Jim Cramer Says This Stock Is a Bitcoin Play—But He Prefers Bitcoin Over B&G Foods

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When it comes to high-conviction stock picks and bold market commentary, few voices command as much attention as Jim Cramer. On a recent episode of CNBC’s Mad Money Lightning Round, the financial personality didn’t hold back in sharing his views on several trending stocks—including MicroStrategy, Oscar Health, CNH Industrial, Rocket Lab, and B&G Foods.

Cramer’s insights offer more than just opinions; they reflect broader market sentiment and investor psychology at play. Let’s dive into his analysis, break down the underlying fundamentals, and explore what these comments could mean for traders and long-term investors alike.

MicroStrategy: A Bitcoin Proxy With Caveats

Jim Cramer labeled MicroStrategy Incorporated (MSTR) as a "Bitcoin play," but quickly added a crucial caveat: he'd rather own Bitcoin directly than the stock. This sentiment echoes a growing debate in the investment community—should you invest in companies heavily exposed to crypto, or go straight to the source?

MicroStrategy has become one of the most prominent corporate holders of Bitcoin, with over 200,000 BTC on its balance sheet. The company recently completed a $3 billion offering of 0% convertible senior notes due in 2029—$400 million of which came from an over-allotment option. This capital raise underscores its aggressive strategy to double down on Bitcoin accumulation.

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However, Cramer’s hesitation makes sense. While MicroStrategy offers indirect exposure to Bitcoin’s price movements, it also carries operational risks, debt load concerns, and stock-specific volatility. Bitcoin itself, though volatile, removes corporate overhead from the equation. For purists, owning the asset outright is cleaner and more transparent.

Oscar Health: Leadership Matters

When asked about Oscar Health, Inc. (OSCR), Cramer revealed that his opinion shifted significantly upon learning that Mark Bertolini is CEO. “Bertolini's a winner and a hitter,” he said—a strong endorsement from someone who closely watches leadership quality.

Bertolini previously led Aetna and is credited with transforming it into a more patient-centric organization before its acquisition by CVS. His track record gives credibility to Oscar Health’s mission of reinventing health insurance through technology and user experience.

That said, fundamentals tell a mixed story. In its latest quarter, Oscar Health reported:

The revenue beat shows growth momentum, but the wider-than-expected loss raises questions about profitability timing. Still, with healthcare innovation in demand and strong leadership at the helm, Oscar may be one to watch despite near-term turbulence.

CNH Industrial: Falling Short of the Leaders

Cramer dismissed CNH Industrial N.V. (CNH) as a “second-rater” and suggested investors opt for Deere & Company (DE) instead—the “best of breed” in farm and construction equipment.

This comparison isn’t unfounded. On November 7, CNH reported third-quarter earnings that missed expectations and lowered its full-year adjusted EPS guidance. Meanwhile, Deere has maintained stronger margins and better integration of precision agriculture technologies.

While CNH serves similar markets—agriculture, construction, and commercial vehicles—it hasn't matched Deere’s innovation pace or global distribution efficiency. In cyclical industries like heavy machinery, being second-tier can mean thinner margins and weaker resilience during downturns.

For investors seeking exposure to industrial growth trends, Cramer’s advice leans clear: aim for market leaders with pricing power and technological edge.

B&G Foods: A Long-Term Loser?

Cramer was especially blunt about B&G Foods, Inc. (BGS): “The former, BGS, is a total loser and has been a loser for many, many years.” Harsh words—but do they hold up?

On November 5, B&G reported disappointing Q3 results and issued full-year net sales guidance below analyst expectations. The company has struggled with declining consumer demand for legacy pantry staples, increased competition, and margin pressure from rising input costs.

Unlike some food companies pivoting toward premium or health-focused brands, B&G remains heavily reliant on value-oriented products like Green Giant, Cream of Wheat, and Ortega. These brands face stiff headwinds in an era where consumers prioritize freshness, transparency, and wellness.

Unless B&G executes a bold turnaround strategy—perhaps through acquisitions or brand repositioning—it may continue to underperform in a competitive packaged foods landscape.

Rocket Lab: High Risk, High Reward?

On Rocket Lab USA, Inc. (RKLB), Cramer offered a metaphor: “It's moth to flame, but I don't know how close the moth is to the flame.” In other words—exciting potential, but danger lurks.

Rocket Lab operates in the small satellite launch sector, a niche but rapidly growing part of the aerospace industry. On November 19, Goldman Sachs analyst Noah Poponak maintained a Neutral rating on the stock but raised his price target from $5 to $12—signaling cautious optimism.

The company has shown technical prowess with successful Electron rocket launches and expansion into spacecraft components and space systems. However, profitability remains elusive, and competition from larger players like SpaceX looms large.

Investing in Rocket Lab today is less about current earnings and more about faith in long-term space commercialization. It's a speculative bet—one that might pay off for patient investors if orbital activity accelerates in the coming decade.

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Market Reaction Snapshot

Following Cramer’s comments and earnings reports, markets reacted swiftly:

Notably, MicroStrategy’s sharp drop came despite strong Bitcoin price action—highlighting investor concerns over dilution from the debt offering and concentration risk.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why does Jim Cramer prefer Bitcoin over MicroStrategy stock?
A: Because while MicroStrategy provides indirect exposure to Bitcoin, it also introduces corporate risks like debt, management decisions, and stock volatility—whereas owning Bitcoin directly avoids those layers.

Q: Is Oscar Health a good investment after missing earnings?
A: It depends on your time horizon. The revenue beat suggests underlying demand strength, but profitability remains a challenge. Leadership credibility helps, but execution will be key.

Q: What makes Deere & Company a better pick than CNH Industrial?
A: Deere leads in innovation (especially precision farming tech), enjoys stronger global branding, and maintains higher margins—making it more resilient in downturns.

Q: Can B&G Foods turn around its business?
A: Only with significant strategic shifts—such as brand modernization or acquiring faster-growing food categories. As of now, no major turnaround initiatives have gained traction.

Q: Is Rocket Lab a safe investment?
A: No—it's highly speculative. The space economy is promising long-term, but Rocket Lab isn’t profitable yet and faces intense competition.

Q: Should I follow Jim Cramer’s stock advice?
A: Use it as one input among many. Cramer offers valuable market sentiment insights, but always combine his views with your own research and risk tolerance.

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Final Thoughts

Jim Cramer’s commentary cuts through noise with clarity—even when it stings. Whether you agree with his takes or not, his emphasis on leadership quality, competitive positioning, and risk awareness remains instructive.

For investors navigating today’s complex markets, the lesson is clear: differentiate between companies merely riding trends versus those building durable advantages. And when it comes to crypto exposure—consider whether you want the asset itself or a corporate proxy.

As digital assets continue gaining institutional traction, understanding these nuances becomes increasingly vital—not just for returns, but for managing risk in uncertain times.