by Srikanth Radhakrishna

Created on: December 19, 2011   Last Updated: December 22, 2011

Experts believe that the US economy will continue its slow growth in the year 2012. Top investment strategists and portfolio managers are of the opinion that it is still possible to earn money by investing wisely in the stock market. 

Here is a brief overview of the best stock picks for 2012.

Apple Computer (AAPL) is likely to continue its good performance in the stock market with its innovative products, in spite of the sad demise of its iconic CEO, Steve Jobs. PepsiCo (PEP) has geographic diversity. Its snacks division should yield huge profits if the commodity prices remain weak. 

Intel (INTC) has a below market P/E ratio of 10. The company has moved beyond PCs to mobile phones. Comcast (CMCSK) is likely to grow in the coming year. UnitedHealth (UNH) has around 70 million customers. This is definitely a good pick. Suncor Energy (SU) has very good cost structure. It should perform well in the stock market in 2012.

Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) is likely to profit via consumer, pharmaceutical and medical device business. Qualcomm (QCOM) is in a good position to profit from its investment in high speed wireless mobile networks. Johnson Controls (JCI) is a well known name in the auto parts supplier industry. This well managed company is likely to do well in the stock market in the year 2012.

Dell (DELL) is a leading technology solutions provider. Portfolio managers are positive about its performance in 2012. Hertz (HTZ) is a strong brand and is benefiting from higher rental volumes. Life Technologies (LIFE) is a prominent name in the life sciences industry and is in a position to grow during 2012. 

Grand Canyon Education (LOPE) is an online education company which has a campus in the state of Arizona. It is well known for its efficient management practices. HollyFrontier (HFC) is likely to succeed in 2012 due to its good margins. Phillip Morris (PM) is a good pick because of its strong cash flow.

Raytheon (RTN) operates six businesses in key areas like defense technology and cyber security. It has more recurring revenue than its competitors. Health Management Associates (HMA) is a premier operator of acute care hospitals. It is likely to grow through acquisitions.

BlackRock (BLK), General Motors (GM), Research in Motion (RIM), Hermes International (HESAY), Yongye International (YONG), Uranium Resources (URRE), Scientific Games (SGMS) and Hyperdynamics (HDY) are other stocks which are likely to perform well in the year 2012. 

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