On this week’s episode of The Morning Filter, hosts Dave Sekera and Susan Dziubinski delved into critical economic indicators as the Federal Reserve prepares for a potentially substantial interest rate cut. With anticipation surrounding Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s upcoming remarks, the conversation pivoted to the implications of these decisions on the markets.
Investors are particularly keen on upcoming earnings reports, including those from Lennar (LEN), FedEx (FDX), and Darden Restaurants (DRI). Sekera expressed interest in the earnings results, highlighting potential pivots in market trends based on performance.
The episode also featured a discussion centered on Oracle (ORCL), which has garnered significant attention for its surprisingly robust forecast. Sekera likened the excitement around Oracle’s performance to the late 1990s, an era marked by tech-stock exuberance, inviting listeners to consider whether this enthusiasm is warranted or fleeting.
In examining the earnings landscape, the hosts reviewed results from notable companies such as Adobe (ADBE) and Chewy (CHWY), responding to listener inquiries about various stocks of interest.
The latter part of the episode shifted focus to small-cap stocks, which Sekera and special guest Bryan Armour—a director of ETF and passive strategies research at Morningstar—characterized as undervalued amid a market perceived as relatively stable. Armour suggested that investors should consider ETFs that focus on smaller companies, offering several recommendations for those looking to capitalize on potential gains.
Sekera concluded the episode by identifying specific undervalued small-cap stocks that he believes could see significant rallies in the near future. Listeners were encouraged to engage by sending questions to the show’s email, fostering a sense of community among investors keen on enhancing their market knowledge.
The discussion underscored Morningstar’s commitment to informing investors about market opportunities while navigating the complexities of stock investing. Additionally, listeners are encouraged to explore Morningstar’s investing guides, providing insights into stock-picking strategies and market outlooks.
For those interested in engaging further with the content, episodes of The Morning Filter are available on platforms like Apple Podcasts and other podcast services. The conversation promises to keep investors informed as they navigate the fluctuating landscape of the stock market.
