Top 30 S&P 500 Stocks by Index Weight

In this article, we explore the Top 30 S&P 500 Stocks by Index Weight.

It’s been a turbulent year for the S&P 500 amid heightened volatility, driven by monetary policy uncertainty and inflationary concerns, and exacerbated by geopolitical tensions. At the beginning of the year, it was expected that the index would continue its bull run into the fourth year. After a strong start to record highs, the market pulled back amid the escalation of conflict in the Middle East.

The S&P 500 has experienced a roller coaster, first powering above the 7000 handle before pulling back into correction territory. Fast forward, the index has staged a recovery to pre-war levels and back to record highs amid renewed interest in risk.

The consensus on Wall Street is optimistic after the recent bounce back, even though the market is back at all-time highs. Barclays is one of the investment banks that are bullish, having raised its S&P 500 target to 7,650 from 7,400.

Head of US Equity at Barclays, Venu Krishna, insists tech stocks will continue to drive market growth, with a potential 11% upside.

“The macro backdrop has become more fragile… But we believe the U.S. continues to offer stronger nominal growth than other major economies and a secular growth engine in Technology that shows few signs of slowing… “We are incrementally bullish on US equities,” Krishna Notes.

Strategists at Goldman Sachs share similar sentiments, insisting that tech stocks are trading at a discount after the recent pullback. Led by chief global equity strategist Peter Oppenheimer, the strategists see a value opportunity. BlackRock has also turned overweight US stocks, buoyed by the truce between the US and Iran.

“We turn moderately positive risk and like US stocks as a relative preference, seeing them holding up better even if absolute performance disappoints,” BlackRock said in a statement.

Meanwhile, JPMorgan slashed its S&P 500 outlook to 7,200 from 7,500. The investment bank has also warned that the index could plunge below the 6,000 level should headwinds in the market due to the Iran war persist. Strategists at Bank of America see the S&P 500 at around 7,100 by year’s end, concerned by multiple compressions and rich valuations.

Our Methodology

For this list, we chose the top 30 S&P 500 constituents in terms of index weight. We have also mentioned the Q4 2025 hedge fund sentiment around these stocks. The list is ranked in ascending order based on the stock’s index weight in the S&P 500 (as of April 18).

Why are we interested in the stocks that hedge funds pile into? The reason is simple: our research shows 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 498.7% since May 2014, beating its benchmark by 303 percentage points (see more details here).

Top S&P 500 Stocks by Index Weight

30. GE Aerospace (NYSE:GE)

Index Weight: 0.51%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 117

GE Aerospace (NYSE:GE) is one of the top S&P 500 stocks by index weight. On April 1, analysts at Wells Fargo initiated coverage of GE Aerospace (NYSE:GE) with an Overweight rating and a $325 price target. The price target is based on a 28x free cash flow multiple applied to the 2028 forecast.

The research firm remains optimistic about GE Aerospace’s prospects, as it expects the LEAP SV ramp to lead to higher-than-anticipated revisions. It also expects the company’s EBIT and free cash flow forecasts to exceed consensus estimates. In addition, there are prospects for further positive revisions due to a faster-than-expected LEAP SV ramp, combined with a higher price than what is modeled.

Similarly, GE Aerospace has partnered with Waygate Technologies to deploy an automated inspection system for GEnx engines to standardize and accelerate inspection of critical parts. Consequently, they have deployed automated Menu Directed Inspection (MDI) templates for GEnx-1B and -2B engine borescope inspections. The templates will help deliver a new level of standardization and automation to the inspection process.

“Together with Waygate Technologies, we’re further integrating automation and AI to help our operators drive more standardization, consistency, and efficiency with video borescope inspections for critical engine parts,” added Nicole Jenkins, Chief MRO Engineer, GE Aerospace.

GE Aerospace (NYSE:GE) designs, develops, and produces jet engines, components, and integrated systems for military, commercial, and business aircraft. Its products and services range from jet engines such as LEAP, GE9X & GEnx to airframes, engine gears, and transmission components and services, among others.

