Core Insights - Gold prices have increased significantly, rising from approximately $1,800 per ounce five years ago to nearly $4,100 per ounce, resulting in a 128% return, outperforming the S&P 500's 80% return over the same period [1][7]. Investment Opportunities - The SPDR Gold Shares ETF (GLD) is highlighted as an excellent option for both active and passive investors seeking exposure to gold prices, benefiting from increasing retail and institutional demand [4][6]. - GLD serves as a benchmark for precious metals traders and is considered a lower-risk investment vehicle for those looking for reliable exposure to precious metals over time [5]. - Agnico Eagle (AEM) is projected to achieve 20% annual EPS growth and trades at 24 times earnings, indicating strong performance potential [7]. - Franco-Nevada (FNV) operates with 87% gross margins and analysts forecast a 30% EPS growth, suggesting robust financial health and growth prospects [7].

Core Insights - Investing in small-cap stocks can be a beneficial addition to a portfolio, but there are multiple options available for investors looking to grow their wealth over time [1][3]. Investment Returns - Historical data from 1802 to 2021 shows that stocks have an annualized nominal return of 8.4%, outperforming bonds (5%), bills (4%), gold (2.1%), and the U.S. dollar (1.4%) [1]. - An investment of $6,000 annually at an 8% growth rate can grow to $1,554,339 over 40 years, while $12,000 annually can reach $3,108,678 in the same period [2]. Growth Stocks and ETFs - To accelerate portfolio growth, investors may consider adding growth stocks through growth-oriented ETFs [3]. - The iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF focuses on smaller companies with significant growth potential, currently priced at $308.52 with a 2.60% increase [4][5]. Performance Comparison - The iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF has shown average annual gains of 18.69% over one year, 14.33% over three years, 8.86% over five years, and 9.63% over ten years [5]. - In comparison, the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF has outperformed the iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF across all time frames, with gains of 21.48% (1 year), 22.63% (3 years), 17.58% (5 years), and 14.60% (10 years) [6]. ETF Composition - The iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF includes 1,090 companies with an overall price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 26.5, featuring top holdings such as Bloom Energy (1.59%) and Credo Technology (1.46%) [7]. - Unlike the S&P 500, which is heavily concentrated in its top 10 holdings, the iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF maintains a more diversified portfolio [7][8]. Alternative Investment Options - Other options for including small companies in a portfolio include the Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF, which has an average annual gain of 12.63% over one year, 19.50% over three years, 13.72% over five years, and 13.62% over ten years [9]. - The Vanguard Small-Cap ETF, which includes over 1,300 companies, is another alternative for investors seeking exposure to both growth and value-oriented small-cap stocks [10].

Core Insights - The article highlights four Singapore stocks that may present hidden investment opportunities despite recent declines: Mapletree Industrial Trust, SATS Ltd., United Overseas Bank, and Genting Singapore [1] Mapletree Industrial Trust (SGX: ME8U) - MIT's share price has decreased approximately 10% year-to-date due to investor caution regarding industrial REIT valuations amid global manufacturing slowdowns and rising interest rates [2][3] - The trust reported a 6.2% year-on-year decline in gross revenue to S$170.2 million and a 5.6% year-on-year drop in distribution per unit (DPU) to S$0.0318 for 2QFY2025/26 [2] - Despite the downturn, MIT maintains a stable occupancy rate of 91.3% and has a diversified tenant base, with its largest tenant contributing only 6.6% of gross rental income [3] - The portfolio consists of 136 properties, with data centers making up 58.3%, which supports long-term rental stability as demand for data infrastructure grows [4] SATS Ltd. (SGX: S58) - SATS's share price has fallen around 8% over the past year, trading at approximately S$3.34 per share, influenced by global trade disruptions and increased debt from the acquisition of Worldwide Flight Services [5] - The company achieved a revenue of S$1.6 billion for 2QFY2026, an 8.4% year-on-year increase, and operating profit surged 23.7% year-on-year to S$157.4 million [6] - The acquisition of WFS has expanded SATS's cargo handling network, positioning the company to benefit from the recovery in global air travel and increasing air cargo volume [7] United Overseas Bank (SGX: U11) - UOB's shares have faced pressure due to narrowing net interest margins, increased provisions, and global trade uncertainties, reporting a 72% decline in net profit for 3Q2025 to S$443 million [9] - The bank's total income for 3Q2025 decreased 11% year-on-year to S$3.4 billion, but loan growth increased by 5% to S$351.1 billion [10] - UOB maintains a strong dividend track record with a trailing dividend yield of 6% and a payout ratio of approximately 50%, indicating robust underlying business momentum [11] Genting Singapore (SGX: G13) - Genting Singapore's share price was affected by a slower-than-expected recovery in Chinese visitor arrivals and renovation costs at Resorts World Sentosa [12] - The company reported a revenue of S$649.8 million for 3Q2025, a 16% year-on-year growth, and a net profit of S$94.6 million, up 19% year-on-year [13] - The completion of new attractions has increased non-gaming revenue, and the company is well-positioned for future tourism demand as it continues to pay consistent dividends [13][14] Common Traits Among These Hidden Gems - All four companies face near-term challenges but maintain strong core business fundamentals and cash generation capabilities [15] - They continue to reward shareholders with dividend distributions, providing attractive yields for income-focused investors [16] - These stocks offer diversification across various sectors of Singapore's economy, allowing investors to build exposure to multiple recovery stories [16] Implications for Investors - The current market weakness presents an opportunity to invest in quality companies at more attractive valuations, especially when their underlying business fundamentals remain sound [17] - Disciplined analysis of balance sheets and competitive advantages can help investors build positions ahead of market revaluation [17][18]

