Friday, November 11 2016

Today's Research Daily features new research reports on 16 major stocks, including Medtronic (MDT), Chubb (CB) and Exelon (EXC). These reports have been hand-picked from among the roughly research reports issued by our analyst team today. You can see the complete list of today's research reports here >>>

Medtronic shares have gained more than 7% year-to-date, outperforming the peer medical devices space, on the back of the company's recent product launches and FDA approvals. The analyst likes the $1.1 billion acquisition of Heartware International, which is expected to significantly boost its Cardiac Rhythm & Heart Failure business, but worries about the company's sluggish spine business over the past few quarters. (You can read the full research report on Medtronic here>>)

Chubb shares have lagged the insurance space this year, but the Zacks analyst thinks the company stands a good chance of taking leadership in the P&C space, benefiting from complementary products and services. Its inorganic growth story seems impressive and should help it achieve higher long-term ROE. A strong capital position helps Chubb to engage in shareholder friendly moves and invest in strategic initiatives that drive growth. However, the company’s exposure to cat loss (estimates $200 million cat loss in fourth quarter from Hurricane Matthew) and a low interest rate environment are headwinds. The recent uptrend in long-term interest rates is beneficial to Chubb and others in its space. (You can read the full research report on Chubb here>>)

Exelon shares have been strong performers this year, but they have come under pressure in recent sessions as long-term interest rates have trended up following the election. The analyst emphasizes that the company has benefitted from new electric rates and above-average temperatures in its service territories. Moreover, Exelon is gaining from the Pepco Holdings acquisition, which contributed $130 million to its earnings in the reported quarter. However, Exelon is subject to the impact of commodity price volatility, and price fluctuation in the wholesale markets. (You can read the full research report on Exelon here>>)

Other noteworthy reports we are featuring today include Intercontinental Exchange (ICE), Check Point Software (CHKP) and Macy's (M).

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Sheraz Mian

Director of Research

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