Record-Breaking Surge in Precious MetalsGold recently broke historical records, exceeding $3,900 per ounce, and silver later followed suit, reaching a maximum of $48 per troy ounce. At first glance, it may seem that this is a signal for investors to urgently increase the share of precious metals in their portfolios in order to profit from the growth. But let’s take a closer look at what is behind this increase and what risks this story entails.Reasons for the Gold RushFirst and foremost, this rise in gold p ...

Piper Sandler downgraded MetLife (NYSE:MET) to Neutral from Overweight on Friday on a lack of upcoming catalysts and the prospect for increased competition among asset managers for capital as interest rates decline. "We believe many of the catalysts are known ...

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to investment recommendations, considering the entire investment ecosystem rather than evaluating companies in isolation [1]. Group 1: Analyst Background - Michael Del Monte is a buy-side equity analyst with over 5 years of experience in the investment management industry [1]. - Prior to his current role, he spent over a decade in professional services across various industries, including Oil & Gas, Oilfield Services, Midstream, Industrials, Information Technology, EPC Services, and Consumer Discretionary [1]. Group 2: Investment Philosophy - Investment recommendations are based on a comprehensive understanding of the investment ecosystem, highlighting the interconnectedness of various sectors and companies [1].

Core Viewpoint - LHV Group demonstrated strong financial performance in Q2 2025, achieving a net profit of 30.8 million euros, a 6% increase from the previous quarter, despite lower interest rates impacting revenue [1][5][8]. Financial Performance - LHV Group's consolidated revenue for Q1 2025 was 73.9 million euros, reflecting a 7% decrease from the previous quarter and a 14% decrease year-on-year [3]. - The net interest income for Q2 2025 was 57.6 million euros, while net fee and commission income was 15.6 million euros [3][7]. - Total expenses for Q2 2025 amounted to 40.5 million euros, an 8% increase from the previous quarter and an 11% increase year-on-year [3][7]. - The consolidated net profit for the first half of 2025 was 59.9 million euros, a decrease of 24% compared to the same period last year [5]. Asset and Loan Portfolio Growth - As of June 2025, LHV Group's consolidated assets reached 9.38 billion euros, a 10% increase from the previous quarter and a 28% increase year-on-year [4]. - The loan portfolio increased by 269 million euros (6%) in Q2 2025, totaling 5 billion euros, with a year-on-year increase of 1.1 billion euros (28%) [4][19]. - Consolidated deposits rose by 760 million euros (12%) to 7.36 billion euros [4]. Subsidiary Performance - All subsidiaries of LHV Group were profitable in Q2 2025, with LHV Pank earning a net profit of 29.7 million euros [2]. - LHV Kindlustus reported a 62% increase in net profit compared to the previous quarter, although it was slightly below the financial plan [15]. - LHV Bank Limited in the UK saw its loan portfolio grow by 79 million euros to 569 million euros [12][14]. Client Growth and Services - The number of clients at LHV Pank increased by 8,300 in Q2 2025, with deposits rising by 576 million euros [9]. - An innovative banking service, LHV Premium, was launched, combining banking, insurance, and travel services [9]. - The mobile bank for retail banking was launched, attracting 1,000 clients and 17 million euros in new deposits [14]. Market Position and Ratings - LHV Group is well-capitalized, having issued AT1 bonds worth 50 million euros and unsecured bonds worth 60 million euros in Q2 2025 [18]. - Moody's Ratings upgraded LHV Pank's covered bond programme to the highest level, Aaa, reflecting the group's strong financial position [18].