@investmentguru_Dec 30, 2025 · 1:53 AM

Evercore ISI: Best Idea List for 2026 High-conviction ideas for a K-shaped recovery and an AI-driven future Evercore ISI just released its 2026 Best Idea List, and the message is clear: AI is still early, infrastructure matters, and the recovery will be uneven—but full of opportunity if you’re positioned right. Here’s a clean breakdown 👇 Retail & Consumer (Stimulus / Tax-Cut Beneficiaries) $WMT (Walmart) – #1 retail pick, defensive and resilient $AMZN (Amazon) – E-commerce + AWS capturing discretionary spend $ULTA (Ulta Beauty) – Strong product pipeline, late-cycle winner $HD (Home Depot) – Housing policy shifts + renovation tailwinds $GPC (Genuine Parts) – Defensive auto-related growth ⚡ Power, Automation & Industrials (AI Arms Race) $GEV (GE Vernova) – Top pick, ~10% organic growth through 2028 $HON (Honeywell) – Strongest catalyst path in the sector $HUBB (Hubbell) – Electrical infrastructure at attractive valuations •Schneider Electric & Siemens – European automation leaders benefiting from AI infrastructure buildout Media & Technology (Strategic, Long-Term) $LYV (Live Nation) – Accelerating income + strong live event demand $MA (Mastercard) – Undervalued relative to performance $ANET (Arista Networks) & $AAPL (Apple) – Core long-term compounders (Removed from short-term tactical list after recent rally) K-Shaped Recovery & Value Plays $MDLZ (Mondelez) – Global snacking powerhouse $CL (Colgate-Palmolive) – Consumer staples stability $STZ (Constellation Brands) – Beverage alcohol leader $DRI (Darden Restaurants) – Casual dining rebound $LAD (Lithia Motors) – Auto retail recovery play Market Outlook •S&P 500 Target (End-2026): ~7,750 •Core Theme: AI revolution is still in early innings, driving higher market multiples despite volatility. 2026 isn’t about chasing one trade—it’s about owning quality across AI infrastructure, automation, resilient consumers, and selective value. The recovery will be uneven, but leaders with cash flow and pricing power should win.