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Charts courtesy www.stockcharts.com

Charts courtesy www.stockcharts.com

It still has a small supply (S criteria) of only 58.8 million shares outstanding. The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 566 funds in Jun '14 to 1,573 funds as of Mar '19, which is a very encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria). Its current Up/Down Volume Ratio of 1.8 is an unbiased indication its shares have been under accumulation over the past 50 days.

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It still has a small supply (S criteria) of only 59.3 million shares outstanding. The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 566 funds in Jun '14 to 1,524 funds as of Dec '18, which is a very encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria). Its current Up/Down Volume Ratio of 2.2 is an unbiased indication its shares have been under accumulation over the past 50 days.

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It still has a small supply (S criteria) of only 59.3 million shares outstanding. The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 566 funds in Jun '14 to 1,481 funds as of Sep '18, which is a very encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria).

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It still has a small supply (S criteria) of only 59.8 million shares outstanding. The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 566 funds in Jun '14 to 1,477 funds as of Sep '18, which is a very encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria).

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It still has a small supply (S criteria) of only 62 million shares outstanding. The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 566 funds in Jun '14 to 1,305 funds as of Mar '17, which is a very encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria).

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It still has a small supply (S criteria) of only 62.1 million shares outstanding. The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 566 funds in Jun '14 to 1,288 funds as of Mar '17, which is a very encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria).

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It still has a small supply (S criteria) of only 62.1 million shares outstanding. The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 566 funds in Jun '14 to 1,280 funds as of Mar '17, which is a very encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria).

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It still has a small supply (S criteria) of only 62.2 million shares outstanding. The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 566 funds in Jun '14 to 1,269 funds as of Dec '16, which is a very encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria).

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Charts courtesy www.stockcharts.com 

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Charts courtesy www.stockcharts.com 

Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. (ULTA +$0.27 or +0.16% to $166.07) is quietly consolidating just above its 50-day moving average (DMA) line. It has not formed a sound base following the deep shakeout on 8/24/15. ULTA was last shown with an annotated graph in this FSU section on 9/21/15 under the headline, "Consolidating Above 50-Day Moving Average Line".  The impressive rebound was indicative of institutional support. The high-ranked firm had tallied a gain on 8/18/15 with solid +54% above average volume, but it stalled immediately afterward and soon triggered technical sell signals. It made limited headway since highlighted in yellow with pivot point cited based on its 4/24/15 high plus 10 cents in the 5/29/15 mid-day report (read here). 

 

For the latest quarterly period, ULTA reported earnings +22% on +19% sales revenues for the Jul '15 quarter, below the +25% minimum earnings guideline (C criteria), raising fundamental concerns. Earnings rose +34%, +26%, +22%, and +35% in the Jul '14, Oct '14, Jan '15 and Apr '15 quarterly comparisons, respectively. Its strong earnings have been underpinned by steady sales revenues increases in the +21-22% range during that span of time. Its solid annual earnings (A criteria) history is very reassuring. 

 

It has a small supply (S criteria) of only 62.7 million shares in the public float. The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 566 funds in Jun '14 to 815 funds as of Jun '15, which is a very encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria).

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Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. (ULTA +$1.44 or +0.87% to $168.69) posted a gain on light volume today while trading above its 50-day moving average (DMA) line ($165.31).  It has not formed a sound base following the deep shakeout on 8/24/15.  ULTA was last shown with an annotated graph in this FSU section on 9/10/15 under the headline, "Rebound Near 50-Day Moving Average Following Deep Shakeout", following an impressive rebound indicative of institutional support.

 

ULTA reported earnings +22% on +19^ sales revenues for the Jul '15 quarter, below the +25% minimum earnings guideline (C criteria), raising fundamental concerns. The high-ranked firm had tallied a gain on 8/18/15 with solid +54% above average volume, but it stalled immediately afterward and soon triggered technical sell signals. It made limited headway since highlighted in yellow with pivot point cited based on its 4/24/15 high plus 10 cents in the 5/29/15 mid-day report (read here). 

 

It reported earnings +34%, +26%, +22%, and +35% in the Jul '14, Oct '14, Jan '15 and Apr '15 quarterly comparisons, respectively. Its strong earnings have been underpinned by steady sales revenues increases in the +21-22% range during that span of time. Its solid annual earnings (A criteria) history is very reassuring.  It has a small supply (S criteria) of only 62.7 million shares in the public float. The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 566 funds in Jun '14 to 807 funds as of Jun '15, which is a very encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria).

