Kraft Foods Group (KRFT)

[Ksmail]

Calculating your cost basis for any Kraft shares you might have sold in '07?

Check out this link
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_is_the_cost_basis_for_the_Altria_spin_off_of_Kraft

This helped me out a lot!

[NovoMira]

Sector Snap: Food Makers Gain Modestly

Wednesday March 19

Shares of Food Makers Mainly Rise After General Mills Report; JPMorgan Cuts Kraft, Sara Lee

NEW YORK (AP) -- Shares of food makers mostly rose in midday trading Wednesday, helped by a strong profit report from General Mills Inc. The General Mills largely overshadowed a pair of ratings cuts from JPMorgan analyst Pablo Zuanic. Zuanic lowered his rating on both Sara Lee Corp. and Kraft Foods Inc. to "Neutral" from "Overweight."

Investors seemed nonplussed by the Kraft downgrade, sending shares 13 cents higher to $30.69 in late morning trading.

But the cut at Sara Lee appeared to elicit some investor concern. Shares fell 30 cents, or 2.3 percent, to $12.96. In a note to investors, Zuanic said Sara Lee's turnaround was taking longer than expected. Zuanic said the economic slowdown -- characterized by a cutback in consumer spending -- would make it difficult for the company to pass on higher costs by raising retail prices. Sara Lee, like all food makers, has been struggling with higher ingredient costs. Grain costs, in particular, have soared due to demand for corn used to make the alternative fuel ethanol.

At Kraft, Zuanic said a recovery in profit margins could also take longer than the company predicted, due to the higher cost of commodities, including cheese.

The higher commodity costs haven't proved to be a drain on profits at all food makers. General Mills reported its third quarter profit surged 61 percent due, partly, to higher retail prices meant to offset the ingredient price hikes. Strong demand for the company's products also lifted sales and profit. "With sales growth of 9 percent this quarter, the strong sales momentum is increasingly being generated by price/mix realization -- the combination of new product growth and pricing to offset input cost inflation," said Stifel Nicolaus & Co. analyst Christopher Growe in a client note. General Mills shares rose $1.51, or 2.6 percent, to $59.71.

Elsewhere in the sector, shares of Kellogg Co. rose 51 cents to $51.65, while shares of ConAgra Foods Inc. climbed 32 cents to $22.22.

[NovoMira]

From Motley Fool re dividend stocks...

Excerpt: (link to complete article below)

First place? The stock we love to hate: Altria. Over nearly 50 years, this beleaguered company averaged a 19.8% yearly return. Those extra few points add up -- to a whopping $4.6 million, from an original $1,000 investment!

I still hate Altria, although its spinoff Kraft Foods (NYSE: KFT) is a recommendation in my Income Investor newsletter. But I can't help loving Altria's math -- and aggressively seeking the same kind of returns for my subscribers.


http://www.fool.com/investing/dividends-income/2008/03/18/a-dividend-stock-that-will-set-you-for-life.aspx

[NovoMira]

KFT Appears Attractive

Thursday March 13
By Steven Ralston, CFA
Zacks.com

Kraft Foods, Inc. (NYSE: KFT) completed its sustainable growth plan, which included capacity rationalization, SKU reduction, and cost savings programs; however, the results were unsatisfactory. Therefore, in February 2007, management announced a new turnaround strategy to revitalize the company's growth. Concurrent with the announcement, the Board approved a significant $5 billion share repurchase program. The new strategy has generated a significant turnaround in organic revenue growth.

In mid-February 2008, Berkshire Hathaway (BRKA) disclosed that it owns an 8.6% stake in Kraft Foods. Management has increased its focus on brand- building and new product initiatives, which have resulted in constant currency revenue growth of 5.1% in 2007.

With Kraft having been spun-off from Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE: MO) in March 2007, Kraft's management has become more focused on the company's operational challenges. In order to strengthen the company's presence in various categories and to enhance the company's position in both developed and developing markets, Kraft has acquired several of companies. Additionally, management has focused the portfolio of brands through divestitures.

In February 2007, management announced the three-year Turnaround Plan in order to revitalize the company's growth. In 2007, the program enabled the company to generate organic revenue growth of 3.6%, 4.1%, 6.2%, and 6.2% in first, second, third, and fourth quarters, respectively. This is the best organic top-line growth generated by the company since 2001.

Kraft Foods generates strong cash flow that allows management to re-invest in the company and return value to shareholders. Since the company's IPO in 2001, management has increased dividend more than 12% on a compound annual basis. Prior to June 13, 2001, Kraft was wholly owned by Altria (formerly known as Philip Morris). Since the stock offering in 2001, the current Kraft stock has traded between a 13 to 22 P/E multiple.

With the turnaround in organic revenue growth and positive earnings comparisons expected to begin with the second quarter of 2008, the stock appears attractive. The Buy recommendation is maintained. The target price of $38.50 is based on a 20 P/E on this year's earning estimate of $1.93.

[NovoMira]

Kraft raises prices on well-known coffees

Tuesday March 4

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Kraft Foods Inc (NYSE:KFT ) raised list prices on some of its Maxwell House and Yuban coffees, citing climbing green coffee prices, spokeswoman Bridget MacConnell said on Tuesday.

The price hike will be 20 cents per 11- to 13-ounce cans on select Maxwell House and Yuban coffees, effective immediately, MacConnell said.

Select instant coffee was increased by 3 cents per ounce, she said.

MacConnell said the increase was due to the significant increase in the cost of green coffee.

The increase followed Procter & Gamble's (NYSE:PG) hike in Dunkin' Donuts and some Folgers coffees prices, due to higher green coffee prices, on Monday.

Massimo Zanetti Beverage USA also increased the list prices of its well-known coffee brands like Chock Full o'Nuts on the same day.

[NovoMira]

Kraft Foods Declares Regular Dividend

Friday February 22, 5:47 pm ET

Kraft Foods Declares Regular Quarterly Dividend of 27 Cents Per Share

NORTHFIELD, Ill. (AP) -- Food and beverage company Kraft Foods Inc. said Friday its board declared a regular quarterly dividend of 27 cents per share.

The dividend is payable April 4 to shareholders of record March 14.

[NovoMira]

Food stocks rally on Heinz, Buffett news

Fri Feb 15, 2008 3:20pm EST
By Brad Dorfman

CHICAGO (Reuters) - Food company shares regained a bit of their defensive luster on Friday when several showed they still have pricing power in the weak economy on the same day that investor Warren Buffett disclosed an 8.6 percent stake in the largest company in the sector.

On Friday, ketchup maker H.J. Heinz Co (HNZ.N:) forecast quarterly profit above expectations and Hormel Foods Corp (HRL.N:) posted higher-than-expected quarterly profit. Both benefited from price increases that helped offset rising commodity costs, though lower pork prices also aided Hormel.

Even Campbell Soup Co (CPB.N:), which missed analysts' estimates for its fiscal second quarter, on Friday reported improvement in its U.S. soup business and said it should benefit from price increases it took in February.

