GE Vernova Inc., an energy company, engages in the provision of various products and services that generate, transfer, orchestrate, convert, and store electricity in the United States, Europe, Asia, the Americas, the Middle East, and Africa. The company operates through three segments: Power, Wind, and Electrification. The Power segment designs, manufactures, and services gas, nuclear, hydro, and steam technologies. The Wind segment offers wind generation technologies, including onshore and offshore wind turbines and blades. The Electrification segment provides grid solutions, power conversion, solar, and storage solutions; and electrification software for the transmission, distribution, conversion, storage, and orchestration of electricity from point of generation to point of consumption. The company was incorporated in 2023 and is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

GE Vernova Inc.

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is up +0.08%, the Dow Jones Industrials Index ($DOWI) (DIA) is down -0.09%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is up +0.34%. September E-mini S&P futures (ESU25) are up +0.05%, and September E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQU25) are up +0.34%.
Stock indexes are mostly higher, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 posting new record highs. Positive trade news is bullish for stocks after the European Union (EU) and the US reached a trade deal on Sunday, which will see the EU face 15% tariffs on most of its exports, lower than the previous threats from President Trump of tariffs as high as 50%. Stocks also rose after the South China Morning Post reported that the US and China are expected to extend their tariff truce by another 90 days from August 12, when US Treasury Secretary Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng meet in Stockholm today.
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The markets this week will focus on any news of new trade deals before Friday's deadline. On Tuesday, the Jun JOLTS job openings are expected to decline by -219,000 to 7.55 million. Also on Tuesday, the Conference Board's US Jul consumer confidence index is expected to climb by +3.0 to 96.0. In addition, the 2-day FOMC meeting begins on Tuesday, and the Fed is expected to keep the fed funds target range unchanged at 4.25% to 4.50%. On Wednesday, the Jul ADP employment change is expected to climb by +80,000. Also on Wednesday, Q2 GDP is expected to expand by +2.4% (q/q annualized) and the Q2 core PCE price index is expected to ease to +2.3% from +3.5% in Q1. On Thursday, weekly initial unemployment claims are expected to rise +6,000 to 223,000 and the Q2 employment cost index is expected to climb by +0.8%. Also, Jun personal spending is expected to climb +0.4% m/m and Jun personal income is expected to rise +0.3% m/m. In addition, the Jun core PCE price index, the Fed's preferred inflation gauge, is expected to climb +0.3% m/m and +2.7% y/y. Finally, on Thursday, the Jul MNI Chicago PMI is expected to increase by +1.6 to 42.0. On Friday, Jul nonfarm payrolls are expected to increase by +109,000 and the Jul unemployment rate is expected to rise by +0.1 to 4.2%. Also, Jul average hourly earnings are expected +0.3% m/m and +3.8% y/y. In addition, the Jul ISM manufacturing index is expected to increase by +0.2 to 49.5. Finally, the University of Michigan Jul consumer sentiment index is expected to be unrevised at 61.8.
The markets are awaiting President Trump's August 1 deadline for trade deals to avoid high tariffs. On July 16, Mr. Trump announced that he intends to send a tariff letter to more than 150 countries, notifying them that their tariff rates could be 10% or 15%, effective August 1. As an update, Mr. Trump last Wednesday said, "We'll have a straight, simple tariff of anywhere between 15% and 50%," an indication that the floor for tariffs is rising and suggesting that he would not go below 15%.
Federal funds futures prices are discounting the chances for a -25 bp rate cut at 3% at the July 29-30 FOMC meeting and 62% at the following meeting on September 16-17.
This week kicks off the earnings season's busiest week, with 38% of the stocks in the S&P 500 reporting quarterly earnings, double the amount reported last week. Magnificent Seven member earnings results will be front and center, with Apple, Amazon.com, Microsoft, and Meta Platforms reporting this week. Early results now show S&P 500 earnings are on track to rise +4.5% for the second quarter, better than the pre-season expectations of +2.8% y/y, according to Bloomberg Intelligence. Around 80% of the S&P 500 companies that have reported have exceeded profit estimates.
Overseas stock markets today are mixed. The Euro Stoxx 50 rose to a 2-week high and is up +0.26%. China's Shanghai Composite closed up +0.12%. Japan's Nikkei Stock 225 closed down -1.10%.
Interest Rates
September 10-year T-notes (ZNU25) today are down -4 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield is up +2.0 bp to 4.408%. T-notes are under pressure from today's rally in the S&P 500 to a new record high, which reduces safe-haven demand for T-notes. Also, supply pressures are weighing on T-notes as the Treasury will auction $69 billion of 2-year T-notes and $70 billion of 5-year T-notes later today. Losses in T-notes are limited after the US and EU agreed on a trade deal, which eases concerns about inflation.
European government bond yields today are mixed. The 10-year German bund yield is down -2.3 bp to 2.695%. The 10-year UK gilt yield is up +1.8 bp to 4.654%.
ECB Governing Council member Kazimir said the ECB shouldn't cut interest rates in September unless there's evidence of a major deterioration in the economy.
Swaps are discounting the chances at 14% for a -25 bp rate cut by the ECB at the September 11 policy meeting.
US Stock Movers
Chip stocks are climbing today after the EU and the US reached a trade deal. Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) is up more than +3% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100. Also, ASML Holding NV (ASML), Lam Research (LRCX), and Texas Instruments (TXN) are up more than +2%. In addition, GlobalFoundries (GFS), Marvell Technology (MRVL), On Semiconductor Corp (ON), Intel (INTC), Applied Materials (AMAT), and KLA Corp (KLAC) are up more than +1%.
Energy stocks and energy service providers are higher today with the price of WTI crude oil up more than +2% to a 1-week high. Devon Energy (DVN), APA Corp (APA), and Diamondback Energy (FANG) are up more than +2%. Also, Haliburton (HAL), Phillips 66 (PSX), Marathon Petroleum (MPC), ConocoPhillips (COP), Baker Hughes (BKR), Occidental Petroleum (OXY), and Valero Energy (VLO) are up more than +1%.
LNG stocks are moving higher after the EU committed to big purchases of American energy products as part of the EU-US trade deal. Cheniere Energy (LNG) and Venture Global (VG) are up more than +3%.
Nike (NKE) is up more than +1% to lead gainers in the Dow Jones Industrials after JPMorgan Chase upgraded the stock to overweight from neutral with a price target of $93.
Weatherford International Plc (WFRD) is up more than +4% after Piper Sandler upgraded the stock to overweight from neutral with a price target of $73.
Revvity (RVTY) is down more than -9% to lead losers in the S&P 500 after cutting its full-year adjusted EPS estimate to $4.85-$4.95 from a previous estimate of $4.90-$5.00, the midpoint below the consensus of $4.93.
Cisco Systems (CSCO) is down more than -1% to lead losers in the Dow Jones Industrials after Evercore ISI downgraded the stock to inline from outperform.
Gilead Sciences (GILD) is down more than -1% to lead losers in the Nasdaq 100 as analysts note a potential risk to the company's HIV preventative drugs after HHS Secretary Kennedy was reported to be planning the dismissal of an advisory panel that determines what preventive health measures insurers must cover.
Centene (CNC) is down more than -1% after Cantor Fitzgerald downgraded the stock to neutral from overweight,
Accenture Plc (ACN) is down more than -1% after HSBC initiated coverage on the stock with a recommendation of reduce and a price target of $240.
GE Vernova (GEV) is down more than -1% after Mizuho Securities downgraded the stock to neutral from outperform and Guggenheim Securities downgraded the stock to neutral from buy.
Earnings Reports (7/28/2025)
Amkor Technology Inc (AMKR), Brixmor Property Group Inc (BRX), Brown & Brown Inc (BRO), Cadence Design Systems Inc (CDNS), Cincinnati Financial Corp (CINF), Crane Co (CR), Exelixis Inc (EXEL), Hartford Insurance Group Inc/The (HIG), Kilroy Realty Corp (KRC), NOV Inc (NOV), Nucor Corp (NUE), Olin Corp (OLN), Principal Financial Group Inc (PFG), Revvity Inc (RVTY), Rithm Capital Corp (RITM), Simpson Manufacturing Co Inc (SSD), Universal Health Services Inc (UHS), Veralto Corp (VLTO), Waste Management Inc (WM), Welltower Inc (WELL), Western Union Co/The (WU), Whirlpool Corp (WHR), Woodward Inc (WWD).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Stocks Supported by Positive Trade News

