Top US Stocks to Watch: Week of July 21, 2025

US Stock Market Preview: July 21–25, 2025

As the S&P 500 and Nasdaq continue to notch record highs, the coming week sets the stage for high-impact earnings, macroeconomic data, and policy commentary. Markets are navigating robust consumer spending and steady labour data against a backdrop of tariff-driven uncertainty and cooling inflation. With the second-quarter earnings season in full swing, this week’s focus turns to megacap tech, AI infrastructure, and the rising momentum in crypto.

Market Overview

The S&P 500 is up 5.51% over the past month and 14.38% year-over-year as of July 18. June’s retail sales rose 0.6%, exceeding forecasts, while jobless claims dropped to 221,000, indicating ongoing labour market strength. Inflation remains sticky. June’s CPI rose 0.3% month-over-month, though broader inflationary pressures appear contained for now.

Analysts expect S&P 500 earnings to grow 3.7% in Q2, down from 12.8% in Q1, weighed by tariff disruptions. Tech and communication services are projected to lead, while consumer discretionary and energy show weakness. Markets are closely watching the developments between the Federal Reserve and the White House, particularly with an August 1 tariff deadline approaching.

Stocks to Watch

Tesla $TSLA ( ▼ 0.18% )

Catalyst: Q2 earnings report on July 23
Tesla remains a barometer for growth sentiment. Investors will be watching for guidance on production margins and AI autonomy initiatives. With elevated trading volumes and a strong YTD gain, the stock is primed for post-earnings volatility.

Alphabet $GOOGL ( ▼ 0.19% )

Catalyst: Q2 earnings and AI/cloud performance update
Alphabet’s earnings will shed light on its momentum in AI and cloud. It leads among the “Magnificent Seven” stocks, with 14.8% expected earnings growth. Watch for developments in ad revenue and AI infrastructure investment.

Intel $INTC ( ▲ 3.54% )

Catalyst: AI chip progress and foundry updates
Intel’s comeback narrative hinges on its role in AI hardware. Market attention is focused on its foundry expansion and competitiveness in the AI chip market, particularly in the arms race against NVIDIA and AMD.

Coca-Cola $KO ( ▲ 0.13% )

Catalyst: Earnings report on July 22
A defensive play during macro stress, Coca-Cola offers insights into consumer health amid inflation and tariffs. Margin trends and pricing power are key metrics to monitor.

Robinhood $HOOD ( ▼ 0.86% )

Catalyst: Crypto expansion and retail engagement
Following its acquisition of WonderFi, Robinhood is positioning itself as a global crypto broker. With Bitcoin above $123,000, crypto tailwinds could boost trading volumes and investor sentiment.

Key Events This Week

Also in focus is the European Central Bank’s rate decision on Thursday, expected to hold steady, which could sway global sentiment.

Hot Sectors to Watch

Technology

Driven by AI and earnings strength, tech remains the week’s focal point. Infrastructure players, such as Intel, and platform giants, including Alphabet and Tesla, are in the spotlight.

Stocks to Watch: TSLA, GOOGL, INTC, IBM

Financials

Following solid Q2 results, banks remain stable amid increased clarity on rates and credit. Strength in investment banking and AI financing has supported margins.

Stocks to Watch: GS, JPM

Consumer Staples

Amid inflation and tariff headwinds, defensive stocks like Coca-Cola offer stability. The sector benefits from strong brand pricing power.

Stocks to Watch: KO, CPB

Crypto & Fintech

With Bitcoin at $123,000, crypto-linked equities are gaining traction. Robinhood’s strategic pivot into global crypto brokerage adds momentum.

Stocks to Watch: HOOD, MOGO

Final Word

The week of July 21 brings a critical test for US markets. Tech earnings, central bank commentary, and key data releases will shape sentiment heading into August. Tesla, Alphabet, and Robinhood are among the names most likely to move markets. Meanwhile, Powell’s remarks and President Trump’s AI policy speech could inject fresh volatility into the market. All eyes are on growth, margins, and macro clues as the second half of 2025 unfolds.

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.