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.

Xometry (XMTR): AI-Driven Growth in the Manufacturing Sector

Xometry is carving out a niche as a leader in AI-powered industrial marketplaces, and recent developments make it a compelling pick for 2025. The company specializes in on-demand manufacturing of industrial parts, using cutting-edge technologies like 3D printing. Its AI-driven instant quoting engine sets it apart, streamlining the process for customers while driving efficiency and scalability.

The company’s stock has already outperformed in recent months, climbing more than 25% in the past month and an impressive 196% over the past six months. This momentum is backed by a promising outlook. Xometry expects to close 2024 with 17% revenue growth and aims to accelerate to 19% growth in 2025. What’s more, the company projects positive adjusted EBITDA this year, with incremental margins of about 20% going forward—a clear sign of improved execution under CFO James Miln.

What’s driving this optimism? Xometry is perfectly positioned to capitalize on key macro trends, including supply chain uncertainties, tariff pressures, and an increasing focus on onshoring. These dynamics, coupled with Xometry’s own growth initiatives in enterprise solutions, international expansion, and innovative AI tools, give it multiple avenues for success.

At its current price, there’s still room for upside. JPMorgan recently raised its price target to $45, suggesting a 21% gain from current levels. With strong tailwinds and robust execution, Xometry is a growth story worth watching closely as we head into 2025.

SolarEdge Technologies (SEDG): A Promising Turnaround in Clean Energy

SolarEdge Technologies has had a rough 2024, with shares tumbling more than 86% due to sluggish residential solar demand and persistent high-interest rates. However, this battered clean energy stock is starting to show signs of recovery, and 2025 could mark a critical inflection point for the company.

Recently, SolarEdge made some decisive moves to streamline its operations and improve its focus, including shuttering its energy storage division and announcing a 12% workforce reduction. These steps, while tough, signal a strategic shift that could position the company for better profitability in the years ahead. Investors seem to be taking note—shares are up nearly 16% in the past month.

What’s particularly compelling about SolarEdge is its valuation. Current market sentiment appears to have overreacted to risks associated with the incoming U.S. administration’s policies on clean energy. But the fundamentals of the solar sector remain strong, and SolarEdge’s leadership in innovative solar technology puts it in a good position to capitalize on this growth.

Goldman Sachs recently upgraded the stock to a buy, raising its price target to $19—a 54% upside from current levels. While volatility may persist in the first half of 2025, SolarEdge is shaping up to be a notable turnaround story, and investors willing to ride out the near-term bumps could be rewarded.

TechnipFMC (FTI): A Leader in Subsea Innovation

TechnipFMC has quietly established itself as a standout player in the subsea oil and gas market, and now could be the perfect time to take a closer look. With a market cap of $13 billion and a stock that has already climbed more than 50% this year, the company is capitalizing on a growing demand for subsea fossil fuel extraction equipment.

What sets TechnipFMC apart is its unique ability to offer fully integrated, turnkey solutions to its customers—something no other company in the sector can match. This approach significantly reduces project lead times, a crucial factor in an industry where delays can cost millions. These streamlined processes position TechnipFMC as a go-to provider for companies racing to secure subsea manufacturing capacity, giving it a competitive edge in landing new contracts.

Goldman Sachs recently initiated coverage on the stock with a bullish $38 price target, indicating over 20% upside from its current level of $30.88. That optimism is well-founded, as TechnipFMC’s reputation for efficiency and innovation aligns perfectly with the growing urgency in the subsea space.

While the energy market is cyclical by nature, TechnipFMC’s focus on cutting-edge solutions and strong industry relationships could make it a standout performer in 2025 and beyond. For investors looking to capitalize on the recovery in the oil and gas sector, TechnipFMC’s unique positioning makes it a compelling addition to your watchlist.

In the ever-shifting landscape of the stock market, separating the wheat from the chaff is no easy feat. It’s a world where the wrong picks can erode your hard-earned gains, but the right ones? They have the power to catapult your portfolio to new heights. With thousands of stocks in the fray, pinpointing those poised for a breakthrough can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.

This is where we step in. Every week, we comb through the market’s labyrinth, scrutinizing trends, earnings reports, and industry shifts. Our goal? To distill this vast universe of stocks down to a select few – those unique opportunities that are primed for significant movement in the near future.

This week, we’ve zeroed in on three standout stocks. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill picks; they are the culmination of rigorous analysis and strategic foresight. We’re talking about stocks that not only show promise in the immediate term but also hold the potential for sustained growth.

