Discover the best IBEX 35 stocks for investing in 2024-2025. We analyze leading companies in key sectors with growth prospects in Spain.
What is the IBEX 35?
Established on January 14, 1992, the IBEX 35 has asserted itself as the benchmark stock index of the Madrid Stock Exchange, considered the most important stock exchange in Spain. This index reflects the performance of the 35 largest and most liquid companies listed on the Spanish stock market. These companies are selected based on their market capitalization—the total value of their outstanding shares—and their trading volume, which indicates the buying and selling activity of those shares.
The IBEX 35 plays a central role in tracking the behavior of leading companies in essential sectors of the Spanish economy, including finance, energy, telecommunications, and consumer goods. These companies are benchmarks in their respective industries, both nationally and internationally, making the index a key barometer of Spain’s economic and financial strength.
Furthermore, the IBEX 35 can be compared to other significant global stock indices like the S&P 500 in the U.S. or the FTSE 100 in the UK. These indices share the goal of grouping the most significant companies in their respective markets, providing investors with a clear and representative view of the overall performance of each country’s stock market. The composition of the IBEX 35 is periodically reviewed to ensure it continues to accurately reflect the state of the Spanish market.
The behavior of the IBEX 35 is used as a decisive indicator of the country’s economic vigor.
When the index rises, this is usually understood as a sign of confidence in economic growth and the strong productivity of its constituent companies. Conversely, when it decreases, that may reflect a worsening in market sentiment, caused by internal or external factors affecting the Spanish economy and, in many cases, given the high level of economic and commercial integration between Spain and other European Union countries, the broader European economy as well.
Top IBEX 35 stocks for investing in 2024-2025
Financial analysts have identified some companies within the IBEX 35 that stand out as attractive investment opportunities in 2024-2025. The sectors these companies represent include renewable energy, banking, stainless steel production, and others that are central to the Spanish and European economies. These companies benefit from their leadership positions in their respective sectors and have strong financial fundamentals, reinforcing their ability to generate sustained income and long-term growth.
Renewable energy
In the realm of renewable energy, certain companies are distinguished by their commitment to the energy transition and European sustainability policies. Spain is a leader in the production of solar and wind energy, and companies dedicated to these clean energies are well-positioned to benefit from government incentives and the growing global demand for sustainable energies.
Banking sector
The banking sector also remains key in the Spanish economic landscape. Some of the country’s most important financial entities are capitalizing on their geographical expansion, especially into growing markets in Latin America, and have adopted digitization strategies that improve their operational efficiency and their ability to serve an increasingly digital customer base. These strategies, combined with their ability to generate income in a framework of rising interest rates, make them attractive to investors.
Some stainless steel manufacturing companies in the IBEX 35 have demonstrated great strength and adaptability amid fluctuations in the global commodities market. Thanks to their ability to produce high-quality steel, these companies are in a position to meet demand in fields such as construction, the automotive industry, and heavy machinery manufacturing. These sectors, in turn, have been showing signs of recovery and sustained growth.
Other sectors like telecommunications and consumption also offer interesting opportunities. Leading companies in these sectors have adopted innovative strategies to improve customer experience and capitalize on the growing demand for digital services and essential consumer goods.
In the rest of this article, we discuss in detail some of the main stocks recommended by analysts, highlighting their strengths and the reasons behind their attractiveness as investments in the current economic context, which is characterized by energy transition, digitization, and post-pandemic recovery.
CaixaBank
CaixaBank is one of the most prominent banking entities in Spain, resulting from the unification between La Caixa and Banca Cívica. The entity is a key player in the financial sector and is expected to continue benefiting from the economic rebound and favorable conditions in credit markets. Its share buyback program and focus on digitization and retail banking position it well for 2024-2025, with confidence in the growth of its margins and shareholder profit.
Aena S.M.E
Aena is the main airport operator in Spain and the largest in the world in terms of passenger numbers. As global air traffic continues to recover after the pandemic years, the outlook is optimistic. The company has shown a remarkable ability to adapt to changes in demand and is well-positioned to capitalize on the increase in international travel, making it an attractive option for investors interested in the infrastructure and transportation sector.
Acerinox
Acerinox is a Spanish multinational and one of the world’s leading producers of stainless steel. Its strong presence on the U.S. market and improvement in production margins have enabled it to significantly reduce its debt, strengthening its financial situation. Thanks to the growing demand for steel for industrial and technological applications, Acerinox remains an interesting option in the materials sector.
Iberdrola
Iberdrola, a global leader in renewable energies, is in an excellent position for capitalizing on the boom in clean energy investments. Its prospects in wind and solar energy projects, both in Europe and other regions, along with its transition towards a green economy, make it a defensive stock with good expansion capacity in the energy sector. Additionally, Iberdrola is committed to decarbonization, attracting investors interested in sustainable companies.
Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria SA
BBVA is another major player in the Spanish banking sector, with a significant international presence, especially in Latin America. Its territorial diversification and ability to adapt to new trends in digital banking and sustainability allow it to remain competitive in global markets. BBVA has shown a solid recovery after the pandemic, and analysts expect it to continue offering good returns.
Banco Sabadell
Banco Sabadell is one of Spain’s medium-sized banking entities that has experienced a notable recovery in recent years. Its focus on improving operational efficiency and growth in digital services have enhanced its medium and long-term outlook. Although it faces strong competition in the sector, the bank is expected to continue growing steadily thanks to the improvement of its credit margins and its ability to adjust to a constantly changing economic environment.
How to invest in stocks with FBS
Investing in stocks with the right broker should be easy and accessible. FBS is a global broker that offers users the opportunity to access various financial instruments, including IBEX 35 stocks.
With FBS, investors can manage their portfolios and perform market analysis from a secure and reliable platform.
FBS also allows trading in global markets, providing access to a range of financial assets including currencies, commodities, indices, and more. There is technical support available 24 hours a day, as well as a global community of traders to connect with. FBS positions itself as an ideal option for those looking to grow in the world of investments and expand their financial horizons.
FAQ
Is it safe to invest in IBEX 35 stocks?
Yes, investing in IBEX 35 stocks is generally safe if you do it through a regulated and accredited broker, such as FBS.
The IBEX 35 contains some of Spain’s largest and most established companies, which can offer stability, although like any investment, there are always risks associated with market movements.
Where can I buy Spanish IBEX 35 stocks?
You can buy IBEX 35 stocks through online broker platforms like FBS, that provide access to international stock markets. You can also acquire shares directly on the Madrid Stock Exchange through other financial links or banks.
Is it legal to buy stocks in Spain?
Yes, it is completely legal to buy stocks in Spain. Anyone, both residents and non-residents, can buy shares of Spanish companies listed on the Madrid Stock Exchange, as long as it is done through regulated entities like the National Securities Market Commission (CNMV), the body responsible for supervising and regulating financial markets in Spain.
It is important to consider that, although any individual can invest in stocks in Spain, there are some tax regulations that vary depending on the investor’s residence. Tax residents in Spain must comply with the country’s tax obligations, such as declaring profits derived from the sale of shares, which are considered capital gains and are subject to taxation.
