Best ESG ETFs, Carbon Capture Stocks, More…

19 abr · Ethical & Sustainable Investing News to Profit By!

00:24:18

Best ESG ETFs, Carbon Capture Stocks, More… Includes SRI ETFs, sustainable carbon capture stocks, analysis on Enphase or Plug Power?

By Ron Robins, MBA

Transcript & Links, Episode 128, April 19, 2024

Hello, Ron Robins here. So, welcome to this podcast episode 128 titled “Best ESG ETFs, Carbon Capture Stocks, 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.

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.

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1. Best ESG ETFs, Carbon Capture Stocks, More…

It’s been a while since I included an article focusing on ESG ETFs, so here’s one from a good publication that just appeared on aol.com. It’s titled Best ESG ETFs: Top funds for socially responsible investing. It’s by Brian Baker at The Banker. Here are some quotes from the article.

“1) Vanguard ESG U.S. Stock ETF (ESGV)

The Vanguard ESG U.S. Stock ETF 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): 14.6 percent Expense ratio: 0.09 percent

2) iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (ICLN)

The iShares Global Clean Energy ETF seeks to track the performance of an index of global stocks from the clean energy sector. These companies produce energy from renewable sources such as solar and wind.

5-year return (annualized): 8.0 percent Expense ratio: 0.41 percent

3) iShares ESG MSCI USA Leaders ETF (SUSL)

The iShares ESG MSCI USA Leaders ETF gives investors exposure to large- and mid-cap stocks that score highly on ESG issues relative to their sector peers. The fund avoids holding companies with low ESG ratings or severe controversies.

3-year return (annualized): 11.5 percent Expense ratio: 0.10 percent

4) Nuveen ESG Large-Cap Value ETF (NULV)

The Nuveen ESG Large-Cap Value ETF uses a passive approach to invest in large-cap companies with value characteristics that also meet certain ESG criteria.

5-year return (annualized): 7.9 percent Expense ratio: 0.26 percent

5) SPDR S&P 500 Fossil Fuel Reserves Free ETF (SPYX)

The SPDR S&P 500 Fossil Fuel Reserves Free ETF gives investors focused on climate change exposure to the S&P 500 while eliminating companies that own fossil fuel reserves. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for fairly traditional investment exposure with a slight focus on climate change.

5-year return (annualized): 14.4 percent Expense ratio: 0.20 percent

6) iShares MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals ETF (SDG)

The iShares MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals ETF seeks to track the performance of an index made up of companies that derive the majority of their revenue from products and services that address at least one of the world’s major social and environmental challenges as defined by the United Nations.

5-year return (annualized): 7.1 percent Expense ratio: 0.49 percent

7) iShares ESG Aware MSCI USA ETF (ESGU)

The iShares ESG Aware MSCI USA ETF 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. The fund includes large- and mid-cap U.S. stocks, and those looking for exposure to high-performing stocks with an ESG-bent may find what they’re looking for here.

5-year return (annualized): 14.2 percent Expense ratio: 0.15 percent”

End quotes.

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2. Best ESG ETFs, Carbon Capture Stocks, More…

Now carbon capture has been gaining increasing attention as a means to reduce CO2. Hence, this article might interest many of you. It’s titled TOP 5 CARBON CAPTURE STOCKS FOR SUSTAINABLE INVESTMENT. It’s by the Ritz Herald and found on their site at ritzherald.com. Here are some quotes from the article commenting on some of the leading companies in this sector.

“Carbon capture technology has emerged as a promising avenue for mitigating the impact of greenhouse gasses on the environment…

Research shows that the carbon capture market is predicted to hit $7.7 billion by 2025, further emphasizing the potential for growth in this sector. With governments worldwide implementing stricter regulations on emissions and offering incentives for carbon capture initiatives, the market is ripe for investment…

The top five carbon capture stocks identified herein not only offer potential returns for investors but also contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future for generations to come.

1) Dotz

is a leading nanotechnology company traded on the ASX [Australian Securities Exchange], is at the forefront of innovation with its carbon-based nanotechnologies…

Dotz’s primary focus is on DotzEarth, a revolutionary CO2 capture carbon-based sorbent technology designed for industrial decarbonization, which addresses two major environmental challenges – 1) industrial carbon emissions and 2) plastic pollution.

2) Aker Carbon Capture

is a specialized enterprise dedicated to carbon capture, offering an array of solutions, services, and technologies tailored for various industries. These encompass sectors such as cement, bioenergy, waste-to-energy, gas-to-power, and blue hydrogen…

Its distinctive post-combustion capture technology is the culmination of an extensive eight-year research and development endeavor known as SOLVit. Throughout this program, numerous solvent mixtures were meticulously tested and compared to refine the innovation. The resulting plants boast several key advantages, including minimal energy demands, a highly durable solvent, and outstanding performance in health, safety, security, and environment (HSSE) metrics.

3) FuelCell Energy

delivers efficient, affordable, and environmentally friendly solutions for energy supply, recovery, and storage… These systems cater to utilities, industrial entities, and large municipal power users, offering a diverse range of solutions including utility-scale power generation, on-site power, carbon capture, local hydrogen production for transportation and industry, and long-duration energy storage…

4) Equinor

is a global energy enterprise dedicated to fostering lasting value creation in a future characterized by low-carbon initiatives…

As a key player on the Norwegian continental shelf and with substantial international operations, Equinor is deeply involved in the exploration, development, and production of oil and gas resources, alongside expanding interests in wind and solar power.

5) Delta CleanTech

has been at the forefront of delivering state-of-the-art technology for pre/post-combustion CO2 capture from industrial sources since 2004… Central to Delta’s portfolio is its CO2 capture system, known as Low-Cost Design or LCDesign®. This innovative system is designed to significantly reduce various key parameters, including CAPEX & OPEX (CO2 Cost), emissions, effluent, waste, chemical, and water consumption, as well as plant size and labor requirements.”

End quotes.

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3. Best ESG ETFs, Carbon Capture Stocks, More…

The next article appeared on the renowned Morningstar.com site. It’s titled 2 Sustainable Index Stocks With Room to Grow and is by Muskaan Hemrajani and Leslie P. Norton. Here’s a little of what they said about their picks.

“WestRock and Carnival surged in 2023 but still look cheap today… That’s our conclusion after perusing the Morningstar US Sustainability Index, which seeks to reduce ESG risk while tracking the Morningstar US Large-Mid Cap Index…

1) WestRock WRK

Morningstar Rating: 3 Stars

Fair Value: $55.00

ESG Risk Rating: Medium

Price (as of April 8, 2024): $49.25

WestRock manufactures corrugated packaging and consumer packaging products, such as folding cartons and paperboard. It accounts for roughly 20% of the North American containerboard market and is the second-largest producer. The company has returned nearly 60% in the past year…

Spencer Liberman, Morningstar equity analyst, writes: ‘WestRock is exposed to some environmental, social, and governance risks, including carbon emissions from the firm’s operation and sizable water usage for production. However, we don’t believe these risks could result in material value destruction.’

2) Carnival CCL

Morningstar Rating: 5 Stars

Fair Value: $27.50

ESG Risk Rating: Medium

Price (as of April 8, 2024): $15.66

Carnival is trading at a 45% discount.

Carnival is the largest global cruise company, with 92 ships in service at the end of fiscal 2023. Carnival’s brands attracted nearly 13 million guests in 2019, prior to covid-19, a level it has reached again in 2023…

Writes Jamie Katz, equity analyst at Morningstar, in a report. ‘Carnival’s first-quarter performance suggests continuing demand momentum. Net yields were up 18%, helped by an 11% increase in occupancy, along with ticket and onboard gains.’”

End quotes.

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4. Best ESG ETFs, Carbon Capture Stocks, More…

Many of you are likely invested in the stocks covered in this next article titled Enphase Energy vs. Plug Power: Which Alternative Energy Stock Does Wall Street Like Best? It’s by Ebube Jones at Barcharts and found on theglobeandmail.com site. Now some quotes from the article.

“The Case for Enphase Energy Stock (ENPH)

With a market cap of $16 billion, Enphase Energy is a big name in the solar energy game. They're all about making solar power more efficient and user-friendly, offering tech like microinverters and energy storage systems to both homeowners and business customers…

At current levels… Enphase stock is priced at a discount…

Out of 34 analysts… Enphase has landed a ‘moderate buy’ rating overall… The average target price is pegged at $125.38, suggesting a potential 4.4% upside from here.

The Case for Plug Power Stock (PLUG)

Plug Power is making waves in the hydrogen and fuel cell tech scene, focusing on creating hydrogen fuel cell systems that could replace the usual batteries in electric-powered equipment and vehicles. They've got a lineup of tech that includes fuel cells, hydrogen fueling stations, and even their own green hydrogen production.

Wall Street's take on Plug Power is a cautious ‘hold.’ The average target price for PLUG is $5.30, about 79% north of current levels.

The Verdict: Enphase Edges Out Plug Power

Enphase Energy seems to be the Wall Street favorite of these two clean energy stocks… Plug Power, on the other hand, is stuck at a ‘hold,’ and has yet to turn a profit… But, keep an eye on Plug Power too - if they can get those hydrogen plants up and running and start turning a profit, they could be a serious contender in the longer haul.”

End quotes.

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5. Best ESG ETFs, Carbon Capture Stocks, More…

I’m going to end with this article titled Al Gore's Hedge Fund Loves This $445 Billion Stock. It’s by the Motley Fool and seen on theglobeandmail.com.

“Al Gore, the former U.S. vice president, co-founded Generation Investment Management in 2004. Today, the firm manages nearly $50 billion, all of which is directed to investments that the firm believes won't destroy the planet…

Where is Al Gore's investment firm putting money to work today? One of its biggest investments -- a stake worth roughly $560 million -- is in a company nearly everyone knows well: Mastercard (NYSE: MA)…

During the past two decades, Mastercard stock has risen more than 10,000% in value…

Gore's firm has owned Mastercard stock since the second quarter of 2022. Don't be surprised to still see it in the portfolio many years down the road.” End quotes.

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Other Honorable Mentions – not in any order

1) Title: How First Solar Crushed Its Solar Energy Rivals on finance.yahoo.com. By Travis Hoium, The Motley Fool.

2) Title: 4 Alternative Energy Stocks to Buy Buoyed by Solid Investments on finance.yahoo.com. By Aparajita Dutta.

3) Title: 3 Renewable Energy Stocks to Ride the Mega Trend Higher on investorplace.com. By Terel Miles.

4) Title: Wall Street Favorites: 3 Renewable Energy Stocks With Strong Buy Ratings for April 2024 on investorplace.com. By Faizan Farooque.

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Ending Comment

Well, these are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips -- for this podcast titled: “Best ESG ETFs, Carbon Capture Stocks, More…”

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 3rd.

Bye for now.

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Episodios

Top Sustainable REITS, EV Companies, and More
13 dic· Ethical & Sustainable Investing News to Profit By!
Next podcast January 10, 2025. Also in this podcast see Newsweek’s ‘America’s Most Responsible Companies’ and review these often-overlooked great sustainable real estate investment trusts.

By Ron Robins, MBA

Transcript & Links, Episode 144, December 13, 2024

Hello, Ron Robins here. Before I begin, I want to mention that my next podcast after this one will be on January 10th and I want to sincerely wish everyone who has holidays in this period a most joyous and healthy time.

Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to this podcast episode 144 published December 13, 2024, titled “Top Sustainable REITS, EV Companies, and 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.

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Top Sustainable REITS, EV Companies, and More (1)
I’m beginning this podcast with an article on an investment class I’ve rarely covered: real estate investment trusts, or REITS. The article is titled 7 Green REITs for Sustainable Investing. It’s by Glenn Fydenkevez, edited by Jordan Schultz, and found on money.usnews.com.

Here are some quotes from Mr. Schultz on each of his picks.

“If you're a REIT investor who is concerned about the environmental impact of the stocks you own, here's a list of seven real estate companies that have demonstrated real leadership in adopting sustainable business practices that align with ESG goals:
1. Alexandria Real Estate Equities Inc. (ARE)
is a REIT with a market cap of about $18 billion. The company specializes in life science properties…

This environmentally responsible REIT is constantly striving to lower its carbon footprint. [The company] is known for using renewable energy sources such as solar panels and geothermal heating and cooling systems in all of the properties it develops. It also created a unique wastewater heat recovery process. Forward dividend yield: 4.9%
2. BXP Inc. (BXP)
In 2021, BXP demonstrated its commitment to sustainability by developing one of Massachusetts' first net-zero, carbon-neutral building repositioning projects…

BXP – formally known as Boston Properties – has a market-cap of about $14 billion. It is the largest publicly traded office REIT in the U.S. The firm focuses its investment activities on large cities on the east and west coasts, mostly in Boston, New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco. Forward dividend yield: 4.9%
3. Digital Realty Trust Inc. (DLR)
is a $64 billion REIT in the fast-growing digital infrastructure industry. The company owns and operates more than 300 data centers around the world, and its portfolio of properties is growing…

Apollo AI makes running a data center as efficient as possible. That's what makes Digital Realty Trust a leader in sustainability. Forward dividend yield: 2.5%
4. HA Sustainable Infrastructure Capital Inc. (HASI)
is a $3.7 billion REIT that invests only in securities related to renewable energy, sustainability infrastructure and energy efficiency…

This Annapolis, Maryland-based company focuses on solar projects, wind farms, clean-burning natural gas facilities, fuel cell development, smart grid technology and other green real estate initiatives. Forward dividend yield: 5.3%
5. Prologis Inc. (PLD)
has a massive presence in the transportation and logistics real estate industry. The company boasts a market cap of about $103 billion…

This company's warehouses and transportation terminals are modern, high-tech facilities. It uses high-speed computers, digital communications, AI and cloud computing technology to help its customers efficiently fulfill orders and deliver products across the U.S. and in Canada, Mexico, the U.K., Germany, Japan and China. Forward dividend yield: 3.3%
6. Host Hotels & Resorts Inc. (HST)
has committed to implementing sustainable practices in every one of its 77 hospitality properties in the U.S., Canada and Brazil. The company controls about 42,000 hotel rooms…

With a market capitalization of over $13 billion, [it] is the largest lodging REIT in the U.S…

Wells Fargo Securities has an ‘overweight’ rating on the stock. Stifel gives the company a ‘buy’ rating. Forward dividend yield: 4.2%
7. JBG Smith Properties (JBGS)
This $1.4 billion REIT controls over 14 million rentable square feet of mixed-use space in the expensive and highly competitive capital district around Washington, D.C…

Amazon.com Inc. (AMZN) expects that its new campus in Northern Virginia will add 25,000 workers by 2038…

Host Hotels & Resorts plans to benefit… and appeal to Amazon's environmentally conscious employees by promoting sustainability and green development practices in every building it buys or builds. Forward dividend yield: 4.3%”

End quotes.

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America's Most Responsible Companies
This next article refers to one of America’s foremost corporate sustainability rankings, America's Most Responsible Companies. The editorial is by Nancy Cooper, and the full company rankings can be seen at newsweek.com. Here are a few quotes from Ms. Cooper’s introduction to the rankings.

“Selected from the 2,000 largest publicly traded companies headquartered in the U.S., each winner received scores based on the three pillars of ESG… The analysis is based on data from 30 key performance indicators, such as energy usage and charitable donations, as well as a reputation survey of more than 26,000 U.S. consumers.

For the second year in a row, the top spot was awarded to Merck (MRK) with an impressive overall score of 97.83, up from 91.98 last year. Other notable names on this year's list include Adobe (ADBE), PayPal (PYPL) and HP (HPE) .”

End quotes.

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Why Sunrun (RUN) Is Among the Best Wind Power and Solar Stocks to Invest in Now
Now since this article was featured on Yahoo! Finance, I thought to include it. It’s titled Why Sunrun (RUN) Is Among the Best Wind Power and Solar Stocks to Invest in Now. The article is by Mashaid Ahmed. Here are some quotes from it.

“While the outcome of the US election and the anticipated policies of the new administration pose short-term challenges to renewable energy, the long-term outlook remains cautiously optimistic.
Sunrun Inc. (NASDAQ:RUN)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 43

Sunrun is a leading provider of residential solar energy solutions, offering solar installations, battery storage, and energy services. The company specializes in customized solar systems for homeowners and has over 1 million customers. Sunrun also offers products on leasing and financing options…

The company has signed a multi-year exclusive agreement with Toll Brothers in California and expects its new home business to grow at least 50% over the next year…

The company has 16 grid service programs active across the country, with over 20,000 storage systems participating, and is working with utilities and other partners to develop new programs and services…

Overall, Sunrun ranks 5th on our list of best wind power and stocks to invest in now.”

End quotes.

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Top Sustainable REITS, EV Companies, and More (2)
And now to this article titled 7 Best EV Stocks to Buy for 2025. It’s by Jeff Reeves, reviewed by John Divine, and found at money.usnews.com. Now some quotes from the article.

“An analysis by Gartner estimates that the number of EV Companies in use will grow 33% in 2025 to bring the total number of electric cars and trucks to 85 million in total. That figure will be primarily thanks to brisk adoption rates in China (58% growth) and Europe (24% growth), which together are projected to represent 82% of the total EV market next year, according to Gartner.

For investors who want to cash in on EV stocks and the rise of electric vehicles, it's critical to look beyond the usual suspects in the U.S. and take a truly global approach to the industry. With that in mind, some of the hottest EV stocks to buy for 2025 include:
1. Tesla Inc. (TSLA)
Market value: $1.2 trillion

Tesla has a huge chunk of the marketplace, with predictions of nearly 1.8 million vehicle deliveries across all of 2024. What's more, strong momentum after Election Day, thanks to Musk's close associations with President-elect Donald Trump, has pushed Tesla stock up about 50% on the year even as other electric vehicle stocks have struggled… Tesla remains the go-to EV stock for many investors as we enter 2025.
2. BYD Co. Ltd. (BYDDY)
Market value: $106 billion

Chinese firm BYD is… the top electric vehicle manufacturer in the world… currently selling more than 500,000 ‘new energy vehicles’ per month – a potential pace of 6 million annually going forward… the local appeal of this Chinese company amid the uncertainty around tariffs and trade policies all but ensures this home-grown EV stock will thrive in China across 2025 as regional demand remains strong.
3. Volkswagen AG (VWAGY)
Market value: $43 billion

Volkswagen remains the largest vehicle manufacturer on the planet and has the same local appeal in Europe that BYD might have in China amid the current talk of trade wars. EV Companies are a modest share of total output… In October, the firm reported battery electric vehicles (not hybrids) topped 500,000 units across the first three quarters of 2024. That puts it on pace for nearly 700,000 vehicles on the full year – and with goals of fully electrifying its fleet by 2030, Volkswagen is definitely an EV stock to watch.
4. Li Auto Inc. (LI)
Market value: $24 billion

Much smaller than these other firms and currently bleeding cash as it invests aggressively in growth, Li Auto is nevertheless a top EV stock to watch because of its tremendous growth path.

It delivered 48,740 vehicles in November 2024, up 18.8% year over year, and is currently on pace to top 500,000 units on the year… A big reason for that is because of its premium appeal, with its Li AD Max accounting for more than 80% of orders for models in China priced above roughly $55,000. Admittedly, shares of LI stock have struggled in 2024 but these sales figures are incredibly encouraging for investors who aren't afraid of taking on a bit more risk to invest in an upstart EV stock versus an established leader.
5. Nio Inc. (NIO)
Market value: $10 billion

Another junior EV stock operating deep in the red, Nio is putting up impressive growth metrics even if its share performance hasn't been grand in 2024… Nio delivered a record 61,855 units in the third quarter and estimates it will have as many as 75,000 EV deliveries in the fourth quarter. That pace of 300,000 units annually doesn't seem like much compared with other firms, but considering the firm delivered about half that total in 2023 there is a lot to like about where the firm is headed. What's more, like BYD and Li, this is a Chinese firm with local appeal in the fastest-growing market for EV Companies on the planet. That gives it an added tailwind that some Western EV stocks may lack in 2025.
6. Albemarle Corp. (ALB)
Market value: $12 billion

The company is one of the leading lithium miners globally, with production capacity of 225,000 metric tons and plans to roughly triple capacity by 2030. Supply chain challenges for lithium are tricky, and trade policies could make the situation even more complex in 2025. But as a commodity stock that profits in part based on broader market-wide pricing trends, any shortages or supply bottlenecks will naturally boost lithium prices if things don't go well – and that will naturally benefit Albemarle’s bottom line as a result.
7. ChargePoint Holdings Inc. (CHPT)
Market value: $600 million

ChargePoint is the largest electric vehicle charging company in the United States, with more charging ports and locations than any other network. Specifically, ChargePoint boasts 70,000 plugs at nearly 39,000 stations. In fact, more than 4 in 10 charging ports nationwide are operated by ChargePoint. The company is small and currently unprofitable, so it definitely carries a level of risk, but investors who aren't keen on putting money behind firms headquartered in Beijing or Shanghai may find this closer-to-home play a bit more palatable.”

End quotes.

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Additional Article of Interest
1. Title: Bristol Myers A Top Socially Responsible Dividend Stock With 4% Yield on forbes.com. By the Dividend Channel.

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Ending Comment
These are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips for this podcast “Top Sustainable REITS, EV Companies, and 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, again, a reminder my next podcast will be January 10th. I’m taking a break so there will be no podcast on December 27th.

I’ll talk to you then!

Bye for now.

© 2024 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul
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Consider These Top ESG Stocks!
29 nov· Ethical & Sustainable Investing News to Profit By!
Consider These Top ESG Stocks! ESG fund ownership offers great insight into the best stocks to own for potential returns.

By Ron Robins, MBA

Transcript & Links, Episode 143, November 29, 2024

Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to this podcast episode 143 published November 29, 2024, titled “Consider These Top ESG Stocks!” 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.

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Consider These Top ESG Stocks! (1)
I’m beginning this podcast episode with a great article titled The Top Stocks Widely Owned by ESG Funds. It’s by Frances Aufderheide and found on morningstar.com. Here are some quotes from the article.

“We found five stocks owned exclusively by large-cap sustainable funds in the industrials, materials, and healthcare sectors. We describe them below, with insight from Morningstar analysts and Sustainalytics.

Source: Morningstar Direct. Weights as of Oct. 31, 2024. Data as of Nov. 5, 2024.
1. Ecolab (ECL)
Morningstar Rating: 2 Stars

Morningstar ESG Risk Rating Assessment: 3 Globes

Price/Fair Value: 1.14

Total Return Year to Date (Month-End): 24.75

‘As the global leader in the cleaning and sanitation industry, Ecolab provides products that help its hospitality, foodservice, and life-sciences customers do laundry, wash dishes, maintain clean manufacturing environments, and ensure regulatory compliance. With unmatched scale and a solid razor-and-blade business model, Ecolab’s competitive advantages are firmly in place.’

‘Ecolab’s largest growth driver over the next decade will be the water business, which generates the majority of revenue in the industrial segment. During the quarter, water revenue grew 3% versus the prior-year quarter on an organic basis, excluding currency movements.’

—Seth Goldstein, Morningstar Strategist
2. Agilent Technologies (A)
Morningstar Rating: 4 Stars

Morningstar ESG Risk Rating Assessment: 4 Globes

Price/Fair Value: 0.91

Total Return Year to Date (Month-End): (5.76)

Agilent provides instruments, software and services for laboratories.

‘Agilent offers differentiated technology that is protected by various intangible assets, including patents, copyrights, and trademarks. This portfolio of intellectual property and its innovation prowess in chosen fields keep competitors from directly copying its technology.’

—Julie Utterback, Morningstar Senior Equity Analyst
3. Xylem (XYL)
Morningstar Rating: 3 Stars

Morningstar ESG Risk Rating Assessment: 3 Globes

Price/Fair Value: 1.07

Total Return Year to Date (Month-End): 7.43

‘Xylem is one of the leading water technology companies in the world. Its extensive portfolio spans a wide range of equipment and solutions for the water industry, including the transport, treatment, testing, and efficient use of water for public utilities as well as industrial, commercial, and residential customers. Xylem operates four business segments: water infrastructure, applied water, measurement and control solutions, and water solutions and services.’

—Krysztof Smalec, Morningstar Equity Analyst
4. W.W. Grainger (GWW)
Morningstar Rating: 1 Star

Morningstar ESG Risk Rating Assessment: 4 Globes

Price/Fair Value: 1.66

Total Return Year to Date (Month-End): 34.57

W.W. Grainger distributes maintenance, repair, and operations products to more than 4.5 million customers.

‘We’ve raised our fair value estimate for narrow-moat-rated Grainger by 12% to $660 per share as we’ve become more confident of the firm’s ability to maintain long-term operating margin above 14%. Even so, the current stock price remains well above our revised fair value estimate.’

‘Our confidence (of a narrow moat) is rooted in Grainger’s ability to fend off competitive pressures from both new and existing players in the maintenance, repair, and operations market.’

—Brian Bernard, Morningstar Senior Director
5. Veralto (VLTO)
Morningstar Rating: None

Morningstar ESG Risk Rating Assessment: 3 Globes

Total Return Year to Date (Month-End): 24.56

Veralto provides technology solutions to improve the quality and reliability of water and product innovations through a suite of brands.

‘This tax-free spinoff is just the latest example of Danaher’s business pruning.’

—Julie Utterback, Morningstar Senior Equity Analyst”

End quotes.

