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1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 88 (from laksa023)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa088.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.fool.com/investing/2026/03/14/the-best-stocks-to-buy-with-500-right-now/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.fool.com/investing/2026/03/14/the-best-stocks-to-buy-with-500-right-now/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.fool.com\/investing\/2026\/03\/14\/the-best-stocks-to-buy-with-500-right-now\/","crawl_time":1775112681,"first_indexed_time":1773494552,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,fool!www,\/investing\/2026\/03\/14\/the-best-stocks-to-buy-with-500-right-now\/ s443","src_root_hash":"16263700115757751488","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"The Best Stocks to Buy With $500 Right Now | The Motley Fool","meta_descriptions":["These fast-growing companies can give your portfolio a nice boost in the long run."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Buying top companies that are capitalizing on fast-growing trends and holding them could create wealth for investors in the long run.\nThat's why if you have $500 to spare right now -- after paying bills, saving for tough times, and clearing high-interest loans -- and are looking to put that money to work in the stock market, it would be a good idea to invest in shares of\nCiena\n(\nCIEN\n+7.03%\n)\nand\nDell Technologies\n(\nDELL\n+3.14%\n)\n, either individually or combined.\nLet's see why these two fast-growing companies could be the best way to invest $500 in the\nstock market\n.\nImage source: Getty Images.\nCiena's stunning earnings growth will be a tailwind for the stock\nCiena stock has shot up a remarkable 435% in the past year. The company's phenomenal surge is driven by the robust demand for its optical networking components, which are used in\nartificial intelligence (AI)\ndata centers to enable fast connectivity over long distances. As a result, Ciena is receiving more orders than it is fulfilling.\nCIEN\nToday's Change\n(7.03%) $27.28\nCurrent Price\n$415.51\nThe company reported a 33% year-over-year revenue increase in the first quarter of fiscal 2026 (which ended on Jan. 31, 2026). Its adjusted earnings shot up by 111% to $1.35 per share, driven by a favorable product mix and cost-cutting efforts. The good news for investors is that Ciena is confident it can sustain its terrific growth in fiscal 2026.\nIt has raised its full-year gross margin guidance by one percentage point. It now expects a stronger jump of 28% in revenue this year to $6.1 billion at the midpoint of its guidance range, up from the earlier expectation of $5.9 billion. Ciena could easily coast past its updated guidance, as its order backlog stood at $7 billion at the end of the previous quarter. The backlog increased by $2 billion in fiscal Q1.\nCiena, therefore, has the potential to achieve the 132% increase in earnings that analysts are expecting from the company this year. Don't be surprised to see this strong growth leading to more upside in this tech stock, making it an ideal investment for growth-oriented investors.\nDell Technologies is stepping on the gas\nAI has proven to be a strong catalyst for Dell Technologies, a company traditionally associated with computers, peripherals, and server systems. The booming demand for Dell's AI-optimized servers led to a 39% increase in the company's revenue in fiscal 2026's Q4 to a record $33.4 billion. That was well above Dell's 19% annual revenue growth, which set a record at $113.5 billion.\nDELL\nToday's Change\n(3.14%) $5.15\nCurrent Price\n$169.28\nThe company received $46.1 billion in orders for its AI servers last year. It shipped $25.2 billion worth of AI servers in fiscal 2026, a number that it expects to double this year. Dell can easily hit the $50 billion in revenue it expects from AI products in fiscal 2027, given that it ended last year with a $43 billion order backlog.\nAs a result, don't be surprised to see Dell exceed its fiscal 2027 revenue guidance of $140 billion and earnings growth expectation of 25%. Dell was the largest player in the AI server market in 2024, with a 20% share. Its AI revenue growth rate suggests it is easily outpacing the 34% annual growth that the overall AI server market is poised to clock through 2030.\nAs this AI stock trades at an attractive 17 times earnings, buying it looks like a no-brainer given its immense growth potential.","attrs_markdown":"[Accessibility Menu](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/investing\/2026\/03\/14\/the-best-stocks-to-buy-with-500-right-now\/)\n\nSearch for a company\n\n[Accessibility](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/investing\/2026\/03\/14\/the-best-stocks-to-buy-with-500-right-now\/)\n\nLog In\n\n[Help](https:\/\/support.fool.com\/)\n\n[![The Motley Fool](https:\/\/g.foolcdn.com\/misc-assets\/logo-tmf-primary-1-magenta-purple-reversed.svg?