29. Lam Research Corp. (NASDAQ:LRCX)

Index Weight: 0.52%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 104

Lam Research Corp. (NASDAQ:LRCX) is one of the top S&P 500 stocks by index weight. On April 13, analysts at Stifel reiterated their Buy rating on Lam Research Corp. (NASDAQ:LRCX) and raised their price target to $300 from $280.

The price target hike underscores the research firm’s confidence that the company is capitalizing on its greater exposure and responsiveness to wafer fabrication equipment. According to the research firm, the stock has significant upside, with exposure expected to boost earnings in the upcoming season. Stifel also remains upbeat about sector fundamentals, which justify the stock’s Buy rating at current levels.

On the other hand, Lynx Equity raised its price target for the stock to $325 from $280, buoyed by improved visibility into 2028. The research firm expects the company to achieve $37 billion in revenue in 2028 with earnings per share of $9.8. It also expects Lam Research’s wafer fabrication revenue to reach $190 billion in 2028, up from $160-$170 billion in 2027 and $135-$140 billion in 2026.

Lam Research Corp. (NASDAQ:LRCX) is a leading global supplier of innovative wafer fabrication equipment and services to the semiconductor industry. It designs and builds machines that enable chipmakers to create smaller, faster, and more efficient electronic components, with their technology used to build nearly every advanced chip today.

28. The Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE:PG)

Index Weight: 0.52%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 90

The Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE:PG) is one of the top S&P 500 stocks by index weight. On April 16, The Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE:PG) received an unsolicited mini-tender offer to purchase up to 100,000 shares of common stock at $100 per share.

It is the second time Potemkin Limited has tabled a mini-tender offer for the stock. The mini tender offer price was 30% below Procter & Gamble Company’s closing price as of April 6. The company insists that investors should reject the offer, as it is well below the prevailing market price. Normally, mini-tender offers are used to acquire small holdings in companies without triggering the legal requirements of large takeovers.

On April 8, Pipe Sandler lowered its price target of the stock to $142 from $150 while maintaining a Neutral rating. The price target cut comes amid concerns that the company is poised to feel the full brunt of its significant exposure to higher resin and other oil-derived costs. Its costs remain hedged for 6 to 9 months. The research firm has also lowered its fiscal third-quarter 2026 earnings-per-share estimate for the company to $1.55 from $1.58.

The Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE:PG) is a global leader in the consumer goods industry, manufacturing and selling a vast range of branded personal care, hygiene, and household products.

27. The Home Depot, Inc. (NYSE:HD)

Index Weight: 0.53%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 98

The Home Depot, Inc. (NYSE:HD) is one of the top S&P 500 stocks by index weight. On April 9, Wolfe Research reiterated an Outperform rating on The Home Depot, Inc. (NYSE:HD) with a $414 price target. The positive stance follows remarks by the company’s CFO Richard McPhail at the JPM Conference.

The executive reiterated that the company continues to gain market share in a down cycle, despite broad sector softening through 2025. According to McPhail, the housing sector remains subdued, with just 3% stock turnover compared to 4% to 5% in a normal environment. Consequently, a home price correction might be needed to restore market equilibrium.

Wolfe Research does not anticipate a near-term market turn given the current environment of high mortgage rates above 6.5%. Similarly, analysts at Stifel have reiterated a Hold rating on the stock in response to the challenging environment in which the company is operating.

The Home Depot, Inc. (NYSE:HD) is the world’s largest home improvement specialty retailer, operating over 2,300 stores across North America that sell construction materials, tools, appliances, and home improvement products. It serves do-it-yourself (DIY) homeowners and professional contractors, offering installation services, tool rentals, and an online retail platform via homedepot.com.

26. Palantir Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:PLTR)

Index Weight: 0.53%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 89

Palantir Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:PLTR) is one of the top S&P 500 stocks by index weight. On April 16, analysts at DA Davidson reiterated a neutral rating on Palantir Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:PLTR) and a $180 price target while reiterating that it is one of the best stories in all of software.

The cautious outlook follows discussion with Duane Massie, founder and CEO of SigmaIQ, and Ryan Mead, Head of Commercial at the Palantir partner for managed services. The discussions centered around the company’s differentiation amid the AI innovation boom. Following the discussion, the research firm reiterated optimism about the impact of Palantir’s market-leading position and opportunities needed to sustain long-term growth.

