The merger of Sirius (SIRI) and XM (XMSR) could be good for shareholders in both companies by consolidating strong programming and allowing the firms to cut costs.

Nortel (NT) is doing much better. Since its new CEO joined the share price is up 45%. Concentration on wireless CDMA has helped drive new growth.

Barron’s writes that Univeral Electronics is the most dynamic name in remote controls. As the digital home gets more and more devices, the remotes from Universal (UEIC) become more useful to the consumer. The stock could rise another 50% over the next 12 to 18 months.

German conglomerate Siemens (SI) continues to show improvement in profits and revenue. The stock could rise another 10% this year. The company may still be undervalued based on financial comparisons with companies like 3M (MMM) and General Electric (GE). The only obstacle may be a scandal at the company which could catch some senior management in its net.

McDonald’s (MCD) continues to do remarkably well, and is hurting smaller competitors like Applebee’s (APPB).

Reuters (RTSY) may want to diversify to save itself from private equity firms. Some of the companies that might strenthen its product offerings are Fast Set (FDS) and Investment Technology Group (ITG).

As the population ages the companies the benefit from consumer spending are changing. Some companies should do better as more people are over 50. These include Allergan Pharma (AGN), AMN Health (ANS), Estee Lauder (EL), Hartford Financial (HIG), Pulte Homes (PHM), Starwood Hotels (HOT), Sterlcycle (SRCL), United Health (UNH), Walgreen (WAG) and Whole Foods Market (WFMI).

Brookfield Asset Management (BAM) tends to buy stocks and hold them long term. The company has been doing so well that its stock could move from $55 to $70.

Fifth Third Bank (FITB) has underperformed other banks in its sector, but its revenue growth drivers are strong and its should be a better value that other regional banks.

Qualcomm’s (QCOM) problems with its largest customer Nokia (NOK) are still an issue for earnings. If the issue is not resolved, the stock may go lower.

The drug pipeline at GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) is strong and that could help the stock to move up again.

Douglas A. McIntyre

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