5.3

Outperform/Higher Risk - Price 20.26 on July 1
by Baird Securities

QGEN announced it has acquired Corbett Life Science in a cash and stock deal worth $70 million plus $65 million in future milestones....We have adjusted our 2008-'09 estimates to reflect anticipated acquisition impact. Our 28 target is based on a target P/E multiple of 30 times [in line with a historical range of 25 times to 45 times for molecular-diagnostics companies] and our '09 pro forma E-EPS of 94 cents. We believe QGEN should trade at a higher P/E multiple relative to its life-science peers, based on Qiagen's sustained double-digit organic growth rate and 20% to 30% operating margins. Market cap: $3.6 billion.

Great business model, and growth opportunities with their recent acquisition of Digene.

bio testing

DNA test for flu viruses

DNA test for flu viruses

biotech

Upgraded by Deutsche Securities from Hold to Buy

45% Growth rate in Asia. This is a safe way to enter biotech. Set to exceed 2007 sales forecast according to the conference call.

Downgraded by First Analysis Sec from Overweight to Equal-Weight

unknown