Very Picky Stockpicker - Danny Becker

Dan Becker, Co-Portfolio Manager, Waddell & Reed Advisors Vanguard Fund

One of Becker's favorites is St. Louis-based Monsanto (MON), the fund's second-largest holding. "It is benefiting from the emerging middle class around the world, and our energy policy. There is a huge demand for protein and ethanol, but there is only a certain amount of land. Production can be increased through crop-protection chemicals and seeds that are resistant to bugs," he observes. He began buying it in 2005 at 33; it's now above 116. First Call puts per-share earnings at $2.83 in 2008 and $3.48 in '09.