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Insights on investment opportunities in the economy from a Benzinga interview with Michael Sayers, including $1 trillion in infrastructure spending and potential growth in technology and clean energy sectors.

EXCLUSIVE: Expert Predicts &#39;Double-Digit Growth&#39; In 2 Sectors Thanks To Major Federal Investments (CORRECTED)

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California aims for 100% clean power by 2045, but recent data showed it&#39;s already reaching that goal for a few hours daily thanks to wind, water, and solar energy. In Germany, a similar milestone was achieved in 2018, when the entire grid was covered by renewable energy for the first time

2 Of The Top 5 World Economies Can Now Run 100% On Renewable Energy

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Janet Yellen warns of China&#39;s aggressive export strategy in green technology and its potential negative impact on global industries, while highlighting US efforts to strengthen domestic renewable energy sector.

Yellen Issues Warnings On China&#39;s Green Energy Exports: It &#39;Hurts American Firms And Workers&#39;

Editor&#8217;s Note: This article has been updated to accurately report the remaining funds as $350 billion.
In an exclusive interview with Benzinga, Michael Sayers, CFA and vice president and portfolio manager at Rockland Trust, shared valuable insights into <a href="http://benzinga.com/topic/economy">today&#8217;s investment opportunities.</a> 
Below, we explore the key questions and Sayers&#8217; insightful responses:
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How The CHIPS Act, IRA Act &amp; Infrastructure Act Create Investment Opportunities</h2>
When asked about the anticipated influence of recent legislative developments like the CHIPS Act, IRA Act, and Infrastructure Act on investment opportunities, Sayers provided a comprehensive overview. 
Regarding the potential effects of the CHIPS Act on technology investments and the semiconductor industry, Sayers pointed out the significant earmarked funds for semiconductors. 
He highlighted the substantial infrastructure-related spending authorized by these acts, totaling approximately $1 trillion over the next decade.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Significant Amount Of Money Still On The Table</h2>
Some quick back-of the napkin math by Sayers went as follows;
&#8220;Infrastructure-related spending across the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), Infrastructure, and CHIPS acts totals ~$1 Trillion over a period of 10 years ending in 2031. About $650 billion has been authorized/committed so far.&#8221;
<ul>
<li>About $250 billion has been allocation to semiconductors.</li>
</ul>
This should benefit investments into the iShares Semiconductor ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOXX#NYSE">SOXX</a>) which provides exposure to the semiconductor equity sector in the U.S.
<ul>
<li>Another $250 billion to clean energy and power.</li>
</ul>
The iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NYSE">ICLN</a>), along with the Invesco Solar ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TAN#NYSE">TAN</a>) are among the two most popular ETFs that should benefit from this allocation.
<ul>
<li>$150 billion has been allocated for EV and EV batteries.</li>
</ul>
Investors in the Global X Autonomous &amp; Electric Vehicles ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DRIV#NASDAQ">DRIV</a>), the iShares Self-Driving EV and Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IDRV#NYSE">IDRV</a>) and the KraneShares Electric Vehicles and Future Mobility Index ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KARS#NYSE">KARS</a>) which invest in stocks of electric vehicle manufacturers, should see this benefit trickling down to them.
&#8220;That leaves a significant amount of money still on the table, particularly under the IRA &amp; CHIPS acts,&#8221; Sayer said pointing to $350 billion remaining from the total $1 trillion allocation.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Multi-Year Runway Of Annualized Double-Digit Growth Ahead</h2>
Backed by the $350 billion remaining, Sayers emphasized, &#8220;There is a multi-year runway of annualized double-digit growth in infrastructure-related construction &amp; manufacturing spending ahead of us through the end of the decade.&#8221;
Rockland Trust allocates to the Russell Global Infrastructure Fund (RGISX) to take advantage of this positive outlook but also to provide diversification to the high-quality stock &amp; bond portfolios that the firm manages for its clients
Investment Opportunities: Building upon Sayer&#8217;s insights into the potential growth in infrastructure and manufacturing sectors, let&#8217;s explore capital market instruments that investors could utilize to partake in this anticipated growth. Various Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) present attractive options for investors seeking exposure to these sectors.
ETFs for Infrastructure and Manufacturing Sectors: Infrastructure ETFs such as PAVE, IGF, and IFRA, as well as Manufacturing/Industrials ETFs like XLI and ITA, offer exposure to sectors poised for growth amid these legislative developments.
Let&#8217;s first look at the top infrastructure ETFs
These ETFs provide investors with diversified portfolios of companies operating in infrastructure development, manufacturing, and related industries, aligning with the anticipated growth trajectories highlighted by Sayers.
Some popular Infrastructure ETFs include:
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Symbol</td>
<td>ETF</td>
<td> Total Assets ($MM)</td>
<td> YTD% (as of April 15)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PAVE</td>
<td>Global X US Infrastructure Development ETF</td>
<td>$7,514.84 </td>
<td>+11.32%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>IGF</td>
<td>iShares Global Infrastructure ETF</td>
<td>$3,503.42</td>
<td>-1.49%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>IFRA</td>
<td>iShares U.S. Infrastructure ETF</td>
<td>$2,320.23</td>
<td>4.71%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NFRA</td>
<td>FlexShares STOXX Global Broad Infrastructure Index Fund</td>
<td>$2,215.70</td>
<td>-2.04%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
Now let&#8217;s look at the top Manufacturing/Industrial ETFs
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td> Symbol </td>
<td>ETF</td>
<td>Total Assets ($MM)</td>
<td>YTD% (as of April 15)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>XLI</td>
<td>XLI Industrial Select Sector SPDR Fund</td>
<td>$18,253,700</td>
<td>8.15%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ITA</td>
<td>ITA iShares U.S. Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF</td>
<td>$5,998,910</td>
<td>1.09%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>VIS</td>
<td>VIS Vanguard Industrials ETF</td>
<td>$5,328,240</td>
<td>7.99%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PPA</td>
<td>PPA Invesco Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF</td>
<td>$3,012,080</td>
<td>7.63%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>FXR</td>
<td>FXR First Trust Industrials/Producer Durables AlphaDEX Fund</td>
<td>$1,942,100 </td>
<td>8.12%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
Investors can strategically navigate legislative developments and capitalize on emerging growth sectors by leveraging ETFs tailored to infrastructure and manufacturing industries. 
With the guidance of financial professionals and thorough research, investors can position themselves to benefit from the evolving economic landscape.
Now Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/04/38265826/high-interest-rates-could-cause-more-things-to-break-in-us-economy-by-2025-warns-st">High-Interest Rates Could Cause &#8216;More Things To Break&#8217; In US Economy By 2025, Warns Strategist </a>
Image generated using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

EXCLUSIVE: Expert Predicts 'Double-Digit Growth' In 2 Sectors Thanks To Major Federal Investments (CORRECTED)

