PATH and APP: Two AI Stocks Worth Buying, But One Stands Stronger

Core Insights - UiPath and AppLovin are leveraging artificial intelligence to transform their respective sectors, with UiPath focusing on robotic process automation (RPA) and AppLovin on mobile advertising technology [1][11] UiPath Overview - UiPath is a leader in the RPA market, which is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, positioning the company to capitalize on the increasing demand for AI-driven solutions [3][6] - Strategic partnerships with major technology firms like Microsoft, Amazon, and Salesforce enhance UiPath's credibility and expand its capabilities within broader enterprise ecosystems [4] - UiPath boasts a high customer retention rate of 108%, with Q2 fiscal 2026 revenues reaching $362 million, a 14% year-over-year increase, and annual recurring revenues of $1.72 billion, reflecting strong customer loyalty [5][10] - The company is well-positioned to maintain its leadership in the evolving RPA and enterprise automation sector due to its global presence and focus on intelligent automation [6] AppLovin Overview - AppLovin has established itself in mobile advertising, particularly with the launch of its AI engine, Axon 2, which has significantly improved ad performance and quadrupled advertising spend on its platform [7][9] - The estimated annual run rate for ad spend from gaming clients has reached $10 billion, positioning AppLovin among the top global ad tech firms by valuation [7] - Financially, AppLovin reported a 77% year-over-year revenue increase in Q2 2025, with adjusted EBITDA rising 99% and net income soaring 156%, indicating strong market demand and operational efficiency [9][14] Financial Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for UiPath indicates a 10% year-over-year growth in sales and a 23% increase in EPS for fiscal 2026 [10] - For AppLovin, the Zacks Consensus Estimate suggests a 17% growth in sales and a remarkable 103% increase in EPS for 2025 [14] Valuation Comparison - UiPath's forward sales multiple is 5.54X, above its 12-month median of 4.27X, while AppLovin's forward sales multiple stands at 30.85X, significantly higher than its median of 20.24X [17] Investment Recommendation - UiPath is considered a more balanced and sustainable long-term investment due to its deep enterprise integration, high customer retention, and strategic partnerships, while AppLovin, despite its impressive growth, carries higher valuation risk [18]