Tag - Emkr

Seabridge Gold Inc. (Nasdaq:SA), NovaGold Resources Inc.(Nasdaq:NG) and Hoku Scientific Inc. (Nasdaq:HOKU) are among the biggest percentage gainers in Tuesday's trading among companies with market capitalizations under $1 billion.

Also included among the results: Novogen Depository Receipt (Nasdaq:NVGN), Emcore Corp. (Nasdaq:EMKR), China Architectural Engineering Inc. (Nasdaq:CAEI), 4 Kids Entertainment Inc. (Nasdaq:KDE), Somanetics Corp. (Nasdaq:SMTS) and Minefinders Corporation Ltd. (Nasdaq:MFN).

Here are the biggest percentage gainers among small caps:

Arris Group Inc (Nasdaq:ARRS), Crocs Inc (Nasdaq:CROX) and A Power Energy Generation Systems Ltd (Nasdaq:APWR) are among the most actively traded companies in Wednesday's trading among companies with market capitalizations under $1 billion.

Also included among the results: Evergreen Solar Inc (Nasdaq:ESLR), Finish Line Inc (Nasdaq:FINL), Solarfun Power Holdings Co Ltd (Nasdaq:SOLF), EMCORE Corp (Nasdaq:EMKR), Quest Energy Partners L P (Nasdaq:QELP) and James River Coal Co (Nasdaq:JRCC).

Here are the most actively traded companies among small caps:

EMCORE Corporation (Nasdaq:EMKR) is up more than 10% in pre-market trading today after the company announced earlier this morning it had received $29 million worth of new orders for concentrator solar cell receivers. The Albuquerque, N.M.-based company said it had entered into two definitive agreements in June, which incorporate advance deposits. EMCORE, which is a semiconductor-based components and subsystems provider, said the production on these orders had begun and shipments are scheduled over the course of the next two years.

Ahead of today’s opening, shares of EMCORE are at $5.66, up $0.53 from Tuesday’s close.

Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group Inc (Nasdaq:DTG), EMCORE Corp (Nasdaq:EMKR) and MTS Medication Technologies Inc (Nasdaq:MPP) are among the biggest percentage losers in Tuesday's trading among companies with market capitalizations under $1 billion.

Also included among the results: Titan Machinery Inc (Nasdaq:TITN), Village Bank and Trust Financial Corp (Nasdaq:VBFC), Avis Budget Group (Nasdaq:CAR), PAB Bankshares Inc (Nasdaq:PABK), Tri-Valley Corp (Nasdaq:TIV) and First Business Financial Services Inc (Nasdaq:FBIZ).

Here are the biggest percentage losers among small caps:

EMCORE Corporation (Nasdaq:EMKR) shares tanked more than 20% on Tuesday after Monday’s late news that the Albuquerque-based company will sell 2 million shares of its WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp. (OTC:WWAT) preferred stock. The sale will have two closings, the first of which took place on June 27; the second will be on July 31. The semiconductor-based components and subsystems provider said it expects about $13.1 million in total proceeds from the sale. Also on Monday, an analyst at Canaccord Adams downgraded EMCORE to “hold” from “buy” and cut the price target to $7 from $9.

On Tuesday, EMCORE shares fell to $5, down about $1.26 or 20.1% from Monday’s close. The shares hit a 52-week low.

Small-cap shares started out the second half of 2008 with a dramatic downward spiral, as the Russell 2000 (NYSE:IWM) tumbled through the official 20% bear market line, endangering the bottoming premise built off the March through June rally. However, a bullish surprise on manufacturing data sparked a big recovery bounce about 30 minutes after the open. At 10:05 a.m. ET, the Russell was down 1.26, or 0.18%, at 688.40.

The fuel for today’s bearish flurry came from a familiar source: rising crude oil prices and slumping financial stocks. In addition, safe haven money flow away from equities toward credit instruments, physical instruments and cash exacerbated the stock market slide.

The ISM Manufacturing Survey, released at 10:00 a.m. ET, came out at 50.2, which was above the forecast for a reading of 48.6. The upside surprise on the ISM data sparked a sizable recovery bounce in stock index products, with the Russell 2000 shooting some eight handles off the morning lows. It should be noted that although the headline figure was a nice upside surprise for manufacturing activity, the index of prices paid climbed to 91.5, which marked the highest reading since 1979.