Also, go to the link on this podcast page to this article for additional research on the “Top 10 widely held in US Sustainable Large-Cap Fund Universe” and “Top 5 Overweight Securities in the US Sustainable Large-Cap Fund Universe”.

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Consider These Top ESG Stocks! (2)
The second article today reviews a company that is an old favorite of ethical and sustainable investors. The article is titled Buy First Solar Stock on the Dip. Solar Energy Will Be Too Good an Opportunity for President-Elect Trump to Pass Up. It’s by James Brumley and found on fool.com.

Here are a few of his comments on First Solar stock.
“First Solar (FSLR)
Investors suspect pro-oil President-elect Donald Trump could also prove unsupportive of renewable energy. In fact, most clean energy stocks are down since his Nov. 5 election on this very worry. First Solar has been no exception to the industrywide sell-off.

This weakness, however, is also a buying opportunity for anyone interested in owning a piece of the solar panel maker, or in adding exposure to the solar industry as a whole. The solar power movement is too big and too well-developed for Donald Trump to bring to a halt now.

First Solar is also well-positioned to sidestep one of the few meaningful actions the president-elect could take to disrupt the solar industry's growth.
Solar is just too competitive to stop now
Data gathered by Wood Mackenzie and reported by the U.S. Department of Energy indicates that utility-scale solar power is now in line with the cost of natural gas and coal-fired power…

The irony? Largely because it's the cheapest means of adding utility-scale power production there, solar is growing like wildfire in several states like Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas that picked Trump to be president during the recently ended election cycle. To the extent voters picked Trump for economic reasons, they'll certainly appreciate cheaper electricity and its positive impact on the economy.

The 2022 passage of the Inflation Reduction Act is admittedly fueling much of this growth, by offering taxpayers a tax credit of up to 30% of the cost of a solar power system. The IRA also incentivizes utility-scale solar power projects as well as the manufacturing of solar panels themselves…

But tariffs? While unspecific as well as far from being certain (Trump argues the mere threat of tariffs is enough), First Solar is mostly immune to their impact anyway. Although the company requires some imported materials that may be subject to such tariffs, it's an American manufacturer mostly serving the North American market, where the company believes over 90% of its immediate revenue opportunities await…

Data source: StockAnalysis.com. Chart by author.

Give at least partial credit for this brewing growth to First Solar's Cadmium Telluride (CdTe) photovoltaic panels. Although they make its design and production processes more complicated and more costly than that of more conventional silicon panels, this technology proves more durable while at the same time delivering more power. Utility-scale buyers are increasingly seeing these high-performance panels as an investment rather than an expense, as they further lower the effective per-kilowatt cost of solar power…
The market's overestimating the risk, and underestimating First Solar
Now all of a sudden First Solar's stumble since early November and its much bigger 37% pullback from June's peak looks like an entry opportunity.

The analyst community agrees, anyway. Undeterred by political rhetoric and handwringing, most of them still consider First Solar stock a strong buy, sporting a consensus price target of $280.79. That's almost 50% above the stock's present price.”

End quotes.

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Consider These Top ESG Stocks! (3)
This next article, though from Australia, might interest many investors outside of that wonderful country. It’s titled The Ethical Investor: These three ESG award-winning ASX companies show how it’s done. It’s by Eddy Sunarto found on ntnews.com.au. Here are some of what Mr. Sunarto says about his picks.
“1. Orica (ASX:ORI)
was named Australia’s most sustainable company in the 2024 Australian Financial Review Sustainability Leaders awards, taking home top honours for its significant environmental impact.

The company, a global leader in commercial explosives, was recognised for its groundbreaking emissions abatement project at its Kooragang Island plant near Newcastle, NSW.

This project is the largest of its kind in the Australian chemicals sector, reducing emissions by 45% at the site and cutting national chemical industry emissions by 11%...

The judges believe Orica’s efforts have not only addressed environmental challenges but have also driven economic growth, injecting millions into the local economy while future-proofing critical manufacturing capabilities for industries such as mining, agriculture and healthcare.

The company’s commitment to sustainability is also reflected in its ambitious climate targets, aiming for net zero emissions by 2050.
2. Sims Metal Management (ASX:SGM)
an Australian-based global recycling company with a 106-year history, was named the most sustainable corporation of 2024 by Corporate Knights, topping its Global 100 list.

Known for its role in the circular economy, Sims has been integral in reducing carbon emissions by recycling metals like steel, copper, and aluminium – which are crucial in industries like electric vehicles, wind turbines and solar panels.

In 2023 alone, the company’s efforts saved 13 million tonnes of CO₂, equivalent to removing nearly three million cars from the road, according to its reports.

Sims’ approach to sustainability extends beyond recycling, with ambitious goals to transition to renewable energy in its operations by 2025 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050…

The company is investing in advanced technologies, like automated sorting systems and AI robots, to improve the efficiency of its recycling processes.

Although these innovations may not always attract the same attention as large renewable energy projects, CEO Stephen Mikkelsen said that metal recycling plays a vital role in decarbonising industries and contributing to a sustainable future.
3. Australian Vintage (ASX:AVG)
won the 2024 Global Drinks Intel ESG Award for Sustainable Wine Producer, which was announced in September.

The award recognised the company’s strong commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, despite current challenges within the Australian wine industry.

The company had earlier achieved B Corp certification in February, making it one of only three Australian wine companies with this status.

Australian Vintage’s ESG strategy focuses on three key pillars: 'Thriving People', 'Nurture Nature', and 'Meaningful Growth’.

The company said all these are supported by measurable, verifiable performance…

The judges praised Australian Vintage for not just making ESG commitments, but for quantifying and achieving real, impactful results.”

End quotes.

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Additional Articles of Interest
1. Title: The Top 10 Nuclear Energy Companies Shaping Clean Power on vaneck.com. By Coulter Regal.

2. Title: How to Get Fossil Fuels Out of Your Investment Portfolio on nytimes.com. By Tara Siegel Bernard.

3. Title: Raymond James Predicts Up to ~440% Rally for These 2 ‘Strong Buy’ Stocks on finance.yahoo.com. By TipRanks.

4. Title: Top 10: Sustainable Brands on sustainabilitymag.com. By Jasmin Jessen.

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Ending Comment
These are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips for this podcast “Consider These Top ESG Stocks!”

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 December 13th.

I’ll talk to you then!

Bye for now.

© 2024 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul
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Green Energy Stocks to Buy Now
14 nov· Ethical & Sustainable Investing News to Profit By!
Green Energy Stocks to Buy Now, according to some analysts. Plus, top-rated sustainable ETFs for 2024 say Morningstar UK analysts.

By Ron Robins, MBA

Transcript & Links, Episode 142, November 15, 2024

Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to this podcast episode 142 published November 15, 2024, titled “Green Energy Stocks to Buy Now.” 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.

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10 Best Alternative Energy Stocks To Buy According to Hedge Funds
Well, there are still some great reviews of renewable energy stocks appearing. Consider this one titled 10 Best Alternative Energy Stocks To Buy According to Hedge Funds. It’s by Mashaid Ahmed and seen on insidermonkey.com. Here are some quotes from the article.

“For this article, we scanned alternative energy ETFs plus online rankings to compile an initial list of 30 alternative energy stocks. From that list, we narrowed our choices to 10 stocks according to their hedge fund sentiment, which was taken from our database of 912 elite hedge funds as of Q2 of 2024. The list is sorted in ascending order of their hedge fund sentiment, as of the second quarter.

Why do we care about what hedge funds do? … Our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds.
10. Bloom Energy Corporation (NYSE:BE)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 29

Bloom Energy Corporation’s technology generates electricity with no combustion and negligible criteria pollutant emissions, and it operates on multiple fuels, including natural gas, biogas, and hydrogen, providing a lower carbon footprint compared to the electric grid while maintaining grid stability. This technology allows the company to accomplish its goals of providing clean power solutions faster than the alternatives.

While hydrogen is currently more expensive than traditional fuels, Bloom Energy Corporation’s breakthrough in achieving 60% electrical efficiency could make hydrogen economically viable as a fuel source. This makes Bloom Energy Corporation’s fuel cells a cleaner alternative for electricity production.
9. Edison International (NYSE:EIX)
Hedge Fund Holders: 32

Edison International is a leading energy company that has served California for over a century through its main subsidiary, Southern California Edison (SCE). Edison International provides electricity to around 15 million people across Southern, Central, and Coastal California. The company is actively involved in California’s transition toward alternative energy, aligning with the state’s goal of achieving carbon-free power by 2045
8. Sunrun Inc. (NASDAQ:RUN)
Hedge Fund Holders: 35

Sunrun is one of the largest residential solar energy companies in the US, offering a solar-as-a-service solution that enables homeowners to adopt solar power with little to no upfront cost.
7. Clearway Energy, Inc. (NYSE:CWEN)
Hedge Fund Holders: 38

Clearway Energy owns a diversified portfolio of wind, solar, and traditional power generation projects across the United States. The company has partnered with Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), an independent infrastructure investment fund, and TotalEnergies (EPA:TTE), a multinational energy and petroleum company, to leverage expertise in alternative energy within the U.S. market.
6. Enphase Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:ENPH)
Hedge Fund Holders: 42

Enphase Energy is a global energy technology company that specializes in solar microinverters, energy storage solutions, and energy management devices. Enphase Energy’s microinverters convert direct current from solar panels into alternating current for use and are critical for optimizing solar energy systems, enhancing efficiency, and reliability, and are also easy to install. The company is a market leader in residential solar in the U.S. Europe and emerging markets in Asia.
5. PG&E Corporation (NYSE:PCG)
Hedge Fund Holders: 46

PG&E Corporation is a leading energy company in Northern and Central California’s utility market, serving over 16 million people through its subsidiary, Pacific Gas & Electric Company. The company has also made significant investments in battery storage systems, adding more than 2,100 megawatts of battery capacity.
4. First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ:FSLR)
Hedge Fund Holders: 66

First Solar is among the largest solar companies in the United States, specializing in the supply of thin-film photovoltaic solar panels for large-scale solar power plants. The company also has production lines in Malaysia, India, and Vietnam…

First Solar’s impressive backlog of 73.3 GW, with orders extending through 2030, is a significant indicator of the company’s growth security.
3. Constellation Energy Corporation (NASDAQ:CEG)
Hedge Fund Holders: 71

Constellation Energy supplies natural gas and energy products and services to residential, commercial, and industrial clients across North America. Constellation Energy is a key player in nuclear power and operates one of the largest fleets of nuclear plants in the US. Around 90% of the company’s annual energy output is derived from carbon-free sources. Constellation Energy has set a goal to produce 95% carbon-free electricity by 2030.
2. NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE:NEE)
Hedge Fund Holders: 73

NextEra Energy is the world’s largest producer of wind and solar energy, as well as a leader in battery storage technology. The company’s operations are divided into two main businesses. The first is Florida Power & Light (FPL), an electric utility company. The second is NextEra Energy Resources (NEER), one of the world’s largest producers of alternative energy and a leader in battery storage.

NextEra Energy Resources focuses on the development, construction, and operation of long-term energy assets, primarily in the U.S. and Canada. NextEra Energy Resources manages an alternative energy portfolio of approximately 34 GW, including 24 GW from wind energy, 7 GW from solar energy, and 2 GW from nuclear energy. Additionally, NextEra Energy Resources has 1 GW of battery storage capacity spread across 16 U.S. states.
1. Vistra Corp. (NYSE:VST)
Hedge Fund Holders: 93

Vistra is a vertically integrated energy company based in Texas and operates a diversified energy portfolio. Vistra supplies electricity and natural gas to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. The company also operates battery energy storage facilities, and its nuclear assets play a crucial role in powering artificial intelligence systems…

Vistra has also integrated AI technologies into its operations to improve power plant efficiency, enhance thermal efficiency, and lower carbon emissions.”

End quotes.

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The Top-Rated Sustainable ETFs in 2024
This next article is from a UK perspective but is also of interest to non-UK investors. It’s titled The Top-Rated Sustainable ETFs in 2024. It’s by Sunniva Kolostyak and found on morningstar.co.uk. Here are some of the most relevant quotes and elements from the article.

“In total, 12 different ETFs have a Morningstar Sustainability Rating of High and a Morningstar Medalist Rating of Gold… Below, we highlight the 10 ETFs across sterling, euro, Swiss franc and dollar share classes.
Xtrackers MSCI World Information Technology UCITS ETF XDWT SPDR® MSCI World Technology UCITS ETF SPFT iShares MSCI World Information Technology Sector ESG UCITS ETF WITS Fidelity US Quality Income ETF FUSC HSBC NASDAQ Global Semiconductor UCITS ETF HNSCFP iShares MSCI USA Value Factor ESG UCITS ETF IUVE iShares MSCI Europe Quality Dividend ESG UCITS ETF QDVX iShares MSCI EMU Paris-Aligned Climate UCITS ETF EMPA iShares Euro Total Market Growth Large UCITS ETF IDJG iShares V PLC - iShares MSCI World Health Care Sector ESG UCITS ETF WHCS”
End quotes.

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AWK Named A Top Socially Responsible Dividend Stock
This next article features a dividend-paying stock. It’s titled AWK Named A Top Socially Responsible Dividend Stock and is by Energy Stock Channel Staff and found on energystockchannel.com. Here are some quotes.

“American Water Works Co, Inc. (NYSE:AWK) has been named a Top Socially Responsible Dividend Stock by Dividend Channel, signifying a stock with above-average ‘DividendRank’ statistics including a strong 2.3% yield, as well as being recognized by prominent asset managers as being a socially responsible investment, through analysis of social and environmental criteria.

Environmental criteria include considerations like the environmental impact of the company's products and services, as well as the company's efficiency in terms of its use of energy and resources. Social criteria include elements such as human rights, child labor, corporate diversity, and the company's impact on society — for instance, taken into consideration would be business activities tied to weapons, gambling, tobacco, and alcohol.”

End quotes.

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Best green energy stocks to buy right now
And here’s another article on, yes, renewable energy stocks! It’s titled Best green energy stocks to buy right now and is by the Elliott Wave Forecast Team and seen on fxstreet.com.

Here are some quotes on each of their picks.
“1. Brookfield Renewable Partners (BEP)
Brookfield Renewable Partners invests in renewable power and sustainable solutions assets directly, as well as with institutional partners, joint venture partners, and through other arrangements. Across its business, it leverages our extensive operating experience to maintain and enhance the value of assets, grow cash flows on an annual basis, and cultivate positive relations with local stakeholders.
2. NextEra Energy (NEE)
NextEra Energy, Inc. is a leading clean energy company headquartered in Juno Beach, Florida. NextEra Energy owns Florida Power & Light Company, which is America’s largest electric utility company that sells more power than any other utility, providing clean, affordable, reliable electricity to approximately 5.9 million customer accounts, or more than 12 million people across Florida. NextEra Energy also owns a competitive clean energy business, NextEra Energy Resources, LLC, which, together with its affiliated entities, is the world’s largest generator of renewable energy from the wind and sun and a world leader in battery storage.
3. Canadian Solar (CSIQ)
Canadian Solar has 125 GW solar module shipments and 4.5 GWh battery storage shipments. It has a module capacity of 61 GW and expects to have a battery storage capacity of 20 GWh by 2024 December. It has a 26.3 GW project pipeline and a 56 GWh energy project pipeline of recurrent energy.

Canadian Solar has active buying customers in more than 160 countries and subsidiaries in 23 countries & regions on 6 continents. In addition to it, Canadian Solar has over 26 manufacturing facilities in Asia & Americas.
4. SolarEdge Technologies (SEDG)
SolarEdge Technologies, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, designs, develops, manufactures, and sells direct current optimized inverter systems for solar photovoltaic installations in the United States, Germany, the Netherlands, Italy, the rest of Europe, and internationally. It operates in two segments, Solar and Energy Storage.
5. General Motors Company (GM)
The company has said that it plans to invest $35 billion in electric vehicle (EV) and autonomous vehicle (AV) production through 2025. By mid-decade, GM plans to sell a million EVs a year in North America. GM has also increased its investment in AV company Cruise, buying SoftBank’s stake for $2.1 billion and pouring in another $1.4 billion. Cruise develops self-driving cars for ridesharing and delivery. The Origin is designed to operate without a human driver, as there is no steering wheel. Cruise was the first AV company to offer driverless rides in a major city: San Francisco. Adding to that, GM is also planning to be a carbon-neutral company by 2040.”

End quotes.

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Additional Articles
1. Title: The Top-Rated Sustainable Funds in 2024 on morningstar.co.uk. By Sunniva Kolostyak.

2. Title: Top 10: Wind Power Manufacturers on energydigital.com. By Maya Derrick.

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Ending Comment
These are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips for this podcast “Green Energy Stocks to Buy Now.”

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 November 29th.

I’ll talk to you then!

Bye for now.

© 2024 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul
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ESG Stocks Most Favored by Funds
31 oct· Ethical & Sustainable Investing News to Profit By!
ESG Stocks Most Favored by Funds. Insights into what stocks the top analysts favor plus a Christian values fund analysis.

By Ron Robins, MBA

Transcript & Links, Episode 141, November 1, 2024

Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to this podcast episode 141 published November 1, 2024, titled “ESG Stocks Most Favored by Funds.” 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. This episode will be shorter than normal as fewer articles were reviewed.

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ESG ‘transition’ funds are an emerging trend – Here the most overweight stocks by ESG funds
I’m beginning this podcast with an article featuring an unusual stock analysis that will greatly interest most ethical and sustainable investors. It’s titled ESG ‘transition’ funds are an emerging trend – Here the most overweight stocks by ESG funds. It’s by BofA Securities analysts and can be seen on msn.com. Here are some quotes.

“BofA Securities analysts named the stocks with the highest ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500 (SP500)…

Funds with the word ‘transition’ in their name – including 134 E.U. funds – have attracted almost two times the inflows over the last two years, compared to funds with ‘green’ in their names, according to a recent ESMA (the European Securities and Markets Authority) Trends, Risks, and Vulnerabilities report.
These are the most overweight U.S. stocks by ESG funds, as of Aug. 31: Ball Corp. (BALL) – ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500: 15.01 Enphase Energy Inc. (ENPH) – ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500: 6.80 Veralto Corp. (VLTO) – ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500: 6.73 Verisk Analytics Inc. (VRSK) – ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500: 5.62 Pentair Plc (PNR) – ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500: 5.62 Realty Income Corp. (O) – ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500: 5.29 First Solar Inc. (FSLR) – ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500: 5.07 Agilent Technologies Inc. (A) – ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500: 5.00 Charter Communications Inc. (CHTR) – ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500: 4.81 Xylem Inc. (XYL) – ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500: 4.80 Bio-Rad Laboratories Inc. (BIO) – ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500: 4.63 Citizens Financial Group Inc. (CFG) – ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500: 4.57 IDEX Corp. (IEX) – ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500: 4.24 Paramount Global (PARA) – ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500: 4.13 West Pharmaceutical Services Inc. (WST) – ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500: 4.12 AutoZone Inc. (AZO) – ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500: 4.11 Fortive Corp. (FTV) – ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500: 4.00 Sysco Corp. (SYY) – ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500: 3.99 Mohawk Industries Inc. (MHK) – ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500: 3.92 Generac Holdings Inc. (GNRC) – ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500: 3.91 DR Horton Inc. (DHI) – ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500: 3.79 Aptiv Plc (APTV) – ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500: 3.59 IDEXX Laboratories Inc. (IDXX) – ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500: 3.57 Pool Corp. (POOL) – ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500: 3.56 Ecolab Inc. (ECL) – ESG funds’ weight relative to the S&P 500: 3.54”
End quotes.

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OALC: Christian-Values ETF With High Fees But Solid Fundamentals
This next article is titled OALC: Christian-Values ETF With High Fees But Solid Fundamentals. It’s by The Sunday Investor and seen on seekingalpha.com. Here are a few quotes from what is an extensive financial analysis.
“Investment Thesis
The OneAscent Large Cap Core ETF (NYSEARCA:OALC) is a Christian faith-based large-cap fund offering an excellent combination of diversification, quality, growth, and value that should allow it to compete well with its target benchmark, the SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY). While OneAscent Large Cap Core ETF’s 0.49% net expense ratio (0.86% before waivers) is quite high, and I will ask readers to consider this before initiating a position…
Investment Recommendation
[The] OneAscent Large Cap Core ETF is a solid single-fund solution for faith-based investors. My fundamental analysis revealed virtually no deficiencies in diversification, risk, growth, value, and quality, and unlike the Global X S&P 500 Catholic Values ETF (CATH), its composition differs enough from the S&P 500 Index, indicating that its screening process likely better reflects the values of its target audience. However, I encourage readers to consider the possibility that, with some creativity, they could achieve better returns and better alignment with their values by combining ex-sector ETFs and individual stock purchases, then using the cost savings to support specific causes in their local communities directly. I think this solution is more prudent, so as a result, I've assigned the OneAscent Large Cap Core ETF a solid ‘hold’ rating.”

End quotes. Incidentally, viewers and readers interested in what this reviewer says about creating an individual ETF and stock portfolio should consider enrolling in my DIY Ethical-Sustainable Investing Pays Tutorial!

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One Additional Article Link
Title: The Best ESG Funds For Australians by Forbes Advisor Australia. By Patrick McGimpsey, Johanna Leggatt, and Shani Jayamanne.

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Ending Comment
These are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips for this podcast “ESG Stocks Most Favored by Funds.”

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 November 15th.

I’ll talk to you then!

Bye for now.

© 2024 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul
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Top Sustainable Companies and Funds for 2024
18 oct· Ethical & Sustainable Investing News to Profit By!
Sustainable ETFs for Sustainable Investors. More… It also covers top Zacks ranking alternative energy stocks such as Talen Energy Corporation.

By Ron Robins, MBA

Transcript & Links, Episode 140, October 18, 2024

Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to this podcast episode 140 published October 18, 2024, titled “Top Sustainable Companies and Funds for 2024.” 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.

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10 Climate & ESG Investment Funds to Know About
Now, I’m leading this podcast with this article titled 10 Climate & ESG Investment Funds to Know About. It’s by Trinity Sparke and can be seen on onegreenplanet.org. Here’s some of what Ms. Sparke says about her picks.
“1. The Brown Advisory Sustainable Growth Fund (BAFWX)
The Brown Advisory Sustainable Growth Fund, part of the Brown Advisory Funds family, boasts total assets of $9.9 billion as of June 30, 2024. This large growth fund has consistently aimed to deliver significant returns while aligning with sustainable investment principles. Over the past year, it has achieved an impressive return of 17.11%.
2. Nuveen Winslow Large-Cap Growth ESG ETF (NWLG)
With a focus on long-term capital appreciation, the Nuveen Winslow Large-Cap Growth ESG ETF seeks out high-quality companies that demonstrate above-average earnings growth potential…

The fund takes an integrated approach to ESG investing, incorporating environmental, social, and governance considerations, as well as assessing controversy inputs to mitigate risks.
3. Praxis Growth Index Fund (MMDEX)
The Praxis Growth Index Fund is designed to pursue capital appreciation through a thoughtfully curated portfolio of stocks that mirror the performance of the U.S. large-cap growth equity market. It operates under a stewardship investing framework, incorporating responsible investment criteria into its selection process… The Praxis Growth Index Fund is ideal for investors looking to balance growth potential with ethical investing.
4. Vanguard ESG U.S. Stock ETF (ESGV)
The Vanguard ESG U.S. Stock ETF stands out with its low expense ratio of just 0.09% and an appealing dividend yield of 1.08%. Since its inception in September 2018, the fund has delivered an average annual return of 13.31%. With nearly 1,500 holdings, the ETF offers a highly diversified portfolio predominantly composed of U.S. stocks… The Vanguard ESG U.S. Stock ETF is an excellent choice for investors seeking growth alongside sustainability.
5. Pimco Enhanced Short Maturity Active ESG ETF (EMNT)
The Pimco Enhanced Short Maturity Active ESG ETF is designed to preserve capital while maximizing income for its investors. With an expense ratio of 0.24% and an appealing dividend yield of 5.05%, this actively managed ETF emphasizes high-quality, short-term, dollar-denominated debt… [This fund] focuses on securities from issuers whose ESG practices align with PIMCO’s investment strategy, making it a strong option for socially conscious investors.
6. iShares MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals ETF (SDG)
The iShares MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals ETF is dedicated to investing in companies that contribute positively to addressing significant social and environmental challenges, as identified by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. With an expense ratio of 0.49% and a dividend yield of 1.82%, this fund has delivered an impressive average annual return of 8.16% since its inception in April 2016.
7. Fidelity U.S. Sustainability Index Fund (FITLX)
The Fidelity U.S. Sustainability Index Fund offers a cost-effective option for ESG investors, featuring an impressively low expense ratio of 0.11% and a dividend yield of 0.99%. This passive index fund is designed to track the MSCI USA ESG Index, providing broad exposure to a diverse array of U.S. companies across various industries and market capitalizations. As of the latest data, [this fund] has delivered a robust average annual return of 15.65% over the past five years…

The Fidelity U.S. Sustainability Index Fund has outperformed its large-cap blend category average over the past two, three, and five years.
8. Calvert US Mid Cap Core Responsible Index Fund (CMJAX)
Established nearly 50 years ago, the Calvert US Mid Cap Core Responsible Index Fund is a strong contender for investors seeking significant exposure to mid-cap stocks. With an expense ratio of 0.49% and a dividend yield of 0.81%, this fund emphasizes responsible investing in businesses committed to positive social and environmental practices… Over the past five years, [the fund] has achieved an average annual return of 9.48%.
9. BlackRock Sustainable Advantage CoreAlpha Bond Fund (BIAAX)
The BlackRock Sustainable Advantage CoreAlpha Bond Fund offers an actively managed approach to fixed-income investing, emphasizing bonds that not only provide income but also have the potential for positive societal impact. With an expense ratio of 0.54% and a dividend yield of 3.78%, this fund aims to balance capital appreciation with income generation. However, it has faced challenges in the current interest rate environment, with an average annual return of -0.47% over the past five years.
10. American Century Sustainable Growth ETF (ESGY)
The American Century Sustainable Growth ETF is designed to provide a total return that surpasses its benchmark over market cycles by employing a growth-oriented U.S. equity strategy that integrates environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors. As of September 27, 2024, the fund boasts a year-to-date total return of 34.45%, reflecting its strong performance in a competitive market.”