_w=320)![The Motley Fool](https:\/\/g.foolcdn.com\/image\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fg.foolcdn.com%2Fmisc-assets%2Ftmf_holdingco_logo_stacked_magenta_royalpurple_rev.png&w=96&op=resize)](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/)\n\n- Our Services\n  [All Services](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/services\/)[Stock 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Losers](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/markets\/top-stock-losers\/)\n\nFree Article[Explore Premium Services](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/services\/)\n\n# The Best Stocks to Buy With \\$500 Right Now\nThese fast-growing companies can give your portfolio a nice boost in the long run.\n\nBy [Harsh Chauhan](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/author\/2139\/) – Mar 14, 2026 at 8:45AM EST\n\n[Follow us](https:\/\/profile.google.com\/cp\/CgkvbS8wNTc4bWs)\n\nShare\n\nSummarize with AI\n\n## Key Points\n- One of these companies is enabling fast data transmission in AI data centers with its optical components, leading to a remarkable earnings surge.\n- The other company has stepped on the gas, driven primarily by booming demand for AI servers.\n\nBuying top companies that are capitalizing on fast-growing trends and holding them could create wealth for investors in the long run.\n\nThat's why if you have \\$500 to spare right now -- after paying bills, saving for tough times, and clearing high-interest loans -- and are looking to put that money to work in the stock market, it would be a good idea to invest in shares of **Ciena** ([CIEN](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/quote\/nyse\/cien\/) \\+7.03%) and **Dell Technologies** ([DELL](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/quote\/nyse\/dell\/) \\+3.14%), either individually or combined.\n\nLet's see why these two fast-growing companies could be the best way to invest \\$500 in the [stock market](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/investing\/stock-market\/market-sectors\/information-technology\/semiconductor-stocks\/).\n\n![Person pressing a blue button labeled \"Buy\" on a keyboard.](https:\/\/g.foolcdn.com\/image\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fg.foolcdn.com%2Feditorial%2Fimages%2F858393%2Fperson-pressing-buy-button-keyboard.jpg&w=3840&op=resize)\n\nImage source: Getty Images.\n## Ciena's stunning earnings growth will be a tailwind for the stock\nCiena stock has shot up a remarkable 435% in the past year. The company's phenomenal surge is driven by the robust demand for its optical networking components, which are used in [artificial intelligence (AI)](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/investing\/stock-market\/market-sectors\/information-technology\/ai-stocks\/quantum-computing-stocks\/) data centers to enable fast connectivity over long distances. As a result, Ciena is receiving more orders than it is fulfilling.\n\nCollapse\n\nCIEN\n\n## [NYSE: CIEN](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/quote\/nyse\/cien\/)\nCiena\n\nToday's Change\n\n(7.03%) \\$27.28\n\nCurrent Price\n\n\\$415.51\n\nUnable to reach the data service. Please check your connection.\n\nYTD\n\n1w\n\n1m\n\n3m\n\n6m\n\n1y\n\n5y\n\nPrice\n\nVS S\\&P\n\n### Key Data Points\nMarket Cap\n\n\\$59B\n\nDay's Range\n\n\\$399.97 - \\$422.12\n\n52wk Range\n\n\\$49.21 - \\$446.89\n\nVolume\n\n94K\n\nAvg Vol\n\n3\\.5M\n\nGross Margin\n\n39\\.48%\n\nThe company reported a 33% year-over-year revenue increase in the first quarter of fiscal 2026 (which ended on Jan. 31, 2026). Its adjusted earnings shot up by 111% to \\$1.35 per share, driven by a favorable product mix and cost-cutting efforts. The good news for investors is that Ciena is confident it can sustain its terrific growth in fiscal 2026.\n\nIt has raised its full-year gross margin guidance by one percentage point. It now expects a stronger jump of 28% in revenue this year to \\$6.1 billion at the midpoint of its guidance range, up from the earlier expectation of \\$5.9 billion. Ciena could easily coast past its updated guidance, as its order backlog stood at \\$7 billion at the end of the previous quarter. The backlog increased by \\$2 billion in fiscal Q1.\n\nCiena, therefore, has the potential to achieve the 132% increase in earnings that analysts are expecting from the company this year. Don't be surprised to see this strong growth leading to more upside in this tech stock, making it an ideal investment for growth-oriented investors.