Just ahead of the stock market opening, crude oil prices climbed back above $143 dollars a barrel, jumping some $3 dollars from Monday’s U.S. close. The rise in energy markets sparked investor buying in gold, as the yellow metal hit 10-week highs. In addition, the U.S. dollar was taking a beating against the yen, down 0.8%, which makes commodity goods priced in dollars more attractive to Asian investors and end users.

The story in crude oil gathered steam amid heightened geopolitical tension in the Middle East, as rumors of a potential attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities by Israel remain on the front burner. Iran has threatened to take action on shipping through the Straight of Hormuz if attacked, and approximately 40% of the world’s fuel supply moves through that waterway. In addition, the International Energy Agency . . .

MGIC Investment Corp (Nasdaq:MTG), BancTrust Financial Group Inc (Nasdaq:BTFG) and Atlantic Southern Financial Group Inc (Nasdaq:ASFN) are among the biggest percentage losers in Monday's trading among companies with market capitalizations under $1 billion.

Also included among the results: Life Partners Holdings Inc (Nasdaq:LPHI), Acura Pharmaceuticals Inc (Nasdaq:ACUR), Citizens & Northern Corp (Nasdaq:CZNC), Security Bank Corp (Nasdaq:SBKC), EMCORE Corp (Nasdaq:EMKR) and First Bancorp Puerto Rico (Nasdaq:FBP).

Here are the biggest percentage losers among small caps:

AgFeed Industries Inc (Nasdaq:FEED), RAM Energy Resources Inc (Nasdaq:RAME) and EMCORE Corp (Nasdaq:EMKR) are among the most actively traded companies in Thursday's trading among companies with market capitalizations under $750 million.

Orion Energy Systems Inc (Nasdaq:OESX), Moldflow Corp (Nasdaq:MFLO) and Ascent Solar Technologies Inc (Nasdaq:ASTI) are also among the most actively traded companies.

Here are the most actively traded companies among small caps:

CommVault Systems Inc (Nasdaq:CVLT), Akeena Solar Inc (Nasdaq:AKNS) and Emcore Corp (Nasdaq:EMKR) are among the most actively traded companies in Wednesday's trading among companies with market capitalizations under $750 million.

China Sunergy Co Ltd (Nasdaq:CSUN), Anadigics Inc (Nasdaq:ANAD) and Silicon Image Inc (Nasdaq:SIMG) are also among the most actively traded companies.

Here are the most actively traded companies among small caps:

Emcore Corp (Nasdaq:EMKR), China Sunergy Co Ltd (Nasdaq:CSUN) and True Religion Apparel Inc (Nasdaq:TRLG) are among the most actively traded companies in Tuesday's trading among companies with market capitalizations under $750 million.

Hoku Scientific Inc (Nasdaq:HOKU), Ricks Cabaret International Inc (Nasdaq:RICK) and Kenexa Corp (Nasdaq:KNXA) are also among the most actively traded companies.

Here are the most actively traded companies among small caps:

Synchronoss Technologies Inc (Nasdaq:SNCR), DrdGold ADR (Nasdaq:DROOY) and Ricks Cabaret International Inc (Nasdaq:RICK) are among the most actively traded companies in Friday's trading among companies with market capitalizations under $750 million.

True Religion Apparel Inc (Nasdaq:TRLG), China Technology Development Group Corp (Nasdaq:CTDC) and EMCORE Corp (Nasdaq:EMKR) are also among the most actively traded companies.

Here are the most actively traded companies among small caps:

Emcore Corp (Nasdaq:EMKR), Akeena Solar Inc (Nasdaq:AKNS) and China Direct Inc (Nasdaq:CDS) are among the most actively traded companies in Thursday's trading among companies with market capitalizations under $750 million.

Synchronoss Technologies Inc (Nasdaq:SNCR), Nighthawk Radiology Holdings Inc (Nasdaq:NHWK) and China Technology Development Group Corp (Nasdaq:CTDC) are also among the most actively traded companies.

Here are the most actively traded companies among small caps:

EMCORE Corp (Nasdaq:EMKR), Website Pros Inc (Nasdaq:WSPI) and Alvarion Ltd. (Nasdaq:ALVR) are among the most actively traded companies in Monday's pre-market trading among those with market capitalizations under $750 million.

STEC Inc (Nasdaq:STEC), NextWAVE Wireless Ord Shs (Nasdaq:WAVE), AgFeed Industries Inc (Nasdaq:FEED) and TASER International Inc (Nasdaq:TASR) are also among the most actively traded small-cap companies in pre-market trading.

