Three Promising Growth Stocks to Consider in 2023

In recent months, shares of SoundHound AI have exhibited significant volatility, but this trend appears to be stabilizing. Investors are now looking closely at growth opportunities that may provide better returns than following the crowded trade.

Understanding the Market Landscape

As the current market becomes increasingly top-heavy, investing in well-known companies may feel risky. A small selection of large corporations has driven stock prices up, leaving them vulnerable to a pullback. For investors eyeing growth, it may be wise to bypass the obvious choices and seek out lesser-known stocks that hold promise.

Spotlight on SoundHound AI

SoundHound AI (NASDAQ: SOUN) has had its ups and downs, especially amidst the rising interest in AI technologies. In 2024, the company’s AI-powered voice platform gained traction, with restaurants utilizing its Smart Ordering technology processing over 100 million voice-based sales. However, fluctuating investor sentiment has led to uncertainty, especially as the company grapples with increasing losses.

Learning from Past Tech Stocks

Despite the challenges, SoundHound’s experience mirrors that of several successful tech companies, like Tesla and Block, which experienced years of volatility before achieving profitability. Experts predict that as the global voice-based AI market grows at an annual rate of 18% through 2035, SoundHound is in a prime position to benefit from this long-term growth trend.

Viking Therapeutics: A Second-Mover Advantage

Viking Therapeutics (NASDAQ: VKTX) may not have been the first entrant in the weight-loss drug sector, but this could actually work in its favor. Observing the early mistakes of companies like Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk sets the stage for Viking to develop its lead candidate, VK2735, into a more effective treatment. This drug not only targets GLP-1 receptors but also focuses on GIP receptors, potentially offering better results and tolerability.

Potential Rewards for Viking Therapeutics

Currently in advanced clinical trials, VK2735 could reshape the weight-loss market. Analysts estimate that the future value may not be reflected in Viking’s stock price, as the current one-year price target sits nearly 200% higher than its present valuation. As the company continues to innovate in the obesity treatment space, investors should monitor its progress.

Vistra: A Growth Opportunity in Utilities

Vistra (NYSE: VST) stands out as a unique growth opportunity in the utility sector, traditionally seen as a value industry. Although over half of its energy comes from natural gas and coal, Vistra operates several nuclear reactors, which can efficiently meet rising electricity demands. The company is also strategically positioned in key markets like Texas and California, essential for supporting the expanding AI data center infrastructure.

Final Considerations Before Investing

Before diving into SoundHound AI, investors should consider alternative growth stocks. The Motley Fool’s Stock Advisor has recently identified ten top investment opportunities that could yield significant returns, highlighting the importance of being selective in this volatile market.

In conclusion, while navigating the investment landscape in 2023, consider diversifying your portfolio by exploring promising growth stocks like SoundHound AI, Viking Therapeutics, and Vistra. Each company presents unique opportunities that could deliver substantial long-term gains.