Briefing.com: Hourly In Play (R) – 13:00 ET

Apr 01, 2010 (Briefing.com via COMTEX) -- Hourly In Play (R)

Updated: 01-Apr-10 13:00 ET

12:58

Mercedes-Benz reports March sales up 26% YoY with 20,023 units sold vs the 15,602 sold in the same period last year

12:58

FFHS First Franklin Corp. announces Jack Kuntz replaces Tom Siemers as the Chairman, President and CEO of First Franklin Corporation and Chairman of Franklin Savings and Loan Company (8.78 -0.22)

12:50

UNG Midday global & sector ETF movers... Nat Gas strong & VIX weak -Technical-

The Actively Traded Leading Global & Sector ETF Plays:

nat gas- UNG +6.75%, gold miners- GDX +4.25%, iShares S Korea- EWY +3.0%, China 25- FXI +2.75%, SPDRS oil & gas exploration/pros/services- XOP +2.50%, XES +2.25%, nat gas ISE components- FCG +2.50%, steel- SLX +2.50%, oil HLDRS- OIH +2.50%, BRIC countries- BKF +2.50%, emerging mkts- EEM +2.50%, coal- kOL +2.50%, Russia- RSX +2.25%, global shippers- SEA +2.25%, SPDRS metals & mining- XME +2.25%, silver- SLV +2.25%

The Actively Traded Lagging Global & Sector ETF Plays:

VIX vol index- VXX -1.50%, junk bonds- JNK -0.75%, US bonds- TLT -0.75%, AGG -0.25%, BND -0.50%, US Dollar index- UUP -0.50%, TIPS- TIP -0.50%, Yen currency shares- FXY -0.25%

12:41

Subaru reports March sales up 32% YoY with 27,385 units sold vs the 16,249 sold in the same period last year

12:38

WMT Wal-Mart hovering slightly above session low, last week's low and its 20-day exp at 55.19/55.13 (55.23 -0.37) -Technical-

12:33

Kia Motors America reports March sales increased 23.5% y/y tp 30,522 units sold

12:31

QQQQ Lagging Nasdaq Comp +7.4 retests its pull back low at 2405 -Update- -Technical-

12:31

Chrysler reported total U.S. sales for March of 92,623 units, a decrease of 8 percent compared with March 2009 vs consensus of increase of 3.4%

Co reported total U.S. sales for March of 92,623 units, a decrease of 8 percent compared with March 2009 (101,001 units) and an increase of 10 percent compared with last month (84,449 units). Chrysler Group finished the month with a 58-day supply (207,510 units) of inventory, a 41 percent decline compared with March 2009. Overall industry figures for March are projected to come in at an estimated 12.0 million SAAR.

12:30

ISLE Casino/Gaming issues hovering near technical levels of note -Technical-

The sector is outperforming the market averages today (DJUSCA +1.3%, BJK +1.1%) with several names in this area hovering near technical levels of interest: ISLE +3.6%, WYNN +2.2%, PNK +2.2%, PENN +0.8%, BYD +0.4% are probing their March peaks; BYI +0.5% is vacillating near the high for the week; SHFL +1.9% is near its 50-day ema; IGT +1% has tested its 200-day sma.

12:25

TIF Tiffany & Co confirms court decision that allows eBay "to continue to sell counterfeit TIFFANY products"; co will consider an appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court (48.28 +0.79)

Co "criticized the decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit that allows eBay (EBAY) to continue to sell counterfeit TIFFANY products on its website. While the decision leaves room to establish Tiffany's claims for false advertising, it leaves in place a prior ruling which allows eBay to profit from counterfeit sales. This decision will not help innocent consumers who are being victimized by illegal e-commerce practices.... eBay knew that counterfeit merchandise was being sold on its site - and eBay took no effective steps to stop it. eBay deliberately misled consumers for profit, and unfortunately, the court has justified its actions. The consumer is the real loser today." Tiffany's attorneys are performing a full review of the decision and will consider an appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court.

12:02

Porsche reports U.S. sales for March up 9% YoY to 1,905 from 1,749

12:01

LPNT Lifepoint Hospitals to acquire Clark Regional Medical center (37.25 +0.42) -Update-

Co announces it had entered into an agreement with the Board of Directors of Clark Regional Medical Center whereby 100-bed Clark Regional Medical Center, located in Winchester, Kentucky, would become part of LifePoint Hospitals. The hospital is fully accredited by the Healthcare Facilities Accreditation Program. The transaction is expected to close April 30, 2010, subject to customary closing conditions. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed. Upon closing of the transaction, LifePoint will acquire ownership of CRMC operations and equipment and commit to invest approx $60 mln to build and equip a new, 132,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art hospital to replace the current hospital facility. The new hospital is expected to open in approximately 18 to 24 months after construction begins.

12:01

XLE Energy/Commodity continue to outperform amid Dollar Index weakness, displays intraday relative strength in recent trade -Technical-

The Dollar Index has dropped to its lowest level in seven sessions (low 80.69, the 62% retrace of March rally is at 80.55) allowing Energy/Commodity to pace the way (GDX +3.8%, OIH +2.4%, SLX +2.5%, KOL +2.5%, SLV +2.4%, USO +2.2%, XLE +1.7%, XLB +1.7%, GLD +1.2%, Commodity Index +2%).

11:55

HSP Hospira reached a legal settlement with Sanofi-Aventis (SNY) to resolve patent litigation, will not affect co's financial guidance for 2010 (56.73 +0.08)

Co announced it has reached a legal settlement with Sanofi-Aventis (SNY) to resolve patent litigation concerning Hospira's U.S. sales of its oxaliplatin injection, a generic version of Sanofi-Aventis' oncolytic agent, Eloxatin. Under the settlement terms, Hospira will stop selling oxaliplatin injection in the United States by June 30, 2010, and can relaunch the product in the United States on Aug. 9, 2012. The settlement will not affect Hospira's financial guidance for 2010.

11:54

European Markets Closing Prices: FTSE: 5744.9 +65.3 +1.2%, DAX: 6235.6 +82.0 +1.3%, CAC: 4034.2 +60.2 +1.5%, Spain's IBEX: +1.8%, Portugal's PSI: +1.0%

11:54

UNG May natural gas extends to fresh session highs of $4.157, currently at $4.134, up 7% (7.28 +0.37) -Update-

11:52

SPY Trading volume analysis through two hours-- NYSE slightly weaker, but NASDAQ much heavier to open the new month -Technical-

NYSE & NASDAQ total exchange trading volume are diverging through the 1st two hours with NYSE pacing behind yesterday's tally, while NASDAQ sees some very strong totals thus far. With the new month underway, activity is focused around the technology space on the heels of RIMM qtrly. earnings announced last evening. All of the major averages are posting gains anywhere from +0.50%~1.0% & stronger volume on NASDAQ could signal some early month accumulation by mutual funds & institutions.

As of 11:30a.m. ET, nearly 308M shares have changed hands on NYSE vs. 318.5M yesterday, an decrease of -3.5%, while over on NASDAQ, 893M shares have turned over vs. 706M yesterday, an increase of nearly +26.5%.

NYSE 60 min volume chart

NASDAQ 60 min volume chart

11:49

SURG Synergetics announces closing of strategic agreement with Stryker Corporation; will receive between $2.5 mln and $3.0 mln in proceeds from the transactions (1.68 +0.02)

Co announced the closing of a strategic agreement with Stryker Corporation. The agreement includes the sale of Synergetics' accounts receivable, open sales orders, inventory and certain intellectual property related to the Omni(R) product line. In addition, the agreement provides for Synergetics to supply disposable ultrasonic instrument tips and certain other consumable products used in conjunction with the Sonopet/Omni(R) ultrasonic aspirator console and handpieces; and pursue certain development projects for new products associated with Stryker's intraoperative ultrasound products. Synergetics will receive between $2.5 million and $3.0 million in proceeds from the transactions once all inventory transfers are completed.

11:46

SCANX Today's biggest point gainers/losers -Technical-

Biggest point gainers: WLL (83.85 +3.01), KYO (100.26 +3.04), AGQ (60.84 +3.07), AZZ (36.95 +3.10), HDB (142.55 +3.16), BIDU (600.20 +3.20), FLS (113.59 +3.32), UPRO (176.69 +3.43), CME (319.55 +3.44), XPP (73.44 +3.57), EET (92.75 +3.81), IOC (68.72 +3.92), UMDD (117.84 +4.00), MWJ (120.20 +4.03), RDEA (22.38 +4.12), SHN (14.10 +4.20), SNS (385.65 +4.38), Y (295.39 +4.59), CEO (169.80 +4.72), EDC (139.31 +7.09), RTP (244.48 +7.75), LIHR (36.10 +7.94)

Biggest point losers: RIMM (70.14 -3.83), BLK (207.85 -9.91)

11:39

APCVZ Frensius Kabi enters into licensing and settlement agreements with sanofi-aventis (0.17 +0.02)

Co announced today that APP and other Fresenius Kabi companies have entered into license and settlement agreements with sanofi-aventis covering patents that apply to Eloxatin(R) (oxaliplatin injection and oxaliplatin for injection). The agreements with sanofi-aventis (SNY) resolve a patent infringement lawsuit, which was pending in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey. In 2007, APP and Fresenius Kabi filed ANDAs seeking approval to market generic oxaliplatin products. In response to these filings, sanofi-aventis filed lawsuits against APP and Fresenius Kabi alleging that the proposed products would infringe certain patents of sanofi-aventis expiring 2017. Under the terms of the agreements, APP and Fresenius Kabi are granted a license to market their generic versions of oxaliplatin, 50 mg/vial, 100 mg/vial and 5mg/mL, 10 mL and 20 mL vials, beginning no later than August 9, 2012.

11:36

SPY Stock indices edge off short term retracement supports -Update- -Technical-

The Dow +72 and S&P +9.3 have held near the 38% retracement of the rally off yesterday's late low (10909 and 1176 respectively) while the lagging Nasdaq Comp +11.9 retreated back to the 62% level (2406) before stabilizing.

11:21

TEVA Teva Pharm receives favorable court decision regarding Seasonique (63.52 +0.44) -Update-

Co announced that the U.S. District Court for the District of Nevada has granted Teva's Motion for Summary Judgment with respect to the validity of U.S. Patent No. 7,320,969. In March 2008, Duramed, now Teva Women's Health, brought suit in the District of Nevada against Watson alleging infringement of Teva's patent as a result of Watson's filing of an Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) for Seasonique. The ANDA sought approval to market a generic version of Seasonique in the U.S. before the patent expires on January 30, 2024. Teva's motion sought judgment on the remaining liability issue in the case, as Watson had previously conceded infringement of Teva's patent. Since the Court granted Teva's motion in its entirety, trial is unnecessary. Separate litigation is pending in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey with respect to Mylan/Famy Care's and Lupin's ANDAs for Seasonique. Teva is currently analyzing the impact of this decision on those cases.

11:18

HHH Internet HOLDRs lagging, slips into the red -Technical-

After a firmer start the HHH has fallen into negative territory leaving it down for the second day in a row. Components weighing include: YHOO-1.5%, AMZN -0.7%, EBAY -0.4%, RNWK -0.4%, TWC -0.2%.

