iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ: ICLN)

Dernières nouvelles pour iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ:ICLN)

iShares Global Clean Energy ETF

Utilities

Industrials

Technology

Basic Materials

Energy

The Fund seeks to track the investment results of the S&P Global Clean Energy Index. which is designed to track the performance of approximately 100 clean energy-related companies. The Underlying Index is a subset of the S&P Global Broad Market Index and includes stocks traded on developed and emerging market exchanges which meet or exceed, at the time of inclusion, dollar 300 million in total market capitalization, dollar 100 million in float- adjusted market capitalization, and Dollar 3 million median daily value traded over a six month period (or dollar 2 million for existing constituents).

Enphase Energy Inc Common Stock

First Solar Inc

Consolidated Edison Inc.

Iberdrola Sa

Vestas Wind Systems A/S

China Yangtze Power Co Ltd

Edp - Energias De Portugal Sa

Chubu Electric Power Co Inc

Suzlon Energy Ltd

Sse Plc

Nextracker Inc

Equatorial Energia Sa

Investment advisor and CEO of Gerber Kawasaki Wealth and Investment Management, Ross Gerber, has sharply criticized the new tax cut bill &#8211; One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which was passed by the House and awaits pending approval from the Senate.
What Happened: In an X post, Gerber labeled it &#8220;the big ugly bill,&#8221; accusing it of sabotaging critical advancements in clean energy and transportation while conveniently sidestepping a notorious tax loophole known as carried interest, which he branded &#8220;the biggest tax scam out there.&#8221;
The &#8220;One Big Beautiful Bill Act,&#8221; currently under consideration in the 119th U.S. Congress, has sparked debate with its proposed amendments to tax codes and energy policies.
Gerber, whose firm manages a <a href="https://www.gerberkawasaki.com/">$3.36 billion</a> portfolio with a strong focus on technology, clean energy, and transportation as of Dec. 31, 2024, argues that the bill threatens to dismantle key provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act.
That earlier legislation, enacted in 2022, has catalyzed $321 billion in private investment across 2,369 U.S. clean-energy projects, according to a June 5, 2025, <a href="https://impactalpha.com/the-ugly-details-of-the-big-beautiful-bills-damage-to-us-clean-energy-competitiveness/">report</a> by ImpactAlpha. 
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">While the big ugly bill is attempting to destroy clean energy and transportation, not a whiff of taxing carried interest. The biggest tax scam out there…
&mdash; Ross Gerber (@GerberKawasaki) <a href="https://twitter.com/GerberKawasaki/status/1939606445898485835?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, carried interest, a tax provision allowing private equity and hedge fund managers to pay a reduced capital gains tax rate of 23.8%, compared to the income tax rate of 37%, on their share of profits, was also central to Gerber&#8217;s criticism.
According to Gerber, this loophole saves wealthy fund managers billions annually, disproportionately benefits the ultra-rich, while straining federal revenues.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Grok explains this hedge fund/private equity tax scam… this would generate billions to offset cuts to Medicaid and the most needy. This is most definitely compensation as the GP. <a href="https://t.co/x3N5jVIxSh">pic.twitter.com/x3N5jVIxSh</a>
&mdash; Ross Gerber (@GerberKawasaki) <a href="https://twitter.com/GerberKawasaki/status/1939610854699262038?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2025</a></blockquote>
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See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/economic-data/25/06/46165307/us-credit-rating-would-fall-if-trumps-big-beautiful-bill-is-approved-says-thomas-massie-her">US Credit Rating Would Fall If Trump&#8217;s Big Beautiful Bill Is Approved, Says Thomas Massie: Here&#8217;s What It Means For Americans</a>
Why It Matters: Here is a list of a few clean energy stocks and an exchange-traded fund that investors could consider as a play on the possible effects on the industry, as highlighted by Gerber.
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table class="has-fixed-layout">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Stocks</td>
<td>YTD Performance</td>
<td>One-Year Performance</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FSLR#NASDAQ">FSLR</a>)</td>
<td>-18.41%</td>
<td>-31.69%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SunPower Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPWR#NASDAQ">SPWR</a>)</td>
<td>-3.35%</td>
<td>44.17%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wind Systems (OTCQX:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VWDRY#OTCQX">VWDRY</a>)</td>
<td>11.76%</td>
<td>-31.18%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NEE#NYSE">NEE</a>)</td>
<td>-1.01%</td>
<td>1.42%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Plug Power Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLUG#NASDAQ">PLUG</a>)</td>
<td>-50.21%</td>
<td>-49.12%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ballard Power Systems (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLDP#NASDAQ">BLDP</a>)</td>
<td>-20.65%</td>
<td>-34.53%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Fluence Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FLNC#NASDAQ">FLNC</a>)</td>
<td>-63.69%</td>
<td>-62.63%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd. (CATL)</td>
<td>-2.53%</td>
<td>43.25%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>)</td>
<td>12.24%</td>
<td>-2.18%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
Apart from these industry-specific effects, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act is also expected to increase the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/05/45536595/big-beautiful-bill-will-explode-the-deficit-and-make-the-rich-richer-congressional-budget-office-estimates-4-income-fall-for-lowest-decile-of-americans-by-2033">federal deficits by $3.8 trillion</a>, as highlighted by the Congressional Budget Office&#8217;s estimates on the distributional impacts of the bill.
Following Friday&#8217;s record-setting rally, the SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) and Invesco QQQ Trust ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>), which track the S&amp;P 500 index and Nasdaq 100 index, respectively, were higher in premarket on Monday. The SPY was up 0.47% at $617.80, while the QQQ advanced 0.71% to $551.98, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a> data.
Read Next:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/macro-economic-events/25/06/46112471/ross-gerber-touts-an-idea-to-cut-deficit-by-trillions-of-dollars-let-the-tax-cuts-expire-and-full-salt-come-back">Ross Gerber Touts An Idea To Cut Deficit By Trillions Of Dollars: ‘Let The Tax Cuts Expire And Full SALT Come Back'</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors. 
Image Via Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

News

BLDP

FLNC

FSLR

iShares S&P Global Clean Energy Index Fund

ICLN

PLUG

SPWR

VWDRY

Ross Gerber Slams Trump's Tax Plan As 'Biggest...Scam Out There,' Says It Threatens Clean Energy Future: 'Big Ugly Bill'

Nextracker Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NXT#NASDAQ">NXT</a>) has <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/06/b46090338/nextracker-selected-for-landmark-european-solar-power-project" rel="noreferrer noopener">expanded its global clean energy presence</a> by supplying its NX Horizon solar tracking systems to Greece&#8217;s largest solar installation, the 550 MW Oricheio PPC Ptolemaida Solar PV Park in Western Macedonia.
Led by PPC Renewables, a subsidiary of Greece&#8217;s state-owned PPC Group, the project repurposes a former coal mine into a clean energy hub. Once operational, the solar park is expected to generate nearly 1.8% of the country&#8217;s annual electricity supply.
Engineering firm Terna SA oversaw construction, implementing Nextracker&#8217;s technology to support Greece&#8217;s shift toward renewable energy. The project aligns with Greece&#8217;s revised National Energy and Climate Plan, which now aims for 82% of electricity generation from renewable sources by 2030, up from a previous goal of 66%.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/mid-cap/25/05/45613306/nextracker-bolsters-india-presence-with-10-gw-milestone-new-hyderabad-hub" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nextracker Bolsters India Presence With 10 GW Milestone, New Hyderabad Hub</a>
Nextracker President Howard Wenger called the project &#8220;an important step to increase energy independence in Europe and derisk capacity shortages for the region&#8221; and commended PPC and Terna for their high execution standards.
According to Wood Mackenzie, Nextracker leads the solar tracker market in Europe and globally, with more than 130 gigawatts of systems shipped. To meet rising demand, the company has expanded its local manufacturing partnerships across Europe, ensuring timely delivery and support for large-scale and distributed-generation projects.
Investors can also gain exposure to the solar sector via ETFs like Invesco Solar ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TAN#NYSE">TAN</a>) and iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>).
Price Action: NXT shares were trading lower by 0.017% to $57.25 premarket at last check Wednesday.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46089609/trump-administration-ordered-to-release-billions-in-ev-charger-funds-after-federal-judge-ruling" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Administration Ordered To Release Billions In EV Charger Funds After Federal Judge Ruling</a></li>
</ul>
Photo by fuyu liu via Shutterstock

