Stocks

Embrace Momentum Investing with This Top-Rated Stock

Published January 17, 2024

Investors aiming to maximize their stock market gains often seek strategies that help identify promising stocks likely to outperform the market. One powerful method involves looking at Zacks Style Scores—a set of indicators developed to complement the Zacks Rank, assisting investors in discovering stocks with the best potential to lead the market in the next month.

Understanding Zacks Style Scores

The Zacks Style Scores classify stocks based on three investing styles: Value, Growth, and Momentum. Each stock earns a score from A to F for each style, with A indicating the highest likelihood of outperforming the market. By evaluating scores across these styles, investors can better assess a stock's overall potential for success.

The Essence of Value, Growth, and Momentum Scores

Value investors yearn for stocks trading below their intrinsic value. The Value Score addresses this by analyzing ratios such as P/E and PEG to uncover undervalued stocks. Growth investors, on the other hand, prioritize robust financials and prospects for the future. The Growth Score incorporates earnings, sales, and cash flow projections to find sustainable growth opportunities.

For momentum investors, who capitalize on market trends, the Momentum Score is critical. This score helps recognize optimal entry points by considering price changes and earnings outlook. Lastly, the VGM Score combines all three styles for those who employ a holistic approach, offering a weighted comprehensive rating.

How Zacks Rank and Style Scores Intersect

The Zacks Rank is a model focusing on earnings estimate revisions, with ranks from #1 (Strong Buy) to #5 (Strong Sell) indicating a company's potential based on its earnings outlook. When choosing stocks, aim for those with a #1 or #2 Rank coupled with A or B Style Scores to enhance success chances.

Spotlight on Meta Platforms (META) for Momentum Investors

Meta Platforms, known for its vast social media presence including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, is an attractive option for momentum investors. Holding a #2 (Buy) Zacks Rank and a VGM Score of A, META stands out in the tech sector.

The Momentum Style Score of B reflects its positive trend with a 4.9% rise over the past month. Given recent earnings estimate revisions and a history of surpassing expectations, META represents a compelling choice for those looking to inject some momentum into their investment portfolio.

investing, momentum, Zacks