11:13

EFOI Energy Focus awarded $2.1 mln in lighting retrofit contracts (1.22 +0.08)

11:08

Rumor Round Up

As we close out the week, rumor activity has come to a halt. It was rumored that Pfizer (PFE 11.16 +0.01) could be interested in Mylan (MYL 22.98 +0.27). We note MYL Apr 24 calls are seeing interest following the rumor with 13.2K contracts trading vs open int of 1940. As mentioned before, while many rumors circulate during the day, and the validity of the source of these rumors can be questionable, the speculation may increase volatility in the near term.

10:56

Hyundai Motor America reports March sales increased 15.4% y/y to 47002 vehicles

10:55

SPY Stock indices set minor new pullback lows -- S&P +8.9, Dow +71, Nasdaq +14 -Update- -Technical-

Broad based strength off the open was extended over the first half hour but the indices have spent the last hour drifting sideways to slightly lower after the Nasdaq Comp, Russell 2000 and S&P 400 Mid-Cap failed to confirm the fractional new 52-wk highs (and in front of the jobs data)in the Dow, Nasdaq 100 and S&P.

10:47

TECHX Airline Index -XAL- flirting with 2010 and 2008 highs -Update- -Technical-

The sector index, like the overall market, has been confined of late but it is approaching the upper and of its three week narrowing trading range at 38.64. Note that this also approximates the 2008 high from 38.77 (Click for chart). Potential targets if able to sustain a breakout are at 39.23 and 39.45/39.55 -- RYAAY +9%, GOL +4.5%, DAL +1.7%, CAL +1.4%, UAUA +0.8%, LUV +0.7%, LCC +1.6%, AAI +1.1%, XJT +2.9%, JBLU +3.9%, SKYW +0.8%, CPA +1.1%.

10:44

FXE Euro Currency Trust breaks to fresh opening highs as it comes into yesterday's high of 135.15 (135.10 +0.37) -Technical-

Could see the commodity complex -- OIH, XLE, USO, GLD, GDX, XME -- continue to assert its opening relative strength if this euro strength holds.

10:40

UNG 1st hour global & sector ETF movers... Nat Gas strong & Fixed Income weak -Technical-

The Actively Traded Leading Global & Sector ETF Plays:

nat gas- UNG +5.0%, gold miners- GDX +3.25%, iShares S Korea- EWY +3.0%, silver- SLV +2.50%, China 25- FXI +2.50%, steel- SLX +2.25%, emerging mkts- EEM +2.0%, SPDRS oil & gas exploration/services/prod- XOP +2.25%, XES +1.75%, coal- KOL +2.0%, iShares Brazil- EWZ +2.0%, oil HLDRS- OIH +2.0%, global shippers- SEA +2.0%, Russia- RSX +2.0%, crude/WTI oil- USO +2.0%, OIL +2.0%

The Actively Traded lagging Global % Sector ETF Plays:

US bonds- TLT -0.75%, AGG -0.25%, BND -0.25%, junk bonds- JNK -0.75%, TIPS- TIP -0.50%, Yen currency shares- FXY -0.50%,

10:37

AEP American Electric will reaffirm FY10 EPS of $2.80-3.20 vs $3.06 Thomson Reuters consensus (34.51 +0.33)

10:31

UNG May natural gas spiked to new session highs of $4.014 following inventory data, now at $4.008 (7.23 +0.32)

10:26

NTAP 1st hour NASDAQ 100 (NDX) strength & weakness -Technical-

NDX 100 Best % Performers:

NTAP +4.75%, FWLT +3.75%, JOYG +3.50%, MICC +3.25%, VMED +2.75%, SNDK +2.75%, BRCM +2.75%, KLAC +2.50%, WYNN +2.25%, NIHD +2.25%, MRVL +2.0%

NDX 100 Worst % Performers:

RIMM -4.50%, VOD -1.0%, YHOO -0.75%, AMZN -0.75%, ADSK -0.75%, URBN -0.75%, PDCO -0.50%, EXPE -0.50%, MSFT -0.25%, XRAY -0.25%

NASDAQ TRIN @ +0.55

NASDAQ A/D @ +920

10:23

QQQQ Nasdaq Comp slips back near intraday support at yesterday's high of 2315 -Technical-

The 38% retracement of the move off yesterday's late low to the early high is slightly below at 2312.

10:23

AA 1st hour Dow 30 (INDU) strength & weakness -Technical-

INDU 30 Best % Performers:

AA +2.75%, CAT +2.0%, DD +1.50%, MCD +1.50%, DIS +1.25%, MRK +1.25%, CVX +1.25%

INDU 30 Worst % Performers:

MSFT -0.10%

NYSE TRIN @ +0.35

NYSE A/D @ +1660

10:21

SMH Semiconductors Hldrs has displayed intraday relative strength but still below its 52-wk highs (28.44 +0.57) -Technical-

The SMH rallied more than 17% off its Feb low but has lagged behind in its pursuit of penetrating its Jan/52-wk high. Its session high is at 28.48 with the 52-wk close high and March intraday peak at 28.61/28.63. Its Jan/52-wk intraday high comes into play at 28.72 -- ADI +1.5%, ALTR +2.1%, AMAT +1.5%, AMD +1.8%, BRCM +3.1%, INTC +1.2%, KLAC +2.9%, LLTC +2%, LSI +1.8%, MU +4.3%, MXIM +2%, NSM +1.3%, NVLS +2.7%, SNDK +2.4%, TER +2.5%, TXN +1.6%, XLNX +1.7%.

10:18

BRCM Broadcom climbs straight up off the opening towards its March highs along 34.30 (34.22 +1.02) -Technical-

10:15

JVA Coffee Holding reports disclosure of proposed acquisition of organic products trading company (4.63 +0.06)

Co announced in certain trade publications that the co, Coffee Holding Acquisition, a soon-to-be organized subsidiary of the it, and Organic Products Trading, a Washington corporation, have reached an agreement in principal for Buyer to purchase substantially all of the assets, including inventory, trademarks and customer and supply-chain relationships of Seller. Seller generates annual revenues of approximately $10.0 million. Under the terms of the proposed transaction, pursuant to an asset purchase agreement that would cover the proposed transaction, Buyer will purchase the Assets for a purchase price consisting of: a) $450,000 in cash at closing, b) an additional $50,000 in cash if Buyer generates a pre-tax net profit of $300,000 or more within a certain period, which payment will be made at a to-be-determined date, c) 50,000 shares of Company common stock at closing, d) up to an additional 10,000 shares of Company common stock if Buyer generates a pre-tax net profit of $300,000 or more within certain periods, which payments will be made at to-be-determined dates, and e) at closing, a cash amount based on the cost of inventory transferred to Buyer.

10:09

MOS Mosaic showing relative weakness as it sinks to fresh lows of the week below 59.50 -Update- -Technical-

Next areas of support lie near 58.50, followed by last week's low of 57.33

10:01

SPY Stock indices edge to new session highs on better ISM data -- Dow +93, S&P +11.5, Nasdaq +24 -Update- -Technical-

10:01

TAC Transalta fully retires all the units of its Wabamun power plant (22.33 +0.28)

Co announced that after 54 years, it has fully retired all the units of its Wabamun power plant. In 2002, after extensive evaluation and consultation, TransAlta announced the phased shut-down of the four-unit power station. On March 31, 2010, the last operating unit ended commercial operation. Over the next several years TransAlta will complete the Wabamun remediation and reclamation work as approved by the Government of Alberta.

10:00

CPEX CPEX Pharmaceuticals' Partner announces development and commercialization agreement with Allergan for Nocturia product candidate (16.30 +0.39)

Co announced that its partner, Serenity Pharmaceuticals, has entered into a global agreement with Allergan, Inc. (AGN) for the development and commercialization of Ser-120, a product candidate currently in Phase III clinical trials for the treatment of nocturia that utilizes CPEX's patented intranasal drug delivery technology. In connection with its agreement with Serenity, Allergan is assuming the exclusive license agreement between CPEX and Serenity that the companies entered into in February 2008. Under the February 2008 agreement, CPEX granted Serenity an exclusive and sub-licensable license to use CPEX's CPE-215 permeation technology for the development of Ser-120. In return, CPEX is entitled to sales milestones and low single digit royalties on worldwide net sales following commercialization of Ser-120. Financial details related to this agreement have not been disclosed.

10:00

RIMM Research In Motion pushes to fresh gap down highs as it lifts up into the 71.00 area (70.80 -3.13) -Update- -Technical-

09:54

XLK Technology Select Sector SPDR notches new session high of 23.28, eyeing its Jan and March/52-wk highs (23.28 +0.18) -Technical-

The XLK has yet to establish a new 52-wk high along with the Nasdaq 100/S&P 500 as it has paused near its Jan peak at 23.30. Its 52-wk high intraday high from last week is just above at 23.38. Components include: T +0.9%, CSCO +0.8%, GOOG +0.8%, HPQ +0.9%, IBM +0.7%, AAPL +1.1%, INTC +1.2%, MSFT +0.5%, QCOM +1%, S +3.2%, VZ +0.9%, ORCL +0.8%.

09:51

AUY Yamana Gold reaffirms annual 2010 production guidance (10.07 +0.22)

Co has previously noted that production would sequentially increase, and cash costs would sequentially decrease, q/q throughout the year. In Q1 of 2010, gold equivalent production is expected to be ~240,000 GEO and cash costs are expected to be below $200 per GEO on a by-product basis. This is consistent with internal forecasts. Minera Florida produced less than anticipated due to the earthquake which occurred on February 27 and is now fully operational. Yamana has also guided that copper production is expected to be 150-160 million pounds in 2010 and, similar to the case for gold production, Yamana expects production to increase q/q throughout the year. Copper production in the first quarter of 2010 is expected to be 29 to 30 million pounds. Yamana provides guidance on certain of its projected operating parameters including production levels and cash costs. The Company is not in the position to endorse consensus estimates with the respect to earnings and cash flow per share as it has no way to accurately monitor the underlying assumptions and projections going into these calculations.

09:50

YUM YUM! Brands showing a strong breakout from its 2-week consolidation along the 38-area (39.11 +0.79) -Technical-

09:48

ECONX Reminder: ISM Index and Construction Spending data due out in about 12 min at 10:00ET

09:48

TECHX Opening Point Gainers/Losers -Technical-

Point Gainers: RTP (+9.78), LIHR (+8.21), RDEA (+5.14), AAPL (+3.43), MICC (+3.16), IOC (+2.90), AYI (+2.79), CTRP (+2.58), GMCR (+2.31), RYAAY (+2.44), GPN (+2.33), LFT (+2.04)

Point Losers: BLK (-6.53), RIMM (-3.58), BCR (-1.91), MOS (-1.62), BLUD (-1.39), SHLM (-1.34), NRP (-1.06), GIVN (-1.03), TSTC (-1.02), GRRF (-0.86)

09:43

CTRP Ctrip.com stages a strong breakout off the opening above its March high of 41.28 (41.76 +2.56) -Technical-

09:42

DIA Dow is hovering in a range not far from its opening session high of 10941 with the 52-wk high/range top from last week at 10955 -Technical-

09:36

LLY Eli Lilly reports ALIMTA recommended by Special Health Authority in United Kingdom as maintenance therapy for advanced, nonsquamous non-small cell lung cancer (36.47 +0.25) -Update-

Co announced today that its chemotherapy ALIMTA? (pemetrexed for injection) received a positive "Final Appraisal Determination" from the United Kingdom's National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE). Specifically, NICE's Final Appraisal Determination recommends ALIMTA as an option for the maintenance treatment of people with locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer with other than predominantly squamous cell (nonsquamous) histology if disease has not progressed immediately following platinum-based chemotherapy first-line chemotherapy. This recommendation is the second step in a three-step approval process; NICE expects to issue its final guidance this summer.

