Six conviction trades for 2025: seize the new market narrativeWhile developed economies have shifted to easing policies, opening the way for a broadening of the market away from technology mega stocks, the economic outlook remains uncertain. The violent reaction to DeepSeek’s launch early in the year clearly highlights the nervousness of markets and their ultra concentration. In the first few weeks of the year, the Trump administration has also been implementing its agenda at breakneck speed, leading to heightened uncertainties around trade frictions, inflation dynamics, and geopolitical upheaval. In that context, it is important to rethink investment positionings that may have worked in 2024, acknowledging the potential for volatility and numerous changes of directions.
In this uncertain environment, WisdomTree’s research team presents its six highest-conviction investment ideas for 2025.
1. Can the Magnificent Seven dominate for a third year in a row?
Few storylines have captured the investor imagination recently as much as the Magnificent Seven —a cohort of mega-cap technology stocks that propelled US equity benchmarks to remarkable gains. While these tech giants remain influential, we see scope for 2025 to become a year of ‘broadening out’.
Macro rationale
Resilience in corporate fundamentals and earnings growth: high quality growth stocks continue to be supported by strong fundamentals and growth could benefit from continued momentum after two years of domination.
Value resilience and broadening: with uncertainty increasing around the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) trajectory and inflationary pressures created by potential tariffs, value stocks may benefit and offer some diversification. Energy and Financials should also benefit from a wave of deregulation under the new Trump regime.
The case for a value/growth barbell strategy in US equities: a barbell strategy between US large cap quality Growth and US large cap Value equities leverages complementary strengths to navigate 2025. This approach allows investors to:
Capitalise on the Value factor’s extreme discount to Growth.
Enable investors to capture opportunities across market cycles.
Create a balance between growth potential and valuation-driven safety.
2. Unlocking value in Japan
Japan’s economic transformation story continues to gain traction as the country moves beyond four decades of stagnant nominal growth and sporadic deflationary episodes. While 2024 was the best year for Japanese equities since 1989, we believe that the Japanese renaissance still has further room to run.
Macro rationale
Resilience in corporate fundamentals and earnings growth: high quality growth stocks continue to be supported by strong fundamentals and growth could benefit from continued momentum after two years of domination.
Favourable currency tailwinds: the yen’s multi-year weakness augments the competitiveness of Japanese exporters, fuelling strong earnings from overseas revenue. Stable core inflation (outside of food) and talks about bond purchases by the Bank of Japan (BOJ) indicate that the BOJ will prevent the yen from appreciating too much.
Earnings and tariffs: Corporate earnings growth remains very strong after 2 years of improvement, and our analysis shows that the market is underreacting to those fundamentals. Furthermore, Japan may be able to secure a tariff carve-out from the US, leading to strengthening competitive positioning versus Europe and China.
3. A Trump card for emerging markets small caps
Emerging markets (EM) have struggled over the past decade, underweighted by many global investors and burned by repeated episodes of dollar strength, trade frictions, and slower growth in China. However, the narrative is a lot more positive going into 2025.
Macro rationale
An EM comeback: with the Federal Reserve maintaining an accommodative stance on monetary policy, China unleashing coordinated fiscal and monetary stimulus, and a wave of EM sovereign ratings upgrades, tailwinds have been picking up strongly for emerging markets.
But some clouds remain on the horizon: unfortunately, the Trump administration’s focus on a strong dollar and tariffs could slow down the recovery.
EM smalls caps as the solution: EM small caps typically derive a larger share of revenues from their home countries, insulating them somewhat from US tariffs or the dollar ‘s strength. In a scenario where the global trade outlook remains uncertain, these domestically oriented firms can thrive on internal consumer growth, as rising middle-class demographics in markets like India, Indonesia, and parts of Latin America continue to drive local consumer demand.
4. Cybersecurity at the crossroads of AI, geopolitical tensions, and quantum computing
The first few weeks of 2025 saw a resurgence of software stocks, with cybersecurity companies jumping in front of semiconductors or AI stocks. Continued corporate and government spending, as well as the imperative to protect the AI revolution, position cybersecurity for robust growth in 2025.
Macro rationale
AI’s security gap: rapid AI adoption brings higher data volumes and more software vulnerabilities, forcing enterprises to bolster their cyber defences. We expect a wave of spending on next-generation cloud solutions, zero-trust architecture, and quantum-proof encryption.
Elevated geopolitical risks: heightened tensions—from continuing conflicts and new trade disputes—translate into more frequent state-sponsored cyber-attacks. This, in turn, drives increased defence budgets and corporate vigilance.
US deregulation: since the US election, software companies have benefitted from deregulation expectations. Cybersecurity, cloud, and blockchain posted some of the strongest thematic gains in the first few weeks of the year.
5. Precious potential: silver’s breakout moment
While gold often steals the headlines, silver has quietly staged a meaningful rally, underpinned by both safe-haven demand and its essential role in green technologies, such as solar photovoltaics. 2025 could be silver’s ‘catch-up’ year.
