Many small-cap companies in the Russell 2000 index hold the promise of extraordinary long-term gains, offering investors a unique investment avenue. Not every stock in this selection is a sure bet, but a few gems stand out, ready to capture attention and deliver substantial returns.
These three hand-picked stocks have recently surged in popularity, catching the eye of discerning investors intrigued by their potential. Though inherently riskier than their large-cap counterparts, they are poised for significant growth in the upcoming quarter, presenting an opportune moment for investment.
Let’s delve into the recent trajectories of these stocks and assess the compelling numbers that position them as prime picks in the Russell 2000 for the second quarter of 2024.
Riding the Biotech Wave with Viking Therapeutics (VKTX)
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Viking Therapeutics (NASDAQ:VKTX) is cruising towards success as a burgeoning biotech entity, armed with an arsenal of drug candidates, notably the promising VK2735 weight loss drug. Recent buzz surrounding its phase 1 clinical trials has catapulted Viking Therapeutics into the limelight, underscoring compelling reasons to consider a stake in this company during the current quarter.
The announcement of favorable results from the phase 1 clinical trials of VK2735 has painted a rosy picture for investors. The oral tablet exhibited a notable 3.3% weight loss over 28 days, maintaining a safe and tolerable profile for the trial subjects.
Staging for phase 2 trials later this year, Viking Therapeutics is on the brink of a potential market debut with VK2735. Despite the inherent risks associated with drug development, the company stands a solid chance of introducing a blockbuster in the ever-popular weight loss segment.
Delving into other avenues, Viking Therapeutics is advancing clinical trials for treatments targeting metabolic-associated steatohepatitis, showcasing a diversified pipeline brimming with promise. Although the stock has already witnessed impressive gains, it’s not too late for investors to hop aboard the Viking bandwagon.
Fluor (FLR): Building a Sustainable Future in Engineering
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Amidst the resounding call for sustainable engineering solutions, Fluor (NYSE:FLR) emerges as a beacon of hope. With a surge in global infrastructure projects and an increasing focus on eco-friendly technologies, Fluor is primed for a period of sustained growth. The company boasts a robust pipeline of large-scale engineering contracts spanning the globe.
Fluor’s burgeoning backlog, soaring from $26 billion in 2022 to $29.4 billion last year, underscores its healthy momentum, ensuring a steady cash flow for years to come. This year, the company has secured several monumental projects to further bolster its financial position.
Investors are enticed by Fluor’s emphasis on enhancing return on equity (ROE), which surpasses the industry standard over the past year. Additionally, the company’s strategic capital restructuring aims to slash interest expenses and fortify cash flow, signaling a positive trajectory for the year ahead.
With its expanding market footprint and diversified portfolio, Fluor presents a compelling investment opportunity in the flourishing engineering sector.
SoundHound AI (SOUN): Unleashing the Power of Artificial Intelligence
The Rise of SoundHoundAI: A Symphony of Growth in the World of Voice AI Stocks
The SoundHoundAI Phenomenon
SoundHoundAI (NASDAQ:SOUN) has its roots grounded in the vibrant city of Santa Clara, CA, where it specializes in cutting-edge speech recognition and voice AI software solutions. With a diverse clientele spanning the digital landscape, the company has been riding a wave of momentum, fueled by the surging popularity and increasing demand for Voice AI technologies.
A Crescendo of Success
In a classic tale of twists and turns, SoundHoundAI has emerged as a beacon of promise in the tumultuous waters of the stock market. The company’s 2023 annual report painted a picture of success, revealing a remarkable 47% surge in year-over-year revenue. What’s more, subscriptions and bookings backlog witnessed a momentous doubling from the previous year, signaling a trajectory veering towards the stars.
Resonating Confidence
Recent developments have further solidified SoundHoundAI’s position in the competitive tech landscape. Market heavyweight Nvidia made headlines by acquiring a $3.67 million stake in the company, injecting a dose of confidence into the stock. The synergy between these industry giants has sparked optimism among investors, making SoundHoundAI a compelling prospect for those eyeing growth opportunities in the AI sector.
The Melody of Opportunity
Against this backdrop of optimism and expanding horizons, investors are presented with a unique chance to tune into the crescendo of growth orchestrated by SoundHoundAI. The company’s foray into cutting-edge technology and its ability to stay ahead of the curve align perfectly with the evolving landscape of Voice AI and machine learning, setting the stage for a symphony of success in the ever-evolving digital realm.
On the date of publication, Joel Lim did not have (either directly or indirectly) any positions in the securities mentioned in this article. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer, subject to the InvestorPlace.com Publishing Guidelines.
