Core Insights - U.S. equities finished 2025 positively, with the S&P 500 increasing approximately 16%, but the outlook is complicated due to geopolitical risks and policy uncertainties [2][3] Economic Environment - Geopolitical risks have resurfaced, particularly following President Trump's announcement of temporary U.S. control over Venezuela, raising concerns about stability in a significant oil-producing country [2] - Investors are preparing for policy uncertainties, including a Supreme Court ruling on tariffs and the appointment of a new Federal Reserve chair, which may lead to increased market volatility [3] Investment Strategy - In a climate of policy uncertainty and geopolitical risks, value investing is recommended for stability, focusing on companies with strong fundamentals, reasonable valuations, and durable cash flows [4] - Earnings yield is highlighted as a valuable metric for identifying undervalued stocks, calculated as annual earnings per share divided by market price, providing insight into the anticipated return on investment [6][7] Stock Screening Criteria - A screening criterion of an earnings yield greater than 10% is established, alongside estimated EPS growth for the next 12 months being greater than or equal to the S&P 500, and an average daily trading volume of at least 100,000 [9][10] - Stocks must also have a current price of $5 or more to qualify for consideration [12] Selected Stocks - Allied Gold Corporation (AAUC): Expected 2026 sales growth of 45% and earnings growth of 323%, with EPS estimates rising by $0.85 [13] - Alcoa Corp. (AA): Anticipated 2026 sales growth of 7% and earnings growth of 29%, with EPS estimates increasing by $1.03 [14] - Star Bulk Carriers (SBLK): Projected 2026 sales growth of 19% and earnings growth of 224%, with EPS estimates up by $0.61 [15] - PHINIA Inc. (PHIN): Expected 2026 sales growth of 2% and earnings growth of 15%, with EPS estimates rising by $0.52 [16]
4 High Earnings Yield Value Stocks to Own Amid Market Uncertainty