\n\n## Dell Technologies is stepping on the gas\nAI has proven to be a strong catalyst for Dell Technologies, a company traditionally associated with computers, peripherals, and server systems. The booming demand for Dell's AI-optimized servers led to a 39% increase in the company's revenue in fiscal 2026's Q4 to a record \\$33.4 billion. That was well above Dell's 19% annual revenue growth, which set a record at \\$113.5 billion.\n\nCollapse\n\nDELL\n\n## [NYSE: DELL](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/quote\/nyse\/dell\/)\nDell Technologies\n\nToday's Change\n\n(3.14%) \\$5.15\n\nCurrent Price\n\n\\$169.28\n\nUnable to reach the data service. Please check your connection.\n\nYTD\n\n1w\n\n1m\n\n3m\n\n6m\n\n1y\n\n5y\n\nPrice\n\nVS S\\&P\n\n### Key Data Points\nMarket Cap\n\n\\$109B\n\nDay's Range\n\n\\$164.87 - \\$171.24\n\n52wk Range\n\n\\$66.25 - \\$186.39\n\nVolume\n\n305K\n\nAvg Vol\n\n8\\.9M\n\nGross Margin\n\n19\\.97%\n\nDividend Yield\n\n1\\.24%\n\nThe company received \\$46.1 billion in orders for its AI servers last year. It shipped \\$25.2 billion worth of AI servers in fiscal 2026, a number that it expects to double this year. Dell can easily hit the \\$50 billion in revenue it expects from AI products in fiscal 2027, given that it ended last year with a \\$43 billion order backlog.\n\nAs a result, don't be surprised to see Dell exceed its fiscal 2027 revenue guidance of \\$140 billion and earnings growth expectation of 25%. Dell was the largest player in the AI server market in 2024, with a 20% share. Its AI revenue growth rate suggests it is easily outpacing the 34% annual growth that the overall AI server market is poised to clock through 2030.\n\nAs this AI stock trades at an attractive 17 times earnings, buying it looks like a no-brainer given its immense growth potential.\n\n## Read Next\nMar 23, 2026\n\n•By [Eric Volkman](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/author\/4067\/)\n\n[Why Ciena Stock Rocked the Market on Monday](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/investing\/2026\/03\/23\/why-ciena-stock-rocked-the-market-on-monday\/)\n\nMar 15, 2026\n\n•By [Scott Levine](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/author\/2420\/)\n\n[Best 5G Stocks for 2026 and How to Invest](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/investing\/stock-market\/market-sectors\/communication\/5g-stocks\/)\n\nMar 11, 2026\n\n•By [Harsh Chauhan](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/author\/2139\/)\n\n[The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Stock That's Quietly Outperforming Nvidia in 2026](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/investing\/2026\/03\/11\/artificial-intelligence-ai-stock-outperform-nvidia\/)\n\nMar 5, 2026\n\n•By [Billy Duberstein](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/author\/16731\/)\n\n[Why Ciena Sank Today](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/investing\/2026\/03\/05\/why-ciena-sank-today\/)\n\nMar 5, 2026\n\n•By [Motley Fool Transcribing](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/author\/20032\/)\n\n[Ciena (CIEN) Q1 2026 Earnings Call Transcript](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/earnings\/call-transcripts\/2026\/03\/05\/ciena-cien-q1-2026-earnings-call-transcript\/)\n\nApr 2, 2026\n\n•By [Justin Pope](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/author\/6581\/)\n\n[Nvidia vs. Broadcom: Which AI Supercycle Growth Stock Will Make You Richer?](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/investing\/2026\/04\/02\/nvidia-vs-broadcom-which-ai-supercycle-growth-stoc\/)\n\n### About the Author\n![Harsh Chauhan](https:\/\/g.foolcdn.com\/avatar\/1599405657\/large.ashx?_w=3840)\n\nHarsh Chauhan is a contributing Motley Fool technology analyst covering semiconductors, consumer electronics, artificial intelligence, and software. Harsh previously worked as a journalist for CCN Markets covering crypto and macroeconomics, a contributor at Capital 10x covering metals, mining, and industrial stocks, and a research associate at Zacks Investment Research. He holds a bachelor’s degree in commerce from St. Xavier’s College in Kolkata, India.\n\n[TMFTechJunk13](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/author\/2139\/)\n\n[@techjunk13](https:\/\/x.com\/techjunk13)\n\n*[Harsh Chauhan](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/author\/2139\/) has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Ciena. The Motley Fool has a [disclosure policy](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/legal\/fool-disclosure-policy\/).