In this article, we’ll take a look at the 20 Most Searched Stocks on Google, with a detailed overview of stock search trends. To skip the detailed analysis and have a quick overview of the top 5, read our article 5 Most Searched Stocks on Google. A Gallup survey highlights the growing public engagement with […] In this article, we’ll take a look at the 20 Most Searched Stocks on Google, with a detailed overview of stock search trends. To skip the detailed analysis and have a quick overview of the top 5, read our article 5 Most Searched Stocks on Google. A Gallup survey highlights the growing public engagement with stocks, showcasing that around 61% of Americans own stock. This data underlines a broader trend in the stock market, and Google searches serve as the pulse of this expanding investor base. Giants in the stock market like Apple Inc (NASDAQ:AAPL), Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:TSLA), Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ:MSFT), and Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:AMZN) commonly dominate search engines like Google while also boasting market capitalization in hundreds of billions of dollars. Apple stock (NASDAQ:AAPL), for instance, boasts an average monthly search volume of 2.74 million on Google.  At the same time, Apple’s (NASDAQ:AAPL) current market cap stands at around $2.73 trillion. Tesla stock (NASDAQ:TSLA) is another example of the most searched stocks on Google. With an average monthly search volume of 9.14 million and a current market cap of $767.32 billion, Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:TSLA) shows the influence of tech giants not only in search results but in the global economic landscape as well. Global events also widely influence stock searches on Google. For instance, the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped market dynamics. With travel restrictions and lockdowns in place, airline and travel stocks plummeted in interest and value, while pharmaceuticals and tech companies boomed. Biotech firms involved in vaccine development like Moderna Inc (NASDAQ:MRNA) and Pfizer Inc saw a significant appreciation in value during the COVID-19 pandemic. Moderna (NASDAQ: MRNA) stock, previously a lesser-known entity for the general public, saw an increase in average monthly search volume from effectively zero in December 2019 to 5.5 million in December 2020. Likewise, the search interest of the Pfizer stock in Google trends grew from practically zero in December 2019 to 100% in December 2020. Stocks that are most frequently searched on Google often tend to be the ones most actively traded as well. For example, Apple’s (NASDAQ:AAPL) stock is one of the most traded stocks with the average daily trading volume of around 58.36 million shares. Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) is also one of the most traded stocks, with an average daily trading volume of around 118 million shares. Most searched stocks often top the list of best performing stocks as well. Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN), for instance, is considered one of the best-performing stocks in the past 25 years, and it has generated an aggregate return of over  170,000% since its IPO in 1997. However, a rise in search volume doesn’t necessarily equate to stock profitability or viability. Often, companies making headlines due to controversies or legal issues also see an uptick in searches. For instance, when a company faces allegations of malpractice, its stock might become one of the most searched, not because of increased investor interest but out of sheer public curiosity and concern. For instance, during Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA)’s announcement of its 5-for-1 stock split in August 2020, searches for “Tesla stock” spiked significantly. The negative press also drives search volumes. Boeing experienced this firsthand in 2019 when its 737 MAX faced global scrutiny following two fatal crashes. Google search queries for “Boeing stock” spiked by 690% from February 2019 to March 2019, reflecting public concern. Meme stocks have also been gaining attention in Google search results. For example, AMC Entertainment Holdings (NYSE:AMC) and GameStop Corp (NYSE:GME) have a search volume of millions, placing them on the list of most searched stocks on Google. The search momentum was primarily driven by retail investors’ subbreddit — r/Wallstreetbets. For investors and market analysts, understanding these Google search trends is becoming an increasingly essential tool. However, it should be combined with robust fundamental and technical analysis to derive actionable investment insights. The most searched stocks present a snapshot, but the true investment landscape requires a broader view. Source: pexels Methodology To figure out which stocks are most searched on Google, we first turned to tools like Google Keyword Planner and keywordtool.io. By entering terms like ‘stock’ and ‘stocks’, these tools gave us a list of the most searched stocks on Google. From this list, we selected the top 80 stocks. Now, to understand how often each of these stocks is searched every month, we used another tool called Keywords Everywhere. This tool provided us with the average monthly search volume for each stock. Finally, we arranged these stocks in order, from the most searched to the least, based on the numbers from Keywords Everywhere. From this organized list, we took the top 20. These are the stocks that we found to be the most popular and frequently searched on Google. Below is our list of the top 20 most searched stocks on Google, arranged in descending order from 20 (least searched on our list) to 1 (most searched). Note: Even though our article is primarily on stocks, we’ve also included ETFs that have had a significant Google search interest and volume. 20 Most Searched Stocks on Google 20. Walt Disney Co (NYSE:DIS) Average monthly search volume: 673,000 Though The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:DIS) shares have been a popular choice among investors due to the company’s vast portfolio of intellectual properties, its stock has seen a consistent fall in recent years. 19. Alibaba Group Holding Limited (NYSE:BABA) Average monthly search volume: 823,000 Alibaba Group Holding Limited (NYSE:BABA)’s stock performance reflects its dominance in the e-commerce space within China and its expanding global reach. However, Alibaba (NYSE:BABA)’s stock has observed fluctuations in recent years due to regulatory challenges, COVID-19 lockdowns, and market competition. In Q2 2023 Earnings Call, Daniel Zhang – executive chairman and chief executive officer of Alibaba Group Holding Limited – expressed: Alibaba International Digital Commerce Group, AIDC, delivered 41% overall revenue growth this quarter, and its retail business achieved 60% revenue growth year-over-year. This was driven by solid order growth of our international retail parking places at around 25% year-over-year growth. Advertising revenue growth because of the enhancement of our monetization and higher direct sales revenue contribution as AliExpress expands its new choice model. Alibaba also delivered a record order growth based on its defeated country strategy, accelerating progress in high-priority markets such as Philippines and Thailand. In Turkey, Trendyol continued to maintain its growth momentum and market leadership. 18. Rivian Automotive, Inc. (NASDAQ:RIVN) Average monthly search volume: 823,000 Rivian Automative, Inc (NASDAQ:RIVN)’s Initial Public Offering (IPO) at a price of $78 per share was one of the most anticipated in the electric vehicle industry. The stock has drawn interest from investors eager to capitalize on the EV trend. In Q2 2023, Rivian Automotive, Inc (NASDAQ:RIVN) posted a revenue of $1.1 billion, largely attributed to the delivery of 12,640 vehicles. However, Rivian (NASDAQ:RIVN) EPS in the same quarter observed a year-over-year decline of 32.8%, registering at -$1.27. 17. SoFi Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:SOFI) Average monthly search volume: 823,000 One of the key players in the fintech industry, SoFi Technologies Inc (NASDAQ:SOFI) is drawing attention from investors due to its all-in-one app and potential market share. The revenues of SoFi Technologies Inc (NASDAQ:SOFI) increased from $362 million in Q2 2022 to $489 million in the same quarter in 2023, making an increase of 37%. In Q2 2023 Earnings Call, SoFi Technologies Inc (NASDAQ:SOFI) CEO Anthony Noto said: A few key financial achievements from the second quarter include, record adjusted net revenue of $489 million, up 37% year-over-year. Record adjusted EBITDA of nearly $77 million, representing a 43% incremental margin, and a 16% consolidated margin. At the company level, we saw an incremental GAAP net income margin of 36% which resulted in a loss of just $48 million. At SoFi Bank, we had over $63 million of GAAP net income at a margin of 17%. From a balance sheet perspective, our unique value proposition in SoFi continues to fuel high-quality deposits, that increased by $2.7 billion sequentially and we ended the quarter with nearly $12.7 billion in deposits. Importantly, more than 90% of our consumer deposits are from sticky direct deposit members, and nearly 98% of our deposits are insured. 16. Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX) Average monthly search volume: 823,000 Netflix, Inc (NASDAQ:NFLX)’s transition from a DVD rental service to a global streaming giant has been a case study in business transformation. Its stock performance has been linked to subscriber growth. This connection was evident when Netflix, Inc (NASDAQ:NFLX) stock declined by 51% in 2022 due to stagnated subscriber growth. However, its cheaper plans and actions against account sharing echoed growth in 2023. In Q2 2023, Netflix (NASDAQ:NFLX) reported revenues of $8,178 million, up from $7,970 million in Q2 2022. Furthermore, the global streaming memberships of Netflix, Inc (NASDAQ:NFLX) grew by 8% year-over-year in Q2 2023, reaching 238.39 million subscribers. 15. Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) Average monthly search volume: 1,000,000 The long-time tech titan Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) is one of the top stocks in 2023. Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) boasted a revenue of $52.7 billion in their Q4, FY2023, marking a 7% increase from the same quarter in the previous years. This robust revenue stream is further bolstered by its impressive operating income of $22.4 billion. The cloud segment of Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) has seen remarkable growth, reporting a 22% increase year-over-year in its most recent quarter. In its Q4 FY2023 Earnings Call, Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) CEO Satya Nadella expressed: “We had a solid close to our fiscal year. The Microsoft Cloud surpassed $110 billion in annual revenue, up 27% in constant currency, with Azure all-up accounting for more than 50% of the total for the first time. Every customer I speak with is asking not only how, but how fast they can apply next-generation AI to address the biggest opportunities and challenges they face, and to do so safely and responsibly. To that end, we remain focused on 3 key priorities: first, helping customers use the breadth and depth of Microsoft Cloud to get the most value on to their spend; second, investing to lead in the new AI platform shift by infusing AI across every layer of the tech stack; and third, driving operating leverage.” 14. GameStop Corp. (NYSE:GME) Average monthly search volume: 1,220,000 With a current market cap of $5.13 billion, GameStop (NYSE:GME) stock is one of the most popular stocks among retail investors. GameStop Corp (NYSE:GME) stock surged in popularity over the past year due to its meme-trade frenzy, interest by retail investors, and a strong balance sheet. The reported net sales of GameStop Corp (NYSE:GME) reached $1.164 billion in Q2 2023 compared to $1.136 billion sales in the same period in 2022. 13. Invesco QQQ Trust (NASDAQ:QQQ) Average monthly search volume: 1,220,000 Invesco QQQ Trust (NASDAQ:QQQ) is one of the most traded ETFs and also one of the most searched ETFs on Google. It offers investors exposure to tech giants, and its fluctuations reflect broader tech industry shifts. Invesco QQQ Trust (NASDAQ:QQQ) carried its strong Q1 performance into Q2 2023 with an impressive total return of 15.31% in Q2. This not only outshone the S&P 500’s growth of 8.74% but also marked the best first half of any year in QQQ (NASDAQ:QQQ)’s history, as its half-year total return hit 39.18%, surpassing the S&P 500’s 16.88% by a notable 22.30%. 12. Bed Bath & Beyond Inc. (OTCMKTS:BBBYQ) Average monthly search volume: 1,500,000 Though Bed Bath & Beyond Inc., (OTCMKTS:BBBYQ) filed for bankruptcy and sold its brand name, it remains a center of attention for meme stock enthusiasts. Following its removal from the New York Stock Exchange on May 3, BBBY (OTCMKTS:BBBYQ) stock transitioned to the over-the-counter (OTC) market, with a daily trade average of 24 million shares. 11. Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG) Average monthly search volume: 1,500,000 Google parent Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) is a leader in the tech industry. Despite facing stiff competition in internet search and artificial intelligence, Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG)’s stock and revenues continue to grow. In the second quarter of 2023, Alphabet (NASDAQ:GOOG) reported a 7% increase in revenues year-over-year, climbing from $69,685 million in Q2 2022 to $74,604 million in Q2 2023. The diluted EPS also rose to $1.44, marking a 19% increase from $1.21 in Q2 2022. In Q2 2023 Earnings Call, Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) CFO Ruth Porat reported: For the second quarter, our Consolidated Revenues were $74.6 billion, up 7%, or up 9% in constant currency. Search remained the largest contributor to revenue growth. Total Cost of Revenues was $31.9 billion, up 6%, driven by Other Cost of Revenues of $19.4 billion, which was up 8%. Growth here was driven by Content Acquisition Costs, primarily for YouTube subscription offerings, followed by Hardware costs associated with Pixel family launches in the second quarter. 10. Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMD) Average monthly search volume: 1,830,000 With a record revenue of $5.4 billion in Q2 2023, Advanced Micro Devices, Inc (NASDAQ:AMD) is a major player in the semiconductor industry. The semiconductor giant Advanced Micro Devices, Inc (NASDAQ:AMD) also posted a non-GAAP net income of $948 million and a diluted EPS of $0.02 in Q2. AMD (NASDAQ:AMD)’s Ryzen and EPYC processors have successfully disrupted market norms and gained traction among both mainstream consumers and enterprise clientele. 9. Adobe Inc. (NASDAQ:ADBE) Average monthly search volume: 2,240,000 A global leader in the digital media and marketing world, Adobe Inc., (NASDAQ:ADBE) stock has been a favorite of investors due to its cloud-based subscription model and its flagship products like Photoshop, Illustrator, and Premiere Pro. In the third quarter of 2023, Adobe Inc., (NASDAQ:ADBE) reported revenue of $4.89 billion, a 10% year-over-year growth. It also reported a repurchase of around 2.1 million shares during the period. In Q3 2023 Earnings Call, Adobe Inc. (NASDAQ:ADBE) CEO Shantanu Narayen said: Adobe had another record Q3, achieving revenue of $4.89 billion, representing 13% year-over-year growth. GAAP earnings per share for the quarter was $3.05 and non-GAAP earnings per share was $4.09, representing 26% and 20% year-over-year growth, respectively. Driving this success is a rich and innovative product roadmap. The advances we are delivering across Creative Cloud, Document Cloud and Experience Cloud are enabling us to attract an ever-growing set of users while delivering more value to existing customers. Yesterday’s exciting announcements add to this roadmap. With the commercial availability of our generative AI capabilities, natively integrated in Adobe Creative Cloud, Adobe Express and Adobe Experience Cloud, we are unleashing a new era of AI-enhanced creativity for millions of customers around the globe. 8. NIO Inc. (NYSE:NIO) Average monthly search volume: 2,240,000 As a prominent Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, NIO Inc., (NYSE:NIO) stock is at the forefront of the EV market in Asia. In July, NIO Inc., (NYSE:NIO) dominated the premium EV market, securing a 59% market share with transaction prices exceeding 300,000 yuan (approximately $41,150). However, recent financial insights from Shanghai show a mixed bag for the company. In Q2 2023, NIO (NYSE:NIO) disclosed vehicle deliveries totaling 23,520, a 6.1% reduction from the same quarter in the previous year. The gross profit of NIO Inc., (NYSE:NIO) also saw a sharp decline, plummeting to RMB 87.0 million ($12.0 million), which is a significant 93.5% drop compared to Q2 2022. 7. Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:META) Average monthly search volume: 2,240,000 Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:META), formerly known as Facebook Inc., stands as a financial titan in the current tech-driven bullish market. The company reported an 11% surge in its revenues in the second quarter of 2023, rising from $28,822 million in Q2 2022 to $31,999 million in Q2 2023. Meta (NASDAQ:META)’s diluted earnings per share (EPS) rose by 21% to $2.98, up from $2.46 in Q2 2022. Meta Platforms, Inc also reported an increased engagement across its various. In Q2 2023 Earnings Call, Meta Platforms, Inc (NASDAQ:META) CEO Mark Zuckerberg expressed: This was a good quarter for our business. We’re seeing strong engagement trends across our apps. There are now more than 3.8 billion people who use at least one of our apps every month. Facebook now has more than 3 billion monthly actives with daily actives continuing to grow around the world, including in the US and Canada. In addition to our core products performing well, I think we have the most exciting roadmap ahead that I’ve seen in a while. We’ve got continued progress on Threads, Reels, Llama 2 and some groundbreaking AI products in the pipeline, as well as the Quest 3 launch coming up this fall. We’re heads-down executing on all this right now and it’s really good to see the decisions and investments we’ve made start to play-out. Meta’s Chief Financial Officer, Susan Li, further added: We ended the second quarter with over 71,400 employees, down 7% from the first quarter. Our second quarter headcount still included roughly half of the approximately 10,000 employees impacted by the 2023 layoffs. We expect that our third quarter headcount will no longer include the vast majority of impacted employees. Second quarter operating income was $9.4 billion, representing a 29% operating margin. Our tax rate for the quarter was 16%. This is lower than our previous full-year outlook as our higher share price provided a higher tax deduction and lowered our taxes. Net income was $7.8 billion or $2.98 per share. Capital expenditures, including principal payments on finance leases were $6.4 billion, driven by investments in data centers, servers and network infrastructure. 6. Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) Average monthly search volume: 2,740,000 Amazon.com, Inc (NASDAQ:AMZN)’s stock is among the top 10 most searched stocks on Google, which appeals to investors due to its strong growth. In Q2 2023, the company reported an 11% growth in net sales, hitting $134.4 billion, a marked improvement from the $121.2 billion of Q2 2022. Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:AMZN)’s North American sales rose by 11% to reach $82.5 billion, while the international segment showed a 10% growth, amounting to $29.7 billion. Amazon Web Services (AWS), the company’s cloud computing segment, witnessed a 12% hike in sales, pulling in $22.1 billion. Click to continue reading and see the 5 Most Searched Stocks on Google. Suggested Articles: 13 Cheap Stocks to Buy Today According to Media 10 Stocks that will Bounce Back According to Reddit 12 Stocks that will Double In 2023 Disclosure. None. 20 Most Searched Stocks on Google is originally published on Insider Monkey......»»