Large Cap

Nextracker's Tech Powers Greece's Largest Solar Park

American Superconductor Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMSC#NASDAQ">AMSC</a>) shares fell sharply on Wednesday after the company announced that it has priced <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/06/g45881538/amsc-announces-pricing-of-115-million-public-offering-of-common-stock" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">its underwritten public offering</a> of 4,125,000 shares at $28 each, aiming to raise approximately $115.5 million in gross proceeds before expenses.
The company intends to use the proceeds for general corporate purposes, including working capital and potential strategic acquisitions.
AMSC also granted underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to 618,750 additional shares at the offering price, less underwriting discounts and commissions. The offering is expected to close around June 12, pending customary conditions.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/06/45818607/record-3-3-trillion-global-energy-investment-which-solar-stocks-could-soak-up-the-sun" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Record $3.3 Trillion Global Energy Investment: Which Solar Stocks Could Soak Up The Sun?</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">AMSC&#8217;s Recent Earnings and Forecast</h2>
The offering comes shortly after AMSC reported strong <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/05/45553668/american-superconductor-reports-better-than-expected-q4-results-details" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fourth-quarter</a> results in mid-May. The company posted earnings of 13 cents per share, beating the consensus estimate of 10 cents. Revenue rose to $66.7 million, a sharp increase from $42 million in the same quarter a year ago.
CEO Daniel P. McGahn said the results marked the company&#8217;s third consecutive profitable quarter and a seventh straight quarter of positive operating cash flow. AMSC booked $75 million in new orders during the period, boosting its year-end backlog to nearly $320 million.
For the first quarter, the company expects adjusted earnings of 10 cents per share and revenue between $64 million and $68 million, roughly in line with analysts&#8217; projections.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Stock Performance Snapshot</h2>
AMSC shares dropped about 15% following the offering announcement. The stock has a 52-week high of $38.02 and a low of $13.98. It fell approximately 63% from its November high to its April low but has since rebounded nearly 120%. Shares are up around 14.7% year to date and currently trade about 30% above the 50-day simple moving average.
Sector-relevant ETFs include the iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>) and Invesco WilderHill Clean Energy ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PBW#NYSE">PBW</a>).
Price Action: AMSC shares are trading lower by 15.5% to $29.10 at last check Wednesday.
Read Next: 
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/06/45884336/teslas-key-element-of-profitability-at-stake-as-trumps-big-beautiful-bill-threatens-major-revenue-stream" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tesla&#8217;s &#8216;Key Element Of Profitability&#8217; At Stake As Trump&#8217;s &#8216;Big, Beautiful Bill&#8217; Threatens Major Revenue Stream</a></li>
</ul>
Image via Shutterstock

Financing

Movers

AMSC

PowerShares Exchange Traded Fund Trust WilderHill Clean Energy Portfolio

American Superconductor Cashes In On Stock Rally, Raises $115.5 Million Via Equity Offering

BP PLC (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BP#NYSE">BP</a>) announced on Tuesday that it is <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bp.com/en/global/corporate/news-and-insights/press-releases/bp-deepens-and-progresses-in-azerbaijan-with-go-ahead-for-new-major-project-and-exploration-access.html" rel="noreferrer noopener">advancing a major development phase</a> for the Shah Deniz gas field in Azerbaijan and gaining access to new exploration blocks, strengthening its long-term partnership with the country and state oil company SOCAR.
The agreements, signed during Baku Energy Week, include the $2.9 billion Shah Deniz Compression project and linked solar and electrification initiatives at the Sangachal terminal to cut emissions and boost gas production.
BP, with a 29.999% stake in Shah Deniz, will install an unmanned compression platform to tap low-pressure gas reserves, adding about 50 billion cubic meters of gas and 25 million barrels of condensate, with production expected to start in 2029.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/25/05/45665087/bp-announces-first-gas-at-mento-off-trinidads-southeast-coast" rel="noreferrer noopener">BP Announces First Gas At Mento Off Trinidad&#8217;s Southeast Coast</a>
The company also approved a 240MW solar plant in Azerbaijan&#8217;s Jabrayil district to supply power to the Sangachal terminal, reducing fuel gas use and operational emissions.
BP also secured operator rights with a 35% interest in two Caspian Sea blocks, including the Karabagh oil field and Ashrafi-Dan Ulduzu-Aypara area, while Turkey&#8217;s TPAO took a 30% stake in the Shafag-Asiman block, accelerating development after gas condensate was discovered in 2021.
BP has operated in Azerbaijan for over 33 years, leading major fields and export pipelines. Gordon Birrell, BP&#8217;s EVP of Production &amp; Operations, said the company aims to grow upstream production to 2.3-2.5 million barrels of oil equivalent per day by 2030, partly driven by these projects.
The Shah Deniz Compression project is among eight to ten major developments BP expects to bring online between 2028 and 2030, supporting its growth and environmental goals. The exploration agreements also boost BP&#8217;s reserves replacement efforts, targeting near 100% replacement by 2027.
Investors may watch related stocks such as Exxon Mobil Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XOM#NYSE">XOM</a>) and Chevron Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVX#NYSE">CVX</a>), as well as ETFs like the Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLE#NYSE">XLE</a>) and iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NYSE">ICLN</a>).
Price Action: BP shares are trading higher by 0.14% to $29.62 at last check Tuesday.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/25/05/45388443/goldman-sachs-highlights-valeros-lowest-costs-gulf-coast-advantage-sees-eps-soar-to-12-50-by-2027" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goldman Sachs Highlights Valero&#8217;s Lowest Costs, Gulf Coast Advantage, Sees EPS Soar To $12.50 By 2027</a></li>
</ul>
Photo by Tada Images via Shutterstock

BP Strengthens Azerbaijan Ties With Major Gas Project, New Exploration

<a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-30/trump-canceling-3-7-billion-in-clean-energy-projects?embedded-checkout=true">https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-30/trump-canceling-3-7-billion-in-clean-energy-projects?embedded-checkout=true</a>

General

'Trump Is Canceling $3.7 Billion in Clean Energy Projects'- Bloomberg

Ecopetrol S.A. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EC#NYSE">EC</a>) announced Wednesday that it had signed an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/05/n45539230/ecopetrol-s-a-signs-an-agreement-to-acquire-a-portfolio-of-up-to-1-300-megawats-of-solar-and-wind-" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agreement to potentially acquire</a> a large-scale wind and solar energy portfolio in Colombia from Statkraft, reinforcing its commitment to renewable energy expansion.
Signed on May 20, the deal covers assets totaling up to 1.3 gigawatts in capacity, currently owned by Statkraft&#8217;s subsidiaries Enerfín Sociedad de Energía S.L.U. and Enerfin Enervento Exterior S.L. The projects are spread across the Colombian departments of La Guajira, Sucre, Córdoba, Caldas, and Magdalena.
The portfolio includes six entities managing 614 megawatts of solar capacity and three others overseeing 750 megawatts of wind energy. If finalized, the acquisition would significantly advance Ecopetrol&#8217;s goal of reaching 900 MW of renewable self-generation capacity by 2025.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/05/45472294/occidental-adnocs-xrg-eye-500-million-texas-carbon-capture-venture" rel="noreferrer noopener">Occidental, ADNOC&#8217;s XRG Eye $500 Million Texas Carbon Capture Venture</a>
Beyond boosting clean energy output, the initiative is expected to supply low-emission power for Ecopetrol&#8217;s internal operations, helping the company reduce reliance on volatile spot electricity markets. It also aligns with the firm&#8217;s 2040 strategy to diversify its energy sources and lower overall emissions.
Related ETFs: iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>), Invesco Solar ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TAN#NYSE">TAN</a>)
Price Action: At the last check on Wednesday, EC shares were trading 0.37% higher at $8.60 premarket.
Photo: Shutterstock

