Market Overview - The S&P 500 Index (SPX) experienced a significant decline, with a projected 5% loss for Q1 2025, contrasting with a double-digit gain at the end of Q1 2024 [2] - The ongoing tariff disputes and recent personal consumption expenditures (PCE) readings have contributed to market uncertainty [2] Stock Performance - Of the 17 highlighted stock picks for 2025, only four are showing positive performance for Q1 2025 [3] - A detailed performance table shows various stocks with year-to-date (YTD) and year-over-year (YoY) changes, with notable declines in stocks like Coinbase Global (-28.00% YTD) and LendingClub (-35.20% YTD) [4] Stock Picks Analysis Tier One: Leaders of the Pack - Deutsche Bank (DB) is highlighted as a leader with a 40.80% YTD gain, despite a high short interest [7] - Ezcorp (EZPW) is noted for its contrarian potential, with a 20.80% YTD gain [8] - Sea Ltd (SE) saw a significant rise after a strong earnings report, reaching a peak of $147.72 [10] Tier Two: The Forest From the Trees - Despite poor YTD performance, many stocks have strong YoY gains, indicating potential buying opportunities [11] - Beam Therapeutics (BEAM) received a "buy" upgrade and has FDA clearance for a study, suggesting potential upside [12] - Bloom Energy (BE) and Boeing (BA) are also mentioned as stocks to watch due to their technical support levels [13] Tier Three: Watch This Space - SEI Investments (SEIC) has lost its cup-and-handle pattern but could reclaim its $10 billion market cap [14] - Carvana (CVNA) has shown resilience after a drawdown, bouncing off its 260-day moving average [15] - Roku (ROKU) has faced significant declines but remains a key stock to monitor due to its support levels [16] Tier Five: AI Bubble Bursting? - Concerns are raised about the sustainability of the AI sector, with specific mentions of Nebius Group (NBIS), STMicroelectronics (STM), and Dell Technologies (DELL) [17] Sector Insights - The fintech sector, including SoFi Technologies (SOFI) and LendingClub, has struggled significantly, with both stocks experiencing post-earnings declines [18][19] - Retail investors have remained active, pouring $67 billion into U.S. stocks in Q1 2025, while institutional investors are focusing on overseas markets [21]