SigmaIQ executives have already touted the company’s symbiotic relationships with frontier model providers. In addition, the company is increasingly focusing on a deep, companywide transformation that can deliver greater benefits. Demand for the company’s platforms continues to soar amid the AI boom.

Palantir Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:PLTR) builds software platforms that enable organizations to integrate, visualize, and analyze massive, disparate datasets, facilitating data-driven decision-making. It primarily serves government intelligence/defense agencies and large enterprises, focusing on AI-powered analytics and operational efficiency, not data brokering.

25. Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE:CAT)

Index Weight: 0.56%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 86

Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE: CAT) is one of the top S&P 500 stocks by index weight. On April 8, Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE:CAT) reiterated its quarterly dividend of $1.51 per share, translating to an annualized dividend of $6.04 per share.

The dividend is to be paid on May 19, to shareholders of record at the close of business on April 20, 2026. The heavy machinery company boasts of a strong dividend record. It has paid dividends since 1933 and increased payouts for 32 consecutive years.

The company has also confirmed the appointment of veteran Kyle Epley as the next Chief Financial Officer, effective May 1. He will take over from Andrew Bonfield, who is poised to retire after eight years with the company.

Bonfield steps down having strengthened Caterpillar’s robust operating and execution model, which has led to strong returns for shareholders. On the other hand, Epley brings over three decades of Caterpillar experience. He currently serves as the senior vice president of Global Finance Services.

Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE:CAT) is the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines, and diesel-electric locomotives. The company supports industries like infrastructure, energy, and mining through a global dealer network and provides financial services through Cat Financial.

24. Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX)

Index Weight: 0.58%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 86

Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) is one of the top S&P 500 stocks by index weight. On April 14, Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) reached an asset swap agreement with Petroleos de Venezuela, S.A. and its subsidiaries. The agreement expands the US energy giant’s stake in Venezuelan heavy oil operations.

The agreement is poised to expand Chevron’s heavy oil position in Venezuela. The US company has operated in the country since 1923 under the Petroindependencia and Petropiar joint ventures, which operate extra-heavy oil projects in the Orinoco Oil Belt.

Under the terms of the asset swap agreement, Chevron is to receive an additional 13.21% working interest in the Petroindependencia, S.A. joint venture, bringing its total stake to 49%. Petropiar, S.A., a joint venture in which Chevron holds 30% stake, has been tasked with developing the adjacent Ayacucho 8 area in Venezuela’s Orinoco Oil Belt.

In return, Venezuela is entitled to Chevron’s 60% and 100% operated interest in the offshore Plataforma Deltana Block 21 and Block 32 gas licenses, respectively.

Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) is a leading global integrated energy company that produces crude oil and natural gas, manufactures transportation fuels and petrochemicals, and develops technologies for a lower-carbon energy future. They operate across the entire energy value chain—upstream, midstream, and downstream—to provide affordable, reliable, and cleaner energy.

23. AbbVie Inc. (NYSE:ABBV)

Index Weight: 0.58%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 84

AbbVie Inc. (NYSE:ABBV) is one of the top S&P 500 stocks by index weight. On April 13, AbbVie Inc. (NYSE:ABBV) entered into an exclusive licensing agreement with Haisco Pharmaceutical Group for the development of pain medicines.

Under the terms of the agreement, AbbVie will own the rights to develop, manufacture, and commercialize novel pain treatment compounds globally, excluding China, Hong Kong, and Macau. The program aims to cover multiple compounds that can address various pain-related indications.

The compounds are currently under development in various stages in China. They include Nav1.8 inhibitors that block pain signals at the source. The compound spans preclinical through Phase I development in China and is positioned for chronic pain indications.

In return, Haisco is to receive $30 million in upfront payment and is also eligible for an additional $715 million in aggregate development, regulatory, and commercial milestone payments. Haisco is also entitled to tiered royalties on future net sales emanating from the compounds under development.

