1.   By waiting until its stock was consistently rising and using a convertible offering, Home Depot saved millions in interest costs.

2.   Given the condition of the company, its stock and the market, analysts and investment bankers said a convertible offering makes sense for Apple.

3.   Home Depot is the most recent of a number of companies that raised cash with a convertible offering.

4.   Kmart may start the road show for the convertible offering in late May, said Bob Burton, director of investor relations.

5.   Some investors sold because the convertible offering dilutes the value of existing shares, analysts said.