Core Insights - Domino's long-term strategy focuses on scalable, franchise-driven growth with a target of 50,000 global stores, particularly in international markets [1] - The company benefits from over 85% of U.S. revenue coming from digital orders, enhancing efficiency and average order values [1] - Wall Street maintains a Buy rating on Domino's, with an average price target around $488, reflecting a range of expectations influenced by cost pressures and demand trends [2] Expansion and Digital Strategy - Domino's is leveraging its extensive delivery network and rapid store expansion, alongside a growing digital ordering system, to pursue ambitious global targets [4] - The franchise model provides insulation from operational risks while generating stable, high-margin royalty and supply chain revenue [1][6] Market Challenges - Rising food and labor costs, along with tightening household budgets and increased competition, are creating volatility in the stock's risk-reward profile [4] - The pizza market is experiencing flat growth, necessitating market share gains from competitors, which may require costly promotions [7] Financial Performance and Predictions - Analysts predict a potential decline in Domino's stock by 2030, raising concerns about its ability to maintain dominance in a slowing pizza market [5] - Price predictions for DPZ stock in 2025 range from a bullish estimate of $424.45 to a bearish estimate of $391.65, indicating uncertainty [9] Cost Management and Shareholder Returns - Domino's management has shown strong discipline in controlling costs and protecting margins during inflationary periods, while maintaining a history of dividend increases [6] - The company remains committed to shareholder returns through dividends and buybacks, but rising costs may challenge the sustainability of these capital allocation decisions [16] International Performance and Competitive Landscape - International performance is a critical factor influenced by currency fluctuations and geopolitical issues, which could impact overall growth [8] - The competitive landscape is evolving, with third-party delivery platforms and aggressive rivals like Papa John's affecting Domino's pricing power [8]

Core Viewpoint - Bitcoin's recent decline has reignited criticism from economist Peter Schiff, who argues that its recovery depends on an unlikely intervention from the U.S. government to purchase large amounts of BTC for its Strategic Reserve, which he views as a taxpayer-funded bailout for speculators [2]. Group 1: Criticism of Bitcoin - Schiff accuses financial media of legitimizing Bitcoin, which he describes as a digital pyramid scheme, suggesting that a collapse would undermine both overleveraged investors and the credibility of institutions that promoted it [3]. - He challenges Bitcoin's cultural mantra of "never sell," claiming it is a psychological tactic used by large investors to keep retail holders invested while they exit [3]. Group 2: Market Conditions and Predictions - With Bitcoin prices falling and many small investors facing forced liquidations due to borrowing against their BTC, structural weaknesses in the market are becoming more apparent [4]. - Schiff maintains a bearish long-term outlook, predicting that Bitcoin could drop significantly below $88,000 by 2026, noting a nearly 30% decline from its peak in dollar terms and a 42% drop when compared to gold [4].