Looking today at week-over-week shares outstanding changes among the universe of ETFs covered at ETF Channel, one standout is the iShares Core S&P 500 ETF (Symbol: IVV) where we have detected an approximate $928.1 million dollar outflow -- that's a 0.1% decrease week over week (from 1,007,450,000 to 1,006,000,000). Among the largest underlying components of IVV, in trading today GE Vernova Inc (Symbol: GEV) is off about 0.3%, Eaton Corp plc (Symbol: ETN) is up about 1%, and Progressive Corp. (Symbol: PGR) is lower by about 2.4%. For a complete list of holdings, visit the IVV Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of IVV, versus its 200 day moving average:
Looking at the chart above, IVV's low point in its 52 week range is $484 per share, with $641.10 as the 52 week high point — that compares with a last trade of $640.73. Comparing the most recent share price to the 200 day moving average can also be a useful technical analysis technique -- learn more about the 200 day moving average ».
Exchange traded funds (ETFs) trade just like stocks, but instead of ''shares'' investors are actually buying and selling ''units''. These ''units'' can be traded back and forth just like stocks, but can also be created or destroyed to accommodate investor demand. Each week we monitor the week-over-week change in shares outstanding data, to keep a lookout for those ETFs experiencing notable inflows (many new units created) or outflows (many old units destroyed). Creation of new units will mean the underlying holdings of the ETF need to be purchased, while destruction of units involves selling underlying holdings, so large flows can also impact the individual components held within ETFs.
BWBBP Historical Stock Prices
SAII shares outstanding history
Funds Holding FIGB
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

IVV, GEV, ETN, PGR: ETF Outflow Alert

Looking at options trading activity among components of the S&P 500 index, there is noteworthy activity today in Palantir Technologies Inc (Symbol: PLTR), where a total volume of 908,514 contracts has been traded thus far today, a contract volume which is representative of approximately 90.9 million underlying shares (given that every 1 contract represents 100 underlying shares). That number works out to 133.1% of PLTR's average daily trading volume over the past month, of 68.3 million shares. Particularly high volume was seen for the $160 strike call option expiring July 25, 2025, with 137,915 contracts trading so far today, representing approximately 13.8 million underlying shares of PLTR. Below is a chart showing PLTR's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $160 strike highlighted in orange:
GE Vernova Inc (Symbol: GEV) options are showing a volume of 42,674 contracts thus far today. That number of contracts represents approximately 4.3 million underlying shares, working out to a sizeable 128.7% of GEV's average daily trading volume over the past month, of 3.3 million shares. Particularly high volume was seen for the $570 strike put option expiring August 01, 2025, with 8,639 contracts trading so far today, representing approximately 863,900 underlying shares of GEV. Below is a chart showing GEV's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $570 strike highlighted in orange:
And Apple Inc (Symbol: AAPL) options are showing a volume of 461,948 contracts thus far today. That number of contracts represents approximately 46.2 million underlying shares, working out to a sizeable 88.8% of AAPL's average daily trading volume over the past month, of 52.0 million shares. Particularly high volume was seen for the $215 strike call option expiring July 25, 2025, with 102,617 contracts trading so far today, representing approximately 10.3 million underlying shares of AAPL. Below is a chart showing AAPL's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $215 strike highlighted in orange:
For the various different available expirations for PLTR options, GEV options, or AAPL options, visit StockOptionsChannel.com.
Funds Holding PLT
RECN Price Target
HEQ Historical Stock Prices
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Noteworthy Friday Option Activity: PLTR, GEV, AAPL

