Image: 11/04/2025 Ilustration
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| Chart shows stock market volatility 2025 | 
In today’s market, there are many chances for investors as stock prices drop. Experienced investors often feel overwhelmed when deciding which stocks to buy. This article presents a personal stock portfolio that highlights seven top picks, emphasizing three categories of stocks that show promise in the current market landscape. These selections are based on data suggesting they might significantly increase in value over the upcoming years.
Investing in high-growth technology stocks can lead to volatility, but those willing to take the risk often see substantial returns. This discussion focuses on how smart choices can balance risk and reward, particularly in sectors like small-cap growth and value stocks. With tools available to aid in stock research, investors can make informed decisions about their portfolios without relying solely on market trends.
Key Takeaways
- This portfolio highlights top stocks based on market opportunities.
 
- A focus on small-cap growth stocks can lead to high returns.
 
- Tools are available to help investors research and track their investments.
 
Market Analysis
The market has seen significant drops recently, affecting both large tech firms and smaller growth stocks. Despite this, many see potential opportunities for investment. The speaker's portfolio reflects a challenging start to the year, but a deeper look reveals a 145% increase over the past two years.
The first stock highlighted is VBK, the Vanguard Small Cap Growth ETF. This ETF includes various small growth stocks, which are expected to grow based on future potential rather than current profits. Even though growth stocks typically do not perform well during market downturns, small-cap growth stocks are currently trading at discounts.
Key Points about VBK:
- Represents small growth companies valued under $5 billion.
 
- Offers a more secure way to invest in growth stocks without taking on individual stock risk.
 
Next is SLY, the S&P 600 Small Cap Growth ETF. While many small growth companies struggle with profitability, this ETF focuses on those that are not only growing but also showing strong profits and upward momentum. It has delivered a 95% return over the last five years, positioning it for potential future gains as the market recovers.
Investing Tools:
To further assist investors, the speaker mentions Investing Pro, a platform for researching stocks. This tool allows filtering for various stocks, making it easier to find profitable options. Users can access insights and track moves made by top investors like Warren Buffett.
Switching focus, the speaker discusses value stocks, which are currently seen as the most affordable on the market. Despite short-term fluctuations driven by trends, the long-term value is based on actual cash flow.
A notable company in this category is New Bank. This fintech giant is rapidly expanding and now has around 95 million active users, leveraging Brazil's growing financial market. New Bank offers a comprehensive app for a variety of services, indicating strong market presence and consumer adoption.
Highlights of New Bank:
- Significant growth with a 22% year-over-year increase in active customers.
 
- It operates in a rapidly evolving fintech environment in Brazil.
 
Investors are keen to understand the potential of these stocks as the market undergoes transitions, making informed decisions based on data and trends essential.
Personal Investment Summary
With the recent drop in the market affecting both large tech firms and smaller growth companies, he sees numerous opportunities available. His stock portfolio reflects his strategy, and he wants to share his top seven stock picks. He focuses on three categories of stocks that currently present strong investment potential and could see significant growth in the coming years.
To start the year, his portfolio shows a decline, similar to many tech investors. However, when looking back over the last two years, it has gained approximately $180,000, which is a 145% increase. This growth includes his additional investments since Charles Schwab does not separate them out. The portfolio has experienced considerable volatility over this period, climbing and falling multiple times. He prefers high-growth tech stocks, accepting their unpredictable nature since he does not plan to need this money for at least another decade.
He emphasizes a data-driven approach to investing, especially in turbulent times. His background as a solution architect for Fortune 500 companies gives him confidence in technology investments. He also plans to share specific amounts invested in each stock.
Stock Picks and Categories
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VBK - Vanguard Small Cap Growth ETF
- This ETF provides exposure to a diverse selection of small-cap growth stocks in the U.S.
 
- Growth stocks are valued based on potential future earnings rather than current profits.
 
- A chart from Morning Star indicates that small-cap growth stocks are now trading at discounts, presenting a potentially high-reward investment opportunity.
 
 
- 
SLY - S&P 600 Small Cap Growth ETF
- This ETF targets small companies that are both profitable and showing upward movement.
 
- It has delivered a return of 95% over the past five years.
 
- Given the recent sell-off in growth stocks, a recovery could be imminent as the market stabilizes.
 
