Cybersecurity, AI, and Digital Advertising: Steady Tech Growth Amid Oil Volatility

The global energy market's relentless volatility—driven by geopolitical tensions, supply disruptions, and shifting demand dynamics—has left investors scrambling to balance risk and return. In this environment, technology sectors anchored by cybersecurity, AI infrastructure, and digital advertising innovation stand out as defensive plays. Companies like Tenable Holdings (TENB), Corning (GLW), and MNTN (MNTN) are not only insulated from energy-driven instability but are also capitalizing on secular trends that promise long-term growth. Their robust R&D investments, earnings resilience, and strategic positioning make them compelling buys for investors seeking stability in turbulent times.

Tenable Holdings (TENB): Cybersecurity as a Bedrock Defense

The cybersecurity sector has become a critical lifeline for businesses and governments alike, as digital threats grow in sophistication. Tenable's Q1 2024 R&D spend of $43.7 million (GAAP basis) underscores its commitment to innovation, particularly in AI-driven exposure management. Its platform, Tenable One, integrates generative AI to preempt vulnerabilities, a capability increasingly vital as enterprises expand their digital footprints.

While oil prices swing, Tenable's recurring revenue model—90% of its revenue comes from subscriptions—ensures steady cash flows. Analysts project 15% annual revenue growth through 2028, fueled by rising demand for AI-augmented security tools.

Despite oil's volatility, Tenable's stock has held ground, demonstrating its decoupling from energy markets. Investors should view dips as buying opportunities, particularly as the company expands into critical infrastructure sectors, where demand is inelastic.

Corning (GLW): AI Infrastructure as the New Oil Pipeline

Corning's rise as a leader in optical communications and advanced materials positions it at the heart of the AI revolution. Its Q4 2024 sales for Gen AI fiber systems surged 93% year-over-year, enabling hyperscalers to build faster, more energy-efficient data centers. The company's Springboard plan aims to add $3 billion in annual sales by 2026, with R&D investments driving innovations like ultra-high-density fiber (capable of quadrupling existing conduit capacity).

Crucially, Corning's business is geographically diversified and shielded from direct oil price exposure. Only 5% of its China sales are U.S.-imported, minimizing tariff risks. Its Q1 2025 enterprise sales jumped 106% year-over-year, a testament to AI's insatiable demand for connectivity.

While oil prices fluctuate, Corning's R&D intensity has remained steady, ensuring it stays ahead in next-gen infrastructure. Analysts estimate a 28% net income margin expansion by 2026, making it a rare “growth-at-a-profit” story in a volatile landscape.

MNTN (MNTN): Digital Advertising's Untapped Gold Rush

MNTN's IPO in May 2025 marked its entry into the public markets as a disruptor in connected TV (CTV) advertising. The company's Q1 2025 revenue grew 48% year-over-year to $65 million, despite a net loss widening to $21.1 million. The key to its long-term success lies in its AI-driven platform, which delivers measurable outcomes (“Verified Visits”) for small and mid-sized businesses—a segment accounting for 92% of its performance TV revenue.

While oil markets roil, MNTN is capitalizing on the $33.4 billion CTV advertising market, which is growing faster than traditional TV. Its IPO raised $187 million, funding R&D to scale its AI capabilities and expand into untapped markets.

Though its stock faces near-term volatility, MNTN's flywheel model—where more advertisers feed data into its AI system, improving targeting precision—creates a self-reinforcing cycle. Analysts project a $19 billion revenue run rate by 2028, making it a buy for investors with a 3–5 year horizon.

Why These Stocks Defy Oil Volatility

1. Cybersecurity (TENB): Enterprises must invest in security regardless of energy costs. Tenable's subscription model ensures steady cash flows.
2. AI Infrastructure (GLW): Data centers are the new oil refineries—demand for connectivity will outpace energy market swings.
3. Digital Advertising (MNTN): CTV ad spend is rising as consumers shift to streaming, a trend unlinked to oil prices.

Investment Thesis: Buy the Dip, Think Long-Term

These companies are decoupled from oil-driven macro risks and aligned with secular trends. While short-term volatility may test nerves, their R&D investments and earnings trajectories justify a strategic overweight in tech portfolios:

• Tenable (TENB): Target $35–$40, with a $50+ upside if it wins critical infrastructure contracts.
• Corning (GLW): Hold for the $45–$50 range, with upside to $60 as Springboard initiatives bear fruit.
• MNTN (MNTN): Accumulate at $18–$22, aiming for $30+ as CTV ad spend matures.

In a world where energy markets dominate headlines, these tech leaders offer a path to steady growth—and a shield against instability.

Disclosure: This analysis is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always consult with a licensed professional before making investment decisions.