1.NuScale Power
SMR (NYSE)
NuScale Power (SMR), a standout in the mid-cap nuclear sector, has experienced a modest 1-year return of 4.89% while boasting an impressive 5-year return of 88.53%. Despite being flagged as a money-losing startup, analysts maintain a median 12-month price target of $30.00, indicating potential for growth amid current shareholder concerns regarding new share issuance. With ratings from B. Riley Securities as a "Buy," and neutral positions from Goldman Sachs and UBS, investors should consider their risk tolerance when evaluating this stock.
Pros:
- Potential for growth in nuclear energy
- Strong market cap
Cons:
- D+ rating from analysts
- Concerns about share issuance
2.Ondas
ONDS (NASDAQ)
Ondas Holdings (ONDS) stands out as a promising investment, focusing on private wireless, drone, and automated data solutions, with a remarkable one-year return of 601.60%. Analysts maintain a cautiously optimistic outlook, with a median 12-month price target of $12.00, supported by strong buy ratings from Needham and Lake Street, as well as an upgrade from Oppenheimer. The company's recent growth is evident, as gross profit surged to $2.6 million, highlighting its improving profitability and operational efficiency.
Pros:
- Strong recent performance
- Innovative technology solutions
Cons:
- High risk due to market volatility
- Dependence on specific sectors
3.ProShares UltraPro Short QQQ
SQQQ (NASDAQ)
ProShares UltraPro Short QQQ (SQQQ) is designed for investors looking to capitalize on short-term declines in the NASDAQ-100. However, with a staggering one-year return of -59.87% and a five-year return plummeting to -96.56%, the ETF holds sell signals from both short and long-term moving averages, indicating a challenging outlook. While it boasts a high dividend yield of 9.83%, SQQQ is not suitable for long-term holding due to its inherent volatility and decay.
Pros:
- High dividend yield
- Potential for short-term gains
Cons:
- Significant long-term losses
- Not suitable for long-term holding
4.Opendoor Technologies
OPEN (NASDAQ)
Opendoor Technologies (OPEN) has emerged as a notable player in the digital residential real estate sector, exhibiting strong trading volume recently. While it boasts an impressive 1-year return of 408.70%, its 5-year performance reveals a significant decline of 74.66%, raising concerns about its long-term viability. Analysts maintain a cautious outlook, with a median 12-month price target of $6.00, highlighting the ongoing risks associated with its recurring net losses and thin profit margins, even during market upswings.
Pros:
- Strong recent performance
- Innovative digital platform
Cons:
- High risk due to past losses
- Negative long-term return
5.AltC Acquisition
ALCC (NYSE)
AltC Acquisition (ALCC), a blank-check SPAC, is gaining attention with its notable trading volume among mid-cap stocks as of January 10-11, 2026. Investors might find its impressive 1-year return of 72.80% and 5-year return of 82.67% appealing, especially given the B+ analyst rating that underscores its potential. This SPAC focuses on strategic acquisitions, making it a compelling option for those looking to capitalize on growth in the evolving investment landscape.
Pros:
- Strong recent performance
- High investor interest
Cons:
- Lack of significant operations
- Risk associated with SPACs
6.D-Wave Quantum
QBTS (NYSE)
D-Wave Quantum (QBTS) stands out as a notable player in the quantum computing sector, recently gaining attention in high-volume mid-cap scans. With a remarkable one-year return of 651.96% and a five-year return of 173.76%, it shows potential for robust growth. Analysts maintain a positive outlook, with a median 12-month price target of $40.00 and a consensus rating of Strong Buy.
Pros:
- Strong growth potential in quantum computing
- High analyst ratings
Cons:
- High volatility
- Dependence on system sales execution
7.Direxion Daily TSLA Bull 2X
TSLL (NASDAQ)
The Direxion Daily TSLA Bull 2X ETF (TSLL), recognized for its aggressive leverage on Tesla, has recently been highlighted in mid-cap watchlists from January 9-11. With a challenging one-year return of -30.04% and a five-year return of -21.72%, investors should approach this fund cautiously, particularly given the high implied volatility at 90%. The current outlook suggests a 90% chance of continued decline, making it ill-suited for long-term holding due to its heightened risk profile and severe reactions to market movements.
Pros:
- Potential for high returns due to leverage
- Quarterly dividends
Cons:
- High volatility and risk
- Negative 1-year return
8.Applied Digital
APLD (NASDAQ)
Applied Digital (APLD) stands out as a dynamic player in the data-center and AI sectors, recently noted for its high mid-cap trading volume on January 10. With an impressive one-year return of 391.76% and a five-year return of 687.84%, it's clear that this stock has captured investor interest, especially as it trades close to its 52-week high of $37.76. Analysts maintain a positive outlook, with a median 12-month price target of $40.00 and consistent "Buy" ratings from several firms.
Pros:
- High returns over the past year
- Strong growth in market cap
Cons:
- High volatility risk
- D+ rating from analysts
Final Words
As you consider the best mid-cap stocks for January 2026, remember that thorough research and comparison of your options are essential for making informed investment decisions. You can explore the potential of these stocks to enhance your portfolio while staying aligned with your financial goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Applied Digital has shown impressive returns with a 1-Year Return of 391.76%, a 3-Year Return of 1636.82%, and a 5-Year Return of 687.84%. These figures reflect the company's strong performance in the technology sector.
Yes, APLD is viewed positively, with several analysts maintaining a 'Buy' rating. The stock has experienced significant growth, making it an attractive option for investors.
Applied Digital has a market cap of approximately $10.68 billion, indicating its substantial size and presence in the technology sector.
Mid-cap stocks can offer growth potential but may also carry higher volatility compared to large-cap stocks. It's essential to assess the company's fundamentals and market conditions to understand the associated risks.
Applied Digital has demonstrated exceptional returns compared to many mid-cap stocks, particularly with its 1-Year Return of 391.76%. This strong performance sets it apart in the mid-cap category.
Mid-cap stocks are often found across various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and consumer goods. Diversifying your investments across different sectors can help mitigate risks.