Friday's reports came a day after Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway Inc (BRKa.N:)(BRKb.N:) disclosed it had taken an 8.6 percent stake in Kraft, making it the largest shareholder in the North American food company. "I think there's a bit of a halo effect that comes with any announcement of Buffett taking a position in any security and how it ripples through the sector," Matthew Kaufler, portfolio manager at Clover Capital Management, said. Clover owns 670,596 Kraft shares and 364,576 Heinz shares.

The Standard & Poor's packaged foods index rose more than 3 percent on Friday to its highest level in almost a month. Food stocks, traditionally considered defensive plays when the economy slows as people always need to eat, had been battered over the past two months by soaring prices for wheat, cocoa and other commodities. Adding to those cost pressures was concern that U.S. consumers would begin to balk at the price increases being used to offset some commodities' costs. "We clearly know that we need to try to continue to advance pricing to try to keep up with these cost increases," Jeffrey Ettinger, Hormel's chief executive, said in an interview with Reuters. He added that the company has not seen consumers balking at the prices in grocery stores.

Hormel said profit rose to $88.2 million, or 64 cents a share, in the first quarter ended on January 27, from $75.3 million, or 54 cents a share, a year earlier, on an 8 percent sales increase. Analysts on average forecast 58 cents a share, according to Reuters Estimates.

Ettinger did say that the company's food service business saw some softness as consumers eat out less often.

NOT SO BAD

Food companies are counting on consumers who eat out less to buy more of the company's products in the grocery store. "I would urge you to go out and tell all your neighbors that this (Campbell soup) is the perfect recession food," Douglas Conant, Campbell chief executive, said during a conference call with analysts.

Campbell profit fell to $274 million, or 71 cents a share, in the fiscal second quarter ended January 27, from $285 million, or 72 cents, a year earlier, despite a 7 percent sales hike. Excluding one-time items, earnings were 69 cents a share, compared with the average analyst expectation of 71 cents, according to Reuters Estimates.

Still, Campbell shares rose 6 percent on Friday as a 4 percent increase in U.S. soup sales helped eased concerns about that business. The company also maintained its full-year earnings forecast. "It's almost like a relief rally that they didn't lower the bar." Matt Arnold, analyst at Edward Jones, said. Heinz said it expected profit of 67 cents to 68 cents a share in the third quarter ending January 30. Analysts on average were expecting 63 cents, according to Reuters Estimates.

Heinz shares rose 4 percent and Hormel and Kraft were both up more than 5 percent.

[NovoMira]

Stock Dividend Yields That Beat Bonds

By JOHANNA BENNETT

IF YOU'RE LOOKING FOR YIELDS, forget about the bond market.

Certainly, Treasuries have traditionally been a haven from an ugly stock market. But after falling dramatically over the last year, yields look fashion-model thin, though nowhere near as attractive. At about 3.5%, the benchmark 10-year Treasury note has come within a half point of a five-year low.

But General Electric, Pfizer and other dividend-paying stocks with high yields and rising profits could provide a softer cushion, and better returns. "Outside of the financial sectors, there is strength in these stocks," says Howard Silverblatt, senior index analyst for Standard & Poor's.

Unlike bonds, stocks with steady and growing payouts have the potential for growing income that can keep pace with inflation. And at least through 2010, dividends are taxed at a top rate of just 15% instead of ordinary income rates for bonds.

Also, companies that grow or initiate dividends tend to outperform nondividend-paying stocks, creating a "very sound investment concept," says Judith Saryan, vice president and portfolio manager for Eaton Vance.

Certainly, 2007 was a rough year for dividend payments as financial and consumer-discretionary-goods companies suffered major meltdowns and share buybacks grew more popular with corporate boards. Last year, 5.7% fewer companies tracked by S&P raised their dividend payments compared to 2006. Also, the number of companies that cut or suspended dividend payments climbed in 2007.

Still, 60% of the Standard & Poor's 500 hiked their dividends last year. And in 2008, dividend payments are expected to climb 9.3%. "It's hard to find a board that will raise a dividend if the company is in trouble," says Rick Helm, manager of the Cohen & Steers Dividend Value Fund.

Smart investors, however, look for more than high yields. A company needs the financial muscle to hold up those annual payments. So experts interviewed by Barron's Online suggest picking names with growing businesses, growing profits and growing dividends.

Standard & Poor's identified 352 companies that boosted their cash dividend payments over each of the last 10 years. With Silverblatt's help, Barron's Online whittled the list down to a more manageable 17 stocks by looking for: market values of at least $1 billion; stock prices that have fallen less than 20%; and dividend yields of at least 3.5%.

We also looked for names boasting a historic dividend-growth rate that's about twice the current rate of inflation (2%, based on the Federal Reserve's favored measure) and are expected to increase profits in 2008 at 6% or better.

Surprisingly, some well-liked names didn't make the list, including AT&T and Altria Group, which spun off Kraft Foods last year. The tobacco giant pays a 4.1% dividend yield, while Kraft pays a 3.5% yield. But the latter's spinoff technically resulted in a reduced payout for Altria holders, though investors who held on to both stocks weren't affected. "Altria should be on a list of good dividend-growing names," says Eaton Vance's Saryan, adding that the company's dividend could grow 10% annually over the next decade.

Also off the list -- all of the big Wall Street investment banks.

Still, some large Canadian banks did make the cut, including Royal Bank of Canada and Bank of Nova Scotia. "The Canadian banks are good quality companies with lots of cash flow, and they have not gotten sucked into the subprime mortgage mess," Saryan adds.

For the list compiled by Barron's Online:

http://online.barrons.com/article/SB120119851187713885.html?mod=yahoobarrons&ru=yahoo

[NovoMira]

NEW YORK (AP) -- Wheat prices surged above $10 a bushel for the first time ever Monday amid concerns that strong demand globally could result in a grain shortage in the United States next year -- worsening food price inflation.

Other commodities markets mostly declined, with energy, other agricultural futures and metals moving lower.

Wheat supplies in the U.S. have dwindled this year as one wheat crop after another around the world has been damaged by poor weather, most recently in Australia and Argentina. That has sent buyers scrambling for stockpiles at any cost. U.S. wheat exporters already have sold more than 90 percent of the 1.175 billion bushels the U.S. Department of Agriculture expects will be exported during the whole marketing year, which ends in June 2008.

Wheat prices crossing the $10 a bushel threshold won't immediately translate into a spike in retail prices for bread, cereal, cookies and other products, experts say. That due partly because companies like Kellogg Co., General Mills Inc., ConAgra Foods Inc. and Kraft Foods Inc. typically protect themselves from price volatility with long-term supply contracts. But analysts say consumers should expect that higher wheat prices will eventually work their way into the grocery aisle.

[NovoMira]

Well, it doesn't appear to have hurt the pps too much...they're down only twelve cents.

But look at MO go!

Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

[EZ2]

I think this will be reset sometime soon.

There are more business pieces that will
be hitting the market ---- just not sure
what the timeline will be ie. lots of "TOES"
in the water right now.

Keep in mind they were previously riding
the coattails of Altria also.

[NovoMira]

Uh Oh...did you see this, EZ?

Fitch Downgrades Kraft Food's Ratings

Friday November 16

Fitch Lowers Kraft Food's Long-Term Ratings As It Sells Post Cereals to Ralcorp

CHICAGO (AP) -- Fitch Ratings on Friday downgraded Kraft Food Inc.'s long-term ratings a day after the company agreed to sell its two dozen Post cereals to Ralcorp Holdings Inc.

The ratings agency lowered Kraft's investment grade long-term issuer default, senior unsecured debt and credit facility rating by one notch to 'BBB' from 'BBB+.' The ratings outlook is stable.

Fitch said the downgrade reflects Kraft's debt-financed acquisition of Group Danone SA's cookie and cereal snack division announced in July for $7.8 billion coupled with the limited amount of near-term debt reduction as a result of the Post cereals transaction. "While this debt reduction is viewed positively, it does not materially improve Kraft's credit metric," Fitch said.

As of Sept. 30, Kraft's total debt is $13.5 billion. That figure is expected to rise to $20 billion following the closing of the transactions.

Fitch also warned that debt could rise slightly as Kraft completes the remaining $2 billion of its $5 billion share repurchase program during the rest of 2007 and 2008.

Shares of Kraft fell 22 cents to $32.15 in morning trading.

[NovoMira]

Of course you are, ;)

Is it over, EZ? Market closed?

Thank you, thank you...now I can enjoy the rest of the day.

BTW, talk about irresponsible statements (me) what was that Wells Fargo idiot talking about? Perhaps he wasn't around in the late 80's and early 90's, eh?

[EZ2]

MO-->KFT-->RAH......"am I diversified" ?.....

[EZ2]

Icahn Bought Genzyme, Harrah's Stakes
Thursday November 15, 9:20 am ET
Icahn Purchased Stakes in Genzyme, Harrah's, Children's Place, Sold Kraft and Clear Channel


NEW YORK (AP) -- Billionaire investor Carl Icahn acquired stakes in Genzyme Corp., Harrah's Entertainment Inc. and sold his interest in Kraft Foods Inc. and Clear Channel Communications Inc., according to third-quarter regulatory filings on Wednesday.

In the Securities and Exchange Commission report, Icahn and Icahn Capital Management LP reported additional new stakes in video game publisher Take-Two Interactive Software Inc. and Children's Place Retail Stores Inc.

Also during the third quarter, Icahn acquired stakes in several medical companies, including biopharmaceutical company MGI Pharma Inc., medical device maker Cyberonics Inc., biotechnology company Acorda Therapeutics Inc. and Applera Corp., which makes life-sciences research equipment.

The financier acquired an interest in Canadian gas and oil producer Compton Petroleum Corp. and sold his stake in Canadian oil and gas company Talisman Energy Inc.

Icahn also sold his holding in oil-drilling contractor Pride International Inc. and payment processor Global Payments Inc.

He no longer owns shares of aluminum producers Alcoa Inc. or Alcan Inc. Alcan is in the process of being acquired by global mining giant Rio Tinto Ltd.

The activist investor significantly increased his stakes in business software maker BEA Systems Inc., cell phone maker Motorola Inc., independent oil and gas company Anadarko Petroleum Corp., department store Macy's Inc. and biopharmaceutical company Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc.

During the quarter, Icahn reduced his stakes in packaging and paper company MeadWestvaco Corp. and contract drilling services provider Rowan Cos.

[EZ2]

no sorry....I don't follow it.

And, I saw your earlier msg. --- but,
got busy and forgot it !

me bad!!

[OptionMonster]

NTRZ's quarterly was absolutely AWFUL! Did you see it?

[EZ2]

Kraft Shedding Post Cereals Business



Thursday November 15, 7:57 AM EST


ST. LOUIS (AP) — Private-label cereal maker Ralcorp Holdings Inc. said Thursday it will purchase Kraft Foods Inc.'s Post cereals unit, the nation's third largest with brands like Spoon Size Shredded Wheat and Post Raisin Bran.

The companies said the deal includes stock valued at $1.65 billion and that Ralcorp will also assume $950 million in debt, making the total deal worth about $2.6 billion.

Under terms of the deal, Kraft will first split off or spin off Post and its related assets to Kraft shareholders.

The Post cereals business would then be combined with Ralcorp. Kraft shareholders would own about 54 percent of the new Ralcorp when the deal is complete, with Ralcorp shareholders owning about 46 percent.

The Post cereal business generated 2006 sales of $1.1 billion. Its brands also include Honey Bunches of Oats, Pebbles, Post Selects and Grape Nuts.



"This is a transforming event for Ralcorp," said David P. Skarie, co-chief executive officer and president of Ralcorp, who will be responsible for Post after the transaction is closed.

"The addition of Post cereals gives Ralcorp a truly distinctive line of branded cereal products plus a branded infrastructure and platform that we can build on through organic growth and acquisitions,"

He said Post's existing marketing and sales support team will continue to be based in New Jersey, and its existing R&D team will continue to be located in Battle Creek, Mich.

Northfield, Ill.-based Kraft said the deal allows it to better focus on its own growth strategy.

The transaction will boost Ralcorp's 2007 sales by 50 percent to $3.3 billion a year from $2.2 billion, with Post cereals accounting for about 32 percent of total annual sales.

The deal is expected to close in mid-2008, subject to regulatory and Ralcorp shareholder approvals. Kraft will provide transition services for up to 18 months after closing.

The expanded Ralcorp will include the Post cereal manufacturing plants in Battle Creek, Mich.; Jonesboro, Ark.; Modesto, Calif.; and Niagara Falls in Canada. Ralcorp will retain employees at these facilities.

[OptionMonster]

Hey EZ..What do you think...NTRZ going to show something decent on the 14th??

[EZ2]

EU approves Kraft's buy of Danone biscuit unit
Fri Nov 9, 2007 9:45am EST
BRUSSELS, Nov 9 (Reuters) - Kraft Food Inc (KFT.N: Quote, Profile, Research), the world's biggest cookie maker, won conditional permission from EU regulators to buy the biscuits and cereal snack unit of France's Danone (DANO.PA: Quote, Profile, Research) for 5.3 billion euros ($7.8 billion).

"The (European) Commission's decision is conditional upon the divestiture of a range of Spanish biscuit brands, a plant in Spain and a Hungarian chocolate bar brand," the European Union executive body said in a statement on Friday.

The transaction involving Danone's biscuit division, which includes the LU, Prince and Tuc brands, will give U.S. food giant Kraft a stronger foothold in Europe and in emerging markets.

