Podcasts about zacks rank

Tracey Ryniec, Zacks Senior Stock Strategist, shares her Zacks Rank secrets and highlights 3 stocks.  (0:45) - Finding The Best Stocks For Your Portfolio (4:30) - How To Navigate  to Find The Right Investments For You (15:45) - Tracey's Top Stock Picks To Keep On Your Watchlist (43:00) - Episode Roundup: VEEV, HWM, FTK Podcast@Zacks.com

Tracey Ryniec, Zacks Value Stock Strategist, screens with the PEG ratio and Zacks Rank.   (0:30) - Should You Be Investing Small or Large Stocks As A Value Investor (6:00) - Tracey's Top Stocks For Your Portfolio (18:45) - Episode Roundup: ADDYY, DELL, NEM Podcast@Zacks.com

Tracey Ryniec, Zacks Value Stock Strategist, screens with the PEG ratio and Zacks Rank.   (0:30) - Should You Be Investing Small or Large Stocks As A Value Investor (6:00) - Tracey's Top Stocks For Your Portfolio (18:45) - Episode Roundup: ADDYY, DELL, NEM Podcast@Zacks.com

More Top ESG ETFs and Companies. Includes reviews and links to 16 articles with great ETF and stock recommendations globally. By Ron Robins, MBA Transcript & Links, Episode 154, June 13, 2025 Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to my podcast episode 154, published June 13, 2025, titled “More Top ESG ETFs and Companies.” So, this podcast is presented by Investing for the Soul. Investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing mentoring, news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript and links to content, including stock symbols and bonus material, on this episode's podcast page at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Also, a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in these podcasts, and I don't receive any compensation from anyone covered in these podcasts. Furthermore, I will reveal any investments I have in the investments mentioned herein. Additionally, please visit this podcast's webpage for links to the articles and additional company and stock information. I have a great crop of 16 articles for you in this podcast! ------------------------------------------------------------- More Top ESG ETFs and Companies (1) My first review article appeared on a favourite investor website, morningstar.com. It's titled Five Top ESG ETFs for US Investors and is written by Hannah Hummel. Here are some brief comments on each ETF from Ms. Hummel. “To find these 174 sustainable ETFs, we applied multiple screens across all exchange-traded funds in Morningstar's database, selecting only equity investments that are both domiciled in the United States and traded on a United States Exchange. Next, we filtered the remaining ETFs down to only those Morningstar designates as an ‘ESG Intentional Investment – Overall.' (Read here.)… All fund sizes are as of June 2, 2025. 1. iShares ESG Aware MSCI USA ETF ESGU Morningstar Category: Large Blend Morningstar Medalist Rating: Silver Morningstar ESG Risk Rating: Above Average Analyst: Lan Anh Tran IShares ESG Aware MSCI USA ETF tops our screen with $13.37 billion in assets under management. Incepted in December 2016, the fund has returned 0.48% year to date, trailing a 1.06% return for the S&P 500 and a 0.86% return for the Morningstar US Market Index in 2025. Over the past three years, the fund has posted a 13.59% annualized return, underperforming the S&P 500 at 14.41% and the Morningstar US Market Index at 14.05%. This passively managed fund tracks the MSCI USA Extended ESG Focus Index. 2. Vanguard ESG US Stock ETF ESGV Morningstar Category: Large Blend Morningstar Medalist Rating: Silver Morningstar ESG Risk Rating: Above Average Analyst: Lan Anh Tran The only ETF offered by a provider other than iShares that places among our screen's five largest vehicles is the $10.16 billion Vanguard ESG US Stock ETF. The Silver Morningstar Medalist was launched… in September 2018. Year to date, investors have seen a negative 0.21% return, leaving the fund trailing the S&P 500 and the Morningstar US Market Index by 1.27 percentage points and 1.07 percentage points, respectively. In the past three years, however, the fund has delivered a 14.45% annualized return, slightly overperforming the S&P 500 at 14.41%. Like the other four largest funds in our screen, Vanguard ESG US Stock ETF is passively managed, designed to replicate the performance of the FTSE USA All Cap Choice Index. 3. iShares ESG Aware MSCI EAFE ETF ESGD Morningstar Category: Foreign Large Blend Morningstar Medalist Rating: Silver Morningstar ESG Risk Rating: Above Average Analyst: Zachary Evens The largest ETF falling under the foreign large-blend Morningstar Category and the third largest across our screen overall is the $9.73 billion iShares ESG Aware MSCI EAFE ETF. Opened to investors in June 2016, this Silver medalist has returned an impressive 16.7% year to date against a 5.22% return for the Morningstar Global Markets Index. The fund's three-year annualized return is 11.3%, trailing the Morningstar Global Markets Index by 0.42 percentage points. In keeping with the remainder of the five largest funds in our screen, iShares ESG Aware MSCI EAFE ETF is passively managed, tracking the MSCI EAFE Extended ESG Focus Index. 4. iShares ESG Aware MSCI EM ETF ESGE Morningstar Category: Diversified Emerging Markets Morningstar Medalist Rating: Bronze Morningstar ESG Risk Rating: Above Average Analyst: Lan Anh Tran IShares ESG Aware MSCI EM ETF ranks fourth in our screen with $4.73 billion in assets under management. Launched in June 2018, the IShares ESG Aware MSCI EM ETF has returned 9.74% in 2025, beating a 7.54% return for the Morningstar Emerging Markets Index. Looking over a longer horizon, the fund's three-year annualized return is 4.62%, trailing a 5.46% return for the Morningstar Emerging Markets Index. This Bronze Morningstar Medalist is passively managed, seeking to replicate the performance of the MSCI Emerging Markets Extended ESG Focus Index. 5. iShares ESG MSCI KLD 400 ETF DSI Morningstar Category: Large Blend Morningstar Medalist Rating: Bronze Morningstar ESG Risk Rating: High Analyst: Ryan Jackson Rounding out our list of the top five largest US-domiciled ESG Equity ETFs is iShares ESG MSCI KLD 400 ETF with $4.5 billion in assets under management. Incepted in November 2006, it is the oldest fund among the five largest in our screen by nearly a decade. Year to date, DSI has returned negative 0.88%, trailing the S&P 500 by 0.18 percentage points, but outperforming the Morningstar US Market Index by 0.02 percentage points. This Bronze Morningstar Medalist passive fund seeks to replicate the performance of the MSCI KLD 400 Social Index.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- More Top ESG ETFs and Companies (2) Now, another article by Hannah Hummel on morningstar.com. This one is titled 2 Top Undervalued EV Stocks to Watch Now. Again, some brief quotes on each stock by her. Morningstar Data as of May 13, 2025. “1. Analog Devices ADI Morningstar Economic Moat Rating: Wide Price/Fair Value: 0.93 Morningstar Rating: 4 stars Sector: Technology Analog Devices is a leading global manufacturer of mixed-signal and analog chips. [Its] chips function by translating environmental conditions like temperature and sound into viable digital signals. The company supplies chips to a diverse range of end markets, including automotive companies, as well as manufacturers of medical devices, robots, and industrial machinery. In both fiscal 2022 and 2023, the adjusted operating margin for the firm hit 49%, though it has since declined to 41% in fiscal 2024. Morningstar anticipates, however, that the adjusted operating margin for Analog Devices could reach 50% by fiscal 2028, bolstered by a projected 9% average annual growth in sales. Considering Morningstar's current fair value estimate of $245 per share, projections for fiscal 2025 are in line with a 3% free cash flow yield. At a recent $226.68 per share, Analog Devices was trading at a 7% discount to Morningstar's fair value estimate. 2. NXP Semiconductors NXPI Morningstar Economic Moat Rating: Wide Price/Fair Value: 0.76 Morningstar Rating: 4 stars Sector: Technology NXP Semiconductors is a prominent player among automotive semiconductor manufacturers. Like Analog Devices, the firm's expertise is not limited solely to automotive chipmaking, as it also sells to the mobile, communications infrastructure, and industrial markets. Moreover, through enabling near-field communication, or NFC, NXP Semiconductors powers the mobile wallet offerings of multiple high-profile clients, the likes of which include Google GOOGL and Apple AAPL. Although the firm lost 5.0% in revenue in 2024 and Morningstar models an 8.5% decrease in revenue this year amid tariff-related market challenges, Morningstar anticipates a recovery by 2026. Indeed, Morningstar models indicate that NXP Semiconductors' revenue could increase 6% in 2026 as EV designs call for an increasing proportion of chips embedded into their systems. Morningstar's fair value estimate for NXP Semiconductors currently sits at $280 per share, indicating a 6% free cash flow yield for 2025. At a recent $212.40 per share, NXP Semiconductors was trading at a 24% discount to Morningstar's fair value estimate.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- More Top ESG ETFs and Companies (3) My third article brings us back to a favourite sector for ethical and sustainable investors. The article is titled 3 Alternative Energy Stocks to Watch Amid Escalated Tariff Uncertainty and was found on zacks.com and is by analyst Aparajita Dutta. Her article is a comprehensive review and analysis of the industry and a few of its leading companies. Here are some quotes by Ms. Dutta from her article. “The Alternative Energy Industry has outperformed its sector as well as the Zacks S&P 500 composite over the past year. The stocks in this industry have collectively surged 41.9% in the past year against the Oils-Energy sector's 9.8% decline. The Zacks S&P 500 composite has gained 11.7% in the same time frame… 1. Ormat Technologies ORA Based in Reno, NV, the company is primarily engaged in the geothermal energy power business. On May 27, 2025, Ormat Technologies announced a $62 million Hybrid Tax Equity partnership with Morgan Stanley Renewables to support its Lower Rio and Arrowleaf energy storage and solar projects, expected to be operational by the end of 2025. This innovative financing will help Ormat monetize $160 million in tax benefits in 2025, boosting profitability and supporting its long-term energy storage growth strategy. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the company's 2025 sales implies an improvement of 8.4% from the previous year's estimated figure. The stock boasts a long-term (three-to-five years) earnings growth rate of 10%. The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Ormat Technologies, Inc. (ORA): Free Stock Analysis Report. 2. Standard Lithium SLI Based in Vancouver, Canada, Standard Lithium is a technology and lithium development company. Its flagship project is located in southern Arkansas, where it is engaged in the testing and proving of the commercial viability of lithium extraction. On May 29, 2025, it was announced that Smackover Lithium, a joint venture between Standard Lithium and Equinor, has secured AOGC approval for a 2.5% lithium royalty rate for Phase I of its South West Arkansas Project, marking the first such approval in the state. This milestone sets a regulatory precedent and enhances Standard Lithium's pathway to commercial production by 2028. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Standard Lithium's 2025 bottom line is pegged at a loss of 8 cents per share, suggesting a solid improvement from the year-ago quarter's reported loss of 13 cents. The bottom line beat the consensus estimate in the last reported quarter. Standard Lithium currently carries a Zacks Rank #2. Standard Lithium Ltd. (SLI): Free Stock Analysis Report. 3. Bloom Energy BE.VI Based in San Jose, CA, the company generates and distributes renewable energy. On April 30, 2025, Bloom Energy posted its first-quarter 2025 results. Revenues of $326 million reflected an increase of 38.6% year over year. Bloom Energy's gross margin was 27.2%, reflecting a 110 basis points improvement over last year's reported figure. The stock holds a long-term earnings growth rate of 24.4%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 sales implies an improvement of 19.3% from the previous year's reported figure. The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Bloom Energy Corporation (BE): Free Stock Analysis Report.” End quotes ------------------------------------------------------------- More articles of interest from around the world for ethical and sustainable investors 1. Title: Best Natural and Organic Food Stocks to Keep an Eye On in 2025 on finance.yahoo.com. (Updated.) By Sumit Singh of Zacks. Original article featured in my Podcast: The Low-Carbon Stocks for Sustainable Investors. 2. Title: 5 Best Sustainable Investment Platforms for UK Investors on moneymagpie.com. By Ruby Layram. 3. Title: Triodos Investment Fund Earns Rare Perfect Score on financial-news.co.uk. By Danielle Trigg. 4. Title: Triodos Bank UK Recognised as Ethical ‘Best Buy' for Investment Funds and Stocks & Shares ISAs. On and by ffnews.com. 5. Title: Top 10: Sustainable Supply Chains on sustainabilitymag.com. By James Darley. 6. Title: M & T Bank a Top Socially Responsible Dividend Stock With 2.9% Yield (MTB) on nasdaq.com. By BNK Invest. 7. Title: Top 10: ESG Ratings Providers on sustainabilitymag.com. By James Darley. 8. Title: Australian Ethical Investment Leads These 3 Promising Small Caps with Strong Potential on and by simplywall.st/stocks/au. 9. Title: These 3 Nuclear Stocks Should Be on Your Energy Radar on oilprice.com. By Alex Kimani. 10. Title: There's Absolutely Massive Demand Growth Ahead for This Well-Positioned High-Yield Stock on finance.yahoo.com. By Reuben Gregg Brewer. 11. Title: Our top rated ESG ETFs on morningstar.com.au. By Simonelle Mody. 12. Title: How to Invest in Green Bonds on morningstar.com. (Lists 6 green bond funds). By Charity Blue and Leslie P. Norton. 13. Title: The 50 most sustainable companies in Europe on corporateknights.com. Introduction by Tristan Bronca. ------------------------------------------------------------- Ending Comment These are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips for this podcast, “More Top ESG ETFs and Companies.” Please click the like and subscribe buttons wherever you download or listen to this podcast. That helps bring these podcasts to others like you. And please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. Let's promote ethical and sustainable investing as a force for hope and prosperity in these deeply troubled times! Contact me if you have any questions. Thank you for listening. I'll talk to you next on June 27th. Bye for now.   © 2025 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul

More Top Sustainable Stocks To Consider includes several articles featuring terrific renewable energy, healthcare, branded consumer and natural food stocks. By Ron Robins, MBA Transcript & Links, Episode 152, April 18, 2025 Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to my podcast episode 152, published April 18, 2025, titled “More Top Sustainable Stocks To Consider.” It's presented by Investing for the Soul. Investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing mentoring, news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript and links to content, including stock symbols and bonus material, on this episode's podcast page at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Also, a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in these podcasts, and I don't receive any compensation from anyone covered in these podcasts. Furthermore, I will reveal any investments I have in the investments mentioned herein. Additionally, quotes about individual companies are brief. Please visit the podcast's webpage for links to the articles and additional company and stock information. ------------------------------------------------------------- More Top Sustainable Stocks To Consider (1) Now, the following articles offer some interesting investment ideas. The first article is titled ESG Still Matters. 3 Defensive Stocks That Make the Grade. It's by Teresa Rivas and seen on barrons.com. Here are a few quotes from her article. “Portfolio manager Bill Davis is shutting out all the noise and sticking to his guns. The term ESG has been a lightning rod for a long time, but it is—and always has been—simply ‘a proxy for finding a well managed company…' Davis puts his money where his mouth when it comes to the actively managed Hennessy Stance ESG ETF, which doesn't invest in tobacco, fossil fuel, weapons, and similar areas. He does make exceptions based on company principles. The fund uses an algorithm to rank S&P 500 companies by various risk factors and metrics, and identifies those most likely to generate positive alpha and minimize harm. It also helps avoid being reactionary to the zigzags of U.S. policy these days. That strategy, which also avoids large positions, hasn't distinguished itself in these past few years when the Magnificent Seven tech stocks and a handful of other megacaps drove index performance—the fund, though, does have positions in Google, Apple, and Netflix. Still, Davis stands firm. The strategy can show its worth when investors are more concerned with downside risk protection. There are plenty of companies, though, that Davis feels differently about. He likes drug distributor  Cardinal Health CAH —peer to Barron's pick McKesson—because healthcare remains a safe haven and Cardinal has done particularly well—doubling the S&P 500 in recent years. Its earnings growth profile is good and ‘it's a solid company with large enough scale to have pricing power.' Also making the cut is Atmos Energy AIO Davis cites the natural-gas utility's relative momentum—the shares are up nearly 30% in the past year—and its defensive qualities. Although the fund shies away from fossil fuels, distributors like Atmos that are transparent, focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, do fit the bill. Davis owns staple General Mills GIS as well, again for its defensive qualities, including a 4% yield, and its size—big enough to exert pricing power. He does see only modest upside, but also ‘low downside, so it's a good fit for our portfolio.'” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- More Top Sustainable Stocks To Consider (2) This second article brings us back to the most likely favourite sector for ethical and sustainable investors. Its title is 5 Renewable Energy Stocks to Buy Amid Growing Market Demand by Nalak Das at Zacks and seen on finance.yahoo.com. Here's some of what Mr. Das says about his picks. “These five renewable stocks have strong long-term potential. These stocks have seen positive earnings estimate revisions in the last 60 days. Each of our picks currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). At the same time, these companies pay dividends regularly at an attractive rate. 1. The AES Corp. AES is one of the forerunners in the utility industry's transition to clean energy by investing in sustainable growth and innovative solutions while delivering superior results. AES continues to invest in clean energy projects. In 2024, AES completed the construction of 3 gigawatts (GW) of wind, solar, gas and energy storage. [The company] expects to add a total of 3.2 GW of new renewables to its operating portfolio by the end of 2025… AES has an expected revenue and earnings growth rate of 3.1% and -1.4%, respectively, for the current year… AES has a current dividend yield of 6.32%. The AES Corporation (AES): Free Stock Analysis Report. 2. OGE Energy Corp. OGE has been investing steadily to expand its renewable generation assets. The company is focused on reducing its carbon dioxide emissions to 50-52% by 2030. As of Dec. 31, 2024, OGE owned the 120 megawatts (MW) Centennial, 101 MW OU Spirit and 228 MW Crossroads wind farms. It also owns and operates six solar sites across the state of Oklahoma and one in Arkansas, which comes with a cumulative generation capacity of 32.2 MW… OGE has an expected revenue and earnings growth rate of 0.8% and 3.7%, respectively, for the current year… [The company] has a current dividend yield of 3.88%. OGE Energy Corporation (OGE): Free Stock Analysis Report. 3. WEC Energy Group Inc. WEC is investing in cost-effective zero-carbon generation like solar and wind. During 2025-2029, WEC plans to invest $28 billion, out of which $9.1 billion will be invested in regulated renewable projects. The idea is to further strengthen WEC's renewable portfolio… WEC Energy Group has an expected revenue and earnings growth rate of 9.2% and 8.5%, respectively, for the current year…[It] has a current dividend yield of 3.42%. WEC Energy Group, Inc. (WEC): Free Stock Analysis Report. 4. NiSource Inc. NI expects to invest $19.4 billion during 2025-2029 to modernize infrastructure, which will enhance the reliability of its operations. NISource continues to add clean assets to its portfolio and retire coal-based units. [The company] is set to retire its 100% coal-generating sources between 2026 and 2028 and replace the production volumes with reliable and cleaner options at lower costs. NISource aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2030 from the 2005 levels. This initiative can help NISource lower the cost of operations by focusing on new and advanced assets. New products and services can lead to added revenue streams… NiSource has expected revenue and earnings growth rates of 11.1% and 6.9%, respectively, for the current year… [it] has a current dividend yield of 2.94%. NiSource, Inc (NI): Free Stock Analysis Report. 5. CMS Energy Corp. CMS remains one of the primary utility providers in Michigan. CMS plans to invest $20 billion in infrastructure upgrades, repair and clean energy generation during 2025-2029. In November 2024, CMS filed its 20-year renewable energy plan, which includes the addition of nine GW of solar and four GW of wind to its generation portfolio during 2025-2045… CMS Energy has an expected revenue and earnings growth rate of 7.4% and 7.8%, respectively, for the current year… [it] has a current dividend yield of 3.05%. CMS Energy Corporation (CMS): Free Stock Analysis Report.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- More Top Sustainable Stocks To Consider (3) This third article is an updated version of a February 20, 2025, story. It was featured in my Podcast: The Low-Carbon Stocks for Sustainable Investors. Its new title is Best Natural and Organic Food Stocks to Buy Now in 2025 by Sumit Singh. Again, it's from the great Zacks research group and found on finance.yahoo.com. Here are some quotes from the new article. “Companies like The Hain Celestial Group, Inc. HAIN, General Mills, Inc. GIS and Vital Farms, Inc. VITL are responding to the rising demand for organic, clean-label and ethically sourced foods. With consumers prioritizing transparency, sustainability and minimal processing, the market for natural foods continues to grow. Expanding farm networks, plant-based innovations and a focus on humane, eco-friendly production are shaping the industry's future… The global healthy foods market is expected to reach $2.26 trillion by 2035. 3 Natural Food Stocks to Watch 1. United Natural Foods, Inc. UNFI stands as a prominent player in the natural food sector, serving as one of the largest distributors of organic and natural products in North America. Through its extensive network, United Natural Foods supplies a vast array of products, including fresh produce, pantry staples, dairy alternatives and plant-based foods. With its diverse portfolio, the company caters to both retail giants and independent natural food stores, meeting the growing demand for cleaner, healthier eating options. United Natural Foods has made a strategic shift by realigning its wholesale business into two product-centric divisions — one of which is solely dedicated to natural, organic, specialty and fresh products… This Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) company is increasingly focusing on innovation and sustainability within the natural foods space. The company has committed to enhancing its supply-chain practices, reducing waste and supporting regenerative agriculture initiatives. United Natural Foods is also working closely with suppliers to accelerate food innovation. Upgrades in automation and warehouse processes are leading to better order accuracy, less product waste and faster deliveries. United Natural Foods, Inc. (UNFI): Free Stock Analysis Report. 2. Sprouts Farmers Market, Inc. SFM has been at the forefront of the natural and organic food movement, catering to health-conscious consumers seeking fresh, high-quality and ethically sourced products. The company's commitment to fresh, organic and attribute-driven products sets it apart. This strategic positioning not only resonates with a growing base of wellness-focused consumers but also aligns with broader food industry trends favoring transparency, sustainability and nutritional value… In addition to product innovation, this Zacks Rank #2 company excelled at enhancing customer engagement through strategic merchandising events and effective marketing campaigns. Seasonal events like the Summer Cherry Festival shine a spotlight on fresh, specialty items and educate consumers on better-for-you choices. This approach not only drove strong traffic across its channels but also contributed to its robust e-commerce growth, surpassing $1 billion in sales in 2024. Sprouts Farmers Market, Inc. (SFM): Free Stock Analysis Report. 3. Beyond Meat, Inc. BYND has strategically realigned its product innovation to strengthen its appeal among health-conscious and natural-food-seeking consumers. A standout development in this direction is the launch of Beyond IV and the extended Beyond Steak line. These new offerings have been designed not only to deliver flavor and texture improvements but also to meet heightened consumer expectations around nutrition and ingredient transparency. These products have earned accreditations from respected health organizations, including the American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association and Clean Label Project. This Zacks Rank #2 company has taken a proactive stance, using nutritional credentials and transparent messaging to reposition its products as a better-for-you choice. By doubling down on natural and functional food innovation, the brand is not only aiming to win over skeptical customers but also elevate its products to a new standard that aligns more closely with organic and wellness-oriented trends in the food industry. Beyond Meat, Inc. (BYND): Free Stock Analysis Report. End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Additional article links 1. Title: Analog Devices a Top Socially Responsible Dividend Stock With 2.2% Yield (ADI) on nasdaq.com. By BNK Invest. 2. Title: How to Invest in IonQ (IONQ) on fool.com. By Rachel Warren. 3. Title: 11 Climate-Tech Companies to Watch in 2025 on inc.com. By Chloe Aiello. UK article link Title: Triodos Bank Recognised as Top-Scoring Best Buy by Ethical Consumer on ffnews.com. By Ethical Consumer. ------------------------------------------------------------- Ending Comment These are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips for this podcast, “More Top Sustainable Stocks To Consider.” Please click the like and subscribe buttons wherever you download or listen to this podcast. That helps bring these podcasts to others like you. And please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. Let's promote ethical and sustainable investing as a force for hope and prosperity in these troubled times! Contact me if you have any questions. Thank you for listening. I'll talk to you next on May 2nd. Bye for now.   © 2025 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul

