Darling Ingredients Beats Expectations — But The Bigger Story Is Underneath

With year-to-date performance of 67.88% as of April 30 2026, Darling Ingredients Inc. (NYSE:DAR) is among the 10 Under-the-Radar Stocks That Are On Fire Right Now.

Darling Ingredients Inc. (NYSE:DAR) is regaining momentum as improving earnings trends and supportive renewable fuel policy developments strengthen the investment case. On April 30, the company reported first-quarter revenue of $1.6 billion, ahead of consensus estimates of $1.55 billion. Chairman and CEO Randall Stuewe said the quarter marked a clear inflection point for Darling’s earning power across both its core operations and Diamond Green Diesel, its major renewable diesel joint venture. Management added that disciplined risk management and strong market execution drove exceptional core results while also improving Diamond Green Diesel’s performance. That matters because investors closely monitor DGD profitability as a major driver of Darling’s long-term valuation. Better-than-expected results from both legacy operations and renewable fuels suggest improving balance across the business.

On April 28, TD Cowen analyst Jason Gabelman raised the firm’s price target on Darling Ingredients Inc. (NYSE:DAR) to $72 from $58 while maintaining a Buy rating. The analyst noted that recently finalized 2026-27 Renewable Volume Obligations should support industry economics, implying roughly a $1 per gallon advantage for Diamond Green Diesel.

Darling Ingredients Inc. (NYSE:DAR) converts used cooking oil, animal fats, and food-processing by-products into feed ingredients, specialty products, and renewable fuel feedstocks. Founded in 1882 and headquartered in Irving, Texas, the company has transformed itself into an important player in the circular economy and clean fuels market.

With shares up 67.88% year-to-date, DAR is among the under-the-radar stocks that are on fire right now. Moreover, investors appear increasingly optimistic that stronger earnings and policy tailwinds can drive further upside.

While we acknowledge the risk and potential of DAR as an investment, our conviction lies in the belief that some AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns and doing so within a shorter time frame. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than DAR and that has 10,000% upside potential, check out our report about this cheapest AI stock.

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