Ares Management Corp (ARES) is not a strong buy at the moment for a beginner investor with a long-term strategy. While the company has shown strong revenue growth in the latest quarter, the significant drop in net income and EPS, coupled with negative sentiment around private credit and redemption pressures, suggest caution. Additionally, technical indicators and options data do not provide a compelling entry point for long-term investment at this time.
The MACD is positive and expanding, indicating bullish momentum. However, the RSI is neutral, and moving averages are converging, signaling indecision. The stock is trading near resistance levels (R1: 118.069), and the recent price trend suggests a potential decline in the short term (-5.75% in the next week, -10.81% in the next month).

Ares Management raised $5.4 billion for real estate strategies, targeting high-conviction sectors.
Plans to launch a $20 billion direct lending fund, signaling growth initiatives.
CEO reassures that private credit default risks remain contained.
Redemption requests exceeding $20 billion in Q1 2026 raise concerns about liquidity and investor confidence.
Analysts have consistently lowered price targets, citing challenges in private credit and market volatility.
Financial performance shows a significant drop in net income and EPS, raising questions about profitability.
In 2025/Q4, revenue increased by 27.68% YoY, showcasing strong top-line growth. However, net income dropped by 87.59% YoY, and EPS fell by 88.89% YoY, indicating severe profitability challenges. Gross margin remained flat.
Analysts have lowered price targets across the board, with ratings ranging from Hold to Buy. Concerns about private credit and macroeconomic challenges dominate sentiment. Some analysts see the current weakness as a buying opportunity, but the overall tone remains cautious.