Market dynamism is nothing new for seasoned investors, but recent volatility has brought both opportunities and challenges to the forefront. Even as September witnessed substantial stock sell-offs, underlying indicators hint at silver linings and room for growth. The S&P 500’s resilience in not testing its 200-day moving average since March serves as a testament, albeit with a cautionary note for potential spikes in selling as Q4 sets in.
The financial horizon isn’t all bleak, with earnings projections painting a brighter picture for the S&P 500. Forecasts allude to a return to growth in the last quarter, with surges anticipated in 2024 and 2025. The looming threat of a significant U.S. recession seems to be dissipating. Strengthening this notion, the Federal Reserve‘s nearing culmination in its rate-hiking spree underscores a more stabilized U.S. economic and labor scene.
Spotting growth candidates in such times isn’t a wild goose chase. Textron (TXT), shining in both Aerospace-Defense and commercial sectors, reflects robust growth over a decade. With a whopping 190% share growth, it surpasses not only its industry but also the benchmark S&P 500.
Similarly, NXP Semiconductors (NXPI) stands out, despite a predicted minor hiccup in 2023. This chip-making behemoth, with a ten-year stock ascent of around 400%, offers impressive gains that overshadow those of its industry and broader tech domain.
Construction Partners (ROAD), a niche entity focusing on road infrastructure, forecasts a promising revenue hike for two consecutive years. A glance at its shares since its 2018 IPO showcases a steep growth curve, easily outstripping both its sector and the S&P 500.
While the allure of growth stocks remains, caution is the order of the day. Diversifying one’s portfolio with low-leverage options could prove beneficial. Harnessing debt to fuel operations is common, but prudence lies in backing entities with manageable debt levels. The debt-to-equity ratio, a litmus test of a firm’s financial risk, aids investors in making informed decisions. Entities like Lindsay Corp, Amalgamated Financial, and GameStop serve as apt examples, marrying low leverage with future growth prospects.
Steering through the current stock market requires a blend of optimism and caution. As some stocks signal promise amid turbulence, a balanced approach, diversifying with low-leverage options, will likely ensure not just survival but thriving in these volatile times.