Penn Entertainment (NASDAQ: PENN) A Strategic Bet on Long-Term Growth

Penn Entertainment is quietly positioning itself as a compelling opportunity for investors looking for growth in the gaming and sports betting sector. While 2024 hasn’t been kind to its stock price—it’s down more than 23% year-to-date—there are reasons to believe that brighter days are ahead, especially with a significant growth strategy beginning to take shape.

One of Penn’s most exciting prospects is the growth potential of ESPN Bet, its rebranded sports betting platform. Analysts see this as a major driver for future revenue, with projections for segment EBITDA turning modestly positive by 2026. What’s especially interesting is the company’s flexibility—if the segment underperforms, Penn can scale back and still benefit from approximately $60 million in market access fees annually. This adaptability provides a safety net that many competitors lack.

Beyond sports betting, Penn is investing in its regional land-based casinos, with $850 million in capital projects expected to start delivering double-digit cash-on-cash returns by late 2025. This dual strategy—leveraging its online gaming potential while reinvesting in its core casino business—positions Penn to capture both market growth and operational stability.

JPMorgan recently upgraded the stock to “overweight” with a price target of $27, representing nearly 35% upside from its current levels. With a recovery in cash flow from its regional casino operations and the promise of new revenue streams from ESPN Bet, Penn is shaping up to be more than just a comeback story—it’s a strategic bet on long-term growth.

Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN) A Blueprint for Sustained Growth in 2025

Amazon is shaping up as a top contender for 2025, offering a combination of robust revenue growth and margin expansion that makes it hard to ignore. While the stock has already climbed over 51% in 2024—outpacing the broader market—analysts see plenty of room for further gains.

Amazon Web Services (AWS), its cloud-computing powerhouse, is expected to drive faster revenue growth next year, providing a significant boost to overall performance. Meanwhile, operating margins are set to expand, signaling that the company’s strategic investments are starting to pay off. The growing net cash position also gives Amazon flexibility in capital allocation, which could mean more investments in high-growth areas or potential shareholder returns.

Analyst John Blackledge from TD Cowen recently raised his price target to $265, implying a 15.1% upside from current levels. He named Amazon his top large-cap pick for 2025, citing these key growth drivers as reasons to stay bullish. However, it’s not without risks. Slower-than-expected growth in e-commerce or AWS, along with elevated investments, could weigh on margins. That said, Amazon’s track record of delivering strong demand for its products and services globally suggests it’s well-positioned to overcome these challenges.

With its diversified growth engines and consistent performance, Amazon remains a compelling choice for investors looking to add a blue-chip tech name to their portfolios heading into 2025.

Hims & Hers Health (NYSE: HIMS) A Digital Health Growth Powerhouse

Hims & Hers Health has been a standout performer this year, and its momentum shows no signs of slowing. The telehealth company has delivered a stunning 251% gain year-to-date, fueled by its growing footprint in mental health, weight loss, and dermatology. But there’s reason to believe this growth story is just getting started.

The company is expanding access to compounded GLP-1 weight loss injections, addressing a critical market need for consistent supply. This initiative, alongside its scalable subscription-based services, is driving substantial customer growth. In the third quarter alone, subscriptions jumped 175% year over year, significantly outpacing the broader business growth rate of 44%. These numbers suggest that Hims & Hers is tapping into a broad and underserved market.

What makes this stock even more compelling is its leadership. The management team and board include veterans from companies like Uber, Netflix, and Novo Nordisk, giving Hims & Hers a strategic edge in both digital health and direct-to-consumer services. Their growth-focused strategy is expected to deliver a 30% revenue compound annual growth rate (CAGR) between 2024 and 2026, according to estimates.

With a forward-looking strategy and a track record of execution, Hims & Hers is well-positioned to capture increasing demand for personalized medication and digital health solutions. Even after this year’s incredible run, the stock remains attractive, with a price target of $42, offering over 53% upside from current levels. For investors looking for a growth stock in the booming health-tech space, Hims & Hers is one to watch.

In the ever-shifting landscape of the stock market, separating the wheat from the chaff is no easy feat. It’s a world where the wrong picks can erode your hard-earned gains, but the right ones? They have the power to catapult your portfolio to new heights. With thousands of stocks in the fray, pinpointing those poised for a breakthrough can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.