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Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. (ULTA +$1.43 or +0.88% to $164.83) is trading near its 50-day moving average (DMA) line following an impressive rebound indicative of institutional support. That important short-term average has acted as resistance after a deep shakeout below its 200 DMA line. It has not formed a sound base pattern. It also reported earnings +22% on +19^ sales revenues for the Jul '15 quarter, below the +25% minimum earnings guideline (C criteria), raising fundamental concerns. 

Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. (ULTA -$4.33 or -2.74% to $153.76) found prompt support after undercutting its 200-day moving average (DMA) line on 8/24/15 amid broad market (M criteria) weakness, however it is slumping back toward that important long-term average. It met resistance at its 50 DMA line ($163.58) in the interim. A rebound above the 50 DMA line is needed for its outlook to improve.

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Charts courtesy www.stockcharts.com

Charts courtesy www.stockcharts.com

Charts courtesy www.stockcharts.com

Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. (ULTA +$0.82 or +0.85% to $97.23) is consolidating above its 50-day moving average (DMA) line which recently acted as support. Subsequent deterioration below its 50 DMA or 200 DMA line would raise more serious concerns and trigger technical sell signals. Its Relative Strength rating has slumped below the 80+ minimum guideline for buy candidates to a 71 (see red circle), down from an 83 rating when last shown in this FSU section on 12/04/12 with an annotated graph under the headline, "Recent Resilience and Strength Creates New Set-Up". Subsequent volume-driven gains failed to materialize to lift it above the new pivot point cited based on its 9/07/12 high plus 10 cents after highlighted in yellow in the 12/04/12 mid-day report (read here). Prior reports cautioned members - "Disciplined investors will watch for volume-driven gains above the pivot point to trigger a new technical buy signal, as it could spend a lot more time basing. Meanwhile, other stocks that have broken out but are not too extended from sound bases could be better choices to consider." Resistance still remains due to overhead supply up through the $101-103 range.

ULTA reported earnings +40% on +22% sales for the Oct '12 quarter. Its strong quarterly earnings increases above the +25% guideline in the 10 latest comparisons satisfies the C criteria, and its solid annual earnings (A criteria) history is also very reassuring.  The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 515 funds in Dec '11 to 618 funds as of Sep '12, which is a very encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria). Based on weak action it was dropped from the Featured Stocks list on 11/08/12, yet it had rebounded impressively after the recent consolidation undercut its 200 DMA line. It gapped up above its 50-day moving average (DMA) line on 11/30/12, and the rebound above its 50 DMA line helped its technical stance improve.

Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. (ULTA -$0.52 or -0.52% to $100.38) was highlighted in yellow with new pivot point based on its 9/07/12 high plus 10 cents in the earlier mid-day report (read here). Disciplined investors will watch for volume-driven gains above the pivot point to trigger a new technical buy signal, as it could spend a lot more time basing. Meanwhile, other stocks that have broken out but are not too extended from sound bases could be better choices to consider.

ULTA reported earnings +40% on +22% sales for the Oct '12 quarter. Its strong quarterly earnings increases above the +25% guideline in the 10 latest comparisons satisfies the C criteria, and its solid annual earnings (A criteria) history is also very reassuring.  The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 515 funds in Dec '11 to 606 funds as of Sep '12, which is a very encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria).

It sputtered after last shown in this FSU section on 11/05/12 with an annotated graph under the headline, "Relative Strength Rating Has Slipped Under Minimum Guideline". Based on weak action it was dropped from the Featured Stocks list on 11/08/12, yet it has rebounded impressively after the recent consolidation undercut its 200 DMA line. Now it faces very little resistance due to overhead supply in the $100-103 range.

It gapped up above its 50-day moving average (DMA) line on 11/30/12, and the rebound above that important short-term average quickly helped its technical stance improve. Meanwhile, its Relative Strength Rating has improved to 83, above the 80+ minimum guideline for buy candidates under the fact-based investment system. Its RS line (the jagged blue line) has also cleared its September high, which is an encouraging sign, but it still was plotted higher earlier this year while we previously observed - "Big market winners the fact-based investment system has identified in the past more often saw their Relative Strength lines lead the way into new high territory first, before the stock's price technically broke into new high territory. In this case, it is fair to say that the stock's RS line did not confirm the move into new high territory. For now, that gives investors a reason to be cautious until more convincing signs of fresh institutional accumulation emerge. Disciplined investors always limit losses if ever any stock falls -7% or more from their purchase price."

