Have you ever wondered what the sharpest minds in the corporate world do when the stock market takes a nosedive? I have, and it’s always fascinating to see how those in the know—company insiders—react to market turbulence. Recent volatility has rattled Wall Street, with economic uncertainty and whispers of new trade policies shaking investor confidence. Yet, some executives are quietly scooping up shares of their own companies, signaling that opportunity might be hiding in plain sight.
Why Insider Buying Matters
When markets wobble, most investors panic, but insiders—think CEOs, CFOs, and board members—often see things differently. These folks have a front-row seat to their company’s inner workings, from financials to strategic plans. If they’re dipping into their own wallets to buy shares, it’s a strong hint they believe the stock is undervalued or poised for growth. In my experience, tracking insider buying feels like peeking over the shoulder of the smartest kid in class during a tough exam.
Insider buying can act as a powerful signal for investors, often pointing to undervalued opportunities in turbulent times.
– Equity strategist at a major investment bank
Interestingly, data shows that extreme insider activity has been a reliable contrarian indicator since 2010. When stocks dip, insiders often step in to buy, and when markets soar, they’re more likely to sell. This pattern suggests they’re not just reacting to market noise but acting on deep knowledge of their company’s potential. So, which companies are seeing this kind of activity right now? Let’s dive into the top S&P 500 names where insiders are making bold moves.
Casino Giant: A Bet on Recovery
One standout name is a major player in the casino and hospitality industry. Insiders here have been snapping up shares at a remarkable rate—over 0.5% of the company’s float (the shares available for public trading) in just the past three months. A prominent billionaire CEO, known for his savvy business moves and ownership of a major sports franchise, recently boosted his stake significantly. He purchased hundreds of thousands of shares in early April, building on an already substantial position.
Why the enthusiasm? The company’s stock has held steady in 2025, gaining a modest 2% despite broader market declines. Analysts are bullish, with the majority rating it a buy and projecting over 20% upside based on consensus price targets. Perhaps the insider sees untapped potential in the company’s global footprint or expects a rebound in tourism and gaming revenue. For investors, this kind of insider confidence is hard to ignore.
Energy Sector: Fueling Opportunity
Next up is a Houston-based energy firm that’s caught the eye of one of the world’s most famous investors. Over the past three months, insider buying has reached 0.11% of the company’s float. A well-known investment conglomerate, led by a legendary figure, scooped up nearly a million shares in February alone, spending tens of millions in the process. This isn’t a one-off move—the firm has been steadily increasing its stake over time.
The company recently reported first-quarter earnings that beat Wall Street’s expectations, posting adjusted earnings of 87 cents per share against forecasts of 78 cents. Yet, its stock has struggled, dropping more than 14% in 2025. Analysts are more cautious here, with most rating it a hold but still seeing 14% upside potential. Could the insider buying signal a turnaround? In my view, when someone with a track record of spotting value makes such a big bet, it’s worth paying attention.
Financial Services: A Veteran’s Vote of Confidence
Rounding out the list is a financial services company where insider buying has been more modest but still significant, at 0.04% of the float. A retired chairman, a billionaire with decades of industry experience, bought 100,000 shares in March for $2 million. This move stands out because it’s not just a token purchase—it’s a meaningful vote of confidence from someone who knows the business inside and out.
The stock has performed well, climbing over 3% in 2025, but analysts are less optimistic, predicting a slight decline from current levels. Still, the insider’s purchase suggests there might be more to the story. Maybe it’s the company’s diversified portfolio or its steady cash flow that’s driving the interest. For me, this kind of move feels like a quiet nudge to dig deeper into the stock’s potential.
What Insider Buying Tells Us
So, why should you care about these insider purchases? For one, they offer a glimpse into the minds of people with unmatched insight into their companies. Unlike hedge funds or retail investors, insiders aren’t just crunching numbers—they’re living and breathing the business every day. Their willingness to invest personal capital during a market slump speaks volumes about their confidence in future growth.
- Undervaluation: Insiders often buy when they believe the market has mispriced their stock.
- Long-term optimism: These purchases typically signal belief in sustained growth, not just a quick pop.
- Contrarian signal: Insider buying during market stress often precedes a rebound.
That said, insider buying isn’t a crystal ball. Sometimes, executives buy for personal reasons, like diversifying their portfolios or signaling confidence to shareholders. And not every purchase leads to a winning stock. But when you see consistent, significant buying—especially from high-profile insiders—it’s a clue worth investigating.
How to Use This Information
If you’re an investor, insider buying can be a starting point for your research, not the finish line. Here’s how I’d approach it:
- Check the context: Is the insider a key decision-maker? Are they buying a meaningful amount relative to their wealth?
- Analyze the company: Look at financials, growth prospects, and industry trends to validate the insider’s optimism.
- Monitor analyst sentiment: Compare insider moves with Wall Street’s take to spot discrepancies.
- Assess market conditions: Is the stock’s dip tied to broader market fears or company-specific issues?
For example, the casino stock’s insider buying aligns with positive analyst ratings and a resilient performance, making it a compelling case. The energy company, on the other hand, faces headwinds but has a heavyweight investor in its corner. Each situation requires digging into the details to separate signal from noise.
The Bigger Picture
Zooming out, insider buying reflects a broader truth about markets: opportunity often hides in moments of fear. The S&P 500’s 3% drop in 2025 has spooked many, but for insiders, it’s a chance to buy low. This dynamic reminds me of a poker game—while most players fold under pressure, the pros know when to double down.
| Sector | Insider Buying (% of Float) | 2025 Performance |
| Casino & Hospitality | 0.53% | +2% |
| Energy | 0.11% | -14% |
| Financial Services | 0.04% | +3% |
This table sums up the diversity of insider activity across sectors. Each company faces unique challenges, but the common thread is insider confidence. Perhaps the most interesting aspect is how these moves cut through the market’s noise, offering a clearer view of where value might lie.
Risks to Keep in Mind
Before you rush to buy every stock on this list, a word of caution: insider buying isn’t foolproof. Markets are complex, and external factors—like geopolitical tensions or unexpected economic shifts—can derail even the best-laid plans. Plus, insiders can be wrong, or their purchases might reflect personal financial strategies rather than a bullish outlook.
In my experience, the key is to use insider buying as one piece of a larger puzzle. Combine it with fundamental analysis, technical indicators, and a clear understanding of your own risk tolerance. That way, you’re not just following the smart money—you’re making smart decisions.
Final Thoughts
Watching insiders buy during a market slump is like catching a glimpse of sunlight through storm clouds. It doesn’t guarantee clear skies, but it’s a sign that better days might be ahead. The companies highlighted here—spanning gaming, energy, and financials—offer a mix of risk and reward, each backed by insiders who see value where others see uncertainty.
For investors, the takeaway is simple: don’t let market fear blind you to opportunity. Dig into these stocks, weigh the insider signals against broader trends, and decide if they fit your strategy. After all, as one of my favorite investing adages goes, “The best time to buy is when others are selling.” Who knows—following the smart money might just lead you to your next big win.