09:36

BLIN Bridgeline Digital announced that it has entered into a loan agreement with Silicon Valley Bank for a $5 mln line of credit (1.28 0.00)

09:35

SPY S&P 500 working up near last week's peak/52-wk high at 1180.69 -- session high 1179.09 -Update- -Technical-

09:33

NTAP NetApp strength off the open has resulted in a breach of the March range top/high at 33.69 -- session high 33.95 (33.95 +1.41) -Update- -Technical-

09:28

SNTS Santarus announces launch of ZEGERID OTC by Schering-Plough Consumer HealthCare (5.38 )

Co announced that Schering-Plough HealthCare Products, the consumer healthcare subsidiary of Merck (MRK), has commenced promotion of ZEGERID OTC under its licensing agreement with Santarus for the OTC market in North America. Under the terms of the ZEGERID OTC license agreement, Santarus is entitled to a low double-digit royalty, subject to adjustment in certain circumstances, on net sales of any ZEGERID OTC products sold in North America. In turn, Santarus will be obligated to pay royalties to the University of Missouri on net sales of any such OTC products. Santarus also may be entitled to receive up to an additional $37.5 mln in sales milestones.

09:27

ALOG Analogic receives $9.7 mln order for its explosives detection systems, orders expected to ship in Q3 of FY10 (42.73 )

09:27

BRE BRE Properties announces pricing of 7 mln shares of common stock at $34.25/share (35.75 )

09:25

LLY Eli Lilly: US court upholds validity of Lilly's Gemzar patent (36.22 )

09:25

FREE Freeseas announces higher daily rates on new charters for three of its vessels (1.28 )

Co announced new charters for three of its vessels. The new charters are detailed here: -- The M/V Free Envoy, a 1984-built, 26,318 dwt Handysize vessel, has been chartered for a time charter trip of approximately 35 days at a daily rate of $22,500. -- The M/V Free Goddess, a 1995-built, 22,051 dwt Handysize vessel, has been delivered in direct continuation to its existing charterers for an additional time charter trip of approximately 40 days at a daily rate of $15,000. -- The M/V Free Neptune, a 1996-built, 30,838 dwt Handysize vessel, has been chartered for a time charter trip of approximately 60-100 days at a daily rate of $25,000.

09:23

XNN Xenonics announces registered direct offering to sell 2,900,000 shares of its common stock at a price per share of $0.50, (0.64 )

09:16

ST Sensata Tech announces issuances of redemption notices with respect to its 11.25% senior subordinated notes due 2014 and a portion of its 8% senior notes due 2014

Cos subsidary announced that it has elected to issue a notice of redemption with respect to all of its outstanding 11.25% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014 at a redemption price equal to 105.625% of the principal amount thereof, which amount is equal to EUR1,056.25 per EUR1,000 principal amount and $138,550,000 in aggregate principal amount of its outstanding 8% Senior Notes due 2014 at a redemption price equal to 104.000% of the principal amount thereof, which amount is equal to $1,040.00 per $1,000 principal amount. The redemption dates for both the 11.25% Notes and the Dollar Notes will be May 1, 2010. In each case, holders of the Notes subject to redemption will also receive accrued and unpaid interest up to, but not including, the redemption date.

09:15

VSR Versar awarded $29.5 mln contract by U.S. Army (3.03 )

Co announced that it was awarded a five-year (base + 4 option years) contract with a ceiling value of $29.5 mln from the United States Army Corps of Engineers, Los Angeles District to support range cleanup of military munitions and explosives at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, California. Under this contract, Versar is responsible for locating, identifying, marking and disposing of a wide-variety of munitions and explosives so that NTC range operations can continue to be conducted safely and efficiently.

09:15

CIM Chimera Investment announces public offering of 85 mln shares of common stock, for proceeds of $307 mln (3.89 )

09:08

F Ford Motor China division reports Q1 sales up 84% to 153,362 units sold in the first quarter (12.57 )

09:05

S&P futures vs fair value: +7.40. Nasdaq futures vs fair value: +7.00.

The mood among premarket participants remains upbeat, thanks partly to strong gains overseas. More specifically, Germany's DAX is up 1.2% as 29 of its 30 members trade higher. Siemens (SI) is a primary leader, while K+S AG is the sole decliner. Meanwhile, Michelin is the only name in France's 40-member CAC to trade lower. The CAC is currently up 1.6%. More than 90% of the names in Britain's FTSE are higher. Metals plays Rio Tinto (RTP), Xstrata (XTA), Anglo American, and BHP Billiton (BHP) have led the FTSE to a 0.9% gain. In economic news, German retail sales fell by a bigger-than-expected 0.4% month-over-month in February, but eurozone manufacturing output expanded at its fastest pace for 40 months in March. The manufacturing PMI climbed to 56.6 in March from 54.2 in February. In Asia, the MSCI Asia Pacific Index advanced 1.0% and Japan's Nikkei climbed 1.4%. The yen played a part after it hit a three-month low against the dollar. Dai-ichi Life Insurance made a strong debut and a Bank of Japan survey showed that Japanese business morale improved in March. In Hong Kong, the Hang Seng advanced 1.4%. News that Beijing will maintain loose monetary policy helped. In mainland China, the Shanghai Composite closed 1.2% higher. The March PMI came in at 55.1 (consensus 55.0), up from 52.0 in February.

09:03

MEDQ MedQuist and Artificial Medical Intelligence to Partner on Computer-Assisted Coding (7.81 +0.17)

Co has announced an agreement with healthcare informatics software developer Artificial Medical Intelligence Inc. (AMI) to provide computer-assisted coding (CAC) within MedQuist's CodeRunner coding workflow platform. AMI's patented Powered by EMscribe technology includes Inpatient and Outpatient natural language processing (NLP) to provide ICD-9-CM, CPT and E & M coding conventions today, and offers the platform framework for ICD-10 in the future. The technology is able to apply NLP to data abstraction, making it a usable and flexible solution for hospitals and clinics. AMI's technology innovation automatically processes certain record types without requiring coder review for very high accuracy.

09:03

KBX Kimber Resources commences exploration drilling at Pericones (1.00 )

The co announces that diamond drilling has commenced on its Plaza De Gallos target on Kimber's 100% owned Pericones property. The Pericones property is comprised of two contiguous concessions totaling 11,890 hectares located approximately 160 kilometres southwest of Mexico City, in a region with an extensive history of silver production. The primary target for drilling at Pericones, Plaza De Gallos, has surface mineralization that has been mapped and sampled over 900 metres of strike from an adit portal. As reported in a news release dated May 6, 2009 results of the assays of surface and adit sampling at Plaza de Gallos suggest potential for high grade silver mineralization. A 2,500 to 3,000 metre initial drill program is in progress and to date seven holes totaling 950 metres have been completed. The first batch of samples has been sent to the assay laboratory for testing with results to be released when appropriate.

09:02

PSID PositiveID's Identity security business achieves record growth to 20,000 active subscribers (1.30 )

Co announces that its identity security business, which offers credit reporting, credit scores and credit monitoring services under the NationalCreditReport.com brand to help protect consumers from identity theft, has reached a significant milestone, reporting record growth to 20,000 active subscribers.

09:01

NYT New York Times announces sale of a portion of its interest in New England Sports Ventures (11.13 )

The co announces the sale of a portion of its stake in New England Sports Ventures ("NESV") to Henry F. McCance, chairman emeritus of Greylock Partners, a venture capital firm. The sale was for 50 of a total of 750 units owned by the Company. The Company expects to record a pre-tax gain in the second quarter of 2010 relating to the sale. Following the sale, the Company will continue to own a 16.6% interest in NESV. The Company intends to continue to explore the sale of its remaining interest in NESV, in whole or in parts.

09:01

CRS Carpenter Tech will record a non-cash charge of ~$5.9 mln or $0.13/share in its third quarter ending March 31, 2010 as a result of the recently enacted health care reform legislation. (36.60 )

09:00

AGN Allergan and Serenity Pharmaceuticals enter into global agreement for the treatment of Nocturia (65.32 )

The co and Serenity Pharmaceuticals announced a global agreement for the development and commercialization of Ser-120, a Phase III investigational drug currently in clinical development for the treatment of nocturia, a common yet often under-diagnosed urological disorder in adults characterized by frequent urination at night time. Under the terms of the agreement, Allergan receives exclusive worldwide rights to develop, manufacture and commercialize Ser-120. The agreement encompasses all potential indications except Primary Nocturnal Enuresis (pediatric bedwetting). Allergan will make an upfront payment to Serenity of $43 million, potential development and regulatory milestone payments of up to $122 million, future potential sales milestones, and royalty payments on worldwide sales.

09:00

AQQ American Spectrum Realty files lawsuit against insurance carrier (18.30 )

The co announces that in February 2010, the Company filed a third party action against its prior insurance carrier, ACE American Insurance Company, in Harris County, Texas, seeking payment under its insurance policy for the damage to 20 buildings in Houston, caused by Hurricane Ike. The Company is represented by Bracewell & Giuliani in the action. In March 2010, the insurance carrier filed a lawsuit against the Company in Pennsylvania seeking a declaratory judgment that it owed nothing under the policy. The total claims by the Company for actual damages, business interruption, statutory bad faith damages, interest and attorneys fees exceed $50,000,000. The Company can make no prediction as to the result of such litigation.

08:53

NRP Natural Resource announces public offering of 4 mln common shares at $25.17/share (26.22 )

08:51

AEZ American Oil & Gas received $46,181,289 in sales proceeds from sale of its ownership in non-producing wells, producing wells and undeveloped acreage located in the Powder River Basin of Wyoming. (6.80 )

08:45

NEOG Neogen acquires GeneSeek for $13.8 mln (25.10 )

Co announced that it had purchased all the outstanding shares of GeneSeek, of Lincoln, Neb. GeneSeek is considered the leading commercial agricultural genetics laboratory in the United States. Founded in 1998, GeneSeek employs 36 and has grown rapidly in recent years, recording 2009 revenues of approximately $12.5 mln. GeneSeek's customers include animal and plant breeders and animal health companies. Neogen paid approximately $13.8 mln to purchase all of GeneSeek's outstanding stock. The purchase price is also subject to contingent payments based on the performance of the acquired business going forward.