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) Wednesday closed up +0.78%, the Dow Jones Industrials Index ($DOWI) (DIA) closed up +1.14%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) closed up +0.43%. September E-mini S&P futures (ESU25) rose +0.80%, and September E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQU25) rose +0.45%.
Stock indexes rallied on Wednesday, with the S&P 50 posting a new all-time high and the Dow Jones Industrials posting a 5.5-month high. Positive trade news bolstered stock prices and boosted market sentiment on Wednesday.
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President Trump late Tuesday announced a trade deal with Japan, which will impose 15% tariffs on imports from Japan, lower than the previously announced 25% rate set to take effect on August 1. The deal also creates a $550 billion fund for Japan to invest in the US. Japan also agreed to purchase 100 Boeing aircraft, increase its purchases of US rice by 75%, and buy $8 billion in other agricultural products, while raising its defense spending with American firms to $17 billion annually, from $14 billion.
Stocks built on their gains Wednesday afternoon when Bloomberg News reported that diplomats briefed on the situation said the European Union (EU) and the US are progressing toward an agreement that would set a 15% tariff for most imports, lower than the 30% rate President Trump had threatened on EU goods if no trade agreement was reached by August 1.
However, gains in the Nasdaq 100 index were limited due to weakness in auto-related chip makers, led by a -13% plunge in Texas Instruments after company executives on anearnings callsaid there isn’t a “true broad recovery” in the automotive sector, as automotive customers who ship into the US are cautious due to tariffs.
Wednesday’s US economic news was bearish for stocks after June existing home sales fell -2.7% m/m to a 9-month low of 3.93 million, weaker than expectations of -0.7% to 4.00 million.
US MBA mortgage applications rose +0.8% in the week ended July 18, with the purchase mortgage sub-index up +3.4% and the refinancing sub-index down -2.6%. The average 30-year fixed rate mortgage rose +2 bp to 6.84% from 6.82% in the prior week.
The markets are awaiting President Trump’s August 1 deadline for trade deals to avoid high tariffs. Last Wednesday, Mr. Trump announced that he intends to send a tariff letter to more than 150 countries, notifying them that their tariff rates could be 10% or 15%, effective August 1. Also, Mr. Trump said that a 35% tariff on some Canadian products would take effect on August 1, up from the current 25%.
The markets this week will focus on any tariff news along with the announcement of any new trade deals. On Thursday, weekly initial unemployment claims are expected to climb by +5,000 to 226,000. Also, the July S&P US manufacturing PMI is expected to slip -0.2 to 52.7. Finally, on Thursday, June new home sales are expected to climb +4.3% m/m to 650,000. On Friday, June capital goods new orders nondefense ex-aircraft and parts are expected to increase by +0.2% m/m.
Federal funds futures prices are discounting the chances for a -25 bp rate cut at 3% at the July 29-30 FOMC meeting and 58% at the following meeting on September 16-17.
The markets are absorbing a heavy slate of quarterly corporate earnings results this week. About one-fifth of the companies in the S&P 500 are expected to report their Q2 earnings results this week. Early results now show S&P 500 earnings are on track to rise +3.2% for the second quarter, better than the pre-season expectations of +2.8% y/y, according to Bloomberg Intelligence. Also, only six of the eleven S&P 500 sectors are projected to post an increase in earnings, the fewest since Q1 of 2023, according to Yardeni Research.
Overseas stock markets today settled higher on Wednesday. The Euro Stoxx 50 closed up +1.02%. China’s Shanghai Composite rose to a new 9.5-month high and closed up +0.01%. Japan’s Nikkei Stock 225 rallied to a 1-year high and closed up sharply by +3.51%.
Interest Rates
September 10-year T-notes (ZNU25) on Wednesday closed down -12.5 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield rose +4.0 bp to 4.384%. T-notes retreated on Wednesday as global trade tensions eased, which curbed safe-haven demand for T-notes. The US and Japan announced a trade deal late Tuesday, and Bloomberg News reported Wednesday that the US and EU are closing in on a trade deal. Wednesday’s rally in the S&P 500 to a new record high also reduced safe-haven demand for government debt.
Losses in T-notes are contained after US existing home sales fell more than expected to a 9-month low, a dovish factor for Fed policy. T-note prices also garnered support from a decline in the US 10-year breakeven inflation rate to a 1.5-week low Wednesday of 2.379%. In addition, strong demand for the Treasury’s $13 billion auction of 20-year T-bonds was positive for T-notes, as the auction had a bid-to-cover ratio of 2.79, better than the 10-auction average of 2.57.
European government bond yields on Wednesday moved higher. The 10-year German bund yield rose +5.0 bp to 2.639%. The 10-year UK gilt yield rose +6.6 bp to 4.635%.
Swaps are discounting the chances at 2% for a -25 bp rate cut by the ECB at Thursday’s policy meeting.
US Stock Movers
Power producers rallied Wednesday after PJM Interconnection LLC predicted that the AI boom will prompt businesses and households served by the largest US power grid to spend a record $16.1 billion to ensure electricity supplies, which could support utility profit margins. Talen Energy (TLN) closed up more than +8% and Vistra (VST) closed up more than +5%. Also, NRG Energy (NRG) closed up more than +4% and Constellation Group (CEG) closed up more than +1%.
Weakness in shares of automotive and industrial chipmakers limited gains in the Nasdaq 100, with Texas Instruments (TXN) closing down more than -13% to lead losers in the Nasdaq 100 after company executives on anearnings callsaid there isn’t a “true broad recovery” in the automotive sector as automotive customers who ship into the US are cautious due to tariffs. Also, Microchip Technology (MCHP) closed down more than -6% and ON Semiconductor (ON) closed down more than -4%. In addition, Analog Devices (ADI) closed down more than -3%, and NXP Semiconductors (NXPI) closed down more than -1%.
Lamb Weston Holdings (LW) closed up more than +16% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 after reporting Q4 net sales of $1.68 billion, stronger than the consensus of $1.59 billion.
GE Vernova (GEV) closed up more than +14% after reporting Q2 revenue of $9.11 billion, stronger than the consensus of $8.80 billion.
Baker Hughes (BKR) closed up more than +11% to lead gainers in the Nasdaq 100 after reporting Q2 revenue of $6.91 billion, stronger than the consensus of $6.64 billion.
TE Connectivity Plc (TEL) closed up more than +11% after reporting Q3 net sales of $4.53 billion, better than the consensus of $4.33 billion, and forecasting Q4 net sales of $4.55 billion, above the consensus of $4.42 billion.
Thermo Fisher Scientific (TMO) closed up more than +9% after reporting Q2 revenue of $10.86 billion, above the consensus of $10.69 billion, and forecasting full-year sales of $43.6 billion-$44.2 billion, the midpoint above the consensus of $43.7 billion.
Lennox International (LII) closed up more than +6% after reporting Q2 adjusted EPS of $7.82, well above the consensus of $6.89.
CoStar Group (CSGP) closed up more than +6% after reporting Q2 revenue of $781.3 million, above the consensus of $772.1 million, and raising its full-year revenue forecast to $3.14 billion-$3.16 billion from a previous forecast of $3.12 billion-$3.16 billion, stronger than the consensus of $3.13 billion.
Fiserv (FI) closed down more than -13% after reporting Q2 organic revenue grew +8.00%, below the consensus of +8.91%.
Otis Worldwide (OTIS) closed down more than -12% after reporting Q2 net sales of $3.60 billion, below the consensus of $3.71 million, and cutting its full-year net sales forecast to $114.5 billion to $14.6 billion from a previous estimate of $14.6 billion to $14.8 billion, weaker than the consensus of $14.72 billion.
Hilton Worldwide Holdings (HLT) closed down more than -2% after cutting its full-year net income forecast to $1.64 billion to $1.68 billion from a previous forecast of $1.71 billion to $1.75 billion.
Unity Software (U) closed down more than -2% after BTIG downgraded the stock to sell from neutral with a price target of $25.
Northern Trust Corp (NTRS) closed down more than -1% after reporting Q2 provision for credit losses of $16.5 million, well above the consensus of $4.31 million.
Teledyne Technologies (TDY) closed down more than -1% after forecasting full-year adjusted EPS of $21.20-$21.50, the midpoint below the consensus of $21.42.
Earnings Reports (7/24/2025)
A O Smith Corp (AOS), Allegion plc (ALLE), Ameriprise Financial Inc (AMP), Blackstone Inc (BX), CenterPoint Energy Inc (CNP), Deckers Outdoor Corp (DECK), Digital Realty Trust Inc (DLR), Dover Corp (DOV), Dow Inc (DOW), Edwards Lifesciences Corp (EW), Healthpeak Properties Inc (DOC), Honeywell International Inc (HON), Intel Corp (INTC), Keurig Dr Pepper Inc (KDP), L3Harris Technologies Inc (LHX), Labcorp Holdings Inc (LH), LKQ Corp (LKQ), Mohawk Industries Inc (MHK), Nasdaq Inc (NDAQ), Newmont Corp (NEM), Pool Corp (POOL), Southwest Airlines Co (LUV), Textron Inc (TXT), Tractor Supply Co (TSCO), Union Pacific Corp (UNP), Valero Energy Corp (VLO), VeriSign Inc (VRSN), West Pharmaceutical Services Inc (WST), Westinghouse Air Brake Technol (WAB), Weyerhaeuser Co (WY).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

