10 Best Performing Long Term Stocks So Far in 2025

6. The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR)

Year-to-date performance as of April 12: 10.14%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 60

The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) is an American retailer with over 2,700 supermarkets and multi-department stores in 35 states across the US. A key component of its approach is its diverse retail model, which includes pharmacies in various areas.

On April 3, Guggenheim maintained its Buy rating on The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) and raised the price target to $73 from $71. In its 10-K filing, Kroger disclosed a merchandise gross margin of 28%, which was much higher than the previously stated 22%. The report also disclosed a new division with a strong 60% adjusted EBITDA margin.

The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) also declared a quarterly dividend of $0.32 per share, payable on June 1 to shareholders on record as of May 15. This illustrates the company’s commitment to returning capital to shareholders, since the company’s dividends have grown at a compounded annual rate of 13.5% since 2006.