ZACKS·2026-01-06 14:50Industry Overview - The momentum of the artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure segment is expected to continue into 2026, supported by a bullish demand scenario [1] - Concerns exist regarding the overstretched valuations of major AI companies, including both infrastructure developers and application implementers [1] Investment Opportunities - Several small and mid-sized AI stocks that underperformed the broader market in the past year are identified as potential game changers for 2026, including UiPath Inc. (PATH), Five9 Inc. (FIVN), Qualys Inc. (QLYS), Teradata Corp. (TDC), and BlackBerry Ltd. (BB) [2] - Each of these stocks currently holds a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy) or 2 (Buy) [2] Company Highlights UiPath Inc. (PATH) - UiPath provides a robotic process automation platform that utilizes AI to automate repetitive tasks and streamline operations [5] - The platform features embedded AI, machine learning (ML), and natural language processing (NLP) capabilities, enhancing decision-making and information processing [6] - Expected revenue and earnings growth rates for the next year are 9.3% and 13.7%, respectively, with a 5.6% improvement in the earnings consensus estimate over the last 30 days [8] Five9 Inc. (FIVN) - Five9 offers intelligent cloud software for contact centers, benefiting from a rise in subscription revenues and Enterprise AI revenues [10] - The platform includes interactive virtual agents and AI insights, optimizing customer interactions across various channels [12] - Expected revenue and earnings growth rates for the current year are 9.5% and 8.3%, respectively, with a 1.3% improvement in the earnings consensus estimate over the last 60 days [15] Qualys Inc. (QLYS) - Qualys is experiencing increased demand for cloud-based cybersecurity solutions amid rising cyber threats [16] - The company has made strategic acquisitions to enhance its growth, including Blue Hexagon, which improved its threat detection capabilities [17] - Expected revenue and earnings growth rates for the current year are 7.7% and 6.5%, respectively, with a 10.4% improvement in the earnings consensus estimate over the last 60 days [19] Teradata Corp. (TDC) - Teradata's prospects are bolstered by improvements in annual recurring revenue (ARR) growth and cost-saving measures [20] - The company offers a portfolio that includes advanced analytics and AI capabilities, which are expected to drive top-line growth [21] - Expected revenue and earnings growth rates for the current year are -0.6% and 3.6%, respectively, with an 8.3% improvement in the earnings consensus estimate over the last 60 days [23] BlackBerry Ltd. (BB) - BlackBerry provides intelligent security software and services, leveraging AI for cybersecurity and data privacy [24] - The QNX business is gaining traction in the automotive sector, with its software suite installed in over 275 million vehicles [27] - Expected revenue and earnings growth rates for the next year are 7.4% and 13.3%, respectively, with a 6.3% improvement in the earnings consensus estimate over the last 30 days [28]