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The March 2008 WallStreet Resources newsletter
The Red Hot Fertilizer Industry March 2008
The United States fertilizer market is estimated to exceed $40 billion dollars annually and is comprised almost exclusively of synthetic chemistry1.
According to the Fertilizer Institute, average prices paid by U.S. farmers for the major fertilizer nutrients reached the highest level on record in January 2008, 130 percent higher than the January 2000 level. Fertilizer prices are being driven primarily by four factors: (1) global demand, (2) increased demand for corn and soy used in biofuel production, (3) higher transportation costs and (4) higher energy prices. In combination, this heightened demand for fertilizer coupled with soaring energy prices has created tight markets and higher prices.
Global Demand
Fertilizer is a worldwide commodity and the U.S. must compete with other buyers in the global marketplace. Fertilizers typically provide, in varying proportions, the three major plant nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium). Overall, global nitrogen demands grew by 14 percent, phosphate demand grew by 13 percent and potash demand grew by 19 percent from 2001 to 2006. China, India, and Brazil are the three largest contributors to the growth in world nutrient demand. As it stands, the U.S. is the largest importer of nitrogen (over 50 percent of its supply) and potash (over 90 percent of its supply) and the largest exporter of phosphate.
In addition, a weak dollar makes fertilizer more expensive for U.S. producers. Over the past few years, the value of the U.S. dollar has plummeted, increasing the costs of the imported goods. Because the U.S. now imports over half its nitrogen and over 90 percent of its potash, with most fertilizer materials priced in U.S. dollars, foreign producers have to raise the price of fertilizer in U.S. dollars to offset the fall in the value of the dollar to maintain the revenue they receive in local currency.
Biofuel Production
The U.S. fertilizer market is also being driven by the demand for biofuels such as ethanol. With crude oil hovering north of $100 per barrel and prices at the pump skyrocketing, biofuels
are considered to be a key alternative source. The annual capacity of the U.S. ethanol sector stood at 5.6 billion gallons in February 2007. Ethanol plants under construction are expected to add another 6.2 billion gallons of capacity. According to the USDA, U.S. ethanol production may reach 11 billion gallons by 2011. As the consumption and demand for ethanol is ramping up, demand for corn is rising accordingly and corn acreage is one of the largest consumers of nitrogen-based fertilizer.
According to a July 2007 article released by the Fertilizer Institute, farmers in the U.S. planted 92.9 million acres of corn, representing a 19% increase from the 78.3 million acres planted during the previous year, putting upward pressure on fertilizer demand and prices. Similar expansions are planned in other countries. Much of this will go toward the production of ethanol2.
Transportation Costs
Fertilizer transportation costs are increasing, whether by ocean freight, rail, or truck, driven by higher energy prices and other costs. According to the Fertilizer Institute, some of the other cost drivers include port congestion, escalating fuel costs, increased security requirements, and competition from other industries. Given that much of the fertilizer used domestically is imported from overseas, the product has likely taken each of the transportation modes in order to reach its destination, adding significant costs to the end consumer of the fertilizer.
Energy Prices
Natural gas is the main raw resource used to produce ammonia, which is the building block for all nitrogen fertilizers. It is estimated that 70-90 percent of the cost of manufacturing ammonia depends upon the price of natural gas. Due to the extreme price increases in natural gas, U.S. ammonia production costs have skyrocketed, rising 172 percent from fiscal year 1999 to fiscal year 2005.
Since 1999, twenty-five ammonia production facilities in the United States have closed permanently due to high natural gas prices, tight cost margins and environmental regulations. From 2000 to 2006, ammonia production declined 18 million tons to
10 million tons, representing a 44 percent decline. The deficit in nitrogen fertilizers during that time was filled with imported fertilizer. New production facilities are being built in China, the Middle East and the Caribbean. This is because these locations have access to substantially lower natural gas prices, and can therefore produce ammonia, ship it to the U.S. and sell it at a lower price than that of domestic producers. As long as U.S. natural gas prices remain at a substantial premium to world prices, the economic incentive to import nitrogen fertilizers and their major feedstock, ammonia, will be strong3.
As a result of the domestic ammonia production cutbacks, the U.S. fertilizer industry, which typically supplied 85 percent of farmers’ domestic nitrogen needs from the U.S. based production during the 1990s, now relies on net nitrogen imports for half of new nitrogen supplies. The U.S. imported approximately 57 percent of its nitrogen last year - compared to 31 percent in the 1999/2000 growing season4. The Caribbean island of Trinidad has an abundant supply of natural gas, and it manufactures anhydrous ammonia more cheaply than the U.S. Trinidad is expected to be this country’s largest supplier of anhydrous for some time to come, while other popular nitrogen fertilizers such as urea are imported from Russia and Eastern Europe.