The state of California has vowed to have 100% clean power by 2045, but recent data showed that it was already reaching that goal, at least for a few hours each day.
Data posted by the California Independent System Operator (ISO) revealed that in recent weeks, power supply generated through wind, water and solar exceeded total demand for up to six hours daily.
California ISO is one of the country's largest power grids and handles around 80% of California's power supply.
Data <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7178573879336923136/">shared</a> by Stanford professor Mark Z. Jacobson illustrated that in 18 out of the last 19 days, power from wind, water and solar exceeded demand for at least a few minutes and up to six hours during daytime when power consumption is at its lowest and solar generation at its highest.
At night hours, wind-water-solar represented about 50% of the grid's supply. On the whole-day average, renewables represent 70% of the state's power supply, with the rest being provided by other sources such as natural gas and nuclear.&nbsp;
While burning natural gas produces carbon emissions, nuclear energy is considered clean but still faces <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/05/32355261/elon-musk-and-bill-gates-agree-on-something-how-public-support-for-nuclear-power-could-be-moving-for">massive opposition due to poor public perception</a>.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/24/03/37992135/bullish-sentiment-technical-analysis-point-toward-higher-prices-for-copper-as-green-ener">Bullish Sentiment, Technical Analysis Point Toward Higher Prices For Copper As Green Energy Transition Accelerates</a>
The news was significant for the state's environmental campaign, but there's a caveat: these numbers were achieved in spring, when mild weather allows for most people to go without the need for heating or cooling systems.
In Germany, a similar milestone was achieved in 2018, when the entire grid was covered by renewable energy for the first time, <a href="https://www.cleanenergywire.org/news/renewables-cover-about-100-german-power-use-first-time-ever">as per</a> Clean Energy Wire. The country has set the goal for 100% renewable energy for 2035.
Late last year, strong wind generation and low demand during the Christmas season took electricity prices below zero in the European country, Bloomberg <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-12-27/strong-wind-generation-turns-european-power-prices-negative">reported</a>.
In 2022, California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the Clean Energy, Jobs and Affordability Act of 2022 which made it a state policy to achieve 90% zero-carbon power by 2035 and a completely clean grid by 2045.
Now Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/03/37447950/worlds-top-energy-authority-admits-ev-sales-dented-oil-demand-last-year-but-emissions-rose-anyway-du">World&#8217;s Top Energy Authority Admits EV Sales Dented Oil Demand Last Year, But Emissions Rose Anyway Due To &#8216;Exceptional&#8217; Shortfall From Climate Crisis</a>
ETFs covering the alternative energy sector have seen better days, but have had a minor uptick this week.
The panorama for the clean energy sector continued uncertain <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/03/37951135/trump-vs-biden-2024-election-shaping-up-to-be-nail-biting-showdown-reveals-latest-poll-heres-the-mos">facing the 2024 presidential election which will likely set the course for climate policy in the U.S.</a> for the next term. President Joe Biden pushed extensively on climate policy by setting new carbon emission goals and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/23/08/33883306/the-inflation-reduction-act-turns-1-year-old-biden-says-he-aims-to-rekindle-american-dream">signing the Inflation Reduction Act, which invests hundreds of billions in clean energy</a>, electric vehicles, and environmental justice.
A win by Donald Trump would likely scrape off much of Biden's climate policies through executive orders. The former president has consistently expressed disbelief for climate action and proposed massive cuts to climate policy during his time in the Oval Office.
iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>), the largest ETF in its category by total assets, is down 25% since last year and is up 1.4% this week.
Invesco Solar ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TAN#NYSE">TAN</a>) which is focused on the solar energy subsector, has lost 37% of its value in the last year, yet it has ticked up 2.3% this week.
Some individual stocks in the sector are doing better but are still recovering from price drops during the latter half of 2023. NextEra Energy Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NEE#NYSE">NEE</a>), one of the largest producers of wind and solar energy worldwide, is up 16% in the last month, but continues to be 15% under its last-year price.
Solar panel manufacturer First Solar Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FSLR#NASDAQ">FSLR</a>) is up 12% in the last month and down 20% in the last year.
Clean energy provider Clearway Energy, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CWEN#NYSE">CWEN</a>) is up 4% in the past month and down 25% in the last year.
Now read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/03/37447950/worlds-top-energy-authority-admits-ev-sales-dented-oil-demand-last-year-but-emissions-rose-anyway-du">World&#8217;s Top Energy Authority Admits EV Sales Dented Oil Demand Last Year, But Emissions Rose Anyway Due To &#8216;Exceptional&#8217; Shortfall From Climate Crisis</a>
Photo: Unsplash

Treasury Secretary Janet L. Yellen is poised to voice concerns about <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/clean-energy">China&#8217;s green energy exports</a> in a speech scheduled for Wednesday, March 27. 
What Happened: According to the <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2024/03/27/business/yellen-china-green-technology.html">New York Times</a>, which obtained a copy of Yellen&#8217;s speech, the Treasury Secretary will address potential market distortions caused by China&#8217;s aggressive export strategy, especially in the context <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-green-energy-stocks">of subsidized green technology.</a>
China's overcapacity not only disrupts global prices and production trends, but it also &#8220;hurts American firms and workers, as well as firms and workers around the world,&#8221; Yellen says. 
The backdrop for Yellen&#8217;s critical observations is her visit to Norcross, Georgia, where she is showcasing the reopening of a U.S. solar-cell facility, Suniva Inc. 
The manufacturing plant was once shuttered due to the influx of cheap imports.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-renewable-energy-stocks">Best Renewable Energy Stocks</a>
Why It Matters: Yellen says China&#8217;s industrial policy has broad implications. Historically, these policies have led to overinvestment in sectors like steel and aluminum, adversely affecting global industries. 
A similar pattern may emerge in &#8220;new&#8221; industries, such as solar energy, electric vehicles (EVs), and lithium-ion batteries — sectors crucial for the green energy transition but now threatened by China&#8217;s aggressive expansion.
The performance of U.S. green energy stocks has been rather disappointing over the past years. Invesco Solar ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TAN#NYSE">TAN</a>) is still 66% lower compared to its record highs hit in early 2021. Similarly, the iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NYSE">ICLN</a>) has lost 60% of its value since January 2021. 
Chart: Green Energy ETFs Have Been On Sharp Downtrend Since 2021
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="495" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/27095604/image-58-1024x495.png" alt="" class="wp-image-267362" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/27095604/image-58-1024x495.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/27095604/image-58-300x145.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/27095604/image-58-768x372.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/27095604/image-58-1536x743.png 1536w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/27095604/image-58.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
What&#8217;s Next: Yellen is expected to visit China to meet with members of the country's senior leadership in April.
The visit also highlights the Biden administration&#8217;s commitment to strengthening the U.S.&#8217;s renewable energy industry. 
Reviving American companies like Suniva underscore the strategic pivot towards green energy investments, backed by substantial clean power investment announcements exceeding $200 billion since President Joe Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act in 2022. 
Conversely, China&#8217;s response to the U.S.&#8217;s green energy push includes a recent World Trade Organization complaint, labeling the U.S. EV subsidy policies as discriminatory, especially those affecting vehicles with components manufactured in China and other specified countries.
Now Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/03/37942317/gold-mining-stocks-eye-best-month-in-a-year-as-golden-era-for-the-precious-metal-lo">Gold Mining Stocks Eye Best Month In A Year As &#8216;Golden Era&#8217; For The Precious Metal Looms</a>

Yellen Issues Warnings On China's Green Energy Exports: It 'Hurts American Firms And Workers'

BMO Capital Markets&nbsp;analyst Ameet Thakkar initiates coverage on&nbsp;Nextracker Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NXT#NASDAQ">NXT</a>) at a Market Perform rating&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/NXT/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">and a price target of $69</a>.
The analyst is constructive about the global demand for solar trackers and expects the ex-China total addressable market to more than double by the end of the decade.&nbsp;
The analyst says Nextracker is a category leader with a growing backlog that provides visible revenue &amp; earnings growth, margin uplift from IRA (~500 bps), and positive FCF.
Despite low barriers to entry, Thakkar sees Nextracker as well-positioned and insulated, given its strong global relationships with key solar developers and EPCs.&nbsp;
Also, the analyst says that the company&#8217;s focus on independent row technology is an important differentiator as developers seek to minimize LCOEs.
Meanwhile, the magnitude of recent outperformance/valuation keeps the analyst on the sidelines.
Nextracker shares have outperformed the S&amp;P 500 by 71% and the TAN by 141%. The analyst sees the stock trading at a 17% valuation premium on 2025E EV/EBITDA, which drives the Market Perform rating.
The analyst estimates FY25, FY26, and FY27 revenues of $2.8 billion, $3.1 billion, and $3.3 billion, respectively.&nbsp;
Thakkar also projects a revenue CAGR of 14% between 2022 and 2030 and sees FY25-FY27 adjusted EBITDA of $711 million, $770 million, and $803 million, respectively.
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via&nbsp;IShares Global Clean Energy ETF&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>) and&nbsp;ProShares S&amp;P Kensho Cleantech ETF&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CTEX#NYSE">CTEX</a>).
Last month, Nextracker reported earnings of 96 cents per share, beating the analyst consensus estimate of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/02/36891475/why-nextracker-stock-is-soaring-after-earnings" rel="noreferrer noopener">48 cents by 100%</a>.
Price Action: NXT shares are trading higher by 0.96% at $57.93 on the last check Friday. 
Photo via Shutterstock

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Nextracker's Solar Ascendancy: Analyst Forecasts Doubling of Addressable Market Despite Valuation Hurdles

