- 100 free trades signup offer
- Easy-to-use platform
- Low fees
- Student and young investor discounts
Is it the inevitable wave of the future, or too competitive to risk capital? Here’s what investors should know about the benefits and risks of investing in artificial intelligence.
What is artificial intelligence and how is it used?
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a term broadly applied to machines programmed to think like humans. This simulation of human intelligence typically requires three components: perception, reasoning and learning.
AI is becoming increasingly prevalent in today’s technology-infused world. In fact, many of us encounter artificial intelligence daily. This type of technology is applied in countless ways, but we most frequently interact with AI through smartphone virtual assistants, chatbots, cybersecurity, smart home devices and semiautonomous vehicles.
Why invest in artificial intelligence stocks?
Like most subcategories in the tech sector, artificial intelligence is on the rise. And as big names in the industry like Amazon, Microsoft and Google continue to beef up their AI programs, so too do the newer players in this space, like Catasys and Sonos.
The increasing prevalence of artificial intelligence suggests this industry will only continue to grow as we become more accustomed to the many benefits this technology offers. AI’s various applications across healthcare, finance, travel and more help cement its status as one of the biggest industries to watch in the coming years. In fact, Statista suggests that global revenue from the AI software market will grow to be worth USD $126 billion by 2025 — a market worth USD $14.69 billion in 2019.
And the good news is that there’s money in this type of technology. Don’t believe it? Simply ask Facebook, Tesla or any number of other blue-chip giants with a robust AI department at their disposal.
Beyond potential dividends, you also have the opportunity to support companies producing technology you may actually use or benefit from in the future. And there’s no denying it — advancements in the world of AI are just plain exciting. Who doesn’t want the opportunity to brag about supporting the next up-and-coming self-driving taxi fleet?
- Access to international stock exchanges
- Low margin rates
- Powerful research tools
- 6% cash rebate plus $2,200 in trading perks
- Low transaction fees
- Easy-to-use app
Artificial intelligence stocks
Few companies exclusively specialize in AI technology. But there are many companies in the tech industry with robust AI programs on deck.International Business Machines Corporation (IBM)
- Kinaxis Inc. (TSX: KXS)
- Docebo Inc. (TSX: DCBO)
- Quisitive Technology Solutions, Inc. (TSXV: QUIS)
- Open Text Corporation (TSX: OTEX)
- BlackBerry Limited (TSX: BB)
- Shopify Inc. (TSX: SHOP)
- International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE: IBM)
- C3.ai, Inc. (NYSE: AI)
- ServiceNow, Inc. (NYSE: NOW)
- Twilio Inc. (NYSE: TWLO)
- salesforce.com, inc. (NYSE: CRM)
- Tencent Holdings Limited (OTC Markets, Pink Sheets: TCEHY)
Artificial intelligence ETFs
The following ETFs track companies in the tech sector with well-developed AI programs:
- TD Global Technology Leaders Index ETF (TSX: TEC)
- Horizons Robotics and Automation Index ETF (TSX: RBOT)
- FT AlphaDEX U.S. Technology Sector Index ETF (TSX: FHQ)
- Fidelity MSCI Information Technology Index ETF (NYSEARCA: FTEC)
- First Trust Dow Jones Internet Index (NYSEARCA: FDN)
- iShares U.S. Technology ETF (NYSEARCA: IYW)
- Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSEARCA: XLK)
- Vanguard Information Technology ETF (NYSEARCA: VGT)
What unique risks do artificial intelligence companies face?
The single biggest threat to companies in this category is competition. High growth sectors are developing fast, and also tend to experience the highest rates of competition. There are countless companies vying to turn a profit with AI technology and this type of competition can be dangerous for investors.
Many of the smaller and more affordable companies available to invest in simply don’t make it, and the already-established names in AI are expensive to invest in. You may get in on the ground floor of something with strong potential only to find the company run out of business by fast-moving competitors six months down the line.
Another big threat to AI stocks is governmental regulation. Tech companies aren’t immune to regulatory disputes and as data and privacy protection measures tighten, some companies may be forced to reconfigure and adapt — and such steps can be time-consuming and expensive.
Artificial intelligence is exciting but can’t develop while unregulated. Governmental and corporate discussions around consumer data protection continue to evolve and investors with AI interests will need to stay alert.
Compare trading platforms
To invest in stocks or ETFs, you’ll need a brokerage account. Explore your platform options below. Check out our guide on how to buy stocks in a company for tips on how to get started.
Bottom line
There’s plenty of potential in artificial intelligence but fierce competition and governmental regulation may put a damper on stock growth for big names and up-and-comers alike.
Before you invest, review your platform options with multiple providers to find the account that best meets your needs.
Frequently asked questions
More on investing
Long term investments
Find out how long term investments work and how to use long term investments to build your wealth.
Read more…Masterworks review
An investment platform that enables users to buy and sell stocks in fine art securities.
Read more…10 ways to invest for social justice
Put your money where your mouth is by rethinking how you invest to support BIPOC, LGBTQ+ and other marginalized communities.
Read more…Investing in your 40s: 8 ways to prepare for retirement
How to invest for retirement: 8 ways to safeguard your portfolio.
Read more…6 places to find investment advice
Tips for beginning investors and high net-worth individuals alike.
Read more…More guides on Finder
-
How to buy Yoshitsu Co. stock in Canada
Steps to owning and managing Yoshitsu Co. stocks, with 24-hour and historical pricing before you buy.
-
How to buy Cerberus Cyber Sentinel stock in Canada
Steps to owning and managing Cerberus Cyber Sentinel stocks, with 24-hour and historical pricing before you buy.
-
How to buy Fresh Grapes LLC stock in Canada
Steps to owning and managing Fresh Vine Wine, Inc stocks, with 24-hour and historical pricing before you buy.
-
How to buy Quest Diagnostics Incorporated stock in Canada
Steps to owning and managing DGX with 24-hour and historical pricing before you buy.
-
How to buy Nuvectis Pharma (NVCT) stock in Canada when it goes public
Everything we know about the Nuvectis Pharma IPO plus information on how to buy in.
-
How to buy BuzzFeed stock in Canada
Steps to owning and managing BuzzFeed, Inc stocks, with 24-hour and historical pricing before you buy.
-
Best renewable energy stocks
These are the best renewable energy stocks to buy now in Canada.
-
Can I buy AeroFarms stock?
A failed SPAC deal pulled the plug on this vertical farming company’s plans to go public. But you can buy stock in other sustainable farming companies.
-
How to buy Reddit stock in Canada when it goes public
Everything we know about the Reddit IPO plus information on how to buy in.
-
How to buy US stocks in Canada
Buying US stocks in Canada is easier than you think. Find out how to buy US stocks in 4 simple steps.