Oppenheimer Names Microsoft, ServiceNow, Braze as Top AI Software Picks

Oppenheimer analysts on Monday identified Microsoft (MSFT), ServiceNow (NOW), and Braze (BRZE) as the software sector's clearest AI beneficiaries, arguing that evidence of AI-driven revenue growth could ease disruption fears and lift the group. The firm said companies serving as a "system of record" for enterprise data, with pricing models combining seat-based and consumption-based charges, offer the strongest path to AI upside and stock outperformance. Microsoft was cited for its unmatched distribution across a massive installed base. ServiceNow was noted for best-in-class growth plus durable automation and security tailwinds. Braze, whose shares have fallen nearly a third this year, was described as offering one of the most attractive risk/reward profiles in Oppenheimer's coverage universe. ServiceNow shares are down about 15% year-to-date, while Microsoft has gained roughly 6%, trailing the S&P 500's approximately 13% advance over the same period.