*\n\n### Stocks Mentioned\n[CI Ciena NYSE: CIEN\\$415.51 (+7.03%)+\\$27.28](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/quote\/nyse\/cien\/)\n\n[DE Dell Technologies NYSE: DELL\\$169.28 (+3.14%)+\\$5.15](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/quote\/nyse\/dell\/)\n\n\\*Average returns of all recommendations since inception. Cost basis and return based on previous market day close.\n\n## Premium Investing Services\nInvest better with The Motley Fool. Get stock recommendations, portfolio guidance, and more from The Motley Fool's premium services.\n\n[View Premium Services](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/services\/?ftm_cam=footer-services-sitewide-prospects)\n\n[![The Motley Fool](https:\/\/g.foolcdn.com\/misc-assets\/logo-tmf-primary-1-magenta-purple.svg?_w=320)](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/)\n\nMaking the world smarter, happier, and richer.\n\n- [Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/themotleyfool)\n- [Twitter](https:\/\/x.com\/TheMotleyFool)\n- [LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/the-motley-fool\/)\n- [Pinterest](https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/themotleyfool\/)\n- [YouTube](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/user\/TheMotleyFool)\n- [Instagram](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/themotleyfoolofficial\/)\n- [TikTok](https:\/\/www.tiktok.com\/@themotleyfoolofficial)\n\n© 1995 - 2026 The Motley Fool. All rights reserved.\n\nMarket data powered by [Xignite](https:\/\/xignite.com\/) and [Polygon.io](https:\/\/polygon.io\/).\n\nAbout The Motley Fool\n\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/about\/)\n- [Careers](https:\/\/careers.fool.com\/)\n- [Research](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/research\/)\n- [Newsroom](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/contact\/newsroom\/)\n- [Contact](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/legal\/contact-us\/)\n- [Advertise](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/cdn-cgi\/l\/email-protection#b9d8ddd0d7c8ccd0cbd0dccaf9dfd6d6d597dad6d4)\n\nOur Services\n\n- [All Services](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/services\/)\n- [Stock Advisor](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/services\/stock-advisor\/)\n- [Epic](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/services\/epic\/)\n- [Epic Plus](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/services\/epic-plus\/)\n- [Fool Portfolios](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/services\/fool-portfolios\/)\n- [Fool One](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/services\/one\/)\n- [Motley Fool Money](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/money\/)\n\nAround the Globe\n\n- [Fool UK](https:\/\/www.fool.co.uk\/)\n- [Fool Australia](https:\/\/www.fool.com.au\/)\n- [Fool Canada](https:\/\/www.fool.ca\/)\n\nFree Tools\n\n- [CAPS Stock Ratings](https:\/\/caps.fool.com\/)\n- [Discussion Boards](https:\/\/discussion.fool.com\/)\n- [Calculators](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/calculators\/index\/)\n- [Financial Dictionary](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/terms\/)\n\nAffiliates & Friends\n\n- [Motley Fool Asset Management](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/affiliates\/mfam\/)\n- [Motley Fool Wealth Management](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/affiliates\/mfwm\/)\n- [Motley Fool Ventures](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/affiliates\/ventures\/)\n- [Fool Community Foundation](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/affiliates\/foundation\/)\n- [Become an Affiliate Partner](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/affiliates\/)\n\n- [Terms of Use](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/legal\/terms-and-conditions\/fool-rules\/ \"Terms of Use\")\n- [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/legal\/privacy-statement\/ \"Privacy Policy\")\n- [Disclosure Policy](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/legal\/fool-disclosure-policy\/ \"Disclosure Policy\")\n- [Accessibility Policy](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/legal\/accessibility-policy\/ \"Accessibility Policy\")\n- [Copyright, Trademark and Patent Information](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/legal\/stuff-we-own\/ \"Copyright, Trademark and Patent Information\")\n- [Terms and Conditions](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/legal\/terms-and-conditions\/ \"Terms and Conditions\")\n- [Do Not Sell My Personal Information](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/data-protection\/ccpa-update\/ \"Do Not Sell My Personal Information\")","attrs_readable_markdown":"Buying top companies that are capitalizing on fast-growing trends and holding them could create wealth for investors in the long run.