World's Most Ethical Companies. And… see six companies that have been honored for 19 years! Plus, terrific alternative energy picks. By Ron Robins, MBA Transcript & Links, Episode 150, March 21, 2025 Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to my podcast episode 150, published March 21, 2025, titled “World's Most Ethical Companies. And...” It's presented by Investing for the Soul. Investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing mentoring, news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript and links to content – including stock symbols and bonus material – on this episode's podcast page at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Also, a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in these podcasts, and I don't receive any compensation from anyone covered in these podcasts. Furthermore, I will reveal any investments I have in the investments mentioned herein. Additionally, quotes about individual companies are brief. Please go to this podcast's webpage for links to the articles and more company and stock information. ------------------------------------------------------------- World's Most Ethical Companies. And... Now, The 2025 World's Most Ethical Companies® listing by Ethisphere is where I'm beginning this podcast. It's always a great listing to review for ethical and sustainable investors. The following information is gleaned from Ethisphere's website and has been re-ordered for presentation here. Also, note that companies are not ranked. So, some quotes. “The World's Most Ethical Companies is an annual recognition… Earning this recognition involves a comprehensive application and evaluation of your Ethics and Compliance program through Ethisphere's proprietary Ethics Quotient® (EQ), which assesses a company's ethics and compliance program, culture, and governance practices. The listed 2025 World's Most Ethical Companies Honorees outperformed a comparable index of global companies by 7.8 percent from January 2020 to 2025. In 2025, 136 organizations are recognized for their unwavering commitment to business integrity. The honorees span 19 countries and 44 industries, and include 11 first-time honorees and 6 organizations that have been named to the honoree list 19 times, marking every year since its inception. The six organizations that have been recognized by Ethisphere as honorees for 19 consecutive years, since the inception of the World's Most Ethical Companies® list in 2007, are: Aflac (AFL), Ecolab (ECL), International Paper (IP), Kao Corporation (KAOOY), Milliken & Company (private), and PepsiCo (PEP).” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Alternative Energy Stocks (1) This next article takes us to our ethical and sustainable investors' favorite sector. It's titled 4 Alternative Energy Stocks to Buy Amid Growing Investment Trends. It's by Aparajita Dutta and seen on finance.yahoo.com, though originally published on zacks.com. Here are some quotes from her article on her picks. “1. OPAL Fuels Inc. (OPAL) Based in Boston, MA, the company is a vertically integrated renewable fuels platform involved in the production and distribution of renewable natural gas for the heavy-duty truck market… The company currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). 2. Expand Energy Corporation (EXE) Based in Oklahoma City, OK, the company is an independent natural gas producer, principally in the United States… Expand Energy Corporation currently holds a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).  3. Bloom Energy Corporation (BE) Based in San Jose, CA, the company generates and distributes renewable energy… The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #2.  4. Constellation Energy Corporation (CEG) Based in Baltimore, MD, the company provides electric power, natural gas and energy management services to 2 million customers across the continental United States… The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #2.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Alternative Energy Stocks (2) Now another article on our top sector. It's titled Top 4 Wind Energy Stocks to Consider. It's by Avisekh Bhattacharjee and seen on finance.yahoo.com though again first published on zacks.com. Here are some quotes from the article by Mr. Bhattacharjee. “1. OGE Energy (OGE) is the largest electric utility in Oklahoma. The company has been investing steadily to expand its renewable generation assets. As of Dec. 31, 2024, the company owned the 120 megawatts (MW) Centennial, 101 MW OU Spirit and 228 MW Crossroads wind farms. This Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) company offers the Renewable Energy Credit purchase program, the Green Power Wind Rider and the Utility Solar Program, which are rate options that make renewable energy resources available as a voluntary option to all OG&E (wholly-owned subsidiary of OGE Energy) Oklahoma retail customers. 2. NextEra Energy (NEE) is a public utility holding company engaged in the generation, transmission, distribution and sale of electric energy. The company's competitive energy business NextEra Energy Resources LLC (“NEER”) is the world's leading generator of renewable energy from wind, based on 2024 MWh produced on a net generation basis… This Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) company's major capital projects continue to proceed as per plan and the addition of new renewable projects continues to boost its renewable portfolio. 3. American Electric Power Company (AEP) has been investing steadily to enhance its renewable generation portfolio. Exiting 2024, wind, hydro and solar energy represented 21% of American Electric's generating capacity compared with 4% in 2005… As of Sept. 30, 2024, this Zacks Rank #3 company received regulatory approvals from various state regulatory commissions to acquire approximately 2,505 MWs of owned renewable generation facilities for roughly $6 billion. 4. DTE Energy (DTE) The company aims to invest more than $11 billion in clean energy transition over the next 10 years. Through this solid investment, DTE Energy aims to add 1,000 megawatts (MW) of new wind and solar energy annually, powering approximately 5.5 million homes with renewable energy by 2042… This Zacks Rank #3 company plans to reduce carbon emissions of its electric utility operations by 65% in 2028, 85% in 2032 and 90% within 2040 from the 2005 levels.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Alternative Energy Stocks (3) Again on the subject of alternative energy is this article titled 11 Best Alternative Energy Stocks to Buy Now. It's by Fahim Tahir and can be found on fool.com. Here's some of what Mr. Tahir says about each of his picks. “We first picked companies operating in the alternative energy sector with market capitalization surpassing the $5 billion mark… The shortlisted stocks were then ranked using Insider Monkey's Hedge Fund Database as of Q4 2024, as per the number of hedge funds invested in them. The companies with the highest hedge fund interest were ranked in ascending order… our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds. 11. Centrais Elétricas Brasileiras S.A. – Eletrobrás (NYSE:EBR) Number of Hedge Funds Holders: 28 [The company] is a top company in Brazil's power industry. [It] produces electricity using hydro, thermal, nuclear, wind, and solar energy sources. It holds operations of 44 hydroelectric plants, five thermal plants, and two nuclear plants, as well as an extensive transmission network of over 66,000 kilometers… [The company] is well-positioned to capitalize on Brazil's renewable energy expansion. 10. Ormat Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:ORA) Hedge Funds Holders: 28 Ormat Technologies, Inc. is one of the top players in the geothermal and renewable energy industry. The company operates assets globally, including the U.S., Indonesia, Kenya, Turkey and other international markets… Its strategy [is] to capitalize on the increasing clean energy demand, as well as its expertise in geothermal and energy storage. 9. Clearway Energy, Inc. (NYSE:CWEN) Hedge Funds Holders: 28 Clearway Energy, Inc. is a leader in clean energy with a diversified portfolio including wind, solar, and battery storage assets across the U.S. Its renewable energy capacity of around 9 GW plays an important role in its transition toward sustainable energy solutions… While investors must be wary of potential market variability, the company's strong fundamentals and dedication to clean energy expansion make it one of the Best Clean Energy Stocks. 8. Enphase Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:ENPH) Hedge Funds Holders: 39 Enphase Energy, Inc. is one of the top global companies in microinverter-based solar and battery solutions, catering to residential and commercial demand globally. The company designs and manufactures advanced home energy systems, including IQ Microinverters, IQ Batteries, and energy management software, optimizing solar power usage and storage for homeowners. With its strong fundamentals and strategic partnerships, Enphase Energy, Inc. has the prospects of further growing its share price. 7. Nextracker Inc. (NASDAQ:NXT) Hedge Funds Holders: 41 Nextracker Inc. is one of the top providers of solar tracker and software solutions. The company focuses on energy production optimization for utility-scale solar projects globally. Its flagship products include NX Horizon and NX Horizon-XTR, enhancing solar efficiency through the adjustment of panel positioning based on site conditions… Its stock rose by 21.49% year-to-date, indicating investor confidence in its potential for growth. 6. NRG Energy, Inc. (NYSE:NRG) Hedge Funds Holders: 53 NRG Energy, Inc. is a dominant energy supplier in the U.S. and Canada, offering home services, power generation, and retail electricity. With a portfolio covering solar, natural gas, and battery storage solutions, the company runs across multiple segments, including East, West, Texas, and Vivint Smart Home. Furthermore, NRG Energy reinforced its dedication to shareholder value by increasing its quarterly dividend by 8% to $0.44 per share… NRG continues to remain strongly positioned to implement its prolonged growth strategy. 5. First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ:FSLR) Hedge Funds Holders: 65 First Solar, Inc. is a top solar technology company, specializes in photovoltaic (PV) solar energy solutions. The company provides a lower-carbon alternative to conventional silicon-based modules as it manufactures thin-film cadmium telluride (CadTel) solar modules. First Solar caters to utilities, independent power producers, and commercial system owners, with operations spanning various international markets, including France, Chile, India, and the United States… First Solar, Inc. remains a key player in the renewable energy transition due to its innovative solar technology, firm market positions, and growing manufacturing footprint. 4. Talen Energy Corporation (NASDAQ:TLN) Hedge Funds Holders: 77 Talen Energy Corporation a stand-alone power producer and infrastructure company, sells and generates electricity across the United States. Talen Energy has a broad portfolio consisting of solar, fossil, nuclear, and coal power plants and is expanding its battery storage initiatives to solidify its clean energy transition… [The company] maintains its position as one of the best clean energy stocks and remains a prominent player in the evolving energy landscape with reaffirmed 2025 EBITDA guidance of up to $1.175 billion. 3. Constellation Energy Corporation (NASDAQ:CEG) Hedge Funds Holders: 85 Constellation Energy Corporation a prominent producer of emissions-free energy, provides nuclear, hydro, wind, natural gas, and solar power across the U.S. The company is at the front line of the clean energy transition with a generating capacity of 31,676 megawatts. Its position among the best clean energy stocks is strengthened by its robust financial growth and strategic investments… The company continues to lead the clean energy sector with major investments in solar, wind, hydroelectric power, and nuclear, and a strategic expansion plan. 2. GE Vernova Inc. (NYSE:GEV) Hedge Funds Holders: 111 GE Vernova Inc. an international energy company, offers a variety of products and services for electricity generation, transmission, and storage. The company functions through three segments: Power, Wind, and Electrification. Wind segments focus on onshore and offshore wind turbines, whereas the Power segment centers around gas, hydro, nuclear, and steam technologies. The Electrification segment, on the other hand, facilitates grid solutions, solar, storage, and electrification software… GE Vernova remains one of the best clean energy stocks for prolonged growth with its robust financial performance and continued investments in clean energy. 1. Vistra Corp. (NYSE:VST) Hedge Funds Holders: 120 Vistra Corp. a prominent integrated retail electricity and power generation company, continues to diversify its clean energy portfolio while retaining robust financial performance. Vistra Corp. is strategically positioned to meet the increasing demand for sustainable power solutions in the U.S. with a diverse generation capacity of nearly 41,000 megawatts.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Additional article links 1. Title: Watch Faith-Based Investing on bloomberg.com. 2. Title: Investing in Nature: How Natural Capital Delivers Strong, Stable Returns on dividend.com. By Aaron Levitt. 3. Title: 7 Green Investments to Transform Your Retirement Funds on moneytalksnews.com. By MTN Staff. 4. Title: Explore These 30 Leading Water Funds and Water Stocks in the US and Europe on morningstar.com. By Boya Wang and Hortense Bioy. ------------------------------------------------------------- Ending Comment These are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips for this podcast, “World's Most Ethical Companies. And...” Please click the like and subscribe buttons wherever you download or listen to this podcast. That helps bring these podcasts to others like you. And please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. Let's promote ethical and sustainable investing as a force for hope and prosperity in these troubled times! Contact me if you have any questions. Thank you for listening. I'll talk to you next on April 4th. Bye for now.   © 2025 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul

Tracey Ryniec, Zacks Value Stock Strategist, looks for stocks with high Zacks Rank and low PEG ratios. (0:30) - Can The PEG Ratio Help You Find Strong Value Stocks For Your Portfolio? (4:20) - Tracey's Top Stock Picks To Keep On Your Watchlist Right Now (24:30) - Episode Roundup: UAL, COOP, FOLD, ALK, AAL

Tracey Ryniec, Zacks Value Stock Strategist, looks for stocks with high Zacks Rank and low PEG ratios. (0:30) - Can The PEG Ratio Help You Find Strong Value Stocks For Your Portfolio? (4:20) - Tracey's Top Stock Picks To Keep On Your Watchlist Right Now (24:30) - Episode Roundup: UAL, COOP, FOLD, ALK, AAL Podcast@Zacks.com

Tracey Ryniec, Zacks Value Stock Strategist, discusses using the short-term Zacks Rank to guide a long-term stock portfolio.

Tracey Ryniec, Zacks Value Stock Strategist, discusses using the short-term Zacks Rank to guide a long-term stock portfolio.

Today's episode of Full Court Finance at Zacks explores two Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks—Arista Networks and Robinhood Markets—that investors might want to buy heading into their earnings releases and hold for long-term growth.  (0:15) - Stock Market Update: Everything You Need To Know Right Now (2:50) - Should You Buy Arista Networks Stock After Its Recent Selloff? (10:50) - Is Now A Good Time To Invest In Robinhood Before it Pushes Beyond All Time Highs?               Podcast@Zacks.com

Top 2025 ESG Stock and Fund Picks. Include renewable energy, infrastructure, and small-cap stocks. Plus, climate fund picks and more! By Ron Robins, MBA Transcript & Links, Episode 145, January 10, 2025 I hope everyone enjoyed the holidays and sincerely wish you a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2025! My name is Ron Robins and I welcome you to my podcast episode 145 published January 10, 2025, titled “Top 2025 ESG Stock and Fund Picks.” It's presented by Investing for the Soul. Investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing mentoring, news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript and links to content – including stock symbols and bonus material – on this episode's podcast page at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Also, a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in these podcasts, and I don't receive any compensation from anyone covered in these podcasts. Furthermore, I will reveal any investments I have in the investments mentioned herein. Additionally, quotes about individual companies are brief. Please go to this podcast's webpage for links to the articles and more company and stock information. ------------------------------------------------------------- Top 2025 ESG Stock and Fund Picks (1) Now most ethical and sustainable investors have socially responsible investment funds. This is a good review article of the best ones for US residents. It's titled Best ESG ETFs: Top funds for socially responsible investing. It's by Brian Baker and found on msn.com. Here is some of what he has to say. “1. Vanguard ESG U.S. Stock ETF (ESGV) tries to match the performance of the FTSE U.S. All Cap Choice Index and screens for certain ESG criteria. Certain companies in the following industries are excluded from the fund: adult entertainment, alcohol, fossil fuels, gambling, nuclear power, tobacco and weapons. 5-year return (annualized): 15.7 percent Expense ratio: 0.09 percent 2. iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (ICLN) seeks to track the performance of an index of global stocks from the clean energy sector. 5-year return (annualized): 7.3 percent Expense ratio: 0.41 percent 3. iShares ESG MSCI USA Leaders ETF (SUSL) gives investors exposure to large- and mid-cap stocks that score highly on ESG issues relative to their sector peers. 5-year return (annualized): 9.7 percent Expense ratio: 0.49 percent 4. iShares ESG Aware MSCI USA ETF (ESGU) tracks the results of an index of U.S. companies with ESG features that show a similar risk and return profile as the overall MSCI USA Index. 5-year return (annualized): 15.7 percent Expense ratio: 0.15 percent” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Top 2025 ESG Stock and Fund Picks (2) This next article arises from some new original research. It's titled Top Stocks Widely Owned by Small-Cap ESG Funds by Frances Aufderheide and can be seen on morningstar.com. Now a few quotes from the article. “In the United States, small-cap stocks range from a market cap of $2.9 billion to $11.2 billion, which will be the focus of this exercise. [Learn more about Morningstar Categories by downloading the US Fund Category methodology paper.] We compiled the holdings of the oldest share classes of all US sustainable small-cap funds. Next, we put the top 200 stocks that are commonly owned in a theoretical portfolio. Then, we calculated what the average weight of each security would be if this portfolio held all 200 stocks. We did the same with traditional funds, defining the universe as the oldest share class of small-cap funds, excluding sustainable funds. We found five stocks owned exclusively by small-cap sustainable funds. Source: Morningstar Direct. Weights and Data as of Dec. 3, 2024. 1. Aptar Group (ATR) Morningstar ESG Risk Rating Assessment: Negligible Total Return Year-to-Date (Month-End): 41.30 Price/Fair Value: 1.05 Moat: Narrow ‘The company specializes in various drug dispensing solutions including nasal spray inhalers and elastomer components for injectable drugs, high-end fragrance pumps, and food dispensing closures.' ‘We think the firm's outlook is strong from a longer-term perspective…' —Jay Lee, Morningstar Senior Equity Analyst ‘The company's carbon footprint is affected by the nature of its operations and the source of energy used to power these operations.' —Morningstar Sustainalytics 2. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (WH) Morningstar ESG Risk Rating Assessment: Medium Total Return Year-to-Date (Month-End): 23.52 Price/Fair Value: 1.05 Moat: Narrow ‘We believe Wyndham's moat is illustrated by its enduring unit growth demand from third-party owners, guest satisfaction ranking of its brands, room and loyalty scale, and contract length of franchisee relationships.' —Dan Wasiolek, Morningstar Senior Equity Analyst ‘To maintain its ongoing operations, the company uses large quantities of water. Increasingly stringent carbon regulations and energy efficiency requirements could lead to higher energy prices, larger associated costs for the company and compliance issues.' —Morningstar Sustainalytics 3. Clearway Energy (CWEN) Morningstar ESG Risk Rating Assessment: Severe Total Return Year-to-Date (Month-End): 12.00 ‘Clearway Energy Inc is a publicly-traded energy infrastructure investor with a focus on investments in clean energy and owner of modern, sustainable and long-term contracted assets across North America…' ‘Although the company provides some ESG disclosure, its overall ESG reporting is not in accordance with leading reporting standards' —Morningstar Sustainalytics 4. Commerce Bancshares (CBSH) Morningstar ESG Risk Rating Assessment: Medium Total Return Year-to-Date (Month-End): 39.60 Moat: Narrow ‘Commerce Bancshares Inc., is a $22 billion regional bank that provides a diversified line of financial services, including business and personal banking, wealth management, financial planning, and investments through its affiliated companies.' ‘The company's product and service portfolio, as well as its customer base triggers exposure to quality and safety issues.' —Morningstar Sustainalytics 5. Darling Ingredients (DAR) Morningstar ESG Risk Rating Assessment: Low Total Return Year-to-Date (Month-End): (18.68) ‘Darling Ingredients Inc develops and manufactures sustainable ingredients for customers in the pharmaceutical, food, pet food, fuel, and fertilizer industries. “Growing consumer demand for healthier and more environmentally friendly foods, including low-fat and plant-based proteins, exposes Darling to potential customer loss should it fail to adapt its portfolio to this trend.' —Morningstar Sustainalytics.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Top 2025 ESG Stock and Fund Picks (3) This next article is written by an analyst we have repeatedly featured on this podcast. Her name is Aparajita Dutta, and she hails from Zacks. The article is titled 3 Renewable Energy Stocks Poised for Explosive Growth in 2025. Here are some quotes by Ms. Dutta on each of her picks. “These stocks, with a favorable Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), have gained more than 25% so far this year… these can be expected to continue their rally in 2025 as well… 1. Constellation Energy (CEG) this company delivers electric power, natural gas, and energy management services across the United States. It is the lowest carbon emitter among major investor-owned U.S. generators… The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Constellation Energy's 2025 earnings implies a 10% improvement from the prior year's estimated earnings. The stock has gained 96.6% in the year-to-date period, while its current average price target has an upside of 23.7% from its last closing price. Free Stock Analysis Report. 2. Excelerate Energy (EE) Excelerate Energy is a provider of floating liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals… The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Excelerate Energy's 2025 earnings implies a 19.1% improvement from the prior year's estimated earnings, while that for its 2025 sales reflects a 25.8% increase. The stock has gained 97.6% in the year-to-date period. Free Stock Analysis Report. 3. Gevo (GEVO) Gevo is a renewable chemicals and advanced biofuels company engaged in the development of biobased alternatives to petroleum-based products… The Zacks Consensus Estimate for GEVO's 2025 sales implies a 101.5% improvement from the prior year's estimated earnings. The stock has gained 30.1% in the year-to-date period, while its current average price target has an upside of 296% from its last closing price. Free Stock Analysis Report” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Top 2025 ESG Stock and Fund Picks (4) This next article features some well-known ESG stocks. It's titled 3 ESG Stocks That Align Profits With Purpose. It was written by Rjkumari Saxena and was seen on stocknews.com. Here is some of what Ms. Saxena has to say in her article. “1. Salesforce, Inc. (CRM - Get Rating) provides Customer Relationship Management technology that brings companies and customers together worldwide. Its service includes sales to store data, monitor leads and progress, forecast opportunities, gain insights through analytics and artificial intelligence, and deliver quotes, contracts, and invoices… Salesforce, Inc.'s robust outlook is reflected in its POWR Ratings. The stock has an overall rating of B, which translates to a Buy in our proprietary rating system. 2. Adobe Inc. (ADBE - Get Rating) operates as a diversified software company globally. It operates in three segments: Digital Media; Digital Experience; and Publishing and Advertising. The company offers products, services, and solutions that enable individuals, teams, and enterprises to create, publish, and promote content, and Document Cloud, a unified cloud-based document services platform… Shares of Adobe have plunged 13.7% over the past month to close the last trading session at $446.74. Adobe's POWR Ratings reflect its sound fundamentals. The stock has an overall rating of A, which translates to a Strong Buy. 3. NextEra Energy, Inc. (NEE - Get Rating) generates, transmits, distributes, and sells electric power to retail and wholesale customers. It generates electricity through wind, solar, nuclear, natural gas, and other clean energy… NextEra Energy has raised its dividends for 29 consecutive years… Over the past year, the stock has gained 20.4% to close the last trading session at $72.49. NextEra Energy's POWR Ratings reflect its bright prospects.” End quotes ------------------------------------------------------------- Top 2025 ESG Stock and Fund Picks (5) Now infrastructure stocks are often overlooked by ethical and sustainable investors. However, they are worth looking at. See this article titled Meet the High-Performing Infrastructure Stock That's Crucial to Supporting This Massive $3 Trillion Megatrend. By Matt DiLallo, found on fool.com. Here are some quotes from the article. “One company that is absolutely critical to building this infrastructure is Quanta Services (NYSE: PWR). It's the industry leader in providing specialized infrastructure solutions… Quanta Services provides specialized infrastructure solutions to the utilities, renewable energy, technology, communications, pipeline, and energy industries. Its client list is a who's who of industry leaders in those respective sectors… Increasing infrastructure investment is driving strong growth for Quanta Services this year. It delivered another quarter of double-digit growth in the third quarter. Its revenue rose from $5.6 billion to $6.5 billion, while its adjusted earnings increased from $2.24 per share to $2.72. It also generated $539.5 million in cash flow, pushing its year-to-date total to nearly $1.4 billion (with almost $980 million in free cash). That strong performance has helped drive a more than 50% increase in its stock price this year.” End quotes ------------------------------------------------------------- Additional articles not covered due to time constraints 1. Title: 4 Alternative Energy Stocks To Buy Amid Rising Raw Materials Cost on barchart.com. By Zacks Investment Research, Inc. 2. Title: Analyst Sees 500% Upside for This Clean Technology Penny Stock on finance.yahoo.com. By Nauman khan. 3. Title: Top 5 Fastest Growing Solar Energy Stocks to Watch Out for in 2025 on equitymaster.com. By staff. 4. Title: The Shocking Rise in Enphase Energy Stock! What Investors Need to Know Now! on jomfruland.net. By Paquita Cicero. 5. Title: Why Aptiv PLC (APTV) Is One of the Best Environmental Stocks to Invest in Right Now? On msn.com. By Mashaid Ahmed. 6. Title: Why Array Technologies (ARRY) Is Among the Best Renewable Energy Stocks to Buy? On finance.yahoo.com. By Mashaid Ahmed. 7. Title: Nike a Top Socially Responsible Dividend Stock With 2.2% Yield (NKE) on nasdaq.com. By BNK Invest. 8. Title: AAPL: 3 ESG Stocks for Ethical and Profitable Investing in 2025 on stocknews.com. By Rjkumari Saxena. 9. Title: USCL, USCA, and NZUS: 3 Climate ETFs Beating the Market on marketbeat.com. Written by Nathan Reiff, Reviewed by Shannon Tokheim. 10. Title: 3 Renewable Energy Stocks to Buy in 2025 and Hold for Decades on fool.com. By James Brumley. Articles of Interest from Around the World 1. India. Title: Top 5 Fastest Growing Solar Energy Stocks to Watch Out for in 2025 on equitymaster.com. By staff. 2. Australia. Title: Which 3 ethical ASX ETFs performed the best in 2024? On fool.com.au. By Aaron Bell. ------------------------------------------------------------- Ending Comment These are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips for this podcast “Top 2025 ESG Stock and Fund Picks.” Please click the like and subscribe buttons wherever you download or listen to this podcast. That helps bring these podcasts to others like you. And please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. Let's promote ethical and sustainable investing as a force for hope and prosperity in these troubled times! Contact me if you have any questions. Thank you for listening. I'll talk to you next January 24th. Bye for now.   © 2024 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul

These stocks have low P/E and P/S ratios and are Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buys). But are they true values? (0:30) - Screening Criteria For Top Value Stocks (6:10) - Top Stocks To Keep On Your Watchlist Right Now (25:30) - Episode Roundup: DFH, THC, LOCO, GBX, MD  

These stocks have low P/E and P/S ratios and are Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buys). But are they true values? (0:30) - Screening Criteria For Top Value Stocks (6:10) - Top Stocks To Keep On Your Watchlist Right Now (25:30) - Episode Roundup: DFH, THC, LOCO, GBX, MD Podcast@Zacks.com  

Ben Rains explores the stock market's surge to fresh highs following the presidential election. The episode then dives into three growth-heavy Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks-Shopify, Nu Holdings, and Vertiv - to consider buying and holding for the next 10 years. (0:30) - Stock Market Update: Election Leads To New All-Time Highs (2:20) - Does Shopify Earn A Spot In Your Portfolio Ahead of Earnings Trading 50% Below Its Highs? (8:50) - Should You Buy Nu Holdings Amid Continued Expansion? (13:50) - Should Vertiv Be Your Go To AI Investment? Podcast@Zacks.com

Sustainable ETFs for Sustainable Investors. More… It also covers top Zacks ranking alternative energy stocks such as Talen Energy Corporation. By Ron Robins, MBA Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to this podcast episode 139 published October 4, 2024, titled “Sustainable ETFs for Sustainable Investors. More…” It's presented by Investing for the Soul. Investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing mentoring, news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript and links to content – including stock symbols and bonus material – on this episode's podcast page at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Also, a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in these podcasts, and I don't receive any compensation from anyone covered in these podcasts. Furthermore, I will reveal any investments I have in the investments mentioned herein. Additionally, quotes about individual companies are brief. Please go to this podcast's webpage for links to the articles and more company and stock information. ------------------------------------------------------------- Best Sustainable ETFs for ESG Investors For this podcast, I have three articles to cover. The first is titled Best Sustainable ETFs for ESG Investors. It's by Sumedha and can be seen on sfctoday.com. Here's some of what the author says about their picks. “1. TCW Transform 500 ETF (VOTE) Unlike traditional ETFs that exclude companies based on specific ESG criteria, the TCW Transform 500 ETF takes an inclusive approach, using shareholder engagement to encourage better corporate governance and sustainability practices. By including major companies and influencing their behavior, investors in this ETF can help drive long-term value creation in the US economy. The ETF tracks the Morningstar US Large Cap Select TR USD Index, a market cap-weighted index that reflects the performance of the largest US companies. 2. Xtrackers MSCI USA Climate Action Equity ETF (USCA) As the world increasingly moves toward sustainability, the Xtrackers MSCI USA Climate Action Equity ETF is positioned to capture investment opportunities aligned with this shift. The ETF tracks the MSCI USA Climate Action Index, which includes large- and mid-cap U.S. companies recognized as leaders in climate action within their respective sectors. The ETF's rigorous selection process evaluates companies based on their emissions intensity, climate risk management, and commitments to reducing carbon footprints… For investors who want to capitalize on the long-term growth potential of the transition to a low-carbon economy, [this ETF] provides exposure to companies that are leading in this space. 3. iShares ESG Screened S&P 500 ETF (XVV) The iShares ESG Screened S&P 500 ETF provides exposure to large-cap US equities while adhering to ESG criteria. This ETF tracks the S&P 500 Sustainability Screened Index, which excludes companies involved in controversial industries such as tobacco, coal, and weapons. Managed by BlackRock, a leader in sustainable investing, the fund aims to balance financial returns with a positive societal impact… At an expense ratio of just 0.08%, iShares ESG Screened S&P 500 ETF is a cost-effective option for those who want to invest sustainably without significantly deviating from the performance of the traditional S&P 500 index. 4. Vanguard ESG US Stock ETF (ESGV) The Vanguard ESG US Stock ETF is one of the most popular options for investors looking to combine broad market exposure with ESG principles. It tracks the FTSE US All Cap Choice Index, which includes large-, mid-, and small-cap U.S. companies that meet stringent ESG standards. Companies involved in activities such as tobacco, alcohol, gambling, and fossil fuels are excluded… Launched in September 2018, the Vanguard ESG US Stock ETF has gained popularity for its low expense ratio of just 0.09%. 5. NYLI Candriam U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF (IQSU) The NYLI Candriam U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF offers a passive investment approach with a focus on U.S. large- and mid-cap equities that meet specific ESG criteria. It tracks the NYLI Candriam U.S. Large Cap Equity Index, which leverages Candriam's leading ESG research to provide a diversified portfolio across various sectors. With an expense ratio of just 0.09%, the NYLI Candriam U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF stands out as a cost-effective, tax-sensitive investment option for those seeking to invest sustainably. The ETF has earned a Bronze rating from Morningstar, a testament to its strong management team and reliable investment process. Its strategy focuses on high liquidity and volatility exposure, offering greater flexibility in managing the portfolio. For investors seeking a resilient core holding with a strong ESG focus, the NYLI Candriam U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF provides an excellent option.” End quotes ------------------------------------------------------------- 3 Alternative Energy Stocks to Buy The second article is titled 3 Alternative Energy Stocks to Buy by Aparajita Dutta. Her work features regularly in these podcasts and is found on zacks.com. Here are some quotes from her article. “1. Talen Energy Corporation (TLN) Based in Houston, TX, the company owns and operates power infrastructure, principally in the United States. On Sept. 5, 2024, Talen Energy announced that its board of directors has approved the upsizing of its previously announced share repurchase program, increasing the remaining capacity to $1.25 billion through the fourth quarter of 2026. This reflects the company's solid financial position.  Talen Energy boasts a four-quarter average earnings surprise of 140.71%... Talen currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). 2. FuelCell Energy (FCEL) Based in Danbury, CT, the company develops and markets ultra-clean power plants that generate electricity with up to twice the efficiency of conventional fossil fuel plants with virtually no air pollution and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. On Sept. 5, 2024, FuelCell Energy released its third-quarter fiscal 2024 results. Its generation revenues increased 22% year over year. As of July 31, 2024, its backlog increased approximately 12.6% to $1.20 billion.  FuelCell Energy boasts a four-quarter average earnings surprise of 18.75%. The consensus estimate for the company's 2025 sales is pegged at $2.29 billion, implying an improvement of 84.5% from the previous year's estimated figure. The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). 3. TXNM Energy (TXNM) Based in Albuquerque, NM, TXNM is an energy holding company that delivers energy to homes and businesses across Texas and New Mexico. TXNM boasts a four-quarter average earnings surprise of 1.96%. The stock holds a long-term earnings growth rate of 2.5%. The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #2.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 3 Sustainable Investing ETFs for Ethical Portfolios The third article is also about sustainable ETFs. It's titled 3 Sustainable Investing ETFs for Ethical Portfolios and by Abhishek Bhuyan appearing on stocknews.com. Here's a brief quote from the article. “Sustainable investing involves aligning investments with ethical and environmental values, focusing on companies that meet ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) criteria. Large-cap blends are a good choice because they offer stability, diversification, and long-term growth potential. Companies with solid track records and ESG practices can provide strong returns while minimizing risk. To that end, investors could look to invest in sustainable large-cap ETFs such as the iShares MSCI KLD 400 Social ETF (DSI - Get Rating), Vanguard ESG U.S. Stock ETF (ESGV - Get Rating), and iShares ESG Aware MSCI USA ETF (ESGU - Get Rating) for an ethical portfolio.” End quote. ------------------------------------------------------------- Ending Comment These are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips for this podcast “Sustainable ETFs for Sustainable Investors. More…” Please click the like and subscribe buttons wherever you download or listen to this podcast. That helps bring these podcasts to others like you. And please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. Let's promote ethical and sustainable investing as a force for hope and prosperity in these troubled times! Contact me if you have any questions. Thank you for listening. Now my next podcast will be October 18th. I'll talk to you then! Bye for now.   © 2024 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul

Ben Rains explores the selloff to start September and where the stock market might be headed in the near term. The episode also explores three Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) technology stocks—Taiwan Semiconductor, Spotify, and AppLovin—that investors might want to buy now in September and hold for long-term upside. (0:30) - Stock Market Update: Everything You Need To Know After The Early-September Selloff (6:35) - Taiwan Semiconductor Dominates Chip Manufacturing: Should You Be Investing? (12:40) - Should You Buy Spotify Stock Before It Breaks Out To New All-Time Highs?  (19:35) - Does AppLovin's Strong Performance Earn A Spot In Your Portfolio?                Podcast@Zacks.com

How to screen for the best small cap stocks using the Zacks Rank.  (0:30) - Should You Be Adding More Small Cap Stocks To Your Portfolio? (5:20) - Stock Screener Run Down: How To Find The Best Investments For You (14:05) - Tracey's Top Picks For Your Watchlist (32:10) - Episode Roundup: SOUN, AFYA, CSTL, TRS, IMMR

Renewable Energy Stock Picks podcast includes some great renewable energy stock analyses from Zacks, The Motley Fool, InvestorPlace, and others.   By Ron Robins, MBA Transcript & Links, Episode 130, May 17, 2024 Hello, Ron Robins here. So, welcome to this podcast episode 130 titled “Renewable Energy Stock Picks.” It's presented by Investing for the Soul. Investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing mentoring, news, commentary, information, and resources. Now, remember that you can find a full transcript, and links to content – including stock symbols and bonus material – on this episode's podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Also, a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in these podcasts, nor do I receive any compensation from anyone covered in these podcasts. Furthermore, I will reveal to you any personal investments I have in the investments mentioned herein. Additionally, quotes about individual companies are brief. Please go to this podcast's webpage for links to the actual articles for more company and stock information. Also, some companies might be covered more than once and there are also 2 article links below that time didn't allow me to review them here. ------------------------------------------------------------- 1) Renewable Energy Stock Picks I'm beginning with this article which is from the famous Zacks research team. It's titled 4 Stocks to Watch in the Path to Decarbonize the Future and is by Rimmi Singhi and found at sg.news.yahoo.com. Here are brief quotes by the author on each stock. “1. Clearway (CWEN) along with its subsidiaries owns and operates a diverse portfolio of contracted renewable and conventional generation, along with thermal infrastructure assets in the United States. Furthermore, Clearway's asset portfolio includes more than 9,000 megawatts (MW) of wind, solar, thermal, and natural-gas-fired power generation facilities as well as distract energy systems… The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Clearway's 2023 sales and earnings implies year-over-year growth of 15% and 149%, respectively… It boasts a long-term earnings growth rate of 10%. Clearway currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). 2. NextEra (NEE) is a leading provider of wind and solar energy in the United States. The company also operates in Canada and has a growing presence in Latin America. NextEra has many renewable projects in its backlog and their completion will ensure reduced emissions. The company expects to be able to add 33-42 gigawatts (GW) of new renewables in the 2023-2026 time frame to the generation portfolio via clean energy investments… The Zacks Consensus Estimate for NextEra's 2023 and 2024 earnings implies year-over-year growth of 8% and 8.2%, respectively. The same for 2023 and 2024 revenues indicates a year-over-year uptick of 27% and 9%, respectively. The company surpassed earnings estimates in the last four quarters, the average surprise being 6.2%. It boasts a long-term earnings growth rate of 9%. NextEra currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). 3. Brookfield (BEP) is a renewable energy firm that operates hydro, wind, solar, and storage assets in North America, South America, Europe and Asia. Hydroelectric power comprised 50% of its portfolio in 2022. The firm remains focused on the expansion of its expertise in wind, solar, and energy storage capabilities through acquisitions and development projects. Over the past decade, Brookfield's earnings have witnessed a CAGR of around 10%. Brookfield is committed to maintaining a strong balance sheet to support further expansion. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Brookfield's 2023 and 2024 earnings implies year-over-year growth of 120% and 275%, respectively… The firm boasts a dividend yield of more than 4% and has increased its payout five times in the last five years. Brookfield currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). 4. Vestas (VWS.CO) is a global leader in the wind energy sector. It has a wide range of expertise, including the design, manufacture, installation, development, and servicing of wind energy and hybrid projects worldwide. With over 157 GW of wind turbines installed in 88 countries, Vestas is a major player in the industry… The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Vestas' 2023 and 2024 earnings implies year-over-year growth of 126% and 189%, respectively. The same for 2023 and 2024 revenues indicates a year-over-year uptick of 7% and 25%, respectively. Vestas currently carries a Zacks Rank #3.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 2) Renewable Energy Stock Picks This second article is again by the prodigious research output group, InvestorPlace. It's titled 3 Renewable Energy Stocks to Capitalize on the Sustainability Surge. It's by Rick Orford and found on investorplace.com. Now some of what Mr. Orford says about his stock picks. “1. First Solar (NASDAQ:FSLR) The continued growth in solar power as an alternative energy source has made companies like First Solar an important part of the government's plan to transition to a green economy.  The company is one of the top producers of photovoltaic cells (PV) used in building CdTe solar modules that transform sunlight into electricity, making it an invaluable component of the solar power production chain. The growing demand for solar energy has led to First Solar's acquisition of an Ohio facility that serves as its distribution center, enabling it to scale manufacturing… Looking forward, First Solar expects net income per diluted share to end between $13.00 and $14.00 — almost doubling 2023 results — and net sales to be around $4.4 billion and $4.6 billion for 2024. With the government's strong push to go green, First Solar has tremendous potential, making it one of the best choices for renewable energy stocks to buy. 2. Broadwind (NASDAQ:BWEN) specializes in wind energy equipment, clean energy structures and clean technology used by different sectors. The company agreed with MarketAxess Holdings (NASDAQ:MKTX) to ‘sell earned Advanced Manufacturing Production Credits' which will help significantly improve its liquidity profile. Broadwind's latest results showcased impressive growth in FY'23. Revenue reached $203.5 million, 15% higher than the previous year's reported revenue of $176.7 million… Despite a slight decrease in orders and backlog from last year, Broadwind is still optimistic about future prospects, especially with expectations of accelerating wind development in the latter half of 2024.  3. Beam Global (NASDAQ:BEEM) is a clean technology innovator that designs advanced solutions for energy storage, electric vehicle (EV) charging and energy infrastructures.  Its patented infrastructure product EV ARC (Electric Vehicle Autonomous Renewable Charger) uses integrated battery storage and solar power that provides a power source for electric vehicle charging stations. The company also offers street furniture and street lighting products globally… The company finished FY'23 with a record revenue of $67.4 million, a 206% growth compared to last year's $23 million. Earnings for the year improved to a net loss of $1.30, an increase of 34.6% compared to the previous year's loss of $1.99. In addition, the company reported positive full-year gross profit and remained debt-free with an unused $100 million line of credit. Its significant backlog and contracts mean the company should have ample cash flow to fund its future operations.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 3) Renewable Energy Stock Picks This third article is titled SunPower Stock Has 87% Upside, According to 1 Wall Street Analyst. It's by Rich Smith and found on fool.com. Here are some of his comments. “Is SunPower (SPWR) stock a buy in 2024? Quoted on The Fly Monday, Richardson explained he cut SunPower's price target because green energy stocks have been underperforming this year and inventories are still bloated. But the analyst remains optimistic that ‘inventory channel clearings are nearly complete' and so the bottom is not far off. Combined with rising electricity rates, that's going to create more demand for cheap solar power, and create the potential for SunPower's sales to turn around. Is he right? As the saying goes, it's hard to make predictions -- especially about the future. Still, if the ‘bottom' has truly already arrived for solar power stocks, then it's arrived remarkably quickly. In related cyclical industries such as semiconductors for example, oversupply cycles ordinarily take six to 18 months to reverse. But SunPower's sales have only been falling for a couple of quarters. According to data from S&P Global Market Intelligence, sales were still on an upswing as recently as the second quarter of 2023! While it's possible SunPower's going to get away with just a six-month downturn, therefore, I wouldn't bet on it. And I wouldn't bet on a company valued at $380 million, and burning more than half that amount ($201 million) in cash every year, doubling over the next 12 months either. More than likely, SunPower stock still has at least a few more rough quarters ahead of it.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 4) Renewable Energy Stock Picks The last article is titled 3 Renewable Energy Stocks That Will Make Other Investors Green With Envy. It's by Rick Orford, and found on investorplace.com. Here are some comments by Mr. Orford. “For this analysis, I've started with a screen of the top 30 Renewable Energy Companies based on the Market Cap. Then, I filtered the list for the following criteria: Year-on-year quarterly net income growth of over 30%, Analyst rating of 4 and above (moderate to strong buy) and An upside potential of over 50% based on high target prices. This list of renewable energy stocks to buy is sorted in descending order based on upside potential. 1. First Solar (NASDAQ:FSLR) drives the global transition to renewable energy by harnessing the sun's power. The company manufactures thin-film PV solar modules, which offer a lower-carbon alternative to conventional crystalline silicon PV modules.  First Solar's business operations include manufacturing cadmium telluride solar modules, project development activities, operations and maintenance services. The company has a presence in France, Japan, Chile and, of course, the United States…  First Solar's Q4FY'23 financial report is a relief for many investors. Its revenue Increased to $1.16 billion from $1 billion YOY. EPS also recovered considerably from a 7-cent loss to a $3.27 profit per share.  Its metrics, including its YOY net income growth of 84.65%, make it easy to understand why analysts rate the stock a strong buy, with a high target of $269 — over 52.6% upside potential from its current levels.  2. Fluence Energy (NASDAQ:FLNC) is a driving force in integrating renewable energy into power grids. It delivers highly modernized energy storage solutions worldwide. The company offers various energy storage products like Gridstack Pro, Gridstack, Sunstack, Edgestack and Ultrastack. It caters to applications such as large-scale front-of-the-meter, DC-coupled solar + storage, commercial and industrial use cases, and more… Fluence Energy's Q1'24 financials are pretty decent despite minor setbacks in metrics. Its revenues increased from $363.95 million to $310.46 million YOY. Its gross profit increased from $12 million to $36.39 million. However, Fluence Energy's net quarterly income loss was $25.55 million, an improvement from $37.19 million last year.  Analysts rate FLNC stock a strong buy, targeting a high price of $37, which translates to 107% upside potential from its current levels.  3. Brookfield Renewable Partners (NYSE:BEP) is a prominent player in the renewable energy sector and owns various assets worldwide. The company's portfolio includes hydroelectric, wind, solar and energy storage facilities, with an operating capacity of approximately 33,000 megawatts.  Moreover, Brookfield Renewable Partners has a significant development pipeline and invests in sustainable solutions such as renewable natural gas, carbon capture and storage, recycling and nuclear services… Brookfield Renewable Partners reported pretty decent Q4'23 financial results with its all-positive YOY performance. Its revenue slightly increased to $1.32 billion from $1.20 billion. On top of that, the company's net income significantly increased to $264 million from $60 million, placing its EPS in a recovering trajectory of $0.01 from the -$0.16 loss reported in FY'22. Analysts rate Brookfield Renewable Partners stock a strong buy with a high target of $52, reflecting over 152% upside potential.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- One Honorable Mention Title: 3 Renewable Energy Stocks to Sell in May Before They Crash & Burn on investorplace.com. By Achintya Pasricha. One article from Australia Title: Does Australian Ethical Investment (ASX:AEF) Deserve A Spot On Your Watchlist? On yahoo.com. By Simply Wall St. ------------------------------------------------------------- Ending Comment Well, these are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips -- for this podcast titled: “Renewable Energy Stock Picks.” Now, please be sure to click the like and subscribe buttons on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or wherever you download or listen to this podcast. That helps bring these podcasts to others like you. And please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. Let's promote ethical and sustainable investing as a force for hope and prosperity in these deeply troubled times! Contact me if you have any questions. Thank you for listening. I'll talk to you next on May 31st. Bye for now.   © 2024 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul

Ben Rains explores where the stock market stands after the Nasdaq and the S&P 500 soared to fresh highs following the Fed's dovish update. The episode then dives into three Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks—Textron (TXT), Nextracker (NXT), and AppLovin (APP)—that have blown away the market in 2024 that investors might want to buy for long-term upside. (0:30) - Stock Market Update: Everything You Need To Know After The Latest Fed Meeting (3:35) - Does Textron Earn Its Way Into Your Portfolio With No Signs of Slowing Down? (7:20) - Should You Consider Nextracker After Its Latest Stellar Earnings Report? (11:30) - Is Now A Good Time To Buy AppLovin As It Continues To Hit New 52 Week Highs? Podcast@Zacks.com

Zacks stock ranking system moved to the top rank on NVIDIA and other datacenter stocks last year.  (1:00) - Using The Zacks Rank And Earnings Reports To Your Advantage (11:35) - Learning From Nvidia's Parabolic Stock Performance (18:00) - Super Micro Computers Strong Performance: What Are The Analysts Saying? (29:25) - Breaking Down Magnificent 7 Stocks Using The Earnings (35:30) - Episode Roundup: NVDA, SMCI, AAPL, VRT, MSFT

These stocks are cheap and have the top Zacks Rank of Strong Buy. (0:45) - Finding Value Amid A Growth Market: Screener Criteria  (5:15) - Tracey's Top Stock Picks For Your Watchlist (19:00) - Episode Roundup: SCS, MTW, AEO, GBX, HMC Podcast@Zacks.com

These stocks are cheap and have the top Zacks Rank of Strong Buy. (0:45) - Finding Value Amid A Growth Market: Screener Criteria  (5:15) - Tracey's Top Stock Picks For Your Watchlist (19:00) - Episode Roundup: SCS, MTW, AEO, GBX, HMC Podcast@Zacks.com

Start out the year with the best cheap stocks with the top Zacks Rank and Style scores. (0:30) - Finding True Classic Value Stocks For 2024: Stock Screen Criteria  (7:45) - Tracey's Top Stock Picks For Your Watchilist (20:10) - Episode Roundup: DLX, KT, LBRT, KAR, TM Podcast@Zacks.com

Start out the year with the best cheap stocks with the top Zacks Rank and Style scores. (0:30) - Finding True Classic Value Stocks For 2024: Stock Screen Criteria  (7:45) - Tracey's Top Stock Picks For Your Watchilist (20:10) - Episode Roundup: DLX, KT, LBRT, KAR, TM Podcast@Zacks.com

Impact, Solar, and ESG Stock Buys. Stocks to buy and hold. Stocks making social change. Undervalued solar stocks. And more…  Podcast: Impact, Solar, and ESG Stock Buys Transcript & Links, Episode 118, November 17, 2023 Hello, Ron Robins here. So, welcome to this podcast episode 118 titled “Impact, Solar, and ESG Stock Buys.” It's presented by Investing for the Soul. Investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing mentoring, news, commentary, information, and resources. And look at my newly revised website at investingforthesoul.com! Tell me what you think. Now, remember that you can find a full transcript, and links to content – including stock symbols and bonus material – on this episode's podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Also, a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in these podcasts, nor do I receive any compensation from anyone covered in these podcasts. Furthermore, I will reveal to you any personal investments I have in the investments mentioned herein. Additionally, quotes about individual companies are brief. Please go to this podcast's webpage for links to the actual articles for more company and stock information. Also, some companies might be covered more than once and there are also 4 article links below that time didn't allow me to review them here. ------------------------------------------------------------- 1) Impact, Solar, and ESG Stock Buys This first article lists three stocks, it says, are for the long-term sustainable investor. The title Building a Sustainable Portfolio: 3 ESG Stocks to Buy and Hold. It's by Josh Enomoto and found on investorplace.com. Here's some of what Mr. Enomoto says about his picks. “1. Iron Mountain (NYSE:IRM) An enterprise information management services firm, Iron Mountain focuses on records management and data backup and recovery services… According to Investor's Business Daily, Iron Mountain ranks as number 50 on its list of 100 best ESG companies of 2023. In particular, the information management specialist seeks to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040… Analysts rate shares a unanimous strong buy with a $67.20 price target. 2. Intuit (NASDAQ:INTU) Intuit can mitigate our pain through tax-related financial software… And it turns out, people appreciate Intuit for another reason: it's one of the ESG stocks to buy and hold… Per IBD, the software specialist places as number 58 on the top 100 conscientious companies for this year… Analysts peg Intuit as a strong buy with a $580.41 price target. 3. Clean Harbors (NYSE:CLH) A provider of environmental and industrial services… shares have soared robustly higher since the beginning of this year. Per its public profile, Clean Harbors focuses on myriad services, including hazardous waste disposal for companies, small waste generators, and government agencies… Clean Harbors slots in the number 39 spot on IBD's top 100 conscientious companies. Analysts rate Clean Harbors a consensus moderate buy with an average price target of $186.57.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 2) Impact, Solar, and ESG Stock Buys My second article is unusual and you'll see why in a moment. It's titled These 5 small-cap impact stocks are making social change. Written by Ari Zoldan and found on marketbeat.com. Now some of what Mr. Zoldan says about the stocks that are specifically publicly listed. “1. Vision Marine Technologies (NASDAQ:VMAR) The company offers electric outboard motors for boats. Vision Marine enjoys a first-mover advantage, as its E-Motion outboard motor, announced at the Paris Boat Show in December 2022, is the only turnkey solution available to boat manufacturers… 2. Ideal Power (NASDAQ:IPWR)  The company offers a proprietary semiconductor switch that's much more energy-efficient than most other offerings on the market… [It] offers significant benefits to energy-efficient devices and products, electric vehicles and EV charging, green energy and energy storage, utility infrastructure, and data centers. 3. Verde Bioresins Verde Bioresins is expected to go public via a merger with a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC). [That company] TLGY Acquisition Corp. is trading under the ticker ‘TLGY,' but after the merger, its name will change, and Verde Bioresins will trade under the ticker ‘VRDE.' Verde's PolyEarthyleneTM bioresin is a high-performance alternative to many petroleum-based plastics… The company estimates the total addressable market for its product at around $300 billion, or roughly half of the total market for petroleum-based plastics. 4. Draganfly (NASDAQ:DPRO) Although it might seem like drones have only been around for the last five to 10 years or so, Draganfly has been in the business for over 20 years... Today, drones have many uses across multiple industries, including humanitarian efforts, public health and safety, military and government, environmental and energy-related industries, agriculture, and insurance. As a result, Draganfly's offerings present dozens of potential social impacts.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 3) Impact, Solar, and ESG Stock Buys And now back to our familiar clean energy theme with this article titled 3 Clean Energy Stocks That Can Survive Anything. It's by Tyrik Torres and found on investorplace.com. Here are some quotes by Mr. Torres from his article on his recommended stocks. “1. Brookfield Renewable Partners (NYSE:BEP) is one of the largest renewable power companies in the world. Its portfolio boasts over 21,000 megawatts (MW) of capacity across hydroelectric, wind, solar, and storage facilities. The company is majority owned by Brookfield Asset Management (NYSE:BAM), an alternative investment manager equity firm… Higher interest rates have negatively impacted Brookfield Renewable Partners near-term share price growth. However, as clean energy stocks come back into favor, buying Brookfield Renewable Partners' [stock now] is a smart move. 2. First Solar (NASDAQ:FSLR) A number of earnings beats throughout 2023 should keep First Solar on clean energy investors' watchlists… First Solar announced a new manufacturing site in the U.S., adding to manufacturing capacity… First Solar could see its intrinsic growth rate boosted in the long term. 3. Ormat Technologies (NYSE:ORA) primarily engages in the geothermal and recovered-energy power business in the U.S., Indonesia, Kenya, Turkey, Chile, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Ethiopia, and Honduras. Last year, Ormat derived approximately 86% revenue from generating electricity through its geothermal plants and recovered energy-based power plants… With valuation multiples essentially halved since January, Ormat looks like an attractive investment opportunity.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 4) Impact, Solar, and ESG Stock Buys With so many solar stocks down, this article might add some light to the gloom. It's titled 11 Most Undervalued Solar Stocks To Buy According To Hedge Funds. I found it on finance.yahoo.com and it's by Hamna Asim. Here are some quotes from his article. “We made an extensive list of the most popularly traded solar stocks and shortlisted 11 stocks with P/E ratios under 35 and the highest hedge fund sentiment. While some P/E ratios might seem high, they are lower than the green and renewable industry average P/E of 83, which was calculated by NYU Stern. We have assessed the hedge fund sentiment from Insider Monkey's database of 910 elite hedge funds tracked as of the end of the second quarter of 2023… [Note: P/E ratios are as of November 2.] 11. Emeren Group Ltd (NYSE:SOL) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 10 P/E Ratio: 25.25 Emeren Group specializes in the development, construction, and operation of solar energy initiatives. The company is involved in the creation of community solar installations and the sale of project rights worldwide. 10. JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd. (NYSE:JKS) Hedge Fund Holders: 12 P/E Ratio: 3.19 JinkoSolar is involved in the design, production, and marketing of photovoltaic products, including solar modules, silicon wafers, solar cells, silicon materials, and silicon ingots. 9. Canadian Solar Inc. (NASDAQ:CSIQ) Hedge Fund Holders: 16 P/E Ratio: 3.51 Canadian Solar is engaged in the creation, development, production, and sale of solar materials and battery storage items worldwide… On October 30, the company said that it intends to invest $800 million in constructing a solar photovoltaic cell manufacturing facility in Jeffersonville, Indiana. 8. SunPower Corporation (NASDAQ:SPWR) Hedge Fund Holders: 17 P/E Ratio: 10.24 SunPower Corporation is a solar technology and energy services provider offering solar, storage, and home energy solutions in the United States and Canada. The company offers post-installation monitoring and maintenance services, catering to homeowners and new home builders. 7. Daqo New Energy Corp. (NYSE:DQ) Hedge Fund Holders: 22 P/E Ratio: 2.05 Daqo New Energy produces and distributes polysilicon to manufacturers of photovoltaic products in China. This polysilicon is utilized in the production of ingots, wafers, cells, and modules for solar energy applications. 6. Shoals Technologies Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:SHLS) Hedge Fund Holders: 24 P/E Ratio: 14.87 Shoals Technologies offers electrical balance of system (EBOS) solutions and components for solar, battery energy, and electric vehicle charging applications in the United States. On October 11, Goldman Sachs upgraded Shoals Technologies to a Buy rating with a $28 price target. 5. Sunrun Inc. (NASDAQ:RUN) Hedge Fund Holders: 24 P/E Ratio: 23.62 Sunrun specializes in residential solar energy solutions in the United States, including design, installation, sales, ownership, and maintenance. 4. Clearway Energy, Inc. (NYSE:CWEN) Hedge Fund Holders: 29 P/E Ratio: 32.62 Clearway Energy is a renewable energy company in the United States, operating through Conventional, Renewables, and Thermal segments. The company manages wind and solar generation projects, as well as natural gas generation facilities. 3. Array Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:ARRY) Hedge Fund Holders: 32 P/E Ratio: 34.04 Array Technologies manufactures and markets ground-mounted tracking systems utilized in solar energy initiatives worldwide, including the United States, Spain, Brazil, and Australia… On September 19, Bank of America included Array Technologies in its US 1 List and maintained a Buy rating with a $30 price target. 2. Enphase Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:ENPH) Hedge Fund Holders: 50 P/E Ratio: 19.50 Enphase Energy creates, manufactures, and sells home energy solutions for the solar industry in the United States and internationally. The company provides semiconductor-based microinverters that operate at the individual solar module level, along with proprietary networking and software for energy monitoring and control. 1. NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE:NEE) Hedge Fund Holders: 59 P/E Ratio: 15.88 NextEra Energy produces, transmits, and distributes electricity in North America. They generate power from different sources including wind, solar, nuclear, coal, and natural gas. NextEra Energy develops and manages long-term contracted assets involving clean energy solutions like renewable facilities, battery storage projects, and electric transmission.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 5) Impact, Solar, and ESG Stock Buys And more on clean energy stocks with this article titled 3 Renewable Energy Stocks Set to Beat Q3 Earnings Estimates. By Aparajita Dutta of Zacks but found on nasdaq.com. Now some quotes from her article. “We are focusing on stocks that have the combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold)… Earnings ESP provides the percentage difference between the Most Accurate Estimate and the Zacks Consensus Estimate. 1. Constellation Energy (Constellation Energy Corporation Quote) It is the nation's largest producer of carbon-free energy and a leading supplier of energy products and services… The company, [has] an Earnings ESP of +1.36% and a Zacks Rank #1. 2. Enlight Renewable Energy (Enlight Renewable Energy Ltd. Quote) It provides a renewable energy platform that develops, finances, constructs, owns and operates utility-sale renewable energy projects. The company, [has] an Earnings ESP of +22.22% and a Zacks Rank #2. 3. TC Energy (TC Energy Corporation Quote) It is a premier energy infrastructure provider in North America. In September 2023, the company announced the successful completion of the Bruce Power's Major Component Replacement (MCR) Unit 6, which fully returned to service, thereby surpassing a significant milestone in Ontario's largest clean-energy initiative. We may expect this to have favorably contributed to TC Energy's third-quarter results. The company, [has] an Earnings ESP of +0.37% and a Zacks Rank #3.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Other Honorable Mentions – not in any order. 1) Title: Top 10: Renewable Energy Companies in the USA on energydigital.com. By Charlie King. 2) Title: Canada's Technology Fast 50™ program on deloitte.com. By Deloitte. 3) Title: Renewable Energy Stocks Got Crushed in 2023. 3 Top Stocks You Won't Regret Buying on the Dip on fool.com. By Jason Hall, Tyler Crowe, and Matthew DiLallo. 4) Title: This Is the Best Solar Stock. But Is It a No-Brainer Buy Right Now? On fool.com. By Jason Hall and Tyler Crowe. ------------------------------------------------------------- Ending Comment Well, these are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips -- for this podcast titled: “Impact, Solar, and ESG Stock Buys.” Now, please be sure to click the like and subscribe buttons on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or wherever you download or listen to this podcast. That helps bring these podcasts to others like you. And please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. Let's promote ethical and sustainable investing as a force for hope and prosperity in these very troubled times! Contact me if you have any questions. Thank you for listening. And, again, please look at my new totally revised website at investingforthesoul.com. Tell me what you think! Talk to you next on December 1st! Bye for now.   © 2023 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul

Ben Rains discusses the recent market rebound that has the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq back above some key technical levels, with the bulls possibly pushing for more critical gains soon.  The episode then dives into three tech stocks—Uber (UBER), AppLovin (APP), and Pure Storage (PSTG)—that are all currently Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buys) that investors might want to buy now for long-term upside as they prepare to report quarterly earnings. (0:30) - Stock Market Update: Everything You Need To Know Amid The Rapid Market Rebound (3:30) - Time For Long-Term Investors To Buy Uber Stock? (9:20) - Does This Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) Tech Stock Earn Its Way Into Your Portfolio? (14:40) - Should You Buy Pure Storage Stock Ahead of Its Earnings Report?(0:30) - Stock Market Update: Everything You Need To Know Amid The Rapid Market Rebound (3:30) - Time For Long-Term Investors To Buy Uber Stock? (9:20) - Does This Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) Tech Stock Earn Its Way Into Your Portfolio? (14:40) - Should You Buy Pure Storage Stock Ahead of Its Earnings Report? Podcast@Zacks.com

