Leaner NCR Is Still a Buy

Article Excerpt

NCR CORP. $26 (New York symbol NCR; Aggressive Growth Portfolio, Manufacturing & Industry sector; Shares outstanding: 180.5 million; Market cap: $4.7 billion; WSSF Rating: Average) plans to focus on its core ATM (automated teller machine) and cash register businesses now that it has spun off subsidiary Teradata Corp. ATMs that feature biometric technology, such as eye and fingerprint scanners, are a big growth area for NCR. This will improve security and cut down on fraud. Since biometric ATMs are easier to use, they should help banks attract more customers, particularly in developing countries. NCR is also expanding its self-checkout technology. Big retailers like Wal-Mart and Home Depot use these systems, since they cut costs and speed up waiting times. NCR now aims to apply self-serve technology to other industries. For example, kiosks in hospitals and clinics will make it easier for patients to make appointments, as well as update insurance and other information. NCR is a buy. buy…