After a difficult start to the year that saw shares drop 6% in the first half of 2024, PayPal (PYPL 0.40%) is on its way up, winning over investors in remarkable fashion. The fintech stock has soared 42% in the last six months, which puts its year-to-date gain at 39% (as of Dec. 18), well ahead of the broader S&P 500.However, shares are still trading a worrying 72% off their peak price. Long-term investors might still consider initiating a position in PayPal. Is it a smart stock to buy for 2025 and beyond?I ...