Ugly Action Continues....

Today's ugly action is the reason why I've been saying that one should keep any new trades minimal and small. My defensive strategies post also highlighted several ideas that one can employ to add protection and increased return during this dry spell. I was weary when I posted the new In Play candidates today. I stressed that if one were to play them, to keep the positions small as the markets future direction is uncertain. I noticed the markets strength fading when we dipped from high 80 all the way down to 30-40. Still, I was expecting a late intra-day rally to help us close near the days high. Instead, we completely erase the days gains and close over 200 points below the HOD. If that doesn't spell out bearish then I don't know what will. Its time to get defensive and careful about which stocks we sell and which we keep. If your stock is still showing strength despite the down trend, then keep it. If its falling 7 to 8% below where you bought it, then sell it.

In Play: SHMR

SHMR is a low float play that has been appearing on my watchlist for quite some time. I have already established a position in it. The chart looks healthy and robust and the stock is already setting itself up to head higher...

SHMR (End of Day close chart)

Although not perfect, the chart pattern is technically strong...

Canadian Hot Shots....

Here are several interesting Canadian stocks that I have on my radar screen...

CA: TIM, GBI, HF, SAP

Most of them have exciting news or events that have helped propel their stocks to new highs.

HF is in the fertilizer busines. It has climbed up along with its U.S peers such as TNH and TRA

TIM- announced the ground breaking of a new solar silicon facility

GBI- has announced a strategic acquisition that will increase its revenues

SAP- announced strong earnings results

New IPOs on the Block...

I picked up two new IPOs to trade: LULU and BLOG. I am avoiding PWRD until it becomes more stable and readable...

BLOG

LULU

In Play: VSEC, ASTE, PMFG, PENX, WRLS, GHM, LNCE, PRGX

Here are several stocks that are trading well today. Notice that VSEC is back on my list as a good buy. I had sold my position before the big 12% fall and I am jumping back in.

Remember to keep all positions small for now...

Look for Stocks Showing Strength...

With the market attempting to bounce back, it is important to take note of the stocks that are leading and showing strength.

Showing Strength: AXYS, IIN, POSH, WPZ, TOD, WAB, ARTW, SILC, PAS, ASTE, LDSH, HUBB/A, CFI, UA, WRLS, VIGN, and several others.

I have some things to attend to, so I will be back a little later to give you the heads up on any new or interesting stocks or developments...

Feeling a Little Better...and some Defensive Strategies

Hey folks,

I'm feeling a little better so I decided to drop by and post some defensive investments and trading strategies that one can adopt in order to navigate through this tricky market...

Defensive Stocks: Defensive Stocks include hospitals, utilities, supermarkets, food and household ware stocks and so on. These are boring, low-key investments that mutual funds and institutional investors bury their money in until the markets bottom out. When the markets bottom, they usually cash in from these prospects and invest back into stocks that are bottoming out or building bases.

Shorting Stocks: Only short big name, established companies that have a low probability of being acquired or bought out. I have mentioned a few shorts during the past few days. The big institutional banks are good shorts, AIG, MET, and many others. The key to finding good shorts- 1. Look for stocks that have posted lousy earnings. The worse the better. 2. Short stocks that are technically breaking down from key moving averages on inflated volume. For a safe short, short only if the stock is failing to hold onto the 50 day or 200 day MA on average, above average to heavy volume. Sometimes, the volume will be low and quiet. Alternately, you can also short the current markets big winners that are topping out. In these cases, look for the stock to break shorter term support such as the 10 and 20 day MA. Playing shorts by the 10 and 20 day MA is riskier and should be done by those with shorting experience. 3. Do not short low float stocks or stocks that have a high probability of becoming LBO or acquisition targets. Stocks such as these have attractive products, or services that are larger or more established competitor would like to acquire. An example to illustrate this is UA (Under Armour). I would never short UA because to me, it has a high probability of being acquired by a competitor (such as NKE for example).

Inverse Mutual Funds- Inverse Mutual Funds or Bear Funds are a great way to ride the market wave down. There are many more offerings cropping up at various institutions. Check out Inverse funds by ProFunds, Rydex, Direxion and others.

Shorting ETFs- Not my favorite shorting strategy but it can give you a small return which of course, is better than nothing.

Inverse ETFs- ProShares, a division of ProFunds has come up with a line of inverse ETF's. A popular one is the QID.

Futures Contracts: One can short Dow, NASDAQ, Russel and S&P futures for profit and gain. One can also buy 10 year Treasury note futures that usually appreciate in value when the market is in the dumps.

There are many more strategies that I am familiar with, but this should be enough for most of you in order for you to generate plans and ideas of your own.

Taking it Easy Till Sunday...

