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	<pubDate>Sun, 19 May 2013 20:39:43 +0000</pubDate>
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		<title>Current to 18 month Price Targets on Sirius XM...</title>
		<link>http://www.kingofalltrades.com/page/articles/_/siri/current-to-18-month-price-targets-on-sirius-xm-r308</link>
		<description><![CDATA[<strong class='bbc'>King of All Trades </strong>Target Price Valuation (May 2013 to Dec 2013 (8) months) for SiriusXM Satellite Radio (NASDAQ:SIRI)<br />Prepared by Andrew Montero on <strong class='bbc'>May 6th 2013</strong><br /><br /><strong class='bbc'>KOAT is assuming a $4.25 6-8 month price target on Sirius XM satellite radio. The $ 4.25 target takes into account fully implemented across the board price increase ($14.49 subscription price). Management has provided improved outlook /guidance on churn as well as a solid reduction in SAC for recent quarter. </strong><br /><strong class='bbc'>Our $ 4.25 price target is maintained based on fully implemented increase of subscription price to $14.49 without any effect on our “above consensus” rate of sub growth projections for the Company. We agree with minimal impact to churn at this point going forward.</strong><br /><br />Assuming our Base Case scenario (no change in monthly subscription price of $14.49),<br />we value Sirius XM currently at approximately <strong class='bbc'>$ 4.00 per share</strong> with continuing increases in automobile sector year over year and a final auto production rate for 2013 over 15.0 million units.<br />.<br /><strong class='bbc'>With future share repurchase and improved credit profile we value Sirius XM at approximately $ 4.25 per share in 6-8 months based on increased OEM subscriber growth, continued traction in online listeners, share repurchase implementation, increasing FCF and EBITDA guidance.</strong><ul class='bbc'><li><strong class='bbc'><em class='bbc'>Base Case </em></strong>– Evaluated on fully executed company price increase in 2013; an 11.5% price increase (to $14.49 per month) and a maximum ARPU of $13.00 (achieved in 2013) with associated increases in FCF, EBITDA subscriber base targets and revenue as recently reaffirmed by company CEO James Meyer.</li></ul><ul class='bbc'><li><strong class='bbc'><em class='bbc'>Scenario 2</em></strong>- Based on share repurchases, increased ownership by Liberty Media and, improving EBITDA, FCF, revenue and subscriber numbers, even with limited uptick in churn still possible( 2% - 2.2%) and NOLS now utilized, we see no impact of increase in subscription price affecting the equity, and project a share price of $ 4.25- $4.50 in the 8 to 12 month window. OEM production rate would need to continue increase to over 15-15.5 million units for 2013-2014 timeframe.</li></ul><ul class='bbc'><li><strong class='bbc'><em class='bbc'>Scenario3</em></strong>- Based on the above as well as expansion to markets outside the United States and Canada in the short term as a possibility, we see a potential for an equity value in the 6 to 8 dollar range should penetration occur relatively soon in new markets (internet, wireless radio) and saturation in OEM auto channels overseas occurs. Some mild initial erosion of equity price may occur prior to realization of viability in overseas markets.</li></ul><br />.<br />.<br />Under our Base scenario (which equates to current company projections), <strong class='bbc'>we think the Company is worth approximately $25 billion today, which equates to roughly $ 4.00</strong><br /><strong class='bbc'>per share outstanding. </strong>We see continuation of recent growth pattern and exponentially<br />improving financial metrics as satellite 2.0 continues to gain traction and spectrum continues to be leveraged for possible expansion of services provided the economy (particularly the auto sector) continues to grow and improve. We believe Sirius XM has and will continue to successfully grow through subscription price increase in the near-term without disrupting the current level of subscriber additions, and that increased royalties will not hinder the company’s recent strong performance. We maintain an overweight recommendation on the equity.<br /><br />We believe Sirius XM has some level of price flexibility before best case unit growth<br />would begin to be seriously impacted. Given that, we see the situation creates a share value<br />estimate that is higher than current market views. In our opinion, whatever favorable option<br />value there may be to justify a more aggressive investment view is appropriately weighted. Forward impacts include, increasing subscribers, expansion outside US markets&nbsp;&nbsp;and reduced operational costs as well as significantly improved debt leverage ratios as appropriate based on cash flow.. We believe that the risk/reward is now very favorably weighted towards Sirius XM common stock.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 09 May 2013 19:03:42 +0000</pubDate>
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		<title>Cell Therapeutics - Trials and Tribulations of...</title>
		<link>http://www.kingofalltrades.com/page/articles/_/siri/cell-therapeutics-trials-and-tribulations-of-r307</link>
		<description><![CDATA[All,<br /><br />Over time I have occasionally taken advantage of the wild swings that can be exploited in the biopharm realm.&nbsp;&nbsp;One of my prime candidates has always been Cell Therapeutics (NASDAQ:CTIC).&nbsp;&nbsp;That said, I warn you up front it is high risk.&nbsp;&nbsp;Anything in the Biopharm realm is most of the time.&nbsp;&nbsp;You can literally lose the shirt off your back.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you aren't scared read further.....<br /><br />Key things to consider:&nbsp;&nbsp;CTIC generally has a consistent range you can play.&nbsp;&nbsp;The tops and trough of these ranges are tradeable in such a way that you can get in/out relatively easy if you are paying attention.<br /><br />Another characteristic of Cell Therapeutics.&nbsp;&nbsp;Long term there is an ever so slight chance it could dramatically jump up.&nbsp;&nbsp;Look at May 2011 and April 2009 on the chart to see what I mean.&nbsp;&nbsp;It's primary drugs Pixuvri / Opaxio dramatically affect the SP each time there is a major event, as with all drug trials, positive and negative results can either shoot things into outer space or down into the depths of hell in the blink of an eye.<br /><br />The safe bet is to trade a moderate block of shares (moderate so any small changes can push your gain past your brokerage fees if you have them) and then use my tried and proven double up half out technique.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you have more confidence, just chart out the current channel carefully, choose entry and exit points at least 20% within the edges of the range - and don't hesitate to pull the trigger.<br /><br />Here is the latest:<br /><br /><br />Cell Therapeutics Reports First Quarter 2013 Financial Results <strong class='bbc'>- Conference call scheduled today at 4:30 p.m. Eastern time -</strong><br /><br />SEATTLE, May 2, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Cell Therapeutics, Inc. (CTI) (NASDAQ and MTA: CTIC) today reported financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2013. <br /><em class='bbc'>"In the first quarter, we generated initial commercial sales of PIXUVRI<sup class='bbc'>®</sup> in countries in the European Union where there is market access pending the completion of the reimbursement process,"</em><em class='bbc'> said James Bianco, M.D., President and CEO of CTI. "Although it is early in the launch, we are pleased with the interest and receptivity of PIXUVRI by key lymphoma opinion leaders who treat patients with multiply relapsed or refractory aggressive B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and who recognize the significant unmet need that exists for these patients. In addition, our Phase 3 PERSIST-1 clinical trial of pacritinib, an oral, once-daily JAK2/FLT3 inhibitor, in myelofibrosis continues to progress with the opening of additional sites and growing enrollment." </em><br /><strong class='bbc'>First Quarter and Recent Highlights</strong><br />European Union (E.U.) Commercial<ul class='bbc'><li>Initiated commercial sales of PIXUVRI<sup class='bbc'>®</sup> (pixantrone) as a monotherapy for the treatment of adult patients with multiply relapsed or refractory aggressive B-cell NHL during the first quarter of 2013. CTI is pursuing pricing and reimbursement for PIXUVRI in France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom (UK).