Tal Liani BofA Merrill Lynch Global Research

Down a notch to No. 3 is Tal Liani. The BofA Merrill Lynch Global Research analyst, who is also ranked second in Data Networking & Wireline Equipment, has “a deep understanding of the sector, is very responsive and provides detailed financial models,” according to one portfolio manager. In January, Liani highlighted his buy call on Motorola, a few days earlier and a few cents higher than the analyst in second place, on the belief that the Street was missing the turnaround at the Schaumburg, Illinois–based company’s handset division, including its renewed emphasis on selling smartphones. As of late August, Motorola’s share price had risen from $6.48 to $7.52, advancing 16 percent since Liani’s reiteration.