| Darrin Peller debuted in third place in 2011 and holds his ground this year. The Barclays analyst dubbed San Francisco–based electronic-payments processor Visa his top pick for 2012; the stock surged 27 percent year-to-date through August. Money managers continue to point to Peller’s steadfast support of Alliance Data Systems Corp. of Plano, Texas. The researcher began recommending the data-driven marketing services provider’s stock in July 2010, at $55.70, and he has highlighted his stance repeatedly since, on robust growth. By the end of August 2012, the shares had catapulted 147.1 percent, to $137.65 — gaining 47.4 percent in the past 12 months alone. Peller “knows how to ask the great questions,” avers one backer, while another credits him with hosting “the best payments conference out there." RUNNER(S)-UP Bryan Keane |
