The ten years have been known as the “lost decade,” with many large-cap blue chips hovering around even over the past ten years. Consensus on the Street: now is a great time to invest.

Here are a few market buys that can lead your portfolio performance in the 2012. Natural gas assets have decreased in value, hurting the energy sector, but Hess (HES), Chevron (CVX), and Conoco Phillips (COP) are well poised to bounce back in 2012. Intel (INTC) is putting up record profits, Bank of America (BAC) has a better capital ratio than ever with a positive outlook in all business operations, and Altria Group (MO) holds a lot of potential with a consistent cash flow and great margins.

Intel reported a record year in 2011: full-year revenue of $54 billion, operating income of $17.5 billion, net income of $12.9 billion and EPS of $2.39 – all records. “2011 was an exceptional year for Intel,” said Paul Otellini, Intel president and CEO. “With outstanding execution the company performed superbly, growing revenue by more than $10 billion and eclipsing all annual revenue and earnings records. With a tremendous product and technology pipeline for 2012, we’re excited about the global growth opportunities presented by Ultrabook systems, the data center, security and the introduction of Intel-powered smartphones and tablets.”

A company with the experienced track record of Intel is still breaking records? Don’t underestimate Intel, particularly with, as I’ve noted, the demand for touchscreen products.To continue reading, click here.