AbbVie Inc. (NYSE:ABBV) is a global research-driven biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering, developing, and delivering advanced therapies for complex and serious health conditions. They specialize in immunology, oncology, neuroscience, eye care, and aesthetics, aiming to improve patient care standards.

22. Bank of America Corporation (NYSE:BAC)

Index Weight: 0.61%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 118

Bank of America Corporation (NYSE:BAC) is one of the top S&P 500 stocks by index weight. On April 16, Jefferies reiterated its Buy rating on Bank of America Corporation (NYSE:BAC) and raised the stock’s price target to $65 from $60. The price target hike follows the bank’s impressive first-quarter 2026 results, which affirm its ability to invest for growth.

Net income was up 17% year over year to $8.6 billion, as diluted earnings per share increased 25% to $1.11. Bank of America also posted a 7% increase in revenue to $30.3 billion, reflecting higher net interest income, sales, and trading revenue. During the quarter, the investment bank returned $9.3 billion to shareholders, made up of $7.2 billion in share buybacks and $2 billion in dividends.

Following better-than-expected first-quarter results, Bank of America raised its fiscal 2026 net interest income growth outlook to 6%-8%, up from the previous range of 5%-7%. It also expects operating leverage to improve by 200 basis points.

Bank of America Corporation (NYSE:BAC) is a global financial institution that provides a broad range of banking, investing, and risk management services to approximately 70 million clients. It provides comprehensive banking, investing, asset management, and risk management products, including checking/savings accounts, loans, credit cards, and wealth management.

21. Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMD)

Index Weight: 0.66%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 132

Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMD) is one of the top S&P 500 stocks by index weight. On April 13, Bank of America touted Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMD) as one of the top artificial intelligence stocks to own heading into Q1 earnings.

According to the investment bank, Advanced Micro Devices was one of the companies that capitalized on strong hyperscaler capital expenditure, which reached $166 billion in Q1, up 13% quarter over quarter. The increase was driven by high data center investment. Likewise, it remains well positioned to benefit as capital expenditure is expected to reach $750 billion before year-end and $872 billion in 2027.

AMD expects its first-quarter revenue to increase 32% year over year, driven by higher demand for its data center products. Amid the bullishness, Bank of America has a $280 price target on AMD, which represents 27 times 2027 non-GAAP earnings per share.

Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMD) is a global semiconductor company that designs high-performance computing, graphics, and visualization technologies. As a fabless chipmaker, it focuses on chip design and engineering while outsourcing physical production to third-party manufacturers.

20. Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST)

Index Weight: 0.69%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 106

Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) is one of the top S&P 500 stocks by index weight. On April 16, Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) board of directors approved a quarterly cash dividend of $1.47 per share. It is a significant improvement from the $1.30 per share previously paid and translates to an annualized dividend of $5.88.

The quarterly dividend is to be paid to shareholders of record as of May 1, 2026, on May 15, 2026. The dividend offering underscores Costco Wholesale Corporation’s commitment to shareholder value. The company has paid dividends for 23 consecutive years, backed by 12% growth over the past 12 months.

The dividend offering coincides with the company’s strong March sales results. Comparable sales growth stood at 7.8%, an improvement from a 6.5% growth in February. Following strong sales growth, analysts at Mizuho and William Blair reiterated their Outperform ratings on the stock.

Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) operates a global chain of membership warehouse clubs that sell high-quality, brand-name, and private-label (Kirkland Signature) products in bulk at low prices. By limiting inventory to roughly 4,000 SKUs per location, they achieve high sales volume, rapid inventory turnover, and cost efficiencies passed to members.

19. Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX)

Index Weight: 0.71%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 146

Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX) is one of the top S&P 500 stocks by index weight. On April 15, research firm Citizens reiterated a Market Perform rating on Netflix Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX). The rating aligns with expectations that the company will deliver better-than-expected first-quarter 2026 results.

Citizens expect significant upside in the streaming giant’s earnings per share, driven by recent price increases in the US. Netflix increased the price of its ad-supported plan to $8.99 from $7.99, the standard plan to $19.99 from $17.99, and the premium plan to $26.99 from $24.99. The price hikes came on the heels of the company investing significantly in its content, including new ventures into the live events space and video podcasts.

