Lucas Cheah : $103,800

Lucas Cheah : $FedEx (FDX.US)$  earnings prospects remain strong due to improvements in cost optimization and operational efficiency. The company has focused on streamlining its networks and lowering expenses as part of its DRIVE program. Additionally, growth in e-commerce shipments and international trade recovery post-pandemic provides tailwinds. For example, its Express segment saw improved margins, while Ground shipping remains a steady revenue driver. However, economic uncertainty and fuel costs could pose challenges.
$Micron Technology (MU.US)$  earnings prospects look promising, driven by increasing demand for memory and storage solutions in AI, data centers, and automotive markets. The ongoing adoption of DDR5 memory and high-bandwidth DRAM solutions positions Micron well as tech giants, like Nvidia, push AI infrastructure. For example, demand for HPC systems and cloud-based storage has been robust. Still, Micron must navigate through pricing pressures and cyclical downturns in the semiconductor sector.
$BlackBerry (BB.US)$  earnings potential hinges on its shift toward software and cybersecurity services, particularly its QNX operating system for automotive and IoT sectors. Growing partnerships with automakers for connected vehicles, as seen with Volkswagen and BMW, highlight future growth opportunities. Its cybersecurity division is also gaining traction amid rising demand for endpoint protection solutions. However, BlackBerry remains challenged by intense competition and slower revenue recovery.

Lucas Cheah : With the uncertainties we have seen in recent years (e.g., rising interest rates, inflation, and geopolitical tensions), people are wondering: 'Where should I put my money to grow and protect my savings in 2025?' What strategies or themes would you recommend for someone who wants to balance stability and growth in this environment?

Lucas Cheah : I am feeling optimistic about the Nasdaq 100 this week as tech stocks have been leading the charge lately, and with investor sentiment leaning bullish, there is a chance we could see another rally. Factors I am watching include earnings reports from big tech companies, any Fed interest rate policy updates, and overall market reactions to economic data. AI, cloud computing, and semiconductors will likely play a big role, so stocks like Nvidia, Microsoft, and Amazon are on my radar. If the macro environment holds steady, I would not be surprised to see the Nasdaq push higher!

Lucas Cheah : I am definitely more inclined toward long-term investments. For me, it is all about building a solid foundation for future growth and stability. I like the idea of holding onto quality assets, watching them mature over time, and letting compounding work its magic. It aligns better with my financial goals and peace of mind.

Lucas Cheah : In light of the Fed's rate cuts and the global trend toward monetary easing, this is an opportunity to lean into growth-oriented sectors. Lower interest rates often fuel tech and consumer discretionary stocks, so I suggest adding names like Nvidia or Amazon to my portfolio. At the same time, I would keep an eye on dividend-paying stocks for steady income in this environment. Overall, I feel cautiously optimistic about the global economy as this easing cycle could support recovery and growth, but I am staying mindful of potential inflation risks down the road.

Lucas Cheah : I believe that the key drivers in the 2025 markets will be U.S. fiscal policy, AI innovation, and interest rate trends. With Donald Trump taking office, I expect pro-business policies and potential tax cuts to fuel bullish sentiment, especially in sectors like energy, defense, and financials. AI advancements will continue to reshape industries, driving demand for companies leading in automation and machine learning. Lastly, if the Fed maintains a rate-cutting stance, it could rally growth stocks and boost overall market liquidity.

Lucas Cheah : $C3.ai (AI.US)$
The growing adoption of AI-driven enterprise solutions fuels C3.ai’s earnings prospects. The company’s focus on industry-specific AI applications, like predictive maintenance for manufacturing, gives it a competitive edge. C3.ai recently launched the C3 Generative AI Suite, which integrates large language models (LLMs) into enterprise workflows, attracting demand from sectors like energy and defence. While revenue growth potential is high, the company is not yet profitable, and high R&D expenses may weigh on margins.
$GameStop (GME.US)$
GameStop faces declining earnings prospects due to shifts in consumer behaviour from physical to digital game downloads. However, its pivot toward e-commerce and efforts to expand into collectibles and hardware provide potential upside. GameStop has expanded into NFT and blockchain initiatives, but results have been mixed, with limited impact on revenue. Cost-cutting measures and e-commerce growth offer some support, but fundamental challenges remain, especially in physical retail.
$Costco (COST.US)$
Costco’s earnings remain strong due to its subscription-based model and steady demand for bulk consumer goods, especially during economic uncertainty. The success of Costco's Kirkland Signature private-label brand boosts profit margins, while membership fee renewals drive recurring revenue. Earnings are expected to remain stable, driven by consumer loyalty and consistent membership renewals, though higher costs could impact margins.
$Broadcom (AVGO.US)$
Strong semiconductor demand supports Broadcom’s earnings prospects, particularly in AI chips and 5G infrastructure. Its software business, bolstered by acquisitions like VMware, adds a recurring revenue stream. Broadcom’s custom chips are essential for AI platforms like Nvidia’s H100, exposing it to the rapidly growing AI sector. With exposure to AI, 5G, and enterprise software, Broadcom’s diversified portfolio positions it for long-term earnings growth.

Lucas Cheah : Using the Institutional Tracker tool, I have listed below 5 stocks that would be perfect for Max’s portfolio. Berkshire Hathaway Inc. ’s holdings mainly influence my picks.
1. $Apple (AAPL.US)$  
Apple is a global leader in innovation, and its ecosystem of devices and services creates customer loyalty like no other. I like the company's consistent revenue growth from iPhones, Macs, and wearables, but I am even more excited about its growing services business, which provides steady, recurring income. Plus, if it’s good enough for Buffett, it’s good enough for me.
2. $BYD COMPANY (01211.HK)$    
BYD is a rising star in the EV market, and its edge in battery technology gives it a unique advantage over competitors. As EV adoption grows globally, I see BYD riding the wave of increased demand. Knowing that Berkshire Hathaway has backed BYD for years gives me confidence in its long-term potential.
3. $Coca-Cola (KO.US)$    
Coca-Cola is the definition of a "forever stock" for me. People will always drink Coke, whether the economy is booming or struggling. Its strong brand and global distribution network make it a reliable dividend payer, and Warren Buffett's loyalty to KO says it all — stability, dividends, and staying power.
4. $Bank of America (BAC.US)$      
Bank of America plays on the strength of the financial sector. I like that it benefits from rising interest rates, increasing net interest income, and has a strong customer base with diversified banking services. I am happy to follow suit if it is one of Buffett’s top bank picks.
5. $Visa (V.US)$        
Visa stands at the heart of global payments, and its shift to digital payments only strengthens its dominance. With more people using cashless payment options daily, Visa benefits from every swipe, tap, or click. It is hard to argue with a cash machine like Visa — and clearly, Buffett sees that too.