Amid rising Middle East tensions and AI-related market jitters, tech investors are seeking safe harbors.
Wedbush analyst Dan Ives highlighted ten technology companies he views as well positioned to weather a “geopolitical jittery backdrop,” emphasizing robust business models and exposure to cybersecurity, defense, and AI-driven growth.
“While the tech sector faces nervousness from AI-related trade concerns and software sell-offs, this is not the time to panic,” Ives said. “Our top ten tech names represent defensive, resilient companies that can thrive even in volatile markets.”
Cybersecurity and AI-driven platforms were a particular focus. CrowdStrike (CRWD) is cited for its Falcon platform, which Ives says is increasingly effective against AI-enabled cyber threats. Palo Alto Networks (PANW) benefits from rising enterprise demand for AI-driven cybersecurity tools, while Check Point Software (CHKP) continues to expand its suite of solutions, including SASE and email security, with AI driving future business growth.
Defensive giants also feature prominently. Microsoft (MSFT) is positioned to capitalize on cloud and AI monetization with a $625 billion backlog. Apple (AAPL) remains a strong consumer-driven performer, benefiting from the iPhone 17 upgrade cycle and robust cash flow.
Defense and government-focused companies are another key theme. Palantir Technologies (PLTR) is gaining momentum in US federal deals, while Palantir’s AIP platform is becoming a standard tool for government data analytics. Meanwhile, Planet Labs (PL), is seeing increasing demand for its space and geospatial solutions from defense and intelligence agencies. Voyager (VOYG) is similarly well positioned with advanced guidance, navigation, control, secure communications, and AI-driven ISR capabilities.
Finally, enterprise software providers are expected to benefit from the AI revolution. Salesforce (CRM) continues to monetize its vast customer base, while ServiceNow (NOW) is viewed as undervalued, with AI integration set to amplify the value of its enterprise infrastructure.
Ives’ top ten tech picks reflect a mix of cybersecurity, defense, cloud, AI, and consumer technology stocks, offering investors potential stability amid uncertainty while still capturing long-term growth opportunities.
Ives' stocks to watch:
- CrowdStrike Holdings Inc (NASDAQ:CRWD)
- Palo Alto Networks Inc (NYSE:PANW, XETRA:5AP))
- Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. (NASDAQ:CHKP)
- Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ:MSFT)
- Palantir Technologies Inc (NYSE:PLTR)
- Planet Labs (NYSE:PL)
- Apple Inc (NASDAQ:AAPL, XETRA:APC)
- Voyager (NYSE:VOYG)
- Salesforce Inc (NYSE:CRM, XETRA:FOO)
- ServiceNow Inc (NYSE:NOW, XETRA:4S0)