As we usher in a new trading month, financial experts at HSBC urge investors to diversify their portfolio in the fourth quarter by looking at stocks with more reasonable valuations. The stock market has been on an upward trajectory, with notable benchmarks like the S&P 500 seeing consistent gains over the past few months. Despite the impressive performance, concerns about the overvaluation of big companies dominate discussions in the investment world.
Nicole Inui, head of equity strategy, Americas at HSBC, highlights the dominance of ‘big’ companies in driving equity index returns so far this year. With the Federal Reserve’s recent rate cut and expectations for further cuts, investors are advised to shift their focus to companies with more modest valuations to capitalize on the current market conditions.
Instead of small-cap companies that typically underperform during rate cuts, Inui suggests looking at 15 companies with discounted valuations that show promise for the future. Some of the standout names on this list include:
- Automaker General Motors, which has seen a significant surge in shares this year.
- Pharmaceutical giant Pfizer, showing resilience despite a slight dip in share price.
- Financial institution Goldman Sachs and airline company Delta Air Lines, both delivering impressive returns in 2024.
These companies present exciting opportunities for investors seeking growth in a market environment where caution is advised. The road ahead may be challenging, but with the right investment strategies, navigating the volatile waters of the stock market can yield substantial rewards for savvy investors.