Winning wallets in 2025: Where to invest in stocks when Trump tightens the markets

Donald Trump’s tariffs have shaken the financial markets unexpectedly. The 10% base on all imports, along with 50% tariffs on the EU, 55% on China, and 24% on Japan, initially caused panic. However, after the March-April correction, global stock indices rebounded and reached all-time highs again. Meanwhile, gold surpassed $3,300 per ounce, reflecting a search for safety. In this context of trade tensions and uncertainty, selecting the best stocks to invest in today requires a clear and well-founded strategy.

The opportunity map: 15 companies with potential in 2025

Our selection includes companies from diverse sectors, different geographies, and with proven ability to generate short- and medium-term returns. Diversification is key to navigating this volatile scenario.

Why these companies lead the ranking of best stocks to invest in

Energy and commodities: Exxon Mobil benefits from high crude oil prices thanks to its financial discipline, while BHP Group captures opportunities in iron, copper, and nickel driven by emerging economies.

Financial sector: JPMorgan Chase, the largest US bank, leverages high interest rates and its diversification across commercial banking, investment, and card services to expand profits.

Pharmaceuticals: Novo Nordisk leads in treatments for diabetes and obesity with constant innovation, despite recent corrections.

Luxury and consumer: LVMH dominates with iconic brands like Louis Vuitton and Dior. Alibaba resurges with regulatory reforms in China and global digital expansion.

Automotive: Toyota excels in hybrids and clean technology, while Tesla maintains leadership in electric vehicles.

Semiconductors and AI: NVIDIA leads in chips for artificial intelligence. TSMC is key in advanced manufacturing. ASML, the sole supplier of EUV lithography machines, dominates an irreplaceable niche.

Tech giants: Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, and Alphabet offer stability with steady growth, diversification, and proven innovation.

The 5 heavyweights: Buying opportunities in 2025

1. Novo Nordisk (NVO) — The bet on metabolic health

With sales growing 26% in 2024 to $42.1 billion, Novo Nordisk faces competitive pressure from Eli Lilly. Shares fell 27% in March due to concerns over CagriSema and competition. However, the acquisition of Catalent for $16.5 billion expanded its manufacturing capacity. Additionally, the deal with Lexicon Pharmaceuticals for LX9851 ($1,000 million) adds a different mechanism against obesity. The GLP-1/amylin molecule showed 24% weight loss in studies. Margins of 43% and sustained global demand position Novo Nordisk as an attractive long-term investment.

2. LVMH (MC) — Luxury with pending recovery

Revenue of €84.7 billion in 2024 with an operating margin of 23.1%. The declines in January (6.7%) and April (7.7%) open opportunities after corrections in their luxury businesses. US tariffs of 20% impacted, but the Dreamscape AI platform improves personalization. Double-digit growth in Japan and expansion in India with new stores support future demand.

3. ASML (ASML) — Indispensable in semiconductors

With sales of €28.3 billion and a gross margin of 51.3% in 2024, ASML projects revenues between €30 billion and €35 billion for 2025. Despite 30% declines in the past year due to reduced investments by Intel and Samsung, TSMC and SK Hynix maintain high capex. Growing demand for AI chips supports their EUV systems. Dutch export restrictions will reduce sales to China by 10-15%, but won’t affect the annual guidance. The price correction creates an entry opportunity.

4. Microsoft (MSFT) — Cloud and AI with temporary setback

Revenue of $245.1 billion in fiscal 2024 (+16%) and an operating margin of 46% in Q3 2025. Azure grew 33% despite a 20% correction from all-time highs. FTC investigations into monopolistic practices in cloud weighed on valuation, but aggressive AI investment and 15,000 layoffs reinforce strategic focus. Strong financial position and more attractive valuation create a buying window.

5. Alibaba (BABA) — Tech recovery in China

Revenue of ¥280.2 billion in Q4 2024 (+8%) and adjusted net profit +22% in Q1 2025 with Cloud Intelligence +18%. Shares retreated 35% from highs due to concerns over AI investment and trade tensions. The $52 billion infrastructure plan for AI and ¥50 billion in consumer coupons underline commitment. Recent volatility presents opportunities for long-term investors.

Strategy to identify the best stocks to invest in now

Diversification without compromise: Distribute capital across sectors (energy, finance, technology, luxury) and geographies (U.S., Europe, Asia) to reduce systemic risks in a protectionist scenario.

Companies with financial strength: Prioritize firms with solid margins, proven adaptability, and innovation that grow even in uncertainty.

Monitor geopolitics: Tariffs, trade tensions, and regulatory changes can volatilize portfolios. Flexibility and constant updates make a difference.

Capitalize on dips: Corrections after political events create attractive entry points in leading companies with intact fundamentals.

How to access these investments

Investors can acquire the best stocks to invest in through:

Individual stocks: Direct purchase via authorized broker, allowing personalized selection.

Investment funds: Thematic diversification (by countries, sectors) without needing to choose individual securities.

Derivatives (CFDs): Leverage to amplify positions or hedge risks, ideal for volatile environments but requiring discipline and knowledge.

Final reflection: 2025 and beyond

2025 is shaping up as a year of corrections after the previous record-breaking rally. Unprecedented volatility and uncertainty characterize the environment. Rational investors should:

• Build sector- and geographically diversified portfolios
• Include safe assets like bonds or gold to offset declines
• Avoid panic decisions after sharp corrections
• Stay informed about politics, economy, and global conflicts

A balanced, well-researched, and flexible investment remains the best defense against uncertainty.