Upstart Shares Rise 1.89 as Trading Volume Slides to 418th in Market Activity Amid Swiss Bank Stake Boost and Explosive Loan Growth

On August 18, 2025, Upstart (UPST) rose 1.89% with a trading volume of $0.22 billion, down 21.2% from the previous day and ranking 418th in market activity. Institutional confidence grew as Swiss National Bank increased its stake by 6.3%, holding 159,100 shares valued at $7.32 million. The company reported stronger-than-expected Q2 earnings of $0.36 per share and a 101.6% year-over-year revenue surge to $257.29 million.

Upstart’s business expansion highlights its long-term potential. Loan origination volume surged 154% YoY, driven by new verticals like auto and home equity loans. Auto loan originations multiplied sixfold in a year, while home equity lines of credit grew 67% in the latest quarter. These segments represent massive markets, with home loan demand potentially rising as interest rates decline. However, investors remain cautious about increased loan approvals and higher balance sheet exposure.

Institutional activity underscores market sentiment. Swiss National Bank’s stake increase follows a pattern of diversified institutional buying, with GAMMA Investing and PNC Financial Services Group also raising holdings. Despite insider sales totaling $9.67 million in the past three months, 63% of shares remain under institutional ownership. Analysts remain split, with a “Hold” consensus rating and a $77.85 average price target.

A backtest of a strategy buying the top 500 stocks by daily volume and holding for one day from 2022 to 2025 yielded a total profit of $10,720, reflecting moderate returns amid market fluctuations.