Ask Matt: Can I profit from hackers?

Q: Can I profit from digital security?

A: Security of our computers, tablets and phones is top of mind. That presents an opportunity for investors.

The raging debate over whether Apple (AAPL)should cooperate with the government in the investigation of a mass murder is opening a discussion of the balance of privacy and justice. Businesses and consumers are looking for ways to legally secure their data and are looking to companies with expertise needed to offer encryption, but also the ability to provide access when needed.

Investors have choice when it comes to security-company stocks – and analysts are pretty bullish on most of them. There are nine companies in the broad Russell 3000 index that are in the security software industry, according to data from S&P GlobalMarket Intelligence. Nearly all the shares are down this year. But analysts think, on average, the nine software security stocks could be more than 40% higher in 18 months than they are now. Eight of the nine stocks, with the exception of Symantec(SYMC) are rated a “buy” or “outperform.” Analysts like AVG Technologies (AVG)best, and say the stock could be worth 63% more in 18 months. Analysts are also the most bullish on Vasco Data (VDSI), Imperva (IMPV) and FireEye (FEYE). For the full article click here 

from hacker samurai http://ift.tt/21jC9xr
via IFTTT