Here are the most actively traded small-cap companies in Monday's pre-market trading:

The Russell 2000 (NYSE:IWM) closed lower on news that Wachovia Corp. (NYSE:WB) suffered a first-quarter loss. The small-cap index fell 2.09 points, or 0.30%, to 686.07. The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 23.36 points, or 0.19%, to 12,302.06.

On a year-to-date basis, the Russell 2000 has shed 10.44%, while the Dow is off 7.26% and the S&P 500 is down 9.54%.

The bears and the bulls tangled but the bears were eventually victorious as investors reacted to news before the opening that Wachovia Corp. (NYSE:WB) swung to a first-quarter loss and will sell common and preferred stock to raise capital.

The Charlotte, N.C.-based bank has been relatively less exposed to the subprime mortgage mess than the other major financial institutions, leading to speculation that more players will report losses.

Banks were among the worst hit industry groups today. Among those . . .

The Russell 2000 (NYSE:IWM) jumped as investors reacted to news of a tech sector upgrade and a bullish earnings forecast from Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (NYSE:WMT). The small-cap index rose 9.04 points, or 1.29%, to 707.42, snapping a three-day losing streak. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 54.72 points, or 0.44%, to 12,581.98.

On a year-to-date basis, the Russell 2000 has let go 7.65%, while the Dow has declined 5.15% and the S&P 500 is missing 7.34%.

Small-cap stocks began the session with a brief dip into the red but quickly recovered as investors digested news before the opening that Wal-Mart raised its earnings estimate for the first quarter of fiscal 2009, partially due to strong sales of electronics.

The index moved into positive territory shortly before 10 a.m. ET and maintained those gains until the closing, reaching a session high of 710 just before 2 p.m. ET.

Also helping the bulls establish their dominance was news before the start of trading that the semiconductor sector has been upgraded by Banc of America Securities. The sector includes small-caps EMCORE Corp. (Nasdaq:EMKR) and San Jose, Calif.-based . . .

Shares of EMCORE Corp. (Nasdaq:EMKR) are rising on news before the opening that the maker of semiconductor-based components will buy technology relating to optical transceivers for enterprise and storage customers from Intel Corp. (Nasdaq:INTC). The Albuquerque, N.M.-based company will issue 3.7 million shares of restricted stock to finance the purchase, which will close in the second quarter of 2008.

At 3:46 p.m. ET, the stock had gained $0.17, or 2%, to $7.13.

NGP Capital Resources Co. (Nasdaq:NGPC), EMCORE Corp. (Nasdaq:EMKR) and Nektar Therapeutics (Nasdaq:NKTR) are among the most actively traded companies in Thursday's pre-market trading among those with market capitalizations under $750 million.

Apogee Enterprises, Inc. (Nasdaq:APOG), Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. (Nasdaq:CALM) and SiRF Technology Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq:SIRF) are also among the most actively traded small-cap companies in pre-market trading.

Here are the most actively traded small-cap companies in Thursday's pre-market trading:

Shares of Emcore Corp. (Nasdaq:EMKR) are up 6% in pre-market trading this morning after the provider of semiconductor-based components and subsystems said after Friday’s close that it elected a new chairman and chief executive officer and authorized plans to  separate its fiber optics and photovoltaic businesses into separate corporations.

Shares gained 6.9%, or $0.47, to $7.25 in pre-market trading. For detailed price information and recent news stories about Emcore, click EMKR.  

The Russell 2000 (NYSE:IWM) futures are higher and the small-cap index will likely open with a rise on news of relief for a mortgage lender.

With little major economic news on today’s calendar, investors are focusing on news before the opening that consumer and small business lender Washington Mutual, Inc. (NYSE:WM) is near a deal to receive a $5 billion boost from a private equity group.

The Russell 2000 was basically unchanged Friday, as the market struggled to decipher the employment report. In the end, the index was up 0.16, or 0.02%, to 713.73, the highest daily close since late February. Look for resistance this morning at 717 and 724, while support comes in at 705, 700 and 694.

Outside of Tuesday’s FOMC minutes, the potential for major market-moving events is at a lull this week, and today’s 3:00 p.m. consumer credit data is unlikely to stir passion among stock market traders. It will be interesting to see if the market can build on last week’s solid performance after months of initial jobs-release rallies have given way quickly to bears.

The Russell 2000 (NYSE:IWM) managed a small rise on news of mixed economic reports. The small-cap index climbed 1.30 points, or 0.18%, to 713.57, its fourth consecutive rise. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 20.20 points, or 0.16%, to 12,626.03.

On a year-to-date basis, the Russell 2000 has shed 6.85%, while the Dow is down 4.82% and the S&P 500 has retreated 6.75%.

