US stocks have been in a sharp uptrend over the past seven months, with the benchmark S&P 500 index currently up more than 35% versus its year-to-date low in April.
Still, a handful of outperformers are trading at relatively low forward valuations heading into 2026.
According to analysts, these gems with consensus “buy” ratings and robust fundamentals will offer exciting returns next year as well.
Three in particular they’re bullish on include CVS, Micron, and Newmont.
Here’s what each of these three has in store for investors in 2026.
CVS Health (NYSE: CVS)
CVS Health has been one of the year’s most surprising winners, with shares climbing more than 78%.
Still, the stock is trading at just 11x forward earnings – well below the S&P 500 average.
Late last month, CVS reported market-beating financials for its Q3 and raised its earnings guidance as well, citing continued strength in its insurance business.
From a technical perspective, CVS stock is currently trading handily above all of its major moving averages (50-day, 100-day, 200-day) – indicating the bulls remain in control across multiple time frames.
According to Barchart, the consensus rating on CVS shares also currently sits at “strong buy”, with the mean target of about $92 indicating potential upside of nearly 20% from here.
A healthy dividend yield of 3.33% makes up for another great reason to have CVS Health in your investment portfolio heading into 2026.
Micron Technology (NASDAQ: MU)
Micron stock has nearly tripled since the start of this year, yet its forward multiple remains modest at 12 times earnings.
Joseph Moore – a senior Morgan Stanley analyst – maintains his “overweight” rating on the semiconductor stock, citing a shortage in dynamic random-access memory (DRAM) as the key driver of earnings growth.
With artificial intelligence (AI) related demand boosting chipmakers, MU shares’ combination of growth and affordability makes them a standout candidate for 2026.
Wall Street more broadly recommends sticking with Micron Technology for the long term as well.
The consensus rating on the company currently sits at “buy” – with price targets going as high as $338, indicating potential upside of nearly 50% from here.
Newmont Corporation (NYSE: NEM)
Newmont, the world’s largest gold producer, has also outperformed the broader market this year.
While commodity-linked stocks often trade at higher multiples during rallies, NEM stock valuation (5x sales) remains attractive relative to peers.
Newmont shares remain a strong hedge against market volatility and policy uncertainty, especially with gold prices holding firm heading into 2026.
For investors seeking exposure outside tech and healthcare names, NEM stock offers a compelling mix of defensive qualities and growth potential.
Plus, it currently pays a dividend yield of 1.1% as well, appearing even more attractive for income-focused investors.
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