Market Indices Rise Amid Trade Tariff Concerns and Earnings Season
Major indices seem poised to close the week on a positive note, despite the prevailing uncertainty among investors.
Temporary Tariff Pause Fuels Stock Rally
A brief rally in stock prices followed the Trump administration’s announcement to pause tariffs. However, this enthusiasm quickly waned as investors grew anxious about the implications of these tariffs on consumer prices. The lingering worry is whether they might ultimately push the U.S. economy into a recession.
Inflation Trends and Trade Agreements
In contrast, recent inflation readings indicate that declining energy prices are alleviating some price pressures. Nonetheless, analysts argue that without successful trade agreements with several countries, inflation could continue to rise.
Earnings Season Kicks Off
The week marked the start of earnings season, with many banks reporting robust results. This may suggest a trend of better-than-expected earnings overall. However, investors are left questioning the implications of companies retracting their guidance.
While investors should brace for continued volatility, they can rely on MarketBeat to identify existing opportunities. Here are some highlights from our most-read articles this week.
Insights from Jea Yu
NVIDIA Corp. (NASDAQ: NVDA) remains a powerhouse in the tech sector, but Jea Yu examined two companies that could serve as viable alternatives within their specialized niches of the expanding AI landscape.
In another piece, Yu elaborated on Warren Buffett’s renewed interest in Occidental Petroleum Corp. (NYSE: OXY). He suggests that Buffett’s confidence is tied as much to his analysis of energy market trends as to current policy considerations.
Additionally, Yu highlighted how tariffs challenge Walt Disney Corp. (NYSE: DIS) as it seeks a recovery. While betting against Disney’s long-term potential may seem imprudent, he pointed out key indicators that investors should monitor in the upcoming months.
Market Analysis with Thomas Hughes
NVIDIA has oscillated significantly throughout 2025, and Thomas Hughes analyzed the stock, noting both fundamental and technical factors that suggest NVDA may be undervalued.
Many investors are gravitating toward dividend stocks during this turbulent period. Hughes explored how MarketBeat’s Top Rated Dividend Stocks screener can help identify appealing options, showcasing five of the top-rated dividend stocks from this week.
Moreover, he discussed four companies that predominantly manufacture within the U.S. These businesses are well-positioned to effectively navigate tariff challenges, potentially outperforming in the upcoming year.
Reports from Sam Quirke
Amazon.com Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN) is viewed as one of the top picks from the “Magnificent 7” after a recent sell-off. Sam Quirke analyzed the situation, emphasizing that institutional investment in AMZN stock might indicate a potential rally leading up to the company’s forthcoming earnings.
Quirke also examined Qualcomm Corp. (NASDAQ: QCOM), whose stock recently dipped to its lowest since November 2022. He discussed fundamental and technical justifications that could make QCOM an attractive option for those willing to take on risk.
On the other hand, Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ: TSLA) stock has had a challenging year. Quirke reported that one of Tesla’s top analysts adjusted their target downward, but the new target still allows for up to a 35% upside, indicating persistent bullish sentiment around TSLA.
Market Insights by Chris Markoch
Palantir Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: PLTR) stock has exhibited substantial volatility, and Chris Markoch noted that it has emerged as a popular choice for traders seeking liquid investment opportunities. The options market currently suggests bullish sentiment.
Markoch also discussed Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ: MSFT), posing the question of whether the stock is undervalued. He pointed out that the significance of Microsoft’s software business may be overlooked.
Furthermore, he covered CrowdStrike Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: CRWD), which recently issued a compensation package for customers following a service interruption in July 2024. This decision may negatively impact short-term earnings, but it could lead to a favorable situation in 2025 as the costs reduce.
Analysis by Ryan Hasson
The tech sector has faced significant challenges in 2025, prompting investors to explore alternative sectors for capital preservation. This week, Ryan Hasson highlighted two sectors attracting new investments and two ETFs providing relevant exposure.
Despite a broadly pessimistic market, there continue to be promising opportunities. Hasson identified three S&P 500 stocks that have surged over 20% so far this year, clarifying the potential for further gains.
Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ: GOOGL) presents a complex narrative of either being undervalued or past its peak, depending on one’s perspective regarding its search business. Hasson examined the significant impact of AI on internet search and the measures Alphabet is undertaking to maintain its competitive advantage.
Emerging Market Focus by Gabriel Osorio-Mazilli
With U.S. stocks under pressure, investors are increasingly looking at emerging markets. Gabriel Osorio-Mazilli emphasized this trend, spotlighting one stock and two relevant ETFs that may capture investor interest.
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (NYSE: TSM) could present a buying opportunity as the chip sector has gained a short-term exemption from ongoing tariffs. Though TSM stock carries a premium price, Osorio-Mazilli elucidated why many investors believe it merits the investment.
For those seeking technology stocks resilient to tariff pressures, Osorio-Mazilli suggested considering Spotify Technology (NYSE: SPOT), which has appreciated over 25% in 2025. He analyzed the prospects for further upside in this context.
Buybacks in Focus by Leo Miller
Stock buybacks are a prevalent strategy for enhancing shareholder value, and Leo Miller compiled a list of three companies that executed the largest buyback programs in 2024. Some of these names may come as a surprise to investors.
The recent downturn in chip stocks has, in part, been driven by aggressive short selling. Miller examined the reasons behind this trend and its potential impact on the market moving forward.
Investors Should Watch These Three Semiconductor and Robotics Stocks
Sellers might be misjudging the potential of three semiconductor stocks.
Miller recently evaluated Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ: AVGO), recognizing it as one of the best-performing technology stocks in 2023. His analysis highlighted the significance of the company’s acquisition of VMWare. He believes this move is essential for Broadcom’s growth, as software companies stand to gain from the next phase of the AI revolution.
Articles by Nathan Reiff
Investors see considerable promise in AI stocks, yet choosing only one or two can be overwhelming for retail investors. This week, Nathan Reiff discussed why broad-based AI ETFs present a favorable opportunity, specifically identifying three ETFs that could benefit investors.
Another key conversation centers around the growing trend of onshoring manufacturing to the U.S., which is poised to benefit robotics companies. Reiff analyzed three robotics stocks likely to gain as American companies increasingly automate production processes.
In addition, investors are beginning to realize the importance of data collection and analysis for the year 2025. Reiff highlighted Braze Inc. (NASDAQ: BRZE), a company that is already demonstrating robust revenue and earnings growth. Analysts suggest that Braze may realize even greater surges in stock value following its recent AI-focused acquisition.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
