3 New Strong Buy Ratings from Top-Rated Analysts: 01/20/2026

Let’s get this party started! Here are the latest recommendations from top-rated analysts — all of them also have impressive Zen Ratings. 

• Daktronics (DAKT) is sending not one but TWO screaming Buy signals 
• Gold stocks are hot again — and Kinross Gold (KGC) is one of our top watches
• Las Vegas Sands (LVS) defies industry trends — in a good way 

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1. Daktronics (NASDAQ: DAKT)

Electronic display systems maker Daktronics is powering into its next growth phase, leveraging fresh IP acquisitions to expand its MicroLED and MicroIC capabilities ahead of next-gen display launches.

Zen Rating: A (Strong Buy) — see full analysis

Recent Price: $21.69 — get current quote

Max 1-year forecast: $30.00

Why we're watching:

• Stock of the Week alert! DAKT earns our coveted Stock of the Week status, with Zen Investor Editor in Chief Steve Reitmeister noting it has not one, but TWO excellent reasons to buy. See his commentary here. 
• The company recently acquired intellectual property and equipment assets from X Display Company to expand its MicroLED capabilities, strengthening its competitive position in next-generation display technology.
• Industry ranking context: Daktronics is currently the 2nd highest-rated stock in the Electronic Component industry, which has an Industry Rating of A.
• Zen Rating highlights: Strong Buy (A) stocks average +32.52%/yr, putting DAKT in a class of stocks that have historically outperformed. 
• Component Grades: DAKT’s Growth grade of A reflects its impressive potential, and Sentiment at B demonstrates Smart Money gives it a thumbs up. See all 7 Zen Component Grades here

2. Kinross Gold (NYSE: KGC)

Gold stocks are BACK! Despite impressive gains last year, the runway for KGC looks clear: It’s greenlighting new growth projects as strong gold prices and expanding margins fuel its next leg higher.

Zen Rating: A (Strong Buy) — see full analysis

Recent Price: $33.66 — get current quote

Max 1-year forecast: $38.50

Why we're watching:

• Analyst support: KGC currently has 2 Buy and 1 Strong Buy rating among the analysts we track. See the ratings here.
• CiBC's Anita Soni (a top 4% rated analyst) maintains a Buy rating that suggests double-digit potential upside following the company's announcement to proceed with construction of multiple expansion projects.
• UBS analyst Daniel Major (top 10%) maintains a Strong Buy rating with a $37.50 price target, noting that the company's price target remains strong amidst changing market dynamics and positive outlook for gold. 
• Industry ranking context: Kinross Gold is currently the 8th highest-rated stock out of 50 in the Gold industry, which has an Industry Rating of A. See more high-quality gold stocks here.
• Zen Rating highlights: Kinross is an A (Strong Buy) rated stock, a category that has historically nearly doubled the S&P’s performance. KGC stands to benefit from both its operational excellence and the favorable macro environment for precious metals.
• Component Grades: Kinross shows particular strength in Financials (A grade) and Momentum (A grade), with a 32.5% profit margin demonstrating exceptional operational efficiency in the gold mining sector. See all 7 Zen Component Grades here

3. Las Vegas Sands Corp (NYSE: LVS)

This casino operator is positioned to benefit from Macau's gaming recovery and regional tourism rebounds, with earnings due January 28, 2026, expected to provide insights into fourth-quarter performance.

Zen Rating: A (Strong Buy) — see full analysis

Recent Price: $58.95 — get current quote

Max 1-year forecast: $80.00

Why we're watching:

• Analyst support: Robust coverage from 12 analysts including 6 Strong Buy ratings, 2 Buy, and 4 Hold reflects optimism about Macau gaming recovery despite recent revenue shortfalls. See the ratings
• Argus Research's John Staszak (top 12%) maintains Strong Buy at $80, the highest target among coverage. Overall analyst commentary suggests confidence in the Macau recovery trajectory.
• Industry ranking context: Las Vegas Sands is currently the #1 highest-rated stock in the Casino industry. You’ll note that it has an Industry Rating of D, but its strong Zen Rating suggests it may be an unusually high-potential pick in a rough industry. 
• Zen Rating highlights: Strong Buy (A) stocks average +32.52%/yr — LVS stands out as the top performer in a challenging sector, benefiting from its premium property portfolio. (Side note: We recently highlighted another high-quality name in the gaming industry — check it out here.)
• Component Grades: Sentiment receives an A grade reflecting strong analyst conviction, with Growth at B and Financials at B showing solid operational fundamentals despite industry headwinds. See all 7 Zen Component Grades here

What to Do Next?

• 77 Best Stocks NOW! >
• See All “A” Rated Stocks with +32.52% Average Annual Return >
• 2 New Stocks to Buy from Steve Reitmeister >

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