So far in 2015, volatility has played havoc, leaving even the most ardent of investors high and dry. Even as the U.S. economy is bracing up against challenges amid the global macro headwinds, volatility is expected to loom over the market prospects in the near term. However, notwithstanding a long list of apprehensions, there have been a few stocks that have had a great run so far this year.

The Year So Far

The year started on a disappointing note with concerns related to lower global growth projections, a slump in oil prices, the strengthening of the U.S. dollar and apprehensions about the timing of the Fed’s interest rate hike decision.

Meanwhile, the bursting of the Chinese market equity bubble and Greece defaulting on its IMF loan added to the woes.

Even now, a strong dollar and lackluster global growth — particularly in China and other emerging markets – coupled with persistent weakness in crude prices continue to affect companies as well as economies across the globe.

Nevertheless, the markets perked up recently, buoyed by favorable developments across the globe. The People’s Bank of China (PBOC) reduced the key rates for the sixth time in less than a year to boost the economy. Also, European Central Bank (ECB) President Mario Draghi pointed out that the central bank could expand its quantitative easing measures at its December meeting. Back home, though the Fed kept the key interest rates unchanged in its October meeting, there were indications that a December rate hike is still in the cards.

Notably, the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average have risen about 2.5% and 0.5%, respectively, year-to-date.

Diamonds in the Rough

Despite the adversities playing spoilsport, there are a few stocks that have not only held up but crushed market estimates in 2015. These companies also bear excellent prospects, thereby holding great promises for the future.

However, such stocks may tumble after their growth trajectory hits the highest point. Thus, it is imperative to select companies that are still seeing strong momentum and are likely to grow faster than what has been predicted by the market, in the rest of 2015.