Small-cap stocks spent the morning in negative territory on news before the opening that jobless claims for the week ended March 29 unexpectedly increased 38,000 to 407,000, according to the U.S. Labor Department. That’s the highest level in more than two years and a sign that economic growth has stalled.

The small-cap index recovered and almost touched the flat line at about 10 a.m. ET on news that the U.S. service sector contracted less than expected in March.

But stocks quickly lost their footing again, falling to a session low of nearly 706 at 11 a.m. ET, before beginning a slow climb upward. The bullish sentiment, which . . .

Alaska Communications Systems Group, Inc. (Nasdaq:ALSK), Dendreon Corp. (Nasdaq:DNDN) and China Sunergy Co., Ltd. (Nasdaq:CSUN) are among the most actively traded companies in Thursday's pre-market trading among those with market capitalizations under $750 million.

EMCORE Corp. (Nasdaq:EMKR), Akeena Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq:AKNS) and SiRF Technology Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq:SIRF) are also among the most actively traded small-cap companies in pre-market trading.

Here are the most actively traded small-cap companies in Thursday's pre-market trading:

The Russell 2000 (NYSE:IWM) posted a modest gain despite news of bearish comments from U.S. Federal Reserve chairman Ben Bernanke. The small-cap index rose 1.62 points, or 0.23%, to 712.27. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 45.44 points, or 0.36%, to 12,608.92.

On a year-to-date basis, the Russell 2000 is down 7.02%, while the Dow has shed 4.94% and the S&P 500 has retreated 6.87%.

“It now appears likely that real gross domestic product will not grow much, if at all, over the first half of 2008 and could even contract slightly,” Bernanke told the congressional Joint Economic Committee after the start of trading.

The comment was made public before the start of the testimony, resulting in a bearish opening.

The assessment contradicts a report by payroll company Automatic Data Processing, Inc. (NYSE:ADP) before the start of trading showing . . .

Provider of semiconductor-based components Emcore Corp. (Nasdaq:EMKR) said today that it won a $4.6 million follow-on production order from Spanish renewable energy company Concentration Solar la Mancha for solar cell receiver assemblies. Shipments are scheduled to begin in the September quarter.

Shares gained 5.9%, or $0.35, to $6.25 ahead of the opening bell. For detailed price information and recent news stories about Emcore, click EMKR.

EMCORE Corp. (Nasdaq:EMKR), Chordiant Software, Inc. (Nasdaq:CHRD) and Solarfun Power Holdings Co., Ltd. (Nasdaq:SOLF) are among the most actively traded companies in Wednesday's pre-market trading among those with market capitalizations under $750 million.

Superior Bancorp (Nasdaq:SUPR), Hansen Medical, Inc. (Nasdaq:HNSN) and China Sunergy Co., Ltd. (Nasdaq:CSUN) are also among the most actively traded small-cap companies in pre-market trading.

Here are the most actively traded small-cap companies in Wednesday's pre-market trading:

The Russell 2000 (NYSE:IWM) closed lower as fears of an economic slowdown came to the forefront. The small-cap index lost 9.72 points, or 1.38%, to 692.39. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDU) declined 120.40 points, or 0.97%, to 12,302.46.

On a year-to-date basis, the Russell 2000 is down 9.61%, while the Dow has shed 7.26% and the S&P 500 is off 9.71%.

The bears dominated most the session today as investors worried that lackluster economic growth could possibly tip into a recession.

Gross domestic product rose at the previously announced annual pace of 0.6% during the fourth-quarter of 2007, the U.S. Commerce Department announced before the start of trading. That’s in line with economists’ expectations but below the 4.9% growth recorded in the third quarter of 2007.

Many observers, among them Dennis Lockhart, president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, forecast that the economy will slow down even more in the first quarter of 2008.

“It’s clear the economy is in a slowdown that resembles past periods that were the leading edge of a recession,” Lockhart told the Rotary Club of Chattanooga, Tenn. after the opening. “Following a sluggish fourth quarter, I expect that GDP for the first quarter of this year will show little, if any, growth.”

The Russell 2000 (NYSE:IWM) fell for the first time this week on news of an unexpected decline in February orders for durable goods. The small-cap index lost 3.16 points, or 0.45%, to 702.11. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDU) was off 109.74 points, or 0.88%, to 12,422.86.

On a year-to-date basis, the Russell 2000 has shed 8.34%, while the Dow is down 6.35% and the S&P 500 has decreased 8.66%.

