15 Best Short-Term Stocks To Invest In for 2024
Written by
Elizabeth Constantineau, AI Editor
Edited by
Elizabeth Constantineau
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Investing in stocks is often seen as a long-term strategy, with the common advice being to buy and hold. However, investing in the best short-term stocks can also be profitable. Key strategies include understanding what you’re investing in, conducting thorough research and diversifying your investments across various stocks. Keep reading to learn more.
15 Best Short-Term Stocks To Buy Now
Here are some of the best short-term stocks to consider buying:
- Globe Life Inc. (GL)
- Roblox Corporation (RBLX)
- Amazon (AMZN)
- Cloudflare (NET)
- The Walt Disney Company (DIS)
- Spotify (SPOT)
- Dollar Tree (DLTR)
- Palantir Technologies (PLTR)
- Las Vegas Sands (LVS)
- Coinbase Global (COIN)
- UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (UNH)
- Lucid Group (LCID)
- Ulta Beauty Inc. (ULTA)
- GXO Logistics Inc. (GXO)
- Nextracker (NXT)
Globe Life Inc.
Globe Life (GL) is America’s 17th largest life insurance company by market share, selling a range of life insurance products through a network of exclusive agencies and independent agents. The company appears to be in a growth phase right now, with sales and the number of agents on the rise as Global Life expands its presence in less populated areas with less market penetration. Global Life has a 12-month price target of $125.88.
Roblox Corporation
Roblox (RBLX) is an online platform that brings together gamers and developers and has shown impressive growth. Its unique business model, based on user-generated content and a strong community, makes it an attractive short-term investment, especially as online gaming continues to surge in popularity.
Amazon
Investors who buy Amazon (AMZN) now will never see the returns that early investors did, of course, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a good choice for the short-term investor. With its expansive e-commerce presence and diversification into other areas like cloud computing, Amazon is positioned well for various market conditions. The 12-month price is target set at $198.49.
Cloudflare
Cloudflare (NET) provides essential internet security and infrastructure services. With the increasing importance of online security and the growth of the digital economy, Cloudflare’s services are in high demand, making it a compelling short-term investment.
The Walt Disney Company
The Walt Disney Company (DIS) has long been a staple for value investors, and its diverse entertainment portfolio offers potential for short-term gains. The company’s 12-month price target, $117.16, is indicative of its resilience and adaptability in a changing media landscape.
Spotify Technology S.A.
Spotify (SPOT) is a leader in music streaming and it continues to expand its user base and explore new revenue streams like podcasts. Its strong market position and ongoing innovations make it an attractive stock for short-term investment.
Dollar Tree
Dollar Tree (DLTR) stands to benefit from current economic conditions, with its low-price model appealing to budget-conscious consumers. The retailer’s competitive position in the discount store market is noteworthy, and its 12-month price target of $150.91 reflects a positive outlook on its business performance.
Palantir Technologies Inc.
Palantir (PLTR), specializing in big data analytics, has become a key player in both government and commercial sectors. The company’s unique data analysis tools and growing client base make it a compelling short-term investment choice, particularly as data analytics becomes more vital across industries.
Las Vegas Sands
Las Vegas Sands (LVS), with its global casino operations, is well-poised for growth. The gradual easing of COVID-19 restrictions and the rise in legalized sports betting in the U.S. resulted in solid gains post-pandemic. Analysts have set a positive 12-month price target of $62.54, underscoring confidence in its growth.
Coinbase Global, Inc.
As a leading cryptocurrency exchange, Coinbase’s stock (COIN) is a direct way to gain exposure to the crypto market without buying cryptocurrencies themselves. With the increasing popularity of digital currencies and blockchain technology, Coinbase is well-positioned for short-term growth. However, investors should be aware of the volatility associated with the crypto market.
UnitedHealth Group Incorporated
UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (UNH), a leader in the healthcare sector, is considered a defensive stock, often performing well irrespective of economic conditions. Its broad range of healthcare services and consistent performance make it a stable choice for investors, as reflected in its favorable 12-month price target of $569.32.
Lucid Group Inc.
- Price: $2.52
- Market Cap: $5.81 billion
Lucid Group (LCID), known for its electric vehicles, has been gaining attention in the market. While it’s a newer player in the EV industry, its innovative technology and expanding production capabilities make it a promising short-term investment despite the rocky market for EVs. Lucid’s 12-month price target is $3.23.
Ulta Beauty Inc.
