Study Group: Swimming Pool Construction Experts

GLG News^SM Analyses by this Study Group's Leading Experts(?)

Crumbling U.S. Water Infrastructure is an Investment Opportunity

April 11, 2008

Analysis by:Jorge Fernandez, Principal,

Analysis of:US Water Pipelines Are Breaking | ap.google.com

This article points to an area of the water industry that will continue to enjoy positive dynamics. For the investor, the message is simple: companies selling water infrastructure-related products and services, like large pipes, large valves, inspection and repair services, water pipeline engineering and construction, etc., the future has a strong upside. The current housing crisis may hurt some municipalities' ability to fund some of these projects. However, in most cases, delaying them is difficult or impossible, specially when water service to customers is at stake. Further, a new Washington administration in 2009 will look at rebuilding infrastructure as a strong potential avenue to re-energize the economy and create jobs.

Best Buy remains best bet in consumer electronic sector

February 25, 2008

Analysis by:Mark Sussman, President and Chief Executive Officer,

Analysis of:Best Buy cuts '08 EPS outlook, shares fall | www.retailingtoday.com

-          Best Buy’s (BBY) initiative to facilitate the customers need for their consumer electronic needs with their “end to end” solution differentiates them from their major competitors and the big box stores in the CE sector.

TJX companies poised to continue success evidenced by their announced buy back of an additional $1 billion worth of their stock

February 21, 2008

Analysis by:Mark Sussman, President and Chief Executive Officer,

Analysis of:TJX profit jumps 47 pct on cost controls | www.businessweek.com

TJX is projecting a growth rate of 12% for the next 3 years. Given the leadership of CEO Carol Meyrowitz and the strong emphasis she gives to the merchandising of the assortments the company should easily be able to achieve this number. There has been a marked improvement in the trading up of in season designer labels aligned with the timely delivery of furnishings, shoes and accessories that is driving the customer into the T.J. Maxx and Marshall’s stores. These 2 divisions account for almost 70% of the top line sales accounting for over $11 billion in sales.

J.C. Penny American Living launch is impressive but timing may pose problems.

February 21, 2008

Analysis by:Mark Sussman, President and Chief Executive Officer,

Analysis of:JCPenney Announces Launch of American Living, Exclusive Lifestyle Brand | www.marketwatch.com

All the positives written in the article are pretty much on target. The American Living assortment across the classifications is quite impressive. The big problem is that the launch is coinciding with one of the worst economic downturns retail and the macro economy has experienced in the last 20 years.

Wal Marts top line sales divert attention away from underlying problems

February 20, 2008

Analysis by:Mark Sussman, President and Chief Executive Officer,

Analysis of:Wal-Mart: Fashioning a New Growth Track | www.businessweek.com

Wal – Mart (WMT) barely squeaked out January with a 0.5% comp. store increase. This result is rather dismal given their aggressive promotional activity in January. WMT stores showed a weaker gain than Sam’s club and the International Divisions, although they don’t reveal comp. store sales was up over 20% connoting that the domestic business is in distress.

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