End quotes

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The 10 Largest Funds Aligned to Sustainable Development Goals
The second article I’m covering might appeal to European investors in particular. It’s titled The 10 Largest Funds Aligned to Sustainable Development Goals by Liz Angeles and found on morningstar.com. Note: the ESG Risk Rating Assessments below. Five globes are the best, and one globe is the worst.
“1. Northern Trust UCITs Common Contractual Fund — NT World SDG Screened Low Carbon Index Fund A EUR ACC
Morningstar Rating: 5 Stars

ESG Risk Rating Assessment: 4 Globes

The investment objective of the fund is to closely match the risk and return characteristics of the MSCI World Select ESG Leaders Low Carbon Impact G Series Index with net dividends reinvested…
2. DWS Invest SDG Global Equities XC
Morningstar Rating: 4 Stars

ESG Risk Rating Assessment: 4 Globes

While it does not have as its objective a sustainable investment, it will invest a minimum proportion of its assets in sustainable investments as defined by the EU’s Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation… The subfund is actively managed and is not managed in reference to a benchmark, according to fund literature.
3. NT Europe SDG Screened Low Carbon Idx Fd A EUR Inc
Morningstar Rating: 4 Stars

ESG Risk Rating Assessment: 4 Globes

The investment objective of the fund is to closely match the risk and return characteristics of the MSCI Europe Select ESG Leaders Low Carbon Impact G Series Index with net dividends reinvested, according to fund literature…

Over the past two years, it beat the category index by an annualized 2.1 percentage points and outperformed the category average by 4.6 percentage points. And more importantly, when looking across a longer horizon, the strategy outpaced the index, according to Morningstar Manager Research.
4. Robeco Global SDG Engagement Equities I EUR Capitalisation
Morningstar Rating: 2 Stars

ESG Risk Rating Assessment: 3 Globes

The subfund aims to provide long-term capital growth while at the same time promoting certain ESG characteristics and integrating sustainability risks in the investment process. A primary objective is to drive a clear and measurable improvement in a company’s contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals over three to five years.
5. Federated Hermes SDG Engagement Equity Fund Class X USD Accumulating
Morningstar Rating: 3 Stars

ESG Risk Rating Assessment: 3 Globes

The investment objective of the fund is to provide long-term capital appreciation alongside positive societal impact. The fund will seek to achieve its investment objective over a rolling period of any five years, by investing at least 80% in equity and/or equity-related securities of, or relating to, small- and mid-capitalization companies domiciled in, or that derive their income from, developed and emerging markets, according to fund literature.
6. Northern Trust UCITS FGR Fund—Emerging Markets SDG Screened Low Carbon Index FGR Fund A EUR Dis
Morningstar Rating: Not available

ESG Risk Rating Assessment: 4 Globes

The investment objective of the fund is to closely match the risk and return characteristics of the MSCI Emerging Markets Select ESG Leaders Low Carbon Impact G Series Index with net dividends reinvested…

The fund aims to avoid or minimize holdings in companies breaching international norms, including the U.N. Global Compact or the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, according to Morningstar Manager Research.
7. Northern Trust UCITS FGR Fund — North America SDG Screened Low Carbon Index FGR Fund A EUR
Morningstar Rating: Not available

ESG Risk Rating Assessment: 5 Globes

The investment objective of the fund is to closely match the risk and return characteristics of the MSCI North America Select ESG Leaders Low Carbon Impact G Series with net dividends reinvested.
8. CT (Lux) SDG Engagement Global Equity XR EUR Acc
Morningstar Rating: 4 Stars

ESG Risk Rating Assessment: 5 Globes

The portfolio aims to achieve long-term capital growth and support sustainable development, according to fund literature…

The fund aims to avoid, or limit exposure to, companies in violation with international norms, such as the U.N. Global Compact or the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. No companies held by this fund are recognized as being involved in controversies at a high or severe level, according to Morningstar Manager Research.
9. NEF Ethical Global Trends SDG I Cap
Morningstar Rating: 3 Stars

ESG Risk Rating Assessment: 2 Globes

The subfund seeks an attractive long-term rate of return, measured in euros, through investment primarily in equity securities of companies domiciled in developed countries, but investment may be made in equity securities of companies domiciled in emerging countries. The subfund seeks to invest mainly in stocks issued by companies with high-quality ESG profiles and that contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals as defined by the United Nations, according to fund literature.
10. Northern Trust UCITS FGR Fund — Europe SDG Screened Low Carbon Index FGR Fund A EUR
Morningstar Rating: 4 Stars

ESG Risk Rating Assessment: 4 Globes

The investment objective of the fund is to invest at least 85% of its assets in the master fund, the investment objective of which is to closely match the risk and return characteristics of the MSCI Europe Select ESG Leaders Low Carbon Impact G Series Index with net dividends reinvested…

The fund aims to avoid, or limit exposure to, companies in violation with international norms, such as the U.N. Global Compact or the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.”

End quotes.

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IBD's 100 Most Sustainable Companies For 2024
This third article is about one of my favorite companies' rankings. It’s titled IBD's 100 Most Sustainable Companies For 2024. It’s by Annie Stanley and found on investors.com. Here are some quotes from Ms. Stanley.

“More than three quarters (77%) of individual investors around the world say they want to invest in companies or funds that aim to achieve market-rate financial returns while also considering positive social and/or environmental impact, according to a recent report from Morgan Stanley…

To build IBD's 2024 list of the 100 Most Sustainable Companies, we started with Morningstar's U.S. and global Low Carbon Transition Leaders Indexes… The indexes target the best-scoring 50% of companies from each sector, by market capitalization…

We selected the companies with the highest IBD Composite Rating — all with scores of 80 or better, putting them in the top 20%. Finally, we ranked the companies by the climate management score, using the IBD Composite Rating to break any ties.

Topping the list this year is Moody's (MCO), demonstrating that a company that provides data on ESG factors can itself be a model of sustainability best practices. U.S. gas and electric utility Southern Co. (SO) is next on the list, and consumer giant Colgate-Palmolive (CL) is third…

Two more utility companies, Alliant Energy (LNT) and NRG Energy (NRG), finished fourth and fifth, respectively, on this year's IBD 100 Most Sustainable Companies list.”

End quotes.

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Additional Articles
1. Title: Sustainable Investing Replaces ESG. See The Top Green Stocks By Industry Category on investors.com. By Annie Stanley.

2. Title: The top 10 best-performing ESG funds of the decade on financial-planning.com. By Rob Burgess.

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Ending Comment
These are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips for this podcast “Top Sustainable Companies and Funds for 2024.”

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 November 1st.

I’ll talk to you then!

Bye for now.

© 2024 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul
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Sustainable ETFs for Sustainable Investors. More…
4 oct· Ethical & Sustainable Investing News to Profit By!
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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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
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Great Sustainable Food Stocks, Plus…
20 sep· Ethical & Sustainable Investing News to Profit By!
Great Sustainable Food Stocks, Plus… best ESG stocks to buy now based on hedge fund holdings. Solar stocks to review.

By Ron Robins, MBA

Transcript & Links, Episode 138, September 20, 2024

Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to this podcast episode 138 published September 20, 2024, titled “Great Sustainable Food Stocks, Plus…” 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 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 for more company and stock information.

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5 Sustainable Food-Related Stocks for Long-Term Investors
This first article refers to an industry that’s one of my favorites, the food industry! It’s titled 5 Sustainable Food-Related Stocks for Long-Term Investors. It’s by Leslie P. Norton and found on morningstar.com. Here are some brief quotes from the article.

“We talked with Edinburgh-based Stewart Investors, a global asset manager that practices sustainable investing, about the charms of food-related stocks. (The firm has a Morningstar ESG Commitment Level of Leader.)…

The firm [Stewart Investors] tends to hold for the long term, and all the food-related companies that Wood mentions left cheap behind a while ago, as you’ll see in the table below. Still, they have merits galore. I talked with Wood about why they’re worth considering for the long haul.

Stewart Investors' Food Stock Picks

Source: Morningstar. Data as of Sept. 9, 2024. The star ratings for Mahindra & Mahindra, Novonesis, Totvs, and Unicharm are quantitative.”

End quotes.

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10 Best ESG Stocks To Buy Now
My next article comes from Insider Monkey. It’s titled 10 Best ESG Stocks To Buy Now and is by Sheryar Siddiq. Here are a few quotes from him.

“Our Methodology

To create the list of top ESG stocks to buy now, we chose companies from the Vanguard ESG U.S. Stock ETF (ESGV) and ranked them by their percentage weight in the fund, listed in ascending order. In addition, we used hedge fund sentiments regarding each stock to illustrate how well these stocks hold up in the eyes of hedge fund investors. These were taken from Insider Monkey’s Q2 2024 database…

Our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds… (see more details here).
10. Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 85

Tesla’s earnings for the second quarter fell short of expectations, driven by a decline in automotive sales for the second consecutive period. Despite a 2% revenue increase to $25.43 billion compared to the same quarter last year, automotive revenue dropped by 7% to $19.9 billion from $21.27 billion…

Despite Tesla’s recent challenges, Truist Securities analyst William Stein remains optimistic about the company’s shift from traditional car manufacturing to AI, which he believes could unlock significant value. On August 14, he reaffirmed his ‘hold’ rating on Tesla with a price target of $215, representing a 6.76% potential upside.”
9. JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM)
Hedge Fund Holders: 111

JPMorgan Chase operates globally across sectors like Consumer & Community Banking, Corporate & Investment Banking, Commercial Banking, and Asset & Wealth Management. In 2023, the firm achieved a 15% reduction in Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions from 2019 levels, advancing toward its goal of carbon neutrality by 2030. JPMorgan Chase also facilitated over $200 billion in green financing, including renewable energy projects and green bonds, contributing to its $2.5 trillion sustainable development financing target by 2030…

Following the earnings release, Citi raised its price target for JPMorgan Chase from $205.00 to $215.00, while maintaining a Neutral rating. BMO Capital also reaffirmed its Market Perform rating with an unchanged price target of $205.00.
8. Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ:AVGO)
Hedge Fund Holders: 130

Broadcom [is] a global leader in technology, specializes in designing, developing, and supplying a wide range of semiconductor, enterprise software, and security solutions… The company plans to reassess its baseline and set new Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3 greenhouse gas emission reduction targets. According to the company’s ESG report, these new targets will align with the UN Paris Agreement and the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) goal to limit global warming to 1.5° Celsius above pre-industrial levels.

In a recent note, TD Cowen identified Broadcom as a stock poised to benefit from the surge in AI spending…

Cantor Fitzgerald maintained an Overweight rating and set a new price target of $200.
7. Eli Lilly And Company (NYSE:LLY)
Hedge Fund Holders: 100

Eli Lilly is a global pharmaceutical firm renowned for its innovative medications. This past year, the company released its 2023 ESG report, highlighting significant strides toward its sustainability goals. The company has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by more than 20% between 2020 and 2022, despite notable business growth. The report also showcases Eli Lilly’s commitment to diversity, with minority group members now holding 25% of U.S. management positions and women occupying 49% of management roles globally…

In a recent update to its large-cap rankings, Wells Fargo analysts highlighted Eli Lilly’s robust pipeline and potential to surpass market expectations in the coming years. The firm named Eli Lilly as its new top pick among large-cap pharmaceutical stocks, anticipating the company will outperform 2025 consensus estimates.
6. Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOGL)
Hedge Fund Holders: 216

Alphabet the parent company of Google, has introduced the Google Renewable Energy Addendum, a new initiative asking its largest hardware manufacturing suppliers to commit to matching 100% of their energy use with renewable sources by 2029… The company has set ambitious environmental goals for 2030, including achieving net-zero emissions across its operations and value chain, and reducing its combined Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions by 50% from 2019 levels…

Analysts have set a price target of $203.74, indicating a potential upside of 25.03% as of August 20…
5. Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:META)
Hedge Fund Holders: 219

The social media giant achieved net-zero emissions across its global operations in 2020 and is now focused on reaching net-zero emissions across its entire value chain by 2030…

On August 8, Loop Capital raised its price target for Meta from $550 to $575, while maintaining a Buy rating on the stock…

Citi subsequently raised its price target for Meta from $550 to $580.
4. Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN)
Hedge Fund Holders: 308

Amazon initially aimed to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2030 and power its operations with 100% renewable energy, a goal it claims to have achieved seven years ahead of schedule…

In the first half of 2024, Amazon saw its operating income surge 141% year-over-year, reaching a record high…

Amazon is also a dominant force in digital advertising, surpassing a $50 billion annual run rate with 20% growth…

Morgan Stanley recently reiterated its positive outlook on Amazon maintaining an Overweight rating and a $210 price target.
3. NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:NVDA)
Hedge Fund Holders: 179

NVIDIA leads the market in designing and selling Graphics Processing Units (GPUs), a sector that has surged due to the growing demand for artificial intelligence models. The company’s Blackwell GPUs are up to 20 times more energy-efficient than traditional CPUs for specific AI and high-performance computing (HPC) tasks. Additionally, by the end of FY25 and each year after, NVIDIA aims to achieve and maintain 100% renewable electricity for its offices and data centers under operational control…
2. Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT)
Hedge Fund Holders: 279

Microsoft stands out as a leading ESG stock, much in part due to its strategic investment in OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, which has strengthened its position across hardware, software, and global cloud services. The company is committed to sourcing 100% renewable energy by 2025, becoming carbon negative by 2030, and offsetting all historical carbon emissions since its founding in 1975 by 2050…

BMO Capital Markets maintained its positive outlook on Microsoft, keeping an Outperform rating and a $500 price target.
1. Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL)
Hedge Fund Holders: 184

Apple is an obvious choice for ESG investors, given its strong commitment to labor rights, environmental responsibility, and ethical business practices across its supply chain. The tech giant has reduced its overall greenhouse gas emissions by over 55% since 2015, marking significant progress toward its ambitious Apple 2030 goal of achieving carbon neutrality across its entire value chain by the decade’s end…

On August 2, Goldman Sachs raised its price target for Apple from $265 to $275 while maintaining a Buy rating…

End quotes.

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These 3 Companies Are the Solar Power Leaders, But Should You Invest in Them?
Now what would a podcast episode be without an article on solar power companies? So here it is titled These 3 Companies Are the Solar Power Leaders, But Should You Invest in Them? By Jordan Chussler and found on 247wallst.com. Here is some of what Mr. Chussler says in his article.
“1. First Solar Inc. (NASDAQ: FSLR)
has amassed an impressive $21.98 billion market cap and is considered by many to be the solar industry leader. The company manufactures solar panels, but also provides utility-scale photovoltaic power plants while also provides support services like financing, construction, maintenance and end-of-life panel recycling programs…

In the second quarter of 2024, First Solar beat earnings forecasts for the fifth consecutive quarter by posting earnings per share (EPS) of $3.25 versus analysts’ expectations of $2.70. The company also beat on revenue by reporting $1.01 billion versus analysts’ expectations of $939.71 million…

Analysts at the Wall Street Journal give First Solar’s stock a median, one-year price target of $286. Shares are currently trading for $205.36, meaning, the stock is expected to have strong upside potential of 39.26% over the next 12 months.
2. Enphase Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: ENPH)
is a clean energy technology company with a $13.95 billion market cap that specializes in the development and manufacturing of solar micro-inverters and battery storage systems…

Since beating earnings forecasts during the third quarter of 2023, Enphase has missed for the past three consecutive quarters, posting a disappointing EPS of 43 cents in the second quarter of 2024 versus analysts’ expectations of 49 cents…

Shares of Enphase are currently trading around $112, but one-year price targets are incredibly spread out. The Wall Street Journal‘s analysts give a median price target of $130, but a high-end target of $170 and a low-end target of just $45.82.
3. Sunrun Inc. (NASDAQ: RUN)
has the smallest market cap of all three companies, with just $3.8 billion. The San Francisco-based company provides photovoltaic systems and battery energy storage solutions primarily for a residential customer base.

Sunrun shocked Wall Street in the second quarter of 2024 by posting an EPS of 55 cents versus analysts’ expectations of -33 cents in earnings. That was the first quarter since Q2 2023 that the company posted a positive EPS…

Currently trading at $18.17, Wall Street Journal analysts give shares of Sunrun a median, one-year price target of $20, but a high-end target of $38 and a low-end target of just $7.78.”

End quotes.

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Ending Comment
These are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips for this podcast “Great Sustainable Food Stocks, Plus…”

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 4th.

I’ll talk to you then!

Bye for now.

© 2024 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul
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Top Eco-Friendly Stocks
5 sep· Ethical & Sustainable Investing News to Profit By!
Top Eco-Friendly Stocks are from the Corporate Knights rankings. Plus, Reddit’s best ethical companies and an article listing Shariah-compliant stocks.

By Ron Robins, MBA

Podcast: Top Eco-Friendly Stocks

Transcript & Links, Episode 137, September 6, 2024

Hello, Ron Robins here. Welcome to this podcast episode 137 published September 6, 2024, titled “Top Eco-Friendly Stocks.” 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 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 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 articles for more company and stock information.

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7 Best Ethical Companies To Invest In According to Reddit

The first article I’m reviewing is titled 7 Best Ethical Companies To Invest In According to Reddit. It’s by Affan Mir and found on insidermonkey.com. Here are some quotes.

“Our Methodology

The companies are listed in ascending order of the number of hedge fund holders as of the second quarter of 2024. The hedge fund data was taken from our database of over 900 elite hedge funds…

Our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds.

7. HA Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc. (NYSE:HASI)

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 16

The company invests in behind-the-meter (BTM) building or facility-specific distributed energy projects, which are tailored to reduce energy consumption or costs for specific buildings or facilities.

6. Ecolab Inc. (NYSE:ECL)

Hedge Fund Holders: 42

Ecolab Inc. … initially, the company focused on innovative cleaning products but has since become a major player in the water, hygiene, and energy sectors. The company serves various industries, including food processing, healthcare, hospitality, and manufacturing, by offering technology and services that ensure water quality and safety…

In 2024, it was recognized as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere for the 18th consecutive year.

5. Waste Management, Inc. (NYSE:WM)

Hedge Fund Holders: 49

Waste Management, Inc. … Over the years, the company has evolved into a comprehensive waste management company with a vast operational footprint.

4. First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ:FSLR)

Hedge Fund Holders: 66

First Solar is an American company in the solar energy industry that specializes in manufacturing solar panels and developing utility-scale photovoltaic (PV) power plants.

3. Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST)

Hedge Fund Holders: 71

Costco Wholesale Corporation is a warehouse club that operates on a membership basis, offering a wide range of products.

2. NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE:NEE)

Hedge Fund Holders: 73

NextEra Energy, Inc. … company operates a diverse portfolio through its subsidiaries, which include Florida Power & Light (FPL), NextEra Energy Resources (NEER), and NextEra Energy Partners.

1. NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:NVDA)

Hedge Fund Holders: 179

NVIDIA Corporation is a California-based prominent tech company… recognized for its groundbreaking advancements in graphics processing units (GPUs) and AI.”

End quotes.

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Top 25 Eco-Friendly Companies in 2024

Now this next article should interest most of you. It’s titled Top 25 Eco-Friendly Companies in 2024. It’s by Meerub Anjum and found on finance.yahoo.com. Due to my time restrictions, the 25 companies are covered briefly. Go to the link on this episode’s podcast page for the full article. Here are my brief quotes.

“Methodology

To compile our list of the top 25 eco-friendly companies in 2024, we utilized the sustainable investment ratio data for the global 100 companies from Corporate Knights. We then used the purchasing power parity revenue of companies as of 2023 to calculate the absolute sustainable revenue of companies. Finally, we ranked the top 25 eco-friendly companies in 2024 in ascending order of their absolute sustainable revenue.

At Insider Monkey we are obsessed with the stocks that hedge funds pile into… Our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds. Our quarterly newsletter’s strategy selects 14 small-cap and large-cap stocks every quarter and has returned 275% since May 2014, beating its benchmark by 150 percentage points (see more details here).

25. Henkel AG & Co. (OTC:HENOF)

In 2023, over 20% of its revenue was from sustainable products or services.

24. Risen Energy Co. Ltd. (SHE:300118)

In 2023, Risen Energy Co Ltd generated 100% of its revenue from sustainable products and services.

23. Yadea Group Holdings Ltd. (OTC:YADGF)

is an investment holding company engaged in the manufacturing and sale of two-wheeled electric vehicles and related accessories in China.

22. Kering SA (OTC:PPRUF)

in 2024… it generated 26.5% of its revenue from sustainable products in 2023.

21. Nordex SE (OTC:NRXXY)

The company is involved in the manufacturing and distribution of onshore wind turbines.

20. Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company (NYSE:HPE)

is one of the most sustainable companies, boasting a sustainable revenue of 33.1%.

19. Li Auto Inc. (NASDAQ:LI)

In 2023, Li Auto Inc generated 100% of its revenue from sustainable products.

18. Ricoh Company, Ltd. (OTC:RICOY)

Ricoh Company, Ltd.'s sustainable revenue was 50.8% of its total revenue in 2023.

17. NIO Inc. (NYSE:NIO)

is involved in the manufacturing and sale of smart electric vehicles in China.

16. Ørsted A/S (OTC:DNNGY)

65% of its revenue was from sustainable products and services in 2023.

15. SAP SE (NYSE:SAP)

SAP SE generated nearly 30% of its revenue from sustainable products and services.

14. Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson (NASDAQ:ERIC)

In 2023, 46.8% of its revenue was generated from sustainable services and products.

13. Banco do Brasil S.A. (OTC:BDORY)

generated 28.6% of its revenue from sustainable products and services in 2023.

12. Neste Oyj (OTC:NTOIY)

Its renewable products include renewable diesel, sustainable aviation fuel, renewable solvents, and feedstock for bioplastics.

11. Sanofi (NASDAQ:SNY)

In 2023, 27.2% of its revenue was from eco-friendly products and services.

10. Alstom SA

is involved in the manufacturing of monorails, light rails, metros, commuter trains, regional trains, high-speed trains, and locomotives.

9. Samsung SDI Co. Ltd. (KRX:006400)

provides lithium-ion batteries used in smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other devices including electric bikes and scooters.

8. Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:CSCO)

aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2040 and also incorporate circularity in 100% of its new products and packaging by 2025.

7. Vestas Wind Systems (OTC:VWDRY)

100% of its revenue is generated from eco-friendly products.

6. Bank of China Limited (OTC:BACHF)

Nearly 17% of its revenue, which amounts to $25.9 billion, was from sustainable sources in 2023.

5. XPeng Inc. (NYSE:XPEV)

100% of its revenue is generated from sustainable products and services.

4. Schneider Electric S.E. (OTC:SBGSY)

is involved in the production of inverters, solar panels, solar equipment, wind farm microgrids, power metering systems, and smart monitoring solutions, among others.

3. HP Inc. (NYSE:HPQ)

reduced its Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 62% in 2023.

2. Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA)

In 2023, 100% of its revenue was generated from sustainable products and services.

1. Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL)

In 2023, it generated nearly 70% of its revenue from sustainable products and services.”

End quotes.

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Top 10 Shariah Compliant Stocks by Market Cap

Many ethical investors might not know that Shariah investing has similarities to ethical investing. This article briefly explains Shariah-based investing and the ethical stocks favored by the article’s authors. It’s titled Top 10 Shariah Compliant Stocks by Market Cap. Author(s) not mentioned, but found on amalinvest.com. Here are some quotes.

“Islamic finance has grown significantly in recent years, with more investors seeking stocks that align with Shariah principles. Let's explore the top 10 Shariah compliant stocks by market capitalization, examining what makes them attractive to ethical investors and how they stack up in the global market…

Shariah law prohibits investment in companies involved in certain activities, such as alcohol, gambling, pork products, and conventional financial services. Additionally, there are financial ratios that companies must meet to be considered compliant.

Compliance vs. Halal

It's crucial to note that ‘Shariah compliant’ doesn't necessarily mean ‘halal.’ Compliant companies may still have some activities that aren't permissible under Shariah law, but they don't exceed certain thresholds that would make them impermissible for investment.

Now, let's examine our top 10 list:

1. Apple Inc. (AAPL)
Compliance: Halal
The tech giant Apple leads our list with an impressive market cap of $3.45 trillion.

2. NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA)
Compliance: Halal
NVIDIA, a leader in GPU technology and AI computing, comes in second with a market cap of $3.11 trillion. Its focus on cutting-edge technology and strong financial position contribute to its Shariah compliant status.

