Target's store closures due to theft and organized crime have troubling implications for local economies; the podcast explores the connection between policy, politics, and economics. The host shares a contrarian view on global warming, discusses the trendy concept of 'carbon capture,' and reveals two favorite stocks in the energy sector. The podcast also covers the impact of government policies, investing in resilient businesses like Walmart, and positive news about the world's largest reef recovering. Additionally, it delves into social media algorithms, CO2 emissions, and oil market opportunities.
The closure of Target stores due to rampant theft highlights the negative impact of theft on businesses, employees, and local economies, emphasizing the need for effective policies and measures to combat organized retail crime.
Despite the push for clean energy, the transition away from fossil fuels is not happening as quickly as anticipated, presenting investment opportunities in the oil and gas sector, particularly in areas like carbon capture, which is witnessing growth and attracting companies like Denbury and Occidental Petroleum.
Deep dives
Target announces store closures due to theft and organized crime
Target has announced the closure of nine stores across four states due to theft and organized retail crime. This comes as retailers continue to face challenges from high inflation and the squeeze on lower-income consumers. The National Retail Federation reports that theft and other factors cost retailers $112 billion in losses in 2022, an increase from $94 billion in 2021. This highlights the negative impact of theft on businesses, employees, and local economies, while also raising concerns about the mindset and policies surrounding these issues.
The impact of policies on retail and the economy
The closure of Target stores due to theft and organized crime reflects the broader impact of policies on retail and the economy. From the perspective of Target, the decision to close underperforming stores is driven by factors such as risk to employees and customers, declining business performance, and the need for a safe working and shopping environment. However, this decision also has implications for employees, consumers, state and local governments, and the economy as a whole. It leads to job losses, the need for consumers to find alternative shopping options, lost tax revenue for governments, and potential negative effects on areas already grappling with high crime rates.
Investment opportunities and the future of oil and gas
Amidst discussions on climate change and clean energy transitions, there are investment opportunities in the oil and gas sector. Despite the push for clean energy, the transition away from fossil fuels is not happening as quickly as anticipated. Oil prices remain elevated and are likely to stay that way, presenting opportunities for oil and gas companies. Carbon capture is a growing area of investment, with companies like Denbury and Occidental Petroleum focusing on this technology. Additionally, the overall bullishness on the oil and gas industry, the financial strength of companies, and the potential re-pricing of the sector make it an attractive choice for investors.
Frank is out of the office on a research trip… leaving me, Daniel, behind the mic. Target’s (TGT) shares are near 52-week lows after it announced it will be closing nine stores due to rampant theft. It’s a troubling sign that will have a big impact on local economies. I highlight how it’s the latest example of the problems that happen when politicians enact stupid policies… why long-term investors should be excited by the declines… and a few other retail stocks that belong on every investor’s watchlist. Two weeks ago, I ruffled some feathers when I shared my contrarian view on global warming. I’m doubling down this week… and sharing some more research from experts who disagree with the popular climate narrative. Email me your thoughts at daniel {at} curzioresearch {dot} com. “Carbon capture” is one of the trendiest ideas for mitigating climate change (and it’s so popular, I’ve created a drinking game around it). While I think it’s a silly idea, it will benefit a handful of companies in the energy sector. I reveal two of my favorite stocks to play the situation… and explain why the world can’t stop using fossil fuels anytime soon. In this episode The politics behind TGT’s store closures [2:00] The best retail stocks for long-term investors [10:55] I’m doubling down on my climate stance [14:25] A drinking game to help combat climate change [18:20] My two favorite plays on carbon capture [23:20] Enjoyed this episode? Get Wall Street Unplugged delivered FREE to your inbox each week: www.curzioresearch.com/wall-street-unplugged/ Wall Street Unplugged podcast is available at: --iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/wall-street-unplugged-frank/ --Stitcher: www.stitcher.com/podcast/curzio-research/wall-street-unplugged-2 --Website: www.curzioresearch.com/category/podcast/wall-street-unplugged/ Twitter: twitter.com/frankcurzio Facebook:. www.facebook.com/CurzioResearch/ Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/frank-curzio-690561a7/ Website: www.curzioresearch.com
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