Lesser-Known Stocks Gain Attention from Analysts Amid AI Industry Turbulence

Mega-cap tech stocks have been dominating headlines lately, but analysts are looking elsewhere for compelling opportunities. Three lesser-known companies that are gaining attention from Wall Street include JBS S.A., Primis Financial Corp., and Arcos Dorados Holdings Inc.

JBS is a Brazilian meat production and processing giant that has been attracting strong interest from institutional investors. The company generated record Q1 2026 net sales of nearly $22 billion and net income of about $222 million, despite facing free cash flow concerns. Analysts expect JBS to continue growing its earnings, with six Buy ratings compared to just two Holds.

Primis Financial Corp., the holding company behind Georgia's Primis Bank, is another standout regional bank that has been overlooked by investors. The firm has simplified its balance sheet and improved underwriting standards, resulting in sustained improvement in revenue and margin. Analysts expect significant earnings growth of 24% or more in the coming year, with three out of four ratings for FRST being Buys.

Arcos Dorados Holdings Inc., a major McDonald's franchisee operating in Latin America and the Caribbean, has also caught analysts' attention. The company's recent financial performance has been strong, with Q1 2026 revenue and profitability reaching all-time quarterly records. Analysts expect almost 26% in potential upside for ARCO shares, which trade at 7.5x earnings.