</li></ul>Research and Development<ul class='bbc'><li>Initiated patient enrollment in PERSIST-1, which is the first of two planned investigational Phase 3 studies of pacritinib in patients with myelofibrosis. PERSIST-1 is a randomized trial that is expected to enroll 270 patients in Europe, Australia, Russia and the U.S. and is designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of pacritinib compared to best available therapy, excluding JAK inhibitors, in patients with myelofibrosis. A second Phase 3 trial is planned to initiate in the second half of 2013.</li><li>Announced that results from the OPAL Phase 2 study of tosedostat in elderly patients with relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukemia (AML) were published in <em class='bbc'>Lancet Oncology</em>. Tosedostat is an oral aminopeptidase inhibitor which has been shown to deprive tumor cells of the amino acid building blocks they need to make proteins necessary for tumor cell survival. A Phase 2 investigator-sponsored trial of tosedostat in combination with standard agents in the treatment of patients with AML and myelodysplastic syndrome is ongoing.</li></ul>Corporate<ul class='bbc'><li>Entered into a senior secured term loan of up to $15.0 million. The first $10 million of the term loan was funded at closing. The proceeds from this loan facility are expected to provide CTI with additional operating capital to advance our Phase 3 clinical development programs.</li></ul><strong class='bbc'>First Quarter 2013 Financial Results </strong><br />Total revenues for the first quarter of 2013 were $1.1 million. The revenues were solely attributable to net product sales of PIXUVRI. CTI sells PIXUVRI directly to health care providers and through a limited number of wholesale distributors in the E.U. CTI records product sales upon receipt of the product by the health care provider or distributor. Product sales are recorded net of estimated distributor discounts, government-mandated discounts and rebates, and estimated product returns. <br />Total operating expenses for the first quarter of 2013 were $19.6 million, compared to $18.1 million for the same period in 2012. Total operating expenses included $2.4 million and $2.0 million of non-cash stock-based compensation expense in the first quarters of 2013 and 2012, respectively. The net loss for the first quarter of 2013 was $19.4 million, or ($0.18) per share, compared to a net loss of $17.4 million, or ($0.43) per share, for the same period in 2012.<br />As of March 31, 2013, CTI's cash and cash equivalents totaled $44.3 million.<br /><strong class='bbc'>Financial Guidance for 2013</strong><br />CTI reaffirms prior financial guidance that, for 2013, loss from operations is expected to be approximately $60 to $65 million, excluding non-cash stock-based compensation expense.<br />Actual financial results for 2013 will vary based upon many factors, including the growth of PIXUVRI sales and determination of reimbursement rates for PIXUVRI in the E.U., the rate of patient enrollment in pacritinib clinical trials that are ongoing and planned for initiation in 2013 and other factors described in our filings with the SEC.<br /><strong class='bbc'>Conference Call Information</strong><br />CTI management will host a conference call to review its first quarter 2013 financial results and provide an update on business activities. The event will be held today at 1:30 p.m. PDT / 4:30 p.m. EDT/ 10:30 p.m. CET. Participants can access the call at 1-877-941-6010 (domestic) or +1 480- 629-9644 (international). To access the live audio webcast or the subsequent archived recording, visit CTI's website, <a href='http://www.celltherapeutics.com/' class='bbc_url' title='External link' rel='nofollow external'>www.celltherapeutics.com</a>. Webcast and telephone replays of the conference call will be available at approximately two hours after completion of the call. Callers can access the replay by dialing 1-800-406-7325 (domestic) or +1 303-590-3030 (international). The access code for the replay is 4615670#. The telephone replay will be available until Thursday, May 9, 2013.<br /><strong class='bbc'>About Cell Therapeutics, Inc.</strong><br />Cell Therapeutics (NASDAQ and MTA: CTIC) is a biopharmaceutical company committed to the development and commercialization of an integrated portfolio of oncology products aimed at making cancer more treatable. CTI is headquartered in Seattle, WA. For additional information and to sign up for email alerts and get RSS feeds, please visit the company's website at <a href='http://www.celltherapeutics.com/' class='bbc_url' title='External link' rel='nofollow external'>www.CellTherapeutics.com</a>.<br /><br />I DO own shares of CTIC and I trade it consistently during yearly ranges/channels.&nbsp;&nbsp;To take advantage of any potential spike and not miss the boat, my double up half out technique guarantees you still can gain if you get a major event as with spring 2011.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 09 May 2013 16:41:07 +0000</pubDate>
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		<title>Strategies for Investing Near All-Time Market H...</title>
		<link>http://www.kingofalltrades.com/page/articles/_/hidden-gems/strategies-for-investing-near-all-time-market-h-r306</link>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>By ~ Rick King</p>
<br />
<p>A great deal of our success in life depends on timing. When investing you must always pay attention to the broader picture and remain diligent when looking for indications the markets will turn. That said, there is no shortage of market analysts that will work relentlessly to convince you they have all the answers. They range from those who present a doom & gloom picture of the global economies to the eternal bulls who have nothing but optimism despite any indication to the contrary.</p>
<br />
<p>One of our members reminded me today that we are entering a new period of uncertainty in the markets. In order to invest we must all try to gauge sentiment and determine what our experiences say will most likely happen next. Most of our experienced kingofalltrades.com members know at this point that the difficulty making any prediction is compounded almost exponentially by human/institutional injection in the markets. Not just high-frequency trading, massive super computers trading in and out of multi-billion dollar accounts faster than you can blink an eye, or even fomenting the markets can be consistently forecast.</p>
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<p>So now that I have your attention, your question might be: What do I think makes sense at this point in time? One lesson we learned the hard way in 2001, 2002, and 2008 was that all record highs and their associated economic bubbles have an equal and opposite reaction. What goes up must come down. The inevitable back and forth, the running of the bulls versus the onslaught of the bears, present opportunities if you pay attention. What did we see recently? A considerable drop in precious metals prices. Now ask yourself why. Nothing happens by coincidence when the largest institutions can single-handedly control momentum on any given day. That tells us that there are games afoot.</p>
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<p>Think about this: we have to date seen only a modest recovery, the markets are hitting all-time highs, precious metals show signs of weakening against the dollar, the giants in the investing world have been shifting out of risk, and property is recovering. If you expect a bubble to pop, you plan an appropriate exit strategy. Any subsequent movement down by the precious metals markets typically coincides with strength in global monetary facilities. Few can doubt that the dollar has been devalued and we should by definition be entering a logical inflationary stage. Common sense tells you that an equivalent value of anything equates to more dollars when you consider the intrinsic value of a resource/product stationary.</p>
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<p>I believe the larger players are setting the stage for the next chapter in the recessionary tale post 2008. A great many were left holding the bag on the great crash as happened during any previous great crash. The difference now is that the tools have changed. Controlling market momentum has become almost reflexive to the larger institutions. If you expect the dollar to lose value and can predict the inflationary trend's direction, and you can control direction, you back up the truck to a lower level and take what weaker panicked minds would abandon. Most of our readers should remember what staff writer Andrew Montero posted on our forums a few years ago, there is a circle of psychologically inevitable sentiment every major investment firm knows and studies.</p>
