An international tribunal has ruled against Shell and partner Eni in a cost-recovery dispute at Kazakhstan's Karachaganak field, potentially exposing the energy giants to a multi-billion dollar payout and forcing contract renegotiations that could reshape future cash flows from the strategic asset.
Amidst a complex backdrop of economic crosscurrents and geopolitical tensions, a select group of small-cap companies across Asia are demonstrating remarkable resilience and growth potential. We analyze three standout names from Singapore and China that are navigating the volatility with strong fundamentals.
Shares of Liberty Energy (LBRT) surged over 16% to an all-time peak as CEO Ron Gusek's aggressive growth roadmap, targeting a tripling of power demand, overshadowed a sharp decline in annual profits.
Lockheed Martin capped a year of robust sales growth with a historic $194 billion order backlog, driven by soaring demand for its advanced defense systems. The aerospace giant announced plans for a significant 'step function' increase in capital investment for 2026 to ramp up production of missiles and next-generation capabilities.
Southwest Airlines capped off 2025 with record revenue and improved operations, positioning the carrier for what executives project will be a dramatic earnings acceleration next year, driven by new initiatives like assigned seating and a refined loyalty program.
Despite a challenging year marked by oil price volatility and softer demand for completion services, Liberty Energy (LBRT) closed 2025 with a resilient Q4 performance. The company is aggressively scaling its distributed power solutions business, targeting 3 GW of projects by 2029, even as it manages pricing pressures in its core fracking operations.
Kirby Corporation (NYSE: KEX) reported record annual earnings for 2025, fueled by robust free cash flow and strategic capital returns. While Q4 faced seasonal pressures, management highlighted a late-quarter rebound in inland marine and surging demand in power generation, setting the stage for what they project as a year of steady financial performance in 2026.
Shares of Brookdale Senior Living (BKD) rallied sharply, reaching their highest level since 2016, fueled by a significant price target increase from RBC Capital and optimistic preliminary earnings guidance for 2025.
Shares of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) soared over 10% Thursday, buoyed by robust industry-wide demand and positive spillover from a rival's record earnings, signaling a potential turnaround for the cruise sector.
Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. (NASDAQ: ALGM) surged nearly 10% to a two-year peak after reporting a profitable third quarter and raising its sales forecast, fueled by robust demand in automotive and industrial sectors.
Carnival Corporation & PLC saw its stock price climb sharply Thursday, buoyed by robust earnings from rival Royal Caribbean and the company's own announcement of a planned corporate unification and dividend payment.
Tesla shares face pressure following mixed quarterly results, as surging software subscriptions and ambitious Robotaxi plans clash with declining automotive revenue and soaring capital expenditures.
Shares of electric air taxi developer Joby Aviation tumbled sharply Thursday as the market reacted to the company's announcement of a major new fundraising effort, raising concerns over potential shareholder dilution.
LendingClub Corp. (LC) shares tumbled sharply this week, extending losses for a third consecutive session after the company announced a shift to fair value accounting. The move, aimed at aligning revenue with credit costs, spooked investors despite the fintech firm reporting a 164% surge in annual net income.
Despite reporting a near-doubling of annual net income and raising its 2026 outlook, electronics manufacturer Celestica saw its shares drop sharply Thursday as the market judged its stellar results to be already reflected in the price.
Dolby Laboratories (NYSE: DLB) kicked off fiscal 2026 with robust first-quarter results, exceeding its own revenue and earnings forecasts. The audio-visual technology leader credits strong deal timing and highlighted significant momentum in automotive, television, and mobile partnerships, including expanded ties with Qualcomm and major social media platforms.
Despite posting year-over-year revenue growth, MarineMax's first-quarter earnings reveal the persistent headwinds buffeting the recreational boating industry, from aggressive promotions to cautious consumers. Management points to early spring signals and a fortified balance sheet as reasons for cautious optimism.
Despite a challenging housing market, Five Point Holdings (NYSE:FPH) reported record annual net income for 2025, driven by strategic land sales and the integration of its Hearthstone platform. The company navigated economic uncertainty with disciplined pricing and secured major entitlement approvals to fuel its long-term pipeline.
Group 1 Automotive capped off 2025 with record revenue and profits, driven by robust aftersales and F&I performance. While navigating affordability concerns and a challenging UK market, the company aggressively reshaped its dealership portfolio and returned significant capital to shareholders through buybacks.
Equity Lifestyle Properties (ELS) reported solid 2025 results with NOI and FFO growth, driven by its core manufactured housing communities. While forecasting further growth for 2026, management acknowledged ongoing fluctuations in its seasonal RV business and provided detailed guidance.