Hey guys,

I'll be taking it easy and resting for the remainder of the week. Yesterday, I sprained my neck (at least thats what I think the problem is) and I am in excruciating pain today. Instead of resting I have been doing chores, errands and researching the market. Because of my failure to rest, my neck is even worse today. So, I will take the rest of the day off and the weekend for some much needed R&R. If you have any questions or comments, just leave them on the blog and I will try to respond back to you as soon as I can. Thanks for understanding.

Judging By Today's Action...

...It's still a good idea to keep stock purchases minimal. If you have to buy, buy only the strongest stocks...the ones hitting new highs and showing resilience. Again, don't go too crazy with the buying...small positions only.

Showing Strength: ANIK, SNCR, BOOM

As far as current stocks in the 'folio, keep an eye on PHC, KTEC and BZC

If you have to short, short the institutional banks: MS, BSC, GS, etc...also AIG, AXA

Pay Attention To Today's Winners...

Because today's winners will be the new leaders when the correction eases.

New Buy Ideas: OMTR (I already have some from earlier this year. If you are new to the stock, today's breakout is a good buy signal. Just make sure you snatch it at a good price. I may add more to my position tomm), VDSI, RESP, IFSIA, SYNT, OI, AXYS (already long)

Don't go too crazy with any new long positions. Small positions are key right now. Also, don't force yourself to buy a new stock. If the market and the stock is not performing well, do not press the buy button. Remember, you don't have to trade everyday. Sometimes it pays to wait strategically and pounce on an opportunity. Some of the best traders compare trading to tactical warfare...as if your cash/money are soldiers...you want them to go in, do their duty and return in one piece-with the job done ( a profit).

I've got several other long plays but I'll reveal them tomorrow morning. Some of them are interesting earnings plays...

A Few Reslient Longs...

The longs that I am listing are not new buy recommendations. These are stocks that I have already bought. If you haven't bought them already, don't do it now. Instead, these are good stocks to add to if you have them as they are showing resistance to the downward trend.

KTEC. LGTY. DBTK. AMAC

In Play: MS (short)

Here is a good short for newbie shorters. With all the trouble at their hedge funds and the market down nearly 200 points, MS is a no brainer short.

Not a good time to go long...

The market is currently facing some major upward resistance. Economic woes such as rising oil prices, housing and subprime troubles are striking fear in the average investor and trader. The last few days were rather topsy-turvy. One day we're up, the other we're down. Looking at todays market in more detail, there seems to be more of a bearish stance at the moment as the major indices have changed to an intermediate down trend. Its going to take a string of successful strong up market days to combat this and restore the bull trend. It may happen, and it may not. We'll have to watch and see. In the mean time, in order to get through this and survive until the next bullish phase, you've got to keep new buys minimal. Better yet, it is better if you do not add any new buys. Work with what you've got. If the current holdings in your portfolio are not performing well, cut them loose if they fall below 7 or 8% of your purchase price/level. Use key moving averages as sell indicators. If a stock fails to hang above the 50 or 200 day MA, sell it. Again, do not make too many new trades. Just sit back and relax.

Trade Journal: Time for Some Profit Taking

New Buys: SHMR, IIN, JDAS

Looking to Buy: UK: MTV



Add Ons: TCX (so far up 19%), XRA (so far up 38%), HTCO (should bounce off of the 50day MA), ILX, ARTW, KTEC, LGTY, PRGX


Sold for Profit: PSMT (+35.40%), RRST (+34%), NEOG (+3.10), SMTX (+17.80- should've sold my entire position earlier, before the big drop), PLPC (+18.20%), DYS (sold for 50% return), PMRY (+8.4%), VSEC (sold some for a profit of 105%-by far, my one of my best stocks), ESEA (+84%), PTG (+17.3%)

Sold for Loss- PED (-3.10%- again, I should've sold earlier.), ETEL (-6%), SPAN (-10%)

I feel relieved by todays profit as I have been holding onto some of my positions for way too long. Although most of my trades are 3 months in length, I've had several stocks in the folio as far back as February and January of this year. Now I have a ton of free cash to do as I please.

Across the Water: U.K. Stock Spotlight

Here are several interesting stocks that I found on the London Stock Exchange...

All LSE symbols will be posted with the UK prefix

UK: VED - VED is the parent company of SLT (NYSE- SLT), which it spun off as an IPO several weeks ago. Although I am already long SLT, I may eventually pick up some of its parent, Vedanta Resources (VED).


UK: VED (3 month chart)

UK: MTV (Motive Television-LSE)

No, not MTV as Music Television...but MTV as in Motive TV. MTV is a low priced speculative stock experiencing above average accumulation as the stock is securing a bottom. MTV will head higher from here.