While the U.S. is a major manufacturer and exporter of phosphates, supplies are becoming tight. If disruptions in the manufacture or distribution of these fertilizers materialize, then the probability of spot market price spikes increases. More than 90 percent of the potash fertilizer used in the U.S. is imported, the bulk of it from Canada but also some from Russia and the Congo. Given recent flooding that affected the production of potash, this also suggests supplies may be tight in 20085.
Organic Fertilizer Growth
Although organic fertilizer products represent only a tiny share
of the $40 billion U.S. fertilizer market, the trend is clear. Consumer demand for all things clean, green, and organic, including foods, hybrid automobiles, and other items, is growing at a rapid clip. Once considered a boutique product, organic fertilizers now find themselves in the unique situation of being less expensive than the petroleum based synthetics, and capable of performing at the same levels. Current pricing puts comparably based synthetics at more than twice the cost when application rates are equal.
Four years ago, Scotts Miracle-Gro (SMG), the world’s largest lawn products company, recognized the opportunity and added organic plant growing products under its Organic Choice brand. According to Keith Baeder, Vice President for marketing at Scotts Miracle-Gro’s growing media group, sales have “basically doubled every year from the start.”6 Scotts Miracle-Gro estimates the total organic lawn and garden market at $400 million, with fertilizers at $60 million7. This strong demand is providing a strong pipeline of business for small organic based companies like Advanced Growing Systems, Inc. (OTCBB:AGWS), Converted Organics, Inc. (NASDAQ:COIN), Griffin Land and Nurseries, Inc. (NASDAQ:GRIF), and Origin Agritech (NASDAQ:SEED).
Most organic manufacturers operate regionally, resulting in a fragmented market, with a diverse customer base and very few large national players, with Scotts and Perdue Farms Inc. being the exception to the rule. Buyers of organic fertilizer include grocers such as Whole Foods Market, Inc., golf courses and parks, small farms and home gardeners.
Organic fertilizer companies stress that their products offer a slow, consistent release of nutrients, which foster microbial life and is better for the soil. These companies also stress that the fertilizers’ lower levels of nitrogen reduce the risk of water contamination. Although there is still a fair amount of debate from critics over the benefits of organic fertilizer versus its synthetic peers, it appears that the demand for organic fertilizer products will remain strong.
In the United States, it is estimated that there are 30 million acres of lawn on which children and household pets play. The growing demand for organic fertilizer is driven largely by the harmful side effects from the chemicals in the synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides. According to experts, a healthy lawn created in good soil and topped with a thin layer of compost, manure, or other organic material forestalls the common weeds, bugs, and diseases. When problems do arise in the lawn, natural remedies exist8. If consumers are given the option of keeping their lawns almost completely weedless and lush without the use of toxic chemicals, an increasing number will chose to do so. Now that organic fertilizer alternatives are cheaper than synthetics, we believe that the opportunities for organic fertilizer producers are virtually limitless.
Although consumers of fertilizer are feeling the effect of rising prices, the fertilizer companies are beneficiaries of this strong market. The following are four examples of 52-week gains as of March 12, 2008:
Converted Organics (NASDAQ:COIN)
Potash Corporation (NYSE:POT)
Mosiac Company (NYSE:MOS)
CF Industries (NYSE:CF)
Those, along with Advanced Growing Systems, Agrium Chemicals, Origin Agritech, Scotts Miracle Gro Company, Terra Industries, Terra Nitrogen and others, make seeds and fertilizers used worldwide. According to U.S. News and World Report, the Market Vectors Agribusiness exchange-traded fund, which tracks the DAXglobal Agribusiness Index and includes machinery, fertilizer, livestock, and seed shares, is up more than 27 percent since its September launch.
Converted Organics (COIN) is a player in the embryonic organic fertilizer market, and it has seen its stock price soar from $2.25 a year ago to $12.20 as of March 10th, 2008. Advanced Growing Systems (AGWS), another young company in the organic fertilizer market, is quickly gaining traction and visibility with fertilizer sales growth exceeding 100% quarter-over-quarter.