It will allow Danone to focus on the health range in its fast-growing dairy and drinks business, pay off some 2.9 billion euros of debt and raise cash for possible acquisitions.

Danone and Kraft, maker of Oreo and Chips Ahoy! cookies, Philadelphia cheese and Milka and Cote d'Or chocolate, had expected the deal could be finalised in the last quarter of 2007.

To address the Commission's doubts as to the compatibility of the proposed transaction with the EU single market, Kraft made the commitment to divest a range of Spanish biscuit brands, such as Artiach, Chiquilin, Filipinos and Marba Dorada and one of its production plants in Spain, the Commission said.

With regards to Hungary, Kraft undertook to divest the Balaton brand. After market testing these commitments, the Commission concluded that they would be suitable to remedy the doubts. (Reporting by David Lawsky/Huw Jones, editing by Dale Hudson)

[EZ2]

Kraft in deal with Peltz's Trian
Wed Nov 7, 2007 7:20pm EST
By Brad Dorfman

CHICAGO (Reuters) - Kraft Foods Inc (KFT.N: Quote, Profile, Research) on Wednesday struck a deal with activist investor Nelson Peltz, adding two board members nominated by his Trian Partners and avoiding a potential proxy battle.

Kraft said Trian, which holds a roughly 2.4 percent stake in the food company and has reportedly been lobbying for changes for several months, agreed to support Kraft's board of directors' full list of nominees at its next two annual meetings.

In return, the maker of Oreo cookies, Oscar Mayer meats and dozens of other brands named Lois Juliber, retired vice chairman of Colgate-Palmolive Co (CL.N: Quote, Profile, Research), and Frank Zarb, managing director of private equity firm Hellman & Friedman LLC, to its board, expanding the number of directors to 11 from nine.

"It means they probably didn't want a very public fight," Gregg Warren, analyst at Morningstar, said of Kraft's decision. "If you don't want to have a fight with them, you might as well have them on the board."

Last year, H.J. Heinz Co (HNZ.N: Quote, Profile, Research) waged an acrimonious, costly proxy battle with Peltz and Trian, only to see Trian win two of the five seats it sought on the board.

Peltz's Trian Fund has pushed for Kraft to jettison unsuccessful brands and find better uses for its cash, a source said in late June.

Earlier this week, the Wall Street Journal reported that Kraft was close to an agreement to sell its Post cereals business to Ralcorp Holdings Inc (RAH.N: Quote, Profile, Research) for $2.8 billion.

Kraft declined comment on that report, but Chairman and Chief Executive Irene Rosenfeld has said the company, which has sold some businesses in recent years, would consider other divestitures.

Kraft said Zarb and Juliber were selected by the company . and supported for nomination by Trian.

"Trian Partners has developed a positive relationship in recent months with Irene Rosenfeld," a Trian spokeswoman said. "We support Ms. Rosenfeld's previously announced initiatives to further enhance performance. Given Kraft's terrific portfolio of brands, Trian believes there are numerous opportunities to continue to enhance shareholder value."

Up until this year, Kraft was somewhat insulated from the pressure of outside investors because most of its stock was owned by Altria Group Inc (MO.N: Quote, Profile, Research), analyst Warren noted, but Altria spun off Kraft in March.

"Now, it's not the same story and the last thing she (Rosenfeld) wants is somebody rankling up the masses, in this case, the money managers and institutions who own the stock," he said.

Kraft shares closed at $33.33 Wednesday, down 6 cents on the New York Stock Exchange.

(Additional reporting by Nichola Groom)

[EZ2]

Hellman & Friedman's Zarb to join Kraft's board
Wednesday November 7, 6:15 pm ET


Kraft Foods Inc. said Wednesday that its adding Frank Zarb, managing director of San Francisco private equity firm Hellman & Friedman, to the company's board.
Kraft (NYSE: KFT), based in Northfield, Ill., is also adding Lois Juliber, retired vice chairman and chief operating officer of Colgate-Palmolive Co. (NYSE: CL), to its board.

The expansion of the board to 11 members with the addition of the two independent directors was done with the approval of Nelson Peltz and his investment funds, which own about 3 percent of the food conglomerate. Kraft has been unloading slow growth brands in an effort to reinvest in faster growing segments of the food business.

Kraft also said that Peltz and his affiliated funds have signed a standstill agreement with the company, as a result of the decision to appoint the two new directors.

"Lois is known for her global perspective and deep understanding of both food and consumer products, and Frank has tremendous expertise in financial services and capital markets," said Irene Rosenfeld, Kraft's chairman and CEO.

In addition to his role at Hellman & Friedman, Zarb is a director of American International Group Inc. (NYSE: AIG) and non-executive chairman of the Promontory Financial Group. Previously, he was chairman and CEO of NASD Inc. and The Nasdaq Stock Market Inc. Prior to that, he held top executive positions with insurance brokerage firm Alexander & Alexander Services Inc.; the Travelers Cos.; and Smith Barney.

Published November 7, 2007 by San Francisco Business Times

[NovoMira]

Ralcorp shares up after reports of near deal with Kraft Foods

Monday November 5, 12:08 pm ET

Ralcorp Holdings Inc.'s shares jumped more than 6 percent in mid-morning trading amidst reports that the company is close to acquiring Kraft Foods' Post cereal division for about $2.8 billion.

A Ralcorp spokesman did not immediately return calls seeking comment Monday.

Ralcorp's shares were up $3.39 to $58.58 in morning trading Monday.

St. Louis-based Ralcorp Holdings Inc. (NYSE: RAH) manufactures private label food products, including frozen bakery products, cereals, crackers, cookies, dressings, syrups, jellies, sauces, snack nuts and candy.

[EZ2]

Kraft Said Near Deal to Sell Post
Monday November 5, 9:30 am ET
Report Says Kraft Is Nearing Deal to Sell Its Post Cereal Business for About $2.8B

NORTHFIELD, Ill. (AP) -- Shares of Kraft Foods Inc. edged up in premarket trading Monday after a published report said the nation's biggest food and beverage maker was nearing a deal to sell its Post cereal division for about $2.8 billion.

Kraft, the No. 3 U.S. cereal maker, has nearly two dozen cereal labels, including Shredded Wheat, Grape-Nuts and Alpha-Bits.

Citing unidentified sources "familiar with the matter," The Wall Street Journal reported Monday that the Northfield-based company was planning to sell its cereal brands to St. Louis-based Ralcorp Holdings Inc., which makes private-label cereals and foods.

Representatives from both Kraft and Ralcorp did not immediately return calls seeking comment Monday.

Kraft CEO Irene Rosenfeld, who took the helm of the struggling company a year ago, has launched a massive turnaround effort aimed at revitalizing sales of the company's brands, which include household names such as Maxwell House, Kool-Aid and Oscar Mayer.

As part of an effort to better focus its portfolio, Kraft sold its hot cereal business, including its popular Cream of Wheat products, to a subsidiary of B&G Foods Inc. for $200 million in January. Last month, it sold its Fruit2O water and Veryfine beverage brands to Sunny Delight Beverages Co. for an undisclosed sum.

