Stock Watch Lists

Three Resilient Stocks Trading at Deep Discounts

The market’s recent pullback has created compelling opportunities for investors willing to look past the short-term noise. The tech-heavy Nasdaq’s 10% correction and the S&P 500’s 6.5% decline from its high have left quality companies trading at significant discounts to their intrinsic value.

While uncertainty around Trump’s tariff policies continues to unsettle markets, this volatility has created a silver lining: fundamentally sound businesses with tariff-resistant models are now available at attractive valuations. These opportunities don’t tend to last long in today’s market environment.

Let’s examine three standout candidates that deserve a spot on your buy-the-dip watchlist.

On Holding (ONON)

On Holding, the Swiss athletic footwear company, has managed to maintain strong momentum across all its key markets despite broader economic concerns. What makes ONON particularly appealing in the current environment is its minimal sourcing exposure to regions impacted by potential tariff changes.

The company’s recent fourth-quarter results exceeded expectations, demonstrating its ability to execute even during challenging market conditions. The stock has surged 42% over the past 12 months, but there’s likely more room to run.

What separates On from competitors is its relentless focus on innovation. The company has successfully positioned itself as a premium performance brand, allowing it to maintain pricing power while expanding its product lineup. This strategy has translated into industry-leading sales growth that looks sustainable for the foreseeable future.

The market correction has created an entry point for investors who may have previously felt they missed the boat. With the stock currently trading around $48, there’s significant upside potential based on the company’s growth trajectory.

Oshkosh Corporation (OSK)

Military vehicle manufacturer Oshkosh presents a compelling opportunity for investors seeking a tariff-resistant business model with strong domestic production capabilities. Despite its solid fundamentals, shares have slumped 18% over the last 12 months, creating an attractive entry point.

What makes OSK particularly resilient to current trade tensions is its business composition: approximately 84% of the company’s revenue comes from the United States, with much of its production happening domestically. This insulates Oshkosh from the direct impact of tariff policies that have rattled other industrials.

Additionally, the company’s global manufacturing footprint gives it operational flexibility, allowing management to shift production as needed to mitigate potential cost increases. Even in scenarios where some tariff impact is unavoidable, Oshkosh has demonstrated its pricing power and ability to pass costs through to customers when necessary.

At current levels around $97, the stock trades significantly below its intrinsic value, offering an appealing risk-reward profile for investors willing to look beyond short-term market anxieties.

Citigroup (C)

While banking stocks have generally benefited from the November election results, Citigroup has lagged the sector, declining 1.8% year-to-date. This underperformance has created an opportunity in a bank that’s uniquely positioned to benefit from the current macroeconomic environment.

Citigroup’s global reach as an intermediary across regions gives it a competitive advantage during periods of trade policy shifts. The bank successfully navigated the first round of tariffs during Trump’s previous administration, leveraging its international presence to capture value from cross-border transactions even as trade policies evolved.

What makes Citigroup particularly compelling right now is its valuation. The stock is currently trading at approximately three-quarters of its tangible book value, providing both a margin of safety and significant upside potential as the company executes its strategic transformation.

This discounted valuation has another benefit: the company’s share repurchase program can acquire more shares with the same capital allocation, creating additional value for long-term shareholders. As uncertainty subsides and the market recognizes Citigroup’s improving fundamentals, patient investors stand to be rewarded.

Bottom Line

Market corrections like the one we’re experiencing typically create opportunities for investors with longer time horizons. These three companies share a common thread: strong fundamentals, business models that can withstand trade policy shifts, and attractive valuations relative to their growth prospects.

While additional volatility may be ahead as tariff policies take shape, positioning your portfolio with quality companies trading at discounts to their intrinsic value remains a time-tested approach to long-term wealth creation. The key is identifying businesses with defensible competitive positions and the operational flexibility to adapt to changing economic conditions—precisely what On Holding, Oshkosh, and Citigroup offer at current levels.

Bitcoin’s Second Quarter Rally: Technical Signals Point to Post-March Recovery

The past few months have been a rollercoaster for Bitcoin investors. After reaching dizzying heights in January, the cryptocurrency is still down more than 18% from its all-time high. The pullback has left many wondering: is this a buying opportunity or the beginning of a more sustained downtrend?

The answer, according to multiple Wall Street analysts, might depend on your timeframe. Those with patience may find their resolve rewarded as soon as next month.

Why Bitcoin Could Stage a Comeback in Q2

Bitcoin has maintained two persistent correlations that savvy investors should be watching closely:

  1. A positive correlation with global money supply growth (M2)
  2. A negative correlation with the U.S. dollar index (DXY)

These relationships aren’t merely theoretical—they’ve been reliable indicators throughout Bitcoin’s history. And right now, both are signaling potential strength after March.

“Bitcoin has consistently tracked the inverted DXY on a ~10-week lag,” explains Wells Fargo equity analyst Christopher Harvey. This relationship suggests the current drawdown is largely a reaction to the strong dollar environment we saw in Q4 of 2024.

What’s particularly encouraging is that the DXY peaked on January 13th—about eight weeks ago. If the historical pattern holds, we’re approaching the point where Bitcoin typically begins responding to dollar weakness.

Compass Point analyst Ed Engel takes this analysis a step further, noting that “Global M2 has historically led BTC prices by three months.” After Global M2 bottomed in early 2025, it has since rebounded alongside recent USD weakness.

