen

Janet Yellen will become the world's most powerful woman on Feb. 1. The Federal Reserve is still the world's monetary policeman. The dollar is by a large margin the supreme international currency.

At the helm of the Fed's board and the interest rate-setting Federal Open Market Committee, Yellen can produce global waves. She will be presiding over the gradual withdrawal of the Fed's extraordinary monetary stimulus of the past five years. The process should eventually bring rewards for the U.S. and its partners, but it can cause pain too – as the turbulence of the last few days have shown in emerging market economies ranging from Brazil and Turkey to Argentina and India.

In aftermath of the financial crisis, central banks across the world, are being called upon to take up an ever-wider set of responsibilities - not just monetary stability but also fiscal policies and banking supervision. All this brings strains on their operating maneuverability as well as on their independence.

MARKETS: Stocks swoon amid Fed, emerging market worries

FED OUTLOOK: Steady Fed policy could steady markets

The burdens on Yellen are acute. Yet in her new role, both in America and globally, she is likely to accomplish that task better than most. She can combine her first-class economics training with ability to drawn on diverse experience to master two great challenges: returning U.S. monetary policy to a more normal path, and helping prepare America for a multi-polar world in which it shares economic and financial power more equitably with other countries, not least in Asia.

What is remarkable about Yellen's appointment is not that she is a woman. She was the best candidate for the job. More important, she had to overcome the favoritism of the old boy network at the White House. President Obama haplessly clung, almost to the last moment, to his preferred choice, former Treasury secretary Lawrence Summers – a brilliant man, but one whose intellectual skittishness and sometimes unm! annerly behavior would have made him highly accident-prone.

The president eventually caved in and accepted Yellen's impressive credentials. By raising her reputation for independence and damaging that of the president for sound judgment, the episode harmed Obama much more than Yellen.

Yellen is a Keynesian economist but not dogmatic. She has been sometimes overshadowed by her husband, George Akerlof, who won the Nobel prize for economics in 2001. Yellen now moves truly out of the shadows. She is extremely smart but has no need to appear the smartest person in the room.

Already, for reasons unconnected to gender, she has made history for several reasons. At 67, she is the oldest person ever appointed to be Fed chief and the first vice chairman to ascend to the top job. She is the first Democrat called upon to lead the Fed since President Jimmy Carter appointed Paul Volcker in 1979. She and Stanley Fischer, another veteran of global reputation, will be a star team.

In past years Yellen has drawn attention to the balance sheet vulnerabilities of U.S. banks that would face large write-down on their bond holdings should the Fed abruptly stop asset purchases. If the bond purchase program wind-down coincides, as planned, with a pick-up in the economy, an increase in banks' lending and a reduction in their government bond holdings, then this factor will be a great deal much less crucial.

Generally, though, political and economic circumstances will make 2014 a lot less benign than 2013 for financial markets.

Diminutive, low-pitched Yellen was considered by some in the vetting process last fall to lack gravitas – as if only a 6-foot-7 inch, gravel-voiced cigar-chomping male like Paul Volcker could be said to have that quality. The Fed faces enormous challenges. A 5- foot-3 inch lady from Brooklyn who speaks softly but carries a big monetary stick is not the worst person to tackle them.

David Marsh is chairman of the Official Monetary and Financial Institutions ! Forum (OM! FIF), a London-based think tank that promotes dialogue between private-sector and public institutions on world finance.

5 Store Credit Cards That Can Really Pay Off in Savings

Alamy "Would you like to save an extra 10 percent today?" We've all been offered store credit cards in exchange for an instant discount. For years, my answer was an automatic no. Who needs all those extra cards cluttering up their wallet ... and their credit report? But it turns out that some of these cards really can be worthwhile for frequent shoppers, with many offering extra savings, lots of rewards, and perks like free shipping on online purchases. Good credit, plus the ability (and discipline) to pay the bills in full each month, are the key to getting the benefits out of these cards -- otherwise their higher interest rates will quickly erase the savings. And even if you possess both of those attributes, you don't want to go crazy signing up for store cards; it's best to choose just one or two from stores you shop at often enough to rack up real savings. So if, like me, you find yourself at Target (TGT) every weekend, are all too familiar with Amazon's (AMZN) one-click buying option, and have kids who outgrow their Old Navy jeans every six months, then consider these store-branded card options. Note: Credit card companies are wily, and sometimes offer different deals to different customers, depending on factors like whether you're a current customer or how often you visit the store's website. The information below is based on the offers we received; if you see less favorable offers, give the company a call and ask for the better deal!

5 Hated Earnings Stocks You Should Love

DELAFIELD, Wis. (Stockpickr) -- Short-sellers hate being caught short a stock that reports a blowout quarter. When this happens, we often see a tradable short squeeze develop as the bears rush to cover their positions to avoid big losses. Even the best short-sellers know that it's never a great idea to stay short once a bullish earnings report sparks a big short-covering rally.

>>5 Rocket Stocks to Buy as Mr. Market Climbs

This is why I scan the market for heavily shorted stocks that are about to report earnings. You only need to find a few of these stocks in a year to help enhance your portfolio returns -- the gains become so outsized in such a short time frame that your profits add up quickly.

That said, let's not forget that stocks are heavily shorted for a reason, so you have to use trading discipline and sound money management when playing earnings short-squeeze candidates. It's important that you don't go betting the farm on these plays and that you manage your risk accordingly. Sometimes the best play is to wait for the stock to break out following the report before you jump in to profit off a short squeeze. This way, you're letting the trend emerge after the market has digested all of the news. >>5 Stocks Ready for Breakouts Of course, sometimes the stock is going to be in such high demand that you risk missing a lot of the move by waiting. That's why it can be worth betting prior to the report -- but only if the stock is acting technically very bullish and you have a very strong conviction that it is going to rip higher. Just remember that even when you have that conviction and have done your due diligence, the stock can still get hammered if The Street doesn't like the numbers or guidance. If you do decide to bet ahead of a quarter, then you might want to use options to limit your capital exposure. Heavily shorted stocks are usually the names that make the biggest post-earnings moves and have the most volatility. I personally prefer to wait until all the earnings-related news is out for a heavily shorted stock and then jump in and trade the prevailing trend. >>5 Stocks With Big Insider Buying With that in mind, here's a look at several stocks that could experience big short squeezes when they report earnings this week.

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My first earnings short-squeeze trade idea is integrated financial information and analytical applications provider FactSet Research Systems (FDS), which is set to release numbers on Tuesday before the market open. Wall Street analysts, on average, expect FactSet Research Systems to report revenue of $218.93 million on earnings of $1.21 per share.

The current short interest as a percentage of the float FactSet Research Systems is pretty high at 15.7%. That means that out of the 40.10 million shares in the tradable float, 6.31 million shares are sold short by the bears. This is a high short interest on a stock with a relatively low float. Any bullish earnings news could easily spark a sharp short covering rally for shares of FDS post-earnings. >>Why Wall Street Got Apple Wrong From a technical perspective, FDS is currently trending above both its 50-day and 200-day moving averages, which is bullish. This stock has been uptrending strong for the last few weeks, with shares ripping higher from its low of $101.07 to its intraday high of $112.89 a share. During that move, shares of FDS have been consistently making higher lows and higher highs, which is bullish technical price action. If you're bullish on FDS, then I would wait until after its report and look for long-biased trades if this stock manages to break out above its 52-week high at $112.90 a share (or its intraday high on Monday if greater) with high volume. Look for volume on that move that registers near or above its three-month average action of 397,438 shares. If that breakout hits, then FDS will set up to enter new 52-week-high territory, which is bullish technical price action. Some possible upside targets off that breakout are $120 to $125 a share. I would simply avoid FDS or look for short-biased trades if after earnings it fails to trigger that breakout and then drops back below some key near-term support level $110 a share with high volume. If we get that move, then FDS will set up to re-test or possibly take out its next major support levels at its 50-day moving average of $107.72 a share to $101.07 a share.

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Another potential earnings short-squeeze play is Apogee Enterprises (APOG), a designer and developer of value-added glass products, services and systems, which is set to release its numbers on Wednesday after the market close. Wall Street analysts, on average, expect Apogee Enterprises to report revenue of $187 million on earnings of 23 cents per share.

