Investors are turning their attention to ten stocks that analysts predict will deliver substantial gains by 2026. According to Dan Ives, managing director at Wedbush Securities, this period is expected to mark a pivotal point in the artificial intelligence (AI) sector. Speaking on CNBC on December 20, 2025, Ives highlighted the anticipated monetization of AI technology, particularly within software applications, as a key driver for these stock selections.
Ives noted that major technology stocks, especially those known as the “Magnificent Seven,” could see increases of over 20%. He specifically forecasted that companies like Microsoft and Google could achieve gains ranging from 30% to 40%. With an estimated $3 trillion to $4 trillion expected to be invested in AI over the next few years, Ives views the current market downturn as an opportune moment for investors to acquire shares in leading tech firms.
Methodology for Stock Selection
To create this list of ten stocks, analysts utilized the Finviz stock screener and insights from CNN and Insider Monkey’s hedge fund database. The process involved identifying stocks with a potential upside of more than 50%. These stocks were then ranked based on the number of hedge fund holders, providing a comprehensive overview of high-potential investments.
Research indicates that mimicking the stock picks of prominent hedge funds can lead to superior market performance. A quarterly newsletter has reportedly returned 427.7% since May 2014, outperforming its benchmark by 264 percentage points.
Ten Stocks Forecasted for Growth in 2026
1. **BioNTech SE (NASDAQ:BNTX)**
– **Analyst Upside Potential:** 53.64%
– **Hedge Fund Holders:** 24
BioNTech recently announced the completion of its acquisition of CureVac N.V., enhancing its capabilities in oncology and infectious diseases. The company also received a Buy rating from H.C. Wainwright, with a price target of $140, based on promising Phase 2 trial results for a new cancer treatment.
2. **IonQ, Inc. (NYSE:IONQ)**
– **Analyst Upside Potential:** 50.58%
– **Hedge Fund Holders:** 30
IonQ’s recent contract extension with QuantumBasel, valued at over $60 million, showcases the company’s commitment to advancing quantum computing technologies. Analysts have initiated coverage with a Buy rating, projecting significant sales growth.
3. **Credo Technology Group Holding Ltd (NASDAQ:CRDO)**
– **Analyst Upside Potential:** 53.20%
– **Hedge Fund Holders:** 56
Despite a recent decline in share price, Credo Technology reported a remarkable 272.08% year-over-year revenue growth in its latest quarter. Analysts remain optimistic about its future prospects and market expansion.
4. **Nebius Group N.V. (NASDAQ:NBIS)**
– **Analyst Upside Potential:** 73.26%
– **Hedge Fund Holders:** 65
The launch of Nebius AI Cloud 3.1 has positioned the company as a leader in AI cloud services. Its enhancements are expected to attract significant interest from biotech and software-as-a-service (SaaS) developers.
5. **Core Scientific Inc. (NASDAQ:CORZ)**
– **Analyst Upside Potential:** 69.87%
– **Hedge Fund Holders:** 68
Following a recent earnings report, analysts have upgraded Core Scientific, citing strong growth potential in the high-performance computing sector. The company anticipates improved financial results in the upcoming quarter.
6. **Coinbase Global, Inc. (NASDAQ:COIN)**
– **Analyst Upside Potential:** 59.11%
– **Hedge Fund Holders:** 73
Despite recent market volatility, Coinbase’s diversification strategies have drawn attention. Analysts are cautiously optimistic, projecting a price target of $280.
7. **Coupang, Inc. (NYSE:CPNG)**
– **Analyst Upside Potential:** 57.33%
– **Hedge Fund Holders:** 83
Following a major data breach, Coupang’s stock rating remains strong. Analysts believe the company’s long-term potential remains intact despite recent challenges.
8. **Roblox Corporation (NYSE:RBLX)**
– **Analyst Upside Potential:** 83.06%
– **Hedge Fund Holders:** 90
Roblox is adjusting its operations in response to regulatory challenges in Russia. Analysts foresee substantial upside potential, with estimates reflecting over 83% growth.
9. **Sea Limited (NYSE:SE)**
– **Analyst Upside Potential:** 60.70%
– **Hedge Fund Holders:** 102
Sea Limited’s recent partnerships, including an agreement with OpenAI, position the company well in the consumer internet sector leading into 2026.
10. **Oracle Corporation (NYSE:ORCL)**
– **Analyst Upside Potential:** 53.67%
– **Hedge Fund Holders:** 122
Oracle’s involvement in a joint venture with TikTok is expected to enhance its data infrastructure revenue. Analysts maintain a positive outlook, anticipating robust growth in the coming years.
As the AI sector continues to evolve, these stocks represent a blend of innovation and substantial growth potential. Investors are encouraged to assess these opportunities as the market prepares for what many analysts predict will be a transformative period in technology.
