CHICAGO, April 10, 2014 /PRNewswire/ --Zacks.com announces the list of stocks featured in the Analyst Blog. Every day the Zacks Equity Research analysts discuss the latest news and events impacting stocks and the financial markets. Stocks recently featured in the blog include the Ingram Micro (NYSE:IM-Free Report), Salesforce.com (NYSE:CRM-Free Report), VMware (NYSE:VMW-Free Report), AVG Technologies (NYSE:AVG-Free Report) and Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ-Free Report).
Today, Zacks is promoting its 'Buy' stock recommendations. Get #1Stock of the Day pick for free.
Here are highlights from Wednesday's Analyst Blog:
Ingram Micro Expands Cloud Services
Ingram Micro (NYSE:IM-Free Report) has introduced its Cloud Marketplace on a global platform through which channel partners and professionals can avail the required cloud services. First launched in North America, the Cloud Marketplace generated a huge response which prompted the company to launch it globally.
The Ingram Micro Cloud Marketplace has more than 200 cloud-based solutions from over 70 vendors, which include Salesforce.com (NYSE:CRM-Free Report), VMware (NYSE:VMW-Free Report) and AVG Technologies (NYSE:AVG-Free Report). The company has added several cloud service providers such as Charter, Logix and Softlayer to expand its cloud-based offerings.
Ingram Micro's initiative comes at an opportune moment as cost benefits of cloud computing are compelling the companies to engage in massive information technology restructuring and upgrades.
According to the latest study by IHS Inc., spending on cloud-based services should surge almost three times and reach $235 billion in 2017 from $78.2 billion in 2011. We expect this to work in favor of distributors like Ingram.
Separately, Ingram Micro has been gaining from increased orders from small & medium business (SMB) organizations in Europe, particularly in Germany and the U.K. Ingram is now targeting the SMB segment in a more comprehensive way, not just in Europe but across all regions.
Ingram Micro has been striking distribution deals with a number of original equipment manufacturers thus expanding its product portfolio. Moreover, Ingram Micro's exposure in cloud computing products is expected to remain its key growth driver.
Additionally, we believe that the improving IT spending trend will help Ingram to post better results going forward. Moreover, management's focus on the high-margin market and strategic acquisitions to grow market share is encouraging.
However, the company's significant exposure to Europe and its high debt burden are concerns, going forward.
Currently, Ingram has a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
Verizon Enhances LTE Coverage
Leading wireless provider, Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ-Free Report) has announced that it is enhancing 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) network coverage in Shapleigh, Maine. The company said customers in this area can now use 4G compatible devices to experience 4G services that offer 10 times faster speed than 3G networks.
Verizon has a strong foothold in the wireless business and continues to capture additional market share via robust deployment of the 4G LTE network. This leads to improved operating and capital efficiency. The company is leading the industry in terms of 4G deployment.
As of Dec 31, 2013, it covered 500 markets and more than 305 million people (nearly 99% of the total 3G network). We also appreciate the various strategic initiatives that the company has taken over the last couple of months. The company's new data plan - Share Everything - accounts for almost 46% of its post-paid account, representing 16.2 million users. Going forward, this plan is expected to boost the company's device adoption and usage resulting in a higher number of devices and revenue per account.
Verizon currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Today, Zacks is promoting its 'Buy' stock recommendations. Get #1Stock of the Day pick for free.
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