Andrés Cardenal

If you're one of the many investors who are eagerly waiting for the Alibaba IPO, you may want to consider other high-growth e-commerce companies in emerging markets. E-Commerce China Dangdang, MercadoLibre, and Vipshop may not be as popular as Alibaba, but that does not mean they have any less potential for growth in the years ahead.

Whole Foods Market, SodaStream, and World Wrestling Entertainment are down considerably in the first half of 2014, and they offer considerable room for gains during the rest of the year and beyond.

While a recent guidance cut is no sound reason to sell Philip Morris, the company is operating in a declining industry, and that's a major risk factor to consider.

Netflix has delivered explosive gains for investors in 2014, rising by more than 80% year to date. Although competition from Amazon and Time Warner's HBO is a considerable risk to watch, the company looks well positioned to continue outperforming the market in the years ahead.

Target, Best Buy, and Big Lots made important dividend announcements in June. What are these companies telling investors?

The Finish Line is running full speed ahead, and competitors such as Foot Locker and Dick’s Sporting Goods are confirming that industry demand remains strong across the board. Is this sporting goods retailer is in the right position to continue delivering healthy gains in the years ahead?

Although competitors such as Lululemon and Under Armour are relevant challengers, Nike is still the undisputed world champion in the athletic shoes and apparel industry.

Groupon is going through a deep transformation. Can the company compete effectively against industry powerhouses such as Amazon and eBay?

Starbucks, Colgate-Palmolive, and Tiffany have the kind of quality and fundamental strength which could earn them a place in Warren Buffett's portfolio, so maybe they're good enough for your portfolio too.

Bed Bath & Beyond looks quite cheap, but alternatives such as Restoration Hardware and Williams-Sonoma offer far better financial performance.

Barnes & Noble is reporting dismal financial performance, and Nook sales are still falling, while facing tough competition from industry juggernauts such as Apple and Amazon. Recent announcements are no game changer for investors in Barnes & Noble.

Like a good wine, Costco is getting better over time, so the company should continue outperforming competitors such as Wal-Mart and Target in the years ahead.

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Buffalo Wild Wings, and Zoe's Kitchen are generating extraordinary growth rates, and they are well positioned to continue delivering yummy performance in the years ahead.

Sonic delivered impressive financial performance for the last quarter, especially when compared to industry giants such as McDonald's and Yum! Brands.

Disney, Coca-Cola, and Nike have been thriving for decades, and they have what it takes to continue delivering outstanding performance for the foreseeable future -- perhaps even forever.

World Wrestling Entertainment, Netflix, and Lions Gate carry above-average risk for investors, but the three companies offer extraordinary opportunities for gains too.

Why the streaming media powerhouse makes a solid investment.

Recent acquisitions from Rite Aid indicate that the company is betting on health-care services as a strategy for growth. Considering strong industry fundamentals and the successful experience from competitors such as CVS Caremark and Walgreen in that area, Rite Aid seems to be making a smart move.

CarMax delivered truly impressive financial performance for the last quarter, and the company has proven its ability to outperform competitors such as AutoNation and Penske in the long term. Should you buy CarMax?

Shares of Coach can´t seem to find a bottom due to falling sales in the U.S. and increased competition from Michael Kors and Kate Spade. However, there are also some reasons for hope in the long term. Is Coach a buying opportunity for investors?