>>5 Big Trades to Take The current short interest as a percentage of the float for Apogee Enterprises is pretty high at 4.1%. That means that out of the 26.40 million shares in the tradable float, 1.16 million shares are sold short by the bears. The bears have also been increasing their bets from the last reporting period by 10.3%, or by 107,864 shares. If the bears are caught pressing their bets into a strong quarter, then shares of APOG could jump sharply higher post-earnings as the bears rush to cover some of their bets. From a technical perspective, APOG is currently trending above both its 50-day and 200-day moving averages, which is bullish. This stock has been uptrending strong for the last two months and change, with shares moving higher from its low of $22.13 a share to its high of $29.42 a share. During that uptrend, shares of APOG have been consistently making higher lows and higher highs, which is bullish technical price action. That move has now pushed shares of APOG within range of triggering a near-term breakout trade. If you're in the bull camp on APOG, then I would wait until after its report and look for long-biased trades if this stock manages to break out above some near-term overhead resistance at $29.42 a share to its 52-week high at $30.26 a share with high volume. Look for volume on that move that hits near or above its three-month average action of 196,572 shares. If that breakout hits, then APOG will set up to enter new 52-week-high territory, which is bullish technical price action. Some possible upside targets off that breakout are $35 to $40 a share. I would simply avoid APOG or look for short-biased trades if after earnings it fails to trigger that breakout and then drops back below some key near-term support at $28 a share to its 50-day moving average at $27.41 a share with high volume. If we get that move, then APOG will set up to re-test or possibly take out its 200-day moving average at $25.89 a share.

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One potential earnings short-squeeze candidate is Cracker Barrel Old Country Store (CBRL), which is set to release numbers on Wednesday before the market open. Wall Street analysts, on average, expect Cracker Barrel Old Country Store to report revenue of $668.68 million on earnings of $1.35 per share.

Just recently, Wunderlich initiated coverage of Cracker Barrel Old Country Store with a hold rating and a $106 per share price target. >>6 Stocks Moving on Unusual Volume The current short interest as a percentage of the float for Cracker Barrel Old Country Store is notable at 4.6%. That means that out of the 18.46 million shares in the tradable float, 1.08 million shares are sold short by the bears. The bears have also been increasing their bets from the last reporting period by 10.3%, or by 100,000 shares. If the bears are caught pressing their bets into a bullish quarter, then shares of CBRL could rip sharply higher post-earnings as the bears rush to cover some of their bets. From a technical perspective, CBRL is currently trending above both its 50-day and 200-day moving averages, which is bullish. This stock has been uptrending strong for the last six months and changes, with shares moving higher from its low of $78.33 to its intraday high of $106.65 a share. During that uptrend, shares of CBRL have been making mostly higher lows and higher highs, which is bullish technical price action. If you're bullish on CBRL, then I would wait until after its report and look for long-biased trades if this stock manages to break out above its 52-week high at $106.65 a share (or its intraday high on Tuesday if greater) with high volume. Look for volume on that move that hits near or above its three-month average action of 141,938 shares. If that breakout triggers, then CBRL will set up to enter new 52-week-high territory, which is bullish technical price action. Some possible upside targets off that breakout are $110 to $115, or even $120 a share. I would avoid CBRL or look for short-biased trades if after earnings it fails to trigger that breakout, and then drops back below some key near-term support at $102 a share with high volume. If we get that move, then CBRL will set up to re-test or possibly take out its 50-day moving average of $99.62 a share to more near-term support levels at $96.32 to $94.85 a share.

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Another earnings short-squeeze prospect is Clarcor (CLC), a provider of filtration products, filtration systems and services, which is set to release numbers on Wednesday after the market close. Wall Street analysts, on average, expect Clarcor to report revenue of $298.74 million on earnings of 66 cents per share.

>>5 Stocks Under $10 Set to Soar The current short interest as a percentage of the float for Clarcor sits at 3.1%. That means that out of the 49.90 million shares in the tradable float, 1.56 million shares are sold short by the bears. The bears have also been increasing their bets from the last reporting period by 14.1%, or by about 192,000 shares. If the bears are caught pressing their bets into a solid quarter, then shares of CLC could soar sharply higher post-earnings as the bears jump to cover some of those short positions. From a technical perspective, CLC is currently trending above both its 50-day and 200-day moving averages, which is bullish. This stock has been uptrending for the last few weeks, with shares moving higher from its low of $52.29 to its intraday high of $57.07 a share. During that uptrend, shares of CLC have been consistently making higher lows and higher highs, which is bullish technical price action. That move has now pushed shares of CLC within range of triggering a major breakout trade. If you're bullish on CLC, then I would wait until after its report and look for long-biased trades if this stock manages to break out above some near-term overhead resistance levels at $56.75 to its 52-week high at $57.31 a share (or its intraday high on Wednesday if greater) with high volume. Look for volume on that move that hits near or above its three-month average action of 170,683 shares. If that breakout triggers, then CLC will set up to enter new 52-week-high territory, which is bullish technical price action. Some possible upside targets off that breakout are $60 to $65 a share, or even $70 a share. I would avoid CLC or look for short-biased trades if after earnings it fails to trigger that breakout, and then drops back below some near-term support at $56 to its 50-day moving average of $55.24 share with high volume. If we get that move, then CLC will set up to re-test or possibly take out its next major support levels at $54 to $53 a share, or even its 200-day moving average at $51.90 a share.

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My final earnings short-squeeze play today is property and casualty insurance player Tower Group International (TWPG), which is set to release numbers on Tuesday before the market open. Wall Street analysts, on average, expect Tower Group International to report revenue of $421.10 million on a loss of 52 cents per share.

The current short interest as a percentage of the float for Tower Group International is pretty high at 7.9%. That means that out of the 53.23 million shares in the tradable float, 2.90 million shares are sold short by the bears. This is a decent short interest on a stock with a relatively low float. If the bulls get the earnings news they're looking for, then this stock could easily spike sharply higher post-earnings as the bears rush to cover some of their bets. From a technical perspective, TWGP is currently trending below both its 50-day and 200-day moving averages, which is bearish. This stock has been downtrending badly for the last month and change, with shares plunging from its high of $22.04 a share to its 52-week low of $13.39 a share. During that move, shares of TWGP have been consistently making lower highs and lower lows, which is bearish technical price action. That move also saw shares of TWGP gap down sharply from around $21.50 to $16 a share. This action has pushed shares of TWGP into oversold territory, since the stock's current relative strength reading is 25.38. If you're in the bull camp on TWGP, then I would wait until after its report and look for long-biased trades if this stock manages to break out above some near-term overhead resistance levels at $13.39 to $14.36 a share with high volume. Look for volume on that move that hits near or above its three-month average volume of 568,536 shares. If that breakout triggers, then TWGP will set up to re-test or possibly take out its next major overhead resistance levels at $16.59 to its 50-day moving average at $17.77 a share. I would avoid TWGP or look for short-biased trades if after earnings it fails to trigger that breakout, and then drops back below its 52-week low at $13.39 a share with high volume. If we get that move, then TWGP will set up to enter new 52-week-low territory, which is bearish technical price action. Some possible targets off that move are $12 to $11 a share. To see more potential earnings short squeeze plays, check out the Earnings Short Squeeze Plays portfolio on Stockpickr. -- Written by Roberto Pedone in Delafield, Wis. RELATED LINKS: >>5 REITs That Call Bernanke's Bluff >>5 Stocks Ready for Breakouts >>Why Wall Street Got Apple Wrong Follow Stockpickr on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook.

At the time of publication, author had no positions in stocks mentioned. Roberto Pedone, based out of Delafield, Wis., is an independent trader who focuses on technical analysis for small- and large-cap stocks, options, futures, commodities and currencies. Roberto studied international business at the Milwaukee School of Engineering, and he spent a year overseas studying business in Lubeck, Germany. His work has appeared on financial outlets including CNBC.com and Forbes.com. You can follow Pedone on Twitter at www.twitter.com/zerosum24 or @zerosum24.

4 Health Care Stocks Under $10 to Watch

DELAFIELD, Wis. (Stockpickr) -- At Stockpickr, we track daily portfolios of stocks that are the biggest percentage gainers and the biggest percentage losers.

