These 2 ASX 200 heavyweights could be the ultimate beneficiaries of the AI arms race

These companies are worth considering for AI exposure. 

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Key points

  • WiseTech and NextDC are two ASX 200 stocks poised to benefit significantly from the growing investment in artificial intelligence.
  • WiseTech is enhancing its logistics software with AI and machine learning for improved efficiency and is seen as undervalued, with a notable upside potential.
  • NextDC is expanding its data centre infrastructure to support AI workloads, offering significant growth prospects despite its current high valuation.

As investors continue to add exposure to the ever growing artificial intelligence sector, there are two ASX 200 stocks I believe are worth watching. 

The AI boom is just beginning

Data shows that investment in AI continues to grow from both corporations and governments. 

According to the AI Index Report 2025, private investment in GenAI reached an estimated $51.8 billion in 2024, marking a 22% increase from the previous year. 

According to the Australian Government, AI and automation are expected to generate up to $600 billion a year towards Australia's GDP by 2030.

As this continues, here are two companies set to benefit. 

WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC)

WiseTech provides logistics and supply chain software globally, including predictive routing, customs automation, and freight optimisation – all of which are being powered by AI.

It's already embedding AI and machine learning into its core product (CargoWise), especially in areas like:

  • Route and time optimisation
  • Demand forecasting
  • Automated document handling

WiseTech shares are also trading at a relative value right now due to short-term headwinds. 

Its stock price is down 27% over the last year due to founder controversies and product launch delays. 

Despite this, it has still posted solid earnings results for FY25, suggesting the fundamentals are strong. 

Bell Potter seems to agree the ASX 200 stock is set for a rebound, with a current buy recommendation and $127.50 price target. 

This indicates 34.69% upside. 

Nextdc Ltd (ASX: NXT)

NextDC provides the physical foundation for cloud and AI workloads in Australia.

AI requires enormous computing power, GPUs, and vast storage – all of which demand data centre infrastructure. 

AI inference and training models need high-density, low-latency, high-power data centres, and NextDC is scaling up to meet that demand.

The newer generation data centres (like S3 and M3) are being designed specifically to handle AI workloads and edge computing.

NextDC customers include major cloud and enterprise firms – likely to ride the AI wave indirectly through them.

Unlike WiseTech shares, it seems some of this upside is already baked into its share price which is trading close to 52-week highs.

However, I believe with a long-term view, there is plenty of upside for this ASX 200 stock. 

Motley Fool contributor Aaron Bell has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

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