Buy These 3 Stocks With Upgraded Broker Ratings Amid Market Sell-Off

Market Overview - The U.S. markets have experienced an AI-driven sell-off, leading to a repricing of high expectations among investors [1] - Concerns have arisen regarding the potential erosion of pricing power for software stocks due to AI tools, as well as fears of slowing capital expenditures in hyperscaler AI, impacting chip and data-center suppliers [1] Investment Recommendations - Retail investors may find it challenging to select stocks for solid long-term returns, but following broker recommendations can simplify this process [2] - Recommended stocks include Etsy, Inc. (ETSY), CBRE Group (CBRE), and Associated Banc-Corp (ASB) [2] Broker Insights - Brokers form their views by engaging with senior management, analyzing public disclosures, and participating in earnings calls, which helps frame a company's fundamentals within the broader economic context [3] - Upgrades from brokers are often based on new evidence such as revised guidance or updated assumptions, which may not be immediately apparent to the market [4] Stock Selection Strategy - A screening strategy identifies potential winners by selecting stocks with broker rating upgrades of 1% or more over the past four weeks, priced above $5, and with an average 20-day trading volume greater than 100,000 [6] - Stocks with a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy) or 2 (Buy) have a proven track record of success, especially when combined with a VGM Score of A or B [7] Company-Specific Highlights - Etsy, Inc. (ETSY): A leading e-commerce service provider with a strong international presence. Expected earnings growth of 141% year-over-year for 2026, with a 3.1% broker rating upgrade in the past four weeks [8][9] - CBRE Group (CBRE): A commercial real estate services firm with a projected earnings growth of 15.4% year-over-year for 2026. The company has seen a 7.7% broker rating upgrade recently and holds a Zacks Rank of 2 [10][11][9] - Associated Banc-Corp (ASB): Provides a range of banking and non-banking services, with expected earnings growth of 6.9% year-over-year for 2026. ASB has experienced an 8.3% broker rating upgrade and also holds a Zacks Rank of 2 [12][13][9]