>>5 Stocks Under $10 Set to Soar

Stocks that are making large moves like these are favorites among short-term traders because they can jump into these names and try to capture some of that massive volatility. Stocks that are making big-percentage moves either up or down are usually in play because their sector is becoming attractive or they have a major fundamental catalyst such as a recent earnings release. Sometimes stocks making big moves have been hit with an analyst upgrade or an analyst downgrade.

Regardless of the reason behind it, when a stock makes a large-percentage move, it is often just the start of a new major trend -- a trend that can lead to huge profits. If you time your trade correctly, combining technical indicators with fundamental trends, discipline and sound money management, you will be well on your way to investment success.

>>5 Stocks Insiders Love Right Now

With that in mind, let's take a closer look at a several stocks under $10 that are making large moves to the upside.

IsoRay

IsoRay (ISR) develops, manufactures, and sells isotope-based medical products and devices for the treatment of cancer and other malignant diseases primarily in the U.S. This stock closed up 6.2% to 85 cents per share a share in Thursday's trading session.

Thursday's Range: $0.78-$0.85

52-Week Range: $0.42-$1.19

Thursday's Volume: 1.50 million

Three-Month Average Volume: 833,827

From a technical perspective, ISR spiked sharply higher here right above some near-term support levels at 75 to 70 cents per share with strong upside volume. This stock recently pulled back from its 52-week high of $1.19 to just under 75 cents per share. Shares of ISR are now starting to bounce higher off its near-term support levels and the stock is starting to move within range of triggering a near-term breakout trade. That trade will hit if ISR manages to take out Thursday's high of 85 cents per share to some more key overhead resistance at 97 cents per share with high volume.

Traders should now look for long-biased trades in ISR as long as it's trending above support at 70 cents per share and then once it sustains a move or close above those breakout levels with volume that hits near or above 833,827 shares. If that breakout hits soon, then ISR will set up to re-test or possibly take out its 52-week high at $1.19.

Enzo Biochem

Enzo Biochem (ENZ), an integrated life sciences and biotechnology company, is engaged in the research, development, manufacture, and marketing of diagnostic and research products based on genetic engineering, biotechnology, and molecular biology. This stock closed up 2.1% to $2.88 a share in Thursday's trading session.

Thursday's Range: $2.78-$2.88

52-Week Range: $1.83-$3.63

Thursday's Volume: 873,000

Three-Month Average Volume: 174,956

From a technical perspective, ENZ jumped notably higher here right above its 50-day moving average of $2.60 with monster upside volume. This move is starting to push shares of ENZ within range of triggering a big breakout trade. That trade will hit if ENZ manages to take out some key near-term overhead resistance levels at $2.95 to $3.10 with high volume.

Traders should now look for long-biased trades in ENZ as long as it's trending above its 50-day at $2.60 or above its 200-day at $2.40 and then once it sustains a move or close above those breakout levels with volume that hits near or above 174,956 shares. If that breakout hits soon, then ENZ will set up to re-test or possibly take out its 52-week high at $3.63 to some past overhead resistance at $4.

RTI Surgical

RTI Surgical (RTIX), together with its subsidiaries, produces orthopedic and other surgical implants that repair and promote the natural healing of human bone and other human tissues. This stock closed up 3.3% to $3.42 a share in Thursday's trading session.

Thursday's Range: $3.25-$3.44

52-Week Range: $2.77-$5.11

Thursday's Volume: 135,000

Three-Month Average Volume: 285,963

From a technical perspective, RTIX spiked notably higher here right above its 50-day moving average of $3.16 with lighter-than-average volume. This move briefly pushed shares of RITX into breakout territory, after the stock flirted with some near-term overhead resistance at $3.43. Shares of RITX closed just below that level at $3.42. This move is starting to push shares of RTIX within range of triggering another breakout trade. That trade will hit if RTIX manages to take out Thursday's high of $3.44 to its 200-day moving average of $3.67 with high volume.

Traders should now look for long-biased trades in RTIX as long as it's trending above its 50-day at $3.16 or above $3 and then once it sustain a move or close above those breakout levels with volume that hits near or above 285,963 shares. If that breakout hits soon, then RTIX will set up to re-test or possibly take out its next major overhead resistance levels at $4 to $4.30, or even $4.50.

Spherix

Spherix (SPEX) operates as an intellectual property development company. The company provides a commercialization platform for protected technologies. This stock closed up 4.4% to $8.50 in Thursday's trading session.

Thursday's Range: $8.12-$9.00

52-Week Range: $4.07-$27.86

Thursday's Volume: 539,000

Three-Month Average Volume: 100,987

From a technical perspective, SPEX spiked sharply higher here back above both its 50-day moving average at $8.23 and its 200-day moving average at $8.35 with heavy upside volume. This move is quickly pushing shares of SPEX within range of triggering a near-term breakout trade. That trade will hit if SPEX manages to take out Thursday's high of $9 to some more near-term overhead resistance at $9.10 with high volume.

Traders should now look for long-biased trades in SPEX as long as it's trending above Thursday's low of $8.12 or above more near-term support just under $8 and then once it sustains a move or close above those breakout levels with volume that hits near or above 100,987 shares. If that breakout hits soon, then SPEX will set up to re-test or possibly take out its next major overhead resistance levels at $10.40 to $13.70.

To see more stocks that are making notable moves higher, check out the Stocks Under $10 Moving Higher portfolio on Stockpickr.

-- Written by Roberto Pedone in Delafield, Wis.

RELATED LINKS:

>>3 Stocks Spiking on Big Volume

>>5 Shareholder Yield Winners to Beat the S&P 500

>>5 Stocks Under $10 Set to Soar

Follow Stockpickr on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook.

At the time of publication, author had no positions in stocks mentioned.

Roberto Pedone, based out of Delafield, Wis., is an independent trader who focuses on technical analysis for small- and large-cap stocks, options, futures, commodities and currencies. Roberto studied international business at the Milwaukee School of Engineering, and he spent a year overseas studying business in Lubeck, Germany. His work has appeared on financial outlets including

CNBC.com and Forbes.com.

You can follow Pedone on Twitter at www.twitter.com/zerosum24 or @zerosum24.

Stanley Black & Decker, Inc. Beats Estimates on Higher Revenues, Earnings (SWK)

Stanley Black & Decker, Inc. (SWK) reported its fourth quarter earnings early on Friday morning, posting results that beat both revenue and earnings estimates.

SWK's Earnings in Brief

Stanley Black & Decker reported fourth quarter revenues of $2.9 billion, up 9% from last year’s Q4 revenue of $2.7 billion. Net earnings for the quarter came in at $38.5 million, up from last year’s Q4 net income of $36.1 million. SWK’s EPS for the quarter was reported at 41 cents, but after excluding one-time charges, diluted EPS for Q4 came in $1.32 The company was able to beat analysts’ estimates of $1.30 EPS on revenues of $2.87 billion. For the full year, SWK reported reported diluted EPS of $4.98 on revenues of $11 billion.

CEO Commentary

SWK’s chairman and CEO, John F. Lundgren Chairman, commented on the company’s earnings: "During 2013 we made significant progress driving organic growth throughout the organization and the fourth quarter was no exception as the momentum continued from our organic growth initiatives. CDIY and Industrial delivered strong top and bottom line growth in spite of FX headwinds and on-going challenging global market conditions. The Security segment's margin recovery is underway with notable improvement in North America and actions to improve Europe's margins in place.

"As we move into 2014 it is important to note that our long-term strategy and financial objectives remain intact. We are, however, focused on executing previously announced operating and capital allocation actions to boost returns in the near term. These actions demonstrate our commitment to drive sustainable improvements to the Company's cash flow return on investment and drive shareholder value."

SWK's Dividend

Stanley Black & Decker did not announce a change to its quarterly payout in its earnings release. The company announced a raise to its dividend in July, boosting its quarterly payout from 49 cents to 50 cents. The company should declare its next dividend in the coming weeks.

Stock Performance

SWK stock was inactive in pre-market trading. YTD, the stock is up 0.29%.

