< The 2014 All-America Research Team

Total Appearances: 10

Analyst Debut: 2005It’s nine consecutive years at No. 1 on this list for J.P. Morgan’s Joseph Greff. His staying power is no surprise to investors, because the 44-year-old analyst “thinks several steps ahead of everyone else,” as one portfolio manager avers. Another client echoes that sentiment: “Joe has great insights into the companies and management teams. His numbers and models are terrific — and you can make money with him.” Clients also value the conference Greff co-hosts with colleagues in Las Vegas every March — the J.P. Morgan Gaming, Lodging, Restaurant & Leisure Management Access Forum — which stands out because “Joe has exceptionally strong relationships with managements in both the C Corps. and [real estate investment trusts],” one attendee reports. Greff has increased his coverage universe by six names over the past year, raising the total to 34. One favored player is hotel chain operator Marriott International, which is headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland. In January he noted that the company’s earnings were rising and competitive supply growth was low, so he boosted Marriott from neutral to overweight. Through mid-September its shares jumped 44.9 percent, to $70.71, and outstripped the sector by 46.6 percentage points. The researcher believes that a price of $74 is justified. “Joe is a great stock picker and is always prompt with updates on market-changing events,” asserts another ally.