Sevens Report: Tech Can Rally, but AI Dominance Is Uncertain
Tom Essaye says software ETF IGV must stabilize before AI fears ease.
In a Broader Rally, Tech Can Still Win—But Maybe Not Dominate
Technology stocks may continue to participate in a broader market rally, but their dominance is no longer assured, according to Sevens Report President Tom Essaye.
Essaye says growing concerns that artificial intelligence could cannibalize parts of the software industry have created the most uncertain backdrop for the AI-driven bull market in three years. He points to the iShares Expanded Tech-Software Sector ETF (IGV) as a key barometer, arguing that the fund must stabilize before broader confidence in AI stocks can return.
In his view, IGV holding above last week’s low is critical. Without that technical support, skepticism surrounding AI spending, earnings sustainability, and lofty valuations could intensify. Essaye cautions investors against dismissing the recent weakness as routine volatility, noting that legitimate questions are emerging about whether expectations have outpaced reality.
That said, Sevens Report does not believe the outlook for AI and tech has turned outright negative. Major technology companies are still delivering earnings growth, but elevated expectations and aggressive capital-expenditure plans leave less room for error.
For investors seeking diversification, Essaye suggests looking beyond mega-cap tech to equal-weight, value, developed international, and low-volatility strategies. While tech can still win in a broader rally, its leadership may no longer be automatic.
Also, click here to view the full article published in Barron’s on February 12th, 2026. However, to see the Sevens Report’s full comments on the current market environment sign up here.
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