Looks like some momentum comming into ELBO (Being a value investor, I've got a problem hanging on for the climax) Best Regards, Mad2 From Thompson's online market comments; ELBO -- Electronics Stores -- Services 14-Aug-01 11:15:37 Electronics Boutique (ELBO) is benefiting this morning from a collection of positive analyst reports, adding 9.3% on heavy volume. Last night, Banc of America upped its rating on the stock to a "Buy" from a "Market Performer," establishing a target price of $37. "There may only be one certainty in today's volatile retail environment and that is that young men are buying video games," B of A said. This morning, Merrill Lynch initiated coverage on ELBO with a "Buy" rating, citing the company's above- average growth potential, limited GDP risk, promising video game market cycle, and limited competitive exposure. Lastly, Credit Suisse First Boston kicked off coverage on the stock this morning with a "Buy" rating, mentioning similar strengths. ELBO is trading up $2.85 at $34, pulling back slightly from a morning high of $34.50 as traders take profits. Volume has soared to 875k shares, or more than double its 400k share-daily average. That said, a diminutive 6% of the activity stems from block trades so far, as traders try to preserve liquidity. Additionally, much of today's action is related to short-term traders, which has reduced the amount of block action. Much of today's gains are likely related to short- covering, as holders cover their positions on today's 9% gain. ELBO has a short interest ratio of 8.1, well above the industry average of 4.4. In the near-term, a key technical indicator on the upside for ELBO is its July 13 all-time high of $36.24. If the stock crests this level, short-term breakout traders may push the issue higher. However, ELBO will have a tough time sustaining a longer-term rally unless the "big money" also climbs on board. |