10 Best-Performing S&P 500 Stocks in the Last 2 Years

Core Insights - The article discusses the best-performing S&P 500 stocks over the last two years amidst current geopolitical tensions affecting market direction [1][3]. Group 1: Market Performance - On March 5, major U.S. stock indices experienced declines, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropping 1,034 points, the S&P 500 falling 1.3%, and the Nasdaq Composite decreasing by 1.1% [2]. - Crude oil prices surged following Iran's missile attack on an oil tanker, contributing to market volatility [2]. - The geopolitical situation has led to a shift in investment strategies, with diversification into European and Asian markets becoming popular as these international stocks have outperformed the S&P 500 [2]. Group 2: Stock Selection Methodology - The article outlines a methodology for selecting S&P 500 stocks, focusing on those with the highest hedge fund holdings as of Q4 2025 and analyzing their two-year performance [5]. - Stocks with over 100% returns were shortlisted, and the final selection was limited to companies with recent noteworthy developments likely to impact investor sentiment [5]. Group 3: Texas Pacific Land Corporation (NYSE: TPL) - KeyBanc raised the price target for Texas Pacific Land Corporation from $350 to $639, maintaining an Overweight rating due to strong dynamics in its water segment and developments in power generation and data centers [8]. - The firm noted a significant power generation build-out in the Permian Basin, indicating that developments in power and data centers are becoming more imminent [9]. - Texas Pacific Land Corporation plans capital expenditures between $65 million and $75 million for the year, focusing on water management and desalination technologies [10]. Group 4: Newmont Corporation (NYSE: NEM) - BofA increased the price target for Newmont Corporation from $134 to $151, reiterating a Buy rating as part of a broader adjustment for North American Metals & Mining stocks [12]. - Bernstein upgraded Newmont to Outperform and raised its price target from $121 to $157, citing a bullish outlook on gold and several positive catalysts for the company [13]. - As of March 5, 81% of analysts covering Newmont recommend it as a buy, with a median price target reflecting a 21.52% upside potential [14].