On Friday, stocks finished lower only one day after the S&P 500 posted a new record high. This drop came after President Donald Trump announced a 35% tariff on Canada and threatened to raise tariffs even more on other countries.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 0.63% while the S&P 500 went down 0.33%. The Nasdaq Composite dropped 0.22%.
These losses on Friday were driven by growing tensions in the trade war. Just the previous day, on Thursday, all three major averages had gone up.
After the markets closed on Thursday, Trump pointed out that the higher tariffs on Canada were because of fentanyl. He also warned that if Canada retaliates, the tariffs would go even higher.
However, Trump said in a letter posted on Truth Social that if Canada helps stop the flow of Fentanyl, he might reconsider the tariffs.
Additionally, Trump told NBC News that he was planning blanket tariffs of 15% to 20% on other countries, which is higher than the 10% rate that investors had gotten used to.
Trump also said that he thinks the “tariffs have been very well-received,” while pointing out that the stock market had reached a new high on Thursday.
After Friday’s losses, all three major indexes ended the week lower. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 1% for the week, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq lost 0.3% and 0.1%, respectively.
With this background in mind, let’s take a look at the 13 best large-cap stocks to buy right now.
A computer display with stock graphs revealing the performance of large-mid capitalization U.S. equities.
Our Methodology
To compile our list of the 13 best large-cap stocks to buy right now, we used the Finviz stock screener to look for stocks with a market capitalization between $10 billion and $200 billion. We sorted our results based on market capitalization and picked the top 50 stocks. Next, we focused on the top 13 stocks most favored by institutional investors. Data for the hedge fund sentiment surrounding each stock was taken from Insider Monkey’s Q1 2025 database of 1,000 elite hedge funds. Finally, the 13 best large-cap stocks to buy right now were ranked in ascending order based on the number of hedge funds holding stakes in them as of Q1 2025.
Why do we care about what hedge funds do? The reason is simple: our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds. Our quarterly newsletter’s strategy selects 14 small-cap and large-cap stocks every quarter and has returned 373.4% since May 2014, beating its benchmark by 218 percentage points (see more details here).
13 Best Large Cap Stocks to Buy Right Now
13. Micron Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ:MU)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 96
Micron Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ:MU) is one of the best large-cap stocks to buy right now. On June 26, Baird increased its price target for Micron Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ:MU) from $163 to $200 while keeping an “Outperform” rating.
The research firm pointed to accelerated gains in the company’s share of the high-bandwidth memory (HBM) market.
Micron Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ:MU) expects to hit its HBM market share goal in the second half of 2025, sooner than previously expected. The company is shipping HBM in large amounts to four customers across both graphics processing units (GPUs) and application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs).
Baird noted that customer inventories are healthy across all end markets. So far, any tariff-related pull-ins have been described as modest. Micron Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ:MU) expects to finish fiscal 2025 with tight DRAM inventories, much lower NAND inventories, and overall inventories reaching targeted levels.
The research firm described Micron Technology, Inc.’s (NASDAQ:MU) progress and growth potential in HBM and low-power DRAM as “transformational.” These areas are seen as important growth drivers for the companies, especially as demand for memory in AI applications grows.
Micron Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ:MU) is an American producer of computer memory and computer data storage that is known for its innovative memory and storage solutions.
12. The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 96
The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA) is one of the best large-cap stocks to buy right now. On June 25, Redburn-Atlantic upgraded The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA) rating to “Buy” from “Neutral” and increased its price target from $180 to $275.
The research firm noted positive changes in The Boeing Company’s (NYSE:BA) financials, culture, industrial processes, and overall strategy. Redburn-Atlantic also pointed out that the company’s health is improving after years of difficulties.
The firm’s analysis focused especially on the production potential at Boeing Commercial Aircraft (BCA), highlighting that The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA) can increase deliveries of the 737 and 787 models. Redburn-Atlantic projects these models could reach production rates of 63 and 14 aircraft per month, respectively.
This boost in production could generate an additional $1.7 billion in post-tax cash profits compared to current models. This represents a 13% potential upside to the firm’s 2029 cash flow estimates for The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA).