The S&P 500 witnessed its worst month of 2023, but these stocks are in green. The S&P 500 witnessed its worst month of 2023, losing 5% in September. With this, 2023 marked the fourth year in a row that the S&P 500 logged losses in September, per data from Deutsche Bank. Fears of higher rates for a longer-than-expected period took the sheen away from stocks in the month. SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust SPY, the proxy version of the S&P 500 Index, shed 3.1% last month. Despite the losses, some stocks in the ETF stood tall. We have highlighted five stocks that are in green and have a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold). These include Centene Corporation CNC, WestRock WRK, CF Industries Holdings Inc CF, Valero Energy VLO and Charter Communications CHTR. The Fed, in its latest meeting, kept interest rates steady at a 22-year high, in the range of 5.25% to 5.5%, but signaled one more hike this year. Though inflation is easing, it remains elevated and above the Fed’s 2% target. Meanwhile, the latest bouts of weak economic data have sparked fears of a slowdown. U.S. consumer sentiment slipped for the second straight month in September as the University of Michigan’s preliminary reading of its Consumer Sentiment Index dropped to 67.7 from the final reading of 69.5 in August. Meanwhile, new home sales declined 8.7% in August from July and home prices continued to ascend, with the Case-Shiller Index growing 1% year over year in July. Further, the combination of a steadily appreciating U.S. dollar, escalating yields, and surging oil prices presents a trio of challenges that could potentially impede the long-term performance of corporate America and the broader economy, posing concerns for investors. In fact, surging oil prices threaten to revive inflationary pressure. Moreover, Wall Street is grappling with global economic uncertainties, U.S. auto workers’ strike that may intensify inflation, and the reinstatement of U.S. student loan repayments that could impact household spending. Let’s take a closer look at the fundamentals of SPY. SPY in Focus SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust holds 503 stocks in its basket, with each accounting for no more than 7% of the assets. This suggests a nice balance across each security and prevents heavy concentration. The fund is widely spread across sectors with information technology, healthcare, financials and consumer discretionary accounting for a double-digit allocation each. SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust has AUM of $402 billion and charges 9 bps in fees per year. The product trades in a heavy volume of around 67 million shares a day on average, ensuring higher liquidity with a tight bid/ask spread, leading to lower trading costs for investors. SPY has a Zacks ETF Rank #3 (Hold) with a Medium risk outlook. Below, we have highlighted the abovementioned five best-performing stocks in the ETF. Best-Performing Stocks of SPY Centene is a well-diversified healthcare company that primarily provides a set of services to government-sponsored healthcare programs. The stock surged more than 12% last month. It has an estimated earnings growth rate of 11.8% for this year. Centene makes up for 0.10% of the assets in SPY and has a Zacks Rank #3. WestRock is a multinational provider of paper and packaging solutions for consumer and corrugated packaging markets. The stock gained about 9% last month and accounts for 0.02% of the total assets. WestRock saw a positive earnings estimate revision of 22 cents for the fiscal year (ending September 2024) and has a Zacks Rank #1. CF Industries is one of the largest manufacturers and distributors of nitrogenous fertilizer and other nitrogen products globally. The stock has risen about 8% and makes up 0.05% of the SPY portfolio. CF Industries saw no earnings estimate revision over the past 30 days for this year but its earnings are expected to decline 54%. It has a Zacks Rank #3. Valero Energy is the largest independent refiner and marketer of petroleum products in the United States. The stock has risen about 6% and makes up for 0.14% of the SPY portfolio. Valero Energy saw a solid earnings estimate revision of $12.3 over the past 30 days for this year and has a Zacks Rank #3. Charter Communications is the second largest cable operator in the United States and a leading broadband communications company providing video, Internet and voice services. The stock was up 4% last month and accounts for a 0.12% share in the SPY portfolio. Charter Communications saw a negative earnings estimate revision of 6 cents over the past 30 days for this year and has estimated growth of 1.7%. It has a Zacks Rank #3. Want key ETF info delivered straight to your inbox? Zacks’ free Fund Newsletter will brief you on top news and analysis, as well as top-performing ETFs, each week. Get it free >> Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Valero Energy Corporation (VLO): Free Stock Analysis Report CF Industries Holdings, Inc. (CF): Free Stock Analysis Report Charter Communications, Inc. (CHTR): Free Stock Analysis Report SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY): ETF Research Reports Centene Corporation (CNC): Free Stock Analysis Report WestRock Company (WRK): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research This article originally appeared on Zacks Sponsored: Find a Qualified Financial Advisor Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to 3 fiduciary financial advisors in your area in 5 minutes. 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In this article, we discuss top 10 dividend stocks of 2023. If you want to read our detailed analysis of dividend stocks and their performance, go directly to read Top 25 Dividend Stocks of 2023.  10. Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:XOM) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 71 Year-to-Date Returns as of October 2: 8.75% An American […] In this article, we discuss top 10 dividend stocks of 2023. If you want to read our detailed analysis of dividend stocks and their performance, go directly to read Top 25 Dividend Stocks of 2023.  10. Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:XOM) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 71 Year-to-Date Returns as of October 2: 8.75% An American energy company, Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:XOM) is next on our list of the best dividend stocks of 2023. The company pays a quarterly dividend of $0.91 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.14%, as recorded on October 2. It has been growing its dividends consistently for the past 40 years. At the end of Q2 2023, 71 hedge funds in Insider Monkey’s database reported having stakes in Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:XOM), down from 73 in the previous quarter. The consolidated value of these stakes is over $3 billion. Follow Exxon Mobil Corp (NYSE:XOM) Follow Exxon Mobil Corp (NYSE:XOM) We may use your email to send marketing emails about our services. Click here to read our privacy policy......»»

In this article, we discuss top 25 dividend stocks of 2023. You can skip our detailed analysis of dividend stocks and their performance, and go directly to read Top 10 Dividend Stocks of 2023.  The S&P 500 didn’t perform well in September and ended the third quarter on a low note mainly because investors were […] In this article, we discuss top 25 dividend stocks of 2023. You can skip our detailed analysis of dividend stocks and their performance, and go directly to read Top 10 Dividend Stocks of 2023.  The S&P 500 didn’t perform well in September and ended the third quarter on a low note mainly because investors were worried about the U.S. economy and the possibility of a government shutdown. Even with some positive economic news, the S&P 500’s value dropped by 4.5% last month. However, it’s still up by 10.35% for the year so far, despite concerns about a possible U.S. recession. This is because inflation has eased, and rising interest rates didn’t harm the economy as much as experts thought. Investors are hopeful that things will get better this month because historically, October has been a good month for the broader market. They are looking forward to a potential turnaround in the market during this time. This year, investors are shifting their focus toward assets that generate income. While tech stocks performed strongly in the first half of the year, the NASDAQ, which is dominated by tech companies, experienced a significant drop of nearly 6% in September. This decline marked the worst month for the index in 2023. The previous performance of these stocks also shows that the tech sector has always remained sensitive to interest rates. When comparing, dividend stocks have consistently stayed reliable over time, even when the economy goes through ups and downs. Not only this, but dividend growth has also outpaced inflation over the years. In one of our articles, we referred to BlackRock’s data which revealed that U.S. companies increased their dividends by 3.7% annually from 1971 to 2022, while inflation only grew by 2% each year. We also mentioned that S&P 500 dividends grew by 5.73% from 1957 to 2022, whereas inflation only rose by 3.68% during that time. This indicates that dividends have been beating inflation consistently. Also Read: Dividend Aristocrats Ranked By Yield: Top 25 Investing in dividend stocks is important, but it’s not as straightforward as it appears. Some companies pay dividends, but they haven’t consistently kept up with them, and some have even reduced or stopped paying them altogether. For this reason, companies that consistently raise their dividends are favored by investors. The Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE:PG), Colgate-Palmolive Company (NYSE:CL), and PepsiCo, Inc. (NASDAQ:PEP) are some of the best dividend stocks that have raised their payouts for decades, becoming top choices for investors. In this article, we will discuss the top dividend stocks of 2023. photo by scott graham on Unsplash Our Methodology: For this list, we scanned Insider Monkey’s database of 910 hedge funds and identified companies that have raised their dividends for 5 consecutive years or more. From that list, we picked stocks that have generated positive returns in 2023, as of October 2. We ranked those companies in ascending order of the number of hedge funds having stakes in them as of the second quarter of 2023. 25. Enterprise Products Partners L.P. (NYSE:EPD) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 25     Year-to-Date Returns as of October 2: 12.03% Enterprise Products Partners L.P. (NYSE:EPD) is a Texas-based energy company that operates as a master limited partnership (MLP). It is one of the largest midstream energy companies in the US. The company currently pays a quarterly dividend of $0.50 per share, having raised it by 2% in July this year. Through this increase, the company stretched its dividend growth streak to 24 years, which makes it one of the best dividend stocks on our list. The stock has a dividend yield of 7.35%, as of October 2. At the end of Q2 2023, 25 hedge funds in Insider Monkey’s database reported having stakes in Enterprise Products Partners L.P. (NYSE:EPD), compared with 26 in the previous quarter. The collective value of these stakes is over $272.7 million. 24. Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE:ITW) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 34     Year-to-Date Returns as of October 2: 4.59% Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE:ITW) is an American diversified manufacturing company that operates in a wide range of industries and provides various products and solutions. On August 4, the company announced a 7% hike in its quarterly dividend to $1.40 per share. This marked the company’s 51st consecutive year of dividend growth. As of October 2, the stock has a dividend yield of 2.43%. It is among the best dividend stocks on our list. As of the close of Q2 2023, 34 hedge funds tracked by Insider Monkey owned stakes in Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE:ITW), up from 32 in the previous quarter. The consolidated value of these stakes is over $278.3 million. Among these hedge funds, Markel Gayner Asset Management was the company’s largest stakeholder in Q2. 23. Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE:RSG) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 37     Year-to-Date Returns as of October 2: 9.48% Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE:RSG) is a leading waste management and environmental services company in the US. The company provides a range of services related to waste collection, disposal, recycling, and environmental sustainability. Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE:RSG) has been raising its dividends consistently for the past 19 years, which makes it one of the best dividend stocks on our list. It currently pays a quarterly dividend of $0.535 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.52%, as of October 2. At the end of June 2023, 37 hedge funds in Insider Monkey’s database held investments in Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE:RSG), compared with 40 in the previous quarter. The total value of these stakes is over $1.8 billion. The London Company mentioned Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE:RSG) in its Q2 2023 investor letter. Here is what the firm has to say: “Initiated: Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE:RSG) – RSG is the 2nd largest waste management company in North America. It generates consistent, predictable cash flows with over 80% of its revenues being annuity-like. RSG holds almost 25% of the landfill capacity in the U.S. Industry consolidation and the limited availability of landfills, on top of high transportation costs, have created local duopolies for landfill owners in their respective markets and increased returns. We’re attracted to RSG’s leading position in a stable business with a high degree of recurring revenue, and we believe the company is at an inflection point with its pricing strategy and landfill asset utilization. RSG has a solid balance sheet along with an experienced and shareholder friendly management team.” 22. Nucor Corporation (NYSE:NUE) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 38     Year-to-Date Returns as of October 2: 18.3% Nucor Corporation (NYSE:NUE) is one of the largest and most diversified steel producers in the US. On September 14, the company declared a quarterly dividend of $0.51 per share, which fell in line with its previous dividend. It holds a 50-year streak of consistent dividend growth, which makes it one of the best dividend stocks on our list. The stock’s dividend yield on October 2 came in at 1.31%. Nucor Corporation (NYSE:NUE) was a part of 38 hedge fund portfolios at the end of Q2 2023, as per Insider Monkey’s database. The collective value of stakes owned by these hedge funds is over $563.5 million. 21. Stryker Corporation (NYSE:SYK) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 46     Year-to-Date Returns as of October 2: 8.64% Stryker Corporation (NYSE:SYK) is an American medical technology and medical device company that specializes in the development, manufacturing, and marketing of a wide range of medical products and equipment. The company offers a quarterly dividend of $0.75 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.12%, as of October 2. It has raised its dividends for 29 consecutive years. At the end of June 2023, 46 hedge funds in Insider Monkey’s database owned investments in Stryker Corporation (NYSE:SYK), up from 42 in the previous quarter. The consolidated value of stakes owned by these hedge funds is over $2.42 billion. 20. International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 51     Year-to-Date Returns as of October 2: 0.08% An American tech company, International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM) is next on our list of the best dividend stocks of 2023. The company has raised its dividends for 28 years consistently and currently pays a quarterly dividend of $1.66 per share. The stock’s dividend yield came in at 4.71% on October 2. The number of hedge funds tracked by Insider Monkey owning stakes in International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM) grew to 51 in Q2 2023, from 49 in the previous quarter. The overall value of these stakes is roughly $814 million. 19. Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:CSCO) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 55     Year-to-Date Returns as of October 2: 11.48% Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:CSCO) is a California-based multinational tech company. It is a leading player in the information technology (IT) and networking industries, providing a wide range of products and services. The company pays a quarterly dividend of $0.39 per share for a dividend yield of 2.92%, as of October 2. It is one of the best dividend stocks on our list as the company has grown its dividends for 12 years straight. With stakes worth over $1.4 billion, 55 hedge funds in Insider Monkey’s database owned positions in Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:CSCO) at the end of Q2 2023. With nearly 11 million shares, AQR Capital Management was the company’s largest stakeholder in Q2. 18. Ecolab Inc. (NYSE:ECL) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 56     Year-to-Date Returns as of October 2: 12.74% Ecolab Inc. (NYSE:ECL) is an American multinational corporation that specializes in providing water, hygiene, and energy technologies and services. On August 3, the company declared a quarterly dividend of $0.53 per share, which was consistent with its previous dividend. The company’s dividend growth streak stands at 31 years, which places it as one of the best dividend stocks on our list. As of October 2, the stock has a dividend yield of 1.28%. Of the 910 hedge funds in Insider Monkey’s database at the end of Q2 2023, 56 funds owned investments in Ecolab Inc. (NYSE:ECL), up from 53 in the previous quarter. The collective value of these stakes is roughly $2.3 billion. 17. McKesson Corporation (NYSE:MCK) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 60     Year-to-Date Returns as of October 2: 17.01% McKesson Corporation (NYSE:MCK) is one of the largest healthcare services and pharmaceutical distribution companies in the world. On July 24, the company announced a 15% hike in its quarterly dividend to $0.62 per share. This marked the company’s seventh consecutive year of dividend growth, which makes it one of the best dividend stocks on our list. The stock has a dividend yield of 0.57%, as of October 2. The number of hedge funds tracked by Insider Monkey owning stakes in McKesson Corporation (NYSE:MCK) stood at 60 in Q2 2023, which remained unchanged from the previous quarter. The consolidated value of these stakes is over $3.1 billion. 16. ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 62     Year-to-Date Returns as of October 2: 2.76% ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP) is one of the world’s largest independent exploration and production (E&P) companies in the energy sector. The company has raised its dividends every year since 2015, which makes it one of the best dividend stocks on our list. It offers a quarterly dividend of $0.51 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.91%, as of October 2. As of the end of Q2 2023, 62 hedge funds in Insider Monkey’s database reported having stakes in ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP), worth collectively $2.6 billion. With nearly 15 million shares, Harris Associates was the company’s leading stakeholder in Q2. 15. Lowe’s Companies, Inc. (NYSE:LOW) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 64     Year-to-Date Returns as of October 2: 0.13% An American retail corporation, Lowe’s Companies, Inc. (NYSE:LOW) has been growing its dividends consistently for the past 59 years. The company pays a quarterly dividend of $1.10 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.21%, as of October 2. At the end of Q2 2023, 64 hedge funds tracked by Insider Monkey reported owning stakes in Lowe’s Companies, Inc. (NYSE:LOW), compared with 67 in the previous quarter. The collective value of these stakes is over $3.7 billion. Among these hedge funds, Pershing Square was the company’s leading stakeholder in Q2. 14. Analog Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADI) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 65     Year-to-Date Returns as of October 2: 6.73% Analog Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADI) is a leading global semiconductor company that specializes in designing, manufacturing, and marketing analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing (DSP) integrated circuits and solutions. The company offers a quarterly dividend of $0.86 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.98%. The company maintains a 20-year streak of consistent dividend growth. At the end of the June quarter of 2023, 65 hedge funds owned stakes in Analog Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADI), worth collectively over $5 billion. Madison Investments mentioned Analog Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADI) in its Q2 2023 investor letter. Here is what the firm has to say: “The bottom five individual contributors for the quarter were U.S. Bancorp, Progressive, Analog Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADI), Dollar Tree, and Danaher. Analog Devices and Danaher are both seeing end market demand moderate (in semiconductor and medical research, respectively) compared to the artificially high levels they experienced for two years due to the post-Covid chaos in supply chains. Despite these near-term dynamics, we think the longer-term outlooks remain excellent in both cases.” 13. Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCSA) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 66     Year-to-Date Returns as of October 2: 22.77% Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCSA) is an American multinational telecommunications and media company that operates through several subsidiaries and divisions and offers a wide range of products and services. The company maintains a 15-year streak of consistent dividend growth and currently pays a quarterly dividend of $0.29 per share. As of October 2, the stock has a dividend yield of 2.66%. As of the end of Q2 2023, 66 hedge funds tracked by Insider Monkey reported having stakes in Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCSA), compared with 68 in the previous quarter. The collective value of these stakes is over $3.14 billion. 12. Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 67     Year-to-Date Returns as of October 2: 25.3% Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) is a multinational retail corporation that operates a chain of membership-based warehouse club stores. The company offers a per-share dividend of $1.02 every quarter for a dividend yield of 0.72%, as of October 2. It has been rewarding shareholders with growing dividends for the past 19 years. The number of hedge funds in Insider Monkey’s database owning stakes in Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) grew to 67 in Q2 2023, from 63 in the previous quarter. The collective value of these stakes is over $2.24 billion. RiverPark Advisors mentioned Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) in its Q2 2023 investor letter. Here is what the firm has to say: “Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST), founded in 1983, is the world’s third-largest retailer with 850 stores, $240 billion in revenue and 68 million members spread across North America, Europe, Asia, and the Southern Pacific Region. The company is known for its strong value proposition driven by high-quality low-cost offerings including a well-regarded private-label brand. Costco regularly ranks at the top of customer surveys related to brand trust, product price and quality, and all-around experience. Historically, 90% of the company’s shoppers renew their memberships, which generate more than 50% of operating income. Through expanding market share, new store openings, increasing member productivity, and omnichannel expansion, we believe the company can grow revenues annually in the high single digit percentage range. This revenue growth should yield steadily growing margins and EPS growth in the low-to-mid-teens, which should drive shareholder returns in the same range.” 11. Linde plc (NYSE:LIN) Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 70     Year-to-Date Returns as of October 2: 16.51% Linde plc (NYSE:LIN) is a multinational industrial gases and engineering company that operates in various sectors, including industrial, healthcare, and specialty gases. The company’s dividend growth streak currently stands at 28 years, which makes it one of the best dividend stocks on our list. It pays a quarterly dividend of $1.275 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.37%, as of October 2. At the end of June 2023, 70 hedge funds tracked by Insider Monkey owned investments in Linde plc (NYSE:LIN), the same as in the previous quarter. The overall value of these stakes is more than $4.5 billion. Click to continue reading and see Top 10 Dividend Stocks of 2023. Suggested articles: 10 Best ASX Stocks To Invest In 11 Best Battery Stocks To Buy Before They Take Off 15 Best Cloud Computing Stocks Heading into 2024 Disclosure. None. Top 25 Dividend Stocks of 2023 is originally published on Insider Monkey......»»

In this article, we will take a look at the 25 dumbest cities in America. In the past 50 years, the United States has made a lot of progress in fighting poverty. For example, child mortality rates and deaths from heart disease have gone down by about 70%. But the number of poor Americans has […] In this article, we will take a look at the 25 dumbest cities in America. In the past 50 years, the United States has made a lot of progress in fighting poverty. For example, child mortality rates and deaths from heart disease have gone down by about 70%. But the number of poor Americans has stayed the same, going up during recessions and down during good times. Different ways to count the poor, like the Supplemental Poverty Measure in 2011, which found three million more poor people, may be to blame for the lack of growth. Access to cheap goods made in large quantities does not guarantee stable housing, inexpensive medical and dental care, or good care for children. The American working class and working poor are being taken advantage of as consumers in the housing and financial markets. For example, rent is going up faster than renters’ wages. Poor families, especially black families, don’t have many options for where to live. This is because landlords in poor areas make twice as much money as landlords in wealthy neighborhoods. Banks don’t like to give out small mortgages and keep people out of public housing, so low-income families have to rent from private landlords and spend at least half of their income on rent and expenses. A Pew Research Center analysis found that lower-income Americans are most harmed by COVID-19’s economic repercussions. In August 2020, 13,200 U.S. adults were surveyed, and one in four had trouble paying their bills since the outbreak, a third had to dip into savings or retirement accounts, and one in six had borrowed money or food from friends or family. Low-income folks, non-college graduates, and black and Hispanic Americans continue to have these experiences. Americans, especially low-income, black, and Hispanic adults, have used more resources due to the coronavirus outbreak. Over 10% of low-income adults have borrowed money, obtained food from a food bank or charity, or received government aid. Since February, 15% of U.S. individuals have received unemployment benefits, a significant source of income. People who are poor may miss payments, have bad credit, or have no credit score at all. This can make it hard for them to rent an apartment, buy insurance, or get a job. To stop the exploitation of workers, anti-poverty programs should focus on giving workers more power by renewing contracts with American workers, encouraging sectoral bargaining, giving low-income families more housing choices, and giving first-time homeowners more money. Fair access to capital is important, and banks should stop stealing billions of dollars from poor and near-poor people every year by charging them outrageous overdraft fees. Meanwhile, taking the top spot on our list of the 25 Dumbest States in America is Mississippi. Mississippi’s status as one of the most economically challenged states can be attributed to a range of factors. It holds the unfortunate distinction of being identified as the state with the lowest socioeconomic status nationwide. The Delta region, in particular, is predominantly inhabited by influential cotton farmers who own large-scale mechanized plantations. These farmers are the main recipients of a substantial portion of the extensive federal subsidies directed toward the state. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to highlight that a lot of people in the region still face economic circumstances, living as rural laborers without land ownership. These things make Mississippi one of the worst big cities to live in USA. Our Methodology The average income, the poverty rate, and the unemployment rate are the three factors that are considered while ranking the 25 Dumbest Cities in America. These are the elements that render a city uninhabitable and uncomfortable, as well as those that contribute to the general deterioration of economic well-being. In addition, the population of the cities that applied had to be at least 250,000 in order for them to be considered.  The figure assures that there are a sufficient number of people living in a city to determine whether or not it can be categorized as one of the stupidest cities in the United States. This list of the 25 Dumbest Cities in America was built using data from nine independent sources. You can take a look at our 25 Dumbest Cities in the US in 2018 article and see how the rankings have changed. 25 Dumbest Cities in America 25. San Jose Population: 930,862 Percentage of People Living Below the Poverty Line: 7.4% Unemployment Rate: 3.6% Average Annual Income Per Family: $133,835 Even though San Jose is a prosperous city with a thriving culture and business, it is not without its drawbacks. Residents should budget for a high standard of living due to the median home value and anticipate additional costs. The city’s focus on pedestrians may make it difficult for motorists. There are some scorching days, but the city is often not as hot as nearby McKinney, Texas. With these reasons in mind, San Jose easily makes it one of the dumbest cities in America. 24. Seattle Population: 725,487 Percentage of People Living Below the Poverty Line: 11% Unemployment Rate: 3.6% Average Annual Income Per Family: $115,409 Seattle has high housing costs, 40–50% of the take-home salary. The city has dreary skies most of the year due to its rainy climate. Traffic in Seattle is notorious, with rush hour lasting five hours a day and the city in utter standstill. Seattle’s housing market is also not diverse, with many residents renting rather than buying. Starter homes in Seattle cost $799,000 and rise annually. Moreover, the city contains 10 cities and the third-highest homeless population in the US. Drug usage is widespread. The city is trying to solve homelessness, a serious humanitarian issue. Wildfires are increasing, generating dense black smoke and bad air quality, which drives inhabitants out of Seattle. Lack of service, high traffic, and delayed buses and trains plague public transportation. While Seattle has possibilities, living car-free is not easy. All these things considered, Seattle easily makes it one of the dumbest cities in America. 23. San Francisco Population: 715,717 Percentage of People Living Below the Poverty Line: 11.3% Unemployment Rate: 3.7% Average Annual Income Per Family: $136,692  Homelessness, drug abuse, rising crime, and the closing of businesses have all contributed to San Francisco’s downfall in recent years. The COVID-19 outbreak and the subsequent shift in employment practices caused a mass exodus that persisted into 2022. San Francisco and the Bay Area shrank even more slowly than before. As a result of the pandemic, many people outside of the city have decided not to relocate there, and the city’s pace and lifeline have changed. As a result, numerous structures are now either mostly or entirely empty, hurting retail and tearing the city apart from its previous cohesive state. As of 2022, it is predicted that 7,754 individuals will be homeless. Due in part to the loss of jobs, the city is also experiencing a rise in crime. Due to an increase in larceny and thefts in San Francisco, Target has decided to reduce nighttime hours at several of its shops in 2021. Walgreens said it was forced to shut down five outlets in the area because of a spike in “organized retail crime.” The city’s recent downfall demonstrates the importance of diversity and adaptability in the face of economic uncertainty. Considering these, San Francisco easily makes it one of the dumbest cities in America. 22. Charlotte Population: 885,663 Percentage of People Living Below the Poverty Line: 11.3% Unemployment Rate: 3.3% Average Annual Income Per Family: $74,401  Charlotte is a city known for its laid-back atmosphere, low cost of living, and diverse population. However, its traffic, religion, seclusion, insect repellent, and hurricane management history make it difficult to travel. The city’s mild climate and red clay soil make planting difficult, and mosquitoes are a nuisance. The city’s infrastructure is straining due to population growth, reducing its appeal. Despite its attractions like museums, performing arts, and festivals, Charlotte faces challenges for non-finance and tech workers, and early relocation can make bill payments harder. Considering the adjustments a newcomer might experience in Charlotte, it easily makes it one of the dumbest cities in America. 21. Denver Population: 699,288 Percentage of People Living Below the Poverty Line: 11.6% Unemployment Rate: 3.4% Average Annual Income Per Family: $88,213  Air quality and pollution in Denver are at record highs, making it one of the most polluted cities. Denver is among the 30 Most Polluted Cities in the US. This month, smoke from many intermountain West wildfires has covered the city’s skyline, causing poor air quality. Forest fires in the Pacific Northwest and southwest Canada are causing Denver’s increasing smoke. Considering that the biggest concern in Denver is pollution, leading to more economic problems, it easily makes it one of the dumbest cities in America. 20. San Diego Population: 1,374,076 Percentage of People Living Below the Poverty Line: 11.7% Unemployment Rate: 3.9% Average Annual Income Per Family: $100,010  Housing is expensive in San Diego, with the typical home price at $765,000 and the average one-bedroom apartment rent at $2,400. Moving to San Diego makes it hard to purchase a starter house. The city has one of the biggest homeless populations in the country, demonstrating the wealth gap. Concerns against migrating to San Diego include California’s 13.3% state income tax, the highest in the nation. Moreover, San Diego is car-centric due to its poor public transportation, which can take an hour to commute. Some residents switch to scooters and motorcycles to avoid parking and expensive fees. Considering the poor condition of living in San Diego, it easily makes it one of the dumbest cities in America. 19. Austin Population: 963,121 Percentage of People Living Below the Poverty Line: 12.7% Unemployment Rate: 3.8% Average Annual Income Per Family: $89,415  By the end of the year, the Austin metro area is expected to overtake the competitive real estate markets of Boston, Miami, and New York City to become the least affordable major metro region outside of California for homebuyers. Multiple bids, bidding wars, and block-long queues outside open houses are usual due to the extreme scarcity of available homes. Due to the city’s rapid growth, Austin is experiencing a housing crisis that is altering the city and forcing low-income black and Latino inhabitants to move further from the city’s cultural centers, transportation hubs, grocery stores, and other urban conveniences. The constant presence of homeless encampments in front of City Hall and under busy highways has brought attention to the crisis of inadequate housing. Considering the housing concerns in Austin, it easily makes it one of the dumbest cities in America. 18. Fort Worth Population: 961,885 Percentage of People Living Below the Poverty Line: 14.4% Unemployment Rate: 4.1% Average Annual Income Per Family: $71,527  The population in the Fort Worth ZIP code, which includes the city’s central business district, has the lowest life expectancy in Texas, at 66.7 years. This is 12 years less than the national average. The majority of the population is either at or below the poverty line. Income, access to healthy foods, insurance, safe places to exercise, educational opportunities, racial segregation, unemployment, and safe housing are all examples of social determinants of health that have a major impact on an individual’s health and longevity. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the area, along with other common chronic conditions. Community leaders are currently being polled to gauge public opinion on the city’s initiatives to enhance residents’ health and longevity. Considering the poor condition of living in Fort Worth, it easily makes it one of the dumbest cities in America. 17. Las Vegas Population: 653,843 Percentage of People Living Below the Poverty Line: 14.8% Unemployment Rate: 6.1% Average Annual Income Per Family: $68,905  When it comes to the quality of life for the working poor in the United States, the casino capital of Las Vegas ranks at the bottom. In terms of life expectancy, Las Vegas is towards the bottom for both men and women. People’s vices come out to play in this gambling center, and the health of the minimum-wage workers around them suffers as a result of secondhand smoke. Residents, especially the impoverished, drink more, exercise less, and deal with the stress of living in a community where the economy has taken a significant hit. Nevada’s social welfare services would suffer severely if the state did not collect taxes. Considering the quality of life and the lack of social support and services that are available in Las Vegas, it easily makes it one of the dumbest cities in America. 16. Phoenix Population: 1,651,344 Percentage of People Living Below the Poverty Line: 14.9% Unemployment Rate: 4.2% Average Annual Income Per Family: $75,969  When compared to other states still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, Arizona has one of the highest rates of people who are homeless. Home prices in the seller’s market have skyrocketed, making both homeownership and renting out of reach for many Californians. Arizona has been recognized for decades as an affordable area to call home, but due to rising housing costs caused by competition, that reputation has changed. It’s getting harder to rationalize living in a city that’s pricey, hot, and congested as the cost of living rises and the older millennial population starts having kids and moving out of Phoenix and other Arizona cities. Considering these developments, it easily makes Arizona one of the dumbest places to live in the USA. 15. Nashville-Davidson Metropolitan Government Population: 1,315,000 Percentage of People Living Below the Poverty Line: 15.3% Unemployment Rate: 2.9% Average Annual Income Per Family: $71,767  The Nashville-Davidson-Davidsonitan Government poverty rate dropped for the fourth year in 2013, but high-need areas have grown since 2000, according to Metro Social Services. Although the overall poverty rate fell to 15.3%, the child poverty rate remained at 30.5%. One in five children in the state is living in poverty. Nashville-Davidson Metropolitan Government has one of the lowest high school graduation rates in the state and one of the highest rates of school suspensions. Considering these reasons and the challenges that plague the Nashville-Davidson Metropolitan Government, it easily makes it one of the dumbest cities in America. 14. Indianapolis Population: 871,449 Percentage of People Living Below the Poverty Line: 15.4% Unemployment Rate: 3.6% Average Annual Income Per Family: $61,501  Despite the government’s efforts to improve blighted neighborhoods, the city’s poverty rate has risen by roughly 90% over the past decade. The Hispanic and disadvantaged kid populations in Indianapolis are growing at a disproportionately high rate. The health crisis, lack of education, unstable housing, unreliable employment, and hunger are among the factors that contribute to the poverty in Indianapolis. Due to growing social stratification along racial, ethnic, and other lines, it is increasingly difficult to draw conclusions about a city’s or region’s poor situation from a single set of statistics. Despite this, the government in Indianapolis is committed to equitable development or growth that benefits all sectors and communities in the region. Considering the extreme inequality that one may experience in Indianapolis, it easily becomes one of the dumbest cities in the USA. 13. Jacksonville Population: 962,970 people Percentage of People Living Below the Poverty Line: 15.4% Unemployment Rate: 3.2% Average Annual Income Per Family: $69,309  There are multiple reasons that contribute to making Jacksonville one of the dumbest cities in America. It is also one of the worst small cities to live in the USA. The reasons are mainly: traffic congestion, high crime rates, limited job opportunities, hurricane risk, and a lack of cultural attractions. Petty crime, which occurs at an alarming rate in some regions, is another cause for concern. Jacksonville’s diverse economy includes healthcare, banking, logistics, and the military, all of which may or may not offer sufficient employment possibilities. From June through November, Jacksonville is in the path of potentially dangerous hurricanes. Moreover, high-quality education is just one of the many issues plaguing Jacksonville, along with infrastructural difficulties, poverty, income inequality, and environmental concerns. Jacksonville is home to some stunning natural features, but the city is also struggling with problems like water pollution and conservation. Despite these drawbacks, Jacksonville gives residents and visitors alike a well-rounded picture of life in Florida. All things considered, many negative reasons outweigh the positive reasons to stay in Florida, making the city one of the dumbest cities to live in America. 