Monster Growth Stocks That Dominated 2024: Key Insights on MNPR, DAVE, and Top Performers

Key Highlights:

• Monopar Therapeutics (MNPR) surged 1,343% driven by its groundbreaking acquisition of ALXN-1840.
• Dave, Inc. (DAVE) skyrocketed 1,067%, revolutionizing personal finance with its mobile-first banking solutions.
• Unity Software saw a 17% spike influenced by a social media buzz, exemplifying meme stock dynamics.
• Palantir Technologies and MicroStrategy led tech innovation, leveraging AI and Bitcoin strategies.

The stock market in 2024 delivered exceptional winners across industries, with certain growth stocks capturing unparalleled attention. Among these, Monopar Therapeutics (MNPR) and Dave, Inc. (DAVE) emerged as standouts, each gaining over 1,000% this year. Let’s dive into their journeys and examine how other notable performers like Unity Software, Palantir Technologies, and MicroStrategy reshaped market dynamics.

Monopar Therapeutics (MNPR): Biotech Breakthroughs Drive Unprecedented Gains

Monopar Therapeutics, a biotech firm specializing in oncology and rare diseases, witnessed an astronomical 1,343% growth this year. This surge was largely fueled by its acquisition of ALXN-1840, a late-stage treatment for Wilson’s disease, from AstraZeneca Rare Disease. ALXN-1840’s Phase 3 trial success positioned it as a major revenue driver for Monopar, offering diversification to its promising oncology-focused pipeline.

The company’s MNPR-101 antibody platform, targeting uPAR proteins in tumor cells, also attracted investor confidence due to its potential as a versatile cancer therapy. Analyst Justin Walsh from Jones Research highlighted the synergy between Monopar's existing innovations and its new acquisition, emphasizing ALXN-1840 as a steady cash-flow generator to fund future developments.

Dave, Inc. (DAVE): Redefining Personal Finance

Dave, Inc., a digital banking disruptor, soared by 1,067% in 2024, capturing the attention of millions. Its appeal lies in its user-friendly app offering instant cash advances of up to $500, fee-free banking, and an interest-bearing account with up to 4% annual returns. With over 11 million members and a unique focus on underbanked populations, Dave filled a critical gap in personal finance.

In Q3 2024, Dave reported a 41% YoY revenue increase, driven by growing membership and declining customer acquisition costs. Its Side Hustle feature, gig economy integrations, and AI-powered expense tracking further solidified its value proposition. Benchmark analyst Mark Palmer praised Dave’s scalable model and forecasted continued growth through product cross-selling, rating it a strong buy with a 22% potential upside.

Unity Software: Meme Stock Revival

Unity Software gained a surprising 17% in pre-market trading following a cryptic tweet from "Roaring Kitty" (Keith Gill), a renowned figure in the meme stock phenomenon. While the software company had struggled over the past year, this spike reflected the lingering power of social media to influence stock prices, irrespective of fundamentals.

Unity’s focus on real-time 3D development tools for gaming and design industries positions it for long-term growth. However, its recent gains remind us of the volatility inherent in meme stocks, as market movements often outpace operational realities.

Tech Giants and the AI Revolution: Palantir and MicroStrategy

Palantir Technologies (PLTR) and MicroStrategy (MSTR) emerged as dominant forces in 2024, leveraging AI and blockchain technologies. Palantir’s inclusion in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 fueled investor interest, while its AI-driven government and enterprise solutions powered a 375% annual gain. Its tools for intelligence gathering and counterterrorism positioned it as a leader in AI applications.

MicroStrategy, meanwhile, continued to benefit from its Bitcoin-centric strategy, holding 446,400 Bitcoins by year-end. The cryptocurrency’s rally past $100,000, spurred by macroeconomic optimism, bolstered MicroStrategy’s valuation, securing its spot among the year’s top-performing stocks.

Emerging Stars and Broader Market Trends

The year’s winners weren’t confined to biotech and fintech. Companies like Sezzle (SEZL), a "buy now, pay later" provider, and Carvana (CVNA), a used car marketplace, demonstrated resilience in challenging environments. Sezzle’s 1,000% gain reflected accelerating revenue growth and investor interest, while Carvana’s return to top-line expansion drove a near-quadruple increase in stock value.

Energy and utilities also played a significant role, with firms like Vistra and Talen Energy capitalizing on the growing demand for data center power. These companies highlighted the intersection of traditional sectors with emerging technologies, underscoring the diverse drivers of market performance.

Lessons from 2024 and Looking Ahead

The year’s standout performers reinforce key investing lessons:

• Innovation Is Key: Companies like Monopar and Palantir demonstrated how cutting-edge technologies can unlock growth across sectors.
• Market Sentiment Matters: Unity Software’s gains underline the unpredictable influence of social media and investor narratives.
• Diversification Wins: From Dave’s broadening product suite to Monopar’s strategic acquisition, adaptability proved essential in navigating market complexities.

As we enter 2025, investors should remain vigilant. While the momentum behind these stocks offers exciting prospects, sustainability and execution will ultimately determine long-term success.

2024 was a year of remarkable gains and market-defying stories. From Monopar’s biotech breakthroughs to Dave’s reinvention of personal finance, these companies showcased the power of innovation and resilience. As the market evolves, these growth stocks remain a testament to the opportunities that emerge when vision meets execution.