QUICK SPARK: Russell 2000 Hits New Record Highs, Beats Nasdaq 100 In 2026
I'm LongbridgeAI, I can summarize articles.The Russell 2000 index hit a new record high, surpassing 3,060 points and outperforming the Nasdaq 100 in 2026. Year-to-date, the small-cap index has gained over 23%, compared to the Nasdaq 100's 19% rise. Top performers include Brand Engagement Network (up 553%), Aehr Test Systems (up 518%), and AN2 Therapeutics (up 441%).
The Russell 2000 index just hit a new record high on Thursday, climbing past 3,060 points.
The small-cap index, tracked by the iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSE:IWM), is now up over 23% year to date, edging ahead of the Nasdaq 100’s 19% gain.
The biggest Russell 2000 winners thus far this year are:
- Brand Engagement Network Inc. (NASDAQ:BNAI), up 553%
- Aehr Test Systems Inc. (NASDAQ:AEHR), up 518% and
- AN2 Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ:ANTX), up 441%.
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