Stocks small and large opened in negative territory and never looked up on news before the start of trading that orders for manufactured durable goods fell 1.7% in February, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Economists were . . .

The Russell 2000 (NYSE:IWM) closed in positive territory today as investors disregarded bearish economic news. The small-cap index rose 3.99 points, or 0.57%, to 705.27. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDU) fell 16.04 points, or 0.13%, to 12,532.60.

On a year-to-date basis, the Russell 2000 has declined 7.93%, while the Dow is down 5.52% and the S&P 500 has shed 7.86%.

Despite a rocky start, small-cap stocks rose for the third consecutive session as the momentum from Monday’s rally empowered the bulls despite generally bearish economic news.

The Conference Board reported before the opening that its index of consumer confidence fell to a five-year low of 64.5 in March from an upwardly . . .

The Russell 2000 (NYSE:IWM) posted a large increase for the second consecutive session on upbeat financial and housing news. The small-cap index advanced 19.86 points, or 2.91%, to 701.28. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDU) rose 187.32 points, or 1.52%, to 12,548.64.

On a year-to-date basis, the Russell 2000 has declined 8.45%, while the Dow is down 5.40% and the S&P 500 has lost 8.07%.

Stocks small and large began the day in the green on news before the start of trading that investment bank JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM) has raised its offer for Bear Stearns (NYSE:BSC) to $10 a share from $2 a share. The move is in response to disgruntled employees at Bear Stearns complaining that the original bid was too low.

The bulls gained strength at 10 a.m. ET, when the National Association of Realtors reported that sales of existing homes rose 2.9% to an annual rate of . . .

The Russell 2000 (NYSE:IWM) posted a decline as investors consolidated their positions following Tuesday’s big rally. The small-cap index declined 17.80 points, or 2.61%, to 664.13. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDU) lost 293 points, or 2.36%, to 12,099.66.

On a year-to-date basis, the Russell 2000 has shed 13.30%, while the Dow is down 8.78% and the S&P 500 has let go 11.57%.

Small-cap stocks opened in the green but lost steam and reversed midway through the session. The bullish sentiment in the morning was partially attributed to news that Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS) beat analysts’ expectations despite reporting a decline in fiscal first-quarter profit.

That’s good news for investors worried that the pain that from Bear Stearns (NYSE:BSC) could spread to other investment banks.

The Russell 2000 (NYSE: IWM) futures have retreated and the small-cap index will likely open in negative territory.

Investors appear ready to pull back slightly after the major U.S. indices posted major gains on Tuesday. That’s despite news this morning that Morgan Stanley (NYSE: MS) saw a decline in fiscal first-quarter net income but still beat expectations. Investment banks have come into focus following the emergency sale of Bear Stearns (NYSE: BSC).

The Russell 2000 took flight Tuesday, notching the largest one-day gain of the year as investors embraced yet another reduction in benchmark interest rates by the FOMC. The small-cap barometer shot 31.45, or 4.84%, to 681.93. It’s a familiar refrain, as the market has had a tendency to rally on FOMC day – only to falter in the after wash. It should be interesting to see if this rally can grow legs.

There are no noteworthy economic releases or Fed speakers on tap today, which should free up the market to focus on routine fundamentals and to sift through the impact of Tuesday’s surge to see if there is more gas in the tank. The market poked through a little resistance spot late Tuesday at 680, and that is now immediate support. Below there, look for support at 674, then at 667 and 660. Resistance is at 684.50, and 695.

The Russell 2000 (NYSE:IWM) closed with a remarkable gain following news that the U.S. Federal Reserve has lowered its target interest rate. The small-cap index rose 31.45 points, or 4.83%, to 681.93. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDU) advanced 420.41 points, or 3.51%, to 12,392.66.

On a year-to-date basis, the Russell 2000 has retreated 10.98%, while the Dow is down 6.57% and the S&P 500 has let go 9.37%.

Small-cap stocks soared higher than their larger counterparts and added to their earlier gains on news after the start of trading that the U.S. Federal Reserve has decided to lower its target interest rate 0.75% to 2.25%.

“Recent information indicates that the outlook for economic activity has weakened further,” the Fed said in a statement. “Growth in consumer spending has slowed and labor markets have softened.”

The market had priced a full 1% of the federal funds rate, the rate at which commercial banks make overnight loans to each other, but policymakers expressed concern about inflation.

The Russell 2000 (NYSE: IWM) posted a big loss as news of liquidity problems at Bear Stearns spread credit fears. The small-cap index fell 16.81 points, or 2.47%, to 662.90. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDU) declined 194.65 points, or 1.60%, to 11,951.09.

