Three Meme Stocks Poised for Growth in 2026: What Analysts Are Saying

The meme stock phenomenon continues to captivate investors seeking outsized returns. What started as retail-driven speculation has evolved into a market segment where, say that again, meme stocks can deliver real fundamentals alongside their viral appeal. While some have experienced explosive volatility—GameStop’s trajectory illustrates this perfectly—others have demonstrated sustainable business models worth examining for 2026 positions.

Carvana (CVNA): The E-Commerce Auto Disruptor Gaining Momentum

Among meme stocks trending in investment discussions, Carvana stands out for translating social media buzz into tangible business results. The company’s stock has surged more than 60% year-to-date, signaling investor confidence beyond mere hype. Needham’s Chris Pierce points to the firm’s infrastructure investments and proprietary technology platform as competitive advantages, establishing a $500 price target.

The numbers validate this optimism. Carvana’s third-quarter revenue climbed 55% compared to last year, while net income nearly doubled. The company reached a $20 billion annual revenue run rate for the first time—a milestone reflecting operational maturity. Unit sales hit approximately 156,000 vehicles, representing a 44% year-over-year expansion. These metrics demonstrate that meme stocks can transition from speculation to growth stories.

Rivian Automotive (RIVN): Electric Vehicles Meet Artificial Intelligence Strategy

The electric vehicle sector attracts meme stock investors and serious analysts alike. Rivian has posted a 10%+ gain this year despite significant volatility characteristic of EV stocks. Ivan Feinseth from Tigress Financial Partners emphasizes the company’s artificial intelligence and software development roadmap.

His investment thesis centers on how AI-powered driver-assistance systems could unlock new revenue streams through future software upgrades. Rivian’s autonomous driving capabilities, though trailing Waymo’s current lead, continue improving through planned enhancements. For investors positioned in meme stocks with real technology development, Rivian represents exposure to the autonomous vehicle opportunity still in early innings. Feinseth’s $25 price target reflects conviction in this long-term narrative.

Krispy Kreme (DNUT): Turnaround Story Emerging From Depressed Valuation

Meme stocks that crash deserve reassessment. Krispy Kreme has lost more than 50% from 2025 peaks, but Bank of America analyst Sara Senatore recently reaffirmed a “Buy” stance. Her reasoning: DNUT deserves premium valuation reflecting double-digit earnings growth and superior returns on capital.

The expansion thesis provides specificity. Krispy Kreme operates from 3,750 locations currently and targets 8,000 points of distribution across North America within years. International markets are being refranchised to accelerate revenue. Q3 results showed nascent recovery signs—organic sales grew 0.6% year-over-year while international revenue jumped 7.3%. Net losses narrowed, suggesting an inflection point.

Investors say that again when examining meme stocks with restructuring catalysts and asset-light expansion models. Krispy Kreme fits both criteria as 2026 approaches.

The Evolving Meme Stock Landscape

Not all meme stocks vaporize after viral moments. The three highlighted above combine social media interest with measurable business metrics. Rivian’s AI investments, Carvana’s operational scaling, and Krispy Kreme’s international expansion represent substance beneath the surface volatility. Whether these meme stocks deliver returns depends on execution, but analysts see legitimate catalysts worth monitoring through 2026.