3 Surging Stocks That Don’t Need the AI Boom to Keep Winning
DaVita (DVA), Franklin Resources (BEN), and Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) have each gained over 30% YTD. DVA benefits from improved reimbursement rates and cost discipline, with analysts projecting 18% earnings growth. BEN has moderated outflows and beaten earnings estimates. ADM raised guidance despite volatile global trade conditions.
How this was made
The 30-second read
Why it matters
Strong earnings beats and guidance upgrades suggest continued upside, offering diversification away from AI‑centric themes.
Market read
These three firms demonstrate that solid fundamentals can drive significant returns even without AI exposure.
What to watch
Potential regulatory or macro‑economic headwinds could temper the upside despite strong guidance.
Background
The article highlights three non‑AI stocks that have outperformed YTD, emphasizing earnings guidance and operational improvements.
Ticker impact
DaVita reaffirmed its full‑year guidance after a strong Q2 2026, supporting its 30%+ YTD rally.
Continued upside pressure, potential further 10‑15% gain.
Guidance reaffirmation and cost discipline signal earnings growth of >18% YoY.
Franklin Resources posted a 6‑cent EPS beat and 14% revenue growth, tempering outflows and boosting YTD performance.
Likely modest rally, 5‑8% upside in coming weeks.
Better‑than‑expected earnings and moderated outflows improve outlook.
Archer Daniels Midland raised its full‑year adjusted EPS guidance by about $1 and posted strong grain‑processing volumes, fueling a 48% YTD rise.
Potential 8‑12% upside as market digests higher EPS outlook.
Guidance lift and operational beat indicate robust earnings trajectory.
Market effects
Healthcare, asset management, and agribusiness sectors gain confidence from strong earnings and guidance lifts.
U.S. equities benefit from diversified non‑AI growth drivers.
Shows that non‑AI stocks can outperform in a market dominated by AI hype.
Counterpoint
If AI‑driven momentum reverses, these non‑AI stocks may face relative underperformance.
Key entities
- companyDaVita Inc.
Dialysis provider with reaffirmed guidance.
- companyFranklin Resources Inc.
Asset manager with earnings beat.
- companyArcher Daniels Midland Co.
Agribusiness with raised EPS guidance.



