Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the most profitable NYSE stocks to buy currently, emphasizing the importance of earnings estimates over traditional valuation methods in stock selection [1][2][4]. Group 1: Market Outlook - Daniel McCormack from Macquarie Asset Management predicts a solid growth year in 2026, estimating global growth at 3.5%, aligning with long-term averages [3]. - The US economy is expected to remain strong, with gradual recoveries in Europe and the UK, contributing to a constructive environment for asset prices [4]. Group 2: Methodology - The list of profitable NYSE stocks was created using stock screeners, focusing on those with the highest trailing twelve months (TTM) net income and net income margins [6]. - The final selection included 11 stocks with the highest number of hedge fund holders as of Q3 2025, sourced from Insider Monkey's database [6][7]. Group 3: Company Highlights - **Novartis AG (NYSE:NVS)**: - TTM Net Income: $14.39 billion, Net Income Margin: 25.53%, Hedge Fund Holders: 33 [9]. - HSBC raised the price target to $112 from $106 while maintaining a Reduce rating, indicating a positive outlook for the pharma sector [10]. - Novartis announced positive Phase III trial results for ianalumab, showing a 45% extension in disease control for patients with primary immune thrombocytopenia [10][11]. - **BlackRock, Inc. (NYSE:BLK)**: - TTM Net Income: $6.1 billion, Net Income Margin: 26.64%, Hedge Fund Holders: 63 [12]. - Barclays reduced its price target to $1,340 from $1,360 but maintained an Overweight rating, reflecting a constructive market outlook for 2026 [13]. - BofA raised the price target to $1,464 from $1,456, reaffirming a Buy rating, favoring alternative asset managers due to a stronger macro backdrop [15].