In addition to the price increases and library upgrades, Citizens has also touted Netflix’s long-term structural advantages, including scale and global distribution. According to the research firm, this competitive edge supports the company’s ability to raise prices while outspending competitors on content.

Analysts at Evercore expect Netflix to deliver first-quarter revenue of $12.2 billion, reflecting a 15.5% year-over-year increase, with earnings per share of $0.76.

Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX) is a global streaming service delivering TV series, movies, documentaries, games, and live programming to over 310 million paid subscribers. Operating in over 190 countries, it provides personalized, on-demand entertainment across internet-connected devices via subscription and ad-supported models.

18. Mastercard Incorporated (NYSE:MA)

Index Weight: 0.73%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 150

Mastercard Incorporated (NYSE:MA) is one of the top S&P 500 stocks by index weight. On March 31, Mastercard Incorporated (NYSE:MA) secured a significant business deal on Amazon, launching new Prime Business and Amazon Business credit cards. The launch comes as the e-commerce giant transitions to the Mastercard network.

Mastercard is tasked with processing transactions through its global network on the Amazon business cards. The Prime Business Card offers 5% cash back on Amazon purchases for Prime members, and the Amazon Business Card offers 3% cash back for non-Prime customers.

Earlier, Mastercard moved to strengthen its prospects around cryptocurrencies with the acquisition of stablecoin payment orchestration layer BVNK. The acquisition is poised to enhance the company’s capabilities around cryptocurrencies, enhancing interoperability between traditional payment rails and blockchain settlement.

Following the acquisition, Evercore ISI reiterated an In Line rating on Mastercard with a $610 price target. The research firm sees the BVNK acquisition as both defensive and offensive, expected to address concerns about the company’s payment business.

Mastercard Incorporated (NYSE:MA) is a global technology company in the payments industry that operates a massive transaction processing network. It connects consumers, financial institutions, merchants, and governments, facilitating electronic payments (credit, debit, prepaid).

17. Oracle Corporation (NYSE:ORCL)

Index Weight: 0.77%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 111

Oracle Corporation (NYSE:ORCL) is one of the top S&P 500 stocks by index weight. On April 15, Oracle Corporation (NYSE:ORCL) entered into a strategic partnership with DENSO Corporation. It builds on an initial partnership in which the two companies collaborated to modernize finance and human resources processes.

The Japanese automotive parts manufacturer is to leverage the partnership to modernize its core supply chain systems, using Oracle Fusion Cloud applications and AI technologies. The Oracle Fusion Cloud Applications and AI technologies will also help DENSO Corporation address complexity in supply chain operations.

It will also use the solutions to enhance production planning, logistics, and procurement operations. Additionally, they will develop solutions for managing data across planning, procurement, and accounting operations. Steve Miranda, Oracle’s Executive Vice President of Applications Development, expects the partnership to address DENSO’s need for an AI-centric approach for handling increased supply chain speed and complexity.

Oracle and DENSO Corporation will also establish an AI Center of Excellence to collect knowledge on AI utilization and promote AI agents.

Oracle Corporation (NYSE:ORCL) is a global technology giant that provides cloud infrastructure, enterprise software, and database management systems. While it began as a pioneer in database technology, it has evolved into one of the world’s largest providers of business applications and AI-driven cloud services.

16. Micron Technology Inc. (NASDAQ:MU)

Index Weight: 0.81%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 137

Micron Technology Inc. (NASDAQ:MU) is one of the top S&P 500 stocks by index weight. On April 1, Cantor Fitzgerald reiterated an Overweight rating on Micron Technology Inc. (NASDAQ:MU) with a $700 price target. The research firm remains confident in the company’s growth prospects, driven by strong demand for memory products fueled by artificial intelligence.

The company has already heightened its focus on AI-driven memory demand to capitalize on the AI boom. The increased focus is also helping strengthen the company’s customer supply relationships. While there are growing concerns about declining DRAM spot pricing, Cantor Fitzgerald has downplayed its potential impact as it accounts for less than 5% of Micron Technology’s market.