<br />
<p>The time to invest and get bargain basement deals is when there is blood in the water (any panic run). We've seen slight blips so far in the overall markets indicating that we're getting near the end of another bubble.</p>
<br />
<p>Dividend stocks. When rapid growth is not an option, and I don't believe the overall markets are conducive to it, you invest where you can recoup on your investment by way of sheer patience and firm holding. Dividends are going to become important in the coming months. Any company offering a dividend at this point in time is essentially showing a sign of strength. Even if there is a broader market drop, these investments tend to be great opportunities in questionable times, and you can always increase your holdings on any subsequent drop. Now that Sirius XM Radio (NASDAQ:SIRI)continues to provide a dividend and has a strong five year pattern of relentless growth, it is easily on my list. Ford's dividend (NYSE:F)was recently increased and sat at 10 cents on January 28th, 2013. The trend in that company, to me, is less important than the decisions I see prevalent on the board. I like Ford going into the next year. Caterpillar (NYSE:CAT) is also high on my list of dependable investments, and I would make them 2nd on my overall list of solid dividend stocks.</p>
<br />
<p>Financials. Banks depend on sentiment as much as any investment. Buyer beware. Due diligence is needed when investing in any security, but near the top of the market indices' new highs doesn't speak greatly to wisdom.</p>
<br />
<p>Certain cycles have developed in the past few years that tend to show consistency. One is the increase in natural disasters and the resultant services and resources needed after each. I will not touch upon Global Warming or enter that battle in this article. I believe anyone has the right to their opinion, but as investors perception must always be a consideration. Perception, coupled with fact. Whether there is a specific reason or not, there has been an increase in the number and frequency of natural disasters. Hurricane prone areas provide investors with opportunities, and that is a cold hard fact. Ahead of July, I feel comfortable holding shares of Walmart (NYSE:WMT), Home Depot (NYSE:HD), and Lowes (NYSE:LOW).</p>
<br />
<p>Exchange Traded Funds. Although temptation may seep into overall sentiment, I don't feel strong about ETF's right now. The issue I have with ETF's is that they are exposed right now to overall market trends. This may sound counter-intuitive, but think of it this way: If you are more selective at a market top, you have a chance to ride any market downtrend more safely than otherwise. Broader investment strategies mean you risk large portions of those ETF's getting sucked into the maelstrom. I'd rather make educated decisions and place my money where I have unique opportunities to preserve capital.</p>
<br />
<p>Oil/Natural Gas/Energy and related technology. Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) has shown surprising strength. Despite my love of Ford, I find the logical side of my brain pulling me more toward Tesla. I had mentioned my fondness of Tesla in the past at KOAT, not because I'm a renewable energy fanatic, but because they show signs of sound management. To have progressed this far, this fast, against head-winds from the renewed strength of global automakers and stabilization of the oil markets, Tesla has impressed me. The world's transportation needs are undergoing a transition. There will be turbulence. With new resources coming online domestically, and recent advances in battery technology at the academic and corporate levels lead me to believe we're on the edge of a new wave of energy technology. Rather than invest in the automakers directly, I believe there will be opportunities in the next several years to invest in this new tech. Look carefully at the IPO's coming out in the next few years.</p>
<br />
<p>Communications. All hail Google. Google "Glass," and other wearable technology are on the horizon. Not OVER the horizon, but literally a stone's throw away. Keep your eyes on what begins to develop in the telecommunications markets. One example: Verizon. Any company that can edge silently into a state as large as Alaska while no one is looking (towers are going up right now with expected activation of 4G LTE this summer) deserves a look. They stand to instantly gain substantial revenue and I predict the local providers, Alaska Communication Systems Inc (NASDAQ:ALSK) and General Communication Inc (NASDAQ:GNCMA) will likely not know what hit them. Both are planning to pool their resources against the onslaught of Verizon (NYSE:VZ) in 2013. The odds are stacked against ALSK and GNCMA, most likely they will become short opportunities. I expect revenues to jump as VZ works out the kinks in the system through 2014.</p>
<br />
<p>Real estate. Physical property is something tangible you can touch, manipulate, and utilize during any downturn. Interest rates are at a substantial low, and I don't think we'll be back at these rates for a considerable time once they start rising. I am calling for 2013 to become a major resurgence in the strength of the housing market. Strength should build through Spring into Summer and fade slightly during the normal Winter lull.</p>
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<p>Entertainment. During any moderate turbulence or downturn, the masses will look for something to provide relief from daily stressors. Zynga (NASDAQ:ZNGA), although highly speculative right now, has some potential for rapid growth if they turn things in the direction we've seen signs of. Online gambling may be the savior of this overlooked gem. I must add, however, that you must absolutely take precautions and consider this a very speculative move.</p>
<br />
<p>Disclosure: As always, due diligence and dedicated research are a must when investing in anything. You must never invest based solely upon another's advice or opinion, even mine. Pay attention to the markets and educate yourself. Be patient and invest only what you can lose. If your anxiety or risk aversion lead you to sleepless nights stick to solid tangible investments at the lower risk end. I have positions in Sirius XM Radio, Ford, VZ, CTIC (trading swings), and Zynga. I plan to adjust my investments at a moments notice, so all of the above are subject to change based on market conditions. If you find any of this information useful, feel free to join kingofalltrades.com as a Gold Tier Member to gain other useful insights from myself, Relmor, Andy, or Johnny I.</p>]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 06 May 2013 02:37:38 +0000</pubDate>
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		<title>Mannkind Set to Increase Authorized Share Count</title>
		<link>http://www.kingofalltrades.com/page/articles/_/mnkd/mannkind-set-to-increase-authorized-share-count-r305</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Mannkind Corp. (NASDAQ:MNKD) has issued a proxy to stockholders asking them for permission to increase their authorized share count from 350 million to 550 million shares.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Currently, they have 150 million authorized shares remaining currently. Mannkind would like to have 350 million shares available to them. This could indicate more dilution is coming or it could just be arming their warchest in case their is a long delay getting approval for AFREEZA, their inhaleable insulin drug currently in trials. 

I don't think it indicates bad news, just something companies do in case they need to sell shares quickly. With the share price not what it once was, the need to increase their count could be simple mechanics. As the stock price goes lower, more share would be needed to generate similar capital from let's say 2 or 3 years ago. Raising 200 million dollars would require a lot more shares today than in the past.



This could present a buying opportunity coming up.&nbsp;&nbsp;It appears to not have hit the main stream news as of yet.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 22 Nov 2012 05:02:15 +0000</pubDate>
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		<title>A Few Notes On Sirius XM</title>
		<link>http://www.kingofalltrades.com/page/articles/_/siri/a-few-notes-on-sirius-xm-r304</link>
		<description><![CDATA[By Relmor

Let's take a look at a few things and see if we can't summize the answer to some or all of the questions.