Latin America

BEPC

Colombia's Ecopetrol Eyes 1.3 GW Renewable Push With Statkraft Agreement

Investors are increasingly withdrawing from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/esg">ESG-themed investment vehicles</a>, with worldwide outflows from &#8220;sustainable&#8221; ETFs and mutual funds reaching a record $8.6 billion in the first quarter of this year.
Though America has been the initial epicenter of this ESG reversal, tremors are now being felt in Europe and Asia, casting doubt about the short-term sustainability of ESG strategies, even as under-the-radar long-term opportunities unfold.
According to the Financial Times, citing Morningstar figures, U.S. investors withdrew from sustainable funds for a tenth consecutive quarter. But in a dramatic change, European investors, long ESG&#8217;s most devoted followers, were net sellers for the first time on <a href="https://www.ft.com/content/9f425c25-4fc3-45de-bcc5-e9c75d6d14d3">record</a>, withdrawing $1.2 billion. Asia also experienced a decline in sustainable fund exposure.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/broad-u-s-equity-etfs/25/04/45047236/etfs-last-week-funds-lead-the-charge-as-markets-stage-a-return-to-risk-on">ETFs Last Week: Funds Lead The Charge As Markets Stage A Return To Risk-On</a>
Despite the pullback, some ESG-themed ETFs, now available at discounted prices, may offer attractive long-term investment opportunities for investors willing to ignore the prevailing sentiment. Below are three ETFs, though affected by recent headwinds, that are worth consideration for the future:
<ul>
<li>iShares MSCI USA ESG Select ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SUSA#NYSE">SUSA</a>): SUSA, which monitors U.S. companies with good ESG practice compared with industry peers, has experienced investor withdrawals as skepticism about ESG principles expands across the United States. The fund has witnessed a price erosion of almost 7% year-to-date. Still, SUSA&#8217;s emphasis on high-quality, sustainable business practice companies is a core strength, especially as corporate governance and environmental risks remain real risks to long-term profits.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>): ICLN, one of the leaders in the clean energy transition segment, has caught up in the general ESG retreat. However, as governments worldwide double down on decarbonization initiatives, clean energy remains an inevitable structural growth story. Recent price volatility may be unsettling, but for long-term investors, the sector's growth trajectory, driven by global policy mandates and technological innovation, remains intact. The fund has actually gained almost 3% this year so far, seemingly defying the pullout.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>SPDR S&amp;P 500 ESG ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EFIV#NYSE">EFIV</a>): This fund provides exposure to an ESG-screened variant of the S&amp;P 500, which shuns firms that engage in contentious businesses but remains sector-neutral. The fund has lost 8% of its value this year thus far. The current underperformance of the fund compared to its traditional peers is a reflection of the ESG chill in sentiment. Yet, EFIV&#8217;s strict discipline of offsetting ESG considerations with standard financials makes it well-placed to recover if regulatory certainty regarding ESG disclosures helps revive investor faith.</li>
</ul>
Looking Ahead: The wave of recent withdrawals, dramatic as it is, is perhaps in the end more a recalibration than a requiem for ESG investing. While Europe is <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/esg/25/01/43393077/esg-investing-greenwashing-trend-or-profitable-strategy">tightening greenwashing rules</a> and arguing about the legitimacy of adding defense stocks to sustainable portfolios, the ESG scene is certainly changing, sometimes tumultuously, usually politically, but eventually tending toward increased transparency and realism.
To investors who can filter out the political noise and look to underlying trends, some ESG ETFs bruised by the latest backlash may bring not only virtue, but value.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/45049512/eastmans-china-risk-jp-morgan-warns-trade-tensions-weighing-on-eastmans-growth-prospects">JPMorgan Cautions Trade Tensions Are Weighing On Eastman Chemical Growth Prospects</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Specialty ETFs

ETFs

EFIV

SUSA

Top 3 ESG ETFs To Buy After Record Global Outflows: Long-Term Opportunities Amid The Backlash

The U.S. Energy Department (DoE) is reportedly contemplating substantial reductions, potentially halting&nbsp;nearly $10 billion in federal&nbsp;funding for clean-energy projects. This move could jeopardize high-profile collaborations with&nbsp;Exxon Mobil (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XOM#NYSE">XOM</a>)&nbsp;and&nbsp;Occidental Petroleum (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OXY#NYSE">OXY</a>).
What Happened: The proposed cuts could disrupt contracts with energy companies involved in&nbsp;hydrogen, carbon capture, long-duration energy&nbsp;storage, and other technologies, The Wall Street Journal <a href="https://www.wsj.com/politics/policy/doge-comes-for-clean-energy-putting-exxon-and-occidental-projects-at-risk-565bd42f">reported</a>. These reductions are a part of President Donald Trump's broader initiative through the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to reduce the size and cost of government, and could result in thousands of job losses at the Department of Energy (DOE), according to the report. 
DOGE&#8217;s&nbsp;efforts, overseen by Trump advisor Elon Musk, have already resulted in significant contract reductions and&nbsp;job cuts across the federal&nbsp;workforce. The $10 billion figure represents&nbsp;potential funding slashes in two&nbsp;DOE offices and a portion of the DOGE-driven cancellations being considered across the Energy Department.
Several key partnerships are at risk, including projects with Exxon, NextEra Energy (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NEE#NYSE">NEE</a>), and Occidental Petroleum, as the DOE considers cutting support. Additionally, funding for four regional hydrogen hubs—mainly in Democratic-leaning areas—is also under review.
DOE did not respond to <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga&#8217;s</a> request for comment.
SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/04/44877231/ethereum-price-plunges-to-2018-levels-what-is-going-on" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ethereum Price Plunges To 2018 Levels: What Is Going On? &#8211; Benzinga</a>
Why It Matters: The proposed cuts follow President Trump&#8217;s earlier move to freeze billions in federal funding, affecting projects in clean energy, conservation, and transportation across the United States. This move&nbsp;in February has created <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/02/43628767/trump-freezes-billions-in-federal-funding-jobs-and-projects-in-clean-energy-conservation-and-transportation-left-in-limbo">uncertainty </a>for thousands of workers and local economies.
Moreover, in April 2025, Trump unveiled plans to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/04/44701436/trump-unleashes-beautiful-clean-coal-policies-as-wall-street-tanks-sp-500-hits-1-year-low">revive U.S. coal production</a>, marking a dramatic policy reversal from the climate-focused agendas of the Biden and Obama administrations. This shift in policy and the proposed funding cuts could significantly impact the clean energy sector and its stakeholders.
Meanwhile, DOGE has drawn severe criticism for its mass firings. Billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44484549/mark-cuban-on-doge-government-cuts-this-isnt-a-corporate-turnaround-this-is-the-united-states-of-america">warned </a>that abruptly cutting federal programs, agencies, and jobs without considering the economic impact could harm local economies. He noted that in some cities, up to 9% of the workforce depends on government jobs, and sudden cuts could lead to job losses, falling home values, and economic decline.
iShares Global Clean Energy UCITS ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>) and Invesco Solar ETF&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TAN#NYSE">TAN</a>) climbed 1.77% and 1.19%, respectively, on Thursday.
While shares of Occidental Petroleum and Exxon Mobil rose 3.28% and 2.62%, respectively, during the same period.
<ul>
<li>READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/news/25/04/44881570/trump-administration-to-lay-off-nearly-90-of-cfpb-employees-in-major-downsizing-report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Administration To Lay Off Nearly 90% Of CFPB Employees In Major Downsizing: Report</a></li>
</ul>
Image via Shutterstock
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Markets

Trump's Energy Department Mulls Cutting Billions In Clean-Energy Funds, Threatening Exxon, Occidental Projects

The COP29 climate summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, concluded yesterday with an agreement to provide $300 billion annually to developing nations by 2035, helping to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/climate-change">climate change</a>. While hailed as progress to the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/11/41925800/urgency-debate-mark-cop29-as-leaders-push-for-carbon-market-rules-worry-about-trump">previous $100 billion commitment</a>, the sum fell short of the $1.3 trillion initially identified as necessary to address the crisis.
&#8220;Without more substantial financing, many vulnerable countries will remain underprepared for escalating climate challenges,&#8221;<a href="https://www.wri.org/news/statement-cop29-finance-deal-downpayment-safer-more-equitable-future"> said</a> Ani Dasgupta, CEO of the World Resources Institute.
The agreement has drawn mixed reactions. Per BBC, India<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cd0gx4przejo"> criticized</a> the deal as a "paltry sum," while Nigeria labeled it a "joke." Delegates from the Marshall Islands expressed disappointment, describing the funding as woefully inadequate, yet acknowledged it as a starting point.
Meanwhile, wildlife conservation organization WWF expressed concern, calling the deal far below the ambition needed.
"The world has been let down by this weak climate finance deal. This is a serious blow to climate action, but it must not stall the solutions that are desperately needed around the world,"<a href="https://wwf.panda.org/wwf_news/press_releases/?12844466/COP29-outcome"> said</a> WWF Global Climate and Energy Lead and COP20 President Manuel Pulgar-Vidal.
The world remains on track for a temperature rise of 3.1°C by the century&#8217;s end. That&#8217;s far above the Paris Agreement&#8217;s goal of limiting warming to 1.5°C, according to<a href="https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/10/1156071"> recent</a> UN reports.
Under the 1992 UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, 23 developed nations and the European Union must contribute to climate finance. The agreement also encourages private investment and contributions from institutions like the World Bank to meet the funding targets. The funds will support adaptation efforts. That includes building flood-resistant infrastructure and sustainable agriculture and facilitating a transition to renewable energy in developing nations.
Additionally, the summit finalized rules for a global carbon market. This system will allow companies to offset emissions by purchasing credits linked to reforestation and renewable energy initiatives. These efforts aim to accelerate the implementation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), with countries required to update their climate action plans by February 2025.
President Joe Biden<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/11/23/statement-from-president-joe-biden-on-conclusion-of-cop29-conference-in-baku-azerbaijan/"> called</a> the agreement "an essential step toward mobilizing funds to combat the climate crisis" while acknowledging the work ahead. However, President-elect Donald Trump's return raises doubt over the future of U.S. involvement, particularly given his previous withdrawal from the Paris Agreement.
The Brazilian city of Belém will host the next summit, COP30, in November 2025. Brazilian officials have promised a high-stakes event they call the "COP of COPs," focusing on limiting global warming to 1.5°C.
iShares Global  Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>) rose following the news. At 12:45 pm EST, it was trading 1.83% higher at $12.34.
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Image: Shutterstock