Tesla&nbsp;CEO&nbsp;Elon Musk&#8216;s proposal for a &#8220;carbon tax&#8221; as a crucial measure against climate change faced criticism from&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/11/35860010/wall-streets-prominent-short-seller-tesla-bear-jim-chanos-to-wind-down-his-hedge-funds" rel="noreferrer noopener">short-seller&nbsp;Jim Chanos</a>&nbsp;on Sunday.
Musk, in a post on Twitter (formerly known as X), asserted that a &#8220;carbon tax&#8221; is the sole action required to address climate change. This statement came in response to a video clip shared by a Tesla influencer, featuring Musk discussing actions needed to combat the climate crisis and expedite the transition away from fossil fuels.
The cost to society is not being paid, and the net result is the emission of 35 gigatons of carbon into the atmosphere, the Tesla CEO said. &#8220;We need to go from untaxed negative externality, which is effectively a carbon subsidy of enormous size — $5.3 trillion, according to the IMF, every year. We need to move away from this and have a carbon tax,&#8221; he said.
Chanos, who was known for his Tesla short positions, commented on Musk&#8217;s post. &#8220;The Subsidy King (and new darling of the Right) calls for a broad new tax,&#8221; he said.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">The Subsidy King (and new darling of the Right) calls for a broad new tax. <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24TSLA&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$TSLA</a> <a href="https://t.co/wblHL0nW62">https://t.co/wblHL0nW62</a>
&mdash; Diogenes (@WallStCynic) <a href="https://twitter.com/WallStCynic/status/1754141805258420695?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Chanos, recognized for his notable bets against Enron and Tesla, recently closed down his hedge fund Chanos &amp; Co., originally founded as Kynikos Associates in 1985.
See Also:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-renewable-energy-stocks" rel="noreferrer noopener">Best Renewable Energy Stocks</a>
Why It Matters: Chanos&#8217; reference to Musk as the &#8220;new darling of the Right&#8221; stems from Musk&#8217;s vocal criticisms of President Joe Biden&#8216;s policies, particularly on Twitter, a platform owned by Musk. 
Musk has recently been outspoken about illegal immigration, notably through border crossings.
A carbon tax, defined by the International Monetary Fund, is designed to &#8220;discourage the use of fossil fuels and encourage a shift to less-polluting fuels, thereby limiting the carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions that are by far the most prevalent greenhouse gas.&#8221;
Environmental and Economic Considerations:&nbsp;While Musk promotes Tesla&#8217;s electric vehicles and the company&#8217;s energy subsidiary as sustainable energy solutions, research indicates that&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/emerging-markets/23/03/31324613/are-evs-as-clean-as-you-think-us-still-has-a-dirty-grid-problem-but-solar-is-coming" rel="noreferrer noopener">the manufacturing of batteries</a>&nbsp;used in electric vehicles and the electricity used for charging contribute to pollution, somewhat diminishing the green-energy appeal of EVs.
The&nbsp;iShares Global Clean Energy ETF&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>) concluded Friday&#8217;s session down 1.89% at $13.98, according to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174" rel="noreferrer noopener">data from Benzinga Pro</a>.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/20/10/17794434/elon-musk-says-its-crazy-that-europe-subsidizes-pollution">Elon Musk Says It&#8217;s &#8216;Crazy&#8217; That Europe Subsidizes Pollution</a>
Photo courtesy: Thomas Hawk on Flickr

Short Sellers

Short-Seller Jim Chanos Labels Tesla CEO Elon Musk As 'Subsidy King' And 'New Darling Of Right' For Carbon Tax Proposal

We performed a screening of mid-cap ETFs, defined as having Assets Under Management (AUM) between $2 billion and $10 billion &#8211; to determine what funds had the largest positive and negative returns on the week, according to data from <a href="http://etfdb.com">etfdb.com</a>. Only non-leveraged funds were considered.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Winners</h2>
iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NYSE">ICLN</a>)
ICLN is up 8.59% over the trailing week.
The iShares Global Clean Energy ETF offers exposure to companies involved in developing and deploying sustainable energy solutions and technologies.
The fund has $2.94 billion in AUM and an expense ratio of 0.41%. ICLN has holdings in 102 companies, with the 10 largest comprising 44.34% of the fund.
The fund's largest holdings are First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FLSR#NASDAQ">FLSR</a>) and Enphase Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ENPH#NASDAQ">ENPH</a>) making up 8.00% and 7.16% of the fund, respectively.
ICLN is down 22.41% YTD.
SPDR S&amp;P Regional Banking ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KRE#NYSE">KRE</a>)
KRE is up 8.10% over the trailing week.
The SPDR S&amp;P Regional Banking ETF is linked to an equal-weighted index of regional bank stocks, an industry that has seen much turmoil this year after the collapse of several high-profile banks. KRE is more diversified and evenly distributed than its competitors.
The fund has $3.92 billion in AUM and an expense ratio of 0.35%. KRE has holdings in 140 companies, with the 10 largest comprising 31.32% of the fund.
The fund's largest holdings are Western Alliance Bancorp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WAL#NYSE">WAL</a>) and Zions Bancorporation, N.A. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZION#NASDAQ">ZION</a>) making up 3.60% and 3.42% of the fund, respectively.
KRE is down 7.44% YTD.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Losers</h2>
WisdomTree Japan Hedged Equity Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DXJ#NYSE">DXJ</a>)
DXJ is down 2.24% on the week.
The WisdomTree Japan Hedged Equity Fund offers exposure to the Japanese market. It also hedges out currency fluctuations, eliminating the threat of changes in the Yen.
The fund has $3.01 billion in AUM and an expense ratio of .48%. The fund is spread across 449 companies with the top 10 holdings accounting for 30.19% of the fund's value.
DXJ's largest holdings are Toyota Motor Corp. (TYO:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TYO:7203#TYO">7203</a>) and Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc. (TYO:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TYO:8306#TYO">8306</a>) making up 4.84% and 4.62% of the fund, respectively.
DXJ is up 33.16% YTD.
Alerian MLP ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMLP#NYSE">AMLP</a>)
AMLP is down 0.69% over the trailing week.
The Alerian MLP ETF, like AMJ, offers exposure to the energy MLP sector. In addition to avoiding corporate taxes, MLPs also require quarterly distributions, providing cash flow. The fund has $7.30 billion in AUM and an expense ratio of 0.87%. AMLP has holdings in 17 companies, with the 10 largest comprising 93.04% of the fund.
The fund's largest holdings are Energy Transfer LP (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ET#NYSE">ET</a>) and MPLX LP (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MPLX#NYSE">MPLX</a>) making up 13.05% and 12.74% of the fund, respectively.
AMLP is up 19.91% YTD.

AMLP

WisdomTree Trust Japan Total Dividend Fund

ENPH

FLSR

MPLX

TYO:7203

TYO:8306

ZION

ETF Winners And Losers: Mid-Cap Returns - Sustainability Fund Up Big, Fund Linked To Japan's Economy Drops