Schorsch’s American Realty Capital Properties merges with Cole Real Estate Investments

Two net lease real estate investment trusts, American Realty Capital Properties Inc. and Cole Real Estate Investments Inc., made their merger official Thursday when shareholders gave their approval.

The deal was engineered by REIT czar Nicholas Schorsch, chief executive of real estate firm American Realty Capital, who first pursed the Cole REIT in March but was initially rebuffed. It then listed in June on the New York Stock Exchange, and he renewed his efforts to merge the two.

In October, American Realty Capital Properties said that it had acquired rival Cole Real Estate Investments in a deal valued at $11.2 billion. The offer had two parts: $7.2 billion in stock or cash and $4 billion in assumed debt.

The company will create the largest net lease REIT with an enterprise value of $21.5 billion.

10 Best Growth Stocks To Watch For 2014

This massive industry giant might be set to motor higher, writes Royston Wild of The Motley Fool UK, who feels the stock is poised and ready for the high road.

Civil aircraft demand to thrust earnings higher

The civil aerospace market is the Holy Grail for the world's engineers, as continued growth in air traffic underpins a rosy outlook for new aircraft orders. Indeed, demand for new aircraft is expected to continue surging year-on-year based on current projections, striking a stunning 67,000 within the next two decades. And, in my opinion, prime parts supplier Rolls-Royce Holdings (LSS:RR-) (OP:RYCEF) is in great shape to tap into this lucrative trend.

"The global civil aerospace market could see demand for around 27,000 new aircraft and 40,000 new rotorcraft, amounting to 拢2.8 trillion by 2031, with high-growth economies accounting for 45%-60% of demand for new aircraft," KPMG notes. And even if UK engineers failed to grow their 17% share in this market, this would still translate to new orders worth some 拢474bn.

10 Best Growth Stocks To Watch For 2014: Sara Lee Corporation(SLE)

Sara Lee Corporation engages in the manufacture and marketing of a range of branded packaged meat, bakery, and beverage products worldwide. Its packaged meat products include hot dogs and corn dogs, breakfast sausages, sandwiches and bowls, smoked and dinner sausages, premium deli and luncheon meats, bacon, beef, turkey, and cooked ham. It also offers frozen baked products, which comprise frozen pies, cakes, cheesecakes, pastries, and other desserts. In addition, Sara Lee provides roast, ground, and liquid coffee; cappuccinos; lattes; and hot and iced teas, as well as refrigerated dough products. The company sells its products under Hillshire Farm, Ball Park, Jimmy Dean, Sara Lee, State Fair, Douwe Egberts, Senseo, Maison du Caf

10 Best Growth Stocks To Watch For 2014: TrueBlue Inc.(TBI)

TrueBlue, Inc. provides temporary blue-collar staffing services in the United States. It supplies on demand general labor to various industries under the Labor Ready brand; skilled labor to manufacturing and logistics industries under the Spartan Staffing brand; and trades people for commercial, industrial, and residential construction, and building and plant maintenance industries under the CLP Resources brand. The company also provides mechanics and technicians to the aviation maintenance, repair and overhaul, aerospace manufacturing, and assembly industries, as well as to other transportation industries under the Plane Techs brand; and temporary drivers to the transportation and distribution industries under the Centerline brand. It primarily serves small and medium-size businesses. The company was formerly known as Labor Ready, Inc. and changed its name to TrueBlue, Inc. in December 2007. TrueBlue, Inc. was founded in 1985 and is headquartered in Tacoma, Washington.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By idahansen]

  The entire demand labor industry should do well as the US Department of Labor just reported that 169,000 more jobs were added to the American economy. The more work there is, the more demand there is for the services of staffing solutions firms such as Labor SMART, Paychex (NASDAQ: PAYX), TrueBlue (NYSE: TBI), and Robert Half International (NYSE: RHI).

• [By Travis Hoium]

  What: Shares of staffing agency TrueBlue (NYSE: TBI  ) jumped 10% today after the company reported earnings.

  So what: Revenue jumped 19%, to $422.3 million, and beat estimates of $420.2 million from Wall Street. Adjusted earnings per share were also up 19%, to $0.31, outpacing estimates by $0.05.�

• [By Jonathan Yates]

  When looking at small cap stocks, it is useful to compare the company with others that have expanded in both share price and size. For those considering investing in the $100 billion staffing industry, the growth of TrueBlue (NYSE: TBI) shows what could be the potential path for Labor SMART (OTCBB: LTNC), as both operate in the $29 billion demand labor sector. Other firms have done well in the staffing industry include Paychex (NASDAQ: PAYX) and ManPower Group (NYSE: MAN).

Top 5 Blue Chip Companies To Invest In 2014: Waste Management Inc.(WM)

Waste Management, Inc., through its subsidiaries, provides waste management services to residential, commercial, industrial, and municipal customers in North America. It offers collection, transfer, recycling, and disposal services. The company also owns, develops, and operates waste-to-energy and landfill gas-to-energy facilities in the United States. Its collection services involves in picking up and transporting waste and recyclable materials from where it was generated to a transfer station, material recovery facility, or disposal site; and recycling operations include collection and materials processing, plastics materials recycling, and commodities recycling. In addition, it provides recycling brokerage, which includes managing the marketing of recyclable materials for third parties; and electronic recycling services, such as collection, sorting, and disassembling of discarded computers, communications equipment, and other electronic equipment. Further, the company e ngages in renting and servicing portable restroom facilities to municipalities and commercial customers under the Port-o-Let name; and involves in landfill gas-to-energy operations comprising recovering and processing the methane gas produced naturally by landfills into a renewable energy source, as well as provides street and parking lot sweeping services. Additionally, it offers portable self-storage, fluorescent lamp recycling, and medical waste services for healthcare facilities, pharmacies, and individuals, as well as provides services on behalf of third parties to construct waste facilities. The company was formerly known as USA Waste Services, Inc. and changed its name to Waste Management, Inc. in 1998. Waste Management, Inc. was incorporated in 1987 and is based in Houston, Texas.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Dividends4Life]

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• [By Daniel Sparks]

  The payout ratio is an excellent tool for dividend investors. Without it, it's tough to judge how sustainable a company's dividend is. Though a lower payout ratio is always better than a high payout ratio, some companies can easily cope with higher ratios than others. In the video below, Fool contributor Daniel Sparks looks at�Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL  ) , Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT  ) , and Waste Management (NYSE: WM  ) , illustrating how the ratio deserves careful attention during analysis.

• [By Selena Maranjian]

  It can be good, though, with kids, to add a few individual company stocks to the mix, to keep things more interesting. A solid, dividend-paying blue chip such as Waste Management (NYSE: WM  ) can be a smart choice, in part because it's relatively easy to understand. It's reliable because garbage collection is likely to be in great demand for a long time, and the company has become a major recycler, too, even generating energy from some waste.

• [By Arjun Sreekumar]

  For instance, Waste Management (NYSE: WM  ) has amassed a fleet of around 2,000 trucks that are powered by compressed natural gas and plans to add more, while UPS (NYSE: UPS  ) recently announced plans to purchase 285 more gas-powered trucks next year.

10 Best Growth Stocks To Watch For 2014: Intuitive Surgical Inc.(ISRG)

Intuitive Surgical, Inc. designs, manufactures, and markets da Vinci surgical systems for various surgical procedures, including urologic, gynecologic, cardiothoracic, general, and head and neck surgeries. Its da Vinci surgical system consists of a surgeon?s console or consoles, a patient-side cart, a 3-D vision system, and proprietary ?wristed? instruments. The company?s da Vinci surgical system translates the surgeon?s natural hand movements on instrument controls at the console into corresponding micro-movements of instruments positioned inside the patient through small puncture incisions, or ports. It also manufactures a range of EndoWrist instruments, which incorporate wrist joints for natural dexterity for various surgical procedures. Its EndoWrist instruments consist of forceps, scissors, electrocautery, scalpels, and other surgical tools. In addition, it sells various vision and accessory products for use in conjunction with the da Vinci Surgical System as surgical procedures are performed. The company?s accessory products include sterile drapes used to ensure a sterile field during surgery; vision products, such as replacement 3-D stereo endoscopes, camera heads, light guides, and other items. It markets its products through sales representatives in the United States, and through sales representatives and distributors in international markets. The company was founded in 1995 and is headquartered in Sunnyvale, California.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Keith Speights]

  Intuitive Surgical (NASDAQ: ISRG  ) officially announced its second-quarter earnings results on Thursday after giving preliminary figures last week. The news isn't any better for the robotic surgical systems maker. Shares dropped 13% following the earnings announcement.

