Brian:
I think that there is a lot that has yet to be revealed to make your
report "complete". I believe that these items will paint the big picture
for all people to see. However, your challenge is to convince your
stock club based on what we currently know, and to make your purchase
at these levels...which I still consider to be a great value.
That said, I think that you should include the following items that I didn't
see in your report:
1. US Robotics: I feel that this a key customer that speaks volumes
for Franklin's technology. US Robotics, from what I understand,
continues to be the largest customer for Franklin's Dmark Channel
Banks. I would venture a guess that US Robotics may be approaching
anywhere between 75 and 100 units purchased to date. The
significance of these purchases is this: US Robotics makes
similar products to the Dmark (see US Robotic's Total Control).
A lot can be said by the company you keep....the association with
US Robotics speaks volumes. I think US Robotics can be
considered a "competitor" now....in the future....maybe an
ally (alliance)?
2. The Cyclone: make sure that you underscore the importance of
this item. Go back and reread the press release around Aug-Sept
of last year. Emphasis on cost savings as well as technology.
3. 800 service: There have been many posts concerning the
capacity that has been recently added. Make sure you go back
and understand the potential revenues from X no. of customers
on a monthly basis. A lot of people are projecting that this number
is approaching 20000.
4. 900 service has enormous potential as Vic as been telling us
all along. You might want to take a look at National Tech Team
to understand the potential there and make a comparison.
5. Forward thinking Internet solutions: Wireless and Satellite.
6. Raytheon Stars Program Air Traffic control upgrade: This program
is projected to last something like 10 years. If Franklin signs
a contract to supply Raytheon for Stars, we are looking at
substantial revenues from one of their "older" products for the
next 10 years.
Brain, there are so many things to consider in analyzing this investment.
The Web page and the recent news releases really say a lot.....a lot
of what I am saying is really included in this information.
But, as I said before, much can be said by the company you keep.
To me, this is bigger than the actual purchase of products....it is an
endorsement of technology by some of the heavy hitters in Internet
and Internet communications:.
US Robotics
Worldcom
GTE
Raytheon
WebTV
and all the rest of the Fortune 500 companies. These 5 are particularly
interesting, though, because they are either leaders in their field, or
upcoming inovative companies (WebTV)
My main reason in investing in this company and continuing to keep
the faith rests with the CEO of this company - Frank Peters. I am sure
Raleigh of Vic can give you a dissertation on this topic. But, I look at
his track record, where he came from (IBM), what he did 10 years ago,
and what he has accomplished in the past year. The infrastructure he
has built and the progress that has been made in the past year is
mind blowing. He has all of the bases covered for the future of
Internet communications. The man is savvy, a genius.
Well, sorry for the lengthy post. I could go on and on. I am sure
Raleigh and Vic could have done a better job, but just thought I would
outline some of my thoughts.
I think it would be prudent of you to get your report together as soon
as possible. I am convinced that Frank is holding a Poker hand with
5 Aces (dueces wild) and he is about to show his hand!
PS: Don't forget about the FNET IPO and what that will mean to
Franklin shareholders.
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