Summary Cboe Global Markets thrives in volatile times, benefiting from increased trading volumes, particularly in SPX options and VIX futures. Their business model capitalizes on market turbulence. The company's focus has shifted from M&A to organic growth, expanding its global reach and digital asset offerings. This strategic shift strengthens their position in key markets. CBOE continues to deliver strong shareholder returns through dividends and buybacks. Despite a slightly high valuation, its growth prospects make it a promising investment. sarmoho/iStock via Getty Images Introduction While I am writing this, markets are panicking. Volatility, as measured by the CBOE Volatility Index, has spiked to more than 40, the highest number since 2020, when the world was hit by bad news from

Summary Concerns about a U.S. recession persist despite mixed economic signals. Leading indicators suggest a downturn, but some market metrics remain strong, adding uncertainty. Rate cuts are anticipated, providing a potential buffer against economic weakness. The dollar’s trajectory is crucial for investors, particularly those with international exposure. Despite high valuations, certain sectors offer attractive opportunities. Strategic investments can capitalize on resilient trends and the potential for future growth. Dmytro Synelnychenko/iStock via Getty Images Introduction Is the U.S. about to enter a recession? Going into this month, that seemed to be the consensus, as poor nonfarm payroll numbers caused investors to believe the Fed may have gone too far by keeping rates too high for

Summary Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. is a standout in the trucking industry with unique strengths in the less-than-truckload segment. Impressive growth, efficient operations, and strong financials have positioned Old Dominion Freight Line for continued success despite the recent stock price dip. Potential demand recovery could lead to strong returns and dividend growth, making Old Dominion Freight Line stock a promising investment opportunity. ablokhin Introduction It's time to talk about Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. (NASDAQ:ODFL), a company that has become one of my favorite dividend growth stocks on the market. After covering the company for many years, this is my first article on the stock I'm writing as a shareholder, as I bought

Summary Danaher's high valuation and flat 2024 EPS growth might raise eyebrows, but its track record, strategic acquisitions, and long-term growth potential make it a solid buy for those who can. Despite trading at a premium, Danaher's strong history, efficient operations, and potential for double-digit EPS growth in 2025 make it one of the few stocks I’m buying at a lofty price. Danaher's blend of strategic acquisitions and operational efficiency makes it a long-term winner. I’m adding to my position despite the high P/E, expecting strong returns as growth picks up. PM Images Introduction A blended P/E ratio of 36x. 0% EPS growth in 2024. I think it's fair to say that this does not look like a winning combination. Especially in light of what I wrote in a recent

Summary The "cash trap" is caused by investors flocking to high-yield, risk-free assets due to Fed rate hikes. This influx into money market funds could reverse if rates drop. When rates fall, investors may shift from money market funds to high-yield dividend stocks to maintain income. The need for quality picks will grow in this scenario. High-yield, high-quality dividend stocks with strong business models and solid balance sheets could benefit most, offering both income and stability as the market evolves. Antonistock Introduction A few months ago, I started discussing the "cash trap" and promised to keep bringing up new ideas to be prepared. In case you're wond

Vivek Vishwakarma/iStock via Getty Images Introduction It's time to talk about Enbridge Inc. (NYSE:ENB). On August 4, I wrote an article titled Enbridge's 7% Yield: It Doesn't Get Much Better Than This. Now, the company yields 7.8%, as it has fallen more than 5% since early August. This was triggered by the acquisition of Dominion Energy's (D) natural gas assets, which makes Enbridge the largest natural gas distributor in North America - in addition to being the largest pipeline operator. After many discussions with readers who own ENB shares and diving into the

Sundry Photography Introduction Some stocks have it all. One of these stocks is Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ). Despite the baby powder controversy, the company is not only attractively valued but also well-positioned to accelerate long-term growth, provide increasing shareholder returns, including distributing a 3.0% yield, and protect investors from market turmoil with its AAA-rated balance sheet. Just two companies in the S&P 500 have AAA-rated balance sheets: Microsoft (MSFT) and Johnson & Johnson. The company offers the perfect mix of growth and value with a stock price that is capable of beating the market with highly favorable volatility. I'm considering buying this stock f

Summary Hedge funds have turned bearish on commodities, similar to 2016. Concerns about China’s growth and supply issues are affecting the market. Despite the bearish outlook, there's potential in Canadian energy stocks like Cenovus, which boasts strong assets and a commitment to returning cash to shareholders. Cenovus, with low costs and long reserves, is undervalued. Its focus on debt reduction and generous dividends makes it an attractive investment opportunity. ImagineGolf All financial numbers in this article are in Canadian dollars unless noted otherwise. Please note that oil and gas prices are always in U.S. dollars. Introduction "Nobody" is bullish on commodities anymore. As

Summary Happy 4th of July to all of you. I'm celebrating in Sarasota, Florida with relaxation, friends, and some reading. I'd also like to highlight top REIT picks including Rexford Industrial Realty, Agree Realty, VICI Properties, and Federal Realty. tampatra Happy 4th of July to all of you! Here’s wishing liberty, justice, and a profitable portfolio to all my readers, no matter where you are. Where I am, exactly, is Sarasota, Fla. Now that my kids are either fully grown and out of state or almost grown and far too cool to hang out with their dad, I decided to hit the beach on my own. I do have some friends down here I’m catching up with. And, as usual, I’m mixing some business with pleasure, having scheduled a high-profile meeting or two before I head back home. But again, today is for r

Scott Olson/Getty Images News Introduction Depending on when you're reading this, it's exactly 15 years after Lehman Brothers went bankrupt, triggering a recession that is still shaping the current investment landscape. The Guardian As Bloomberg's John Authers wrote: As for the global fallout, it’s also not been that surprising. In democracies, governments in power when Lehman fell were generally kicked out of office at the first opportunity. Growth has been sluggish. The eurozone sovereign debt crisis, and the trouble for China’s growth model after it resorted to extreme measures to re-stimulate its economy, are exactly what migh

Summary Lockheed Martin Corporation has shown remarkable performance, outperforming the S&P 500 by 60 points over the past decade. The company's recent 2Q24 earnings report revealed strong revenue growth, an impressive backlog, and progress in the F-35 program. Lockheed Martin's raised guidance, stock buybacks, and commitment to R&D indicate renewed momentum and potential for sustainable long-term gains. inhauscreative Introduction It's time to talk about Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE:LMT), a company that was my biggest holding until I bought the Texas Pacific Land Corporation (TPL) this year. During the pandemic, I started accumulating LMT stock for a number of reasons, includin

Summary With potential rate cuts looming, trillions may shift from money markets to dividend stocks, creating new opportunities for investors seeking higher returns. Three standout investments offer strong yields, resilient business models, and solid growth potential, making them appealing for income and capital gains. Positioning now in these investments could be beneficial as market dynamics shift, offering a chance to capitalize on a changing economic landscape. Dmitri Kalvan Introduction In June, I wrote an article titled "Here Are 4 Fantastic Dividends Yielding 6% To Avoid The 'Cash Trap.'" In that article, I explained that dividend stocks could benefit from