I shall analyze two symbols as potential earnings plays: KO and SU.

I have exited AAPL for a loss in order to avoid the likelihood of assignment when the stock goes ex-dividend on Thursday. I shall update the analysis with results later today.

I have placed exit orders for INTC, LMT and QCOM at my target price. None have yet been filled.

I am looking for the best exit point for UNP and USB, my remaining holdings using the FEB series of options, which trade for the last time on Feb. 17.

By Tim Bovee, Portland, Oregon, Feb. 8, 2017