Following its bullish gap up on 9/07/12 it stalled. It reported earnings +42% on +22% sales revenues for the quarter ended July 30, 2012 versus the year ago period.  Its strong quarterly earnings increases above the +25% guideline in the 9 latest comparisons satisfies the C criteria, and its solid annual earnings (A criteria) history is also very reassuring.  The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 376 funds in Dec '10 to 587 funds as of Sep '12, which is a very encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria).

Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. (ULTA +$0.82 or +0.82% to $99.77) stayed well above its 50-day moving average (DMA) line while consolidating and it traded back  above its previously cited pivot point today. Volume totals have been cooling and below average in recent weeks following its 9/07/12 breakaway gap. That is a sign that few investors have been anxious to exit. However, its Relative Strength line (the jagged blue line by RS Rating 83) was plotted higher earlier this year. Big market winners the fact-based investment system has identified in the past more often saw their Relative Strength lines lead the way into new high territory first, before the stock's price technically broke into new high territory. In this case, it is fair to say that the stock's RS line did not confirm the move into new high territory. For now, that gives investors a reason to be cautious until more convincing signs of fresh institutional accumulation emerge. Disciplined investors always limit losses if ever any stock falls -7% or more from their purchase price. 

It was last shown in this FSU section on 9/04/12 with an annotated graph under the headline, "Earnings News Pending While Perched Near New Pivot Point". That report cautioned members - "Keep in mind that it is due to report earnings on Thursday, September 6th after the market closes, and volume and volatility often increase near earnings news." Following its bullish gap up on 9/07/12 it stalled. It reported earnings +42% on +22% sales revenues for the quarter ended July 30, 2012 versus the year ago period.  Its strong quarterly earnings increases above the +25% guideline in the 9 latest comparisons satisfies the C criteria, and its solid annual earnings (A criteria) history is also very reassuring.

The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 376 funds in Dec '10 to 571 funds as of Jun '12, which is a very encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria). Its current Up/Down Volume ratio of 1.6 is an unbiased indication that its shares have been under accumulation over the past 50 days.

Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. (ULTA +$0.18 or +0.19% to $94.18) was highlighted in yellow in the earlier mid-day report (read here) while building on the current 11-week base during which it found support at its 200-day moving average (DMA) line. The new pivot point cited is based on its 6/20/12 high plus 10 cents. Little resistance remains due to overhead supply while consolidating -4.3% off its 52-week high, however volume-driven gains above its pivot point are needed to trigger a technical buy signal. Disciplined investors know that there is no advantage to getting in "early". Waiting for proof of fresh institutional buying demand is crucial to investors' success with the fact-based investment system. Keep in mind that it is due to report earnings on Thursday, September 6th after the market closes, and volume and volatility often increase near earnings news.

The high-ranked Retail - Specialty firm completed a Secondary Offering on 5/10/12. Its last appearance in the FSU section on 4/23/12 included an annotated weekly graph under the headline, "New Late Stage Base Formed; Deteriorating Market Conditions". The choppy consolidation that followed included a brief rally to new highs and then a slump to its 200 DMA line before rebounding. It reported earnings +46% on +23% sales revenues for the quarter ended April 30, 2012 versus the year ago period.  Its strong quarterly earnings increases above the +25% guideline in the 8 latest comparisons satisfies the C criteria, and its solid annual earnings (A criteria) history is also very reassuring. The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 376 funds in Dec '10 to 561 funds as of Jun '12, which is a very encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria).

Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. (ULTA -$1.82 or -1.91% to $93.53) has been consolidating in a tight range near its all-time high. It may go on to produce more climactic gains. Recent notes suggested that it may be considered a riskier late-stage base, an advanced "3-weeks tight" pattern, but no new pivot point has been cited. Its 50-day moving average (DMA) line ($89.52 now) defines support to watch well above its prior highs in the $75 area. Keep in mind that the M criteria argues that 3 out of 4 stocks generally tend to follow along with the direction of the major averages. Recently the market has been encountering damaging distributional pressure while leadership (stocks hitting new 52-week highs) has been waning.

Its last appearance in the FSU section on 2/28/12 included an annotated graph under the headline, "Salon Firm Quietly Consolidating; Possibly Forming Advanced Base". It did not pause there, but continued higher, and it has not spent much time basing since its last "Featured Date" when a pivot point of $75.70 was highlighted in yellow on 1/11/12.

