Prediction: 2 Magnificent Companies That Can Kick Off 2026 With a Historic Stock-Split Announcement

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the potential for two major companies, Meta Platforms and Goldman Sachs, to announce their first-ever stock splits, which could significantly impact their stock prices and investor sentiment in 2026 [2][8]. Group 1: Stock Splits Overview - A stock split allows a company to change its share count and price without affecting its market capitalization or operational performance [3]. - Forward splits are generally viewed positively by investors, while reverse splits are often associated with struggling companies [4][6]. - Historically, companies that conduct forward splits have outperformed the S&P 500 in the 12 months following the announcement [7]. Group 2: Meta Platforms - Meta Platforms, part of the "Magnificent Seven," has never completed a stock split, with shares fluctuating between $600 and $800 in 2025 [9]. - Over 29% of Meta's outstanding shares are held by retail investors, indicating a strong incentive for a stock split [11]. - Meta's growth trajectory and substantial cash reserves, nearing $44.5 billion, position it well for a stock split to attract more retail investors [15][12]. Group 3: Goldman Sachs - Goldman Sachs has also never split its stock, with shares rising from $60 to $879 over 26 years [19]. - More than 30% of Goldman Sachs' shares are held by retail investors, suggesting a potential need for a stock split [20]. - As a key component of the Dow Jones Industrial Average, a stock split could reduce its influence within the index, but long-term growth prospects may necessitate a split [21][22].