When it comes to high-conviction stock picks and market insights, few voices carry as much weight as Jim Cramer’s. On a recent episode of CNBC’s Mad Money Lightning Round, the financial expert didn’t hold back in sharing his candid takes on several trending stocks — from tech giants with crypto exposure to struggling consumer brands.
One of the most talked-about segments focused on MicroStrategy Incorporated (MSTR), a company increasingly seen not just as a software firm, but as a proxy for Bitcoin (BTC/USD) investment. Cramer confirmed this view, stating that while MicroStrategy is effectively a “Bitcoin play,” he personally prefers to own Bitcoin directly rather than go through equities.
This distinction is crucial for investors trying to gain exposure to digital assets. While MicroStrategy has aggressively accumulated Bitcoin on its balance sheet — making its stock price highly correlated with BTC movements — owning the actual cryptocurrency offers more direct control and eliminates counterparty risk.
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MicroStrategy’s $3 Billion Move Into Bitcoin Financing
MicroStrategy recently completed a major capital raise, issuing $3 billion in 0% convertible senior notes due in 2029. This included an additional $400 million from the exercise of an overallotment option. The move underscores the company's continued commitment to leveraging its balance sheet to acquire more Bitcoin.
Despite the strategic financing success, MicroStrategy’s stock fell 16.2% during the session, closing at $397.28. This reaction highlights market skepticism about whether debt-fueled Bitcoin purchases are sustainable long-term, especially amid volatile crypto prices.
Still, for bulls, MicroStrategy remains one of the cleanest ways to gain leveraged exposure to Bitcoin through traditional markets — albeit with added corporate and leverage risks.
Oscar Health: Leadership Matters
Cramer shifted gears when discussing Oscar Health, Inc. (OSCR). Initially unimpressed, his opinion changed upon learning that Mark Bertolini — former CEO of Aetna — now leads the company. “Bertolini's a winner and a hitter,” Cramer said, signaling confidence in leadership-driven turnarounds.
Financially, Oscar Health reported mixed results: a quarterly loss of $0.22 per share, missing estimates by three cents, but revenue came in strong at $2.42 billion, beating expectations of $2.34 billion. The market reacted negatively, with shares dropping 4.1% to $16.31.
While fundamentals remain shaky, Cramer’s endorsement suggests potential upside if operational improvements follow under experienced leadership.
CNH Industrial vs. Deere: Choosing the Market Leader
When asked about CNH Industrial N.V. (CNH), Cramer was blunt: “It's a second-rater.” Instead, he advocated for Deere & Company (DE) as the top-tier choice in agricultural and construction equipment.
His reasoning aligns with performance trends. On November 7, CNH reported disappointing third-quarter EPS and lowered its full-year 2024 adjusted EPS outlook — a red flag for investors. Yet paradoxically, shares rose 4.6% to $11.92, possibly reflecting short-term speculation or bargain hunting.
Meanwhile, Deere continues to dominate with innovation in precision farming and strong global demand. For long-term investors, Cramer’s advice boils down to a timeless principle: when two companies operate in the same space, back the proven leader.
B&G Foods: A Long-Term Loser?
One of Cramer’s harshest critiques was reserved for B&G Foods, Inc. (BGS). Labeling it a “total loser,” he emphasized that the company has underperformed for years. The latest earnings report only reinforced that view.
On November 5, B&G Foods delivered worse-than-expected Q3 results and issued full-year net sales guidance below analyst projections. With no clear turnaround strategy evident, the stock remains trapped in a declining trajectory typical of legacy food brands struggling to adapt to changing consumer preferences.
For value investors hunting for hidden gems, B&G may appear cheap — but as Cramer warns, sometimes low prices reflect fundamental decay rather than opportunity.
Rocket Lab: High Risk, High Reward?
On Rocket Lab USA, Inc. (RKLB), Cramer offered a poetic yet cautious take: “It's moth to flame, but I don't know how close the moth is to the flame.” The comment captures the speculative nature of space-tech investing — thrilling innovation paired with extreme execution risk.
Despite the uncertainty, institutional confidence appears to be growing. On November 19, Goldman Sachs analyst Noah Poponak maintained a Neutral rating on Rocket Lab but raised his price target from $5 to $12, citing improved launch frequency and satellite deployment prospects.
Market sentiment turned positive: shares surged 11.1% to close at $22.41.
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Key Takeaways From Cramer’s Market Commentary
Jim Cramer’s insights offer more than just stock opinions — they reflect broader investing principles:
- Direct ownership often beats indirect exposure — especially in volatile assets like Bitcoin.
- Leadership quality matters — even promising companies need capable management.
- Stick with market leaders — in competitive industries, winners tend to keep winning.
- Avoid broken business models — no amount of discounting can fix structural decline.
- Speculative plays require caution — high-potential sectors like space tech demand disciplined risk assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does Jim Cramer prefer Bitcoin over MicroStrategy stock?
A: While MicroStrategy offers indirect exposure to Bitcoin through equity, owning Bitcoin directly avoids corporate risk and gives full control over the asset.
Q: Is B&G Foods a good value stock despite its low price?
A: Not necessarily. A low share price doesn’t always mean value; B&G Foods faces long-term structural challenges that may prevent recovery.
Q: What makes Deere a better pick than CNH Industrial?
A: Deere has stronger margins, better innovation in smart farming tech, and a more resilient global distribution network — key advantages in cyclical markets.
Q: Can leadership changes like at Oscar Health drive stock performance?
A: Yes. Experienced executives like Mark Bertolini can implement operational improvements and restore investor confidence over time.
Q: How should investors interpret Goldman Sachs’ price target hike for Rocket Lab?
A: It signals improving fundamentals and growing confidence in launch cadence and revenue visibility — though the stock remains speculative.
Q: Are convertible notes risky for companies like MicroStrategy?
A: They can be. While 0% interest is attractive, these instruments dilute shareholders if converted and increase leverage during downturns.
The market is full of noise — but commentary from seasoned investors like Jim Cramer helps cut through it. Whether you're evaluating legacy food brands or next-gen space ventures, focusing on fundamentals, leadership, and direct asset control can guide smarter decisions.
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