Gaining More Confidence on the Economy

In an April blog, we talked about how we liked the industrial stocks, and in particular, Illinois Tool Works (ITW). Yesterday, management came out with some positive comments for their May results. They are guiding the low end of street estimates upward ($.74 to $.80) for the 2nd quarter. There have been some doubters out there for a less than robust 2nd quarter earnings season but it looks like economic strength will continue. Company reported accelerated revenue growth in all 8 reporting segments. the top 3 were transportation, industrial packaging, polymers and fluids. Stock is off 11% from it’s high of $47 and is a good buying opportunity in here.