Its strong quarterly earnings increases above the +25% guideline in the 8 latest comparisons satisfies the C criteria, and its solid annual earnings (A criteria) history is also very reassuring. The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 376 funds in Dec '10 to 530 funds as of Mar '12, which is a very encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria).

Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. (ULTA +$0.07 or +0.08% to $83.88) posted a small gain today with light volume. It has been quietly hovering near its all-time high, extended from any sound base pattern, yet it may go on to produce more climactic gains. Prior highs near $75 define initial chart support above its 50-day moving average (DMA) line. It returned to the Featured Stocks list as it was highlighted in yellow in the 1/11/12 mid-day report (read here), and an annotated graph was included that evening in the FSU section under the headline, "Recent Rally Above 50-Day Average Improved Technical Stance."  It then wedged to new high territory without great volume conviction until it had already gotten extended from the prior sound base.

It is too early to say, but it may now be on its way to forming an advanced "3-weeks tight" type base from which volume-driven gains might be considered a secondary or add-on buy point. That advanced base pattern requires 3 very tight closes on a stock's weekly chart. Time will tell, and future notes will key on whether or not it finishes the week near the prior 2 weekly closes.

Its strong quarterly earnings increases above the +25% guideline in the 8 latest comparisons satisfies the C criteria, and its solid annual earnings (A criteria) history is also very reassuring. The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 376 funds in Dec '10 to 523 funds as of Dec '11, which is a very encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria).

Its last appearance in this FSU section was on 12/02/11 with analysis and an annotated graph under the headline, "Late Stage Set-Up For Previous Big Gainer." After making little progress and then slumping below its 50 DMA and below prior chart lows ULTA was dropped from the Featured Stocks list on 12/22/11.

Its strong quarterly earnings increases above the +25% guideline in the 8 latest comparisons satisfies the C criteria, and its solid annual earnings (A criteria) history is also very reassuring. The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 376 funds in Dec '10 to 508 funds as of Dec '11 which is an encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria).

Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. (ULTA -$4.96 or -7.99% to $57.12) closed near the session low today with a loss on below average volume. The damaging loss violated its 50-day moving average (DMA) line, raising concerns and triggering a technical sell signal. It will be dropped from the Featured Stocks list tonight. Typically after any Featured Stock has slumped -16% or more off its high it is dropped from the Featured Stocks list because technical damage has occurred.  If a subsequent base forms they may be featured again in the future with a new pivot point cited. Its last appearance in this FSU section was on 7/14/11 with analysis and an annotated graph under the headline, "Quietly Pulling Back, But Extended From Any Sound Base".

Since first featured in yellow in the 3/12/10 mid-day report at $22.81 and (read here) and in a more detailed Stock Bulletin later that afternoon under the headline "Strong Earnings Increases Help Leader Meet Key Criteria", in just over 16 months it traded up as much as +200%. Its choppy ascent did not allow a sound base to be noted since the last time a pivot point was cited when it was rallying on January 6, 2011. Recent highs that were a resistance level may act as support, however the overwhelmingly negative market (M criteria) is an urgent call for investors to protect profits rather than ride it out. The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 274 funds in Mar '10 to 472 funds as of Jun '11 which is an encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria). Management's 25% ownership stake (after the latest offering) still keeps the company's directors very motivated to look after and build shareholder value. Its strong quarterly earnings increases above the +25% guideline in the 8 latest comparisons satisfies the C criteria, and its solid annual earnings (A criteria) history is also very reassuring.

Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. (ULTA -$1.54 or -2.37% to $63.33) is quietly pulling back from its all-time high this week. It is extended from any sound base pattern and well above its 50-day moving average (DMA) line. Any subsequent violation would raise more serious concerns and trigger more worrisome sell signals. Meanwhile, it may produce more climactic gains, but disciplined investors avoid chasing extended stocks. Since its last appearance in this FSU section on 6/20/11 with analysis and an annotated graph under the headline, "Following Choppy Consolidation New Base Not Yet Formed", it stubbornly held its ground and rallied to new all-time highs. 

