3 New Picks From PIMCO Causing Gains in Shares

PIMCO manages enough money that investors care about the money management firm’s picks and strategies even when they are outside of the company’s bond operations. Neel Kashkari, head of global equities at PIMCO, was on CNBC this morning with three key picks. His picks were Deere & Company (NYSE: DE), Logitech International SA (NASDAQ: LOGI), and Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ: MSFT). All three stocks are trading so far today, as is one of the international picks.

Deere & Company (NYSE: DE) was liked at 10-times earnings and as having a better North American game with emerging market upside, rather than a China dependence like Caterpillar. Deere shares are up 0.7% at $83.00 against a 52-week range of $67.78 to $89.70.

Logitech International SA (NASDAQ: LOGI) was liked at 10-timed expected earnings and a dominance in the peripheral sector leadership. With as poorly as this stock has done, it can use any portfolio management endorsement. Logitech shares are up 1.5% at $8.73 against a 52-week range of $7.10 to $11.47.

Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ: MSFT) was an interesting pick. Mr. Kashkari likes its dividend and valuation and said that while Apple is on the rise Microsoft will still get inside and will still win business for its software. Microsoft trades at less than 10-times expected earnings and shares are up 1.3% at $29.58 versus a 52-week range of $24.30 to $32.95.

Kashkari had two other picks, but these are international. One was AIA, the former AIG Asian insurance operation. Another was Ensco plc (NYSE: ESV) as the UK-based offshore contract drilling services operator that has been held down in share price by Europe’s woes.

JON C. OGG