Paul Silver
Managing Director of Research
Wall Street Resources, Inc.
psilver@wallstreetresources.net
Advanced Growing Systems (OTCBB:AGWS)
For more information on Advanced Growing Systems, Inc. (OTCBB:AGWS) Go to the following link:
http://www.wallstreetresources.net/advancedgrowing.asp
Chart Source: Big Charts.com www.bigcharts.com
http://www.wallstreetresources.net/pdf/nl/current_Newsletter.pdf
Obviously you were referring to this PR yesterday
Atlanta Landscape Contractors See Green
Thursday March 20, 8:00 am ET
ALPHARETTA, GA--(MARKET WIRE)--Mar 20, 2008 -- Organic Growing Systems, Inc., a subsidiary of Advanced Growing Systems, Inc. (OTC BB:AGWS.OB - News), has recently seen an influx of new landscape contractors as customers. A number of new contractors in the metro Atlanta area have begun to incorporate TOP Organic Fertilizer into their current landscaping practices. "Due to recent price increases in synthetic fertilizers coupled with the recent drought in Atlanta, Organic Fertilizer, long regarded as a premium alternative but not always budget friendly, has worked its way into the mainstream. We have been telling the story and pressing a lot of flesh locally and it seems our efforts are paying off," stated Marc Nichols, the Regional Sales Manager with Organic Growing Systems, Inc
Phil Sarros, President of Sarros Landscaping, states, "My customers were asking for an organic maintenance alternative, so I started using Top Organic Fertilizer. Not only were my customers elated, but I decided to only offer an organic maintenance plan because the fertilizer works so well. I've increased my margins and benefited the customer at the same time."
Mr. Nichols adds, "The benefits of these contractors using our product are likely to be lusher lawns, less water consumption, and an increased gross profit margin. Not to mention, this is an environmentally friendly product that is fully organic, sterile, replete with micro-nutrition and safe around children and pets."
Contractors are utilizing the TOP brand to add value with an organic product that is cost effective when compared directly to synthetic counterparts. Not only are they looking at the bottom line, they anticipate less warranty work resulting from sick or dying plant material. Because TOP Organic Fertilizer saves water through retention, plants and landscapes are able to thrive, even in times of reduced rainfall. Todd Guilmette, of Unique Environmental, commented, "It was an easy integration into a safe product that is good for the environment." Todd further stated, "Any way we can go from synthetic to organic, it's the responsible thing to do." Echoing his sentiments, Scott Reinblatt, of Big Blue Sky Landscaping, Inc., said, "It's an environmental drought solution which adds vigor and health for our landscapes and ornamentals. My clients are loving it." Jill Lovin, of Alex Smith Garden Design, LTD., adds, "We've incorporated this product for the environment and the drought. It doesn't leach, it's priced right, and we don't have to water it in. We're very excited about it."
The prices of synthetic fertilizers throughout the world have been on the rise to the tune of 200% in 2007 according to a report on Mongabay.com. Barry Ward, an Ohio State University Extension economist, predicts the average price of phosphorus fertilizers to increase 65% in 2008 from 2007 and potassium prices to increase 40% in 2008 from 2007 prices. With fertilizer prices increasing at such a dramatic pace, it has become difficult in many cases for contractors to quote fertilizer prices as hikes are happening so frequently. Prices for organic fertilizer for the most part have been stable due to the fact that they are not tied to commodities that have surged in demand. Some of the factors for which synthetic fertilizer prices have increased so drastically include the rise in prices of crude oil, demand from farmers seeking to maximize corn production for ethanol, higher energy and freight prices, increased demand for grain-fed meat in emerging markets, and increased use of natural gas as liquefied natural gas.
Mr. Nichols adds, "Organic fertilizer is poised to experience tremendous growth, due to a shift in the market that consists of consumers who are seeking a green alternative and prices of synthetic fertilizers outpacing a viable organic alternative. Atlanta is a green city in many ways and the recent reduction in rainfall makes organic fertilizer a logical and sustainable solution."
In order to receive regular updates on AGWS, please click on the following link: http://www.b2i.us/irpass.asp?BzID=1435&to=ea&s=0
About AGWS:
Advanced Growing Systems, Inc. ("AGSI" or the "Company"), founded in 2006, is the parent company of Organic Growing Systems, Inc. (a scientifically advanced Organic fertilizer manufacturer) and Advanced Nurseries, Inc. (a wholesale group of Commercial Nurseries located in the Southeastern US). AGSI is dedicated to providing its shareholders significant value and is directly involved in the $48 Billion fertilizer market and the $66 Billion Green Industry. For more information, please visit www.AGSIncorporated.com.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:
Statements about AGSI's future expectations, including future revenues and earnings, and all other statements in this press release other than historical facts are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and as the term is defined in the Private Litigation Reform Act of 1995. AGSI's actual results could differ materially from expected results. AGSI undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect subsequently occurring events or circumstances. Should events occur which materially affect any comments made within this objective; AGSI will appropriately inform the public.
