Financial & Business News

Asian Stock Markets Soar: Tech stocks lead gains in Hang Seng and Nikkei 225, fueled by Beijing stimulus, Trump's tariff shift, and Fed rate cut hopes

ASP Isotopes Inc. is rated a sell for retail value investors due to price volatility, significant losses, heavy spending on SG&A over R&D, and other risks. The company's dilution of shareholders and increasing debt are red flags. ASP's small workforce and high market cap raise concerns, especially given the competitive landscape.

Intel is showing bullish technical momentum in early 2025, suggesting a major bottom and strong investor gains are coming this year, despite recent struggles. Intel's valuation is extremely cheap compared to peers, with price to sales and tangible book value ratios at historic lows. A successful restructuring, potential takeover offers, and asset spin-offs could drive significant returns for investors in 2025.

The Roundhill Magnificent Seven ETF offers efficient, low-cost exposure to Mag7 companies, with strong liquidity and low spreads. MAGS uses derivative instruments like swaps to replicate target companies' performance. With a 1-year return of 61.65%, MAGS has outperformed the S&P 500 significantly, showcasing its ability to capitalize on the growth of the Magnificent Seven stocks.

Nu Holdings, a rapidly growing neobank in Latin America, is becoming more profitable each year, with impressive business metrics and a reasonable valuation, earning it a Buy rating. Nubank's mobile-first platform disrupts traditional banking, offering a user-friendly, low-fee service that appeals to underserved younger demographics in Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia. The company reached 110 million customers in Q3, with significant growth in Mexico announced recently, demonstrating the vast potential in underserved Latin American markets.

Upgraded GE Aerospace to 'Strong Buy' with a fair value of $250 per share due to robust order growth and strong FY25 guidance. Significant investments in the LEAP engine program and MRO facilities are key drivers of sustained growth in commercial engines and defense markets. FY25 revenue projected to grow by 12.5%, driven by Commercial Engines & Services and Defense & Propulsion Technologies segments.

Minto is trading well below the P/B and P/AFFO ratios of all Canadian listed peers. Growth potential from lease turnover, development pipeline, and unique CDL usage. There is still significant room for growth, indicating potential for future capital appreciation.

We take a look at the action in business development companies through the third week of January and highlight some of the key themes we are watching. BDCs had a strong week with a 3% total return, boosted this year by the unwinding of several Fed rate cuts. Blue Owl Capital Corp's merger with OBDE provided significant alpha opportunities due to OBDE's lower valuation.

Nu Holdings faces macroeconomic risks, including high interest rates, currency devaluation, and potential rising delinquency rates in Brazil. Despite challenges, Nu's strong brand, 100M+ customers, and cross-selling opportunities support long-term growth potential. Nu Holdings' premium valuation is justified by efficient execution, robust growth prospects, and a scalable business model.

Evaluating BlackRock Income Trust as an investment option, primarily focused on agency mortgage-backed securities for capital preservation and high monthly income. Previously rated BKT as "hold" due to leveraged investments and limited value in agency MBS amid an inverted yield curve. With the 2025 bull market, reconsidering BKT as an equity hedge; now upgrading the rating to "buy" based on current market conditions.