Monthly Market Recap: Top Gainers and Losers in May 2025

While macro headlines focused on AI momentum and tariff uncertainties, the real story unfolded at the individual stock level, where a handful of companies either soared or stumbled.

Here’s a breakdown of the month’s biggest winners and losers, based on available end-of-April figures and updated weekly data from major financial platforms.

Top Gainers in May 2025

S&P 500 Leaders (Year-to-Date Performance)

As of April 30, these stocks led the index and continued their run into May:

Palantir’s continued growth reflects investor confidence in its AI and government contracts. Newmont benefited from record gold prices, while Philip Morris gained amid strong emerging market sales.

High-Growth Stocks (30-Day Return)

Outside the S&P 500, smaller-cap names posted staggering gains:

These gains were driven by niche biotech breakthroughs and speculative flows, particularly in microcap and healthcare stocks.

Late-May Standouts

Daily data from May 30 added more names to the list of top performers:

• Ulta Beauty (ULTA): +11.78% in one day, following an upbeat earnings revision.

• Zscaler (ZS) and MP Materials (MP): Both jumped ~10%, reflecting strength in cybersecurity and rare earth sectors, respectively.

Top Losers in May 2025

S&P 500 Underperformers (YTD Declines)

High-growth names like ON and Teradyne suffered from cooling demand in semis, while Deckers declined sharply post-earnings.

Worst Weekly Performers (May 30 Data)

The common threads were biotech volatility, earnings misses, and weakening China demand.

Sector Laggards

• Energy declined 0.34% in May, weighed down by falling crude prices (WTI ended near $60.90).

• Despite gold's record highs, basic Materials barely broke even at +0.42%.

Market Themes & Context

• AI and cybersecurity continue to lead growth narratives. Palantir, CrowdStrike, and Zscaler were all primary beneficiaries.

• Healthcare showed extreme bifurcation—Agilon gained over 120% YTD, while Intellia and Regeneron suffered double-digit weekly losses.

• Consumer Discretionary remained unpredictable. Ulta surged on strong earnings; Gap tumbled despite efforts to revamp its brand.

Summary Table

Final Thoughts

The S&P 500's modest gain in May masked sharp divergences beneath the surface. AI and defensives outperformed, while solar, semiconductors, and select biotechs bore the brunt of investor caution. As markets recalibrate for a shifting macro landscape, May served as a reminder: sector and stock-level selection matter more than ever.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Always conduct your own research or speak to a qualified professional before investing.