to benefit from a rising demand for its products, and it has a strong price-to-earnings ratio.
Holt’s final selection is Cemex (NYSE: CX), the world’s third largest producer of cement. Headquartered in Mexico, Cemex has production facilities in various countries in Latin America, North America, Asia, and Africa. “As the global economy continues to recover, Cemex is expected to be a major beneficiary as demand and prices for cement and cement-related products rise,” says Holt. He says Cemex could generate $400 million to $500 million a year in free cash flow that can be used to pay down debt.
Ron Holt’s Private Screening Picks
|
Company |
Price* |
Estimated |
Est. 5-Yr. |
Why Stock Will Outperform |
| Kookmin Bank (NYSE: KB) |
$39.87 | 4.27 | 5.89 | This South Korean bank has a strong credit card and mortgage business. |
| Canon (NYSE: CAJ) |
$50.11 | 2.85 | 12.70 | This Japanese manufacturer of cameras and office products consistently delivers positive shareholder returns. |
| DBS Group Holdings (OTCBB: DBSDY) |
$33.50 | N/A | N/A | This Singapore bank’s credit rating strength should help it capitalize on growth in Asia. |
| Cemex (NYSE: CX) |
$28.37 | 2.91 | 3.05 | This Mexico-based cement maker will benefit as global recovery continues and new construction ramps up. |
| *STOCK PRICES AS OF MARCH 26, 2004. SOURCES: ZACKS INVESTMENT RESEARCH; YAHOO! FINANCE. | ||||