The Motley Fool·2025-12-21 10:30Core Viewpoint - The "Magnificent Seven" stocks have shown mixed performance in 2025, with varying potential for 2026, leading to a ranking of these stocks from avoid to strong buys [1]. Group 1: Stock Rankings and Performance - Nvidia is ranked as the top stock, expected to continue strong growth due to its position as a primary supplier for AI computing, with anticipated capital expenditures in data centers rising significantly [21][22]. - Alphabet follows, having experienced over 60% growth in 2025, driven by advancements in AI and a strong core business in Google Search, positioning it well for 2026 [17][20]. - Amazon, despite a poor performance in 2025 with only a 3% stock rise, is expected to rebound in 2026, particularly due to growth in its AWS and advertising services [15][16]. - Meta Platforms had a strong 2025 until Q3 earnings, with a 26% revenue increase attributed to AI, but concerns over capital expenditures may impact its performance [13][14]. - Microsoft is positioned for impressive growth in 2026, benefiting from investments in OpenAI and its cloud computing services, with a 14% increase in stock value in 2025 [11][12]. - Tesla is ranked lower due to challenges from the end of EV tax credits and shrinking margins, suggesting it may be wise to avoid this stock in 2026 [7][10]. - Apple ranks last, with stagnant revenue growth and a high stock price relative to earnings, indicating underperformance potential in 2026 [3][6]. Group 2: Financial Metrics and Market Insights - Nvidia's GPUs are in high demand, with expectations of record-setting capital expenditures in the AI sector, indicating a strong market position [21][22]. - Alphabet's market cap stands at $3.7 trillion, with a gross margin of 59.18%, reflecting its robust financial health [19][20]. - Amazon's market cap is $2.4 trillion, with AWS growth at 20% and advertising services at 24% growth in Q4, highlighting its operational strengths [16]. - Microsoft has a market cap of $3.6 trillion and a gross margin of 68.76%, showcasing its profitability and growth potential [12]. - Meta's revenue growth of 26% in 2025 demonstrates its ability to leverage AI, although future capital expenditures remain a concern [14]. - Tesla's margins have declined, impacting its earnings per share, which suggests a need for strategic adjustments [7][10].