The S&P 500 Entered a Correction Last Week. 2 Winning Stocks to Buy While They're Still on Sale

Market Overview - The S&P 500 has entered a correction, falling at least 10% from its recent peak, alongside concerns about weakening consumer sentiment, an intensifying trade war, and rising inflation [1] - The market's initial positive reaction to President Trump's election quickly reversed, leading to the S&P 500's lowest level in six months [1] Investment Opportunities - Despite the market sell-off, there are stocks trading at a discount, presenting good buying opportunities [2] Company Analysis: Target - Target's stock has declined over 50% in the last three years due to weak consumer discretionary spending and internal issues like inventory management and theft [3] - Currently, Target is trading at a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 12 and offers a dividend yield of 4.2% [4] - For 2025, Target's guidance indicates flat comparable-sales growth and net sales growth of 1%, with adjusted earnings per share expected to be between $8.80 and$8.90 [4] - Target has fundamental strengths, including a unique retail brand and a growing portfolio of owned brands, with at least 10 generating over $1 billion in annual revenue [5] - The company has set ambitious goals for 2030, aiming for total sales growth of over$15 billion, focusing on categories like gaming, sports, and toys [6] - Target is currently valued like a declining retailer, but a recovery in consumer sentiment could lead to steady growth and a significant boost in stock performance [7] Company Analysis: Shopify - Shopify's shares have decreased by 27% from their peak due to concerns about consumer sentiment and economic growth [8] - Despite the broader market weakness, Shopify reported a 31% revenue increase to $2.81 billion in Q4 2024, with a 26$94.5 billion [10] - Shopify's platform is outpacing Amazon in GMV growth, demonstrating its effectiveness in enabling e-commerce for businesses of all sizes [10] - The company continues to invest in technology, including AI, to drive future growth, with expectations of mid-20s revenue growth and mid-teens free cash flow margin into 2025 [11] - Following the recent sell-off, Shopify's valuation has become more reasonable, with a price-to-sales ratio around 14 and a P/E ratio of less than 100 [12]