With the first half of 2025 now behind us, the stock market has seen its share of volatility.
However, several standout performers have delivered impressive returns, driven by a combination of artificial intelligence (AI) momentum, strength in the energy sector, and bold corporate strategies.
Leading the pack is Palantir (NASDAQ: PLTR), which has posted a remarkable 80.07% year-to-date return, significantly outperforming the broader market. The company’s surge has been fueled by its growing role in AI and its expanding government business.
Palantir’s Foundry software platform continues to gain adoption across various industries. At the same time, strategic moves, such as a partnership with Accenture and involvement in modernizing a nuclear power plant, have further solidified its position as a major player in the AI space.
Investor confidence has also been boosted by Palantir’s expanding list of government contracts, including key deals with the Department of Defense and other federal agencies.
Close behind is NRG Energy (NYSE: NRG), which gained 77.99% in the first half of the year. The company’s rally has been underpinned by strong Q1 earnings and the acquisition of natural gas power plants from LS Power, an expansion that significantly increased its generation capacity.
As AI-related data centers drive up electricity demand, NRG is well-positioned to meet the need. In the first quarter, the company reported $750 million in net income and adjusted EPS of $2.68, marking an 84% year-over-year increase. A series of analyst upgrades also helped propel the stock.
Other big H1 stock winners
Howmet Aerospace (NYSE: HWM) delivered a strong 71.90% return, capitalizing on the global rebound in air travel and rising demand for aircraft components.
Seagate Technology (NASDAQ: STX) surged 66.20%, benefiting from the growing need for data storage solutions to support AI infrastructure. Similarly, Supermicro jumped 60.92% on the back of its vital role in building AI-optimized servers.
GE Vernova (NYSE: GEV), the clean energy spin-off from General Electric, climbed 60.87% amid growing investor interest in renewables and grid modernization. Newmont followed with a 56.52% gain, driven by rising gold prices fueled by inflation concerns and a weaker dollar.
Uber (NYSE: UBER) rose 54.71%, benefiting from continued strength in its mobility and delivery businesses, while GE Aerospace (NYSE: GE) advanced 54.54% on strong demand across commercial and defense aviation.
On the other hand, CVS Health (NYSE: CVS) gained 53.00%, lifted by restructuring efforts and a broader push into healthcare services. Rounding out the list, Jabil (NYSE: JBL) rose 51.47%, supported by steady demand in consumer electronics and automotive markets.
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