6 stocks to buy for the second half, according to Wall Street analysts

Despite market volatility driven by geopolitical events and economic concerns, analysts are increasingly bullish on specific stocks for the second half of 2025, including First Solar (FSLR) and Salesforce (CRM). First Solar, down 18% YTD, is favored for its technological leadership in solar panel production, with analysts projecting a potential 38% upside; Salesforce, down 22% YTD, is expected to benefit from AI utilization, with analysts anticipating a 25-35% rally. Other companies favored by analysts include BioMarin Pharmaceutical, Light & Wonder, Fiserv, and Burlington Stores.

Analysis

Despite a volatile first half of 2025, characterized by modest index performance and significant macroeconomic headwinds, Wall Street analysts are signaling strong conviction in select equities for the second half. The market's lackluster returns, with the S&P 500 up less than 2% year-to-date amid concerns over tariffs, federal deficits, and geopolitical tensions in Iran, have created specific dislocations. Analysts have identified opportunities in companies that have underperformed but possess strong fundamental catalysts. First Solar (FSLR), down 18% in 2025, is highlighted for its technological leadership in thin-film solar panels, which offer efficiency advantages in high-temperature environments and are improving at a rate four times faster than Chinese alternatives. This thesis is supported by an 80% buy rating from analysts and a consensus price target implying approximately 38% upside from its $145.00 price. Similarly, Salesforce (CRM), which has slumped 22% year-to-date, is seen as a primary beneficiary of AI monetization in application software. It commands an 81% buy rating from analysts, with consensus targets projecting a 35% rally from its $260.63 level. The identification of these stocks, along with others like BioMarin and Fiserv, is based on a rigorous screen requiring at least 65% buy ratings and over 30% upside, suggesting a focused bullish sentiment on specific names rather than the broader market.

Key Decisions for Investors

• Consider the significant year-to-date pullbacks in First Solar (-18%) and Salesforce (-22%) as potential entry points, given the strong analyst consensus on their respective technology and AI-driven growth catalysts.
• Investors should balance the company-specific optimism with the noted macroeconomic risks, including trade tariffs, deficit concerns, and geopolitical instability, which could continue to fuel market volatility.
• Use the high degree of analyst conviction (over 80% buy ratings for both FSLR and CRM) and substantial price target upside as a primary signal for further due diligence on these underperforming names.
• Monitor the other mentioned stocks—BioMarin Pharmaceutical, Light & Wonder, Fiserv, and Burlington Stores—as they fit a similar profile of strong analyst support and may present comparable opportunities.