Contact:
Institutional Advisor:
PMG Capital LLC
Paul M. Gozzo
Tel: 888-747-5397
Fax: 888-799-9741
pmgcapital@hotmail.com
Investor Relations:
Gerald Kieft or Ryan Audin
Wall Street Resources, Inc.
2646 SW Mapp Road, Suite 303
Palm City, Florida 34990
772-219-7525
AdvancedIR@wallstreetresources.net
http://www.wallstreetresources.net
Media Inquiries:
Laura Finlayson
Avalanche Strategic Communications
201-488-0049
laura@avalanchepr.com
http://biz.yahoo.com/iw/080320/0377619.html
Yes I did as well, they went down there last minute is what I was told...
Correct
FYI---The Baltia executive team is in Orlando right now at 25th Annual Conference for The International Society of Transport Aircraft Trading. From what I understand, they went there to get more ideas from others in the industry and possibly secure an aircraft purchase.
http://www.istat.org/Events/AnnualConference/tabid/91/Default.aspx
Checked on this. It is completely out of their hands. They resubmitted on February 15th to DOT. So it hasn't even been a month yet. We just have to wait...
Advanced Growing Systems, Inc. Makes the Jump to Trade on the Bulletin Board
Thursday February 28, 8:00 am ET
ALPHARETTA, GA--(MARKET WIRE)--Feb 28, 2008 -- Advanced Growing Systems, Inc. (Other OTC:AGWS.PK - News) has satisfied all the necessary requirements put forth by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (formerly NASD) to be quoted on the OTC Bulletin Board and began being quoted on the OTCBB February 27, 2008. Historically, the Company has only been quoted on the Pink Sheets under the same ticker.
Chief Executive Officer Chris Nichols released the following statement regarding Advanced Growing's move to the Bulletin Board, "Advanced Growing Systems' progression to the OTCBB is one of the many milestones we have achieved while continuing to drive shareholder value and develop company assets. We hope that this transition to the OTCBB platform will provide improved trading visibility to our investors and enhance the overall market efficiency of our stock. Advanced Growing Systems, Inc. will maintain its course to progress to a larger exchange as the company continues to establish its position in the fertilizer and wholesale nursery marketplace."
In order to receive regular updates on AGWS please click on the following link: http://www.b2i.us/irpass.asp?BzID=1435&to=ea&s=0.
About AGWS:
Advanced Growing Systems, Inc. ("AGSI" or the "Company"), founded in 2006, is the parent company of Organic Growing Systems, Inc. (a scientifically advanced Organic fertilizer manufacturer) and Advanced Nurseries, Inc. (a wholesale group of Commercial Nurseries located in the Southeastern US). AGSI is dedicated to providing its shareholders significant value and is directly involved in the $48 Billion fertilizer market and the $66 Billion Green Industry. For more information, please visit www.AGSIncorporated.com.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:
Statements about AGSI's future expectations, including future revenues and earnings, and all other statements in this press release other than historical facts are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and as the term is defined in the Private Litigation Reform Act of 1995. AGSI's actual results could differ materially from expected results. AGSI undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect subsequently occurring events or circumstances. Should events occur which materially affect any comments made within this objective; AGSI will appropriately inform the public.
Contact:
Contacts:
Institutional Advisor:
PMG Capital LLC
Paul M. Gozzo
Tel: 888-747-5397
Fax: 888-799-9741
pmgcapital@hotmail.com
Investor Relations:
Gerald Kieft
Ryan Audin
Wall Street Resources, Inc.
2646 SW Mapp Road, Suite 303
Palm City, Florida 34990
772-219-7525
AdvancedIR@wallstreetresources.net
http://www.wallstreetresources.net
Media Inquiries:
Laura Finlayson
Avalanche Strategic Communications
201-488-0049
laura@avalanchepr.com
Now that was funny;
Very nice news to see for COPI. Going to be a great year here!
Me too ericwright, just needs more volume but it should come when more people are made aware of this company. GLTA
Finally moved up off of the Pinks for AGWS. Waited for this for a long time! :)
February 28, 2008 - 8:00 AM EST
AGWS 0.35
Advanced Growing Systems, Inc. Makes the Jump to Trade on the Bulletin Board
Advanced Growing Systems, Inc. (OTCBB: AGWS) has satisfied all the necessary requirements put forth by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (formerly NASD) to be quoted on the OTC Bulletin Board and began being quoted on the OTCBB February 27, 2008. Historically, the Company has only been quoted on the Pink Sheets under the same ticker.
