Citi's downgrade takes some of the risk out...but this is still a risky hold.
I don't think we will see much if any impact on the A-B distribution deal in this quarter and there is the possibility that the transition could cause some sales hiccoughs.
Still, May 1-9 of 2006 was 130% of the entire month of May for 2005, so the revenue number could be a big one. I also wonder if the CC will bring out specifics about market share gains and the possibility of dethroning Red Bull on a regional basis (last Q Monster was ahead of RB in So. Cal, Arizona and Texas.) Next, I think Khaos has quickly become a big hit -- and an indication that this brand is on a Monster-like trajectory would mean a two-brand two-prong growth strategy.
I think the probability of an upside surprise is greather than the probability of a downside surprise, BUT -- the market has been killing even good numbers lately, especially for high growth, high PE stocks.
You might want to try some of the options that just started trading. Spreads are high, but you might find enough liquidity to build a position by tomorrow.
Good trading!