08:36

On The Wires

Canadian Pacific Railway Limited (CP) announces that it has reached a one-year agreement with Teck Coal Ltd. for the transportation of metallurgical coal from their CP served mines in southeast British Columbia to Kamloops and Vancouver area ports for export. Contract terms are confidential... VeriFone Holdings (PAY) announced that Chase Paymentech has been selected as the preferred provider of new merchant accounts for buyers of VeriFone's PAYware Mobile iPhone card payment solution sold through Apple (AAPL) Retail Stores and the Apple Store online beginning April 6... Merck (MRK) announces the new over-the-counter option for treating frequent heartburn without a prescription, will become available in drug stores, grocery stores, mass merchandisers and club stores nationwide... j2 Global (JCOM) announces that it has acquired the unified messaging and communications business of mBox Pty, based in Australia. Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed. The financial impact to j2 Global is not expected to be material.

08:33

LIHR Lihir Gold confirms rejection of acquisition proposal from Newcrest Mining (28.16 ) -Update-

The co has rejected an offer from Newcrest Mining to acquire 100% of LGL's issued ordinary shares through a scheme of arrangement. The offer, which was received on 29 March 2010, was on the basis of 1 Newcrest share for every 9 LGL shares plus A$0.225 cash per LGL share, less any interim dividend declared for the half year ended June 2010. Based on Newcrest's closing share price as at 31 March 2010, the offer was equivalent to A$3.87 per share and valued the company at approximately A$9.2 billion. While the Board recognized the strategic merits of the combination of the two companies, following careful review and analysis, directors unanimously determined that the offer did not represent good value for LGL shareholders. This was particularly the case given the conditions and exclusivity arrangements that Newcrest proposed. LGL Chairman Ross Garnaut said the offer undervalued LGL, both in terms of its existing business, and in terms of the potential value the company expected to deliver to shareholders in the future. "It also did not include a sufficient premium for control," Dr Garnaut said.

08:33

AUTC AutoChina International announced that agents of its recent offering cancelled their overallotment option to place an additional 300,000 ordinary shares (29.00 )

08:32

LIHR Lihir Gold appoints new CEO (28.16 )

The co has appointed former BHP senior executive Graeme Hunt as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer. LGL Chairman Ross Garnaut said Mr Hunt was the ideal candidate for the CEO role, possessing strong leadership skills, wide mining industry knowledge and extensive experience in strategic development.

08:31

SPY E~mini index futures barely budge following weekly initial claims figures -Technical-

Still bid, but off earlier highs

S&P 500 (ES) +5.50

NDX 100 (NQ) +6.50

INDU 30 (YM) +55

08:31

ANV Allied Nevada reports gold equivalent measured & indicated resources of 10.3 mln ounces and further inferred resources of 7.7 mln ounces (16.57 )

Co reports updated mineral reserves and resources with a more than doubling of oxide gold reserves to 2.4 million ounces and initial oxide silver reserves of 32.3 million ounces for the Company's wholly owned Hycroft mine located near Winnemucca, Nevada. This is the first time a silver reserve has been established for the Hycroft mine. Gold and silver measured and indicated resources (inclusive of reserves) for oxide and sulfide mineralization increased 20% to 7.1 million ounces of gold and 57% to 184.2 million ounces of silver. Measured and indicated gold equivalent ounces increased 28% to 10.3 million ounces compared with 8.1 million gold equivalent ounces reported in March 2009.

08:27

IDI SearchMedia intends to file a Form 12b-25 with the SEC on April 1, 2010, to delay the filing of its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009. (4.71 )

Co intends to file a Form 12b-25 with the SEC on April 1, 2010, to delay the filing of its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009. SearchMedia's review of 2009 financial results is taking longer than anticipated as the co is assessing the materiality of certain uncollectible accounts receivable related to sales generated primarily in the in-elevator business, which the co believes will likely result in significant adjustments from previously disclosed estimated financial results for 2009. The co has begun discussions with several of the original SearchMedia shareholders to address appropriate remedies, which may include cancellation of some of the shares issued in the Share Exchange Agreement. In completing the 2009 financial results, the co also needs additional time to complete its review of the reverse capitalization structure and other matters which are still being reviewed.

08:16

ECONX Reminder: Initial Claims and Continuing Claims data due out in about 14 min at 8:30ET

08:08

HES Hess reached agreement with Scottish & Southern Energy to sell its interests in UK gas assets (62.55 ) -Update-

Co reached agreement with Scottish & Southern Energy to sell its interests in a package of natural gas production and transportation assets in the United Kingdom North Sea for $423 million in cash. The sale is expected to close in the third quarter of 2010.

08:06

FTI FMC Tech announced Maryann T. Seaman has been appointed Vice President, Treasurer and Deputy CFO effective April 1, 2010 (64.63 )

08:05

ETN Eaton to recognize a $25 mln non-cash income tax charge in the first quarter of 2010 due to Health Care & Education Reconciliation Act (75.77 )

Co announced that the new health care reform act and education reconciliation bill will increase the company's income tax expense by $25 mln through a non-cash, one-time charge taken in the first quarter of 2010. The $25 mln charge relates to the write-off of deferred income tax assets because the new law eliminates the non-taxable nature of the retiree drug subsidy received by the company. Although this change in income tax deductibility does not take effect until 2013, Eaton is required to recognize the charge in the first quarter of 2010 when the Act was signed into law. This charge was not considered in guidance for first quarter or full year 2010.

08:04

CP Canadian Pacific announces new agreement for westbound coal (56.24 )

Th eco announces it has reached a one-year agreement with Teck Coal for the transportation of metallurgical coal from their CP served mines in southeast British Columbia to Kamloops and Vancouver area ports for export. Contract terms are confidential. Coal freight rates will be similar to current rates, however rates are volume based and should Vancouver export volumes fall short of target levels, a higher rate will be realized. During the term of this new agreement CP and Teck intend to enter discussions toward a longer term arrangement.

08:03

VRNM Verenium and BP Extend Galaxy joint development program and will receive $2.5 mln a month through the end of the extension (5.06 )

Co announced that it has extended the joint development program established in August 2008 with partner BP for an additional four months. BP and Verenium will continue their ongoing joint development work to accelerate the development and commercialization of cellulosic ethanol. Verenium will receive $2.5 million per month from BP to co-fund the cellulosic ethanol program through the end of the extension period.

08:02

PBTH PROLOR Biotech awarded second Israeli government grant to support development of its longer-acting Interferon Beta (3.98 )

The co announces that the Israeli Office of the Chief Scientist ("OCS") has approved a 2010 continuation of its grant to PROLOR's Israeli-based R&D subsidiary for the company's development program for interferon-beta-1a-CTP (IFN-Beta-CTP), its longer-acting version of interferon-beta-1a (IFN-Beta). IFN-Beta, which is indicated for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS), is currently marketed by Merck Serono as Rebif and by Biogen Idec as Avonex, with combined 2009 annual sales estimated at more than $4.4 billion worldwide.

08:02

EPD Enterprise Products Partners LP announces acquisition of natural gas gathering systems from M2 Midstream LLC (34.58 )

Co announces that it has executed definitive agreements to purchase two natural gas gathering and treating systems from subsidiaries of M2 Midstream LLC in a negotiated transaction for approx $1.2 bln. These systems are located in Northwest Louisiana and East Texas and gather natural gas produced from the Haynesville/Bossier Shales and the Cotton Valley and Taylor Sands formations.

08:02

AGT Apollo Gold and Linear Gold announce that they have entered into a definitive arrangement agreement (0.33 )

The co and Linear Gold announce that they have entered into a definitive arrangement agreement in respect of the previously announced business combination pursuant to which the businesses of Apollo and Linear will be combined by way of a court approved plan of arrangement. The Arrangement Agreement supercedes the letter of intent executed by Apollo and Linear on March 9, 2010 in respect of the Merger. The parties currently anticipate that the Merger will be completed in June 2010. It is expected that proxy and management information circulars will be mailed to respective Apollo and Linear shareholders in May 2010.

08:01

NBS Neostem provides 2010 business outlook (1.80 )

"In 2010, NeoStem remains committed to advancing our stem cell therapeutic development through the application of our VSELTM technology in the US, while enhancing our stem cell platform in China with the commercial launch of several stem cell applications by our partners and the initiation of construction of our Beijing facility... Our Erye subsidiary is focused on becoming one of the largest antibiotic producers in Eastern China by substantially increasing its capacity once operations are fully transferred to the new manufacturing facility and the production lines are fully operational, which is on schedule to be completed in 2011, and enhancing the potential of the new drug pipeline through in-licensing opportunities and approval of new generic drugs by the SFDA. With the completion of our recent financing and the exercise of 1,000,000 warrants at a per share exercise price of $1.75, the Company is well underway to execute our growth plan for 2010 and we look forward to providing all of our stakeholders with timely updates of our progress."

08:01

ASEI American Science & Engineering awarded $11.8 mln order with the US Customs and Border Protection (74.92 )

07:36

On The Wires

AMSC (AMSC) announces that Vestas Australian Wind Technology has placed an order with it for a D-VAR-based grid interconnection system. Utilizing 24 D-VAR modules integrated with external smart-switched capacitor banks and proprietary AMSC controls that are optimized for wind farm applications, this is its largest order for a grid interconnection system to date... C$ cMoney and US Dataworks (UDW) announce that they have entered into a strategic alliance agreement for shared technology and support of the upcoming product launch of the C$ cMoney mobile payment application... Bruker Corporation (BRKR) announces that it has created a Chemical Analysis Division within its Bruker Daltonics subsidiary. The new Chemical Analysis Division will be managed by Collin D'Silva as division president, and will be headquartered in Fremont, California.

07:36

MOV Movado Group beats by $0.03, reports revs in-line; reaffirms FY11 guidance, expects net loss in FY11 (11.28 )

Reports Q4 (Jan) loss of $0.28 per share, excluding non-recurring items, $0.03 better than the Thomson Reuters consensus of ($0.31); revenues fell 1.9% year/year to $92.2 mln vs the $91.9 mln consensus. Co issues guidance for FY11, sees GAAP EPS of ($0.40)-($0.20), may not be comparable to ($0.24) Thomson Reuters consensus. Co reaffirms its previous guidance for FY11 provided on March 15, 2010. Co continues to anticipate that it will improve adjusted EBITDA from a slight gain in FY10 to range between $15 million and $20 million in FY11. With the requirement to record a tax valuation allowance, Movado anticipates recording a tax expense in FY11 and therefore expects to report a net loss for the year. On a GAAP basis, the co continues to anticipate a net loss in the range of $5 million to $10 million, or $0.20 to $0.40 per diluted share. This guidance is predicated on, among other things, a 10% to 15% sales increase for the year (excluding FY10 excess discontinued product sales) and an increase in operating expenses due to the co's investments in brand building. The co's guidance assumes no unusual charges for FY11.