Legal

Global

$300 Billion 'Joke': COP29 Reps Scoff At 'Paltry Sum' For Climate Change

The Conference of the Parties (COP) 29 summit brought global leaders to Baku, Azerbaijan, for an 11-day session to address climate change, carbon market mechanisms and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/green-energy">climate finance</a>.
Hosted in a country heavily reliant on fossil fuels, the event is a mix of urgency and controversy, particularly after BBC<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/crmzvdn9e18o"> reported</a> local representatives engaging in oil and gas deals.
Still, the primary focus of its first days is establishing the rules for a global carbon market — a move aimed at helping countries meet emissions targets by trading carbon credits.
This mechanism, intended to fund projects that reduce emissions globally, allows wealthy countries to purchase credits from those with lower emissions, thus offsetting their carbon output.
The stakes are high at COP29, particularly with pressing issues such as funding for climate-vulnerable countries and updating climate targets. The attendees will discuss the succession of the annual $100 billion pledged by developing nations, as the sum may need to be raised significantly to account for the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/esg/24/10/41621596/net-zero-by-2050-might-cost-the-world-78-trillion-wood-mackenzie-estimates">increasing impact of climate change</a>. This finance component is critical for maintaining trust between rich and poor nations, especially as commitments still need to be met.
"I'm as frustrated as anyone that one single COP can't deliver the full transformation that every nation needs… [but] it is here that parties need to agree a way out of this mess. That's why here in Baku, we must agree on a new global climate finance goal,"<a href="https://unsdg.un.org/latest/stories/ambitious-new-climate-finance-goal-entirely-self-interest-every-single-nation-un"> said</a> the U.N. climate chief Simon Stiell.
The upcoming inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump in January 2025 gives participants a dose of doubt. During his previous term, Trump withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Agreement and rolled back numerous environmental regulations.
Analysts anticipate a similar approach, potentially hindering U.S. contributions to global climate finance. Trump's return could <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/41883635/trump-looks-to-undo-biden-climate-progress-with-burgum-as-energy-czar-report">exacerbate tensions</a>, mainly as he has been vocal about downplaying climate initiatives.
Still, greenlighting the carbon credit quality standards on the first day provides an opportunity for a U.N.-backed global carbon market that would fund critical projects.
Juan Carlos Arredondo Brun, a former climate negotiator for Mexico and now a director at a carbon market data company Abatable, noted this development &#8220;will bring us closer to operationalizing the carbon market before any single party may decide to move away from the Paris Agreement,"<a href="https://www.reuters.com/markets/commodities/cop29-countries-endorse-global-carbon-market-framework-2024-11-11/"> per</a> Reuter's report.
The carbon market, increasingly popular among corporations seeking to offset their emissions, has some of the largest buyers in the energy and automotive sectors. Shell (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHEL#NYSE">SHEL</a>), Volkswagen (OTCPK: VWAGY), and Takeda (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TAK#NYSE">TAK</a>) were the top three companies retiring carbon credits in 2023.
Shell led with 16 million credits, primarily from forestry projects, while Volkswagen retired eight million credits linked to renewable energy and reforestation. Pharmaceutical giant Takeda contributed nearly three million credits to reduce non-CO2 greenhouse gases.
A standardized carbon market could be a lifeline for U.S. companies committed to carbon-emission goals. Notable examples include Ford Motor Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/F#NYSE">F</a>), which is delaying the launch of a next-generation all-electric pickup truck and has <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/top-stories/24/08/40496864/ford-scraps-electric-suv-as-it-adjusts-to-lower-electric-vehicle-demand">scrapped the development</a> of a new three-row electric SUV. Yet, the management has confirmed it will seek to comply with emissions targets, including purchasing carbon credits as needed.
The COP29 conference will run until Nov. 22. Setting a new annual budget could significantly impact clean energy investments. Investors should watch iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>) and sub-sector ETFs like the Invesco Solar ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TAN#NYSE">TAN</a>) and First Trust Global Wind Energy ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FAN#NYSE">FAN</a>).
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Photo: Shutterstock

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Urgency, Debate Mark COP29 As Leaders Push For Carbon Market Rules, Worry About Trump

Investors are zeroing in on what <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/politics">potential political outcomes</a> in the U.S. elections Tuesday could mean for the markets.
WisdomTree's Global CIO, Jeremy Schwartz and Senior Economist Jeremy Siegel have shared insights on how a Republican or Democratic win could shape sectors across both the equity and bond markets.
Here's what WisdomTree sees on the horizon.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Bond Market Volatility: How Policy Could Shape Yields</h2>
Siegel said bond markets are primed for volatility, with each election outcome pointing to different scenarios for interest rates and yields. A Republican sweep, accompanied by tax cuts and heightened fiscal spending, could push bond yields upward by 20 basis points or more, he said. In this scenario, investors might brace for inflationary pressures and potentially tighter monetary policy, which would counterbalance any short-term equity gains.
On the flip side, a Democratic sweep is seen as a stabilizing force for bonds, with expectations for moderated spending and pro-growth fiscal restraint. 
WisdomTree's Kevin Flanagan, head of fixed income strategy, notes that Democratic policies might offer a predictable, low-volatility environment that helps maintain steady rates and tempers inflation concerns.
A divided government could yield the "best case" for bonds, creating stability through gridlock that limits sweeping fiscal changes and curbs deficit growth.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Equity Market Winners: Mag 7 In Focus Under GOP, Infrastructure &amp; Clean Energy For Democrats</h2>
For equity markets, each scenario presents distinct opportunities, particularly in the growth-oriented and infrastructure sectors. Under a Republican administration, WisdomTree expects an initial boost in stocks like the Magnificent Seven: (Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/meta#NASDAQ">META</a>), Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>), Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>), Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) and Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>). 
The Magnificent Seven stocks could be driven by extended tax cuts, reduced regulation, and potential capital gains exemptions.
The Roundhill Magnificent Seven ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MAGS#NASDAQ">MAGS</a>) provides exposure to the Magnificent Seven stocks along with other popular tech-heavy ETFs such as the Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1 (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>), the Vanguard Information Technology ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VGT#NYSE">VGT</a>) and the Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLK#NYSE">XLK</a>).
This favorable backdrop for the tech-heavy sector could stimulate momentum, although Siegel cautions that rising yields might cap equity gains by pressuring valuations.
In contrast, a Democratic sweep would likely favor sectors tied to clean energy and infrastructure. With a focus on the Inflation Reduction Act, the Democratic agenda is expected to channel substantial support into solar, hydrogen and renewable energy projects. The Invesco Solar ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TAN#NYSE">TAN</a>) provides exposure to solar stocks.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/esg/24/11/41722922/trump-vs-harris-evgo-cleveland-cliffs-plug-power-nucor-brace-for-2024-election-impact">Trump Vs. Harris: EVgo, Cleveland-Cliffs, Plug Power, Nucor Brace For 2024 Election Impact</a>
This shift would likely benefit clean energy stocks while weighing on small-cap stocks with high U.S. revenue exposure, as they would face the most significant earnings impact from higher corporate tax rates. 
Investors in clean energy ETFs such as the iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NYSE">ICLN</a>) and First Trust Nasdaq Clean Edge Smart GRID Infrastructure Index (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GRID#NYSE">GRID</a>) and those invested in small-cap stocks via ETFs such as the iShares Core S&amp;P Small-Cap ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IJR#NYSE">IJR</a>) or the iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWM#NYSE">IWM</a>) should be wary of their holdings.
According to Wisdom Tree, Democratic leadership could also benefit international markets, as the reduced likelihood of higher tariffs might ease trade concerns and foster demand.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Navigating The Election Landscape</h2>
Beyond direct impacts on stocks and bonds, WisdomTree suggests that a blend of strategies, such as private credit, inflation hedges like gold, and international exposure with currency hedging, may help investors manage market uncertainty.
Trade policies, inflation, and the Federal Reserve's trajectory are all likely to play roles in shaping post-election strategies, underscoring the value of a diversified approach.
As the U.S. awaits the election results, WisdomTree's analysis highlights a divided outlook for investors. Whether the election ushers in policies that lift the Magnificent Seven stocks or bolsters the bond market, each scenario brings unique opportunities and risks to watch in the weeks ahead.
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Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

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First Trust Nasdaq Clean Edge Smart Grid Infrastructure Index Fund

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TSLA

Republican Win Likely To Lift Magnificent 7 Stocks, Democratic Sweep 'Better For Bonds,' Says WisdomTree

