U.S. markets are experiencing heightened volatility due to geopolitical tensions and trade-related concerns, with early January marked by a military operation in Venezuela and escalating tariffs proposed by the U.S. against countries trading with Iran. Planned tariffs, set to rise from 10% in February to 25% by June, are expected to negatively impact investor confidence.
For investors, value investing is increasingly critical in this unstable environment. Key screening criteria for stocks include an earnings yield greater than 10%, estimated EPS growth above the S&P 500, and an average daily volume of at least 100,000 shares. Notably, companies like Centerra Gold Inc. (CGAU), Plains GP Holdings (PAGP), Angi Inc. (ANGI), and Skillsoft Corp. (SKIL) are highlighted as potential value picks, each demonstrating anticipated year-over-year earnings growth between 11% and 48% for 2026, with Zacks Ranks of #1 (Strong Buy).
