These two market leaders are buys

Article Excerpt

GOODYEAR TIRE & RUBBER CO. $30.78 (Nasdaq symbol GT; TSINetwork Rating: Extra Risk) (330-796-2122; www.goodyear.com; Shares outstanding: 268.9 million; Market cap: $8.2 billion; Dividend yield: 0.9%) is one of the world’s largest tire makers, with 52 plants in 22 countries. In the three months ended December 31, 2015, Goodyear’s revenue fell 6.7%, to $4.06 billion from $4.36 billion a year earlier. The rising U.S. dollar lowered the value of the company’s foreign sales (particularly in Europe and Brazil) by $339 million. Excluding one-time items, earnings rose 12.0%, to $257.0 million, or $0.93 a share. A year earlier, the company earned $166.0 million, or $0.59 a share. Falling costs fuel gains The higher profits came from lower costs, including for oil, rubber and other raw materials,. The company’s leading share in the fast-growing market for high-end replacement tires also contributed. They cost more than basic models but provide better performance, safety and fuel economy. North America is the largest market for these…