On CNBC’s ‘Halftime Report Final Trades,’ financial experts shared their insights on compelling investment opportunities. Karen Firestone of Aureus Asset Management pointed to Abbott Laboratories (ABT) as a promising stock, citing its robust pipeline and positive momentum. Abbott’s recent second-quarter earnings report revealed strong performance, with sales reaching $10.38 billion, a 4% increase year-over-year, exceeding the consensus estimate of $10.37 billion. The company’s organic sales growth for its underlying base business reached 9.3%, driven by double-digit growth in its Medical Devices segment. Abbott’s adjusted diluted earnings per share also impressed, coming in at $1.14, surpassing analyst expectations of $1.10.
Shannon Saccocia of NB Private Wealth recommended iShares U.S. Industrials ETF (IYJ) as her final trade. This ETF provides exposure to a broad range of industrial companies, offering investors diversification within the sector.
Joseph M. Terranova of Virtus Investment Partners selected Nu Holdings Ltd. (NU) for his final trade. Nu Holdings, a Brazilian bank, recently reported strong second-quarter financial results. Revenue reached $2.8 billion, marking a 65% year-over-year increase. The company also reported a significant jump in adjusted net income, rising to $563 million compared to $263 million in the second quarter of 2023. Nu Holdings added 5.2 million customers in the quarter, bringing its total customer base to 104.5 million as of June 30. Monthly average revenue per active customer was $11.20.
Here’s a snapshot of the price action for these companies on Wednesday: Abbott Laboratories shares rose 0.6% to close at $111.39. iShares U.S. Industrials ETF gained 0.7% during the day’s trading. Nu Holdings shares slipped 0.4%, ending the day at $14.40.