On a year-to-date basis, the Russell 2000 has lost13.46%, while the Dow is down 9.90% and the S&P 500 has retreated 12.27%.

Stocks small and large tumbled today on news that Bear Stearns’ (NYSE: BSC) cash position has deteriorated significantly over the past 24 hours. The investment bank, which has been highly exposed to the subprime mortgage sector, turned to J.P. Morgan Chase & Co. (NYSE: JPM) and the New York Federal Reserve for short-term financing to alleviate its liquidity problems.

There’s speculation that Bear Stearns will soon be purchased by one of its larger rivals. News of the company’s problems spread fears of a severe credit squeeze, leading to a sharp sell-off.

The Russell 2000 (NYSE: IWM) is declining on news of worse-than-expected economic data.

At 10:18 a.m. ET, the small-cap index had let go 5.68 points, or 0.81%, to 699.64. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDU) was down 51.37 points, or 0.42%, to 12,325.61.

The U.S. economy is faltering while inflation remains high, according to economic reports released before the start of trading.

The New York Federal Reserve said that its index of general business conditions fell to a reading of -11.72 in February, below the level of 9.03 in January and the first time it’s fallen below zero since 2005.

That’s a deeper drop than the one expected by economists and a sign that the economy is in trouble.

Elsewhere, the U.S. Labor Department reported that import prices jumped 1.7% in January due to higher prices for energy, food and commodities. Economists were calling for a rise of 0.5%.

The numbers tell us that the United States may be importing inflation, a development which complicated the U.S. Federal Reserve’s task of keeping inflation low while simultaneously trying to stimulate the economy.

The small-cap index is falling more than the other major U.S. indices.

The Russell 2000 (IWM) rose for the first time this week despite news that painted a bleak picture of the U.S. economy. The small-cap index added 10.29 points, or 1.49%, to 702.78. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDU) added 46.90 points, or 0.38%, to 12,247.00.

On a year-to-date basis, the Russell 2000 has shed 8.26%, while the Dow has let go 7.67% and the S&P 500 has left behind 8.95%.

Small-cap stocks went on a rollercoaster ride that started with a decline out of the gate as investors reacted to news that U.S. retail sales in January generally missed already low expectations.

That’s a worrying sign that consumers have pulled back and the economy is either headed for a recession or already in one.

Grabbing the headlines was Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (NYSE: WMT), which announced that its January same-store sales increased a paltry 0.5%, below the forecasted 2%. If American consumers really are reining in their spending, the squeeze won’t be felt just by the world’s largest retailer.

“Smaller-cap retailers are definitely more volatile than their larger brethren, many times because they are focused on one particular niche,” said Eric Beder, a retail analyst with investment bank Brean Murray, Carret & Co., in an email.

Leading small cap stocks news and research website SmallCapInvestor.com has released its top solar stocks—Canadian Solar (Nasdaq: CSIQ) and EMCORE Corp. (Nasdaq: EMKR).

As oil prices rise, alternative energy sources such as wind and solar power are becoming increasingly affordable, which spells potential success for Canadian Solar Inc. (Nasdaq: CSIQ) and EMCORE Corporation (Nasdaq: EMKR), two small caps rooted in the solar energy sector.

Canadian Solar, together with its subsidiaries, designs, develops, manufactures and markets solar modules for converting sunlight into electricity. It produces standard solar modules for residential, commercial and industrial solar power generation applications, as well as customized products incorporated into customer designs such as solar-powered bus stop lighting and solar-powered car battery chargers. In addition, the company works with government agencies to implement solar power development projects and is already providing solar-powered electricity to rural areas of China.

Canadian Solar markets its standard solar modules through distributors and system integrators worldwide. Specialty products are sold directly to manufacturers. The company is headquartered in Canada and manufactures its solar modules in China.

In mid-November, Canadian Solar announced a major new contract in Spain to deliver solar panels representing 60 megawatts of annual generating capacity. Deliveries have already commenced and the company expects to complete the installation this summer. In addition, Canadian Solar recently delivered 11.7 megawatts of solar module generating capacity to Germany for three large solar power projects. Spain and Germany are emerging as important solar markets because of new government incentives driving demand.

EMCORE Corp. (Nasdaq: EMKR), a provider of compound semiconductor-based components and subsystems, reported a wider-than-expected fourth-quarter net loss, while revenue clocked right in line with expectations.

