2 Must-Buy AI Stocks in June 2025 for Budget Investors
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is not the future— it's the now. As companies rush to integrate machine learning, automation, and data intelligence into their operations, savvy investors are seeking affordable entry points into this rapidly growing sector.
While many AI-related stocks come with hefty price tags, there are still smart plays for investors with limited funds. If you're working with a modest budget (say $450 or less), these two AI stocks stand out as no-brainer buys in June 2025. They offer not only long-term growth potential but also financial accessibility, making them ideal for new or cost-conscious investors.
Why AI Stocks Deserve a Spot in Your Portfolio
The global AI market is projected to surpass $1.8 trillion by 2030, according to data from Grand View Research. The boom is driven by the widespread adoption across various industries, including healthcare, finance, cybersecurity, and retail. Tech giants like Nvidia, Microsoft, and Alphabet have seen their valuations soar. Still, they're far from the only players in the game.
If you're late to the AI party or just want exposure without breaking the bank, it's time to look beyond the usual suspects. That's where Snowflake (NYSE: SNOW) and Okta (NASDAQ: OKTA) come in.
1. Snowflake (SNOW): The Data Cloud Powerhouse
Share Price (as of June 2025): ~$135
Market Cap: ~$43 billion
Why It's a Buy: Robust data architecture + AI integration
Snowflake is not your typical AI company. It's a cloud-based data platform that enables companies to store, analyze, and share large volumes of data. In 2024, Snowflake doubled down on AI by acquiring several AI startups and rolling out its Snowpark Container Services. This platform lets developers run machine learning and AI workloads directly within Snowflake's environment.
What makes Snowflake a standout is its deep integration into enterprise infrastructure. Businesses use Snowflake to streamline AI workflows, clean data pipelines, and enable real-time analytics.
Even amid a volatile tech sector, Snowflake posted 34% year-over-year revenue growth in Q1 2025, proving it's not just surviving— it's scaling. With shares trading well below their 2021 highs, Snowflake offers significant upside potential at a relatively affordable price.
Investor Tip: Analysts from JP Morgan and Bank of America maintain an "Overweight" rating on SNOW, citing strong customer retention and AI momentum.
2. Okta (OKTA): Securing the AI-Powered Future
Share Price (as of June 2025): ~$92
Market Cap: ~$14 billion
Why It's a Buy: Cybersecurity + AI = critical infrastructure
Okta specializes in identity and access management (IAM), a critical component of enterprise cybersecurity. As AI systems become more autonomous and widespread, securing those systems from breaches, misuse, and unauthorized access becomes a top priority. And Okta is perfectly positioned to meet that demand.
In 2025, Okta launched Identity Threat Protection, an AI-driven feature set that proactively detects and responds to credential-based threats. This pivot has helped restore confidence after a challenging 2022–2023 period marked by data breach concerns and high turnover in leadership.
Despite past hurdles, Okta has bounced back with stronger-than-expected earnings and a solid roadmap. The company's customer base includes tech giants, government entities, and healthcare networks. All sectors demonstrate growing AI dependency.
Investor Tip: With forward P/E ratios trending below industry averages and a renewed focus on profitability, Okta offers a compelling value proposition under $100.
Why These Picks Make Sense for Budget Investors
Both Snowflake and Okta are:
Under $150 per share, making them accessible to new and low-cap investors.
AI-adjacent infrastructure plays, which means they profit from AI adoption without direct competition with megacaps like Nvidia or Microsoft.
Long-term compounders with solid fundamentals and recurring revenue models.
Even with $450, investors can build a starter position in both companies, diversifying their exposure across data infrastructure and cybersecurity.
June Is a Smart Entry Point
The broader market is experiencing a rotation back into tech and innovation stocks, with AI continuing to lead the charge. For investors looking to capitalize without risking their life savings, Snowflake and Okta present two strategic, future-facing buys.
Remember: investing is about time in the market, not timing the market. In a world increasingly run on data and secured by digital identity frameworks, these two AI-aligned businesses are poised to grow as the AI revolution unfolds.
Disclaimer: This article is intended to provide well-researched market insights, not personalized financial advice. Investors should carefully evaluate their own financial situation and consider consulting a licensed financial advisor before making any investment decisions.