Redburn-Atlantic believes that the company’s free cash flow could surpass $14 billion by the end of the decade, exceeding the previous highest free cash flow of $13.6 billion achieved by The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA) in 2018.
The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA) is a leading global aerospace company that manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products, and space systems.
11. Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 99
Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) is one of the best large-cap stocks to buy right now. On July 10, Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) shared positive topline results from the overall survival (OS) analysis from the Phase 3 EMBARK study.
This study looked at how XTANDI (enzalutamide), in combination with leuprolide and as a monotherapy, works for men who have a type of prostate cancer called non-metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (nmHSPC), which is also known as nonmetastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer or (nmCSPC). The men who were a part of the study had a return of signs of cancer, called biochemical recurrence (BCR), and were at high risk for metastasis.
For patients who took XTANDI plus leuprolide, the study showed a clear and important improvement in overall survival compared to those who were treated with placebo plus leuprolide.
The study showed that using XTANDI can help extend life for men with nmHSPC and high-risk BCR.
Currently, XTANDI is approved in over 80 countries, including the US, the European Union, and Japan.
Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) is an American multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology corporation that is known for discovering, developing, and manufacturing healthcare products, including innovative medicines and vaccines.
10. Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (NYSE:TMO)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 101
Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (NYSE:TMO) is one of the best large-cap stocks to buy right now. On July 11, Scotiabank upgraded its rating for Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (NYSE:TMO) from “Sector Perform” to “Outperform” while also setting a new price target of $590, down from the previous $605.
The bank believes that the stock has been “disproportionately impacted” because of healthcare and trade policy talks and changes this year.
Scotiabank expects Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (NYSE:TMO) to grow faster once the concerns about US healthcare policy changes go away. This growth is expected to be driven by the company’s “unparalleled commercial scale” and improved region-for-region capabilities anticipated by 2026.
The firm also pointed out that Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.’s (NYSE:TMO) leading position in innovation, operational execution, and cash flow potential as key strengths that position the company well in the life science tools industry. In this industry, Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (NYSE:TMO) is the largest company “by a significant margin.”
Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (NYSE:TMO) is a leading life science and clinical research company that supplies analytical instruments, clinical development solutions, specialty diagnostics, laboratory, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology services.
9. The Charles Schwab Corporation (NYSE:SCHW)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 102
The Charles Schwab Corporation (NYSE:SCHW) is one of the best large-cap stocks to buy right now. On July 8, Raymond James increased its price target for The Charles Schwab Corporation (NYSE:SCHW) from $91 to $99 while keeping an “Outperform” rating.
The research firm expects The Charles Schwab Corporation (NYSE:SCHW) to mostly pay down its high-cost funding by the end of 2025, which should help improve the company’s net interest margin.
Raymond James also pointed out that the market volatility is currently elevated, which is driving strong trading volumes. This should help offset any net interest margin headwinds from possible Federal Reserve rate cuts in 2025. Raymond James analysts also highlighted improving trends in net new assets and account growth at The Charles Schwab Corporation (NYSE:SCHW).
Looking ahead, the firm sees strong potential for earnings per share growth for The Charles Schwab Corporation (NYSE:SCHW) in 2025 and 2026, with the possibility of gains in the stock’s valuation.
The Charles Schwab Corporation (NYSE:SCHW) is an American multinational financial services company that provides a full range of brokerage, banking, and financial advisory services through its operating subsidiaries.
8. Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 102
Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG) is one of the best large-cap stocks to buy right now. On June 10, BTIG analysts raised the price target on Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG) from $5,500 to $6,250 and kept a “Buy” rating.
This optimistic outlook is based on several factors, including a steady rise in reservation volumes and the expectation that Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG) will beat its second-quarter guidance.
BTIG’s analysis indicates that reservation volumes in June have been growing at the fastest pace since late last year. This trend is expected to help Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG) exceed its guidance for the second quarter.
As a result, the research firm increased its estimates for room night growth by 2 percentage points for the second quarter and by 1 percentage point for 2025.
This adjustment also led to BTIG raising its earnings per share (EPS) forecast for Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG). The firm now projects an EPS of $220 for 2025 and an EPS of $252 for 2026.
Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG) is a leading global travel technology company that provides online travel and related services.
7. Spotify Technology S.A. (NYSE:SPOT)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 106
Spotify Technology S.A. (NYSE:SPOT) is one of the best large-cap stocks to buy right now. On July 8, Bernstein SocGen Group increased its price target for Spotify Technology S.A. (NYSE:SPOT) from $825 to $840 and kept an “Outperform” rating.
The research firm highlighted the company’s “underappreciated pricing power” and potential growth from new superfan subscription offerings.
Bernstein expects that foreign exchange challenges will slightly affect Spotify Technology S.A.’s (NYSE:SPOT) Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) and top-line growth for the rest of the year. However, the firm believes user metrics and benefits from price increases could help produce positive results.
According to Bernstein analysts, Spotify Technology S.A. (NYSE:SPOT) is expected to report third-quarter gross margins below Street expectations, mainly because of recurring regulatory charges. Still, the firm pointed out that the company’s cash balance is likely over EUR 5 billion. This strong cash position could allow the company to return money to shareholders or launch a new superfan-focused subscription tier.
Spotify Technology S.A. (NYSE:SPOT) is a leading audio streaming subscription service provider. Through its platform, the company offers access to songs, podcasts, and audiobooks.
6. Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (NASDAQ:ISRG)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 106
Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (NASDAQ:ISRG) is one of the best large-cap stocks to buy right now. On July 10, Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (NASDAQ:ISRG) reported that it has received approval from the US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) for its latest innovation in advanced energy tools for use with its multiport da Vinci systems.
This new tool, called the Vessel Sealer Curved, is a fully wristed, advanced bipolar electrosurgical instrument that can seal, cut, grasp, and dissect tissue. This instrument is the first of Intuitive Surgical, Inc.’s (NASDAQ:ISRG) advanced energy instruments to get FDA approval for the transection of lymphatic vessels.
Vessel Sealer Curved has a slim, curved jaw that follows the natural contours of anatomy to help improve visibility and control, especially in tight or delicate areas. It also has a mechanical blade that cuts close to the tip, making it useful for dissecting tissue.
With Vessel Sealer Curved, Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (NASDAQ:ISRG) aims to offer surgeons better precision in narrow anatomical spaces for a variety of procedures.
Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (NASDAQ:ISRG) is an American medical device and technology company that develops and manufactures innovative, robotic-assisted systems for physicians and hospitals to make surgery less invasive.
5. Boston Scientific Corporation (NYSE:BSX)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 108
Boston Scientific Corporation (NYSE:BSX) is one of the best large-cap stocks to buy right now. On July 7, Boston Scientific Corporation (NYSE:BSX) announced that it has obtained approval to expand the instructions for use (IFU) labeling for the FARAPULSE Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA) System from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The new labeling will allow the system to be used in the treatment of drug-refractory, symptomatic persistent atrial fibrillation (AF), a condition where the heart beats abnormally for a minimum of seven days.
Boston Scientific Corporation (NYSE:BSX) expects to receive approval in Europe, Japan, and China in the coming months. This will make the system available to more patients around the world in the near future.
Boston Scientific Corporation (NYSE:BSX) is an American biotechnology and biomedical engineering firm that offers a portfolio of devices and therapies that help physicians diagnose and treat cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, oncological, neurological, and urological diseases and conditions.
4. S&P Global Inc. (NYSE:SPGI)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 108
S&P Global Inc. (NYSE:SPGI) is one of the best large-cap stocks to buy right now. On July 7, TipRanks reported that Morgan Stanley analyst Toni Kaplan raised the price target for S&P Global Inc. (NYSE:SPGI) from $587 to $595 and maintained a “Buy” rating.
Kaplan’s positive stance on S&P Global Inc. (NYSE:SPGI) is based on a combination of factors that suggest a positive outlook for the company.
Even though credit markets had a challenging quarter, S&P Global Inc. (NYSE:SPGI) performance is expected to be better than previously expected. In June, there was a strong increase in credit issuance.
Because of this pleasant surprise, Morgan Stanley’s analyst increased S&P Global Inc.’s (NYSE:SPGI) earnings per share estimate by 2%, reflecting higher financial expectations for the company.