Prior reports noted - "Disciplined investors may watch for another sound base to possibly be formed and noted." It has been repeatedly noted as extended from any sound base, having steadily climbed, hardly pausing for any sufficient new base to form since its breakout early this year cleared the last pivot point cited. Since first featured in yellow in the 3/12/10 mid-day report at $22.81 and (read here) and in a more detailed Stock Bulletin later that afternoon under the headline "Strong Earnings Increases Help Leader Meet Key Criteria", in just over 16 months it has traded up as much as +200%. The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 274 funds in Mar '10 to 475 funds as of Mar '11 which is an encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria). Management's 25% ownership stake (after the latest offering) still keeps the company's directors very motivated to look after and build shareholder value. Its strong quarterly earnings increases above the +25% guideline in the 7 latest comparisons satisfies the C criteria, and its solid annual earnings (A criteria) history is also very reassuring.

Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. (ULTA +$1.32 or +2.30% to $58.74) posted a gain today with +14% above average volume for its second-best close ever. It is perched near its all-time high, extended from any sound base pattern.  Disciplined investors may watch for another sound base to possibly be formed and noted. Since its last appearance in this FSU section on 5/26/11 with analysis and an annotated graph under the headline, "Institutional Ownership Increased During Considerable Rally", it endured distributional pressure, violating its 50-day moving average (DMA) line and slumping briefly under earlier lows raising additional concerns. Its solid 6/08/11 gain with heavy volume, after gapping up, soon repaired the violation and helped its outlook, technically. Its recent low ($48.68 on 6/03/11) defines an important support level to watch now, where any subsequent violation would raise more serious concerns and trigger more worrisome sell signals.

It has been repeatedly noted as extended from any sound base, having steadily climbed, hardly pausing for any sufficient new base to form since its breakout early this year cleared the last pivot point cited. Since first featured in yellow in the 3/12/10 mid-day report at $22.81 and (read here) and in a more detailed Stock Bulletin later that afternoon under the headline "Strong Earnings Increases Help Leader Meet Key Criteria", in just over 15 months it has traded up as much as +160.4%. The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 274 funds in Mar '10 to 463 funds as of Mar '11 which is an encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria). Management's 25% ownership stake (after the latest offering) still keeps the company's directors very motivated to look after and build shareholder value. Its strong quarterly earnings increases above the +25% guideline in the 7 latest comparisons satisfies the C criteria, and its solid annual earnings (A criteria) history is also very reassuring.

Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. (ULTA +$1.72 or +3.26% to $54.55) rallied within close striking distance of its all-time high today after finding support above its 50-day moving average (DMA) line this week. Since its last appearance in this FSU section on 4/28/11 with analysis and an annotated graph under the headline, "Considerable Rally For Salon Services Firm", this high-ranked Retail - Specialty firm wedged up without great volume conviction to new all-time highs. It has been noted as extended from any sound base, having steadily climbed, hardly pausing for any sufficient new base to form since its breakout early this year cleared the last pivot point cited.

On pullbacks, its 50-day moving average (DMA) line has defined chart support throughout its ongoing advance. A damaging violation may trigger a technical sell signal. Since first featured in yellow in the 3/12/10 mid-day report at $22.81 and (read here) and in a more detailed Stock Bulletin later that afternoon under the headline "Strong Earnings Increases Help Leader Meet Key Criteria", in just over 13 months it has traded up as much as +149.3%. The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 274 funds in Mar '10 to 460 funds as of Mar '11 which is an encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria). Management's 25% ownership stake (after the latest offering) still keeps the company's directors very motivated to look after and build shareholder value. Its strong quarterly earnings increases above the +25% guideline in the 7 latest comparisons (satisfies the C criteria).

Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. (ULTA -$0.10 or -0.19% to $52.81) is holding its ground stubbornly near its all-time high with volume totals cooling. It has been noted as extended from any sound base. On pullbacks, its 50-day moving average (DMA) line defines chart support to watch well above prior highs. Since its last appearance in this FSU section on 3/29/11 with analysis and an annotated graph under the headline, "Extended From Sound Base, Up +113% In Just Over One Year", it tacked on additional gains. Since first featured in yellow in the 3/12/10 mid-day report at $22.81 and (read here) and in a more detailed Stock Bulletin later that afternoon under the headline "Strong Earnings Increases Help Leader Meet Key Criteria", in just over 13 months it has traded up as much as +136.7%.

The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 274 funds in Mar '10 to 444 funds as of Mar '11 which is an encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria). Management's 36% ownership stake (after the latest offering) still keeps the company's directors very motivated to look after and build shareholder value. This high-ranked Retail -  Specialty firm has strong quarterly earnings increases above the +25% guideline in the 7 latest comparisons (satisfies the C criteria).

