Core Viewpoint - The article presents a list of 12 stocks that are recommended for investment during the countdown to the new year, highlighting their long-term growth potential and current market conditions. Group 1: Recommended Stocks - **Apple**: Expected to achieve an 11% gain for the year, with a strong brand and growing AI integration across products, which may drive future revenue growth [5][6]. - **Costco**: Trading at 43x forward earnings estimates, down from over 58x, with a strong business model and high membership renewal rates above 90% in the U.S. and Canada [7][9]. - **Carnival**: The world's largest cruise operator has returned to profitability and is paying down debt, trading at only 11x forward earnings estimates [11][12]. - **Intuitive Surgical**: A leader in robotic surgery with a strong moat due to high costs of its systems and recurrent revenue from instruments and accessories [13][15]. - **Vertex Pharmaceuticals**: Leading in cystic fibrosis treatment with strong revenue and growth potential in new treatment areas [16][18]. - **Coca-Cola**: Strong brand and distribution network with a history of dividend increases for over 50 consecutive years, making it a solid choice for passive income [19][20]. - **Pool Corp.**: The largest supplier of pool equipment, trading at 22x forward earnings estimates, with consistent demand for maintenance services [21][22]. - **Amazon**: A leader in e-commerce and cloud computing, benefiting from AI growth, with AWS reporting a $132 billion annual revenue run rate [24][25]. - **Target**: Facing challenges but may recover in 2026, trading at 13x forward earnings estimates, presenting a potential buying opportunity [27][28]. - **CRISPR Therapeutics**: Recently approved a blood disorder treatment, with expected significant growth in the coming year [29][30]. - **Broadcom**: A networking giant emerging as a potential AI chip winner, with high demand for custom chips [31][32]. - **Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing**: A key player in chip production for AI, benefiting from multiple clients and significant investments in U.S. manufacturing [33][34].

Core Viewpoint - Carnival Corporation & plc is set to hold a conference call on December 19, 2025, to discuss its fourth quarter financial results, which will be released on the same day [1]. Company Overview - Carnival Corporation & plc is the largest global cruise company and one of the largest leisure travel companies, operating a portfolio of renowned cruise lines including AIDA Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Costa Cruises, Cunard, Holland America Line, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, and Seabourn [2].

Core Insights - Princess Cruises has launched its annual "Come Aboard Sale" for the 2026 Wave Season, offering significant discounts and promotions for travelers [1][4] Promotions and Offers - The sale runs from December 9, 2025, to February 16, 2026, featuring discounts of up to 40% off cruise fares, up to $500 in instant savings, 50% off deposits, and free third and fourth guests on select sailings [1][4] - The advertised $500 savings applies per double occupancy stateroom on 17+ day voyages in a Suite or Mini-Suite [5] Destinations and Itineraries - The "Come Aboard Sale" covers 345 destinations across all seven continents, with voyages available on Princess' 17-ship fleet, including the new Star Princess [3][6] - Notable itineraries include: - 7-day Mediterranean & Aegean starting at $999 on June 23, 2026 - 7-day Western Caribbean starting at $499 on May 16, 2026 - 7-Day Alaska Inside Passage starting at $899 on May 3, 2026 [6] Target Audience - The sale is designed for a wide range of travelers, including loyal guests, first-time cruisers, and multi-generational families [4]

Core Points - Cunard has launched a new promotional offer called "Treat yourself, on us" for Wave Season, providing exclusive benefits for travelers booking select sailings in 2026 and 2027 [1][2][5] - The offer includes up to $600 in onboard credit per stateroom, enhancing the luxury experience with options for fine dining, specialty shopping, spa treatments, and more [3][4] - Cunard's fleet includes four ships: Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria, and the newly introduced Queen Anne, which began service in May 2024 [11] Offer Details - The "Treat yourself, on us" offer is valid for voyages from April 2026 through December 2027 [5] - Guests booking in Cunard's Grill Suites will receive additional perks such as a Drinks Package and included service charges [4] - Highlighted itineraries include destinations like Alaska, the Caribbean, Europe, and South America, along with iconic Transatlantic Crossings [6][10] Company Background - Cunard is a luxury British cruise line with a history of 185 years, known for providing unforgettable experiences at sea [8] - The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc and is based in Southampton [11]

