Gary Balter Credit Suisse
Credit Suisse’s Gary Balter, who captures second place for a fourth consecutive year, has a “richer perspective on his companies than his competitors,” asserts one portfolio manager. Balter reiterated his buy call on Advance Auto Parts in April, at $42.51, arguing that the Roanoke, Virginia–based retailer would enjoy an increase in sales as credit-conscious consumers opted to repair their current vehicles rather than buy new ones. The stock had raced ahead 28.1 percent, to $54.47, by the end of August.