Macro rationale
Haven meets industrial: silver exhibits a unique duality—part precious metal and part industrial commodity. If risk aversion flares, silver typically follows gold upward. If global growth holds steady, silver benefits from manufacturing demand. Countries worldwide, led by China and the US, are rapidly expanding solar capacity. Newer solar cell technology requires even higher silver content, providing a price tailwind.
Gold correlation: geopolitical tensions and looser monetary policy are offering gold new tailwinds, and silver will also benefit from the catch-up effect.
Limited supply growth: silver’s byproduct nature makes supply tight, as mining companies are not incentivised to expand production simply for silver alone. This supply-demand imbalance supports a more bullish price outlook.
6. Institutional adoption of digital assets is redefining multi-asset portfolios
After navigating a series of regulatory speed bumps, digital assets, led by bitcoin, have entered 2025 with growing mainstream acceptance. Key catalysts have included the expansion of physical bitcoin exchange-traded product (ETP) listings across major exchanges and the gradual emergence of regulatory frameworks that remove operational frictions. We believe most multi-asset portfolios remain structurally under-allocated to cryptocurrencies as a neutral position in digital assets (as illustrated by the market portfolio) should be around 1.5%.
Macro rationale
Portfolio diversification: bitcoin’s correlation to equities and bonds is low, providing a diversification benefit. Even small allocations have, historically, improved risk-adjusted returns.
Institutional inflows: pension funds, endowments, and sovereign wealth funds are steadily warming to digital assets, pointing to a rising tide of flows. As coverage by mainstream analysts grows, digital assets are increasingly viewed through the lens of asset class fundamentals rather than speculation alone.
Technological leaps: alongside bitcoin, developments in Ethereum scaling, stablecoins for global payments, and the tokenisation of real-world assets are reshaping how capital markets function. The resulting network effects may boost confidence in the broader crypto ecosystem.
Conclusion
In an environment that may reward conviction and flexibility, these six investment ideas offer distinct avenues to harness the opportunities emerging in 2025. Whether you seek cyclical upside, defensive yield, or secular growth themes, we believe these high-conviction calls exemplify WisdomTree’s mission: delivering innovative, research-driven solutions in a world of constant change.
This material is prepared by WisdomTree and its affiliates and is not intended to be relied upon as a forecast, research, or investment advice, and is not a recommendation, offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. The opinions expressed are as of the date of production and may change as subsequent conditions vary. The information and opinions contained in this material are derived from proprietary and non-proprietary sources. As such, no warranty of accuracy or reliability is given and no responsibility arising in any other way for errors and omissions (including responsibility to any person by reason of negligence) is accepted by WisdomTree, nor any affiliate, nor any of their officers, employees, or agents. Reliance upon information in this material is at the sole discretion of the reader. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.
Cybersecurity
Cybercriminals are winning—cybersecurity must strike back nowI recently created a website, but soon after launching it, I noticed it wasn’t appearing in Google searches. While researching how to fix this, I received an email with step-by-step instructions on what to do. Nothing about it seemed suspicious—not even the sender’s address. But when I used artificial intelligence (AI) to verify its authenticity, it was flagged as suspicious.
A few years ago, phishing emails had obvious red flags—poor grammar, strange formatting, or sketchy links. Today, with AI-powered tools at their disposal, cybercriminals are far more sophisticated. And if they’re getting smarter, cybersecurity must become smarter still.
The unbearable cost of a data breach
In 2024, the average cost of a data breach soared to nearly $5 million1. And that’s just the average—meaning many breaches resulted in far greater losses. While this number has been rising for years, 2024 saw a sharp uptick, underscoring how the widespread adoption of advanced AI tools is making cybercriminals smarter and attacks more costly than ever.
“Attack speeds could increase up to 100x as threat actors leverage generative AI” – Palo Alto Networks
In many cases, the true cost of a data breach goes beyond dollars and cents—it’s immeasurable. What happens when customer trust in a business’ security is shattered? The reputational damage could be irreversible. What if a hospital is hacked and a life is lost? The stakes couldn’t be higher. That’s why cybersecurity isn’t just a priority—it’s a necessity. And the world is finally waking up to that reality.
When cybercriminals compromise a target, their intention is to infiltrate the organisation via a weak link and move deeper into the network. E-crime breakout time refers to how quickly they escalate control—spreading from the initial breach to critical systems, stealing data, disabling security, or deploying ransomware. Some attackers achieve this in under an hour, making rapid detection and response crucial. In 2024, the fastest recorded time attackers were able to do this was 51 seconds2.
Attackers aren't always relying on emails—the nuisance calls we receive can often be quite nefarious. Vishing (voice phishing) attacks involve cybercriminals using phone calls to impersonate trusted entities, such as banks, government agencies, or service providers, to trick victims into revealing sensitive information or transferring money. These scams have surged dramatically, with a 442% increase in vishing in H2 2024 vs H1 20243, highlighting how criminals are exploiting human trust over the phone to bypass traditional cybersecurity defences.
