| Stock | Price | 52 Week Range | Marketcap | EPS | Dividend Yield | Chart (24H) | Sector | Employees | Last Updated |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $147.74 | 5.57B | 2.26 | 0.27% | Industrials | 10,000 | 15 hours ago | |||
| $112.73 | 81.45B | 7.77 | 4.18% | Financial Services | 53,597 | 15 hours ago | |||
| $96.43 | 8.37B | 3.95 | 4.69% | Real Estate | 304 | 15 hours ago | |||
| $118.73 | 147.32B | 5.03 | 2.66% | Healthcare | 17,600 | 15 hours ago | |||
| $77.71 | 15.05B | 6.99 | 3.60% | Communication Services | 74,900 | 15 hours ago | |||
 Pfizer, Inc. PFE | $25.38 | 144.30B | 1.89 | 6.78% | Healthcare | 81,000 | 15 hours ago |
Last week’s volatility left many investors believing that Wednesday’s high-impact key reversal day (KRD) was the “kiss of death” for the market. However, the absence of follow-through suggests that further gains could be on the horizon later this year. With institutional investors potentially going on a bargain hunt amid the holiday-shortened week, it’s crucial to focus on stocks that offer unusual value and added features like dividends. Let’s dive into the top six stocks poised to thrive in this uncertain economic landscape: **Advanced Energy Industries (AEIS)**, **Bank of Montreal (BMO)**, **Federal Realty Investment Trust (FRT)**, **Gilead Sciences (GILD)**, **Omnicom Group (OMC)**, and **Pfizer (PFE)**.
Editor's Note: Analysis and insight for this article were originally sourced from our friends at InvestorPlace
AEIS: Tapping into the Semiconductor Boom for Big Gains
Advanced Energy Industries, listed on NASDAQ under the ticker **AEIS**, specializes in power conversion products that transform power into usable forms. These products have significant applications in the semiconductor and solar panel industries—sectors that are not just trending but transforming the landscape of modern technology.
Growth Projections on the Rise
S&P’s projections indicate a remarkable upward trajectory, with earnings anticipated to leap from $1.01 in 2013 to $1.82 by 2015. This isn’t just any growth; it’s a clear signal of a company on a robust ascent. Last December, **AEIS** broke free from a triple-top, running from $15 to a high of $20 by early March, consolidating in a deep “V” formation. A break above $20 could easily set a target of $24, making **AEIS** a promising venture.
Strategic Value
With steady accumulation and an influential position in the tech and renewable energy industries, **AEIS** stands as a safeguard against market instability. This resilience is precisely what’s needed in an uncertain market.
Analyst Ratings and Overview
| Consensus Rating | Average Price Target | Current Price | Potential Gain | Number of Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hold | $108.86 | $108.90 | 0.33% (Up) | 8 |
| Hold | $341.17 | $113.87 | 199.61% (Up) | 8 |
| Hold | $109.57 | $112.05 | -2.21% (Down) | 7 |
Summary of Analysts’ Outlook
Analysts’ consensus ratings for **Advanced Energy Industries (AEIS)** are typically “Hold,” indicating that the majority of analysts do not see significant buying or selling opportunities at this moment. The average price targets vary slightly across different sources, with a potential gain or loss ranging from a small increase to a significant increase, depending on the specific forecast period and methodology used.
BMO: Stable Earnings and Strong Dividends Make it a Must-Buy
The Bank of Montreal, trading on NYSE as **BMO**, is not just any bank. It’s the fourth-largest in Canada and the eighth-largest in North America, offering a blend of stability and growth that’s hard to beat.
Projections and Dividend Yield
For FY 2014, **BMO**’s earnings are expected to climb to $6.42 with a target price of $67. Add to this a 4.8% dividend yield when interest rates are near zilch, and you’ve got yourself a very compelling proposition.
Stock Performance
The stock recently hit a major bullish support line at $60 following a downward trend that began in January. Yet, it held firm at its 200-day moving average and flashed a MACD buy signal. Targeting $68 could result in a return exceeding 15%, making **BMO** a tactical buy at market price.
Strategic Value
In a sector fraught with volatility, **BMO**’s strong recovery signals and high dividend yield make it an enticing investment. You’re not just buying into a bank; you’re investing in resilience and forward momentum.
Analyst Ratings and Overview
| Source | Consensus Rating | Average Price Target | Current Price | Potential Gain | Number of Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nasdaq | Moderate Buy | – | $86.97 | – | – |
| Zacks | Moderate Buy | – | $86.95 | – | – |
| Tipranks | Moderate Buy | C$129.20 | $86.95 | 6.90% | 11 |
| MarketBeat | Moderate Buy | $127.50 | $86.95 | 46.37% | 7 |
| WSJ | – | – | – | – | – |
Summary of Analyst Outlook
Analyst ratings for the **Bank of Montreal (BMO)** indicate a consensus toward a “Moderate Buy” with a moderate to high price target. The average price target across various sources ranges from $127.50 to C$129.20, reflecting a potential gain of between 6.9% and 46.37% compared to the current stock price. The consensus is based on a mix of buy and hold ratings, with no sell ratings, indicating buoyant but cautious views of the stock.
FRT: Prime Real Estate Investment for Steady Dividend Income
Federal Realty Investment Trust, listed on NYSE as **FRT**, is a REIT specializing in shopping centers and street retail properties across prime regions like the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and California.
Growth and Performance Metrics
Earnings are steadily increasing, from $3.90 in 2010 to a projected $4.78 for 2014. **FRT** also offers a dividend yield of 2.6%, with S&P’s 12-month target price at $128. The stock recently fell from a triple-top at $118 but reversed on a Collins-Bollinger Reversal (CBR) buy signal at just above its breakout at $110. This provides a golden buying opportunity with potential returns over 16%.