A new report by the UN's Environment Program is shedding an unsettling new light on the current path of global warming.
Released days before world leaders meet in Dubai for the COP28 summit, the report underscores that current pledges made by countries at the Paris Agreement are not enough to keep world temperatures below the desired 1.5°C (2.7°F) rise above pre-industrial levels.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/23/10/35242302/beer-drinkers-will-definitely-see-climate-change-new-study-shows-that-global-warming-will-inevitably">&#8216;Beer Drinkers Will Definitely See Climate Change&#8217;: New Study Shows That Global Warming Will &#8216;Inevitably&#8217; Change The Taste Of Beer By 2050</a>
Nine days from now, leaders will meet in the United Arab Emirates city to begin sessions of the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference, where new agreements are expected to be set in order to avoid a climate catastrophe within this century.
The Paris Agreement was adopted by 196 countries in 2015, pledging to do what it takes to maintain global temperatures below 2°C (3.6°F) above pre-industrial levels, and preferably limit the increase to 1.5 °C (2.7°F).
Yet according to UN measurements, the planet is currently on track for a temperature rise of between 2.5°C (4.5°F) and 2.9°C (5.2°F) above pre-industrial levels before 2100.
According to Antònio Guterres, secretary-general of the UN, keeping the global average below 1.5°C is still a possibility but would need extreme actions taken during this decade.
By 2030, global greenhouse gas emissions need to be cut by 42% from current projections in order to reach that goal, and by 28% to keep temperatures below a 2°C increase this century.
"It requires tearing out the poisoned root of the climate crisis: fossil fuels. And it demands a just, equitable renewables transition," said Guterres.
In spite of the warnings, demand for oil is expected to continue while oil production declines, leading companies in the oil and gas sector such as Exxon Mobil Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XOM#NYSE">XOM</a>), Chevron Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVX#NYSE">CVX</a>) and ConocoPhillips Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COP#NYSE">COP</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/23/10/35419127/betting-on-an-oil-crisis-these-top-oil-stocks-could-generate-double-digit-returns">to be positioned for high returns, according to analysts.</a>
A rise of 2.9°C is believed by experts to be exponentially worse than a 1.5°C rise, and not "twice as bad" it might be intuitively thought.
As an example, the average chance of having a major heat wave "increases from around 5% over the period 1981-2010 to around 30% at 1.5°C but 80% at 3°C," <a href="https://theconversation.com/cop26-what-would-the-world-be-like-at-3-c-of-warming-and-how-would-it-be-different-from-1-5-c-171030">according</a> to Professor of Climate Change Science Nigel Arnell.
The year 2023 broke an array of records concerning climate change, registering 86 days with temperatures over 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. September of this year was the hottest month in recorded history, 1.8°C above pre-industrial levels, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/07/33273161/heatwave-havoc-june-2023-takes-the-title-for-hottest-month-on-record">beating temperatures of July</a>, when several <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/07/33272913/7-air-conditioner-stocks-for-this-summers-infernal-heat-wave">U.S. cities experienced record heat waves</a>.
Global records continued to be broken last week: During the weekend temperatures in Rio De Janeiro, one of the largest cities in the Southern Hemisphere, had a heat index of 137.3° F, causing a 23-year-old fan at a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/23/09/34190058/taylor-swifts-eras-tour-rakes-in-26-million-in-pre-sales-shattering-amc-records">Taylor Swift concert</a> to die of heat stroke, leading the artist to postpone the rest of her tour.
Stocks To Watch: ETFs grouping companies with high <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/what-is-esg-investing">ESG (environmental, social, governance) values</a> are positioned to receive extra attention from news coverage surrounding the topic of climate change during the COP28 summit, which will run between Nov. 30 and Dec. 12.
For the past 10 years, the S&amp;P 500 ESG Index, which is designed to measure the performance of securities meeting sustainability criteria, has outperformed the S&amp;P 500.
<ul>
<li>The iShares ESG Aware MSCI USA ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ESGU#NASDAQ">ESGU</a>) is pegged to the S&amp;P 500 ESG Index and is up 8% in the past month.</li>
<li>Vanguard ESG US Stock ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ESGV#BATS">ESGV</a>) is up 8.7% in the past month.</li>
<li>iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>) is up 7.3% in the past month.</li>
<li>Nuveen ESG Large-Cap Value ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NULV#BATS">NULV</a>) is up 5.5% in the past month.</li>
</ul>
Photo: Dubai Skyline by Photo by Aleksandar Pasaric on Pexels.

Global

ESGU

ESGV

NULV

6 Stocks To Watch As The World Turns To The 2023 UN Climate Change Conference

The White House celebrated the first anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act Wednesday, and it appears President Joe Biden is placing it at the center of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/joe-biden">his reelection campaign</a>.
What Happened: In a Wednesday address, Biden hailed the IRA as a cornerstone effort to rejuvenate the American dream, citing its scope in areas of climate, health and deficit reduction.
"Everyone was telling us there's no possibility with the divided Congress the way it was," Biden said, nodding to Vice President Kamala Harris and Congress members&#8217; pivotal role in the bill&#8217;s passage.
Highlighting economic strides he said have been made under his administration, Biden emphasized the job creation in the two years since his inauguration. He attributed the job gains to the IRA&#8217;s success in reinvesting in America, ensuring no one is left behind.
Attributing the decline in inflation to &#8220;corporate profits coming back down to earth,&#8221; Biden underscored the IRA's role in domestic job revitalization. "We are building it here and sending the product over here," he said.
On the energy front, Biden highlighted strides made toward repositioning the U.S. in the global clean energy landscape, historically dominated by China. Ambitious goals set by the IRA call for an eightfold surge in solar power and a tripling of wind power by the end of the decade, Biden said. Read also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/m-a/23/08/33878846/trump-to-maintain-control-of-media-company-if-he-sells-majority-goes-to-jail-or-becomes-president">Trump To Maintain Control Of Media Company If He Sells Majority, Goes To Jail Or Becomes President</a>
Biden also pledged an investment exceeding $50 billion toward enhancing resilience against climate change effects, paired with a goal of halving carbon pollution by 2030.
He drew attention to the financial relief for American families, estimating $27 billion in consumer electric bill savings through 2030 thanks to the IRA. &#8220;When I say climate means jobs, I mean good paying union jobs,&#8221; Biden said. 
Drawing contrasts to the economic turbulence of recent years, the president also positioned the U.S. as an unmatched economic powerhouse among global industrialized nations in his remarks. 
&#8220;Bidenomics is just another way of saying restore the American dream,&#8221; he said. With an ambitious focus on clean energy, companies like Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) and First Solar Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FSLR#NASDAQ">FSLR</a>) could see momentum as a result of Biden&#8217;s policies.
ETFs like the Global X U.S. Infrastructure Development ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PAVE#BATS">PAVE</a>) and iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>) offer broader exposure to the sectors positioned to capitalize on government spending.
Read next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/top-stories/23/08/33880614/fomc-minutes-reveal-boards-divide-majority-supports-further-rate-increases">FOMC Minutes Reveal Board&#8217;s Divide: Majority Supports Further Rate Increases</a>
Photo via Shutterstock.

Large Cap

Economics

TSLA

The Inflation Reduction Act Turns 1 Year Old: Biden Says He Aims To Rekindle American Dream

Clean energy stocks are off to a shaky start to 2023, but Bank of America analyst Julien Dumoulin-Smith named his four top clean energy stock picks <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/clean-energy">on Friday.</a>
Earnings Season Takeaways: Now that the first-quarter earnings season is complete for clean energy stocks, Dumoulin-Smith listed four major takeaways for investors:
<ul>
<li>Investors were spooked by mixed residential solar demand.</li>
<li>Cash burn is a major focus for investors.</li>
<li>Rate of change in sales volumes is a key differentiator.</li>
<li>Investors prefer simple plays over complex ones.</li>
</ul>
Related Link: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/05/32355261/elon-musk-and-bill-gates-agree-on-something-how-public-support-for-nuclear-power-could-be-moving-for">Elon Musk And Bill Gates Agree On Something! How Public Support For Nuclear Power Could Be Moving Forward</a> 
Dumoulin-Smith said he preferred&nbsp;simple stories and stocks with structural tailwinds heading into the second quarter.
&quot;Heading into 2Q23 we see domestic content as the key policy angle to watch and CA origination trends in resi solar as the key demand barometer,&quot; he said.
Related Link: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/23/05/32186506/sunpower-shares-drop-after-missing-q1-eps-by-wide-margin-bags-loan-commitment-from-kkr">SunPower Shares Drop After Missing Q1 EPS By Wide Margin; Bags Loan Commitment From KKR</a> 
Top Stock Picks: He said investors looking to buy the dip in clean energy stocks should focus on top picks Sunrun Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/run#NASDAQ">RUN</a>) and Sunnova Energy International Inc (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/nova#NYSE">NOVA</a>). In addition, he recommends Array Technologies Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/arry#NASDAQ">ARRY</a>), Nextracker Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/nxt#NASDAQ">NXT</a>) and FTC Solar Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ftci#NASDAQ">FTCI</a>) as stocks to buy with attractive valuations and high exposure to accelerating order books.
&quot;The more recessionary the backdrop, the more the IRA subsidies should shine and make these companies more attractive,&quot; Dumoulin-Smith said.
Benzinga&#39;s Take: Not only do clean energy stocks allow investors to put their money at work in promoting a cleaner environment, but they have also outperformed the market in recent years. In fact, the iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/icln#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>) has outperformed the SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/spy#NYSE">SPY</a>) by 29% over the past three years.
Photo: Shutterstock

Long Ideas

Penny Stocks

Small Cap

Analyst Ratings

ARRY

FTCI

NOVA

Clean Energy Analyst Names Top 4 Stock Picks, Prefers 'Simple Stories And Stocks With Structural Tailwinds'

