While browsing news stories these days, it may seem like there is not a glimmer of good news to be had throughout ANY part of the business world. However, some companies are actually thriving in this environment, but don’t expect to hear much about it from the big news sources.

° Dollar Tree Inc. (DLTR) recently reported its quarterly profit rose 11% due to the current economic environment. The stores have seen a rise in shopping, especially from new customers, as shoppers opt for cheaper goods. The company reported a profit of $105.2 million for its fiscal fourth quarter ending Jan. 31. This is compared with a profit of $94.7 million a year ago. Following suit, Family Dollar Stores (FDO) recently reported a 6.4% rise in second quarter same-store sales, which was well above analyst estimates.

° Hyundai Motor Company (005380.KS), known for its low-cost vehicles, is profiting from drivers’ desire to make a more economical choice when buying such big ticket items as automobiles. This week’s Economist published a small blurb which states that “its market share in America has increased from 2.1% in January 2008 to 3.7% in January 2009, and the company is now gaining market share more quickly than any other carmaker in America.”

° Netflix (NFLX) is bucking the downward trend of most companies’ stock price with its revenues continuing to increase as the recession drags. The company reported a fourth quarter 2008 revenue increase of 19%. To look at the success of Netflix in other terms, the company has provided investors with a 30% return in the last 12 months, compared with the 43% loss on the S&P 500 index for the same period.

The NY Daily News recently ran an interesting article highlighting 10 industries succeeding in this economy – among them are alcohol and tobacco companies, consumer staples, bog-box retailers and, of course, dive bars.

Emily Holbrook
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