Top Investment Opportunities in Stocks for 2017
Explore top stock investment opportunities for 2017, including reliable picks like Ulta, Johnson & Johnson, Facebook, and others. Learn about sectors poised for growth and strategic options to diversify your portfolio, backed by insights from experts and market trends for a successful year.
Top Investment Opportunities in Stocks for 2017
Although 2016 faced a rocky start, stock markets quickly rebounded to reach record highs. Investors are optimistic about robust economic growth in 2017, making it an ideal time to reassess investment options.
Based on insights from U.S. News, here are some of the most promising stocks to consider for 2017:
Ulta Beauty, Inc. (ULTA)
Ulta has consistently surpassed expectations with remarkable quarterly growth. Over the past five years, its stock has increased by 220%. With plans to open 500 new stores over five years, it aims to boost its retail footprint by 75%. Despite underrated status on Wall Street, Ulta is set to double its market share by 2018, making it an excellent investment choice for 2017.
While it may not be the fastest-growing stock, JNJ offers stability and attractive dividends. It has increased its dividend annually for 53 years, now yielding 2.7%. As a diversified healthcare giant, JNJ's revenue streams include pharmaceuticals, consumer health products, and medical devices, generating billions in sales annually, making it a dependable investment.
Following President Trump's inauguration, IBB experienced an 8.9% surge, reflecting optimism amid healthcare sector reforms. This ETF remains a top choice for investors seeking biotech exposure in 2017.
As the owner of popular online dating platforms like Match.com, OkCupid, PlentyOfFish, and Tinder, Match Group has seen significant growth. Since its 2015 IPO, shares have increased by 30%, with paid memberships up 33% and revenues with a 22% increase in the last quarter. The company aims to expand globally in 2017, presenting a solid investment opportunity.
Despite eventual maturation, Facebook continues to dominate the social media landscape. With innovative features such as Facebook Live and expanding products like Messenger and Instagram, the platform's user base exceeds 2 billion globally. Its ongoing product development secures its status as an attractive investment in 2017.
As one of the largest insurance firms in the U.S., Prudential offers a relatively conservative investment with a 2.8% dividend yield. With rising interest rates, PRU and similar insurers are well-positioned to perform strongly in 2017.
Known for its diversified portfolio, 3M has steadily increased its dividend over the past 57 years, offering a yield of 2.6%. In 2017, the company aims to generate 40% of its revenue from products developed in recent years, promising reliable income for investors.
- General Motors (GM) — trading at a P/E ratio of 4.3, with potential for growth due to resilient market presence.
- ONE Gas (OGS) — benefiting from growth in population centers and favorable rates, with acquisition opportunities.
- USG Corporation (USG) — trusted for solid fundamentals and consistent sales growth.
- Independence Realty Trust (IRT) — with appealing dividends and growth prospects through equity offerings.
- Forterra (FRTA) — generating about $1 billion annually, expanding into infrastructure products with high growth potential.
- Dycom Industries — enhancing internet services with growth from $1.16 to $5 per share since 2014, expected to continue rising.
- IBM (IBM) — leveraging $5 billion investments in 2016, pioneering in artificial intelligence technology, with promising growth prospects. Besides these, giants like Apple, Alphabet, and Amazon remain prime investment options for 2017.