 
To find similar investment opportunities, he suggests using tools like Investing Pro. This site allows filtering for specific stock types and provides valuable insights for investors. For example, it can display stocks priced under $10 per share, showcasing ones that have provided significant returns recently.
Value Stock Insights
Moving to the second category, he identifies value stocks, which are currently among the cheapest in the market. Value investing takes a long-term view, focusing on companies’ cash flows.
A notable pick in this category is New Bank, a leading digital banking platform in Brazil. The company boasts around 95 million active customers, showing impressive growth. It stands out in the rapidly changing financial landscape in Latin America, supported by government initiatives like open banking. The high adoption rate of New Bank's platform, which offers a comprehensive range of services, highlights its significance in the market.
This collection of stocks represents diverse strategies aimed at capitalizing on both growth and value in the current financial environment.
Investment Approach
The current market drop has created many investment opportunities across various stocks. As an experienced investor, he focuses on three key categories of stocks that show promise for significant gains. His strategy involves selecting stocks he believes could potentially double, triple, or even increase sevenfold in the coming years.
His personal portfolio reflects a blend of strategies amid market volatility, showing both significant gains and losses. Over the past two years, despite the recent downturn, his portfolio has risen by approximately 145%, an increase of $180,000. This has been influenced by his preference for high-growth technology stocks, which tend to fluctuate in value. He plans to hold these investments for at least another decade, allowing for time to ride out the ups and downs.
To start, he recommends the Vanguard Small Cap Growth ETF (VBK). This ETF offers a diverse range of small growth stocks in the U.S. market, which benefit from future valuation rather than immediate profit. As growth stocks often struggle during market downturns, he finds value in this ETF now, especially given the current discounts on small-cap companies, which are trading below their worth.
Next is the S&P 600 Small Cap Growth ETF (SLY). This option narrows down small growth stocks to those that are not only growing but also profitable. With a 95% return over the past five years, it presents a strong opportunity for recovery as the market stabilizes.
For those seeking to identify stocks that fit their investment strategies, he recommends using tools like Investing Pro. This platform helps investors find stocks based on specific criteria, providing insights and data to support informed decisions.
In exploring value stocks, he targets companies with high cash flow and reasonable pricing. The financial sector is evolving, particularly in Latin America, where Brazil's fintech market is rapidly expanding. New Bank, the largest digital banking platform in the world, serves as a prime example of this growth, boasting nearly 95 million active users. Despite its strong market position, it has faced high valuations, which necessitate careful investment consideration.
Growth Stocks
Vanguard Small Cap Growth ETF (VBK)
VBK, the Vanguard Small Cap Growth ETF, offers a way for investors to purchase a mix of small growth stocks in the United States. Growth stocks are often valued based on their future potential rather than current profits. They can be compared to tech startups that are expanding rapidly. The current market situation raises a question: are growth stocks now a good value after recent declines?
A comparison from Morning Star shows that while larger and mid-sized growth stocks are considered overvalued, small cap growth stocks are trading at a discount. This ETF provides a safer option for investors looking to engage with these small companies, avoiding the risks of investing in individual stocks that may not be stable.
S&P 600 Small Cap Growth ETF (SLY)
SLY, the S&P 600 Small Cap Growth ETF, focuses on small growth companies that are profitable and showing strong upward movement. Many small growth stocks struggle to generate profit, making SLY a valuable choice for investors. Over the past five years, this ETF has seen a remarkable return of 95%. Given the current market trends, there might be potential for price recovery as growth stocks rebound.
This investment carries high risks and high rewards. It appeals to those looking to capitalize on the rebound of small growth companies after a market downturn.
Investing Pro Tool Introduction
Investing Pro is a helpful tool for anyone interested in finding and researching stocks. On their website, users can access stock screeners. These allow users to filter stocks based on specific criteria, such as low-priced stocks or under-the-radar small caps showing price increases.
Investing Pro simplifies research by gathering important information about stocks in one place. It also offers insights into what top investors are doing, helping users make informed decisions. A special discount for a subscription is available, making it an attractive option for those looking to enhance their investing research.
Value Stocks
With recent market declines affecting all types of stocks, investors are seeking opportunities. Focusing on value stocks can be a wise strategy during these times. Here are some key points regarding value stocks worth considering.
Market Overview
- Many stocks, especially in tech and growth sectors, are facing price drops.
 
- Despite these declines, some stocks are trading at reasonable prices compared to their potential earnings.
 
Investment Approach
Investing in value stocks means looking for companies that are undervalued based on their current earnings and growth potential. Here are two notable categories of value stocks:
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Small Cap Growth Stocks:
- These are companies with market values of under $5 billion.
 