Last year, Kraft sold its Minute Rice brand and Milk-Bone pet snacks.

Kraft doesn't break out sales of Post cereals, but the company's snack and cereal segment earned $829 million last year on sales of nearly $6.7 billion.

The Journal reported a cereal sale would likely be a stock-based deal that would involve a spinning off the cereal business and then later merging it with Ralcorp.

Kraft shares rose 3 cents to $33.85 in premarket trading Monday.

http://www.kraft.com

[EZ2]

Kraft. The sale of the food giant’s Post cereals business is nearing completion. The WSJ is reporting that Kraft is close to selling Post to Ralcorp Holdings for $2.8 billion. The deal is part of Kraft CEO Irene Rosenfeld’s push to rid the firm of slow-growing assets.

[OptionMonster]

I like ACF at this level..P/E is sickly low!

[EZ2]

Bargains in financial-service stocks don't include Citigroup

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MarketWatch
09:37 a.m. 11/02/2007 By MarketWatch


BOSTON (MarketWatch) -- Fund manager Don Yacktman says that investors can find some tremendous values within the financial-services sector, but noted that not every company that has been in the headlines is worth buying.

In a radio interview with Chuck Jaffe, MarketWatch senior columnist, Yacktman -- manager of the Yacktman fund (YACKX) and Yacktman Focus fund (YAFFX) -- noted that he sees tremendous value in AmeriCredit and Freddie Mac but that he would get out of Citigroup.

Yacktman is buying AmeriCredit (ACF) despite the fact that the company has dropped nearly 50% of its value this year. The same applies to Freddie Mac (FRE) But Yacktman says that issues at Citigroup (C), where some observers worry that a dividend cut could be in the offing, make it a sell.

Yacktman, who uses a deep-value approach in his funds, suggested that Google (GOOG) and Medco Health Systems (MHS) both qualify as good companies but bad stocks based on current valuations. Despite liking the businesses, Yacktman put a sell recommendation on both of those issues.

On the buy side, Yacktman recommended Wal-Mart (WMT) and Kraft Foods (KFT) and put a hold rating on Sears Holdings (SHLD) .

Listen to the highlights of Your Money with Chuck Jaffe.

Jaffe's radio show regularly features expert reviews of stocks and mutual funds suggested by MarketWatch readers; to request a stock or mutual fund for review, send your name, hometown and the ticker symbols that interest you toChuck Jaffe.

[EZ2]

Kraft Sues P&G Over Coffee Cans
Thursday November 1, 1:18 pm ET
Kraft Sues P&G Over Use of Coffee Cans for Folger's


MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- Kraft Foods Inc. has filed a lawsuit against The Procter & Gamble Co. related to its use of a plastic container for its Folger's coffee brand.
In the suit, Kraft alleges that a plastic container for the brand infringes on Kraft's patents in use with its Maxwell House brand.


The case was filed Monday in U.S. District Court in the Western District of Wisconsin.

Kraft is seeking unspecified damages. The Northfield, Ill.-based company also wants P&G to stop sales of the Folger's plastic coffee container, saying Kraft will be harmed if those sales continue.

The suit follows one filed by P&G against Kraft on Aug. 27 in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California in San Francisco. In that case, Cincinnati-based P&G sought a similar patent infringement ruling involving a different patent that it alleges Kraft uses in plastic containers for Maxwell House.

That case also sought unspecified damages and an injunction to prevent Kraft from selling the coffee in the packaging.

But a judge last month granted Kraft's motion to put that case on hold pending a review of the patent.

Kraft spokeswoman Renee Zahery said the company is constantly monitoring for patent violations.

"We enforce our rights where necessary and appropriate," she said in an e-mail.

A spokesman for P&G did not immediately return a message left seeking comment.

Procter & Gamble Co.: http://www.pg.com

Kraft Foods Inc.: http://www.kraft.com

[OptionMonster]

Sorry about the name change..lol..That could do it!

[EZ2]

<<yur confusin' me w/ that ID change>>

And, this might get your price target !!!!

S&P Warns It May Downgrade Kraft Foods
Thursday November 1, 11:30 am ET
S&P Puts Kraft Foods Credit Ratings on Watch for a Possible Downgrade Due to Dairy Costs


NEW YORK (AP) -- Standard & Poor's Ratings Services on Thursday warned it may lower its credit ratings on food maker Kraft Foods Inc. after the company's third-quarter profit sank 20 percent, partly due to high dairy costs.

S&P said it has placed the company's ratings on CreditWatch with negative implications, meaning the service could either lower the ratings or affirm them after completing a review of the company.

S&P noted that the company's margins will likely remained pressured through the fourth quarter and into 2008 by higher commodity costs, particularly for dairy. Dairy costs have skyrocketed due to international demand for milk and higher animal feed costs. Animal feed is made from corn, which has risen to record levels due to demand for the alternative fuel ethanol. Corn is also used to make the fuel.

S&P also noted that the Northfield, Ill., company has been buying back its stock; weighted average shares outstanding declined 4.4 percent year over year during the quarter.

"Credit measures have weakened beyond our prior expectations from higher commodity costs, particularly dairy, and higher debt levels to fund Kraft's more aggressive share repurchase activity," said Standard & Poor's credit analyst Alison Sullivan.

She added that if the ratings were downgraded, they would likely drop one notch.

The company had about $13.5 billion total debt outstanding at quarter-end.

Kraft hold an "A" , or investment grade, corporate credit rating and an "A-1" commercial paper rating.

Kraft shares fell 34 cents to $33.07 in morning trading.

[EZ2]

not at all ----- sorry!

[OptionMonster]

EZ do you follow ACF at all? I am thinking it is pretty close to a bottom now

[EZ2]

I'm always wrong on this stuff....but, I would say "slim" !

“Our business momentum continued to build in the third quarter,” said Irene Rosenfeld, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “Although we face a difficult input cost environment, we are making the necessary investments to strengthen our brand equity. These investments are driving accelerated volume growth despite having taken significant price increases. I remain confident that we are on track to deliver the volume growth and product mix that will improve market share performance and profit margins in 2008.”

[OptionMonster]

lol..What do you think the chances are we can add more under $30?

[EZ2]

You're reading my mind ------ I'll bet
Irene's butt is itching this morning !!!

:)

[OptionMonster]

Well that is not going to make Mr. Buffet very happy!

[EZ2]

Kraft Foods 3Q Profit Drops
Wednesday October 31, 7:24 am ET
Kraft Foods 3rd-Quarter Profit Falls 20 Percent on Year-Ago Gain, Investments, Dairy Costs

NORTHBROOK, Ill. (AP) -- Food maker Kraft Foods Inc. said Wednesday its third quarter profit fell 20 percent due to a one-time gain in the year-ago quarter, investments in new products and high dairy costs.