The Best ESG Stocks for Potential Gains. Includes 2023 ranking of best ESG companies and best solar and renewable stocks. Transcript & Links, Episode 117, November 3, 2023 Hello, Ron Robins here. So, welcome to this podcast episode 117 titled “The Best ESG Stocks for Potential Gains.” It's presented by Investing for the Soul. Investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing mentoring, news, commentary, information, and resources. And look at my newly revised website at investingforthesoul.com! Tell me what you think. Now, remember that you can find a full transcript, and links to content – including stock symbols and bonus material – on this episode's podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Also, a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in these podcasts, nor do I receive any compensation from anyone covered in these podcasts. Furthermore, I will reveal to you any personal investments I have in the investments mentioned herein. Additionally, quotes about individual companies are brief. Please go to this podcast's webpage for links to the actual articles for more company and stock information. Also, some companies might be covered more than once and there are also 3 article links below that time didn't allow me to review them here. ------------------------------------------------------------- 1) The Best ESG Stocks for Potential Gains I'm beginning with this article titled 13 Best ESG Stocks To Buy Now by Syed Ijaz seen on finance.yahoo.com. Here's some of what Mr. Ijaz has to say. “We selected 40 companies from the Vanguard ESG U.S. Stock ETF (ESGV) and iShares ESG Aware MSCI EAFE ETF (ESGD). We then picked the largest companies in terms of capitalization and then ranked them based on Insider Monkey's database of 910 hedge funds tracked at the end of Q2 this year… 13. JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 106 In 2022, JPMorgan Chase financed and facilitated about $197 billion in climate, community development and sustainable development projects and initiatives. 12. Adobe Inc. (NASDAQ:ADBE) Hedge Fund Holders: 109 The company has developed and implemented ESG initiatives over the years… The company thoroughly focuses on its diversity, equity and inclusion activities. 11. UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) Hedge Fund Holders: 111 UnitedHealth Group is a part of the National Academy of Medicine's Action Collaborative on Decarbonizing the US Health Sector and expects to reach operational net-zero target by 2035. 10. Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX) Hedge Fund Holders: 114 In terms of ESG, the firm plans to halve its emissions by 2030. 9. Salesforce, Inc. (NYSE:CRM) Hedge Fund Holders: 122 In its fiscal 2023 ESG report, the California-based company said that it maintained net zero residual emissions and provided more than $82 million as grants and donations to partners and communities globally. 8. Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) Hedge Fund Holders: 135 By 2030, the technology giant expects to manufacture all products carbon neutral. 7. Mastercard Incorporated (NYSE:MA) Hedge Fund Holders: 139 It intends to reach net-zero emissions by 2040 and support its suppliers' decarbonizing strategies. 6. Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG) Hedge Fund Holders: 152 Alphabet has planned to commit to net-zero emissions throughout all of its operations and value chain by 2030. 5. Visa Inc. (NYSE:V) Hedge Fund Holders: 171 Starting in 2020, Visa achieved carbon neutrality throughout its operations and transitioned to 100% renewable electricity. 4. NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:NVDA) Hedge Fund Holders: 175 NVIDIA has set a target to achieve and maintain 100% renewable electricity across its operations and data centers by fiscal 2025. 3. Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:META) Hedge Fund Holders: 225 In its 2023 sustainability report, Meta's Vice President of Data Center Strategy Rachel Peterson said that the firm is moving towards the goals of net zero emissions throughout the value chain and becoming water positive across its operations, anticipating to attain both of these benchmarks in 2030. 2. Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) Hedge Fund Holders: 278 The company intends to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040 and empower its operations with 100% renewable energy by 2025. 1. Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) Hedge Fund Holders: 300 By 2030, Satya Nadella-led Microsoft Corporation expects to be carbon negative and by 2050, it intends to eliminate its emissions.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 2) The Best ESG Stocks for Potential Gains Next, we have this great ESG ranking. The article is titled IBD's 100 Best ESG Companies For 2023. It's by Adam Shell on investors.com. This is some of what Mr. Shell has to say. “Topping the list this year is Microsoft (MSFT). Applied Materials (AMAT) took second place. In third place is Woodward (WWD). Best ESG Companies Methodology To build the 2023 100 Best ESG Companies list, we started with each company's ESG sustainability score created by Dow Jones Newswires, an IBD affiliate. These scores capture a broad spectrum of information on the ESG profile of more than 6,000 global companies. On Aug. 24, IBD asked Dow Jones for an ESG-scored list of all the U.S.-traded companies it tracks, a total of 2,067. We then cut the list to 1,559 companies on Aug. 25 by removing nonpublic companies and companies with stock prices below $10 a share. We also removed any companies that lacked sufficient data to create an IBD Composite Rating. We further qualified the list by removing those companies that did not meet or beat the S&P 500 in the past five years. [From which] We selected the 100 with the highest IBD Composite Rating — all with scores of 81 or better.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 3) The Best ESG Stocks for Potential Gains Now we have another similarly titled to the first article above. This article is titled 13 Best Solar Energy Stocks To Invest In Heading Into 2024. It's by Ramish Cheema and found at finance.yahoo.com. Here are some of the points Mr. Cheema made. “To compile our list of the best solar energy stocks to invest in, we used the top 20 stock picks of the Invesco Solar ETF (NYSE:TAN) that are traded on American stock exchanges and ranked them by the number of hedge funds that had bought the shares as of June 2023 using data from Insider Monkey's database of 910 hedge funds. 13. SunPower Corporation (NASDAQ:SPWR) Number of Hedge Fund Investors: 17 SunPower is an American solar company that sells household solar power devices in the U.S. and in Canada. 12. Atlantica Sustainable Infrastructure plc (NASDAQ:AY) Hedge Fund Investors: 18 Atlantica Sustainable Infrastructure is a global British energy company with a renewable energy division. 11. Altus Power, Inc. (NYSE:AMPS) Hedge Fund Investors: 19 Altus Power is a small utility company that operates solar power generation systems used by both private and industrial users. 10. Sunnova Energy International Inc. (NYSE:NOVA) Hedge Fund Investors: 19 Sunnova Energy International is an American company with more than a thousand megawatts of solar power generation capacity in its portfolio. 9. Maxeon Solar Technologies, Ltd. (NASDAQ:MAXN) Hedge Fund Investors: 20 Maxeon Solar Technologies is a Singaporean pure play solar power hardware firm that makes and sells solar panels. 8. Daqo New Energy Corp. (NYSE:DQ) Hedge Fund Investors: 22 Daqo New Energy is a Chinese semiconductor manufacturer that provides products to solar panel manufacturers. 7. Shoals Technologies Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:SHLS) Hedge Fund Investors: 24 Shoals Technologies is a solar hardware company that sells products used to charge batteries and monitor solar power generation systems. 6. Sunrun Inc. (NASDAQ:RUN) Hedge Fund Investors: 24 Sunrun. is a solar power hardware firm that sells solar panels and energy storage systems. 5. Clearway Energy, Inc. (NYSE:CWEN) Hedge Fund Investors: 29 The firm generates thousands of megawatts of electricity through renewable power plants which include solar facilities 4. Array Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:ARRY) Hedge Fund Investors: 32 Array Technologies sells hardware products that enable solar panels to track the Sun's movements. 3. SolarEdge Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:SEDG) Hedge Fund Investors: 43 SolarEdge Technologies is a backend solar power firm that sells inverters and other associated products. 2. Enphase Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:ENPH) Hedge Fund Investors: 50 Enphase Energy is one of the largest solar companies in the U.S. It provides micro inverters, batteries, and other solar power products. 1. First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ:FSLR) Hedge Fund Investors: 51 First Solar sells solar panels to industrial and other large scale users.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 4) The Best ESG Stocks for Potential Gains Continuing on the energy theme is this next article titled 3 Alternative Energy Stocks to Buy Amid Rising Wind Turbine Cost. It's by Aparajita Dutta and on Nasdaq.com. Here's some of what Ms. Dutta has to say about her picks. “1. Constellation Energy Corporation (CEG) Based in Baltimore, MD, the company is the nation's largest producer of carbon-free energy and provides sustainable solutions to homes, businesses and public-sector customers… It currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). 2. Crescent Energy Company (CRGY) Based in Fort Worth, TX, the company is an independent oil and natural gas company that acquires, explores, develops, exploits and produces crude oil and natural gas properties… It currently carries a Zacks Rank #2.  3. Enlight Renewable Energy (ENLT) Based in Tel Aviv, Israel, the company provides a renewable energy platform that develops, finances, constructs, owns and operates utility-sale renewable energy projects… It currently carries a Zacks Rank #2.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 5) The Best ESG Stocks for Potential Gains Yes, yet another listing of 13 stocks. This one is titled 13 Best Alternative Energy Stocks To Buy Now. It's by Faiq Zafar and found on finance.yahoo.com. Her's part of what Mr. Zafar Has to say. “To compile our list of the 13 best alternative energy stocks to buy now, we first made a list of the 30 largest alternative energy companies in the world in terms of their market capitalization… The stocks have been ranked based on the number of hedge funds which hold stakes in them. 13. Brookfield Renewable Partners L.P. (NYSE:BEP) Hedge Fund Holdings: 13 As of 2022, Brookfield Renewable Partners owns more than 200 hydroelectric plants, 150 wind farms, more than 600 solar facilities, and four storage facilities across the world. 12. Sunnova Energy International Inc. (NYSE:NOVA) Hedge Fund Holdings: 19 Sunnova Energy International is an American solar energy company which was founded in 2012. 11. Plug Power Inc. (NASDAQ:PLUG) Hedge Fund Holdings: 20 Plug Power is an American company which focuses on the production of hydrogen fuel cell systems which are geared to replace conventional batteries in electrical equipment and vehicles. 10. Daqo New Energy Corp. (NYSE:DQ) Hedge Fund Holdings: 22 Daqo New Energy is a Chinese alternative energy company which focuses on the manufacture of monocrystalline silicon and polysilicon, which is an essential in the production of solar photovoltaic cells. 9. Sunrun Inc. (NASDAQ:RUN) Hedge Fund Holdings: 24 Sunrun is an American company which manufactures photovoltaic systems and battery energy storage products, specifically for residential consumers. 8. Algonquin Power and Utilities Corp. (NYSE:AQN) Hedge Fund Holdings: 29 Algonquin Power and Utilities is a Canadian clean energy and regulated utility conglomerate with multiple assets across the North American continent. 7. SolarEdge Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:SEDG) Hedge Fund Holdings: 43 SolarEdge Technologies is an Israeli company… the company was one of the first clean energy companies in the world to successfully commercialize power optimizers, small devices placed behind each solar panel to allow for module-level MPPT and panel-level monitoring. 6. Constellation Energy Corp (NASDAQ:CEG) Hedge Fund Holdings: 46 Constellation Energy. is an American energy company which focuses on the production of electric power, natural gas, and energy management services. 5. Enphase Energy Inc. (NASDAQ:ENPH) Hedge Fund Holdings: 50 Enphase Energy is an American energy technology company which produces and manufactures solar micro-inverters, battery energy storage, and EV charging stations. 4. First Solar Inc. (NASDAQ:FSLR) Hedge Fund Holdings: 51 First Solar is an American energy company which focuses on the manufacture of solar panels, and provides utility-scale PV power plants. 3. NextEra Energy Inc. (NYSE:NEE) Hedge Fund Holdings: 59 NextEra Energy is an American energy company. It is the largest electric utilities holding company in the world by overall market capitalization. As of 2022, more than 60% of NextEra's generating capacity was from clean energy sources. 2. General Electric Co. (NYSE:GE) Hedge Fund Holdings: 71 GE is an American multinational conglomerate which is spread across multiple divisions. 1. Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA) Hedge Fund Holdings: 79 Tesla is an American multinational automotive and clean energy company which manufactures electric vehicles, stationary battery storage devices from home to grid-scale, solar panels, and other related products.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Other Honorable Mentions – not in any order. 1) Title: White House Investment Bodes Well for This Clean Energy ETF on etftrends.com. By Ben Hernandez. 2) Title: Union Pacific a Top Socially Responsible Dividend Stock With 2.5% Yield (UNP) seen on nasdaq.com. By BNK Invest. 3) Title: Top 10: Renewable Energy Companies in the USA on Energy Magazine energydigital.com. By Charlie King. ------------------------------------------------------------- Ending Comment Well, these are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips -- for this podcast titled: “The Best ESG Stocks for Potential Gains.” Now, please be sure to click the like and subscribe buttons on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or wherever you download or listen to this podcast. That helps bring these podcasts to others like you. And please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. Let's promote ethical and sustainable investing as a force for hope and prosperity in these very troubled times! Contact me if you have any questions. Thank you for listening. And, again, please look at my new totally revised website at investingforthesoul.com. Tell me what you think! Talk to you next on November 17th! Bye for now.   © 2023 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul

How can you use Zacks stock picking strategies? Tracey and Derek show you where to find all the juicy charts, stock screens, and even free Zacks Rank buy stocks.  (1:30) - Tips And Tricks On How To Use (10:45) - Stock Screens and Sector Heat Map: How To Find Top Performing Industries (21:50) - How To Get All The Information Needed About A Individual Stock: Analyst Report Breakdown (32:30) - Finding Stocks Stocks Using The EPS and Sales Charts (47:10) - Episode Roundup: JPM, LEN, NVDA, NKE, LULU

Ben Rains explores where the stock market stands in the early days of the fourth quarter. The episode then dives into three Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) technology stocks—Uber, Pinterest, and Wix—that investors might want to consider buying for longer-term growth upside. (0:30) - Stock Market Update: Everything You Need To Know To Start Q4 (4:40) - Uber Soared In 2023: Does It Fit Into Your Portfolio For More Growth? (10:15) - Can Pinterest Regain Its Pandemic Success? (16:20) - Is Wix.com A Strong Long Term Investment?                Podcast@Zacks.com

Low P/E and P/S ratios and the top Zacks Rank of #1 (Strong Buy). What more do value investors want? (0:40) - Finding Zacks Rank #1 Stocks That Can Help Boost Your Portfolio: Stock Screener Criteria (4:00) - Tracey Top Stock Picks To Keep On Your Watchlist (16:45) - Episode Roundup: ANDE, ETD, MOD, SKX, CVI

Low P/E and P/S ratios and the top Zacks Rank of #1 (Strong Buy). What more do value investors want? (0:40) - Finding Zacks Rank #1 Stocks That Can Help Boost Your Portfolio: Stock Screener Criteria (4:00) - Tracey Top Stock Picks To Keep On Your Watchlist (16:45) - Episode Roundup: ANDE, ETD, MOD, SKX, CVI Podcast@Zacks.com

Ben Rains explores where the stock market sits amid the August pullback. The selling doesn't feel great in the moment, but the downturn was needed to help cool things off. The drop also offers investors opportunities to buy into great stocks at attractive levels. The two Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks we look at today are pioneers of key areas of the modern economy—Uber (UBER) and Amazon (AMZN)—and investors might want to buy them now for long-term upside. (0:30) - Stock Market Update: Everything You Need To Know Amid the August Pullback (4:05) - Does Uber's Positive Earnings Earn Its Way Into Your Portfolio? (11:00) - Is Amazon A Strong Investment For The Long Term? Podcast@Zacks.com

The Sustainable Stocks The Rich Invest In! Includes the following articles: “10 Sustainable Investing Stocks Billionaires Are Loading Up On”; “The 2023 Humankind 100 Rankings”; “4 ESG Stocks With Net-Zero Emissions Target in the Spotlight”; “What is Renewable Energy? Benefits, Sources, and Top Companies”; “'America is going to lead again': Biden says wind and solar are already 'significantly cheaper' than coal and oil — 3 top US clean energy stocks to watch”; and “The Importance Of Sustainable And Impact Investing And 3 Companies That Shine!” Transcript & Links, Episode 111, July 28, 2023 Hello, Ron Robins here. So, welcome to my podcast episode 111 titled “The Sustainable Stocks The Rich Invest In!” It's presented by Investing for the Soul. Investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing mentoring, news, commentary, information, and resources. And look at my newly totally revised website at investingforthesoul.com! Tell me what you think. Now, remember that you can find a full transcript, and links to content – including stock symbols and bonus material – on this episode's podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Also, a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in these podcasts, nor do I receive any compensation from anyone covered in these podcasts. Furthermore, I will reveal to you any personal investments I have in the investments mentioned herein. Additionally, quotes about individual companies are brief. Please go to this podcast's webpage for links to the actual articles for more company and stock information. Also, some companies might be covered more than once and there are also 4 article links below that time didn't allow me to review them here. ------------------------------------------------------------- The Sustainable Stocks The Rich Invest In! I'm beginning with this fascinating article titled 10 Sustainable Investing Stocks Billionaires Are Loading Up On. It's by Ramish Cheema and found on finance.yahoo.com. Here's some of what Mr. Cheema has to say. Note: the number of billionaires quoted is at the end of Q1 2023. Quote. “To compile our list of billionaire sustainable stock picks we first used the Invesco MSCI Sustainable Future ETF (ERTH) and picked out the top forty companies. Then, the number of billionaires that had invested in them as of Q1 2023 was determined and the final list of top ten sustainable stocks according to billionaires is as follows. 10. Ormat Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:ORA) Number of Billionaire Investors: 9 Ormat Technologies is a utility company that focuses primarily on generating power through geothermal sites and solar cells… Out of [24 hedge funds], the firm's largest investor is Ian Simm's Impax Asset Management (IPX.L) with a stake worth $178 million. 9. NextEra Energy Partners, LP (NYSE:NEP) Billionaire Investors: 9 NextEra Energy Partners is an energy company that operates in the natural gas and renewable power industries. The firm announced in May 2023 that it plans to reach Real Zero emissions by 2025 and sell natural gas assets to finance future growth. 8. NIO Inc. (NYSE:NIO) Billionaire Investors: 9 NIO is an electric vehicle manufacturer headquartered in Shanghai, China. It makes and sells both SUVs and sedans and the firm is one of the dominant players in the growing Chinese electric vehicle market. However, a slowdown in the Chinese economy [reduced] vehicle deliveries [by] a sharp 17% annual drop… NIO's largest hedge fund investor [out of 18 hedge funds] is Jim Simons' Renaissance Technologies since it owns ten million shares that are worth $113 million. 7. KB Home (NYSE:KBH) Billionaire Investors: 10 KB Home is an American construction company headquartered in Los Angeles, California. As part of its sustainability push, particularly since construction uses high volumes of timber, the firm announced in July that it will partner up with a nonprofit to fund efforts seeking to preserve landscapes and forest habitats… Among [29 hedge funds], Ken Fisher's Fisher Asset Management is the biggest shareholder with an investment of $110 million. 6. Sunrun Inc. (NASDAQ:RUN) Billionaire Investors: 10 Sunrun is a solar power equipment provider which serves the needs of residential customers in the U.S. by providing products such as panels and energy systems… William B. Gray's Orbis Investment Management is the largest investor [out of 27 hedge funds], courtesy of a $265 million stake that comes via 13 million shares. 5. Meritage Homes Corporation (NYSE:MTH) Billionaire Investors: 10 Meritage Homes Corporation is a construction company that builds different kinds of single family homes in several American states. The firm's shares… are rated Buy on average… The largest [out of 27 hedge funds] is Ken Fisher's Fisher Asset Management with a stake worth $128 million. 4. Darling Ingredients Inc. (NYSE:DAR) Billionaire Investors: 11 Darling Ingredients is a food raw materials firm that focuses its efforts on ensuring that no portion of an animal is wasted during the slaughtering process… [Out of 29 hedge funds] Darling Ingredient's largest investor is Ian Simm's Impax Asset Management since it owns $240 million worth of shares. 3. Enphase Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:ENPH) Billionaire Investors: 12 Enphase Energy sells solar power products such as microinverters, charging solutions… to residential users… [Out of 55 hedge funds], the biggest shareholder is Jim Simons' Renaissance Technologies through a $198 million investment. 2. First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ:FSLR) Billionaire Investors: 13 First Solar is an international solar power company that sells products including solar modules to large scale users such as utilities, commercial, and industrial users. Its shares are rated Buy on average… [Out of 39 hedge funds] First Solar's largest investor [is] Jim Simons' Renaissance Technologies with a $312 million stake. 1. Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA) Billionaire Investors: 15 The firm has been facing mixed sentiment from Wall Street in July 2023 after a spectacular stock rally earlier this year. [Out of 82 hedge funds] D. E. Shaw's D E Shaw is the biggest shareholder through its $1.2 billion investment.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- The 2023 Humankind 100 Rankings The corporate ranking data in this next piece The 2023 Humankind 100 Rankings will be of great interest to most of you. Here's a brief description of what it's about. Quote. “Humankind 100 companies tend to contribute positively to humanity, for example by providing access to food, clean water, healthcare, or free digital services. Meanwhile, companies that hurt people, for example by contributing significantly to climate change or selling toxic products, tend to not make it on to the list.” End quotes. Do have a look at the ranking! The top five companies are Alphabet (GOOG), Microsoft Corp. (MSFT), Eli Lilly & Company (LLY.TI), Johnson & Johnson (JNJ), and Abbvie Inc. (ABBV). ------------------------------------------------------------- 4 ESG Stocks With Net-Zero Emissions Target in the Spotlight Next, we have this article titled 4 ESG Stocks With Net-Zero Emissions Target in the Spotlight. It's by Ritujay Ghosh and found on 247wallst.com. Here's some of what the writer says about their stock picks. “1. Salesforce, Inc. (CRM Quick Quote CRM - Free Report) has successfully attained net-zero residual emissions throughout its value chain. Salesforce has also accomplished its objective of operating solely on 100% renewable energy… Salesforce's expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 42%... Salesforce currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). 2. PepsiCo, Inc. (PEP Quick Quote PEP - Free Report) the global beverage giant, is committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. As part of its sustainability efforts, PepsiCo is actively promoting regenerative agricultural practices… Another key target for PepsiCo is to ensure that all its packaging materials become recyclable, compostable and biodegradable. PepsiCo's expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 9.9%... PepsiCo currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). 3. Adobe Inc. (ADBE Quick Quote ADBE - Free Report) aims to attain a zero-carbon operational footprint, emphasizing the development of digital products that have a positive environmental impact. Adobe is actively working toward achieving a 100% renewable energy target by 2035… Adobe's expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 14.5%... Adobe currently sports a Zacks Rank #1. 4. Microsoft Corporation (MSFT Quick Quote MSFT - Free Report) is actively pursuing various initiatives to achieve a net-negative carbon footprint by 2030… Microsoft's expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 4.8%. Shares of Microsoft have gained 23.7% in the past three months. Microsoft currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- What is Renewable Energy? Benefits, Sources, and Top Companies Now to another new article on renewable energy picks. The article is titled What is Renewable Energy? Benefits, Sources, and Top Companies. It's by Jennifer L. located on carboncredits.com. Now to some quotes from the analyst. “1. General Electric Co. (GE) General Electric has been at the forefront of wind energy technology, consistently enhancing turbine designs and improving efficiency… GE has installed over 49,000 units that generate wind electricity across the globe… GE has also invested in other renewable energy technologies, such as solar power, hydroelectricity, and hybrid. 2. NextEra Energy, Inc. (NEE) Running with a whopping $147 billion market cap, NextEra Energy has been investing billions in developing renewable energy sources. As one of the largest renewable energy producers in the world, the company leads the charge in solar and wind energy production… 3. Iberdrola SA (IBDRY) With a market cap of over $72 billion, Spain-based multinational electric utility company Iberdrola SA has more than 170 years of history. The company is a global leader in the generation, distribution, and trading of clean energy. 4. Orsted A/S (ORSTED.CO) Renewable energy company Orsted A/S excels in developing, building, and operation of offshore wind farms. The Danish firm currently owns the prestigious title of being the world's biggest offshore wind power developer, with a total capacity of over 7.5 GW.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 'America is going to lead again': Biden says wind and solar are already 'significantly cheaper' than coal and oil — 3 top US clean energy stocks to watch And more on renewable energy with this article 'America is going to lead again': Biden says wind and solar are already 'significantly cheaper' than coal and oil — 3 top US clean energy stocks to watch. It's by Vishesh Raisinghani on finance.yahoo.com. “1. First Solar (NASDAQ:FSLR) First Solar is one of the nation's largest utility-scale solar energy producers. The company's competitive edge stems from its proprietary, advanced thin-film module technology… Investors seeking a high-growth bet in this sector should add FirstSolar to their watchlist. 2. Brookfield Renewable (NYSE:BEP) If you're looking for a less risky and more established player in the renewable energy sector, Brookfield Renewable might be a wise bet. The Canada-based asset manager operates one of the largest green energy portfolios in the world… Brookfield is a dividend juggernaut. The stock offers a dividend yield around 4.6% at the moment. 3. SolarEdge Technologies (NASDAQ:SEDG) SolarEdge has rapidly become one of the most well-known and valuable solar energy firms on the market. The company offers an end-to-end system that generates, stores and manages solar energy from home. Nearly three million homes across the globe were equipped with SolarEdge systems by the end of 2022.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- The Importance Of Sustainable And Impact Investing And 3 Companies That Shine! And I finish up with this article titled The Importance Of Sustainable And Impact Investing And 3 Companies That Shine! It's by Finance Monthly and published on finance-monthly.com. Now some quotes on their recommendations. “1. ICL Group (NYSE: ICL) ICL Group is global specialty minerals company and one of the largest fertilizer manufacturers in the world. ICL focuses on creating sustainable solutions… includes developing innovative fertilizers to increase crop yields while decreasing environmental impact, recycling industrial by-products into useful resources, which aligns with several UN SDGs… 2. NextEra Energy (NYSE: NEE) NextEra Energy specializes in harnessing wind and solar energy across North America… Beyond renewable energy, they also engage in physical contracts, trading activities, and marketing. Their primary income source is distributing gas and electricity to Florida residents. 3. Republic Services (NYSE: RSG) Republic Services specializes in waste management and recycling. As the second-largest waste management company in the United States, its mission is to produce renewable energy through recycling.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Other Honorable Mentions – not in any order. 1) Title: Vegan investments: Are you putting your money where your mouth is? On veganfoodandliving.com. By Phil Davis. 2) Title: Why Fastenal is a Top Socially Responsible Dividend Stock (FAST) on nasdaq.com. By BNK Invest. 3) Title: 12 Best Solar Energy and Battery Stocks To Buy Now on finance.yahoo.com. By Hamna Asim. 4) Title: Revolutionizing the Future: “Emerging Green Technology Stocks” to Watch Now! – CLNV, GEVO, ADN, HYSR found on digitaljournal.com. By The Street Reports. ------------------------------------------------------------- Ending Comment Well, these are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips -- for this podcast titled: “The Sustainable Stocks The Rich Invest In!” Now, please be sure to click the like and subscribe buttons on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or wherever you download or listen to this podcast. That helps bring these podcasts to others like you. And please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. Let's promote ethical and sustainable investing as a force for hope and prosperity in these very troubled times! Contact me if you have any questions. Thank you for listening. Talk to you next on August 11th. And, again, please look at my new totally revised website at investingforthesoul.com! Tell me what you think! Bye for now.   © 2023 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul

This podcast includes covering these articles: “These 50 Canadian corporate citizens are a cut above,” by Rick Spence; “3 ESG Stocks to Buy With Focus Growing on Net-Zero,” by Abhinab Dasgupta; “2 Renewable Energy Stocks (With Dividends) That Could Put You in the Green,” by Jitendra Parashar; and “3 ESG Stocks in Focus for the Socially Responsible Investor,” by Tirthankar Chakraborty. And more... Transcript & Links, Episode 110, July 14, 2023 Hello, Ron Robins here. So, welcome to my podcast episode 110 titled “These ESG Stocks Are A Cut Above.” It's presented by Investing for the Soul. Investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing mentoring, news, commentary, information, and resources. And look at my newly totally revised website at investingforthesoul.com! So, remember that you can find a full transcript, and links to content – including stock symbols and bonus material – on this episode's podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Also, a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in these podcasts, nor do I receive any compensation from anyone covered in these podcasts. Furthermore, I will reveal to you any personal investments I have in the investments mentioned herein. Additionally, quotes about individual companies are brief. Please go to this podcast's webpage for links to the actual articles for more company and stock information. Also, some companies might be covered more than once and there are also 5 article links below that time didn't allow me to review them here.. ------------------------------------------------------------- 1. These ESG Stocks Are A Cut Above I'm going to start with an article as it provides insight into what ethical and sustainable investors might look for when investing in individual companies that reflect their personal values. Though renewable energy companies rank high on the list there are others from diverse industries that are also found here. Do read the article which is titled These 50 Canadian corporate citizens are a cut above. It's by Rick Spence and found on the corporateknights.com site. Here are some quotes by Mr. Spence. “Since 2002, Corporate Knights' ranking of Canada's Best 50 Corporate Citizens has been tracing public and private companies as well as Crown corporations with more than $1 billion in revenues. Our researchers probe 25 key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess how firms manage their resources, employees and finances in comparison to their peer group, with 50% of each company's score tied to the percentage of their revenue and investments that qualify as sustainable. For the Best 50, that percentage keeps climbing. Tellingly, the 2023 list is dominated by renewable-energy players high in sustainable revenue. Topping the Best 50 this year (up from second place in 2022 and 20th in 2021) is a pure-play clean energy company: Innergex Renewable Energy (INE.TO) The Longueuil, Quebec–based renewable-power producer operates 40 hydroelectric facilities, 35 wind farms, 11 solar farms and one energy-storage facility in Canada, the U.S., France and now Chile… In second place this year (up from third in 2022 and 14th in 2021) is: Brookfield Renewable Partners (BEP) the renewable-energy platform of Brookfield Corporation, the former Brascan empire (which got its start providing electricity in Brazil). With a market cap of $20.2 billion, more than seven times Innergex's $2.7 billion, Brookfield Renewable produces 25,400 megawatts of electricity through hydro, wind and solar facilities in Canada, the U.S., Colombia, Brazil, Europe and Asia. The company's latest annual report says it's also focusing on investing in ‘emerging transition asset classes' such as carbon capture and storage, recycling and biogas, ‘where our initial investment positions us for potential future large-scale decarbonization investment.' In third place is: Hydro-Québec (state-owned corporation) which was the top company in 2022, 2021 and 2018. While the company largely maintained its sustainable revenue from last year, competition is growing fiercer as more renewable-energy companies jump ahead. The ‘most improved' company on the list is: Canadian National Railway (CNI) It climbed from 35th place to seventh this year thanks to a notable increase in investments mainly aimed at rail network safety and integrity, as well as track infrastructure network resiliency and information technology initiatives. These investments totaled $2.5 billion, or 85% of Canadian National Railway's total investments, in 2021. (Now) Edmonton engineering firm Stantec (STN) scored highest on the Best 50 when it came to the percentage of its executives' variable pay linked to sustainability targets. With 26,000 employees and 350 offices on six continents, CEO Gord Johnston says the fast-growing company has been focused on building better communities for more than a decade. Best 50 bring home higher returns Corporate Knights researchers compared the stock performance of the public companies on the 2023 Best 50 versus that of the S&P/TSX Composite Index. Since 2002 (the year we published our first Best 50 list), Best 50 companies have rewarded their shareholders with 128% higher returns than the overall composite index. It's evidence that the ‘triple bottom line' (profit, people and planet) doesn't compromise the single bottom line – but expands it.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 2. These ESG Stocks Are A Cut Above My second article picks three big-cap names and is titled 3 ESG Stocks to Buy With Focus Growing on Net-Zero. By Abhinab Dasgupta and seen on finance.yahoo.com. Here are some quotes by Mr. Dasgupta on each of his picks. “These companies broadly pass the ESG standard required to dub them as leaders in the sector, i.e., they regularly set, revisit and report on their ESG targets. [And they] flaunt a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) or 2 (Buy), have lucrative earnings potential, and should be looked into. 1) Salesforce, Inc. (CRM) This company provides customer relationship management technology, has already achieved net-zero residual emissions across its value chain and met its goal of 100% renewable energy in operations. It has targeted the removal of all carbon emissions by 2040 and has innovated a custom-built platform to track its own carbon footprint… The company currently sports a Zacks Rank #1. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its current-year earnings has moved 4.6% north over the past 60 days. The company's expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 42%. 2) NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA) This mega-cap semiconductor company, which provides graphics and networking solutions, has reduced emissions by 15% per employee as of 2022 and has set a target to have 65% of its electricity usage come from renewable sources by the end of 2025. It has also made significant strides in the study of climate change by embarking on a project to help predict and mitigate environmental disasters. The company currently sports a Zacks Rank #1. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its current-year earnings has moved 71% north over the past 60 days. The company's expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 129.3%. 3) PepsiCo, Inc. (PEP) This global beverage giant has a set target of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040, and is working to promote regenerative agricultural practices. It has a target of making all its packaging materials recyclable, compostable, and biodegradable. The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #2.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 3. These ESG Stocks Are A Cut Above Now another Canadian article with relevance to our global audience. It's titled 2 Renewable Energy Stocks (With Dividends) That Could Put You in the Green. It's by Jitendra Parashar at fool.ca. Here are some brief quotes by Mr. Parashar. “1) Brookfield Renewable Partners (TSX:BEP.UN) Could arguably be the most attractive renewable energy stocks listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange today. This Hamilton, Bermuda-headquartered renewable power-focused company has a market cap of $11.2 billion. Its stock currently trades at $30.82 with about 13.2% year-to-date gains, outperforming the TSX Composite, which has advanced by 1.8% in 2023 so far. Interestingly, Brookfield Renewable has been posting attractive double-digit positive YoY (year-over-year) growth in its total revenue for the last 11 quarters in a row… As the renewable energy company continues to focus on new acquisitions and growth initiatives to expand its business presence worldwide, you can expect its share prices to soar further in the coming years. In addition, Brookfield Renewable stock offers an attractive 4.7% annual dividend yield. 2) Northland Power (TSX:NPI) is another fundamentally strong Canadian renewable energy stock you may want to consider in 2023. It currently has a market cap of $6.9 billion, as its stock trades at $27.24 per share after losing nearly 26.6% of its value so far in 2023. This Toronto-headquartered firm has a large, well-diversified portfolio of clean power infrastructure assets, primarily in North America, Europe, and Latin America, and has more than three decades of experience working on power projects. Last year, the offshore wind segment accounted for over half of Northland Power's total revenue, while the remaining came from other segments like onshore renewables, efficient natural gas, and utility. The recent correction in Northland Power stock could be attributed to its earnings miss in the first quarter of 2023. Northland Power's sales from the offshore wind segment fell 13% YoY to $346 million last quarter. This YoY decline was mainly because the unusually high market prices it benefited from in the first quarter of 2022, particularly from its Gemini and Spanish projects, didn't happen again in the first quarter of 2023. That said, you can expect its YoY financial growth trend to improve in the coming years as the market prices gradually stabilize, which should help its share prices recover sharply. Besides the expected recovery, a decent annual dividend yield of 4.4% makes this renewable energy stock really attractive to buy on the dip.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 4. These ESG Stocks Are A Cut Above And I'll end with this article titled 3 ESG Stocks in Focus for the Socially Responsible Investor. It's by Tirthankar Chakraborty and published on zacks.com. Now here's some of what Mr. Chakraborty says about his recommendations. “1) Pool Corporation (POOL Quick Quote POOL - Free Report) This company is one of the biggest distributors of swimming pool equipment. Pool Corporation aims at waste reduction and provides effective energy solutions to lessen its environmental footprint. Pool Corporation not only donates through the National Forest Foundation but also participates in the Environmental Protection Agency's Water Sense program. POOL provides customers ample guidance to handle wastewater sensibly… The company's expected earnings growth rate for the next year is 5.9%. Its shares have already gained 32.7% over the past five-year period. Pool Corporation has a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). 2) Salesforce, Inc. (CRM Quick Quote CRM - Free Report) The company is one of the primary providers of customer relationship management software that helps manage cumbersome operations. Salesforce achieved 100% renewable energy from its operations. The company aims at purchasing renewable energy to increase access to clean power, especially in emerging economies. It also aims at net-zero carbon emissions and has established equal pay initiatives… The company's expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 42%. Its shares have already gained 28.1% over the past five-year period. Salesforce sports a Zacks Rank #1. 3) Microsoft Corp (MSFT Quick Quote MSFT - Free Report) … has become a solid ESG stock. This tech behemoth and one of the leaders in cloud computing is also known as a leader in energy conservation. Microsoft, along with Volt Energy, is aiming at achieving 100% renewable energy by 2025. And by 2050, the company aims at getting rid of all carbon emissions… The company's expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 4.7%. Microsoft shares have already gained 22.3% over the past five-year period. Microsoft currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Shares of Pool Corporation, Salesforce and Microsoft, by the way, have gained 22.8%, 61.3%, and 41%, respectively, so far this year.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Other Honorable Mentions 1) Title: 3 Stocks to Buy for The Continued Growth of Solar Energy on zacks.com. By Shaun Pruitt. 2) Title: VZ Named A Top Socially Responsible Dividend Stock etfchannel.com. By ETF Channel Staff. Articles from Canada, UK, and Europe 1) Title: Three investment trusts to take advantage of climate change - on investorschronicle.co.uk. By John Baron. 2) Title: 3 Canadian ESG Stocks for Ethical Investors on yahoo.com. By Adam Othman. 3) Title: Iberdrola, the Spanish company with the best corporate governance according to World Finance on atalayar.com. By Atalayar. ------------------------------------------------------------- Ending Comment Well, these are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips -- for this podcast titled: “These ESG Stocks Are A Cut Above.” Now, please be sure to click the like and subscribe buttons on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or wherever you download or listen to this podcast. That helps bring these podcasts to others like you. And please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. Let's promote ethical and sustainable investing as a force for hope and prosperity in these very troubled times! Contact me if you have any questions. Thank you for listening. Talk to you next on July 28th. And, again, please look at my new totally revised website at investingforthesoul.com! Tell me what you think! Bye for now.   © 2023 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul

Great Green Energy Stock Picks includes these articles: “How Green Energy Players Are Making Big Waves in the Stock Market,” by Christopher Liew; “2 Canadian ESG Stocks for Ethical Investors,” by Adam Othman; “Why This Under-the-Radar Renewable Energy Stock is a 'Strong Buy,'” by Benjamin Rains; “5 Top UK Sustainable Investment Trusts To Consider In H2 2023,” by Gaurav Sharma; and “20 Biggest Infrastructure Companies in the US,” by Ty Haqqi. Transcript & Links, Episode 109, June 30, 2023 Hello, Ron Robins here. So, welcome to my podcast episode 109 titled “Great Green Energy Stock Picks.” It's presented by Investing for the Soul. Investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing mentoring, news, commentary, information, and resources. And look at my newly totally revised website at investingforthesoul.com! So, remember that you can find a full transcript, and links to content – including stock symbols and bonus material – on this episode's podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Now if any terms are unfamiliar to you, simply Google them. Also, a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in these podcasts, nor do I receive any compensation from anyone covered in these podcasts. Furthermore, I will reveal to you any personal investments I have in the investments mentioned herein. Additionally, quotes about individual companies are brief so that I can get as many companies covered as possible in the time allowed. Please go to this podcast's webpage for links to the actual articles for more company and stock information. Links to an additional 3 articles are included below. ------------------------------------------------------------- 1) Great Green Energy Stock Picks Now the first two articles are from Canada, but they detail opportunities relevant to a global audience. The first article is titled How Green Energy Players Are Making Big Waves in the Stock Market, by Christopher Liew, on fool.ca. Here's some of what Mr. Liew has to say about his three picks. “1. Ballard Power Systems (TSX:BLDP) Market analysts recommend a hold rating. Their 12-month average price target is $22.91, or a 293% return potential. Ballard's competitive advantages include experience in manufacturing fuel cell products (40 years), top-tier long-term customers, and strategic shareholders… The latest product and potential growth driver is next-generation, thin, flexible graphite bipolar plates. Ballard plans to invest around $18 million in manufacturing the plates this year through 2025. 2. Nano One Materials Corp. (TSX:NANO) Nano One outperforms the TSX (Toronto Stock Exchange) year to date (+18.85% versus +1.11%). Market analysts recommend a buy rating, with an average price target of $6.50 (+124%) in 12 months. This $302 million company's contribution to the fight against climate change is the production of high-performance lithium-ion battery cathode materials. According to management, the company's technology applies to electric vehicles, energy storage, and consumer electronics. Besides reducing costs, the low-carbon intensity improves environmental impact. Nano One owns Canada's only LFP (lithium ferrous phosphate) battery production facility. 3. Exro Technologies (OTC:EXRO.F) Exro Technologies develops new-generation power electronics that expand the capabilities of electric motors and batteries… The significant upside will come from continued focus on innovation in e-transition and energy storage market verticals. The addressable markets for its lead products, Coil Driver (motor controllers) and Cell Driver (energy storage), should reach US$133 billion and US$224 billion by 2030, respectively… Market analysts recommend a strong buy rating, forecasting 55% price appreciation in one year.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 2) Great Green Energy Stock Picks Now, the second article is titled 2 Canadian ESG Stocks for Ethical Investors, by Adam Othman on fool.ca. Among Mr. Othman's comments on his two picks are these. “1. Canadian National Railway (TSX:CNR) might not seem like an ESG stock… However, this Canadian Dividend Aristocrat can be an excellent investment for this purpose. The $105.92 billion market capitalization company headquartered in Montreal is vital to the North American economy. Boasting the only 18,600-mile railway network connecting three coasts in North America… It generates solid financial results. In 2022, it increased its revenue by 18.2% and net income by 4.5%, increasing its free cash flow by 29.2% compared to the previous year…. Sustainalytics gives Canadian National Railway stock a low ESG risk rating due to its Climate Action Plan aligning with international ESG standards. 2. Innergex Renewable Energy (TSX:INE) The $2.73 billion market capitalization company develops, owns, and operates run-of-river hydroelectric facilities. It also has a substantial number of wind and solar energy farms located in North and South America and France. …Operating as an electricity utility company, it has a low-risk business model. 2022 saw Innergex reduce its net loss from $185.4 million in 2021 to $91.1 million. Its free cash flows rose by almost 60% year over year… As of this writing, Innergex Renewable stock trades for $13.39 per share, down by 34.55% from its 52-week high. Currently, it pays its shareholders their payouts at a juicy 5.38% dividend yield.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 3) Great Green Energy Stock Picks And now to a company that's often overlooked according to this Zacks analyst. The article is titled Why This Under-the-Radar Renewable Energy Stock is a 'Strong Buy'. It's by Benjamin Rains and found on zacks.com. Here's some of what Mr. Rains says about Arcosa, Inc. “Arcosa, Inc. (ACA - Free Report) provides infrastructure-related products and solutions across construction, engineered structures, and transportation markets. Arcosa is benefitting from megatrends such as aging infrastructure, as well as the ‘continued shift to renewable power generation, and the expansion of new transmission, distribution, and telecommunications infrastructure…' Arcosa crushed Zacks Q1 earnings estimate in late April and provided hugely upbeat guidance. Arcosa's fiscal 2023 consensus estimate has surged by 44% since its report, with FY24's figure 38% higher. Arcosa's bottom-line positivity helps it grab a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy)… Arcosa's engineered structures division includes utility structures, telecom structures, wind towers, and beyond. Arcosa's wind tower business is booming… since the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act… The gusts at Arcosa's back include grid-hardening, electrification of vehicles, connecting renewable energy to the grid, the wireless 5G telecom buildout, and more… Other Fundamentals Zacks estimates call for Arcosa's adjusted 2023 earnings to surge by 27% and then jump another 18% higher in 2024 to reach $3.26 per share… Overall, Arcosa appears to be a somewhat under-the-radar and strong way to gain exposure to multiple long-term trends in the U.S. and global economy. And its recent slip sets up a better entry point.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 4) Great Green Energy Stock Picks Next is this article, also applicable to a global audience. It's titled 5 Top UK Sustainable Investment Trusts To Consider In H2 2023. It's by Gaurav Sharma and seen on forbes.com. Here are some quotes. “Typically listed on UK and Japanese markets, investment trusts are public-listed pooled investment vehicles that generate income by investing in stocks of other companies, bonds (both corporate and government issued), real estate, infrastructure and privately held enterprises, etc.… Based on current dividend yields*, NAV discounts** and exchange rates***, for me the following five UK-listed sustainable investment trusts stand out: 1. Triple Point Energy Transition Plc (LON: TENT) Dividend Yield: 8.27% Listed on the main market of the London Stock Exchange, Triple Point Energy Transition Plc invests in UK and European renewable energy projects touting its credentials as a stable dividend-paying trust that aims to enable a pan-European transition to a low carbon economy. Furthermore, its 7-8% average dividend yield not only ranks it among the highest in its category but also puts it on the list of the 20-highest dividend-yields among all UK-listed investment trusts. 2. NextEnergy Solar Fund (LON: NESF) Dividend Yield: 7.52% NextEnergy Solar Fund is listed on the London Stock Exchange's main market and is a constituent of the FTSE 250 index. As the name suggests, it invests in a diversified portfolio of solar energy and energy storage infrastructure assets. Most of its long-term cashflows are inflation-linked via UK government subsidies, and it offers an attractive dividend yield. 3. Renewables Infrastructure Group (LON: TRIG) Dividend Yield: 5.97% Renewables Infrastructure Group has been listed on the London Stock Exchange for over a decade and is also a constituent of the FTSE 250 index. The company focuses on onshore and offshore wind farms and solar parks in the UK and Europe. 4. Octopus Renewables Infrastructure Trust (LON: ORIT) Dividend Yield: 5.52% With its management trail leading to one of Europe's largest renewable energy investors – Octopus Energy – the Octopus Renewable Energy Infrastructure Trust aims to provide both capital appreciation as well as sustainable dividends by building and operating a diversified portfolio of renewable energy assets in Europe and Australia. 5. Greencoat UK Wind Plc (LON: UKW) Dividend Yield: 5.51% Greencoat UK Wind has the honor of being the first UK renewable infrastructure fund to list on the London Stock Exchange. It is also a constituent of the FTSE 250 index and is focused on UK wind power generation.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 20 Biggest Infrastructure Companies in the US Now, the US economy is currently being lifted by two massive spending bills related to infrastructure. Many ethical and sustainable investors see infrastructure companies as having a place in their portfolios. So, this article might be of interest to many of you. It's titled 20 Biggest Infrastructure Companies in the US. It's by Ty Haqqi and is seen on finance.yahoo.com. Only the public companies and non-fossil-fuel related are included here... and quotes about these companies are limited. “14. Crown Castle Inc. (NYSE:CCI) Total revenue (in billions): $58.1 Crown Castle provides shared communications infrastructure in the U.S. including small cells, cell towers and fiber, and counts itself among the largest U.S. infrastructure companies. 13. Fluor Corporation (NYSE:FLR) Total revenue (in billions): $13.8 Fluor Corporation is one of the biggest engineering companies in Texas… The share price of Fluor Corporation has stayed the same over the last one year with its gains being wiped out over the last few months. 12. Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE:NSC) Total revenue (in billions): $12.7 Norfolk Southern Corporation is one the biggest railroad companies in the U.S., not to mention among the largest infrastructure companies in the U.S. Norfolk Southern Corporation has been in the news the past few months for a massive derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, which resulted in the release of tons of toxic chemicals, and has recently been sued by the Department of Justice for the same. 11. American Tower Corporation (NYSE:AMT) Total revenue (in billions): $10.7 American Tower Corporation owns and operates wireless and broadcast communications infrastructure not just in the U.S. but in several other countries as well. 6. CSX Corporation (NASDAQ:CSX) Total revenue (in billions): $14.9 CSX Corporation is engaged in the business of real estate and rail transportation, and is headquartered in Florida. CSX Corporation's ROE has exceeded the industry average in the past though part of that is because of the company's high debt portfolio. 3. Union Pacific Corporation (NYSE:UNP) Total revenue (in billions): $24.9 Union Pacific Corporation is the largest railroad company in the country, and one of the largest infrastructure companies in the U.S., and has provided a return of 61% to its investors in the last 5 years. 2. AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) Total revenue (in billions): $120.7 AT&T Inc. is one of the biggest telecom and mobile telephone services company not just in the U.S., but also the world. Recently, AT&T Inc. raised over $4.2 billion in an attempt to buy out wireless minorities. 1. Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCSA) Total revenue (in billions): $121.4 Comcast Corporation is among the most valuable telecom companies in the world and its stock is favored by institutional owners who own around 85% of the company's stock.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Two Other Honorable Mentions 1. Title: 5 Top Alternative Energy Companies on builtin.com. By Margo Steines. 2. Title: Why T. Rowe Price Group is a Top Socially Responsible Dividend Stock (TROW) on nasdaq.com. By BNK Invest. One Article from Australia Title: The Ethical Investor: El Niño is back! But there's one ASX company that could benefit from a potential drought. By Eddy Sunarto on stockhead.com.au. ------------------------------------------------------------- Ending Comment Well, these are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips -- for this podcast titled: “Great Green Energy Stock Picks.” Now, please be sure to click the like and subscribe buttons on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or wherever you download or listen to this podcast. That helps bring these podcasts to others like you. And please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. Let's promote ethical and sustainable investing as a force for hope and prosperity in these terribly troubled times! Contact me if you have any questions. Thank you for listening and wishing you a wonderful Independence Day if you live in the US and a terrific Canada Day should you live in Canada. Talk to you next on July 14th. And, again, look at my new totally revised website at investingforthesoul.com! Tell me what you think! Bye for now.   © 2023 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul

This podcast includes these articles: “Power Your Portfolio with Renewable Energy,” by Tony Sagami; “Top Solar Stocks for Q2 2023,” by Nathan Reiff; “Time to Buy These Alternative Energy Stocks?” By Shaun Pruitt; “How Faith-based Funds Are Evolving to Address Climate Change,” by Lewis Braham; “More Investors Turn to ESG Bond Funds," by James Comtois Podcast: Buy These Renewable Energy Stocks Say Analysts Transcript & Links, Episode 104, April 21, 2023 Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast episode 104 and published on April 21, 2023, titled “Buy These Renewable Energy Stocks Say Analysts.” It's presented by Investing for the Soul. Investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing mentoring, news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript, and links to content – including stock symbols and bonus material – on this episode's podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Now if any terms are unfamiliar to you, simply Google them. Also, a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in these podcasts, nor do I receive any compensation from anyone covered in these podcasts. Furthermore, I will reveal to you any personal investments I have in the investments mentioned herein. Additionally, quotes about individual companies are brief so that I can get as many companies covered as possible in the time allowed. Please go to this podcast's webpage for links to the actual articles for more company and stock information. Also, some companies might be covered more than once and there are also 4 article links below that time didn't allow me to review them here. ------------------------------------------------------------- 1) Buy These Renewable Energy Stocks Say Analysts Now, again, ESG securities analysts continue to focus on renewable energy. This is one of several articles on that industry in this podcast. It's titled Power Your Portfolio with Renewable Energy by Tony Sagami and seen on weissratings.com. Here are some of Mr. Sagami's quotes on his picks. “The EIA forecasts that both wind and solar will grow by 1% in 2023. But… wind is beating solar by a wide margin. If you want to add wind power to your portfolio, there are several stocks you should consider. 1. Northland Power (NPI.TO) is a Canadian power producer focused on renewable energy — including wind farms, natural gas and solar energy facilities. 2. TransAlta Renewables (RNW.TO) is a Canadian renewable energy company that owns and operates wind, hydro and natural gas power plants. 3. NextEra Energy (NEE) is an electricity power producer utilizing wind, solar, nuclear, coal and natural gas. 4. Vestas Wind Systems A/S (VWDRY) is a Danish wind energy company that owns massive wind farms in the U.S. and northern Europe. 5. Clearway Energy (CWEN) is one of the largest renewable energy operators in the U.S., with 5 GW of wind and solar energy projects and 2.5 GW of natural gas generation facilities. 6. TPI Composites (TPIC) manufactures wind turbine blades that produce one-third of all the onshore wind turbine blades. If you are more of an ETF investor, take a look at First Trust Global Wind Energy ETF (FAN) and Global X Wind Energy ETF (WNDY).” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 2) Buy These Renewable Energy Stocks Say Analysts From the focus on wind, we turn to solar stocks with this article. It's titled Top Solar Stocks for Q2 2023 and is by Nathan Reiff and posted on investopedia.com. Here's some of what Mr. Reiff has to say about his recommendations. “These are the solar stocks with the lowest 12-month trailing price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio. Because profits can be returned to shareholders in the form of dividends and buybacks, a low P/E ratio shows that you're paying less for each dollar of profit generated. Daqo New Energy Corp. (DQ) is a Chinese solar energy company that manufactures polysilicon for sale to manufacturers of solar cells and modules. The company also builds photovoltaic wafers. 12-Month Trailing P/E Ratio: 1.8. Brookfield Renewable Energy Corp. (BEPC) owns a portfolio of hydroelectric, wind, solar, and energy storage facilities across multiple continents, making it one of the world's biggest publicly traded pure-play renewable energy companies. In late March, Brookfield announced that it will participate in a consortium to purchase Australian integrated power generator Origin Energy Ltd. for an enterprise value of $18.7 billion. 12-Month Trailing P/E Ratio: 3.9. Canadian Solar Inc. (CSIQ) designs, builds, and sells solar equipment for residential, commercial, and industrial customers. The company's products include solar modules, inverters, and system kits. Net income more than doubled and revenue climbed by 29% year-over-year for the final quarter of 2022, driven in part by a significant increase in solar module shipments. 12-Month Trailing P/E Ratio: 11.1 Fastest Growing Solar Stocks These are the top solar stocks as ranked by a growth model that scores companies based on a 50/50 weighting of their most recent quarterly year-over-year (YOY) percentage revenue growth and most recent quarterly YOY earnings-per-share (EPS) growth. Altus Power Inc. (AMPS) is a commercial-scale clean electrification company providing solar generation, energy storage, and charging infrastructure nationwide. Net income attributable to the company rose by over 800% to $67.9 million for the most recent quarter reported. Net income growth was due in part to a $71.5 million non-cash gain from the remeasurement of warrants and alignment shares. Revenue Growth YOY: 24% Brookfield Renewable Corp. See (previous) company description… Revenue Growth YOY: 5.6% Daqo New Energy Corp. See (previous) company description… Revenue Growth YOY: 118.5% Solar Stocks With the Most Momentum These are the solar stocks that had the highest total return over the past 12 months. Enlight Renewable Energy Ltd. (ENLT) is a developer and owner of solar, wind, and energy storage projects in the U.S., Europe, and Israel. For the fourth quarter of 2022, Enlight reported record revenue of $61 million, a 74% increase from the prior year due mainly to growth in its Israel and Western Europe business. 12-Month Trailing Total Return: 740.3% First Solar Inc. (FSLR) designs and manufactures photovoltaic solar power systems and solar modules, serving customers around the world. Global renewable energy firm EDP Renewables finalized an order in March for 1.8 gigawatts of First Solar advanced thin-film photovoltaic modules, to be delivered through 2028. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. 12-Month Trailing Total Return: 151% Maxeon Solar Technologies Ltd. (MAXN) is a Singaporean solar company building and distributing a variety of solar energy components globally. 12-Month Trailing Total Return: 100.1% ” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 3) Buy These Renewable Energy Stocks Say Analysts Here's a third article on the renewable energies theme. It's titled Time to Buy These Alternative Energy Stocks? By Shaun Pruitt on finance.yahoo.com. Here's some of what Mr. Pruitt has to say. “1. Clearway Energy (CWEN) Worthy of consideration is Clearway Energy which sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). Clearway along with its subsidiaries owns and operates a diverse portfolio of contracted renewable and conventional generation, along with thermal infrastructure assets in the United States. Furthermore, Clearway's asset portfolio includes more than 9,000 megawatts (MW) of wind, solar, thermal, and natural-gas-fired power generation facilities as well as distract energy systems.   Clearway's earnings estimate revisions are noticeably up over the last quarter. Fiscal 2023 earnings estimates have climbed 26% over the last 90 days with FY24 EPS estimates soaring 98%... 2. Pineapple Energy (PEGY) Sporting a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), Pineapple Energy stock is also standing out among alternative energy companies. Pineapple is focused on local and regional solar, storage, and energy services. Pineapple's portfolio of brands include Hawaii Energy Connection, E-Gear, Sungevity, and Horizon Solar Power which provide homeowners and small businesses with end-to-end product offerings spanning solar, battery storage, and grid services. Pineapple's growth is intriguing at the moment with the company edging closer to profitability. Earnings are expected to rise to $0.08 per share this year compared to an adjusted loss of -$0.96 a share in 2022. Even better, FY24 earnings are now projected to soar 337% to $0.35 per share. Plus, sales are forecasted to climb 174% in FY23 to $85.20 million compared to $31.10 million in 2022. Fiscal 2024 sales are expected to jump another 40% to $119.30 million.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- How Faith-based Funds Are Evolving to Address Climate Change Now to something completely different but of interest to some ethical and sustainable investors. It's an article titled How Faith-based Funds Are Evolving to Address Climate Change by Lewis Braham. Found on barrons.com. Some interesting quotes here for faith-based investors. Quote. “In the long history of faith-based investing, the Vatican's publication of its investment guidelines, Mensuram Bonam, in November, 2022, was an important turning point. Mensuram Bonam, which means ‘good measure' in Latin, focuses on the global problems of income inequality and climate change. It quotes Pope Francis saying, ‘Civilization requires energy, but energy use must not destroy civilization,' and cites the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) as an ‘important framework' for investors to consider.  Funds' Comment When Barron's Advisor first covered Mensuram Bonam, some faith-based mutual fund managers seemed caught off guard by the pope's environmental concerns. That disconnect persists. ‘Most [faith-based fund companies] are trying to screen out things like [companies involved with] abortion and pornography,' says Chris McMahon of Aquinas Wealth Advisors, a Catholic advisory firm in Pittsburgh. ‘It's an enormous lift for these firms to pivot and then add this kind of environmental stuff.' … Yet the U.S.'s long tradition of faith-based investing has included important pivots in the past. ‘People draw the origins of this movement to early congregations of Quakers speaking out against things such as the slave trade,' says Will Sorrell, director of values-based investing at OneAscent, which runs four faith-based exchange-traded funds as well as private accounts.  Sorrell says OneAscent has gradually shifted its Christian values-based policies to also incorporate environmental concerns and invest in companies having a positive impact on the environment… Interestingly, OneAscent is unaffiliated religiously, but has ‘a broadly Christian Protestant evangelical worldview,' Sorrell says. That gives it more flexibility to disagree with the Vatican. Yet the largest Catholic values fund family, Ave Maria Funds, also apparently doesn't see the need to shift its investment strategy based on the Vatican's guidelines. ‘From our standpoint, [Mensuram Bonam] hasn't impacted the way we manage the funds,' says Timothy Schwartz, president of Ave Maria's advisory firm, Schwartz Investment Counsel, which manages $2.9 billion… Ave Maria Value (ticker: AVEMX) has 38% of its portfolio invested in energy stocks and it has voted against shareholder proposals for some of those companies to set long-term greenhouse gas emission reduction targets.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- More Investors Turn to ESG Bond Funds And for a change of subject, we turn to green bonds with this piece titled More Investors Turn to ESG Bond Funds by James Comtois and seen on etftrends.com. Here's what Mr. Comtois says about one fund. “Investors looking to increase their allocation to ESG-labeled corporate bonds may want to look into the Vanguard ESG U.S. Corporate Bond ETF (VCEB). The fund seeks to track the performance of the Bloomberg MSCI U.S. Corporate SRI Select Index, a market-weighted corporate bond index that measures the investment return of investment-grade U.S. dollar-denominated bonds and is screened for certain environmental, social, and corporate governance criteria. Its index includes fixed-rate, taxable bonds with a maturity of more than one year… (The) Vanguard ESG U.S. Corporate Bond ETF had a 30-day SEC yield of 5.01% as of April 6 and carries an expense ratio of 0.12%” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Other Honorable Mention – not in any order Title: 10 Cheap Renewable Energy Stocks to Buy Now by Fahad Saleem. Found it on finance.yahoo.com. Articles from Outside the US 1. UK. Title: The best funds for green Isa investors, and how to make sustainable choices on inews.co.uk. By Holly Thomas. 2. UK. Title: Best ESG ETFs to Buy UK in 2023 on investingreviews.co.uk. By Antonia Medlicott. 3. Canada. Title: What Does Sustainable Investing Mean for Canadian Fund Investors? On morningstar.ca. By Ian Tam. ------------------------------------------------------------- Ending Comment Well, these are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips -- for this podcast titled: “Buy These Renewable Energy Stocks Say Analysts.” Now, please be sure to click the like and subscribe buttons on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or wherever you download or listen to this podcast. That helps bring these podcasts to others like you. And please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. Let's promote ethical and sustainable investing as a force for hope and prosperity in these terribly troubled times! Contact me if you have any questions. Thank you for listening. Talk to you next on May 5th. Bye for now. © 2023 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul

The World's Most Sustainable Companies. Plus… Includes these articles: “Corporate Knights' 100 most sustainable companies”; “How a one-man scrap metal recycler became the world's most sustainable corporation,” by Mike Scott; “5 Renewable Energy Companies To Support In 2023,” by Lei Nguyen; and “4 Solar Stocks Seeing Explosive Growth,” by Sejuti Banerjea. Plus, links to more Transcript & Links, Episode 98, January 27, 2023 Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to podcast 98 and published on January 27, 2023, titled “The World's Most Sustainable Companies. Plus…” — and presented by Investing for the Soul. Investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing mentoring, news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript, and links to content – including stock symbols and bonus material – on this episode's podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Now if any terms are unfamiliar to you, simply Google them. Also, a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in these podcasts, nor do I receive any compensation from anyone covered in these podcasts. Furthermore, I will reveal to you any personal investments I have in the investments mentioned herein. Additionally, quotes about individual companies are brief so that I can get as many companies covered as possible in the time allowed. Please go to this podcast's webpage for links to the actual articles for more company and stock information. Also, several companies are covered more than once and there are also 4 article links below that time didn't allow me to review here. ------------------------------------------------------------- 1) The World's Most Sustainable Companies. Plus… I'm going to begin with my favorite annual sustainable company ranking. It's Corporate Knights' 100 most sustainable companies. The introduction is by Mike Scott and found on corporateknights.com. Here are some quotes by Mr. Scott. “This year's Global 100 ranking of the world's most sustainable companies, now in its 19th year, reveals that the transition is gathering momentum – and that businesses that take sustainability seriously are flourishing financially. While the Global 100 is light on oil and gas companies, whose profits have soared because of rising energy prices (Finland's Neste being the only oil company on the ranking), it still managed to outperform its blue-chip benchmark, MSCI ACWI (All Country World Index), and other ESG indices. While both the Global 100 and ACWI fell somewhat in 2022, since its inception on February 1, 2005, the Global 100 Index has generated a total investment return of 270.7% compared to 222.1% for ACWI… Rising oil prices have stimulated growth in renewables Ralph Torrie, Corporate Knights' research director, says rising oil prices have stimulated growth in renewables, smart buildings, electric vehicles and other climate solutions, including circular economy measures… Sustainable revenue now makes up half of gross revenue for the Global 100 compared to just 5% for the wider benchmark… For every tonne of carbon they produce, Global 100 companies earn 33 times more revenue than ACWI firms… A fifth of Global 100 companies are U.S.-based… followed by Canada with 11%. However, as a region, Europe still leads the way with 44%, while Asia Pacific hosts 22% of the ranking's companies… New entrants include pharmaceuticals In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, new entrants to the index included a number of pharmaceuticals groups, such as Merck (MRK), Pfizer (PFE), Novavax (NVAX) and Gilead Sciences (GILD). Chinese electric vehicle maker NIO (NIO) and its compatriot Yadea (1585.HK), which produces electric bicycles, were also notable entrants, along with two companies from Taiwan: bicycle maker Giant (9921.TW) and the Taiwan High Speed Rail Corp (2633.TW) . Torrie says the addition of these corporations reflects the improved reporting on environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors from companies in the region… Methodology Corporate Knights' 2023 ranking of the world's 100 most sustainable corporations is based on a rigorous assessment of more than 6,000 public companies with revenue over US$1 billion. All companies are scored on applicable metrics relative to their peers, with 50% of the weight assigned to sustainable revenue and sustainable investment.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 2) The World's Most Sustainable Companies. Plus… Now Mike Scott writes about this year's no. 1 ranked company in Corporate Knights Global 100 with this piece titled How a one-man scrap metal recycler became the world's most sustainable corporation. Again it's on corporateknights.com. Here's some of what Mr. Scott says about this unusual sustainable corporate champion. “Schnitzer Steel's (SCHN) rapid ascension to the top of the Global 100 highlights the growing importance of both the circular economy and low-carbon metals in the energy transition… It began in 1906 as a one-man scrap metal business in Portland, Oregon, called Alaska Junk Company… However, during its long history, Schnitzer Steel has developed into a global leader in the collection, processing and sale of the world's most recycled product: steel… about a third comes from forging recycled scrap steel into finished products in electric arc furnaces that are powered by hydropower, making the metal extremely low carbon… In 2019, the company set about bolstering its framework by adopting specific goals and metrics to track progress. These included… reaching net-zero GHG emissions for all operations (steel manufacturing, metals recycling and auto dismantling) by 2050… This year, Schnitzer's emissions were 24% lower than in 2019… Recycling metals, while essential to the circular economy, can be a hazardous business. Its Pick-n-Pull car recycling subsidiary paid US$2.5 million in 2022 to settle allegations from 14 district attorneys in California that the company had illegally disposed of toxic materials and had stormwater pollution issues… A few years ago, Schnitzer Steel was also involved in a legal dispute with the Oakland Athletics baseball team over the presence of a metals shredding plant near the team's proposed new ballpark on the waterfront. An appeals court ultimately sided with the company. Reduce, reuse, recycle Schnitzer's approach to sustainability has ultimately paid off, with the company returning a top-quartile performance on a range of Global 100 indicators. It saw a 74% increase in energy productivity over last year and made significant improvements in water (69%) and carbon (55%) productivity. It also scored well for its proportion of non-male board members (five out of nine are women) and racially diverse executives, while it also saw a significant drop in its worker injury rate. The company's ranking also received a boost by its linking of its CEO's pay to the achievement of sustainability targets… and its policy of offering paid sick leave. As for the profit side of things, last year was the second-best year in the company's history.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 5 Renewable Energy Companies To Support In 2023 Now we return to one of our favorite sectors with this article titled 5 Renewable Energy Companies To Support In 2023. It's by Lei Nguyen and found on earth.org. Here are some brief quotes from Mr. Nguyen on each of his picks. “1. Canadian Solar (CSIQ) … is a solar energy company with headquarters in Ontario that specialises in the design, production, and sale of solar modules, inverters, system kits, and utility-level products. The company, which was founded in 2001, has subsidiaries across six continents and has active clients in over 160 nations. The business adheres to fair trade practices and neither buys conflict minerals nor uses child labor. For Canadian Solar, the well-being of its more than 13,500 workers is of utmost importance. It also takes environmental protection and conservation very seriously. 2. Brookfield Renewable Partners L.P. (BEP) Located in Canada… the corporation has a global portfolio of renewable energy-generating installations. In addition to its primarily focused on hydroelectric power operations, it also owns and manages wind, solar, distributed generation, and storage facilities… The company is able to save about 29 million metric tonnes of CO2 emissions, equivalent to the emissions of approximately 6 million vehicles. 3. Vestas Wind Systems (VWS.CO) … is a Denmark-based wind energy company. It creates, produces, and installs wind turbines. The business also runs a service component that offers service contracts, replacement parts, and related services. The company provides wind turbines for numerous nations across the world… Their sustainable energy solutions have already prevented 1.5 billion tonnes of CO2 from being released into the environment and contributed to a more sustainable energy system, with +145GW of wind turbines installed in 85 countries. 4. Clearway Energy (CWEN) With extremely effective natural gas-powered facilities, it complements its portfolio of wind and solar energy. Additionally, Clearway sells its power through PPAs, which give the business a consistent stream of income. In 2022, the company sold its thermal division, bringing in $1.35 billion in cash that is being reinvested in the expansion of its operations. Clearway Energy now anticipates that, as a result of its transactions, it will be able to increase its dividend toward the high end of its target range of 5 to 8% annually through at least 2026. 5. SolarEdge Technologies (SEDG) Last on our list of renewable energy companies is SolarEdge Technologies, an Israeli-based company founded in 2006. SolarEdge specialises in inverter systems for solar projects all around the world… Through a series of acquisitions, it has increased the range of products it offers. These new products and services address a number of energy market segments, including solar, storage, electric vehicle charging, batteries, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), electric vehicle powertrains, and grid services solutions.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 4 Solar Stocks Seeing Explosive Growth Continuing on our renewable energy theme is this article titled 4 Solar Stocks Seeing Explosive Growth. It's by Sejuti Banerjea and is seen on sports.yahoo.com. Here's some of what Ms. Banerjea has to say about her four stocks. “1. JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd. (JKS) China-based JinkoSolar is involved in the design, development, production and marketing of photovoltaic products like solar modules, silicon wafers, solar cells, recovered silicon materials and silicon ingots. It also provides solar system integration services and develops commercial solar power projects… In the last reported quarter, China shipments increased 500% and Europe more than 60%. The Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stock has a Value Score of A and Growth Score of B. Analysts expect its revenue and earnings to increase a respective 37.2% and 93.0% this year. 2. Array Technologies, Inc. (ARRY) New Mexico-based Array Technologies manufactures and supplies solar tracking systems and related products in the United States and internationally. Its SmarTrack machine learning software is used to identify the optimal position for a solar array in real time to increase energy production… The Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) company has a Growth Score of A. Its revenues are expected to grow 19.5% this year and earnings 178.6%. 3. ReneSola Ltd (SOL) Connecticut-based ReneSola develops, builds, operates and sells solar power projects in the U.S., Canada, Europe, and elsewhere. It operates through three segments: Solar Power Project Development; Engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) Services, and Electricity Generation Revenue… The Zacks Rank #2 stock has a Value Score of B. Analysts currently expect 67.4% revenue growth and 261.1% earnings growth in 2023. 4. SolarEdge Technologies, Inc. (SEDG) Israel-based SolarEdge Technologies designs, develops and sells a broad range of systems and solutions including direct current (DC) optimized inverter systems, power optimizers, communication devices and smart energy management solutions used in residential, commercial and small utility-scale solar installations worldwide… SolarEdge shares carry a Zacks Rank #2. Analysts expect the company to grow its 2023 revenue and earnings by 28.6% and 80.7%, respectively.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Now some Other Honorable Mentions – no particular order 1. Title: Iberdrola Goes Big on Renewables — Even Wind Energy, Where It Dominates, on environmentalleader.com. By Ken Silverstein. 2. Title: Lucid Group: The Risk/Reward Is Attractive Now (NASDAQ:LCID) on seekingalpha.com. By Cavenagh Research. Articles From Outside the US 1. Australia. Title: 3 ASX All Ords shares I'm watching like a hawk in January on fool.com.au. By Tristan Harrison. 2. UK. Title: Investing in ESG-friendly banks on ft.com. ------------------------------------------------------------- Ending Comment Well, these are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips -- for this podcast: “The World's Most Sustainable Companies. Plus…” Now, please be sure to click the like and subscribe buttons on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or wherever you download or listen to this podcast. That helps bring these podcasts to others like you. And please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. Let's promote ethical and sustainable investing as a force for hope and prosperity in these terribly troubled times! Contact me if you have any questions. Thank you for listening. Again, wishing you, your family, friends, and colleagues, a great 2023! Talk to you next February 10th. Bye for now. © 2023 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul

The Most Ethical US Companies includes coverage of the following articles: “22 Most Ethical Companies in the US,” by Habib Ur Rehman at Insider Monkey; “Top 15 Infrastructure Companies in the US,” by Ty Haqqi, also at Insider Monkey; and “Caterpillar Leads 5 Stocks To See Infrastructure Spending Boost,” by Harrison Miller. Plus much more Podcast: The Most Ethical US Companies Transcript & Links, Episode 96, December 16, 2022 Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to my podcast episode 96 published on December 16, 2022, titled “The Most Ethical US Companies” — and presented by Investing for the Soul. Investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing mentoring, news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript, and links to content – including stock symbols and bonus material – on this episode's podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Now if any terms are unfamiliar to you, simply Google them. Also, a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in these podcasts, nor do I receive any compensation from anyone covered in these podcasts. Furthermore, I will reveal to you any personal investments I have in the investments mentioned herein. Additionally, quotes about individual companies are brief so that I can get as many companies covered as possible in the time allowed. Please go to this podcast's webpage for links to the actual articles where you'll find much more great company information. Also, note several companies are covered more than once and there are also six article links below that time didn't allow me to review them here. Also, I'm taking some time off over the holidays, so my next episode of this podcast will be Friday, January 13, 2023! ------------------------------------------------------------- The Most Ethical US Companies The first article I'm covering today is titled 22 Most Ethical Companies in the US. It's by Habib Ur Rehman at Insider Monkey and found on yahoo.com. Mr. Rehman describes how they arrived at choosing these companies and then offers commentary on each one. “For our list of the 22 most ethical companies in the US, we've ranked them based on how many times they've been hailed as honorees for being ethical up until 2022 by Ethisphere Institute, a global leader in assessing ethical businesses. We've also mentioned each company's ESG-risk scores from Sustainalytics, a premier ESG grader… It assigns quantitative risk scores between 0 and 50 to corporations… and classifies them into any of… five risk categories: Negligible (0-10) Low (10-20), Medium (20-30), High (30-40), and Severe (40-50). 22. V.F. Corporation (NYSE:VFC) Ethisphere Honoree: 6 Times / ESG-Risk Score: 12.9 21. Oshkosh Corporation (NYSE:OSK) Ethisphere Honoree: 7 Times / ESG-Risk Score: 19.4 Oshkosh Corporation is a… machinery company that manufactures military vehicles, fire apparatus and truck bodies among others. 20. Mastercard Incorporated (NYSE:MA) Ethisphere Honoree: 7 Times / ESG-Risk Score: 17 19. The Allstate Corporation (NYSE:ALL) Ethisphere Honoree: 8 Times / ESG-Risk Score: 19.1 The Allstate Corporation is one of the biggest insurance companies in the United States. 18. Best Buy Co., Inc. (NYSE:BBY) Ethisphere Honoree: 8 Times / ESG-Risk Score: 14.2 17. CBRE Group, Inc. (NYSE:CBRE) Ethisphere Honoree: 9 Times / ESG-Risk Score: 6.9 CBRE is a… commercial real-estate investment company based in Dallas, Texas. 16. Dell Technologies Inc. (NYSE:DELL) Ethisphere Honoree: 10 Times / ESG-Risk Score: 16.5 15. Visa Inc. (NYSE:V) Ethisphere Honoree: 10 Times / ESG-Risk Score: 15.6 14. Henry Schein, Inc. (NASDAQ:HSIC) Ethisphere Honoree: 11 Times / ESG-Risk Score: 13.5 Henry Schein is a… multinational supplier of healthcare products and services. 13. Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ:HAS) Ethisphere Honoree: 11 Times / ESG-Risk Score: 7.1 12. Intel Corporation (NASDAQ:INTC) Ethisphere Honoree: 12 Times / ESG-Risk Score: 17 11. Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) Ethisphere Honoree: 12 Times / ESG-Risk Score: 15.2 10. ManpowerGroup Inc. (NYSE:MAN) Ethisphere Honoree: 13 Times / ESG-Risk Score: 10 ManpowerGroup is… the third largest staffing company in the world. 9. Teradata Corporation (NYSE:TDC) Ethisphere Honoree: 13 Times / ESG-Risk Score: 17.4 Teradata Corporation is a… software corporation that provides analytics software. 8. Waste Management, Inc. (NYSE:WM) Ethisphere Honoree: 13 Times / ESG-Risk Score: 16.8 7. Salesforce, Inc. (NYSE:CRM) Ethisphere Honoree: 13 Times / ESG-Risk Score: 13.2 Salesforce is a major… software company based in San Francisco, California. 6. Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE:ROK) Ethisphere Honoree: 14 Times / ESG-Risk Score: 17.7 5. Premier, Inc. (NASDAQ:PINC) Ethisphere Honoree: 15 Times / ESG-Risk Score: 19.9 Premier is a… healthcare company. 4. Cummins Inc. (NYSE:CMI) Ethisphere Honoree: 15 Times / ESG-Risk Score: 19.4 Cummins is a… machinery company. 3. Deere & Company (NYSE:DE) Ethisphere Honoree: 15 Times / ESG-Risk Score: 16.6 2. Aflac Incorporated (NYSE:AFL) Ethisphere Honoree: 16 Times / ESG-Risk Score: 16.9 1. Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated (NYSE:JLL) Ethisphere Honoree: 15 Times / ESG-Risk Score: 6.8 Jones Lang LaSalle… has provided its Science-Based-Target-initiative (SBTi) aligned to the 1.5 degrees Celsius goal of the Paris Agreement.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Top 15 Infrastructure Companies in the US Here's another analyst from Insider Monkey, Ty Haqqi, with his analysis titled Top 15 Infrastructure Companies in the US. Also, on yahoo.com. Again, the writer explains how they picked these companies. He then follows with brief outlines of each company. All market caps are as of December 3, 2022, and dollar numbers are millions of dollars. I start at #13 due to duplication of data for #'s 14 and 15. “The top infrastructure companies in the U.S. are giants of the industry… To determine these companies, we have considered their market cap, revenue, profit and assets, assigning 30% weightage to the first three criteria and 10% to the last one. 13. Construction Partners, Inc. (NASDAQ:ROAD) Total market cap: $1,559 Total assets: $4,809 Construction Partners is one of the fastest-growing civil infrastructure companies. 12. Uniti Group Inc. (NASDAQ:UNIT) Total market cap: $1,770 Total profits: $124 Uniti Group is involved in the acquisition as well as construction of infrastructure pertaining to critical communication. 11. SBA Communications Corporation (NASDAQ:SBAC) Total market cap: $31,877 Total profits: $238 SBA Communications is one of several real estate investment trusts which owns and also operates wireless infrastructure. 10. Crown Castle Inc. (NYSE:CCI) Total market cap: $60,700 Total profits: $1,158 Crown Castle is a real estate investment trust and also provides shared communication infrastructure. 9. Plains All American Pipeline, L.P. (NASDAQ:PAA) Total market cap: $8,548 Total profits: $593 Plains All American Pipeline is engaged in pipeline transport. 8. Sempra (NYSE:SRE) Total market cap: $52,157 Total profits: $1,318 Sempra is an energy infrastructure company. 7. Kinder Morgan, Inc. (NYSE:KMI) Total market cap: $42,707 Total profits: $1,784 Kinder Morgan is the biggest energy company in the U.S. 6. Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE:NSC) Total market cap: $58,821 Total profits: $3,005 Norfolk Southern operates more than 19,000 miles (of railways) in 22 states in the Eastern side of the U.S. and Norfolk Southern Corporation is also responsible for the maintenance of 28,400 miles. 5. American Tower Corporation (NYSE:AMT) Total market cap: $102,140 Total profits: $2,568 American Tower provides wireless and broadcast communications infrastructure in the United States and several other countries worldwide. 4. CSX Corporation (NASDAQ:CSX) Total market cap: $67,382 Total profits: $3,781 CSX is one of the biggest railroad companies in the U.S. 3. Union Pacific Corporation (NYSE:UNP) Total market cap: $132,016 Total profits: $6,523 Union Pacific is the biggest railroad company in the U.S. as well as among the top infrastructure companies in the U.S. 2. Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCSA) Total market cap: $155,037 Total profits: $14,159 Comcast is one of the biggest conglomerates in the world and is the second largest broadcasting and cable television company in the world in terms of revenue. 1. AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) Total market cap: $135,556 Total profits: $20,081 AT&T (is) the largest telecom company in the world.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Caterpillar Leads 5 Stocks To See Infrastructure Spending Boost Continuing on the theme of infrastructure is this article Caterpillar Leads 5 Stocks To See Infrastructure Spending Boost, by Harrison Miller, found on investors.com' Here are some quotes from Mr. Miller on each of his picks. “All of the companies should see a boost from the recent infrastructure bill and the Inflation Reduction Act. The infrastructure spending plan… will dole out more than $500 billion for various projects. And the Inflation Reduction Act includes $369 billion to expedite mining projects and build out renewable energy infrastructure. 1. Caterpillar Stock (CAT) The construction giant has rallied nearly 50% since bottoming in late September, and saw positive earnings and revenue growth the past two quarters. 2. United Rentals (URI) Earnings growth for the world's largest equipment rental company fluctuated over the past seven quarters, averaging roughly 40% gains during that time. 3. Terex Stock (TEX) Materials processor and machine maker Terex… earnings and revenue jumped 79% and 13%, respectively, for the most recent quarter after three periods of decelerating gains. 4. Deere Stock (DE) Agriculture equipment manufacturer Deere's… shares are way up after a big run going back to late September. 5. Martin Marietta Stock (MLM) The building materials and concrete supplier shed 19% from its stock price so far this year, but started to recover at the beginning of the summer.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 3 Alternative Energy Stocks to Buy Amid U.S.-EU Trade Rift Now back to our old familiar sector, alternative energy, with this article titled 3 Alternative Energy Stocks to Buy Amid U.S.-EU Trade Rift. It's by Zacks analyst Aparajita Dutta. And found on sports.yahoo.com. (Note, some of you might have concerns about the designation of ‘alternative energy' being applied to two of the stocks.) Now some quotes from Ms. Dutta. “The forerunners in the U.S. alternative energy industry are Texas Pacific Land, HF Sinclair and Clearway Energy. 1. HF Sinclair (DINO) Based in Dallas, TX, this company is an energy company, which produces and markets light products such as gasoline, diesel fuel, jet fuel, renewable diesel and other specialty products… HF Sinclair currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). 2. Texas Pacific Land (TPL) Based in Dallas, TX, Texas Pacific Land is one of the largest landowners in the State of Texas operating under two business segments: Land and Resource Management and Water Services and Operations… Texas Pacific Land currently carries a Zacks Rank #1. 3. Clearway Energy (CWEN) Based in San Francisco, CA, Clearway Energy owns, operates and acquires renewable and conventional generation and thermal infrastructure projects.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Now some Other Honorable Mentions – no particular order 1) From Canada, Title: 3 Best-in-Class Stocks to Build Long-Term Wealth on fool.ca. By Robin Brown. 2) Title: 14 Best Environmental Stocks to Buy Now on yahoo.com. By Omer Farooq. 3) Title: 10 Most Responsible Retailers of 2023 on risnews.com. By Liz Dominguez. 4) Title: 8 Best Solar Power Stocks Of 2022 on forbes.com. By Cory Mitchell. 5) Title: 7 Best Socially Responsible Funds | Investing on money.usnews.com. By Jeff Reeves. UK article Title: Best ESG ETFs to Buy UK in 2022 on investingreviews.co.uk. By Antonia Medlicott. ------------------------------------------------------------- Ending Comment Well, these are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips -- for this podcast: “The Most Ethical US Companies.” Now, please be sure to click the like and subscribe buttons on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or wherever you download or listen to this podcast. That helps bring these podcasts to others like you. And please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. Let's promote ethical and sustainable investing as a force for hope and prosperity in these terribly troubled times! Contact me if you have any questions. Thank you for listening. Now I'm taking some time off over the holidays, so my next episode of this podcast will be Friday, January 13, 2023! I wish you and your family and friends a most joyous, healthy, and fulfilling holiday period! Bye for now. © 2022 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul

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Best Clean Energy Stocks and Funds articles include: “4 ETFs targeting clean water, wind energy, the smart grid — and one that has them all”; “Best renewable energy to watch out for in 2022”; “3 Alternative Energy Stocks to Watch As Wind Power Expands”; and “2 Renewables Stocks That Could Have You Seeing Green”. Seven more! Podcast: Best Clean Energy Stocks and Funds Transcript & Links, Episode 82, May 6, 2022 Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to my podcast episode 82 published on May 6, 2022, titled “Best Clean Energy Stocks and Funds” — and presented by Investing for the Soul. Investingforthesoul.com is your site for vital global ethical and sustainable investing mentoring, news, commentary, information, and resources. Remember that you can find a full transcript, and links to content – including stock symbols, quotes, and bonus material – at this episode's podcast page located at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts. Now if any terms are unfamiliar to you, simply Google them. Also, just a reminder. I do not evaluate any of the stocks or funds mentioned in these podcasts, nor do I receive any compensation from anyone covered in these podcasts. Furthermore, I will reveal to you any personal investments I have in the investments mentioned herein. ------------------------------------------------------------- 1. Best Clean Energy Stocks and Funds So let's begin with this article titled 4 ETFs targeting clean water, wind energy, the smart grid — and one that has them all by Rachel Koning Beals. It appeared on marketwatch.com. Here are some quotes from Ms. Koning Beals on each of her four recommendations. “For some investment advisers and stock-pickers, so-called green investing is far from just a feel-good move… One such investment adviser is Daniel Milan of Cornerstone Financial Services in Southfield, Michigan… 1) Is First Trust Water ETF (FIW) The fund holds 36 of the largest U.S.-listed water companies, ranked by market cap and weighted equally within five tiers. Milan says… ‘Our water thesis is short-term, intermediate-term and long-term…' In the U.S. alone, fixing the water infrastructure — including ridding groundwater of what are usually known as ‘forever chemicals' — featured only behind transportation as the largest recipients of funding in last year's $1.2 trillion infrastructure law… Milan said. ‘I'm from Michigan. Flint lived its water crisis and we all lived it to some extent… I don't think that crisis water scenario is unique.' 2) First Trust NASDAQ Clean Edge Smart Grid Infrastructure Index Fund (GRID) …  is a concentrated fund targeting global equities determined to be in the smart grid and electrical energy infrastructure sector, Milan says… The sector may include business in electric grid, electric meters and devices, networks, energy storage and management, and enabling software. 3) First Trust Global Wind Energy ETF (FAN) Most wind ETFs are too small to pass Milan's sniff test… The best, meaning larger, option may be First Trust Global Wind Energy ETF. It saves roughly 60% of its weighting for pure plays in the wind industry, including turbine manufacturers and operators, and allocates the remaining 40% to diversified sector, says Milan. This mix might frustrate some investors who envision a pure play. In fact, they may find more desirable wind opportunities in a broader clean-energy ETF. 4) First Trust NASDAQ Clean Energy Sector ETF (QCLN) … holds a broad portfolio of U.S.-listed firms in the clean energy industry. Eligible companies must be manufacturers, developers, distributors or installers of one of the following sub-sectors: advanced materials (that enable clean-energy or reduce the need for petroleum products), energy intelligence (smart grid), energy storage and conversion (hybrid batteries) or renewable electricity generation (solar, wind, geothermal, etc.)… Milan acknowledges recent volatility in this ETF and other macro-level sector funds as broader market consensus has favored names with high cash flow and strong balance sheets over high-growth companies.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 2. Best Clean Energy Stocks and Funds It seems that the media is again filled with analysts reviewing renewable energy-related stocks and funds. So, most of the following articles refer to that space. This next article is titled Best renewable energy to watch out for in 2022 by Alex Artenie. It's on medium.datadriveninvestor.com site. Here are some quotes from Mr. Artenie on each of his picks. “1) NextEra Energy (NEE) While not a household name, this company is the world's largest wind and solar energy producer. It has production facilities in Florida and sells power through purchasing power agreements (PPAs) to other utility companies and also directly to consumers. You should watch NextEra Energy closely as it has yielded about 700 percent in returns in the last decade. The company has enjoyed above-average growth, increasing its dividend yearly for more than a quarter of a century. 2) Brookfield Renewable (BEP) Brookfield is one of the global leaders in hydroelectric power production. Hydropower makes up more than 62 percent of its energy portfolio in 2021. However, the company is also into wind energy, solar energy, and energy storage businesses. Steady cash flow comes from long-term energy contracts with PPAs, which buy most of its energy. Brookfield stock has generated an annual return of 20 percent for its investors since it began operating. Dividend payments have grown at a 6 percent compound annual growth rate starting from 2012. The company is projecting more growth based on its extensive renewable energy projects billed to come online soon. 3) Clearway Energy (CWEN) Clearway is a big-time player in the American renewable energy market. In addition to extensive wind and solar energy portfolios, the company operates highly efficient power plants running on natural gas. It also sells its energy to PPAs, ensuring a constant revenue stream. Since its inception, investors in Clearway stocks have reaped annual returns that total almost 10 percent. The firm is controlled by Global Infrastructure Partners, a private equity company. Clearway is gunning for between 5 and 8 percent annual dividend growth in the nearest future.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 3. Best Clean Energy Stocks and Funds My next renewable/alternative energy article is titled 3 Alternative Energy Stocks to Watch As Wind Power Expands by Aparajita Dutta. Found on zacks.com. Here are some of Ms. Dutta's comments on her stock picks. “1) TotalEnergies (TTE - Free Report) Based in France, TotalEnergies is among the top five publicly traded global integrated oil and gas companies based on production volumes, proved reserves and market capitalization. Earlier this month, TotalEnergies and ENEOS Corporation announced a collaboration to jointly conduct a feasibility study to assess the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in ENEOS Negishi Refinery in Yokohama City, Japan. The proposed unit, with a capacity of 300,000 tons per year of SAF, once operational will allow TotalEnergies to offer a sustainable supply chain of SAF in Japan around 2025. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for TotalEnergies' 2022 earnings has improved 31.8% in the past 60 days and implies an improvement of 58.7% from 2021's reported earnings figure. The company delivered an average earnings surprise of 18.88% in the last four quarters…  TotalEnergies currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). 2) Evergy (EVRG - Free Report) Based in Kansas City, MO, this company provides clean, safe and reliable energy to 1.6 million customers in Kansas and Missouri… Its 2021 adjusted earnings per share were $3.54, reflecting a 14% year-over-year increase and a 7% increase over the $3.30 mid-point of the company's original 2021 adjusted EPS guidance range. This indicates the company's operational strength. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Evergy's 2022 earnings has improved 0.6% in the past 60 days. The company delivered an average earnings surprise of 87.44% in the last four quarters. It boasts a long-term earnings growth rate of 6.1%. Evergy currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). 3) Brookfield Renewables (BEP - Free Report). (Yes again!) Based in New York, Brookfield Renewables operates renewable power assets in the United States, Brazil and Colombia. In April 2022, Brookfield formed a strategic partnership with SSE Renewables for participation in the 1.4GW Hollandse Kust (west) offshore wind farm zone tenders, which are currently underway in the Netherlands… The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Brookfield Renewables' 2022 earnings has improved in the past 60 days while that for sales implies an improvement of 11.6% over 2021's reported sales figure. Brookfield Renewables currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- 4. Best Clean Energy Stocks and Funds The last article I'm reviewing today is titled 2 Renewables Stocks That Could Have You Seeing Green. It's by someone I feature in almost every podcast, Matthew DiLallo, on fool.com. Here's s some of what Mr. DiLallo has to say about these two stocks. “1) Atlantica Sustainable Infrastructure (AY) … focuses on owning environmentally sustainable infrastructure assets like renewable energy generating facilities, water desalination plants, electric transmission lines, and cleaner-burning natural gas power plants. These assets generate relatively predictable cash flow backed by long-term contracts and government-regulated rate structures. That gives Atlantica the funds to pay an attractive 5.7%-yielding dividend… Atlantica is targeting to invest at least $300 million per year in renewable energy and other sustainable infrastructure projects. This investment rate should grow its cash available for distribution by 5% to 8% per year. That will enable the company to continue growing its high-yielding dividend… investors should also benefit from a steadily rising stock price, adding to their returns. 2) Clearway Energy (CWEN)(CWEN.A) (Yes, again!) Clearway Energy focuses on producing cleaner electricity from wind, solar, and natural gas power plants. It sells this energy under long-term contracts to end users like utilities. That enables it to generate relatively stable cash flow to support its 4.3%-yielding dividend. The company has also steadily increased its payout by expanding its portfolio, primarily through acquisitions. It invested $820 million across a range of transactions last year, including purchasing projects developed by its sponsor Clearway Energy Group (CEG). These deals help support Clearway's target to grow its dividend by 5% to 8% per year.  The company believes it can deliver dividend growth toward the high end of that target range through at least 2026. One key power source is the upcoming sale of its thermal business. It will receive $1.35 billion in net proceeds, giving it the cash to reinvest in higher-returning opportunities. It already has $600 million in deals lined up. That leaves it with $750 million to allocate toward future acquisitions. Given (the company's) vast development project pipeline, Clearway should have plenty of options. (It) has 19 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy projects in its backlog, including 2 GW that it plans to start building this year. That's a sizable opportunity set for Clearway, considering its current portfolio size of 9 GWs… Clearway Energy offers investors a high-powered dividend that should generate a lot of green in the coming years. Add in the potential appreciation in its stock price, and Clearway could be a big-time green investment.” End quotes. ------------------------------------------------------------- Other Honorable Mentions—not in any order and a reminder that for links to these articles go to investingforthesoul.com/podcasts and scroll down to this podcast page. 1) Title Bank of New York Mellon a Top Socially Responsible Dividend Stock With 2.9% Yield on Nasdaq. By BNK Invest. 2) Title What are the most responsible (Canadian) funds? On the Corporate Knights site. By Tim Nash. 3) Title LGBTQ+ Friendly Investments: What They Are & How to Find Them on investorjunkie.com. By Christopher Murray. 4) Title Green Bonds Become ESG Fixed Income Cornerstone on ETF Trends. By Tom Lydon. Articles for UK, Australian, and International Investors—again links on this podcast's webpage 1) Title How to invest in sustainable food: Six best fund ideas on This is Money. By Tara Clee. 2) Title Here are 2 top ETFs for ASX investors to buy next week on fool.com.au. By James Mickleboro. 3) Title Top 10 most-popular investment trusts: April 2022 on ii.co.uk by Kyle Caldwell. ------------------------------------------------------------- Ending Comment Well, these are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips -- for this podcast: “Best Clean Energy Stocks and Funds.” To get all the links, stock symbols, or to read the transcript of this podcast -- and more -- go to investingforthesoul.com/podcasts and scroll down to this episode. Also, be sure to click the like and subscribe buttons in Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or wherever you download or listen to this podcast. And please click the share buttons to share this podcast with your friends and family. Let's promote ethical and sustainable investing as a force for hope in these deeply troubled times! Contact me if you have any questions. Thank you for listening. Talk to you next on May 20. Bye for now. © 2022 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul

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