This is where we step in. Every week, we comb through the market’s labyrinth, scrutinizing trends, earnings reports, and industry shifts. Our goal? To distill this vast universe of stocks down to a select few – those unique opportunities that are primed for significant movement in the near future.

This week, we’ve zeroed in on three standout stocks. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill picks; they are the culmination of rigorous analysis and strategic foresight. We’re talking about stocks that not only show promise in the immediate term but also hold the potential for sustained growth.

Rivian Automotive (NASDAQ: RIVN)

“Strategic Partnerships and Federal Support Fuel Optimism”

Rivian Automotive has faced challenges this year, with its stock down 44.6% year-to-date. Despite the selloff, there are reasons to keep this electric vehicle (EV) maker on your radar. The company recently announced a $5.8 billion joint venture with Volkswagen, a move that could significantly strengthen its position in the EV market. Additionally, Rivian secured a $6.6 billion conditional loan from the U.S. Department of Energy to develop a state-of-the-art production facility in Georgia, underscoring strong federal support for its growth ambitions.

While concerns about potential tariffs and reduced EV tax credits under President-elect Donald Trump’s administration could create headwinds, Rivian’s strategic partnerships and access to capital provide a solid foundation for long-term growth. Analysts are split on the stock, but with an average price target of $14.74, it represents a potential upside of 13.4% from current levels.

For investors willing to take on some risk, Rivian offers exposure to a fast-evolving EV sector with significant growth potential. Its collaborations and government backing position it as a contender worth watching.

Idexx Laboratories (NASDAQ: IDXX)

“Capitalizing on the Pet Humanization Trend”

Idexx Laboratories is a standout name in the growing pet healthcare diagnostics market, perfectly positioned to benefit from the “pet humanization” megatrend. In 2023, Americans spent $186 billion on their pets—a figure that has doubled since 2014. As pet owners increasingly prioritize their furry companions’ health, Idexx’s offerings remain indispensable.

The company has built a powerful razor-and-blade model that drives recurring revenue. Its installed base of over 144,000 diagnostic instruments globally—up 10% year-over-year—serves as the “razor,” while the consumable test cartridges, consulting services, software subscriptions, and reference lab guidance make up the “blades.” These recurring sales contribute 80% of Idexx’s revenue, creating stability and growth.

While Idexx’s valuation historically averaged 67 times free cash flow (FCF) over the past decade, the stock is now trading at a much more attractive 47 times FCF—a level not seen since 2016. This comes as sales growth has normalized from pandemic-driven highs of over 20% to around 7% today. The company’s expansion into oncology diagnostics offers an exciting growth avenue, with plans to expand its cancer testing panel to detect 50% of canine cancer cases within three years. This move targets a $2.5 billion market where early detection is becoming the norm among pet owners.

Adding to its appeal, Idexx recently announced a significant boost to its stock buyback program, increasing its authorization by 5 million shares, with 1.3 million shares previously authorized. With approximately 82 million shares outstanding, this buyback signals confidence from management and could support a stock price recovery. Currently, Idexx shares are down 37% from their all-time high, offering an attractive entry point for investors looking to capitalize on the growing pet care market.

Idexx Laboratories isn’t just benefiting from a long-term trend—it’s creating opportunities for growth through strategic innovation and a shareholder-friendly approach. This combination makes it a compelling stock to consider for both stability and upside potential.

W.P. Carey (NYSE: WPC)

“A High-Yield REIT Poised for Recovery”

Turnaround situations can often feel risky, but W.P. Carey demonstrates how such transitions can lead to stronger long-term prospects. This real estate investment trust (REIT) faced a challenging 2024, highlighted by a dividend reset that reduced its quarterly payout from $1.07 to $0.86 per share. While initially jarring—especially as the REIT approached 25 consecutive years of dividend increases—the move reflects a strategic pivot designed to set the company on a healthier trajectory.

The decision behind the reset was bold but necessary. W.P. Carey made a clean exit from the office sector, a segment facing significant headwinds in the wake of the work-from-home shift triggered by the pandemic. Instead of enduring years of slow sell-offs and potential write-downs, the company acted decisively, freeing up liquidity and refocusing on industrial, warehouse, and retail properties. These asset classes offer more stability and growth potential over the long term.

This strategic shift has already started to pay off. W.P. Carey’s dividend growth resumed just one quarter after the reset, with management reinstating its regular quarterly increases. Such confidence signals a position of strength, not weakness. Additionally, the company’s robust liquidity—bolstered by cash reserves and credit lines—positions it to acquire high-quality assets in its targeted sectors, paving the way for accelerated growth in 2025.