3. Alphabet Inc. (GOOGL)
Compliance: Doubtful
Google's parent company, Alphabet, holds the third spot. Despite its massive market cap, its compliance status is marked as doubtful. This could be due to its diverse range of services, which may include activities not fully aligned with Shariah principles.

Bottom of Form

4. Amazon.com Inc. (AMZN)
Compliance: Doubtful
E-commerce giant Amazon is fourth on our list, but also carries a doubtful compliance status. This might be related to its involvement in streaming services that could include content not aligned with Shariah principles, or its financial services offerings.

5. Meta Platforms Inc. (META)
Compliance: Doubtful
Facebook's parent company, Meta, rounds out our top five. Its doubtful status could be due to concerns about content moderation and potential involvement in activities not fully aligned with Shariah law.

6. Eli Lilly and Co (LLY)
Compliance: Halal
Eli Lilly, a pharmaceutical company, is the first non-tech firm on our list. Its focus on healthcare and strong financial position contribute to its Shariah compliant status.

7. Broadcom Inc. (AVGO)
Compliance: Halal
Broadcom, a designer, developer, and global supplier of semiconductor devices, maintains a Shariah compliant status due to its focus on technology and solid financials.

8. Tesla Inc. (TSLA)
Compliance: Halal
Electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla is Shariah compliant, likely due to its focus on sustainable transportation and energy solutions, as well as its financial structure.

9. Walmart Inc. (WMT)
Compliance: Doubtful
Retail giant Walmart makes the list but with a doubtful compliance status. This could be due to the sale of products not permissible under Shariah law, such as alcohol or pork products.

10. Visa Inc. (V)
Compliance: Halal
Rounding out our top 10 is Visa, a financial services company. Its Shariah compliant status might surprise some, but it's likely due to its business model focusing on payment processing rather than traditional banking activities.”

End quotes.

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3 Green ETFs With Promising Upside And Long-Term Potential

Now an article from Canada. It’s titled 3 Green ETFs With Promising Upside And Long-Term Potential. It’s by Pierre Raymond and seen on theglobeandmail.com. Here’s some of what Mr. Raymond says about his picks.

“1. iShare Climate Conscious & Transition MSCI USA (USCLi)

One of the key objectives of the fund is to track the performance and investment results of large and mid-cap U.S. companies that are actively contributing to the low-carbon economy transition. Overall, the fund has delivered a one-year return of 23.10%, slightly below the benchmark of 23.16%.

2. Carbon Transition U.S. Equity ETF (JCTR)

provides investors exposure to the broader U.S. market by positioning the fund to benefit from companies that invest in the low-carbon economy transition… The fund delivered one-year quarterly returns of 24.40%, similar to that of the JPMAM Carbon Transition U.S. Equity Index.

3. Xtrackers Net Zero Pathway Paris Aligned US Equity ETF (USNZ)

which seeks to track the performance of the Solactive ISS ESG U.S. Net Zero Pathway Enhanced Index… The current one-year return is 24.44% versus 24.54% of the underlying index, and 24.56% of the S&P.”

End quotes.

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One other great article that time didn’t allow me to review here.

3 Franklin Templeton Mutual Funds for Sustainable Returns. It’s by Zacks Equity Research and was found on finance.yahoo.com.

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Ending Comment

These are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips for this podcast “Top Eco-Friendly Stocks.”

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 September 20th.

I’ll talk to you then!

Bye for now.

© 2024 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul
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Top Food and Healthcare stocks. And more…
22 ago· Ethical & Sustainable Investing News to Profit By!
Top Food and Healthcare stocks. And more… Includes a 100-company ranking of companies producing the most favorable human life impacts.

By Ron Robins, MBA

Transcript & Links, Episode 136, August 23, 2024

Hello, Ron Robins here. It’s good to be back after my summer break! So, welcome to this podcast episode 136 titled “Top Food and Healthcare stocks. And more…” 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 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 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 articles for more company and stock information.

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3 Plant-Based Food Stocks That Could Be Multibaggers in the Making: July Edition

I’m starting with this article on food stocks as it’s a segment that many of you are interested in. It’s titled 3 Plant-Based Food Stocks That Could Be Multibaggers in the Making: July Edition. It’s by Philippa Main and found on investorplace.com. Now some quotes from the article.

“Investors have many reasons for investing in plant-based food stocks… But there are also a lot of ups and downs in the vegan-friendly and plant-based industries. Even one of the most recognizable names in the vegan meat industry, Beyond Meat (NASDAQ:BYND), has been down consistently over the last five years, with very few times of sustained value.

However, the overall sector’s potential for growth remains robust… The plant-based food market value is currently at $46.7 billion and could expand to $96.6 billion by 2033. That’s a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.4%...

1. Laird Superfood (NYSEAMERICAN:LSF)

Specializes in providing plant-based coffee creamers, hydration supplements and other foods. The stock topped out at $57 in 2020 but has since dropped dramatically. It is now trading at around $4 a share. However, recent quarterly results prove that the company is back on the upswing…

The company’s 22% net sales growth during the first quarter was among the top results for any company in the food industry. The company saw at least a 40% gross margin. While the company still operates at a net loss, its balance sheet remains strong with no debt. The company raised its outlook for net sales thanks to the positive Q1 results.

Laird Superfood stock is affordable for investors looking to enter the vegan-friendly and plant-based food stocks segment. Laird Superfood has many potential growth opportunities on the horizon… It recently received a $32 million influx of funding from WeWork. All this combined means investing now could see great returns in the long term.

2. SunOpta (NASDAQ:STKL)

has been producing plant-based food and beverages for over 50 years. In the past three years, the company has committed over $200 million to expanding production capacity and reaching its goal of doubling its plant-based business by 2025.

Across the several segments the company operates in, there is a $22 billion addressable market. The company’s nutritional beverages sector saw the largest year-over-year (YOY) growth at 20%. The company also partners with other major names in the food retail industry.

These include Costco (NASDAQ:COST), Walmart (NYSE:WMT) and Target (NYSE:TGT). Partnering with big retail brands helps increase the exposure of its products and, in turn, generates higher sales volume.

SunOpta stock has had its ups and downs over the past five years but currently has a 93% upside.

3. Tyson Foods (NYSE:TSN)

One of the most well-known chicken brands in the U.S. may not seem like a good pick for a list of plant-based food stocks. For investors who want to feel good about investing in companies working toward making more plant-based options but don’t want to gamble on a company solely focused on that sector, Tyson Foods is a good way to diversify.

Though down substantially over the last five years, Tyson Foods stock has seen a rally of 10% in the last 12 months and 6.5% year-to-date (YTD). In the previous five years, Tyson has been increasing its plant-based offerings through its brand, Raised and Rooted, and has 10 plant-based products. These include plant-based patties, ground meat substitutes, sausages and nuggets. As inflation dampens demand for meat as prices soar, Tyson’s presence in the plant-based industry will give it a head start compared to its competitors.

Though there have been some financial troubles for the company in the last year or so, things are starting to turn around.”

End quotes.

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The energy transition from fossil fuels will power these stocks - including Big Oil

Now, this next article acknowledges the energy transition, however, some of the comments and companies suggested will not appeal to many ethical and sustainable investors. I wondered long and hard as to include this article or not. However, since the European Commission is likely to include natural gas in its preferred funding energy financing initiative, I ‘dared’ to include it.

The article is titled The energy transition from fossil fuels will power these stocks - including Big Oil. It’s by Jakob Wilhelmus, provided by Dow Jones, and found on morningstar.com. Here are some quotes.

“Modernizing the grid

The International Energy Agency estimates that to power itself primarily with renewable energy, the world would need to add or replace nearly 50 million miles of transmission lines by 2040…

For investors, that creates opportunity around the complementary infrastructure that is needed to build out the grid.

Companies such as Eaton (ETN) that provide essential components - including inverters or substations for transmission lines - are well-positioned to take advantage of these ambitious goals. Their central role in the energy transition over coming years may not be fully appreciated today, but markets might soon catch up.

Shifting to the greener end of fossil fuels

Fossil fuels will certainly continue to be a component of the energy system of the future… Indeed, global demand for liquified natural gas (LNG) is expected to grow by more than 50% by 2040 as the coal-to-gas transition expands in China and South Asia…

For investors, it is critical to seek energy-sector companies that are forward-looking and are finding ways to remain energy providers regardless of what the primary energy sources might be.

Two such companies are TotalEnergies (TTE) and Shell (SHEL), which are expanding natural-gas production and transport capabilities.

Pipelines are another way to take advantage of the global shift to natural gas. Often these firms have long-term purchase agreements in place, providing investors with an attractive ‘toll collection’ that provides a differentiated risk-return proposition in the natural-gas space: exposure to booming demand with less exposure to short-term price volatility. These characteristics and accompanying cash flows make major pipeline players including Enbridge (ENB) and Kinder Morgan (KMI) particularly interesting for debt investors.

Getting smart on energy use

Investors should also pay close attention to innovation around managing demand and using energy supplies more efficiently…

This has created a two-way system, where customers actively manage their energy consumption through smart appliances or storage, while system operators have increased capabilities to manage electricity distribution and generation.

This development might benefit companies, such as Schneider Electric (SBGSY), that provide smart sensors and devices all the way to the software that allows grid operators to optimize supply and demand…

Global renewable capacity grew by 50% in 2023 and these sources offer some of the lowest cost of producing electricity today. But even this pace of growth in renewables may not be enough to account for the steep rise in energy demand.”

End quotes.

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The 3 Best Healthcare Stocks to Buy in August 2024

Now, here’s an article on another favorite sector, healthcare, and it’s titled The 3 Best Healthcare Stocks to Buy in August 2024. It’s by investorplace.com and was seen on markets.businessinsider.com. Here are some interesting quotes.

“The healthcare industry has been a critical part of the economy for a long time. According to a McKinsey & Company report, the healthcare industry is expected to grow at 7% from 2022 to 2027.

1. Bristol-Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY).

The pharmaceutical powerhouse consistently ranks as one of the top companies on the market, and has several drugs that generate billions of dollars in revenue. Furthermore, Bristol-Myers Squibb has a number of drugs currently in clinical trials that could bring in huge success over the next decade. Among these is schizophrenia treatment Eliquis KarXT. The drug is expected to receive a recommendation from the FDA as early as next month. If it gets approved, it will be the first newly developed treatment for schizophrenia. That is a market that is estimated to grow to more than $7 billion in just four years. Right now, the stock is down over 10% this year alone and 20% year-over-year. Investors should buy while the stock is down.

2. AMN Healthcare Services (NYSE:AMN)

is a medical care facilities company. It supplies healthcare workers, including nurses and industry professionals, on a temporary basis. It experienced huge success from high healthcare worker demand when there was a worker shortage. For those investors who are looking for high-risk, high-reward healthcare stocks, AMN should be on their radar.

The company’s recent earnings reports look very promising. In Q2 2024, AMN reported earnings per share (EPS) of 98 cents, beating analyst’s estimates by almost 20 cents. This was the fourth consecutive quarter that AMN Healthcare Services beat the earnings estimate. Furthermore, AMN trades at 13.64 times forward price to earnings ratio, which is lower than the majority of its competitors in the market. Before it bounces back to its peak price from 2022, investors should buy the stock.

3. Rapport Therapeutics (NASDAQ:RAPP),

a biotech company that is backed by Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ). The company went public on June 7th of this year, and it raised $154 million in initial public offering. The stock price ended up to over $20 on the first day it went public, and as of writing, it goes for $19.05. While there is still lots to learn about the company as it is new to the market, there are certainly things that will attract many investors.

Rapport Therapists is currently developing a focal epilepsy drug. The phase two trials should begin in the next few months, which means that there is going to be exciting news for the biotech startup for the upcoming years. This is especially exciting considering that in the U.S. alone, there are more than three million adult epilepsy patients, which means that it is a sizable market with room to explore.”

End quotes.

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The 2024 Humankind 100 List

This next article is a company ranking I watch every year as its methodology is fascinating. It’s the Humankind 100 List and the 2024 edition has just been published. I found it on businesswire.com. Here are some quotes.

“As the challenges of creating transparency around Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) data and rankings become increasingly apparent, Humankind developed a holistic, quantitative way to calculate impact in terms of human benefit versus human suffering…

This year, Alphabet (GOOGL)… scored highest in the ranking. The positive value of creating free digital tools for consumers outweighs the negative impact of factors like data harvesting in Humankind’s analysis.

Other companies rounding out the top 10 include: Eli Lilly & Co. (LLY), Johnson & Johnson (JNJ), AbbVie Inc. (ABBV), Merck & Co. (MRK), Procter & Gamble (PG), Pfizer (PFE), Amgen (AMGN), Microsoft Corp (MSFT), and Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMY). The complete rankings… can be found at rankings.humankind.co.”

End quotes.

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Finally, here’s one other article that will interest some of you. It’s titled Bank of New York Mellon a Top Socially Responsible Dividend Stock With 2.9% Yield. It’s by BNK Invest and found on Nasdaq.com.

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Ending Comment

Well, these are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips for this podcast titled: “Top Food and Healthcare stocks. And more…”

Please 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 troubled times!

Contact me if you have any questions.

Thank you for listening.

Now my next podcast will be September 6th.

I’ll talk to you then!

Bye for now.

© 2023 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul
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Great High-Yielding ESG Stocks, Plus…
25 jul· Ethical & Sustainable Investing News to Profit By!
The next podcast – after this one – is August 23rd. This episode covers great high-yielding ESG stocks and funds related to renewable energy, plus…

By Ron Robins, MBA

Hello, Ron Robins here. Just a quick note before I start. I’m taking some time off so my next podcast – after this one – will be on August 23rd.

So, welcome to this podcast episode 135 titled “Great High-Yielding ESG Stocks, Plus…” 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, 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.

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5 High-Yielding Global Renewable Energy Stocks
Besides capital gains, many of you also want income from your ethical investments. So, this article should interest you. It’s titled 5 High-Yielding Global Renewable Energy Stocks and it’s by Quinn Rennell and published on morningstar.com. Here are some points from the article. However, much more information is quoted on this episode's webpage. Quote.

“For this article, we looked at the Morningstar Global Markets Renewable Energy Index… We screened for stocks covered by Morningstar analysts and then sorted them by forward dividend yield to find the five with the highest payouts. All these stocks are undervalued, carrying Morningstar Ratings of 4 or 5 stars.

Top-Yielding Global Renewable Energy Stocks Data as of 7/12/2024.

Here’s a closer look at the five stocks:
1. Proximus PROX Fair Value Estimate: EUR 10.50 Price/Fair Value: 0.73 Morningstar Uncertainty Rating: Medium Economic Moat: Narrow
With a forward dividend yield of 18.23%, this Belgian telecom operator tops our list. Proximus’ stock is down 1.53% this year. Over the last 12 months, it is up 21.14%.
2. Vodafone Group VOD Fair Value Estimate: GBP 1.25 Price/Fair Value: 0.57 Morningstar Uncertainty Rating: Medium Economic Moat: None
European telecom giant Vodafone has the second-highest forward dividend yield in the index, at 10.76%. Vodafone’s stock is up 9.47% in the year to date and 11.16% in the last 12 months.”
3. Engie ENGI Fair Value Estimate: EUR 18.00 Price/Fair Value: 0.79 Morningstar Uncertainty Rating: Medium Economic Moat: None
Engie is a global energy firm that operates Europe’s largest gas pipeline network in France and a global fleet of conventional and renewable power plants. The stock yields 10.1%. The shares are down 2.06% in the year to date but up 4.50% over the last 12 months.
4. Volkswagen VOW3 Fair Value Estimate: EUR 352.00 Price/Fair Value: 0.3 Morningstar Uncertainty Rating: High Economic Moat: None
German auto giant Volkswagen has a forward dividend yield of 8.46%. Its stock has risen 3.94% in the year to date. Over the last 12 months, its stock has fallen 5.32%.”
5. Mercedes-Benz Group MBG Fair Value Estimate: EUR 117.00 Price/Fair Value: 0.55 Morningstar Uncertainty Rating: High Economic Moat: Narrow
Rounding out our list is another German auto giant, Mercedes-Benz, with a forward yield of 8.28%. Its stock is up 10.79% so far this year. Over the last 12 months, its stock is down 4.26%.”

End quotes.

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3 Sustainable Investing ETFs for Eco-Conscious Investors
This next article will likely interest most investors. It’s titled 3 Sustainable Investing ETFs for Eco-Conscious Investors and it’s by Shweta Kumari. It was seen on stocknews.com. Here are some quotes.
“1. American Century Sustainable Growth ETF (ESGY - Get Rating)
This fund targets the U.S. public equity markets, focusing on companies across various sectors, including growth and value stocks of large-cap companies, specifically those within the market capitalization range of the Russell 1000 Growth Index. American Century Sustainable Growth ETF emphasizes investing in socially conscious businesses that actively promote environmental responsibility.

The fund has $19.70 million in assets under management (AUM)… American Century Sustainable Growth ETF has an expense ratio of 0.39%, compared to the category average of 0.37%... The fund pays an annual dividend of $0.16, translating to a 0.28% yield at the prevailing price level…

The ETF’s overall A rating equates to a Strong Buy in our proprietary rating system…
2. Nuveen Winslow Large-Cap Growth ESG ETF (NWLG - Get Rating)
The fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of U.S. companies with market capitalizations exceeding $4 billion at the time of purchase. It focuses on companies that exhibit sustainable environmental, social, and governance (ESG) characteristics…

The fund has an expense ratio of 0.65%...

Nuveen Winslow Large-Cap Growth ESG ETF has gained 34.7% over the past year and 20.9% over the past six months…

It has an overall rating of B, which equates to Buy in our proprietary rating system.
3. Ishares ESG Aware MSCI USA Growth ETF (EGUS - Get Rating)
It invests in growth stocks of socially conscious companies promoting environmental responsibility and aims to track an index of U.S. large- and mid-cap equities with positive ESG characteristics…

The ETF’s expense ratio is 0.18%...

The fund pays an annual dividend of $0.11, which translates to a 0.27% yield at the current price level…

Ishares ESG Aware MSCI USA Growth ETF has gained 34.9% over the past nine months and 30.9% over the past year…

The fund has an overall rating of A, which translates to a Strong Buy in our proprietary rating system.”

End quotes

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7 Best Green Mutual Funds to Fight Climate Change
This next article features some green US mutual funds. It’s titled 7 Best Green Mutual Funds to Fight Climate Change and is by Jeff Reeves and reviewed by John Divine. It’s found on money.usnews.com. Here are some brief highlights on each of the picks from the article.
“1. Parnassus Core Equity Fund (PRBLX) Assets under management: $30.1 billion Expense ratio: 0.82% Minimum investment: $2,000
The Parnassus Core Equity Fund is the leader among green mutual funds when it comes to assets under management. That said, it's not perfect or particularly flashy. It… is designed to be a core large-cap fund as much as a green mutual fund. That said, investment manager Parnassus has made a name for itself by linking traditional fundamental analysis with an overlay of environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors…

Parnassus Core Equity Fund is well established with the largest asset tally of this group, making it a logical starting place for many investors.
2. Calvert Equity Fund (CSIEX) Assets under management: $6.8 billion Expense ratio: 0.91% Minimum investment: $1,000
Calvert is an investment adviser that prioritizes ESG in its approach, with a 40-year track record of ‘responsible’ investing that takes into account sustainability and environmental factors, among other criteria… The fund is not designed to hold solar stocks or wind turbine manufacturers but rather large-cap domestic stocks that rank highly for their internal programs such as purchasing carbon offsets or building LEED-certified headquarters. Still, if you want to look beyond conventional index funds, then [this fund] is a good green mutual fund to consider.
3. Putnam Sustainable Leaders Fund (PNOPX) Assets under management: $6.6 billion Expense ratio: 0.92% Minimum investment: None
This Putnam offering is another of the largest and most respected sustainable investing options out there. It's also a focused… as it ‘invests in companies that have demonstrated leadership in key sustainability issues that are financially material to their business context,’ according to official documentation from its manager Franklin Templeton. One notable downside that investors should consider before buying in: There are some high front-end costs associated with [the fund], which has a maximum initial charge of 5.75%.
4. Amana Growth Fund (AMAGX) Assets under management: $2.8 billion Expense ratio: 0.91% Minimum investment: $100
Very accessible with just a $100 minimum investment, this Amana Growth fund from Saturna Capital is incredibly unique in that it bills itself as ‘halal’ – or fitting the religious requirements of Islam… That means you won't find businesses that focus on alcohol, pornography or gambling. And interestingly enough, you won't find a penny in finance because strict Islamic law prohibits demanding interest on loans.
5. Fidelity U.S. Sustainability Index Fund (FITLX) Assets under management: $4.2 billion Expense ratio: 0.11% Minimum investment: None
A cost-effective option, Fidelity U.S. Sustainability Index Fund… is a sustainability-focused mutual fund that charges just a fraction of what the other funds on this list charge. It is also the most wide-ranging of the green mutual funds so far, with 285 total stocks in its portfolio. That doesn't mean it's all that more diversified, however, as it is weighted by size – so mega-cap stocks like Microsoft (MSFT) and Nvidia Corp. (NVDA) dominate the portfolio.
6. Calvert Small-Cap Fund (CCVAX) Assets under management: $2.9 billion Expense ratio: 1.19% Minimum investment: $1,000
Calvert Small-Cap Fund is definitely the most expensive fund on this list from an annual fee perspective. That's in part because mutual funds generally have higher costs than their exchange-traded cousins, but it's also because this is a boutique offering with an active approach.
7. Parnassus Mid Cap Fund (PARMX) Assets under management: $3 billion Expense ratio: 0.96% Minimum investment: $2,000
With a focus on mid-sized corporations and an average market value of about $30 billion, this investment vehicle offers a way to invest sustainably in established firms but not necessarily duplicate positions you might own in a traditional large-cap fund.

End quotes.

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3 Renewable Energy Stocks to Buy at 52-Week Lows in July
As we know renewable energy stocks are frequently having a rough time this year. However, buying low and selling high is generally the best approach when buying investments. So, for those of you who favor this approach and are interested in renewable energy stocks, this article is for you. It’s titled 3 Renewable Energy Stocks to Buy at 52-Week Lows in July by InvestorPlace and seen on markets.businessinsider.com. Here are some quotes.

“While buying stocks that are at their 52-week lows is risky, on the other hand, it could present a massive upside opportunity. Thus, it is important for investors to understand exactly why the stock is down before jumping into buying. For investors looking for cheap green energy, below are the three best renewable energy stocks to buy at an all-time low in July.
1. Plug Power (NASDAQ:PLUG)
specializes in hydrogen fuel systems which are used to replace traditional batteries powered by electricity…

Currently, its stock price is almost at an all time low – it dipped to $3.07 per share compared to $12.76 per share just a year ago…

The company recently finished deploying 13 hydrogen refueling stations (HRS) in Europe, making Plug Power the largest owner of hydrogen refueling stations with over 250 stations globally.
2. Array Technologies (NASDAQ: ARRY)
The stock is down -41.14% year to date…

As the largest solar tracker company globally, Array Technologies offers various services including the DuraTrack system, which is a single-axis tracker technology that helps maximize PV panel energy production.

Recently, Citigroup upgraded the average one-year price target for Array Technologies to $19.52 per share…
3. Shoals (NASDAQ:SHLS)
is the largest provider of electrical balance of systems (EBOS) solutions for utility-scale solar…

Even though Shoals stock is down more than 70% year over year as of writing, Shoals has reasons to make investors feel confident about buying [it].”

End quotes.

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Other Honorable Mentions – not in any order.

1) Title: 5 Alternative Energy Stocks to Buy Amid Solid Industry Rally on finance.yahoo.com. By Nalak Das.

2) Title: Top 20 Halal Stocks to Invest In on discoveroptions.com. By Gloria.

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Ending Comment
Well, these are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips for this podcast titled: “Great High-Yielding ESG Stocks, Plus…”

Now please 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.

Now I’m taking some time off so my next podcast will be August 23rd.

I’ll talk to you then!

Bye for now.

© 2024 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul
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Renewable Energy Stock Picks -- and More
12 jul· Ethical & Sustainable Investing News to Profit By!
Renewable Energy Stock Picks -- and More, covers investments in renewable energy, Canadian sustainable companies, water investments, women’s empowerment, plus…

By Ron Robins, MBA

Transcript & Links, Episode 134, July 12, 2024

Hello, Ron Robins here. So, welcome to this podcast episode 134 titled “Renewable Energy Stock Picks -- and 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.

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 for me to cover here.

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These 50 Canadian corporations are betting big on green

Now nearly all the articles covered in this episode relate to renewable energy investments – except this one. Though it’s about Canadian companies, many of them will be of interest to ethical investors globally. Hence, I’m beginning with it and it’s titled These 50 Canadian corporations are betting big on green. The editorial is by Rick Spence and appears on corporateknights.com.

“Now in its 23rd year, the Best 50 helps track how Canadian businesses are meeting the low-carbon and green-transition challenge – as well as where they’re getting stuck in the process…

The companies that made the Best 50 are mostly corporations with more than $1 billion in annual revenues, as well as Crown corporations, large co-ops and members of the S&P/TSX Renewable Energy and Clean Technology Index. What sets them apart is their commitment to doing business differently – they’re companies that derive significant revenue from greener products and services, invest in increasingly sustainable projects, and prioritize equity in their operations.

