What are Zacks #1 strong buy stocks?

Zacks #1 Strong Buy Stocks: What You Need to Know

When investors talk about Zacks #1 Rank stocks, they’re referring to companies positioned at the top of Zacks' proprietary ranking system—those with the strongest potential for earnings growth and stock performance. A #1 Rank means "Strong Buy," based on a combination of earnings estimate revisions, momentum, and other fundamental factors that signal upward movement.

As of May 8, 2026, some of the top movers in the Zacks #1 category have seen notable gains, with AMN Healthcare (AMN) leading the pack. The stock surged an impressive 29.04%, likely fueled by strong earnings momentum and upward revisions from analysts. Healthcare staffing has remained resilient, and AMN’s focus on specialized medical personnel continues to drive demand.

Other stocks making waves include BrightSpring Health (BTSG), up 3.57%, Par Pacific Holdings (PARR) with a 3.41% gain, and Constellium (CSTM), adding 3.07%. These companies span healthcare, energy, and advanced materials, showing that strength can emerge across sectors when fundamentals align.

What sets Zacks #1 stocks apart isn't just recent performance—it's the forward-looking analytics behind them. The Zacks Rank heavily weighs changes in analyst sentiment, especially upward earnings revisions, which historically correlate with future stock gains. That’s why investors often use this screen to identify high-potential opportunities before they become mainstream.

Of course, no ranking is foolproof. Even top-ranked stocks carry risk, and rapid moves—like AMN’s 29% jump—can attract short-term traders while giving long-term investors pause. Still, the Zacks #1 Rank remains a trusted tool for those looking to combine momentum with disciplined research.

If you're hunting for ideas, keeping an eye on these top movers could be a smart move—just remember to look beyond the ticker and understand the story behind the surge.