Engel’s conclusion? “If BTC maintains its correlation with Global M2, this implies further weakness in March before a significant rally in 2Q25.”

The $90,000 Threshold: A Critical Level to Watch

While hovering around $88,100 (up 2.4% at last check), Bitcoin’s behavior around the $90,000 level will be telling. This price point has served as key support throughout 2025, and a decisive move above the $91,000-$92,000 range would provide technical confirmation that the worst may be behind us.

However, not all analysts share this optimism. Wolfe Research cautions that recent price action shows “notable breakdowns across the board through key support levels,” adding that “This is not the action of a group readying to rally.”

Politics vs. Market Reality: A Conflicting Narrative

What makes the current Bitcoin landscape particularly interesting is the disconnection between political tailwinds and market performance. The cryptocurrency industry is operating under an increasingly favorable political environment, with the Trump administration promising to create conditions where crypto businesses can thrive.

Despite these developments, Bitcoin has struggled to maintain momentum. The market seems more concerned with broader economic issues—particularly the specter of trade wars—than regulatory improvements.

This divergence creates a potential opportunity. If macroeconomic concerns ease while the regulatory environment continues to improve, Bitcoin could benefit from a powerful combination of catalysts in the second quarter.

What This Means For Your Portfolio

If you’re already invested in Bitcoin, the historical correlations suggest patience may be warranted. The next few weeks could bring continued weakness, but the second quarter presents a potentially more favorable environment.

For those on the sidelines, this period of weakness might offer an entry point—provided you’re comfortable with near-term volatility. The key is to watch those $90,000+ levels as confirmation of any sustainable rally.

The most prudent approach? Consider dollar-cost averaging through the current turbulence rather than trying to precisely time the bottom. The correlations with M2 and the dollar index suggest a potential recovery, but timing precision is notoriously difficult in cryptocurrency markets.

What’s clear is that despite the recent pullback, Bitcoin’s fundamental narrative remains intact. The combination of institutional adoption, favorable political shifts, and historical correlation patterns suggests that while March might test investors’ resolve, April and beyond could reward those who maintain theirs.

Market Downturn Reveals Gold’s Enduring Value While Bitcoin Follows Stocks Lower

Gold just hit $3,000 per ounce – a historic milestone that couldn’t come at a more telling time. As recession fears intensify and markets wobble, Bitcoin sits 25% below its all-time high while gold sets new records. This stark divergence is forcing investors to reconsider a question that’s divided the financial world: when economic uncertainty looms, which asset actually protects your wealth better?

Gold vs. Bitcoin: The Hedge Debate Heats Up

The timing speaks volumes. Gold’s record price comes amid falling stock markets, crypto selloffs, and widespread unease about U.S. economic policy. Traditional investors are nodding knowingly – this is exactly what gold has done for 4,000 years when uncertainty strikes.

Meanwhile, Bitcoin advocates aren’t backing down. Despite current price action, they maintain that Bitcoin’s “digital gold” credentials remain intact. Their argument? That Bitcoin’s technological design makes it an evolution of gold’s economic role, not just an alternative. Many prominent investors still insist it provides better long-term protection against certain economic threats.

But which asset actually delivers when markets tumble? The answer isn’t straightforward.

Why Bitcoin Earned Its “Digital Gold” Status

Understanding Bitcoin’s appeal as a hedge requires examining its fundamental architecture:

  • Capped supply: Unlike fiat currencies that can be printed indefinitely, Bitcoin’s lifetime supply is mathematically limited to 21 million coins, with nearly 20 million already in circulation. This engineered scarcity creates inherent value preservation.
  • Decentralized immunity: No central bank, government entity, or financial institution can alter Bitcoin’s underlying protocol, providing insulation from monetary policy manipulation.
  • Halving mechanism: Every four years, Bitcoin’s supply issuance rate is automatically cut in half, creating a disinflationary model that theoretically protects against currency debasement.
  • Expropriation resistance: The cryptographic nature of blockchain technology makes Bitcoin exceptionally difficult to seize or freeze, prompting billionaire Ricardo Salinas to call it the “hardest asset in the world” – even harder than gold.
  • Digital mobility: Unlike physical gold, which requires secure storage and poses logistical challenges for transfer, Bitcoin can move across borders nearly instantaneously without intermediaries.

These characteristics have made Bitcoin an attractive hedge against specific risks, particularly currency devaluation and financial censorship.

ETF Performance: The Revealing Comparison

For most retail investors, exposure to both Bitcoin and gold comes through exchange-traded funds rather than direct ownership. This provides a useful lens for comparison.

The most popular spot Bitcoin ETF, iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT -0.45%), reveals a telling pattern when measured against its counterpart, the iShares Gold Trust (IAU -0.97%) over the past 15 months.

During bullish or sideways market conditions, Bitcoin’s ETF has substantially outperformed gold ETFs. However, during market downturns – like the one we’re currently experiencing – Bitcoin has significantly underperformed gold. This pattern helps explain the current flight to gold ETFs as recession fears intensify.

The Correlation Problem

This performance divergence highlights a crucial evolution in Bitcoin’s market behavior. For much of the past decade, Bitcoin’s appeal included its low correlation with traditional asset classes, providing valuable portfolio diversification.

However, this correlation structure appears to be shifting in 2025. Bitcoin increasingly moves in sync with broader equity markets – rising when stocks rise and falling when they fall. This growing correlation with equities severely undermines Bitcoin’s effectiveness during market downturns.

