Mad Money w/ Jim Cramer – Episode Summary (August 13, 2025)
Host: CNBC's Jim Cramer
Release Date: August 13, 2025
1. Market Overview
Jim Cramer opens the episode with a vibrant comparison of the current market to the tumultuous Wall Street eras of the 1980s and 1990s. Highlighting the Dow’s gain of 4.64 points, the S&P’s climb of 3.2%, and the Nasdaq’s increase of 1.4%, Cramer emphasizes the frenetic pace of today's market driven by IPOs, mergers, acquisitions, and unexpected upside moves.
Notable Quote:
"This is a wild chase, a mad dash... It's a wonder to behold."
— Jim Cramer [02:30]
He contrasts the present enthusiasm with the post-dot-com lull, asserting that retail investors are now re-engaging with individual stocks, reminiscent of the high-energy trading days of the past.
2. Bullish IPO Analysis
Cramer delves into the recent IPO of Bullish, a digital asset exchange specializing in cryptocurrency trading. The IPO was notably oversubscribed by over 20 times, with the stock surging 143% above its offering price despite underwriters' attempts to moderate enthusiasm.
Notable Quote:
"When I heard that they're going to be dealing in Solana, I thought the opposite—we are still early."
— Jim Cramer [05:10]
Cramer criticizes traditional brokers for restricting crypto trading, positioning Bullish as a forward-thinking platform catering to Gen Z investors eager for substantial gains from crypto assets.
3. Stock Highlights: Core Weave & AMD vs. Video
Core Weave:
Cramer discusses Core Weave's significant rebound following a strong earnings beat and an increased full-year forecast. He predicts a potential dip due to the expiration of insider lockups, recommending investors to "buy after the pullback."
AMD vs. Video:
Addressing rumors about Video, which allegedly faces delays in its new chip, Cramer clarifies that AMD's Vera Rubin chip is on schedule. He criticizes the misinformation circulating in the market, highlighting regulatory leniency.
Notable Quotes:
"If you want to buy it, buy it after that pullback."
— Jim Cramer [07:50]
"It's okay because lying is really bad, but you can get away with it if you're on Wall Street."
— Jim Cramer [09:05]
4. Interview with Kevin Hockman, CEO of Brinker International
Cramer welcomes Kevin Hockman to discuss Brinker International's impressive performance, particularly Chili's, which reported a 23.7% increase in same-store sales. Hockman attributes this success to Brinker’s robust marketing strategies, significant investment in service and food quality, and ongoing restaurant reimaging projects.
Notable Quote:
"We are in an invest-to-grow mode... our margins are up from 12% to 18% this fiscal year."
— Kevin Hockman [18:33]
Cramer praises Brinker’s ability to maintain strong sales despite industry-wide challenges, highlighting the company's commitment to enhancing guest experiences and operational efficiency.
5. Exchanges Performance Analysis
Cramer shifts focus to the stellar performance of major stock exchanges, including Intercontinental Exchange (ICE), Nasdaq, CME Group, and CBOE Global Markets. He notes significant year-to-date gains, driven by high trading volumes marked by market volatility and a resurging IPO market.
Notable Quote:
"These four exchanges are expected to have high single-digit or low double-digit revenue growth for the full year."
— Jim Cramer [26:15]
He discusses how increased retail trading activity, especially in derivatives and crypto-related products, has fueled the exchanges' profitability, despite some analyst downgrades.
6. Interview with Eric Hansso, CEO of Agco
Cramer interviews Eric Hansso to discuss Agco's recent earnings and strategic initiatives. Hansso highlights Agco's advancements in autonomous agricultural machinery, cost management, and expansion into international markets like Brazil.
Notable Quote:
"We're at the bottom of the cycle and the farmers are thirsty to purchase more."
— Eric Hansso [37:12]
Hansso elaborates on Agco’s innovative technologies, such as fully autonomous combines and tractors, which enhance productivity and reduce labor costs for farmers. He underscores Agco’s optimistic outlook on global agricultural markets, particularly in Brazil.
7. Lightning Round Highlights
In the rapid-fire segment, Cramer addresses various caller inquiries:
- Ian from Florida praises the show's staff and inquires about semiconductor stocks, specifically Marvell Technologies, receiving a bullish outlook from Cramer.
- Matt from Ohio discusses IBM International, with Cramer highlighting potential in IBM’s quantum computing and software advancements despite recent stock volatility.
- Mike from Pennsylvania brings up UEC Uranium, receiving Cramer’s endorsement for its prospects in the nuclear sector.
Notable Quote:
"Yes, there's room for speculation in everyone's portfolio. Let Arcus be your speculation, but keep other holdings stable."
— Jim Cramer [41:13]
8. Fast-Casual Dining Sector Analysis
Cramer critiques the performance of fast-casual chains Sweetgreen and Cava, both of which reported disappointing same-store sales growth. He contrasts their struggles with Brinker International's success, attributing the underperformance to high pricing strategies that deter price-sensitive consumers.
Notable Quote:
"Kava and Sweetgreen have to lower their prices or give us a couple of much lower-priced dishes if they want to turn things around."
— Jim Cramer [43:45]
He advocates for value-driven pricing models, citing McDonald's recent introduction of affordable meal options as a strategic move to retain customers.
9. Conclusion
Jim Cramer wraps up the episode by reiterating the dynamic and opportunistic nature of the current market. Emphasizing the importance of adaptability, he encourages investors to remain engaged with high-potential stocks and sectors while being cautious of speculative risks.
Notable Quote:
"There's always a bull market summer and I promise to try to find it... Just for you."
— Jim Cramer [46:00]
10. Disclaimer
Cramer concludes with the standard disclaimer, reaffirming that his opinions are personal and not endorsements, urging listeners to conduct their own research before making investment decisions.
Notable Quote:
"All opinions expressed by Jim Cramer on this podcast are solely Kramer's opinions... You should not treat any opinion expressed by Jim Cramer as a specific inducement to make a particular investment or follow a particular strategy."
— Jim Cramer [47:25]
Key Takeaways:
- Market Sentiment: The current market is highly active and volatile, reminiscent of past high-energy trading periods.
- IPO Opportunities: Bullish IPO exemplifies strong investor appetite for cryptocurrency and digital assets.
- Exchange Growth: Major stock exchanges are thriving due to increased trading volumes and technological advancements.
- Sector Performance: Hospitality and fast-casual dining sectors show mixed results, with value-driven strategies being crucial for success.
- Innovation in Agriculture: Agco’s advancements in autonomous machinery position it well for future growth in the agricultural sector.
This summary captures the critical discussions, insights, and opinions shared by Jim Cramer and his guests during the August 13, 2025, episode of "Mad Money." For a comprehensive understanding and real-time analysis, listen to the full episode.