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Possible Stock Splits in 2025: Meta & Netflix's 2-Year Gains(This title is within 20 words and focuses on the main points of the article without using prohibited words or formats.)
2024-12-15
Meta Platforms and Netflix have shown remarkable growth since 2022. Both companies are on a strong financial footing and offer interesting opportunities for investors. A stock split could add fuel to the fire and bring their nominal prices in line with other high-flying tech stocks.

Unlock the Potential of These Stocks with a Stock Split

Meta Platforms: A Tale of Efficiency and Growth

Since 2022, Meta Platforms has been driven by clear management focus. CEO Mark Zuckerberg declared 2023 as the "year of efficiency," aiming to cut operating expenses and focus on key areas. This strategy led to a 62% increase in operating earnings in 2023 and a 52% rise through the first nine months of 2024, despite significant spending on artificial intelligence.Artificial intelligence is at the core of Meta's business, using machine learning algorithms to determine the best content for users. With advancements in large language models, Meta overhauled its recommendation engine with great success. Generative AI is set to transform the business, enabling businesses to communicate their advertising objectives and budgets to Meta, which will handle the rest.As of now, Meta stock trades at $620. A stock split could bring the price back in line with other tech stocks. The median price target on Wall Street is $660 per share, indicating a potential 6% upside. Moreover, the current stock price is less than 25 times analysts' 2025 earnings expectations, making it a bargain compared to other big AI stocks. Analysts may need to revise their price targets due to various factors, not just a potential stock split.

Netflix: A Journey of Transformation and Growth

Netflix's growth over the past two years was fueled by two major changes. In late 2022, the company introduced an ad-supported tier, attracting 70 million viewers and reinvigorating subscriber growth by 27%. Advertising has also opened up new content opportunities, including live events and sports.Netflix launched its own advertising technology in select markets this year and plans to expand it to all ad markets next year. As the advertising business grows and monetization improves, there is unlimited revenue potential without the need to constantly raise subscriber prices.The company also cracked down on password sharing, which initially caused some challenges but ultimately led to a significant increase in subscriber revenue. While the impact of password sharing is temporary, Netflix still has opportunities to grow its subscriber base in international markets and increase revenue per membership in established markets through better advertising monetization and higher ad-free subscription prices.Currently, Netflix stock trades at about $920 per share, above its last split price in 2015. Analysts have a buy rating on the stock, and JPMorgan analysts have set a $1,010 price target, suggesting a nearly 10% upside over the next year. Despite the significant increase in stock valuation over the past two years, with the stock trading at 46 times forward earnings estimates, Netflix's operating leverage could lead to strong earnings growth in the coming years. It has proven to be a great investment opportunity in the past and may repeat history as it shifts more revenue to advertising.
Top 3 AI Stocks to Buy in 2025 (Nvidia Excluded)
2024-12-15
Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to hold significant allure for investors in 2025. While Nvidia is often seen as the benchmark, there are several other contenders vying for attention. In this article, we'll explore the opportunities presented by Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), Amazon, and Tesla.

Unlock the Potential Beyond Nvidia in 2025

Advanced Micro Devices

The GPU market landscape shows Nvidia commanding an astonishing 88% share. At first glance, this dominance might suggest superior products. But there's more to it. A lack of competition over the past two years gave Nvidia a first-mover advantage.However, AMD has quietly emerged as a formidable competitor. Its MI300 accelerators have made a significant impact. Next year, AMD is set to release the MI325X, aiming to take on Nvidia's new Blackwell GPUs. Additionally, the MI400 chipset planned for 2026 is likely to counter Nvidia's Rubin architecture.AMD's pace of innovation is undeniable. As investment in AI infrastructure surges, AMD is well-positioned to gain incremental market share. It's a screaming buy right now as investors often overlook its progress overshadowed by Nvidia.

Amazon

Amazon operates in multiple domains such as e-commerce, cloud computing, subscription services (Prime), streaming, and advertising. Its diverse model allows for seamless integration of AI-powered features.During the holiday season and with corporate budgets focusing on AI, Amazon is poised for a remarkable fourth-quarter performance. The company is also making significant investments in AI infrastructure, including homegrown chips (Trainium and Inferentia) and a partnership with Anthropic.Despite a relatively modest 11% annual revenue growth, Amazon's free cash flow is soaring at over 120% year over year. This financial flexibility gives it the ability to reinvest and drive future growth. It's a no-brainer opportunity for long-term investors.

Tesla

In the past couple of years, Tesla faced challenges in maintaining historical growth due to a tough macroeconomic environment. But the tide may be turning.The biggest near-term boost for Tesla is its foray into autonomous driving with Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology. Over the years, FSD has made significant progress, and there's reason to believe 2025 could mark the beginning of a new growth chapter.Wedbush Securities analyst Dan Ives believes Elon Musk's relationship with President-elect Donald Trump could accelerate the commercialization of FSD. Moreover, changes in EV tax credits could benefit Tesla in the long run.Although Tesla stock is at all-time highs, it remains an attractive opportunity for long-term investors. It's crucial to avoid buying into the momentum and wait for a more reasonable entry point in case of a sell-off. 2025 will be a milestone year for Tesla, thanks to the FSD narrative.
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Kamala Harris Weighs 2026 California Gov Run vs 2028 Pres Bid
2024-12-15
Top aides and those close to Kamala Harris are divided on whether she should run for California governor in 2026 or aim for the Democratic nomination for president in 2028. The governor's race seems like a sure bet with her past electoral success, but a presidential run comes with its own set of challenges and risks. Harris is currently undecided and keeping a low profile while dealing with various considerations.

Kamala Harris' Career Crossroads - Governor vs. President

Should Harris Run for Governor?

Top aides believe getting into the governor's race requires making intentions clear by summer 2025. Running for governor would be seen as a "capstone" rather than a "stepping stone" if she still dreams of the presidency in 2028. One person who advised her in the past emphasized this, stating that a governor's run could interfere with her presidential aspirations. Another close to her argued that the gamble of skipping the governor's race is worth the potential payoff of another presidential shot.

Historical Parallels and the Future

Richard Nixon is the only one to win the White House on a second try as the party nominee after a gubernatorial run. Trump is the only other president to return to office after a loss. For Harris to run again, she would need to hope for Trump buyer's remorse and convince party leaders who were skeptical after Biden dropped out. Being governor has its own power, but it's a decadelong step back. The Gavin Newsom factor also plays a role, as they have long competed in California politics.

No Expected Deference in 2028

After Biden dropped out, other potential candidates hesitated to challenge Harris. But if she runs again in 2028, they won't have the same deference. Harris' advisers worry about eager competition and her performance among younger and Black voters. However, they also note her strong support and connections built around the country.

A Possible 'Field Clearing Effect' in California

In a gubernatorial campaign, Harris would get more deference, but some see signs of weakness. Those close to her say she needs to articulate a clear rationale. Outgoing Rep. Katie Porter predicts a "near field-clearing effect" if Harris enters. California political insiders are speculating about ripple effects, and various candidates are considering their moves. Rick Caruso could also enter the race. But some California Democrats are ready for a homecoming with Harris.
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