United Takes Aim at Diebold

Article Excerpt

UNITED TECHNOLOGIES CORP. $70 (New York symbol UTX; Conservative Growth Portfolio, Manufacturing & Industry sector; Shares outstanding: 980.2 million; Market cap: $68.6 billion; WSSF Rating: Above average) has five main businesses: Carrier makes heating and air conditioning equipment (27% of 2007 revenue, 18% of profit); Otis makes and services elevators (22%, 31%); Pratt & Whitney makes aircraft engines (22%, 27%); Flight Systems makes helicopters and aircraft controls (19%, 18%); and UTC Fire & Security provides security and fire protection services (10%, 6%). The United States government, United’s biggest customer, accounts for 15% of its annual revenue. The company has fueled its growth in the past few years with acquisitions, which is riskier than internal growth. However, United Technologies has a strong history of successfully integrating new businesses, which cuts the risk of the unpleasant surprises that can come with any purchase. Its latest target is Diebold Inc. (see box this page). United Technologies is offering $40.00 a share, or roughly $3 billion…