Crucially, the companies’ average sustainable investment (as a percentage of total investment) hit 58.9% this year, up 9% over last year’s 49.7% – that’s compared to just 8.4% for the average large Canadian corporation.”

End quotes.

Among the top public companies on the list are Brookfield Renewable Partners LP (NYSE:BEP), Wheaton Precious Metals Corp. (WPM), Cascades Inc. (CAS.TO), and BCE Inc. (BCE.TO).

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1) Renewable Energy Stock Picks -- and More

So, back to the renewable energy sector with this first article titled 3 Best Renewable Energy Stocks to Buy in July 2024, According to Analysts. It’s by Sheryl Sheth and seen on nasdaq.com. Here are some of her comments.

“1 Fluence Energy (NASDAQ:FLNC)

is engaged in empowering the global clean energy transition by providing energy storage solutions. The company also offers cloud-based software solutions for renewables and energy storage. Importantly, Fluence Energy has the backing of two industry-leading companies, Siemens (DE:SIE) and AES Corp. (NYSE:AES)…

On TipRanks, Fluence Energy stock has a Strong Buy consensus rating based on 12 Buys and three Hold recommendations. The average Fluence Energy price target of $30.21 implies an impressive 83.9% upside potential from current levels. Meanwhile, Fluence Energy shares have plunged 31.1% so far in 2024.

2. ReNew Energy Global (NASDAQ:RNW)

India-based ReNew Energy Global is one of the largest renewable companies in the world, with a clean energy portfolio of roughly 15.6GW (gigawatts) on a gross basis as of May 31. The company provides innovative and sustainable decarbonization solutions for corporates. Plus, it engages in the production of wind, solar, and hydropower and manufactures solar PV (photovoltaic) cells…

With six unanimous Buy ratings, ReNew Energy Global stock commands a Strong Buy consensus rating on TipRanks. The average ReNew Energy Global price target of $8.82 implies 45.1% upside potential from current levels. Year-to-date, ReNew Energy Global shares have lost 19.5%.

3. Clearway Energy, Inc. (NYSE:CWEN)

claims to own one of the largest renewable energy portfolios in the U.S. The company has approximately 6,200 net MW (megawatts) of installed wind, solar, and battery energy storage systems. Plus, it owns another 2,500 net MW of environmentally-sound, highly efficient natural gas generation facilities. The company believes in rewarding shareholders with generous dividend payments…

With six Buys and one Hold rating, Clearway Energy stock has a Strong Buy consensus rating on TipRanks. The average Clearway Energy Class C price target of $31 implies 27.6% upside potential from current levels. Clearway Energy shares have declined 8.4% so far in 2024.”

End quotes.

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2) Renewable Energy Stock Picks – and More

Also, related to renewable energy is this article titled 3 ESG Funds to Buy As Sustainable Investing Gathers Steam. It’s by Zacks Equity Research and found at au.sports.yahoo.com. Here are some comments on their picks from the Zack’s analysts.

“All of these funds carry a Zacks Mutual Fund Rank #2 (Buy). In addition, the minimum initial investment for these funds is within $5,000.

We expect these funds to outperform their peers in the future… Unlike most of the fund-rating systems, the Zacks Mutual Fund Rank is not just focused on past performance but also on the likely future success of the fund.

1. Fidelity Select Environment and Alternative Energy Portfolio (FSLEX)

The fund invests… in securities of companies mostly engaged in activities related to alternative and renewable energy, energy efficiency, pollution control, water infrastructure, waste and recycling technologies or other environmental support services. The non-diversified fund invests in U.S. and non-U.S. issuers alike…

Fidelity Select Environment and Alternative Energy Portfolio has an annual expense ratio of 0.85%, which is below the category average of 1.09%. It has returned 4.9% over the past five years.

2. Parnassus Core Equity Fund - Investor Shares (PRBLX)

aims for capital growth and current income through its investments… (It)… invests in large-capitalization companies in the United States that have long-term competitive advantages and relevancy, quality management teams and positive performance in the ESG criteria…

Parnassus Core Equity Fund - Investor Shares has an annual expense ratio of 0.86%, which is below the category average of 0.93%. It has returned 9.1% over the past five years.

3. TIAA-CREF Core Impact Bond Fund Retail Class (TSBRX)

The fund invests (most of) … its assets in bonds. TIAA-CREF Core Impact Bond Fund Retail Class gives particular consideration to environmental, social and governance criteria…

TIAA-CREF Core Impact Bond Fund Retail Class has an annual expense ratio of 0.65%, which is below the category average of 0.80%. It has returned 3.2% over the past five years.”

End quotes.

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3) Renewable Energy Stock Picks -- and More

And here is my next renewable energy article. It’s titled The 3 Smartest Renewable Energy Stocks to Buy With $500 Right Now and is by Rich Duprey and found on investorplace.com. Now some brief quotes from Mr. Duprey on each of his picks.

1. NextEra Energy (NYSE:NEE)

is the first renewable energy stock that investors should consider buying. It is the world’s largest generator of renewable energy from the wind and sun and a top-tier stock in battery storage. At the end of 2023, NextEra had approximately 72 gigawatts (GW) of total capacity in its portfolio. Of that amount, half or 36 GW came from renewables, some 70% more than its nearest competitor with wind power represented as two-thirds of the total renewable capacity…

NextEra Energy will be one of the top renewable energy stocks to buy that leads the way.

2. Brookfield Renewable Partners (NYSE:BEP)

is the leading provider of hydropower in the country. It operates as one of the world’s largest publicly traded platforms for renewable power and decarbonization solutions.

Yet where 85% of Brookfield’s portfolio was once hydropower generation, today it stands at about 50% as the company grew through mergers and acquisitions…

Although it primarily has projects in North America and Latin America, more recently as the Neoen acquisition shows, it is expanding more towards Europe and Asia.

Brookfield Renewable Partners is a renewable energy stock to buy because of its hydro sector dominance that cannot be easily, or readily, replicated.

3. First Solar (NASDAQ:FSLR)

is the world’s leading manufacturer of thin-film solar panel technology and a pure-play in the solar panel space. It focuses on the U.S. and Indian markets where the greatest booking potential lays, particularly in the domestic utility-scale market…

First Solar has built a solid financial foundation and a strong balance sheet to weather future storms. Its thin-film cadmium telluride technology is distinctive in the industry that benefits from its simple manufacturing process.

First Solar should also benefit from the Biden administration’s protectionist trade policies. It recently imposed high-import barriers on cheaper Chinese panels.”

End quotes.

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4) Renewable Energy Stock Picks -- and More

This last article takes us away from renewable energy. It’s titled 6 impact investing firms and funds that are top picks from U.S. News. The article’s authors are staff at equities.com. Now some brief quotes from the article.

“Impact investing firms

1. Eaton Vance Corp. (EV)

When this investment management firm bought Calvert Investment Management in 2016, it acquired a company that’s been involved in responsible investing for years. It launched an ESG bond portfolio in 1987 and a non-U.S. ESG portfolio in 1992. In 1995, it debuted Calvert Impact Capital. Now, Calvert Impact offers notes targeting community investment, carbon reduction and a more inclusive banking system. It also offers several small business recovery funds.

2. Impax Asset Management Group PLC. (IPXAF)

This is another firm that grew its impact investing offerings through an acquisition. In 2017, it announced that it would buy Pax World Management. Impax has worked with the World Bank to structure an impact bond to finance 300,000 water purifiers for schools and other institutions in Vietnam…

3. Trillium Asset Management.

This ESG-focused fund provider offers impact investing strategies targeting sustainable agriculture, low-income housing, job creation and retention, Native American community development, financial services that help people avoid predatory payday lenders, environmental sustainability, development of domestic and international communities and child care. It typically directs investments to nonprofit loan funds or development banks and credit unions targeting historically underserved sections of society.

Impact investing funds

1. First Trust Nasdaq Clean Edge Green Energy Index Fund (QCLN)

This alternative energy fund tracks an index of securities issued by companies involved in advanced materials, energy intelligence, renewable electricity generation and renewable fuels, and energy storage and conversion. The $702 million fund has an expense ratio of 0.59%, or $59 per year for every $10,000 invested. It also paid a 30-day SEC yield of 1.2% as of the end of May. (It)… is up more than 60% over the past five years, though the last few years have been rough going for the fund.

2. Invesco Water Resources ETF (PHO)

This ETF tracks an index of companies involved in the conservation and purification of water for homes, businesses and industries. Most of its holdings focused on resource security and basic needs, with a smaller percentage allocated to climate action. The $2.1 billion fund has an expense ratio of 0.6% and is up more than 80% over the past five years.

3. YWCA Women’s Empowerment ETF (WOMN)

This fund hits on a theme that is big in the impact investing community: women’s empowerment. (It)… tracks an index of companies that ‘have strong policies and practices in support of women’s empowerment and gender equality,’ the fund’s website says. Impact Shares donates all the net advisory profits from (the fund) to the YWCA. The $56 million ETF has an expense ratio of 0.75% and is up more than 74% over the past five years, beating its category average.”

End quotes.

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Honorable Mentions that time didn’t allow me to cover here

1. Title: 7 Investments That Make You Feel Good While You Make Money on aol.com. By Laura Bogart.

2. Title: Top 10: Climate Tech Unicorns on sustainabilitymag.com. By Marcus Law.

Honorable Mentions From the UK

1. Title: Top 10 most-purchased ETFs in June 2024 on ii.co.uk. By Sam Benstead.

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Ending Comment

Well, these are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips -- for this podcast titled: “Renewable Energy Stock Picks -- and More.”

Now please click the like and subscribe buttons on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or wherever you download or listen to this podcast. That helps to improve these podcasts’ ratings and 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.

I’ll talk to you next on July 26th.

Bye for now.

© 2024 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul
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Best Vegan and Climate Tech Stocks
28 jun· Ethical & Sustainable Investing News to Profit By!
Stocks covered include those related to renewable energy, vegan foods, climate tech, and more.

By Ron Robins, MBA

Transcript & Links, Episode 133, June 28, 2024

Hello, Ron Robins here. So, welcome to this podcast episode 133 titled “Best Vegan and Climate Tech Stocks.” 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 from the UK.

-------------------------------------------------------------

The 3 Best Vegan Stocks to Buy in June 2024

Many ethical investors are vegan or vegetarian. And their ranks are growing. So, this first article will interest them – but also numerous other investors. It’s titled The 3 Best Vegan Stocks to Buy in June 2024. It’s by Muslim Farooque and seen on investorplace.com. Here are some quotes from the article.

“Their market leadership and recent fundamental achievements highlight their potential for long-term growth and rewarding shareholder returns.

1. Laird Superfood (NYSEAMERICAN:LSF)

has effectively carved a niche in the burgeoning plant-based food industry, serving a variety of natural and functional products from coffee creamers to beverage-enhancing supplements. Its diverse product lineup appeals to a range of customers, from turmeric coffee creamers to performance-enhancing mushrooms.

2. Vita Coco (NASDAQ:COCO)

is another top vegan play, and it’s easily the best pick from the list… it dominates the coconut water market with a 50% market share, offering a unique proposition from mainstream competitive sports and energy drinks. Also, it’s a hit with health-conscious consumers and athletes providing a laundry list of post-exercise recovery benefits.

3. Calavo Growers (NASDAQ:CVGW)

distributes avocados and other perishable plant-based foods. Focusing on global retail grocery and food service customers, the company efficiently capitalizes on the increasing shift toward vegan-friendly food options.

To be fair, it hasn’t been the most rewarding of vegan stocks, but recent results suggest it’s turning a corner.”

End quotes.

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5 Renewable Energy Stocks With a High Yield

This next article is back to investors’ favorite sector. It’s titled 5 Renewable Energy Stocks With a High Yield. It’s by Liz Angeles and found on Morningstar.com. Now some quotes from Ms. Angeles.

“We located five stocks included in the Morningstar North America Renewable Energy Index that provide attractive dividend yields and range from fairly valued to significantly undervalued.

A ratio above 1.00 is considered overvalued, and a ratio below 1.00 is undervalued.

Dividend Yields and Valuation Ratios for 5 US Renewable Energy Stocks

Source: Morningstar Direct. As of May 30, 2024.

1. Avangrid Inc

Fair Value Estimate: $35.75

Morningstar Rating: 3 stars

Morningstar Uncertainty Rating: Medium

Morningstar Capital Allocation Rating: Standard

Industry: Utilities—Regulated Electric

Avangrid’s renewable energy development subsidiary is one of the largest developers of renewable energy projects in the United States. It owns over 8.6 gigawatts of wind and solar energy capacity across the US.

2. Eversource Energy 

Fair Value Estimate: $73

Morningstar Rating: 4 stars

Morningstar Uncertainty Rating: Low

Morningstar Capital Allocation Rating: Standard

Industry: Utilities—Regulated Electric

Eversource Energy is one of the largest utilities in the US Northeast after its 2012 merger with NStar, 2017 acquisition of Aquarion, and 2020 acquisition of Columbia Gas.

3. Evergy

Fair Value Estimate: $65

Morningstar Rating: 4 stars

Morningstar Uncertainty Rating: Low

Capital Allocation Rating: Standard

Industry: Utilities—Regulated Electric

Evergy formed in June 2018 when Great Plains Energy of Kansas City, Missouri, and Westar Energy of Topeka, Kansas, merged. ‘With the integration complete and a new management team in place, Evergy is working to improve historically challenging regulation and invest in clean energy,’ writes Morningstar’s Miller.

4. OGE Energy

Fair Value Estimate: $38

Morningstar Rating: 3 stars

Morningstar Uncertainty Rating: Low

Morningstar Capital Allocation Rating: Standard

Industry: Utilities—Regulated Electric

OGE operates Oklahoma Gas & Electric and serves customers in Oklahoma and Arkansas.

5. Gilead Sciences 

Fair Value Estimate: $97

Morningstar Rating: 5 stars

Morningstar Uncertainty Rating: Medium

Capital Allocation Rating: Standard

Industry: Drug Manufacturers—General

Gilead has committed to obtaining all the electricity used in its operations from renewable sources by 2025. As of 2022, 62% of its global electricity needs were met by renewable sources, including on-site generation from solar arrays.”

End quotes

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5 stocks with high sustainability ratings that are also market darlings

Continuing with the renewable energy theme is this article titled 5 stocks with high sustainability ratings that are also market darlings. It’s by Faizan Farooque and seen on equities.com. Now some quotes from Mr. Farooque.

“1. NextEra Energy NEE

generates the most North American wind and solar energy. The corporation has invested considerably in renewable energy and intends to cut carbon emissions in 10 years and eliminate all Scope 1 and Scope 2 carbon emissions…

Future prospects are good for NextEra Energy, as earnings are expected to rise 8.24% to $3.68 per share next year. The company will benefit from the transition to sustainable practices and renewable energy sources, boosting its ESG credentials and long-term profitability.

2. Tesla TSLA

Tesla’s main goal is to make greener electric cars… For a circular economy, Tesla recycles batteries and vehicle parts… To minimize fossil fuel usage and promote sustainable energy, Tesla invests heavily in solar panels and battery storage. All plants at Gigafactory Berlin and others are now carbon neutral…

In the fourth quarter of last year, Tesla dominated the EV industry with 161,385 sales, up 23% from the year before. As an ESG investment, Tesla more than makes up for boardroom losses with strong potential having sold 51% of BEVs in Q4, up 1% from the third quarter.

3. Unilever UL

aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2039… including a 100% reduction in all greenhouse gas emissions and a significant percentage reduction in Scope 3 emissions, which include emissions from land use, manufacturing and energy usage…

Unilever has initiated a $1.5 billion share buyback scheme, with an initial tranche of $850 million. This indicates that they wish to give the owners their money back and think the business is financially sound… Unilever distinguishes out from other firms in the consumer cyclical category with a 3.3% yield and a forward payout ratio of 57%, giving it enough opportunity to grow its dividend in the future.

4. Microsoft MSFT

is working to increase carbon-free electricity, reduce emissions and improve biodiversity, according to its 2024 Environmental Sustainability Report. Contracted renewable energy and carbon reduction projects exceed 19.8 gigawatts. Data center growth and materials have increased Scope 3 emissions.

There are numerous ESG features in Microsoft Cloud for Sustainability… They’re also improving emissions data management for all three scopes and providing tools for more accurate reporting and calculations.

5. Cisco Systems CSCO

ESG programs demonstrate their commitment to environmental and social responsibility… Several major rating agencies have granted Cisco strong ESG rankings. Cisco has a 12.4 Sustainalytics ESG risk score, indicating good performance. MSCI rates Cisco AA, indicating a market leader, while Refinitiv rates it 85, indicating greatness.

Cisco aims to be carbon-neutral by 2040.”

End quotes.

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5 Climate Tech Companies to Watch in 2024

Now something a little unusual with this article titled 5 Climate Tech Companies to Watch in 2024. It’s by Jake Smiths and found at msn.com. However, only 2 of the 5 companies are public, so they are the ones covered here.

“1. Dotz (ASX:DTZ)

a leading nanotechnology company traded on the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX), is at the forefront of innovation in carbon-based nanotechnologies. The company is dedicated to developing cutting-edge climate and industrial nano-technologies, with a primary focus on pioneering carbon dioxide (CO2) management solutions, guiding us towards a carbon-neutral future.

Central to Dotz's efforts is DOTZ EARTH, a revolutionary CO2 capture carbon-based sorbent technology specifically crafted for industrial decarbonization. DOTZ EARTH effectively addresses two pressing environmental challenges: industrial carbon emissions and plastic pollution. This groundbreaking technology ingeniously utilizes plastic waste as its primary raw material for creating a solid sorbent, facilitating CO2 capture and storage and marking a significant contribution to the global fight against climate change.

2. NuScale Power (NYSE:SMR)

has introduced a groundbreaking nuclear power plant that surpasses the large gigawatt nuclear facilities of the past in terms of intelligence, safety, cleanliness, and cost competitiveness. They specialize in developing and commercializing small modular reactors (SMRs).

At the core of the NuScale power plant is the NuScale Power Module™ (NPM), an SMR that consolidates traditional components—the reactor vessel, steam generator, pressurizer, and containment—into a single, simplified, and fully factory-fabricated unit. Each NPM has the capacity to generate 77 megawatts of electricity (MWe), and a NuScale plant can accommodate up to 12 NPMs, totaling 924 MWe (gross). This scalability, a distinctive feature of NuScale, enables the customization of facility output to align with demand and project economics.”

End quotes.

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5 Undervalued Stocks From Morningstar’s New LGBTQ+ Index

Pleasing ethical investors in the LGBTQ+ community will be this information in an article titled 5 Undervalued Stocks From Morningstar’s New LGBTQ+ Index. Its author is Quinn Rennell and is seen on morningstar.com. Here is some of what he has to say.

“The Index's 5 Cheapest Constituents Based on Price/Fair Value. Source: Morningstar. Data as of June 7, 2024

1. General Motors GM
Fair Value Estimate: $84
The Detroit-based auto giant scores a perfect 7 on ExecuPride’s assessment for its LGBTQ+ inclusivity… GM’s stock was up 27.99% for the year to date as of June 7, 2024, and it is currently trading around $45 with a Morningstar Uncertainty Rating of High. This gives the stock a 5-star Morningstar Rating and the best value within the Morningstar Developed Markets LGBTQ+ Leaders Index.

2. Mercedes-Benz Group MBG
Fair Value Estimate: EUR 117
The Stuttgart-based auto giant also scores a perfect 7 on ExecuPride’s assessment for its LGBTQ+ inclusivity. Like GM, it also trades at a steep discount, with a 0.56 price/fair value ratio as of June 7… Mercedes-Benz’s stock is up 12.16% on the year so far. Mercedes-Benz has a 5-star rating with a narrow Morningstar Economic Moat Rating.

Morningstar analyst Krzysztof Smalec writes that Mercedes-Benz ‘reported disappointing first-quarter earnings.’

3. Woodside Energy WDS
Fair Value Estimate: (Australian dollars) AUD 45 Industry: Oil and Gas Exploration and Production
Woodside scores a 4 out of 7 on ExecuPride’s LGBTQ+ assessment, one of the highest in the energy sector. Woodside’s stock is down 9.69% year to date. This stock receives a 5-star rating.

4. Roche ROG
Fair Value Estimate: CHF 379 Industry: Drug Manufacturers—General
The Swiss biopharmaceutical and diagnostic giant scores 4 out of 7 on ExecuPride’s assessment for its LGBTQ+ inclusivity. Roche’s stock was up 3.32% for the year as of June 7. Roche has a wide economic moat, a price/fair value ratio of 0.64, and a 5-star rating.

5. Bristol-Myers Squibb BMY
Fair Value Estimate: $63 Industry: Drug Manufacturers—General
Bristol-Myers Squibb discovers, develops, and markets drugs for various therapeutic areas, such as cardiovascular, cancer, and immune disorders. Bristol-Myers Squibb scores a 7 on ExecuPride’s assessment for its LGBTQ+ inclusivity. Its stock is down 17.27% for the year so far.”

End quotes.

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Honorable Mentions From the UK

1. Title: Best Performing Sustainable Funds in 2024 on morningstar.co.uk. By Sunniva Kolostyak.

2. Title: The ESG funds making a comeback – on investorschronicle.co.uk. By Dan Jones.

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Ending Comment

Well, these are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips -- for this podcast titled: “Best Vegan and Climate Tech Stocks.”

Now please 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 July 12th.

Bye for now.

© 2024 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul
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Podcast: Renewable Energy and Sustainable Bank Stock Buys
14 jun· Ethical & Sustainable Investing News to Profit By!
Podcast: Renewable Energy and Sustainable Bank Stock Buys include articles “The Top 3 Renewable Energy Stocks Targeting 50% Upside by 2028” and “Top 10: Sustainable Banks” from sustainabilitymag.com, and more.

By Ron Robins, MBA

Transcript & Links, Episode 132, June 14, 2024

Hello, Ron Robins here. So, welcome to this podcast episode 132 titled “Renewable Energy and Sustainable Bank 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.

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.

-------------------------------------------------------------
The Top 3 Renewable Energy Stocks Targeting 50% Upside by 2028
As we approach the summer holiday period the number of suitable articles for this podcast usually declines. And that’s what’s beginning to happen now. However, there are still some great articles worth covering for you.

I’m going to start with this one titled The Top 3 Renewable Energy Stocks Targeting 50% Upside by 2028. It’s by Terel Miles and found on msn.com. Here’s some of what Mr. Miles says about his picks.
“1. First Solar (NASDAQ:FSLR)
The company has skyrocketed more than 60% year to date, and it is just getting started.

First Solar’s expertise spans the entire solar value chain, from module manufacturing to project development and energy services. Moreover, artificial intelligence is set to boost demand for solar and energy storage solutions in data centers. In Q1 FY24, revenue increased 45% year-over-year (YOY) to $794 million. Earnings per share (EPS) skyrocketed 456% YOY to $2.20 per share, with gross margins up sequentially. As the company ramps up manufacturing capacity in 2024, First Solar stock should certainly be kept on your radar.
2. NextEra Energy (NYSE:NEE)
As the world’s largest producer of wind and solar energy, NextEra is at the forefront of the clean energy transition.

NextEra Energy’s focus on innovation coupled with its strong financial performance, position it as a reliable investment choice… In the 2023 fiscal year…. revenue swelled 34% YOY to $28.11 billion, with EPS up 71% to $3.60 per share. They delivered extremely impressive results, amid inflation and higher interest rates. Its backlog also remains robust, as the company’s subsidiaries, FPL & NextEra Energy Resources, deliver best in class services… Management has forecast 10% dividend growth through 2026. This makes NextEra Energy’s stock one of the best renewable energy stocks to buy now.
3. ON Semiconductor (NASDAQ:ON)
is a global leader in power management and sensing solutions, playing a critical role in the advancement of renewable energy technologies. The company’s products are essential components in various renewable energy applications, from solar inverters, to electric vehicles and energy storage systems.

ON Semiconductor is having a tough year in 2024. It is still up against the slump in the EV market, as well as the broader slowdown in renewable energy projects. However, this is only temporary, and they have an exciting long term growth trajectory ahead. ON Semi’s powerful silicon carbide (SiC) platform appeals to a wide variety of industries. This includes automation, industrial, healthcare, and aerospace.

ON Semi is laying the foundation for accelerated growth over the next decade.”

End quotes.

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These Alternative Energy Stocks Are Poised for Takeoff
Continuing on this renewable energy theme is this second article titled These Alternative Energy Stocks Are Poised for Takeoff. It’s by Michael Lebowitz. It appeared on investing.com and offers his assessments of companies engaged in many aspects of the alternative energy sector. Here are some quotes from him.
“1. Battery Diversification May Be Critical
Global X Lithium & Battery Tech ETF (NYSE:LIT) is far and away the largest (of this sector’s etfs), with nearly $1.5 billion AUM. While it invests in companies with new battery technology, it also ‘invests in the full lithium cycle, from mining and refining the metal, through battery production.’ Its top three holdings are lithium producers.

Amplify Lithium & Battery Technology ETF (NYSE:BATT) is the second largest ETF with a mere $89 million in AUM. Like Global X Lithium & Battery Tech ETF, they invest in lithium producers like BHP (BHP) and Albemarle (NYSE:ALB).

If you want to make investments in individual companies, Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) (battery technologies), LG Chem (051910.KS) and Samsung SDI (006400.KS) are well-positioned in the industry.
2. Lithium Miners
Assuming lithium remains a crucial component in electricity storage batteries, its miners should do well, especially given the recent decline in lithium prices and the related stocks.

