2025 could be better for the stock market. Rising inflation, heightened recession fears, rising interest rates, not to mention the Russo-Ukraine war, are things investors just can't ignore. Outperforming and volatile stocks have taken a beating as most investors, both novice and seasoned, adopt a risk-free mindset.

For anyone looking for smart trading options this year, this article is for you. Here are 10 stocks to watch in 2025.

1. Etsy

The 2020 pandemic devastated many brick-and-mortar businesses, but the e-commerce space, especially Etsy, has soared during this time. The U.S.-based company acts as a middleman, connecting customers with people who sell handmade crafts that are far better than the usual items in brick-and-mortar stores. Etsy's growth rate jumped 144% in the final quarter of 2025. Experts predict that sales on the platform will grow beyond pre-pandemic levels. These numbers show how this e-commerce business has thrived and created a perfect market for long-term investors.

2. Dutch Bros Inc.

Investors are more aware of the companies they invest in due to the volatility in the stock market in the wake of the pandemic. Most of them prefer a well-established organization with a global reputation.

While significant investments are likely to be made by Apple and tech companies, investors should be aware of smaller organizations that are likely to expand over the next few years. $5 billion coffee chain Dutch Bros Inc is another company poised for growth in 2025. The company has expanded to 14 states with more than 650 locations and opened 133 stores last year. The company's sales rose 50% last year to more than $739 million.

3. Berkshire Hathaway

Berkshire Hathaway's impressive valuation and solid growth are a sweet spot for safe-haven investors. Admittedly, a company's valuation isn't just based on its sales. Still, the management team and the way they run the company is driving the company. Under Warren Buffett, Berkshire Hathaway was known for its ethical culture and employee development.

4. Amazon.com

Amazon appears to be a risky investment as the company loses 50% of its stock value in 2025. Volatile demand, rising inflation and supply chain disruptions are the main reasons behind Amazon's sudden drop. But it's off to a strong start, with its stock up 16% in 2025. Thanks to Amazon Web Services, the fastest growing and most profitable cloud-based service. Amazon's market capitalization exceeds $1 trillion, which presents a huge opportunity for investors looking for a long-term investment.

5. Walt Disney Co.

Walt Disney is another excellent investment opportunity for long-term investors interested in the entertainment industry. The closure of amusement parks and theaters during the pandemic negatively impacted revenue, but now that things are back to normal, Disney stock is up again. Bob Chapek previously served as Disney CEO, but now that Robert Iger is back, investors expect Disney+ to return to pre-pandemic normal in 2025. Not only did we see revenue growth from its streaming service, but the company also saw a 21% increase in theme park revenue.

6. Pinterest

Pinterest differs from other social media apps in that it focuses on visual inspiration rather than social interaction. Whether you're planning an event or organizing your wardrobe, Pinterest has inspiring photos for you. Pinterest has been hit during the pandemic and made the news as its user base declined. But growth accelerated again, and the company focused on integrating e-commerce elements into social media platforms. With a net worth of about $19 billion, Pinterest has become a lucrative pick for investors.

7. Apple

The well-known tech giant Apple, which needs no introduction, is suitable for steady investors looking for steady returns. Like the other tech giants and U.S. stocks mentioned on this list, Apple could have gotten off to a better start in 2025. Inflation and recession have spooked investors from investing in Apple stores. Its shares fell as much as 26.4% at one point, but conditions have stabilized and the $2.6 trillion company has become a top choice for investors in the tech sector.

8. Intuitive Surgery

Intuitive Surgical, which grew 279%, aims to use robotic tools to make invasive procedures easier and more precise. With robotic surgery becoming the new normal, Intuitive Surgical — a well-known provider of robotic surgical instruments — has gained enormous popularity around the world. The company follows the da Vinci surgical system adopted by a large population. The company has an 80% market share and is growing in popularity.

9. Block 

Block, formerly known as Square, is a digital payments and finance company that has grown from a simple payment processing provider into a massive economy offering merchants and customers a variety of financial products. Block launched Cash App to compete with mobile payment companies like PayPal.

The company has over 50 million active users who can send, receive and invest money with just one click. Growth is expected despite a 61% drop in shares. This is largely due to the block's association with Bitcoin, which peaks at $69,000 in 2025.

10. EOG Resources

Last on our list is US oil and gas producer EOG Resources Inc. Shares of EOG Resources plunged 14.5% in the first quarter of 2025. Still, it's considered a safe investment for beginners and those looking for a steady stream of income through dividends. A drop in the stock price does not indicate that there is a problem with the company. Investors looking to diversify their portfolios by adding to oil and gas stocks should consider buying EOG Resources.

Investing in the stock market might not seem like a great idea, but with the right research and smart decisions, you can find stocks that have a good chance of doing well in 2025.