Chief Executive Officer Chris Nichols released the following statement regarding Advanced Growing's move to the Bulletin Board, "Advanced Growing Systems' progression to the OTCBB is one of the many milestones we have achieved while continuing to drive shareholder value and develop company assets. We hope that this transition to the OTCBB platform will provide improved trading visibility to our investors and enhance the overall market efficiency of our stock. Advanced Growing Systems, Inc. will maintain its course to progress to a larger exchange as the company continues to establish its position in the fertilizer and wholesale nursery marketplace."
In order to receive regular updates on AGWS please click on the following link: http://www.b2i.us/irpass.asp?BzID=1435&to=ea&s=0.
About AGWS:
Advanced Growing Systems, Inc. ("AGSI" or the "Company"), founded in 2006, is the parent company of Organic Growing Systems, Inc. (a scientifically advanced Organic fertilizer manufacturer) and Advanced Nurseries, Inc. (a wholesale group of Commercial Nurseries located in the Southeastern US). AGSI is dedicated to providing its shareholders significant value and is directly involved in the $48 Billion fertilizer market and the $66 Billion Green Industry. For more information, please visit www.AGSIncorporated.com.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:
Statements about AGSI's future expectations, including future revenues and earnings, and all other statements in this press release other than historical facts are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and as the term is defined in the Private Litigation Reform Act of 1995. AGSI's actual results could differ materially from expected results. AGSI undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect subsequently occurring events or circumstances. Should events occur which materially affect any comments made within this objective; AGSI will appropriately inform the public.
Contacts:
Institutional Advisor:
PMG Capital LLC
Paul M. Gozzo
Tel: 888-747-5397
Fax: 888-799-9741
pmgcapital@hotmail.com
Investor Relations:
Gerald Kieft
Ryan Audin
Wall Street Resources, Inc.
2646 SW Mapp Road, Suite 303
Palm City, Florida 34990
772-219-7525
AdvancedIR@wallstreetresources.net
http://www.wallstreetresources.net
Media Inquiries:
Laura Finlayson
Avalanche Strategic Communications
201-488-0049
laura@avalanchepr.com
Source: Marketwire (February 28, 2008 - 8:00 AM EST)
News by QuoteMedia
www.quotemedia.com
http://app.quotemedia.com/quotetools/popups/story.jsp
Very good to see this for AGWS
AGWS up 40% off pinks to OTCBB fyi
AGWS up 40% fyi
Doesn't matter to me, next year at this time I expect the PPS to be much much higher. They have kept a low profile, but this year the company will be getting the word out. AGWS will be discovered soon enough...
Up 40% fyi
AGWS up 40% -----off pinks to OB
Looking awesome out of the OB gate!
Thank you. I see we are up 20% but Etrade still shows no bid/ask. Today is the new beginning for AGWS...Bye Bye Pink Sheets. I am very excited for the coming months from here on out.
Etrade is not showing bid/ask. What is it?
Nice article DRspin
Yes everything that xtra guy predicted, the opposite has happened lol. So yes, I feel sorry for anyone who actually listened to him and sold. Never listen to anything posted on a message board pro or con without doing your own dd. That guy clearly has an agenda... too bad some fell for it.
COPI looks very strong again here.
Advanced Growing Systems, Inc. (traded under symbol AGWS.PK) is dedicated to providing its shareholders significant value. We are directly involved in the $48 Billion fertilizer market and the $66 Billion Green Industry and have a structure in place that will allow us to drive sales and earnings.
That was one of my questions earlier on. From what I understand, everything is in place for St Petersburg, but they cannot put the cart before the horse. Upon approval, they will have operations staff and maintenance in place in St Petersburg. They will be assigned a terminal, but all hinges on DOT and FAA approval here first.
AGWS .25 added to OTCBB off Pinks today. A real company that had to start off on the Pinks. Huge buy and hold reward play.
