Are The Big Guys Moving In?: The Most Meaningful Indicator (Also: Can SBUX Keep Growing?)

This question came in the other day from Steve, in the comments:

Watching Starbucks - SBUX. Strong Big 5 numbers. Projected earnings 20+%. MOS exists now. Definitely a mote. I like the company. Waiting for institutions to start buying. What is the most meaningful indicator for you, Phil, in seeing accumulation activity?

The most meaningful indicator that something wonderful is going to happen with the stock price is one of the Big Five Numbers: Operating Cash Flow.  When it starts increasing, what usually follows is an increase in earnings.  And when that happens the institutions buy.  Watch the cash. 

In Starbucks' case, the cash is increasing even as the price goes down.  Could be the Big Guys are thinking it's peaked.  On the other hand, it's sure looking cheap if it can keep these numbers up, and it's a heck of a brand.  However, right now is not the time to guess if this is the bottom.  Watch the MACD, Stochastic and MA and when they all move up, go for it if you really think you know the business and can answer this question:

Can Starbucks sustain a 20% growth rate and continue to double its size every 3.5 years? 

Send me the answer and I'll publish it.