"I have owned IFMX."
I thought I remembered your insight a while back. I should note that I am a true long term investor, so perhaps my comments will pose a conflict with your investment strategies.
"I've owned BRKS since the high teens, many, many shares, and I have traded many semi equipment stocks over the past 2-3 years. SFAM stands out as a dog among them."
I ahve done well with several equip stocks too, including BRKS. My portfolio is substantially weighted in this area, so the past month is an advertisement for diversification. Too bad I can't spell it all that well. :o) From this long term investor's perspective, the Asian flu and SFAM's lack of speed in integrating IPEC gave AMAT a window and gorilla-d their way through. Having said that, SFAM is by far undervalued. As with IFMX way back at sub 5 (and even now at 10ish), the Street is in "show me" mode. Technically, their tools are very competitive and they are getting significant wins and follow ons - Samsung, Silterra and Intel. Can't give you the intermediate perspective, but if you hold for 12 months, you will be rewarded IMHO.
"any idea when earnings (or non-earnings) will be announced?"
Their fourth quarter ends something like June 4thish, and with it being end of the year, results won't be announced probably until mid-to late July. I expect the Street will start upping their estimates close to the earnings announcement (pre or post) assuming no major changes in the global economy. So, the real run probably wont start until after AMAT's earnings at the earliest.
Hope spring has hit Buffalo....SemiBull |