07:33

KMX CarMax beats by $0.08, beats on revs (25.12 )

Reports Q4 (Feb) earnings of $0.33 per share, $0.08 better than the Thomson Reuters consensus of $0.25; revenues rose 24.6% year/year to $1.83 bln vs the $1.76 bln consensus. Total gross profit increased 15% to $265.2 million from $230.3 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009, primarily as a result of the 13% increase in used unit sales. Our total gross profit dollars per retail unit also increased 2%, or $68 per unit, to $2,965 in the current quarter from $2,897 in the corresponding prior year quarter. "The 12% increase in comparable store used unit sales reflected roughly equal contributions from improvements in customer traffic and sales execution... Based upon improvements in our sales and profitability and the increasing stability in the credit markets, we have decided to resume store growth... We plan to take a measured approach by opening the three previously announced stores in fiscal 2011, between three and five stores in fiscal 2012, and between five and ten stores in fiscal 2013. This approach allows us to maintain our momentum on recent initiatives to reduce waste and increase efficiency while still offering superior quality to customers. It also allows us to rebuild our store management bench strength and restart our real estate acquisition... we currently estimate that CAF income will be in the range of $145 million to $185 million in fiscal 2011."

07:32

TLB Talbots extends offer to exchange each outstanding warrant to acquire shares of common stock of BPW Acquisition (12.96 )

is extending its offer to exchange each outstanding warrant to acquire shares of common stock of BPW Acquisition Corp. (BPW) for shares of Talbots common stock or warrants to acquire shares of Talbots common stock, subject to the election and proration procedures described in the prospectus/offer to exchange, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 17, 2010. The exchange offer is being extended until 6:00 p.m., New York City time, on Thursday, April 1.

07:31

FCN FTI Consulting has expanded its service offering in Asia through the acquisition of Baker Tilly Hong Kong Business Recovery; Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. (39.32 )

07:25

On The Wires

MediciNova (MNOV) and the Hercules Market of the Osaka Securities Exchange report that this week's issue of Neurology includes two articles related to the potential clinical utility and unique pharmacological action of MN-166 in treating multiple sclerosis... AVEO Pharmaceuticals (AVEO) announces that the underwriters of its recently completed initial public offering of common stock have exercised their option to purchase an additional 968,539 shares of common stock to cover over-allotments. The sale of the additional shares is anticipated to close on April 6, 2010. Including proceeds from the sale of the additional shares, the aggregate net proceeds to AVEO from the initial public offering, after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses, are approximately $80.7 mln... Manpower (MAN) announces its determination pursuant to its previously announced merger agreement with COMSYS IT Partners, Inc. that Manpower will exchange 0.304 of a share of Manpower common stock for each share of common stock of COMSYS that is tendered pursuant to an election for stock consideration, based on the expectation that Manpower will first accept shares of COMSYS common stock for exchange pursuant to the exchange offer at 12:00 midnight, New York Time, on the evening of April 2, 2010, the initial expiration date of the exchange offer.

07:14

TOT Total announces second oil discovery on deep offshore block 17/06 in Angola (58.02 )

The co announces that its subsidiary, TEPA (Block 17/06) Limited, and Sociedade Nacional de Combust?veis de Angola (Sonangol E.P.), have discovered hydrocarbons in the north-eastern area of the deep offshore block 17/06. The Begonia-1 well is the second successful exploration well on Block 17/06, after the Gardenia-1 well. Drilled in a water depth of 453 meters, the well discovered hydrocarbons in reservoir of Miocene age and produced more than 6,000 barrels per day of high quality oil (36? API) during a production test.

07:13

EFJI EFJ receives $2.4 mln in funding increments from the Department of Defense (0.95 )

Co announced that its 3e Technologies International, subsidiary has received additional incremental funding totaling $2.4 mln under two U.S. Navy contracts. The first funding increment is valued at $1.6 mln and is under the $48 mln contract announced by the Company in October 2008 to provide the Navy with its virtual perimeter monitoring system (VPMS). The second funding increment is valued at $0.8 mln and is under the $4.8 mln contract, with four options valued up to $21 mln, announced by the co in November 2009 to provide the Navy with its FIPS 140-2 Validated secure wireless sensor solution.

07:05

DMAN Demandtec misses by $0.01, misses on revs (6.95 )

Reports Q4 (Feb) earnings of $0.01 per share, $0.01 worse than the Thomson Reuters consensus of $0.02; revenues rose 1.6% year/year to $19.6 mln vs the $20 mln consensus.

07:03

AMIN American Intl Industries announces the sale of 8 Acres in Houston, Texas by its wholly-owned subsidiary, Nestle Products, and entering into a contract to sell an additional 34 acres (1.04 )

Co announces the completion of the sale of 8 acres of land located on Airport Boulevard in Houston, Texas by its wholly-owned subsidiary, Nestle Products Corporation, for $450,000 cash. Mr. Dror further announced that a contract has been entered into by and between Nestle and Continental Connections USA, LLC to sell the additional 34 acres on Airport Boulevard for $1,550,000 cash. The total of 42 acres owned by Nestle and another 36 acre property on Interstate 59 in Houston, Texas are carried on AMIN's books at a $3.2 million cost to the company, which is net of a note payable to the bank.

07:02

HOC Holly Energy Partners and Holly Corporation announce the acquisition of storage and loading facilities From Holly Corporation (27.93 )

Co announced that they have completed their previously announced transaction for the sale by Holly to Holly Energy of petroleum storage tanks with approximately 2 million barrels of capacity and certain rail loading rack facilities at Holly's Tulsa refinery site as well as an asphalt truck loading rack at Holly's Lovington, New Mexico facility. Holly Energy has paid Holly $93 million in cash for these assets. Holly and Holly Energy have entered into 15-year agreements whereby Holly Energy will provide storage and loading services to Holly utilizing these assets. These agreements provide for minimum annual revenues to Holly Energy of $13.9 million. This transaction has been approved by the Boards of Directors for both Holly Energy and Holly after approvals by the Conflicts Committee for Holly Energy, which is comprised solely of independent outside directors for Holly Energy, and the Holly Audit Committee, which is composed solely of outside directors of Holly. The Boards of Directors for both companies have obtained fairness opinions from financial advisory firms in connection with this proposed transaction.

07:02

CODI Compass Group acquires Liberty Safe and Security Products (15.26 )

Co announces that on March 31, 2010, it entered into an agreement to acquire and consummated the acquisition of Liberty Safe and Security Products. CODI paid ~$70 mln to purchase Liberty, funding the acquisition with drawings under CODI's revolving credit facility. In addition, CODI paid ~$1.5 mln in expenses associated with this transaction. CODI's initial ownership position in the company is approximately 96%.

07:02

SPPI Spectrum Pharma announces Delay in Filing 2009 Annual Report on Form 10-K (4.61 )

Co announced that it missed the deadline of March 31, 2010, for the filing of its 2009 Annual Report on Form 10-K with the U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission as additional time is necessary to finalize its financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2009. Spectrum Pharmaceuticals expects to file the Annual Report on Form 10-K shortly.

07:01

FIG Fortress Investment announces it elected not to pay a dividend in the first quarter of 2010 (3.99 )

Co announces it elected not to pay a dividend in the first quarter of 2010. The Board elected to retain capital for potential future investment opportunities and for working capital purposes.

07:00

ICFI ICF International awarded new $7.2 mln contract to conduct school health policies and practices study (25.34 )

Co has been awarded a new contract by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Division of Adolescent and School Health (DASH), to conduct the School Health Policies and Practices Study (SHPPS) 2012. The contract's term is for 32 months and has a value of $7.2 million. Under terms of the contract, ICF International will collect data on eight elements of a comprehensive school health program from state agencies in all 50 states plus the District of Columbia and from a nationally representative sample of school districts, schools, and classrooms. ICF International previously conducted SHPPS in 1994 and 2006.

07:00

MRNA MDRNA acquires Cequent Pharmaceuticals (1.10 )

Co announced the signing of a definitive agreement pursuant to which MDRNA will acquire Cequent in an all stock transaction valued at ~$46 mln. The combined co will have multiple proprietary RNAi drug discovery platforms with the capability to deliver RNAi-based therapeutics via systemic, local and oral administration. In addition, the acquisition expands MDRNA's oncology pipeline with a product for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) -- a genetic disorder that is a precursor to colon cancer -- that will soon begin Phase 1 clinical testing under an Investigational New Drug application (IND) filed with the FDA. The transaction will include certain loan provisions that will fund MDRNA operations through the anticipated closing of the merger in early July 2010.

06:40

HBOS Heritage Finl announces agreement to dispose of its largest nonperforming asset (12.08 )

Co announces that, subsequent to the issuance of preliminary results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2009, the Company determined the need for an additional $2.0 mln in loan loss provision related to the disposition of a single nonperforming loan, based on a recently received appraisal on the collateral property and the execution of an agreement to sell the property. The Company's results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2009, are in the process of being revised. Accordingly, the Company's previously issued results for such periods should no longer be relied upon. This particular loan is a $5.0 mln loan originated in 2006 by the Bank's Albany office on raw land in Atlanta, Georgia, and is the largest single nonperforming loan in the Company's portfolio. At December 31, 2009, the Company previously had established a specific reserve of $1.7 mln against this loan, leaving a net carrying loan value of approx $3.3 mln that matched the estimated value of the property at that time. This specific reserve was included in previously announced preliminary results.

06:39

S&P futures vs fair value: +5.30. Nasdaq futures vs fair value: +2.80.

06:39

Asian Markets

Nikkei...11244.40...+154.50...+1.40%. Hang Seng...21537.00...+297.70...+1.40%.

06:39

European Markets

FTSE...5724.49...+44.90...+0.80%. DAX...6205.64...+51.70...+0.80%.

06:37

WUHN Wuhan General Group reports Q4 EPS of $0.11 vs $0.00, revs rose 18.1% YoY $33.1 mln (1.90 )

Co announces its current backlog of turbine orders is $20 mln, of which 60% is for water turbines. Co says "We are still in the process of finalizing equipment installation at our turbine facility at Wuhan Generating and completing construction at our Sungreen subsidiary, scheduled to be completed by the end of 2010. In 2010, we expect to expend approximately $15 million for the construction and equipment installation, which we expect to fund mainly through our credit facility from Standard Chartered Bank, we expect the new turbine facility to operate at close to full utilization by the end of 2010, while we expect Sungreen to reach around 70% utilization by the end of 2010."

06:31

RICK Rick's Cabaret Int'l announces expiration of letter of intent with VCG Holding (12.80 )

Co announces that it was not able to enter into a definitive merger agreement to acquire all of the outstanding stock of VCG Holding (VCGH 2.40) in accordance with its letter of intent with VCG. As previously announced, on February 16, 2010, Rick's, VCG, Troy Lowrie, VCG's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and Lowrie Management, LLLP, entered into a non-binding (except as to certain provisions, including exclusivity and confidentiality) letter of intent, which letter of intent expired on March 31, 2010.

06:12

On The Wires

United Community Banks (UCBI) announces that it has entered into a securities purchase agreement with Fletcher International, Ltd. and its wholly owned subsidiary, United Community Bank, has entered into an asset purchase and sale agreement with Fletcher International and certain affiliates thereof; United Community Bank has agreed to sell to the Purchasers $100 mln of certain non-performing commercial and residential mortgage loans and other real estate owned properties with an aggregate sales price equal to the Bank's carrying value... RadNet (RDNT) prices $200 mln of senior notes due 2018... Kinetic Concepts (KCI) announces first patient placement of V.A.C. ATS Therapy System in Japan.

