As the calendar flips to October, investors are keen to safeguard their recent gains or potentially build upon them. With this in mind, we’ve identified 25 top-performing stocks for the month, and Marriott International Inc (NASDAQ:MAR) stands out as a notable contender. Historical data reveals that MAR has consistently defied seasonal trends, closing October higher in eight out of the past 10 years, with an average return of 4%. Moreover, it outshines its peer Las Vegas Sands (LVS) in the travel and leisure sector. Currently trading at $50.41, down 1.4%, MAR remains within striking distance of its April 11 record high of $260.57, boasting a 26.4% year-over-year gain. The 20-day moving average appears poised to cushion any further downturns. Meanwhile, options traders’ bearish bias presents a potential catalyst, as an unwinding of this sentiment could propel the stock upward. Notably, the 50-day put/call volume ratio of 1.49 at major exchanges indicates a heightened demand for puts, ranking in the 82nd percentile of its annual range. Furthermore, a shift in analyst sentiment could also boost MAR, as 17 out of 23 analysts still maintain a neutral “hold” rating. With options prices currently affordable, according to the stock’s Schaeffer’s Volatility Index (SVI) rating of 20%, MAR presents an attractive opportunity for investors.
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