Hewlett-Packard Company (NYSE:HPQ): Hewlett-Packard CEO Meg Whitman says the company has to cut costs and is looking for ways that the company can “standardize, optimize and automate many of our systems,” meaning products, not people, reports Business Insider. After Hewlett-Packard reported Q4 results that RBC Capital views as mixed, the firm thinks the fact that the company beat its guidance represents a first step toward restoring investor confidence. The firm maintains an Outperform rating on the stock.   Shares of Hewlett-Packard Company are trading 6.25% lower today.

VIVUS, Inc. (NASDAQ:VVUS): After an FDA advisory panel voted 20-2 to recommend approval of VIVUS’ obesity treatment, Qnexa, JMP Securities believes there is a greater than 90% chance that the drug will be approved by its April 17 PDUFA date. The firm raised its target on the shares to $45 from $16 and maintains an Outperform rating. Shares of VIVUS, Inc. are trading 88.53% higher today.

Boston Beer Co Inc (NYSE:SAM): Sees 2012 depletions growth of 6 to 9% compared to 2011 and targeted revenue per barrel increases of approximately 3%, which the company said will help offset significant barley cost pressures from the 2011 crop. Shares of Boston Beer Co Inc are trading 7.64% lower today.

Skullcandy Inc (NASDAQ:SKUL): Sees FY12 revenue $275M-$295M, consensus $284.83M. Shares of Skullcandy Inc are trading 4.79% lower today.

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To contact the reporter on this story: Derek Hoffman at staff.writers@wallstcheatsheet.com

To contact the editor responsible for this story: Damien Hoffman at editors@wallstcheatsheet.com

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