Stock selections: the best picks by region and sector

The global defense sector continues to gain strength as geopolitical tensions, rising military budgets, and evolving technologies fuel long-term investment appeal. From advanced aerospace systems to AI-powered surveillance and drone solutions, defense stocks are becoming a strategic cornerstone in diversified portfolios. Next Vision Stabilized Systems is gaining traction with advanced stabilized imaging and electro‑optical solutions for drones and defense platforms, providing critical surveillance capabilities to military and security customers worldwide. DroneShield specializes in counter‑unmanned aerial system technology and electronic warfare, integrating RF sensing, AI, and sensor fusion to detect and defeat unauthorized drones across complex operational environments. Rheinmetall stands out for its dominant position in European land systems and ammunition supply, delivering proven armored vehicles and munitions that support NATO readiness and long‑term modernization programs. With governments prioritizing modernization and autonomous defense capabilities, 2026 is an ideal time to invest in this sector. These stocks offer both resilience in uncertain times and exposure to advanced technologies shaping the future of global security.

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As cyberattacks become more sophisticated and frequent, organizations are prioritizing advanced digital defense systems, creating long-term opportunities for cybersecurity leaders. The most promising cybersecurity stocks combine innovation, scale, and a track record of effectively neutralizing threats across industries. Palo Alto Networks provides an integrated platform that secures cloud workloads, endpoints, and networks with advanced threat prevention and unified zero‑trust controls. CyberArk secures privileged accounts and credentials, delivering identity security, secret management, and risk detection to protect critical enterprise systems. Fortinet delivers network and cloud security at scale, integrating firewalls, secure SD‑WAN, and AI‑driven threat protection across its global platform. These companies are not just defending digital infrastructure – they're shaping the future of how global enterprises secure their operations, protect sensitive data, and ensure business continuity in an increasingly interconnected world. For investors seeking exposure to high-growth technology segments that are becoming indispensable to modern society, these are among the best cybersecurity stocks to invest in 2026.

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The construction industry continues to evolve with rising infrastructure investments, sustainable building trends, and digitization reshaping how projects are executed. The best construction stocks combine operational excellence with specialized services and long-term growth potential. Atrem SA is a Polish construction and engineering company specializing in industrial construction, power plant installations, and infrastructure projects across Poland and international markets. Comfort Systems USA provides mechanical contracting services including HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems for commercial and industrial clients, operating through a nationwide network of subsidiaries. Sterling Infrastructure specializes in civil construction and infrastructure development services, delivering high-quality transportation, e-commerce, renewable energy, and water infrastructure projects across the United States. These companies span heavy construction, engineering, infrastructure, and specialty contracting, giving investors exposure to multiple high-demand sectors. If you're seeking durable, diversified plays in industrial growth, these are among the best construction stocks for 2026.

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Conglomerates bring diversified revenue streams across industries, pairing defensive cash flows with strategic growth initiatives. These companies blend disciplined capital allocation with operational scale to create resilient performance through cycles. RCM Technologies provides comprehensive engineering, IT, and professional services to industrial, energy, and healthcare clients worldwide. Google delivers global technology services including search engines, cloud computing, and digital advertising solutions. Loews Corporation operates diversified holdings spanning insurance, energy, and hospitality sectors with strategic market positioning. In 2026, diversified conglomerates offer balanced exposure to multiple sectors while mitigating single-industry risk. Explore our analysis to see how these companies can compound value through portfolio breadth, modernization, and disciplined execution.

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The communication services sector continues to play a foundational role in a rapidly evolving digital economy, encompassing everything from broadband infrastructure to global advertising networks. Companies in this space benefit from the growing demand for media consumption, reliable connectivity, and personalized content delivery, making them attractive picks for forward-thinking investors. NTG Clarity Networks specializes in advanced network visibility and analytics solutions, helping telecommunications service providers and enterprise customers optimize network performance and reduce operational costs through innovative software intelligence. InterDigital operates as a leading wireless technology research and development company, generating revenue through intellectual property licensing of its comprehensive patent portfolios covering 2G through 5G and emerging wireless technologies. Reddit operates a leading social media and online community platform connecting millions of users through topic-based communities where they create, share, and discuss content across thousands of specialized forums. These communication services companies not only demonstrate strong fundamentals and adaptable business models, but they also offer significant potential for capital appreciation over time. If you're looking to tap into the future of media and connectivity, consider these best communication services stocks for 2026.