The same troubling pattern emerged in 2022, when Bitcoin lost 65% of its value amid a broader market selloff – precisely when hedges should have provided protection.

Which Offers Superior Protection?

Theory and practice often diverge in financial markets. While Bitcoin’s design theoretically positions it as an excellent hedge, its market behavior tells a different story during actual economic stress.

If your primary concern is protection during recessionary market conditions, gold’s recent performance makes a compelling case for the traditional safe haven. Its 4,000-year track record of maintaining value through economic upheavals remains unmatched.

However, Bitcoin could regain its hedge status if one critical condition is met: it must decouple from equity market movements. A true safe haven should zig when vulnerable assets zag. Until Bitcoin demonstrates this counterbalancing movement during market corrections, gold appears to be the superior recession hedge for 2025.

That said, investors seeking comprehensive portfolio protection might consider both assets, as they each offer distinct advantages against different types of risk. Gold provides time-tested stability during market turmoil, while Bitcoin offers protection against currency devaluation and financial censorship.

The verdict remains fluid. Bitcoin’s correlations continue to evolve as the asset matures, and its ultimate role in portfolio construction during economic uncertainty is still being written. For now, gold bugs appear to have the upper hand in the recession hedge debate, but Bitcoin’s technological advantages ensure this conversation is far from settled.

Smart Money Moves: 5 Stocks Hedge Funds Love

When hedge funds and high-profile investors pour billions into specific stocks, it’s worth paying attention. These investors often have access to deeper resources, better research, and insider-level insights that retail investors simply don’t. By following where the smart money flows, you can identify potential opportunities before the broader market catches on.

This week, we’re highlighting five stocks that have garnered significant interest from hedge funds and notable investors. These picks reflect a range of themes—from strategic turnarounds and economic recovery to the growing demand for sustainable energy. With major players like Warren Buffett, Bill Ackman, and David Tepper making moves, each of these stocks offers a compelling story backed by institutional conviction. Let’s dive into the details of why these stocks are attracting such strong attention.

JD.com (NASDAQ: JD) – Riding China’s Stimulus Wave

Hedge funds are turning bullish on Chinese stocks, and JD.com has emerged as a top pick. After the Chinese government announced a sweeping five-year, 10 trillion yuan stimulus plan in November, JD.com gained traction as a recovery play. The government’s efforts to address local debt and stimulate economic growth have renewed confidence among investors. Hedge fund heavyweights like David Tepper’s Appaloosa Management, Philippe Laffont’s Coatue Management, and Michael Burry have significantly increased their stakes, reflecting optimism in the company’s ability to benefit from China’s recovery.

JD.com also stands out for its robust e-commerce platform and strong market position in China’s rapidly digitizing economy. While global economic uncertainty persists, the stock offers exposure to one of the most ambitious economic support packages in recent history. With hedge funds leading the way, JD.com could be poised for substantial gains in 2025.

Nike (NYSE: NKE) – A Turnaround in Motion

Nike is undergoing a significant transformation, and hedge funds are taking notice. Bill Ackman’s Pershing Square has doubled down on its position, raising its stake to $1.4 billion last quarter. After a difficult 2024, in which the stock dropped over 30%, Nike is focusing on direct-to-consumer sales and streamlining inventory management. New CEO Elliott Hill’s strategy includes liquidating older inventory through less profitable channels and returning the company’s online business to a full-price model.

While the past year was tough, Nike’s fundamentals remain strong. Its iconic brand, global reach, and strategic pivot position it for a rebound. Hedge funds’ increasing exposure suggests confidence in the company’s ability to execute its turnaround plan. Investors seeking a blue-chip recovery story may find Nike’s current valuation an attractive entry point.

LPL Financial (NASDAQ: LPLA) – A Financial Powerhouse

LPL Financial has emerged as a favorite among hedge funds in the financial sector. At the end of Q3 2024, hedge funds owned an impressive 16% of the company’s equity cap, according to Goldman Sachs. Stephen Mandel’s Lone Pine Capital and Dan Loeb’s Third Point have made substantial bets on LPL, with stakes exceeding $500 million and $112 million, respectively. The stock surged 41% in Q4, driven by expectations of regulatory rollbacks under the new administration.

LPL Financial’s appeal lies in its ability to capitalize on industry deregulation while maintaining steady growth. As one of the most concentrated hedge fund positions in the financial sector, the stock reflects strong institutional confidence. Investors looking for exposure to financials with momentum should consider LPL Financial as a compelling option.

Domino’s (NYSE: DPZ) – A Value Slice Worth Tasting

Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway has added Domino’s Pizza to its portfolio, signaling confidence in the company’s long-term value. The $500 million stake, while small relative to Berkshire’s overall portfolio, highlights the appeal of Domino’s consistent cash flow and brand strength. Hedge fund investor Philippe Laffont’s Coatue Management also holds a sizable stake, further underscoring the stock’s attractiveness.

Though Domino’s saw muted growth in 2024, with shares up just 3%, its resilience amid rising competition and cost-conscious consumers sets it apart. The company’s focus on affordability and convenience makes it a steady performer in challenging markets. For investors seeking a defensive stock with potential for incremental gains, Domino’s could deliver.

Constellation Energy (NASDAQ: CEG) – Leading the Energy Transition

Constellation Energy is riding the wave of rising energy demand and hedge fund interest. With significant buying from Lone Pine Capital and Coatue Management, the stock saw a remarkable 94% gain in 2024. Its focus on clean and nuclear energy positions it well to benefit from the growing need for reliable, sustainable power sources.

