After spending more than a year at a less-than-impressive two-star rank, Ford
CAPS members like the progress that Ford has made in working its way through the financial crisis and believe it's on the right track for more profits. The company reported better-than-expected second-quarter earnings with profits in every geographic region, and even forecasts a profitable 2010 with a further increase in 2011. Along with U.S. peers General Motors and Chrysler, Ford started the third quarter with positive U.S. July sales gains, setting it apart from the declines at Japanese rivals Toyota
The Detroit carmaker also significantly reduced its debt in the quarter and expects to continue paying down more, which, along with its strong profits, earned it an upgraded credit rating from both Standard & Poor's and Fitch. Ford is also aiming to regain its investment grade rating in the next couple of years.
Ford is also working closely with parts suppliers like TRW and Johnson Controls
Investors also see good potential in Ford's shift to greener cars. While other carmakers are pushing into the electric vehicle space -- such as Tesla
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