\n\nThat's why if you have \\$500 to spare right now -- after paying bills, saving for tough times, and clearing high-interest loans -- and are looking to put that money to work in the stock market, it would be a good idea to invest in shares of **Ciena** ([CIEN](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/quote\/nyse\/cien\/) \\+7.03%) and **Dell Technologies** ([DELL](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/quote\/nyse\/dell\/) \\+3.14%), either individually or combined.\n\nLet's see why these two fast-growing companies could be the best way to invest \\$500 in the [stock market](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/investing\/stock-market\/market-sectors\/information-technology\/semiconductor-stocks\/).\n\n![Person pressing a blue button labeled \"Buy\" on a keyboard.](https:\/\/g.foolcdn.com\/image\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fg.foolcdn.com%2Feditorial%2Fimages%2F858393%2Fperson-pressing-buy-button-keyboard.jpg&w=3840&op=resize)\n\nImage source: Getty Images.\n## Ciena's stunning earnings growth will be a tailwind for the stock\nCiena stock has shot up a remarkable 435% in the past year. The company's phenomenal surge is driven by the robust demand for its optical networking components, which are used in [artificial intelligence (AI)](https:\/\/www.fool.com\/investing\/stock-market\/market-sectors\/information-technology\/ai-stocks\/quantum-computing-stocks\/) data centers to enable fast connectivity over long distances. As a result, Ciena is receiving more orders than it is fulfilling.\n\nCIEN\n\nToday's Change\n\n(7.03%) \\$27.28\n\nCurrent Price\n\n\\$415.51\n\nThe company reported a 33% year-over-year revenue increase in the first quarter of fiscal 2026 (which ended on Jan. 31, 2026). Its adjusted earnings shot up by 111% to \\$1.35 per share, driven by a favorable product mix and cost-cutting efforts. The good news for investors is that Ciena is confident it can sustain its terrific growth in fiscal 2026.\n\nIt has raised its full-year gross margin guidance by one percentage point. It now expects a stronger jump of 28% in revenue this year to \\$6.1 billion at the midpoint of its guidance range, up from the earlier expectation of \\$5.9 billion. Ciena could easily coast past its updated guidance, as its order backlog stood at \\$7 billion at the end of the previous quarter. The backlog increased by \\$2 billion in fiscal Q1.\n\nCiena, therefore, has the potential to achieve the 132% increase in earnings that analysts are expecting from the company this year. Don't be surprised to see this strong growth leading to more upside in this tech stock, making it an ideal investment for growth-oriented investors.\n\n## Dell Technologies is stepping on the gas\nAI has proven to be a strong catalyst for Dell Technologies, a company traditionally associated with computers, peripherals, and server systems. The booming demand for Dell's AI-optimized servers led to a 39% increase in the company's revenue in fiscal 2026's Q4 to a record \\$33.4 billion. That was well above Dell's 19% annual revenue growth, which set a record at \\$113.5 billion.\n\nDELL\n\nToday's Change\n\n(3.14%) \\$5.15\n\nCurrent Price\n\n\\$169.28\n\nThe company received \\$46.1 billion in orders for its AI servers last year. It shipped \\$25.2 billion worth of AI servers in fiscal 2026, a number that it expects to double this year. Dell can easily hit the \\$50 billion in revenue it expects from AI products in fiscal 2027, given that it ended last year with a \\$43 billion order backlog.\n\nAs a result, don't be surprised to see Dell exceed its fiscal 2027 revenue guidance of \\$140 billion and earnings growth expectation of 25%. Dell was the largest player in the AI server market in 2024, with a 20% share. Its AI revenue growth rate suggests it is easily outpacing the 34% annual growth that the overall AI server market is poised to clock through 2030.\n\nAs this AI stock trades at an attractive 17 times earnings, buying it looks like a no-brainer given its immense growth potential.","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	Buying top companies that are capitalizing on fast-growing trends and holding them could create wealth for investors in the long run. That's why if you have $500 to spare right now -- after paying bills, saving for tough times, and clearing high-interest loans -- and are looking to put that money to work in the stock market, it would be a good idea to invest in shares of Ciena ( CIEN +7.03% ) and Dell Technologies ( DELL +3.14% ) , either individually or combined. Let's see why these two fast-growing companies could be the best way to invest $500 in the stock market . Image source: Getty Images. Ciena's stunning earnings growth will be a tailwind for the stock Ciena stock has shot up a remarkable 