- Price: $419.27
- Market Cap: $20.24 billion
Ulta (ULTA) is a market leader among beauty, cosmetics and fragrance retailers, which gives it an edge even at a time when consumers are slower to spend on luxury products. The stock recently fell in what some say was a price normalization. Normal or not, analysts expect growth in the coming year. Ulta’s 12-month price target is $567.59.
GXO Logistics, Inc.
- Price: $50.14
- Market Cap: $5.94 billion
The pandemic revealed supply-chain vulnerabilities that resulted in shortages affecting everything from toilet paper to computer chips. As an outsourcing partner for blue-chip companies, GXO Logistics (GXO) provides custom supply chain management solutions for e-commerce, retail and industry. The company has outperformed analysts’ predictions in each of the last four quarters, and they expect it to continue to shine. GXO’s price target is $69.33.
Nextracker, Inc.
- Price: $44.42
- Market Cap: $6.55 billion
Nextracker (NXT) is a solar company, but it doesn’t manufacture panels. Rather, it provides solar trackers and monitoring and control software. Its products are self-powered, compatible with challenging terrains and resilient to weather. As utility companies transition to cleaner energy, companies like Nextracker are likely to benefit. Nextracker has a 12-month price target of $64.63.
Is It Smart To Invest Short-Term?
Investing in short-term stocks can be a good idea if you want to take advantage of a rising market without locking your funds into a long-term stock.
However, you may be better off with a different type of investment if you want to keep your funds relatively liquid. Look into a CD or high-yield savings account for high-interest rates without the volatility that comes with the stock market.
Are Short-Term Stocks Profitable?
Short-term stocks can be profitable if you time your buy and sell just right. They’re generally not as profitable as long-term investments that have had time to grow, though.
Keep in mind that, whether you invest short- or long-term, the stock market is difficult to predict and there are no guarantees.
Final Take
Short-term stock investing takes discipline, just as long-term investing does. Before you buy, have an exit strategy, whether that is a point in time or a price point, and then stick to it. Be sure to do your due diligence and only invest money you don’t need for expenses.
FAQ
- What are the best stocks to buy short-term?
- The best stocks for short-term investment are typically those in rapidly growing sectors or those experiencing a temporary boost. Some to consider are:
- Nextracker (NXT)
- Coinbase Global, Inc. (COIN)
- Cloudflare, Inc. (NET)
- These companies are positioned in industries with significant short-term growth potential or have specific short-term catalysts that could drive their stock prices higher.
- The best stocks for short-term investment are typically those in rapidly growing sectors or those experiencing a temporary boost. Some to consider are:
- What are the best stocks to buy now?
- The top five stocks to consider now, based on current market trends and potential for short-term growth, include:
- Nextracker (NXT): A key player in solar tracking and control software.
- Coinbase Global, Inc. (COIN): A leading cryptocurrency exchange platform.
- Palantir Technologies Inc. (PLTR): Specializing in big data analytics with a growing client base.
- Roblox Corporation (RBLX): An online gaming platform with a strong community and user-generated content.
- The top five stocks to consider now, based on current market trends and potential for short-term growth, include:
- What should I invest in short term?
- For short-term investments, consider stocks in high-growth industries or those experiencing momentary upswings. Look for companies like Cloudflare, Inc. (NET) in the tech sector or Spotify Technology S.A. (SPOT) in digital music streaming. These companies have strong market positions and are in sectors with rapid changes and potential for quick gains.
- What are three good stocks to invest in?
- Three good stocks to consider investing in, based on current performance and future potential, are:
- Amazon (AMZN): Despite its size, Amazon continues to grow and innovate, making it a strong candidate for investment.
- Visa (V): A solid performer in the financial sector with a wide-reaching network and a strong business model.
- Las Vegas Sands (LVS): As travel and leisure activities rebound post-pandemic, companies like Las Vegas Sands stand to benefit.
- Three good stocks to consider investing in, based on current performance and future potential, are:
Karen Doyle and Daria Uhlig contributed to the reporting for this article.
Data was compiled on April 23, 2024, and is subject to change.
Editor's note: This article was produced via automated technology and then fine-tuned and verified for accuracy by a member of GOBankingRates' editorial team.
Our in-house research team and on-site financial experts work together to create content that’s accurate, impartial, and up to date. We fact-check every single statistic, quote and fact using trusted primary resources to make sure the information we provide is correct. You can learn more about GOBankingRates’ processes and standards in our editorial policy.
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