Although we don't believe in timing the market or panicking over daily movements, we do like to keep an eye on market changes -- just in case they're material to our investing thesis.
For years, stock market investors have been able to count on China to provide more than its share of economic growth to help bolster the global economy. But today, news of a possible contraction in manufacturing activity in China sent stocks tumbling, with the Dow falling to its worst level in 2014. Still, even amid the bearishness in the overall market, Netflix (NFLX -9.10%), Fusion-io (FIO.DL), and Logitech International (LOGI -1.04%) all soared higher today on company-specific news that gave investors confidence that they should be able to overcome any adverse macroeconomic factors.
Netflix climbed 16% after releasing its fourth-quarter results last night. Netflix added 2.3 million new subscribers domestically, and 1.7 million more in its international markets, helping to send its earnings per share above the top of the company's previously projected range. Favorable guidance for the current quarter also heartened shareholders of the streaming-video specialist, making them willing to send the stock higher despite its expensive valuation on an earnings-multiple basis. In addition, Netflix appeared to be considering the possibility of imposing a price increase on its subscribers, potentially boosting its profit even further in the future.
Fusion-io gained almost 14% after its own favorable earnings report yesterday. The company posted a narrower loss than expected, with revenue exceeding expectations despite falling almost 22% from year-ago levels. The stock even overcame somewhat troubling guidance, with Fusion-io's call for, at best, slight gains in revenue in the current quarter likely representing a shortfall compared to investors' current expectations. Given the opportunities in the solid-state storage market, Fusion-io definitely has the capacity to keep rising, but it still needs to demonstrate a lasting competitive advantage in a cutthroat industry.
Logitech soared 23% after the maker of computer accessories reversed a year-ago loss by posting earnings per share of $0.30. Within its retail growth categories, Logitech saw a massive 62% jump in revenue, with tablet-accessories sales almost doubling, and strong growth in audio and PC-gaming products, as well. The company also boosted its guidance for the full 2014 fiscal year, raising revenue estimates by almost $100 million, and boosting adjusted operating income guidance by $20 million to $25 million. Shareholders are definitely pleased with the way that Logitech has capitalized on the rising demand for mobile devices, and the future looks bright for the stock, as well.