435% in the past year. The company's phenomenal surge is driven by the robust demand for its optical networking components, which are used in artificial intelligence (AI) data centers to enable fast connectivity over long distances. As a result, Ciena is receiving more orders than it is fulfilling. CIEN Today's Change (7.03%) $27.28 Current Price $415.51 The company reported a 33% year-over-year revenue increase in the first quarter of fiscal 2026 (which ended on Jan. 31, 2026). Its adjusted earnings shot up by 111% to $1.35 per share, driven by a favorable product mix and cost-cutting efforts. The good news for investors is that Ciena is confident it can sustain its terrific growth in fiscal 2026. It has raised its full-year gross margin guidance by one percentage point. It now expects a stronger jump of 28% in revenue this year to $6.1 billion at the midpoint of its guidance range, up from the earlier expectation of $5.9 billion. Ciena could easily coast past its updated guidance, as its order backlog stood at $7 billion at the end of the previous quarter. The backlog increased by $2 billion in fiscal Q1. Ciena, therefore, has the potential to achieve the 132% increase in earnings that analysts are expecting from the company this year. Don't be surprised to see this strong growth leading to more upside in this tech stock, making it an ideal investment for growth-oriented investors. Dell Technologies is stepping on the gas AI has proven to be a strong catalyst for Dell Technologies, a company traditionally associated with computers, peripherals, and server systems. The booming demand for Dell's AI-optimized servers led to a 39% increase in the company's revenue in fiscal 2026's Q4 to a record $33.4 billion. That was well above Dell's 19% annual revenue growth, which set a record at $113.5 billion. DELL Today's Change (3.14%) $5.15 Current Price $169.28 The company received $46.1 billion in orders for its AI servers last year. It shipped $25.2 billion worth of AI servers in fiscal 2026, a number that it expects to double this year. Dell can easily hit the $50 billion in revenue it expects from AI products in fiscal 2027, given that it ended last year with a $43 billion order backlog. As a result, don't be surprised to see Dell exceed its fiscal 2027 revenue guidance of $140 billion and earnings growth expectation of 25%. Dell was the largest player in the AI server market in 2024, with a 20% share. Its AI revenue growth rate suggests it is easily outpacing the 34% annual growth that the overall AI server market is poised to clock through 2030. As this AI stock trades at an attractive 17 times earnings, buying it looks like a no-brainer given its immense growth potential.
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[Top 10 Stocks to Buy Now ›](https://api.fool.com/infotron/splitter/route/article-template-button?apikey=5c8e52dd-1bea-455e-87f5-d5506e590f21) [Top 10 Stocks to Buy Now ›](https://api.fool.com/infotron/splitter/route/article-template-button?apikey=5c8e52dd-1bea-455e-87f5-d5506e590f21) [S\&P 500 6,575.32+0.7% +46.80](https://www.fool.com/quote/snpindex/^gspc/) [DJI 46,565.74+0.5% +224.23](https://www.fool.com/quote/djindices/^dji/) [NASDAQ 21,840.95+1.2% +250.32](https://www.fool.com/quote/nasdaqindex/^ixic/) [Bitcoin \$66,638.00-3.2% -\$2,182.85](https://www.fool.com/quote/crypto/btc/) [AMZN \$210.57+1.1% +\$2.30](https://www.fool.com/quote/nasdaq/amzn/) [GOOG \$294.90+2.8% +\$8.04](https://www.fool.com/quote/nasdaq/goog/) [META \$579.28+1.3% +\$7.15](https://www.fool.com/quote/nasdaq/meta/) [MSFT \$369.28-0.2% -\$0.89](https://www.fool.com/quote/nasdaq/msft/) [NVDA \$175.74+0.8% +\$1.34](https://www.fool.com/quote/nasdaq/nvda/) [TSLA \$381.37+2.6% +\$9.62](https://www.fool.com/quote/nasdaq/tsla/) [Most Active Stocks](https://www.fool.com/markets/most-active-stocks/)[Daily Stock Gainers](https://www.fool.com/markets/top-stock-gainers/)[Daily Stock Losers](https://www.fool.com/markets/top-stock-losers/) [Most Active Stocks](https://www.fool.com/markets/most-active-stocks/)[Daily Stock Gainers](https://www.fool.com/markets/top-stock-gainers/)[Daily Stock Losers](https://www.fool.com/markets/top-stock-losers/) Free Article[Explore Premium Services](https://www.fool.com/services/) # The Best Stocks to Buy With \$500 Right Now These fast-growing companies can give your portfolio a nice boost in the long run. By [Harsh Chauhan](https://www.fool.com/author/2139/) – Mar 14, 2026 at 8:45AM EST [Follow us](https://profile.google.com/cp/CgkvbS8wNTc4bWs) Share Summarize with AI ## Key Points - One of these companies is enabling fast data transmission in AI data centers with its optical components, leading to a remarkable earnings surge. - The other company has stepped on the gas, driven primarily by booming