IBM vs. Intel: Which AI-Focused Stock is the Better Buy Today?

Core Insights - IBM and Intel are focusing on emerging technologies like cloud computing and AI to attract investors [1][2] - IBM is enhancing its capabilities in hybrid cloud and AI, while Intel is shifting towards data-centric businesses [2][4] IBM Overview - IBM is expected to benefit from strong demand for hybrid cloud and AI, particularly in its Software and Consulting segments [4] - The company's watsonx platform is central to its AI capabilities, enhancing enterprise productivity [4] - IBM's acquisition of HashiCorp has improved its ability to manage complex cloud environments, supporting its hybrid multi-cloud strategy [5] - Despite growth in hybrid cloud and AI, IBM faces competition from AWS and Azure, with pricing pressures impacting margins [6] Intel Overview - Intel is expanding manufacturing capacity under its IDM 2.0 strategy, launching new processors like the Intel Core Ultra series and Xeon 6+ [7] - The company has secured a $5 billion investment from NVIDIA to develop advanced AI solutions, benefiting the semiconductor ecosystem [8][9] - Intel's revenue is significantly impacted by its exposure to China, facing challenges from market restrictions and competition from domestic chipmakers [10] Financial Performance and Estimates - IBM's 2026 sales are projected to increase by 5.5%, with EPS growth of 6.7%, and shares trade at a lower forward P/S ratio than Intel [11][14] - Intel's 2026 sales are expected to grow by 1.8%, with EPS rising by 16.7%, but EPS estimates have declined by 15.5% over the past 60 days [12][13] Valuation and Investment Outlook - Over the past year, IBM's stock has gained 0.4%, while Intel's has increased by 98.2% [16] - IBM is viewed as more attractive from a valuation perspective, trading at a forward P/S ratio of 3.44 compared to Intel's 4.31 [14] - IBM is rated Hold, while Intel carries a Sell rating, with IBM seen as better positioned for sustainable growth [15][17]