12. Oklahoma Population: 4,048,375 Percentage of People Living Below the Poverty Line: 15.8% Unemployment Rate: 2.8% Average Annual Income Per Family: $63,713  Oklahoma has had a substantial poverty problem ever since before it became a state, when early settlers encountered difficulties like drought, food insecurity, and a lack of infrastructure. The main problems that Oklahoma faces are the difficulties in meeting basic human needs and the material implications of this trait, which keeps the people poor. Oklahoma’s persistent poverty can be attributed to five features of the state’s social, economic, and political climate: low job rates, low levels of education, high incarceration rates, food insecurity, poor health, wide income gaps, and high rates of violence. Having a job is essential to lifting yourself out of poverty, yet opportunities vary greatly from county to county and race to race. Moreover, there is a close relationship between levels of education and economic success. The public school system in Oklahoma has long suffered from inadequate funding and a lackluster investment in its physical facilities. Lastly, Oklahoma’s persistent poverty is exacerbated by social inequalities. Taking these reasons in mind, Oklahoma easily makes it one of the dumbest cities to live in America. 11. Washington, DC Population: 631,693 Percentage of People Living Below the Poverty Line: 16.5% Unemployment Rate: 2.4% Average Annual Income Per Family: $101,027  Despite its original intent as a symbol of American principles, the nation’s capital, Washington, DC, has become a haven for the callous, insensitive, and dishonorable. The area has been plagued by poverty and violence for decades, and this is not likely to change anytime soon because of the rigidity of the local authority. The main concern for Washington currently is the inequality that impacts poor households through the housing market, making rental housing less affordable relative to their incomes. Monitoring the relationship between income and rental costs at different points in the distribution is crucial to ensuring an adequate response to affordability challenges and preserving housing opportunities for a wide range of workers and families. With these in mind, Wahington easily makes it to one of the dumbest cities to live in America. 10. Dallas Population: 1,259,404 people Percentage of People Living Below the Poverty Line: 16.5% Unemployment Rate: 4.1% Average Annual Income Per Family: $65,400  As income inequality and economic mobility rise, cities like Dallas, one of the most segregated in the country, see their land of opportunity shrink. For some, poverty is a trap set at birth from which there is no chance of escape, and the land of opportunity is increasingly restricted to largely white residents of the city’s northern census tracts. The poverty in Dallas is intertwined with two crises, and segregation is the greatest obstacle to economic advancement. In sum, the inequitable distribution of resources in Dallas greatly affects its rise to development, making it easily one of the dumbest cities to live in the USA. 9. San Antonio Population: 1,479,493 people. Percentage of People Living Below the Poverty Line: 17% Unemployment Rate: 4.2% Average Annual Income Per Family: $58,829  Due to San Antonio’s racial composition and the prevalence of chronic diseases like diabetes, the city has been dealing with generational poverty for quite some time. Because of the city’s demographics, notably its high poverty rates for black and Latino citizens, black and Latino neighborhoods in San Antonio have been disproportionately affected by the current COVID-19 situation. State-collected data from the epidemic suggests that disparities in survival rates due to race and socioeconomic position exist. A major factor contributing to the poor health of San Antonio’s black and Latinx groups is the city’s high poverty rate. Moreover, low-income people in San Antonio are more likely to be exposed to the coronavirus in the workplace, increasing their already elevated risk. Healthcare, discrimination, pandemic, COVID-19, diabetes, inequality, racial discrimination, Medicaid, asthma, Metro Health, Community Health and Prevention, Metropolitan Health District, poverty, generational poverty, healthcare access, chronic illness, and more are all problems that San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas, must face. With all these factors, it can be said that San Antonio is one of the dumbest cities to live in the USA. 8. Chicago Population: 2,608,425 people. Percentage of People Living Below the Poverty Line: 17.1% Unemployment Rate: 4.2% Average Annual Income Per Family: $70,386  According to author Rachel Shteir, Chicago is the most depressing major city in America because it is stiflingly conformist, consistently elects crooks and the stupid, and stubbornly holds onto outdated stereotypes about itself. Long commute times, foreclosures, lower property values compared to the rest of the country, higher rates of uninsured residents, higher rates of high school dropouts, higher rates of unemployment, and a world-famous gun violence epidemic are all realities that the city must face head-on. With almost 550,000 people not having health coverage, the city is the fourth worst in the United States. Moreover, the city’s unemployment rate is almost three percentage points greater than the national average, and its home price index is now nearly 30 points below the national average. The biggest drop has been in public payrolls, which has hit minorities especially hard. South and West Side communities have been impacted hardest by government layoffs, contributing to Chicago’s already notorious gun violence epidemic. 7. Los Angeles Population: 3,769,485 people. Percentage of People Living Below the Poverty Line: 17.1% Unemployment Rate: 5% Average Annual Income Per Family: $76,135  The high cost of living, restrictions on specific groups, and the city’s long history of homelessness all contribute to Los Angeles’ high poverty rate. Since it was formerly the most segregated city in the South, the city’s property documents reflect that history of segregation. Since housing is expensive and there aren’t enough jobs to go around, the homeless population has increased. Because of the public and private resources available, several formerly homeless people have relocated here from other states. Moreover, the city of Los Angeles is home to the highest rates of both violent crime and poverty in the United States. Because of the city’s year-round warm climate, those without homes can easily obtain shelter as well as basic necessities like food and needles. However, the rising number of San Francisco’s homeless is a major worry as well, with the local government pointing the finger at rising rent prices. The high cost of living and high poverty rate in Los Angeles draw attention to the need for change and solutions to these problems. As a result of many reasons, including high living costs, historical restrictions, and governmental acceptance of poverty, Los Angeles has a high poverty rate. Considering these reasons, Los Angeles easily makes it to the dumbest cities to live in the United States. 6. Columbus Population: 907,865 people. Percentage of People Living Below the Poverty Line: 17.7% Unemployment Rate: 3.1% Average Annual Income Per Family: $61,727  A recent Ohio study indicated that urban poverty has increased more than gentrification in Columbus and Ohio city communities. The survey also indicated that black households are most affected by neighborhood poverty. Columbus is large, yet the number of high-poverty tracts increased from 26 in 1980 to 50 in 2018. Black residents are five times more likely than whites to live in high-poverty communities, according to the report. Transportation policies, local entrepreneurship, and small company development initiatives can aid urban communities. Considering these reasons, Columbus easily makes it one of the dumbest cities to live in America. 5. New York Population: 19,496,810 people Percentage of People Living Below the Poverty Line: 18% Unemployment Rate: 4.6% Average Annual Income Per Family: $74,694  Prior to the epidemic, nearly one in five adults and one in five children in New York City were living in poverty, and nearly half of the city’s population faced some type of disadvantage. The biggest concern for New York City is its unemployment rate. New York City has a high unemployment rate because of the city’s high job application rate and significant homeless population. The 2008 financial crisis triggered the Great Recession, which drove up the unemployment rate that year. Many of the unemployed, however, came from middle- and upper-class backgrounds and were likely to own at least one property. Considering the persistent problem of unemployment in New York, it easily makes it one of the dumbest cities in America. 4. Boston Population: 617,459 people Percentage of People Living Below the Poverty Line: 18.7% Unemployment Rate: 2.7% Average Annual Income Per Family: $86,331 The Boston metro region is the seventh most unequal city in the United States when it comes to income inequality. The poverty rate in Boston is influenced by various factors, including educational attainment, disabilities, and household characteristics. This wealth gap persists from home to community, drawing attention to the cycle of poverty that persists in certain Boston households. Considering these factors and the wealth gap that persists in Boston, it easily makes it one of the dumbest cities in America......»»

In this article, we will be taking a look at the 25 largest economies in the world by 2030. To skip our detailed analysis, you can go directly to see the 5 largest economies in the world by 2030. The global economy has struggled post-Covid, and growth slowed down in most countries across the world, starting […] In this article, we will be taking a look at the 25 largest economies in the world by 2030. To skip our detailed analysis, you can go directly to see the 5 largest economies in the world by 2030. The global economy has struggled post-Covid, and growth slowed down in most countries across the world, starting from 2022 when record inflation rates impacted the world, and the central banks of most nations hiked interest rates in a bid to control inflation, both of which were direct contributors to the economic growth rate declining, even among the largest economies in the world by 2030. According to the World Economic Forum, the global growth rate for 2023 is projected to decline to 3% in both 2023 and 2024, worse than even 2022 when the growth rate was 3.5%. Even then, this is partially good news because the projected global growth rate for 2023 was initially lower than eve 3%, even as high interest rates from central banks have been cited as one of the primary reasons behind the decline in economic activity. On the other hand, more positive news is expected in terms of inflation rates, as global headline inflation is expected to decline to 6.8% in 2023, as compared to 8.7% in 2022, which should also result in corresponding declines in interest rates, though inflation rates will still be relatively high compared to pre-2022 rates. Phongphan/Shutterstock.com While the largest economies in the world right now and by 2030 already experience slow, stable growth, some of these countries actually have fast growing economies including India and China. China in fact, considered by many to become the biggest economy in the world by 2030, has had a fast growing economy over the last few decades, but its fortunes seem to have turned post Covid-19. Unlike most nations, China continued to implement a Zero-Covid policy even after the threat had diminished, resulting in its economy remaining closed for much longer than other countries and has struggled to recover economically since. China’s economic slowdown has been more pronounced than in other large economies, and investors are now reconsidering whether the country will provide protection from weaknesses in other economies. Considering the fact that China has made major investments in many developing countries including Sri Lanka and Pakistan, countries who have defaulted or are at risk of default, China’s economic downturn is leading to even more questions. Hong Kong’s Han Seng Index is now in a bear market, and has fallen more than 20% from the peak it achieved back in January 2023. Even the Chinese yuan, a currency which has been considered to be a threat to the U.S. dollar as the premier global currency, has slid to its lowest level in over 15 years, which has resulted in China’s central bank increasing the rate to purchase dollars much higher than the actual market value. One of the reasons behind China’s economic woes is its real estate crisis, which began in 2021 after the country’s biggest real estate company in Evergrande defaulted on its debts, and is currently undergoing a debt reconstruction process. Additional companies which have further deepened the real estate crisis include Country Garden, one of the biggest developers there by property sales, also defaulting on its debts and though China’s government is attempting to revive the real estate market, additional players are also considered to be at risk of default, all of which will impact China’s ambition to become the largest economy in the world by 2030. In fact, some publications are already reconsidering their forecasts with respect to China’s economy in light of new information. Because of the property slump, local government debt has spiraled as well. Additional actions have further alienated major corporations operating in China, including Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL), whose share price suffered a major slump after China reportedly banned government officials from owning iPhone. The aforementioned issues facing China have been incredibly beneficial to another large economy making its presence felt globally, India. Not only does India have a consistently growing middle-class population, it is also attracting investments from across the world in a bid to convince more companies to operate there, and India has received nearly $600 billion in Foreign Direct Investment in just the past 9 years, which makes up more than 60% of FDIs received in 23 years. Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) has also been moving towards India while still maintaining a strong presence in China for production, and opened two large retail stores in India in 2023 amid US-China tensions. India’s potential was also mentioned in Apple Inc.’s (NASDAQ:AAPL) Q2 2023 earnings call, which stated “Looking at the business in India, we did set a quarterly record, grew very strong, double digits year-over-year. So it was quite a good quarter for us, taking a step back, India is an incredibly exciting market. It’s a major focus for us. I was just there, and the Dynamism in the market, the vibrancy is unbelievable. Over time, we’ve been expanding our operations there to serve more customers, and three years ago, we launched the Apple Store online, and then, as you just mentioned, we launched two stores just a few weeks ago, and they’re off to a great start, one in Mumbai and one in Delhi. We’ve got a number of channel partners in the country as well that we’re partnering with, and we’re very happy with how that’s going overall. Overall, I couldn’t be more delighted and excited by the enthusiasm I’m seeing for the brand there. There are a lot of people coming into the middle class, and I really feel that India is at a tipping point, and it’s great to be there.” As a lot of focus shifts to India, one of the largest economies in the world by 2030, many investors are now looking in this direction, and ETFs tracking India include iShares MSCI India ETF, which has had a YTD return of 6%. Methodology To determine the largest economies in the world by 2030, we accessed the International Monetary Fund’s data on each nation’s GDP up to 2028. We then calculated the CAGR of each country from 2023 to 2028 and prorated it to obtain their GDP for 2030. The countries are ranked from highest GDP in 2030 to lowest. 25. Vietnam Projected GDP in 2030 (in billions): $ $878.99 Vietnam has shown economic promise for decades but now seems to be capitalizing on it, and was the fastest growing economy in Asia in 2023. 24. Bangladesh Projected GDP in 2030 (in billions): $934.85 Bangladesh has seen exponential growth in recent years and had the second-highest GDP CAGR from 2023 to 2028 of any country in our list. 23. Taiwan Projected GDP in 2030 (in billions): $1,084.28 Taiwan has faced a tough 2023 as semiconductor sales have dropped significantly but it’s still expected to post a recovery in the longer term. 22. Poland Projected GDP in 2030 (in billions): $1,127.39 Poland has displayed remarkable growth in the last three decades after freeing itself from the influence of the Soviet Union, and is fast becoming a hub for many major global companies. 21. Nigeria Projected GDP in 2030 (in billions): $1,160.23 Nigeria is one of only two countries among the nations with the biggest economies in 2030 to register a CAGR of double-digit from 2023 to 2028. In fact, GDP is expected to more than double from over $500 billion in 2022 to nearly $1.2 trillion in 2030. 20. Switzerland Projected GDP in 2030 (in billions): $1,218.41 While Switzerland’s growth has been lower than average, it is still expected to grow at a stable level in the next decade, though the revival of growth in productivity and higher participation in the labor market are integral to making this happen. 19. Saudi Arabia Projected GDP in 2030 (in billions): $1,344.41 Saudi Arabia saw its economic growth in 2022 increase by an incredible 8.7%, the highest among all countries in the G20. 18. Netherlands Projected GDP in 2030 (in billions): $1,375.76 The Netherlands has faced challenges in a harsh economy and recently, the country revised its GDP growth forecast downwards, primarily because of the fact that the Dutch economy is highly integrated internationally. 17. Türkiye Projected GDP in 2030 (in billions): $1,480.88 Türkiye has seen inflation reach nearly 50% in 2023, and recently cut its economic growth forecast, though economic growth has still exceeded 4% in 2022 and 2023. 16. Spain Projected GDP in 2030 (in billions): $1,870.30 Despite fiscal challenges, Spain recently provided a boost to the eurozone in the second quarter of 2023, after outperforming expectations. 15. Australia Projected GDP in 2030 (in billions): $2,138.62 Australia is facing significant challenges to its economy and according to Deloitte, per capita economic activity in Australia in 2025 is expected to be the same as it was in 2021, highlighting the lack of growth in the country. 14. Mexico Projected GDP in 2030 (in billions): $2,157.91 While most of Latin America has suffered in the last year or two, Mexico has been considered to be the standout performer, aided by various companies establishing manufacturing facilities in Mexico to take advantage of cheaper labor while being in close proximity to the U.S. 13. South Korea Projected GDP in 2030 (in billions): $2,308.52 South Korea’s emergence as a highly advanced economy over the past few decades has been nothing short of remarkable and its strong growth is expected to continue in the long term, making it one of the biggest global economies by 2030. 12. Russia Projected GDP in 2030 (in billions): $2,353.22 Russia has the lowest expected GDP growth rate from 2023 to 2028, unsurprising considering the severe sanctions imposed by Western countries after its invasion of Ukraine. 11. Indonesia Projected GDP in 2030 (in billions): $2,391.02 The largest Muslim country in the world, Indonesia is expected to surpass other competitors including Russia in the coming years, even as emerging Asia is seeing a tougher economic outlook. 10. Italy Projected GDP in 2030 (in billions): $2,572.61 While Italy recently received 200 billion euros from the European Union, there is a lot of skepticism that the country won’t be able to make it count. 9. Canada Projected GDP in 2030 (in billions): $2,845.39 The immediate economic outlook for Canada isn’t very positive, and a downturn is expected in 2024, before rebounding in 2025 and 2026. 8. Brazil Projected GDP in 2030 (in billions): $3,088.07 The largest economy in Latin America saw a strong recovery in 2023 and its GDP growth expectation was revised from 0.8% to 2% for 2023. 7. France Projected GDP in 2030 (in billions): $3,598.16 Amid social tensions, France’s economic outlook has weakened recently though it will still easily be among the largest economies in the world by 2030. 6. United Kingdom Projected GDP in 2030 (in billions): $4,778.29 The UK has suffered significantly post Covid-19, especially in terms of cost of living and the energy crisis, while frequent changes in Prime Ministers have not bolstered confidence. Despite these setbacks, the UK is expected to have a CAGR of over 6% from 2023 to 2028. Click to continue reading and see 5 Largest Economies in the World by 2030. Suggested Articles: 12 Best Places to Retire in Netherlands 12 Most Popular Food Delivery Services in the US US Alcohol Exports by Country: Top 15 Disclosure: None. 25 largest economies in the world by 2030 is originally published on Insider Monkey......»»

