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Michael Hakes’ Hot Picks: 3 Stocks That Could Turn 2025 Around

Michael Hakes Reveals Three Stocks to Watch as 2025 Market Volatility Intensifies

•• 1 Min
Michael Hakes’ Hot Picks: 3 Stocks That Could Turn 2025 Around

Michael Hakes, the senior portfolio manager at Murray Wealth Group, has revealed his latest stock picks amidst a turbulent market landscape. With the first quarter earnings season nearly concluded, the visibility for the second half of 2025 has become increasingly uncertain. Numerous companies, including Delta, American Airlines, Ford, GM, and Stellantis, have pulled their guidance, leaving investors grasping for direction. Economic uncertainty surrounding tariffs has cast a shadow over various sectors, prompting questions about how to navigate the market effectively. Hakes has identified three standout stocks that he believes hold strong potential despite the current volatility: UnitedHealth Group, Accenture, and LVMH.

Market Outlook: Navigating the Murky Waters of 2025

The market landscape for the remainder of 2025 appears increasingly complex, with several key factors influencing investor sentiment. The consumer, the labor market, and inflation are at the forefront of concerns. While the consumer remains relatively strong, there are signs that this resilience may wane through the summer and fall. The looming threat of unresolved trade tensions with China could disrupt supply chains and drive up prices, potentially leaving American consumers facing empty shelves or higher costs during the holiday season.

Unemployment remains steady at 4.3 percent, but job growth is showing signs of deceleration. Jobless claims exceeded expectations on May 1, further raising concerns about the stability of the labor market. Meanwhile, inflation is poised to accelerate as tariffs filter through the economy. With headline PCE expected to rise to as much as 4 percent by the end of the year, up from 2.3 percent today, the pressure on companies to navigate rising costs is palpable. In the midst of these challenges, Hakes asserts that the "peak tariffs" era has likely passed, but the pace of de-escalation remains uncertain.

UnitedHealth Group: A Recovery Play at a Bargain Price

UnitedHealth Group (UNH NYSE) is currently trading at a significant discount, presenting a compelling opportunity for investors willing to ride out short-term volatility. The company recently revised its guidance downward after experiencing higher-than-anticipated care utilization among Medicare Advantage members. Seniors seeking outpatient and physician-level care surged beyond the company's expectations, leading to a 20 percent drop in the stock price.

Despite the near-term setback, Hakes views this as a temporary blip rather than a structural issue. UnitedHealth is trading at 13.5 times price-to-earnings (P/E), a valuation not seen since the days when Bernie Sanders was championing a single-payer healthcare system. If utilization rates normalize in 2026, the company's earnings per share could climb to $30, potentially propelling the stock back into the $500 range. For Hakes, this represents a classic "buy low, sell high" scenario, with a strong likelihood of recovery as the healthcare sector stabilizes.

Accenture: Riding the Gen AI Wave

Accenture (CAN NYSE) has emerged as a pivotal player in the ongoing digital transformation sweeping across industries. Companies that dipped their toes in generative AI throughout 2024 are now diving in headfirst, seeking to implement these technologies across their entire operations. Accenture stands poised to benefit from this wave, given its deep expertise in strategy, consulting, and technology.

Hakes is particularly bullish on Accenture's ability to capture market share as businesses ramp up their AI integration efforts. With companies under increasing pressure to adopt AI or risk being left behind, demand for Accenture’s services is expected to remain robust. The firm has already positioned itself as a leader in guiding enterprises through complex digital transitions, and Hakes anticipates low double-digit growth in the medium term as AI adoption accelerates.

LVMH: The Luxury Titan at a Discount

LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE (MC FRANCE) may not be the first stock that comes to mind amid economic uncertainty, but Hakes sees a significant opportunity in the luxury conglomerate. LVMH owns a portfolio of 75 prestigious brands, including Tiffany, Sephora, and Bulgari, making it a dominant force in fashion, leather goods, and premium beverages.

Despite missing its last quarterly earnings expectations, LVMH is trading at a relatively undemanding 17.5 times forward P/E. Investors have expressed concerns about the impact of tariffs and the increased risk of a global recession, but Hakes believes these fears are overblown. As the tariff situation stabilizes and global consumer sentiment improves, LVMH is well-positioned to capitalize on the return of high-end spending. The company's brand strength and pricing power provide a robust buffer against economic headwinds, making it an attractive buy for those seeking exposure to the luxury sector.

Conclusion: Betting on Resilience Amid Uncertainty

Michael Hakes’ top picks for May 2025 underscore a strategy rooted in resilience and strategic positioning. While the market grapples with ongoing uncertainty surrounding tariffs, inflation, and labor market stability, UnitedHealth Group, Accenture, and LVMH offer compelling opportunities for long-term investors. UnitedHealth's valuation is too compelling to ignore, particularly as healthcare utilization normalizes. Accenture stands at the forefront of the AI revolution, with a strong pipeline of digital transformation projects. LVMH, despite its recent stumble, remains a luxury powerhouse with a proven track record of navigating economic downturns.

For investors seeking stability and growth, Hakes’ selections offer a well-rounded mix of defensive plays and high-growth potential. As the second half of 2025 unfolds, the market will be watching closely to see how these three giants navigate the evolving economic landscape.

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