For the quarter ended Sept. 30, net income fell to $596 million, or 38 cents per share, from $748 million, or 45 cents per share in the prior year quarter.

Kraft said the results included asset impairments and charges of 6 cents per share. Excluding the charges, the company earned 44 cents per share.

Analysts polled by Thomson Financial expected earnings per share of 42 cents.

Kraft said a one-time gain of 9 cents per share in the 2006 third quarter contributed to the decline it reported in this year's period.

The company also said investments in new products, product quality and marketing plus higher costs for dairy hurt profit. The company's cost of sales rose 14 percent and marketing and research costs jumped 8 percent.

Revenue rose 10 percent to $9.05 billion from $8.24 billion in the third quarter of 2006. Analysts predicted revenue of $8.68 billion.

Kraft also maintained its outlook for 2007 earnings per share of $1.60 to $1.62, or $1.80 to $1.82 excluding items.

[NovoMira]

Earnings Preview: Kraft Foods Inc.

Monday October 29, 4:51 pm ET
Analyst Expects Kraft Foods' International Sales to Help Boost Overall 3rd Quarter Revenue

NEW YORK (AP) -- Kraft Foods Inc. reports earnings for the fiscal third quarter on Wednesday. The following is a summary of key developments and analyst opinion related to the period.

OVERVIEW: Food maker Kraft Foods began its third quarter in July by offering to pay $7.2 billion in cash to buy the cookie and cereal division of French food company Groupe Danone SA. The deal allows Kraft, who has been attempting to turn around its slumping sales, a bigger international foothold. The offer led credit ratings agency Standard & Poor's Ratings Services to revise its outlook on the food maker to "negative" from "stable."

S&P predicted the transaction will increase the company's leverage, and said the ratings could be lowered if Kraft's financial policy becomes more aggressive, or if credit measures deteriorate. Danone took the whole of the quarter to consider the offer, and the companies reached a final agreement Monday.

In August, Kraft's chief financial officer, James Dollive, said he would retire this fall. The company appointed Timothy McLevish, 52, the CFO for industrial equipment manufacturer Ingersoll-Rand Co., to the post, as of Oct. 1.

Also during the month, Kraft faced a lawsuit filed by consumer product company Procter & Gamble Co. The suit charged that a new plastic container for Kraft's Maxwell House coffee brand infringes on patents for P&G 's Folgers coffee container.

BY THE NUMBERS: Kraft has not offered any guidance for the quarter. Analysts polled by Thomson Financial expect earnings of 42 cents per share on sales of $8.68 billion.

ANALYST TAKE: Citigroup analyst David Driscoll said in a note to investors that Kraft's international sales should help boost revenue about 6 percent overall.

In the company's U.S. business, however, sales may only grow about 2 percent.

Driscoll called Kraft's U.S. retail sales trends "sluggish, with Kraft continuing to lose market share in several of its key categories."

Kraft's recent decision to raise prices to help offset higher commodity costs, though, may help boost revenue and protect margins in the U.S., he added.

WHATS AHEAD: Kraft expects earnings per share between $1.60 and $1.62 in 2007, or between $1.80 and $1.82, excluding one-time charges and gains.

STOCK PERFORMANCE: Shares fell about 2 percent during the quarter and are down about 6.7 percent for the year. Shares closed Monday at $32.98.

[EZ2]

Press Release Source: Kraft Foods Inc.

Kraft Foods Signs Agreement with Groupe Danone to Acquire Global Biscuit Business
Monday October 29, 1:01 pm ET
Agreement Subject to Final Regulatory Approvals Anticipated by Year End

NORTHFIELD, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Kraft Foods Inc. (NYSE: KFT - News) today announced that it has signed final agreements to acquire the global biscuit business of Groupe Danone (NYSE: DA - News) for €5.3 billion in cash subject to purchase price adjustments. This follows the announcement of Kraft’s offer in July which, according to French law, was subject to consultation with Danone’s works councils. The recent conclusion of these consultations has allowed the Danone Board of Directors to approve the transaction and both parties to sign the final sale agreement.

Completion of the transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including approval of regulatory authorities in the countries concerned and the European Commission. Both companies anticipate that the transaction will close by the end of the year.

Kraft Foods (NYSE: KFT - News) is one of the world's largest food and beverage companies, with annual revenues of more than $34 billion. For over 100 years, Kraft has offered consumers delicious and wholesome foods that fit the way they live. Kraft markets a broad portfolio of iconic brands in 155 countries, including seven brands with revenue of more than $1 billion, such as Kraft cheeses, dinners and dressings; Oscar Mayer meats; Philadelphia cream cheese; Post cereals; Nabisco cookies and crackers; Jacobs coffees and Milka chocolates. Kraft became a fully independent company on March 30, 2007, and is listed in the Standard & Poor's 100 and 500 indexes. The company is a member of the Dow Jones Sustainability Index and the Ethibel Sustainability Index. For more information, visit the company's website at http://www.kraft.com.


This press release contains a forward-looking statement regarding the proposed acquisition of the Danone biscuit business, including closing conditions and timing of closing. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted in the forward-looking statement. Such factors, include, but are not limited to risks related to regulatory or other delays. For additional information on these and other factors that could affect our forward-looking statement, see our filings with the SEC, including our most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent reports on Form 10-Q and 8-K. We disclaim and do not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement in this press release





Contact:
Kraft Foods Inc.
Media
Clare Regan
847-646-4538
[e-mail]
or
Richard Johnson
00 44 20 8580 2402
[e-mail]
or
Investors
Chris Jakubik
847-646-5494
[e-mail]

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: Kraft Foods Inc.

[EZ2]

Sector Snap: Food Makers
Monday October 29, 12:02 pm ET
Food Maker Shares Dip on Kellogg 3rd-Quarter Sales, 2008 Profit Outlook


NEW YORK (AP) -- Shares of food makers fell Monday after cereal and snack maker Kellogg Co. warned its fiscal 2008 profit may miss Wall Street analysts' estimates due to inflation and higher costs.
Before the market opened, Kellogg said its profit grew 9 percent in the third quarter. The profit beat analysts estimates by 3 cents per share, according to a poll by Thomson Financial.

But Kellogg also said it would earn between $2.92 and $2.97 per share in 2008, below the $3.04 per share analysts are expecting for the fiscal year.

Kellogg blamed investments in innovation, upfront costs, increased advertising and inflation for the expected miss.

Shares of the company fell $1.98, or 3.6 percent to $52.46 in late morning trading.

J.P. Morgan analyst Pablo E. Zuanic said in addition to the 2008 guidance, investors may be reacting to the company's sales results. Although sales grew 6 percent in the quarter, Zuanic said in a note to investors that he was looking for sales growth of about 8 percent.

Morgan Stanley analyst Vincent Andrews called the results "good, but not great." In a client note, Andrews said he was impressed with the company's ability to increase its advertising and brand-building efforts despite rising costs.