• [By Matt Thalman]

  Editor's note: This video was shot before Intuitive Surgical's (NASDAQ: ISRG  ) recent earnings forecast, in which the stock fell more than 18% in one trading session. The chart presented during the video does not reflect that move.

• [By Brian Stoffel]

  Intuitive Surgical (NASDAQ: ISRG  ) maker of the da Vinci Robotic Surgical System and market-leader in technology-assisted surgery, is slated to report earnings after the market closes Thursday. For investors who have suffered through a rough 2013 -- with shares trading down almost 20% since the beginning of the year -- here are three key areas to focus on when earnings are reported.

• [By Steven Russolillo]

  For instance, the worst-performing S&P 500 component –�Newmont Mining Corp. — is down 48% this year. In December, the stock is down 3.6%. Abercrombie & Fitch Co.(ANF) is off 30% this year, including a 2.6% decline this month. Intuitive Surgical Inc.(ISRG), which has dropped 25% this year, is down 2.6% in December.

10 Best Growth Stocks To Watch For 2014: Crocs Inc.(CROX)

Crocs, Inc. and its subsidiaries engage in the design, development, manufacture, marketing, and distribution of footwear, apparel, and accessories for men, women, and children. The company primarily offers casual and athletic shoes, and shoe charms. It also designs and sells a range of footwear and accessories that utilize its proprietary closed cell-resin, called Croslite. The company?s footwear products include boots, sandals, sneakers, mules, and flats. In addition, it provides footwear products for the hospital, restaurant, hotel, and hospitality markets, as well as general foot care and diabetic-needs markets. Further, the company offers leather and ethylene vinyl acetate based footwear, sandals, and printed apparels principally for the beach, adventure, and action sports markets; and accessories comprising snap-on charms. The company sells its products through the United States and international retailers and distributors, as well as directly to end-user consumers th rough its company-operated retail stores, outlets, kiosks, and Web stores primarily under the Crocs Work, Crocs Rx, Jibbitz, Ocean Minded, and YOU by Crocs brand names. As of December 31, 2010, it operated 164 retail kiosks located in malls and other high foot traffic areas; 138 retail stores; 76 outlet stores; and 46 Web stores. Crocs, Inc. operates in the Americas, Europe, and Asia. The company was formerly known as Western Brands, LLC and changed its name to Crocs, Inc. in January 2005. Crocs, Inc. was founded in 1999 and is headquartered in Niwot, Colorado.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By William L. Watts]

  Shares of Crocs Inc. (CROX) �rose nearly 17% after Chief Financial Officer Jeff Lasher said in an interview that Blackstone Group LP (BX) �will invest $200 million in the shoe company and that Chief Executive John McCarvel will retire by late April.

• [By Matt Thalman]

  In the following video, Fool contributor Matt Thalman discusses how the company known for its fashion faux pas rubber clog is attempting to change consumers' opinions about what it has to offer. Crocs (NASDAQ: CROX  ) is making some big moves, and major strides toward strengthening its offerings and sales. With more than 300 different styles, the company is no longer just the rubber clog with holes in it. And, while that one product still generates more than 47% of the company's revenue, in other countries, it's not seen as such a terrible fashion statement as it is here in the U.S. The company is using that international strength and brand recognition as a way to grow its business.

10 Best Growth Stocks To Watch For 2014: Eastern Insurance Holdings Inc.(EIHI)

Eastern Insurance Holdings, Inc., through its subsidiaries, provides workers compensation insurance and reinsurance products in the United States. The company?s Workers Compensation Insurance segment provides traditional workers compensation insurance coverage products, including guaranteed cost policies, policyholder dividend policies, retrospectively-rated policies, deductible policies, and alternative market products to employers. This segment distributes its workers? compensation products and services through its independent insurance agents primarily in Pennsylvania, Delaware, North Carolina, Maryland, Indiana, and Virginia. Its Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segment offers alternative market workers compensation solutions comprising program design, fronting, claims administration, risk management, segregated portfolio cell rental, asset management, and segregated portfolio management services to individual companies, groups, and associations. Eastern Insurance Holdings, Inc. is headquartered in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Lauren Pollock]

  ProAssurance Corp.(PRA) agreed to acquire Eastern Insurance Holdings Inc.(EIHI) for about $205 million, expanding the insurance company’s casualty insurance offerings. Eastern Insurance is a domestic casualty insurance group specializing in workers’ compensation products and services, among other things. ProAssurance plans to pay $24.50 in cash for each outstanding Eastern share, a 16% premium over Monday’s closing price.

10 Best Growth Stocks To Watch For 2014: Nordstrom Inc.(JWN)

Nordstrom, Inc., a fashion specialty retailer, offers apparel, shoes, cosmetics, and accessories for women, men, and children in the United States. It offers a selection of brand name and private label merchandise. The company sells its products through various channels, including Nordstrom full-line stores, off-price Nordstrom Rack stores, Jeffrey? boutiques, treasure & bond, and Last Chance clearance stores; and its online store, nordstrom.com, as well as through catalog. Nordstrom also provides a private label card, two Nordstrom VISA credit cards, and a debit card for Nordstrom purchases. The company?s credit and debit cards feature a shopping-based loyalty program. As of September 30, 2011, it operated 222 stores, including 117 full-line stores, 101 Nordstrom Racks, 2 Jeffrey boutiques, 1 treasure & bond store, and 1 clearance store in 30 states. The company was founded in 1901 and is based in Seattle, Washington.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Ben Levisohn]

  Shares of J.C. Penney have dropped 4.4% to $8.65 today at 9:33 a.m., while Macy’s (M) has fallen 1.2% to $42.99, Kohl’s (KSS) has dipped 0.9% to $51.56, Nordstrom (JWN) is off 0.8% to $55.99 and Dillard’s (DDS) has dropped 0.8% to $78.50.

10 Best Growth Stocks To Watch For 2014: CNO Financial Group Inc. (CNO)

CNO Financial Group, Inc., through its subsidiaries, engages in the development, marketing, and administration of health insurance, annuity, individual life insurance, and other insurance products for senior and middle-income markets in the United States. The company markets and distributes Medicare supplement insurance, interest-sensitive and traditional life insurance, fixed annuities, and long-term care insurance products; Medicare advantage plans through a distribution arrangement with Humana Inc.; and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans through a distribution and reinsurance arrangement with Coventry Health Care. It also markets and distributes supplemental health, including specified disease, accident, and hospital indemnity insurance products; and life insurance to middle-income consumers at home and the worksite through independent marketing organizations and insurance agencies. In addition, the company markets primarily graded benefit and simplified issue life insurance products directly to customers through television advertising, direct mail, Internet, and telemarketing. It sells its products through career agents, independent producers, direct marketing, and sales managers. CNO Financial Group, Inc. has strategic alliances with Coventry and Humana. The company was formerly known as Conseco, Inc. and changed its name to CNO Financial Group, Inc. in May 2010. CNO Financial Group, Inc. was founded in 1979 and is headquartered in Carmel, Indiana.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By David Fried, Editor, The Buyback Letter]

  Insurance holding company CNO Financial Group (CNO) and its insurance subsidiaries��rincipally Bankers Life and Casualty Company, Washington National, and Colonial Penn Life Insurance Company��erve pre-retiree and retired Americans.

• [By Vanin Aegea]

  I have heard many people comment about the insurance policies for cars, houses, life, assets, etc. The arguments always revolve around the same issue: Is it really necessary? What are the chances to be hit by a Hurricane, or to meet a sudden death? Well, nobody really knows. Some individuals however, sleep better when they know a policy backs their life investments. Here, I will look into three insurance companies that concentrate on different policies, or geographies. These are: China Life (LFC), and Conseco (CNO).

