Lumen Technologies vs. Nokia: Which Stock Will Make You Richer?
The Motley Fool
by newsfeedback@fool.com (Robert Izquierdo)February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Lumen Technologies (NYSE: LUMN) and Nokia (NYSE: NOK), two telecommunications giants, are both betting on artificial intelligence (AI) to drive their future growth. Over the past year, both companies have seen significant stock appreciation—Lumen's shares rose approximately 80%, while Nokia's climbed nearly 60%. However, despite Lumen's pivot from consumer internet services to a fiber-optic network tailored for AI's high-bandwidth demands, Wall Street appears more bullish on Nokia. This article explores why Nokia emerges as the superior choice for investors looking to capitalize on the AI market.
Both companies are aligning their strategies with the growing demand for AI-driven solutions in the telecom sector. Lumen has repositioned itself by focusing on a fiber-optic infrastructure designed to meet the intensive bandwidth requirements of AI applications. This shift has resonated with investors, as evidenced by its strong stock performance. Meanwhile, Nokia is leveraging its expertise in 5G and IoT (Internet of Things) to integrate AI capabilities into its core offerings, enhancing network efficiency and enabling smarter connectivity solutions.
Wall Street's approval reflects confidence in these companies' ability to adapt to the evolving tech landscape. While Lumen's aggressive pivot has garnered attention, Nokia's diversified approach—which combines its traditional strengths in telecom with a focus on AI—appeals to investors seeking stability and long-term growth potential. Nokia's extensive global presence and established brand also provide a level of security that some may find appealing compared to the more narrowly
Verticals
financeinvesting
Originally published on The Motley Fool on 2/25/2026