10 Stocks Positioned for Breakout Growth

7. The Hershey Company (NYSE:HSY)

Stock Upside Potential: 18.88%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 49

The Hershey Company (NYSE:HSY) is one of the stocks positioned for breakout growth. On April 13, BTIG initiated coverage of The Hershey Company (NYSE:HSY) with a Neutral rating, impressed by the company’s cost and price dynamics. In addition, the research firm has touted the company’s operational leverage and international expansion.

Consequently, BTIG expects Hershey to deliver 2026 earnings 1% above consensus estimates. The research firm also expects the company’s 2027 earnings per share to come 3% above consensus estimates and 4% above estimates in 2028.

However, it maintains a cautious outlook, concerned by consumer headwinds and an uncertain volume trajectory. The research firm would have a more positive view of the stock if there were a significant uptick in consumer demand stability.

TD Cowen, on the other hand, maintains a Hold rating on the stock with a $210 price target. The research firm remains confident in the company’s outlook for management, presenting a case for 15% to 20% earnings-per-share growth.

The Hershey Company (NYSE:HSY) is a leading global confectionery manufacturer and the largest producer of chocolate in North America. It produces, markets, and sells chocolate, sweets, and snacks under 90+ brands—including Hershey’s, Reese’s, and Kit Kat.