A few weeks ago, I saw a post on LinkedIn of a man surrounded by police officers. He was telling the story of how he physically hacked into an organisation, walking through security checkpoints, accessing restricted areas, and pushing his luck until he finally got caught. But this wasn’t a real attack—it was a penetration test, a controlled security exercise designed to identify vulnerabilities before actual criminals exploit them. Organisations conduct these tests because hackers are employing increasingly sophisticated social engineering techniques—manipulating people rather than systems—to bypass security and gain access. The threat is growing, with 79% of attacks in 2024 being malware-free, up from 40% in 20194, proving that cybercriminals don’t always need malware when they can simply trick humans into opening the door.
High profile attacks underscore geopolitical risks
At the outset of 2024, concerns about cyber risks in the election year were widespread. While many countries navigated the electoral cycle without major known cyber incidents, Romania's December presidential election was notably annulled due to allegations of Russian interference. Far-right candidate Calin Georgescu's unexpected lead in the first round prompted investigations revealing a coordinated online campaign and cyberattacks supporting his candidacy, leading the courts to void the election.
In the same month, the US Treasury Department reported a significant cybersecurity breach attributed to Chinese state-sponsored hackers. The attackers exploited a third-party software provider to access Treasury workstations and unclassified documents. The breach involved the theft of a security key, allowing remote access to the department's systems. Although China’s foreign ministry denied these allegations, the incident underscores the growing intersection of geopolitical and cybersecurity risks.
Executives are concerned about risks from AI
A recent World Economic Forum survey5 of executives revealed that 66% believe AI and machine learning will have the biggest impact on cybersecurity in the next 12 months. Yet, 63% admitted their organisations lack processes to assess the security of AI tools before deploying them—highlighting a critical gap between innovation and risk management.
Cybersecurity must stay one step ahead
Cybersecurity must constantly innovate, leveraging cutting-edge technology to stay one step ahead of evolving threats. This relentless race between defenders and attackers is what makes cybersecurity such an exciting and dynamic field. Recent headlines around quantum computing suggest that the age of quantum might be closer than we once thought—a future where a quantum computer could shatter even the most sophisticated encryption effortlessly. This would redefine cybersecurity as we know it. Whether it’s quantum computing, AI, or blockchain, every breakthrough introduces new vulnerabilities, and safeguarding them must be a proactive pursuit, not a reactive one. Because if we wait until the attack happens, it might already be too late.
Sources:
1 IBM, 2025.
2 Source: CrowdStrike 2025 Global Threat Report, March 2025.
3 Source: CrowdStrike 2025 Global Threat Report, March 2025.
4 Source: CrowdStrike 2025 Global Threat Report, March 2025.
5 Source: World Economic Forum, Global Cybersecurity Report 2025.
This material is prepared by WisdomTree and its affiliates and is not intended to be relied upon as a forecast, research, or investment advice, and is not a recommendation, offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. The opinions expressed are as of the date of production and may change as subsequent conditions vary. The information and opinions contained in this material are derived from proprietary and non-proprietary sources. As such, no warranty of accuracy or reliability is given and no responsibility arising in any other way for errors and omissions (including responsibility to any person by reason of negligence) is accepted by WisdomTree, nor any affiliate, nor any of their officers, employees, or agents. Reliance upon information in this material is at the sole discretion of the reader. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.
#CYBER/USDT#CYBER
The price is moving within a descending channel on the 1-hour frame, adhering well to it, and is heading for a strong breakout and retest.
We are seeing a bounce from the lower boundary of the descending channel, which is support at 1.46.
We have a downtrend on the RSI indicator that is about to break and retest, supporting the upward trend.
We are looking for stability above the 100 moving average.
Entry price: 1.52
First target: 1.587
Second target: 1.67
Third target: 1.67
Will Tomorrow’s Secrets Remain Safe?The financial world stands at a critical juncture as the rapid advancement of quantum computing casts a shadow over current encryption methods. For decades, the security of sensitive financial data has relied on the computational difficulty of mathematical problems like integer factorization and discrete logarithms, the cornerstones of RSA and ECC encryption. However, quantum computers, leveraging principles of quantum mechanics, possess the potential to solve these problems exponentially faster, rendering current encryption standards vulnerable. This looming threat necessitates a proactive shift towards post-quantum cryptography (PQC), a new generation of encryption algorithms designed to withstand attacks from both classical and quantum computers.
Recognizing this urgent need, global standardization bodies like NIST have been actively working to identify and standardize quantum-resistant algorithms. Their efforts have already resulted in standardizing several promising PQC methods, including lattice-based cryptography (like CRYSTALS-Kyber and CRYSTALS-Dilithium) and code-based cryptography (like HQC). These algorithms rely on different mathematical problems believed to be hard for quantum computers, such as finding the shortest vector in a lattice or decoding general linear codes. The finance industry, a prime target for "harvest now, decrypt later" attacks where encrypted data is stored for future quantum decryption, must prioritize adopting these new standards to protect sensitive financial transactions, customer data, and the integrity of financial records.