S&P 500 Climbs to a Record High on Positive Trade News

GE Vernova stock skyrocketed 14% to all-time highs following its beat-and-raise Q2 report on Wednesday morning. The post-earnings surge extended GEV’s YTD run to 90%, making it the second best-performing S&P 500 stock behind only Palantir.
GEV’s second quarter performance and outlook cemented its standing as one of the biggest long-term winners in the AI-boosted energy boom across nuclear, natural gas, electrification, and grid expansion.
AI Demand and the Nuclear Energy Bull Case
Wall Street has fallen head over heels for nuclear and next-generation energy stocks as power demand from artificial intelligence hyperscalers goes into hyperdrive. U.S. electricity demand remained flat at roughly 4,000 to 4,200 terawatt-hours since around 2010.
The AI boom marks a paradigm shift for energy needs after technology companies drove economic and stock market expansion in the post-financial crisis world without straining the grid.
Data centers could jump from 4% of total U.S. power demand in 2023 to 12% in 2030. This backdrop is why prices from the biggest U.S. power auction, held by grid operator PJM Interconnection, surged 22% to another new all-time high earlier this week.
The U.S. government aims to triple nuclear energy capacity by 2050, helping spur innovation by cutting red tape, increasing tax incentives, and more.
AI hyperscalers Meta, Amazon, Alphabet, and Microsoft have all raced to secure more nuclear power and made deals to speed up the next-gen nuclear tech, supported by their collective trillion-dollar balance sheet.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Nuclear energy stocks represent a direct investment in artificial intelligence, the expansion of energy infrastructure, and long-term economic growth.
Along with GEV, nuclear standouts Constellation Energy, Talen, Rolls-Royce, NuScale, and others have crushed the market in the last year. The Range Nuclear Renaissance Index ETF (NUKZ), which holds these stocks, along with many others, has climbed 130% since its debut in January 2024 to blow past the Nasdaq’s 36%.
Despite the strong performances of nuclear energy stocks in 2025 and over the last few years, investors can still get in near the ground floor of the AI-boosted nuclear energy renaissance, since it will be measured in decades.
Buy GEV Stock at All-Time Highs and Hold?
GE Vernova (GEV) is one of the most surefire investments in next-gen, AI-driven energy. The dividend-paying and share-repurchasing GE spinoff provides exposure to nuclear energy, electrification, natural gas, and the broader artificial intelligence infrastructure spending boom.
GEV boasts that its customers generate roughly 25% of global electricity via its installed base of technologies.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The company has provided nuclear turbine technologies and services for all reactor types for decades. Its GE Vernova Hitachi Nuclear Energy division is a leading provider of advanced nuclear reactors, fuel, and nuclear services.
Its BWRX-300 SMRs have a chance to be one of only a handful of potential big winners in small modular nuclear reactors. GE Vernova is working directly with power companies in the U.S. and Canada to deploy its next-gen nuclear tech by the early 2030s.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
GEV is also a natural gas giant. The company signed nine gigawatts of new gas equipment contracts during the second quarter, boosting its backlog to 29 GW. On top of that, its power conversion, energy storage, and grid solutions are growing.
AI-boosted electrification software helps secure its bull case. GE Vernova announced earlier this week its plans to acquire AI company Alteia, helping lift the appeal of GEV's grid software it sells to utilities.
GEV boosted its outlook across most of its key financial metrics on Wednesday, including free cash flow, margins, and revenue. Its CEO stressed that the U.S. and the world are still at the “beginning of an investment supercycle into more reliable baseload power, grid infrastructure and decarbonization solutions.”
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The stock has soared roughly 280% in the past year and 345% since its April 2024 IPO, outpacing Nvidia and many other pure-play AI stocks. GEV might face near-term selling pressure, meaning some traders could wait for a pullback to its 21-day or 50-day.
That said, the market-timing game is difficult, meaning long-term traders might want to buy the next-gen energy superstar now, and add more the next time it fades. Plus, GEV's improving financial position helped GE Vernova commit to buybacks and dividends.
Other Nuclear Energy Stocks to Buy for Long-Term Upside
Talen (TLN) is a leading independent power producer and infrastructure firm, with a portfolio that includes nuclear, natural gas, and more. Talen is one of the largest competitive power infrastructure companies in North America, and it’s secured deals with Amazon (AMZN) to supply nuclear power to its AI data centers.
TLN soared on Wednesday to new highs as part of a 180% run in the past 12 months. The recent climb came after it announced a big deal to buy natural gas plants late last week.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Talen’s $3.8 billion deal is expected to boost free cash flow per share by over 40% in 2026 and 50% through 2029. The acquisition also critically expands its annual generation capacity by 50% from 40 TWh to 60 TWh.
Talen’s deal highlights the soaring demand for power from Amazon and other AI companies. Despite its charge, the stock still trades 11% below its average Zacks price target and 11 of the 12 brokerage recommendations Zacks has are “Strong Buys.”
Rolls-Royce (RYCEY) cemented itself as a leader in cutting-edge nuclear energy technologies. The historic engine maker landed a potentially pivotal contract with the British government in June to build next-gen small modular reactors.
RYCEY stock skyrocketed over the last few years as Wall Street dives into the once-beaten-down industrial titan because its new CEO is focused on profits and streamlined growth.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The engine manufacturer and potential nuclear energy standout reached some of its lofty financial goals faster than it projected. Rolls-Royce also reinstated its dividend this year and announced stock buybacks.
RYCEY is projected to grow its adjusted earnings by 35% in 2025 and 20% next year, on 24% and 8%, respective sales growth. Its upward earnings revisions earn Rolls-Royce a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Despite skyrocketing 1,000% over the past three years, including a 91% run in 2025, Rolls-Royce trades 32% below its average Zacks price target and 35% below its all-time highs at around $13.60 a share.
RYCEY is on the cusp of breaking above a key technical trading range, and its valuation is impressive because of its strong earnings growth outlook.
5 Stocks Set to Double
Each was handpicked by a Zacks expert as the #1 favorite stock to gain +100% or more in the coming year. While not all picks can be winners, previous recommendations have soared +112%, +171%, +209% and +232%.
Most of the stocks in this report are flying under Wall Street radar, which provides a great opportunity to get in on the ground floor.
Today, See These 5 Potential Home Runs >>
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Buy GE Vernova and Soaring AI-Boosted Nuclear Energy Stocks?

