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Why FutureFuel Corp. Shares Flew

By Brian Pacampara – Mar 18, 2014 at 7:00AM

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Is this meaningful or just another movement?

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 chemical and biofuels manufacturer FutureFuel (FF -1.09%) soared 20% on Tuesday after its quarterly results impressed Wall Street.

So what: The stock has rallied in recent months optimism over accelerating growth, and today's strong Q4 results -- net income spiked 327% on revenue growth of 68% -- only reinforce those good vibes. In fact, adjusted operating margin for the quarter clocked in at 22.4% versus just 8% in the year-ago period, suggesting that FutureFuel's competitive position and cost structure are improving as well.

Now what: Don't expect the operating momentum to slow anytime soon. "We are committed to improve and position our company for future growth both organically as well coupled with strategic acquisitions when appropriate," said President Lee Mikles. "We strive to be very shareholder aware with our continued dividend policy paired with an exceptionally strong balance sheet." Of course, with the stock now off about 20% from its 52-week highs, that short-term uncertainty might be providing patient biotech-savvy Fools with a juicy entry point.

Brian Pacampara has no position in any stocks mentioned, and neither does The Motley Fool. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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