Title: These 3 AI Stocks (Other Than Nvidia) Have Surged in 2023. What Lies Ahead?
2022 was a year that many investors would rather forget. However, 2023 has started on a more positive note, fueling hopes that the worst is behind us. With each major market index soaring over 20% from their lows, there are indications that we may be experiencing the beginning of a new bull market.
The driving force behind many stocks’ surge is the next generation of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. Generative AI, with its broad range of use cases, has captured the public’s imagination, and businesses are scrambling to harness its potential for increased productivity. According to Cathie Wood’s Ark Investment Management, the global AI software market could be worth a staggering $14 trillion by 2030.
While Nvidia has been at the forefront of this AI gold rush, with its processors being the industry standard for running AI systems, it’s not the only catalyst driving stock prices higher. Several businesses, albeit with less direct connections to AI, have seen their stocks surge by more than 100% in 2023, and some may have further room for growth.
First on the list is Carvana (CVNA), an online used-car dealer. Despite plunging approximately 98% last year due to factors such as high inflation, rising interest rates, and decreased demand for used cars, Carvana’s stock has experienced an impressive rebound, skyrocketing nearly 600% so far this year. Although not strictly an AI company, Carvana has incorporated data science and AI into its operations to enhance business performance. AI helps the company in selecting cars for purchase, locating vehicles within its logistics network, determining optimal pricing, and evaluating the creditworthiness of potential buyers. While Carvana still carries a certain level of volatility, it presents an opportunity for investors as it is currently undervalued.
Next is IonQ, a quantum computing service provider that offers its services through the cloud to educational institutes, governments, and businesses. While IonQ’s primary focus is not AI, there is some overlap between machine learning and quantum computing. After losing 79% of its value last year, IonQ has shown signs of a rebound in 2023. In the first quarter, the company reported revenue of $4.3 million, exceeding expectations. Although its net loss increased, mainly due to higher research and development spending, IonQ recently raised its bookings expectations and announced a partnership with South Korea’s Ministry of Science and Information and Communications Technology. These developments bode well for IonQ’s financial results and overall business model. However, investors should exercise caution as quantum computing is still in its early stages, and IonQ’s valuation may appear steep.
The third company on the list is Opendoor Technologies, an e-commerce platform specializing in residential real estate. Opendoor’s stock plummeted 92% last year as the housing market faced significant challenges. However, as macroeconomic conditions improved, investors recognized an opportunity, leading to a surge in Opendoor’s stock price. AI is integrated into various aspects of Opendoor’s operations, aiding in price setting, demand anticipation, and inventory management. Although the company reported a decline in revenue and the number of homes sold in the first quarter of 2023, Opendoor’s success is closely tied to the continued recovery of the housing market. With its current valuation at less than 1 times sales, Opendoor appears to be a favorable investment for those with a long-term perspective.
In conclusion, while Nvidia has been the focal point of the AI revolution, there are other stocks that have gained significant traction in 2023. Carvana, IonQ, and Opendoor Technologies have experienced substantial growth, albeit with varying degrees of connection to AI. As the year progresses, investors should carefully consider the potential risks and rewards associated with these stocks. The AI industry holds immense promise, and these companies are well-positioned to capitalize on it, but investors must remain mindful of market volatility and conduct thorough due diligence before making investment decisions.
