Here’s Why These Stocks Are In the Spotlight Today

Some Think Monsanto Could Get a Higher Bid

Monsanto Company (NYSE:MON)’s stock is trading higher after the Times published an article speculating that Bayer might raise its bid for Monsanto Company (NYSE:MON). Monsanto previously rejected a $122 per share all-cash acquisition offer, calling the bid ‘financially inadequate’. The Times reported that an improved offer could be early as this week. Of the around 766 elite funds we track, 51 funds owned $2.45 billion worth of Monsanto Company (NYSE:MON)’s shares, which accounted for 6.30% of the float on March 31, versus 38 funds and $3.22 billion on December 31.

Starbucks Rolls Out New Products

Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ:SBUX) is in the spotlight today after the chain announced that it will roll out a new collection of cold coffee beverages, which execs hope will increase same-store-sales. The new beverages will be the centerpiece for the new ‘cold bar’ concept at the company. Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ:SBUX) has been busy expanding, having recently announced its first international roastery in China a few days ago. A total of 52 elite funds from our database owned shares of the company at the end of the first quarter.

Viacom Directors Dig In

Viacom, Inc. (NASDAQ:VIA)‘s independent directors have said that they intend to challenge any attempt by Sumner Redstone to remove them from their seats, should any attempt be made. In a letter to shareholders, the Viacom, Inc. (NASDAQ:VIA) independent directors wrote:

“We will contest the purported removal if it comes, because we see that as our responsibility to the non-control shareholders of Viacom who own 90 percent of the equity of the company.”

Redstone is currently the controlling shareholder of Viacom.

Disclosure: none