If You Bought These 3 Stocks in 2009, Count Your Blessings

Today, a CNBC report showcased some of the top stocks performance since 2009. Despite the pain that investors suffered as a result of the 2008 collapse, many investors have profited handsomely if they bought at the bottom. Here are the top 3 performers in the S&P 500 since March 2009. Wyndham Worldwide WYN: The recession slowed travel and luxury hotel occupation significantly, as a newfound lack of disposable income forced many people to cut back on vacations and downsize business travel expenses. As the economy recovers, many people have loosened their grip on their wallets and returned to expensive hotels. Wyndham is up 1322.9% since March 2009. CBS Corp CBS: CBS is up 900.32% since March 2009. The company has shown that it can take advantage of a favorable advertising environment, as well as new revenue streams of online content and sports coverage. As most consumers cut spending in 2009, many companies dramatically cut their advertising budgets. The recovery has convinced companies to advertise again in an effort to capture consumers lost 3 years ago. Fifth Third Bancorp FITB: Fifth Third Bancorp was one of many financial institutions that lost confidence of its investors during the crisis, as many consumers lost faith in institutions that were supposed to invest wisely on their behalf. As the economy has come back, so has the stock price of many financial institutions.