Marathon Oil, Chiquita: Ratings Changes

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BOSTON (TheStreet) -- TheStreet.com's stock-rating model upgraded banana seller Chiquita Brands International (CQB) to "hold."

The numbers: Second-quarter revenue declined 4% to $955 million, but net income increased 46% to $89 million and earnings per share climbed 52% to $1.95. Its gross margin rose from 19% to 22% and its operating margin increased from 7% to 11%. A quick ratio of 1.5 demonstrates ample liquidity. A debt-to-equity ratio of 1 indicates higher-than-ideal leverage.

The stock: Chiquita is up 1% this year, lagging behind major U.S. indices. The company doesn't pay dividends.

The model upgraded industrial machinery maker Chart Industries (GTLS) to "hold."

The numbers: Second-quarter profit decreased 20% to $18 million, or 61 cents a share, as revenue dropped 22% to $155 million. Its gross margin rose from 34% to 39% and its operating margin jumped from 18% to 22%. The company has a stable financial position, evident in its quick ratio of 1.9 and debt-to-equity ratio of 0.5.

The stock: Chart Industries has surged 79% this year, outpacing major U.S. indices. The stock trades at a price-to-earnings ratio of 7, a discount to machinery stocks and the market. The company doesn't pay dividends.

The model upgraded insurer Mercury General (MCY) to "hold."

The numbers: Second-quarter net income increased 62% to $114 million, or $2.07 a share, as revenue grew 1% to $796 million. Its gross margin rose from 13% to 22% and its operating margin jumped from 12% to 20%. The company has a strong financial position, with $290 million of cash, compared to $273 million of debt.

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