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Cloud computing continues to reshape the digital economy, powering everything from enterprise software to artificial intelligence. Investors looking for growth, scalability, and recurring revenue should consider leading companies in the cloud space. Arista Networks specializes in high-performance cloud networking solutions, delivering scalable switches, routers, and software-defined networking for hyperscale cloud providers and enterprises. Google provides scalable cloud services across Compute, Storage, and AI platforms, enabling enterprises to modernize applications and harness advanced machine learning capabilities. Oracle provides comprehensive enterprise software and cloud infrastructure solutions, leveraging its pioneering database management systems and integrated cloud platforms for global businesses. These companies represent a broad spectrum of cloud providers – from infrastructure and platforms to SaaS leaders and niche specialists. For long-term exposure to digital transformation and cloud-driven innovation, these are among the best cloud stocks to invest in 2026.

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Brokerage firms continue to benefit from growing retail participation, digital trading adoption, and global capital market expansion. As financial technology advances and investing becomes more accessible, broker stocks remain attractive picks for long-term portfolios. Swissquote leads European online banking and trading with innovative digital platforms and comprehensive financial services across multiple markets. XTB dominates the European CFD and forex trading space with user-friendly platforms and strong regulatory compliance across key jurisdictions. Interactive Brokers stands out with its global reach, low-cost structure, and sophisticated platform favored by institutional and professional traders worldwide. These companies span traditional and digital-first platforms, offering access to equities, options, FX, and more. For investors seeking exposure to the evolving landscape of trading and financial services, these are among the best brokers stocks to invest in 2026.

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The beauty industry continues to thrive as consumers prioritize skincare, cosmetics, and personal care across all demographics. Large-cap and niche players alike are capitalizing on innovation, e-commerce growth, and shifting global trends. e.l.f. Beauty provides affordable, high-quality cosmetics and strong digital marketing strategy to consumers seeking accessible beauty solutions. Hermès International operates as a distinguished luxury goods manufacturer renowned for high-quality craftsmanship and exclusive products worldwide. Compagnie Financière Richemont serves as one of the world's leading luxury goods groups, headquartered in Geneva with a portfolio of prestigious jewelry and watch brands. These companies exemplify resilience, adaptability, and brand loyalty within the beauty sector. For investors looking to tap into consumer demand and long-term growth, these are the best beauty stocks to invest in 2026.

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The basic materials sector provides essential raw materials and processed goods that fuel global infrastructure, construction, and manufacturing operations. Companies with strong operational capabilities and strategic resource positions are best positioned to capitalize on rising commodity demand. Idaho Strategic Resources develops critical mineral projects including rare earth elements and strategic metals essential for technology and defense applications across North America. Carpenter Technology produces specialty alloys and engineered products for aerospace, defense, energy, and medical applications requiring high-performance materials and precision manufacturing. Genesis Minerals operates gold mining projects in Western Australia, leveraging advanced extraction technologies and strategic partnerships to maximize resource recovery and operational efficiency. These companies represent diverse segments within basic materials, from strategic minerals to specialty metals and precious metals extraction. For 2026, these stocks offer investors exposure to essential commodity markets, industrial growth drivers, and long-term value creation opportunities.

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The automotive industry continues to evolve through technological innovation, changing consumer preferences, and global supply chain transformations. Leading companies in this sector demonstrate resilience through diversified operations and strategic market positioning. O'Reilly Automotive supplies aftermarket parts and tools to professional service providers and do-it-yourself customers through an extensive store network. Penske Automotive Group operates automotive and commercial truck dealerships globally, providing vehicle sales, service, and financing solutions. AutoZone retails automotive replacement parts and accessories, serving both professional mechanics and individual vehicle owners across the Americas. These automotive leaders represent diverse segments from aftermarket retail to luxury manufacturing, demonstrating strong fundamentals and growth potential. For 2026, these companies offer investors exposure to automotive innovation, steady cash flows, and long-term value creation opportunities.

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