As the new administration looks to relax environmental regulations and support energy-intensive industries like crypto, Constellation is uniquely poised to thrive. Its leadership in innovative energy solutions and strong hedge fund backing make it a standout pick for 2025. Investors looking for exposure to the energy sector’s transformation should keep a close eye on Constellation.

The Insider Edge: Three High-Potential Stocks for This Week

Market noise is relentless. Financial headlines scream about the same handful of mega-cap darlings while CNBC pundits breathlessly debate the Fed’s next move. Meanwhile, real opportunities—the kind that can meaningfully impact your portfolio—often fly completely under the radar.

That’s exactly why we publish this watchlist each week.

While most investors are distracted by mainstream narratives, we’re digging through earnings transcripts, analyzing technical setups, and monitoring institutional money flows to identify companies at potential inflection points. Our focus isn’t on what’s already priced in, but rather on what the market hasn’t fully appreciated yet.

Each week, we spotlight just three stocks that merit your attention. These aren’t random picks or household names you already own. They’re carefully selected opportunities where timing, valuation, and catalysts align to create potentially favorable entry points.

Our track record speaks for itself. These selections consistently outperform because they’re backed by rigorous analysis that most retail investors simply don’t have time to conduct. Each pick comes with clear reasoning, specific triggers to watch for, and a compelling risk-reward profile that tilts probability in your favor.

Here’s what caught our eye this week:

Salesforce (CRM)

After a sharp pullback from its January highs, Salesforce has quietly formed a solid base at key technical support levels. The stock’s recent price action shows significant accumulation on down days – a telltale sign that institutional investors are using this correction to build positions. With the 50-day moving average now flattening out and price compression tightening, CRM appears poised for a potential breakout.

What makes this setup particularly compelling is Salesforce’s demonstrated resilience even in challenging economic environments. The company’s “growing revenue contribution from tangible AI product cycles” serves as a key differentiator from competitors. This fundamental strength matters significantly because software companies historically show resistance in the quarters leading up to economic slowdowns – it typically takes 2-3 quarters into a recession before the sector experiences meaningful revenue deceleration. Salesforce’s scale and product diversification insulate it further from potential tariff-driven demand headwinds.

Salesforce’s recent $1 billion investment commitment in Singapore underscores the company’s aggressive expansion of Agentforce, its suite of AI automation tools. CEO Marc Benioff’s strategic positioning of Salesforce as a “software hyperscaler” aims to capitalize on historically low data center deployment costs. With the stock trading at a forward P/E multiple that’s 15% below its five-year average despite accelerating AI adoption, this presents an attractive entry point before Wall Street fully recognizes the improving risk-reward profile.

Delta Air Lines (DAL)

Delta has been caught in a perfect storm of headwinds, plunging over 28% in the past month and hitting extreme oversold territory with an RSI of 21.6 – among the lowest readings on the entire S&P 500. The massive selloff accelerated after the carrier cut its first-quarter profit and revenue forecasts, citing softer domestic travel demand. However, this severe overreaction has created a compelling entry point for contrarian investors willing to look beyond short-term turbulence.

The technical setup here is textbook mean-reversion opportunity. Historically, when Delta has reached RSI levels below 25, the stock has rebounded by an average of 16% within the following six weeks. What makes this particular setup more interesting is that the current price has found support at the same level that served as resistance throughout much of 2023, suggesting a potential floor has formed. The high-volume capitulation selling we’ve witnessed is typically characteristic of short-term bottoms in fundamentally sound companies.

Looking beyond recent volatility, Delta’s business fundamentals remain largely intact despite near-term demand softness. The carrier maintains industry-leading operational reliability, superior customer satisfaction metrics, and some of the strongest labor relations in the industry – competitive advantages that become even more valuable during sector-wide stress. With the stock now trading at just 5.4x forward earnings (a 40% discount to its pre-pandemic multiple) and potential tariff concerns already priced in, the risk-reward setup for long-term investors appears increasingly favorable as panic selling subsides.

Blackstone (BX)

Blackstone’s recent 30% pullback from its highs presents a rare opportunity to accumulate shares of the world’s premier alternative asset manager at a substantial discount. The stock has formed a textbook double bottom pattern on strong volume, with bullish divergence on momentum indicators suggesting smart money is quietly accumulating positions. With the stock currently trading around $140, it sits nearly 31% below its 52-week high of $200.96, creating an asymmetric risk-reward profile at current levels.

What makes Blackstone particularly compelling right now is its growing dividend yield, which has reached 2.8% – more than double the S&P 500’s current 1.3% yield. Unlike conventional dividend payers, Blackstone’s unique distribution policy returns the majority of its distributable earnings to shareholders through a combination of dividends and share repurchases. While this creates some quarter-to-quarter variability, the long-term trajectory has been decidedly upward, with significant room for continued growth as the alternative investment space expands.

The tailwinds for Blackstone’s business model remain exceptionally strong despite market volatility. The global alternatives market is projected to reach $30 trillion by 2030, up from $17 trillion at the end of 2023 – a 76% increase that should disproportionately benefit Blackstone given its scale, brand recognition, and performance track record. With the stock trading at a compelling valuation relative to its growth prospects and a gross margin of 99.55% that demonstrates the capital-light nature of its business model, the current price represents an attractive entry point before institutional capital recognizes the disconnect between price and value.