Some say we are on this run due to Liberty being forced to purchase shares on the open market. Some might say, well look at what the main markets have done, all stocks that are desireable should fair well in this environment. Have all stocks done well on this market run? Absolutely not. You need look no further than the hard hit chip and computer industry to see that as not true. You still have to invest wisely. You cannot throw a dart and hit a winner at this stage of the markets recovery. All those who read me over the years know my thinking on what stocks come up, when and in what order following a market correction. Good stocks move up first. Then the speculation laggers. Then the pure speculation plays might get some money, while bad performers are liquidated still to create cash for other purchases, as this is a portfolio shuffling time frame in the markets. The time to hold on to your bottomed stocks from 2009 is over. They have come back as much as they are going to on their own now, enjoying unfloundering market success. Time to be smart and move into the real winners now. Is Sirius XM a winner going forward? In my opinion yes, It is, even at these prices. Heres why.

Growth. 
Sirius XM grew revenue at a 10% min rate during a recession. A 10% revenue jump is nothing to thumb your nose at. They enjoyed a 159% increase in FCF and a usual around 20% jump in EBITDA. They grew their subscriber base from 19 million to over 23 million during the worst recession in my lifetime. Now what happens if the economy improves? I fully expect Sirius XM's retention and subscriber totals to improve as well. This means even more money to their already widening margins (about 255 million now in net difference). Today they enjoy a gross margin of about 30%, and improving. In my estimates, for every 30 million in added revenue, they are adding about 5 to 10 million in costs. So every Q their margin gets wider and wider(pure value, not percentage necessarily). But I do expect their % of margin to increase as well as costs become controlled, and their new GM OEM contract deal kicks in. Also noted this Q was the lowest cost in programming since 2005. Nice touch. Adding better value and paying less. Advantages of a monopoly coming home to roost right there. More and more used cars every year on the road with a SATRD inside. OEM penetration rate is a self imposed 67%. Conversion rate has been steady at 44% and churn is stable at 1.9 to 2.0%. With rising ARPU and sub base, they can't help but continue to grow their margins going into 2013 and beyond. No satellite cost over 50 million going into 2013 and beyond for the next several years after that. Subscriber estimates for 2013 I am personally forecasting now as 2.1 million subscriber additions for 2013. This will fuel revenue growth, as will ARPU as it approachings around 12.50 by the end of Q1 2013.

Innovation of product and focus on customer retention. 
This goes partly with growth obviously, but I see it as a seperate issue. What is the best way to grow a business? Keep your existing customers. They will talk about you. They become loyal. Best form of advertisment is your own product. Sirius XM since the merger has delivered on a better product available more places, on more devices and easier than ever to access in the digital and cell phone age. Internet service has been revamped, additional features offered, and coming soon even personalized radio. Mel Karmazin, CEO of Sirius XM Radio stated that they are entering into the personalized radio service not as a business model, but as a retention service designed to provide their customers with all cutting edge technological aspects of listening to radio. The rolling out of Sirius XM 2.0 service shows their customers their is always something new you can look forward too.

Cash. 
Having cash is never overrated. You can improve your business, invest in R&D, market effectively and acquire talent. Sirius XM is now in a desireable position as a company making money and being able to offer the highest salaries in their industry. Going forward to not be surprised if they add the talents of the likes of Rush Limbaugh in the future, as well as other top radio talents. I predict in 2013 they will add Rush Limbaugh to the Sirius XM Family.

Leverage. 
Investors know that the true value of a company can be seen in how much money they can borrow and how cheap they can acquire it. A good rate means the company is strong and expected to repay the loan. Forget investors. These are creditors. They hold a much higher standard and take a much deeper and more involved look into a companys books before loaning out money. We do it as an investor, but don't forget its done even more so on the credit side. S&P and Moodys over the years have been steadily raising their corporate rating. They are now considered underleveraged, as S&P stated recently that they can actual add debt and have it not affected their credit rating. That is good news, especially when a company is looking to return capital to shareholders.

Leverage leading to a buyback. 
In 2013 Sirius XM will announce their first ever buyback, in which Liberty Media does not increase their % of ownership. This is a partial win for stockholders. Better than having Libertys % increase due to a buyback, but not as good as if Liberty went in owning no preferred shares (which is still possible if they go to full control still, which is in doubt at this point). Their new majority owner Liberty Media is a big proponent of adding value to the share price and returning capital to shareholders in the form of huge buybacks. Expect no less in this situation as well. Sirius XM is poised to delivery back capital to investors in the form a buyback. This has been stated numerous times as a likely outcome by the Mel Karamzin, as well as mentioned as possibilities by Greg Maffei, CEO of Liberty Media, 49% owner of Sirius XM.

2013 Guidance for Sirius XM...


Remainder of article can be found in the Relmor SIRI Gold Forum.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 06 Nov 2012 13:36:01 +0000</pubDate>
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		<title><![CDATA[A Brief History of Kingofalltrades.com &#38; An...]]></title>
		<link>http://www.kingofalltrades.com/page/articles/_/anouncement/a-brief-history-of-kingofalltradescom-an-r303</link>
		<description><![CDATA[All,<br />
<br />
Hope you are all having a great morning.&nbsp;&nbsp;I am.&nbsp;&nbsp;Another quick thanks to all of you who have been renewing your subscriptions.&nbsp;&nbsp;Some may wonder why I make such a huge deal out of it, and I am going to take some time to explain.<br />
<br />
For those that have been around a while - some of this will be old news.&nbsp;&nbsp;For the new guys, consider it a lesson in how all this came to be.<br />
<br />
Back a few years - alot of us started out as a group of Sirius XM investors following the stock on either the Yahoo message boards, Seeking Alpha, or Sirius Buzz.&nbsp;&nbsp;Over time, we decided we got tired of how things were censored, managed, etc... and after much collaboration we came together at the old SW.com website (which no longer exists, the old owner let it expire and it got bought up).&nbsp;&nbsp;That was our first real adventure in this.&nbsp;&nbsp;It went well, and we had a great following, but as with alot of great things, it came to an end with what most of us call the "fracture period" - when Dominick/BM (same guy) and I had a falling out over management, and several of the old moderators later left also to form yet another website.&nbsp;&nbsp;That was the fracture - the creation of several websites and splitting of the original group of SIRI followers.<br />
<br />
When it all happened, and I decided I wasn't going to surrender without a fight, I converted this old domain of mine (used to be my handyman/remodeling business site) to host investor forums.&nbsp;&nbsp;It was a pure stroke of luck that we got it all to work.&nbsp;&nbsp;It was donations alone that built this site, and after a while that wasn't enough.&nbsp;&nbsp;Next phase in our history I like to call the "rapid growth period."&nbsp;&nbsp;We published, and Relmor and Andy were getting their articles out across the RSS feeds to publish everywhere, AOL, Google Finance, Benzinga, hell I think I remember Forbes in there, and quotes on the WSJ at one stage.&nbsp;&nbsp;All was grand, and then the next phase hit.&nbsp;&nbsp;I call it the full on Sirius Site War. <br />
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During the war - most of that time I was actually deployed for real in the middle east.&nbsp;&nbsp;Somehow we managed to continue building, shifting to better servers, but this period also brought major fights, attempts to hack the website, slander/libel by other sites, denial of service attacks on our servers.... it was brutal.&nbsp;&nbsp;Some point in there, some of the other websites managed to somehow convince Google to stop publishing us.&nbsp;&nbsp;I am fairly certain at this stage I know which, but that is water under the bridge.&nbsp;&nbsp;We survived when no one thought we would.<br />
