Three Stocks That Could Make a Bang in 2025
Traders on Trend, buckle up! We’re about to navigate some exciting waters as we explore three stocks that have the potential for significant turnarounds in 2025. After a stellar performance in 2024, where my hidden gem, Byrna Technologies Inc. (BYRN), skyrocketed nearly fivefold, it’s time to shift our gaze to the next batch of high-potential contenders. Let’s jump right in!
1. Bark, Inc. (BARK): Sniffing Out Opportunity
Let’s start with Bark, Inc. (BARK)—the pet toy and food retailer that’s been making waves, albeit quietly. You might already know they operate primarily through a direct-to-consumer (DTC) model alongside a formidable presence in over 40,000 retail locations, including industry giants like Walmart (WMT) and Petco (WOOF). But here’s where it gets interesting:
- Bark is in the process of consolidating its websites to enhance cross-selling opportunities, which could significantly boost their e-commerce sales.
- They’re shifting gears toward top-funnel marketing efforts to elevate brand visibility.
- After years of unprofitability since going public, it looks like they might finally cross over into positive adjusted EBITDA for the fiscal year that began on April 1, 2024. That’s right folks, a brighter future could be on the horizon!
Furthermore, insider buying activity and a recent stock buyback initiative give additional bullish signals. Although the stock has rallied in late 2024, it remains well below its IPO levels from four years ago, leaving plenty of room for upside. Keep this one on your radar; it could be a compelling turnaround story!
2. Viking Therapeutics (VKTX): A Weighty Proposition
Next up, we have Viking Therapeutics (VKTX). This stock has certainly been on a rollercoaster ride, down about 40% from its peak in late October 2024. However, don’t count it out just yet.
Viking’s lead asset, VK2735, is shaping up to be a dual GLP-1/GIP agonist with potential advantages over single-mechanism competitors in the weight loss market. The initial Phase 2 results from early 2024 were promising, and we can expect the commencement of a Phase 3 study early this year. That’s a significant catalyst!
Moreover, the company is also developing an oral version of VK2735, which could redefine how patients interact with weight loss medications — remember, we’re talking about a game-changer here compared to injectable options like Wegovy and Zepbound.
Adding to the excitement, VK2809, another candidate targeting the booming NASH market, hit its primary endpoints in a Phase 2b study in November 2024. With its pipeline rich in potential and a market cap under $5 billion, Oppenheimer has also flagged it as a likely acquisition target in 2025. Keep an eye on Viking; its future may be brighter than its recent past suggests!
3. FreightCar America (RAIL): Riding the Rails to Recovery
As a confirmed player in the stock market, you don’t want to overlook FreightCar America (RAIL). Though I highlighted it previously, it remains a prime candidate for a sharp turnaround. With the recent uptick in demand for rail transport solutions and an economic bet on infrastructure spending, 2025 may very well be FreightCar’s year.
This company has been making necessary adjustments to align itself with market trends and is set to benefit significantly from an industry-wide recovery. Given momentum from the wider economy, sound execution by management, and expanding opportunities, the stock could attract significant attention as it edges back into favor.
Conclusion: Time to Jump on These Turnaround Stocks!
2025 promises to be an eventful year for these turnaround stories. While existing economic challenges linger, the potential for each of these stocks to reclaim lost ground and present beautiful returns is undeniable. Keep a sharp eye on Bark, Inc. (BARK), Viking Therapeutics (VKTX), and FreightCar America (RAIL). With the right moves, these equities may just give your portfolio the boost it needs. Trade smart, and let’s make 2025 a year to remember!