The Exit Strategy: Stocks Showing Critical Warning Signs This Week

Every successful investor knows a painful truth: knowing when to sell is often more critical than knowing what to buy.

While financial media overwhelmingly focuses on buying opportunities, our research consistently identifies companies facing significant headwinds that merit serious consideration for selling. These aren’t just stocks underperforming the market; they’re businesses confronting structural challenges, deteriorating fundamentals, or carrying valuations disconnected from financial reality.

What you won’t find here: reactionary calls based on short-term price movements or headline volatility. Each company on this list has been thoroughly analyzed across multiple metrics that historically precede substantial declines.

Smart investors understand that portfolio management requires both addition and subtraction. Sometimes the best investment decision is to redeploy capital away from troubling positions before problems fully materialize in the share price.

This week’s watchlist highlights stocks showing critical weaknesses that demand immediate attention:

Tesla (TSLA)

Tesla’s 50% decline since December may seem like a buying opportunity to some investors, but our analysis suggests this correction is only the beginning of a potentially much steeper drawdown. Despite the significant pullback, the electric vehicle maker’s fundamental challenges appear to be accelerating rather than abating.

The most alarming development has been Tesla’s dramatic sales deterioration in Europe, where registrations plunged by more than 40% year-to-date. This collapse in a key growth market raises serious questions about the company’s ability to maintain its premium valuation in the face of intensifying competition and potential market saturation. These European sales figures are particularly concerning as they suggest Tesla may be facing another year of stagnant growth – a scenario that stands in stark contrast to the narrative of technological dominance and market expansion that has long supported the stock’s premium multiple.

From a technical perspective, Tesla’s chart reveals deeply concerning patterns. The stock is currently experiencing its eighth consecutive weekly decline, marking its longest losing streak since its 2010 Nasdaq debut. This persistent selling pressure indicates institutional investors are systematically reducing exposure, likely in response to deteriorating fundamentals and forward guidance.

While bulls have long dismissed valuation concerns by pointing to Tesla’s growth potential, the company’s current trajectory suggests even the reduced share price remains disconnected from business realities. At current levels around $250, Tesla trades at approximately 61 times forward earnings – a multiple that appears increasingly difficult to justify given the growing evidence of slowing demand and margin pressures. Our analysis indicates a more reasonable valuation would place the stock closer to the $130-$150 range, representing potential downside of 40-45% from current levels.

This negative outlook is increasingly reflected in analyst sentiment, with major firms including Wells Fargo, UBS, and Redburn Atlantic all maintaining sell ratings on the stock. The consensus appears to be shifting away from the growth-at-any-price mentality that previously dominated Tesla’s investor base, with fundamentals now taking center stage in valuation considerations.

For investors still holding Tesla positions, the combination of deteriorating sales metrics, persistently negative technical signals, and increasing analyst skepticism suggests the prudent move is to consider exiting before the next potential leg down materializes.

Sherwin-Williams (SHW)

After showing remarkable resilience while other housing-related stocks faltered, Sherwin-Williams appears to have finally succumbed to the broader weakness in the housing sector. Our technical analysis reveals a classic bullish-to-bearish reversal pattern that suggests significant downside ahead.

The paint manufacturer’s chart shows a textbook topping formation that’s particularly concerning given the stock’s previous strength. For nearly 18 months, SHW has bounced precisely off its trendline support multiple times, creating a false sense of security among investors. However, our analysis suggests this critical support is now at high risk of failure.

What’s particularly notable is the divergence between SHW’s price action and underlying fundamentals. While the stock has held up relatively well compared to peers like Home Depot (HD) and Lowe’s (LOW), recent channel checks indicate softening demand in both the professional contractor and DIY segments. With housing turnover remaining sluggish and renovation activity slowing, the company’s premium valuation of 27x forward earnings looks increasingly difficult to justify.

Technical indicator analysis points to a potential decline toward the $295 level, representing approximately 15% downside from current prices. The recent increase in trading volume during down days further confirms our negative outlook. While noted market technician Carter Worth has expressed similar concerns, our independent analysis of both technical patterns and fundamental metrics suggests investors should exit positions before the broader market fully recognizes these warning signs.

Tilray Brands (TLRY)

Cannabis producer Tilray Brands exemplifies the dangers of investing in a struggling industry regardless of how cheap the shares might appear. Currently trading near its 52-week low at just $0.61, the stock has cratered over 79% from its 52-week high of $2.97. Despite this significant decline, our analysis suggests the company’s fundamental challenges remain unresolved.

What’s particularly concerning is Tilray’s continued reliance on acquisitions for growth rather than organic expansion. Revenue figures show troubling patterns – the company has failed to establish consistent quarter-over-quarter improvements despite management’s optimistic projections. Meanwhile, profitability remains elusive with no clear pathway to sustainable positive earnings in sight.

The regulatory environment continues to present substantial headwinds. While CEO Irwin Simon has boldly predicted U.S. federal legalization within four years, our analysis of the political landscape suggests this timeline remains highly speculative. Even if legalization does eventually materialize, Tilray faces a daunting challenge: the Canadian market experience—where recreational cannabis has been legal for over six years—provides a sobering case study of how regulatory constraints can strangle profit potential.

