Friday, November 25 2016

Today's Research Daily features new research reports on 16 major stocks, including Pfizer (PFE), Microsoft (MSFT) and Priceline (PCLN).

Pfizer’s shares have been showing some weakness recently. Pfizer’s third quarter results missed expectations for both sales and earnings. But the analyst emphasizes that Pfizer is strengthening its product portfolio as well as pipeline through acquisitions and licensing deals. The Sep 2016 acquisition of Medivation has strengthened Pfizer’s cancer franchise.

Meanwhile, new products like Ibrance should do well and drive revenues. However, headwinds remain in the form of genericization, pricing pressure and rising competition, which will continue to hamper top-line growth. (You can read the full research report on Pfizer here.)

Microsoft’s shares have gained more than 8% this year. Microsoft reported impressive first-quarter 2017 results driven by strong cloud growth. The analyst likes its continuing enterprise strength, benefits from the Office 365 subscription model, strong growth prospects of Azure and promising new products.

Additionally, the expansion of Microsoft HoloLens in 6 new markets will improve the company's position in the augmented and virtual reality space. Further, the anticipated completion of the LinkedIn acquisition will boost Microsoft's presence in the social media market. However, execution and foreign exchange risks remain despite its cloud focus. (You can read the full research report on Microsoft here.)

Priceline shares have surged, increasing by more than 19% year-to-date. Priceline reported strong third quarter results. Both agency and merchant businesses showed strong momentum. The analyst likes Priceline’s strong position in international markets, good execution, prudent marketing strategy and strong financial position.

The secular growth trend in the online travel booking market and growth opportunities in the domestic market are other positives. At the same time, weaker ADRs, macro headwinds, increasing advertising spend and occupancy tax-related litigation remain overhangs. (You can read the full research report on Priceline here.)

Other noteworthy reports we are featuring today include General Electric (GE), Expedia (EXPE) and United Continental (UAL).

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Senior Editor

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