Core Insights - Small-cap investing requires patience and selectivity, especially during market volatility, with companies that have visible revenue streams and disciplined cost structures remaining anchored to fundamentals [1] Economic Environment - The U.S. economy is experiencing uneven growth across sectors, influenced by shifting consumer behavior and the current tariff landscape, with small-cap companies being more sensitive to changes in demand and capital spending [2] Small-Cap Growth Candidates for 2026 - A structured approach identifies small-cap companies with Zacks Ranks 1 (Strong Buy) or 2 (Buy), emphasizing Growth and Value Scores of A or B, along with expectations for year-over-year sales and earnings growth in 2026 [3] Company Analysis EverQuote, Inc. (EVER) - EverQuote operates an online marketplace for insurance, primarily in the auto insurance sector, with a market capitalization of approximately $980 million [5] - The company has seen a revenue increase of approximately 41% year over year, benefiting from higher carrier engagement and improved revenue per quote request [6] - EverQuote is focused on product innovation and aims to surpass $1 billion in annual revenues by 2026, supported by increased carrier spending [7] - Year-to-date, EverQuote stock has gained 34.3%, with a Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 EPS increasing to $1.74, indicating expected earnings growth of 19.1% [11] Orion Group Holdings, Inc. (ORN) - Orion Group, with a market capitalization of approximately $410 million, focuses on marine and concrete services for infrastructure projects [12] - The company reported a revenue increase of approximately 7% year over year, supported by steady execution and a healthy opportunity pipeline [13] - Orion Group's stock has gained 40.2% year to date, with a Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 earnings increasing to 27 cents, indicating expected earnings growth of 44.7% [17] Standard Motor Products, Inc. (SMP) - Standard Motor, with a market capitalization of approximately $855 million, operates in the automotive replacement parts market, focusing on nondiscretionary repair categories [18] - The company experienced a 25.5% year-over-year increase in consolidated sales, driven by solid aftermarket demand and contributions from the Nissens acquisition [19] - Standard Motor's stock has gained 25.4% year to date, with a Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 earnings increasing to $4.31, reflecting expected earnings growth of 10% [23]