Tilray’s diversification into craft brewing through multiple acquisitions was intended to provide stability and a platform for cannabis-infused beverages post-legalization. However, our evaluation of their quarterly performance shows this strategy has yet to deliver meaningful financial improvements. With a market cap now hovering around $572 million and continuing negative cash flows, the company’s once-ambitious expansion plans appear increasingly tenuous.

Technical indicators reinforce our bearish outlook. TLRY has established a concerning pattern of lower highs and lower lows throughout 2024, with trading volume patterns suggesting institutional investors continue to reduce exposure. The stock’s inability to find support even at these depressed levels signals that the market remains unconvinced of any imminent turnaround.

For investors holding TLRY, the rational move appears to be exiting positions before the company potentially faces even more significant financial constraints. The combination of regulatory uncertainty, sustained unprofitability, and reliance on acquisitions for growth creates a troubling outlook that justifies the stock’s current position near 52-week lows.

3 “Smart Money” Stocks That Could Soar in 2025

Hedge funds have been quietly positioning themselves in several under-the-radar stocks that deserve your attention. Recent regulatory filings reveal strategic moves by some of Wall Street’s most sophisticated investors – positioning that often precedes significant price movement.

We’ve identified three compelling opportunities from their recent filings that show particular promise based on fundamental catalysts and institutional backing. These aren’t typical mainstream recommendations, but calculated positions being built by professional investors with extensive research capabilities.

Arthur J. Gallagher (AJG)

Nine elite hedge funds made this insurance broker a top holding last quarter, and for good reason. In December, AJG announced a game-changing $13.45 billion acquisition of AssuredPartners from private equity firm GTCR – a move that will dramatically expand their market reach and revenue potential.

The stock is already up 14% in 2025, but this is likely just the beginning. Insurance brokers thrive during economic uncertainty, and AJG has consistently demonstrated skill in acquiring and integrating new businesses. The company’s growth trajectory looks exceptional, especially with this strategic acquisition providing new scale advantages against competitors.

Nebius (NBIS)

If you missed the first wave of AI stocks, pay attention now. This Amsterdam-based AI infrastructure specialist has become a hedge fund favorite, and the smart money is piling in for a reason that should make your ears perk up: Nvidia just took a strategic position.

When the world’s AI chip leader invests in you, it’s not just capital – it’s validation. After relisting on Nasdaq in Q4 2024, Nebius rocketed 46% higher, followed by another 51% surge in 2025. Despite these gains, the company is just beginning its journey as a critical player in the AI infrastructure space – the backbone that will support the next decade of AI advancement.

Taiwan Semiconductor (TSM)

The quiet giant behind the AI revolution is finally getting the attention it deserves from institutional investors. As the world’s premier chip manufacturer, TSM produces the advanced semiconductors that power virtually every major AI system on the planet.

Elite hedge funds are recognizing what industry insiders have known all along – you can’t have an AI revolution without TSM’s manufacturing prowess. While companies like Nvidia design cutting-edge chips, TSM actually builds them. This positioning grants them exceptional stability while still capturing massive upside from the AI boom, regardless of which AI software or hardware company ultimately dominates.

Three Strong Conviction Buys for the Week Ahead

Navigating the stock market can be a high-stakes game. Choose incorrectly, and your portfolio might suffer. But the right choices? They could be your ticket to financial triumph. With thousands of stocks to choose from, pinpointing those poised for success is no small feat. It’s a daunting task, requiring hours of market analysis and company research – time that many people simply don’t have.

That’s where we come in. Each week, we delve deep into the market’s vast array of options, sifting through countless possibilities to bring you a select few. These are not just any stocks; they are carefully chosen based on solid research, current market trends, and potential for noteworthy growth.

This week, we’ve honed in on three stocks that stand out from the crowd. Our picks go beyond the mainstream; they’re strategic selections, crafted for significant impact in both the immediate future and over the long haul.

Read on and discover the full watchlist and unveil these exceptional stock picks.

BigBear.ai (BBAI) – A Small-Cap AI Defense Stock with Big Potential

BigBear.ai has carved out a niche in the defense and intelligence sector with its advanced AI-driven decision support systems. While the stock has experienced volatility—down 22.23% recently—it remains one of the most compelling AI defense plays due to its growing contracts and strategic positioning.

The company’s acquisition of Pangiam in March 2024 significantly bolstered its capabilities in facial recognition, biometrics, and anomaly detection—technologies that are becoming increasingly crucial for national security and border protection. BigBear.ai’s ConductorOS platform is already being integrated into high-profile defense exercises, including Talisman Sabre 2025, a major multinational military operation.

Adding to its credibility, the company recently appointed Kevin McAleenan, former Acting Secretary of Homeland Security, as CEO. His deep expertise in security and government operations could help BigBear.ai secure additional high-value contracts.

With the U.S. military and its allies ramping up AI adoption for strategic defense initiatives, BigBear.ai is in a strong position to benefit from increased government spending in this space. While the stock remains speculative due to its small-cap status and sharp price swings, its technological leadership in AI-powered defense makes it an intriguing growth opportunity for risk-tolerant investors.

Ulta Beauty (ULTA)

Ulta’s unique position in the beauty retail space gives it remarkable insulation from tariff pressures. Despite pulling back more than 16% in 2025 so far, the company maintains significant advantages:

  • Diverse supplier relationships across domestic and international markets
  • Strong brand loyalty that supports price flexibility
  • Experiential retail model that can’t be easily replicated by online competitors

The beauty industry continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience during economic uncertainties. Consumers may cut back on big-ticket purchases, but lipsticks, skincare, and personal care products remain relatively tariff-resistant.

