Liz Ann Sonders

0 Comments | USA TODAY, December, 2007

Chief investment strategist

Charles Schwab

These picks are courtesy of Schwab Equity Ratings, not Sonders. All are rated "A" and in the "top 1%" of stocks in Schwab's ratings universe.

Aetna ($57.85 Friday, ticker: AET). Health insurer consistently beats consensus profit estimates, grows earnings 15% to 20% annually, is buying back shares and sells at a price in line with the broader market. Stock has fared well in a turbulent market.

Intel ($26.29, INTC). Chipmaker is in the middle of a strong earnings recovery, has had strong stock price momentum and sports a strong balance sheet. It also can internally fund capital needs.

Raytheon ($61.66, RTN). Defense contractor grows earnings at a 15% to 20% clip, has consistently beat...