Core Insights - Small-cap stocks are gaining significant attention, with some stocks in the iShares Russell 2000 ETF experiencing massive gains this year, outperforming larger-cap stocks like Nvidia and Palantir [1][2]. Small-Cap Performance - The iShares Russell 2000 ETF has increased by 11.2% this year, although it still lags behind the S&P 500 [2]. - On September 18, the Russell 2000 index reached an all-time high for the first time since March 15, 2021, ending a streak of 967 trading days without a new high, which is the second longest in the index's history [3]. Notable Small-Cap Stocks - The Oncology Institute (TOI) has seen a remarkable rise of 1,064% this year, increasing from 31 cents to $3.60 per share [3]. - Better Home & Finance (BETR) and ThredUp (TDUP) also performed well, with gains of 602.6% and 578.1% respectively [7]. - ThredUp is valued at over $1.1 billion and is expected to lose 24 cents per share this year, yet its stock price has risen to $9.44 [5]. Market Dynamics - Many small-cap stocks started the year with low share prices, leading to substantial percentage increases with even small dollar gains [3]. - The average stock in the Russell 2000 index now trades for $37 per share, indicating a shift in market dynamics as small stocks rally [6].