What MoneyWeek writers read and watched in 2024

Global demand for liquefied natural gas (LNG) is projected to increase by 60% by 2040, driven by economic growth in Asia and advancements in AI. Companies like Kinder Morgan (NYSE: KMI) and ConocoPhillips (NYSE: COP) are well-positioned to benefit from this surge, making them strong investment options for the long term. Want More Context? 🔎

Amazon's advertising business, Amazon Ads, is emerging as a high-margin, fast-growing segment that enhances the company's overall value. By integrating ads into Prime Video, Amazon is not only diversifying its revenue streams but also leveraging its strategic position to reshape its long-term prospects significantly. Want More Context? 🔎

Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) has experienced remarkable growth as a leader in the fast-casual restaurant sector, with its stock price more than doubling over the past five years, despite facing macroeconomic challenges. Currently, shares are trading 34% below their peak from June 2024, prompting potential investors to consider three critical factors before making a purchase decision. Want More Context? 🔎

Cryptocurrency XRP has surged by 480% over the past year, drawing significant investor interest due to its real-world applications in facilitating foreign transactions. However, concerns about its rapid valuation increase suggest it may be overvalued, prompting caution for potential buyers considering the influence of investor sentiment on its price. Want More Context? 🔎

Joby Aviation is developing electric air taxis to alleviate urban traffic, with plans for point-to-point networks in major cities like New York. Despite its stock hitting an all-time high of $17.50 and a market cap of $14.8 billion, the company currently generates no revenue while its vehicles, capable of 200 mph, await operational status. Want More Context? 🔎

Nvidia has achieved the milestone of becoming the first-ever $4 trillion company, driven by rising demand for artificial intelligence. Alongside Nvidia, major cloud providers Amazon, Microsoft, and Alphabet each exceed $2 trillion in market cap, while another company is predicted to join the $2 trillion club before the year ends, fueled by AI advancements. Want More Context? 🔎