Investing in artificial intelligence (AI) stocks isn't just about setting yourself up for 2025, but also positioning yourself for the next decade. AI innovations won't stop in 2025, and with the stock market being a forward-looking machine, you're better off taking the long-term view rather than just narrowing in on what will happen in 2025.

But as we've witnessed from previous next-big-thing technologies, not all stocks are necessarily going to be winners. As we steam ahead into 2025 and the practical application of this game-changing technology comes into full focus, two unstoppable AI stocks stand out as no-brainer buys, while another highflier is worth avoiding.

Palo Alto Networks must execute well in a competitive market. Learn why PANW stock’s pricey valuation leads to a cautious outlook until a better price is found.

Even though Tesla stock soared last year because of the potential of its FSD technology, EV sales still account for 79% of the company's revenue. Therefore, if this part of its business isn't performing, it becomes hard to justify further upside in its stock price (more on that later).

One of the biggest themes that helped drive the market last year was artificial intelligence (AI). Known as one of the U.S. government's most important vendors, Palantir Technologies (NASDAQ: PLTR) and its data gathering and analytics solutions have been used for such critical tasks as fighting terrorism and tracking COVID-19 cases.