Articles for author: Ron Finklestien

March 28, 2024

Ron Finklestien

Bear of the Day: Herbalife (HLF)

Unraveling the Tale of Herbalife (HLF) A Deep Dive into Herbalife Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell) stock Herbalife (HLF) is a global multi-level marketing (MLM) company. Founded in 1980 by Mark Hughes, Herbalife specializes in nutritional supplements, weight management, sports nutrition, and personal care products. The company operates in over 90 countries via independent distributors who sell products directly to consumers. The Weight of Pyramid Scheme Allegations Billionaire investors Carl Icahn and Bill Ackman famously clashed over HLF, with Ackman’s pyramid scheme accusations significantly impacting the stock. Herbalife’s business model, reliant on distributors, has faced criticism for resembling a pyramid

March 28, 2024

Ron Finklestien

The Semiconductor Resurgence: Applied Materials’ Path to Prosperity

The Global Semiconductor Market Revival The semiconductor industry faced turbulent times recently, with stagnant sales in 2022 and an 11% decline in 2023 due to weakened demand in sectors like smartphones and PCs, leading to an oversupply. However, 2024 heralds a year of resurgence for semiconductors. Deloitte predicts a 13% revenue growth to reach $588 billion, driven by a 4% projected increase in PC and smartphone sales. Notably, these markets are expected to sustain long-term growth, particularly with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). The AI-Driven Semiconductor Boom AI emerges as a driving force in the semiconductor industry, with demand

March 28, 2024

Ron Finklestien

Gearing Up for the EV Revolution: Hyundai’s $50 Billion Investment Signals Strong Commitment to Electric Vehicle Production

Mega Investment and Employment Boost In a bold move, South Korean auto giant Hyundai Motor HYMTF has unveiled plans to pour a staggering 68 trillion won, approximately $50 billion, into ramping up electric vehicle (EV) production over the next three years. A lion’s share of this hefty sum will target research and development infrastructure and assembly lines dedicated to EVs, as reported by Reuters. To accommodate this ambitious expansion, Hyundai also announced its intention to recruit a whopping 80,000 new employees. Electric Dreams Amidst Industry Slowdown Amidst a global backdrop of automakers scaling back their EV ambitions, Hyundai’s resolute decision

March 28, 2024

Ron Finklestien

The Crypto Comeback: 3 Cryptocurrencies Poised for a Rebound

In 2022, many cryptocurrencies faced a rough ride as volatility, regulatory turmoil, and a general risk-off sentiment engulfed the market. The prolonged “crypto winter” lingered into the first half of 2023, leaving investors wary and hesitant. However, the tide seemed to turn over the past year as market sentiment shifted, paving the way for a renewed interest in cryptocurrencies. As we look ahead to a potentially brighter future for digital assets, it’s prime time to consider three cryptocurrencies that could be on the cusp of a resurgence. Image source: Getty Images. Bitcoin: Riding the Highs Bitcoin‘s (CRYPTO: BTC) made headlines

March 28, 2024

Ron Finklestien

The Stock Market Dances to a Greed-Fueled Beat as S&P 500 Hits New Heights

On Wednesday, the CNN Money Fear and Greed index showed a flicker of improvement in overall market sentiment, basking in the “Greed” territory. As the sun set on Wednesday, U.S. stocks glowed with pride, and the S&P 500 shimmered at a fresh record level. In the first quarter, the index has shown a dazzling 10% rise, hinting at its best performance since the sunny days of 2019. In the stock market’s grand ballroom, Cintas Corporation CTAS stole the show by surging 8% after waltzing in with better-than-expected third-quarter financial results. Meanwhile, Direct Digital Holdings, Inc. DRCT stumbled and fell, losing

March 28, 2024

Ron Finklestien

Singapore’s Balefire 3.0 — Revolutionizing Public Smoking Restrictions Using AI

Singapore has upped its game with Balefire 3.0, the AI innovation designed to reinforce smoking regulations in public spaces. This upgraded system is a boon for local law enforcement, acting as a keen eye to spot individuals lighting up in no-smoking areas. Advancements in Detection: The tech-savvy folks at GovTech in Singapore have breathed new life into Balefire – an AI tool originally birthed to identify smokers in no-smoking zones scattered across the island nation. The revamped 3.0 version is currently under trial at 20 sites as part of an extended pilot program. Pye Sone Kyaw, an AI whiz at

March 28, 2024

Ron Finklestien

The Riddle of Social Security: Unveiling the Path to Maximum Benefits for Retirees

Embarking on the elusive hunt for the ideal Social Security benefit has confounded the vast majority of Americans. According to the Nationwide Retirement Institute, a mere 8% of surveyed adults grasp all the elements affecting the zenith of their Social Security payouts. Potentially unsettling, considering that Social Security frequently stands as the primary wellspring of income during retirement, exerting a substantial influence on living standards for a multitude of individuals. Embark on an enlightening journey to unearth the secret steps that retired workers must undertake to secure the maximum benefit, as we unveil the paramount Social Security payouts at the

March 28, 2024

Ron Finklestien

Exciting Times Ahead: Market Whirlwind with RH, Walgreens, and 3 Noteworthy Stocks

The Stock Scene Unfolds As U.S. stock futures dance inconspicuously lower this fine Thursday morning, investors have their radars fixed on the following stocks: First up in the limelight is the famed Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (NASDAQ: WBA), with the Street whispering of quarterly earnings clocking in at a cool 82 cents per share on revenues worth a hefty $35.86 billion. In the twilight hours, Walgreens shares got a slight lift, touching $21.03. Meanwhile, the unconventional RH (NYSE: RH) unveiled results for the fourth quarter that were below the grand expectations. However, the company set forth an optimistic outlook, anticipating

March 28, 2024

Ron Finklestien

Apple Braces as Stock Nears 52-Week Low With Unsteady Vision Ahead

Stock Price Saga Investors sweating over Apple’s recent performance can attest—it’s been a bumpy ride in the tech realm. Down over 10% this year, Apple trails the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite by a concerning margin. While the broader market surges on the wings of artificial intelligence, Apple seems to have missed the AI express. As of March 22, Apple stands just 10.5% away from its 52-week low, a precarious position amidst tech titans reaching unprecedented highs. Interestingly, Apple’s upcoming dance with its 52-week low is imminent, regardless of its current standing. Navigating Apple’s Uncertain Waters Apple’s recent 52-week low

March 28, 2024

Ron Finklestien

Bill Maher Expands Podcast Network, Welcomes Former ESPN Anchor Sage Steele As Host

Bill Maher Welcomes Sage Steele as Host on Expanded Podcast Network Bill Maher’s Podcast Network Grows Comedian and political commentator Bill Maher has announced an expansion to his podcast network, introducing a new show to be hosted by former ESPN anchor Sage Steele. Sage Steele’s Transition Steele, once a prominent figure at ESPN’s SportsCenter, faced a turbulent period in 2021 after showing resistance to the network’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate. This led to her temporary removal from the air and subsequent departure from ESPN after settling a lawsuit with the network. Club Random Productions Unveils New Host Maher’s venture, Club Random