Additionally, Kaplan expects the company to maintain its full-year ratings revenue guidance, despite a drop in issuance. This further supports the Buy rating.
S&P Global Inc. (NYSE:SPGI) is an American financial intelligence company that provides credit ratings, benchmarks, analytics, and workflow solutions. The company offers data, technology, and expertise to help clients make informed decisions.
3. GE Vernova (NYSE:GEV)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 111
GE Vernova (NYSE:GEV) is one of the best large-cap stocks to buy right now. On July 8, BMO Capital kept an “Outperform” rating on GE Vernova Inc. (NYSE:GEV) while increasing its price target from $522 to $590.
The firm’s updated analysis focused on the company’s Gas Power business. BMO Capital analysts highlighted strong, contracted earnings growth beyond 2030. This growth is expected to be driven by long-term service agreements (LTSAs) in the gas power service segment.
BMO Capital expects that by 2035, GE Vernova Inc. (NYSE:GEV) will generate about 2.5 times the annual revenue from LTSAs compared to 2024 levels, with gross margins nearly 1000 basis points higher.
Additionally, BMO Capital noted that GE Vernova Inc. (NYSE:GEV) has surged 85% over the last three months and near-term valuation metrics may appear stretched at 28 times the firm’s estimated 2026 EBITDA.
The firm pointed out that while investors recognize the current gas turbine equipment orders can boost earnings from 2028 onward, the market has not fully recognized the significant upside potential from gas power service LTSAs.
GE Vernova Inc. (NYSE:GEV) is an energy equipment manufacturing and services company.
2. Adobe Inc. (NASDAQ:ADBE)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 111
Adobe Inc. (NASDAQ:ADBE) is one of the best large-cap stocks to buy right now. On July 2, DA Davidson maintained its “Buy” rating on Adobe Inc. (NASDAQ:ADBE) with a price target of $500.
This decision came after Figma filed its S-1 for an IPO. The research firm pointed out that Figma shows financial strength with $821 million in revenue over the last twelve months, showing a 48% year-over-year growth as of Q1 2025. Figma also posted 18% non-GAAP operating margins.
DA Davidson sees Figma’s success as proof of its goal to make design easier and more accessible through collaborative tools that help both individuals and teams by reducing technical barriers. The research firm noted that Figma and Adobe Inc. (NASDAQ:ADBE) are well-positioned to benefit as artificial intelligence accelerates the output of digital products.
According to the research note, the $500 price target for Adobe Inc. (NASDAQ:ADBE) represents 22 times the company’s expected earnings per share for fiscal year 2026.
Adobe Inc. (NASDAQ:ADBE) is a global leader in digital media and digital marketing solutions that offer creator tools and services to individuals, teams, and enterprises to create, publish, and promote content.
1. Danaher Corporation (NYSE:DHR)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 117
Danaher Corporation (NYSE:DHR) is one of the best large-cap stocks to buy right now. On May 29, Danaher Corporation (NYSE:DHR) announced a new partnership with AstraZeneca to scale precision medicine.
This partnership aims to create and commercialize novel diagnostic tools and tests, including the new generation of AI-powered diagnostics. These tools and tests would be designed to help clinicians better determine which patients would benefit most from precision medicine treatments.
Danaher Corporation (NYSE:DHR) pointed out that this collaboration will use the recently opened Danaher Centers for Enabling Precision Medicine to help make the development process smoother and more efficient.
The first product planned for development will use technologies from Leica Biosystems, one of Danaher Corporation’s (NYSE:DHR) subsidiaries.
The partnership will initially focus on digital and computational pathology products and AI-assisted algorithms. These products will help clinicians diagnose patients more accurately and find out who is most likely to benefit from targeted therapies.
Danaher Corporation (NYSE:DHR) is a leading global life sciences and diagnostics innovation company. With a focus on science and technology, the company helps discover, develop, and deliver life-changing therapies.
While we acknowledge the potential of DHR as an investment, our conviction lies in the belief that some AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns and have limited downside risk. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than DHR and that has a 100x upside potential, check out our report about this cheapest AI stock.
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