10 Stocks Defy Market Optimism as Investor Caution Lingers

5. Hercules Capital Inc. (NYSE:HTGC)

Hercules Capital extended its losing streak for a third straight day on Wednesday, shedding 4.41 percent to finish at $19.09 apiece over the lack of catalyst to spark buying appetite, while investors also digest the potential impact of the ongoing trade war on its business.

HTGC, a specialty finance company providing loans to venture capital-backed companies, could be indirectly affected by any potential disruption in early growth stage companies it is invested in, and in turn affect its profitability.

In the fourth quarter of 2024, HTGC saw net investment income drop by 5.69 percent to $81.1 million from $86 million in the same period a year earlier, while net investment income for full-year 2024 rose by 7 percent to $325.8 million from $304 million year-on-year.