The research firm expects the coming quarter to underline improving underlying fundamentals sufficient to balance concerns about slowing AI investment. Cantor Fitzgerald also expects Micron to capitalize on an elongated cycle, supported by leading-edge wafers and semiconductor equipment shortages.

Micron Technology Inc. (NASDAQ:MU) is a semiconductor company that designs and manufactures high-performance computer memory and data storage products, including DRAM, NAND flash, and solid-state drives (SSDs).

15. Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ)

Index Weight: 0.90%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 104

Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ) is one of the top S&P 500 stocks by index weight. On April 15, Argus reiterated its Buy rating on Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ) and raised the price target to $355 from $340. The new price target reflects 16 times the 2026 earnings estimate.

According to the research firm, the upward re-rating reflects improving earnings prospects as the overall market rebounds. The search firm also expects additional banking deregulation to free up capital that would support a much higher valuation.

The positive rating comes on the heels of Johnson & Johnson delivering impressive first-quarter 2026 results. The company posted a 9.9% sales growth in the quarter to $24.1 billion with adjusted earnings per share of $2.70.

The company also increased its 2026 sales guidance to $100.3B-$101.3B from $100.0B-$101.0B. It also expects adjusted earnings per share of $11.45 to $11.65, representing 5.1% to 8.1% year-over-year growth.

Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ) is a global healthcare company focused on researching, developing, and manufacturing innovative pharmaceutical products and medical technology (MedTech) devices. As of 2026, the company focuses on complex diseases—such as oncology and immunology—and advanced surgical, orthopedic, and vision solutions, rather than consumer products.

14. Visa Inc. (NYSE:V)

Index Weight: 0.95%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 184

Visa Inc. (NYSE:V) is one of the top S&P 500 stocks by index weight. On April 14, Visa Inc. (NYSE:V) reiterated its commitment to blockchain infrastructure by launching a validator node on the Tempo Blockchain. The integration is an important milestone in the company’s bid to start processing and securing chain payments.

The validator node is poised to join Stripe and Zodia Custody by Standard Chartered as the first external validator. The company configured and managed the node internally after six months of collaboration with Tempo’s engineering team. Therefore, Visa is now part of the core infrastructure of the Tempo Network to support stablecoin transactions and real-time settlement.

The launch of the Tempo validator network underscores Visa’s continued advancement of blockchain infrastructure as it explores ways to shape stablecoin payments. It asserts commitments to running critical blockchain operations in-house and enabling on-chain payment innovation. It also underscores Visa’s commitment to working with partners to enhance resilience, interoperability, and security across the blockchain ecosystem.

Visa Inc. (NYSE:V) is a global payments technology company that facilitates electronic funds transfers worldwide, acting as the network connecting consumers, businesses, financial institutions, and governments in over 200 countries. It does not issue cards or set rates itself, but provides the secure infrastructure primarily through debit, credit, and prepaid products for digital transactions to occur.

13. Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:XOM)

Index Weight: 0.97%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 98

Exxon Mobil Corp (NYSE:XOM) is one of the top S&P 500 stocks by index weight. On April 14, Bloomberg reported that ExxonMobil Corp (NYSE:XOM) is among the companies hiking prices for plastics. The price increase comes as the sector grapples with supply shocks triggered by the US-Israel war in Iran.

Exxon and Nova Chemicals have already announced an April increase of 30 cents per pound, a significant increase from the 20-cent hike initially planned. The increase comes on the heels of US petrochemical production surging amid the Middle East conflict, halting marine traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.

On April 10, BMO Capital Markets reiterated a Market Perform rating on Exxon Mobil and a $160 price target, even as the company’s operations face significant disruption from the Middle East conflict. The company says it expects first-quarter earnings of $1.87 a share, better than the $1.71 a share delivered in the fourth quarter.

Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:XOM) is a premier global integrated energy company and the largest oil and gas corporation in the United States. It produces, refines, and markets oil and natural gas while manufacturing petrochemicals, plastics, and specialty products. Key operations include high-margin upstream projects in the Permian Basin and Guyana.

12. Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY)

Index Weight: 1.27%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 137

Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY) is one of the top S&P 500 stocks by index weight. On April 15, BMO Capital reiterated an Outperform rating on Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY) and a $1,300 price target. The bullishness underscores the research firm’s confidence that the company is facing manageable post-marketing study requirements for the Foundayo treatment.

Following the US Food and Drug Administration approval of Foundayo on April 1 for chronic weight management, Eli Lilly is required to conduct post-marketing studies. The studies are to evaluate serious risks, including liver injury and gastric issues associated with the drug. Eli Lilly is already conducting the Phase 3 ACHIEVE-4 trial of daily Foundayo in patients with type 2 diabetes who are obese.

BMO Capital does not expect the studies to have any meaningful impact on the drug’s competitive edge. In addition, the post-market studies requirements are not an underlying risk to Eli Lily’s program but reflect the FDA’s conservatism.

Foundayo is a small-molecule drug that is easier and faster to produce, expected to give Eli Lilly a step up in the supply chain. According to BMO, its manufacturing advantage could be influential in the highly competitive oral obesity market.

Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY) is a major global pharmaceutical manufacturer, pioneering scientific research to develop medicines for chronic health issues. It specializes in treatments for diabetes, obesity, immunology, oncology, and neuroscience. The company is famously known for producing blockbuster GLP-1 drugs, Mounjaro and Zepbound.

11. JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM)

Index Weight: 1.29%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 131

JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM) is one of the top S&P 500 stocks by index weight. On April 15, JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM) and Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group inched closer to completing a record $38 billion loan package to finance Oracle’s data center projects.

The two took up the record-breaking loan package in August and have since secured a dozen banks and investors to contribute to it. However, the lenders are still looking to offload less than $1 billion of the $38 billion package. Once complete, it will represent the largest debt package on record to finance data centers.

On April 15, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods reiterated an Outperform rating on JPMorgan with a $363 price target. The positive stance is in response to the bank’s solid performance, which has led to returns of 20% on tangible common equity. According to the research firm, the company continues to deliver peer-leading consistency with low volatility.

JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM) is a leading global financial services firm providing a wide range of services to consumers, businesses, and institutions. Its core businesses include consumer banking (Chase), investment banking (J.P. Morgan), commercial banking, and asset/wealth management.

10. Walmart Inc. (NYSE:WMT)

Index Weight: 1.56%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 114

Walmart Inc. (NYSE:WMT) is one of the top S&P 500 stocks by index weight. On April 15, Walmart Inc. (NYSE:WMT) announced plans to diversify its business empire by unveiling a new business unit to offer maintenance services to businesses across the country.

Upstream Facility Services is the new business unit that extends the retailer’s internal facility maintenance operations to external clients. The service is designed for businesses that manage complex facility operations and are constantly in need of maintenance services. The unit is to offer HVAC, refrigeration, general maintenance, electrical, and plumbing services to businesses spread across the country. The services on offer will include urgent repairs, preventive maintenance, and predictive services .

Walmart is to place technicians across the country to serve clients across various locations. In addition, it will provide clients with the technology tools for real-time visibility into various service operations. Upstream asserts that Walmart’s expansion of its internal facility service operations currently supports thousands of locations.

Walmart Inc. (NYSE:WMT) is a massive, global omnichannel retailer operating a chain of hypermarkets, discount department stores, and grocery stores. They focus on selling a wide variety of general merchandise and food products at low prices, both in-store and online, while also providing financial services, pharmacy, and optical services to millions of customers worldwide.

9. Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (NYSE:BRK.B)

Index Weight: 1.60%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 133

Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (NYSE:BRK.B) is one of the top S&P 500 stocks by index weight. On March 23, Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (NYSE:BRK.B) reached an agreement to invest $1.8 billion in Tokio Marine Holdings. With the investment, the company is to acquire a 2.49% stake through its National Indemnity Unit.

Tokio Marine plans to use part of the investment proceeds to finance the repurchase of up to 287.4 billion yen. In return, Berkshire Hathaway will be permitted to increase its stake in the Japanese entity to 9.9%.

