Software Bear Market: 3 Stocks With 47% to 63% Upside, According to Wall Street

Core Viewpoint - Wall Street analysts maintain a positive outlook on software businesses despite recent market declines, suggesting that the sell-off may be overdone and presenting potential investment opportunities in select software stocks [1][3]. Software Sector Overview - The iShares Expanded Tech-Software Sector ETF has experienced a decline of over 22% since December 10, officially entering bear market territory as of February 3 [3]. - Analysts believe that certain software stocks could offer significant upside potential, with average price targets indicating increases of 47% to 63% [3]. Company-Specific Insights Datadog - Datadog's stock has fallen from nearly $200 per share in early November to around $120, indicating a potential upside of 61% according to analysts [5][9]. - The company provides cloud monitoring and security solutions, and is expected to grow revenue by 20% by 2026, leveraging AI to enhance operations and create new capabilities [6][8]. - Of the 33 analysts covering Datadog, 30 have a buy rating, reflecting strong confidence in its business model and future growth [9]. Snowflake - Snowflake's stock has an average price target suggesting a 63% upside, despite challenges in convincing investors of its AI strategy and its current lack of profitability [10][14]. - The company has formed partnerships with AI leaders and completed a $200 million deal with OpenAI, indicating its relevance in the AI space [13]. - Analysts remain optimistic, with 30 out of 33 providing buy ratings, highlighting confidence in its long-term potential [14]. Microsoft - Microsoft, while primarily known as a software company, is also seen as a major beneficiary of the AI boom, despite a 23% decline in stock price over the past six months [15][19]. - The company faced a sell-off following lower-than-expected growth in its Azure cloud business, which is critical for its AI-related revenue [16][18]. - Analysts have a strong positive outlook, with 34 out of 35 providing buy ratings, suggesting a 47% upside potential for the stock [19].