Albemarle (ALB) is the world’s top lithium producer and the largest producer by market cap. It is the only lithium producer of size based in the US. Like the rest of the alternative energy sector, its stock has traded poorly recently. However, with a forward P/E of 16, there is value if its revenues continue upward at their recent pace.

We caution you that lithium deposits are being actively explored. Assuming success, the lithium supply may limit the price appreciation of lithium.
3. Utility and Grid Operators
Utilities will generate more power, thus increasing their revenue. However, they must invest significant capital to modernize, expand, and reduce greenhouse emissions. (Here are some companies the author comments on.)

Dominion Energy (NYSE:D) in Virginia and Entergy (NYSE:ETR) in Texas are the two utility companies that may be the biggest beneficiaries of the growth of AI data centers. Both stocks have relatively low forward P/E’s of approximately 14 and dividend yields of 4.25% for Dominion Energy and 5.50% for Entergy. It will be crucial to follow their margins to see how effectively they offset the expansion costs with rising revenue.

Constellation Energy (CEG) and NextEra Energy (NYSE:NEE) are also worth tracking as they invest heavily in renewable energy infrastructure and will benefit from increased demand. We would add Duke (DUK) and Southern Company (NYSE:SO) to the list of companies to follow.
4. Technology and AI Firms
Companies specializing in AI software for energy efficiency and management will find opportunities in this evolving landscape. Some of the more prominent names in this sector include IBM (NYSE:IBM), Google (NASDAQ:GOOGL), Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT), Oracle (NYSE:ORCL), and GE Vernova (NYSE:GEV).
5. Physical Plant Expansion
Companies that supply utility plants with generators, transformers, circuit breakers, and switchboards, among many other parts, will undoubtedly benefit from power grid expansion. (These include.)

GE Vernova, Eaton (NYSE:ETN), Quanta Services (NYSE:PWR), Emerson Electric (NYSE:EMR), and Siemens (ENR.DE).
6. Water/Cooling
The average data center uses 300,000 gallons of water a day to cool its equipment. That is the equivalent of the water used by 100,000 homes. Therefore, companies that can develop cheap cooling solutions for data centers will be in high demand. (Companies so engaged include.)

Vertiv Holdings (NYSE:VRT)… a leader in this segment. Its shares have risen tenfold since it went public in 2019 and now trades at a P/E of 100. It’s a high-risk, high-reward stock, not for the faint of heart.
7. Infrastructure ETFs
There are many other businesses set to profit from the coming infrastructure boom.

Those looking for a diversified investment approach in the power grid may want to explore thematic ETFs.

For example, the First Trust Clean Edge Smart Grid Infrastructure Fund (GRID) holds 103 positions. Beyond diversification and portfolio manager expertise, the fund can buy stocks in foreign markets, which many US investors do not have access to or are uncomfortable with.

iShares U.S. Infrastructure ETF (IFRA) is a similar fund with a different basket of stocks and approach toward investing in the industry.

The bottom line is we are confident the expansion and modernization of the power grid will be highly profitable for some companies… Diversification will prove to be essential for investors.”

End quotes.

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MTB Named A Top Socially Responsible Dividend Stock
Now many of you also like dividend-paying stocks, so I’m including this recent article on a socially responsible bank stock. It’s titled MTB Named A Top Socially Responsible Dividend Stock by Just2Trade and found at j2t.com. Here are some brief quotes from the article.

“M & T Bank Corp (Symbol: MTB) has been named a Top Socially Responsible Dividend Stock by Dividend Channel, signifying a stock with above-average ‘DividendRank’ statistics including a strong 3.7% yield, as well as being recognized by prominent asset managers as being a socially responsible investment…

According to the ETF Finder at ETF Channel, M & T Bank Corp is a member of the iShares USA ESG Select ETF (SUSA), making up 0.10% of the underlying holdings of the fund, which owns $4,322,259 worth of MTB shares.

The annualized dividend paid by M & T Bank Corp is $5.4/share.”

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Top 10: Sustainable Banks
On the subject of banks, I thought to share this article with you as I know many of you are interested in banking with a bank or banks that prioritize social responsibility, ESG, and sustainability issues. The article is titled Top 10: Sustainable Banks. It’s by Charlie King and seen at sustainabilitymag.com. Now some brief quotes by Mr. King on his picks.
“10. Nykredit
Headquarters: Copenhagen, Denmark

Founded in 1851 and based in Copenhagen, Nykredit is a customer-owned bank and Denmark’s biggest lender with 35% market share. With ESG at the heart of its operations… Nykredit has made a special commitment to offer financial solutions in urban and rural districts alike at all times.

On the environmental side, Nykredit was the first Danish systemically important financial institution (SIFI) to join the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), and announced tighter restrictions on financing gas and oil companies in 2023.
9. UOB (U11.SI)
Headquarters: Singapore

“It is our responsibility to build a sustainable future for generations to come,” says Wee Ee Cheong, CEO.
8. SpareBank 1 (B4M1.F)
Headquarters: Oslo, Norway

A collection of Norwegian banks, SpareBank 1 prides itself on its strong local ties. The alliance is built on the foundation of being local, committed and responsible social actors.

“Climate change is increasingly affecting our world and making our future uncertain,” says Benedicte, CEO.
7. Banco Pichincha (BVL:BPICHC1)
Headquarters: Quito, Ecuador

South American company Banco Pichincha not only serves six countries in Latin America, but also works to preserve the country's heritage and promote art and culture.
6. The City Bank Limited (DSE:CITYBANK)
Headquarters: Dhaka, Bangladesh

Founded in 1983, City Bank serves more than 1.7 million customers. Governance and compliance is at the heart of City Bank’s sustainability strategy, as it works to reduce risk for itself and its stakeholders.

In 2022, City Bank joined the UN’s Net-Zero Banking Alliance (NZBA) and has since been recognised for its sustainability by Bangladesh Bank, German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) and Global Finance for its sustainability.
5. TSKB (XIST: TSKB.E)
Headquarters: Istanbul, Turkey

Investment banking specialist Turkiye Sinai Kalkinma Bankasi (TSKB), or Turkey Industrial Development Bank, uses a sustainable banking model to provide a qualified contribution to climate and environmentally friendly investments, equal opportunities in employment and inclusive economic growth.
4. Amalgamated Bank (AMAL)
Headquarters: New York, US

Self-defined as ‘the bank for change-makers’, Amalgamated Bank is committed to environmental and social responsibility and uses its funds to support sustainable organisations, progressive causes and social responsibility.
3. Triodos Bank
It prides itself on publishing details of every organisation it finances on its website, so customers can see how their money is delivering positive change for people and the planet.

In 2023, its €23.2bn (US$25.2bn) in assets were used to create social, environmental and cultural value in a transparent and sustainable way.
2. ProCredit Holding (ETR: PCZ)
Headquarters: Frankfurt, Germany

ProCredit Holding is part of ProCredit, an international group of development-oriented commercial banks dedicated to its ethical corporate mission. Aiming to drive forward the creation of transparent, inclusive financial sectors in developing countries and transition economies, ProCredit supports SMEs and has a strong focus on human ethics.
1. Vancity
Headquarters: Vancouver, Canada

Founded in 1946, Vancity is a Canadian financial co-operative that uses financial tools to stimulate social and environmental progress. Having achieved carbon neutrality in 2008, a first for a North American-based financial institution, it is now working towards net zero by 2040 – a slight sooner than many others.”

End quotes.

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Honorable Mentions that time didn’t allow me to cover here
Title: Biodiversity Funds: Top Biodiversity Funds to Consider on sustainabletreasure.com. By sustainabletreasure.
From Canada
Title: Seven U.S. renewable energy stocks well-positioned to benefit from future rate cuts on theglobeandmail.com. Requires login though does show stock symbols of 3 of the 7 companies. By Christine Elegado.

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Ending Comment
Well, these are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips -- for this podcast titled: “Renewable Energy and Sustainable Bank Stock Buys.”

Now please 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 June 28th.

Bye for now.

© 2024 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul
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Sustainable and Infrastructure Stocks Analysts Adore
31 may· Ethical & Sustainable Investing News to Profit By!
Sustainable and Infrastructure Stocks Analysts Adore podcast: Covers stocks related to renewable energy, data infrastructure, waste management, retail, and others.

By Ron Robins, MBA

Hello, Ron Robins here. So, welcome to this podcast episode 131 titled “Sustainable and Infrastructure Stocks Analysts Adore.” 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 4 article links below that time didn’t allow me to review them here.

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5 sustainable UK stocks that Fools love

The stock picks in my first article, though from the UK, are likely available and applicable to investors globally. It’s titled 5 sustainable UK stocks that Fools love. By Fools it's referring to the famous Fools investors, site, and is written by the The Motley Fool Staff and found at fool.co.uk.

Here are some quotes from the article.

“1. Croda International (LSE:CRDA)

By Oliver Rodzianko.

What it does: Croda International sustainably creates speciality chemicals to enhance products in a wide range of industries.

Croda International has ‘committed to becoming the most sustainable supplier of innovative ingredients on the planet’…

Not only is the company leading in environmental preservation efforts, but it’s also making a handsome profit in the process. Over the past 10 years, the shares have grown 78% in price. It also has a net margin of 10%, which is great for its industry…

Now, I must mention that in the past, it has faced legal action over negative effects on the environment from a plant it operated. There’s some chance that something like this could happen again, which would be bad reputationally.

But overall, this company looks very strong to me. I appreciate its efforts in getting toward a cleaner, safer work culture.

2. Gore Street Energy Storage Fund (LSE:GSF)

By Royston Wild.

What it does: Gore Street Energy Storage Fund invests in power retention assets across Europe and the US.

This small cap invests in utility-scale power storage assets with the aim of providing regular dividend income to its shareholders.

Today its objective is to provide annual dividends equivalent to 7% of net asset value (NAV) per ordinary share, or 7p per share, whichever is higher. It’s a strategy that creates a chunky 5.1% dividend yield for the current financial year…

At current prices I think the trust is worth serious consideration. At 60.3p per share, it trades at a whopping 43% discount to its estimated NAV.

3. Renewi (LSE: RWI)

By Christopher Ruane.

What it does: Renewi is a European waste management company that uses most of the waste collected for recycling or energy production.

The share price has… grown by an impressive 72% over the past five years.

Renewi shares trade on a price-to-earnings ratio of 12, which I think looks cheap. Whether that turns out to be the case depends partly on Renewi maintaining or growing its earnings. The past couple of years have been good, however the track record is inconsistent.

The business is highly cash generative but has a net debt that outstrips its market capitalisation. That is a risk to long-term profitability.

I like the business’ clear strategic focus, its extensive operational footprint and its proven business model. I see long-term revenue growth opportunities. If the company can reduce its indebtedness, I think those revenues provide a solid basis for profitability.

3. Tesco (LSE:TSCO)

By Mark David Hartley.

What it does: British multinational high street supermarket chain selling groceries and general merchandise.

Founded in London in 1919, Tesco is now one of the largest retailers in the world…

Overall, it scores higher than most of its competitors when it comes to ESG. I think it strikes a good balance of committing to realistic sustainability efforts without threatening its bottom line.

4. The Renewables Infrastructure Group (LSE: TRIG)

By Ben McPoland.

What it does: The Renewables Infrastructure Group is an investment trust with a portfolio of onshore and offshore wind farms and solar parks in the UK and Europe.

[It’s] a FTSE 250 stock that I’ve been buying opportunistically over the past year. It’s down 27% in two years.

One silver lining to this falling share price is that the dividend yield now stands at 7.3%. And the forecast yield for this financial year is a very attractive 7.6%.

Beyond the passive income potential, what I like here is the diversification in both assets (wind and solar farms and battery storage assets) and geography (six countries)…

The shares are trading at a whopping 23.1% discount to the estimated value of the firm’s assets. Overall, I think there is a lot of value on offer here for patient investors.”

End quotes.

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3 Data Infrastructure Stocks Poised to Soar on Skyrocketing Demand

My second article appeared on the highly productive analyst site investorplace.com. It’s titled 3 Data Infrastructure Stocks Poised to Soar on Skyrocketing Demand by Larry Ramer. Now some quotes from that article.

“1. Akamai (NASDAQ:AKAM)

announced that its content delivery network would start offering cloud-computing services. So, it seems that the company is turning into a de facto owner and operator of datacenters…

With Akamai becoming a datacenter operator and benefiting from competitive advantages compared to most existing datacenters, its long-term outlook appears bright.

Akamai has a low forward price-earnings ratio of 13.6 times.

2. Vertiv (NYSE:VRT)

provides monitoring systems and power management products for datacenters. As a result, the company is ideally positioned to get a big boost from the proliferation of datacenters.

Last quarter the company’s orders soared 60% versus the same period a year earlier, bringing its backlog to a huge $6.3 billion. Further, its operating profit climbed 42% year-over-year. And if the firm’s adjusted operating profit comes in at the midpoint of its guidance range, the metric will increase 28% compared with 2023. The company is also benefiting from AI-driven demand.

Last month, prominent investment bank Oppenheimer started coverage of Vertiv stock with a $96 price target and an ‘outperform’ rating. Oppenheimer referred to Vertiv as an AI infrastructure player…

Vertiv’s strong financial results and powerful, positive catalysts make it one of the top data infrastructure stocks to buy.

3. Arista Networks (NYSE:ANET)

sells datacenter hardware, such as switches, routing products and VPNs.

The company is well-positioned to gain market share in the $45 billion Ethernet network switches market. Its switches are able to integrate more easily into the most advanced chips than Cisco’s (NASDAQ:CSCO) switches…

Also importantly, Arista has a market-leading 35% share of the high-speed switching market, which are becoming much more prevalent in datacenters. Moreover, the latter trend is expected to intensify in the coming years.”

End quotes.

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2 Renewable Energy Stocks That Could Put You in the Green

The third article is back to everyone’s favorite sector with the title 2 Renewable Energy Stocks That Could Put You in the Green. It’s by Demetris Afxentiou and found on msn.com. Now some of what he says about his picks.

“1. Innergex Renewable Energy (TSX:INE)

is one of those stocks that go unnoticed by investors…

Innergex operates a portfolio of 85 facilities with a generating capacity of over 4,200MW. The company also has a backlog of projects in various stages of development comprising over 9,300MW of capacity… Innergex has taken an aggressive stance on expansion.

Innergex has operations across North America, South America, and Europe. In terms of facilities, Innergex’s portfolio comprises hydro, wind, and solar elements. While its portfolio of facilities also includes battery energy storage systems…

Despite the company’s aggressive growth and juicy dividend (more on that in a second), Innergex’s stock is down 25% year to date…

Still, the company remains a stellar long-term pick that also boasts a healthy 5.89% [dividend yield?], making it a great option for growth and income-seeking investors alike.

2. Brookfield Renewable Partners (TSX:BEP.UN)

is an intriguing option worthy of mention.

Brookfield Renewable currently has operations across 20 countries, boasting a well-diversified portfolio of wind, solar, and hydro facilities across those markets…

That revenue stream is backed by long-term regulated contracts which often span decades. The company is also expecting to continue growing its portfolio through rate increases and expansion.

Turning to income, Brookfield offers investors a juicy 5.22% yield. This fact, along with the expected growth of the renewable energy market alone, makes Brookfield a superb buy-and-forget candidate for almost any portfolio

Throw in the substantial discount on the stock right now, which shows a 30% drop over the trailing 12-month period, and you have a great discounted buy.”

End quotes.

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What are the best solar companies of 2024?

And in the same theme is this article titled What are the best solar companies of 2024? It’s by Tom Horton and found at cbsnews.com.

“The best solar companies of 2024 offer quality equipment, budget-friendly financing options, and top-notch customer service. Take a look at our top picks below.
Best overall: SunPower Best high-quality: Palmetto Solar Best referral program: Blue Raven Solar Most flexible financing options: Sunrun Most affordable: Tesla”
End quotes.

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Responsible Investing, Rewarding Returns: 3 ESG Stocks to Feel Good About

And my last article is this one titled Responsible Investing, Rewarding Returns: 3 ESG Stocks to Feel Good About. It’s by Josh Enomoto and again found on investorplace.com. Here are some of Mr. Enomoto’s comments on his picks.

“1. Applied Materials (NASDAQ:AMAT)

Per its public profile, the company engages in the provision of manufacturing equipment, services and software to the semiconductor, display and related industries. Analysts rate shares a consensus moderate buy with a $234.91 price target, implying about 11% upside potential.

What makes Applied one of the ESG stocks to buy is the underlying efforts toward sustainability…

In the past four quarters, its average positive earnings surprise came out to 8.15%. For fiscal 2024, covering experts anticipate a rather slow year. However, for fiscal 2025, EPS could rise to $9.53 on sales of $29.65 billion.

2. Target (NYSE:TGT)

As a general merchandise retailer, it has evolved into a one-stop shop. Many if not most of its stores offer apparel, jewelry and accessories, shoes, beauty and personal care products, electronics, groceries and several other home goods categories.

A mainline initiative of the company centers on inclusion and diversity efforts… Some of the company’s efforts have aroused criticism yet it maintains its commitment.

The current fiscal year may be a challenging one. While EPS may rise to $9.43 (from last year’s $8.94), revenue might only reach $107.13 billion. That’s down slightly from the prior year. Still, looking out to the next 12-month cycle, EPS could improve to $10.52 on revenue of $111.1 billion. Thus, Target is one of the ESG stocks to buy.

3. Prologis (NYSE:PLD)

is structured as a real estate investment trust. According to its corporate profile, Prologis the global leader in logistics real estate with a focus on high-barrier, high-growth markets. Analysts rate Prologis stock a consensus strong buy with a $130.80 price target, implying over 17% upside potential…

Financially, the company has enjoyed an impressive track record over the past four quarters. During this cycle, the average positive earnings surprise clocked in at 26.88%. For fiscal 2024, analysts anticipate revenue to reach $7.65 billion. That’s up 12.2% from last year’s print of $6.82 billion. It’s an intriguing idea for ESG stocks to buy.”

End quotes.

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Honorable Mentions that time didn’t allow me to cover here.

1. Title: Top 10: ESG Fund Managers on sustainabilitymag.com. By Charlie King.

2. Title: Is First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ:FSLR) the Best Alternative Energy Stock to Buy Now? On yahoo.com. By Meerub Anjum.

3. Title: Is Enphase Energy Inc. (NASDAQ:ENPH) the Top Alternative Energy Stock Pick of Analysts? On yahoo.com. By Meerub Anjum.

4. Title: The best solar companies of 2024 on cnn.com. By Tony Carrick, Roxanne Downer, and Alora Bopray.

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Ending Comment

Well, these are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips -- for this podcast titled: “Sustainable and Infrastructure Stocks Analysts Adore.”

Now please 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 June 14th.

Bye for now.

© 2024 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul
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Renewable Energy Stock Picks
17 may· Ethical & Sustainable Investing News to Profit By!
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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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
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Best Ethical, ESG Stocks, for 2024
3 may· Ethical & Sustainable Investing News to Profit By!
Best Ethical, ESG Stocks, for 2024. Covers stocks from AI, to tech, to healthcare, renewable energy, healthcare, and many more.

By Ron Robins, MBA

Transcript & Links, Episode 129, May 3, 2024

Hello, Ron Robins here. So, welcome to this podcast episode 129 titled “Best Ethical, ESG Stocks, for 2024.” 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 6 article links below that time didn’t allow me to review them here.

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1) Best Ethical, ESG Stocks, for 2024
I’m starting this episode with this article, 13 Best Ethical Companies to Invest in 2024. It’s by Ramish Cheema at Insider Monkey and appeared on finance.yahoo.com. Here are some quotes from Mr. Cheema from his article.

“We ranked the top 30 most valuable holdings of the Vanguard ESG U.S. Stock ETF (ESGV) by the number of hedge funds that had bought the shares during the fourth quarter of 2023 and picked the top stocks…

Hedge funds’ top 10 consensus stock picks outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years (see the details here).
13. Adobe Inc. (NASDAQ:ADBE)
Hedge Fund Shareholders: 105

Its Photoshop software is one of the best known image editing software in the world, and in April 2024, Adobe shared that it will add artificial intelligence features to Photoshop later this year.
12. Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (NYSE:TMO)
Hedge Fund Shareholders: 111

Thermo Fisher Scientific is one of the biggest medical instruments and devices companies in the world. The shares are rated Buy on average.
11. UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH)
Hedge Fund Shareholders: 113

UnitedHealth Group is the largest healthcare benefits provider and plan manager in the U.S. 2024 has been quite a controversial year for the firm after it was targeted through a cyber attack earlier this year that disrupted healthcare services across America.
10. Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMD)
Hedge Fund Shareholders: 120

Advanced Micro Devices is an American semiconductor designer that makes and sells CPUs, GPUs, and other silicon products… Wall Street appears to be quite optimistic about the firm's future prospects, as it has rated the shares Strong Buy.
9. Salesforce, Inc. (NYSE:CRM)
Hedge Fund Shareholders: 131

Salesforce is an American enterprise software company that enables firms to manage their customer relationships… the shares are up after reports indicate that Salesforce is no longer pursuing a multi billion dollar acquisition to grow its business operations.
8. Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL)
Hedge Fund Shareholders: 131

April 2024 hasn't been a great month for the firm, as not only have its shares proved to be lackluster in gains, but multiple reports share that consumer interest in the Apple Vision Pro headset is declining.
7. Mastercard Incorporated (NYSE:MA)
Hedge Fund Shareholders: 141

Mastercard is a financial technology firm that acts as a gateway between merchants and consumers. It's… rated (a) Strong Buy on average.
6. Visa Inc. (NYSE:V)
Hedge Fund Shareholders: 162

Visa Inc. is another payment gateway platform and services provider. Like Mastercard, it was also at the center of a bullish analyst note from Morgan Stanley in April 2024 that indicated that Visa Inc. was benefiting from the surge in global travel.
5. NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:NVDA)
Hedge Fund Shareholders: 173

NVIDIA Corporation is Wall Street’s artificial intelligence darling. Its shares are up by 198% over the past year…
4. Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOGL)
Hedge Fund Shareholders: 214

Alphabet Inc. is one of the biggest technology companies in the world. The firm was out with an announcement worthy of its size in April 2024 when it announced that it would invest $640 million to set up a new data center in The Netherlands.
3. Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:META)
Hedge Fund Shareholders: 242

Meta Platforms, Inc. is the biggest social media and communications company in the world. Its CEO Mark Zuckerberg appeared to have thrown a curve ball in the AI market in April 2024 when Meta Platforms announced its Llama 3 model which it claims is one of the most powerful open source AI platforms in the world.
2. Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN)
Hedge Fund Shareholders: 293

Amazon.com is one of the biggest eCommerce retailers in the world. Like other mega cap stocks, it is also focusing heavily on AI, and announced plans in April through which its AWS business division seeks to host other businesses’ AI models.
1. Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT)
Hedge Fund Shareholders: 302

Microsoft is a global consumer software and enterprise computing giant. The firm scored a big win in April 2024 when beverages giant Coca Cola signed a $1.1 billion deal with it to use Microsoft’s AI and cloud computing platforms.”

End quotes.

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2) Best Ethical, ESG Stocks, for 2024
This next article comes from investorplace.com, a site with a prolific output of articles related to renewable energy. This new article is titled The Power of the Sun: 3 Solar Energy Stocks Primed for 5X Gains. It’s by Faizan Farooque. Now some quotes from Mr. Farooque.
“1. Array Technologies (NASDAQ:ARRY)
has surpassed Wall Street projections four times…

Despite tremendous success, Array stock is down 31% in 2024 due to lower-than-expected annual expectations. The company’s reduction of its annual prediction has lowered the stock’s price, making it ideal for investors looking for inexpensive solar stocks. Analysts predict a 68% upside.
2. Canadian Solar (NASDAQ:CSIQ)
The company has missed profit expectations seven times in a row, with the most recent miss being 350%.

All it can do is focus on its business and grow. To do this, Canadian Solar is constructing a 5GW solar cell factory in Jeffersonville, Indiana, at a cost of $800 million…

Investors will hope the expansion into China and the new $800 million plant will help realize the stock’s 84% upside potential.
3. First Solar’s (NASDAQ:FSLR)
path forward will depend on its aggressive expansion in the solar business. It’s spending $1.2 billion to expand its U.S. manufacturing capabilities…

First Solar also paid $38 million to buy the Swedish perovskite expert Evolar. It is hoped that this buy will speed up the creation of very efficient tandem photovoltaic (PV) technology…

The potential upside of over 22% reflects this narrative, placing it highly among solar stocks.”

End quotes.

