CNBC’s outspoken market commentator, Jim Cramer, delivered his verdict on a range of companies during a recent “Mad Money Lightning Round.” His pronouncements offer a fascinating snapshot of the current market sentiment and provide valuable insights for investors, though it’s crucial to remember that these are opinions and not financial advice.
Cramer began by expressing his disapproval of Novavax (NVAX), noting that he is “not a fan.” This comes on the heels of Novavax selling its Czech Republic manufacturing facility to Novo Nordisk for $200 million and receiving Emergency Use Authorization from the FDA for its updated COVID-19 vaccine. Despite the EUA and inclusion in CDC recommendations, making it the only protein-based COVID-19 vaccine for those 12 and older in the U.S., Cramer remains unconvinced.
When presented with Alliance Entertainment (LNT), Cramer instead suggested Live Nation (LYV) as a superior investment. While Alliance Energy recently reported better-than-expected quarterly results (October 31st), it seems it didn’t sway Cramer’s opinion. He similarly dismissed Nebius Group (NBIS), stating, “If I want AI, I will go for Nvidia (NVDA) as it comes down.” This comment follows Nebius Group’s announcement of a $700 million private placement financing agreement (December 2nd), highlighting the complexities and risks in the AI sector.
Innodata (INOD), having reported better-than-expected third-quarter financial results (November 7th), was deemed “very expensive” by Cramer, who suggested taking profits and potentially re-entering at a more favorable price. Regarding Smith & Wesson Brands (SWBI), Cramer voiced a neutral stance, neither recommending nor strongly advising against investment. This comes despite recent downgrades from Lake Street and Craig-Hallum (December 6th) from Buy to Hold, along with lowered price targets.
United Parcel Service (UPS) received a less-than-enthusiastic review, with Cramer citing its significant decline and high valuation as reasons for concern. This assessment comes in the wake of an SEC settlement (November 22nd) where UPS was accused of materially misrepresenting earnings due to non-GAAP valuation practices. Finally, Cramer dismissed BigBear.ai Holdings (BBAI), citing its considerable losses and substantial recent price increase as deterrents, despite the company’s release of third-quarter revenue results (November 5th).
The session concluded with a summary of Monday’s stock price action: Alliance Entertainment shares dropped 0.3% to $60.91; Nebius Group shares fell 13.1% to $31.96; Novavax shares rose 1.5% to $9.07; Innodata shares declined 2.1% to $43.63; Smith & Wesson shares gained 4.2% to $11.32; and UPS shares increased 2.3% to $128.53, while BigBear.ai shares climbed 8.3% to $3.66. Remember, these are just snapshots and do not constitute financial advice.