The world might be late to achieve its climate goals by 2030, but meeting the 2050 net-zero emissions deadline might come with a hefty price tag. According to the latest Wood Mackenzie Energy Transition Outlook, a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/green-energy" rel="noreferrer noopener">green energy transition</a> might cost as much as $3.5 trillion annually or $78 trillion in total.
The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.woodmac.com/press-releases/2024-press-releases/decisive-action-needed-to-achieve-net-zero-by-2050-as-world-is-currently-on-path-for-2.5-c-to-3-c-global-warming/" rel="noreferrer noopener">report</a> presents four pathways for transitioning the energy and natural resources sector toward a low-carbon future: the base case (2.5°C warming), country pledges (2°C), a net-zero 2050 scenario (1.5°C), and a delayed transition (3°C).
The firm sees global energy demand rising, driven by rising income, population growth, and new power demands, such as data centers and electric vehicles.
These developments require substantial investments in power supply, grid infrastructure, and critical minerals—each integral to sustaining renewable energy sources and supporting the energy transition.
To stay on track with the 1.5°C pathway, renewable capacity must more than triple by 2030, an ambitious goal given the current pace of renewables expansion.
"Despite strong growth in renewables, the transition has been slower than expected in certain areas because many low-carbon technologies are not yet mature, scalable, or affordable," said Wood Mackenzie's VP Prakash Sharma.
Renewables play a critical role in all scenarios. Solar, wind, and other clean energy sources are projected to rise from 41% of the power supply today to 90% by 2050.
However, they face supply chain challenges, regulatory hurdles, and the need for vast amounts of metals like lithium, nickel, and cobalt. Meeting the commodity needs adds additional complexity owing to geopolitical issues and slow mining development.
iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>), which tracks around 100 clean energy-related companies, is down 16.12% year-to-date.
Oil and gas are expected to remain in the global energy mix until 2050, though the scale of reliance varies across pathways.
In a delayed transition, where low-carbon technology costs fall slowly, oil and gas demand stays high, peaking at around 106 million barrels per day by 2030 and remaining substantial until 2047. However, in a net-zero pathway, oil demand would rapidly decline to about 32 million barrels daily by 2050.
To achieve the net-zero pathway, governments must enact strong policies, such as carbon pricing, regulatory streamlining, and incentives for technologies like carbon capture and hydrogen. Furthermore, reassessing the nationally determined contributions (NDCs) in 2025 will be discussed at the COP29 meeting in Azerbaijan next month.
"Strengthened NDCs and global cooperation will be crucial to mobilize US$3.5 trillion annual investment into low-carbon energy supply and infrastructure, including critical minerals. If these challenges can't be overcome, the goal of net zero emissions by 2050 will not be achieved," Sharma warned.
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Photo by SkazovD on Shutterstock

Commodities

Topics

Net Zero By 2050 Might Cost The World $78 Trillion, Wood Mackenzie Estimates

In a recent study, researchers have suggested that Arkansas could potentially hold a significant amount of lithium, a crucial component for electric car batteries and other high-tech products.
What Happened: The researchers, in a study published in the journal Science Advances, have estimated that there could be between 5.1 to 19 million tons of lithium in the Smackover Formation brines in southern Arkansas, <a href="https://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/4945872-arkansas-19-million-tons-lithium-battery-power/">reported</a> The Hill. This amount could potentially make up 35 to 136% of the current U.S. lithium resource estimate.
The researchers used a machine-learning model trained on published and newly collected brine lithium concentration data to create a map of predicted lithium concentrations in Smackover Formation brines across southern Arkansas.
Lithium ETFs offer a way to diversify your investments across multiple companies poised to benefit from the growing demand for lithium. 
Some of the top lithium ETFs to consider include the Global X Lithium &amp; Battery Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LIT#NYSE">LIT</a>), Amplify Lithium and Battery Technology ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BATT#NYSE">BATT</a>), First Trust NASDAQ Clean Edge Green Energy Index Fund (NASDAQGM:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCLN#NASDAQGM">QCLN</a>), iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>), and the VanEck Vectors Rare Earth/Strategic Metals ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/REMX#NYSE">REMX</a>).
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/10/41422633/investors-lost-over-95-of-their-wealth-in-this-nvidia-linked-etf-while-jensen-huang-led-chip-gia?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Investors Lost Over 95% Of Their Wealth In This Nvidia-Linked ETF While Jensen Huang-Led Chip Giant Gained 220% In The Past Year: Here&#8217;s More</a>
Why It Matters: Automakers and tech companies are scrambling to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/10/41360023/lithium-americas-shares-surge-as-gm-commits-625m-to-thacker-pass-project">secure their lithium supplies</a>, with some even investing in mining projects, such as General Motors&#8216; joint venture with Lithium Americas (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LAC#NYSE">LAC</a>) for the Thacker Pass lithium project in Nevada.
Meanwhile, in Europe, the Serbian parliament&#8217;s decision <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/10/41289306/serbian-parliament-doesnt-pass-lithium-ban-keeps-rio-tintos-major-project-alive">not to ban lithium exploration and exploitation</a> has kept Rio Tinto&#8216;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIO#NYSE">RIO</a>) major Jadar project alive. 
In January, Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) revealed its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/top-stories/24/02/37188987/interesting-elon-musk-captivated-by-microsofts-70-lithium-reduced-battery-innovation">collaboration with a U.S. national laboratory</a> to create an innovative battery material that decreases lithium consumption by 70%, attracting interest from Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) CEO Elon Musk.
Moreover, in July 2022 Musk tweeted that &#8220;lithium batteries are the new oil,&#8221; responding to Craft Ventures co-founder David Sacks&#8216; comments about the importance of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/22/07/28056987/elon-musk-says-this-battery-metal-is-the-new-oil-but-should-the-vehicle-connoisseur-take-his">energy independence amid oil challenges</a> from Russia&#8217;s invasion of Ukraine. 
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Image Via Shutterstock 
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/Kaustubh-Bagalkote" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kaustubh Bagalkote</a>

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Arkansas May Be Sitting On 19M Tons Of Lithium Amid Rising Demand For EV Batteries: How To Invest In What Elon Musk Calls 'The New Oil'

Clean energy jobs grew at <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/07/40051107/first-solar-reports-strong-q2-results-eps-beat-sales-up-24">twice the rate </a>of overall jobs in the U.S. in 2023, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) released on Wednesday.
Jobs in that sector grew by 4.2%, or 142,000 positions, last year, compared to a job growth rate of 2.0% in the overall economy, the 2024 U.S. Energy and Employment Report (USEER) showed.
The report also revealed that unionization rates in clean energy reached 12.4% in 2023, surpassing a unionization rate of 11% for the entire energy sector, which added 250,000 jobs last year.
Clean energy sectors that experienced the greatest growth last year were zero-emission vehicle and renewable energy, as well as transmission, distribution and storage, according to the report.
 "Our policies are working. We are now starting to see the job impacts of investments made through the infrastructure and inflation reduction laws &#8211; first in construction and as America builds more of these factories, we'll see hundreds of thousands more," U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm said in a statement.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/sector-etfs/24/07/39993019/everythings-bigger-in-texas-lone-star-state-will-build-more-clean-energy-than-next-10-states-com">Everything&#8217;s Bigger In Texas: Lone Star State Will Build More Clean Energy Than Next 10 States Combined</a>
"The data clearly show that clean energy means jobs – good jobs, union jobs, and jobs retained – in communities across the country as we race to dominate the global clean energy economy," Granholm added.
Clean energy jobs grew in all 50 states and the District of Columbia in 2023, led by a 7.7% increase in Idaho, followed by Texas at 6.0%, and New Mexico at 5.9%.
The solar and wind sectors reported respective job growth of 5.3% and 4.5% in 2023, the report stated.
 The DOE projects that the Inflation Reduction Act will double the share of electricity generation from clean sources by 2030, driven by growth in solar and wind. 
The report also said that there were 28,000 jobs in the U.S. last year that involved building new battery and solar module factories, ports for offshore wind, and warehouses to store and transport clean energy products.
&#8220;Thanks to the Biden-Harris administration&#8217;s historic investments, clean energy jobs are booming in every single state,&#8221; AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler said in a statement.
Price Action: Solar and wind companies are trending in both directions as of Wednesday&#8217;s early-morning trading.
<ul>
<li>Enphase Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ENPH#NASDAQ">ENPH</a>) declined 0.05% to $122.53</li>
<li>Brookfield Renewables L.P. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BEP#NYSE">BEP</a>) gained 0.16% to $25.05</li>
<li>GE Vernova Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GEV#NYSE">GEV</a>) slipped 1.40% to $182.96</li>
<li>Vestas Wind Systems A/S (OTCPK: VWDRY) ticked up 0.13% to $7.62I</li>
</ul>
Exchange-traded funds that hold these stocks also saw gains and losses on Wednesday morning.
<ul>
<li>IShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>) gained 0.21%</li>
<li>First Trust NASDAQ Clean Edge Smart Grid Infrastructure Index Fund&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GRID#NASDAQ">GRID</a>) slipped 0.03%</li>
<li>Invesco Solar ETF&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TAN#NYSE">TAN</a>) ticked down 0.42%</li>
</ul>
Read Now: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/top-stories/24/08/40585808/tesla-energy-highlights-texas-record-breaking-battery-power-milestone-could-powerwall-have-its-momen">Tesla Energy Highlights Texas Battery Power Milestone: Could Powerwall Have Moment In Spotlight?</a></li>
</ul>
Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