In afternoon trading on Wednesday, Healthcare stocks are the best performing sector, up 1.9%. Within the sector, Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc (Symbol: TMO) and Moderna Inc (Symbol: MRNA) are two of the day's stand-outs, showing a gain of 11.0% and 6.6%, respectively. Among healthcare ETFs, one ETF following the sector is the Health Care Select Sector SPDR ETF (Symbol: XLV), which is up 1.7% on the day, and down 0.38% year-to-date. Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc, meanwhile, is down 8.56% year-to-date, and Moderna Inc, is down 16.05% year-to-date. Combined, TMO and MRNA make up approximately 3.8% of the underlying holdings of XLV.
The next best performing sector is the Industrial sector, up 1.3%. Among large Industrial stocks, GE Vernova Inc (Symbol: GEV) and TE Connectivity plc (Symbol: TEL) are the most notable, showing a gain of 13.1% and 10.3%, respectively. One ETF closely tracking Industrial stocks is the Industrial Select Sector SPDR ETF (XLI), which is up 1.6% in midday trading, and up 17.07% on a year-to-date basis. GE Vernova Inc, meanwhile, is up 88.99% year-to-date, and TE Connectivity plc is up 40.16% year-to-date. GEV makes up approximately 3.6% of the underlying holdings of XLI.
Comparing these stocks and ETFs on a trailing twelve month basis, below is a relative stock price performance chart, with each of the symbols shown in a different color as labeled in the legend at the bottom:
Here's a snapshot of how the S&P 500 components within the various sectors are faring in afternoon trading on Wednesday. As you can see, seven sectors are up on the day, while two sectors are down.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Wednesday Sector Leaders: Healthcare, Industrial

