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Using the AI Scanner to Identify News-Driven Investment Opportunities

Using the AI Scanner to Identify News-Driven Investment Opportunities

Posted March 3, 2026 at 11:00 am

Jeff Praissman
Interactive Brokers

In an era where geopolitical events, technological breakthroughs, and macroeconomic shifts can reshape markets overnight, investors are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence-powered tools like the Interactive Brokers Desktop AI Screener to uncover stocks poised for movement based on breaking news. These AI scanners can pinpoint companies that are likely to experience heightened trading activity, allowing investors to act swiftly and with greater precision. Whether it’s a sudden conflict in the Middle East, a major AI product launch, or a surprise regulatory change, the Desktop AI Screener allows the investors to search for companies using natural language. 

In this current environment, defense stocks emerge as a critical component of any well-diversified portfolio. As nations bolster their military capabilities and invest heavily in new technologies to deter aggression, companies involved in aerospace, defense contracting, and dual-use technologies stand to benefit significantly. The Desktop AI Screener allows investors to identify these opportunities by analyzing a wide range of metrics such as revenue growth, EPS changes, and profit margins. 

In the AI Screener, the investor can type in “Defense stocks showing P/E less than 60, operating margin greater than 10, and net profit margin greater than 15”, and a list of stocks meeting those criteria will populate the screener. The investor can refine the search by clicking on modify prompt and adding new criteria to search for. For more on the Desktop AI screener please see the IBKR Toolbox article, “Using the Configure Screener with AI in Desktop”. 

Source: IBKR Desktop 

 Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just beginning to build your portfolio, the AI Screener offers a powerful advantage in an era where geopolitical events can dramatically impact market dynamics overnight. With the right screening criteria, and using natural language, investors can identify stocks that are not only safe havens during times of uncertainty but also potential engines of growth in a world increasingly defined by strategic competition and technological advancement. 

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Disclosure: Interactive Brokers

The analysis in this material is provided for information only and is not and should not be construed as an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any security. To the extent that this material discusses general market activity, industry or sector trends or other broad-based economic or political conditions, it should not be construed as research or investment advice. To the extent that it includes references to specific securities, commodities, currencies, or other instruments, those references do not constitute a recommendation by IBKR to buy, sell or hold such investments. This material does not and is not intended to take into account the particular financial conditions, investment objectives or requirements of individual customers. Before acting on this material, you should consider whether it is suitable for your particular circumstances and, as necessary, seek professional advice.

The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Interactive Brokers, its affiliates, or its employees.

Disclosure: IBKR Tools

The projections or other information regarding the likelihood of various investment outcomes generated by the Tool mentioned are hypothetical in nature, do not reflect actual investment results, and are not guarantees of future results. It is important to understand that these projections are based on certain assumptions and models, and actual outcomes may differ significantly. Please note that results may vary over time.

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