The transition to a quantum-safe future requires a strategic and proactive approach. Financial institutions need to conduct thorough risk assessments, develop phased implementation roadmaps, and prioritize crypto agility – the ability to switch between cryptographic algorithms seamlessly. Early adoption not only mitigates the looming quantum threat but also ensures regulatory compliance and can provide a competitive advantage by demonstrating a commitment to security and innovation. As technology leaders like Cloudflare begin to integrate post-quantum cryptography into their platforms, the financial sector must follow suit, embracing the new cryptographic landscape to safeguard its future in an era defined by quantum capabilities. Adopting post-quantum cryptography is essential, as merely using a different mathematical method does not ensure protection against quantum computing threats.
Zscaler: BalancedZS has seen buyers and sellers largely balancing each other recently, preventing any significant moves in either direction. As a result, we continue to place the stock in a corrective rally as part of the magenta wave , with its high anticipated above the $259.61 resistance. However, if the price falls below the $153.70 support, the ongoing corrective structure will extend further, with the turquoise wave alt.X establishing a new low. This alternative scenario carries a 35% probability.
$CRWD: Crowdstrike – Cybersecurity Titan or Overvalued Hype?(1/9)
Good afternoon, investors! ☀️ NASDAQ:CRWD : Crowdstrike – Cybersecurity Titan or Overvalued Hype?
With NASDAQ:CRWD at $322, is this cyber guardian still leading the pack or is it time to cash in? Let's dive into the digital trenches! 🔍
(2/9) – PRICE PERFORMANCE 📊
• Current Price: $ 322 as of Mar 11, 2025 💰
• Recent Moves: Down from $360+ post-Q4, per X posts 📏
• Sector Trend: Cybersecurity demand remains robust, per market insights 🌟
It’s a steady ride with potential for growth! ⚙️
(3/9) – MARKET POSITION 📈
• Market Cap: ~$75B (based on 232.5M shares) 🏆
• Operations: Leader in endpoint security and threat intelligence ⏰
• Trend: Expanding into AI-driven security solutions, per recent developments 🎯
Firm, standing tall in the cyber battlefield! 🚀
(4/9) – KEY DEVELOPMENTS 🔑
• Earnings Win: Q1 FY25 beat estimates, guidance raised, per X posts 🔄
• Cyber Boom: Threats fuel demand, per Mar 6 chatter 🌍
• Market Reaction: Stock jumped, then dipped, per X sentiment 📋
Battling, with innovation driving the narrative! 💡
(5/9) – RISKS IN FOCUS ⚡
• Competition: Intense from Palo Alto Networks, Zscaler, etc. 🔍
• Valuation: High P/E ratio may concern some investors 📉
• Regulatory Shifts: Potential new laws impacting data privacy ❄️
Navigating challenges in a dynamic landscape! 🛑
(6/9) – SWOT: STRENGTHS 💪
• Market Leader: Dominant in endpoint security 🥇
• Innovation: AI and ML-driven solutions keep it ahead 📊
• Financial Health: Strong cash position, no debt 🔧
Built to withstand cyber storms! 🏦
(7/9) – SWOT: WEAKNESSES & OPPORTUNITIES ⚖️
• Weaknesses: High valuation, competitive pressures 📉
• Opportunities: Growing demand for cloud security, new market segments 📈
Can it capitalize on the digital expansion? 🤔
(8/9) –📢Crowdstrike at $322—your investment move? 🗳️
• Bullish: $400+ soon, cyber threats fuel growth 🐂
• Neutral: Holding steady, balancing risks and rewards ⚖️
• Bearish: $280 drop, overvalued in a cooling market 🐻
Cast your vote below! 👇
(9/9) – FINAL TAKEAWAY 🎯
Crowdstrike’s $322 stance shows resilience 📈, but cautious investors eye valuation and competition 🌿. Dips are our DCA playground 💰. Grab ‘em low, ride the wave! Gem or bust?
$ZS: Zscaler – Cloud Security Titan or Overhyped Hype Train?(1/9)
Good afternoon, folks! ☀️ NASDAQ:ZS : Zscaler – Cloud Security Titan or Overhyped Hype Train?
With NASDAQ:ZS soaring after smashing earnings, is this cybersecurity champ locking down profits or just riding a digital wave? Let’s crack the code! 🔍
(2/9) – PRICE PERFORMANCE 📊
• Current Price: Up post-earnings, exact $ TBD 💰
• Recent Results: Q1 2025 earnings beat estimates, per X buzz 📏
• Sector Trend: Cloud security demand surging 🌟
It’s a hot streak in a hotter market! ⚡
(3/9) – MARKET POSITION 📈
• Market Cap: Strong, based on 151.62M shares 🏆
• Operations: Leader in Zero Trust security ⏰
• Trend: posts hail robust growth, per Mar 6 chatter 🎯
Solid, shielding the digital frontier! 🌍
(4/9) – KEY DEVELOPMENTS 🔑
• Earnings Win: Q1 2025 topped forecasts, guidance raised 🔄
• Cloud Security: Demand spikes amid cyber threats 🌐
• Market Reaction: Stock jumped📋
Thriving, as hackers keep the world on edge! 💡
(5/9) – RISKS IN FOCUS ⚠️
• Valuation: High P/E could spook investors 🔍
• Competition: Crowded field with CrowdStrike, Palo Alto 📉
• Macro Shifts: Economic dips might slow spending ❄️
Watch out, risks lurk in the shadows! 🕵️
(6/9) – SWOT: STRENGTHS 💪
• Earnings Beat: Q1 2025 growth shines 🥇
• Market Lead: Zero Trust pioneer 📊
• Demand: Cloud security’s red-hot 🔧
Locked and loaded for the cyber age! 🔒
(7/9) – SWOT: WEAKNESSES & OPPORTUNITIES ⚖️
• Weaknesses: High valuation, competition pressures 📉
• Opportunities: Rising cyber threats fuel expansion 📈
Can it secure the bag or get hacked by rivals? 🤔
(8/9) – 📢Zscaler’s riding high post-earnings—your call? 🗳️
• Bullish: $250+ by summer, cyber’s king 🐂
• Neutral: Holding steady, risks loom ⚖️
• Bearish: $180 drop, hype fades 🐻
Vote below! 👇
(9/9) – FINAL TAKEAWAY 🎯
Zscaler’s Q1 2025 earnings pop signals strength 📈, but high stakes mean volatility’s a shadow friend 🌫️. Dips? That’s our DCA jackpot 💰. Buy low, soar high! Treasure or trap?