In this article, we take a look at the 5 most competitive residency programs in US. For a detailed and comprehensive analysis, go to the 15 Most Competitive Residency Programs in US. 5. Thoracic and Cardiac Surgery Number of PGY-1 positions: 49 Number of PGY-2 positions: None Number of applicants: 138 Average USMLE Step 2 […] In this article, we take a look at the 5 most competitive residency programs in US. For a detailed and comprehensive analysis, go to the 15 Most Competitive Residency Programs in US. 5. Thoracic and Cardiac Surgery Number of PGY-1 positions: 49 Number of PGY-2 positions: None Number of applicants: 138 Average USMLE Step 2 CK score: 254 Thoracic and Cardiac Surgery is among the top residency programs by specialty and provides comprehensive and specialized training in the surgical management of thoracic and cardiovascular conditions. Residents gain expertise in a wide range of advanced surgical techniques, including minimally invasive procedures and transplantation. With a focus on research and innovation, these programs equip trainees with the skills to provide high-quality patient care......»»

In this article, we will discuss the 15 most competitive residency programs in the United States. You can skip our detailed analysis and directly proceed to the 5 Most Competitive Residency Programs in the US. A multitude of medical school graduates compete for a limited number of coveted spots each year, within the prestigious residency […] In this article, we will discuss the 15 most competitive residency programs in the United States. You can skip our detailed analysis and directly proceed to the 5 Most Competitive Residency Programs in the US. A multitude of medical school graduates compete for a limited number of coveted spots each year, within the prestigious residency programs of the United States. The competition is nothing short of intense, evidenced by the exponential surge in applications, the elevated level of difficulty, and the strikingly low acceptance rates. According to data released by the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP) on June 1st 2022, there exist certain residency programs that stand out due to their stringent training regimens and stellar reputation. These programs have garnered a notorious reputation for their complexity when it comes to gaining admission. For fresh medical school graduates, these residency programs hold the promise of providing invaluable firsthand clinical experience, paving the way for a promising and luminous future in their respective medical specialties. Those fortunate enough to secure a position within these programs invariably represent the pinnacle of the medical industry, possessing exceptional qualities of resilience, unwavering dedication, and advanced clinical expertise. The Growth and Impact of Residency Programs in the United States Stats from NRMP released on June 1, 2022, show that the Main Residency Match in 2022 witnessed a total of 47,675 registrants, which was 1,025 fewer than the preceding year, marking the first decline in registrant numbers since 2003. Among these participants, there were 42,549 active applicants. According to a Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) release, published on October 10, 2022, the academic year 2021-2022 witnessed a total of 12,740 accredited programs. Among these, 5,579 were categorized as specialty programs, while 7,161 fell under the subspecialty category. Moreover, 384 programs obtained accreditation status during this academic year. On the other hand, 42 programs either closed or voluntarily withdrew their accreditation, with 14 of them experiencing actions such as Accreditation Withdrawn or Administrative Withdrawal. In terms of residents and fellows, there were 153,843 individuals actively enrolled in the 12,740 programs. This represented an increase of 4,643 compared to the previous year. Among these 153,843 active residents and fellows in ACGME-accredited programs during the Academic Year 2021-2022, the majority, accounting for 59.6%, hailed from Liaison Committee on Medical Education-accredited medical schools in the United States. International medical school graduates constituted 22.9% of the total, while 17.4% were graduates of osteopathic medical schools. Competitive residency programs in the US also offer unbeatable opportunities for networking and career development. Due to the extensive range of collaborations they entail, trainees have the advantage of forging professional relationships with mentors, peers, and leading experts in research and practice. An additional key element driving competition is the ever-growing demand for qualified medical professionals in the United States. As the population continues to increase and age, there is an insatiable need for more physicians, resulting in an amplified supply-demand disparity. A report by Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), published on June 11, 2021, predicted a physician shortage in the United States, ranging from 37,800 to 124,000 by 2034. Such projections amplify the ambition of medical students, as they strive to secure coveted spots in competitive residency programs, highlighting the growing importance of securing a position on the path to becoming a physician. Physicians can work with some of the top healthcare facilities and services providers including HCA Healthcare (NYSE:HCA), Pediatrix Medical Group (NYSE:MD), and Amedisys (NASDAQ:AMED). Let’s discuss some business updates regarding these organizations. On August 3, Pediatrix Medical Group (NYSE:MD) reported earnings for the fiscal second quarter of 2023. The company reported earnings per share of $0.39 and generated a revenue of $500.58 million for the quarter, up 2.99% year over year and ahead of Wall Street estimates by $4.73 million. On September 27, Boston Globe reported that HCA Healthcare (NYSE:HCA) entered a preliminary phase for a possible union with the Catholic Medical Center (CMC) through an exploratory non-binding letter of intent. This action will be followed by further due diligence, negotiations of the final terms, and procuring the required consents. The merger will further the cause of both HCA Healthcare (NYSE:HCA) and CMC in the region. As reported by Reuters on June 5, UnitedHealth Group Inc. (NYSE:UNH) has made an offer to buy Amedisys (NASDAQ:AMED). UnitedHealth Group Inc. (NYSE:UNH), through its Optum unit, offered a $3.26 billion all-cash bid to acquire home health and hospice care firm Amedisys (NASDAQ:AMED), placing itself in direct competition with Option Care Health, Inc. (NASDAQ:OPCH), which had previously agreed to buy Amedisys (NASDAQ:AMED) for $97.38 per share in an all-stock transaction. This move comes amid a surge in interest for the home health sector since the pandemic, as patients and caregivers increasingly prefer at-home medical services, prioritizing safety. Students who pass through competitive residency programs can eventually work in the best hospitals in the United States. For greater insights regarding the same, view our article on the 25 Best Hospitals in the U.S. Understanding PGY-1 and PGY-2 Positions Residency programs in the United States typically follow a “PGY” system or “Post-Graduate Year.” These numbers, PGY-1, PGY-2, and so forth, indicate the progression of a resident’s training within their chosen medical specialty. The PGY-1 year, also known as the “internship” or “first-year residency,” is the first year of a doctor’s specialized training after graduating from medical school. During that year, residents receive  broad clinical experience in various medical disciplines, including internal medicine, pediatrics, general surgery, emergency medicine, and others pertinent to their chosen specialty. PGY-1 residents, under the supervision of higher-level residents and attending physicians, begin to take on clinical responsibilities. They examine patients, make diagnoses, develop and execute treatment plans, perform basic medical procedures, and engage in direct patient care. PGY-2, or the “second-year residency,” takes the foundational clinical skills gained during the PGY-1 year and advances them further. The PGY-2 year often involves increased clinical responsibility, more advanced procedures, and in-depth exploration of the resident’s chosen specialty. Some programs have their first official year labeled as “PGY-2”, which is common in specialties that require a preliminary clinical year in another field, such as internal medicine. Physicians at this stage are termed PGY-2 residents, regardless of whether it is their second official year of residency. For example, in radiation oncology and dermatology, the official residency program starts at the PGY-2 level. Our list of the most competitive residency programs in the US will discuss PGY-1 and PGY-2 openings across residency programs in the United States. uzhursky/Shutterstock.com Methodology To identify the most competitive residency programs in the United States, we utilized data from the National Residency Matching Program and their corresponding list of Average USMLE Step 2 CK scores accepted by the different programs. We conducted an additional assessment to check the number of applicants for the program and the number of corresponding PGY-1 and PGY-2 positions. Some residencies offer both PGY-1 and PGY-2 positions for a specific Match year, while others just offer either PGY-1 or PGY-2 positions. The data, when connected with the most recent average USMLE Step 2 CK scores released in July 2022, helped us compile the list in ascending order. The higher the average USMLE Step 2 CK Score for a residency program, the more difficult it becomes for aspiring doctors to get into. Having covered these particulars, let us now proceed to rank the most competitive residency programs in the United States. Note: These stats are for 2022, and while competitiveness remains the same, average scores can vary from year to year. 15 Most Competitive Residency Programs in the United States 15. Family Medicine Number of PGY-1 positions: 5,088 Number of applicants: 6,927 Average USMLE Step 2 CK score: 241 Family medicine residents gain experience in a wide range of medical disciplines, from pediatrics to geriatrics. Due to its broad scope, this residency program offers excellent applicability in both urban and rural settings, where primary care physicians are in high demand. Graduates from family medicine residency programs have a high success rate in obtaining positions in hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Some of the top companies active in the health care facilities market include HCA Healthcare (NYSE:HCA), Pediatrix Medical Group (NYSE:MD), and Amedisys (NASDAQ:AMED). 14. Psychiatry Number of PGY-1 positions: 2,164 Number of applicants: 3,039 Average USMLE Step 2 CK score: 242 Psychiatry residency programs offer specialized training in diagnosing and treating mental health illnesses in patients of all ages. Students in these programs gain hands-on experience with the latest methodologies and technologies used in the field, including various psychotherapies and pharmacological interventions. A psychiatry residency program can lead to a wide range of exciting and rewarding career opportunities in psychology and medicine. 13. Pediatrics Number of PGY-1 positions: 2,986 Number of applicants: 3,724 Average USMLE Step 2 CK score: 245 Pediatrics residency programs focus on providing comprehensive medical care for infants, children, and adolescents, encompassing preventive care, diagnosing and treating illnesses, and educating families on child health and development. Pediatric residency graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to care for young patients. 12. Pathology Number of PGY-1 positions: 613 Number of applicants: 1023 Average USMLE Step 2 CK score: 245 The Pathology residency program has an average score of 245, and 1,023 applicants vie for 613 PGY-1 spots. This program offers in-depth training in diagnosing diseases and understanding pathological processes through laboratory analyses, such as tissue and cell examination. 11. Emergency Medicine Number of PGY-1 positions: 3,010 Number of applicants: 2,765 Average USMLE Step 2 CK score: 247 Emergency Medicine provides rigorous training in a wide range of scenarios encountered in the emergency department. Due to the ever-present need for emergency medicine practitioners, the applicability of this residency program is immense and graduates find opportunities in various healthcare settings. The program focuses on acute care, equipping residents with the skills to diagnose, stabilize, and manage patients with life-threatening emergencies and time-sensitive illnesses. 10. Radiation Oncology Number of PGY-1 positions: 10 Number of PGY-2 positions: 181 Number of applicants: 108 Average USMLE Step 2 CK score: 249 Radiation Oncology, with an average score of 249, is highly competitive due to its limited positions (181 total) for 108 applicants, and ranks 10th on our list of most competitive residency programs in the US. This residency program trains physicians to deliver targeted radiation therapy to treat malignant and benign conditions, including cancer. 9. Internal Medicine – Pediatrics Number of PGY-1 positions: 392 Number of applicants: 571 Average USMLE Step 2 CK score: 250 Internal Medicine focuses on the comprehensive care of adult patients. With a strong emphasis on clinical reasoning and evidence-based practice, internal medicine residents develop the skills necessary to diagnose and manage a wide array of medical conditions. Applicability of this residency program is wide-ranging, allowing graduates to pursue various career paths, including primary care, hospital medicine, or subspecialties. 8. Vascular Surgery Number of PGY-1 positions: 93 Number of PGY-2 positions: None Number of applicants: 159 Average USMLE Step 2 CK score: 250 Vascular Surgery has a 250 average score, with 159 applicants vying for 93 PGY-1 positions, and is among the most competitive medical residencies. This surgical residency program provides specialized training in diagnosing and managing peripheral vascular diseases through various surgical, endovascular, and medical treatments. 7. Neurosurgery Number of PGY-1 positions: 243 Number of PGY-2 positions: None Number of applicants: 373 Average USMLE Step 2 CK score: 252 The neurosurgery program offers comprehensive training and mentorship, equipping aspiring neurosurgeons with the necessary skills and knowledge required for handling matters of the brain. This rigorous surgical residency program trains physicians in complex surgical procedures focusing on the brain, spine, and peripheral nerves. 6. Interventional Radiology Number of PGY-1 positions: 51 Number of PGY-2 positions: 125 Number of applicants: 266 Average USMLE Step 2 CK score: 253 Interventional Radiology boasts an impressive average score of 253 and attracts 266 applicants vying for just 176 available positions, establishing itself as one of the premier residency programs in its specialty. This program provides comprehensive training in cutting-edge, image-guided diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for a wide spectrum of medical conditions. HCA Healthcare (NYSE:HCA), Pediatrix Medical Group (NYSE:MD), and Amedisys (NASDAQ:AMED) are renowned for their ability to recruit and retain top-tier medical professionals nationwide. Click to continue reading and see the 5 Most Competitive Residency Programs in the US. Suggested Articles: 25 Countries with the Best Hospitals in the World 25 Best Hospitals in the U.S 25 Best Hospitals for Cancer Treatment in the World Disclosure: none. 15 Most Competitive Residency Programs in the US is originally published on Insider Monkey......»»