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is up +0.25%, the Dow Jones Industrials Index ($DOWI) (DIA) is up +0.45%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is down -0.14%. September E-mini S&P futures (ESU25) are up +0.26%, and September E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQU25) are down -0.15%.
Stock indexes today are mixed, with the Dow Jones Industrials posting a 2-week high. Stocks found support today on some positive trade news that has boosted market sentiment. President Trump announced a trade deal with Japan late Tuesday, which will impose 15% tariffs on imports from Japan, lower than the previously announced 25% rate set to take effect on August 1. The deal also creates a $550 billion fund for Japan to invest in the US. Japan also agreed to purchase 100 Boeing aircraft, increase its purchases of US rice by 75%, and buy $8 billion in other agricultural products, while raising its defense spending with American firms to $17 billion annually, from $14 billion.
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However, the Nasdaq 100 index is under pressure today due to weakness in auto-related chip makers, led by a -12% plunge in Texas Instruments after company executives on anearnings callsaid there isn’t a “true broad recovery” in the automotive sector, as automotive customers who ship into the US are cautious due to tariffs.
Today’s US economic news was bearish for stocks after June existing home sales fell -2.7% m/m to a 9-month low of 3.93 million, weaker than expectations of -0.7% to 4.00 million.
US MBA mortgage applications rose +0.8% in the week ended July 18, with the purchase mortgage sub-index up +3.4% and the refinancing sub-index down -2.6%. The average 30-year fixed rate mortgage rose +2 bp to 6.84% from 6.82% in the prior week.
Recent trade news has put some downward pressure on stocks. Last Wednesday, President Trump announced that he intends to send a tariff letter to more than 150 countries, notifying them that their tariff rates could be 10% or 15%, effective August 1. Also, President Trump recently announced that the US will impose 30% tariffs on US imports from the European Union and Mexico, effective August 1. In addition, Mr. Trump said that a 35% tariff on some Canadian products would take effect on August 1, up from the current 25%.
The markets this week will focus on any tariff news along with the announcement of any new trade deals. After today’s close, Alphabet and Tesla will release their quarterly earnings. On Thursday, weekly initial unemployment claims are expected to climb by +5,000 to 226,000. Also, the July S&P US manufacturing PMI is expected to slip -0.2 to 52.7. Finally, on Thursday, June new home sales are expected to climb +4.3% m/m to 650,000. On Friday, June capital goods new orders nondefense ex-aircraft and parts are expected to increase by +0.2% m/m.
Federal funds futures prices are discounting the chances for a -25 bp rate cut at 5% at the July 29-30 FOMC meeting and 58% at the following meeting on September 16-17.
The markets are absorbing a heavy slate of quarterly corporate earnings results this week. About one-fifth of the companies in the S&P 500 are expected to report their Q2 earnings results this week. Early results now show S&P 500 earnings are on track to rise +3.2% for the second quarter, better than the pre-season expectations of +2.8% y/y, according to Bloomberg Intelligence. Also, only six of the eleven S&P 500 sectors are projected to post an increase in earnings, the fewest since Q1 of 2023, according to Yardeni Research.
Overseas stock markets today are higher. The Euro Stoxx 50 is up +0.88%. China’s Shanghai Composite rose to a new 9.5-month high and closed up +0.01%. Japan’s Nikkei Stock 225 rallied to a 1-year high and closed up sharply by +3.51%.
Interest Rates
September 10-year T-notes (ZNU25) today are down -8 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield is up +3.0 bp to 4.374%. T-notes are retreating today after the announcement of a trade deal between Japan and the US reduced safe-haven demand for government debt. Supply pressures are also weighing on T-notes as the Treasury will auction $13 billion of 20-year T-bonds later today.
Losses in T-notes are contained after US existing home sales fell more than expected to a 9-month low, a dovish factor for Fed policy. T-note prices also have support as the US 10-year breakeven inflation rate fell to a 1-week low today of 2.386%.
European government bond yields today are moving higher. The 10-year German bund yield is up +1.4 bp to 2.604%. The 10-year UK gilt yield is up +4.2 bp to 4.611%.
Swaps are discounting the chances at 2% for a -25 bp rate cut by the ECB at Thursday’s policy meeting.
US Stock Movers
Power producers are climbing today after PJM Interconnection LLC predicted that the AI boom will prompt businesses and households served by the largest US power grid to spend a record $16.1 billion to ensure electricity supplies, which could support utility profit margins. Talen Energy (TLN) is up more than +8% and Vistra (VST) is up more than +6%. Also, NRG Energy (NRG) is up more than +5% and Constellation Group (CEG) is up more than +4%.
Weakness in shares of automotive and industrial chipmakers is limiting gains in the Nasdaq 100, with Texas Instruments (TXN) down more than -12% to lead losers in the Nasdaq 100 after company executives on anearnings callsaid there isn’t a “true broad recovery” in the automotive sector as automotive customers who ship into the US are cautious due to tariffs. Also, ON Semiconductor (ON) is down more than -7% and Microchip Technology (MCHP) is down more than -6%. In addition, NXP Semiconductors (NXPI), Analog Devices (ADI), and Global Foundries (GFS) are down more than -2%.
Lamb Weston Holdings (LW) is up more than +20% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 after reporting Q4 net sales of $1.68 billion, stronger than the consensus of $1.59 billion.
GE Vernova (GEV) is up more than +14% after reporting Q2 revenue of $9.11 billion, stronger than the consensus of $8.80 billion.
Thermo Fisher Scientific (TMO) is up more than +13% after reporting Q2 revenue of $10.86 billion, above the consensus of $10.69 billion, and forecasting full-year sales of $43.6 billion-$44.2 billion, the midpoint above the consensus of $43.7 billion.
Lennox International (LII) is up more than +9% after reporting Q2 adjusted EPS of $7.82, well above the consensus of $6.89.
TE Connectivity Plc (TEL) is up more than +8% after reporting Q3 net sales of $4.53 billion, better than the consensus of $4.33 billion, and forecasting Q4 net sales of $4.55 billion, above the consensus of $4.42 billion.
Baker Hughes (BKR) is up more than +7% to lead gainers in the Nasdaq 100 after reporting Q2 revenue of $6.91 billion, stronger than the consensus of $6.64 billion.
Capital One Financial (COF) is up more than +1% after reporting Q2 net revenue of $12.49 billion, above the consensus of $11.84 billion.
Fiserv (FI) is down more than -17% to lead losers in the S&P 500 after reporting Q2 organic revenue grew +8.00%, below the consensus of +8.91%.
Otis Worldwide (OTIS) is down more than -11% after reporting Q2 net sales of $3.60 billion, below the consensus of $3.71 million, and cutting its full-year net sales forecast to $114.5 billion to $14.6 billion from a previous estimate of $14.6 billion to $14.8 billion, weaker than the consensus of $14.72 billion.
Teledyne Technologies (TDY) is down more than -5% after forecasting full-year adjusted EPS of $21.20-$21.50, the midpoint below the consensus of $21.42.
Unity Software (U) is down more than -3% after BTIG downgraded the stock to sell from neutral with a price target of $25.
Northern Trust Corp (NTRS) is down more than -3% after reporting Q2 provision for credit losses of $16.5 million, well above the consensus of $4.31 million.
Hilton Worldwide Holdings (HLT) is down more than -1% after cutting its full-year net income forecast to $1.64 billion to $1.68 billion from a previous forecast of $1.71 billion to $1.75 billion.
Earnings Reports (7/23/2025)
Alphabet Inc (GOOGL), Amphenol Corp (APH), AT&T Inc (T), Boston Scientific Corp (BSX), Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc (CMG), CME Group Inc (CME), Crown Castle Inc (CCI), CSX Corp (CSX), Fiserv Inc (FI), Freeport-McMoRan Inc (FCX), GE Vernova Inc (GEV), General Dynamics Corp (GD), Globe Life Inc (GL), Hasbro Inc (HAS), Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc (HLT), International Business Machine (IBM), Lamb Weston Holdings Inc (LW), Las Vegas Sands Corp (LVS), Lennox International Inc (LII), Molina Healthcare Inc (MOH), Moody’s Corp (MCO), NextEra Energy Inc (NEE), Northern Trust Corp (NTRS), NVR Inc (NVR), O’Reilly Automotive Inc (ORLY), Otis Worldwide Corp (OTIS), Packaging Corp of America (PKG), Raymond James Financial Inc (RJF), Rollins Inc (ROL), ServiceNow Inc (NOW), TE Connectivity PLC (TEL), Teledyne Technologies Inc (TDY), Tesla Inc (TSLA), Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc (TMO), T-Mobile US Inc (TMUS), United Rentals Inc (URI).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Easing Trade Tensions Boost Stocks but Chip Stocks Slide