05:58

GGP Gen Growth Prop files motion to seek approval of proposed $6.55 bln investment from Brookfield, Pershing Square and Fairholme (16.09 )

Co announces that it has filed with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York definitive documentation related to the previously announced proposals from Brookfield Asset Management (BAM), Pershing Square Capital Management and Fairholme Capital Management. Under the terms of the agreements, Brookfield, Pershing Square and Fairholme will commit $6.55 billion of new equity capital at a value of $15.00 per share to facilitate GGP's emergence from bankruptcy. In addition, GGP will issue warrants for 120 million shares exercisable at $15.00 per share, subject to approval by the Bankruptcy Court.

05:02

NGA AZZ signs agreement to acquire North American Galvanizing & Coatings for $7.50/share in cash (5.56 )

AZZ (AZZ 33.85) enters into a definitive merger agreement with co to acquire NGA through a cash tender offer, followed by a merger with a subsidiary of AZZ, for a price of $7.50 per share in cash. The tender offer is scheduled to commence within five business days of April 30, 2010, and to expire on the 20th business day from and including the commencement date unless extended in accordance with the terms of the merger agreement and applicable law. The transaction is valued at approximately $125.6 million. AZZ and NGA anticipate the transaction can close by the end of AZZ's second fiscal quarter.

04:38

AMAG AMAG Pharma and Takeda Pharma announce collaboration for Feraheme in all therapeutic indications in select ex-US territories, including Europe (34.91 )

Co and Takeda Pharmaceutical jointly announce that the companies have entered into a license, development and commercialization agreement related to Feraheme (ferumoxytol) Injection for intravenous use in all therapeutic indications. Takeda receives an exclusive license to Feraheme for all therapeutic applications in 5 regions, including Europe, Canada, Turkey, the Commonwealth of Independent States and Asia Pacific countries, excluding Japan, China and Taiwan. AMAG receives a $60 million upfront payment and is eligible to receive up to $220 million in development and commercial milestones. Additionally, AMAG will receive tiered, double-digit royalties based on net sales of Feraheme in the licensed territories.

03:02

TEVA Teva settles generic Eloxatin litigation (63.08 )

Co announces that patent infringement litigation pertaining to Teva's generic version of Sanofi-aventis (SNY) and Debiopharm's Eloxatin (oxaliplatin injection) has been dismissed by the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey pursuant to a settlement between the parties. The settlement, which provides for a full release of Teva, includes an injunction prohibiting Teva from selling its oxaliplatin injection product and a license to reenter the market at a later point in time. Teva anticipates continued sales of its oxaliplatin injection at least through June 30, 2010, and will resume shipping additional units August 9, 2012, subject to acceleration under certain contingencies.

01:41

RINO RINO Intl beats by $0.19, misses on revs; guides FY10 revs below consensus (23.73 )

Reports Q4 (Dec) GAAP earnings of $0.68 per share, $0.19 better than the Thomson Reuters consensus of $0.49; revenues rose 29.9% year/year to $53 mln vs the $59.7 mln consensus. Co issues downside guidance for FY10, sees FY10 revs of $225.0 mln vs. $243.43 mln Thomson Reuters consensus. Specifically during the fourth quarter, the co recorded $27.3 million in desulphurization projects which represented 51.5% of sales and was a 9.3% decrease from the same period 2008; $14.4 million in wastewater treatment system sales, which represented 27.2% of sales and was an increase of 700% over fourth quarter 2008; $7.7 million in anti-oxidation equipment and an coatings compared, which represented 14.5% of total sales and represented an increase of 413% from the same period of 2008; and $3.6 million in machining service revenues, a decrease of 51.4% from the $7.4 million recorded in the same period 2008, and represented 6.8% of sales during the fourth quarter of 2009. FY10 guidance: Management expects to report revenues of approximately $225 million for FY10, representing approximately 17% growth over fiscal 2009 results, and gross margins of between 35% and 40% for 2010. Co expects to generate revenue growth in all of its business lines, including contribution from its new sludge dehydration project. In addition, management believes its working capital and cash flow from operations will enable it to meet these projections.

01:33

SAFM Sanderson Farms prices 2.0 mln common shares at $53.00/share (53.61 )

01:28

MOS Mosaic invests in Bayovar phosphate project (60.77 ) -Update-

Co announces that it entered into an agreement with Vale S.A. (VALE) and Mitsui & Co., Ltd. (MITSY) related to a proposed joint venture that will own the Bayovar phosphate rock mine being constructed by Vale in Peru. Terms of the agreement include a 35% economic interest in the Bayovar phosphate rock mine along with a commercial offtake supply agreement that would give Mosaic the right to purchase 35% of the phosphate rock produced from the Bayovar mine. The Bayovar rock will be used in Mosaic's global phosphate operations. Total consideration to be paid by Mosaic to Vale for its stake in the joint venture will be $385 million. The transaction is expected to close within the next three months. Phosphate rock production at Bayovar and deliveries to Mosaic are expected to begin in the second half of calendar 2010.

01:08

On The Wires

Corporate Office Properties Trust (OFC) announces that its operating partnership, Corporate Office Properties, L.P., has priced its offering of $200 mln aggregate principal amount of exchangeable senior notes due 2030... Celanese (CE) and Saudi Basic Industries announce their National Methanol Co. (Ibn Sina) joint venture will construct a 50,000 ton polyacetal production facility in Saudi Arabia... CNinsure (CISG) announces signing of definitive agreements to acquire additional 41% equity interests in Shandong Mintai Insurance Agency Co., Ltd. and Ningbo Baolian Insurance Agency Co., Ltd.

01:06

SKIL SkillSoft announces agreement on terms of a revised recommended acquisition for cash by private investor group (10.32 )

Co announces that it has reached agreement on the terms of a revised recommended acquisition for cash by SSI Investments III Limited for the increased price of $11.25 per SkillSoft share. SSI Investments III Ltd, a co formed by funds sponsored by each of Berkshire Partners LLC, Advent International and Bain Capital Partners, LLC, and the co had previously announced on February 12, 2010 that they had reached agreement on the terms of a recommended acquisition of SkillSoft for cash at a price of $10.80 per SkillSoft share by the Investor Group.

01:03

C Citigroup announces pricing of 21.36 mln share IPO of Primerica at $15.00 per share, above the $12-14 expected range (4.05 )

Co announces approx 21.4 mln shares of Primerica common stock were sold at $15.00/share. Shares will begin trading April 1, 2010 on NYSE under symbol "PRI."

00:59

FTK Flotek Industries misses by $0.15, misses on revs (1.27 )

Reports Q4 (Dec) loss of $0.41 per share, $0.15 worse than the Thomson Reuters consensus of ($0.26); revenues fell 59.0% year/year to $24.6 mln vs the $32.1 mln consensus. Co executes an Amended and Restated Credit Agreement with Whitebox Advisors, LLC, as administrative agent for themselves and Gates Capital Management for a $40 mln term loan. This new senior credit facility refinanced FTK's existing senior credit facility at Wells Fargo Bank and provided net proceeds of $6.1 mln to the co. In addition, the co executed an Exchange Agreement with its new lending syndicate. The agreement permits each lender to exchange the co's convertible senior notes which they hold, up to the principal amount of its participation in the new $40 mln term loan, for new convertible senior secured notes and shares of common stock. Co also announces the NYSE has accepted their proposed plan to remain listed.

19:13

Futures are higher after hours with S&P 500 futures 2.85 points above fair value of 1165.25 and Nasdaq 100 futures 2.68 points above fair value of 1955.82

18:59

BGP Borders Group trading 30.8% higher at $2.24 after hours following news that the co met a $42.5 mln obligation and announced a $700 mln revolving credit facility (1.72 -0.06) -Update-

The co also closed on a $90 mln term loan credit facility, and reported earnings. See 17:00 and 17:08 comments.

18:45

SHLM A. Schulman beats by $0.01 (24.47 -0.77)

Reports Q4 (Dec) earnings of $0.24 per share, excluding non-recurring items, $0.01 better than the Thomson Reuters consensus of $0.23; revenues fell 21.4% year/year to $331.0 mln vs the $290.6 mln single-analyst est. Co said, "We are optimistic that markets will gradually improve in the remaining half of fiscal 2010, and we expect North America's performance to continue to be significantly favorable compared with last year. While our performance in Europe is steadily improving, it is not likely to approach 2008 levels until market volumes recover significantl. However, I am confident that our second-half earnings, excluding non-operating items, will closely approach fiscal 2008 second-half levels as a result of our strategic progress in all our businesses."

18:15

IDA Idaho Power signs Department of Energy contract for smart grid funding (34.62 -0.10)

Co subsidiary Idaho Power signed a contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), securing $47 million in stimulus funding as part of the DOE's Smart Grid Initiative. Idaho Power's Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) program, including smart meters, was previously approved by the Idaho Public Utilities Commission. The AMI program provides the matched funding requirement for the DOE Smart Grid stimulus grant.

17:58

AMIN American Intl Industries reports 2009 ($0.13) vs. ($0.37) last year; revs fell 20% to $25.7 mln (1.04 +0.02)

17:38

LIHR Lihir Gold now up 20.4% after hours to $33.90 following news that the co is rejecting NEM offer (28.16 +0.03) -Update-

17:36

BCE BCE announces the purchase through a private agreement of 4 mln common shares under its normal course issuer bid (29.35 -0.19)

17:36

HDY Hyperdynamics provides additional detail on agreement with Republic of Guinea (1.22 +0.02)

Co provided further details of the amendment to its Production Sharing Contract (PSC) with the Republic of Guinea. The amendment was signed late last week in the capital, Conakry, and Hyperdynamics has been informed that the implementing Presidential Decree is in the process of issuance. The amendment was intended to bring the PSC into line with international standards and the amendment included the following terms, in addition to the terms discussed in the news release issued by Hyperdynamics on March 25, 2010: 1. Removing the right of first refusal covering relinquished acreage; 2. Clarifying that only those expenditures which were made following the date the PSC was signed (September 22, 2006) would be eligible for cost recovery; and 3. Should the Government note material differences between provisions of the amendment and international standards or the Petroleum Code, Hyperdynamics and the Government would engage in renegotiation of the relevant articles.

17:25

KNDI Kandi Technologies Q4 net income rose 77% to $780,520; revs grew 46% to $14.7 mln (4.92 -0.12)

17:21

ATSG Air Transport Services Group beats by $0.03 (3.35 +1.04) -Update-

Reports Q4 (Dec) earnings of $0.18 per share, $0.03 better than the Thomson Reuters consensus of $0.15; revenues fell 2.5% year/year to $250.5 mln vs the $188.9 mln consensus. Co said, "ATSG is seeing strong demand for its assets and services across the globe. As previously announced this month, we leased the first of two 767 aircraft to Amerijet for dry lease. In addition, this past weekend, we delivered a second 767 to TNT for ACMI service in their European network. The conversion program for nine more 767s will only enhance our capabilities and allow us to meet the growing demands of our customers. The structure of the new DHL agreements unlocks the potential of our valuable aircraft assets, allowing us to earn a significantly better return on our invested capital than under the legacy agreements. To a greater degree than in the past, our margins will depend on our ability to control costs and innovate, while meeting or exceeding the service quality standards that our customers expect, which I'm confident our people can deliver. With those priorities, and a more competitive collective bargaining agreement in place with ABX Air, I look forward to improving upon our historic financial performance in 2010 and beyond."

