Red Hat (NYSE: RHT) provides customers with the Linux open source computer operating system. It also provides a variety of compatible technical programs, software development tools, support services and training programs. Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), with its Windows operating system, is Red Hat's chief competitor. The firm operates strategic alliances with Intel (NASDAQ: INTC) and Advanced Micro Devices (NASDAQ: AMD).

Red Hat pleased investors earlier in the month, when it reported fiscal Q3 EPS of 19 cents and revenues of $135.4 million. Analysts had been expecting 18 cents and $132.4 million. A sharp jump in subscriptions more than offset increased operating expenses. Management also provided strong guidance for Q4/FY08 and announced that former Delta Airlines (NYSE: DAL) COO James Whitehurst would take over as CEO on January 1. RHT shares popped on the news and then moved into a bullish "flag" consolidation pattern. Prices frequently exit flags moving in the same direction they were traveling on entry. In this case, that would be to the upside.

Brokers recommend the shares with one "strong buy", six "buys," fourteen "holds" and one "sell." Analysts see a 23% average annual growth rate, through the next five years. The RHT Price to Book ratio (4.27), Price to Free Cash Flow ratio (26.28), Sales Growth rate (27.98%) and EPS Growth rate (171.43%) compare favorably with industry, sector and S&P 500 averages. Institutions own about 95% of the outstanding shares. The stock is one of those used to calculate the AMEX Internet Index. Over the past 52 weeks, it has traded between $18.04 and $25.25. A stop-loss of $18.15 looks good here.

Larry Schutts is a contributing editor for Theflyonthewall.com and the Vice-President of Stockwinners.com. He does not hold positions in any of the stocks mentioned above.

Red Hat (RHT) in bullish 'flag' pattern originally appeared on BloggingStocks on Mon, 31 Dec 2007 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.