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is up +0.27%, the Dow Jones Industrials Index ($DOWI) (DIA) is up +0.45%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is down -0.17%. September E-mini S&P futures (ESU25) are up +0.21%, and September E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQU25) are down -0.15%.
Stock indexes today are mixed, with the Dow Jones Industrials posting a 2-week high. Stocks found support today on some positive trade news that has boosted market sentiment. President Trump announced a trade deal with Japan late Tuesday, which will impose 15% tariffs on imports from Japanese, lower than the previously announced 25% rate set to take effect on August 1. The deal also creates a $550 billion fund for Japan to invest in the US. Japan also agreed to purchase 100 Boeing aircraft, increase its purchases of US rice by 75%, and buy $8 billion in other agricultural products, while raising its defense spending with American firms to $17 billion annually, from $14 billion.
Join 200K+ Subscribers: Find out why the midday Barchart Brief newsletter is a must-read for thousands daily.
However, the Nasdaq 100 index is under pressure today due to weakness in auto-related chip makers, with Texas Instruments down more than -10% after company executives on anearnings callsaid there isn’t a "true broad recovery" in the automotive sector as automotive customers who ship into the US are cautious due to tariffs.
US MBA mortgage applications rose +0.8% in the week ended July 18, with the purchase mortgage sub-index up +3.4% and the refinancing sub-index down -2.6%. The average 30-year fixed rate mortgage rose +2 bp to 6.84% from 6.82% in the prior week.
Recent trade news has put some downward pressure on stocks. Last Wednesday, President Trump announced that he intends to send a tariff letter to more than 150 countries, notifying them that their tariff rates could be 10% or 15%, effective August 1. Also, President Trump recently announced that the US will impose 30% tariffs on US imports from the European Union and Mexico, effective August 1. In addition, Mr. Trump said that a 35% tariff on some Canadian products would take effect on August 1, up from the current 25%.
The markets this week will focus on any tariff news along with the announcement of any new trade deals. Later today, Jun existing home sales are expected to fall -0.7% m/m to 4.00 million. After today's close, Alphabet and Tesla will release their quarterly earnings. On Thursday, weekly initial unemployment claims are expected to climb by +5,000 to 226,000. Also, the July S&P US manufacturing PMI is expected to slip -0.2 to 52.7. Finally, on Thursday, June new home sales are expected to climb +4.3% m/m to 650,000. On Friday, June capital goods new orders nondefense ex-aircraft and parts are expected to increase by +0.2% m/m.
Federal funds futures prices are discounting the chances for a -25 bp rate cut at 3% at the July 29-30 FOMC meeting and 58% at the following meeting on September 16-17.
The markets are absorbing a heavy slate of quarterly corporate earnings results this week. About one-fifth of the companies in the S&P 500 are expected to report their Q2 earnings results this week. Early results now show S&P 500 earnings are on track to rise +3.2% for the second quarter, better than the pre-season expectations of +2.8% y/y, according to Bloomberg Intelligence. Also, only six of the eleven S&P 500 sectors are projected to post an increase in earnings, the fewest since Q1 of 2023, according to Yardeni Research.
Overseas stock markets today are higher. The Euro Stoxx 50 is up +1.04%. China's Shanghai Composite rose to a new 9.5-month high and closed up +0.01%. Japan's Nikkei Stock 225 rallied to a 1-year high and closed up sharply by +3.51%.
Interest Rates
September 10-year T-notes (ZNU25) today are down -7 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield is up +2.8 bp to 4.372%. T-notes are retreating today after the announcement of a trade deal between Japan and the US reduced safe-haven demand for government debt. Supply pressures are also weighing on T-notes as the Treasury will auction $13 billion of 20-year T-bonds later today. Easing inflation expectations are limiting losses in T-notes as the US 10-year breakeven inflation rate fell to a 1-week low today of 2.388%.
European government bond yields today are moving higher. The 10-year German bund yield is up +1.8 bp to 2.608%. The 10-year UK gilt yield is up +4.4 bp to 4.613%.
Swaps are discounting the chances at 2% for a -25 bp rate cut by the ECB at Thursday's policy meeting.
US Stock Movers
Power producers are climbing today after PJM Interconnection LLC predicted that the AI boom will prompt businesses and households served by the largest US power grid to spend a record $16.1 billion to ensure electricity supplies, which could support utility profit margins. Vistra (VST) is up more than +8% and Constellation Group (CEG) is up more than +6% to lead gainers in the Nasdaq 100. Also, Talen Energy (TLN) is up more than +7%, and NRG Energy (NRG) is up more than +5%.
Weakness in shares of automotive and industrial chipmakers is limiting gains in the Nasdaq 100, with Texas Instruments (TXN) down more than -12% to lead losers in the Nasdaq 100 after company executives on anearnings callsaid there isn’t a "true broad recovery" in the automotive sector as automotive customers who ship into the US are cautious due to tariffs. Also, Microchip Technology (MCHP) is down more than -8%, ON Semiconductor (ON) is down more than -5%, and NXP Semiconductors (NXPI) and Analog Devices (ADI) are down more than -3%. In addition, Global Foundries (GFS) is down more than -2%.
Lamb Weston Holdings (LW) is up more than +15% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 after reporting Q4 net sales of $1.68 billion, stronger than the consensus of $1.59 billion.
GE Vernova (GEV) is up more than +11% after reporting Q2 revenue of $9.11 billion, stronger than the consensus of $8.80 billion.
Thermo Fisher Scientific (TMO) is up more than +10% after reporting Q2 revenue of $10.86 billion, above the consensus of $10.69 billion, and forecasting full-year sales of $43.6 billion-$44.2 billion, the midpoint above the consensus of $43.7 billion.
Lennox International (LII) is up more than +9% after reporting Q2 adjusted EPS of $7.82, well above the consensus of $6.89.
TE Connectivity Plc (TEL) is up more than +8% after reporting Q3 net sales of $4.53 billion, better than the consensus of $4.33 billion, and forecasting Q4 net sales of $4.55 billion, above the consensus of $4.42 billion.
Manhattan Associates (MANH) is up more than +15% after reporting Q2 revenue of $272.4 million, better than the consensus of $263.7 million, and boosting its full-year revenue forecast to $1.07 billion-$1.08 billion from a previous forecast of $1.06 billion-$1.07 billion, higher than the consensus of $1.06 billion.
Capital One Financial (COF) is up more than +3% after reporting Q2 net revenue of $12.49 billion, above the consensus of $11.84 billion.
Fiserv (FI) is down more than -20% to lead losers in the S&P 500 after reporting Q2 organic revenue grew +8.00%, below the consensus of +8.91%.
Otis Worldwide (OTIS) is down more than -11% after reporting Q2 net sales of $3.60 billion, below the consensus of $3.71 million, and cutting its full-year net sales forecast to $114.5 billion to $14.6 billion from a previous estimate of $14.6 billion to $14.8 billion, weaker than the consensus of $14.72 billion.
Unity Software (U) is down more than -4% after BTIG downgraded the stock to sell from neutral with a price target of $25.
Northern Trust Corp (NTRS) is down more than -3% after reporting Q2 provision for credit losses of $16.5 million, well above the consensus of $4.31 million.
AT&T (T) is down more than -1% after forecasting full-year adjusted EPS of $1.97-$2.07, below the consensus of $2.09.
Hilton Worldwide Holdings (HLT) is down more than -1% after cutting its full-year net income forecast to $1.64 billion to $1.68 billion from a previous forecast of $1.71 billion to $1.75 billion.
Earnings Reports (7/23/2025)
Alphabet Inc (GOOGL), Amphenol Corp (APH), AT&T Inc (T), Boston Scientific Corp (BSX), Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc (CMG), CME Group Inc (CME), Crown Castle Inc (CCI), CSX Corp (CSX), Fiserv Inc (FI), Freeport-McMoRan Inc (FCX), GE Vernova Inc (GEV), General Dynamics Corp (GD), Globe Life Inc (GL), Hasbro Inc (HAS), Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc (HLT), International Business Machine (IBM), Lamb Weston Holdings Inc (LW), Las Vegas Sands Corp (LVS), Lennox International Inc (LII), Molina Healthcare Inc (MOH), Moody's Corp (MCO), NextEra Energy Inc (NEE), Northern Trust Corp (NTRS), NVR Inc (NVR), O'Reilly Automotive Inc (ORLY), Otis Worldwide Corp (OTIS), Packaging Corp of America (PKG), Raymond James Financial Inc (RJF), Rollins Inc (ROL), ServiceNow Inc (NOW), TE Connectivity PLC (TEL), Teledyne Technologies Inc (TDY), Tesla Inc (TSLA), Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc (TMO), T-Mobile US Inc (TMUS), United Rentals Inc (URI).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Stocks Supported as US Announces a Trade Deal with Japan

