Twenty Products That Rocked the Stock Market

Monsanto via Bloomberg News

GM Seeds

Despite criticism, Monsanto (MON) used genetically modified technologies to develop seeds that boost yields or resist disease and pesticides. Now a majority of the crops grown in the U.S. are genetically modified, and Monsanto is the leading producer of genetically engineered seed.

Introduced: Monsanto was spun off by drug company Pharmacia & Upjohn—later acquired by Pfizer (PFE)—on Aug. 14, 2002.
Immediate stock impact: Up 32% in Monsanto's first year as an independent company.
Long-term performance: Shares rose 1,578% from 2002 to 2008. The stock now trades at 45% below its June 2008 peak.

next slide previous slide