Since first featured in yellow in the 3/12/10 mid-day report at $22.81 and (read here) and in a more detailed Stock Bulletin later that afternoon under the headline "Strong Earnings Increases Help Leader Meet Key Criteria", it has traded up as much as +113% in just over one year.

The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 274 funds in Mar '10 to 422 funds as of Dec '10 which is an encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria). Management's 36% ownership stake (after the latest offering) still keeps the company's directors very motivated to look after and build shareholder value. This has strong quarterly earnings increases above the +25% guideline in the 7 latest comparisons (satisfies the C criteria).

Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. (ULTA +$0.22 or +0.51% to $43.32) ended at a new all-time high close with a small gain today on average volume. It is extended from a sound base pattern, and prior highs in the $37-38 area define chart support to watch above its 50-day moving average (DMA) line. Its last appearance in this FSU section on 1/06/11 with an annotated graph under the headline "Volume Driven Gain Challenges Prior Resistance". Its color code was changed to green on 2/07/11 after getting extended.

The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 273 funds in Dec '09 to 397 funds as of Dec '10 which is an encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria). Management's 36% ownership stake (after the latest offering) still keeps the company's directors very motivated to look after and build shareholder value. This has strong quarterly earnings increases above the +25% guideline in the 6 latest comparisons (satisfies the C criteria).

Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. (ULTA +$2.66 or +7.71% to $37.18) gapped up today and touched a new 52-week high after reporting encouraging holiday sales data. Its color code was changed to yellow with new pivot point cited based on its 52-week high plus 10 cents. Disciplined investors resist the urge to get in "early" and watch for gains above the pivot point with at least +50% above average volume to trigger a new (or add-on) technical buy signal.  Today's gain helped this high-ranked leader in the Retail - Specialty group rally right up to prior resistance, but confirming gains and a solid close above its pivot point would be a characteristic of a truly convincing breakout.

Since its last appearance in this FSU section on 12/22/10 with an annotated graph under the headline "Consolidating Following +43% Rally Since September Breakout" it went on consolidating in a tight range while volume totals cooled. Its 50-day moving average (DMA) acted as recent support during an orderly 6-week consolidation. The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 278 funds in Dec '09 to 380 funds as of Sep '10 which is an encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria). (NOTE: Prior notes on this and other stocks cited top-rated US funds, and now our source is including foreign funds and hedge funds in their totals reported). Management's 36% ownership stake (after the latest offering) still keeps the company's directors very motivated to look after and build shareholder value. This has strong quarterly earnings increases above the +25% guideline in the 4 latest comparisons (satisfies the C criteria). ULTA has traded up as much as +41% from $26.36 when it was featured in the 9/03/10 mid-day report (read here) and its strong close with 6 times average volume confirmed a fresh technical buy signal. 

Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. (ULTA +$1.08 or +3.23% to $34.49) posted a solid gain today with above average volume, rallying up from its 50-day moving average (DMA) line - which is a classic support level chart readers always watch closely. Subsequent deterioration below it or the most recent chart low ($32.01 on 12/15/10) would raise concerns and trigger technical sell signals. Losses in recent weeks marked by heavier volume hurt its Accumulation/Distribution rating which has slumped from a B+ to a D- (see red circle) since its last appearance in this FSU section on 11/01/10 with detailed analysis and an annotated graph under the headline "Recent Lows and 50-Day Average Define Support to Watch". The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 278 funds in Dec '09 to 377 funds as of Sep '10 which is an encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria). (NOTE: Prior notes on this and other stocks cited top-rated US funds, and now our source is including foreign funds and hedge funds in their totals reported). Management's 36% ownership stake (after the latest offering) still keeps the company's directors very motivated to look after and build shareholder value.

ULTA has traded up as much as +41.27% from $26.36 when it was featured in the 9/03/10 mid-day report (read here) and its strong close with 6 times average volume confirmed a fresh technical buy signal. This high-ranked leader in the Retail - Specialty group has strong quarterly earnings increases above the +25% guideline in the 4 latest comparisons (satisfies the C criteria). 

Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. (ULTA -$0.28 or -0.91% to $30.41) has no overhead supply remaining to act as resistance, but it is extended from a sound base pattern now. Its 50-day moving average (DMA) line and recent chart low defines support to watch near the $28 level. 