The S&P 500 Index is witnessing a strong rally, with a record high close for the third straight session. The benchmark hit a new milestone of 6,300 on July 21, driven by optimism over strong second-quarter results and signs of economic resilience, even as uncertainty around U.S. trade policy persists.
SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust SPY, the proxy version of the S&P 500 Index, has gained 8% so far this year. While many stocks in the ETF have performed well, we have highlighted five stocks that have gained more than 60% so far this year. These are Palantir Technologies Inc. PLTR, NRG Energy Inc. NRG, Seagate Technology STX, Howmet Aerospace Inc. HWM and GE Vernova GEV.
Let’s take a closer look at the key drivers behind the market rally:
Strong Corporate Earnings
The second-quarter earnings season is off to a robust start, with companies not only beating estimates but also providing a favorable outlook for current business trends, which should help solidify earnings expectations for the third quarter and beyond. Earnings of the 62 S&P 500 companies that have reported so far are up 9.3% from the same period last year on 5.8% higher revenues, with 82.3% beating EPS estimates and an equal proportion beating revenue estimates, per Earnings Trend report.
Among the Mag 7, Tesla TSLA and Alphabet GOOGL will report results today. Total Q2 earnings are expected to be up 11.7% on 11.3% higher revenues (read: 5 Sector ETFs Set to Power Q2 Earnings Growth).
AI Boom and Tech Leadership
The ongoing AI boom continues to fuel enthusiasm for large-cap tech stocks, which have an outsized influence on the S&P 500. Investors are betting on long-term growth in AI applications across industries, boosting demand for semiconductors, cloud computing and software platforms.
Fed Rate Cut Hopes
Investor sentiment has also been lifted by increasing confidence that the Fed may begin cutting interest rates by the end of 2025.
Resilient U.S. Economy
Despite global uncertainty, the U.S. economy has shown surprising strength. June retail sales exceeded expectations, and unemployment remains near historic lows. This economic resilience is giving investors confidence that earnings growth can be sustained into the second half of the year.
Let’s take a closer look at the fundamentals of SPY and the stocks behind this rally.
SPY in Focus
SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust holds 503 stocks in its basket, with each accounting for no more than 7.6% of the assets. This suggests a nice balance across each security and prevents heavy concentration. The fund is widely spread across sectors, with information technology, financials and consumer discretionary accounting for a double-digit allocation each.
SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust has an AUM of $649.8 billion and charges 9 bps in fees per year. It trades in an average daily volume of 71 million shares and has a Zacks ETF Rank #2 (Buy) with a Medium risk outlook (see: all the Large Cap Blend ETFs here).
Best-Performing Stocks of SPY
Palantir Technologies builds and deploys software platforms for the intelligence community, principally in the United States. The stock has jumped more than 97% so far this year and has an estimated earnings growth rate of 41.5% for 2025. Palantir Technologies has a Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell) and a Growth Score of A.
NRG Energy is engaged in the production, sale and delivery of energy and energy products and services to residential, industrial as well as commercial consumers in major competitive power markets in the United States. The stock saw a solid earnings estimate revision of four cents over the past seven days for this year and has an estimated growth rate of 17.6%. NRG Energy has soared about 70.6% so far this year and has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Seagate Technology is a leading provider of data storage technology and infrastructure solutions. The company’s primary product offering is hard disk drives, which are commonly referred to as disk drives, hard drives or HDDs. The stock saw a positive earnings estimate revision of 16 cents over the past month for the fiscal year (June 2026) and has an estimated growth of 26.3%. Seagate Technology has jumped about 70% this year and has a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Howmet Aerospace provides engineered solutions for customers in the transportation and aerospace (both defense and commercial) industries. The stock has risen 67.6% this year and saw positive earnings estimate revision of a penny for this year over the past month. Howmet Aerospace has an expected earnings growth rate of 29% for this year and a Zacks Rank #3.
GE Vernova is an energy company that includes Power, Wind and Electrification segments and is supported by its accelerator businesses of Advanced Research, Consulting Services and Financial Services. The stock has climbed 66.9% so far this year. GE Vernova saw a solid earnings estimate revision of 22 cents over the past month for this year and has an estimated growth rate of 32.3%. The stock has a Zacks Rank #3.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

5 Stocks Powering the S&P 500 ETF So Far in 2025

In early trading on Wednesday, shares of Lamb Weston Holdings topped the list of the day's best performing components of the S&P 500 index, trading up 14.0%. Year to date, Lamb Weston Holdings Inc has lost about 16.1% of its value.
And the worst performing S&P 500 component thus far on the day is Fiserv, trading down 21.2%. Fiserv is lower by about 36.3% looking at the year to date performance.
Two other components making moves today are Otis Worldwide, trading down 13.5%, and GE Vernova, trading up 12.4% on the day.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

GE Vernova Inc.

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