In Play: ARTW, LGTY, KTEC

ARTW: Great time to add or initiate a position in ARTW. Although the stock has dropped quite a bit, it is showing a bounce off the 20 day on heavy volume. This may be a pivot point forming that will help bounce the stock higher in the upcoming days and weeks.

LGTY: A micro-cap play that is slowly being accumulated. The stock is building up steam as it prepares to close at the top of its intra-day range after bouncing off of its 20 day. LGTY also has improving earnings growth which will help propel the stock higher.

LGTY

KTEC: I've mentioned this tiny stock many times in the past. This is an industrial machinary company that is growing due to increasing demand from its agricultural and food service clients.

KTEC

Other In Play candidates: SHMR, PENX, IIN

SHMR

New Trades for Tomorrow

New Buys: SHMR, IIN, JDAS

Add to: RRST, NEOG

Shorts: MS (previously mentioned), LM, AXA, SVVS, HBC

These are just a sample of the many short set-ups out there.

Note: If the markets rally tommorow, stick with the longs (AMZN earnings boost). If the markets continue to falter, stick with the short positions...

New Ambitions as a Trader Feature: International Stock Spotlight

Hey folks,

I decided to add an extra feature to my blog. Due to my increasing interest in foreign stocks and financial markets, I have decided to include international stock picks. More specifically, I will include stocks from both the UK and Canadian exchanges as these are the two international sectors that I trade. As I gain more experience with the HK market, I will post trades and picks from there as well.

The first two picks: UK: SGC & PXC

Both trade on the UK exchange.

Trade Journal

New Buys: ILX


Add Ons: NEOG


Sell for Profit: SEA (17.2%), APOL (5.01)


Sell for Loss: CMCO (-7.5%)

Stocks Hit Hard...Once Again...

It seems like nothing is able to withstand today's market carnage. Most of my positions are down across the board. Big surprise, right? Despite this, there are a few stocks in the 'folio that are holding their own and going against the tide. DGSE, MAIL, KTEC, PATK, LGTY, SNR and STS are doing ok. I initiated a short position in AAPL this morning around 140. I expect AAPL to drift down to at least 130. We'll see if it shows more weakness at that level. If it doesn't, time to cover.

Go with Your Game Plan/Stick With What Works

Some of today's winners: VSEC, PRGX, LGTY



Some of Today's Losers: PED (time to sell it all), SMTX, ARTW



I'm a bit busy so I will not be able to go through all of todays winners and losers...hopefully tomorrow will be less hectic for me....

Hot Stocks for July 23-27

These are some of the best stocks that I found over the weekend. Their chart patterns are top notch and the volume and price action looks promising. Many of them will sound familiar as they are stocks that I am currently playing, mentioned or played in the past. There are also several new ones that I haven't mentioned as well.


Hot Stocks: ACO, AHD, AMPH, AOS, ARDNA, ARTW, AXYS, BCO, BGH, BGS, CALD, CHB, CHNL, DDUP, DGSE, DPM, ESEA, ETEL, EXAR, FSTR, CSCT, GMO, HAC, HIFN, HTCH, IBA, ICA, IIIN, ILX, INMD, ISRG, KCI, KTEC, LGTY, LIMC, MDCA, MLAN, MMLP, MVO, MXIC, NAO, NEOG, NVT, NWRE, OMCL, PATK, PENX, PLPC, PMRY, POSH, PRGX, PTEC, PTG, PUK, PVG, REFR, RMCF, RVEP, SAY, SCLD, SEP, SIG, SLT, SPEC, STAR, STRT, STS, STX, TELOZ, TMM, TOD, TPX, TRT, UG, VALU, VCC, VNX, VSEC, VSR, WHG, WSPI, WSTG

Earnings Watch for Monday July 23 - Tuesday July 24

Here are several stocks to watch for:

ASTE, CALM, CNH, DGII, HXL, MTXX, MSPD, PTV, PETS, PPD, RDCM, SVVS, STLD, TGE, TGIS, TSU, UCTT, JDAS, OPTR, SCA, SILC, SIFY, TSYS, RDY.......AEHR, AKS, ECOL, AXE, BTUI, CLMS, CCC, CPD, CENX, CRDN, CEVA, CMCO, CPO, EPIQ, EZPW, FRS, HSTM, HSKA, HOKU, IDSA, KELYA, LCRX, LNDC, MWRK, NEOG, EDU, PCAR, PATK, PVSW, PFWD, PTP, PRAA, QI, SEAB, SMTL, SUPX, SVU, TTES, TEN, TESS, TIE, UIS, X, USAP, VOCS, WAT, YDNT





* I am not responsible for any errors in company/stock earnings report dates.

