PLTR

Palantir Technologies has delivered an 18-bagger return since going public six years ago, driven by its data-aggregation platforms Gotham and Foundry that serve government and commercial clients. The company turned profitable in 2023 and was added to the S&P 500 and Nasdaq-100 in 2024, with analysts projecting 59% revenue and 70% EPS growth through 2028.

However, the stock trades at a premium 87x forward earnings, and rising interest rates could compress valuations. The author recommends waiting for improved macro conditions before buying.

Zacks stock strategist Tracey Ryniec highlights five stocks breaking out to new highs despite October market volatility. The picks span growth and value categories: Palantir Technologies (strong revenue growth but expensive valuation), BP (cheap energy play with high dividend yield), Palo Alto Networks (cybersecurity leader with consistent earnings), Visa (payments leader with perfect earnings track record), and AbbVie (pharma company with growth potential but recent estimate cuts).

Palantir Technologies trades near record highs at ~$198, commanding a 170x earnings multiple. While the company demonstrates exceptional growth with 93% revenue increases and rapidly rising profits, analyst Daniel Sparks considers the current valuation excessive.

He would buy the stock at ~$140 per share (120x earnings), a level the market accepted just months ago. However, if earnings continue growing as expected, the stock could reach that valuation without falling.