A specialized screen developed by Zacks seeks to identify top-tier stocks demonstrating both historical and projected growth rates of 20% or more. This week, the screen unveiled 37 stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) designation. Among these standout selections are five growth stocks spanning technology, gold mining, retail sectors, along with an intriguing bonus stock. The Zacks Market Edge Podcast, hosted by Tracey Ryniec, delves into these investment opportunities, offering insights into how they could impact your portfolio.
The Zacks #1 Rank signifies "Strong Buy," representing only 5% of all stocks evaluated by the Zacks system. This ranking typically reflects upward revisions in analysts' earnings estimates. For growth evaluation, the screen scrutinizes both past and anticipated future earnings growth, necessitating a minimum 20% increase for both metrics. This rigorous approach excludes one-time growth anomalies, focusing instead on consistent growth trends.
Among the highlighted stocks is AppLovin Corp., a major player in the tech sector offering developers a comprehensive platform for marketing, monetization, analytics, and app publishing. With a market capitalization of $140 billion, AppLovin anticipates an impressive earnings rise of 85.2% this year, followed by another 41.9% in 2026. Investors have responded positively, driving its shares up by 28% year-to-date.
In the gold mining sector, AngloGold Ashanti plc stands out. Headquartered in Colorado, this company operates mines across Africa, the Americas, and Australia, boasting a market cap of $19 billion. Given the record-high prices of gold exceeding $3000 per ounce in 2025, it's no surprise that AngloGold Ashanti projects substantial earnings growth, with analysts predicting a surge of 133.5% in 2025. Its shares have surged by 104% year-to-date.
Birkenstock Holding PLC, known for its iconic sandals, presents an interesting case in the retail space. Despite being headquartered in London and having a market cap of $10.5 billion, Birkenstock has experienced remarkable earnings growth, rising 208.9% in 2024 and expected to increase by another 36.7% in 2025. However, its stock performance has been less favorable, declining by 2.5% year-to-date, potentially presenting a buying opportunity.
CyberArk Software Ltd., an Israeli cybersecurity firm with a market cap of $19.6 billion, rounds out the list. It reported a significant earnings increase of 170.5% in 2024 and is forecasted to grow by an additional 25.1% this year.
These selected stocks exemplify the potential for robust growth and strong buy recommendations within their respective industries. As investors consider adding these stocks to their portfolios, understanding their unique growth trajectories and market dynamics becomes crucial. By leveraging the insights provided by Zacks and the Market Edge Podcast, investors can make informed decisions aligned with their financial goals.