5 Best Growth Stocks to Buy and Hold in 2026

Key Takeaways

• Shopify projected 26% EPS growth and 23% revenue growth in 2026.
• 76% of analysts rate Shopify a Buy with 76% upside to $160.
• Q1 2026 GMV rose 34.3% YoY to $100.4 billion, beating estimates.
• FY 2025 revenue grew 30% and free cash flow margin hit 17%.
• Company launched $2 billion share repurchase program for 2026.

Pulse Analysis

Shopify’s inclusion among the five best growth stocks for 2026 rests on a blend of robust financial forecasts and a favorable analyst consensus. The company’s projected earnings‑per‑share increase of over 26% and revenue expansion exceeding 23% signal a high‑velocity growth trajectory. With three‑quarters of analysts assigning a Buy rating and a consensus target price of $160—roughly 76% above the current market level—investors see a clear valuation upside anchored in the platform’s scalable SaaS model.

Operationally, Shopify is riding a wave of e‑commerce momentum that outpaces the broader market. First‑quarter 2026 gross merchandise volume climbed 34.3% year‑over‑year to $100.4 billion, surpassing consensus estimates and underscoring the platform’s expanding merchant base. Full‑year 2025 results delivered a 30% revenue jump and a 17% free‑cash‑flow margin, reflecting both top‑line strength and disciplined capital management. International expansion, growing payments adoption, and new point‑of‑sale and B2B channels further diversify revenue streams, positioning Shopify to capture additional market share as consumer spending rebounds.

From an investment perspective, Shopify’s $2 billion share‑repurchase program adds a tangible cash‑return component, enhancing shareholder yield amid strong earnings growth. The combination of high analyst confidence, solid cash generation, and strategic initiatives makes the stock attractive for long‑term holders seeking exposure to the digital commerce sector. However, investors should monitor competitive pressures from other platforms and macro‑economic shifts that could affect merchant spending. Overall, Shopify’s growth fundamentals and capital‑return strategy suggest it could outperform peers and deliver meaningful returns through 2026 and beyond.