PINKS
SECURITY DELETIONS
Updated Symbol Company Name Effective Date/Comments
13:32 ACLR Accent Color Sciences, Inc. Common Stock 2/27/2008 12(j) Registration Revoked by SEC **
13:32 AGWS Advanced Growing Systems, Inc. Common Stock 2/27/2008 Added to OTCBB (AGWS)**
13:32 ALFO Alford Refrigerated Warehouse, Inc. Common Stock 2/27/2008 12(j) Registration Revoked by SEC **
14:50 FDMF Freedom Financial Holdings, Inc. Common Stock 2/27/2008 Added to OTCBB (FDMF) **
14:50 OEDV Osage Exploration and Development, Inc. Common Stock (DE) 2/27/2008 Added to OTCBB (OEDV) **
14:50 OLBG OLB Group, Inc. (The) Common Stock 2/27/2008 Added to OTCBB (OLBG) **
13:32 TLMIF Telum International Corporation Ordinary Shares (Canada) 2/27/2008 12(j) Registration Revoked by SEC **
NAME/SYMBOL CHANGES
Updated Date Old Symbol Old Name New Symbol New Name Comment
13:32 2/27/2008 ACRM Archer Entertainment Media Communications Incorporated Common Stock AEMC Archer Entertainment Media Communications Incorporated New Common Stock 5-1 F/S; Payable upon surrender **
13:32 2/27/2008 OGDG Ogden Golf Co. Corporation Common Stock BPTH Bio-Path Holdings Inc Common Stock **
13:32 2/27/2008 RABR Real American Brands Inc Common Stock RLAB Real American Brands Inc New Common Stock 1-1000 R/S **
13:32 2/27/2008 RGNO Regions Oil & Gas, Inc. Common Stock (FL) AMGG American Green Group Inc Common Stock 1-500 R/S **
13:32 2/27/2008 SLLI Sorell Inc. Common Stock EPRA Emporia Inc Common Stock **
OTCBB:
SECURITY ADDITIONS
Updated Symbol Company Name Effective Date OATS
Reportable
Flag Comments
13:32 AGWS Advanced Growing Systems, Inc. Common Stock 2/27/2008 Y From NBB (AGWS)**
14:50 BBVVF BBV Vietnam S.E.A. Acquisition Corp. Ordinary Shares (Marshall Islands) 2/27/2008 Y **
14:50 BBVWF BBV Vietnam S.E.A. Acquisition Corp. Warrant on Shares 02/8/2012 (Marshall Islands) 2/27/2008 Y **
14:50 FDMF Freedom Financial Holdings, Inc. Common Stock 2/27/2008 Y From NBB (FDMF) **
14:50 OEDV Osage Exploration and Development, Inc. Common Stock (DE) 2/27/2008 Y From NBB (OEDV) **
14:50 OLBG OLB Group, Inc. (The) Common Stock 2/27/2008 Y From NBB (OLBG) **
SECURITY DELETIONS
Updated Symbol Company Name Effective Date/Comments
13:32 ASFE AF Financial Group, Inc. Common Stock 2/27/2008 Form 15; Terminated Registration under the 34 Act; Added to the Other OTC (ASFE) **
SYMBOL CHANGES
Updated Date Old Symbol New Symbol Name Comment
14:50 2/27/2008 CYIME CYIM Cyprium Resources Inc. Common Stock Compliant **
NAME/SYMBOL CHANGES
Updated Date Old Symbol Old Name New Symbol New Name Comment
13:32 2/27/2008 FRZR Frezer, Inc. Common Stock FREZ Frezer, Inc. New Common Stock 1-20 R/S: special treatment for certain stockholders. Those holding less than 2000 shares but at least 100 shares will receive 100 post split shares. Further details available in the DEF 14C filed with the SEC on 1/30/2008. **
13:32 2/27/2008 HMCU Hemcure, Inc. (NV) Common Stock ARAU AuraSound, Inc. Common Stock **
http://www.agsincorporated.com/index.shtml
PINKS
SECURITY DELETIONS
Updated Symbol Company Name Effective Date/Comments
13:32 ACLR Accent Color Sciences, Inc. Common Stock 2/27/2008 12(j) Registration Revoked by SEC **
13:32 AGWS Advanced Growing Systems, Inc. Common Stock 2/27/2008 Added to OTCBB (AGWS)**
13:32 ALFO Alford Refrigerated Warehouse, Inc. Common Stock 2/27/2008 12(j) Registration Revoked by SEC **
14:50 FDMF Freedom Financial Holdings, Inc. Common Stock 2/27/2008 Added to OTCBB (FDMF) **
14:50 OEDV Osage Exploration and Development, Inc. Common Stock (DE) 2/27/2008 Added to OTCBB (OEDV) **
14:50 OLBG OLB Group, Inc. (The) Common Stock 2/27/2008 Added to OTCBB (OLBG) **
13:32 TLMIF Telum International Corporation Ordinary Shares (Canada) 2/27/2008 12(j) Registration Revoked by SEC **
NAME/SYMBOL CHANGES
Updated Date Old Symbol Old Name New Symbol New Name Comment
13:32 2/27/2008 ACRM Archer Entertainment Media Communications Incorporated Common Stock AEMC Archer Entertainment Media Communications Incorporated New Common Stock 5-1 F/S; Payable upon surrender **
13:32 2/27/2008 OGDG Ogden Golf Co. Corporation Common Stock BPTH Bio-Path Holdings Inc Common Stock **
13:32 2/27/2008 RABR Real American Brands Inc Common Stock RLAB Real American Brands Inc New Common Stock 1-1000 R/S **