- They are viewed as high-risk, high-reward investments.
 
- Investing in an ETF like the Vanguard Small Cap Growth ETF (VBK) allows investors to buy a mix of small growth stocks without the risk of investing in individual small companies.
 
 
- 
Profitable Small Growth Stocks:
- The S&P 600 Small Cap Growth ETF (SLY) focuses on small companies that are not only growing but also showing profits.
 
- This ETF has delivered a 95% return over the past five years.
 
- With many growth stocks currently selling off, there's a potential for recovery in price when the market rebounds.
 
 
Research Tools
To find promising stocks, tools like Investing Pro can help filter and identify small, undervalued companies. Features of this tool include:
- Custom screeners for stocks under specific price points or that are experiencing upward momentum.
 
- Insights on stocks' potential upside and risk levels.
 
- Ability to track top investors and their strategies.
 
Emerging Markets
Latin America, particularly Brazil, is becoming a hotspot for financial technology growth. New Bank has emerged as a major player in this market, boasting:
- Almost 95 million active customers, a 22% year-over-year increase.
 
- Over $28 billion in total deposits.
 
- A user base that includes 58% of Brazil's adult population through its Super App, which offers various services from banking to shopping.
 
Investing in companies like New Bank positions investors to benefit from the growing financial landscape in emerging markets.
Investing in Latin America
Investing in Latin America, particularly in the fintech sector, is becoming increasingly attractive. Brazil is a key player in this landscape, with government initiatives and innovative companies driving growth.
Key Points About the Fintech Boom
- Government Support: Brazil launched open banking in 2020, enabling fintech firms to share customer data with consent. This move simplifies business operations in the country.
 
- Digital Currency Innovations: In 2023, Brazil introduced a pilot digital currency, highlighting its focus on modernizing financial services.
 
Leading Player: New Bank
New Bank has established itself as the largest digital banking platform globally, boasting some impressive stats:
- Customer Base: Nearly 95 million active users, a 22% increase from the previous year.
 
- Deposits: Over $28 billion in total deposits.
 
- Market Reach: Approximately 58% of Brazil's adult population uses New Bank's Super App, which combines various services like banking, shopping, and transportation.
 
Potential and Risks
While New Bank shows tremendous growth potential, its stock history indicates some volatility. The shares have experienced fluctuations over the past five years, including declines and stagnant periods. Investors should consider this along with the company's high valuation.
New Bank Analysis
Market Position
New Bank has positioned itself as the largest digital banking platform globally, focusing on a rapidly growing sector in Latin America. With nearly 95 million active users, it holds a significant share, capturing 58% of Brazil's adult population that utilizes its services. The company's ability to leverage open banking regulations enhances its competitive edge in a mature financial market.
User Base and Services
New Bank's customer base continues to expand, showing a 22% year-over-year increase in active accounts. The company offers a versatile Super App that integrates various services such as banking, shopping, and transportation. This broad range of services not only enhances user engagement but also drives substantial deposits, with over $28 billion held across its platform.
Financial Health
Although New Bank has experienced fluctuations in its stock price over the years, it consistently generates significant cash flow for investors. Despite past high valuations, the company's financial strategies and market growth potential suggest a positive outlook. It aims to adapt and thrive as it navigates the challenges of the evolving financial landscape in Brazil and beyond.
Investing Tools Overview
With the market facing a significant downturn, opportunities are present across various sectors. Identifying the right stocks to buy can be challenging, but focusing on solid data is key. Here are essential tools and strategies for navigating the current market landscape effectively.
Stock Portfolio Insights
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Portfolio Performance: The speaker's stock portfolio, down recently, has seen a notable increase over the past two years, rising by approximately $180,000 (145%). This reflects both market volatility and personal investment choices.
 
- 
Investment Strategy: Investing in high-growth tech stocks is a favored approach, despite their inherent volatility. The speaker remains confident, citing a long-term investment horizon of at least 10 years.
 
Key Stock Picks
- 
VBK (Vanguard Small Cap Growth ETF):
- This ETF represents a collection of small growth stocks in the U.S. market.
 
- Small-cap growth stocks are currently undervalued, making this ETF a more stable investment than individual stocks.
 
 
- 
SLY (S&P 600 Small Cap Growth ETF):
- Focuses on small growth companies that are profitable and have strong momentum.
 
- Over the past five years, this ETF has returned 95%. It presents opportunities for rebound as the market stabilizes.
 
