The 2026 picks emphasize stocks in small- and mid-cap indexes where valuations are closer to historical norms, contrasted with the S&P 500, which analysts view as relatively expensive.
Raymond James' core high-conviction list for 2026, known as the , was released in late 2025 and features 18 stocks chosen for their strong potential to outperform the S&P 500. The 2026 strategy shifts away from traditional AI giants toward high-quality, attractively valued mid- and small-cap stocks across financials, consumer services, and healthcare. Raymond James Analysts' Best Picks for 2026 raymond james strong buy list
Upgraded from Outperform to Strong Buy on April 27, 2026, with a raised price target of $27.00. The 2026 picks emphasize stocks in small- and
The following stocks represent the firm's top "Strong Buy" recommendations for the year: Stock Name Healthcare Chubb Ltd. Financials Coherent Corp. Information Technology Construction Partners Industrials Crown Castle Real Estate DoorDash Inc. Consumer Discretionary Expand Energy Corp. First Citizens BancShares Financials Globe Life Financials Intercontinental Exchange Financials Jack Henry & Associates Information Technology Karman Space & Defense Industrials Mohawk Industries Consumer Discretionary nCino Inc. Information Technology NRG Energy Public Storage Real Estate Shake Shack Inc. Consumer Discretionary CDW Corporation Information Technology Sources: Raymond James Best Picks 2026 List , CNBC Report . Recent April 2026 Updates Raymond James Analysts' Best Picks for 2026 Upgraded
Beyond the annual list, Raymond James analysts have issued fresh "Strong Buy" upgrades this month for:
Analysts highlight that while the "AI revolution" continues, leadership is broadening to the "enablers"—industrials and consumer discretionary companies that provide the physical backbone for AI.