Trade Ideas for Next Week

New Buy Ideas: POSH (previously bought but sold for a loss), SCLD


Add on to: PKOH, DGSE, PRGX, VSEC, PLPC. IIIN, PSMT (the 20 day MA has always been a good adding spot for this stock)


Short Ideas: MER, MS, CE


Sell: CMCO (if it breaks or closes below the 50 day Ma)

Defensive Stocks on the Move...

Todays negative market action unveiled the slow creeping march of utility and food stocks. These stock groups normally move up because asset managers begin to move money out of market leading stocks and into these more quieter, boring defensive plays. Has the market topped? Not neccessarily. The market may rebound from here or even move laterally for several weeks before fully topping. I'm not trying to be the bearer of bad news. I'm just calling it like I see it. If these type of stocks continue to pop up on my radar screen I'll no choice but to buy them up.

Defensive Sectors and Industry Groups: Tobacco, Supermarkets, Utilities, Food, Hospitals

Some of these defensive plays: BGS, ARDNA, RMCF

Stocks take a hit...

but several past favorites continue to do well and new leaders are starting to rise...

Old favs: SMTX, VSEC, PRGX, ESEA, AXYS, PTG


Newer Buys: UG, ISRG, PATK

Trade Journal

New Buys: ISRG (in at 189), TPX (nice short squeeze going on), OMCL, SAY, DGSE
Note: All of these new positions were kept small. There is no reason to go over board with the cash reserves or margin at this time.

Added to: PRGX

Focus on Stocks Showing Strength

Although I jotted down several stocks in the previous post, it is especially important to pay attention to stocks that are bucking the trend and breaking out. Several that one should look at and possibly buy include: ISRG, OMCL, TPX, and SAY. PRGX is another interesting one that looks promising.

Sitting Tight

On days such as these, I like to sit tight and execute as few orders as possible. It is important to wait and watch how the market reacts to earnings and other catalysts before performing any action. Today, the overall view is bearish and CAT and GOOG both reported sour earnings, driving down the Dow and the NASDAQ. The only trade that I executed was selling ANET. The stock dipped down today and I wanted to limit my losses so I got rid of that position.

While most of my positions took a hit, it's quite interesting to see that the ones that reported stellar earnings are the ones showing the most strength and hanging in there (such as PENX, VMI, etc).

Here are some stocks to keep an eye on and buy if they improve: SYNP, WCRX, METH, DGSE, HSVLY, SCLD, ARUN, JVA, DIT, PRGX, ESEA, UG, IIIN .....

Blue color denotes a previously mentioned and/or bought stock
Red color denotes a stock that was mentioned over a year ago

Give your stocks and positions a chance

Earlier this morning, I was a bit frustrated at the fact that many of my new buys and portfolio add ons began to falter from their buy-in prices. Still despite this bout of frustration, I decided to let them be. One thing that I learned over the years is that the last hour to half hour of the market is what really counts. This is the final hour of reckoning that reveals a stocks true strength and position in the overall market. With this thought in mind, I decided to give new stocks a chance and see how they perform in the final half hour before the close. Just as the market picked up more steam, my stocks did as well. In the end, all of them closed up from where I bought them except for SBEI. VMI turned out to be a top winner, as did EXPO (I may buy some tomorrow). Since this trading week is just about done, I have to begin looking for more earnings plays for next week.

Trade Journal

New Buys: VMI (in at low 81), ETEL, SYNO, SBEI (jumped back in at mid 6)

Possible Buys: EXPO - it reported decent earnings of around 40%. Let see how it performs near the end of the day...

Added to: PENX, SIF, SLT, ARTW

All of the new buys are exciting and interesting plays. For instance, there has been some chatter that SBEI may be a high tight flag candidate (which remains to be seen). VMI has just reported stellar earnings. VMI is not well known by the street so institutions are slow to snatch it up, hench the low volume. Still, with a 53% increase in earnings, you can bet that VMI will head higher from here.


Update: 12 PM
So far, my VMI and ETEL trades are working against me. I jumped into ETEL a little too quickly. It makes an even better buy now while it is slightly above the 10 day MA. VMI is experiencing some mixed action. I expected the stock to react a bit more positive. Where the earnings not as great as expected? Did they guide lower. I should look into all of this. In addition, my adding of SIF was poorly timed as well. Still the chart is a beauty (may shape into a tight flag-like pattern) and as long as the stock bounces off of the 10 day MA, it should be fine. SBEI is still doing fine. I have to keep a close eye on SBEI as it has a very volatile nature.

On the other hand, stocks such as SYNO are doing fine. I also added more shares of PENX, SLT and ARTW. I may also add more of KTEC if volume picks up. I still haven't made a decision on EXPO.

Update: 3:30 PM

Added To: PRGX (I've been holding onto this one for a while, watching it trade sideways. Finally, it seems that PRGX is building up some more momentum...