President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy are meeting on Tuesday to discuss raising the debt ceiling to avoid a potential U.S. default <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/politics">on June 1.</a>
What Is The Debt Ceiling? The U.S. debt ceiling is a restriction Congress has placed on how much money the U.S. government can borrow to pay its bills, such as the costs of military operations and social programs.
Because the U.S. regularly spends more money than it takes in, Congress must raise the debt limit on a frequent basis. Congress has changed the debt ceiling 78 times since 1960. It currently stands at $31.4 trillion.
Related Link: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/05/32259442/xi-jinpings-envoy-calls-for-stability-in-us-china-relations-to-prevent-any-accidents">Xi Jinping&#39;s Envoy Calls For Stability In US-China Relations To &#39;Prevent Any Accidents&#39;</a> 
What Are The Proposals? Biden previously rejected a House Republican proposal to raise the debt limit by <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2023/04/20/politics/what-is-in-house-debt-ceiling-bill/index.html#:~:text=House%20Speaker%20Kevin%20McCarthy%20has,the%20White%20House%20strongly%20oppose.">$1.5 trillion</a> or through March 2024, whichever comes first. That proposal also included $130 billion in federal spending cuts for the upcoming fiscal year.
Biden has said he wants a clean debt ceiling increase that is not attached to any federal spending cuts. The administration has reportedly been evaluating potential emergency measures to circumvent Congress by declaring the debt limit unconstitutional and continuing to borrow above the current limit.<a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2023/05/08/debt-ceiling-14th-amendment-biden/"> </a>
Republicans would likely <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2023/05/08/debt-ceiling-14th-amendment-biden/">challenge</a> this approach as an overreach of executive authority.
Related Link: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/05/32257954/oprah-winfrey-slams-lawmakers-for-behaving-like-children-amid-surge-in-gun-violence">Oprah Winfrey Slams Lawmakers For &#39;Behaving Like Children&#39; Amid Surge In Gun Violence</a> 
Why The Debt Ceiling Matters: If the U.S. does not raise the debt ceiling, the government would default on its debt. This would likely trigger a recession and create problems in the global economy.
If Biden and McCarthy reach some form of compromise, it could include some of the proposed government spending cuts from the Republican proposal, such as blocking the student loan forgiveness program that is currently <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/02/31073962/supreme-court-student-loan-forgiveness-case-starts-this-week-what-investors-and-students-should-know">being challenged in the courts</a>.
If the student loan forgiveness program is nixed, it could be a bullish catalyst for student lending stocks such as SoFi Technologies Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/sofi#NASDAQ">SOFI</a>), SLM Corp (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/slm#NASDAQ">SLM</a>) and Discover Financial Services (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/dfs#NYSE">DFS</a>).
The Republican proposal also seeks to repeal green energy tax credits, such as the $7,500 in credit for buying a new electric vehicle. This could be bad news for Tesla Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/tsla#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) and the iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/icln#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>).
Benzinga&#39;s Take: Raising the debt ceiling has become an increasingly politicized event in recent years, but Congress has not yet let the nation go into default just to gain political leverage. However, even if Congress ultimately avoids a default, uncertainty ahead of a last-minute deal could generate major volatility in the SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/spy#NYSE">SPY</a>).

SOFI

Biden, McCarthy To Discuss Debt Ceiling On Tuesday: What Investors Need To Know

Tesla CEO Elon Musk underlined the potential of solar energy by delving into what it could do for human life. The billionaire was repeating an idea he had shared<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/22/06/27660875/elon-musk-says-civilization-will-be-mostly-powered-by-this-energy-in-the-future-1">&nbsp;way back in June 2022.</a>
What Happened: The amount of solar energy received by the Earth would be sufficient to power a civilization that is 100 times larger than ours, Musk said while quote-tweeting a tweet by one of his followers going by Twitter handle @Rainmaker1973.
@Rainmaker1973&rsquo;s tweet said the world&rsquo;s current demand for power could be satisfied by covering 1.2% of the Sahara Desert with solar panels, attributing the deduction to a theoretical calculation. He shared links to two news stories that expounded on&nbsp;solar energy&rsquo;s potential.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The amount of solar energy received by Earth could power a civilization over 100 times larger than ours! <a href="https://t.co/x7TmJxk29q">https://t.co/x7TmJxk29q</a>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1626314275810852864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>A 2017 story carried by &ldquo;Power Technology&rdquo; entitled &ldquo;The Sahara: a solar battery for Europe&rdquo; detailed a small U.K. company named TuNur, which applied to the Tunisian government to begin construction of a 4.5 Gigawatt concentrated solar power project in the Sahara Desert. If successful, the energy generated could be transported through underground cables to provide Europe with a new carbon-free, alternative baseload power, according to the article.
A recent Forbes story noted that TuNur and Elmed (a proposed 600 MW undersea high-voltage direct current interconnector)&nbsp;in Tunisia look to deliver clean electricity to Europe through Italy. TuNur&rsquo;s final investment decision is due in 2024, it added.
See also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-solar-stocks">Best Solar Stocks</a>
How The Math Works: The second link shared by @Rainmaker1973 was to a 2016 Forbes story, which included an answer by Berkeley professor Mehran Moalem&nbsp;to a question on Quora. The professor said the world&rsquo;s energy usage, including both renewable and non-renewable sources, in 2015 was 13,000 million tons of oil equivalent, or MTOE, translating to 17.3 Terawatts of continuous power.
If a&nbsp;43,000 square miles area of the earth is covered by solar panels, it would provide more than 17.4 TW power. If the Great Sahara Desert, which receives more than 12 hours of sunlight a day, is tapped, just 1.2% of it is sufficient to cover the energy needs of the world. The total area of the desert is 3.6 million square miles.
Those looking to invest in the future of solar technology can choose from a variety of ETFs, including Invesco Solar ETF (ARCA: TAN) and&nbsp;iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/icln#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>).
Read next:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/22/07/28090916/about-quarter-of-us-electricity-comes-from-renewable-energy-sources-elon-musk-has-this-comment-on-da-3">About 25% Of US Electricity Comes From Renewable Energy Sources: Elon Musk Has One Word To Say About It</a>
Photo: Shutterstock

Media

Elon Musk Says This Energy Source Can Power A Civilization Over 100 Times Larger Than Ours

The Secretary General of the United Nations kicked off the 15th Conference on Biodiversity (COP 15) with statements to protect Earth and save nature. Here&rsquo;s what Antonio Guterres said.
What Happened: Seen as one of the most important world meetings of the last decade, COP 15 is sharing opinions and plans from world leaders and scientists on what can be done to help improve the survival of humanity. Among the key topics <a href="http://www.benzinga.com/topic/fossil-fuels">was fossil fuels.</a>
Guterres said governments must end the &ldquo;orgy of destruction&rdquo; and called humanity a weapon of mass extinction during his speech.
&ldquo;We are out of harmony with nature. In fact, we are playing an entirely different song,&rdquo; Guterres said. &ldquo;Around the world, for hundreds of years, we have conducted a cacophony of chaos, played with instruments of destruction. Deforestation and desertification are creating wastelands of once-thriving ecosystems.&rdquo;
Guterres went on to state that land, water and air around the world have been poisoned by chemicals and pesticides, as reported by <a href="https://cleantechnica.com/2022/12/11/humanity-is-a-weapon-of-mass-extinction-says-antonio-guterres-at-cop-15/">CleanTechnica</a>.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The most important lesson we impart to children is to take responsibility for their actions. What example are we setting when we ourselves are failing this basic test? The deluded dreams of billionaires aside, there is no Planet B.&rdquo;
Guterres has served as Secretary General of the UN since 2017, the ninth person to hold the role. Guterres previously served as the Prime Minister of Portugal from 1995 to 2002.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke on conserving 30% of the Earth for nature by the year 2030 in his opening remarks at COP 15.
&ldquo;We have not chosen that 30% number at random. It is the critical threshold according to the greatest scientists to avoid the risk of extinction and also to ensure our food and economic security,&rdquo; Trudeau said.
Related Link:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/22/08/28484166/un-chief-pledges-diplomatic-talks-to-denuclearize-kim-jong-uns-north-korea-after-meeting-seoul-leade"> UN Chief Pledges Diplomatic Talks To Denuclearize Kim Jong Un&#39;s North Korea&nbsp;</a>
Why It&rsquo;s Important: The COP 15 runs from Dec. 7 through Dec. 19 in Montreal, Canada. The conference is expected to address targets for pollution and new agricultural practices.
Scientists are speaking out on the loss of wildlife and nature and the impact it could have on Earth, including mass extinction. One scientist pointed to a study on the impact of COVID-19 lockdowns and the reduction in traffic and human contact having a positive impact on nature around the world.
The European Union announced prior to COP 15 that it was banning all products that are considered to impact deforestation, which could affect industries producing&nbsp;cattle, cocoa, coffee, palm oil, rubber, soya and wood products.
Electric vehicle giant Tesla Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/tsla#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) is one company that could benefit from stricter controls on fossil fuels and a push to electrification. Tesla is a leader in many countries worldwide for electric vehicle unit sales.
Investors could also look to several ETFs as an option to capitalize on the trend of clean energy and the calls for action at the U.N. meeting.
The iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/icln#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>) has 100 holdings and $4.9 billion in assets under management. The ETF is up 21.8% and 18.0% over the last three years and five years respectively. Benzinga <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/specialty-etfs/22/11/29643496/5-etfs-to-watch-after-2022-midterm-elections-which-sectors-win-from-republican-or-democrat-ma">recently pointed the ETF out </a>as one that could benefit from a Democrat-controlled House and Senate as the U.S. pushed through more clean energy initiatives.
The Invesco Solar ETF (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/tan#NYSE">TAN</a>) is another clean energy ETF with a focus on the solar sector. The ETF holds a basket of 53 holdings and has $2.2 billion in assets under management. The ETF is up 6.6% and 25.1% over the last three years and five years respectively.
Clean energy will likely continue to be a battleground issue in politics in the U.S. and worldwide. The comments and initiatives launched at&nbsp;COP 15 could help predict what the rest of the world will do between now and 2030.
Photo: Courtesy of Shutterstock.