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3) Best Ethical, ESG Stocks, for 2024
This third article comes by way of a new website to me, techopedia.com. The article is titled Best ESG Stocks to Invest in 2024 and it’s by Jim Halley. Now some brief comments by Mr. Halley on each company.
“1. ASML Holding (NASDAQ: ASML)
The Dutch company has a monopoly on EUV lithography machines that are used to imprint patterns on silicon chips.
2. Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT)
The tech company hasn’t let its profit goals get in the way of ESG progress and has invested heavily in renewable energy. It has set ambitious goals for reducing water use and to be carbon neutral.
3. Hermes International (OTC: HESAF)
The luxury goods retailer sells longer-lasting goods to protect the environment and has a science-based target to lower greenhouse gas emissions in its supply chain and operations.
4. Fortinet (NASDAQ: FTNT)
The cybersecurity company has lowered its carbon footprint, avoiding 455 tons of CO2 emissions by using eco-friendly packaging. It also uses 100% renewable energy in 80% of its owned sites.
5. Check Point Software Technologies (NASDAQ: CHKP)
The Israeli company focuses on cybersecurity services. It said it’s looking to be carbon neutral by 2040. It also focuses on charitable work and gender equality.
6. Colgate-Palmolive (NYSE: CL)
Founded in 1806, it’s one of the oldest companies in the US stock market. It has a diverse workforce, with 42% of its senior managers and directors being minorities (Black, Asian or Latino).
7. Adobe (NASDAQ: ADBE)
The software company gets high sustainability scores by using renewable energy sources and reducing waste. It also has several diversity and inclusion initiatives.
8. Brookfield Renewable Partners (NYSE: BEP)
It develops and operates renewable power and sustainable assets, including hydroelectric, wind, utility-scale solar power. It pays an above-average dividend.
9. Constellation Energy (NASDAQ: CEG)
The electrical power and natural gas management services provider has the US’s largest carbon-free nuclear presence after investing in the South Texas Project Electric Generating Station.
10. Applied Materials (NASDAQ: AMAT)
The world’s No. 1 semiconductor wafer fabrication equipment maker gets high ESG scores because it uses 100% renewable energy – wind and solar power – in the US, and 70% globally.”

End quotes

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4) Best Ethical, ESG Stocks, for 2024
The fourth article is another one from the investorplace.com site titled 7 Alternative Energy Stocks to Buy on the Fossil Fuel Fallout. It’s by Josh Enomoto. Here are some quotes from Mr. Enomoto on each of his picks.
“1. NextEra Energy (NYSE:NEE)
generates, transmits, distributes and sells electric power to retail and wholesale customers in North America. Per its public profile, the company generates electricity through wind, solar, nuclear, natural gas and other clean energy...

It’s one of the alternative energy stocks to keep on your radar.
2. Cameco (NYSE:CCJ)
provides uranium for electricity generation. It operates through multiple segments, with its mainline uranium unit involved in the exploration for, mining, milling, purchase and sale of uranium concentrate. It also features a fuel unit that engages in the refining and fabrication of the commodity…

It’s an unignorable component of alternative energy stocks to buy.
3. Ormat Technologies (NYSE:ORA)
(Is engaged in geothermal energy production.) Geothermal is exactly what it sounds like — extracting energy from the earth’s core. It’s sustainable, renewable and doesn’t involve building ugly wind turbines that could impact wildlife. Notably, the company is a strong financial performer. Last fiscal year, it posted an average positive earnings surprise of 22.58%.
4. First Solar (NASDAQ:FSLR)
provides photovoltaic (PV) solar energy solutions in the United States, France, Japan, Chile and internationally. Per its public profile, the company manufactures and sells PV solar modules with a thin film semiconductor technology that provides a lower-carbon alternative to conventional crystalline silicon PV solar modules…

It’s still risky but it could be a compelling wager for alternative energy stocks.
5. Clearway Energy (NYSE:CWEN)
Per its corporate profile, Clearway has approximately 6,000 net megawatts (MW) of installed wind, solar and energy generation projects. It also features approximately 2,500 net MW of natural gas-fired generation facilities…

The most optimistic analyst believes that Clearway Energy has… over 62% upside potential.
6. Brookfield Renewable (NYSE:BEPC)
owns and operates a portfolio of renewable power and sustainable solution assets primarily in the U.S., Europe, Colombia and Brazil. According to its corporate profile, Brookfield operates hydroelectric, wind, solar and distributed energy and sustainable solutions with an installed capacity of approximately 19,161 MW…

Shares feature a moderate buy consensus view.
7. Clean Energy Fuels (NASDAQ:CLNE)
provides natural gas as alternative fuels for vehicle fleets and related fueling solutions in the U.S. and Canada… Clean Energy Fuels ranks as the highest-risk, highest-reward prospect on this list of alternative energy stocks.

Analysts rate shares a consensus strong buy… projecting over 215% upside potential.”

End quotes.

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Other Honorable Mentions – not in any order
1. Title: Qualcomm a Top Socially Responsible Dividend Stock With 2.1% Yield (QCOM) on nasdaq.com. By BNK Invest.

2. Title: This ESG ETF Is Bucking the Trend on etftrends.com. By Nick Peters-Golden.

3. Title: 10 Best Brokers For ESG Investing in 2024 on benzinga.com. By Sam Boughedda.

4. Title: Invest in the Planet: 3 Sustainable Stocks for Earth Day 2024 on investorplace.com. By Andrea van Schalkwyk.

5. Title: 3 Renewable-Focused ETFs Just Hit 3-Year Lows. Are They Worth Buying Now? On fool.com. By Daniel Foelber.

6. Title: 7 stock picks for ESG-conscious investors on equities.com. By Faizan Farooque.

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Ending Comment
Well, these are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips -- for this podcast titled: “Best Ethical, ESG Stocks, for 2024.”

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 17th.

Bye for now.

© 2024 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul
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Best ESG ETFs, Carbon Capture Stocks, More…
19 abr· Ethical & Sustainable Investing News to Profit By!
Best ESG ETFs, Carbon Capture Stocks, More… Includes SRI ETFs, sustainable carbon capture stocks, analysis on Enphase or Plug Power?

By Ron Robins, MBA

Transcript & Links, Episode 128, April 19, 2024

Hello, Ron Robins here. So, welcome to this podcast episode 128 titled “Best ESG ETFs, Carbon Capture Stocks, 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.

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.

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1. Best ESG ETFs, Carbon Capture Stocks, More…

It’s been a while since I included an article focusing on ESG ETFs, so here’s one from a good publication that just appeared on aol.com. It’s titled Best ESG ETFs: Top funds for socially responsible investing. It’s by Brian Baker at The Banker. Here are some quotes from the article.

“1) Vanguard ESG U.S. Stock ETF (ESGV)

The Vanguard ESG U.S. Stock ETF 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): 14.6 percent Expense ratio: 0.09 percent
2) iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (ICLN)

The iShares Global Clean Energy ETF seeks to track the performance of an index of global stocks from the clean energy sector. These companies produce energy from renewable sources such as solar and wind.
5-year return (annualized): 8.0 percent Expense ratio: 0.41 percent
3) iShares ESG MSCI USA Leaders ETF (SUSL)

The iShares ESG MSCI USA Leaders ETF gives investors exposure to large- and mid-cap stocks that score highly on ESG issues relative to their sector peers. The fund avoids holding companies with low ESG ratings or severe controversies.
3-year return (annualized): 11.5 percent Expense ratio: 0.10 percent
4) Nuveen ESG Large-Cap Value ETF (NULV)

The Nuveen ESG Large-Cap Value ETF uses a passive approach to invest in large-cap companies with value characteristics that also meet certain ESG criteria.
5-year return (annualized): 7.9 percent Expense ratio: 0.26 percent
5) SPDR S&P 500 Fossil Fuel Reserves Free ETF (SPYX)

The SPDR S&P 500 Fossil Fuel Reserves Free ETF gives investors focused on climate change exposure to the S&P 500 while eliminating companies that own fossil fuel reserves. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for fairly traditional investment exposure with a slight focus on climate change.
5-year return (annualized): 14.4 percent Expense ratio: 0.20 percent
6) iShares MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals ETF (SDG)

The iShares MSCI Global Sustainable Development Goals ETF seeks to track the performance of an index made up of companies that derive the majority of their revenue from products and services that address at least one of the world’s major social and environmental challenges as defined by the United Nations.
5-year return (annualized): 7.1 percent Expense ratio: 0.49 percent
7) iShares ESG Aware MSCI USA ETF (ESGU)

The iShares ESG Aware MSCI USA ETF 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. The fund includes large- and mid-cap U.S. stocks, and those looking for exposure to high-performing stocks with an ESG-bent may find what they’re looking for here.
5-year return (annualized): 14.2 percent Expense ratio: 0.15 percent”
End quotes.

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2. Best ESG ETFs, Carbon Capture Stocks, More…

Now carbon capture has been gaining increasing attention as a means to reduce CO2. Hence, this article might interest many of you. It’s titled TOP 5 CARBON CAPTURE STOCKS FOR SUSTAINABLE INVESTMENT. It’s by the Ritz Herald and found on their site at ritzherald.com. Here are some quotes from the article commenting on some of the leading companies in this sector.

“Carbon capture technology has emerged as a promising avenue for mitigating the impact of greenhouse gasses on the environment…

Research shows that the carbon capture market is predicted to hit $7.7 billion by 2025, further emphasizing the potential for growth in this sector. With governments worldwide implementing stricter regulations on emissions and offering incentives for carbon capture initiatives, the market is ripe for investment…

The top five carbon capture stocks identified herein not only offer potential returns for investors but also contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future for generations to come.

1) Dotz

is a leading nanotechnology company traded on the ASX [Australian Securities Exchange], is at the forefront of innovation with its carbon-based nanotechnologies…

Dotz’s primary focus is on DotzEarth, a revolutionary CO2 capture carbon-based sorbent technology designed for industrial decarbonization, which addresses two major environmental challenges – 1) industrial carbon emissions and 2) plastic pollution.

2) Aker Carbon Capture

is a specialized enterprise dedicated to carbon capture, offering an array of solutions, services, and technologies tailored for various industries. These encompass sectors such as cement, bioenergy, waste-to-energy, gas-to-power, and blue hydrogen…

Its distinctive post-combustion capture technology is the culmination of an extensive eight-year research and development endeavor known as SOLVit. Throughout this program, numerous solvent mixtures were meticulously tested and compared to refine the innovation. The resulting plants boast several key advantages, including minimal energy demands, a highly durable solvent, and outstanding performance in health, safety, security, and environment (HSSE) metrics.

3) FuelCell Energy

delivers efficient, affordable, and environmentally friendly solutions for energy supply, recovery, and storage… These systems cater to utilities, industrial entities, and large municipal power users, offering a diverse range of solutions including utility-scale power generation, on-site power, carbon capture, local hydrogen production for transportation and industry, and long-duration energy storage…

4) Equinor

is a global energy enterprise dedicated to fostering lasting value creation in a future characterized by low-carbon initiatives…

As a key player on the Norwegian continental shelf and with substantial international operations, Equinor is deeply involved in the exploration, development, and production of oil and gas resources, alongside expanding interests in wind and solar power.

5) Delta CleanTech

has been at the forefront of delivering state-of-the-art technology for pre/post-combustion CO2 capture from industrial sources since 2004… Central to Delta’s portfolio is its CO2 capture system, known as Low-Cost Design or LCDesign®. This innovative system is designed to significantly reduce various key parameters, including CAPEX & OPEX (CO2 Cost), emissions, effluent, waste, chemical, and water consumption, as well as plant size and labor requirements.”

End quotes.

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3. Best ESG ETFs, Carbon Capture Stocks, More…

The next article appeared on the renowned Morningstar.com site. It’s titled 2 Sustainable Index Stocks With Room to Grow and is by Muskaan Hemrajani and Leslie P. Norton. Here’s a little of what they said about their picks.

“WestRock and Carnival surged in 2023 but still look cheap today… That’s our conclusion after perusing the Morningstar US Sustainability Index, which seeks to reduce ESG risk while tracking the Morningstar US Large-Mid Cap Index…

1) WestRock WRK

Morningstar Rating: 3 Stars

Fair Value: $55.00

ESG Risk Rating: Medium

Price (as of April 8, 2024): $49.25

WestRock manufactures corrugated packaging and consumer packaging products, such as folding cartons and paperboard. It accounts for roughly 20% of the North American containerboard market and is the second-largest producer. The company has returned nearly 60% in the past year…

Spencer Liberman, Morningstar equity analyst, writes: ‘WestRock is exposed to some environmental, social, and governance risks, including carbon emissions from the firm’s operation and sizable water usage for production. However, we don’t believe these risks could result in material value destruction.’

2) Carnival CCL

Morningstar Rating: 5 Stars

Fair Value: $27.50

ESG Risk Rating: Medium

Price (as of April 8, 2024): $15.66

Carnival is trading at a 45% discount.

Carnival is the largest global cruise company, with 92 ships in service at the end of fiscal 2023. Carnival’s brands attracted nearly 13 million guests in 2019, prior to covid-19, a level it has reached again in 2023…

Writes Jamie Katz, equity analyst at Morningstar, in a report. ‘Carnival’s first-quarter performance suggests continuing demand momentum. Net yields were up 18%, helped by an 11% increase in occupancy, along with ticket and onboard gains.’”

End quotes.

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4. Best ESG ETFs, Carbon Capture Stocks, More…

Many of you are likely invested in the stocks covered in this next article titled Enphase Energy vs. Plug Power: Which Alternative Energy Stock Does Wall Street Like Best? It’s by Ebube Jones at Barcharts and found on theglobeandmail.com site. Now some quotes from the article.

“The Case for Enphase Energy Stock (ENPH)

With a market cap of $16 billion, Enphase Energy is a big name in the solar energy game. They're all about making solar power more efficient and user-friendly, offering tech like microinverters and energy storage systems to both homeowners and business customers…

At current levels… Enphase stock is priced at a discount…

Out of 34 analysts… Enphase has landed a ‘moderate buy’ rating overall… The average target price is pegged at $125.38, suggesting a potential 4.4% upside from here.

The Case for Plug Power Stock (PLUG)

Plug Power is making waves in the hydrogen and fuel cell tech scene, focusing on creating hydrogen fuel cell systems that could replace the usual batteries in electric-powered equipment and vehicles. They've got a lineup of tech that includes fuel cells, hydrogen fueling stations, and even their own green hydrogen production.

Wall Street's take on Plug Power is a cautious ‘hold.’ The average target price for PLUG is $5.30, about 79% north of current levels.

The Verdict: Enphase Edges Out Plug Power

Enphase Energy seems to be the Wall Street favorite of these two clean energy stocks… Plug Power, on the other hand, is stuck at a ‘hold,’ and has yet to turn a profit… But, keep an eye on Plug Power too - if they can get those hydrogen plants up and running and start turning a profit, they could be a serious contender in the longer haul.”

End quotes.

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5. Best ESG ETFs, Carbon Capture Stocks, More…

I’m going to end with this article titled Al Gore's Hedge Fund Loves This $445 Billion Stock. It’s by the Motley Fool and seen on theglobeandmail.com.

“Al Gore, the former U.S. vice president, co-founded Generation Investment Management in 2004. Today, the firm manages nearly $50 billion, all of which is directed to investments that the firm believes won't destroy the planet…

Where is Al Gore's investment firm putting money to work today? One of its biggest investments -- a stake worth roughly $560 million -- is in a company nearly everyone knows well: Mastercard (NYSE: MA)…

During the past two decades, Mastercard stock has risen more than 10,000% in value…

Gore's firm has owned Mastercard stock since the second quarter of 2022. Don't be surprised to still see it in the portfolio many years down the road.” End quotes.

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Other Honorable Mentions – not in any order

1) Title: How First Solar Crushed Its Solar Energy Rivals on finance.yahoo.com. By Travis Hoium, The Motley Fool.

2) Title: 4 Alternative Energy Stocks to Buy Buoyed by Solid Investments on finance.yahoo.com. By Aparajita Dutta.

3) Title: 3 Renewable Energy Stocks to Ride the Mega Trend Higher on investorplace.com. By Terel Miles.

4) Title: Wall Street Favorites: 3 Renewable Energy Stocks With Strong Buy Ratings for April 2024 on investorplace.com. By Faizan Farooque.

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Ending Comment

Well, these are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips -- for this podcast titled: “Best ESG ETFs, Carbon Capture Stocks, More…”

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 3rd.

Bye for now.

© 2024 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul
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Top Climate-Smart Stocks
5 abr· Ethical & Sustainable Investing News to Profit By!
Top Climate-Smart Stocks includes one article with 26 global picks. Another article refers to ESG companies in ‘unassailable’ market positions.

By Ron Robins, MBA

Transcript & Links, Episode 127, April 5, 2024

Hello, Ron Robins here. So, welcome to this podcast episode 127 titled “Top Climate-Smart Stocks.” 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 here.

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26 climate-smart stocks shine in new BMO screen

I’m beginning with this article from Canada, but its recommended stocks are pertinent to investors globally. It’s titled 26 climate-smart stocks shine in new BMO screen. It’s by Freschia Gonzales and found on wealthprofessional.ca. Here are some quotes from the article.

“BMO Nesbitt Burns analyst Doug Morrow has launched a new ‘climate opportunities screen’ targeting stocks positioned to thrive in the fight against climate change, as reported by The Globe and Mail…

The selection process started with 432 stocks rated as outperform at BMO, evaluating them against criteria such as net-zero emissions policies, transparency in carbon emissions, and board oversight of climate targets…”

Here are the first 5 of the final 26 stocks on the list.
Adobe Systems (ADBE) AstraZeneca (AZN) Avery Dennison (AVY) Baker Hughes Co. (BKR) BHP (BHP).” End quotes.
For the rest of the companies go to this podcast edition’s web page at investingforthesoul.com/podcasts and click the link to this article.

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5 Cheap Sustainable Stocks With Moats

The next article appeared on the renowned morningstar.com site. It’s titled 5 Cheap Sustainable Stocks With Moats and it’s by Muskaan Hemrajani and Leslie P. Norton. Now some quotes from the authors.

“These companies not only have low ESG risk scores, indicating that the companies are exposed to fewer environmental, social, and governance risks, but they are also trading at a price 50% lower than their fair values, according to Morningstar.

In addition, all five have been assigned a Morningstar Economic Moat Rating of wide or narrow by the analyst covering the stock…

Note: quoted stock prices are as of March 22, 2024.

1) Etsy ETSY

Fair Value: $140

Morningstar Rating: 4 stars

Price: $67.82

Etsy is trading at a 51% discount.

Etsy is a top-10 e-commerce marketplace operator in the US and the UK, with sizable operations in Germany, France, Australia, and Canada. The firm dominates an interesting niche, connecting buyers and sellers through its online market to exchange vintage and craft goods.

2) BorgWarner BWA

Fair Value: $72

Morningstar Rating: 5 stars

Price: $33.20

BorgWarner is trading at a 54% discount.

BorgWarner is a Tier I auto-parts supplier with three operating segments: An air management group, a drivetrain and battery systems group, and an e-propulsion segment.

3) Sirius XM Holdings SIRI

Fair Value: $7.50

Morningstar Rating: 5 stars

Price: $3.88

This stock is trading at a 48% discount.

Sirius XM Holdings consists of two businesses: SiriusXM and Pandora. SiriusXM transmits music, talk shows, sports, and news via its satellite radio network, primarily to consumers who pay a subscription fee, often tied to a vehicle. Pandora, acquired in February 2019, is a streaming music platform that offers an ad-supported radio option and a paid on-demand service.

4) Aptiv PLC APTV

Fair Value: $148

Morningstar Rating: 5 stars

Price: $78.72

This stock is trading at a 46% discount.

Aptiv is an automotive supplier. Its signal and power solutions segment supplies components and systems that make up a vehicle’s electrical system, including wiring assemblies and harnesses, connectors, electrical centers, and hybrid electrical systems.

5. Charter Communications CHTR

Fair Value: $550

Morningstar Rating: 5 stars

Price: $290

This stock is trading at a 46% discount.

Charter owns cable TV networks. It is the product of the 2016 merger of three cable companies: Legacy Charter, Time Warner Cable, and Bright House Networks. The firm now holds networks capable of providing television, internet access, and phone services to roughly 56 million US homes and businesses, around 40% of the country.

End quotes.

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The Ethical Investor’s Dream: 7 Socially Responsible Stocks With Skyrocketing Potential

Now Investor Place has produced some interesting research articles with many ESG and sustainably oriented stock picks. Their latest article is this one titled The Ethical Investor’s Dream: 7 Socially Responsible Stocks With Skyrocketing Potential. It’s by Josh Enomoto.

“1) Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT)

While Microsoft ranks among one of the biggest technology companies in the world… it ranked as number one on Investor’s Business Daily’s (IDB) 100 Best ESG Companies for 2023 list. Judging from its nearly 16% upside performance since the beginning of January, it’s ethical and viable…

Experts rate Microsoft a strong buy with a $470.30 average price target. That implies about 10% upside potential.

2) Alphabet (NASDAQ:GOOGL)

Another world-renowned tech giant, Alphabet came in at number 25 on IDB’s list for top ESG companies last year. Fundamentally, the company should benefit from its ownership of the Google ecosystem. Commanding an overwhelming market share of the search engine space, Alphabet probably isn’t going anywhere but up…

Alphabet carries a strong buy consensus view with a $165.37 price target, implying about 10% upside.

3) TJX Companies (NYSE:TJX)

TJX Companies is a discount retailer… it specializes in off-price apparel, shoes and accessories. It made number 22 on IDB’s list of top ESG businesses in 2023. On a fundamental note, the gradual return to normalization could see increased demand for cheap business casual attire…

Analysts rate TJX a strong buy with a $110.84 average price target, implying over 11% growth potential.

4) Air Products and Chemicals (NYSE:APD)

provides atmospheric gases, process and specialty gases, equipment, and related services throughout the world. On IDB’s ESG list last year, Air Products came in at number 18. To be fair, it’s one of the riskier ideas on this list, with shares losing 13% year-to-date…

Air Products and Chemicals also carries a moderate buy view with a $272 price target, implying 15% upside potential. If you want a potentially discounted opportunity among socially responsible stocks, this might be it.

5) Mondelez (NASDAQ:MDLZ)

A multinational confectionary, food, beverage and snack company, offers everyday relevance for investors and consumers. And if the economy gets a bit wobbly, Mondelez should rise as a beneficiary of the trade-down effect. Notably, Mondelez ranked as number 15 on IDB’s top ESG list…

Experts rate Mondelez a strong buy with an $83.47 price target.

6) Bunge (NYSE:BG)

A critically important name among socially responsible stocks, Bunge operates as an agribusiness and food company worldwide. It conducts operations through four segments: Agribusiness, Refined and Specialty Oils, Milling and Sugar and Bioenergy. On IDB’s ESG list, Bunge came in at number 11…

Analysts are optimistic with Bunge’s chart performance, rating it a moderate buy with a $115.30 target. That implies more than 16% growth potential.

7) Adobe (NASDAQ:ADBE)

Another top-tier technology enterprise, Adobe is a software giant. It’s perhaps best known for its Photoshop program and other products aimed at the creatives community. Because of the rise of the gig economy, Adobe could be more important than many people realize. As for its inclusion as one of the socially responsible stocks, Adobe ranked as number 14 in IBD’s top ESG list…

Analysts rate Adobe a moderate buy with a $620.63 target, implying over 24% upside potential.”

End quotes.

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Benefits of Sustainable Investing and 3 Companies Paving the Way!

This next article comes from a site I haven’t seen before – techbullion.com. Its author, Adriaan Brits, offers some good insights backing his stock picks. It’s titled Benefits of Sustainable Investing and 3 Companies Paving the Way! Here’s some of what Mr. Brits says about his picks.

“1) AGCO: Advancing Agricultural Sustainability

AGCO, an American agricultural machinery manufacturer, has emerged as a compelling option for sustainable investing. AGCO integrates sustainability into its core business strategy, emphasizing innovation and technology to make agriculture more efficient, productive, and environmentally friendly.

2) ICL Group: Promoting Sustainable Agriculture and Nutrition

ICL Group, a leading global specialty minerals company, and one of the largest fertilizer manufacturers in the world, offers another attractive opportunity for sustainable investment. ICL’s operations center around producing a sustainable food supply, focusing on soil health, plant nutrition, and food quality.

3) John Deere: Pioneering Precision Agriculture

John Deere, a familiar name in agricultural machinery, has been pushing boundaries to make farming sustainable and efficient. The company’s focus on innovations to improve machinery efficiency and promote agriculture makes it a promising prospect for sustainable investors.”

End quotes.

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Why I Keep Loading Up on These High-Yielding, Renewable-Energy Dividend Stocks

Lastly, is another article by an analyst who is frequently covered in these podcasts: Matt DiLallo at The Motley Fool. This article is titled Why I Keep Loading Up on These High-Yielding, Renewable-Energy Dividend Stocks and it’s seen on finance.yahoo.com. Quotes…

“The transition to renewable energy is one of the biggest investment megatrends of our lifetime. Over the coming decades, the world needs to invest trillions of dollars to decarbonize the economy. That should power above-average growth for companies focused on those sectors in years to come.

I want to cash in on this megatrend. That's why I've been loading up on renewable-energy stocks. I recently bought a few more shares of NextEra Energy Partners and Brookfield Renewable. Here's why I believe they could generate powerful total returns over the long term.

1) NextEra Energy Partners (NYSE: NEP)

NextEra Energy Partners has hit a speed bump in recent years. Surging interest rates have driven up its cost of capital. Not only have borrowing costs risen, but its stock price has lost nearly 70% of its value from the peak in early 2022, driving its dividend yield up to 13%. That has made it more difficult to secure new funding at an attractive rate to refinance existing financing as it matures and obtain new capital for acquisitions. Because of that, the company has had to alter its strategy…

If NextEra Energy can execute its plan, it could produce powerful total returns. It would pay a very lucrative and growing dividend. On top of that, it has significant stock-price appreciation potential as its share price recovers. While there's a high risk of a dividend cut due to its high payout ratio, a reduction could accelerate its recovery by enabling it to retain more cash to fund growth and strengthen its balance sheet. This high upside potential is why I continue loading up on its stock.