All food companies have been struggling with higher costs for fuel and commodities like produce, dairy and cheese. Prices have gone up for most commodities due to a litany of causes, including crop disease, unfavorable weather and international demand. Demand for the alternative fuel ethanol has also led to higher corn prices, tempting some farmers to switch to that grain from less profitable ones. That, in turn, has restricted supply of crops like soybeans and led to higher prices there as well.

Investors will likely review the earnings results of Kraft Foods Inc. when it reports Wednesday to see how commodity inflation has affected its results.

Kraft shares fell 61 cents to $32.69 in late morning trading.

Elsewhere in the sector, General Mills Inc. shares dipped 55 cents to $57.17 while Campbell Soup Co. shares slipped 9 cents to $36.38. Sara Lee Corp. shares fell 6 cents to $16.12 and ConAgra Foods Inc. shares dropped 3 cents to $23.79.

[EZ2]

KFT ~~~ Press Release Source: Kraft Foods Inc.

Kraft Foods Appoints Mary Beth West as Chief Marketing Officer
Monday October 29, 11:35 am ET

NORTHFIELD, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Kraft Foods Inc. (NYSE: KFT - News) announced today that Mary Beth West has been appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), effective immediately. West, a 21-year Kraft veteran, had been Group Vice President, Kraft Foods and President, North America Beverages, overseeing both coffee and refreshment beverage brands.

“Mary Beth brings to the CMO role a consumer-centric approach to business challenges, a passion for breakthrough marketing, and a long track record of success in building Kraft brands," said Irene Rosenfeld, Kraft Chairman and CEO. "She will be an excellent partner as she works with her team to enhance our marketing capabilities and works with our businesses to develop breakthrough marketing programs. I look forward to the contribution she'll make as CMO in helping to restore Kraft to reliable growth.”

In her new role, West will report to Rosenfeld and become a member of the Kraft Executive Team. As CMO, she is responsible for Consumer Insights & Strategy, Integrated Marketing Communications, Consumer Services, and Sustainability. West also will oversee the Tassimo hot beverage business on a global basis. She will be based at Kraft’s headquarters in Northfield, Ill.

Most recently, West engineered the switch to 100% Arabica coffee beans in a consumer preferred package on the Maxwell House brand. West guided Kraft's powdered beverages to a nearly 9% annual growth rate with double-digit gains in the “On the Go” single-serve, drink stick category because of continued innovations, such as adding functional benefits like antioxidants. She also helped revitalize the Tassimo brand domestically.

During her Kraft career, West has held a number of key marketing and business management positions. She served as Group Vice President and President, U.S. Grocery Sector; SVP and GM, Meals Division; VP, Marketing & Consumer Promotions; VP, Business Development North America; and Category Business Director, Jell-O gelatin. She began her career as Associate Product Manager on Maxwell House coffee in 1986.

West has an MBA in Marketing from Columbia University (1986) and a BS in Management from Nazareth College of Rochester (1984). She currently serves on the Board of Directors for J.C. Penney Co., Inc. and is a member of the Executive Leadership Council.

Kraft Foods (NYSE: KFT - News) is one of the world's largest food and beverage companies, with annual revenues of more than $34 billion. For over 100 years, Kraft has offered consumers delicious and wholesome foods that fit the way they live. Kraft markets a broad portfolio of iconic brands in 155 countries, including seven brands with revenue of more than $1 billion, such as Kraft cheeses, dinners and dressings; Oscar Mayer meats; Philadelphia cream cheese; Post cereals; Nabisco cookies and crackers; Jacobs coffees and Milka chocolates. Kraft became a fully independent company on March 30, 2007, and is listed in the Standard & Poor's 100 and 500 indexes. The company is a member of the Dow Jones Sustainability Index and the Ethibel Sustainability Index. For more information, visit the company's website at http://www.kraft.com.



Contact:
Kraft Foods Inc.
Media
Renee Zahery
847-646-4422
[e-mail]
or
Investors
Chris Jakubik
847-646-5494
[e-mail]

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: Kraft Foods Inc.

[EZ2]

Press Release Source: Kraft Foods Inc.


Company Profile for Kraft Foods Inc.
Friday October 26, 10:40 am ET


--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Kraft Foods is one of the world's largest food and beverage companies, with annual revenues of more than $34 billion. For over 100 years, Kraft has offered consumers delicious and wholesome foods that fit the way they live. Kraft markets a broad portfolio of iconic brands in 155 countries, including seven brands with revenue of more than $1 billion, such as Kraft cheeses, dinners and dressings; Oscar Mayer meats; Philadelphia cream cheese; Post cereals; Nabisco cookies and crackers; Jacobs coffees and Milka chocolates. Kraft became a fully independent company on March 30, 2007, and is listed in the Standard & Poor's 100 and 500 indexes. The company is a member of the Dow Jones Sustainability Index and the Ethibel Sustainability Index. For more information, visit the company's website at www.kraft.com. Company:
Kraft Foods Inc.

Headquarters Address:
Three Lakes Drive
Northfield, IL 60093

Main Telephone:
847-646-2000

Website:
http://www.kraft.com


Ticker:
KFT(NYSE)

Type of Organization:
Public

Industry:
Food/Beverage

Earnings Release Dates:
1st Quarter: April 18, 2007

2nd Quarter: August 1, 2007

3rd Quarter: October 31, 2007


Key Executives:
Chairman & CEO: Irene Rosenfeld

CFO: Timothy McLevish


Public Relations

Contact:
Corporate External Communications
Phone:
847-646-4538
Email:
[e-mail]






--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: Kraft Foods Inc.

[OptionMonster]

Nice! More REVS!

[EZ2]

food manufacturer delight ===== "increased margin" oppor. !!

Sector Snap: Food Makers
Tuesday October 23, 11:53 am ET
Citi Analyst Says Food Manufacturers May Need to Raise Prices Again in 2008


NEW YORK (AP) -- A Citi Investment Research analyst said Tuesday food manufacturers will need to raise retail prices again since food costs continue to skyrocket.
Analyst David Driscoll said in a note to investors that even though retail prices in the third quarter are already 5 percent higher year over year, commodities have "picked up speed" over the past six months. The price of wheat, for example, has jumped 66 percent during that time period and dairy costs have risen 58 percent. Coffee costs have also gone up 13 percent, he said.

Costs are higher due to a number of reasons, including crop disease, weather conditions, animal feed costs and a rise in international demand for commodities.

Most food companies have already raised prices and a number of them, including Hershey Co., Campbell Soup Co. and ConAgra Foods Inc., have said retail prices could go even higher in fiscal 2008.

Driscoll said the rising costs indicate that those companies are on the right path and that "further pricing increases on the part of the large branded food manufacturers is likely needed."

The analyst downgraded shares of Kellogg Co. to "Hold" from "Buy," saying the company's shares could be harmed if margins begin to drop -- a risk since Kellogg does not have a lot of commodity hedges in place. Most companies use hedging, or the process of negotiating a set price for a commodity, to avoid volatility or price increases on the open market.

