Three market strategists shared their top stock picks on CNBC's Halftime Report, offering a mix of financial sector plays and a consumer staple that's been gaining traction.
Malcolm Ethridge, managing partner at Capital Area Planning Group, led off with The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (GS). The timing makes sense given the recent news flow around the investment banking giant. Goldman Sachs announced on December 1 that it's acquiring Innovator Capital Management for roughly $2.0 billion in cash and equity. The deal still needs regulatory approvals and should wrap up in the second quarter of 2026, assuming the usual closing conditions are met.
Stephanie Link, chief investment strategist and portfolio manager at Hightower Advisors, went with Capital One Financial Corporation (COF). The credit card issuer has been catching analyst attention lately. Wolfe Research analyst Darrin Peller initiated coverage on December 8 with an Outperform rating and a $270 price target, giving Link's pick some fresh analytical backing.
Joseph M. Terranova, senior managing director for Virtus Investment Partners, chose Monster Beverage Corporation (MNST) as his final trade. The energy drink maker also picked up positive analyst commentary recently, with Stifel analyst Matthew Smith maintaining a Buy rating on December 12 and bumping his price target from $78 to $82.
Price Action:
- Goldman Sachs shares fell 1.2% to close at $879.15 on Tuesday.
- Capital One Financial gained 0.8% to settle at $241.61 during the session.
- Monster Beverage shares rose 0.7% to close at $75.34 on Tuesday.
