12 Best Booming Stocks to Invest in Now

3. Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE:EAT)

Number of Hedge Fund Holdings: 41

Year-to-Date Performance as of January 30: 37.95%

Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE:EAT) is a leading restaurant company headquartered in Dallas, Texas. The company operates and franchises well-known brands such as Chili’s Grill & Bar and Maggiano’s Little Italy. The company also manages virtual brands such as “It’s Just Wings”. Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE:EAT) has a strong presence in the casual dining sector, with locations across the U.S. and internationally.

One of the primary drivers of Brinker International, Inc.’s (NYSE:EAT) stock price increase year-to-date is its outstanding Q4 CY2024 performance, which significantly surpassed analyst expectations and showcased strong operational momentum. Brinker International, Inc.’s (NYSE:EAT) revenue surged 26.5% to $1.36 billion. Whereas, adjusted EBITDA reached $215.8 million, a 36.8% increase from the $157.7 million estimate, with a solid margin of 15.9%. The company has raised its full-year outlook and is now guiding revenue to $5.2 billion at the midpoint, a 10.1% increase from $4.73 billion.

Furthermore, Brinker International, Inc.’s (NYSE:EAT) strategic investments in modernizing its restaurants and expanding its footprint have also contributed to the stock’s positive performance. The company plans to open 10-12 new Chili’s Grill & Bar locations in FY2025 and is targeting both major cities and smaller markets. Additionally, Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE:EAT) has been investing heavily in technology and digital initiatives, including upgrades to online ordering systems, mobile apps, and data analytics.