Thursday, November 10 2016

The Zacks Research Daily report showcases part of our analyst team's daily research output. Our analyst team publishes fresh research reports on more than 70 stocks daily, of which we have featured 16 in today's write-up, including reports on Merck (MRK), DISH Network (DISH) and Pioneer Natural Resources (PXD). You can see the complete list of today's research reports here >>

Merck shares have handily outperformed the broad pharma space, with the stock up more than 21% year-to-date, on the back of strong momentum in its product pipeline. The company's better than expected Q3 results and positivie guidance are adding to the momentum as well. The analyst likes Merck’s new products, especially Keytruda, which should continue to contribute meaningfully to the top line. The latest FDA approval of Keytruda for the first line treatment of metastatic lung cancer should sharply improve the drug’s sales. Merck has also made significant progress with its pipeline and is working on bringing new products to the market. However, generic competition and pricing pressure will continue to pressurize the top line. (You can read the full research report on Merck here>>)

DISH Network shares have been strong performers lately, reflecting greater appreciation for the company's diversification efforts and its valuable spectrum assets. DISH is in the process of diversifying away from operating as a pure-play satellite-TV operator to an Internet TV operator, which should help it weather competitive threats from low-cost video streaming operators. The company is poised to benefit from its Internet TV service – Sling TV – which offers services at a reasonable rate. However, DISH Network’s top line may remain under pressure as the company’s failure to strike any deal with wireless operators is a major headwind. (You can read the full research report on DISH Network here>>)

Pioneer Natural’s shares have surged, increasing by more than 41% year-to-date. The analyst likes Pioneer Natural Resources’ joint venture in the southern Wolfcamp acreage, which is helping to accelerate activities in the area. The company’s successful cost-containment efforts and low level of debts are other positives. These show the efficiency in its operations and place it advantageously over its peers. All these positives are reflected in the company’s massive year-over-year improvement in third-quarter 2016 earnings. However, the bottom line missed expectations due to persistent low oil price, which remains as overhang on the stock. (You can read the full research report on Pioneer Natural here>>)

Other noteworthy reports we are featuring today include Johnson Controls (JCI), Philips (PHG) and Boston Properties (BXP).

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Sheraz Mian

Director of Research

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