Xilinx Inc (XLNX-Q)

AMD has the weakest balance sheet among the semis, but is entering a deal with Xilinx to diversify away from PCs against a resurgent Intel. Xilinx, also, sells chips to different markets--cars, aerospace, healthcare. This deal makes sense.

He can't wait for the AMD deal to close. Likes it.

Rumour of AMD buying Xilinx AMD would really benefit for Xilinx which makes great chips for autos, defence and telcos. Buying Xilinx would expand AMD's exposure to these sectors and their overall market. The deal is good, but only at the right price--if it happens. The AMD CEO is great. If the deal happens and AMD sells off, then he would buy.

Big data recommendation? On the hardware side, you have the chip manufactures and communication companies. On the processing side, he recommends XLNX-Q. On the software side you have cloud and data analytics. He recommends EQIX-Q. He thinks there will be more consolidation. He also likes ADBE-Q.