10 of the Best Stocks to Buy for 2025: Expert Picks to Watch
As the stock market continues to reach new heights in 2025, investors face a complex landscape marked by geopolitical tensions, fluctuating federal policies, and economic growth uncertainties. Against this backdrop, expert analysts from Argus Research have identified ten standout stocks that are poised to perform well this year. These selections come with strong buy ratings, positive consensus reviews, and promising growth potential.
Here’s an in-depth look at the top 10 stocks recommended for 2025:
1. Zions Bancorp. NA (Ticker: ZION)
Market Cap: $8.1 billion
Zions Bancorp. is a leading regional bank operating across the western United States, including key states like Utah, California, and Texas. Its well-known banking brands include Zions Bank, California Bank & Trust, and Amegy Bank. Despite industry-wide challenges related to trade policies and macroeconomic conditions, Argus analyst Kevin Heal highlights Zions’ attractive valuation, robust capital reserves, and a healthy loan-to-deposit ratio that positions the bank for growth. The stock closed at $55.16 on July 7, with a price target of $55 and a "buy" rating.
2. Fastenal Co. (Ticker: FAST)
Market Cap: $48.6 billion
Fastenal is a prominent industrial distributor specializing in fasteners, safety supplies, and supply chain solutions primarily for manufacturing and construction sectors. Analyst Kristina Ruggeri notes that Fastenal’s Onsite distribution centers, situated close to customer facilities, are crucial to sustaining growth amid inflation and challenging market conditions. The company’s technological innovations are expected to boost market share, especially as the fasteners market shows signs of recovery. FAST stock was trading at $42.47 on July 7, with a price target of $90 and a strong "buy" outlook.
3. CME Group Inc. (Ticker: CME)
Market Cap: $101.4 billion
CME Group manages the world’s largest futures exchange, encompassing the Chicago Mercantile Exchange among others. The firm benefits from increased demand for interest-rate contracts due to tariffs, inflation fears, and geopolitical volatility. Analyst Kevin Heal suggests that CME’s ability to manage costs and the sustained market volatility will drive earnings multiple growth. The stock closed at $282.55, with a price target of $308 and a "buy" rating.
4. State Street Corp. (Ticker: STT)
Market Cap: $31.3 billion
State Street is a global leader in asset management and investment research services. Following the cancellation of a major acquisition, the company launched a $5 billion share buyback program. Analyst Stephen Biggar praises State Street’s adaptability moving from active to passive investment strategies and is optimistic about its integrated platform, State Street Alpha. STT stock closed at $109.76, with a target price of $94 and a strong "buy" recommendation.
5. JPMorgan Chase & Co. (Ticker: JPM)
Market Cap: $795.6 billion
One of the world’s largest banks, JPMorgan Chase manages assets totaling about $4 trillion. The bank’s acquisition of First Republic Bank has provided a boost in healthy deposit and loan assets, as well as an expanded high-net-worth client base. Analyst Stephen Biggar is confident in JPMorgan’s superior loan growth compared to other large U.S. banks. The stock closed at $291.97, with a price target of $262 and a "buy" rating.
6. Lear Corp. (Ticker: LEA)
Market Cap: $5.6 billion
Lear is an automotive supplier based in Michigan, producing seating systems and electric power management components. Analyst Bill Selesky points out Lear’s consistent financial performance despite the historically cyclical nature of the auto industry, compounded recently by evolving trade and tariff regulations. The company is expected to mitigate risks by relocating production as necessary. LEA closed at $102.70, with a $106 price target and a "buy" outlook.
7. United Rentals Inc. (Ticker: URI)
Market Cap: $51.4 billion
United Rentals operates as the world’s largest equipment and heavy machinery rental company. Analyst Kristina Ruggeri highlights its strong management and adaptability amid uncertain macroeconomic conditions. The firm’s exposure to growing sectors such as non-residential construction, data center power projects, and healthcare development positions it well for continued revenue growth. Ruggeri anticipates that favourable interest rates and business-friendly policies will further spur growth. URI closed at $783.94, with a $725 price target and a "buy" rating.
8. Lockheed Martin Corp. (Ticker: LMT)
Market Cap: $108.5 billion
Lockheed Martin is a global defense, security, and aerospace giant, recognized as a vital supplier to national security initiatives. Although a challenging environment exists, the company’s strong government contracts and ongoing technological advancements underpin its outlook. The stock closed roughly 8.7% below recent peaks but continues to hold appeal for investors seeking defense sector exposure.
9. Bank of New York Mellon Corp. (Ticker: BK)
Market Cap: $66.3 billion
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10. FedEx Corp. (Ticker: FDX)
Market Cap: $57 billion
FedEx remains a leader in delivery and logistics, benefiting strongly from the surge in e-commerce sales. Despite fluctuating economic factors, the company’s dominant position and operational efficiency make it an attractive stock for 2025. —
Market Outlook and Strategy
With the S&P 500 achieving record levels following robust gains in 2023 and 2024, investors remain cautiously optimistic. The volatile global economic environment, ongoing trade conflicts, federal policy shifts, and threat of stagflation underscore the importance of selective stock picking.
The stocks listed above are backed by Argus analysts’ confidence and Thomson Reuters consensus ratings, all signaling strong buy signals with expected upside potential in the coming year.
For investors looking for solid opportunities in 2025, these companies offer a mix of stability, growth potential, and resilience in face of economic headwinds.
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Article by Wayne Duggan, Edited by Brady Porche | July 8, 2025
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