3 of the Best Artificial Intelligence (AI) Stocks to Buy for 2026

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes that despite the size of major tech companies, there are still significant growth opportunities in AI stocks, particularly for Alphabet, Amazon, and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (TSMC) as they head into 2026 [1][2]. Alphabet - Alphabet has a market cap of $3.7 trillion, making it one of the most valuable companies globally, just behind Nvidia at $4.3 trillion [4]. - Concerns about Alphabet's ability to maintain its dominance in search due to AI chatbots have led to skepticism among investors, which may contribute to its current valuation not reflecting its true potential [5][8]. - The company has diversified operations, including enhancements in Google Search, YouTube, a growing robotaxi business (Waymo), and an expanding cloud business, which supports its growth prospects [7][8]. - Alphabet's stock trades at a forward P/E multiple of 28, which is modest compared to the Technology Select Sector SPDR ETF's average of just under 30, indicating potential for a higher valuation [8]. Amazon - Amazon's market cap stands at $2.4 trillion, and its stock price has declined by 4% over the past year, suggesting it may be undervalued [9][11]. - The company is known for its online marketplace and Amazon Web Services (AWS), which are significant growth drivers, alongside its own robotaxi business, Zoox [10][12]. - Amazon is expanding its same-day delivery of fresh groceries, which could enhance its competitive position against rivals like Walmart, leveraging its AI capabilities for better market predictions [12][13]. - The stock trades at a forward P/E of 27, indicating that it should be valued higher given its growth opportunities [13]. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (TSMC) - TSMC has a market cap of $1.5 trillion and is crucial in the AI industry due to its role in chip manufacturing for major tech companies, including Nvidia [14][15]. - The company reported a 30% revenue increase and a 39% rise in diluted per-share profit for the quarter ending September 30, showcasing strong growth and operating margins around 50% [16]. - TSMC's stock has increased by over 40% this year, and it has a forward P/E of just under 24, making it the cheapest stock among the three discussed [16].