In this article, we will take a look at the 5 most successful small business ideas. If you want to read our detailed analysis, you can go directly to 25 Most Successful Small Business Ideas. 5. Digital Marketing Services Insider Monkey Score: 3 Industry Net Margin: 5.34% Digital marketing services are not only one of […] In this article, we will take a look at the 5 most successful small business ideas. If you want to read our detailed analysis, you can go directly to 25 Most Successful Small Business Ideas. 5. Digital Marketing Services Insider Monkey Score: 3 Industry Net Margin: 5.34% Digital marketing services are not only one of the most successful small business ideas, but it is also a popular industry to work in. Digital marketing is the need of the hour, and every company requires it, be it in the form of SEO consultancy or social media management. According to a report by grandview research, the global digital marketing software market was valued at $65.33 billion in 2022. The global digital marketing software market is expected to grow to $264.15 billion by 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.4%. The advertising industry reported a net margin of 5.34% as of January 5, across 362 companies......»»

In this article, we will take a look at the 25 most successful small business ideas. If you want to skip our detailed analysis, you can go directly to 5 Most Successful Small Business Ideas. Small businesses have been springing up at a rapid pace. The incidence of technology coupled with artificial intelligence has propelled […] In this article, we will take a look at the 25 most successful small business ideas. If you want to skip our detailed analysis, you can go directly to 5 Most Successful Small Business Ideas. Small businesses have been springing up at a rapid pace. The incidence of technology coupled with artificial intelligence has propelled the growth of small businesses. According to a report by the World Bank, small to medium enterprises account for the majority of the businesses in the world, representing 90% of global business and 50% of employment worldwide. In fact, small to medium enterprises account for 40% of the national income (GDP) in developing and emerging countries. Check out some of the most profitable businesses you can start in 2023.  Is It Easy To Start a Business? On August 9, Forbes shared stats on how popular artificial intelligence is among small businesses. According to the report, around 28% of respondents have AI integrated into their business. These businesses expect cost savings of over $5,000 within the next 12 months. Only 26% of small businesses currently use AI, while 44% pointed to their growing willingness to adopt it sooner or later. It is not an exaggeration to suggest that setting up a business today is much easier than it was decades ago, thanks to the growing number of automated software and AI. Also, check out some of the best marketing software for small businesses. Salesforce, Inc. (NYSE:CRM), for instance, dedicates a separate web domain to small and medium enterprises. This web page entails information on how different tools, at Salesforce, Inc. (NYSE:CRM), could be combined to streamline processes. On September 12, Salesforce, Inc. (CRM) reported on the launch of the Einstein 1 Platform. The platform will allow companies to connect data to build and establish new AI-powered apps, promising efficiency. Parker Harris, Co-Founder and CTO of Salesforce, Inc. (CRM), stated: “A company’s AI strategy is only as good as its data strategy. We pioneered the metadata framework nearly 25 years ago to seamlessly bridge data across applications. It’s the connective tissue that fuels innovation. Now, with Data Cloud and Einstein AI native on the Einstein 1 Platform, companies can easily create AI-powered apps and workflows that supercharge productivity, reduce costs, and deliver amazing customer experiences.” Successful Business Idea: At a Glance All successful companies today were once business ideas waiting to be implemented. Some of the most successful business ideas that are now prominent businesses include Chewy, Inc. (NYSE:CHWY), Shopify Inc. (NYSE:SHOP), and Sprout Social, Inc. (NASDAQ:SPT). Chewy, Inc. (NYSE:CHWY) is an online shop and retailer of pet food and products in the United States. The e-commerce platform specializes in providing pet services and care products. Pet services and care are also among the most successful small business ideas. On August 30, Chewy, Inc. (NYSE:CHWY) reported its earnings for the fiscal second quarter of 2024. The company reported earnings per share of $0.15 and outperformed market consensus by $0.06. Chewy, Inc. (NYSE:CHWY) also reported a 12.46% year-on-year growth in revenue. Reported revenue was $2.78 billion, ahead of market consensus by $16.66 million. The dropshipping business model eliminates the need to hold inventory. The cost savings that come with this e-commerce model contribute to its popularity. Shopify Inc. (NYSE:SHOP) lets people set up their dropshipping business in a few simple steps. Shopify Inc. (NYSE:SHOP) lets people connect their accounts to AliExpress’s dropshipping tool, Dsers, once they are done setting up a dropshipping account on Shopify. On September 25, Shopify Inc. (NYSE:SHOP) reported recent updates to the famous tool, Shopify Audiences. Shopify Audiences connects your shop with all major advertising platforms, including TikTok, Snap, and Criteo. Such is a golden opportunity for dropshippers, as they can gauge demand and advertise their products smoothly, through a single platform.  Digital marketing is the need of the hour. Sprout Social, Inc. (NASDAQ:SPT) is a digital marketing agency offering solutions in social media management. Sprout Social, Inc. (NASDAQ:SPT) is at the forefront of integrating technology and artificial intelligence. On April 10, Sprout Social, Inc. (NASDAQ:SPT) reported on the launch of new artificial intelligence features across its platform. These include Smart Query Suggestions and OpenAI and Repustate-based capabilities. Such will help businesses minimize manual effort and acquire highly targeted, creative, and strategic solutions. Justyn Howard, CEO and Co-Founder of Sprout Social, Inc. (NASDAQ:SPT), stated: “The rapid advancements in AI require us to be intentional and bring the most valuable aspects to our customers, tailored to the unique challenges of social business. Impactful and intuitive AI will be ready to use and fit seamlessly into current workflows while vastly improving them. Such will deliver incredible value to our customers and empower them to unlock even greater ROI from social.” Small businesses may be the future of the job market. With the advent of technology, it is no surprise that people are moving to be self-employed. However, not all business ideas offer great returns. With that, let’s discuss the 25 most successful small business ideas. Rawpixel/Shutterstock.com Our Methodology  For the 25 most successful small business ideas, we used a consensus approach to create a pool of business ideas. Spreading across four sources on the internet by Shopify, Hubspot, and two reports by Forbes, we created a pool of 140 small business ideas. Of them, we shortlisted the top 25 through a consensus approach. The subjectivity and breadth of the title limit our ability to rank each business idea on its profitability and worth. According to our hypothesis, successful business ideas are those operating in a sector or industry reporting high net margins. We sourced industry net margins from the NYU Stern database on industries. The industry net margins were extracted and dated as of January 5. It is to be noted that we tried to categorize our business ideas to the most relevant industry or sector available in our database. As for online retail, we understand that the net margin for the industry may be negative. However, it was included, as some of the most successful small businesses today belong to that sector.  25 Most Successful Small Business Ideas 25. Clothing and Fashion Boutique  Insider Monkey Score: 2 Industry Net Margin: 2.41% Offering trendy clothing items will never go out of style. Popular niches the company can go for include sustainable clothing, thrift fashion, and rental clothing. The clothing and fashion business idea lies under the retail industry. The industry reported net margins of 2.41% as of January 5.  Chewy, Inc. (NYSE:CHWY), Shopify Inc. (NYSE:SHOP), and Sprout Social, Inc. (NASDAQ:SPT) are some examples of the most successful business ideas. 24. Tutoring Services Insider Monkey Score: 2 Industry Net Margin: 4.06% Tutoring is another small business idea that could be very profitable. Education is of utmost importance and the propagation of online tutoring has fueled growth in this sector. The education sector reported an industry net margin of 4.06%, as of January 5, across 251  companies.  23. Virtual Assistant Services Insider Monkey Score: 2 Industry Net Margin: 4.32% Virtual service providers and virtual assistants are gaining immense popularity across the globe. Virtual assistant agencies place their workers as virtual assistants in different companies. These virtual assistants work individually with clients to provide them with administrative services. The business and consumer services industry reported a net margin of 4.32% as of January 5, across 961 companies. 22. Freelance Services Insider Monkey Score: 2 Industry Net Margin: 4.32% According to our methodology, freelance services are among the most successful small business ideas. While there is a range of freelance companies, people can also set up their own freelance platform specifically for their specialized domain. The most popular freelance services are in the domains of graphic design, content creation, copywriting, and UI/UX design. The business and consumer services industry reported a net margin of 4.32% as of January 5, across 961 companies. 21. Dog Grooming Services Insider Monkey Score: 2 Industry Net Margin: 4.32% Based on our methodology dog grooming is among the most successful small business ideas. The small business falls under the business and consumer services sector, which has a net margin of 4.32%, as of January 5. 20. Daycare Services Insider Monkey Score: 2 Industry Net Margin: 4.32% Daycare services are ranked among the most successful business ideas. With more and more women entering the workforce, the popularity of daycare services has increased immensely. Daycare Services is also a part of the business and consumer services sector. 19. Cleaning Services  Insider Monkey Score: 2 Industry Net Margin: 4.32% According to our methodology, cleaning services are among the most successful small business ideas. Often, people do not have the time to clean their homes or office spaces. Cleaning service providers usually specialize in decluttering, organization, and decor. 18. Influencer Services  Insider Monkey Score: 2 Industry Net Margin: 5.34% Influencer marketing is on the rise. Developing an organic following on your social media is a crucial task. However, engaging with influencers on social media can bring significant benefits to a business, as most consumers look up to them and follow these influencers. The advertising industry reported a net margin of 5.34% as of January 5, across 362 companies.  17. Social Media Services Insider Monkey Score: 2 Industry Net Margin: 5.34% Social media services are among the most successful small business ideas. Social media management is highly crucial to the success of businesses across the world. Services in social media management include content creation, posting, scheduling posts, insights analysis, and much more. Social Media Services falls under the advertising industry, which reported a net margin of 5.34%, as of January 5. 16. Sewing and Alteration Insider Monkey Score: 2 Industry Net Margin: 4.32% Based on our methodology, sewing and alteration were ranked among the most successful business ideas. Sewing and alteration services can easily be customized for every customer and client separately, enabling the development of long-term relationships. The parent sector reported a net margin of 4.32% as of January 5, across 961 companies.  15. SEO Services Insider Monkey Score: 2 Industry Net Margin: 5.34% Services in SEO optimization and SEO consultancy are among the most successful small business ideas. Mastering SEO requires a lot of technical knowledge, however, it is the need of the hour especially with a lot of competition in the market. So if you think you have the skills, you may consider offering services in SEO consultancy and SEO optimization. The advertising industry reported a net margin of 5.34% as of January 5, across 362 companies.  14. Food Truck Insider Monkey Score: 2 Industry Net Margin: 6.27% Based on our methodology, setting up a food truck business is among the most successful small business ideas. A food truck business has low startup costs primarily because food truck owners do not need to set up a space for dine-in options. The restaurant and dining industry reported a net margin of 6.27% as of January 5, across 382 companies.  13. App Development Services Insider Monkey Score: 2 Industry Net Margin: 11.17% Based on our methodology, services in app development are one of the most successful small business ideas. In today’s globalized world, every company understands the importance of introducing mobile-based, web-based, or cloud applications. App development falls under the software industry. The industry reported a net margin of 11.17% as of January 5.   12. Carpool Services  Insider Monkey Score: 2 Industry Net Margin: 17.05% Ride-sharing and carpooling services are among the most successful small business ideas. Carpooling allows users to save costs by sharing their ride with other people going to the same destination. The transportation industry reported a net margin of 17.05%, as of January 5, across 302 companies.  11. E-commerce Insider Monkey Score: 3 Industry Net Margin: -0.05% E-commerce is among the most popular and successful small business ideas. E-commerce is gaining traction across the world. While the parent sector reported a negative net margin, many successful small businesses lie within this sector. 10. Commercial Printing Services Insider Monkey Score: 3 Industry Net Margin: 2.65% Based on our methodology, commercial printing, and 3D printing services rank among the most successful small business ideas. According to a report by Grandview Research, the global commercial printing market was valued at $489.63 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow to $598.06 billion by 2030 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.8%. The publishing and newspaper industry reported a net margin of 2.65% as of January 5, across 327 companies.  9. Online Teaching Services Insider Monkey Score: 3 Industry Net Margin: 4.06% Based on our methodology, online teaching is among the most successful small business ideas. Setting up an online teaching platform is easier than ever as there is a wide availability of tools and video conferencing software in the market. According to a report by Grandview Research, the global online tutoring market was valued at $7.69 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow to $22.73 billion by 2030 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.9%. The education sector reported a net margin of 4.06% as of January 5, across 251 companies.  8. Event Planning & Management  Insider Monkey Score: 3 Industry Net Margin: 4.32% Based on our methodology, event management is among the most successful small business ideas. Event management companies offer services in catering, event planning, decor, setup, and much more. Event management and planning fall under the business and consumer services industry. The industry reported a net margin of 4.32% as of January 5, across 961 companies.  7. Coaching and Fitness Services Insider Monkey Score: 3 Industry Net Margin: 4.32% Coaching and fitness services are among the most successful small business ideas. The business idea falls under the business and consumer services industry. The industry reported a net margin of 4.32% as of January 5, across 961 companies.  6. Photography Selling  Insider Monkey Score: 3 Industry Net Margin: 5.34% According to our methodology, selling your photography is one of the most successful business ideas. People use images for all kinds of reasons, be it content creation or blogging. Selling your photography online would not only bring in money but it also markets your photography skills. The advertising industry reported a net margin of 5.34% as of January 5, across 362 companies. Chewy, Inc. (NYSE:CHWY), Shopify Inc. (NYSE:SHOP), and Sprout Social, Inc. (NASDAQ:SPT) are some of the most popular businesses that belong to attractive sectors. Click to continue reading and see the 5 Most Successful Small Business Ideas. 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In this article, we will take a look at the 5 most popular small towns to live in the US. If you wish to see our detailed analysis, you can go to 25 Most Popular Small Towns to Live in the US. 5. Los Alamos Mean House Price: $342,000 Median Household Income: $118,293 Total Number […] In this article, we will take a look at the 5 most popular small towns to live in the US. If you wish to see our detailed analysis, you can go to 25 Most Popular Small Towns to Live in the US. 5. Los Alamos Mean House Price: $342,000 Median Household Income: $118,293 Total Number of Schools: 11 Los Alamos is a popular small town to live in America. The town is located in North Mexico and hence offers natural surroundings and trails to its residents. The schools in the town are also highly rated......»»