While Ulta’s share price has retreated, this may represent an opportunity. Morgan Stanley analyst Simeon Gutman highlighted Ulta’s durability, noting: “ULTA remains a strong, durable business in a dynamic and attractive category. As the Beauty industry continues to grow, ULTA’s top-line should follow.”

Kraft Heinz (KHC): The Consumer Staple Ready to Break Out

Kraft Heinz has languished in the shadows for years following its failed 2019 turnaround. But while investors were looking elsewhere, CEO Miguel Patricio has quietly transformed the company’s balance sheet, reducing debt by over $8 billion since taking the helm.

The stock currently trades at just 11.8x forward earnings – a 48% discount to the S&P 500’s 22.7x multiple – despite growing organic sales for six consecutive quarters. More importantly, Kraft’s 50-day moving average recently crossed above its 200-day line, forming the bullish “golden cross” pattern that technical analysts love.

What makes this opportunity especially compelling is the 4.5% dividend yield – more than triple the S&P 500’s paltry 1.2% payout. With inflation still running above the Fed’s target, this income component provides meaningful protection while you wait for the valuation gap to close.

The company’s most recent earnings revealed something most investors missed: private label competition is actually decreasing for the first time since 2020, with Kraft brands gaining market share in 7 of its 10 largest categories.

Maximize Your Returns with These Must-Have Dividend Stocks

Dividend-paying stocks have long been a cornerstone of successful investing strategies. They not only provide steady income but often signal financial stability and a commitment to shareholder returns. Over the last 50 years, dividend stocks have significantly outperformed their non-paying counterparts, delivering more than double the returns, according to research from Ned Davis and Hartford Funds.

But not all dividend stocks are created equal. The best performers don’t just pay dividends—they consistently grow them. These companies leverage strong cash flows to support both their business expansions and increasing shareholder payouts, making them ideal investments for steady income and long-term growth.

With current market conditions, it’s the perfect time to review and refresh your portfolio with stocks that can provide a solid balance of yield and growth potential. Below, we highlight four standout dividend stocks that offer attractive yields, proven growth histories, and promising outlooks for the year ahead.

1. Brookfield Renewable (NYSE: BEP) – A Dividend Powerhouse in Clean Energy
Brookfield Renewable has carved out a strong position as a global leader in renewable energy. With an impressive track record of growing its dividend at a 6% compound annual rate since 2001, the company aims to continue increasing payouts at an annual rate of 5% to 9%. Currently yielding over 5%, Brookfield offers a compelling mix of growth and income.

What sets Brookfield apart is its extensive portfolio and growth pipeline. The company sells most of its electricity under long-term, inflation-linked contracts, ensuring predictable cash flows. Its pipeline of renewable energy projects and strategic acquisitions is expected to drive more than 10% annual funds from operations (FFO) per-share growth over the next five years. This combination of a reliable dividend and strong growth potential makes Brookfield Renewable a standout in the clean energy space.

2. Chevron (NYSE: CVX) – Fueling Growth with Strong Dividends
Chevron is a Dividend Aristocrat with over 30 years of consistent dividend growth. The energy giant currently yields an attractive 4.5% and has delivered more than 5% annual dividend growth over the past five years, outpacing both the S&P 500 and its peers in the energy sector.

Chevron’s disciplined approach to capital allocation is a key driver of its robust free cash flow, which is projected to grow at a 10% annual rate through 2027, assuming oil prices average $60 per barrel. Notably, Chevron’s proposed acquisition of Hess could double its free cash flow by 2027 at $70 oil prices, creating even more room for dividend increases. With its strong financial position and focus on shareholder returns, Chevron remains a top pick for dividend investors.

3. Walmart (NYSE: WMT) – A Dividend King in Retail
Walmart has been a household name for decades, serving over 255 million customers weekly through its namesake stores and Sam’s Club. The retail giant’s focus on cost leadership and technological innovation continues to drive its success, with e-commerce contributing more than half of its 5.3% same-store sales growth in the fiscal third quarter of 2024.

As a Dividend King, Walmart has raised its payout every year since 1974, backed by strong free cash flow. Over the first nine months of 2024, Walmart generated $6.2 billion in free cash flow, comfortably covering its $5 billion in dividends. The company’s impressive performance has propelled its stock to a 71% gain in 2024, far outpacing the broader market. With a 37 P/E ratio justified by its growth trajectory, Walmart offers a reliable dividend and solid growth prospects.

4. Home Depot (NYSE: HD) – Building on Dividend Strength
Home Depot, the largest home improvement retailer, boasts a solid dividend history with annual increases since 2010. Despite near-term challenges from elevated interest rates and cautious consumer spending, Home Depot’s 60% payout ratio keeps its dividend safe, currently yielding around 2.7%.

Recent economic shifts signal brighter days ahead. Existing home sales rose 4.8% in November, and the Federal Reserve’s rate cuts could stimulate further growth in home improvement spending. Home Depot’s long-term fundamentals remain strong, supported by a proven ability to weather economic cycles. With a P/E ratio of 26, the stock trades at a discount to the S&P 500, offering investors a compelling mix of income and growth potential.

Three Undervalued Tech Gems to Buy in March

Despite recent pullbacks, tech stocks continue to command premium valuations, finding genuine value opportunities has become increasingly challenging. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite have retreated from their all-time highs amid concerns about economic slowdown, tariff tensions, persistent inflation, and potential interest rate hikes.