Humanity Is A Weapon Of Mass Extinction, UN Leader Says, 'What Example Are We Setting' For Our Children

The 2022 election was held on Tuesday, Nov. 8. No decision has been made as to who won many of the key battles, including several pivotal seats in the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate. Here&rsquo;s a look at the latest news and some ETFs that could see wide swings <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/22/11/29630414/midterm-results-no-red-wave-in-sight-as-democrats-republicans-fight-out-tight-contests">on the heels of the election</a>.
What Happened: The Democrat party has held a majority in the House of Representatives, and an often tie-breaking lead in the Senate, along with&nbsp;a Democrat president in Joe Biden.
Some financial analysts <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/22/11/29597625/morgan-stanley-says-the-us-midterm-elections-could-spark-a-rally-in-stocks-heres-ho">have pointed to</a> the positives that could be seen for the market with gridlock and a Republican-led Congress challenging a Democratic president.
At the time of writing, the Associated Press <a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-results-954de3200a5467d36ea5f04e4ccbb78f">has </a>called 376 of the 435 seats in the House of Representatives, with 175 Democrats and 201 Republicans. A total of 218 are&nbsp;needed to have a majority. Prior to the 2022 election, the House had 212 Republicans and 220 Democrats.
Related Link: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/22/11/29599251/14-stocks-to-watch-if-donald-trump-announces-2024-presidential-bid-6-for-now-8-for-later">14 Stocks To Watch If Donald Trump Announces 2024 Presidential Bid&nbsp;</a>
ETFs to Watch: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/what-is-an-etf">Exchange traded funds </a>can offer investors exposure to sectors or ideologies with a basket of stocks, instead of investing in just one or two stocks. With the potential of the political makeup of Congress changing, several sectors could be impacted and could offer ideas for ETFs.
The Point Bridge America First ETF (BATS: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/maga#BATS">MAGA</a>) was <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/20/10/18061030/what-happens-to-the-maga-etf-if-trump-loses-the-presidential-election">launched in 2017</a> and offers exposure to the Republican side of the political spectrum. The ETF <a href="https://www.pointbridgecapital.com/about/">tracks </a>companies in the S&amp;P 500 that make donations to the Republican Party. While not all these companies would stand to benefit from a Republican-led Congress, the ETF is often linked to positive news for the Republican Party or former President Donald Trump. The ETF has the ticker MAGA, which coincides with Trump&rsquo;s acronym &ldquo;Make America Great Again,&rdquo; which was a slogan and rallying cry for Trump in the 2016 and 2020 presidential elections.
The ETF holds 150 stocks and has $15 million in assets under management. The ETF has <a href="https://etfdb.com/etf/MAGA/">returns </a>of -0.6%, +43.7%&nbsp;and +57.4% over the last one year, three years, and five years respectively.
Similar to the America First ETF, the God Bless America ETF (ARCA:YALL) is an ETF that focuses on one side of the political spectrum. The ETF, launched in October 2022, screens out companies that are considered left-leaning&nbsp;politically&nbsp;or have &ldquo;liberal political activism and social agendas.&rdquo; The ETF invests in U.S.-listed companies from various sectors and has $24.2 million in assets under management. The ETF is actively managed.
The iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/icln#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>) is an ETF that could be favored by investors if the Democrats keep control of the House and Senate and could see declines of several components under a gridlocked Congress not focused on passing clean energy initiatives. The ETF invests in the clean energy sector.
The ETF has 100 holdings and has $4.9 billion in assets under management. It has returned -10.7%, +21.8% and +18.0% over the last one year, three years and five years respectively.
Like the iShares Global Clean Energy ETF, the Invesco Solar ETF (ARCA:TAN) could benefit from the Democrats keeping control and could see pressure with a Republican-led Congress. The Invesco Solar ETF invests in companies in the solar energy sector on a global scale.
The ETF was launched in 2008 and now has 53 holdings with&nbsp;$2.2 billion in assets under management. The ETF has returns of -27.9%, +6.6% and +25.1% over the last one year, three years, and five years respectively.
Two sectors that could benefit from&nbsp;Republicans leading Congress could be healthcare and pharmaceuticals. Republicans have been&nbsp;against healthcare-for-all initiatives, and haven&#39;t been particularly vocal&nbsp;on cutting drug costs for Americans. The iShares U.S. Pharmaceuticals ETF (ARCA:IHE) was launched in 2006 and holds 43 stocks.
The ETF has $412 million in assets under management,&nbsp;returning&nbsp;-6.2%, +31.3% and +29.0% over the last one year, three years and five years respectively.
What&rsquo;s Next: It could be days before several of the most anticipated election races are decided. Investors will have to wait until it is known which political party has control of Congress and how big of an impact it could have on getting bills passed in the coming two years.
The potential of&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;launching a 2024 presidential campaign and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announcing an intent to run could also impact many ETFs. Trump and DeSantis are seen as front-runners to become&nbsp;the Republican Party nominee&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/22/11/29629422/trump-warns-freshly-re-elected-governor-desantis-against-running-for-president-in-2024-he-could-hurt">in the upcoming&nbsp;election</a>.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/22/11/29597514/control-of-congress-up-for-grabs-in-midterms-12-stocks-to-watch">Control Of Congress Up For Grabs In Midterms, 12 Stocks To Watch&nbsp;</a>
Photo: Courtesy of shutterstock.com

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On CNBC&#39;s &quot;<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/video/2022/08/08/options-action-watching-the-energy-space.html">Options Action</a>,&quot; Michael Khouw of Optimize Advisors said that Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/icln#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>) traded more than 9.5 times its average daily call volume on Monday. The options market saw a lot of institutional activity, he added.
Check out other stocks making moves in the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premarket/">premarket</a>.
There were buyers of 21,937 of the September weekly 24-calls at an average price of 72 cents per contract, Khouw mentioned. Traders expect shares of iShares Global Clean Energy to rise by 10% in the next five and a half weeks, he added.
ICLN Price Action: Shares of iShares Global Clean Energy gained 0.45% to settle at $22.51 on Monday.
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/esg/22/08/28402556/renewable-energy-stocks-offering-generous-dividends-3-dividend-yield-stocks-for-esg-investors">These 3 Renewable Energy Stocks Offer Generous Dividend Yields: Passive Income For ESG Investors&nbsp;</a>

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On CNBC&rsquo;s &ldquo;<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/video/2022/06/15/final-trades-boeing-charles-schwab-crispr-therapeutics-more.html">Halftime Report Final Trades</a>,&rdquo; Kevin O&#39;Leary, known as &quot;Mr. Wonderful,&quot; recommended buying&nbsp;Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>), after the crypto space has recently been &ldquo;crushed.&rdquo;
The overall cryptocurrency market capitalization has contracted to less than $1 trillion, down from the November 2021 peak of $3 trillion.
Karen Firestone of Aureus Asset Management chose Charles Schwab Corporation (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/schw#NYSE">SCHW</a>) as her final trade. Charles Schwab&rsquo;s stock is down more than 28% year to date.
Check out other stocks making moves in the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premarket/">premarket</a>.
Jon Najarian said he&nbsp;bought iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/icln#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>) on Wednesday.
Jim Lebenthal of Cerity Partners chose Boeing Co (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ba#NYSE">BA</a>) as his final trade.
Joseph Terranova of Virtus Investment Partners named Crispr Therapeutics AG (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/crsp#NASDAQ">CRSP</a>). Shares of Crispr Therapeutics have lost nearly 21% year-to-date.