In this article, we will be analyzing suburbs in America and companies contributing to the quality of life in these areas while covering the 25 most popular small towns to live in the US. If you wish to skip our detailed analysis, you can move directly to the 5 Most Popular Small Towns to Live […] In this article, we will be analyzing suburbs in America and companies contributing to the quality of life in these areas while covering the 25 most popular small towns to live in the US. If you wish to skip our detailed analysis, you can move directly to the 5 Most Popular Small Towns to Live in the US. The Ideal Small Town The tightly knit community life in a small town in America has a lot to offer. These American small towns typically have a lower population than metropolitan areas. Being in close proximity to major cities, these towns offer an urban-suburban feel. A small town that is deemed a popular place to live is one that offers all basic amenities to its residents such as housing, education, healthcare, and safety. A good standard of living implies that the residents can afford to own or rent out their own living space, feel safe to walk around the town, and have access to medical care and sufficient employment opportunities to sustain a livelihood. You can also take a look at the best American suburbs for retirees. According to the most recent census reported by the US Census Bureau in 2020, there were 3,143 counties in the country that were rural. Almost 60% of the counties were considered either totally or partially rural by this census survey. Approximately 13.4 million children under the age of 18 resided in a rural space in 2020, thereby representing a potential future generation. Considering these statistics, it is evident that a major portion of the country lies outside big urban centers. Thus, the scope of small towns even when they contain a smaller population is extensive.  Companies Promoting Quality Life in Small Towns There are a diverse set of companies in the United States that improve the standard of life in small towns. They serve the residents of these small towns by fulfilling their needs. Since these companies operate in different industries, we have focused on some of them. These include Walmart Inc. (NYSE:WMT) from retail, Princeton Bancorp Inc. (NASDAQ:BPRN) from banking and Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO) from healthcare. Walmart Inc. (NYSE:WMT) is a popular retail chain in the United States. The company pursues a strategy of positioning itself in small towns in the US, even where the population is relatively less. The company’s strategy focuses on placing discount stores in small towns. These stores bring employment opportunities and the ease of shopping from nearby for the town’s residents. On April 4, the company reported its growth strategy for 2023. Walmart Inc. (NYSE:WMT) is striving to improve its supply chain by integrating automation and innovation into it. The company also demonstrated this supply chain innovation at its regional distribution center in Brooksville, which is a small American town, and how the distribution center could engage in increased item storage by inculcating data, software, and robotics in its supply chain system thereby delivering to the company’s stores efficiently. By 2026, Walmart Inc. (NYSE:WMT) expects to have 65% of its stores serviced automatically. Another popular company operating in Princeton town is The Bank of Princeton, a wholly owned subsidiary of Princeton Bancorp Inc. (NASDAQ:BPRN). The bank offers financial services across Central New Jersey, New York and Philadelphia. The bank also holds three branches in Princeton thereby helping the residents with their banking needs. On May 19, the company reported that it has acquired Noah Bank. The company is currently also operating in other small towns such as Browns Mills, Chesterfield, Cream Ridge, and Hamilton. Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO) tends to transform suburban life in America by providing pharmaceutical products. Its US headquarters is in Plainsboro township in New Jersey, which also shares a border with Princeton. The company continues to make healthcare accessible in the country. On June 20, the company reported that it has been taking actions against retailers of non-FDA approved semaglutide medicines with the use of its trademark. Legal actions have been initiated by Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO) against local pharmacies, medical spas, and other retailers to protect US consumers from buying medicines that are neither authentic nor safe for their health. Thus, Walmart Inc. (NYSE:WMT), Princeton Bancorp Inc. (NASDAQ:BPRN), and Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO) add to the local amenities that can be accessed easily by the residents of small American towns. Methodology In order to compile a list of the most popular small towns in the US, we referred to the Niche Best Places to Live ranking. We chose ‘towns’ as our filter to find all the American towns. From the results, we screened towns with a population under 50,000, thereby representing small towns. Since the population requirements as stated by the US Census Bureau for towns within different US states vary and large cities typically have populations greater than 50,000, we have considered all those towns which have populations under 50,000. Thus, we shortlisted the top 50 small towns from Niche. Moving on, we decided to select the metrics that could best define a popular town to live in the US. Based on our hypothesis, a popular small town in America for a living should have a good quality of life. Thus, the town should offer affordable housing costs, reasonable income, and educational institutes since housing affordability, employment, and education are the basic concerns of residents in any place. To denote house affordability, we selected mean house price as our primary metric. For our secondary metric representing employment, we chose mean household income. For the number of schools as our tertiary metric, we compiled all public and private schools in the town. This data was sourced from town profiles on Niche. Finally, we ranked the small towns in the US according to their mean house prices, mean household income, and number of schools, on a priority basis as stated above. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular small towns for living in America. 25 Most Popular Small Towns to Live in the US: 25. Chevy Chase Mean House Price: $999,200 Median Household Income: $207,971 Total Number of Schools: 283 Chevy Chase is a popular town to live in the US. The town has highly rated schools and is connected to Washington DC and Bethesda which makes its location ideal. 24. Great Neck Gardens   Mean House Price: $941,500 Median Household Income: $218,603 Total Number of Schools: 51 Great Neck Gardens is another American town with a quality standard of living. The town has softball fields, parks, playgrounds, and a safe space to offer. 23. Ho-Ho-Kus       Mean House Price: $815,200 Median Household Income: $244,493 Total Number of Schools: 204 Ho-Ho Kus offers a vibrant community with a low crime rate. Residents can also socialize in the town with ease, making it one of the most popular towns to live in the US. 22. South Kensington        Mean House Price: $806,700 Median Household Income: $197,500 Total Number of Schools: 266 South Kensington is a suburb of Washington that offers many recreational options in the form of picnic spots, parks, and courts. The town is a popular place to live in the US. 21. Wayland   Mean House Price: $762,400 Median Household Income: $203,789 Total Number of Schools: 195 Wayland has one of the most established school systems in Massachusetts. It is a good place to live in the US with natural fields and forests to witness. 20. Herricks Mean House Price: $699,500 Median Household Income: $170,078 Total Number of Schools: 120 Herricks is a small suburban community in New York that offers affordable homes, quality schools, and an easy commute. Thus, the town is a popular place to live in the US. 19. Syosset  Mean House Price: $690,800 Median Household Income: $165,727 Total Number of Schools: 134 A reasonable small town to reside in the US is Syosset. It is a suburb of New York that offers diverse housing options as well as good schools. The town is popular for living in the US. 18. North Potomac Mean House Price: $686,800 Median Household Income: $174,591 Total Number of Schools: 157 Another popular small town in the US is North Potomac which has great schools and a safe place to offer to its residents. The town also provides places for recreation. 17. Clayton Mean House Price: $683,400 Median Household Income: $117,593 Total Number of Schools: 261 Clayton is another small town in America that has maintained its standard of living. The town provides well-developed academic programs and growing job opportunities to its residents. Walmart Inc. (NYSE:WMT), Princeton Bancorp Inc. (NASDAQ:BPRN), and Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO) offer their services to elevate the quality of life in US towns. 16. Devon Mean House Price: $663,300 Median Household Income: $197,820 Total Number of Schools: 130 Devon is a famous small town in the US. The town offers many amenities in the form of medical services, good education, and an easily accessible public transit system. 15. Princeton Junction      Mean House Price: $574,100 Median Household Income: $196,364 Total Number of Schools: 135 Princeton Junction in New Jersey is another American town that is a good place to live in the country. The town has parks, trails, and waterways to offer for outdoor enthusiasts. The schools in the town are also good. 14. Stone Ridge      Mean House Price: $544,400 Median Household Income: $173,102 Total Number of Schools: 103 Stone Ridge is a popular American town for living. It is based in Virginia and has some of the top-rated schools in addition to great outdoor spaces. 13. Holly Hills        Mean House Price: $533,000 Median Household Income: $134,722 Total Number of Schools: 214 Another small town good for living in the US is Holly Hills which is also deemed to be family friendly. The town supports a good transport and education system to serve its residents.  12. Swarthmore     Mean House Price: $443,000 Median Household Income: $128,995 Total Number of Schools: 116 Swarthmore has many parks, restaurants, public schools and a safe community feel to offer to its residents. This makes the town a popular place to live in the US. 11. Great Neck Plaza Mean House Price: $399,800 Median Household Income: $95,676 Total Number of Schools: 73 Great Neck Plaza is home to many offices and shops. It also provides a commute to New York City which makes it a favorable small town to live in America. 10. Penn Wyne       Mean House Price: $395,300 Median Household Income: $143,520 Total Number of Schools: 262 Penn Wyne is a small American town that provides reasonable living in the US. The cost of living is affordable and the community is friendly for those who wish to reside in the town. Walmart Inc. (NYSE:WMT), Princeton Bancorp Inc. (NASDAQ:BPRN), and Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO) are well positioned in their respective industries in the United States. 9. Cinco Ranch      Mean House Price: $381,500 Median Household Income: $152,662 Total Number of Schools: 179 Based in Texas, Cinco Ranch is another popular small town to reside in America. A significant portion of residents own their homes. The town also offers outdoor activities. 8. Innsbrook   Mean House Price: $370,100 Median Household Income: $96,849 Total Number of Schools: 104 The homeownership rate is high in Innsbrook which is a popular town in the United States. The town is also closely linked to Richmond and hence, residents can access facilities in a big city while experiencing a town feel. 7. Ardmore Mean House Price: $353,900 Median Household Income: $107,087 Total Number of Schools: 194 Ardmore also makes it to our list of the 25 most popular small towns to live in the US. There are many local shops and other attractions such as the Suburban Square located in the town. 6. Chesterbrook     Mean House Price: $350,200 Median Household Income: $126,687 Total Number of Schools: 164 Chesterbrook is a famous small town to reside in America as it provides ample outdoor activities and a good nightlife. The town also has a well established education system. Click to continue reading and see 5 Most Popular Small Towns to Live in the US. Suggested articles: 30 Heavily Indebted Poor Countries TikTok is Banned in these 20 States and Countries 10 Best Live TV Streaming Services for Cord Cutters in 2023 Disclosure: None. 25 Most Popular Small Towns to Live in the US is originally published on Insider Monkey......»»

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Successful Completion of 2023 Field Program, Positioning theDonlin Gold Project for the Next Phase of Development Increased Cash and Term Deposits to $130 Million With the Receipt of $25 Million The 2023 field program at the Donlin Gold project was completed safely and successfully on schedule in July, with 63% of its direct hires originating from the Yukon-Kuskokwim ("Y-K") region. Our ongoing focus at Donlin Gold is on finalizing the geologic and resource models using data obtained from the extensive drill programs, as well as the recently completed fieldwork at the project site to advance the Alaska Dam Safety certification applications. On September 21, 2023, both Barrick Gold Corporation ("Barrick") and NOVAGOLD (collectively referred to as the "Owners") attended a workshop in Alaska to review the substantial amount of work completed to date and discuss the next steps for the Donlin Gold project and workplan for the coming years. NOVAGOLD's treasury remains strong with $130 million in cash and term deposits as of August 31, 2023, which includes a $25 million note payment received from Newmont Mining Corporation ("Newmont") in July 2023 — a healthy financial position to advance the Donlin Gold project up the value chain. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 03, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NOVAGOLD RESOURCES INC. ("NOVAGOLD" or "the Company") ((NYSE American, TSX:NG) today released its 2023 third quarter financial results and an update on its Tier One1 gold development project, Donlin Gold, which NOVAGOLD owns equally with Barrick. Details of the financial results for the quarter ended August 31, 2023, are presented in the consolidated financial statements and quarterly report filed on Form 10-Q on October 3, 2023 that is available on the Company's website at www.novagold.com, on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca, and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. All amounts are in U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated. Third Quarter 2023 Donlin Gold Highlights: The field program was successfully completed in July and encompassed: The completion of comprehensive fieldwork and geotechnical drilling required to complete the Alaska Dam Safety certification applications; Fieldwork to further define groundwater at the site, including 1,279 m of hydrogeologic drilling with instrumentation and pump tests, providing essential information for mine planning and design; Lyman family's historic placer site stream restoration, with stream and pond habitat creation advanced in 2023, and final work including anticipated aquatic life access and use planned for the 2024 field season. State permitting activities were successful, including the following: The Air Quality permit was reissued; The second of the two Right-of-Way ("ROW") permit appeals by a local lodge owner was denied in Alaska Superior Court, and not further appealed. The first appeal by Earthjustice that was denied by the Superior Court was appealed to the Alaska Supreme Court and the briefing process is underway; The Alaska Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit was extended and is expected to be re-issued in 2024; The Alaska Water Rights permits were upheld in Alaska Superior Court; The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation ("ADEC") Commissioner upheld the Clean Water Act Section 401 certification of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (the "Corps") permit. The State of Alaska was granted intervenor status along with Donlin Gold and Calista Corporation ("Calista") with respect to the Federal litigation on the Donlin Gold Joint Record of Decision and 404 permit. Donlin Gold will continue to support the agencies in defending their thorough and diligent permitting process. Trade-off studies and extensive analysis on project assumptions, inputs, design components for optimization (mine engineering, metallurgy, hydrology, power, and infrastructure) were completed to inform the next steps in taking the project further up the value chain. In collaboration with Calista and The Kuskokwim Corporation ("TKC"), Donlin Gold achieved the following milestones in areas spanning education, health and safety, cultural traditions, and environmental initiatives: Added a new community liaison representative from the local village of Nunapitchuk, bringing the total to six team members; Participated and provided support to the annual "In It For The Long Haul" waste backhaul program for the sixth year in a row; Supported the Alaska EXCEL initiative, a non-profit organization providing supplemental academic, career and technical education programming for rural youth and young adults across the Y-K region. Held numerous stakeholder engagement meetings in Alaska with State officials and the Corps, in partnership with Calista and the village of Crooked Creek. These sessions emphasized the project's comprehensive environmental review and permitting processes, as well as our close collaboration with Native Alaskan landowners. President's Message An Exceptional Asset Paving the Way for Further Value Creation Donlin Gold's steadfast commitment to advancing its extraordinary project up the value chain is reflected in our increased investments and expanded partnerships with the communities of the Y-K region. The extensive work done on the project to date has added considerable value in a responsible manner for all stakeholders, including Alaska residents and NOVAGOLD shareholders. Donlin Gold is a truly remarkable open-pit gold development project — characterized by its unique combination of rarity, sheer size, and development status. Located on private land designated by law for mining in Alaska, the second-largest gold-producing state in the United States, Donlin Gold aligns perfectly with the State's commitment to environmentally and socially responsible resource development, making it an extremely appealing investment for those seeking peace of mind. This project holds the esteemed status of a true "Tier 1 Asset" in a world-leading jurisdiction and is anticipated to provide exceptional gold leverage and economic benefits for all stakeholders. As the leading gold development project in Alaska, a state renowned for its responsible mining practices, Donlin Gold, when built, is expected to serve as a cornerstone for genuine and sustainable economic growth in the Y-K region for years to come. Boasting approximately 39 million ounces of gold with an impressive grade for an open pit project of 2.24 grams per tonne in Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources including Proven and Probable Mineral Reserves, and a projected mine life over 27 years, Donlin Gold possesses the potential to emerge as a sizeable low-cost gold producer with a solid foundation and significant growth opportunities.2 Exploration opportunities extend well beyond the current resource areas which cover only a fraction of the extensive land package. These factors collectively position Donlin Gold as a captivating story in gold development, underscored by NOVAGOLD's unwavering commitment to responsible mining, trust-building, and continual project improvement. Dedication, Discipline, and Preparation for the Next Phase in the Donlin Gold Project In the third quarter, the Donlin Gold team safely wrapped-up site activities on schedule. These included comprehensive fieldwork and geotechnical drilling required for the Alaska Dam Safety certificate applications, which involved data collection at the locations earmarked for water retention structures with 74 geotechnical test pits, including for the proposed tailings storage facility, 1,840 meters of geotechnical drilling, 25 kilometers of seismic survey, and tailings storage facility test plot liner installation. Donlin Gold will now assemble the data for the next step in advancing the Alaska Dam Safety certificates, submittal of the Preliminary Design Packages to the State of Alaska. Issuance of the certificates based on detailed engineering design is expected in 2026. Additional fieldwork also took place to further define groundwater at the site, which included 1,279 meters of hydrogeologic drilling with instrumentation and pump tests, providing essential information for mine planning and design. At the historic Lyman placer site, restoration work encompassed significant stream and pond habitat creation. Final work including anticipated aquatic life access and use is planned for the 2024 field season. During this past quarter, the Owners were doing work to validate the update geologic and resource model which is also being utilized for mine planning work. Donlin Gold, with support from the Owners and third-party consultants, also completed the trade-off studies and extensive analysis on project assumptions, inputs, design components for optimization such as mine engineering, metallurgy, hydrology, power and infrastructure. The recently completed comprehensive work provided valuable information for the Donlin Gold LLC board and its Owners. These were further discussed during the most recent workshop in Alaska and are helping us define the next steps in the advancement of the Donlin Gold project and workplan for the coming years. The Owners are committed to advancing the Donlin Gold project in a financially disciplined manner, with a strong focus on engineering excellence, environmental stewardship, a robust health and safety culture, and continued community engagement. Fostering Partnerships with Regional Stakeholders, with Consistent Support from Alaska's U.S. Representatives A crucial differentiating factor which sets Donlin Gold apart from many other mining assets in the United States is its location on private land designated for mining activities under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act of 1971. Donlin Gold's enduring partnerships with Calista and TKC have been pivotal in facilitating broad and inclusive local stakeholder outreach throughout the Y-K region. Our dedication to fostering genuine tribal involvement throughout the project's development and permitting phases follows from our decades-long and consistent engagement with the communities in the project's vicinity. In June 2023, Donlin Gold reaffirmed this commitment by appointing an additional community liaison representative from the local village of Nunapitchuk, thereby increasing the total number of team members to six. These collaborative efforts are reinforced by the establishment of 14 Shared Values Statements with key villages in the Y-K region. These statements formalize Donlin Gold's consistent engagement with local communities, build upon existing long-term relationships, and address specific community needs. During the third quarter, Donlin Gold collaborated with Calista and the village of Crooked Creek to conduct additional meetings in Alaska to engage State officials and the Corps. Additional gatherings were held in Washington, D.C. with members of the Congressional delegation and with senior leadership from the U.S. Department of Interior, as part of an ongoing bipartisan outreach campaign directed at the Biden Administration and the U.S. Congress. Notable participants included Senators Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan, along with Representative Mary Peltola from the Y-K region. In all of these interactions, Calista, Donlin Gold and Crooked Creek placed great emphasis on the thoroughness of the project's environmental review and permitting procedures, as well as on our strong partnerships with Native Alaskans who own the land. In August, Donlin Gold received special recognition from U.S. Representative Mary Peltola during the 2023 Alaska Oil and Gas Association Annual Conference for its exceptional project outreach and community engagement efforts. This acknowledgment underscores Donlin Gold's commitment to fostering positive relationships and actively involving local communities in the Y-K region and reflects the importance of responsible and sustainable resource development in Alaska. Steadfast Commitment to Community Wellness, Social Responsibility, and Education in the Y-K Region NOVAGOLD places a strong emphasis on community and social responsibility — a commitment to shared values that is fulfilled at both the Donlin Gold project site and within the communities of the Y-K region. Our efforts are concentrated on education, community well-being, cultural preservation, and environmental stewardship. Donlin Gold reinforces these goals through fisheries studies, conservation initiatives, cultural preservation activities, and targeted grants. During the third quarter, a diverse array of projects and activities took place that built on our longstanding engagement. In collaboration with the village of Napaimute, Donlin Gold actively participated in and provided principal support for the "In It for The Long Haul" backhaul program for the sixth year in a row. This vital project is dedicated to the collection, removal, and safe disposal of household hazardous and electronic waste from villages across the Y-K region, preventing its adverse impact on landfills and waterways. This year's program achieved significant milestones, including the removal of waste from fish camps in the Middle Kuskokwim. In addition, Donlin Gold employees from three villages (Marshall, Pilot Station, and Pitka's Point) played a pivotal role in initiating waste backhaul operations along the Yukon River, culminating in the collection and proper disposal of ...Full story available on Benzinga.com.....»»