Government

ENPH

Clean Energy Jobs Grow Twice As Fast As Overall Job Market In 2023: 'Our Policies Are Working'

First Trust Global Wind Energy ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FAN#NYSE">FAN</a>), which follows the wind energy industry, is up 4% since January and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/wind">6.6% in the past year</a>.
The coal industry, meanwhile, has been facing setbacks from the investment community for several years. 
The obvious shift to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/clean-energy">clean energy sources</a> hasn't yet been enough to declare coal's definitive demise, but concerns over climate change from fossil fuel burning have caused many firms and individuals to drop coal-related holdings.
However, continued dependence on coal burning abroad continues to be a lifeline for coal companies in the U.S., pushing the industry into a sharp contrast to the clean energy sector, which has struggled to outperform the market in 2024.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Is Coal Dead? Some Don't Think So</h3>
In 2020, the market saw the shutdown of VanEck Vectors Coal ETF, which was at the time the only remaining ETF following the coal industry.
At the time, fund manager BlackRock Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLK#NYSE">BLK</a>) said the firm's actively managed funds would no longer hold shares of companies deriving more than 25% of revenues from the thermal coal business, Barrons <a href="https://www.barrons.com/articles/the-only-coal-etf-is-closing-what-it-means-for-investors-51608225200">reported</a>.
In turn, many investors and firms have switched towards environmentally-friendly energy stocks and ETFs.
Yet some in the industry continue to believe there's a case for investing in coal.
In January of this year, Range ETFs, a firm dedicated to running ETFs around niche themes, launched the Range Global Coal Index ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COAL#NYSE">COAL</a>) which provides exposure to companies involved in the production, exploration, development, transportation, and distribution of coal.
Since its launch, the price of the ETF oscillated between $21 and $26 and is $22.6 at the time of this writing, with year-to-date gains of 0.86%.
In an investment document, Range claims there is still an investment case for coal, in spite of an obvious global trend to detach from it.
Demand for coal actually grew on a global scale between 2021 and 2022, led by China and India, according to the International Energy Agency.
Coal burning represents 16.2% of the total utility-scale electricity generation in the U.S., according to the latest data from the Energy Information Administration and 36% on a global scale.
In the U.S., the firm says, "‘energy security' as one element of national security." This means that the government will continue to guarantee the availability of reliable energy sources to make up for possible gaps in energy supply stemming from green energy production.
Read also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/08/40333362/teslas-elon-musk-warns-against-vilifying-oil-and-gas-industry-in-trump-interview-cautions-agains">Tesla&#8217;s Elon Musk Warns Against Vilifying Oil And Gas Industry In Trump Interview, Cautions Against Rushing With Sustainable Energy Transition: &#8216;It&#8217;s Not Like The House Is On Fire Immediately&#8217;</a>
In June, the coal industry was affected by election results in India, which gave investors the idea that the country might not continue with a plan to upsize its coal use, though <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/asia/24/06/39173971/coal-stocks-take-a-breather-as-trading-sentiment-sours-in-commodities-markets-was-the-election-in-in">some analysts called it a natural market correction</a> from an "overbought" sector.
The balance between trends running against "dirty" energy sources and short-term tailwinds for the coal industry have resulted in varying performances for some of its largest players over the past year.
<ul>
<li>Shares of Peabody Energy Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BTU#NYSE">BTU</a>), which is the largest coal producer in the U.S. are down 7.7% since January but up 2.3% in the past year.</li>
<li>The second largest producer, Arch Resources Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARCH#NYSE">ARCH</a>) has performed a lot worse in 2024, with shares down over 24% since January. According <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/24/08/40363492/top-3-energy-stocks-that-may-rocket-higher-this-quarter">to data from Benzinga Pro</a>, the stock appears oversold and its share price could rise this year.</li>
<li>Warrior Met Coal Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HCC#NYSE">HCC</a>) shares are up 49% in the last year.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Wind Beats Solar In 2024</h3>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/40379430">A Benzinga technical analysis from this week</a> showed that EV maker Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) could be up for a rebound after losing almost 13% of its value since January.
Other companies in the clean energy sector, however, could be struggling more.
Shares in the iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>) are stuck in a pattern that technical analysts call the "death cross," which occurs when the 50-day moving average crosses below its long-term moving average of 200 days. The fund is down 8% since January and 12% in the last year.
 The solar energy sector has been struggling more than wind. Invesco Solar ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TAN#NYSE">TAN</a>), which follows the solar sector, has also performed poorly in recent periods. The fund is down 22% since January and 30% in the past year.
Now Read:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/40359364">Bill Gates, Jeff Bezos, And Jack Ma-Backed Breakthrough Energy Ventures Nears $1B Goal For Climate-Focused Fund</a></li>
</ul>

ARCH

COAL

Is Coal Dead? Wind Just Ate Its Lunch This Year — 7 Energy ETFs To Watch In 2024

Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) has been riding a wave of mixed fortunes in 2024. The electric vehicle giant is down more than 19% year-to-date, but recent gains of about 3% over the last month <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/electric-vehicles">have offered some respite</a>.
The company&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/07/39918390/tesla-q2-earnings-highlights-revenue-beat-eps-miss-robotaxi-update-2024-growth-rate-to-be-notably-l">second-quarter earnings report</a> on July 23 brought a glimmer of hope. Revenue hovered at around $25.5 billion — a modest 2% increase year-over-year — beating Wall Street&#8217;s expectations of $24.73 billion, according to <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent081424&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">Benzinga Pro</a>.
However, Tesla&#8217;s earnings per share (EPS) told a different story, falling 43% year-over-year to 52 cents. They missed the Street&#8217;s consensus estimate of 62 cents. Despite the earnings miss, the stock found a technical lifeline, forming a Golden Cross on July 29.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent081424&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="627" height="456" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/14140251/Screenshot-2024-08-14-at-11.15.22-PM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-495388" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/14140251/Screenshot-2024-08-14-at-11.15.22-PM.png 627w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/14140251/Screenshot-2024-08-14-at-11.15.22-PM-300x218.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 627px) 100vw, 627px" /></a></figure>
<a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent081424&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">Chart created using Benzinga Pro</a>
A Golden Cross occurs when the 50-day moving average crosses above the 200-day moving average, signaling a potential bullish trend. This pattern has sparked optimism among investors, suggesting Tesla could be poised for a rebound.
While Tesla is basking in the glow of its Golden Cross, the broader clean energy sector isn&#8217;t faring as well.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/08/40372401/tesla-fsd-test-drive-terrifies-analysts-son-third-time-not-the-charm">Tesla FSD Test Drive Terrifies Analyst&#8217;s Son: &#8216;Third Time Not The Charm&#8217;</a>
Enphase Energy Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ENPH#NASDAQ">ENPH</a>), a leader in energy management technology, is down 15.69% YTD and teetering on the brink of a Death Cross.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent081424&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="627" height="456" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/14140330/Screenshot-2024-08-14-at-11.16.39-PM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-495389" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/14140330/Screenshot-2024-08-14-at-11.16.39-PM.png 627w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/14140330/Screenshot-2024-08-14-at-11.16.39-PM-300x218.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 627px) 100vw, 627px" /></a></figure>
<a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent081424&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">Chart created using Benzinga Pro</a>
This bearish signal, where the 50-day moving average falls below the 200-day moving average, indicates potential further declines.
Blink Charging Co. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLNK#NASDAQ">BLNK</a>), another key player in the EV space, is also struggling. 
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent081424&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="627" height="456" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/14140359/Screenshot-2024-08-14-at-11.17.05-PM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-495392" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/14140359/Screenshot-2024-08-14-at-11.17.05-PM.png 627w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/14140359/Screenshot-2024-08-14-at-11.17.05-PM-300x218.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 627px) 100vw, 627px" /></a></figure>
<a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent081424&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">Chart created using Benzinga Pro</a>
With its stock down 35.49% YTD, Blink is rapidly approaching a Death Cross, casting a shadow over its short-term prospects.
The iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>), which tracks the performance of clean energy companies worldwide, has already succumbed to a Death Cross, reflecting the sector&#8217;s broader struggles.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent081424&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="627" height="456" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/14140426/Screenshot-2024-08-14-at-11.17.18-PM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-495393" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/14140426/Screenshot-2024-08-14-at-11.17.18-PM.png 627w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/14140426/Screenshot-2024-08-14-at-11.17.18-PM-300x218.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 627px) 100vw, 627px" /></a></figure>
<a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent081424&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">Chart created using Benzinga Pro</a>
The ETF is down 8.54% YTD, signaling that clean energy stocks face an uphill battle despite Tesla&#8217;s technical rebound.
As Tesla powers up with its Golden Cross, clean energy stocks remain stuck in a Death Cross rut, highlighting the sector&#8217;s contrasting fortunes.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/07/39930522/clean-tech-titans-can-enovix-chargepoint-archer-joby-defy-the-doubters">Clean Tech Titans: Can Enovix, ChargePoint, Archer, Joby Defy The Doubters?</a></li>
</ul>

