Topic: How To Invest

Hello Pat: Could you give me your take on Suntech Power Holdings. Thank you.

Article Excerpt

Suntech Power Holdings (ADR), $9.19, symbol STP on New York (ADRs outstanding: 180.1 million; Market cap: $1.7 billion; www.suntech-power.com) is a China-based company that designs, develops, makes and markets solar cells and panels. Suntech’s products are used by public utilities, and in homes, offices and factories. Clients use Suntech’s solar equipment to generate power for the electricity grid, and for off-grid uses, such as mobile-phone networks. The company sells its products to solar distributors, engineering and design firms, installers and property developers. In 2010, Suntech’s revenue rose 71.3%, to $2.9 billion from $1.7 billion in 2009. Before one-time items, earnings jumped 117%, to $1.15 per ADR from $0.53 per ADR. Suntech’s revenue has moved up steadily from just $598.9 million in 2006 on strong solar-power demand, particularly in Europe and China. The company holds cash of $872.5 million, or $4.84 per ADR. Its long-term debt of $714.5 million is 51.3% of its market cap. Suntech’s shares have jumped 17% this month in the…