2) Brookfield Renewable (NYSE: BEPC)(NYSE: BEP)

Brookfield Renewable has gotten caught up in the growth concerns weighing on NextEra Energy Partners. Its shares are more than 55% below their high in 2022. That pushed its dividend yield up over 6%.

However, its issues were more a matter of timing than problems with financing. The company grew its funds from operations by 7% per share last year despite rising rates and supply chain issues. That was slightly below its target of 10%, largely due to later-than-expected transaction closings in the fourth quarter. It also had one that didn't close because shareholders voted against the deal…

Brookfield's dividend income and earnings growth alone could power total annual returns in the mid-teens from here. Add in a recovery in its stock price, and the upside potential is even more significant.”

End quotes.

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One Other Honorable Mention

1) Title: Strong Buy Renewable Energy Stocks to Add to Your Q2 Must-Watch List on investorplace.com. ByVandita Jadeja.

One Article from Australia

1) Title: 10 ASX Cleantech Stocks (Updated 2024) on nasdaq.com. By Melissa Pistilli.

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Ending Comment

Well, these are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips -- for this podcast titled: “Top Climate-Smart Stocks.”

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 April 19th.

Bye for now.

© 2024 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul
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Analysts’ Sustainable Stock Picks
22 mar· Ethical & Sustainable Investing News to Profit By!
Analysts’ Sustainable Stock Picks. Infrastructure, renewable energy, and sustainable stocks with high dividend yields, that analysts say to buy now.

By Ron Robins

Transcript & Links, Episode 126, March 22, 2024

Hello, Ron Robins here. So, welcome to this podcast episode 126 titled “Analysts’ Sustainable 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 is also 1 article link below that time didn’t allow me to review here.

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Infrastructure Stocks to Buy Hand Over Fist in March by Lee Samaha

Infrastructure is an investment that most ethical and sustainable investors like to invest in. So I want to begin with this article. It’s titled 3 Infrastructure Stocks to Buy Hand Over Fist in March and by Lee Samaha. It’s found on fool.com. Here are some brief quotes from the article.

“1. Trimble (TRMB)

With Trimble… infrastructure projects can be precisely managed with a significant reduction in waste and the kind of cost overruns the industry is famous for. It's a key player in digitally transforming how infrastructure is built and maintained…

Based on Wall Street analyst estimates, Trimble will trade at slightly less than 20 times the estimated free cash flow in 2025, a highly attractive multiple…

2. Freeport-McMoRan (FCX)

The (copper) miner has the resources and the financial flexibility to invest in increasing supply, and to benefit from increased prices for copper. That's why it's the best mining stock to buy in 2024.

3. Atkore (ATKR)

Atkore [is] a leading manufacturer of products used in electrical power systems in its electrical segment. It also manufactures metal frames and pipes -- among other things -- in its safety and infrastructure segment.

Atkore's earnings could significantly improve in the coming years, and so the stock looks like a good value trading on 10 times its estimated 2024 earnings.” End quotes

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5 Sustainable Stocks With a High Yield by Muskaan Hemrajani

Sustainable stocks with high yields are also in demand by investors. Hence, I thought this article would be of interest. It’s titled 5 Sustainable Stocks With a High Yield by Muskaan Hemrajani on morningstar.com. Now some of what Mr. Hemrajani has to say about his picks.

“1. Best Buy (BBY)

January 2024 Dividend Yield 5.08%

Price: $78.21 as of March 6, 2024

Fair Value Estimate: $90

Morningstar Rating: 3 stars

Morningstar ESG Risk Rating Assessment: Low

According to Morningstar senior equity analyst Sean Dunlop, ‘Best Buy’s dividend should be safe, with its 5%-plus yield looking quite attractive to income investors.’

2. Prudential Financial (PRU)

January 2024 Dividend Yield 4.77%

Price: $109.61 as of March 6, 2024

Fair Value Estimate: $108

Morningstar Rating: 3 stars

Morningstar ESG Risk Rating Assessment: Low

‘Overall, the company has returned approximately $26 billion to shareholders in the past eight years through dividends and share repurchases,’ Morningstar equity analyst Suryansh Sharma wrote in a report…

Prudential Financial provides a variety of financial-services products.

3. Exelon (EXC)

January 2024 Dividend Yield 4.14%

Price: $36.68 as of March 6

Fair Value Estimate: $39

Morningstar Rating: 4 stars

Morningstar ESG Risk Rating Assessment: Medium

Exelon is a pure-play electric and gas transmission and distribution utility that provides investors with a stable earnings profile.

4. Interpublic Group of Companies (IPG)

January 2024 Dividend Yield 3.76%

Price: $31.85 as of March 6.

Fair Value Estimate: $39

Morningstar Rating: 4 stars

Morningstar ESG Risk Rating Assessment: Negligible

Interpublic Group is one of the global Big Five advertising holding companies…

IPG has consistently increased its dividend, posting 7% average annual growth over the past five years.

5. HP (HPQ)

January 2024 Dividend Yield 3.7%

Price: $30.23 as of March 6

Fair Value Estimate: $27

Morningstar Rating: 3 stars

Morningstar ESG Risk Rating Assessment: Low

‘We don’t anticipate HP improving its midcycle growth potential or margin profile, but we do expect it to continue generating heady cash flow and sending nearly all of it back to shareholders between its dividend and repurchase program,’ Morningstar equity analyst William Kerwin (said).” End quotes.

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3 Renewable Energy Stocks That Are Screaming Buys in March by Matt DiLallo

And back to a usual favorite with this article titled 3 Renewable Energy Stocks That Are Screaming Buys in March. It’s by a familiar analyst in this space: Matt DiLallo -- and seen on finance.yahoo.com.

“1. NextEra Energy (NYSE: NEE)

Shares of NextEra Energy have slumped 25% over the past year. That price drop has driven its dividend yield up to around 3.7%, its highest level over the past decade…

The company should have plenty of power to continue growing its earnings at a healthy rate.

2. Brookfield Renewable (NYSE: BEPC) (NYSE: BEP)

Brookfield Renewable stock has shed about 17% of its value over the past year, driving its dividend yield up to 5.8%.

Growth drivers include renewable-energy development projects, inflation-driven rate increases, margin enhancement activities, and mergers and acquisitions.

3. Clearway Energy (NYSE: CWEN) (NYSE: CWEN.A)

Clearway Energy's stock has tumbled nearly 30% over the past year, driving its dividend yield to an eye-popping 7.3%... Given the growth ahead for renewable energy, there should be plenty of investment opportunities.”

End quotes.

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15 Biggest Wind Energy Companies in the World by Meerub Anjum

This analysis of wind energy companies will interest many of you too. It’s titled 15 Biggest Wind Energy Companies in the World by Meerub Anjum and found on finance.yahoo.com. Now some brief quotes by Ms. Anjum.

“Please note that we converted market caps in foreign currencies to USD according to their respective exchange rates, as of March 13.

15. Northland Power Inc. (OTC:NPIFF)

Market Cap: $4.41 billion

The company operates offshore and onshore wind facilities in Europe and Canada.

14. Suzlon Energy Ltd (NSE:SUZLON)

Market Cap: $6.13 billion

Suzlon Energy Ltd. is one of the largest wind turbine manufacturers in the world.

13. Acciona S.A. (OTC:ACXIF)

Market Cap: $6.76 billion

Acciona, S.A… is a leading infrastructure and renewable energy company.

12. Brookfield Renewable Corporation (NYSE:BEPC)

Market Cap: $9.18 billion

The company provides wind, solar, and hydroelectric energy solutions.

11. Siemens Energy AG (ETR:ENR)

Market Cap: $12.29 billion

The company provides renewable energy services through its subsidiary, Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy.

10. Avangrid, Inc. (NYSE:AGR)

Market Cap: $13.81 billion

The company serves more than 7 million people and has developed 8.7 GW of renewable energy capacity.

9. EDP Renováveis, S.A. (OTC:EDRVY)

Market Cap: $14.79 billion

The company has over 270 wind farms and operates in 28 international markets across the world.

8. Ørsted A/S (OTC:DNNGY)

Market Cap as of March 13: $21.42 billion

Ørsted A/S is a leading renewable energy company, specializing in the development, construction, and operation of offshore and onshore wind farms.

7. Vestas Wind Systems A/S (OTC:VWDRY)

Market Cap: $28.59 billion

Vestas Wind Systems A/S… specializes in the designing, manufacturing, and installing of wind turbines.

6. GE Vernova

Expected Revenue (2024): $35 billion

With an experience of more than 130 years, GE Vernova helps in the generation of nearly 30% of the world's electricity and has a significant role in energy transition.

5. Adani Green Energy Limited (NSE:ADANIGREEN)

Market Cap: $37.42 billion

The company has 12 wind power plants all over India.

4. Constellation Energy Corporation (NASDAQ:CEG)

Market Cap: $53.37 billion

The company operates 27 wind projects across 10 states, with the ability to produce nearly 1,400 MW of energy.

3. Enel SpA (OTC:ENLAY)

Market Cap: $69.12 billion

The company is a leader in renewable energy, providing wind, hydro, and energy storage services.

2. Iberdrola, S.A. (OTC:IBDRY)

Market Cap: $75.62 billion

The company installed 1,793 MW of offshore wind facilities at the end of 2023. An additional 3,000 MW will be in operation before 2027.

1. NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE:NEE)

Market Cap: $117.29 billion

The leading renewable energy company specializes in wind and solar energy. The company has tripled its wind energy production over the last decade. It has over 119 wind farms in operation.” End quotes.

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15 Biggest Solar Companies in the World by Meerub Anjum

Similarly to the above article is this one but on solar companies. It’s also by Meerub Anjum and found on finance.yahoo.com. It’s titled 15 Biggest Solar Companies in the World. Again, some brief quotes on each company.

“The biggest solar companies in the world are ranked in ascending order of their market caps, as of March 12, 2024. Please note that we have converted the market caps of foreign companies to USD according to their respective exchange rates as of March 12.

15. ReNew Energy Global Plc (NASDAQ:RNW)

Market Cap: $2.42 billion

The company specializes in solar and wind energy. Its projects contribute to 1.9% of the total power capacity in India.

14. Clearway Energy, Inc. (NYSE:CWEN)

Market Cap: $2.55 billion

The company boasts a diversified portfolio of renewable and conventional generation assets in the US, including solar and wind power generation.

13. Risen Energy Co Ltd (SHE:300118)

Market Cap: $2.66 billion

Risen Energy Co Ltd specializes in the research and development, production, sales, and service of solar modules, solar terminal application and integration, and photovoltaic technology.

12. Shanghai Aiko Solar Energy Co Ltd (SHA:600732)

Market Cap: $4.04 billion

The company specializes in the manufacturing of photovoltaic products, solar cells, ABC modules, battery storage, inverters, and energy management systems.

11. SolarEdge Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:SEDG)

Market Cap: $4.12 billion

The company specializes in solar energy solutions, DC-optimized inverters, PV power optimization, monitoring, and energy storage solutions.

10. GCL Technology Holdings Limited (OTC:GCPEF)

Market Cap: $4.44 billion

GCL Technology Holdings Limited is a leading renewable energy company, specializing in the manufacturing of solar materials and advanced solar technologies.

9. Xinyi Solar Holdings Limited (OTC:XISHY)

Market Cap: $7.31 billion

Xinyi Solar Holdings Limited is a leading solar company, specializing in the sale and production of solar products, the development and operation of solar farms, engineering and procurement, and construction services.

8. Nextracker Inc. (NASDAQ:NXT)

Market Cap: $8.21 billion

Nextracker specializes in solar tracking systems, monitoring and control, utility-scale solar power, solar power plant performance, solar software, and risk mitigation.

7. Trina Solar Co Ltd (SHA:688599)

Market Cap: $8.22 billion

Trina Solar Co Ltd specializes in smart energy solutions, solar PV modules, and solar projects.

6. Brookfield Renewable Corporation (NYSE:BEPC)

Market Cap: $9.18 billion

The company operates and develops renewable power facilities and has $52 billion in power assets under management.

5. JA Solar Technology Co Ltd (SHE:002459)

Market Cap: $9.20 billion

JA Solar Technology Co Ltd… specializes in the manufacturing of high-functioning photovoltaic products including solar panels, PV modules, solar modules, and solar projects.

4. Enphase Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:ENPH)

Market Cap: $16.43 billion

Enphase Energy… specializes in solar energy, solar storage, solar power, microinverters, solar panels, PV modules, solar distributors and installers, residential and commercial solar systems, solar batteries, and energy storage.

3. First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ:FSLR)

Market Cap: $17.03 billion

The company provides solar technology solutions and produces eco-efficient solar modules.

2. Adani Green Energy Ltd (NSE:ADANIGREEN)

Market Cap: $37.42 billion

Adani Green Energy Ltd… is a leading renewable energy company in India. It develops and operates utility-scale grid-connected solar power plants among other renewables.

1. NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE:NEE)

Market Cap: $117.29 billion

NextEra Energy… is a leading utilities and renewable energy company, specializing in solar and wind energy.” End quotes.

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Can retail clients be impact investors? By David Kitai

Now there’s a particular reason I’m including this article titled Can retail clients be impact investors? It’s by David Kitai on wealthprofessional.ca. The fund appears to now be available to both US and Canadian investors. You’ll see why I’m including this article when you hear these quotes from it.

“Within the world of values based investing — which includes both ESG and socially responsible investing (SRI) — impact investing has largely been the remit of billionaires and foundations. Unlike ESG or SRI, which seek to avoid social harm in an investment portfolio, impact investing seeks to fund positive social changes. That sort of investing requires consensus on what constitutes positive change and relatively heavy involvement on the part of the impact investor, which is why it’s been largely left outside the reach of retail investors…

Late last year, Franklin Templeton Canada launched the Franklin Martin Currie Improving Society Fund, which explicitly aims to provide Canadian retail investors with an impact strategy.” End quotes.

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Other Honorable Mentions – not in any order.

1) Title: 3 Stocks That Are Capitalizing on the Shift to Renewable Energy on investorplace.com. By Muslim Farooque.

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Ending Comment

Well, these are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips -- for this podcast titled: “Analysts’ Sustainable 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 April 5th.

Bye for now.

© 2024 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul
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Top Ethical Companies and ESG Dividend Stocks
8 mar· Ethical & Sustainable Investing News to Profit By!
Transcript & Links, Episode 125, March 8, 2024

Hello, Ron Robins here. So, welcome to this podcast episode 125 titled “Top Ethical Companies and ESG Dividend Stocks.” 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 5 article links below that time didn’t allow me to review them here.

-------------------------------------------------------------

1. World’s Most Ethical Companies in 2024

The first article for this episode is another great company ranking I’ve been following for many years. A press release titled World’s Most Ethical Companies in 2024 best describes this ranking. It was found on finance.yahoo.com. Here are some quotes from it.

“Ethisphere, a global leader in defining and advancing the standards of ethical business practices, today announced the 136 companies that have earned the coveted designation of the World’s Most Ethical Companies in 2024. This year’s honorees span 20 countries and 44 industries.

2024 marks the 18th annual World’s Most Ethical Companies recognition. As in previous years, honorees have demonstrated a commitment to ethical business practices through robust programs that positively impact employees, communities, and broader stakeholders, as well as contributing to sustainable, long-term business growth.

The full list of the 2024 World’s Most Ethical Companies can be found on Ethisphere’s website.

There are also six companies—Aflac (AFL), Ecolab (ECL), International Paper (IP), Kao Corporation (KAO0.MU), Milliken & Company (Private), and PepsiCo (PEP)—that have been recognized 18 times, every year since the inception of the World’s Most Ethical Companies® in 2007…

The Ethics Premium: Integrity Outperforms

Ethisphere’s Five Year Ethics Premium for 2024 is 12.3% This represents the margin by which publicly traded companies recognized in this year’s World’s Most Ethical Companies outperformed a comparable index of global companies over a five-year period from January 2019 to January 2024…

Methodology

The World's Most Ethical Companies assessment is grounded in Ethisphere's proprietary Ethics Quotient®, an extensive questionnaire that requires companies to provide over 240 different proof points on their culture of ethics; environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices; ethics and compliance program; diversity, equity, & inclusion efforts; and initiatives that support a strong value chain. That data undergoes further qualitative analysis by our panel of experts who spend thousands of hours vetting and evaluating each year's group of applicants. This process serves as an operating framework to capture and codify truly best-in-class practices from organizations across industries and from around the world…”

End quotes.

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2. 13 Best Environmental Dividend Stocks To Invest In According To Analysts

The next two articles are by Vardah Gill who does a terrific job of identifying the top ESG dividend-paying stocks from two perspectives. This first article focuses on dividends from stocks that also have at least a 15% stock price gain potential according to analysts. It’s titled 13 Best Environmental Dividend Stocks To Invest In According To Analysts and found on finance.yahoo.com.

Here are some quotes from this first article by Ms. Gill, starting with how she conducted her research.

“We scanned the holdings of Vanguard ESG U.S. Stock ETF (ESGV), which is a market capitalization-weighted index composed of large-, mid-, and small-cap stocks of companies located in the United States that are screened for certain environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) criteria by the index provider, which is independent of Vanguard. From the index, we picked 13 stocks that pay dividends and have a projected upside potential of over 15% based on analyst price targets. The stocks are ranked according to their upside potential, as of February 23. Note: the quoted upside potentials and dividend yields are as of February 23.

13. S&P Global Inc. (NYSE:SPGI)

Upside Potential: 15.2%

S&P Global Inc. is a leading provider of financial market intelligence, including credit ratings, indices, data, and analytics…

(It) currently offers a quarterly dividend of $0.91 per share… The stock's dividend yield: 0.83%.

12. Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE)

Upside Potential: 15.4%

An American biotech and pharmaceutical company…

The company offers a quarterly dividend of $0.42 per share and has a dividend yield of 6.05%.

11. Mid-America Apartment Communities, Inc. (NYSE:MAA)

Upside Potential: 15.9%

Mid-America Apartment Communities is a real estate investment trust company that focuses on the acquisition, development, redevelopment, and management of multifamily apartment communities…

The stock has a dividend yield of 4.65%.

10. Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS)

Upside Potential: 16.4%

Morgan Stanley is a global financial services firm that provides a wide range of related services to its consumers…

Morgan Stanley… currently offers a quarterly dividend of $0.85 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.93%.

9. Becton, Dickinson and Company (NYSE:BDX)

Upside Potential: 16.5%

Becton, Dickinson and Company is a global medical technology company that specializes in the development, manufacturing, and sale of medical devices, instrument systems, and reagents…

The stock's dividend yield… came in at 1.54%.

8. Realty Income Corporation (NYSE:O)

Upside Potential: 16.69%

It currently pays a monthly dividend of $0.2565 per share and has a dividend yield of 5.81%.

7. Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT)

Upside Potential: 16.8%

Microsoft Corporation… pays a quarterly dividend of $0.75 per share and has a dividend yield of 0.73%.

6. Archer-Daniels-Midland Company (NYSE:ADM)

Upside Potential: 17.04%

The global food processing and commodities trading company… currently pays a quarterly dividend of $0.50 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.74%.

5. NIKE, Inc. (NYSE:NKE)

Upside Potential: 17.60%

NIKE is a multinational corporation that designs, develops, markets, and sells athletic footwear, apparel, equipment, accessories, and services worldwide… currently pays a quarterly dividend of $0.37 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.40%.

4. Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. (NYSE:APD)

Upside Potential: 18.16%

Air Products and Chemicals is an American gases company that specializes in producing and distributing atmospheric gases, process gases, and specialty gases… the stock has a dividend yield of 3.04%.

3. Albemarle Corporation (NYSE:ALB)

Upside Potential: 22.08%

Albemarle Corporation is a global specialty chemicals company that develops, manufactures, and markets a wide range of chemicals and chemical-based products… The stock’s dividend yield: 1.33%.

2. AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T)

Upside Potential: 22.3%

AT&T is an American multinational telecommunications conglomerate… It currently pays a quarterly dividend of $0.2775 per share and has a dividend yield of 6.61%.

1. American Tower Corporation (NYSE:AMT)

Upside Potential: 26.6%

An American real estate investment trust company, American Tower Corporation tops our list of the best environmental dividend stocks… The company… currently pays a quarterly dividend of $1.70 per share… the stock offers a dividend yield of 3.58%.”

End quotes.

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3. 12 Best ESG Dividend Stocks to Buy According to Hedge Funds

This second article by Ms. Gill is titled 12 Best ESG Dividend Stocks to Buy According to Hedge Funds. The companies – though also derived from the Vanguard U.S. Stock ETF – are ranked by hedge fund ownership. The only duplicate company in the two lists is Microsoft.

So, here’s Ms. Gill’s description of her methodology and edited brief quotes about the selected companies.

“We scanned the holdings of Vanguard ESG U.S. Stock ETF (ESGV) which is a market capitalization-weighted index composed of large-, mid-, and small-cap stocks of companies located in the US that are screened for certain environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) criteria by the index provider, which is independent of Vanguard. From the index, we picked 12 stocks that pay dividends and have garnered the most attention from hedge fund investors by the conclusion of Q4 2023, using data from Insider Monkey’s database. The stocks are ranked in ascending order of the number of hedge funds having stakes in them. Hedge funds’ top 10 consensus stock picks outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years (see the details here). Note: quoted dividend yields are as of February 28.

12. The Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE:PG)

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 71

The Procter & Gamble Company is an Ohio-based multinational consumer goods company…

(It) currently offers a quarterly dividend of $0.9407 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.36%.

11. AbbVie Inc. (NYSE:ABBV)

Hedge Fund Holders: 76

The global biopharmaceutical company’s… dividend yield: 3.46%.

10. Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ:AVGO)

Hedge Fund Holders: 91

Broadcom is a multinational technology company that designs, develops, and supplies a broad range of semiconductor and infrastructure software solutions. The company pays a quarterly dividend of $5.25 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.62%.

9. Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK)

Hedge Fund Holders: 98

Merck & Co. is an American multinational pharmaceutical company… The company currently offers a quarterly dividend of $0.77 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.39%.

8. Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY)

Hedge Fund Holders: 102

An American pharmaceutical company, Eli Lilly… offers a quarterly dividend of $1.30 per share… The stock's dividend yield came in at 0.68%.

7. JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM)

Hedge Fund Holders: 103

JPMorgan Chase & Co. provides a wide range of banking services to individuals, businesses, and institutions… it pays a quarterly dividend of $1.05 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.29%.

6. UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH)

Hedge Fund Holders: 113

UnitedHealth Group Incorporated… offers a per-share dividend of $1.88 every quarter… the stock has a dividend yield of 1.52%.

5. Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL)

Hedge Fund Holders: 131

Apple declared a quarterly dividend of $0.24 per share on February 1… The stock’s dividend yield: 0.53%.

4. Mastercard Incorporated (NYSE:MA)

Hedge Fund Holders: 141

The global financial tech company… offers a quarterly dividend of $0.66 per share… with a dividend yield of 0.56%.

3. Visa Inc. (NYSE:V)

Hedge Fund Holders: 162

It offers a quarterly dividend of $0.52 per share and has a dividend yield of 0.74%.

2. NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:NVDA)

Hedge Fund Holders: 173

On February 22, the company announced a quarterly dividend of $0.04 per share… The stock has a dividend yield of 0.02%.

1. Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT)

Hedge Fund Holders: 302

Microsoft Corporation tops our list of the best ESG dividend stocks… The company… pays a quarterly dividend of $0.75 per share. The stock’s dividend yield: 0.74%.”

End quotes.

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4. 4 Clean Energy Stocks That Have Defied the Odds

Now, since clean energy stocks have had such a hard time recently, I thought that this article would interest many of you. It’s titled 4 Clean Energy Stocks That Have Defied the Odds. It’s by Avi Salzman and seen on barrons.com.

Here’s a key chart from the article.

“Clean energy stocks had a miserable 2023… The WilderHill Clean Energy Index is down 47% in the past year…

It’s worth understanding what has set the handful of winning stocks apart. Several of them help facilitate clean energy projects, without being on the hook for financing them.

Green Energy Winners

Company / Ticker

Recent Price

Market Value (billion)

YTD Price Change

2024 P/E

Nextracker / NXT

$57.94

$8.4

23.7%

20

MYR Group / MYRG

163.66

2.7

13.2

25

Quanta Services / PWR

234.39

34.2

8.6

28

Gentherm / THRM

55.68

1.8

6.3

21

Source: FactSet”

End quotes.

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Other Honorable Mentions – not in any order.

1. Title: 12 Best Wind Power and Solar Stocks To Buy on yahoo.com. By Fahad Saleem.

2. Title: 7 Renewable Energy Stocks That Could be Overlooked Gems on investorplace.com. By Chris Markoch.

3. Title: 5 Biggest Clean Energy ETFs in 2024 on nasdaq.com. By Melissa Pistilli.

4. Title: 8 Best Green Stocks and ETFs to Buy for 2024 on money.usnews.com. By Matt Whittaker.

5. Title: The Top 3 Infrastructure Stocks to Buy in March 2024 on investorplace.com. By Charles Munyi.

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Ending Comment

Well, these are my top news stories with their stock and fund tips -- for this podcast titled: “Top Ethical Companies and ESG Dividend Stocks.”

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 March 22nd.

Bye for now.

© 2024 Ron Robins, Investing for the Soul
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