13:32 2/27/2008 RGNO Regions Oil & Gas, Inc. Common Stock (FL) AMGG American Green Group Inc Common Stock 1-500 R/S **
13:32 2/27/2008 SLLI Sorell Inc. Common Stock EPRA Emporia Inc Common Stock **
OTCBB:
SECURITY ADDITIONS
Updated Symbol Company Name Effective Date OATS
Reportable
Flag Comments
13:32 AGWS Advanced Growing Systems, Inc. Common Stock 2/27/2008 Y From NBB (AGWS)**
14:50 BBVVF BBV Vietnam S.E.A. Acquisition Corp. Ordinary Shares (Marshall Islands) 2/27/2008 Y **
14:50 BBVWF BBV Vietnam S.E.A. Acquisition Corp. Warrant on Shares 02/8/2012 (Marshall Islands) 2/27/2008 Y **
14:50 FDMF Freedom Financial Holdings, Inc. Common Stock 2/27/2008 Y From NBB (FDMF) **
14:50 OEDV Osage Exploration and Development, Inc. Common Stock (DE) 2/27/2008 Y From NBB (OEDV) **
14:50 OLBG OLB Group, Inc. (The) Common Stock 2/27/2008 Y From NBB (OLBG) **
SECURITY DELETIONS
Updated Symbol Company Name Effective Date/Comments
13:32 ASFE AF Financial Group, Inc. Common Stock 2/27/2008 Form 15; Terminated Registration under the 34 Act; Added to the Other OTC (ASFE) **
SYMBOL CHANGES
Updated Date Old Symbol New Symbol Name Comment
14:50 2/27/2008 CYIME CYIM Cyprium Resources Inc. Common Stock Compliant **
NAME/SYMBOL CHANGES
Updated Date Old Symbol Old Name New Symbol New Name Comment
13:32 2/27/2008 FRZR Frezer, Inc. Common Stock FREZ Frezer, Inc. New Common Stock 1-20 R/S: special treatment for certain stockholders. Those holding less than 2000 shares but at least 100 shares will receive 100 post split shares. Further details available in the DEF 14C filed with the SEC on 1/30/2008. **
13:32 2/27/2008 HMCU Hemcure, Inc. (NV) Common Stock ARAU AuraSound, Inc. Common Stock **
Washington, D.C. - Farmers aren't the only ones making money off the run-up in commodity prices. Companies that sell things to farmers, everything from fertilizer to seed to tractors, are reporting healthy profits, too.
Terra Industries, a major fertilizer supplier based in Sioux City, recently reported that its fourth-quarter 2007 profit jumped by six times over the year before.
Deere & Co. - which makes tractors, harvesters and other farm equipment in Ankeny, Waterloo, Ottumwa and Dubuque - reported record quarterly earnings. Agricultural equipment sales were up 33 percent.
The company could benefit further from the $168 billion economic stimulus package. A provision will allow farmers to write off the value of their equipment sooner and let them keep a greater portion of last year's record income to spend on new machinery.
Last week, Monsanto Co. raised its 2008 earnings estimate by 8 percent because of strong seed and herbicide sales.
The list of agribusiness winners goes on to include names such as Dow and DuPont, parent of Johnston-based Pioneer Hi-Bred.
"Following a very strong 2007, 2008 is shaping up to be a spectacular year" for agricultural suppliers, Goldman Sachs analysts wrote last week in a report headlined: "Let the good times roll!"
The analysts say the industry's "tremendous fundamentals" are unusual in the current economic slowdown.
Prices for corn, soybeans and other commodities have doubled over the past two years, and that means farmers can afford to pay more for seed and chemicals and buy new equipment. Crop insurers also make more money because premiums paid by farmers rise along with the price of the crop being covered.
The economic impact on Iowa of the agribusiness boom will vary, said David Swenson, an Iowa State University economist.
To the extent that companies are simply charging farmers higher prices, the extra income will flow to investors and won't stay in the state. But local economies do benefit when farmers buy more chemicals and other inputs than they used to, he said. Every $10 million in new input sales supports 325 jobs, producing $7.4 million in income, he said.
Economists are forecasting commodity prices to remain well above traditional levels well into the next decade.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that net cash farm income nationwide will hit a record $96.6 billion this year - up 10 percent from last year and 40 percent from 2006 - even with the higher prices of fertilizer, seed and other inputs being charged by companies like Terra and Monsanto.
