United Technologies flies high

Article Excerpt

United Technologies operates in two highly cyclical markets: building construction and aerospace. It gets around 20% of its revenue from military clients, so recent government cuts to defence spending also add to its risk. However, the company is in a strong position to profit from several long-term trends. For example, sales of its jet engines should rise as airlines replace their aging fleets. Demand for its helicopters is also improving, particularly as oil and gas exploration companies build more offshore drilling platforms. In addition, the need for modern buildings in fast-growing markets like Asia should spur sales of its elevators and heating and cooling systems. UNITED TECHNOLOGIES CORP. $106 (New York symbol UTX; Conservative Growth Portfolio, Manufacturing & Industry sector; Shares outstanding: 917.5 million; Market cap: $97.3 billion; Price-to-sales ratio: 1.6; Dividend yield: 2.2%; TSINetwork Rating: Above Average; www.utc.com) has four main divisions: Building & Industrial Systems (formed in September 2013) makes heating and air-conditioning equipment under the Carrier brand,…