Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX) has revolutionized the way people watch TV shows, and the company made thousands of people rich along the way. In fact, Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX) shares jumped a whopping 298% last year, occupying the top spot in S&P 500 Index’s biggest gainers. The S&P 500 Index soared to a new record high of 1,842.02 on December 27. Gains in the index were driven by better than expected U.S. jobs data.
Here is the list of three biggest gainers and three biggest losers in the S&P 500 Index:
Biggest Gainers:
1- Netflix Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX)
Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX)’s shares surged as it attracted millions of new subscribers. The video subscription service provider added dozens of original and popular shows to its library such as Orange is the New Black. Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX) is currently testing a new pricing strategy to attract more customers.
2- Micron Technology Inc. (NASDAQ:MU)
Micron Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ:MU) jumped 243% last year. The semiconductor maker’s sales have increased, and it further benefited from the ongoing consolidation in the industry. Micron Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ:MU) makes chips for mobile devices, computers and cars.
3- Best Buy Co., Inc. (NYSE:BBY)
While most retailers are struggling to survive, Best Buy Co., Inc. (NYSE:BBY) shares jumped 238% last year. The electronics retailer is facing stiff competition from online retailing giant Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) and discount retailers. But the company has been laser focused on employee training, cost reduction and online business.
Biggest Losers
1- Newmont Mining Corp (NYSE:NEM)
2013 has been a nightmare for Newmont Mining Corp (NYSE:NEM) as gold and copper prices tanked. As a result, shares of the Denver-based miner plunged more than 50.3% last year.
2- Cliffs Natural Resources Inc (NYSE:CLF)
Last year was definitely not a good one for mining companies as two of the three biggest losers in the S&P index are miners. Cliffs Natural Resources Inc (NYSE:CLF) shares declined 33% in 2013 amid declining prices of commodities. The company’s strong international presence also made it vulnerable to economic conditions in Europe and China.
3- Edwards Lifesciences Corp (NYSE:EW)
Shares of the Irvine, California-based company plummeted more than 27% last year. The stock was hit hard after the company predicted poor Q4 earnings. Edwards Lifesciences Corp (NYSE:EW)’s Sapien heart valves are facing stiff competition from new entrants.