Strategic Value
With its stable earnings and a high-quality property portfolio, **FRT** is a robust pick, offering both stability and growth opportunities in today’s market.
Analyst Ratings and Overview
| Consensus Rating | Average Price Target | Current Price | Potential Gain | Number of Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moderate Buy | $114.00 | $106.31 | 8.60% | 8 |
Summary of Analyst Outlook
Analysts are optimistic about **Federal Realty Investment Trust (FRT)** stock, with a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” and an average price target of $114.00. This represents an upside potential of 8.60% from its current price of $106.31. Analysts have a positive outlook, reflecting confidence in the company’s performance.
GILD: Leading the Charge in Revolutionary Medical Treatments
Gilead Sciences, under the NASDAQ ticker **GILD**, is a heavyweight in biotechnology, focusing on revolutionary treatments for hepatitis C and HIV.
Significant Developments and Projections
The company experienced a temporary setback when the FDA declined approval for two HIV candidate drugs in April but rebounded strongly with the European Commission’s approval of their single-tablet regimen for HIV-1. The stock is up 50% from our original recommendation. With further positive developments in its HIV tablet, **GILD** is poised to hit the median trading target of $65.
Strategic Value
Gilead’s pioneering work in significant medical treatments ensures robust growth potential. For investors, it provides a chance to ride the wave of biotechnological advancement.
Analyst Ratings and Overview
| Information | Value |
|---|---|
| Consensus Rating | Moderate Buy |
| Average Price Target | $82.17 |
| Current Price | $68.49 |
| Potential Gain (5.52%) | $3.81 |
| Number of Ratings | 32 |
Summary of Analyst Outlook
The consensus among analysts is that **Gilead Sciences (GILD)** has a moderate buy rating, indicating a generally optimistic market perception. The average price target suggests that analysts expect the stock price to increase by about 5.52% from the current price, which is around $3.81. This outlook is supported by research platforms like MarketWatch, Nasdaq, TipRanks, and Zacks Investment Research.
OMC: Dominating the Ad World with Robust Financials
Omnicom Group, trading on NYSE as **OMC**, owns major global advertising agency networks like DDB, BBDO, and TBWA. It’s a vital force in the international advertising industry.
Earnings and Stock Performance
Earnings reports have been steady, from $3.61 in 2012 to projected figures of $4.46 by 2014. The stock broke a double-top and experienced robust growth, forming a bull channel with strong CBR buy signals on high volume. Analysts recommend buying **OMC** at market price, with a trading objective of $73 in sight.
Strategic Value
**OMC**’s diversified portfolio and steady growth position it as a reliable investment, even amid market turmoil. As a bellwether in advertising, it’s both a safe bet and a growth opportunity.
Analyst Ratings and Overview
| Source | Consensus Rating | Average Price Target | Current Price | Potential Gain | Number of Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zacks | Buy | $107.11 | $90.75 | +18.03% | 9 |
| Tipranks | Moderate Buy | $107.25 | $90.75 | +12.39% | 13 |
| Benzinga | – | $104.73 | $95.48 | +18.70% | 13 |
| Fintel | – | $110.26 | – | +15.44% | – |
Summary of Analysts’ Outlook
– Analyst Consensus: Most analysts recommend **OMC** as a Buy or Moderate Buy, indicating strong market outperformance potential.
Average Target Price: The analysts’ average 12-month price target for **Omnicom Group** is around $107.25 to $110.26, suggesting significant upside potential.
Current Share Price: As of recent updates, **Omnicom Group** is trading around $90.75 to $95.48.
Key Trends: Analysts hold a positive view, with a consensus of Buy or Moderate Buy based on performance and financial strength.
PFE: High-Yield Pharma Stock for Consistent Returns
Pfizer, globally recognized and trading on NYSE as **PFE**, has a strong presence in the pharmaceutical sector with a consistent track record of innovation.
Significant Moves and Dividend Yield
Recently, Pfizer announced plans to spin off its majority interest in Zoetis, allowing it to sharpen focus on core activities. This spin-off is viewed positively by the market. The company offers a dividend yield of 3.3%. Currently in a bull market since January 2012, **PFE** recently saw a new MACD buy signal. With a 12-month target of $35, investors could see a 24% return.
Strategic Value
With continuous innovation and strategic decisions, **Pfizer** remains a lucrative pick for stable growth and income. Their commitment to refining their core business through strategic moves like the spin-off of Zoetis underlines their potential for significant returns.
Analyst Ratings and Overview
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Consensus Rating | Moderate Buy |
| Average Price Target | $33.83 (range: $27.00 – $53.00) |
| Current Price | $30.77 |
| Potential Gain | 9.94% |
| Number of Ratings | 15 Analysts |
Summary of Analysts’ Outlook
– Consensus Rating: **Pfizer**’s consensus rating is a Moderate Buy, based on 7 buy ratings, 8 hold ratings, and no sell ratings from 15 analysts over the last 3 months.
– Average Price Target: The average price target is $33.83, representing a potential increase of 9.94% from the current price of $30.77.
– Short-Term Forecasts: Analysts’ predictions range from $27.00 to $54.00, with an average target reflecting a 9.64% increase from the last closing price.
Investing in a volatile market requires sharp thinking and a keen eye for value. Stocks like **AEIS**, **BMO**, **FRT**, **GILD**, **OMC**, and **PFE** offer a potent mix of growth, dividend yields, and stability. For those with a keen eye and an appetite for strategic opportunities, these stocks are primed for exploration. Seize the day and consider adding these robust picks to your investment portfolio.