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Investors passionate about the health of the oceans now have a brand-new ETF to buy to support the environment and invest in some innovative companies.
What Happened? Today, Newday Impact launched the Newday Ocean Health ETF (NYSE: AHOY). The AHOY fund invests in companies that are diverting ocean-bound plastic waste, managing ocean acidification caused by CO2 emissions, supporting sustainable fisheries, and exploring other strategies to combat ocean pollution and threats to marine health.
Why It&#39;s Important: In addition to its commitment to targeting companies actively supporting the world&#39;s oceans, the AHOY fund had pledged to donate 5% of its revenue to environmental nonprofit organization EarthEcho International. Newday Impact and EarthEcho have partnered since 2021 to educate children on sustainability and gather data and insights on oceanic health.
&quot;Our Ocean Health ETF portfolio is 100% focused on companies with effective, legitimate green agendas, based on the knowledge and relationships we&rsquo;ve built in our five years of impact investing,&quot; said Doug Heske, CEO of Newday Impact.
The AHOY fund is Newday&#39;s first ETF and was developed in partnership with Toroso Investments and Tidal ETF Services. The fund&#39;s initial holdings have not yet been disclosed, but <a href="https://www.newdayimpactetfs.com/">its website</a> lists an initial expense ratio of 0.75%.
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/22/05/27364437/sec-working-on-pending-rules-on-misleading-esg-investment-claims-ft">SEC Working On Pending Rules On Misleading ESG Investment Claims: FT</a>
Benzinga&#39;s Take: ESG investing has been one of the biggest trends on Wall Street in recent years, and any investors passionate about ocean health specifically could feel good about owning the AHOY fund. The iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/icln#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>), the largest green energy fund, has held up relatively well so far in 2022, down just 2.8% year-to-date.

A Brand New ETF To Save The Ocean: What Investors Need To Know

Image credit: RoboMarkets
This post contains sponsored advertising content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice.
To start investing in companies that work by the ESG standard, it is vital to understand what ESG is about.
<h2>What is ESG?</h2>
ESG investing is a form of socially responsible investing, i.e. when a potential investor decides whether to put their money in a company based on its impact on the environment and social development.
ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance.
Under Environmental we understand environmental responsibilities, i.e. whether the company follows ecological standards and what it does to decrease greenhouse gas emissions.
Under Social, we mean social responsibilities of the business, i.e. how the company treats its employees, clients, suppliers, and the quality of its produce.
Governance highlights the quality of corporate management. It encompasses payments by contribution, anticorruption measures, gender diversity on the board of directors, transparent reports, and shareholder relations.
ESG investments became popular just a couple of years ago, although the idea of socially responsible investing originates in the 18th century. Since then, it has had its ups and downs depending on the situation in the world or a specific country.
<h2>Choice of broker</h2>
Before beginning to look for ESG companies, you need to decide on the broker through which you will buy the shares. One criterion will be the variety of shares traded on a whole lot of global exchanges.&nbsp;
One option is RoboMarkets. There are over 12,000 shares and CFDs on shares available in the terminal, which are traded in the exchanges of the US, EU, and Brazil. You can opt for a web version that provides access to the trading terminal via any gadget&#39;s browser. This will enable you to immediately see your saved lists of shares and chart templates, thereby reducing your preparation time before trading. Apart from the web version, there are apps for Android and iOS. If you prefer automatic processes, the R StocksTrader<a href="https://go.robomarkets.com/ek4"> investment platform</a> offers a constructor of trading robots that helps you create an expert advisor from scratch, with no programming skills required.
<h2>Rating agencies</h2>
After you have chosen your broker, you can start searching for companies. There is no ready-made screener with ESG parameters online yet, so you will need to study reports by yourself to determine which element suits ESG standards. Alternatively, you can turn to rating agencies.
For now, there are no set standards to determine if a company qualifies for ESG. This means that each agency has its own criteria. Normally, issuers are rated like bonds: from CCC (the lowest rating) to AAA (the highest rating). While one agency might consider a certain company to be a leader, other agencies could place it in the middle of their rating lists.
<h2>ESG companies for investments</h2>
ESG ratings are formed by such agencies as Bloomberg, S&amp;P Dow Jones Indices, JUST Capital, MSCI, Morningstar, etc. MSCI features an app that forms an ESG rating in real-time. AAA is the highest rating, and this is currently held by one single company - Abrdn plc.
Abrdn plc is a global investment company that manages assets.
On the one hand, the investment sector offers many more chances for following ESG standards than, say, the oil and gas industry. The company only needs to avoid adding companies with high greenhouse gas emissions to its portfolio.
However, an investment company needs to show investors its profits. The commodity market currently demonstrates high profitability, but there are many companies that cannot fulfill ESG standards. As a result, Abrdn plc totally excludes this sector from the portfolio, which undermines the profitability of investments.
What is going on with Abrdn shares most likely represents the current situation in the company. The shares have been in a downtrend since 2018, meaning that regardless of the high ESG rating, investors are not rushing to purchase them.&nbsp;
<img alt="screenshot_2022-04-21_at_9.33.32_pm.png" src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/2022/April/21/screenshot_2022-04-21_at_9.33.32_pm.png" style="height:346px; width:650px" />
Abrdn share price chart*
ZoomInfo Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/zi#NASDAQ">ZI</a>) has an AA rating, and the situation is different here. ZoomInfo Technologies is a provider of software on a subscription, which gives access to its client base. Its shares are quite popular.
<img alt="screenshot_2022-04-21_at_9.33.55_pm.png" src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/2022/April/21/screenshot_2022-04-21_at_9.33.55_pm.png" style="height:346px; width:650px" />
ZoomInfo Technologies share price chart*
The shares of HubSpot, Inc. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/hubs#NYSE">HUBS</a>), which also has an AA rating, demonstrates even more impressive growth. HubSpot, Inc. is also a company that develops and sells software. From March 2020 through December 2021, its shares saw a remarkable growth of over 800%, after which they corrected. Investors can now buy them at a much more affordable price.
<img alt="screenshot_2022-04-21_at_9.34.17_pm.png" src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/2022/April/21/screenshot_2022-04-21_at_9.34.17_pm.png" style="height:356px; width:650px" />
HubSpot share price chart*
<h2>ETFs for ESG companies</h2>
ETFs are a more conservative investment option for ESG companies. In the US market, there were about 50 ETFs that were invested by ESG standards at the beginning of 2022. The largest one is Vanguard Information Technology (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/vgt#NYSE">VGT</a>).
By choosing ETFs, one can also assess them by criteria:&nbsp; iShares Global Clean Energy (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/icln#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>) is more focused on environmental problems, while iShares MSCI KLD 400 Social (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/dsi#NYSE">DSI</a>) is more socially-oriented. For those who care about corporate management, iShares ESG MSCI USA (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/esgu#NASDAQ">ESGU</a>) might be one of the instruments to consider.
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
Some investors believe ESG investing is promising, however, this market has not been formed yet. In the EU, there are plans to adopt certain laws that will control the carbon footprint, and companies will have to choose between reducing emissions or decreasing profits. In this respect, choosing ESG investment options involves singling out companies that are focused on the environment. This is the area in which certain regulations might emerge soon, alongside a regulator that will be checking if companies are adhering to the set laws, regulations, guidelines, and specifications.
* - Past performance does not predict future returns
This post contains sponsored advertising content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice.