Sold for Profit: PSMT ( I sold a little bit of my position as the stock is not acting right), RRST (sold some of my position. I still like RRST as it is a top quality CANSLIM stock. The only problem is that it has some intermediate term weakness that it needs to get over)

New Stocks Ideas and Interesting Plays...

Hey Folks,

After scanning for stocks, I came up with some interesting candidates....

Good Earnings Candidates: DST, ATR, BLK, VMI, CBST, GKK

ATR

BLK

CBST

CHB- with almost 30% of the float short and a great earnings release, CHB makes the perfect short squeeze.

DST

GKK

VMI

Low Float/Hyper-Speculative/Thinly Traded Stocks -not for the faint of heart or inexperienced traders/investors

CVR

CPI

HCH

APO

Buying Opportunity

Hey folks,

It looks like todays correction turned out to be a minor one as eager traders bought on the dips and took advantage of the markets bounce off of the intra-day bottom. Pullbacks were plentiful and they provided a great opportunity to add more to position. There are several stocks that I am keeping an eye on for earnings. They include: SLGN, SMIT, VMI and AME.

Bullish Case Revisited: BZC

Hey guys,

Frequent readers of my blog may have noticed that I have become an avid fan of BZC. Although I'm not a fan of BZC's undulating chart pattern and price action, I do like the strong potential fundamentals. While other military and war plays (such as SPAR, NAVZ, FRPT, etc) have dominated Wall Street, BZC still hasn't been given the spotlight. I believe that this earnings season will be the perfect opportunity for Wall Street to become aquainted with this military underdog.

Keep an Eye on the Little Guys....

Hey folks,

As more and more buyers continue to snatch up speculative stocks, it pays to keep your attention focused on the micro/small-cap stocks with low floats. Keep an eye on SMIT, TRNS, PTG, SNR SMTX, MAIL and PED.

In Play: SLT

If one wants to initiate a position in this Indian mining behemoth, now is the time. SLT has pulled back a bit after last weeks incredible run up and looks poised to travel along its 10 day MA for now. I'm going to be adding some for my position.

Trade Journal

New Buys: MAIL (its been a while since I've last looked at MAIL. Today was a good day to grab some), STS

Added to: GBX, PTG (a little bit more), KTEC, PENX, ARTW, AMAC, ELON, METH, WSTG

Sold for Profits: RZ (took a bit off the table), SXCI

Sold for Loss:

In Play: ARTW, PENX, PTG, GBX

Keep an eye on ARTW, PENX, PTG and GBX as they are showing strength today...
The most speculative out of the bunch is PTG. PTG reminds me of KTEC and ARTW.

Several Things for Tomorrow...

Hey guys,

I've been a little busy so I haven't had a chance to comment on today's market and stock action. For one, I am happy with ARTW's performance. It is important to note that opportunities such as these are abundant during earnings season. To maximize your profit potential, look for stocks that have a low float (less than 10 mil, less than 6 even better), and with strong earnings results (earnings increases of 50% are good, but look for those that post 100% or better). For instance, ARTW posted a 250% earnings increase. This is a substantial amount and it can help fuel the momentum that will send this stock higher.

Some other stocks that did well today included: RZ, CEDC, VSR

Earning Pick for Tomorrow: QEPC, a low float stock mentioned in my earnings watch for this week is already locked and loaded for a stunning morning rush. The stock is already up big after hours which will make entry difficult for anyone who hasn't already bought in.

Trade Journal

New Buys: ARTW (so far up almost 21%), UG, SIF

Added to: BZC, ELON, GBX, KTEC, PENX, SVLF, PTG

Sold for Profit: SLT (sold half my position for a 17% profit)

Sold for Loss: LGTY (sold half my pos for a 5% loss)

In Play: Earnings Play- ARTW

Hey guys,

I picked up some ARTW at the open at around 14.73-14.74. ARTW has just reported earnings today and they were good enough to send the stock up to new highs.

Earnings Watch for July 16 - 20

Here are several stocks that one should keep an eye on for this week. They are reporting earnings and may report an earnings surprise. If you are feeling lucky, jump in early. If you are feeling sensible, then wait until earnings are announced and then jump in and ride the stock up. I was able to jump into PENX and RBN after earnings were announced and even so, I was still able to make a nice return.