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This past year, we have all seen many of the early investors fall to the wayside as they sold out and decided to cash in on their earnings.&nbsp;&nbsp;Many had invested when SIRI was in the sub-dollar range and seen crazy profits.&nbsp;&nbsp;Some literally financed their entire retirements.&nbsp;&nbsp;Some became millionaires.&nbsp;&nbsp;Some would say they did (on Yazoo) but were mostly fakes trying to convince folks the stock had finally topped out.&nbsp;&nbsp;They were wrong.<br />
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Through the end of our long road to here - costs soared and the economy still struggles.&nbsp;&nbsp;The economic landscape has been brutal.&nbsp;&nbsp;As a website, we had to do a few things to survive.&nbsp;&nbsp;This was when I made the toughest choice I had to make, and we initiated the subscriptions here.&nbsp;&nbsp;I then somehow managed to cut costs by over 80 % and secure our domain registration for the next 20 years.&nbsp;&nbsp;Good, but very busy and difficult work to get here.<br />
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This is what I now classify as our vindication year.&nbsp;&nbsp;Not only have we survived, we thrive (albeit a little different than we planned originally) and have the most loyal group of SIRI investors anywhere on the web.&nbsp;&nbsp;We absolutely could not have done this without you.&nbsp;&nbsp;And along with that - I could not have done any of this without Relmor and Andy.<br />
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So for this point forward - in recognition of their work at KOAT - every single donation you make on the donation form on the right side of the forums goes directly to paying Relmor and Andy in recognition for their hard work.&nbsp;&nbsp;Effective immediately.<br />
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Again thanks. <br />
<br />
Rick]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 15 Oct 2012 16:32:56 +0000</pubDate>
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		<title>Mel Karmazin and Greg Maffei Add Flavor to Siri...</title>
		<link>http://www.kingofalltrades.com/page/articles/_/siri/mel-karmazin-and-greg-maffei-add-flavor-to-siri-r302</link>
		<description><![CDATA[By Relmor Demitrius<br />
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<a href='http://www.kingofalltrades.com/2012/01/05/mel-karmazin-and-greg-maffei-add-flavor-to-sirius-xms-future/cash-puppy-icon/' class='bbc_url' title=''><img class='bbc_img' class="alignnone size-full wp-image-4438" title="cash-puppy-icon" src="http://www.kingofalltrades.com/wp-content/uploads//2011/08/cash-puppy-icon.jpg" alt="" width="112" height="70" /></a>     Yesterday CITI had a <a href='http://www.wikinvest.com/stock/Global_Entertainment_(GEE)' class='bbc_url' title='External link' rel='nofollow external'>Global Entertainment</a> and Media Conference, in which Mel Karmazin, CEO of <a href='http://www.wikinvest.com/stock/Sirius_XM_Radio_(SIRI)' class='bbc_url' title='External link' rel='nofollow external'>Sirius XM Radio</a> (NASDAQ:SIRI) and Greg Maffei, CEO of <a href='http://www.wikinvest.com/stock/Liberty_Media_(LCAPA)' class='bbc_url' title='External link' rel='nofollow external'>Liberty Media</a> (<a href='http://www.wikinvest.com/stock/Liberty_Media_(LINTA)' class='bbc_url' title='External link' rel='nofollow external'>NASDAQ:LINTA</a>) spoke. There was no formal presentations by these gentleman but they were on board for answering some really good questions. This conference helped answer some important questions investors had about the company. Greg and Mel were very frank and offered valuable information investors can use to make better decisions about their investment with the company. First let us look at what Mel had to say. The first thing Mel offered was information on Q4 subscriber totals.<br />
<br />
Mel stated that in Q4, Sirius XM added a net 540,000 additional subscribers. This beat yearly guidance by 100,000 subscribers. A decent beat but nothing to write home about. The great thing here is that Mel can once again be trusted, and when he upped subscriber guidance in 2011, it was to be accurate, and w!@#$urely no bullish pump. I know there were many media types that doubted the 1.6 million mark could be reached due to Japanese supply delays, production delays, and a higher churn base. However, these issues were overblown obviously and Sirius XM hit their mark and some. This is great news for investors and people looking for a reason to get in. Another issue with Mel not lying since the merger, is that he promised 2 radios for 2.0 in 2011 and delivered, by releasing the Lynx Hybrid Radio, for satellite use and internet, home or car.<br />
<br />
This android based radio provides new features and functionalities, with an endless ability to upgrade its functionality and content. With new compressed bandwidth this radio opens up another avenue of content non 2.0 radios cannot receive. The biggest surprise on functionality came in another promise Mel made.<br />
<br />
This news came during the CITI conference. Mel stated that "personalized radio", like Pandora features, would be coming to their internet and smart phone services "probably this year". He stated that it's not a big deal for the company and wouldn't be another business model, just another feature for retention. He stated if there are customers out there who would turn away from the product because they didn't have this functionality, then Sirius XM was going to offer it to them. Basically Sirius XM can now evolve their radio experience to the demand of the consumer. The way he presented it was not like it was going to be a big revenue generator and basically implied it's so easy to add, that the originality of the Pandora type service is easily reproduced. Pandora already has no uniqueness to begin with, as they compete with services like Slacker anyway. But I get what Mel is doing here. If this is an excuse by some, or even a perception that a service is demanded they cannot provide, then they will show you how easy it is to provide, and offer it at NO COST to exisitng subscribers. Free. Here you go subs. You wanted this cute random music generator tailored to your taste, here you go. Enjoy. Now Sirius XM 2.0 will have all the features everyone wanted and complained about. Let the new wave of bashing begin now. Maybe in a future article, since bears are running out of ideas, I can suggest some topics for them. Remember, on demand features have been mentioned and are coming as well. I expect some type of synergy down the road with <a href='http://www.wikinvest.com/stock/Live_Nation_(LYV)' class='bbc_url' title='External link' rel='nofollow external'>Live Nation</a> on this end. On Demand live concert events is one thought. Pay per listen. This would be yet another revenue stream. Maybe buying concert tickets from your radio too. Who knows.<br />
<br />
Another topic broached was the new structure of the <a href='http://www.wikinvest.com/stock/General_Motors_(GMGMQ)' class='bbc_url' title='External link' rel='nofollow external'>GM</a> contract. The questioner wanted flavor on the details of the agreement. Mel stated he couldn't say much, but he did offer some great insight we never knew before. He stated when they re-did the GM contract in 2009, there was an immediate impact. In fact, KOAT wrote an article at that time showing you from the filing directly how much w!@#$aved. So this is not new news to KOAT supporters. We have been gaining an advantage from the new structured GM deal since 2009. But as Mel explained it was 3 phase deal. More benefit comes to Sirius XM in 2013 and even more in the final phase in 2014. He stated the deal offers a "fairer return" that has "more appropriate value" for Sirius XM. He went over the philosophy of why the first GM deal w!@#$o advantageous for GM. Obviously to get your foot in the door it took some incentives. Now GM doesn't want to be the only car maker without satellite radio in it. The new OEM deals will be, as Mel stated, "market value". Meaning only one competing company now, based on real fundamentals that are mutually beneficial to both parties. XM never made $1 on the GM deal before the merger. All the benefit went to GM. Well in 2009 that changed, and in 2013 and 2014 coming it will become more like all the deals will be structured in the future. So synergies haven't even barely begun on this aspect. Mel also mentioned another synergy investors can look forward too in the future.<br />