Core Insights - Princess Cruises' Discovery Princess has been awarded "Coolest Way To See Alaska" in the Good Housekeeping 2026 Travel Awards, highlighting the company's leadership in family travel experiences [1][2][3] Company Recognition - The Good Housekeeping Travel Awards recognize destinations and experiences that provide exceptional value and joy for families, with Discovery Princess receiving high marks for its innovation, luxury, and entertainment offerings [2][3] Unique Offerings - Discovery Princess features immersive programming that brings the Alaskan experience onboard, including Alaska-inspired dining, youth activities, and cultural enrichment [4][5][7] - The cruise line's 2026 Alaska season is its largest ever, with eight ships, 180 departures, and 19 destinations, including the popular "Voyage of the Glacier" route [6][8] Enhanced Experiences - Guests can participate in unique activities such as the "Cook My Catch" program, where they can enjoy fish they catch during excursions, and enjoy locally sourced seafood and themed beverages onboard [7][8] - The cruise line offers Cruisetours that combine cruises with stays at Princess-owned Wilderness Lodges, allowing guests to explore Alaska's interior, including Denali National Park [8]

Core Insights - Princess Cruises has launched its first Royal-Class ship, Sky Princess, at Port Canaveral, marking the beginning of a Caribbean cruise season from Central Florida [1][3] - The Sky Princess will operate six- and eight-day Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral until March 2026, with plans to return for a second season in November 2026 [1][3] - The ship has a capacity of 3,660 guests and weighs 141,000 tons, featuring contemporary design, award-winning cuisine, and dynamic entertainment [4] Summary by Sections Launch and Operations - Sky Princess has officially arrived at Cruise Terminal 6 in Port Canaveral, starting a new season of Caribbean cruises [1] - The ship will offer roundtrip cruises to various Caribbean destinations, including Turks & Caicos and Puerto Rico, with options for 14-day voyages [3] Accessibility and Convenience - Port Canaveral provides easy access for guests traveling by car, plane, or through the Rail & Sail program with Brightline [2] Company Statements - Jim Berra, Chief Commercial Officer of Princess Cruises, expressed excitement about returning to Central Florida and highlighted the increased capacity and enhanced guest experience with the addition of Sky Princess [3] - Capt. John Murray, CEO of Port Canaveral, praised Princess Cruises as a valued partner and emphasized the high-quality experience expected for guests on the new ship [4] Company Overview - Princess Cruises is recognized as a leading cruise brand, offering a range of destinations and experiences, including luxury accommodations and entertainment options [6]

Core Insights - Princess Cruises has partnered with Handshake Speakeasy, recognized as The Best Bar in North America for two consecutive years, to introduce five exclusive cocktails aboard its ships [1][4][5] Partnership Details - This collaboration marks Handshake Speakeasy's first venture with a cruise line, bringing the essence of Mexico City's cocktail culture to Princess Cruises [2][4] - The five signature cocktails will be available starting November 14, 2025, on Star Princess, with plans to expand availability across all 17 Princess ships [2][3] Cocktail Offerings - The exclusive cocktails include three available at Crooners bar and two reserved for The Sanctuary Collection [2][4] - Handshake Speakeasy is celebrated for its innovative drinks and unique Mexican hospitality, featuring a hidden flavor lab for cocktail creation [4][5] Experience Enhancement - The partnership aims to elevate guest experiences by offering unique cocktails that embody the vibrant bar culture of Mexico City [3][5] - Rob Floyd, a renowned mixologist and global ambassador for Princess Cruises, leads a digital storytelling journey showcasing the cocktail creation process [3][5] Additional Offerings - Princess Cruises continues to enhance its bar scene with the Love Line Premium Liquors collection, featuring a variety of curated wines and spirits [6]

Core Insights - Princess Cruises is expanding its Caribbean offerings with the introduction of Celebration Key as a new destination starting November 1, 2026, as part of its 2027-28 season [2][5] - The new destination will feature a variety of activities and amenities designed for all ages, enhancing the overall cruise experience [3][7] Caribbean Program Highlights - The 2027-28 Caribbean program will include 31 ports from five homeports, marking the largest and most diverse offering to date [1][5] - Key features of the program include: - 187 departures on nine ships, including the inaugural homeport season for Star Princess from Port Canaveral [6] - 43 itineraries ranging from four to 15 days [6] - 31 destinations, including 13 UNESCO World Heritage Sites [6] - 22 unique islands across the Eastern, Western, and Southern Caribbean [6] - Five homeports, including a new one in Miami [6] Celebration Key Features - Celebration Key will offer over a mile of pristine shoreline, calm turquoise lagoons, and more than 30 dining and beverage options [7][12] - The destination will have five distinct areas catering to different guest preferences: - Paradise Plaza: The welcoming heart of Celebration Key [12] - Starfish Lagoon: Family-friendly area with one of the Caribbean's largest freshwater lagoons [12] - Calypso Lagoon: An adult-friendly lagoon with social spots and a swim-up bar [12] - Pearl Cove Beach Club: An adults-only escape featuring an infinity pool and premium dining [12] - Lokono Cove: A shopping village showcasing local artistry and Bahamian craftsmanship [12] Panama Canal Season Highlights - The 2027-28 Panama Canal season will continue to offer unique experiences, including: - 22 departures on five ships [6] - 21 destinations in nine countries, including seven UNESCO World Heritage sites [6] - More Ashore late-night stays in key locations like Cartagena and Aruba [6]

Core Points - Princess Cruises will debut its new ship, Star Princess, during the 2026 Rose Parade, showcasing a floral float that represents the beauty of Alaska [1][2][3] - The float will feature Alaskan wildlife and landscapes, crafted from over 300,000 flowers and natural materials, highlighting the cruise line's commitment to showcasing Alaska's natural beauty [7][9] - The 2026 Alaska season will be the largest in Princess Cruises' history, featuring eight ships, 180 departures, and 19 destinations, with Star Princess offering weekly seven-day Inside Passage cruises [9] Group 1: Float Design and Features - The float will include elements such as glaciers, bald eagles, humpback whales, and bears, all designed to reflect the Alaskan environment [2][5] - It will measure approximately 55 feet long and 21 feet high, with animated features that bring Alaskan wildlife to life [7][8] - The design is inspired by Alaska's coastlines and breathtaking scenery, aiming to create a sense of wonder and realism [7][8] Group 2: Marketing and Community Engagement - The float is aligned with the Rose Parade theme "The Magic in Teamwork," honoring both the Princess crew and local Alaskans who enhance the cruise experience [3][7] - Princess Cruises aims to inspire travel and connect guests to memorable destinations, embodying the spirit of community and creativity celebrated by the Rose Parade [7] Group 3: Audience and Impact - The Rose Parade attracts approximately 800,000 spectators along its route and over 28 million television viewers in the U.S., providing significant exposure for Princess Cruises [6] - The event serves as a platform to introduce the concept of cruise vacations to a broad audience, continuing the legacy of "The Love Boat" [4][6]

Core Points - Princess Cruises is launching a "Blue Friday" promotion offering significant savings on cruise bookings, including up to $250 in instant savings and 50% off cruise fares, available until November 24, 2025 [1][2] - The promotion also includes complimentary fares for third and fourth guests, making it a valuable holiday gift option [1][2] - From November 25 to December 2, additional instant savings of up to $800 will be available [1] - The promotion is aimed at encouraging travel as a meaningful gift, with options for various types of vacations [2] - The sale is available to residents of the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Bermuda, and the District of Columbia, with standard terms and conditions applying [4] Promotion Details - The "Blue Friday" sale features a wide range of destinations including the Mediterranean, Alaska, Japan, Australia & New Zealand, the Caribbean, and more [3] - The promotion allows for a broader booking window, enabling customers to secure their preferred destinations and accommodations [2] - The sale ends at 11:59 p.m. PST on December 2, 2025 [4] Company Overview - Princess Cruises is recognized as a leading cruise brand, offering dream vacations to millions in sought-after destinations with a focus on elite service and personalization [6] - The company operates large ships that provide a range of amenities, including world-class dining, entertainment, and luxurious spas [6] - Star Princess, the newest ship launched in October 2025, is noted for its innovative features and has received accolades [6]