The stocks: BNSO, FORR, ARTW, CPSS, CSX, CCK, FELE, MTOX, CHIP, CAVM, DST, NVEC, PKG, QEPC, SMIT, SLGN, TRNS, VMI, ALDN, AME, KNX, AVCI, BMI, BZC?, FNSR, IIIN, ISIG, INSW, LSTR, LCCI, MATW, NETC, UTMD, NAFC, PTEC, ACO, SCHL, ALY, ACU, DSWL, GAP, IUSA, KCI, LINE, SMXC, RIMG, ORB, OMCL, NICH

Some of these are low market cap and low float stocks. These tend to be really volatile, so watch your entry. Also note that I have not listed all the stocks that are reporting. I simply listed the stocks that I am planning on keeping an eye on. I am not very intrested in any large caps, blue chip or household name stocks that may be reporting. I like to go for the ones that very few people talk about or even know about. That's just my style. For a more comprehensive list of earnings releasing stocks (including blue chips and household names), check out Bloomberg, Market Watch or Yahoo Finance...

Setting up for Next Week...

To me, the weekends are all about getting my watchlists and potential stock picks ready for battle in the market. I review all my pre-existing positions, determine which ones I will add to, which ones I will cut loose and of course, which new stocks I am planning on buying.

New Buys: VSCN (thinking of jumping back in), STS (thinking of jumping back in), SPEC, SIGM (past pick), URI, GMCR (good bp), BIDU (past pick), TSL, TLK, CMED

Note: I probably won't be able to buy all of these (at least not until I sell some holdings), so I will try to pick the ones that I think have the most potential.

Add to: HAYN, VCO, PHC, NEOG, PED, CMCO, PMRY, PENX, KTEC, LGTY, BZC

Thinking of Selling: CU (the rest of the pos), SXCI, RRST, VCC, LPHI (the rest of the pos)

Keep Adding Onto the Winners...

I don't have any new, earth shattering longs for today (at least so far). At the moment, I have enough high quality and speculative stocks in my portfolio that I want to trim down the buying of new stocks and concentrate on adding to the top performing ones and getting rid of the laggards. Of course, if I see a stock that really does deserve to be in the 'folio, I'll probably still snatch it up...


Add to: PENX, RBN, RRST, KTEC (good add-on point), SVLF, SXCI, BOOT (good buy point and add on point)

Trade Journal

In order to take advantage of the current market strength, I decided to buy several stocks on my radar screen.

New Buys: VSCN (rebought after selling for small loss), TRT (rebought), WSTG, HOKU, ELON, PATK, TRFX, METH

Added to: ANET, GBX, PHC, VII, SLT

Sold-Profit: CVU (+3%), VSCN sold intra-day (+9.2%)

Sold-Loss: CFI (-1.5%)

In Play: PENX part 2

I told you guys yesterday that the dip in PENX was a buying opportunity. Today is a good time to buy PENX as well as institutions snatch the stock up at its pivot point....

In Play: JCTCF

Check out JCTCF. I mentioned this one a few sessions ago as an earnings play. I also picked some up a few days ago as well. Today, JCTCF announced record earnings which has helped the stock gain momentum as well as some much needed investor attention. If you choose to play it, be careful and plan your entry with limits, as the bid/ask is being thrown all over the place due to the million share float.

After the Bell: Earnings Play - JCTCF

Hey guys,

Check out JCTCF. I briefly highlighted it as an earnings play a few trading sessions back. Evidently, the stock is trading over 25% of todays trading price in afterhours, due to its record earnings. This stock has an extremly low float and may be bid even higher.

In Play: PENX

Hey guys,

If you've been a little slow and haven't had a chance to initiate a position in PENX, here is your chance. The stock has been lowered for your convenience so that you and the late institutional investors can grab some. Enjoy.

In Play: Earnings Play - CCF & ALCO

Hey guys,

These are the only two stocks (ALCO, CCF) that I found that may make decent earnings plays for today. Both posted positive earnings, but nothing really earth shattering. Don't rush them. Wait for the open, and watch for the demand. Last thing you want to do is to grab them and watch them sell off.

Update: Soon after the market open it became apparant that CCF would be the ideal play. I grabbed a small position and so far I am up 5%.

Emerging Market Trends: Telecom-Fiber Optics

One new emerging trend seems to be stemming from Fiber-Optic company stocks. As telecom companies like Verizon (VZ) begin ditching copper for fiber-optics, we can expect the stocks of these fiber-optic manufacturers to advance in price. Some of the stocks to watch for include: FTGX (previously mentioned by one of the readers), FNSR, EXFO, INFN, and OPXT

Stocks Take a Hit...

Stocks took a hit today as overall bearishness engulfed the market. Earnings jitters and uncertainties were abound as some Wall Streets darlings and hopefuls posted lower than expected second quarter earnings results. An earnings miss from Alcoa (AA) set the stage for a bearish mood as other negative catalysts began to materialize such as earnings warnings from SHLD, continuing subprime troubles, and higher oil prices. All of these variables mixed and meshed together created a dark cloud of worry and nervousness that investors could not shake off. It is still too early to determine the overall effect that this will have on the markets future direction. All we can do is hang tight and see what happens. A little profit taking wouldn't hurt either...