• [By Jonas Elmerraji]

  Up first is CNO Financial Group (CNO), a mid-cap financial stock that's rocketed close to 60% higher since the calendar flipped over to January. Yup, it's been a great year for the market, but it's been a far better one for investors who own CNO. But that strong performance isn't showing any signs of slowing yet. In fact, CNO looks primed for even more upside in the fourth quarter.

  That's because CNO is currently forming a bullish pattern called an ascending triangle. The ascending triangle pattern is formed by a horizontal resistance level above shares -- in this case at $14.75 -- and uptrending support to the downside. Basically, as CNO bounces in between those two technical price levels, it's getting squeezed closer and closer to a breakout above that $14.75 resistance level. When that breakout happens, it's time to become a buyer.

  ACCO's price action isn't exactly textbook. After all, the pattern is coming in at the bottom of a downtrend, not after an uptrend. But ultimately, that doesn't change the trading implications of a move through that $7.50 level.

  Whenever you're looking at any technical price pattern, it's critical to think in terms of those buyers and sellers. Ascending triangles and other pattern names are a good quick way to explain what's going on in a stock, but they're not the reason it's tradable. Instead, it all comes down to supply and demand for shares.

  That $7.50 resistance level is a price where there has been an excess of supply of shares; in other words, it's a place where sellers have been more eager to step in and take gains than buyers have been to buy. That's what makes a breakout above it so significant. The move means that buyers are finally strong enough to absorb all of the excess supply above that price level.

  Don't be early on this trade.

10 Best Growth Stocks To Watch For 2014: Checkpoint Systms Inc.(CKP)

Checkpoint Systems, Inc. manufactures and markets identification, tracking, security, and merchandising solutions for the retail and apparel industry worldwide. The company operates in three segments: Shrink Management Solutions, Apparel Labeling Solutions, and Retail Merchandising Solutions. The Shrink Management Solutions segment provides shrink management and merchandise visibility solutions. It offers electronic article surveillance systems, such as EVOLVE, a suite of RF and RFID-enabled products that act as a deterrent to prevent merchandise theft in retail stores; and electronic article surveillance consumables, including EAS-RF and EAS-EM labels that work in combination with EAS systems to reduce merchandise theft in retail stores. This segment also provides keepers, spider wraps, bottle security, and hard tags, as well as Showsafe, a line alarm system for protecting display merchandise. In addition, it offers physical and electronic store monitoring solutions, incl uding fire alarms, intrusion alarms, and digital video recording systems for retail environments; and RFID tags and labels. The Apparel Labeling Solutions segment provides apparel labeling solutions to apparel retailers, brand owners, and manufacturers. It has Web-enabled apparel labeling solutions platform and network of 28 service bureaus located in 22 countries that supplies customers with customized apparel tags and labels. The Retail Merchandising Solutions segment offers hand-held label applicators and tags, promotional displays, and queuing systems. The company serves retailers in the supermarket, drug store, hypermarket, and mass merchandiser markets through direct distribution and reseller channels. Checkpoint Systems was founded in 1969 and is based in Thorofare, New Jersey.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By John Udovich]

  Small cap Checkpoint Systems, Inc (NYSE: CKP) fights shoplifting or retail theft and other forms of�"shrink��that costs retailers over $112 billion worldwide last year (according to a study funded by the company), meaning it might be an interesting stock to take a closer look at and to compare its performance with that of SPDR S&P Retail ETF (NYSEARCA: XRT) and PowerShares Dynamic Retail ETF (NYSEARCA: PMR). Just how bad can shoplifting or shrink be for a retailer? Troubled retailer J.C. Penney Company, Inc (NYSE: JCP) has just reported that shoplifting took a full percentage point off the department store chain's profit margins during the quarter. Moreover and given that tens of millions of Americans are now facing higher health insurance costs thanks to Obamacare (which will likely impact consumer discretionary spending),�retailers�will need to find ways to shore up their margins and bottom lines by preventing�retail theft with solutions from company�� like Checkpoint Systems.

10 Best Growth Stocks To Watch For 2014: MEDIFAST INC(MED)

Medifast, Inc., through its subsidiaries, engages in the production, distribution, and sale of weight management and disease management products, and other consumable health and diet products in the United States. The company?s product lines include weight and disease management, meal replacement, and vitamins. It also operates weight control centers that offer Medifast programs for weight loss and maintenance, customized patient counseling, and inbody composition analysis. The company markets its products under the Medifast and Essential brand names, including shakes, appetite suppression shakes, women?s health shakes, diabetics shakes, joint health shakes, coronary health shakes, calorie burn drinks, calorie burn flavor infusers, antioxidant shakes, antioxidant flavor infusers, bars, crunch bars, soups, chili, oatmeal, pudding, scrambled eggs, hot cocoa, cappuccino, chai latte, iced teas, fruit drinks, pretzels, puffs, brownie, pancakes, soy crisps, crackers, and omega 3 and digestive health products. Medifast Inc. sells its products through various channels of distribution comprising Web, call center, independent health advisors, medical professionals, weight loss clinics, and direct consumer marketing supported via the phone and the Web; Take Shape for Life, a physician led network of independent health coaches; and weight control centers. The company was founded in 1980 and is headquartered in Owings Mills, Maryland.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Holly LaFon] ast produces, distributes and sells weight and health management products with the brand names Medifast, Take Shape for Life, Hi-Energy Weight Control Centers and Woman�� Wellbeing.

  Its return on assets in the third quarter of 2011 was 19.6%, which has been increasing in the past several years. The average return on assets for the specialty retail industry is 10.48% for the trailing 12 months.

  The company�� total assets amounted to $94 million in 2010, which increased from $62.8 million in 2009. Net income also increased to $19.6 million in 2010 from $12 million in 2009.

  Boston Beer Inc. (SAM)

  Boston Beer Inc. is the largest brewer of handcrafted beers in America. Boston Beer is a growing company that recently saw a large increase in its return on assets. It increased from 19.3% in 2010 to 29.7% in 2011, and was negative as recently as 2008. The average return on assets for the beverages industry in the trailing 12 months is 9.47%.

  In 2011, the company�� total assets increased to $272.5 million from $258.5 million in 2010. Net income increased to $66 million from $50 million.

  Alliances Resources Partners (ARLP)

  Alliance Resources Partners is a coal producer and marketer primarily in the eastern U.S. Its ROA has been increasing since 2008 and increased to 22.5% in 2011 from 21.4% in 2010. The average return on assets for the oil, gas & consumable fuels industry in the trailing 12 months is 24.47%.

  In 2011, its total assets increased to $1.7 billion from $1.1 billion in 2010. Its net income increased to $389 million from $321 million.

  Factset Research Systems Inc. (FDS)

  Factset researches global market trends and develops analytical tools for investors. Of all of GuruFocus��5-star predictable companies, it has the highest return on assets at 27%. ROA has been increasing over the past several years. The average return on assets for the software industry for the trailing 12 m

• [By Ben Levisohn]

  Shares of Nutrisystem have gained 20% to $18.05 at 1:34 p.m., while Weight Watchers (WTW) has risen 3.6% to $39.42. Medifast (MED), however, has dropped 1.9% to $24.94.

• [By Robert Hanley]

  Consumer-goods marketer Blyth (NYSE: BTH  ) , owner of weight-loss upstart ViSalus, has been in the doghouse lately, sitting near a 52-week low due to poor results in its weight-loss unit.� Despite a large potential customer base of overweight people worldwide, the industry has had difficulty generating growth lately, with data provider Marketdata Enterprises estimating that industry sales rose only 1.7% in 2012.� However, Blyth caught a bid in late October from a proposed combination with marketing-services provider CVSL, indicating that some people see incremental value in Blyth's businesses.�So, should small investors bet on this small cap or should they focus their attention on Weight watchers International (NYSE: WTW  ) and Medifast (NYSE: MED  ) instead?

10 Best Clean Energy Stocks To Own Right Now

The new U.S. Secretary of Energy, Ernest Moniz, is clearly a believer that the country absolutely must become more self-sufficient with the nation's energy supplies. He recently outlined three points of focus in order to make this a reality: increase our efficiency, electrify our transportation sector, and utilize alternative fuels.

