< The 2014 All-America Research Team
Bernstein & Co.First-Place Appearances: 6
Total Appearances: 7
Analyst Debut: 2008Seizing the top spot on this list for a sixth year running is Sanford C. Bernstein & Co.’s Ali Dibadj, who also earns his first No. 1 appearance in the Beverages sector, and clients readily explain his strong showing. “Ali’s work is remarkable for both its depth — mastery of detail — and breadth — range of industry contacts, long-term strategic perspective,” one investor offers. For his part, the 39-year-old analyst advises that this sector has been under pressure. Although shares of U.S. cosmetics, household and personal care products companies climbed 5.9 percent over the 12 months through mid-September, they lagged the broad domestic market by 11.7 percentage points. Weak consumer spending and tightening competition have been buffeting the group, he notes. Accordingly, he is recommending that clients favor companies whose managements pursue solid cost-cutting strategies and exhibit impressive innovation approaches. New York–based cosmetics and hair care producer Estée Lauder Cos. is one of the best options on these terms, he believes. In April, Dibadj upgraded the stock from neutral to buy. It subsequently jumped 11.7 percent, through mid-September, climbing to $74.43 while its peers rose just 3.3 percent.