Topics covered: Volatility, Traditionally defensive areas, The price of oil, Specialization, Risk-adjusted opportunities, Quality stocks, Patent expiration issues, Operating costs, Innovative management, In-house research, Flexibility, Development of new and improving products, Deal activity, Business models, Budgetary pressures, Asset Allocation
Topics covered: Transportation costs, The unemployment rate, The fashion component, Strong brand equity, Store closings, Social networking sites, Shopping habits, Reduced global demand, Promotions and markdowns, Profitable growth, Product diversification, Operating structure, M&A activities, Inventory levels, Different technologies, Capital expenditures, Big vacancy rates in malls, Bankruptcies
Topics covered: Unemployment impact on breakfast/lunch fare, Strongest brands, Store level margins under pressure, Stocks to worry about, Stock picks, Stock buybacks, Outlook for commodity prices, M&A Activity, Investor interest, Good and bad concepts, Generation Y consumers, Food inflation, Focus on value, Fast food growth, Demographic trends, Decline in casual dining demand, Debt covenant ratios, Bar & grill operators, Aggressive promotions
Topics covered: The weak economic environment, Sector constraints, Potential price appreciation, Management changes, Industry peer pressure, Historical performance, Growth Prospects, Growing populations, Financially strong companies, Controlling volatility, Cash flow stability, Branding strength, Balance sheet strength
