While the small-cap index is a hunting ground for growth, some constituents face significant headwinds. We examine three companies where valuation and market dynamics warrant a cautious approach.
In remarks that now appear pointed, Fed Chair Jerome Powell robustly defended the central bank's personnel and economic frameworks just days before former Governor Kevin Warsh, a vocal critic, was nominated to potentially succeed him.
Cullen/Frost Bankers (NYSE: CFR) reported fourth-quarter revenue in line with expectations but delivered a significant earnings beat, driven by its aggressive branch network expansion in Texas and robust commercial lending. Management expressed confidence in sustained loan growth and improving margins for the coming year.
Comcast (CMCSA) edged past profit forecasts in its latest quarter, driven by strong wireless subscriber growth and early signs that its push for simpler broadband pricing is resonating with customers. The media giant now sets its sights on converting promotional users and doubling down on network investments.
While market darlings come and go, a select group of companies achieves sustained outperformance through a powerful trifecta: rising sales, expanding profitability, and efficient capital use. We examine three such names that have delivered triple-digit returns over the past five years.
Franklin Resources Inc. (NYSE: BEN) posted a robust fourth-quarter performance, with revenue soaring 38.3% year-over-year to $2.33 billion and adjusted EPS of $0.70, significantly exceeding analyst forecasts. The results were driven by positive net inflows across public and private markets.
Valley National Bancorp (VLY) reported fourth-quarter revenue and profit that topped Wall Street forecasts, driven by robust core deposit growth and disciplined balance sheet management. The regional bank's leadership pointed to strategic tech investments and commercial loan demand as key pillars for its 2025 outlook.
Ameriprise Financial (NYSE: AMP) reported robust fourth-quarter results for 2025, surpassing revenue expectations with a 13.1% year-over-year sales increase to $5.05 billion. Adjusted earnings per share of $10.83 also came in ahead of analyst forecasts.
First Citizens BancShares delivered Q4 revenue and adjusted EPS above analyst forecasts, yet its stock fell. While management pointed to strong fundamentals, analysts probed pressures on margins, tech spending, and integration challenges.
While lofty price targets can signal opportunity, a closer look reveals that not all consensus forecasts are created equal. We examine one company poised to deliver and two where investor caution may be warranted.
Cullen/Frost Bankers (NYSE: CFR) reported robust fourth-quarter results, beating analyst estimates on earnings and revenue. The Texas-based regional bank also announced a new $300 million share repurchase program and raised its guidance, fueling a debate on whether its current valuation fully reflects its growth trajectory.
Diverging analyst views on Celsius Holdings highlight a pivotal moment for the high-flying energy drink stock. While some anticipate strong upcoming earnings, others point to a cooling category, aggressive discounting, and PepsiCo's inventory adjustments as signs of a more challenging road ahead, leaving investors to weigh the brand's resilience against shifting market dynamics.
Despite CEO Satya Nadella touting strong adoption of Copilot AI assistants, Microsoft's stock dipped as investors express unease over massive capital expenditures and growth concerns in core Azure and 365 businesses.
Amid a broader leadership restructuring, financial giant Charles Schwab has appointed its CIO, Dennis Howard, to lead a consolidated unit overseeing technology, operations, and data, signaling a strategic shift to deepen the integration of IT with core business functions.
Despite a trimmed price target from B. Riley, WhiteFiber Inc. (WYFI) secures a pivotal 10-year colocation agreement expected to generate $865 million, spotlighting its role in the expanding AI infrastructure sector.
Once a fintech stalwart, Fiserv shares have cratered 70% in a year. As its 'One Fiserv' restructuring plan kicks in, investors are grappling with whether the beaten-down stock is a bargain or a warning sign.
Two financial sector giants, S&P Global and Goldman Sachs, have announced increased quarterly payouts, signaling confidence in their financial health and future prospects amid a dynamic market environment.
While the S&P 500 has climbed, Walker & Dunlop shares have tumbled over 14% in six months. We analyze the underlying weaknesses in its financials and highlight a more compelling opportunity for value-focused portfolios.
Amid escalating tensions and a U.S. military buildup in the Gulf, Iran's foreign minister has declared the country's missile capabilities 'non-negotiable,' setting the stage for a precarious diplomatic standoff.
A trove of documents released by the U.S. Department of Justice includes emails from Jeffrey Epstein making lurid, unsubstantiated allegations about Bill Gates, while also detailing his interactions with other prominent individuals.