In the following video, Motley Fool energy analysts provide you with details on a variety of companies that are already addressing these issues, and offer reasons why they might be worth consideration for your investment portfolio.�

One such company has been attempting to capitalize on the the movement toward alternative energy as it continues gaining momentum. This potential opportunity in this field is Clean Energy Fuels, which focuses its natural gas efforts primarily on trucking and fleet vehicles. It's poised to make a big impact on an essential industry. Learn everything you need to know about Clean Energy Fuels in The Motley Fool's premium research report on the company. Just click here now to claim your copy today.

10 Best Clean Energy Stocks To Own Right Now: Ross Grp(RGP.L)

Ross Group Plc engages in the design and manufacture of engineering projects. It provides training and simulation, test rig, special vehicle, and containerized solutions to aerospace, auto sport, defense, and other high technology markets. The company also involves in the trade and distribution of automotive electronics, such as battery chargers and adapters under MaxAmp, Selmar, and Bradex brand names. Ross Group is based in Totton, the United Kingdom.

10 Best Clean Energy Stocks To Own Right Now: ATP Oil And Gas Corp (ATPO.MU)

ATP Oil & Gas Corporation, incorporated in 1991, is engaged in the acquisition, development and production of oil and natural gas properties. As of December 31, 2011, the Company had estimated net proved reserves of 118.9 Million barrels of crude oil equivalent (MMBoe), of which approximately 75.9 MMboe (64%) were in the Gulf of Mexico and 42.9 MMBoe (36%) were in the North Sea. The reserves consisted of 78.6 Million barrels (MMBbls) of oil (66%) and 241.5 billion cubic feet (Bcf) of natural gas (34%). Its proved reserves in the deepwater area of the Gulf of Mexico account for 62% of the Company�� total proved reserves and its proved reserves on the Gulf of Mexico Outer Continental Shelf account for 2% of its total proved reserves. During the year ended December 31, 2011, the Company acquired three licenses in the Mediterranean Sea covering potential natural gas resources in the deepwater off the coast of Israel (East Mediterranean). On August 17, 2012, ATP Oil And Ga s Corp filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.

The Company�� natural gas reserves are split between the Gulf of Mexico (57%) and the North Sea (43%). Of its total proved reserves, 8.3 MMBoe (7%) were producing, 19.0 MMBoe (16%) were developed and not producing and 91.6 MMBoe (77%) were undeveloped. The Company�� average working interest in its properties at December 31, 2011, was approximately 81%. The Company operates 92% of its platforms. At December 31, 2011, in the Gulf of Mexico, it owned leasehold and other interests in 38 offshore blocks and 49 wells, including 23 subsea wells. The Company operates 43 (88%) of these wells, including 100% of the subsea wells. In the North Sea, it also had interests in 13 blocks and two Company-operated subsea wells. As of March 15, 2011, the Company owned an interest in 13 platforms, including two floating production facilities in the Gulf of Mexico, the ATP Titan at its Telemark Hub and the ATP Innovator at its G omez Hub. It operates the ATP Innovator and the ATP Titan.!

Top 5 Casino Companies For 2014: Bonanza Creek Energy Inc (BCEI)

Bonanza Creek Energy, Inc., incorporated in December 2010, is an oil and natural gas company engaged in the acquisition, exploration, development and production of onshore oil and associated liquids-rich natural gas in the United States. The Company�� assets and operations were focused primarily in southern Arkansas (Mid-Continent region) and the Denver Julesburg (DJ) and North Park Basins in Colorado (Rocky Mountain region) during the year ended December 31, 2010. In addition, it owns and operates oil producing assets in the San Joaquin Basin (California region). It operated approximately 99.4% and held an average working interest of approximately 85.8% of its proved reserves as of December 31, 2010. As of December 31, 2010, its net proved reserves was 32,860 million barrels of oil equivalent (MBoe).

The Company�� proved reserves and its drilling locations in its Mid-Continent acreage are located in the Dorcheat Macedonia field and the McKamie Patton field. In the Dorcheat Macedonia field the Company averages a 83.3% working interest and 68.5% net revenue interest, and all of the Company�� acreage is held by production. It had approximately 78 gross (65.0 net) producing wells and its average net daily production during April 2011, was approximately 1,249 barrels of oil equivalent per day (Boe/d) from a proved reserves base of 15,247 million barrels of oil equivalent, of which about 64.5% was oil and natural gas liquids. As of April 30, 2011, the Company had drilled 13 gross (10.2 net) wells. Immediately northwest of the Dorcheat Macedonia field, it owns and operates the McKamie gas processing facility, which processes all of the gas from the field. It owns additional interests in the Mid-Continent region near the Dorcheat Macedonia field. These include interests in the McKamie-Patton, Atlanta and Beach Creek fields. Its estimated proved reserves in these fields as of December 31, 2010, were approximately 1,947.8 million barrels of oil equivalent, and average net daily production du! ring April 2011, was approximately 239 barrels of oil equivalent per day.

The McKamie processing facility is located in Lafayette County, Arkansas and is located to serve its production in the region. The Company�� facility has a processing capacity of 15 million cubic feet per day (MMcf/d) of natural gas and 30,000 gallons per day of natural gas liquids. The facility processes natural gas and natural gas liquids, fractionates liquids into three components for sale, and sells four products at the facility's tailgate: propane, butane, natural gasolines and natural gas. It also owns approximately 150 miles of natural gas gathering pipeline that serves the facility and surrounding field areas and 32 miles of right-of-way crossing Lafayette County that can be utilized to connect the facility to other gas fields or future sales outlets. Natural gas is sold at the tailgate of the facility into a CenterPoint pipeline connection. Fractionated natural gas liquids are held on site and trucked out by the buyer, Dufour Petroleum. The McKamie processing facility had an average net output of 749 barrels of oil equivalent per day based on the facility contracts in April, 2011.

The two main areas in which the Company operates in the Rocky Mountain region include the DJ Basin in Weld County, Colorado and the North Park Basin in Jackson County, Colorado. The DJ Basin is a structural basin centered in eastern Colorado that extends into southeast Wyoming, western Nebraska, and western Kansas. Its operations in the DJ Basin are in the oil window of the Niobrara and as of December 31, 2010, consisted of approximately 42,698 gross (29,742 net) total acres. The Company�� estimated proved reserves in the DJ Basin were 8,402 million barrels of oil equivalent at December 31, 2010. As of April 30, 2011, it had a total of 141 gross (133.6 net) producing wells and its net average daily production during April 2011, was approximately 1,124 barrels of oil equivalent per day. The Company�� working inter! est for a! ll producing wells averages is 94.8% and its net revenue interest was approximately 76.5% in 2010. The Codell sandstone and Niobrara oil shale are blanket deposits in the DJ Basin.

The Company controls 47,003 gross (39,030 net) acres in the North Park Basin in northern Jackson County, Colorado. The Basin is divided into three principal opportunities: the North and South McCallum units and the non-unit acreage. The Company operates the North and South McCallum fields. The McCallum field covers 10,277 gross (8,606 net) acres of federal land with the majority of the oil production coming from a waterflood in the Pierre B formation and the carbon dioxide production coming from naturally flowing Dakota wells. Oil production is trucked to the market while carbon dioxide production is sent to a Praxair plant for processing and delivery to the market. In the North Park Basin, its estimated proved reserves as of December 31, 2010, were approximately 696.1 million barrels of oil equivalent, of which 100% were oil. Its average net production during April 2011, was approximately 140 barrels of oil equivalent per day. All of the Company�� 47,003 gross (39,030 net) acres in the North Park Basin are prospective for the Niobrara oil shale.

