CNBC: Buy Palo Alto if it sees a post-earnings sell-off, according to this chief investment officer

August 18, 2025

Sector movements continue to draw attention as market participants digest recent trends in cybersecurity, premium travel services, and the broader consumer discretionary space. Michael Landsberg, Chief Investment Officer at Landsberg Bennett Private Wealth Management, spoke with CNBC to share observations on each area, drawing on structural factors rather than short-term price action.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Cybersecurity Sector Adapting with AI: Recent weakness in cybersecurity-related equities doesn’t appear to change the long-term trajectory of the space. “Cybersecurity is one of those businesses that continues to keep moving forward,” said Michael Landsberg. “The smarter [artificial intelligence] gets, the smarter AI cybersecurity has to get.” He acknowledged that this segment has seen volatility, but emphasized its importance in the broader technological evolution. “We’ve held this for 10 years,” he said, “and I anticipate holding it another five to seven.”
  2. Travel Trends Reflect Shift Toward Smaller, High-End Experiences: Michael Landsberg pointed to a shift in consumer preferences toward quieter, more personalized travel formats. “They go to every continent in the world, and it’s a smaller boat,” he said. “It’s a smaller bespoke experience, so you’re not competing with thousands and thousands of people. I think people like that.” He noted the appeal of adult-only offerings and the consistency in growth metrics for this segment, which continues to cater to affluent travelers seeking alternatives to mass tourism.
  3. Challenges Persist in Beauty and Personal Care: In contrast, Landsberg was more cautious on the outlook for consumer-facing companies in the beauty segment. “There’s a lot of cosmetics companies in the world,” he said. “Earnings or revenue haven’t grown in probably four-plus years. Lots of competition.” He added that the upcoming earnings data may signal a bottom, but overall, “The stock’s been kind of one of those things that earnings-wise, it just doesn’t make the money that excites us to be able to step in.”

Michael Landsberg’s commentary in CNBC’s coverage highlights ongoing investor interest in long-term sector shifts. From cybersecurity adapting alongside AI, to the rising demand for premium travel, and persistent saturation in cosmetics, the analysis underscores how structural changes, not just short-term market movements, continue to shape investor thinking.

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