 
Research Tools
- Investing Pro:
- A helpful resource for finding stocks, offering filters to identify specific types of companies.
 
- Allows users to quickly create lists, like companies under $10 per share, which have shown significant returns in a short period.
 
- Integrates insights that assist in determining the potential of stocks.
 
 
Investment Research Benefits
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Stock Analysis: Investing Pro consolidates relevant data about various stocks, highlighting essential information and tips for assessing risk.
 
- 
Tracking Top Investors: The platform allows users to observe trades made by leading investors such as Warren Buffett, facilitating an understanding of proven investment strategies.
 
Value Stocks Insights
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Market Dynamics: In the short term, market trends can be swayed by non-fundamental factors, but long-term success hinges on a company's cash flow. Thus, identifying undervalued stocks can yield strong returns.
 
- 
New Bank: A standout stock in the financial sector, New Bank has established itself as a dominant player in Brazil's growing fintech landscape. With 95 million active customers and a significant market share, its potential for future growth is considerable despite the stock's previous volatility.
 
Utilizing these tools and insights can empower investors to make informed decisions in a fluctuating market.
Investing Pro Features
Stock Screeners
Investing Pro offers an easy way to find specific types of stocks using their stock screeners. Investors can filter for various categories. For example, one screener shows small, lesser-known stocks that are rising in price. There's also a list of stocks priced under $10 each. An investor could have seen a 29% return just by tracking stocks from this list over three months.
Research and Insights
With Investing Pro, individuals can dive deeper into their stock selections. The platform provides insights that identify stocks with the most potential upside. Each stock comes with details that help investors assess whether it may be a good or risky choice. This allows users to do their own research according to their specific investing strategies.
Tracking Top Investors
Another valuable feature is the ability to track the trading activities of top investors. Users can see trades made by well-known figures like Warren Buffett. This overview can help investors understand the strategies used by successful traders. This feature keeps everything organized and accessible for those who wish to follow the moves of the market’s leaders.
Promotions and Discounts
With the current market fluctuations, many investors are interested in stocks that may have hidden value. They focus on three main categories that are considered the best deals now. A great opportunity lies in the growth stocks, particularly within small-cap companies which are trading at a discount.
The Vanguard Small Cap Growth ETF (VBK) is a smart choice for those looking for a broad range of small growth stocks in the U.S. Investing in this ETF allows individuals to tap into potential market rebounds without the risks associated with individual penny stocks.
Another option is the S&P 600 Small Cap Growth ETF (SLY), which targets profitable small businesses showing solid upward momentum. It has enjoyed a 95% return over the past five years, making it a promising pick as the market starts to recover.
Investors can also utilize tools like Investing Pro to discover and research these stocks effectively. By filtering for small, profitable stocks, one can identify potential winners in a short amount of time.
Many investors seek value stocks, which are often seen as the cheapest for their market price. They focus on companies generating significant cash flow. New players in the fintech sector, especially in Brazil, are proving to be key growth drivers. Companies like New Bank demonstrate strong potential with their large customer base and innovative services, making them attractive to investors looking for value opportunities.
For those interested in expanding their stock portfolios, taking advantage of these promotions and discounts can lead to fruitful investments amidst a volatile market.
Key Insights
The stock market has recently experienced a drop, impacting both large and small companies. Despite the downturn, there are investment opportunities available. The speaker highlights their personal stock portfolio, which, despite a recent dip, has seen significant gains over the past two years.
Stock Choices and Strategies
- 
VBK - Vanguard Small Cap Growth ETF
- This ETF offers diversified exposure to small-cap growth stocks.
 
- Small-cap growth stocks are seen as undervalued despite the overall market decline.
 
- Investing in this ETF reduces risk compared to individual small stocks.
 
 
- 
SLY - S&P 600 Small Cap Growth ETF
- This ETF focuses on profitable small-growth companies with positive momentum.
 
- It has shown strong performance in the past 5 years, returning 95%.
 
- These stocks may rebound as the market recovers.
 
 
Investing Tools
Investing Pro is recommended as a useful tool for stock research. It allows investors to filter stocks by specific criteria and track trades from top investors like Warren Buffett.
Value Stocks
In terms of value investing, it's essential to focus on stocks that produce cash flow. New Bank is highlighted as a significant player in fintech in Brazil, with nearly 95 million active customers. Their Super App allows users to manage various financial tasks, reflecting the growing demand for digital banking solutions.
By maintaining a clear strategy and focusing on data, investors can identify potential opportunities even in a volatile market.