Shares are headed higher this morning, however, as investors are focused on the firm’s announcement that it received a purchase order to supply 5.7 megawatts of concentrating photovoltaic systems for alternative energy projects in South Korea.

The small cap noted that coupled with the order was a letter of intent for follow-on projects of 14.3 megawatts, expected to be released within the next six months.

Additionally, EMCORE said it signed an agreement with DI Semicon, a semiconductor packaging company in Seoul, Korea, to form a joint venture with DI Semicon and other parties.

For the three months ended Sept. 30, the Albuquerque, N.M.-based company recorded a net loss of $16.2 million, or $0.32 loss per share, wider than the net loss of $0.08 per share eight analysts polled by Thomson Financial were on average forecasting. 

Revenue was $47 million, right in line with the $47.46 million eight analysts polled by Thomson Financial were on average projecting. The current quarter revenue represents an increase of approximately 33% over the $35.4 million reported in the fourth quarter last year.

Shares of EMCORE (EMKR) gained $0.76, or 5.94%, to $13.55 in pre-market trading. Shares of EMCORE have been trading in the range of $3.84 to $12.85 for the past 52 weeks.

The Russell 2000 (NYSE: IWM) posted gains today as some of the world’s most influential central banks announced a plan to ease the credit squeeze. The small-cap index rose 5.44 points, or 0.71%, to 771.71. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDU) advanced 41.13 points, or 0.31%, to 13,473.90.

On a year-to-date basis, the Russell 2000 is down 2%, while the Dow has added 8.01% and the S&P 500 has climbed 4.94%.

The bulls ran the show today as investors cheered news that the U.S. Federal Reserve and four other major central banks will inject billions into global money markets to boost bank lending.

The Fed will allow depository institutions to receive billions in short-term funds at rates below the ones it normally charges for loans. Similar initiatives were announced by the central banks of Canada, England, Switzerland and the European Union.

The Fed also set that it has created “swap” lines with the European Central Bank and the Swiss National Bank, for $20 billion and $4 billion respectively. That allows the two banks to make dollar loans in their jurisdictions. Previously, foreign central banks were unable to inject funds in anything other than their own currency.

The Russell 2000 (NYSE: IWM) is posting solid gains on news that central banks around the world are pumping cash into money markets. At 2:33 p.m. ET, the small-cap index was up 7.04 points, or 0.92%, to 773.31. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDU) had added 67.14 points, or 0.50%, to 13,499.91.

Small-cap stocks are going strong following news before the start of trading that the U.S. Federal Reserve and four other major central banks are joining hands to inject billions into global money markets to boost liquidity and spur lending.

The U.S. central bank will create a Term Auction Facility program to auction term funds to depository institutions against collateral that can be used to secure loans, according to its statement.

The program will provide banks in good financial condition with billions in short-term funds. The loans will be at rates below the rate charged on direct loans from the Fed to banks but will still be backed by the same type of collateral obligations.

A number of major banks have reduced the flow of credit to businesses and consumers following the meltdown in the subprime mortgage market, which left many financial institutions with billions in losses as foreclosures and loan delinquencies made securities backed by subprime mortgages essentially worthless.

Shares of EMCORE Corp. (Nasdaq: EMKR) are rising on news before the start of trading that the provider of compound semiconductor-based components will supply solar power systems for a project in Ontario, Canada.

Albuquerque, N.M.-based Emcore has signed a memorandum of understanding to supply and install turnkey solar power systems in the area of Sault Ste Marie, a city in Ontario. The company will use photovoltaic technology developed in-house.

The actual project work will be done by Pod Generating Group, a Sault Ste Marie-based developer of solar power facilities that has already secured the necessary licenses and permits.

“We are very pleased to receive the opportunity to deploy our first order of utility-scale solar power systems in support of PGG’s projects in Ontario,” said Earl Fuller, vice president and general manager of Emcore’s solar power systems division, in a statement.

At 1:24 p.m. ET, shares of Emcore (EMKR) had declined $1.70, or 18%, to $11.12. The previous 52-week high of $11 was touched on Oct. 31. The 52-week low of $3.84 was set on Jan. 23.

Penwest Pharmaceuticals (Nasdaq: PPCO), Qiao Xing Universal Telephone, Inc. (Nasdaq: XING) and BluePhoenix Solutions, Ltd. (Nasdaq: BPHX) are among the most actively traded companies in Tuesday pre-market trading among those with market capitalizations under $750 million:

Emcore Corp. (Nasdaq: EMKR) shares are up after the maker and marketer of semiconductor-based products reported a 23% jump in third-quarter revenue to $44.5 million, slightly above analyst estimates of $44.1 million and from $36.3 million a year earlier. Emcore’s net loss for the three months ended June 30 widened to $14.5 million, or $0.28 per share, worse than Wall Street estimates of a loss of $0.12 per share and from a loss of $6.2 million, or $0.12 per share, in the year-ago quarter.

