Opportunities abound

Article Excerpt

The coronavirus pandemic and the resulting economic downturn has increased the risk of all stocks. However, there are still plenty of appealing opportunities for investors with a long-term outlook. Those include two new spinoffs—Otis and Carrier—from aerospace giant Raytheon Technologies, which is itself a newly formed company. The virus, unfortunately, has overshadowed the strong potential of these firms. While construction activity will likely slow over the next year or two, Otis gets most of its revenue repairing existing elevators and escalators. That helps cut your risk. Carrier also stands to gain as more businesses upgrade their air conditioning systems to prevent future outbreaks of COVID-19. The virus is also hurting the short-term prospects of two more spinoffs—Howmet Aerospace and Arconic. However, their high-quality assets and cost-cutting plans should help boost their long-term value. The breakup of the old Madison Square Garden into two pure-play businesses—sports teams and entertainment venues—also looks to be a victim of bad timing: COVID-19 has shut down both those businesses. However, not all spinoffs are worth your money. You’ll also…