These new ETFs tap two hot trends: zero-day options & electric vehicles. (1:30) - What Should Investors Expect Heading Into The Fourth Quarter?(6:50) - What Are Zero Day Options And How Are They Used?(11:00) - What Are The Concerns With The Surge In Zero Day Stock Options Trading?(14:30) - Defiance Nasdaq 100 Enhanced Options Income ETF and S&P 500 Enhanced Option Income ETF: QQQY & JEPY(18:40) - Defiance Pure Electric Vehicle ETF: EVXX(26:00) - Episode Roundup: Podcast@Zacks.com In this episode of ETF Spotlight, I speak with Sylvia Jablonski, CEO and CIO at Defiance ETFs, about the broader market and some interesting new ETFs.Stocks recently experienced their worst month and first negative quarter of 2023, as the possibility of interest rates remaining higher for a longer duration weighed on investor sentiment. Where should investors allocate their cash in the fourth quarter, historically the strongest period?Sylvia believes that the market may remain volatile in the short term but sees significant opportunities for long-term investing. She still favors big tech and semiconductor stocks, including Apple AAPL, Microsoft MSFT and Nvidia NVDA, which have become more attractively valued after the recent dip.Zero-day options (0DTE) trading volumes have recently surged, accounting for approximately half of all S&P 500 index option trading, according to FT. Defiance has recently introduced two actively managed funds that employ these options as a yield generation strategy.The Defiance Nasdaq 100 Enhanced Options Income ETF QQQY aims to generate outsized yields for investors while providing exposure to the Nasdaq-100 QQQ by selling options on a daily basis.Its sister fund, the Defiance S&P 500 Enhanced Options Income ETF JEPY, utilizes a similar strategy but offers equity exposure to the S&P 500 index SPY.Both ETFs also hold Treasury bonds that serve as collateral against the options, and come with an expense ratio of 0.99% each.The Defiance Pure Electric Vehicle ETF EVXX offers equally weighted exposure to the five largest electric vehicle manufacturers, with Tesla TSLA as the top holding in the fund.Tune in to the podcast to learn more.Make sure to be on the lookout for the next edition of the ETF Spotlight and remember to subscribe! If you have any comments or questions, please email podcast@zacks.com.  Want key ETF info delivered straight to your inbox? Zacks’ free Fund Newsletter will brief you on top news and analysis, as well as top-performing ETFs, each week.Get it free >>Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Apple Inc. (AAPL): Free Stock Analysis Report Microsoft Corporation (MSFT): Free Stock Analysis Report NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA): Free Stock Analysis Report Tesla, Inc. (TSLA): Free Stock Analysis Report Invesco QQQ (QQQ): ETF Research Reports SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY): ETF Research Reports Defiance Pure Electric Vehicle ETF (EVXX): ETF Research Reports Defiance Nasdaq 100 Enhanced Options Income ETF (QQQY): ETF Research Reports Defiance S&P 500 Enhanced Options Income ETF (JEPY): ETF Research ReportsTo read this article on Zacks.com click here.Zacks Investment Research.....»»

Total interest payments on the US debt could amount to $10.6 trillion over the next decade, per one estimate. Total interest payments on the US debt could amount to $10.6 trillion over the next decade, per one analysis.Associated Press/Carolyn Kaster The cost of servicing the US's pile of debt is on track to hit a new record in 2025, Goldman Sachs said. That's due to higher interest rates pushing up borrowing costs for public and private debts.  Total interest payments on the US debt could amount to $10.6 trillion over the next decade, per one analysis. The cost of financing the US debt is about to come more expensive than ever, according to Goldman Sachs.Strategists pointed to the rising cost of borrowing over the last year, with the Federal Reserve having raised rates to 5.25%-5.5% to lower inflation. That's pushed up the interest expenses on the US's massive debt load – which is now on pace to surpass the last peak reached in the 1990s and notch a new record by 2025, the bank estimated.In 2022, it cost the government $476 billion, or around 2% of national GDP to pay the interest on its debt. Interest payments are set to rise to 3% of GDP in 2024, and 4% of GDP by 2030, strategists estimated.Interest payments are also on track to become the largest category of federal spending over the next decade, according to an analysis from the Peter G. Peterson Foundation, which estimated a total $10.6 trillion will be spent paying interest on the national debt over the next 10 years. The federal debt, meanwhile, notched $33 trillion this summer for the first time ever, reflecting a heightened level of borrowing that has economists worried. "We estimate that debt as a share of GDP will rise from 96% to 123% over the next decade, driven primarily by a chronic deficit of around 3%," the note said. Other estimates predict the national debt-to-GDP ratio will grow at an even faster clip. The federal debt could make up 181% of GDP by 2053, according to one projection from the Congressional Budget Office."Although nominal GDP growth is likely to mostly offset the effect of higher interest costs on the debt-to-GDP ratio, the structural deficit will continue to add to public debt for the foreseeable future," Goldman strategists added.  Read the original article on Business Insider.....»»

Below, we share with you three top-ranked small-cap mutual funds. Each has earned a Zacks Mutual Fund Rank #1. Small-cap value mutual funds provide excellent choices for investors looking for bargains, i.e., stocks at a discount with impressive growth potential. Value mutual funds comprise stocks trading at a discount to book value, low price-to-earnings ratios and high dividend yields.Value investing is a popular strategy, that too for a good reason. After all, who doesn’t want to find stocks with low PEs, solid outlooks and decent dividends? Added to that, small-cap funds are good choices for investors with a high-risk appetite, as companies with small-market capitalization are expected to have higher growth potential than large- and mid-cap companies.Small-cap funds generally invest in companies having a market cap lower than $2 billion. Also, small-cap funds are expected to provide diversification across different sectors and companies.Below, we share with you three top-ranked small-cap value mutual funds, viz., Bridgeway Omni Small-Cap Value Fund BOSVX, Neuberger Berman Genesis Inv Fund NBGNX and DFA US Targeted Value Fund DFFVX. Each has a Zacks Mutual Fund Rank #1 (Strong Buy) and is expected to outperform its peers in the future. Investors can click here to see the complete list of Small Cap Value mutual funds.Bridgeway Omni Small-Cap Value Fund invests in value stocks. BOSVX advisors also invest most of its assets, along with borrowings, if any, in a broad and diverse group of small-cap stocks traded on the New York Stock Exchange, the NYSE American and NASDAQ at the time of purchase.Bridgeway Omni Small-Cap Value Fund has a three-year annualized return of 23.5%. As of the end of June 2023, BOSVX held 571 issues, with 1.1% of its assets invested in M/I Homes, Inc.Neuberger Berman Genesis Inv Fund seeks long-term capital growth by investing in companies that are still in their early stages of development. NBGNX advisors look for undervalued companies whose current product lines and balance sheets are strong and are cheap compared with the market as a whole.Neuberger Berman Genesis Inv Fund has a three-year annualized return of 7.5%. Robert W. D'Alelio has been the fund manager of NBGNX since 1997.DFA US Targeted Value Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation by investing in securities of U.S. companies. DFFVX advisors also invest in value stocks and securities characterized by a company's shares having a high book value compared to their market value.DFA US Targeted Value Fund has three-year annualized returns of 22.5%. DFFVX has an expense ratio of 0.29% compared with the category average of 1.16%.To view the Zacks Rank and the past performance of all small-cap value mutual funds, investors can click here to see the complete list of small-cap value mutual funds. Want key mutual fund info delivered straight to your inbox? Zacks’ free Fund Newsletter will brief you on top news and analysis, as well as top-performing mutual funds, each week. Get it free >>  Zacks Names "Single Best Pick to Double" From thousands of stocks, 5 Zacks experts each have chosen their favorite to skyrocket +100% or more in months to come. From those 5, Director of Research Sheraz Mian hand-picks one to have the most explosive upside of all. It’s credited with a “watershed medical breakthrough” and is developing a bustling pipeline of other projects that could make a world of difference for patients suffering from diseases involving the liver, lungs, and blood. This is a timely investment that you can catch while it emerges from its bear market lows. It could rival or surpass other recent Stocks Set to Double like Boston Beer Company which shot up +143.0% in little more than 9 months and NVIDIA which boomed +175.9% in one year.Free: See Our Top Stock And 4 Runners UpView All Zacks #1 Ranked Mutual FundsWant the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Get Your Free (BOSVX): Fund Analysis Report Get Your Free (NBGNX): Fund Analysis Report Get Your Free (DFFVX): Fund Analysis ReportTo read this article on Zacks.com click here.Zacks Investment Research.....»»

Mutual Fund Report for AIVOX If you've been stuck searching for Mutual Fund Equity Report funds, you might want to consider passing on by American Century International Opportunity A (AIVOX) as a possibility. AIVOX has a Zacks Mutual Fund Rank of 5 (Strong Sell), which is based on various forecasting factors like size, cost, and past performance.History of Fund/ManagerAIVOX is a part of the American Century family of funds, a company based out of Kansas City, MO. American Century International Opportunity A debuted in March of 2010. Since then, AIVOX has accumulated assets of about $5.02 million, according to the most recently available information. A team of investment professionals is the fund's current manager.PerformanceInvestors naturally seek funds with strong performance. AIVOX has a 5-year annualized total return of -0.05% and it sits in the bottom third among its category peers. But if you are looking for a shorter time frame, it is also worth looking at its 3-year annualized total return of -3.22%, which places it in the bottom third during this time-frame.It is important to note that the product's returns may not reflect all its expenses. Any fees not reflected would lower the returns. Total returns do not reflect the fund's [%] sale charge. If sales charges were included, total returns would have been lower.When looking at a fund's performance, it is also important to note the standard deviation of the returns. The lower the standard deviation, the less volatility the fund experiences. AIVOX's standard deviation over the past three years is 18.67% compared to the category average of 15.43%. The standard deviation of the fund over the past 5 years is 21.33% compared to the category average of 16.47%. This makes the fund more volatile than its peers over the past half-decade.Risk FactorsInvestors should note that the fund has a 5-year beta of 1.03, so it is likely going to be as volatile as the market at large. Alpha is an additional metric to take into consideration, since it represents a portfolio's performance on a risk-adjusted basis relative to a benchmark, which in this case, is the S&P 500. Over the past 5 years, the fund has a negative alpha of -9.94. This means that managers in this portfolio find it difficult to pick securities that generate better-than-benchmark returns.ExpensesFor investors, taking a closer look at cost-related metrics is key, since costs are increasingly important for mutual fund investing. Competition is heating up in this space, and a lower cost product will likely outperform its otherwise identical counterpart, all things being equal. In terms of fees, AIVOX is a load fund. It has an expense ratio of 1.75% compared to the category average of 1.13%. AIVOX is actually more expensive than its peers when you consider factors like cost.This fund requires a minimum initial investment of $2,500, and each subsequent investment should be at least $50.Fees charged by investment advisors have not been taken into considiration. Returns would be less if those were included.Bottom LineOverall, American Century International Opportunity A ( AIVOX ) has a low Zacks Mutual Fund rank, and in conjunction with its comparatively weak performance, average downside risk, and higher fees, American Century International Opportunity A ( AIVOX ) looks like a somewhat weak choice for investors right now.For additional information on this product, or to compare it to other mutual funds in the Mutual Fund Equity Report, make sure to go to www.zacks.com/funds/mutual-funds for additional information. For analysis of the rest of your portfolio, make sure to visit Zacks.com for our full suite of tools which will help you investigate all of your stocks and funds in one place. Zacks Names "Single Best Pick to Double" From thousands of stocks, 5 Zacks experts each have chosen their favorite to skyrocket +100% or more in months to come. From those 5, Director of Research Sheraz Mian hand-picks one to have the most explosive upside of all. It’s credited with a “watershed medical breakthrough” and is developing a bustling pipeline of other projects that could make a world of difference for patients suffering from diseases involving the liver, lungs, and blood. This is a timely investment that you can catch while it emerges from its bear market lows. It could rival or surpass other recent Stocks Set to Double like Boston Beer Company which shot up +143.0% in little more than 9 months and NVIDIA which boomed +175.9% in one year.Free: See Our Top Stock And 4 Runners UpWant the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Get Your Free (AIVOX): Fund Analysis ReportTo read this article on Zacks.com click here.Zacks Investment Research.....»»