Luna Hawthorne

Recent news regarding changes to the S&P 500 index has once again shifted the attention of investors towards several companies that have joined its ranks. As part of the latest quarterly rebalancing, DoorDash Inc., Williams-Sonoma Inc., TKO Group Holdings Inc., and Expand Energy Corp. are set to be added to the index, effective March 24.

Overview of New S&P 500 Participants

This quarter has brought notable diversity to the S&P 500 index, with newcomers spanning various sectors.

Food Delivery Sector: DoorDash Inc.

South Korean company Samsung SDI Co. recently announced its consideration of building a new manufacturing plant in the United States, reflecting optimism about the electric vehicle battery market's growth. This statement was made by CEO Choo Sung-choi during a press conference in Seoul, underscoring the company's long-term plans despite recent governmental changes, such as the cancellation of electric vehicle subsidies by President Donald Trump.

Investment in Battery Production

Samsung SDI is a leading global manufacturer of batteries, supplying automotive giants like General Motors Co. and Stellantis NV. The company already has active projects in North America, indicating its intent to solidify its presence in the market.

In an effort to reduce debt and strategically allocate capital, German conglomerate Fresenius SE has embarked on a significant move to raise €1.1 billion by selling shares and issuing exchangeable bonds tied to Fresenius Medical Care AG. This initiative highlights the company's strategic flexibility and long-term vision in a shifting market landscape.

New Capital Raising Framework

Fresenius SE is placing 10.5 million shares of Fresenius Medical Care AG on the market to raise approximately €500 million. In addition, the company plans to issue three-year zero-coupon bonds worth about €600 million that are exchangeable. These moves are designed to effectively reallocate capital and increase liquidity while staying within the company's strategic priorities.

CK Infrastructure Holdings Ltd. $1038.HK is considering the acquisition of the British waste management company Viridor Ltd., supported by the investment firm KKR & Co. $KKR. This deal could represent a significant step in the waste management and energy sectors in the UK.

Valuation of Viridor

KKR, as the main shareholder in Viridor, is exploring options for selling the business, which could be valued at £7 billion ($8.8 billion), including debt. This highlights the growing interest in the waste management sector and environmental technologies, making it an attractive area for investment.

The year for Toyota Motor Corp $TM has started slowly yet promisingly. Following a period of stagnation in overseas sales, the company has seen a revival in its domestic market, which has helped to restore its position.

Growth in Global Sales

In January 2025, the total sales of Toyota, including its subsidiaries Daihatsu and Hino $7205.T, increased by 2% compared to the same period last year, reaching a record 846,744 vehicles. Production levels also displayed positive momentum, rising by 12% to 885,346 units. These results can be attributed to the recovery of supply in Japan and the rising domestic demand for vehicles.

CLP Holdings Ltd. $0002.HK is realigning its investment strategy to focus more intensively on its home markets—Hong Kong and Mainland China. By opting to self-finance projects in other regions, the company aims to build a more resilient and sustainable energy portfolio.

Investment Focus Shift

By focusing on key markets, the firm is directing its capital toward accelerating decarbonization efforts in Hong Kong and China. Given the substantial funding required, CLP Holdings is prioritizing these primary regions while ensuring that projects outside its focus area are funded internally.