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Mel stated that cars have around a 10 to 14 year cycle. So when Sirius XM installed legacy radios that only can receive one signal, they are obligated to support that radio till it the car's life is over. So if you begin installing 2.0 in 2013, you can guess the time frame it will take to phase out these old radios. Non 2.0 radios will never be sold again, at least not for Sirius's signal. Sirius will not put out a new radio just for Sirius again, in my opinion. Although I don't think that observation is a stretch. We know Sirius XM is trying to go to one platform and now we have Mel's confirmation of that. He said by around 2020 you can expect the phasing to be near complete into all radios that can receive both signals. At that point the Sirius platform would be suspended and no new satellites will be launched that only send Sirius's signal. That frees up half their bandwidth. Mel stated they can use it for different business model, more channels, or whatever they want. This is a huge synergy and one of the reasons the merger w!@#$o valueable. Now we have a time frame on all of this. What intrigued me the most as an investor is when he said "use it for a different business model". That is another future revenue stream not priced into the stock one bit.<br />
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Mel also talked about how their margins are growing wider than first anticipated. They had modelled 30 to 35%, but now Mel is promising a 40% margin company in the near future. That is an amazing model for any business. I doubt oil companies even enjoy a margin like that. So basically if they earn 10 billion in revenue, there cash intake would be 4 billion dollars. That's not earnings, its cash.<br />
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Earlier in the article Mel stated that subscribers grew by 540,000. He stated that at this time, the used car market is now adding "significant numbers" to the totals. This is the first time Mel has used the word significant here and judging by the Q4 adds, it is apparent it is finally making a difference. With recently adding the <a href='http://www.wikinvest.com/stock/AutoNation_(AN)' class='bbc_url' title='External link' rel='nofollow external'>Auto Nation</a> deal and already having the Car Max and all used cars sold by GM dealers in play, their base to catch the used car market is rapidly expanding. Since they convert these subs at a 35% or higher clip and these subs go directly to the self pay subscriber totals never being a paid promo, this will help grow their subscriber base substantially now into the future. Now let's go over briefly what Greg Maffei had to say at the conference.<br />
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He stated that it was a very bad idea to "add the last shares" to gain control. This is not something they are necessarily looking to do. Gaining control of Sirius XM is not on the table apparently. He also stated anything they did in adding or whatever, would be something the board (Basically both sides) would agree too. There will be no hostile takeover or tender directly to shareholders basically. If the board agrees to something, they will explore that avenue. This is good news to investors. This means that both sides are finding some common ground and a common plan to benefit both sides, as I expected would be the case. Once again Maffei reiterated that the March date has little meaning to them.<br />
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Maffei also crushed the irresponsible and wrong argument perpetuated by the media rhetorics that the NOL's are an attractive and motivational reason to acquire a controlling interest. He stated this answer once again, and appears bothered by the same dumb questions, that Sirius XM will use their own NOL's. This has been a clear and consistant issue at KOAT since 2009. The only confusion on this issue has come from ignorant media types that take one bad piece of information and try to fabricate a story out of it. Sorry folks, no story here on that issue. Liberty is not sitting in a room plotting ways to destroy Sirius XM and their value. Hate to rain on your parade but the two sides appear lining up to agree on something here in 2012. It will be either how a return of preferred to Sirius XM would work, a buyback, or some type of mutually beneficial agreement to both sides. Of course the most logical thing is Liberty does nothing, holds at 40% and !@#$tated by Liberty, "rides the growth path of Sirius XM". So Liberty is not going to throw good money after free to gain control simply to do it. There would have to be a reason too. Maffei said it is too expensive to gain control at this point. Well when your first 40% is free, I can see their thinking on that.<br />
<br />
He did state that if Liberty did take control, they WOULD NOT TENDER FOR THE COMPANY. They are NOT INTERESTED IN TOTAL 100% OWNERSHIP. There. Done, next. I am personally tired of this rumor myself. This one had made the very least sense. Basically if Liberty added it would be to around 50 to 60% and only if they felt the direction of the company was in danger. Of course this agreement to go to these levels could come as a concession on a number of issues, including how a buyback would work, restrictions on the preferred shares, or other give and takes. I also wouldn't be surprised to learn that the fraud lawsuit currently going against Malone and the Sirius XM Board has taken some of the greed and bite out of Malone's stances on working with Sirius XM on a mutually beneficial future plan. 2012 board decisions should be interesting so stay tuned.<br />
<br />
As you can see by this conference that the company is strong and improving the cost and revenue side of the business. Mel has delivered a new radio that can evolve with demand and Liberty is set to ride the growth of Sirius XM Radio. 2012 should be full of new developments.<br />
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Disclosure: Long SIRI]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 05 Jan 2012 10:42:52 +0000</pubDate>
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		<title>Sirius XM</title>
		<link>http://www.kingofalltrades.com/page/articles/_/siri/sirius-xm-r301</link>
		<description><![CDATA[ By Relmor Demitrius<br />
<br />
Just announced today is that Howard Stern will begin filming in February for being a judge on America's Got Talent, a hit reality TV show in a talent show format. This is one of the most watched television shows in America.  The show airs on <a href='http://www.wikinvest.com/stock/General_Electric_Company_(GE)' class='bbc_url' title='External link' rel='nofollow external'>NBC</a>.<br />
<br />
This will be huge exposure for <a href='http://www.wikinvest.com/stock/Sirius_XM_Radio_(SIRI)' class='bbc_url' title='External link' rel='nofollow external'>Sirius XM Radio</a> (NASDAQ:SIRI), as their number one personality will now once again be a huge TV star. I think he will do an excellent job and is an excellent choice for the job. Exposure to the product will be greatly aided by this. This development should be interesting and can't wait to see how Howard Stern does on his new job. Don't worry about having time for both jobs, his gig at Sirius XM Radio is now only 3 days a week and he has plenty of off time. This was all announced on his radio show this morning.<br />
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Disclosure: Long SIRI]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 15 Dec 2011 09:02:48 +0000</pubDate>
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		<title>Liberty Is Not Acquiring Sirius XM, They Alread...</title>
		<link>http://www.kingofalltrades.com/page/articles/_/siri/liberty-is-not-acquiring-sirius-xm-they-alread-r300</link>
		<description><![CDATA[By Relmor Demitrius<br />
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For the life of me I can't understand why "journalists", and I use that term extremely loosely here when considering the coverage of <a href='http://www.wikinvest.com/stock/Sirius_XM_Radio_(SIRI)' class='bbc_url' title='External link' rel='nofollow external'>Sirius XM Radio</a> (NASDAQ:SIRI), cannot understand simple math and simple facts. If I hear the NOL's mentioned one more time as why Liberty would take over Sirius XM, I'm going to scream and throw something. NOL's are 100% for Sirius XM to use, will be used 100% by Sirius XM, and has no value directly to Liberty. This is from comments from Frear (CFO of Sirius XM), Mel Karamazin (CEO of Sirius XM), and Greg Maffei (CEO of <a href='http://www.wikinvest.com/stock/Liberty_Media_(LCAPA)' class='bbc_url' title='External link' rel='nofollow external'>LCAPA</a>).  There is NO SCENARIO PERIOD that allows Liberty to benefit from them except as an indirect 40% stakeholder in Sirius. It gives their holding more value, as profits are protected till around 2020. That's it. That is the only benefit to the company and Liberty. LCAPA can't spin off, spit off, crunch off, roll off, spit off, or any other form of off to make them any other way. So stop it. Stop it right now. Stop your incessant babbling and learn how to understand simple concepts. And they are not valued at 8 billion, its more, and its around 3 billion in cash value. NOT 8!!! There is no magic way to add 8 billion to the asset line. It comes in small chunks !@#$avings on profits that would have been paid to IRS.<br />
