Core Insights - The article discusses the performance and potential of SMID-cap stocks in 2025, highlighting their current underperformance compared to large-cap stocks and the expectations for future growth [2][3][4]. Market Overview - SMID-cap stocks have year-to-date total returns of approximately 3% for small caps and 1% for mid-caps, while the S&P 500 Index has returned over 12% [2]. - Expectations for SMID-cap stocks are positive, with forecasts indicating a shift from low-single-digit earnings growth this year to low-double-digit growth by 2026 [4]. Analyst Insights - Scott Chronert from Citi emphasizes the potential for SMID-cap equities as investors seek growth opportunities beyond large-cap stocks, particularly in light of improving earnings forecasts [3][4]. - The article notes that historical performance shows small caps tend to outperform large caps during periods of monetary policy easing, with an average outperformance of 6% in the 12 months following the first rate cut since 1979 [6]. Stock Selection Methodology - The selection of the hottest SMID-cap stocks involved screening U.S.-based stocks with market capitalizations between $300 million and $10 billion, focusing on those with year-to-date returns exceeding 100% and significant hedge fund interest [8][9]. Featured Stocks - Viasat Inc. (NASDAQ:VSAT) has shown a year-to-date total return of 257.9%, with a market cap of $4.1 billion and 37 hedge fund holders. The stock's rise is attributed to positive analyst ratings and potential strategic moves to unlock shareholder value [10][11][14]. - Centrus Energy Corp. (NYSEAMERICAN:LEU) has a year-to-date total return of 262.3%, with a market cap of $4.4 billion and 27 hedge fund holders. The stock's performance is linked to the U.S. government's push for increased nuclear energy capacity and domestic uranium mining [15][17][19].