demand for AI servers. Buying top companies that are capitalizing on fast-growing trends and holding them could create wealth for investors in the long run. That's why if you have \$500 to spare right now -- after paying bills, saving for tough times, and clearing high-interest loans -- and are looking to put that money to work in the stock market, it would be a good idea to invest in shares of Ciena ([CIEN](https://www.fool.com/quote/nyse/cien/) \+7.03%) and Dell Technologies ([DELL](https://www.fool.com/quote/nyse/dell/) \+3.14%), either individually or combined. Let's see why these two fast-growing companies could be the best way to invest \$500 in the [stock market](https://www.fool.com/investing/stock-market/market-sectors/information-technology/semiconductor-stocks/). ![Person pressing a blue button labeled "Buy" on a keyboard.](https://g.foolcdn.com/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fg.foolcdn.com%2Feditorial%2Fimages%2F858393%2Fperson-pressing-buy-button-keyboard.jpg&w=3840&op=resize) Image source: Getty Images. ## Ciena's stunning earnings growth will be a tailwind for the stock Ciena stock has shot up a remarkable 435% in the past year. The company's phenomenal surge is driven by the robust demand for its optical networking components, which are used in [artificial intelligence (AI)](https://www.fool.com/investing/stock-market/market-sectors/information-technology/ai-stocks/quantum-computing-stocks/) data centers to enable fast connectivity over long distances. As a result, Ciena is receiving more orders than it is fulfilling. Collapse CIEN ## [NYSE: CIEN](https://www.fool.com/quote/nyse/cien/) Ciena Today's Change (7.03%) \$27.28 Current Price \$415.51 Unable to reach the data service. Please check your connection. YTD 1w 1m 3m 6m 1y 5y Price VS S\&P ### Key Data Points Market Cap \$59B Day's Range \$399.97 - \$422.12 52wk Range \$49.21 - \$446.89 Volume 94K Avg Vol 3\.5M Gross Margin 39\.48% The company reported a 33% year-over-year revenue increase in the first quarter of fiscal 2026 (which ended on Jan. 31, 2026). Its adjusted earnings shot up by 111% to \$1.35 per share, driven by a favorable product mix and cost-cutting efforts. The good news for investors is that Ciena is confident it can sustain its terrific growth in fiscal 2026. It has raised its full-year gross margin guidance by one percentage point. It now expects a stronger jump of 28% in revenue this year to \$6.1 billion at the midpoint of its guidance range, up from the earlier expectation of \$5.9 billion. Ciena could easily coast past its updated guidance, as its order backlog stood at \$7 billion at the end of the previous quarter. The backlog increased by \$2 billion in fiscal Q1. Ciena, therefore, has the potential to achieve the 132% increase in earnings that analysts are expecting from the company this year. Don't be surprised to see this strong growth leading to more upside in this tech stock, making it an ideal investment for growth-oriented investors. ## Dell Technologies is stepping on the gas AI has proven to be a strong catalyst for Dell Technologies, a company traditionally associated with computers, peripherals, and server systems. The booming demand for Dell's AI-optimized servers led to a 39% increase in the company's revenue in fiscal 2026's Q4 to a record \$33.4 billion. That was well above Dell's 19% annual revenue growth, which set a record at \$113.5 billion. Collapse DELL ## [NYSE: DELL](https://www.fool.com/quote/nyse/dell/) Dell Technologies Today's Change (3.14%) \$5.15 Current Price \$169.28 Unable to reach the data service. Please check your connection. YTD 1w 1m 3m 6m 1y 5y Price VS S\&P ### Key Data Points Market Cap \$109B Day's Range \$164.87 - \$171.24 52wk Range \$66.25 - \$186.39 Volume 305K Avg Vol 8\.9M Gross Margin 19\.97% Dividend Yield 1\.24% The company received \$46.1 billion in orders for its AI servers last year. It shipped \$25.2 billion worth of AI servers in fiscal 2026, a number that it expects to double this year. Dell can easily hit the \$50 billion in revenue it expects from AI products in fiscal 2027, given that it ended last year with a \$43 billion order backlog. As a result, don't be surprised to see Dell exceed its fiscal 2027 revenue guidance of \$140 billion and earnings growth expectation of 25%. Dell was the largest player in the AI server market in 2024, with a 20% share. Its AI revenue growth rate suggests it is easily outpacing the 34% annual growth that the overall AI server market is poised to clock through 2030. As this AI stock trades at an attractive 17 times earnings, buying it looks like a no-brainer given its immense growth potential. ## Read Next Mar 23, 2026 •By [Eric Volkman](https://www.fool.com/author/4067/) [Why Ciena Stock Rocked the Market on