ZACKS·2025-11-13 14:11Market Performance - The U.S. stock market indices showed mixed results, with the S&P 500 increasing by approximately 0.1%, the Nasdaq Composite decreasing by 0.3%, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average rising by 0.7% [1] Investment Strategy - In uncertain market conditions, it is suggested that investors consider low-leverage stocks as safer investment options. Recommended companies include CSW Industrials, Jones Lang LaSalle, Hecla Mining, Safran SA, and Siemens Energy, all of which exhibit low leverage [2][10] Understanding Leverage - Leverage in finance refers to borrowing capital for operations and expansion, typically through debt financing. While debt can facilitate growth, excessive reliance on it can lead to significant risks [4][5] Debt-to-Equity Ratio - The debt-to-equity ratio is a key metric for assessing a company's financial risk, with a lower ratio indicating better solvency. Investors are encouraged to focus on stocks with low debt-to-equity ratios to mitigate risks during economic downturns [7][9] Company Highlights - CSW Industrials: Recently completed a $650 million acquisition to enhance its HVAC and refrigeration market presence. The Zacks Consensus Estimate predicts a 23.5% sales increase for fiscal 2026 [15][16] - Jones Lang LaSalle: Reported a 29% year-over-year increase in adjusted earnings per share and a 10% revenue growth in local currency for Q3 2025. The Zacks Consensus Estimate suggests a 10.3% sales improvement for 2025 [17][18] - Hecla Mining: Achieved a 65.4% revenue increase and a 204.4% gross profit surge in Q3 2025. The Zacks Consensus Estimate indicates a 33.3% sales growth for 2025 [19][20] - Safran: Announced a partnership renewal with Polytechnique Montréal to support sustainable aviation technologies, with a projected 39.9% sales improvement for 2025 [21][22] - Siemens Energy: Focuses on renewable energy, particularly wind power, and is set to supply gas turbines to Xcel Energy, with a 21.2% sales growth forecast for fiscal 2026 [23][24]