These Experts See Big Gains Ahead for a Set of Cybersecurity Stocks. Here’s Why

_Palo Alto Networks is set to report quarterly earnings after the closing bell Tuesday _

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Aaron McDade

Wed, February 18, 2026 at 3:46 AM GMT+9 2 min read

In this article:

•                                       StockStory Top Pick 
  

  CRWD

  -4.57%

 PANW  

 -2.40%  

Key Takeaways

Wedbush analysts said they see big gains for a trio of cybersecurity plays that have taken a hit this year amid a broader slump in software stocks.

The analysts identified Palo Alto Networks, CrowdStrike, and ZScaler as best-positioned to benefit from growing risks tied to AI.

It’s been a rough start to the year for the software sector, but one group of experts said they see big gains ahead for some beaten-down cybersecurity stocks.

As the use of AI spreads, companies could face growing risks that drive up demand for cybersecurity services, according to analysts at Wedbush, who named three stocks they see as likely “winners” in a note Tuesday.

Why This Matters to Investors

Wedbush is suggesting investors are underestimating the cybersecurity industry’s opportunities for growth as AI risks spread, leaving shares of big players significant room to rise.

One of them is CrowdStrike (CRWD), which Wedbush said remains a “gold standard of cybersecurity” despite the stock’s recent selloff. The shares are down about 13% year-to-date, with Wedbush’s $600 price target suggesting nearly 50% upside from Tuesday afternoon’s level around $408.

Wedbush also identified ZScaler (ZS) as a “premier name to own in the cyber space,” with a strong product pipeline and AI strategy. The analysts said they see the stock roughly doubling to $350 in the next 12 months.

Palo Alto Networks (PANW), which is set to report earnings after the closing bell today, rounded out Wedbush’s trio. The analysts said the company, which has sought to expand its offerings with several acquisitions recently, has seen its value proposition improve as companies look to consolidate vendors. Wedbush’s price target at $225 is about 37% above the stock’s recent level.

Investors could also get more insights when ZScaler reports next week on Feb. 26, with CrowdStrike scheduled to release its latest quarterly results on March 3.

The three software stocks lost ground on Tuesday amid broader market losses. Read _Investopedia’s _full daily markets roundup here.

Read the original article on Investopedia

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