Two Stocks to Consider in 2025: The Tortoise and The Hare of the Market

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The stock market in 2025? It’s a bit like trying to walk on a tightrope with roller skates: wobbly, unpredictable, and more than a little nerve-wracking. But hey, as of August 25, the S&P 500 (^GSPC) has managed to pull off a 14.6% gain over the last 52 weeks, so things are not as bleak as they might seem… unless, of course, you’re holding the wrong stocks. Which some people are. Ouch!

Some stocks are playing it safe, quietly making gains, while others… well, let’s just say they forgot to read the memo that the market was going up. But for those of you with a nose for a deal, there are a few opportunities that are like finding an extra fry at the bottom of your McDonald’s bag. So let’s talk about two particular stock picks that are on my radar right now: the classic big-box retailer Target (TGT) and the digital language guru Duolingo (DUOL). I’ll break them down for you in the hopes of answering one critical question: “Should I buy them, or should I just go back to Netflix?”

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Target: The Underdog Making a Comeback

Let’s start with Target. It’s been a bumpy ride for this retailer over the last year, with shares falling 39%. But hold your horses – we’ve got a plot twist, folks. In the last quarter, Target’s stock gained 3%. That’s right, the comeback kid is trying to make it back into the game. It’s like Rocky Balboa, but with more shopping carts and fewer punches to the face.

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Duolingo: A Little Too High-flying… or Just Right?

Now, let’s talk about Duolingo, the little app that could – and did. This stock has been soaring like an eagle with jet engines attached, up 53% over the last year. But hold onto your hats, because it’s been a bit of a rollercoaster lately, dropping 38% this quarter. It’s the stock market equivalent of eating a candy bar, feeling great, then getting hit by a truck. But here’s where it gets interesting.

Duolingo’s valuation? Let’s just say it’s getting a little bit “bubbly.” We’re talking a P/E ratio of 134 and a price-to-sales ratio of 16.6. In other words, it’s pricey – almost like you’re paying a premium to join a secret club of linguists who can whisper in 30 different languages. The growth metrics are impressive, but my friends, this thing is a bit of a price-to-earnings nightmare.

Yet here’s the twist: the company continues to blow away earnings expectations, and it’s still crushing revenue targets. Investors are nervous, sure. It’s like everyone’s worried the party is over. The thing is, Duolingo’s long-term plans are ambitious. CEO Luis von Ahn isn’t stopping at just languages – he wants to expand into math, music, chess, and eventually all subjects under the sun. I can see it now: Duolingo teaching quantum physics, while I try to pronounce “superconductivity.” (Spoiler: It’s not going well.)

So, is it still too expensive? Maybe. But is it a “buy the dip” situation? Absolutely. If you believe in Duolingo’s long-term growth, this stock could turn out to be one of those “you should’ve bought it when it was cheap” moments. The trick is understanding that buying in at this point is like betting on a startup with an already proven track record. It’s a high-risk, high-reward play, but hey, no guts, no glory, right?

So, there you have it. Target, the underdog in comeback mode, and Duolingo, the soaring growth stock with a few hiccups. Both have their quirks, but each could be worth a look if you’re building a diversified portfolio for the long haul. But before you run out and start clicking that “buy” button like you’re on a shopping spree, remember: the stock market, much like life, is full of surprises. So, keep your wits about you… and your finger off the panic button. 🍿

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2025-08-27 16:46