Economic Overview - The U.S. economy is experiencing persistent inflation and slowing job growth, increasing the likelihood of interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve [1] - Tariffs, supply-chain issues, and inconsistent business investment are negatively impacting economic growth, making it challenging for retail investors to interpret market signals and achieve solid returns [1] Broker Recommendations - Following brokers' recommendations can simplify investment decisions, with stocks like Illumina, Inc. (ILMN), Commercial Metals Company (CMC), and Newmont Corporation (NEM) being highlighted as potential opportunities [2] - Brokers provide insights through direct engagement with company management, analysis of public disclosures, and participation in earnings calls, which helps evaluate a company's fundamentals in the broader economic context [3] Stock Upgrades - Broker upgrades are often based on new information, earnings surprises, improving industry conditions, margin expansion, balance-sheet improvements, or attractive valuations relative to growth [4] - While broker upgrades are valuable, they should not be the sole basis for investment decisions; long-term returns require consideration of multiple factors including fundamental strength and industry dynamics [5] Stock Screening Strategy - A screening strategy identifies stocks with broker rating upgrades of 1% or more over the past four weeks, priced above $5, and with an average 20-day trading volume greater than 100,000 [6] - Stocks with a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy) or 2 (Buy) have a proven track record, and those with a VGM Score of A or B combined with a Zacks Rank 1 or 2 show the best upside potential [7] Company Highlights - Illumina, based in San Diego, specializes in sequencing and array-based solutions for genetic analysis, with a projected earnings increase of 92.2% year-over-year in 2025 and a 5% broker rating upgrade in the last four weeks [8][9] - Commercial Metals, located in Irving, TX, focuses on manufacturing and recycling steel and metal products, expecting an 87.5% earnings surge in fiscal 2026 with an 8.3% broker rating upgrade [10][11] - Newmont, one of the largest gold producers globally, anticipates a 74.1% earnings increase in 2025, supported by a 4.8% broker rating upgrade in the past four weeks [10][12]