Big Acquisition Makes Sense

Article Excerpt

Hewlett-Packard fell recently after it announced that it would buy Electronic Data Systems. Investors worry that the high price and integration costs will weigh on Hewlett’s earnings growth, particularly after it just completed a multi-year restructuring following its May 2002 purchase of Compaq Computer. However, we feel EDS will help Hewlett diversify its revenues and cut its long-term risk. HEWLETT-PACKARD CO. $47 (New York symbol HPQ; Conservative Growth Portfolio, Manufacturing & Industry sector; Shares outstanding: 2.5 billion; Market cap: $117.5 billion; WSSF Rating: Above average) is one of the world’s leading makers of computers and electronic devices. Products include printers and digital cameras (27% of 2007 revenue, 41% of profits); personal computers (34%, 18%); business computers (18%, 19%); computer services (16%, 17%); financing, software and other (4%, 4%). Hewlett’s profits grew from $1.16 a share (total $3.6 billion) in 2003 to $2.68 a share ($7.3 billion) in 2007, largely due to a successful restructuring plan following its 2002 acquisition of Compaq Computer. Revenue…