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Another simple concept running out there that cannt seemingly be made clear is that Liberty doesn't already control the company direction. As a 40% preffered stockholder with veto rights on major cash usage, they already control the company. They paid zero dollars for their stake and would be foolish to throw good money into it just to acquire a controlling stake. Reason they didn't offer 50% in the first place. Reason prices .05 cents to $2.44 were ignored by Liberty to add to 49% , which they could have from day 1. Greg Maffei said it himself, stupids. Why would we acquire shares now, when we ignored them for so long? Exactly Greg. Common sense is in order.<br />
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Another stupid theory is that Liberty will tender for 100% of the company and take it private. Unbelieveable, unprecedented in how Liberty handles their assets, and also very stupid. Take on 100% of the risk versus 40% ownership with no risk? Who's that stupid? Why pay another 8 billion dollars to buy out the company? You realize how long it would take them to cash out 8 billion dollars in Sirius XM with their current cash intake minus debt? Around 10 years at current levels. Or Liberty can stay 100% in profit range for 100% of the entire time they hold the company. What would you do?  Keep in mind Liberty owns 100% of very little.<br />
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Sure, Liberty could acquire a 10% stake if they don't like how the board room is working out for their vision, but they are a hands off owner, so that is the least likely scenario out there. If they acquire a 60% stake you wouldn't have to sell your shares, they would still trade and would be more valueable as more shares are out of the float. Tired of stupid authors not seeing this, mentioning this, or seeing the scenario it would require to produce this result.<br />
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Another stupid theory running around right now is that Sirius XM will miss their Q4 sub guidance. Obviously these people don't know about production subs, the used car market success, or failed to become aware of declining losses in the retail side of the metric. Either way, they can't do simple math. OEM adds for Q4 2011 will be around 600,000 minimum. Thats minimum. Now subtract maybe 100,000 retail side loss (typical every quarter) and you have your 500,000 subscriber addition quarter. Mel also stated they will meet guidance last time he talked. So saying a miss is coming makes for good clicks, but it doesn't help you as an investor when an "expert" misses a simple math problem. Don't forget, used car promo subs were never counted as a promo sub, hence will appear like magic directly to the self pay subscriber totals. These authors also fail to mention this fact.<br />
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Sirius XM buying Pandora is probably the funniest thing I have read lately. Talk about desperation as a Pandora stockholder. No, no one is going to buy your company. Sorry. You have no assets, hence nothing to value. I don't see any acquisition out their more valueable right now that a buyback would offer. Mel stated a buyback is coming, so don't expect it not too. It would be stupid. Would Liberty hinder company growth or appeciation of their stock holding? No, that would be "stupid".<br />
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Disclosure: Long SIRI]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 14 Dec 2011 09:49:50 +0000</pubDate>
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		<title>2012 is a Year of Decisions for Sirius XM Radio</title>
		<link>http://www.kingofalltrades.com/page/articles/_/siri/2012-is-a-year-of-decisions-for-sirius-xm-radio-r299</link>
		<description><![CDATA[By Relmor Demitrius<br />
<br />
 <br />
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According to Mel Karmazin, CEO of <a href='http://www.wikinvest.com/stock/Sirius_XM_Radio_(SIRI)' class='bbc_url' title='External link' rel='nofollow external'>Sirius XM Radio</a> (NASDAQ:SIRI), 2008 was "the merger year" for Sirius XM Radio and 2010 was the year of transitioning to profits and free cash flow growth. Then I say 2012 is the year of decisions. 2012 will hold vital decisions on the next few years and future of the companies structure and leadership. There are many important decisions coming from the Board of Directors and possibly <span class="wikinvest-suggestion wikinvest-company" articletitle="TGliZXJ0eSBNZWRpYQ,,_0" keyword="TGliZXJ0eSBNZWRpYQ,,"><span class="wikinvest-suggestion wikinvest-company" articletitle="TGliZXJ0eSBNZWRpYQ,,_0" keyword="TGliZXJ0eSBNZWRpYQ,,"><span class="wikinvest-suggestion wikinvest-company" articletitle="TGliZXJ0eSBNZWRpYQ,,_0" keyword="TGliZXJ0eSBNZWRpYQ,,"><span class="wikinvest-suggestion wikinvest-company" articletitle="TGliZXJ0eSBNZWRpYQ,,_0" keyword="TGliZXJ0eSBNZWRpYQ,,"><span class="wikinvest-suggestion wikinvest-company" articletitle="TGliZXJ0eSBNZWRpYQ,,_0" keyword="TGliZXJ0eSBNZWRpYQ,,"><span class="wikinvest-suggestion wikinvest-company" articletitle="TGliZXJ0eSBNZWRpYQ,,_0" keyword="TGliZXJ0eSBNZWRpYQ,,">Liberty Media</span></span></span></span></span></span> (<a href='http://www.wikinvest.com/stock/Liberty_Media_(LINTA)' class='bbc_url' title='External link' rel='nofollow external'>NASDAQ:LINTA</a>). Last week we got a glipse into what that future might hold as Greg Maffei commented on such things at the <a href='http://www.wikinvest.com/stock/UBS_AG_(UBS)' class='bbc_url' title='External link' rel='nofollow external'>UBS</a> Global Media Conference on Monday Dec. 5th. This conference also had David Fear, CFO of Sirius XM, speak as well. Also Mel has been beating the drum on making a decision about his future as well, as his contract will expire in December of 2012. Postering is already beginning on that front as well.<br />
<br />
In 2009 Mel Karmazin made comments about his future, as his contract was coming due at the end of the 2009. His current deal runs from 2010 to 2012. He stated then in 2009 he would not be second fiddle to anyone. He would rather do something else, suggesting a desire to start a fund himself. He stated maybe something new would be in order. This was of course postering and a warning to the board and the new 40% owners at the time, Liberty Media. He has now made the exact same comments in 2011. These comments came at a Reuters Media Conference from November. Basically with Mel Karmazin, its CEO and total control, or nothing with him. This is no new information to the board or Liberty.<br />
<br />
Looking at the subscriber totals and improvements to the debt ratio and balance sheet since 2009, as the merger was his baby, I would have to say Mel was worth every penny and he has done an amazing job worthy of another 3 years. Was he perfect? No, but no one is of course. Has he made mistakes? Probably. Is he being sued for fraud by his own company? Yes he is, as is the entire board. This is from the handling of the Liberty Investment deal. This is an overhang on the board, but I don't feel will be a factor in Mel and the boards decision.  As of right now, Mel has probably 7 board members minimum who are loyal to him and are from the company long term. I think Frear, himself, Amble, Black, Gilberti, Hartenstein, and Barry are locks to vote for Mel. Thats 7 of 13 board votes right there. There are another couple members that are independent additions that might favor a new direction, and then there are the 3 members from Liberty. Basically if Mel wants to come back, he should have the votes. If Liberty wants to go to a proxy situation and remove board members who would vote for Mel, then they have that right. I do not believe Liberty would go to such a drastic step to remove Mel. If they do not like the direction of the company, which they have stated time and time again that they do like the direction and are happy with their investement, then they might buy over 50% and just control it that way. If they feel management can no longer be trusted and the company must be more run "hands on", which is not how they operate, then they might go that route. However since they are happy with the company, and are "riding the growth path of Sirius XM", !@#$tated at their Liberty Investment Conference slide show from this year, I expect no such course of action, at least for this purpose.<br />