There were very few stocks that closed in positive territory. There was some strength in AXYS, VSEC, SVLF, PHC, RZ, CEDC and a few others. I got rid of my remaining position in UNCA for a small loss. I've had this one for a while now and have been slowly unloading my position in the 17 area so I still ended up with a decent overall profit. Oh well, one less stock to worry about. Good riddance to bad rubbish...

Time to cover MWP short. MWP, a stock that I had shorted back in March is ready to be bought in order to cover my short position. The stock is begining to show some strength and bottoming out characteristics, so its time to get rid of it.

In Play: AXYS, SVLF, FLI

Check out AXYS (breaking out), SVLF (continuing its climb) and FLI

In Play: Earnings Play - GBX

Out of all of the companies posting earnings, GBX seems like the only one that may make an attractive play.

Trade Journal

Sells- Profits: STS (+0.15%), IRBT (+21.7%)

Sell- Losses: GEOY (-2.50%), SBEI (-5%)

New Buys: CKNN, JCTCF, APOL, LGTY

Add-Ons: DDUP, SVLF

What's Hot and What's Not

Hot Stocks: SMTX, VSEC, PED, AXYS, PMRY, SVLF, PENX, COMV, XWG, RBN, SPAN, ADAM, MWIV, AWH, PKOH, KEQU, MFRI, DDUP, CRE, CFI, CRN, QLTY, KTEC, SLT, AMAC, ACP



Cold Stocks: VCC, BZC, SXCI, PSMT, RRST, RZ, YDNT, PHC, TRNS, SEA, ESEA, IRIS, LPHI, FREE, MLNX, BOOT, TMNG, CPY

Stocks for the Upcoming Week of July 8-14

Hey guys

First and foremost it is important that I stress the importance of adding to your pre-exisiting winners and cutting loose any of your current laggards and losers before initiating any new positions. By continuosly feeding (adding more shares) to strong stocks in your portfolio, you are maximizing your potential profit. The new stocks that you may want to buy are risky, may fail and still will have to prove themselves. It is also important to hold onto and add to stocks that have made strong short term moves (i.e. like 20-25% gain in a short time period such as a month or less), such as PENX.

Also, keep an eye on some of the stocks that will be reporting earnings this week. Surprise earnings announcements may open the gate for some new interesting stocks for one to add to their arsenal.





The Momentum Plays...



RZ





The RS on RZ has perked up quite a bit. This one seems to be high-powered...

































XWG

This one seems to be an Apple iPhone momentum play.

Although LOCM is also a momentum play, I chose to ignore this one as I feel as if the stock has already surpassed a proper entry point.

I would only keep an eye on it as it has the potential to form a high, tight flag chart pattern.

Bottom Fishing: PHC, YDNT

Hey guys,

Here are two interesting stocks that seem to be bottoming out. I was incorrect in my first recommendation of PHC. Unfortunatly from when I first called it, it has gone downhill. Still, despite telling myself that I should've sold, I decided to hold on and add to it. Although averaging down is very risky I held onto the belief that PHC is still incredibly cheap and a stock that has tons of potential. Today, with PHC experiencing volume of over 300,000, I am begining to feel that I was correct in picking PHC but at fault at picking it up at the wrong time. Finally, institutions are taking notice of this tiny gem. If we can close at the HOD, we will be in great shape.

PHC

YDNT is a stock that I've had on my watchlist for a while now. I've been looking for a real bottom on this one for a while now. I feel as if the stock is ready to finish bottoming out and start a real uptrend in the upcoming weeks and months.

YDNT

Trade Journal

Sells-Profits: CSCT +17% gain

Sells-Losses

Add-Ons: PHC (PHC finally decides to wake its lazy a$$ up), CRN, PSMT, SVLF

New Buys: DDUP, CRE, CFI

Holds: MFRI, SXCI

Pullback: PENX (watch for a pullback in PENX. I will add even more to PENX when it pulls back as I believe that this stock will continue its uptrend after it offers late comers a decent entry point).

In Play: Before the Bell - PSMT

Hey guys,

Today PSMT announced that its same-store sales have gone up 23.2%. I don't know about you, but I don't know that many retailers with such strong same-store sales (tongue twister). Anyway, PSMT should pop up from the news, therefore it makes a nice quick trade for today. Also, this is a good spot to add to current position or if you want to initiate a position in PSMT.

IPO Hot Shots

When it comes to scathing-hot performance in the market, IPO's, recent issues and New American companies (IBD) are the way to go. New companies (less than a decade old) provide new and exciting technology as well as strong growth and sales. Some of the current bull markets most successful stocks are new issues such as a majority of the solar plays (JASO, LDK, YGE, FSLR, TSL, etc), RVBD, EDU, FCSX and so on. So which recent young guns are looking promising? Here are just a few of the exciting new comers...