Its color code was changed to yellow with new pivot point cited in the 9/03/10 mid-day report (read here). Its strong close with a considerable volume spike to nearly 6 times average confirmed a fresh technical buy signal. This high-ranked leader in the Retail - Specialty group has strong quarterly earnings increases above the +25% guideline in the 4 latest comparisons (satisfies the C criteria). The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 49 funds in March '09 to 108 funds as of Sep '10 which is an encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria). Management's 36% ownership stake (after the latest offering) still keeps the company's directors very motivated to look after and build shareholder value. 

Earlier this year, a Stock Bulletin published on March 12, 2010 (read here) alerted members to the company with favorable characteristics based on the winning models. Based on weak action was dropped from the Featured Stocks list on 8/13/10. In the interim it found support again near its 200 DMA line and prior lows in the $21-22 area. Then returned to the Featured Stocks list again when exhibiting bullish price/volume action. 

Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. (ULTA +$4.07 or +18.31% to $26.30) gapped up today, rallying above its 50-day moving average (DMA) line and nearly challenging its 52-week high. Its color code was changed to yellow with new pivot point cited in the mid-day report (read here). Based on weak action it was dropped from the Featured Stocks list on 8/13/10. In the interim it found support again near its 200 DMA line and prior lows in the $21-22 area. Its strong close today with a considerable volume spike to nearly 6 times average confirmed a fresh technical buy signal.

This high-ranked leader in the Retail - Misc group has strong quarterly earnings increases above the +25% guideline in the 4 latest comparisons (satisfies the C criteria). The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 49 funds in March '09 to 102 funds as of Jun '10 which is an encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria). Management's 36% ownership stake (after the latest offering) still keeps the company's directors very motivated to look after and build shareholder value.

Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. (ULTA +$0.13 or +0.57% to $22.90) held its ground today after 3 consecutive losses on light volume. Its 50-day moving average (DMA) line has acted as resistance after recent distributional pressure sent it below that important short-term average.  While it has been consolidating since a negative reversal from an all-time high on 6/21/10, its May - June chart lows in the $21 area define the next support level just above its 200 DMA line.  

On 6/11/10 it completed a Secondary Offering which we previously noted may hinder upward price progress for the near-term. For now it remains an ideal candidate for investors' watch lists, awaiting a rebound above its 50 DMA line and confirming gains for a new high close with heavy volume for a fresh technical buy signal. 

This high-ranked leader in the Retail - Misc group which has shown accelerating sales revenues increases with strong quarterly earnings increases above the +25% guideline in the 4 latest comparisons (satisfies the C criteria). The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 49 funds in March '09 to 81 funds as of Jun '10 which is an encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria). Management's 36% ownership stake (after the latest offering) still keeps the company's directors very motivated to look after and build shareholder value.

Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. (ULTA +$0.50 or +2.05% to $24.92) closed near the session high today, making a positive reversal after dipping near its 50 DMA line. It has been quietly consolidating since a negative reversal from an all-time high on 6/21/10. On 6/11/10 it completed a Secondary Offering which may hinder upward price progress for the near-term. For now it remains an ideal candidate for investors' watch lists, awaiting confirming gains for a new high close with heavy volume for a fresh technical buy signal. 

ULTA made very little headway since the detailed Stock Bulletin with annotated graph was published soon after it was featured in the 3/12/10 mid-day report (read here) as a considerable gain with heavy volume helped it reach a new 52-week high. It was then noted as it rose from an 8-week cup shaped base following stronger results for the quarter ended January 31, 2010.

This high-ranked leader in the Retail - Misc group which has shown accelerating sales revenues increases with strong quarterly earnings increases above the +25% guideline in the 3 latest comparisons (satisfies the C criteria). The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 49 funds in March '09 to 80 funds as of Mar '10 which is an encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria). Management's 36% ownership stake (after the latest offering) still keeps the company's directors very motivated to look after and build shareholder value.

Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. (ULTA -$0.93 or -4.02% to $22.23) sank below its 50-day moving average (DMA) line today, falling again with more above average volume behind the damage. For now it remains an ideal candidate for investors' watch lists, but the distributional pressure raises concerns while quickly pressuring it near prior chart lows.  In the past it proved resilient and promptly rebounded above its short-term average.  Meanwhile, the recent chart low ($20.71) defines the next important support level to watch, where any violations would raise more serious concerns and trigger additional technical sell signals. ULTA made very little headway since the detailed Stock Bulletin with annotated graph was published soon after it was featured in the 3/12/10 mid-day report (read here) as a considerable gain with heavy volume helped it reach a new 52-week high. It was noted as it rose from an 8-week cup shaped base following stronger results for the quarter ended January 31, 2010.