Can Quantum Security Save Our Digital Future?In the relentless evolution of cybersecurity, Palo Alto Networks is at the forefront, challenging the conventional with the introduction of the Quantum Random Number Generator (QRNG) Open API framework. This innovative approach not only aims to combat the looming threats posed by quantum computing but also redefines how we think about security in a digital world increasingly intertwined with AI and machine learning. By fostering collaboration across different QRNG technology providers, Palo Alto Networks is not just enhancing security measures but is also setting a new standard for industry-wide interoperability.
The company's commitment extends beyond technological innovation into practical applications, as evidenced by its strategic partnership with IBM and the UK Home Office to secure the Emergency Services Network. This initiative showcases Palo Alto Networks' capability to integrate advanced security solutions into critical infrastructure, ensuring resilience against cyber threats in real-world scenarios. Moreover, their achievement of the FedRAMP High Authorization for their cybersecurity platforms marks a significant milestone, affirming their role in safeguarding even the most sensitive government data.
But the implications of Palo Alto Networks' advancements go deeper, challenging us to rethink our approach to digital security. Their platformization strategy, which unifies disparate security tools into cohesive platforms, not only streamlines security operations but also leverages AI to provide smarter, more proactive defense mechanisms. This strategic pivot towards a more integrated and intelligent security ecosystem is not just about managing current threats but about preparing for an unpredictable future where digital threats could evolve beyond our current comprehension.
In essence, Palo Alto Networks is not merely responding to the cybersecurity challenges of today; they are reimagining them for tomorrow. By pushing the boundaries of what's possible with quantum security and platform integration, they invite us to question: Are we ready for a world where security is as dynamic and forward-thinking as the threats it aims to counter? This thought-provoking journey into the future of cybersecurity compels us to stay informed, engaged, and critically aware of how we protect our digital lives.
Daily dose of Chart :Intrasector rotation with Tech. SMH vs HACKEven if the XLK (Tech sector ETF) hitting all time highs. But within the sector we see major rotation from Semis to Software to Cyber security. Last 6 months the Semis underperformed the Cybersecurity sector. But this has flipped recently on the daily basis. There is a bullish head and shoulders pattern forming on the SMH / HACK.
Will Quantum Computing Make Our Digital Fortresses Crumble?In the race toward quantum supremacy, D-Wave Systems stands as a testament to humanity's relentless pursuit of computational boundaries. Their latest Advantage2 processor, boasting over 4,400 qubits, doesn't just represent an incremental step forward—it demonstrates quantum computing's transformation from theoretical promise to practical reality. With processing capabilities 25,000 times faster than its predecessors in materials science applications, we're witnessing the dawn of a new computational era.
This quantum revolution extends far beyond laboratory walls. NASA and Google's collaborative Quantum Artificial Intelligence Lab exemplifies how quantum computing is already reshaping our approach to complex challenges. From simulating planetary atmospheres to optimizing space missions, these systems tackle problems that traditional computers find insurmountable. The technology's ability to explore multiple solutions simultaneously opens doors to possibilities we're only beginning to imagine.
However, recent developments from Chinese researchers using D-Wave systems to breach encryption algorithms present a double-edged sword. While showcasing quantum computing's extraordinary potential, these breakthroughs signal a fundamental shift in cybersecurity paradigms. As we stand at this technological crossroads, the question isn't whether quantum computing will transform our world, but how we'll adapt to its profound implications for security, science, and society. The future isn't just approaching—it's already unfolding at quantum speed.
F5, Inc. (FFIV) AnalysisCompany Overview:
F5, Inc. NASDAQ:FFIV is a market leader in application delivery and cybersecurity, providing solutions that ensure seamless and secure digital experiences for enterprises globally. The company's evolution from a hardware-centric model to one focused on software and security solutions reflects its agility in adapting to market dynamics and customer needs.
Key Growth Drivers
AI Infrastructure Integration:
F5’s partnership with MinIO, a leading high-performance object storage platform, enhances its presence in the AI infrastructure space.
