Mahn: Nvidia has the potential to change the outlook for AI investing overall

Kevin, the President and CIO, discussed the potential for Nvidia to significantly influence AI investing, anticipating strong earnings and guidance that could positively impact the tech sector. He also highlighted investment opportunities in companies like Vertiv and utilities, emphasizing their roles in supporting the growing demand for data centers and efficient energy management in the AI landscape.

In a recent discussion, Kevin, the President and CIO, shared insights on the current economic landscape following remarks from Federal Reserve Chair Jay Powell at Jackson Hole. Powell indicated that the time has come for policy adjustments, leading to a positive market reaction. Kevin believes that the Fed is likely to implement three rate cuts of 25 basis points each in 2024, as they navigate the delicate balance between addressing inflation and the potential threat of a recession. He emphasized that the Fed’s approach will be gradual to avoid shocking the market, recalling past experiences where aggressive cuts led to runaway inflation.

Kevin expressed optimism about the upcoming earnings report from Nvidia, describing the company as a “juggernaut” in the tech sector. He anticipates strong earnings, revenues, and forward-looking guidance from Nvidia, which he believes could significantly influence investor sentiment and the overall outlook for AI investing. Nvidia’s investments in data centers, referred to as “AI factories,” are expected to play a crucial role in their growth, similar to how Amazon has established itself as a leader in e-commerce.

The conversation also touched on Nvidia’s position within the AI ecosystem, highlighting its central role in driving advancements in technology. Kevin noted that Nvidia’s success could have a ripple effect across the tech industry, positively impacting other companies involved in AI and related sectors. He underscored the importance of Nvidia’s upcoming announcements regarding their rollout schedule and future plans.

In addition to Nvidia, Kevin discussed his investment pick, Vertiv, which provides critical infrastructure for data centers, particularly in terms of power and cooling solutions. He explained that as demand for data centers grows, so does the need for efficient energy management, making Vertiv a valuable player in the AI revolution. While he acknowledged the decline in Vertiv’s stock, he believes its services are essential for the operation of AI factories.

Lastly, Kevin mentioned utilities as another investment avenue, particularly companies like Southern Company, which provide electricity and natural gas to various sectors, including data centers. He sees utilities as a “backdoor play” into the AI revolution, offering attractive yields while supporting the energy needs of the growing tech landscape. Overall, Kevin’s insights reflect a cautious yet optimistic outlook on the intersection of AI, energy infrastructure, and investment opportunities.