Zacks Broker Upgrades: Nordstrom, Avon Products, Southwest Airlines and Colgate Palmolive

Studies have shown that broker upgrades lead to short-term outperformance. Stocks recently upgraded by brokerage analysts include Nordstrom, Inc. (NYSE: JWN), Avon Products, Inc. (NYSE: AVP), Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) and Colgate-Palmolive Company (NYSE: CL). To learn more about how you can profit from broker upgrades, visit: http://at.zacks.com/?id=139.

Here is a synopsis of stocks with recent broker upgrades:

Nordstrom, Inc. (NYSE: JWN) reached 52-week highs on Feb 15, Feb 20 and Feb 21. The companys Average Broker Recommendation is up to 2.25. According to Zacks Research Digest, Nordstrom has developed a differentiated business model that focuses on customer service and its large footwear department. Analysts also believe that the factors making up Nordstroms bullish case include its smart merchandising efforts and opportunities for profit margin expansion.

Avon Products, Inc. (NYSE: AVP) watched its Average Broker Recommendation rise to 2.1 of late. The global beauty company also reached 52-week highs on Feb 9, Feb 16 and Feb 20. Analysts like the companys strong international growth, which keeps revenue expanding at an impressive pace. Zacks Research Digest also cites Avon Products healthy tradition of continuous product innovation, which analysts believe distinguishes it from peers. In addition, its robust new product pipeline and motivated sales force are also seen as advantages.

Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) has experienced a rise in its Average Broker Recommendation to 2.03 recently. According to Zacks Research Digest, analysts like Southwests low cost structure, hedging position, strong financial position and fleet. Analysts believe that the company continues to be well positioned for growth provided it can effectively manage the persistently soaring fuel costs. LUV continues to enjoy advantages due to its fuel hedges. In addition, LUV is still considered to be the best positioned of the U.S. airlines to exploit potential downsizing and liquidation of legacy carriers.

Colgate-Palmolive Company (NYSE: CL) enjoyed a rise in its Average Broker Recommendation to 2.07. Analysts generally note Colgate-Palmolives historical record of consistent margin improvement, brand management and earnings growth, according to Zacks Research Digest. This is predicated on a strong new product pipeline, healthy unit volume growth and continuing expansion in gross margin. Most analysts believe that CL has a strong innovative pipeline of products that will enable the company to maintain its market share and topline growth.

About Broker Upgrades

Zacks is the leader in helping investors profit from brokerage research. On any given day we compile and analyze thousands of brokerage research reports released by over 200 brokerage firms. We have conclusively proven over the years that stocks recently upgraded by brokerage firms are likely to outperform the market.

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