In the dynamic realm of financial markets, insights from seasoned experts are invaluable. Recently, on CNBC's renowned 'Halftime Report Final Trades' segment, prominent figures in wealth management and investment unveiled their latest stock recommendations. These selections, encompassing diverse sectors from basic materials to technology, offer a snapshot of current market sentiment and strategic investment opportunities. Investors keenly observe these endorsements to gauge potential shifts and identify promising ventures in the ever-evolving economic landscape.
Market Experts Unveil Key Stock Picks and Performance Highlights
On Tuesday, February 25, 2026, several distinguished financial strategists presented their top investment choices, providing valuable perspectives on current market trends. Joshua Brown, co-founder and CEO of Ritholtz Wealth Management, highlighted Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. (NYSE: MLM). The company reported its fourth-quarter results on February 11, with revenue reaching $1.534 billion, a 9% increase year-over-year, despite narrowly missing analyst expectations of $1.589 billion. Nonetheless, its earnings per share (EPS) of $4.62 surpassed the street's forecast of $4.59, even as net earnings from continuing operations saw a 6% year-over-year decline to $233 million. On the trading day, Martin Marietta Materials' shares appreciated by 1.9%, closing at $696.85.
Joe Terranova, Senior Managing Director at Virtus Investment Partners, recommended KLA Corporation (NASDAQ: KLAC). KLA announced robust second-quarter earnings on January 29, with an EPS of $8.85, slightly outperforming the analyst consensus of $8.80. The company's quarterly revenue stood at $3.3 billion, exceeding the estimated $3.25 billion. KLA's stock experienced a 1.3% rise, concluding the session at $1,506.65.
Lastly, Jim Lebenthal, a partner at Cerity Partners, selected Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ: MSFT). Microsoft recently intensified its commitment to bridging the global digital divide by announcing a significant connectivity milestone and a new collaboration with Starlink. This partnership aims to broaden access to AI-ready infrastructure across the globe. Microsoft's shares also saw a positive movement, climbing 1.2% to settle at $389.00.
These expert recommendations underscore a diversified approach to investment, spanning infrastructure, semiconductor equipment, and technology. The varied performance metrics and strategic initiatives of these companies reflect distinct growth drivers and market positions, offering investors a spectrum of opportunities.