“In our fourth quarter, revenues from our datacom and telecom sectors started to recover and we continue to see sustained growth in our photovoltaics business in both the satellite and terrestrial solar power markets,” CEO Reuben Richards said in a statement. “With this increase in revenue levels, we expect corresponding improvement in profitability to reach positive EPS in mid-2008.”

Looking ahead, Emcore said it continues to expect fiscal 2007 revenue of $170 million. Analysts project revenue of $169.2 million. The company also expects revenue of $49 million for the first quarter of fiscal year 2008.

In morning trading, EMKR shares are up 0.70%, or $0.07, at $10.10. Over the last 52 weeks, shares have ranged from $3.84 to $10.95.

OSI Systems, Inc. (Nasdaq: OSIS), First California Financial Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: FCAL) and NovaStar Financial Inc. (NYSE: NFI) are among the biggest percentage losers in Wednesday's trading among companies with market capitalizations under $500 million.

Here are today's biggest percentage gainers:

EMCORE Corp. (Nasdaq: EMKR), a maker of compound semiconductor components, announced before the opening bell that it’s consolidating its North American engineering and design centers into its three main operating sites in New Mexico, California and Pennsylvania. The Albuquerque, New Mexico-based company said it expects the consolidations to save about $7 million annually.

"Consolidation of these design centers into three core sites will provide greater synergy across product lines, better leverage of engineering resources, shorter time to market and increased customer support," COO Hong Hou said. "EMCORE will reduce operating costs by eliminating duplicate resources and infrastructures."

Production, product support, and key design personnel will be relocating to the three main operating sites. Restructuring charges associated with the consolidations are expected to be about $2 million. The design center in Virginia was closed in June 2007, and design centers in Illinois and Northern California will be closed by September 2007.

In pre-market trading, shares of the small-cap are up 1.19%, or $0.11, at $9.36. Over the last 52 weeks, shares have ranged between $3.84 and $9.91.

EMCORE Corp. (Nasdaq: EMKR), a maker of compound semiconductor-based components for communications systems, announced early Wednesday morning that it received a $24 million order for concentrator solar cells from Australia-based Green and Gold Energy Co. The order is scheduled to be shipped by the end of calendar 2008.

"We are very pleased to receive this follow-on order from Green and Gold Energy," said David Danzilio, EMCORE’s vice president, in a statement. "This 105 MW production contract confirms EMCORE's position as the leader in concentrator cell technology and high volume manufacturing.”

In pre-market trading, shares are up 2.31%, or $0.20, at $8.85. Over the last 52 weeks, shares have ranged between $3.84 and $9.91.

Accredited Home Lenders Holding Co. (Nasdaq: LEND), Hoku Scientific, Inc. (Nasdaq: HOKU) and Superconductor Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: SCON) are among the most actively traded companies in Wednesday pre-market trading among those with market capitalizations under $500 million:

Avici Systems Inc. (Nasdaq: AVCI), AMCON Distributing Co. (AMEX: DIT) and Core Molding Technologies, Inc. (AMEX: CMT) were among the biggest percentage gainers in Thursday's trading among companies with market capitalizations under $500 million.

Here are today's biggest percentage gainers:

Neurochem Inc. (Nasdaq: NRMX) says a “landmark” New England Journal of Medicine study shows the benefits of the Canadian company’s eprodisate treatment for secondary amyloidosis.

PNC Financial Services Group Inc. (NYSE: PNC) said it agreed to acquire Yardville National Bancorp (Nasdaq: YANB) for $403 million. For each of their shares, Yardville shareholders will receive about $0.29 of a PNC share and $14 in cash.

Acton, Mass.-based SeaChange International (Nasdaq: SEAC) reported a first quarter loss of $0.12 per share, which was $0.02 worse than Wall Street estimates.

Books-A-Million, Inc. (Nasdaq: BAMM) announced that the Board of Director’s has declared a special one-time dividend of $3 per share. The dividend will be paid on July 5. About $50.4 million will be paid on the Birmingham, Ala.-based company’s 16.8 million outstanding shares.

The following are the most actively traded companies in Thursday pre-market trading among those with market capitalizations under $500 million: