Core Insights - Howmet Aerospace Inc. reported strong Q2 2025 earnings with a revenue of $2.05 billion, reflecting a 9% year-over-year increase driven by robust performance in core markets [2] - The company's Executive Vice President, Lola Felice Lin, sold 13,102 shares valued at $2,365,04 shortly before announcing her resignation [3] - Howmet Aerospace has a beta of 1.45, indicating high risk, while analysts project an upside potential of 6.98% [4] Financial Performance - Q2 2025 revenue reached $2.05 billion, marking a 9% increase compared to the previous year [2] - Revenue growth was segmented as follows: commercial aerospace up 8%, defense aerospace up 21%, and industrial and other markets up 17% [2] Executive Actions - Lola Felice Lin sold 13,102 shares on August 6, 2025, prior to her resignation announcement effective September 5, 2025 [3] Risk and Reward Profile - The stock's beta of 1.45 indicates a high-risk investment, while the potential upside is estimated at 6.98% [4]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the best growth stocks to buy and hold for the long term, highlighting a positive outlook for equity markets amid a resilient US economy and low-interest-rate environment [1][4]. Group 1: Market Outlook - Global equities are expected to continue rising despite valuation concerns, with a Bank of America survey indicating that most fund managers remain overweight in equities [1][2]. - The risk of a recessionary trade war is diminishing, contributing to a bullish sentiment in equity markets [2]. - The US Federal Reserve's hints at potential interest rate cuts further enhance the outlook for growth stocks, which typically trade at a premium [2][3]. Group 2: Methodology for Stock Selection - The selection of the best growth stocks involved using the Finviz screener to identify stocks with over 10% EPS growth in the past five years and an expected EPS growth rate of at least 20% over the next five years [6]. - The list was narrowed to stocks with a forward price-to-earnings ratio exceeding 20 and popularity among elite hedge funds in Q2 2025 [6][7]. Group 3: Featured Growth Stocks - **Comfort Systems USA, Inc. (NYSE:FIX)**: - EPS Growth Over the Past Five Years: 36.52% - EPS Growth Over the Next Five Years: 24.58% - Forward Price to Earnings Ratio: 30.31 - Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 53 - UBS raised its price target to $875, citing strong financial health and a robust project environment [8][9][10]. - **Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE:HWM)**: - EPS Growth Over the Past Five Years: 22.24% - EPS Growth Over the Next Five Years: 23.36% - Forward Price to Earnings Ratio: 44 - Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 57 - The company is experiencing healthy growth in its spares business and is investing in capacity expansion to meet demand [12][13][14][15]. - **DexCom, Inc. (NASDAQ:DXCM)**: - EPS Growth Over the Past Five Years: 39.06% - EPS Growth Over the Next Five Years: 24.59% - Forward Price to Earnings Ratio: 26.07 - Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 60 - UBS maintains a bullish stance on the company despite concerns over its G7 continuous glucose monitoring sensor, expecting strong demand for CGM technology [16][17][18][19].

Core Insights - Howmet Aerospace Inc. (HWM) and Textron Inc. (TXT) are key players in the aerospace and defense industry, producing aircraft components for both commercial and military applications [1][2] Howmet Aerospace Inc. (HWM) - HWM's primary growth driver is the commercial aerospace market, with revenues increasing by 8% year-over-year in Q2 2025, accounting for 52% of its business [3] - The defense sector is also performing well, with a 21% year-over-year revenue increase in Q2 2025, representing 17% of total revenues [4] - The U.S. Defense Appropriations Act for FY 2026 allocates $831.5 billion, which is expected to benefit HWM's defense contracts [5] - HWM has a strong shareholder return policy, paying $83 million in dividends and repurchasing $300 million in shares in the first half of 2025, with a 20% dividend increase announced in August 2025 [6] Textron Inc. (TXT) - Textron's Aviation business unit has seen a revenue growth of 2.8% year-over-year in Q2 2025, supported by strong air passenger traffic and a backlog of $7.85 billion [7] - The defense segment is also performing well, with contracts signed for military aircraft, indicating solid demand [8] - Textron's cash and cash equivalents stood at $1.43 billion, with long-term debt at $3.38 billion, suggesting a solid short-term solvency position [11] - However, supply chain issues and labor shortages may hinder Textron's production capabilities and profitability [12][13] Performance Comparison - HWM shares have increased by 90.7% over the past year, while TXT shares have decreased by 3.2% [16] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for HWM indicates a 9.4% growth in sales and a 32.7% increase in EPS for 2025, while TXT's estimates show 8.1% sales growth and 11.5% EPS growth [17][18] - HWM's forward price-to-earnings ratio is significantly higher at 46.49X compared to TXT's 12.58X, indicating a steeper valuation for HWM [19] Final Assessment - HWM's leadership in both commercial and defense markets positions it favorably for long-term growth, despite its higher valuation [22] - Textron has strong momentum in the commercial aerospace sector but faces challenges from supply chain issues [21] - Overall, HWM is viewed as the better investment option compared to TXT due to stronger growth estimates and stock performance [22][23]

Group 1: AI and Market Trends - The AI-driven bull run of 2023 and 2024 is continuing into 2025, with stock prices of AI-centric companies increasing by 200-300% [1] - Hyperscalers are increasingly opting for data center installations to support the growth of cloud computing [1] Group 2: Old Economy Stocks - Several old economy stocks from sectors such as industrials, finance, auto, materials, and construction have shown significant year-to-date gains [2] - Investing in these stocks with a favorable Zacks Rank is expected to lead to profits and offers opportunities for portfolio diversification [2] Group 3: Selected Old Economy Stocks - Five old economy stocks have rallied more than 30% year to date and have favorable Zacks Ranks indicating further upside potential: Comfort Systems USA Inc. (FIX), MasTec Inc. (MTZ), JPMorgan Chase & Co. (JPM), GE Aerospace (GE), and Howmet Aerospace Inc. (HWM) [3] Group 4: Comfort Systems USA Inc. (FIX) - Comfort Systems USA is a national provider of HVAC services, primarily in commercial and industrial markets [6] - The demand for specialized HVAC solutions is driven by the data center boom, particularly for AI and cloud computing [7] - FIX has an expected revenue growth rate of 15.5% and earnings growth rate of 52.4% for the current year [10] Group 5: MasTec Inc. (MTZ) - MasTec is an infrastructure construction company benefiting from the AI data center boom and trends in electrification and reshoring [11][14] - MTZ operates in multiple segments, including communications, power delivery, pipeline infrastructure, and clean energy [13] - The company has an expected revenue growth rate of 13.6% and earnings growth rate of 60% for the current year [14] Group 6: JPMorgan Chase & Co. (JPM) - JPMorgan Chase's net interest income growth is projected to witness a CAGR of 2.9% by 2027, driven by business expansion initiatives and loan demand [15] - The company emphasizes the importance of AI in boosting efficiency, with a technology budget of $18 billion for the year [16] - Expected revenue and earnings growth rates for JPM are -0.2% and -0.6%, respectively, for the current year [17] Group 7: GE Aerospace (GE) - GE Aerospace is experiencing strong demand for commercial engines and defense-related products, supported by rising defense budgets and geopolitical tensions [18] - The company plans to invest over $1 billion in MRO facilities globally over the next five years [19] - Expected revenue and earnings growth rates for GE are -4.4% and 27.6%, respectively, for the current year [20] Group 8: Howmet Aerospace Inc. (HWM) - Howmet Aerospace is benefiting from robust momentum in the commercial aerospace market and rising defense budgets [21] - The company has a strong liquidity position that supports shareholder-friendly policies [22] - Expected revenue and earnings growth rates for HWM are 9.4% and 32.7%, respectively, for the current year [22]

Core Insights - Artificial intelligence (AI) is identified as the greatest investment opportunity of the current era, with a strong emphasis on the urgent need for energy to support its growth [1][2][3] - A specific company is highlighted as a key player in the AI energy sector, owning critical energy infrastructure assets that are essential for meeting the increasing energy demands of AI technologies [3][7][8] Investment Opportunity - Wall Street is investing heavily in AI, but there is a looming energy crisis as AI technologies require vast amounts of electricity, comparable to the consumption of small cities [2][3] - The company in focus is positioned to benefit from the surge in demand for electricity driven by AI data centers, making it a potentially lucrative investment [3][8] Company Profile - The company is described as a "toll booth" operator in the AI energy boom, collecting fees from energy exports and benefiting from the onshoring trend due to tariffs [5][6] - It possesses significant nuclear energy infrastructure assets, which are crucial for America's future power strategy, and is capable of executing large-scale engineering projects across various energy sectors [7][8] Financial Health - The company is noted for being debt-free and having a substantial cash reserve, amounting to nearly one-third of its market capitalization, which positions it favorably compared to other energy firms burdened with debt [8][10] - It also holds a significant equity stake in another AI-related company, providing indirect exposure to multiple growth opportunities in the AI sector [9][10] Market Trends - The article discusses the broader trends of AI, energy, tariffs, and onshoring, indicating that this company is strategically aligned with these developments [6][14] - The influx of talent into the AI sector is expected to drive continuous innovation and advancements, further solidifying the importance of investing in AI-related companies [12][13] Conclusion - The time to invest in AI and the associated energy infrastructure is emphasized as now, with potential for significant returns in the near future [13][15]

Core Viewpoint - Howmet Aerospace Inc. (HWM) is experiencing significant growth driven by strong demand in the defense aerospace market, which is becoming a crucial growth pillar alongside the commercial aerospace sector [1][4]. Financial Performance - In Q2 2025, revenues from the defense aerospace market increased by 21% year over year, contributing to 17% of HWM's total sales, following a 19% increase in Q1 [2]. - The Engineered Structures segment saw a revenue rise of 5.5% year over year, while the Engine Products segment reported a 13.2% year-over-year revenue increase in Q2 [2]. Market Environment - The House of Representatives passed the fiscal year 2026 Defense Appropriations Act, allocating $831.5 billion, which is expected to enhance HWM's ability to secure more defense contracts [3]. - Despite challenges such as tariffs and inflation, the defense aerospace market is providing a stable foundation for HWM, with strong momentum in the F-35 program [4]. Competitive Landscape - Textron Inc. is gaining traction in the defense sector, securing contracts with the U.S. military, including a recent contract with the Tunisian Air Force [5]. - GE Aerospace's Defense & Propulsion Technologies is also benefiting from increased demand, securing a $5 billion contract from the U.S. Air Force for F110 engines [6]. Stock Performance and Valuation - HWM's shares have surged by 88.4% over the past year, significantly outperforming the industry growth of 12.5% [9]. - HWM is trading at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 47.01X, above the industry average of 28.28X, and carries a Value Score of D [10]. - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for HWM's earnings has been increasing over the past 60 days, with current estimates for Q3 2025 at $0.90 and for the current year at $3.57 [11][12].

Core Insights - Macquarie Asset Management's "Macquarie Core Equity Fund" reported a strong performance in Q2 2025, with the Institutional Class returning 11.94%, outperforming the S&P 500 Index which rose by 10.94% [1] - The fund's performance was primarily driven by sector selection (80%) and individual security selection (20%) [1] Company Highlights - Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE:HWM) was highlighted as a key stock in the fund's portfolio, showing a one-month return of 7.01% and a remarkable 90.28% increase over the past 52 weeks [2] - As of September 17, 2025, Howmet Aerospace's stock closed at $185.39 per share, with a market capitalization of $74.736 billion [2] - The company benefits from strong demand and extended backlogs for new aircraft, as older aircraft are being utilized longer due to production challenges faced by Boeing and Airbus [3] Market Context - The overall equity market strength in Q2 2025 was attributed to reduced concerns over potential tariffs from the Trump administration, which paused tariff implementation [1] - Despite the positive outlook for Howmet Aerospace, it is not among the top 30 most popular stocks among hedge funds, with 57 hedge fund portfolios holding its stock at the end of Q2, up from 56 in the previous quarter [4]

Core Insights - Howmet Aerospace Inc. (HWM) is experiencing challenges in its commercial transportation market, with a 9% year-over-year revenue decline in the first half of 2025, primarily due to weaker OEM builds in the Forged Wheels segment [1][8] - Rising raw material costs, especially aluminum, and stringent emissions regulations are impacting the segment, alongside reduced commercial truck production due to economic uncertainties in North America [2] - Supply-chain volatility continues to affect Howmet Aerospace, leading to delays and increased costs, which are expected to persist [3] Market Performance - Despite difficulties in the commercial transportation sector, Howmet Aerospace is benefiting from strong demand in the commercial and defense aerospace markets, particularly for F-35 engine spares and aerospace fastening systems [4][8] - In comparison, peers like Textron Inc. and GE Aerospace are showing positive growth, with Textron reporting a 5.4% sales increase and GE Aerospace's revenues from Commercial Engines & Services rising by 30% year-over-year in Q2 2025 [5][6] Financial Metrics - Howmet Aerospace's stock has surged 98% over the past year, significantly outperforming the industry average growth of 14% [7] - The company is currently trading at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 45.96X, which is above the industry average of 28.16X, indicating a relatively high valuation [10] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for HWM's earnings has been increasing over the past 60 days, with current estimates for the current year at $3.57 and next year at $4.28 [11][12]

Industry Overview - The aerospace defense industry is experiencing growth despite supply-chain challenges, driven by increased defense budgets from the U.S. and geopolitical uncertainties in regions like the Middle East, Europe, and South and South-East Asia, which are expected to enhance prospects in Q4 2025 [1][9]. U.S. Defense Budget - A White House report indicated a proposed 13% increase in U.S. defense spending to $1.01 trillion for fiscal year 2026, which is anticipated to benefit defense-focused companies by enabling them to secure more contracts and expand production [2]. Investment Opportunities - It is advisable to invest in aerospace defense stocks with favorable Zacks Ranks for the remainder of 2025. Five recommended stocks include GE Aerospace, Howmet Aerospace Inc., HEICO Corp., Astronics Corp., and AerSale Corp. [3][4]. Stock Performance - The selected stocks have yielded over 35% returns year-to-date, with potential for further growth as indicated by their favorable Zacks Ranks [4][9]. Company Insights GE Aerospace - GE Aerospace, with a Zacks Rank of 1, is benefiting from strong demand for commercial engines and defense budgets, expecting organic revenue growth in the low-double-digit range for 2025 [7][8][10]. Howmet Aerospace Inc. - Howmet Aerospace, ranked 2, is experiencing momentum in the commercial aerospace market and defense sectors, with expected revenue and earnings growth rates of 9.4% and 32.4%, respectively, for the current year [11][12]. HEICO Corp. - HEICO, also ranked 2, is seeing increased orders for aftermarket parts and services, with expected revenue and earnings growth rates of 13.8% and 27.5%, respectively, for the current year [13][14]. Astronics Corp. - Astronics, holding a Zacks Rank of 1, focuses on specialized lighting and electronics for various aircraft, with expected revenue and earnings growth rates of 7% and 46.8%, respectively, for the current year [15][16]. AerSale Corp. - AerSale, ranked 1, provides diversified aviation aftermarket products and services, with expected revenue and earnings growth rates of 3.2% and 94.4%, respectively, for the current year [17][18].

ClearBridge Investments, an investment management company, released its “ClearBridge Growth Strategy” second-quarter 2025 investor letter. A copy of the letter can be downloaded here. US equities significantly rallied in the second quarter, with the S&P 500 returning 10.9%. As the risk-on sentiment took hold, the benchmark Russell Midcap Growth Index advanced a market-leading 18.2%. Growth stocks led across market caps, outperforming their value counterparts. In this environment, the strategy outperformed t ...