Terra's ammonia fertilizer sold for an average of $333 a ton in 2007, up from $315 the year before.
Citigroup estimates Terra's 2008 earnings will reach $3.71 per share, up from $2.45 for 2007, and hit $4.11 in 2009.
"This is a market that's just reacted to the fundamental supply and demand changes, and that's basically driven by the grain demand that's driven the fertilizer prices up," said Joe Ewing, vice president of investor relations and human resources for Terra.
A few farmers have even tried to lock in their fertilizer prices for 2009, said Ewing, even though this year's crop isn't in the ground yet. DuPont's agriculture and nutrition business, which includes Pioneer Hi-Bred, is predicting double-digit earnings growth through 2012 because of the strong farm economy and DuPont's new seed and pesticide products.
Pioneer's worldwide seed sales were up 40 percent in the last quarter of 2007. Pioneer hopes to begin selling biotech corn seed in Brazil next year.
"It's a great time for agriculture," Erik Fyrwald, group vice president of DuPont agriculture and nutrition, said at a Feb. 12 conference sponsored by Goldman Sachs.
At Pioneer rival Monsanto, 2007 was "absolutely spectacular," said Brett Begemann, executive vice president of the St. Louis-based company.
As corn becomes more valuable, farmers have shown they will pay more for the biotech varieties produced by Pioneer, Monsanto and other companies that are protected against yield-robbing insects and immune to herbicides.
This year, 90 percent of the corn seed Pioneer will sell will be genetically engineered to make the plants either resistant to insects or immune to herbicides or both. That's up from 75 percent last year.
Prices for types of Monsanto seed that have two biotech traits rose 25 percent last year. Triple-trait seed prices rose 15 percent to 20 percent. Monsanto officials say they try to price their seed according to what they determine to be its value to farmers. That takes into account the savings in insecticide, increased crop yields and higher commodity prices. "Typically, Monsanto looks to capture a third of that value," said spokeswoman Danielle Jany.
Bill Doyle, chief executive of fertilizer giant Potash Corp., said agriculture is facing a long-term boom that could be derailed only by a depression. The boom is being driven not by biofuel production so much as by growth in China, India and other countries, he said.
"It's a demographic switch that we've never seen before. We've always had lots of people, but we didn't have people with money in their pockets," he said.
Even with the higher prices for fertilizer, seed and other inputs, farmers are still making more money.
A farmer planting corn or soybeans this year would earn up to $500 or more per acre after the cost of seed, chemicals, insurance and fuel is deducted. That's up to five times what the crops returned in 2005, according to a Goldman Sachs analysis.
Farmers are willing to pay more for inputs when their crop is more valuable, said Ron Litterer of Greene, president of the National Corn Growers Association.
"You're going to try to optimize yield because you have a crop that's worth more," he said. "Because the crop is so valuable, you add on some fungicide costs that you maybe wouldn't have done in the past. All of these things are market-driven."
Reporter Philip Brasher can be reached at (202) 906-8138 or pbrasher@dmreg.com
http://www.b2i.us/profiles/investor/ResLibraryView.asp?BzID=1435&ResLibraryID=23478&Category=896
Nice!...Wow, was waiting for that news!!!
Yup, 0.05's coming
Looks good, bottom was confirmed the other day. Second march north is underway!
Exactly, extra looks to becoming more desperate with each post. It is very clear he is worried he picked the wrong stock. Love it lol
Checked on that today. It is out of their hands but they look for something everyday from SEC. It will be PR'd when it happens.
Once this does happen, they will be doing road shows and spend money on PR. Just quiet until then and low profile until then.
Yes Blue -.12's are close. The stock has quietly nearly doubled in a month leading into DOT's response. But I am here for much more. Day to day doesn't really mean much to me, but it is an indication as to what is coming.
Looks like this chart was spot on. .0301 was rock bottom
http://img245.imageshack.us/img245/4962/snapshot18ht7.png
Congrats to those who got low .030's
I agree, I skimmed through it very fast. All I am looking for is DOT's official response...we are close.
Now you know why they wanted confidentiality. I could be snoopy and read through every little detail, but I'll pass. lol
Anytime c70
Cha Ching. If there is anyone who thinks that Baltia is not serious and very ready to fly, realize that they received DOT's comments on Friday the 15th. They flew to Washington and submitted all the information back to DOT on Tuesday the 19th (They were there Monday but it was a holiday). Everything DOT wanted, they got literally in one business day.
We should hear now anytime...