Driscoll added that he believes Kellogg's shares are now fairly valued.

Kellogg shares advanced 18 to $54.02 in midday trading.

Driscoll said gum and food maker William Wrigley Jr. Co. may be "the biggest beneficiary from the current inflationary environment" since the company's retail prices are up nearly 15 percent over the 12 weeks ended Oct. 6. Plus, he said, Wrigley does not have any significant exposure to major agricultural commodities like wheat, corn and dairy.

Wrigley shares slipped 86 cents to $66.74.

Elsewhere in the sector, H.J. Heinz Co. shares retreated 30 cents to $46.07, while ConAgra Foods shares dipped 33 cents to $23.49.

Kraft Foods Inc. shares rose 15 cents to $32.83 and Campbell Soup shares gave up 3 cents to $35.78.

Hershey shares, meanwhile, slipped 8 cents to $42.08.

[EZ2]

Long extended weekend for me at reunion w/
Marine Corp buddies.

I am in MAJOR LEAGUE "ketchup" phase right now....
but, I appreciate the heads-up!!

EZ

[OptionMonster]

See my Atari board? They just had more news this morning!

[EZ2]

SPOT ON !!!

[OptionMonster]

Great thing about these down markets EZ..Creates so many opps to add to great positions like this!

[EZ2]

KFT ~~ Press Release Source: Kraft Foods

Kraft Foods to Host Webcast/Conference Call on Third-Quarter Results Wednesday October 17, 1:00 pm ET

NORTHFIELD, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Kraft Foods Inc. (NYSE: KFT - News) will host a live audio webcast at www.kraft.com on Wednesday, October 31, 2007, at 8 a.m. EDT to discuss third-quarter financial results, which will be issued at approximately 7:05 a.m. EDT the same day. The webcast will be in listen-only mode.

Investors and analysts may participate via conference call by dialing [phone] in the United States and [phone] from outside the United States. To ensure access to the conference call, please plan to dial in at least 10 minutes before the call starts. A rebroadcast will be available until November 7, 2007 by calling [phone] in the United States and [phone] from outside the United States. The PIN number for both the conference call and its archived rebroadcast is 9293373.

An archive of the webcast will be available for one year in the Investors section of the company's web site, www.kraft.com.

About Kraft Foods

Kraft Foods (NYSE: KFT - News) is one of the world's largest food and beverage companies, with annual revenues of more than $34 billion. For over 100 years, Kraft has offered consumers delicious and wholesome foods that fit the way they live. Kraft markets a broad portfolio of iconic brands in 155 countries, including seven brands with revenue of more than $1 billion, such as Kraft cheeses, dinners and dressings; Oscar Mayer meats; Philadelphia cream cheese; Post cereals; Nabisco cookies and crackers; Jacobs coffees and Milka chocolates. Kraft became a fully independent company on March 30, 2007, and is listed in the Standard & Poor's 100 and 500 indexes. The company is a member of the Dow Jones Sustainability Index and the Ethibel Sustainability Index. For more information, visit the company's website at www.kraft.com.



Contact:
Kraft Foods
Media:
Claire Regan
847-646-4538
[e-mail]
or
Investors:
Chris Jakubik
847-646-5494
[e-mail]

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: Kraft Foods

[EZ2]

how ironic.....just like he was reading my POST!!!

Stockpickr
Top 10 'Powerful Women' Stocks
By James Altucher
RealMoney.com Contributor
10/11/2007 10:36 AM EDT
URL: http://www.thestreet.com/newsanalysis/stockpickr/10383848.html

Forbes recently released its list of the world's 100 most powerful women. Many of the women who made the magazine's list are CEOs of publicly traded companies, and of the top 20 women, 10 are the CEOs of stocks that trade in the U.S.


Stockpickr has sorted through the Forbes list and compiled the top 10 stocks of these powerful women.

At the top of the Forbes list is PepsiCo's (PEP) CEO, Indra Nooyi, who was ranked No. 5 by the magazine. Pepsi was just downgraded by Standard & Poor's from buy to hold, due to its strong price rise making it fairly valued. However, the soda-maker stock is a favorite of Jim Cramer's. The stock has a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 20, a P/E-to-growth (PEG) ratio of 1.9 and a yield of 2%.

Pepsi is part of the Cramer Recession Stocks portfolio, which lists the stocks that he believes have the potential to perform well during a recession. Other stocks in the portfolio include MedcoHealth Solutions (MHS) , which has a P/E of 29 and a PEG of 1.5, and Procter & Gamble (PG) , which offers a P/E of 23 and a PEG of 1.8.

Another female CEO to make the Forbes list is Patricia Woertz, who ranks No. 8. Woertz is the chief exec of Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) . Due to a drop in ethanol prices, the company is shifting its production of corn from biofuel to corn syrup and other products. The stock has a P/E of 10 and a PEG of 1.5. It also pays a yield of 1.4%.

ADM is in the portfolio of Moore Capital, a $10 billion group of hedge funds whose Moore Global Investments fund has generated an average annual return of 24% since 1990. Moore also owns Dell (DELL) , which sports a forward P/E of 16 and a PEG of 1.6, as well as Apex Silver Mines (SIL) , which has a forward P/E of 8.

The CEO for Kraft Foods (KFT) is Irene Rosenfeld, who ranks No. 9 on the Forbes list. The conglomerate last week announced plans to break up its five North American business sectors into eight units: beverages, cheese, pizza, snacks and cereals, Oscar Mayer, food service, grocery and Canada. Kraft has a P/E of 20, a PEG of 2.5 and a 3.1% yield.

Kraft is one of the stocks owned by Nelson Peltz, noted turnaround investor, takeover engineer and activist shareholder. His hedge fund, Trian, generated a return of 37% last year. Peltz also owns stakes in a couple of other food-related companies including Cadbury Schweppes (CSG) , which has a P/E of 24, a PEG of 4.8 and a yield of 2.4%, as well as HJ Heinz (HNZ) , which offers a P/E of 19, a PEG of 2.4 and a yield of 3.3%.

To see the entire list of the 10 stocks inspired by the Forbes list, check out the Top Powerful Women Stocks at Stockpickr.com.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
At the time of publication, Altucher and/or his fund had no positions in stocks mentioned, although positions may change at any time.

James Altucher is president of Stockpickr LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of TheStreet.com and part of its network of Web properties, and a managing partner at Formula Capital, an alternative asset management firm that runs a fund of hedge funds. He is also a weekly columnist for The Financial Times and the author of Trade Like a Hedge Fund, Trade Like Warren Buffett and SuperCa$h. Under no circumstances does the information in this column represent a recommendation to buy or sell stocks. Altucher appreciates your feedback; click here to send him an email.

TheStreet.com has a revenue-sharing relationship with Trader's Library under which it receives a portion of the revenue from purchases by customers directed there from TheStreet.com.