Core Insights - Al Warda Investments, under the Abu Dhabi Investment Council (ADIC), significantly increased its Bitcoin exposure by over 230% in Q3, raising its holdings to nearly 8 million shares valued at $517.6 million [1][3][9] - This strategic move indicates a shift in ADIC's investment approach, moving from private market strategies to public digital asset investments, particularly in Bitcoin [4][9] Investment Strategy - The increase in Bitcoin holdings aligns with a broader trend of institutional investors entering or expanding their positions in spot Bitcoin ETFs, despite recent market volatility [6][9] - ADIC views Bitcoin as a long-term store of value, akin to gold, and plans to hold both assets for portfolio diversification [5][6] Market Context - Bitcoin's price experienced significant fluctuations, peaking near $126,000 in October before dropping below $90,000 in November, which has affected ETF sentiment [3][6] - The iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) faced its largest single-day outflow on November 18, 2024, but showed signs of recovery with a net inflow shortly after [7] Institutional Trends - Harvard's endowment fund also made a notable investment in Bitcoin, allocating $443 million to IBIT, which represents about 20% of its U.S. equity exposure, highlighting growing institutional interest in Bitcoin [8]

Core Insights - Alphabet's stock has increased by 17% in the past month, but Meta Platforms may present a more advantageous investment opportunity due to stronger revenue growth and profitability [2] - Meta's quarterly revenue growth stands at 26.2%, while Alphabet's is at 15.9%. Over the last 12 months, Meta's revenue growth is 21.3%, compared to Alphabet's 13.4% [2] - Meta's profitability is superior, with a last twelve months (LTM) margin of 43.2% and a three-year average margin of 37.4% [2] Financial Comparison - A side-by-side comparison of financials shows that Meta outperforms Alphabet in growth, margins, momentum, and valuation multiples [3] - Detailed revenue and operating income comparisons are available for both companies, highlighting the differences in their financial health [4] Market Performance - Historical market performance data indicates cumulative total returns since the start of 2020, with specific metrics such as win rate and maximum drawdown being relevant for investors [5] - The Trefis High Quality (HQ) Portfolio, which includes 30 different stocks, has consistently outperformed benchmarks like the S&P 500, S&P mid-cap, and Russell 2000, indicating a strategy of diversified investments [8]

Core Insights - The logistics sector has seen significant engagement from investors, particularly in the ASEAN and US markets, highlighting its growth potential and diversification opportunities [1] - The popularity of insurance companies in the Philippines since 2014 indicates a shift in investment strategies among local investors, moving towards a more diversified portfolio [1] - The entry into the US market has provided additional avenues for investment, particularly in sectors such as banking, hotels, and logistics, reflecting a broader trend of globalization in investment strategies [1] Investment Strategies - Initial investments were focused on blue-chip companies, but there has been a diversification into various industries and market capitalizations over time [1] - The approach includes holding stocks for retirement as well as for trading profits, showcasing a dual strategy in investment [1] - The use of platforms like Seeking Alpha has facilitated knowledge sharing and comparative analysis between different markets, enhancing investment decision-making [1]

Core Insights - The recent sell-off in the cryptocurrency market has raised questions about the future price trajectory of bitcoin, with speculation on whether the dip is temporary or indicative of a larger crash [1] - Despite price volatility, bitcoin continues to offer significant portfolio benefits, including diversification and potential inflation hedging [2][3] Portfolio Diversification - Exposure to bitcoin can enhance portfolio diversification due to its traditionally low correlation with equity and fixed income markets, allowing it to perform differently compared to other investment strategies [2] - The low correlation of bitcoin with traditional asset classes provides true diversification benefits, even when employing risk-managed strategies [8] Inflation Hedge - Bitcoin is viewed as a potential hedge against inflation, with its capped supply of 21 million coins contributing to its perceived scarcity and resistance to devaluation [3] Investment Strategies - The Calamos Laddered Bitcoin 90 Series Structured Alt Protection ETF (CBXL) combines bitcoin exposure with risk management, offering liquidity, tax efficiency, and lower expense ratios [5] - CBXL's strategy includes a laddered portfolio of four different Calamos Protected Bitcoin ETFs, providing 90% downside protection over a one-year period while still allowing for significant upside exposure [6][7] Risk Management - The underlying ETFs in CBXL are designed to maintain a low correlation with equities, fixed income, and gold, thus providing a managed downside risk while still offering diversification benefits [8]

Core Insights - The logistics sector has seen significant engagement from investors, particularly in the ASEAN and US markets, highlighting its growth potential and diversification opportunities [1] - The popularity of insurance companies in the Philippines since 2014 has influenced investment strategies, leading to a broader portfolio that includes various industries and market capitalizations [1] - The entry into the US market in 2020 has allowed for comparative analysis between US and ASEAN markets, particularly in sectors like banking, hotels, and logistics [1] Investment Strategies - Initial investments were focused on blue-chip companies, but the strategy has evolved to include a mix of retirement holdings and trading profits across different sectors [1] - The encouragement to diversify investments beyond traditional savings in banks and properties has led to a more dynamic investment approach [1] - The use of platforms like Seeking Alpha has facilitated knowledge sharing and enhanced market awareness, particularly for newer investors in the US market [1]