5 AI Stocks That Drove S&P 500's Q1 Gains

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a cornerstone technology driving innovation across various sectors, from healthcare to finance.

In the first quarter (Q1) of this year, the S&P 500 Index witnessed gains of over 10% year-to-date (YTD). A significant portion of these gains can be attributed to the stellar performance of AI-related companies.

Let’s delve into the top five AI stocks that contributed to the S&P 500’s growth in Q1.

Chart: Benzinga Pro

Also Read: This AI Stock Is Up 254% Year-To-Date — And It’s Not Nvidia

1. Super Micro Computer Inc SMCI

• Symbol: SMCI
• YTD Return: 260%
• Super Micro Computer — a leader in server technology — has seen an exceptional YTD return of over 260%. This remarkable growth underscores the increasing demand for data center solutions and infrastructure — pivotal in powering AI applications.

2. Nvidia Corp NVDA

• Symbol: NVDA
• YTD Return: 86.87%
• Nvidia— known for its graphics processing units (GPUs) and AI computing solutions — had a record smashing 2023, Nvidia stock has continued its impressive performance with a YTD return of over 86%. As AI continues to permeate various industries, NVIDIA’s GPUs remain indispensable for accelerating AI workloads, driving its stock performance.

3. Micron Technology Inc MU

• Symbol: MU
• YTD Return: 51.17%
• Micron is a key player in memory and storage solutions. Its stock has demonstrated strong growth momentum with a YTD return of over 51%. With the proliferation of AI applications requiring massive data storage and processing capabilities, Micron’s semiconductor solutions are in high demand, fueling its impressive performance.

4. Meta Platforms Inc Class A META

• Symbol: META
• YTD Return: 41.77%
• Formerly known as Facebook, Meta Platforms has transitioned its focus towards the metaverse and AI-driven technologies. Despite regulatory challenges, Meta stock has delivered a commendable YTD return of 41%+, highlighting investor optimism surrounding its AI-powered innovations and future growth prospects.

5. Applied Materials Inc AMAT

• Symbol: AMAT
• YTD Return: 34.03%
• Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions. Its stock has seen a solid YTD return of 34%. The company’s advanced materials and manufacturing technologies play a crucial role in enabling AI hardware development, making it an essential contributor to the S&P 500’s gains in Q1.

The performance of these stocks underscores the growing influence of AI technologies on the financial markets and the broader economy. As AI continues to evolve and permeate various industries, investors are increasingly recognizing the immense potential and opportunities presented by companies at the forefront of AI innovation.

Read Next: Nvidia Leads, Tesla Lags Among Magnificent Seven Stocks: Q1 Market Shake-Up

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