17:16

AN AutoNation announces pricing of $400 mln aggregate principal amount of senior notes (18.08 -0.89) -Update-

Co announced the pricing of $400.0 million aggregate principal amount of senior unsecured notes (the "Notes") due 2018 at 6.75%. The Notes will be issued at 98.488% of the aggregate principal amount, representing a yield to maturity of 7.0%. The Co intends to use the net proceeds from this offering of the Notes to pay the consideration required in connection with the Co's cash tender offers, and related consent solicitations, for any and all of its outstanding Floating Rate Notes due 2013 and 7% Senior Notes due 2014, including any applicable accrued and unpaid interest on such notes, to reduce borrowings under the term loan facility of the Company's existing credit agreement, to pay transaction fees and expenses and for general corporate purposes.

17:01

KND Kindred Healthcare announces Benjamin A. Breier to become COO upon planned retirement of Frank J. Battafarano (18.05 -0.79)

17:00

BGP Borders announces $700 mln revolving credit facility and $90 mln term loan; BGP meets $42.5 mln obligation (1.72 -0.06) -Update-

Co announced that it has entered into an amended and restated revolving credit agreement. The new, $700 mln senior secured asset-based credit facility matures in March 2014 and replaces the company's existing revolving credit agreement, which would have matured in July 2011. Banc of America Securities LLC, Wells Fargo Retail Finance, LLC, J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. and GE Capital Markets, Inc. acted as joint lead arrangers and book runners. Bank of America, N.A. will serve as the administrative agent. Borrowings under the facility will be used for general corporate purposes. The co also closed on a $90 mln term loan credit facility, which will mature in March 2014 with the exception of $10 mln of that facility, which Borders will amortize over four months beginning in September and concluding in December of this year. Banc of America Securities LLC acted as sole arranger and book runner on the facility and GA Capital LLC will serve as the administrative agent. Lenders are expected to include an affiliate of Stone Tower Capital LLC, a $39 bln credit focused asset management firm; funds managed by Tennenbaum Capital Partners, LLC, a Santa Monica-based special situations investment firm; and Gordon Brothers Merchant Partners. Separately, BGP has met its obligation to Pershing Square Capital Management, L.P. for payment of the $42.5 mln senior secured term loan due April 1.

16:48

EGN Energen adds to 2011, 2012 hedge positions (46.69 -0.38)

Co announced that it has sold additional 2011 natural gas liquids (NGL) swaps at an average price of $0.87 per gallon; these new hedges bring the energy company's total 2011 hedge position - natural gas, oil and NGL to 63.5 bln cubic feet equivalent (Bcfe) at an average NYMEX-equivalent price of $8.79 per thousand cubic feet equivalent (Mcfe). Energen, through its oil and gas exploration and production company, Energen Resources Corporation, also hedged another 2.3 mln barrels (MMBbl) of 2012 oil production at an average NYMEX-equivalent price of $85.40 per barrel. These recent hedges bring the co's 2012 oil hedge position to 3.1 MMBbl at an average NYMEX-equivalent price of $81.56 per barrel, or $13.59 per Mcfe.

16:46

KV.A KV Pharm announces reduction in force by 289 employees, or approximately 42%, in order to lower its operating costs (1.76 -0.47)

16:42

CNAM China Armco Metals reports FY09 EPS of $0.51 vs. $0.44 in FY08; revs rose 54% YoY to $86.9 mln - no ests (9.39 -0.11)

The performance for the full year of 2009 reflected a marked improvement in the Chinese economy, particularly in the steel production industry resulting in an increase in demand and prices of metal ore in China Armco's metal ore distribution business. Performance was also aided by an increase in capital available to China Armco through various credit facilities obtained throughout 2009.

16:42

SLTM Solta Medical expands existing credit facility by $10 mln with Silicon Valley Bank to $22 mln (2.16 +0.11)

16:41

DMAN DemandTec to postpone Q4 and fiscal year 2010 financial results; co reaffirms Q4 (6.95 +0.01)

Co announced that it will postpone the report of its financial results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year 2010 ended February 28, 2010 until Thursday, April 1, 2010 at 8:00 am ET. DMAN re-affirms its fourth quarter revenue, non-GAAP operating income and non-GAAP earnings per share guidance previously provided on DemandTec's investor conference call on January 7, 2010. On Jan 7, the co guided Q4 EPS of $0.01-0.02 (current consensus is $0.02); guides revs of $19.5-20.3 mln (current consensus is $20.0 mln). Co also guided FY10 EPS of $0.07-0.09 (current consensus id $0.09); co also guided revs of $78.9-79.7 mln (current consensus is $79.4 mln.

16:32

KED Kayne Anderson Energy reschedules earnings release to April 7, was previously scheduled for April 6 (16.16 -0.31)

16:32

CBC Capitol Bancorp receives approval to consolidate two Michigan-based affiliates with Michigan Commerce Bank (2.42 +0.14)

16:30

COIN Converted Organics anounces over $2.6 mln in revenue for year end 2009 (0.847 +0.121)

Co announces that it filed its Form 10-K annual report with the SEC, announcing revenue of $2,634,000 for the year ended December 31, 2009. "Converted Organics continues to be pleased with the progress of the Company," said Edward Gildea, President of Converted Organics. "We look forward to updating shareholders about the status of the business, including our recent acquisition activities."

16:30

CVX Chevron confirms first oil from Perdido development (75.83 +0.53) -Update-

Co announces that the Perdido deepwater project, located in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico, has started crude oil and natural gas production. Production from the Great White, Silvertip and Tobago fields utilizing the Perdido hub is expected to reach full capacity of 130,000 barrels of oil-equivalent per day after the drilling of additional wells.

16:30

AMD Advanced Micro renews patent license agreement with Rambus (9.27 unch)

RMBS announces AMD has renewed its patent license agreement. The original term of AMD's agreement runs through the end of September this year. The renewal extends the patent license through the third quarter of 2015. Under the agreement, Rambus granted AMD a patent license for its integrated circuit and circuit board products. Under the agreement, AMD will continue to pay Rambus a license fee that will be determined at the end of 2010. This license fee is payable each year in quarterly installments.

16:30

LWSN Lawson Software will offer its Lawson Enterprise Management Systems and Lawson Talent Management suite powered by Amazon EC2 infrastructure (6.60 -0.11)

16:29

KNL Knoll & Alphaville Design resolve trademark dispute relating to Mies van der Rohe Furniture, lawsuit was dismissed (11.25 -0.18)

16:28

BPSG Broadpoint Gleacher Securities Board of Directors has voted to rename the Company "Gleacher & Company" and to reincorporate in Delaware (4.00 +0.01) -Update-

16:27

NAVI NaviSite sells two data centers to Virtustream for $5.4 mln (2.57 +0.01)

16:25

RIMM Research In Motion trades as low as 66.00 in after-hours in reaction to earnings/guidance before bouncing... currently trading -7% at 68.68 (73.97 -0.94) -Update-

16:22

RIMM Research In Motion misses by $0.01, misses on revs; guides Q1 EPS above consensus, revs in-line (73.97 -0.94)

Reports Q4 (Feb) earnings of $1.27 per share, $0.01 worse than the Thomson Reuters consensus of $1.28; revenues rose 17.9% year/year to $4.08 bln vs the $4.31 bln consensus. Gross margin for the fourth quarter was 45.7% compared to 42.7% in the prior quarter. Reports Q4 net subscriber account additions of 4.9 mln vs guidance of 4.4-4.7 mln; ships 10.5 mln units in Q4 vs guidance of 10.6-11.2 mln and Street est of ~11 mln... Guidance: Co issues upside EPS guidance for Q1, in-line rev guidance. Sees Q1 EPS of $1.31-1.38 vs. $1.22 Thomson Reuters consensus; sees Q1 revs of $4.25-4.45 bln vs. $4.33 bln Thomson Reuters consensus. RIMM Q1 gross margins is expected to be approx 44.5% compared to Thomson Reuters consensus of 42.9%. Net subscriber account additions in the first quarter are expected to be between 4.9-5.2 million... The revenue breakdown for the quarter was approximately 80% for devices, 16% for service, 2% for software and 2% for other revenue. At the end of the quarter, the total BlackBerry subscriber account base was over 41 million. "RIMM has completed another outstanding fiscal year with record revenue, earnings and subscriber results... We are off to a great start in fiscal 2011 and expect strong shipments, revenue, subscriber and earnings growth in Q1. We are also very excited about our portfolio of products and services for the coming year and we continue to see exceptional opportunity for sustained growth."

16:18

ENB Enbridge and RES Canada team up on 99 MW Greenwich wind energy project (47.75 -0.17)

Co and Renewable Energy Systems Canada Inc. (RES Canada), an affiliate of RES Americas, announced today that they have entered into an agreement to construct and own a 99-megawatt (MW) wind energy project on the northern shore of Lake Superior, in Ontario, in which Enbridge has a majority interest. The project - called the Greenwich Wind Energy Project - is a limited partnership that is jointly owned by Enbridge and RES Canada. RES Canada will construct the project under contract to the partnership. Investment in the project by both parties is approximately $275 million.

16:16

LGCY Legacy Reserves announces increase in borrowing base to $410 mln (23.03 +0.24)

Co announces that its bank group has completed its semi-annual redetermination of the borrowing base applicable to Legacy's revolving credit facility. BNP Paribas, Legacy's Agent Bank, has notified Legacy that it has received approval from the lenders under the credit facility to increase the borrowing base to $410 mln from the previous level of $340 mln. In addition to increasing the borrowing base, Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank and UBS joined Legacy's lending group, increasing the number of participating banks to eleven. The next borrowing base review is scheduled for October 1, 2010. Legacy's availability under its credit facility is currently $145 mln.

16:16

UEPS Net 1 UEPS Techs announces three month extension of SASSA contract (18.39 -0.08)

The co announces a three month extension of its contract for the payment of social welfare grants with the South African Social Security Agency ("SASSA"), on the same terms and conditions as the existing agreement, which was scheduled to expire on March 31, 2010. The three month extension allows Net1 to maintain its high level of service delivery while the Company and SASSA conclude negotiations. Our ongoing discussions with SASSA include the evaluation of a number of proposals including a further contract extension, a new fixed-term contract and the commencement of a new tender process. Further announcements will be made once discussions have been concluded.

