Although we don't believe in timing the market or panicking over market movements, we do like to keep an eye on big changes -- just in case they're material to our investing thesis.
What: Shares of generator-maker Generac (GNRC 2.37%) were looking brighter today, gaining as much as 13% after coasting past first-quarter estimates.
So what: One of the market's favorite stocks in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, Generac turned in an encore performance with its second strong quarter in a row. Adjusted earnings per share came in at $1.21, well ahead of the analyst consensus at $0.96, and nearly triple the $0.44 it brought in a year ago. CEO Aaron Jagdfeld said that chronic underinvestment in the electric grid as well as an aging, electricity-dependent population, and severe weather, continue to favor the company going forward. Generac also announced plans to disburse a special $5.00 cash dividend by the end of June, though that is contingent on a new debt facility.
Now what: CEO Jagdfeld hit the nail right on the head with his synopsis of the generator market. An aging and neglected electrical grid, and the increased likelihood of Sandy-like storms make Generac look like a solid bet. The stock has nearly doubled since September, and I wouldn't be surprised to see it move higher.
Keep an eye on Generac by adding the company to your Watchlist here.
