Danaher

Barron’s

Danaher produces medical and scientific tools, including Covid tests. The US conglomerate’s stock has barely moved for three years owing to reduced demand for diagnostics and ever-changing US trade policies. Yet this year the shares could generate “healthy” returns. Finalised tariff rules will prompt drugmakers to invest in research and development (R&D) again; there is optimism over demand for monoclonal antibodies; and the firm could resume dealmaking given a strong financial position. “It’s cheaper to bet on Danaher now than it has been in… years.” $240”

Marks Spencer

This is Money

Last year was an “annus horribilis” for Marks & Spencer (M&S) owing to a cyberattack that cost it “almost every penny of profit” for the first half as online sales were crippled and supply chains disrupted. Before the attack, M&S had been “flying high”, but last year rival Next “forged ahead”. If M&S can prove that it can emulate Next, then this year the shares could recover and close the valuation gap with Next, despite weak consumer confidence in the UK. 368p

MicroSalt

Investors’ Chronicle

MicroSalt, which commercialises a patented technology producing full-flavour low-sodium salt, exceeded last year’s revenue expectations and is set to break even this year thanks to orders from a large food and drink manufacturer. The same customer should bolster next year too, while MicroSalt is also working with two other large customers. Operational leverage means MicroSalt could be “highly profitable” next year if it can double sales to $15m. Investors could double their money over the next two years if MicroSalt is acquired. 50p

“Trustpilot

The Times

Trustpilot’s shares dropped 32% in December after a hedge fund claimed the platform for reviews was full of fake ones and was using aggressive tactics to make businesses pay for subscription services. Since then, Trustpilot has bolstered fraud detection to attract higher-paying clients and has removed 7.8 million fake reviews. Sales rose 24% to $261m in 2025. Analysts expect pre-tax profits to increase. While fake content and AI pose risks, Trustpilot benefits from being subscription-based. The upshot? “Now could be a good time to buy into its bid for growth.” 230p

Shawbrook

The Times

Shawbrook was one of London’s biggest listings last year, raising £398.4m and valuing the bank at £1.9bn. The specialist lender has two main arms: a commercial division for UK small businesses and a retail outfit offering mortgages, personal loans and vehicle finance. Shawbrook expects minimal liabilities from the car loan mis-selling scandal. Meanwhile, Shawbrook has enjoyed “buoyant” growth. Its “prospects look bright”. 446p