In California the Company owns acreage in four fields: Kern River, Midway Sunset and Greeley, which the Company operates, and Sargent, which it does not. Its estimated proved reserves in California were 886 million barrels of oil equivalent at December 31, 2010. As of April 30, 2011, we had a total of 57 gross (48.7 net) producing wells and its average net daily production was approximately 218 barrels of oil equivalent per day. Its working interest for all producing wells averages 85.4% and its net revenue interest is approximately 71.9%. As of December 31, 2010, it had identified approximately 18 gross (13.6 net) PUD locations in California.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Ben Levisohn]

  Not all stocks are created equal, however, and the analysts expect some stocks to handily outperform others, and their top picks “are poised to deliver long-term, capital-efficient growth…while trading at attractive valuations that currently provide 20%+ upside to our price targets.” Their winners?�Oasis Petroleum (OAS),�Approach Resources (AREX),�Bonanza Creek Energy�(BCEI) and Gulfport Energy�(GPOR), all of which are rated Buy with Oasis also added to Goldman’s conviction list. Investors, however, should avoid �WPX Energy�(WPX), which the analysts rate a Sell. They explain why:

10 Best Clean Energy Stocks To Own Right Now: Banro Corp (BAA)

Banro Corporation (Banro) is a Canada-based gold exploration company. The Company holds, through four wholly owned subsidiaries, a 100% interest in four gold properties, which are known as Twangiza, Namoya, Lugushwa and Kamituga. These properties are covered by a total of 13 exploitation permits and are found along the 210 kilometer-long Twangiza-Namoya gold belt in the South Kivu and Maniema Provinces of eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The Company also holds 14 exploration permits covering an aggregate of 2,638 square kilometers. Its 10 of the permits are located in the vicinity of the Company's Twangiza property and four are located in the vicinity of the Company's Namoya property. During the year ended December 31, 2011, the Company was engaged in the construction of the Company�� Twangiza Phase I oxide mine, and continued its exploration activities at its Twangiza, Namoya and Lugushwa properties. Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Bryan Murphy]

  With the weekend just around the corner - and with folks looking to close the books on what's been a miserable week - most traders have already closed shop and gone home. Big mistake. Some of the best trades I've ever found were uncovered when nobody else cared, or was interested. Enter Banro Corporation (NYSEMKT:BAA)... a name I stumbled cross today when few other were even looking. I think BAA could be an explosive bullish mover over the course of the next few weeks. Though I don't want to get married to it, I sure wouldn't mind dating it for a while.

10 Best Clean Energy Stocks To Own Right Now: California Nanotechnologies Cor (CNO.V)

California Nanotechnologies Corp., a development stage company, engages in the research, development, and production of nano-structured components and materials. The company produces powders, billets, wire, and precision forged components from nano, near-nano, ultrafine, and conventional advanced materials. Its products include precision cold forged components consisting of fasteners, bolts, pins, caps, and other components; thermal spray powders comprising WC-based materials and titanium powders; nano light alloy powders that include aluminum, titanium, magnesium, and their alloys; nano alloy billets; nano super alloy powders; and cemented carbides. The company also offers component manufacturing services for in-house and customer-designed components using Cal nano materials. It serves customers in aerospace, defense, automotive, medical, and sports and recreation industries. California Nanotechnologies Corp. is headquartered in Cerritos, California.

10 Best Clean Energy Stocks To Own Right Now: Quest Pharmatech Inc. (QPT.V)

Quest PharmaTech Inc. engages in the discovery, development, and commercialization of pharmaceutical products for the treatment of cancer and dermatological conditions based on its SonoLight technology platform. The company�s development products include oregovomab that completed Phase I and Phase II clinical trials for the treatment of ovarian cancer; SL017, which is in Phase II clinical trial for dermatology applications; SL052 that is in Phase I clinical trial for the treatment of prostate cancer; and Anti-MUC1, which is in Phase I clinical trial for the treatment of prostate cancer. It has strategic partnerships with IntelligentNano to develop water-soluble nanoformulations of SL052 and SL017; and Alberta Research Council to develop fermentation based technology to manufacture Hypocrellin B. The company was formerly known as Altachem Pharma Ltd. and changed its name to Quest PharmaTech Inc. in September 2005. Quest PharmaTech is headquartered in Edmonton, Canada.

10 Best Clean Energy Stocks To Own Right Now: Russel Metals Inc Com Npv (RUS.TO)

Russel Metals Inc. engages in the processing and distribution of metals in Canada and the United States. The company operates in three segments: Metals Service Centers, Energy Tubular Products, and Steel Distributors. The Metals Service Centers segment sells plates, and flat rolled carbon and other general line carbon steel products comprising structurals, bars, sheet, pipe, tubing, and hollow structural steel tubing, as well as stainless steel, aluminum, and other non-ferrous specialty metal products in various sizes, shapes, and specifications. It also provides customized processing services. This segment serves end users in various industries, including machinery and equipment manufacturing, construction, shipbuilding, and natural resources, such as mining and petroleum. The Energy Tubular Products segment distributes oil country tubular goods, pipe piling, line pipes, tubes, valves, fluid handling products, and fittings; and processes and distributes steel pipe product s for the construction, oil and gas, and ski industries in the western United States. This segment serves energy, construction, manufacturing, pulp and paper, and mining industries. The Steel Distributors segment distributes steel in large volumes to other steel service centers and large equipment manufacturers. This segment sources carbon steel, plate, beams, channel, flat rolled products, and rail and pipe products. Russel Metals Inc. was founded in 1929 and is based in Mississauga, Canada.

10 Best Clean Energy Stocks To Own Right Now: Photo-me Intl(PHTM.L)

Photo-Me International plc manufactures, operates, sells, and services a range of instant service equipment. The company operates coin-operated automatic photobooths for identification and fun purposes; and various vending equipment, including digital photo kiosks, amusement machines, children?s rides, and business service equipment. It also manufactures and sells photo-processing equipment, including photobook makers, kiosks, and minilabs. The company operates 43,700 vending sites worldwide. Photo-Me International plc is based in Bookham, the United Kingdom.

10 Best Clean Energy Stocks To Own Right Now: Life Partners Holdings Inc(LPHI)

Life Partners Holdings, Inc., through its subsidiary, Life Partners, Inc., operates in the secondary market for life insurance in the United States. It facilitates life settlement transactions by identifying, examining, and purchasing the policies as agent for the purchasers. The company?s financial transactions involve the purchase of life insurance policies at a discount to their face value for investment purposes. It serves institutional purchasers, which include investment funds designed to acquire and hold life settlements; and retail purchasers, such as high net worth individuals. The company was founded in 1971 and is based in Waco, Texas.

10 Best Clean Energy Stocks To Own Right Now: Dominion Resources Inc. (D)

Dominion Resources, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, engages in producing and transporting energy in the United States. It operates in three segments: DVP, Dominion Generation, and Dominion Energy. The DVP segment includes regulated electric transmission and distribution operations that serve residential, commercial, industrial, and governmental customers in Virginia and North Carolina. This segment also involves in non regulated retail energy marketing of electricity and natural gas. The Dominion Generation segment includes the electricity generation through coal, nuclear, gas, oil, and renewables; and related energy supply operations. It also comprises generation operations of the company?s merchant fleet and energy marketing, and price risk management activities for these assets. The Dominion Energy segment includes the company?s Ohio and West Virginia regulated natural gas distribution companies, regulated gas transmission pipeline and storage operations, natural gas gathering and by-products extraction activities, and regulated LNG import and storage operations. It also provides producer services, which aggregates natural gas supply; engages in natural gas trading and marketing activities; and involves in natural gas supply management. The company?s portfolio of assets includes approximately 27,615 MW of generation; 6,100 miles of electric transmission lines; 56,800 miles of electric distribution lines; 11,000 miles of natural gas transmission, gathering, and storage pipeline; and 21,800 miles of gas distribution pipeline. Dominion Resources, Inc. also owns approximately 947 bcf of storage capacity of natural gas and serves retail energy customers in 14 states. In addition, it sells electricity at wholesale prices to rural electric cooperatives, municipalities, and into wholesale electricity markets. The company was founded in 1909 and is headquartered in Richmond, Virginia.

Advisors' Opinion:

• [By Matt DiLallo]

  Unfortunately for XTO Energy, there was one small and, unbeknownst to anyone, unresolved matter. You see, LINN had a contract to sell its gas through a unit of Dominion Resources (NYSE: D  ) , which was gathering the gas in its system. However, LINN's gas wasn't up to the system's standards, so it began to look for another gatherer and it approached Equitrans, which is now part of EQT Midstream Partners (NYSE: EQM  ) but formerly was a unit of EQT Corp. (NYSE: EQT  ) -- they talked, but nothing was signed. However, an EQT employee later that year thought that it had and began crediting gas to the wrong company.