Although we don't believe in timing the market or panicking over daily movements, we do like to keep an eye on market changes -- just in case they're material to our investing thesis.
The new year didn't get off to the start that bullish investors had hoped, as stocks pulled back in a broad-market decline that resulted in a loss of almost 1% for the S&P 500. Yet even with many investors seemingly taking profits after a stellar 2013, several stocks managed to climb even further today, including Molycorp (NYSE: MCP), Voxeljet (VJET -0.67%), and Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia (MSO.DL).
Molycorp jumped 12% after getting a favorable assessment from analysts at DA Davidson today. The firm named Molycorp as a "best pick for 2014," citing its well-known status as one of the few rare-earth metals suppliers outside China as a potential catalyst for growth. Yet although DA Davidson sees more than 25% further price appreciation potential even after today's jump, skeptics would prefer to see prices of rare-earth metals recover from their sharp losses in recent years before committing to the stock's future prospects.
Voxeljet gained almost 10%. Optimists believe that the 3-D printing company's service-center model might appeal to customers who aren't willing to make the huge up-front commitment to be a first-adopter of 3-D printers, by instead allowing customers to order goods directly from Voxeljet. Competition remains fierce, though, and Voxeljet needs to use its financial resources wisely to make smart strategic moves if it wants to survive as a winner in the lucrative space.
Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia posted a 9% gain after settling its lawsuit with Macy's (M -2.03%). The company said the settlement wouldn't have a material impact on its results, and more importantly, the agreement reportedly allows Martha Stewart to continue its relationship with J.C. Penney (JCPN.Q). Macy's will still likely continue its fight against Penney, but the deal gets Martha Stewart out from being in the middle and might well represent the best of possible outcomes for the home-products company.