<br />
Mel h!@#$tated he wants clarity as to what Liberty's intentions are with the future of the company. Are they going to allow a buyback? Or they going to allow preferred shares to be rebought? Are they going to take a controlling interest? If they do, what reassurances will Mel have that he will be in control? All these things are issues, in my opinion, to Mel re-signing with the company and why 2012 is a big year for decisions. I believe if Mel likes what he sees from the board and gets cooperation from Liberty on their future structure, stock options (buyback..etc..) and he gets the money and option packages he wants, then I am confidence Mel will be back for at least another couple of years. There is still much to transition with the company and the evolution and growth story of the company is no where near complete. If Mel set out to start and finish a job, he would be quiting at the half way point as I see it. I feel Mel sees this merged company now as his baby and he isn't going to let it be raised by someone else without a fight. Management protection is a huge issue and Mel has a personal and financial interest in its success going forward. He owns 120 million stock options at around a 47 cent strike price and many more millions of actual shares himself. He re-signed with the company in July of 2009. Using this as a guideline, meaning I believe Mel will want to get a deal done before nearing the end of the year, I would expect heavy decision making and board meetings to occur in the first half of this year.<br />
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I think there are fights going on right now in the board room. I believe the Liberty is holding to a belief that a buyback of common shares will increase their percentage of ownership, as it is a static amount of shares due to them. They are protected from dilusion in the investment agreement. I believe negotiations for how or if a buyback would work hinge on the wording on this agreement and could ultimately come down to Liberty having to sue to see their interpretation enforced or they concede the issue. Sirius XM management can enact a buyback and not have it affect what is due percentage wise to Liberty Media, without permission from Liberty. Now if Liberty doesn't want this, they might try to gain a controlling interest or seek legal avenues. Basically not only did they steal 40% of the company for a free, now they want to hinder future stockholder value by handcuffing their options on how a buyback would work. I guarantee this is what Malone is trying to get. They might however allow a buyback, if Sirius XM buys back an equal amount of corresponding preferred shares as well, thus keeping the percentage at 40%. This would reduce the float, but hold Liberty's percentage as equal. But in order to reduce the float, Sirius XM would have to basically "double spend" to do it. They would also have to buy back whatever amount of preferred would keep it at a 40% stake. This would allow Liberty to pull money out without hurting their own ownership levels, while it benefits stockholders by reducing the amount of shares in the float. This situation wouldn't be ideal for stockholders, but it would be better than nothing.  There are public comments from Mel and Malone and Maffei that seem to hint there are some hidden things going on that we don't yet know about.  When Mel calls Malone "the Doctor" and laughs about it, you know something is up.  We will know soon enough.<br />
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Sirius XM is ok with a buyback just reducing total shares, and not affecting Liberty's percentage. That is not what Liberty maybe trying to do here.  They may want a way to reduce the float while increasing Liberty's percentage at the same time, which would nullify any value in a buyback, and not have to sell back preferred shares as well. Sirius XM would rather buy back preferred first of course, but if that answer is no, then Mel would go the other route, buying back common shares. Since Mel Karmazin has been touting a buyback since 2009 as a viable option in returning shareholder value, I believe this was and is still the working condition that Mel is going forward with. If Liberty wants to prevent this then they have the only option of going to court, or becoming a majority owner. In my opinion, preventing a buyback from occuring without keeping Liberty's percentage the same removes all value to the buyback and why Mel and the board might be in talks to work this out to benefit both parties.  Both sides want the stock to appreciate and are on the same page on that. This is why I am hopeful an agreement can be reached and the company can move forward with the buyback plan, and re-sign their leader, Mel.<br />
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Another decison facing the company in 2012 is how to handle the upcoming debt situation. Mel can refinance out the 2013 13% bonds due to maybe 2018 with a new 6% interest rate. This would improve their interest payments immensely, while using no cash in the process. This allows cash to be used now on a buyback. They can also decide to take on new debt, roll out the bonds, and use money from that offering or cash on hand to begin a smaller scale buyback plan, being announced in 2012. Once this buyback plan is announced we will know what the situation is with how a buyback would affect Liberty's percentage. I expect an annoucement in the first half of the year, probably in Q1 or Q2 conference call at the latest.<br />
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Although March is a date that allows a full investment into Sirius XM from Liberty Media, Greg Maffei at the Dec. 5th UBS Conference warned that this date really has no significance to them. If they were interested in a majority stake, he said then why didn't Liberty add in the open market to 49% when the stock was trading at 15 cents in 2009. It would be illogical to add now basically when a cheap stock was ignored for so long. It has always been my contention that a free 40% stake is much more valueable than putting in good money to get to 50% or 60%. This gives risk now to a once risk free investment. Remember, Libertys cost average on their Sirius XM investment is zero. Its all 100% profit to them. Every dollar used to buy more exposes them to more risk. With practically control over big cash usage and happy with the day to day operations, this makes the least sense to me. Greg Maffei spelled out their options on Dec. 5th. He stated they basically have 2 choices.<br />
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1. Do nothing.<br />
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2. Add to take control. They could also do a spin off of course and some type of merger down the road as well. Any merger would require a 50% controlling stake first. He stated Liberty does 2 things usually with an investment. They either get out of it quick with a tax benefit, or hold long term. This is a hold long term situation with them.<br />
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Selling their stake, or converting and selling is not an option. Book it. It isn't happening. They are not going to lower their percentage of control anytime soon. Maybe down the road if the stock gets over $5. Then a small scale out to book profits might be reasonable at that point. Maybe then they would sell their stake back to the company. Once maximum saturation of the market is achieved, I wouldn't blame any investor for wanting to put the future risk of the company in someone else's hands, especially when that investment was risk free to begin with.<br />
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The only way I see Liberty wanting control is if a decision on future use of cash cannot be reached with management, and they want full board control. In this scenario, Mel Karmazin would not be retained as CEO. I wouldn't be surprised if Greg Maffei became the new CEO at that point.<br />
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So as you can see the company has a lot of things to resolve in 2012. It is going to be interesting to see how they handle debt, if Mel comes back ,and how they handle a buyback. A buyback Mel said would be a 2012 board decision. Keep in mind that their debt to leverage ratio will be at 2 to 1 by the end of 2012. They stated they want one of 3 to 1. Could this mean they take on debt to do a buyback? It is in the cards. Or it could be a partial use of debt, with some cash on hand as well. Only time will tell.<br />
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Disclosure: Long SIRI]]></description>
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