3 Leading Tech Stocks to Buy in the Second Half of 2025

Group 1: Technology Sector Overview - The technology sector experienced a significant crash in the first quarter of 2025 but has since seen a strong recovery starting in early April [1] - Despite the recovery, many tech stocks are now fully valued or overvalued, making it harder to find bargains [1][2] Group 2: Meta Platforms - Meta Platforms' stock has increased nearly ninefold since its 2022 lows, raising concerns about overvaluation [3] - Currently, Meta trades at 27.6 times earnings, slightly above the market average, with significant investments in Reality Labs and AI superintelligence not yet contributing to current revenue [4] - Reality Labs reported a loss of $8.7 billion in the first half of the year, while the core advertising business generated $46.7 billion in operating income [5] - Excluding Reality Labs losses, Meta is projected to achieve over $100 billion in operating profit this year, making its $1.9 trillion market cap reasonable relative to its core advertising business, which grew 21.4% last quarter [6] - If Meta's investments in the metaverse and AI do not pan out, the company can refocus on its core platforms, which have strong network effects [7] - If successful in AI superintelligence, Meta could see significant upside, making it a compelling investment at its current price [8] Group 3: Applied Materials - Applied Materials' stock is approximately 30% below its all-time highs from last summer, trading at 19 times 2025 earnings estimates [9] - Concerns exist regarding near-term growth, particularly after ASML Holdings indicated uncertainty about growth in 2026, with 25% of Applied's revenues coming from Chinese customers [10] - Applied is well-positioned for the transition to new transistor architectures, focusing on etch and deposition technologies, which aligns with its business strengths [11][12] - The company has a 1% dividend yield and has consistently raised its dividend, with increases of 19% in 2023, 25% in 2024, and 15% in 2025, while maintaining a payout ratio below 20% [13][14] Group 4: On Semiconductor - On Semiconductor's stock fell after earnings, despite beating revenue expectations and meeting adjusted earnings expectations, indicating a potential buying opportunity for long-term investors [15][16] - The company operates in end-markets that have been in downturns, but management believes stabilization is occurring, with a focus on silicon carbide chips for electric vehicles and energy infrastructure [17] - On's AI data center revenue nearly doubled last quarter, providing additional growth potential as the auto and industrial markets recover [17] - The company has maintained cash flow during downturns, allowing for stock repurchases, positioning it well for future recovery [18]