The small-cap universe in 2025 has been a rollercoaster worth watching. In the first six months of the year (January–June), nearly 169 small-cap stocks crashed more than 25%, leaving investors on shaky ground. But just when pessimism was at its peak, a surprise turnaround came in the second half of the year. In less than three months, nine of those beaten-down counters staged a remarkable comeback, climbing over 40% each.
US stocks today: S&P 500, Nasdaq end higher, notch weekly gains after earnings-heavy week
The S&P 500 and Nasdaq reached record highs, fueled by strong earnings and falling crude prices, marking their longest weekly gain streak since October 2024.