The investment is poised to expand Berkshire Hathaway’s footprint in Japan beyond trading houses into the insurance sector. The investment also goes beyond equity investment and will encompass reinsurance collaboration and joint pursuit of strategic mergers and acquisitions.

While Berkshire Hathaway is poised to tap into Tokio Marine’s diversified global insurance portfolio, the Japanese company will have access to the US company’s capital strength and deal-sourcing network.

Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (NYSE:BRK.B) is a diversified holding company led by Warren Buffett that operates as a conglomerate, owning subsidiaries across insurance (GEICO), railroads (BNSF), utilities/energy (Berkshire Hathaway Energy), manufacturing, and retail. It acts as an investment vehicle, using insurance “float” to fund acquisitions and hold massive stakes in public companies like Apple.

8. Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA)

Index Weight: 2.31%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 137

Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA) is one of the top S&P 500 stocks by index weight. On April 15, Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA) stock jumped 8% after the Chief Executive Officer, Elon Musk, said they have completed tape-out of the next-generation artificial intelligence chip, A15.

With the tape-out behind them, Tesla can now proceed to the manufacturing stage, Musk having announced that they have engaged TSMC and Samsung to produce the Chip. The executive also insists the chip will become one of the highest-volume AI chips in history, with full-scale production expected in 2027.

The A15 chip could be used in Tesla’s products, including autonomous vehicles and humanoid robots. The A15 chip milestone helped alleviate concerns about Tesla’s Vehicle deliveries. Data shows that the company’s global deliveries for the first quarter totaled 358,000 units, well below the market’s median estimate of 372,000 units. It marks the second consecutive quarter of missed vehicle deliveries.

Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA) accelerates the world’s transition to sustainable energy by manufacturing electric vehicles (EVs), developing AI-driven autonomous-driving technology (Full Self-Driving), and producing solar energy products and battery energy storage solutions. Key operations include the Tesla Supercharger network and advancing artificial intelligence through robotics.

7. Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:META)

Index Weight: 2.66%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 256

Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:META) is one of the top S&P 500 stocks by index weight. On April 16, Deutsche Bank touted Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:META) artificial intelligence investments aimed at enhancing the core advertising business. Consequently, the research firm reiterated a Buy rating and a $920 price target.

The positive stance comes against the backdrop of advertising spend growth on Meta Platforms reaching 6% in the first quarter, exceeding the 5.5% expected. The increase was primarily driven by strong returns on investment from the company’s Advantage+ product suite. The growth is expected to continue in the second quarter, with Inventus Media predicting 6.4% year-over-year growth.

Amid the heightened ad spend, Deutsche Bank believes investors expect Meta Platforms to deliver first-quarter revenue of $57 billion. In the second quarter, revenue is expected to range between $60.5 billion and $61 billion, representing 27% to 28% year-over-year growth.

Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:META) builds technologies that help people connect, find communities, and grow businesses through social media apps (Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Messenger) and immersive technologies. The company is heavily focused on developing AI and mixed reality (VR/AR) experiences, as well as hardware such as Meta Quest headsets and Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses.

6. Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ:AVGO)

Index Weight: 2.95%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 202

Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ:AVGO) is one of the top S&P 500 stocks by index weight. On April 15, Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ:AVGO) unveiled a secure runtime environment for Autonomous AI applications.

VMware Tanzu Platform is the new platform that extends Tanzu platform capabilities to AI agents on VMware Cloud Foundation. Organizations can leverage the platform to transition from isolated AI experiments to production-ready autonomous agent deployments.

VMware Tanzu provides a platform-as-a-service environment for AI agents. It will also offer developers access to pre-curved models, Model Context Protocol servers, and marketplace services. It also includes enterprise-ready data engines, caching, streaming, and data flow services. It will also provide automatic scaling of infrastructure resources with self-healing capabilities.

Broadcom has already inked partnerships with MomentumAI and Mphasis to implement the platform in regulated industries. According to IDC Research manager Mathew Flug, the platform will help organizations move beyond initial AI commitments.

Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ:AVGO) is a global technology leader that designs, develops, and supplies a broad range of semiconductor and infrastructure software solutions. The company essentially serves as the “plumbing” of the digital world, providing crucial components that move data across data centers, networks, and wireless devices.

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