Health care stocks have underperformed in recent months on uncertainty surrounding the incoming Donald Trump administration, but they can often be a solid defensive play in an uncertain economy. People don’t typically reduce prescription drug purchases or delay procedures or trips to the doctor just because the economy slumps. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid … Read more
The S&P 500’s 2024 rally continued in November as investors anticipate a favorable 2025 environment under the incoming Donald Trump administration. Investors are also hoping the Federal Reserve has secured a “soft landing” for the economy. The S&P 500 is up by about 26% this year through Nov. 29, and top 2024 stock market performers … Read more
The fiscal 2025 National Defense Authorization Act calls for $923.3 billion in U.S. military spending, up 4.1% from 2024 levels. However, the ongoing war in Ukraine; tensions between China and Taiwan; and conflicts between Israel and Iran, Hamas and Hezbollah may force the U.S. government to increase defense industry investment in the coming years, which … Read more
While many investors can get caught up on the day-to-day gyrations of the stock market, finding the best long-term stocks can provide very impressive returns. And more importantly, picking stocks to buy and hold for the long haul can give investors peace of mind as they do not have to worry about chasing the latest … Read more
Amid another solid quarter of earnings results, Morningstar analysts have been bumping up their fair value estimates of various stocks. The names with the largest fair value increases were e-commerce company Sea SE, with a 65% jump, and music streaming service Spotify SPOT, with a 56% raise. Across the 871 US-listed stocks covered by Morningstar, … Read more