16:14

HRC Hill-Rom announces restructuring actions (27.21 +0.06)

Co announced organizational changes consistent with its on-going efforts to improve its cost structure. The changes include the elimination of approximately 160 positions throughout the company. The company expects to incur a special charge associated with these actions during the quarter ending March 31, 2010 of $4 to $5 million, related primarily to severance benefits. The full year savings from these actions are estimated to be approximately $16 million. Details of the charge will be discussed on the company's earnings call for the second quarter on May 5, 2010.

16:14

NRP Natural Resource announces 4 mln share public offering (26.22 +0.36)

16:12

BLUD Immucor beats by $0.01, reports revs in-line; guides FY10 EPS in-line, revs in-line

Reports Q3 (Feb) earnings of $0.28 per share, $0.01 better than the Thomson Reuters consensus of $0.27; revenues rose 6.9% year/year to $80.5 mln vs the $80.9 mln consensus. Co issues in-line guidance for FY10, sees EPS of $1.14-1.16 vs. $1.15 Thomson Reuters consensus; sees FY10 revs of $326-330 mln vs. $330.81 mln Thomson Reuters consensus. As of February 28, 2010, the Company had an instrument backlog of 219 Echos and 35 Galileo/Neos. This backlog represents orders where either the instruments have not been installed or the customer validation process has not been completed so the instruments were not generating recurring revenue at the expected annualized run rate at the end of the fiscal third quarter. The Company has generated 65 orders on a year-to-date basis for its high volume instruments, which include the Galileo and the Neo. The Company expects total fiscal 2010 orders for its high volume instruments to be above the high end of the guidance range of 70 orders.

16:12

UXG US Gold Corp announces 26% increase in measured and indicated resources at its Gold Bar Project in Nevada (2.70 0.02)

Co announce an improvement in the estimated mineral resource for its 100% owned Gold Bar Project in Nevada. Measured and Indicated (M&I) resources increased 26% to 974,875 oz gold within 36.9 million tons of material with an average grade of 0.026 ounces gold per ton (opt) (0.905 grams gold per tonne (gpt)), from 772,600 oz gold within 25.1 million tons of material with an average grade of 0.031 opt (1.053 gpt). The change represents both the upgrade of mineralization from the Inferred category to M&I, and the variation resulting from new drill information and detailed re- modeling. US Gold's current estimate incorporates over 100 new holes drilled in 2009 at the Gold Bar Project. The resource was prepared in accordance with the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum Definition Standards pursuant to National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101") by Telesto Nevada Inc. of Reno, Nevada.

16:11

MU Micron beats by $0.15, beats on revs (10.45 -0.34)

Reports Q2 (Feb) earnings of $0.39 per share, $0.15 better than the Thomson Reuters consensus of $0.24; revenues rose 97.5% year/year to $1.96 bln vs the $1.82 bln consensus. Revenue from sales of DRAM products increased 24% in Q2 of fiscal 2010 compared to Q1 of FY10 due to a 17 % increase in unit sales volume and a 7% increase in average selling prices. Revenue from sales of NAND Flash products were down slightly in Q2 compared to Q1 due to a slight decrease in average selling prices. The co's gross margin on sales of memory products improved from 27 % in Q1 to 35% in Q2 due to both an overall increase in average selling prices as well as decreases in manufacturing costs.

16:10

EFJI EFJ receives $3 million order from a public safety customer (0.94 -0.01) -Update-

16:10

TPX Tempur-Pedic comments on New York Attorney General's action (30.20 -0.55)

Co confirmed that it has been notified of an action filed against the co by the New York Attorney General. As the Company has previously disclosed, the Office of the Attorney General of the State of New York had requested that the co consider discontinuing its unilateral retail price policy in the State of New York, and informed the Company that it may bring an enforcement action against the co under New York law if the co chose not to do so. On March 29, 2010, the Office of the Attorney General filed suit in New York state court against the co with respect to this matter. Chief Executive Officer Mark Sarvary commented, "We are disappointed with the New York Attorney General's action earlier this week. It was preceded by a lengthy antitrust investigation in which the Company cooperated fully." In his complaint, the Attorney General does not charge Tempur-Pedic with any violation of state or federal antitrust law; instead he claims the Company violated a 1975 New York state law which declares certain contractual provisions to be unenforceable. Mr. Sarvary added, "We believe the Attorney General's claim that Tempur-Pedic violated state law is simply wrong, and we intend to defend the case vigorously."

16:09

EFJI EFJ secures $1.8 million order from US Dept of Defense customer (0.94 -0.01)

16:09

TSTC Telestone Tech reports Q4 results, revenue up 129% yr/yr (17.25 -1.35)

Co reports Q4 (Dec) EPS of $0.50 vs $0.32 in the year ago period. Revenue rose 129.2% yr/yr to $33 mln. There are no analyst estimates. Co expects 2010 revenue of at least $108 mln, up 50% yr/yr.

16:08

CIM Chimera Investment announces an 85 mln share common stock offering (3.89 -0.03)

16:07

QKLS QKL Stores postpones earnings release date for fourth quarter and full year 2009 financial results (6.45 +0.15)

Co announces that it has filed a Form 12b-25 with the Securities and Exchange Commission to delay the filing of its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009. The Company is unable to prepare and review all necessary information and disclosures in its Annual Report on Form 10-K by the initial filing deadline of March 31, 2010 without incurring unreasonable effort and expense. Due to this filing delay, the Company has postponed its earnings conference call with investors.

16:07

TBSI TBS International continues discussions with its lenders, announcing that it has secured a waiver through April 30, 2010 of certain covenants with respect to its outstanding credit facilities (7.22 -0.03)

Co announced that it has secured a waiver through April 30, 2010 of certain covenants with respect to its outstanding credit facilities with its syndicate of lenders led by Bank of America, its syndicate of lenders led by The Royal Bank of Scotland and its syndicate of lenders led by DVB Group Merchant Bank, as well as its loan agreements with AIG Commercial Equipment, Commerzbank AG, Berenberg Bank and Credit Suisse (the "Financing Facilities"). In December 2009, the company entered into agreements with the lenders under the Financing Facilities to waive certain financial covenants through March 31, 2010. On March 31, 2010, the Financing Facilities were further modified to provide a waiver through April 30, 2010 of the collateral coverage covenants and other financial covenants, provided that the company satisfies new covenants, including minimum end of month cash balances of not less than $25.0 million and a minimum ratio of earnings before interest, depreciation and amortization to interest expense.

16:07

HDNG Hardinge agrees to acquire the assets of Jones and Shipman (9.00 -0.07)

Co announces that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the assets of Jones and Shipman, a UK-based manufacturer of grinding and super-abrasive machines and machining systems, for 2 million pounds ($3 mln equivalent) from Precision Technologies Group. The company currently has approximately 65 employees, as well as projected sales of approximately $9 million for its fiscal year ending on March 31, 2010.

16:06

BRE BRE Properties announces offering of 5 mln shares of common stock (35.70 -0.70)

16:06

OMER Omeros misses by $0.01, beats on revs (7.05 +1.02)

Reports Q4 (Dec) loss of $0.28 per share, $0.01 worse than the Thomson Reuters consensus of ($0.27); revenues rose 138.9% year/year to $0.4 mln vs the $0.4 mln consensus.

16:05

ANGO AngioDynamics beats by $0.01, misses on revs; reaffirms FY10 EPS in-line, revs in-line (15.64 -0.26)

Reports Q3 (Feb) earnings of $0.13 per share, $0.01 better than the Thomson Reuters consensus of $0.12; revenues rose 5.7% year/year to $52.2 mln vs the $53.6 mln consensus. Co reaffirms in-line guidance for FY10, sees EPS of $0.46-0.48, excluding $0.24 in non-recurring items, vs. $0.48 Thomson Reuters consensus; sees FY10 revs of $214-217 mln vs. $215.13 mln Thomson Reuters consensus.

16:04

GPN Global Payment beats by $0.05, beats on revs; guides FY10 revs in-line, EPS higher (45.56 -0.76)

Reports Q3 (Feb) earnings of $0.58 per share, $0.05 better than the Thomson Reuters consensus of $0.53; revenues rose 10.8% year/year to $398.5 mln vs the $394.7 mln consensus. For FY10, sees EPS of $2.49-2.54 vs. $2.47 Thomson Reuters consensus; sees FY10 revs of $1.615-1.625 bln vs. $1.62 bln Thomson Reuters consensus.

16:03

BPSG Broadpoint Gleacher announces corporate changes, announcing that its Board of Directors has voted to rename the company "Gleacher & Company, Inc. (4.00 0.01)

16:02

AEHR Aehr Test Systems receives order for its MAX Burn-in and test system with individual temperature control (2.68 -0.12)

16:02

OREX Orexigen Therapeutics submits Contrave New Drug Application to FDA for the treatment of obesity (5.89 )

16:01

FIX Comfort Systems increases stock repurchase program by 747,878 shares to a total of 1 mln shares (12.49 -0.05)

16:01

RDEA Ardea Biosciences announces positive top-line results from a Phase 2b Study of RDEA594 given as monotherapy in the treatment of hyperuricemia in gout patients (18.26 +0.38)

The co announces positive, preliminary, top-line results from its Phase 2b monotherapy study of RDEA594, its lead product candidate for the treatment of hyperuricemia and gout. In this 28-day, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, dose-escalation study, 123 gout patients with hyperuricemia (serum urate levels greater than or equal to 8 mg/dL) received 200 mg once-daily (qd) RDEA594, 400 mg qd RDEA594, 600 mg qd RDEA594 or matching placebo. For patients receiving 400 mg qd RDEA594 and 600 mg qd RDEA594, their dose was titrated up weekly in increments of 200 mg/day. This study specifically enrolled patients who excrete less than normal amounts of uric acid at baseline (under-excretors of uric acid make up approximately 90% of all gout patients). All patients received colchicine for prophylaxis against flares. The primary endpoint of the study was a significant increase in the proportion of patients who achieved a response, defined as a reduction of serum urate to < 6 mg/dL after 4 weeks of treatment, compared to placebo. The primary endpoint was achieved in this study. Reductions in serum urate and response rates increased in a dose-related manner and were highly clinically and statistically significant at both the 400 mg qd and 600 mg qd dose levels. At the highest dose, there was a 38% median reduction in serum urate levels after 4 weeks compared to a 1% increase on placebo (p < 0.0001). This translated into a response rate of 45%, compared to 0% for placebo (p < 0.0001).

16:01

CBST Cubist Pharma to end development of CB-500,929 (21.93 -0.65)

The co announces that it plans to stop investing in the clinical development of CB-500,929 (ecallantide) as a therapy to reduce blood loss in patients undergoing cardiac surgery using cardiopulmonary bypass. The company made this decision after reviewing top line efficacy and safety data from the CB-500,929 Phase 2 CONSERV 1 and CONSERV 2 trials. This decision does not impact the 2010 R & D cost guidance announced by the company in January 2010 as the guidance did not include costs for potential development of CB-500,929 beyond the CONSERV trials... Given the decision by Cubist to end its development of CB-500,929, Cubist intends to terminate the 2008 agreement with Dyax under which Cubist in-licensed development and commercialization rights to CB-500,929 for surgical indications in the U.S. and the EU in accordance with the terms of the agreement.

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