Nevertheless, “in the know” investors are still uncovering compelling tech companies trading at attractive valuations relative to their growth prospects. These three undervalued tech stocks offer potential upside without the frothy multiples that characterize much of the sector today.

1. Applied Materials (AMAT): The Semiconductor Kingmaker

As one of the world’s leading semiconductor equipment manufacturers, Applied Materials sits at the heart of the AI revolution without carrying the sky-high valuations of chipmakers themselves.

From fiscal 2019 to 2024, Applied Materials delivered impressive results, growing revenue at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13% and earnings per share at 25% CAGR. This remarkable performance occurred despite pandemic disruptions, supply chain challenges, and escalating trade tensions with China.

Recent developments further strengthen the investment case. In February 2025, Applied Materials reported better-than-expected Q1 results, with CEO Gary Dickerson noting that “demand for our advanced packaging solutions hit an all-time high as AI system designers look to optimize total system performance and power efficiency.” The company’s AI-related revenue streams now account for approximately 35% of its total business, up from 25% just a year ago.

Looking ahead, analysts project Applied Materials’ revenue and EPS to grow at CAGRs of 6% and 8%, respectively, through fiscal 2027. While export restrictions to China present near-term headwinds, the company’s long-term growth trajectory remains intact, driven by:

  • Escalating demand for AI accelerator chips requiring advanced manufacturing equipment
  • New energy-efficient chip designs for data centers and mobile devices
  • The transition to more complex memory architectures (including HBM)

Trading at just 16 times forward earnings and 4 times next year’s sales, Applied Materials offers compelling value in an otherwise expensive sector. The company’s commitment to shareholder returns is evident in its forward dividend yield of 1% and ongoing share repurchase program, which reduced outstanding shares by 3.2% over the past year.

2. Lumen Technologies (LUMN): An AI Infrastructure Dark Horse

Lumen Technologies (formerly CenturyLink) appeared to be on life support when its stock dipped below $1 in June 2024. The company’s focus on wireline connections over wireless expansion had backfired spectacularly, with declining business wireline revenue overwhelming the growth in its fiber segment.

However, a series of transformative AI infrastructure deals has breathed new life into this struggling telecom provider. Major cloud players including Microsoft, Google, and Amazon have engaged Lumen to upgrade their data centers with fiber optic infrastructure capable of handling the massive bandwidth requirements of modern AI systems.

These multi-year contracts reached a cumulative value of $8.5 billion by the end of 2024, providing Lumen with a critical lifeline. According to CEO Kate Johnson in a February 2025 interview with CNBC, “The AI wave created an urgent need for the exact type of fiber infrastructure we’ve been building for years. Our nationwide network puts us in a unique position to serve hyperscalers’ expanding AI compute requirements.”

Recent research from JP Morgan suggests Lumen’s AI-related revenue could exceed $2.5 billion annually by 2027, potentially representing over 20% of the company’s total revenue mix. The firm recently upgraded Lumen to “neutral” from “underweight,” citing stabilizing fundamentals and better-than-expected execution on AI partnerships.

While analysts still project revenue declines through 2027 and continued losses, the trajectory is improving. With an enterprise value of $20.4 billion representing less than twice its projected 2025 revenue, Lumen offers a compelling risk-reward profile for investors willing to bet on its AI-driven turnaround.

3. DigitalOcean (DOCN): The SMB Cloud Provider Finding Its Niche

DigitalOcean has carved out a profitable niche by providing cloud infrastructure services tailored specifically to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). Unlike enterprise-focused giants like AWS and Azure, DigitalOcean offers simplified pricing, developer-friendly documentation, and right-sized services for smaller organizations.

The company’s growth story is impressive: from 2020 to 2024, DigitalOcean grew revenue at a 25% CAGR while achieving profitability in 2023. Its net income and EPS more than quadrupled in 2024, validating its business model and demonstrating the company’s ability to scale efficiently.

A key catalyst came in 2023 when DigitalOcean acquired Paperspace, adding GPU-powered AI capabilities to its service lineup. This strategic move is already bearing fruit, with AI-related services growing at 3x the rate of the company’s core offerings, according to DigitalOcean’s Q4 2024 earnings call.

The company announced in March 2025 the expansion of its AI compute offerings with new GPU options featuring NVIDIA’s latest chips. CEO Paddy Srinivasan emphasized that this move “democratizes AI for the millions of developers and businesses that have been priced out of the AI revolution by hyperscaler complexity and costs.”

Looking forward, analysts expect DigitalOcean’s revenue and EPS to grow at CAGRs of 14% and 19%, respectively, through 2027. While growth is moderating as the business matures, the company’s focus on the underserved SMB cloud market and expanding AI capabilities provide meaningful differentiation.

At 22 times forward adjusted earnings and 4 times next year’s sales, DigitalOcean represents an attractive value proposition in the cloud computing space, where competitors often trade at substantially higher multiples.

The Bottom Line

While many investors chase high-flying tech names at increasingly stretched valuations, these three companies offer exposure to important technology trends at reasonable prices. Applied Materials provides critical infrastructure for the semiconductor industry, Lumen is positioning itself as a vital AI connectivity provider, and DigitalOcean continues to expand its foothold in the SMB cloud market.

For value-oriented investors seeking tech exposure without premium prices, these three stocks deserve serious consideration in today’s challenging market environment.

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