Two Tech Stocks With Stronger Growth Potential Than Cryptocurrency
GitLab and AppLovin show steady revenue gains and innovative AI tools, offering solid long-term growth compared to volatile cryptocurrencies.
Investing in stocks or cryptocurrencies depends on your financial goals and how much risk you’re willing to take. While cryptocurrencies can sometimes offer big rewards, they also come with high volatility and uncertainty. If you want steady growth over several years without as much risk, certain tech stocks may be a better choice.
Here are two technology companies with strong potential to grow in value and provide better returns than most cryptocurrencies.
GitLab: Software Development with AI and Security
GitLab offers a unique software platform that merges development, security, and operations into a single, streamlined solution. This approach, known as DevSecOps, helps businesses speed up their software delivery while embedding security at every step.
Serving thousands of companies across industries like finance, aerospace, and technology, GitLab relies mainly on subscription fees for its SaaS (software as a service) products. It also attracts users with a free open-source version, often converting them to paid plans for advanced features.
A key growth driver is GitLab Duo, the company’s AI-powered assistant. This tool provides real-time coding help, highlights security risks, and can even write parts of the code or documentation automatically. By integrating AI deeply into its platform, GitLab is improving developer productivity and boosting customer value.
Recent financials underscore this momentum. For the first quarter of fiscal 2026, GitLab reported revenue of $214.5 million, a 27% increase compared to last year. The company is making progress on profitability, with operating cash flow reaching $106 million and free cash flow nearly tripling. Its customer base is also expanding: those spending over $5,000 annually grew 13%, while top-tier customers (over $100,000 ARR) increased 26%.
Despite some competitive pressures, GitLab’s focus on AI integration and a comprehensive software suite positions it well for long-term growth. Investors seeking exposure to cloud-based software and AI innovation should consider GitLab’s potential.
AppLovin: Focus on Mobile and TV Advertising
AppLovin is best known for helping mobile app developers market and monetize their apps, especially in the gaming sector. Its platform connects developers with advertisers, delivering targeted campaigns powered by machine learning.
But AppLovin is evolving fast. The company is moving into connected TV (CTV) advertising and online shopping promotions, both rapidly growing markets fueled by increased device usage and changing consumer habits.
At the heart of AppLovin’s success is its AI-driven Axon engine, which continuously improves ad targeting and placement. This boosts campaign efficiency and generates better returns for advertisers, making the platform more attractive.
In Q1 2025, AppLovin reported $1.48 billion in revenue—a 40% year-over-year jump—with advertising revenue growing 71%. Profitability is also improving sharply: adjusted EBITDA rose 83%, while free cash flow more than doubled. AppLovin recently sold its mobile gaming business to focus exclusively on advertising, signaling confidence in this high-growth area.
The stock has already seen an impressive 460% increase over the past year. While future gains might not match this pace, AppLovin’s expanding technology and addressable market suggest strong growth opportunities remain.
Why These Stocks May Be Better Than Crypto for Long-Term Investors
Cryptocurrencies can offer high rewards but come with extreme volatility and regulatory uncertainties. In contrast, GitLab and AppLovin provide exposure to innovative technologies like AI while operating proven business models with recurring revenues.
Both companies show solid customer growth, improving financial health, and clear strategies to capitalize on market trends. For investors willing to hold for several years, these stocks offer a compelling mix of growth potential and relative stability compared to cryptocurrencies.