Technicals

BLNK

Tesla Powers Up, But Clean Energy Stocks Are Stuck In Death Cross Rut

The summer of 2024 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/40112086">keeps on breaking temperature records</a>.
Globally, July 2024 was the second hottest July in history after July 2023, according to a Thursday report by the European Union&#8217;s Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Global averages take into consideration the entire world's temperature, including the Southern Hemisphere, where winter occurs between June and September.
This July was cooler than last year's by just approximately 1 degree Farenheit (0.04 degrees Celsius), yet it was the hottest month on record for some regions, including the Western U.S. and Canada, as well as most of Africa, the Middle East and Asia.
Having a slightly less warm July than last year is no cause for celebration. July 2024 was the first time in 13 months that average temperatures didn't beat the previous historical record for that month and it hosted the two hottest days on record globally.&nbsp;
&#8220;We are not done with temperature records causing heatwaves &#8230; We know this long-term warming trend can be, with a very high level of confidence, related to the human impact on climate,&#8221; said Julien Nicolas, a climate researcher with Copernicus, to Reuters.
 July 2024 was on average 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit (1.48 degrees Celsius) higher than pre-industrial levels on a global basis. 
In California, this July was the hottest month on record, with an average statewide temperature of 81.5 degrees Fahrenheit (27.5 degrees Celsius), beating the previous record of 79.8 degrees Fahrenheit (26.5 degrees Celius) set in July 2021, the San Francisco Chronicle <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/weather/article/record-hottest-july-california-19621377.php">reports</a>.
Death Valley, known for holding the record for the hottest place on earth, recorded its hottest month in history during July. The Death Valley National Park registered a 24-hour average of 108.5 degrees Fahrenheit (42.5 degrees Celsius) and a daily peak average of 121.9 degrees Fahrenheit (50 degrees Celsius).
Needles, a small town in California, dethroned Phoenix, Arizona as the hottest urban center in the country, with an average monthly temperature of 103.2 degrees Fahrenheit (39.5 degrees Celsius).
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/39804299">Scorching Heat Breaks Records, But 2024 Election Outcome May Hold Worker Protections Hostage</a>
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Rising Temperatures: Stocks To Watch</h1>
The rising temperatures present an opportunity for investors, who might look at companies and sectors expected to grow in an increasingly warm Earth.
Companies producing air-conditioning units are first in line. Rising temperatures <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/39463207">will increase the need for air conditioning</a>. Companies in this sector may also see an increase in sales due to worsening air quality in major urban centers.
Valued at $138 billion in 2022, the air-conditioner market is expected to grow to $253 billion by 2031, according to a report by SkyQuest. This includes an average yearly growth of almost 7% between 2024 and 2031.
In North America, the total market for air-conditioners currently stands at $24.6 billion and is expected to reach $35.6 billion in 2030, as per a GrandView Research report.
<ul>
<li>Carrier Global Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CARR#NYSE">CARR</a>) shares recovered this week from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40169330/nvidia-microsoft-apple-amazon-erase-1-1-trillion-in-monday-sell-off-bubble-burst-or-market-correctio">the recent stock sell-off</a> and are up 17% in the last six months.</li>
<li>Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WHR#NYSE">WHR</a>) is one of the largest producers of air-conditioners. Its shares have underperformed the market in recent periods although the company leads about 25% of the home appliance market in the U.S. In June, German appliance maker Bosch <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/06/39532615/bosch-bid-hype-fades-but-analyst-sees-whirlpools-potential">revealed interest in acquiring Whirlpool</a>, though a bid has not been confirmed. The company is down 10.7% on the month.</li>
<li>Emerson Electric Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EMR#NYSE">EMR</a>) is trading at a discount. The company recovered 4.7% on Thursday after experiencing a 10.9% drop since August began.</li>
</ul>
Companies producing weather insulation for residential and commercial buildings also stand to grow from rising temperatures.
Some of the largest public companies in this business include Owens Corning (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OC#NYSE">OC</a>), TopBuild Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLD#NYSE">BLD</a>) and Beacon Roofing Supply Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BECN#NASDAQ">BECN</a>).
An indirect consequence of global warming is a shift in consumer preferences towards non-emitting sources of energy, as greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels represent some of the largest contributors to global warming.
There are several ETFs following the green energy sector.
<ul>
<li>iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>) has performed poorly since January, down over 9% year-to-date.</li>
<li>First Trust NASDAQ Cln Edge Smart Grid Infra Ix Fd (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GRID#NASDAQ">GRID</a>) yielded much better performance and is up 9.5% since January.</li>
<li>Invesco Solar ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TAN#NYSE">TAN</a>) is down 22.8% since January.</li>
</ul>
Individual companies in the clean energy sector have performed better in recent times than some of its ETFs.
<ul>
<li>First Solar Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FSLR#NASDAQ">FSLR</a>) is up 48.7% in the last six months.</li>
<li>GE Vernova Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GEV#NYSE">GEV</a>), a recent spin-off from General Electric, went public in March and its stock is up 34% since then.</li>
<li>Constellation Energy Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CEG#NASDAQ">CEG</a>) has been one of the best performers in the clean energy sector, up 61% since January.</li>
</ul>
Now Read:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/40095631">Researchers Identify &#8216;Trump Dump&#8217; Effect: Ex-President Is Already Causing Deep Stock Losses In Companies And Industries He Targets</a></li>
</ul>
This image was created using the artificial intelligence Midjourney.

BECN

CARR

Stocks To Buy As World Temperatures Rise: July 2024 Was The Hottest Month Ever For Some Regions

