Barrick Surges 1.53% with 272nd-Ranked $0.44 Billion Volume as Analysts Back Earnings and Upgrades

On August 13, 2025, Barrick (B) surged 1.53% with a trading volume of $0.44 billion, a 33.49% increase from the prior day, ranking 272nd in market activity. Analysts highlighted renewed momentum amid strong earnings performance and positive estimate revisions. The stock’s 9.64% weekly gain outperformed the Zacks Mining - Gold industry’s 7.4% rise, while its 25.87% quarterly appreciation contrasted with the S&P 500’s 10.57% gain. Elevated trading volume and upward revisions to 2024 earnings estimates further supported its bullish trajectory.

Recent analyst activity underscored confidence in Barrick’s outlook. Canaccord Genuity reiterated a Buy rating with a $39 target, while RBC Capital and BMO Capital upgraded their recommendations. Institutional ownership remained robust, with Vanguard Group and Capital International Investors collectively holding over $2.2 billion in shares. Notably, hedge fund activity included new positions by major players, reflecting growing institutional interest.

Options market data revealed heightened call option activity, with 90,999 contracts traded—a 161% spike from typical volumes. This surge, combined with Barrick’s 16.4% year-over-year revenue growth and 17.46% net margin, signaled short-term speculative positioning. However, insider selling trends over the past quarter introduced caution, as corporate insiders reduced holdings amid mixed analyst ratings.

A backtest of the top 500 volume stocks held for one day from 2022 to 2025 yielded a 0.98% average daily return and 31.52% cumulative return over 365 days. This strategy captured market momentum but remained exposed to volatility, illustrating the risks of timing-driven approaches in a high-volume environment.