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<a href="https://investorplace.com">InvestorPlace - Stock Market News, Stock Advice &amp; Trading Tips</a>
Investors may argue that <a href="https://investorplace.com/industries/energy/renewable-energy/battery/">battery stocks</a> are some of the most boring investment ideas. But with global leaders fighting for millions to go green, batteries play an essential role with renewable energy.&nbsp;



&ldquo;Batteries are crucial in the global economy transition with their ability to maintain a balance between supply and demand within the power system,&rdquo; <a href="https://knowhow.distrelec.com/energy-and-power/the-importance-of-batteries-in-renewable-energy-transition/">according to Know How</a>.&nbsp;&ldquo;In the use of renewable energy sources, batteries enable utility providers to gather extra electricity and store it for periods when the solar panels and wind turbines are not working the most efficiently (the sun is not shining or wind is not blowing).&rdquo;



And in the U.S., the&nbsp;Biden Administration announced that up to $3.5 billion&nbsp;from the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/articles/biden-harris-administration-announces-35-billion-strengthen-domestic-battery-manufacturing#:~:text=WASHINGTON%2C%20D.C.%20%E2%80%94%20Today%2C%20two,batteries%20and%20battery%20materials%20nationwide.">Bipartisan Infrastructure Law</a> would be used to boost production of advanced batteries and battery materials. With demand only expected to grow with the green energy boom, investors may want to pay close attention to battery stocks.



<h2>QuantumScape Corp. (QS)</h2>



<div><img width="300" height="169" src="https://investorplace.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/qsp-1-300x169.jpg" alt="The website for the Quantstamp (QSP) crypto displayed on a smartphone."><div>Source: Piotr Swat / Shutterstock.com</div></div>Keep an eye on oversold shares of&nbsp;QuantumScape&nbsp;(NYSE:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/qs-stock-quote/">QS</a>). After diving to $5.50, the stock is just starting to pivot higher, last trading at $6.22.&nbsp;



In addition, analysts at&nbsp;Baird just raised their <a href="https://www.streetinsider.com/Analyst+PT+Change/QuantumScape+%28QS%29+PT+Raised+to+%248+at+Baird/22785221.html?classic=1">price target to $8</a> from $5, with a neutral rating. The firm noted that new CEO Dr. Siva Sivaram will be instrumental in helping the company achieve commercial scale production. Also, the company&rsquo;s&nbsp;<a href="https://investorplace.com/2024/03/qs-stock-investors-beware-range-anxiety-might-not-be-the-real-issue/#:~:text=Since%20the%20get%2Dgo%2C%20range,buy%20or%20so%20it%20seems.">solid-state batteries</a>&nbsp;could help cool electric vehicle (EV) range anxiety and help kickstart interest in EV sales.



The company is already starting to ship its&nbsp;<a href="https://ir.quantumscape.com/resources/press-releases/news-details/2024/QuantumScape-Begins-Customer-Shipments-of-Alpha-2-Prototypes-a-Key-Goal-for-2024/default.aspx#:~:text=%E2%80%9CThe%20Alpha%2D2%20shipments%20represent,need%20improvement%20and%20strengthens%20collaboration.">initial trial version</a>&nbsp;of a prototype solid-state battery to customers, which was a major goal for QS.&nbsp;



&ldquo;The Alpha-2 shipments represent an important milestone on our path to commercialization,&rdquo;&nbsp;<a href="https://ir.quantumscape.com/resources/press-releases/news-details/2024/QuantumScape-Begins-Customer-Shipments-of-Alpha-2-Prototypes-a-Key-Goal-for-2024/default.aspx#:~:text=%E2%80%9CThe%20Alpha%2D2%20shipments%20represent,need%20improvement%20and%20strengthens%20collaboration.">said Dr. Siva Sivaram, president and CEO of QuantumScape.</a>&nbsp;&ldquo;We are very encouraged by the initial Alpha-2 performance results and excited about the first QSE-5 cells we expect to manufacture later this year.&rdquo;



<h2>Albemarle (ALB)</h2>



<div><img width="300" height="169" src="https://investorplace.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/alb1600a-300x169.jpg" alt="Albemarle (ALB) logo on a mobile phone screen"><div>Source: IgorGolovniov/Shutterstock.com</div></div>We can also look at&nbsp;Albemarle&nbsp;(NYSE:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/alb-stock-quote/">ALB</a>), which is showing big signs of life again.



After dipping to a low of $110, the lithium giant is back to $128, and could refill its bearish gap around $140, near term. Additionally,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.streetinsider.com/news.php?id=22791887&amp;classic=1">Oppenheimer analyst Colin Rusch</a>&nbsp;now has an outperform rating on the ALB stock with a $188 price target. Also, ALB is still inexpensive at 9x earnings, 1.61x book, and yields about 1.34% at the moment.



We also have to consider that lithium prices have fallen too much to cover the cost of supply needed for EVs,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wsj.com/finance/commodities-futures/are-lithium-stocks-at-rock-bottom-594111c7">says The Wall Street Journal</a>.



&ldquo;A recovery isn&rsquo;t yet in sight, but one will have to come eventually. Lithium prices are now too low to justify a chunk of today&rsquo;s ore extraction in Australia and China, let alone investment in new production necessary to feed expected growth in the EV market. That is setting up the conditions for a shortage and rally,&rdquo; they added.



<h2>iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (ICLN)</h2>



<div><img width="300" height="169" src="https://investorplace.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/etf-pushpin-1600-300x169.jpg" alt='close-up of the phrase "exchange traded fund" on three colorful papers pinned to a wall by colorful pushpins'><div>Source: shutterstock.com/bangoland</div></div>Or, if you want to diversify at low cost, there&rsquo;s the&nbsp;iShares Global Clean Energy ETF&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/icln-stock-quote/">ICLN</a>).



<a href="https://www.ishares.com/us/products/239738/ishares-global-clean-energy-etf">With an expense ratio of 0.41%,</a>&nbsp;the ETF invests in more than just battery stocks. It also offers exposure to companies that produce energy from solar, wind, and other renewable sources. So, a little bit of everything. Some of its 102 holdings include&nbsp;First Solar&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/fslr-stock-quote/">FSLR</a>),&nbsp;Enphase Energy&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/enph-stock-quote/">ENPH</a>),&nbsp;SolarEdge&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/sedg-stock-quote/">SEDG</a>),&nbsp;Sunrun&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/run-stock-quote/">RUN</a>),&nbsp;Bloom Energy&nbsp;(NYSE:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/be-stock-quote/">BE</a>), and&nbsp;SunPower(NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/spwr-stock-quote/">SPWR</a>).



At the moment, the ICLN ETF trades at just $14 a share. From here, with growing green energy demand, and potential rate cuts from the Federal Reserve, I&rsquo;d like to see the ICLN ETF climb back to $18 over the rest of the year. Moreover, the Biden Administration just committed about $6 billion toward cutting emissions from some of the nation&rsquo;s top sectors.



&ldquo;Together, the projects are expected to prevent more than 14 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually &mdash; equal to the savings of getting 3 million gasoline-powered cars off the roads for a year,&rdquo;&nbsp;<a href="https://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/4554256-biden-administration-commits-6b-to-cut-emissions-from-high-carbon-industries/#:~:text=Together%2C%20the%20projects%20are%20expected,said%20in%20its%20Monday%20announcement.">reported TheHill.com</a>.



All of this should be beneficial for many of the ICLN ETF&rsquo;s holdings.



On the date of publication, Ian Cooper did not hold (either directly or indirectly) any positions in the securities mentioned. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer, subject to the InvestorPlace.com&nbsp;<a href="https://investorplace.com/corporate/investorplace-publishing-guidelines/?utm_source=Nasdaq&amp;utm_medium=referral">Publishing Guidelines</a>.
<div>Ian Cooper, a contributor to InvestorPlace.com, has been analyzing stocks and options for web-based advisories since 1999.</div><h3>More From InvestorPlace</h3>
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The post <a href="https://investorplace.com/2024/03/3-battery-stocks-that-could-be-multibaggers-in-the-making-march-edition/">3 Battery Stocks That Could Be Multibaggers in the Making: March Edition</a> appeared first on <a href="https://investorplace.com">InvestorPlace</a>.