The stock market is experiencing a significant downturn, which researchers attribute to the actions and statements of former President Donald Trump. The phenomenon dubbed as the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/podcasts/pmp-id821/the-trump-dump">&#8220;Trump Dump&#8221;</a> effect, has been linked to the former president&#8217;s public criticisms of specific companies and sectors.
What Happened: In an <a href="https://fortune.com/2024/07/30/trump-dump-stocks-targets-crashing-markets-finance-politics">op-ed</a> for Fortune, a group of researchers, including Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Whitney Tilson, and Steven Tian, have identified a pattern of stock market declines following Trump&#8217;s public criticisms.
&#8220;Former President Donald Trump has long regarded the stock market as a barometer for his success, constantly touting record highs during his time in office and still bragging constantly about the &#8216;beautiful&#8217; stock market on his watch,&#8221; the researchers wrote.
&#8220;However, what many commentators miss is not just the 40 record highs the stock market has hit under the Biden-Harris administration—but also that while Trump does hold significant sway over pockets of the stock market, much of his impact is profoundly negative, particularly for individual companies and industries that draw his ire.&#8221;
The ex-president recently triggered a sharp sell-off in the chip sector after he accused Taiwan of usurping the US&#8217;s chip business and proposed they should finance U.S. military protection.
Following Trump&#8217;s remarks, Taiwan Semiconductor (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39807774/trump-says-taiwan-should-pay-us-for-defense-ex-presidents-remark-triggers-fall-in-tsmc-shares">witnessed a 17% plunge</a> from mid-July levels. The tech sector also saw a wider sell-off, with the Nasdaq Composite declining around 10% in the days succeeding the interview.
This is not the first time Trump&#8217;s comments have impacted the market. During his first term, Trump&#8217;s remarks led to a drop in Harley-Davidson shares and Delta Airlines stock. The S&amp;P 500 also showed a tendency to decline on days when Trump mentioned &#8220;tariff,&#8221; &#8220;Fed,&#8221; or &#8220;Powell.&#8221;
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/40057554/lindsey-graham-says-jd-vance-will-support-trump-unequivocally-they-will-work-together-to-right-the-s?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lindsey Graham Says JD Vance Will Support Trump &#8216;Unequivocally&#8217;</a>
The researchers also suggested that Trump&#8217;s criticisms of renewable energy companies could be adversely affecting their performance. The iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>) has declined 10% since the beginning of the year.
Why It Matters: The &#8220;Trump Dump&#8221; phenomenon has been a recurring theme in the stock market. Trump&#8217;s influence on specific sectors and companies has been consistently negative, according to the researchers. They also warned that a potential second term for Trump could further destabilize the stock market, citing the potential consequences of his economic policies.
Despite the &#8220;Trump Dump,&#8221; some argue for the existence of the &#8220;Trump trade,&#8221; which suggests that Trump&#8217;s victory in the upcoming election could lead to gains in sectors like real estate, traditional energy, financials, and industrials. However, the researchers noted that gains in these areas have been mostly temporary, often reversing themselves several weeks after the first presidential debate.
Meanwhile, Goldman Sachs analysts suggested that a Trump victory in the 2024 election could <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/07/39726239/trump-win-in-november-will-boost-the-stock-market-says-goldman-sachs-but-not-all-sectors-will-be">boost the stock market</a>, particularly in sectors like real estate, traditional energy, financials, and industrials. However, they also noted that not all sectors would benefit equally from a Trump win.
There are also concerns about the potential impact of Trump&#8217;s economic policies on the global economy. Analysts have warned that a second term for Trump could <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39810934/trumps-second-term-could-trigger-global-inflation-warn-analysts-2024-2025-is-going-to-be-very-differ">trigger global inflation</a>, particularly due to his &#8220;America-first&#8221; policies. Additionally, there are concerns that Trump&#8217;s fiscal policies could <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39760206/as-trump-promises-to-hold-dollar-steady-expert-warns-his-second-term-could-lead-to-severe-deteriorat">weaken the dollar&#8217;s dominance</a> as the world&#8217;s primary reserve currency.
Trump, at the National Association of Black Journalists conference in Chicago, said &#8220;Elon Musk endorsed me and he is a friend of mine, &#8230; but I am against everybody having an electric car.&#8221; 
Top analyst Dan Ives has also predicted that "a Trump presidency would be an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/07/39727992/tesla-bull-says-trump-win-is-negative-for-ev-industry-but-potential-positive-for-el">overall negative for the EV industry</a> as likely the EV rebates/tax incentives get pulled, however for Tesla we see this as a potential positive.&#8221;
Did You Know?
<ul>
<li>Congress Is Making Huge Investments. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/gov-trades?utm_source=BZprocontent080124" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Get Tips On What They Bought And Sold Ahead Of The 2024 Election With Our Easy-to-Use Tool</a></li>
</ul>
This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Equities

Economics

Researchers Identify 'Trump Dump' Effect: Ex-President Is Already Causing Deep Stock Losses In Companies And Industries He Targets

The Federal Reserve and Federal Open Market Committee are scheduled to announce <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/07/40042583/will-powell-hint-at-september-rate-cut-what-major-us-investment-banks-expect-from">July's interest rate decision</a> at 2 p.m. ET Wednesday. Although the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/federal-reserve/24/07/40071662/fed-shouldnt-wait-until-september-poll-finds-nearly-half-want-rate-cuts-today">expectations are for the Fed to keep rates unchanged</a>, one analyst is projecting that stock prices will surge following the announcement. CME Group's FedWatch tool, which tracks the probability of Fed decisions on interest rates, shows only a 3% chance the Fed does end up cutting rates by 25 basis points Wednesday afternoon. But <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/tom-lee">Fundstrat's Tom Lee</a> said that he still expects stocks to surge higher following the announcement. The Call: Lee says that while market participants expect interest rates to come down in September, equity traders will not begin pricing that dynamic until the decision is made final. And if Fed Chair Jerome Powell, who will speak at 2:30 p.m. ET Wednesday, confirms the Fed is planning on cutting rates in September, stocks could get a boost. &#8220;The key premise is the Fed is likely to commit to a September rate cut of at least 25bp. A possibility of more than that is not necessary," Lee said in a<a href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/news/stocks/stock-market-prediction-big-rally-sp500-this-week-dovish-fed-2024-7"> note</a> released Wednesday, according to Business Insider. 
"And while bond markets have priced in 100% probability of this, equity investors likely will not be convinced until the Fed affirms this as such.&#8221;
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/federal-reserve/24/07/40071662/fed-shouldnt-wait-until-september-poll-finds-nearly-half-want-rate-cuts-today">Fed Shouldn&#8217;t Wait Until September: Poll Finds Nearly Half Want Rate Cuts Today</a>
What Are The Odds? The FedWatch tool shows a 100% chance the Fed will lower rates at its September meeting, with a .2% chance that rates are reduced by 75 basis points, a 10.1% chance that rates are reduced by 50 basis points and about a 90% chance rates are reduced by 25 basis points. 
Why It Matters: Big tech companies like Microsoft, Apple and others have held up well despite higher interest rates. Other sectors like clean energy, tracked by the iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>), have struggled in a high-interest rate environment, with the ETF trading down more than 8% year-to-date against the S&amp;P 500 tracking ETF&#8217;s gain of more than 16%. 
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/broad-u-s-equity-etfs/24/07/39846454/exclusive-market-strategist-jay-woods-says-rotation-in-small-caps-is-just-starting-rus">Market Strategist Jay Woods Says &#8216;Rotation In Small Caps Is Just Starting&#8217;: Russell 2000 Within 8% Of All Times, &#8216;Easy Upside Target&#8217;</a>
Illustration created using artificial intelligence via MidJourney.

Federal Reserve

One Analyst Expects Stocks To Soar After The Fed's Interest Rate Decision Wednesday

The Biden administration&#8217;s doubling of the U.S. tariff on <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/05/39030415/why-first-solar-is-a-must-watch-stock-in-the-ai-era">Chinese solar panels </a>is key to protecting the domestic market from China&#8217;s predatory behavior, says Mark Widmar, CEO of First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FSLR#NASDAQ">FSLR</a>).
First Solar is expected to report second-quarter earnings after Tuesday&#8217;s market close, more than two months after the Biden administration announced that the tariff on Chinese solar panels would increase to 50%.
&#8220;What we&#8217;re trying to do is make sure that we have a level playing field so that all U.S. companies who manufacture here in the U.S. have an opportunity to compete on their own merits,&#8221; Widmar said on Monday during an <a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/markets/first-solar-ceo-mark-widmar-latest-us-tariffs-on-china-creates-level-playing-field/vi-BB1qPATo">interview</a> with CNBC.
&#8220;This is just one of many tools that&#8217;s already part of the overall policy environment that we think is instrumental to ensure that there&#8217;s a level playing field and there&#8217;s opportunities for cycles of innovation to happen here in the U.S. and ultimately support of long term energy independence and security.&#8221;
China is flooding solar panel markets in the U.S. and other countries with less expensive panels because it has an oversupply that is four times the demand in its own country, he said.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/07/40016174/justin-sun-urges-china-to-reconsider-crypto-policies-as-donald-trump-promises-bitcoin-stoc">Justin Sun Urges China To Reconsider Crypto Policies As Donald Trump Promises Bitcoin Stockpile</a>
&#8220;Right now, they&#8217;re dumping that product into international markets and doing that is creating an unfair competitive advantage and devastating others that are trying to compete and create self-sufficiency around this emerging technology that we think we need here in the U.S. and other markets,&#8221; Widmar said.
&#8220;Someone has to step back and reflect upon what China&#8217;s predatory behavior is doing.&#8221;
The U.S. has a bloated inventory of more than 30 gigawatts of solar panels, in great part due to China &#8220;dumping&#8221; solar panels into the U.S. market, Widmar said.
Beijing is trying to correct China&#8217;s oversupply of solar panels, but it should not do that at the expense of other countries, he added.
&#8220;Our view is if China wants to destroy its own industry let it do that on their own accord,&#8221; Widmar said.
&#8220;Let&#8217;s not paint that into the U.S. market.&#8221;
Price Action: Shares of First Solar fell 2.80% to $220.40 on Monday, as did a majority of the exchange-traded funds that hold the stock.
<ul>
<li>Global X CleanTech ETF (NASAQ: CTEC) slipped 2.05%.</li>
<li>Global X Solar ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RAYS#NASDAQ">RAYS</a>) declined 2.91%.</li>
<li>Invesco Solar ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TAN#NYSE">TAN</a>) dropped 2.41%.</li>
<li>Virtus Duff &amp; Phelps Clean Energy ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VCLN#NYSE">VCLN</a>) gained 1.83%.</li>
<li>IShares Global Clean Energy ETF NASDAQ: ICLN) went down 0.85%.</li>
</ul>
Read Now: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/sector-etfs/24/07/39993019/everythings-bigger-in-texas-lone-star-state-will-build-more-clean-energy-than-next-10-states-com">Everything&#8217;s Bigger In Texas: Lone Star State Will Build More Clean Energy Than Next 10 States Combined</a></li>
</ul>
Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

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