This collaboration integrates MinIO’s storage capabilities with F5’s advanced traffic management and security solutions, creating a compelling value proposition for enterprises embracing AI and data-intensive workloads.
Shift to Software and Security:
F5’s strategic pivot from hardware to software-driven and security-focused solutions broadens its market reach.
This shift positions F5 to capitalize on increasing enterprise demand for application security, cloud migration, and edge computing.
Strong Financial Foundation:
Recurring Revenue Dominance: 76% of total revenue ($2.1 billion) is now recurring, providing financial stability and predictable cash flows.
Stock Buyback Program: The $1 billion repurchase initiative demonstrates management’s confidence in the company’s growth trajectory and commitment to enhancing shareholder value.
Customer-Centric Innovation:
F5’s solutions are vital for enterprises navigating the complexities of modern multi-cloud environments and ensuring robust cybersecurity for applications.
Investment Outlook
Bullish Case:
We are bullish on F5, Inc. (FFIV) above the $220.00-$222.00 range, given its robust recurring revenue base, strategic partnerships, and expanding market opportunities in cybersecurity and AI infrastructure.
Upside Potential:
Our upside target is $360.00-$365.00, reflecting the company’s ability to sustain long-term growth through innovation, market leadership, and strong financial management.
🚀 FFIV—Redefining Digital Security and Application Delivery in the Age of AI. #Cybersecurity #Cloud #AIInfrastructure
A10 Networks (ATEN) AnalysisCompany Overview:
A10 Networks NYSE:ATEN is a leading provider of high-performance application delivery and cybersecurity solutions, uniquely positioned to benefit from the growing demand for advanced security services and network optimization in a digital-first economy.
Key Catalysts:
Security-Driven Growth:
Security-focused revenue is up 10% year-to-date, underscoring robust demand for advanced cybersecurity solutions in response to escalating cyber threats globally.
With cyber risks rising, this segment is poised to be a significant growth driver for ATEN.
Enterprise Segment Momentum:
The enterprise segment has shown consistent performance, growing 5% year-to-date and 9% year-over-year, signaling healthy demand across key verticals.
Debt-Free Balance Sheet:
A10 Networks’ debt-free financial position provides a strategic advantage in the current high-interest-rate environment, enabling sustainable investment in growth initiatives and enhanced shareholder returns.
Resilient Business Model:
Focused on providing mission-critical solutions, ATEN benefits from strong customer retention and recurring revenue streams, ensuring long-term stability.
Investment Outlook:
Bullish Outlook: We are bullish on ATEN above the $16.50-$17.00 range, supported by its growth in cybersecurity, enterprise traction, and robust financial health.
Upside Potential: Our upside target for ATEN is $28.00-$29.00, driven by expanding security revenues, enterprise adoption, and financial flexibility in pursuing strategic opportunities.
🚀 ATEN—Empowering Enterprises with Next-Gen Security and Performance. #Cybersecurity #EnterpriseSolutions #TechGrowth
Cloudflare (NET) AnalysisCompany Overview:
Cloudflare NYSE:NET , a global leader in cybersecurity, content delivery networks (CDN), and edge computing, is well-positioned to capitalize on increasing digital transformation and growing demand for secure, efficient cloud infrastructure.
Key Growth Catalysts:
Strategic AI Partnerships 🤝
Cloudflare’s collaboration with Microsoft Azure enhances its AI infrastructure, fostering innovation and bolstering its competitive edge in enterprise cloud solutions.
Zero Trust Leadership in Cybersecurity 🔐
Cloudflare’s Zero Trust platform addresses growing enterprise needs amid rising cyber threats and increased remote work adoption.
Advanced threat intelligence and access controls make it a leader in next-gen cybersecurity solutions.
Edge Computing & IoT Opportunities 🌐
Edge computing solutions are experiencing strong adoption, fueled by:
Growing demand for 5G networks and the IoT revolution.
The edge computing market is projected to reach $87.3 billion by 2026.
Cloudflare’s focus on reducing latency and enhancing network efficiency positions it to capture market share.
Global Expansion & Untapped Markets 🌍
New data centers in underserved regions expand Cloudflare’s global reach, improving service delivery and unlocking revenue opportunities in untapped markets.
Investment Outlook:
Bullish Stance: We are bullish on NET above $90.00-$91.00, supported by strong positioning in AI, cybersecurity, and edge computing, coupled with robust global expansion strategies.
Upside Target: Our price target is **$145.00-$150.00
Can Identity Security Redefine the Future of Digital Trust?In the labyrinthine world of cybersecurity, Okta Inc. emerges as a beacon of strategic innovation, transforming the complex landscape of identity management with remarkable financial resilience. The company's recent economic performance reveals a compelling narrative of growth that transcends traditional technological boundaries, showcasing how strategic investments and technological prowess can turn potential vulnerabilities into competitive advantages.
The digital landscape is becoming increasingly defined by complex security challenges, and Okta has established itself as a key player in this critical area. With a subscription revenue growth of 14% and strategic investments of $485 million in research and development, the company shows a strong commitment to advancing the possibilities in identity and access management. This approach is not just about providing technological solutions; it embodies a comprehensive vision for creating secure and seamless digital experiences that enable organizations to effectively navigate the increasingly intricate technological environment.