COMV - Previously mentioned as a top pick, COMV continues to impress. Now is not the time to take profits as COMV still has more room to run. If you're late to the party, wait for a low volume pullback near the key moving averages.

COMV - 3 month chart

RRST- Another young stock that I previously mentioned.

RRST - 3 month chart

DDUP - A recent IPO that is begining to burn up the charts. A good buy for tommorow as well.

DDUP

EFUT, part 2

Hey guys,

EFUT, a momo play that I have recently mentioned is gearing up for another monsterous run. The RS has already begun to perk up as the stock bounced off of its 50 day MA on heavy volume. The ideal time to initiate a position is after/pre-hours or tommorow morning. If you want, watch for a dip and then initiate a position.


EFUT - 3 month chart

Trade Journal

Sells-Profits : AERO (sold some of my position for a 22% gain. I will hold onto the remaining position and add more if the chart improves)



Sells-Losses:



Add-Ons: RBN, PENX, KTEC, MLNX (been holding on this one for a while now..finally it is improving!), CSCT, SVLF, AMAC, BOOT, PHC, PMRY



New Buys: SLT (strong fundamentals despite being a recent IPO)



Holds: VCC, BZC

Happy Fourth of July (Independence Day)

Hey folks,

I just wanted to wish everyone a happy and safe 4th of July to you and yours. This is definitly one of my favorite holidays. Who can resist delicious BBQ, cold beer and fireworks??

Earnings Watch (July 3 - 13, 2007)

Here are several stocks that one should keep an eye on for Earnings. The Earnings Watch is for the rest of the week and next week as well.

GBX, HELE, INNO, JCTCF, MEAD, CCF, ESIO, FAST, IFIN, FLOW

These are not recommendations to buy. Instead, this is just a simple watchlist of stocks that one should keep an eye on for earnings surprises which can yield powerful trades (such as those by RBN and PENX).

In Play: AMAC

AMAC is back at it again. I added more to my position today as the stock is showing some strength. Hopefully it continues it beautiful run on Thursday and Friday. I have been bullish on AMAC since Feb. of this year.

Pre-Holiday Profit Taking

Pre-holiday profit taking is begining to have a negative effect on some of the stocks out there (SXCI), while others such as RRST, continue to experience higher demand. As more and more traders and institutional investors abandon their trading desks in favor of reclining beach chairs, we can expect volume to continue to decrease all across the board. I on the other hand will not be on vacation. Instead, I'll be looking for opportunities to catch new stocks before they start moving and snatching up others that have pulled back due to profit taking. Besides, I'd rather take my vacation in the winter....

What's Hot and What's Not (July 2. 2007)

Hey guys,

So many stocks to cover, so little time. Seriously, it is getting a little harder to keep track of the 'folios in order to figure which stocks I should add to, which ones to cut and which new ones to buy. Every time the market pulls a nice move like it did today, I have hundreds of more charts to sort through. Thats the crappy part. The good part is that my stocks appreciate in value. So...here are some of the recent winners and losers...


What's Hot: SXCI, RRST, PENX, RBN, SVLF, PMRY, PSMT, SMTX, PED, CSCT, MWIV, TRNS, PKOH, KEQU, AWH, VCC, SEA, ESEA


What's Not: QLTY, FREE, YDNT, PHC (Watch for support at the 200 day), GEOY, MTRX

Too Early to Tell: SNR, PTG, ADAM

Doing Just Fine: MFRI, IRIS, AERO, SBEI, STS

These are just a few of the positions of course....

New Buy Ideas: VSEC (time to buy again for the next move up...I first recommended this pre-split around 53), SPAN (time to buy again).

Add to: LPHI

Time to Sell: HOOK

In Play: SVLF, PENX, PSMT, SMTX, PED

Check out SVLF, PENX, PSMT, SMTX and PED for nice intra-day setups.

In Play: Earnings Play - PSMT

Hey guys,

If you've been following my blog then you that I've like PSMT for quite some time now. Today gave me a reason to like it even more. Today, PSMT announced its earnings and they were quite impressive. What is even more impressive is the fact that PSMT still has tremendous growth in its Latin American market. In addition, PSMT also has a low float which can help it soar even higher.

Picks for the Upcoming Week..

Although we will be heading into a shorter trading week (due to Independence Day), there are still plenty of interesting stocks to take a look at and potentially trade.

Check out:

ADAM, PMRY, RRST, QLTY (bottomed), CSCT, FREE, MWIV and SVLF.

ADAM

CSCT

Looks like it has bottomed for now.

FREE

MWIV

PMRY

QLTY

RRST

SVLF