Long-term stock picks for uncertain markets

Markets don’t like uncertainty—but it’s not new, and it’s not a reason to abandon a long-term strategy. In fact, volatile conditions often sharpen the case for sticking with well-positioned companies. That’s why experienced analysts are still pointing investors toward a handful of stocks with strong fundamentals, resilient demand, and credible growth plans.

Three recent picks from highly ranked Wall Street analysts offer a useful lens. Whether you're managing your own portfolio or aligning your investment strategy with your future goals, these names reveal where conviction meets execution.

Nvidia (NVDA) remains a headline name for AI infrastructure—and not just because of buzz. JPMorgan’s Harlan Sur, a top-ranked analyst, reiterated his buy rating despite the $4.5 billion write-down from H20 inventory tied to chip export restrictions.

The takeaway? Nvidia’s growth trajectory is still intact. Sur notes that excluding H20 shipments, data center revenue is growing 16% quarter over quarter. Demand for the company’s new Blackwell platform continues to outpace supply, and major global deals are supporting visibility through 2026.

For long-term investors, Nvidia may remain volatile—but it's not drifting. It’s evolving, with strategic clarity.

If you’re looking for tech exposure that doesn’t rest on consumer cycles, Zscaler (ZS) offers a different kind of growth story. The cybersecurity firm beat earnings expectations and raised full-year guidance. JPMorgan’s Brian Essex sees emerging products like Zero Trust Everywhere and Agentic Operations contributing significantly to annual recurring revenue (ARR), now approaching $1 billion.

Crucially, Zscaler isn’t just winning small contracts. The number of customers generating over $1 million in ARR grew 23% year over year. In a tight IT budget environment, that kind of customer loyalty speaks volumes.

For investors, the ARR signal here is about staying power—especially in a sector where trust and product integration aren’t easily won.

Salesforce (CRM) delivered better-than-expected Q1 results and raised its full-year outlook—but what’s more interesting is how it’s choosing to reinvest. Analyst Derrick Wood from TD Cowen sees AI-driven product adoption (like Agentforce) gaining momentum, with 30% of new bookings from existing customers expanding their usage.

Salesforce is also expanding its sales headcount after years of restraint. That’s not a short-term cost—it’s a forward bet on demand. With margins stable in the mid-30% range, the company is using efficiency gains from AI to lean back into growth.

For long-term investors, that reflects a mature but still-adaptive model—one that prioritizes durable expansion over quarterly headlines.

If any of these names spark interest, pause before clicking “buy.” Ask yourself:

• Does this stock align with my investment horizon and risk tolerance?
• Am I comfortable with short-term volatility if the long-term case holds?
• How do these sectors (AI, cybersecurity, enterprise software) fit into my overall asset mix?

These aren’t just analyst picks—they’re signals of where seasoned professionals still see execution, innovation, and future value. In a choppy market, clarity like that is worth listening to.

Uncertainty isn’t a reason to retreat. It’s a reason to review, rebalance, and re-engage with quality. The smartest plans aren’t loud. They’re consistent.