Currently yielding 6.2%, W.P. Carey offers an attractive income stream for patient investors who can think in decades, not days. By repositioning its portfolio and streamlining its focus, the REIT has set the stage for long-term success. For investors seeking a high-yield, low-risk opportunity, W.P. Carey is worth serious consideration while Wall Street remains cautious.

In the ever-shifting landscape of the stock market, separating the wheat from the chaff is no easy feat. It’s a world where the wrong picks can erode your hard-earned gains, but the right ones? They have the power to catapult your portfolio to new heights. With thousands of stocks in the fray, pinpointing those poised for a breakthrough can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.

This is where we step in. Every week, we comb through the market’s labyrinth, scrutinizing trends, earnings reports, and industry shifts. Our goal? To distill this vast universe of stocks down to a select few – those unique opportunities that are primed for significant movement in the near future.

This week, we’ve zeroed in on three standout stocks. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill picks; they are the culmination of rigorous analysis and strategic foresight. We’re talking about stocks that not only show promise in the immediate term but also hold the potential for sustained growth.

Block (NYSE: SQ)

“A Fintech Powerhouse with Strong Growth Potential”

Block, the parent company of Square, Cash App, and Afterpay, is shaping up to be a strong contender for 2025. The stock has already gained 21.2% this year, and there are compelling reasons to believe it’s just getting started.

Square, Block’s flagship point-of-sale system, is expected to see its gross payment value rise from 2% to 3% next year, driven by continued momentum in the small and medium-sized business segment. Meanwhile, Cash App and Afterpay are positioned for growth as regulatory pressures ease. Initiatives like increasing direct deposit penetration and integrating Afterpay into the Cash App ecosystem are expected to deliver mid-teens gross profit growth, with EBITDA growth projected at an impressive 30% as the company improves efficiency.

There’s also buzz around the potential for Block’s inclusion in the S&P 500, which could bring increased visibility and attract institutional investors. Analyst Harshita Rawat recently raised her price target on the stock to $120, representing a 35% upside from its recent close.

With its diversified business model and significant growth opportunities in both payment processing and digital finance, Block is a fintech stock worth considering for the long term.

Merck (NYSE: MRK)

“A Value Opportunity with a Strong Drug Pipeline”

Merck may not have had a standout year—its stock is down over 5% in 2024—but this pharmaceutical giant is quietly positioning itself for a rebound. After underperforming the broader market, Merck now trades at an attractive valuation, making it a compelling buy for long-term investors.

One area of concern has been slowing sales of its HPV vaccine Gardasil in China. However, Merck’s broader drug portfolio remains a key strength, with blockbuster treatments like Keytruda driving growth. The company is exploring extensions to the Keytruda franchise, which could unlock additional revenue streams in the years ahead.

Merck’s leadership also inspires confidence. CEO Rob Davis has been praised for his deep understanding of both the science and finance sides of the business, which has helped steer the company through challenging markets. Management’s disciplined approach to capital allocation was evident earlier this year when the company refrained from buying back shares until the stock dropped over the summer, improving its valuation.

While its recent performance has been lackluster, Merck’s strong portfolio, promising pipeline, and improved valuation present a solid entry point for investors looking to add a durable, defensive name to their portfolios.

Robinhood (NASDAQ: HOOD)

“Positioned for Growth with Big Ambitions”

Robinhood has been making waves this year, with its stock soaring over 200% year-to-date. The company’s recent first-ever investor day provided further clarity on its growth strategy, which includes expanding its crypto exchange business and a goal to become the top active trading platform within the next two years. These ambitious plans signal that Robinhood is ready to evolve beyond its roots as a fast-growing brokerage for younger investors.

What’s particularly compelling is Robinhood’s transition into what analysts are calling a “best-in-class” platform for sustainable asset and revenue growth. The company is also eyeing opportunities in international markets and wealth management, both of which could significantly expand its total addressable market. With robust operating leverage and improving profitability metrics, Robinhood appears well-positioned to capitalize on its momentum.

Goldman Sachs recently upgraded the stock to a buy with a price target of $46, implying an 18% upside from its current levels. The potential for deregulation in the financial and crypto sectors, coupled with Robinhood’s strong user base and ambitious growth outlook, makes this a stock worth watching for 2025. For investors seeking exposure to an innovative player in the fintech space, Robinhood offers a promising blend of near-term potential and long-term opportunity.