Prominent financial analysts recently unveiled their preferred stock selections during CNBC's "Halftime Report Final Trades" segment. These investment professionals provided insights into why particular companies like Baker Hughes, Honda Motor, the State Street SPDR S&P Regional Banking ETF, and Wells Fargo & Company are poised for potential growth and strong returns in the current market landscape.
Insightful Market Picks from Leading Financial Strategists
On January 20, 2026, a panel of distinguished financial experts convened on CNBC's "Halftime Report Final Trades" to share their top investment recommendations. Joshua Brown, the co-founder and CEO of Ritholtz Wealth Management, spotlighted Baker Hughes Company. His conviction was bolstered by a January 7 report from Susquehanna analyst Charles Minervino, who reaffirmed a Positive rating and elevated the price target for the company's shares from $56 to $58. This indicates a robust outlook for the energy technology firm.
Meanwhile, Jason Snipe, founder and chief investment officer of Odyssey Capital Advisors, expressed a preference for the State Street SPDR S&P Regional Banking ETF (KRE), emphasizing the resilience and potential of regional banking institutions. His pick suggests confidence in the broader regional banking sector.
Jenny Van Leeuwen Harrington, CEO of Gilman Hill Asset Management, LLC, presented a compelling case for Honda Motor Co., Ltd. She pointed to its attractive 4.3% dividend yield and a valuation of nine times earnings, noting the company's dominant position and high profit margins within the global motorcycle market. American Honda also reported strong sales figures for 2025, with 1,430,577 units sold, marking a 0.5% increase year-over-year, and December sales reaching 118,659 units.
Finally, Stephanie Link, Chief Investment Strategist and Head of Investment Solutions at Hightower Advisors, advocated for Wells Fargo & Company, labeling it a 'buy.' Her endorsement followed the bank's stronger-than-expected fourth-quarter earnings announcement on January 14. Wells Fargo reported a net income of $5.4 billion, or $1.62 per diluted share, for Q4 2025, an increase from $5.1 billion, or $1.43 per share, in the previous year, driven by climbing net interest income and fees.
These selections from leading financial minds offer valuable perspectives for investors navigating today's dynamic market. The emphasis on companies with strong fundamentals, positive analyst coverage, attractive dividends, and robust earnings reports highlights a strategic approach to identifying potential growth opportunities. Investors may find these insights particularly useful in shaping their own portfolios, focusing on sectors and companies that demonstrate clear strengths and promising trajectories.