Monday PowerRatings Upgrades: AMGN, HNZ, SAP, IBM

A diverse group of stocks were upgraded today. Every sector from food, computers to biotechnology hit the upgrade screen list today. There were four stocks that jumped from an 8 to a 9 Long Term Power Rating and 3 stocks that were promoted from a 7 to an 8 rating. Stocks with an 8, 9 or 10 rating have been clearly shown to outperform the market over a year time frame. Specifically, our studies indicate that stocks with a Long Term Power Rating of 9 possess a 79.1% chance of being higher one year later, and those with a 10 rating have a 81% chance of increased value one year later. Building a portfolio of 9 and 10-rated stocks has proven to be a wise long term investment per our studies. However, its important to keep in mind that there is no guarantee of future performance.

Here are several stocks that made the upgrade list today:

Amgen Inc (AMGN | Quote | Chart | News | PowerRating) - This venerable biotechnology company was upgraded from an 8 to a 9 rating. It is heartily outperforming its sector that has a 7 rating. Earnings have increased by 2%, Revenue by 1% and Full Year Revenue Guidance was raised from $14.2 billion to $14.6-14.9 billion. The CEO stated that the first 6 months of 2008 showed stability and they are very pleased with the outcome of various tests on new drug products. Technically, the stock has broken out of a base formed in April, May, and June and a nice uptrend has been in place since July.

HJ Heinz (HNZ | Quote | Chart | News | PowerRating) - The Pittsburgh based, world famous maker of Ketchup and other food products, was just promoted from an 8 to a 9 Long Term Power Rating. It has outpacing its sector that has a rating of 8. In May the company increased its dividends by 9.2% and announced record sales of over $10 billion. Technically, the stock is performing quite well in light of the positive fundamental news. It has been in a steady uptrend since February, 2008 and looks poised for additional gains.

International Business Machines (IBM | Quote | Chart | News | PowerRating) - The computer giant just jumped from an 8 to a 9 Long Term Power Rating. The sector only has a 5 rating, so IBM is clearly outpacing its brethren. The company is constantly expanding and innovating to keep up with the ever changing technology world. It has been in a steady uptrend in 2008 and price has increased over 20% this year. Expansion and success into emerging markets appears to be the prime driver for this sector leader.

Sap Ag Ads (SAP | Quote | Chart | News | PowerRating) - This business computer software concern has been upgraded from a 7 to an 8 rating. It's slightly lagging its sector which is rated a 9. Revenues and Earnings have been in a steadily increasing uptrend since 2003. Technically, price has also been in an uptrend since February, 2008. They are well accepted in India, China and Europe winning various employer accolades.

Learn what you need to know as an active investor looking to invest in companies with a history of financial strength and a track record for growth. Click the link above or call us at 888-484-8220 extension 1 to get your copy of the "5 Secrets to Successful Stock Investing" today!

David Goodboy is Vice President of Marketing for a New York City based multi-strategy fund.