This high-ranked leader in the Retail - Misc group which has shown accelerating sales revenues increases.  Strong quarterly earnings increases above the +25% guideline in the 3 latest quarterly comparisons satisfies the C criteria. The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 49 funds in March '09 to 78 funds as of Mar '10 which is an encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria). Management's 51% ownership stake keeps the company's directors very motivated to look after and build shareholder value.

Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. (ULTA -$1.35 or -5.74% to $22.16) gapped down today and the considerable loss on light volume violated its 50-day moving average (DMA) line again, raising concerns. In the past it proved resilient and promptly rebounded above its short-term average.  Meanwhile, the recent chart low ($20.71) defines the next important support to watch now, where any violations would raise more serious concerns and trigger additional technical sell signals. ULTA made very little headway since the detailed Stock Bulletin with annotated graph was published soon after it was featured in the 3/12/10 mid-day report (read here) as a considerable gain with heavy volume helped it reach a new 52-week high. It was noted as it rose from an 8-week cup shaped base following stronger results for the quarter ended January 31, 2010.

This high-ranked leader in the Retail - Misc group which has shown accelerating sales revenues increases.  Strong quarterly earnings increases above the +25% guideline in the 3 latest quarterly comparisons satisfies the C criteria. The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 49 funds in March '09 to 77 funds as of Mar '10 which is an encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria). Management's 51% ownership stake keeps the company's directors very motivated to look after and build shareholder value. Its current Up/Down Volume Ratio of 1.3 is an unbiased bullish indication concerning its recent action. Until the major averages (M criteria) get their footing and produce a solid follow-through day, the outlook is not favorable enough for new buying efforts under the fact-based system.

Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. (ULTA -0.96 or -3.99% to $23.12) started higher, but another "negative reversal" today led to a loss on light volume and close near the session's low. This week it rallied back on lighter volume following a gap down and heavy distributional pressure after the previously noted negative reversal at its 52-week high. A subsequent violation of its 50-day moving average (DMA) line or recent chart low $21.66 could trigger damaging technical sell signals.

ULTA made very little headway since the detailed Stock Bulletin with annotated graph was published soon after it was featured in the 3/12/10 mid-day report (read here) as a considerable gain with heavy volume helped it reach a new 52-week high. It was noted as it rose from an 8-week cup shaped base following stronger results for the quarter ended January 31, 2010.

This high-ranked leader in the Retail - Misc group which has shown accelerating sales revenues increases.  Strong quarterly earnings increases above the +25% guideline in the 3 latest quarterly comparisons satisfies the C criteria. The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 49 funds in March '09 to 78 funds as of Mar '10 which is an encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria). Management's 51% ownership stake keeps the company's directors very motivated to look after and build shareholder value. Its current Up/Down Volume Ratio of 1.6 is an unbiased bullish indication concerning its recent action. 

Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc.  (ULTA -0.47 or -2.08% to $22.15) suffered a second consecutive loss today with slightly higher than average volume, a sign of mild distributional pressure this week. Its color code was changed to yellow while consolidating below its "max buy" level but staying above its pivot point. Prior chart highs are now a support level to watch, while any close below its $21.61 high close from January 8, 2010 would raise concerns by negating its latest technical breakout. A detailed Stock Bulletin with annotated graph was published soon after it was featured in the 3/12/10 mid-day report (read here) as a considerable gain with heavy volume helped it reach a new 52-week high.  It was noted as it rose from an 8-week cup shaped base following stronger results for the quarter ended January 31, 2010.

This high-ranked leader in the Retail - Misc group which has shown accelerating sales revenues increases.  Strong quarterly earnings increases above the +25% guideline in the 3 latest quarterly comparisons satisfies the C criteria. The number of top-rated funds with an ownership interest has grown from 49 funds in March '09 to 72 funds as of Dec '09 which is an encouraging sign of increasing institutional interest (the I criteria). Management's 51% ownership stake keeps the company's directors very motivated to look after and build shareholder value. Its current Up/Down Volume Ratio of 1.5 is an unbiased bullish indication concerning its recent action.  It has rallied from March '09 lows near $4, yet it has encountered very little distributional pressure during that period.  It now faces no resistance due to overhead supply.