Despite facing significant market challenges, including intense competition and cybersecurity threats, Okta has transformed potential obstacles into opportunities for innovation. By maintaining a laser-focused approach to workforce and customer identity solutions, the company has survived and thrived, turning operating losses into a pathway toward profitability. The transition from a net loss of $81 million to a net income of $16 million underscores a strategic metamorphosis that challenges traditional narratives of technological enterprise, suggesting that true innovation emerges not from avoiding challenges, but from confronting them with intelligent, forward-thinking strategies.
As digital transformation continues to reshape enterprise security, Okta stands at the forefront of a critical revolution. The company's journey illustrates a profound truth: in an era of unprecedented technological complexity, the most successful organizations can transform uncertainty into opportunity, security into innovation, and technological challenges into strategic advantages. Okta's trajectory is more than a corporate success story—it's a testament to the power of visionary thinking in an increasingly interconnected world.
Is the Next Cybersecurity Giant Already Hiding in Plain Sight?At a time when most tech companies are navigating turbulent markets, Fortinet's remarkable Q3 performance tells a story that goes beyond mere numbers. With a 13% revenue surge to $1.51 billion and service revenue climbing 19.1% to $1.03 billion, the company isn't just growing – it's redefining what's possible in the cybersecurity landscape. But the real intrigue lies in the phoenix-like resurrection of its firewall business, which has returned to positive growth after several quarters of decline, suggesting a strategic mastery that few companies have achieved in this sector.
The convergence of three critical factors sets the stage for what could be a transformative period in Fortinet's journey. First, the imminent arrival of the largest firewall refresh cycle in the company's history, set to peak in 2026, creates a rare market opportunity. Second, the company's aggressive expansion into generative AI, now spanning seven different products, positions it at the forefront of technological innovation. Third, institutional investors are taking notice, with Los Angeles Capital Management LLC increasing its holdings by an astounding 3,155.6% – a vote of confidence that speaks volumes about the company's prospects.
What makes this narrative particularly compelling is Fortinet's ability to execute on multiple fronts simultaneously. While most companies struggle to maintain growth in their core business while innovating for the future, Fortinet has managed to do both. The company's CFO, Keith Jensen, notes that the upcoming refresh cycle will uniquely impact mid-range firewalls – a departure from historical patterns that typically focused on entry-level products. This strategic positioning, combined with the company's AI-driven innovation and strong financial fundamentals, suggests that Fortinet isn't just participating in the cybersecurity market's evolution – it's actively shaping it.
The question isn't whether Fortinet will continue to grow, but rather how far its influence in the cybersecurity landscape will extend. As cyber threats become increasingly sophisticated and digital transformation accelerates across industries, companies that can successfully blend networking and security while leveraging cutting-edge AI capabilities will likely emerge as the leaders of tomorrow. Fortinet's current trajectory suggests it's not just preparing for this future – it's already there, waiting for the rest of the market to catch up.
Zscaler: Wave (2) Correction! After a rapid rise in early September, the ZS stock managed to reach the highs from August, but there was no significant acceptance at this level. Structurally, the upward movement isn't sufficient for us to consider wave (2) as completed. So far, the bullish signals lack a clear impulsive character, and we expect new lows during the magenta wave (2), which should primarily end above the support at $84.93. Once a trend reversal has been initiated, the subsequent wave (3) should push through the resistance at $251.45. According to our 33% likely alternative scenario, this could also happen directly.
Can a Crystal Ball Really Predict the Future of Tech?In an era where artificial intelligence promises to reshape the technological landscape, Palantir Technologies has emerged as a testament to the power of long-term vision meeting present opportunity. The company's remarkable third-quarter performance, marked by a 30% revenue surge to $725.5 million and doubled net income, isn't merely a financial triumph—it's a validation of two decades spent perfecting the art of data analytics while others were still grappling with its fundamentals.
What sets this trajectory apart is Palantir's unique ability to bridge two seemingly disparate worlds. On one side, its deep-rooted expertise in government and defense contracts, evidenced by a 40% growth in U.S. government sales to $320 million, demonstrates unparalleled capability in handling sensitive, mission-critical data. On the other, its commercial division's explosive growth, particularly in the U.S. market with a 54% revenue increase, reveals an organization that has successfully translated complex government-grade technology into practical business solutions.
The company's strategic positioning, however, tells a more intriguing story beyond the numbers. While competitors scramble to adapt to the AI revolution, Palantir's Artificial Intelligence Platform (AIP) represents the culmination of years spent understanding the nuances of data integration and security. This foundation, combined with innovative approaches like their hands-on "boot camps" where clients work directly with Palantir engineers, suggests that perhaps the company named after Tolkien's all-seeing orbs has indeed developed a knack for anticipating the future of enterprise technology.
When Does a Digital Guardian Become a Digital Liability?In a dramatic turn of events that has captivated both Wall Street and Silicon Valley, a routine software update has spiraled into a half-billion-dollar legal battle between two industry titans. Delta Air Lines' lawsuit against cybersecurity leader CrowdStrike raises fundamental questions about corporate accountability in our increasingly interconnected world. The incident, which paralyzed one of America's largest airlines for five days, serves as a stark reminder of how thin the line has become between digital protection and digital vulnerability.
The case's implications stretch far beyond its $500 million price tag. At its core, this legal confrontation challenges our basic assumptions about cybersecurity partnerships. When CrowdStrike's update crashed 8.5 million Windows computers worldwide, it didn't just expose technical vulnerabilities—it revealed a critical gap in our understanding of how modern enterprises should balance innovation with stability. Delta's claim that it had explicitly disabled automatic updates, only to have CrowdStrike allegedly circumvent these preferences, adds a layer of complexity that could reshape how businesses approach their cybersecurity relationships.
Perhaps most intriguingly, this case forces us to confront an uncomfortable paradox in corporate technology: can the very systems we deploy to protect our infrastructure become our greatest point of failure? As businesses pour billions into digital transformation, the Delta-CrowdStrike saga suggests that our cybersecurity paradigm might need a fundamental rethink. With federal regulators now involved and industry leaders watching closely, the outcome of this battle could redefine the boundaries of corporate liability in the digital age and set new standards for how we approach the delicate balance between security and operational stability.
SentinelOne (S) AnalysisCompany Overview: SentinelOne is preparing to release its second-quarter fiscal 2025 results on August 27. The company, known for its cybersecurity solutions, is poised to deliver solid financial performance, driven by consistent growth and strong earnings surprises.
Key Highlights:
Revenue Expectations: SentinelOne NYSE:S anticipates total revenues of $197 million for Q2, aligning with the Zacks Consensus Estimate. This figure represents a significant 31.84% growth compared to the same quarter last year.
Earnings Performance: The consensus estimate for the company’s loss per share has remained steady at 1 cent, an improvement from the 8 cents per share loss reported in the year-ago period. This steady estimate reflects the company's efforts to improve profitability.
Historical Earnings Surprises: SentinelOne has a strong track record of exceeding earnings expectations, with an average earnings surprise of 64.79% over the past four quarters. This track record highlights the company's ability to outperform market forecasts consistently.
Technical Outlook: Given the company's strong performance history and the current technical setup, the stock is positioned well for potential growth.
Investment Outlook: Bullish Outlook: We are bullish on S if it holds above the $22.00-$22.75 range. Upside Potential: The upside target for SentinelOne is set at $27.00-$28.00, supported by the company’s robust growth prospects and positive earnings track record.
🏅 SentinelOne—poised for growth with strong earnings performance and bullish technicals! #S #Cybersecurity 🚀📈
S SentinelOne Options Ahead of EarningsIf you haven`t bought S before the previous earnings:
Now analyzing the options chain and the chart patterns of S SentinelOne prior to the earnings report this week,
I would consider purchasing the 27usd strike price Calls with
an expiration date of 2024-11-15,
for a premium of approximately $2.07.
If these options prove to be profitable prior to the earnings release, I would sell at least half of them.
Can Palo Alto Networks Sustain Its Cybersecurity Dominance?Palo Alto Networks has cemented its status as a cornerstone in the cybersecurity industry with a stellar Q4 performance. Their ability to not only meet but exceed expectations, coupled with a strategic pivot towards platformization, positions the company at the forefront of a rapidly evolving landscape.
The company's financial results are a testament to its operational efficiency and strategic acumen. The impressive growth in Next-Generation Security ARR underscores the market's confidence in Palo Alto Networks' ability to deliver innovative and effective security solutions. This, combined with the company's strong balance sheet and cash flow generation, provides a solid foundation for future growth.
However, the cybersecurity arena is characterized by constant evolution, with emerging threats and technological advancements demanding continuous adaptation. Palo Alto Networks will need to maintain its focus on research and development, while also expanding its market reach to sustain its leadership position. The company's success in navigating these challenges will be crucial in determining its long-term trajectory.
Investors will be keen to monitor Palo Alto Networks' ability to execute its platformization strategy and expand its customer base. Additionally, the company's financial performance against the backdrop of a potentially slowing economy will be a key indicator of its resilience.
Ultimately, Palo Alto Networks' capacity to innovate, adapt, and deliver exceptional value to its customers will be instrumental in shaping its future success.
Make it or break it moment for $SWith the spectacular fall of NASDAQ:CRWD last week I expect to be a decisive week for SentinelOne.
Scenario nr 1
Break out of the correction or for Bill O'Neill followers break out of the base.
Supporting evidence:
1. Fundamental. Better than expected earnings
The biggest competitor is having a terrible day
2. Rising MACD histogram on the weekly
3. MACD lines almost crossing
4. Force Index getting positive
5. Getting The Positive Direction Line above the Negative Directional Line will mean that the bullish traders dominate the market.
Scenario nr 2
Break out is not ready yet and we go back in the correction range evidenced on my graph by the parallel channel
Why?
Waiting for earnings confirmation?
Force Index above 0 is minor at this point a follow-up week will break the trend.
The stock needs to deal with the overhang supply. First hurdle, people who bought around the $22 price.