Monday](https://www.fool.com/investing/2026/03/23/why-ciena-stock-rocked-the-market-on-monday/) Mar 15, 2026 •By [Scott Levine](https://www.fool.com/author/2420/) [Best 5G Stocks for 2026 and How to Invest](https://www.fool.com/investing/stock-market/market-sectors/communication/5g-stocks/) Mar 11, 2026 •By [Harsh Chauhan](https://www.fool.com/author/2139/) [The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Stock That's Quietly Outperforming Nvidia in 2026](https://www.fool.com/investing/2026/03/11/artificial-intelligence-ai-stock-outperform-nvidia/) Mar 5, 2026 •By [Billy Duberstein](https://www.fool.com/author/16731/) [Why Ciena Sank Today](https://www.fool.com/investing/2026/03/05/why-ciena-sank-today/) Mar 5, 2026 •By [Motley Fool Transcribing](https://www.fool.com/author/20032/) [Ciena (CIEN) Q1 2026 Earnings Call Transcript](https://www.fool.com/earnings/call-transcripts/2026/03/05/ciena-cien-q1-2026-earnings-call-transcript/) Apr 2, 2026 •By [Justin Pope](https://www.fool.com/author/6581/) [Nvidia vs. Broadcom: Which AI Supercycle Growth Stock Will Make You Richer?](https://www.fool.com/investing/2026/04/02/nvidia-vs-broadcom-which-ai-supercycle-growth-stoc/) ### About the Author ![Harsh Chauhan](https://g.foolcdn.com/avatar/1599405657/large.ashx?_w=3840) Harsh Chauhan is a contributing Motley Fool technology analyst covering semiconductors, consumer electronics, artificial intelligence, and software. Harsh previously worked as a journalist for CCN Markets covering crypto and macroeconomics, a contributor at Capital 10x covering metals, mining, and industrial stocks, and a research associate at Zacks Investment Research. He holds a bachelor’s degree in commerce from St. Xavier’s College in Kolkata, India. [TMFTechJunk13](https://www.fool.com/author/2139/) [@techjunk13](https://x.com/techjunk13) [Harsh Chauhan](https://www.fool.com/author/2139/) has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Ciena. The Motley Fool has a [disclosure policy](https://www.fool.com/legal/fool-disclosure-policy/). ### Stocks Mentioned [CI Ciena NYSE: CIEN\$415.51 (+7.03%)+\$27.28](https://www.fool.com/quote/nyse/cien/) [DE Dell Technologies NYSE: DELL\$169.28 (+3.14%)+\$5.15](https://www.fool.com/quote/nyse/dell/) \*Average returns of all recommendations since inception. 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Readable Markdown	Buying top companies that are capitalizing on fast-growing trends and holding them could create wealth for investors in the long run. That's why if you have \$500 to spare right now -- after paying bills, saving for tough times, and clearing high-interest loans -- and are looking to put that money to work in the stock market, it would be a good idea to invest in shares of Ciena ([CIEN](https://www.fool.com/quote/nyse/cien/) \+7.03%) and Dell Technologies ([DELL](https://www.fool.com/quote/nyse/dell/) \+3.14%), either individually or combined. Let's see why these two fast-growing companies could be the best way to invest \$500 in the [stock market](https://www.fool.com/investing/stock-market/market-sectors/information-technology/semiconductor-stocks/). ![Person pressing a blue button labeled "Buy" on a keyboard.](https://g.foolcdn.com/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fg.foolcdn.com%2Feditorial%2Fimages%2F858393%2Fperson-pressing-buy-button-keyboard.jpg&w=3840&op=resize) Image source: Getty Images. ## Ciena's stunning earnings growth will be a tailwind for the stock Ciena stock has shot up a remarkable 435% in the past year. The company's phenomenal surge is driven by the robust demand for its optical networking components, which are used in [artificial intelligence (AI)](https://www.fool.com/investing/stock-market/market-sectors/information-technology/ai-stocks/quantum-computing-stocks/) data centers to enable fast connectivity over long distances. As a result, Ciena is receiving more orders than it is fulfilling. CIEN Today's Change (7.03%) \$27.28 Current Price \$415.51 The company reported a 33% year-over-year revenue increase in the first quarter of fiscal 2026 (which ended on Jan. 31, 2026). Its adjusted earnings shot up by 111% to \$1.35 per share, driven by a favorable product mix and cost-cutting efforts. The good news for investors is that Ciena is confident it can sustain its terrific growth in fiscal 2026. It has raised its full-year gross margin guidance by one percentage point. It now expects a stronger jump of 28% in revenue this year to \$6.1 billion at the midpoint of its guidance range, up from the earlier expectation of \$5.9 billion. Ciena could easily coast past its updated guidance, as its order backlog stood at \$7 billion at the end of the previous quarter. The backlog increased by \$2 billion in fiscal Q1. Ciena, therefore, has the potential to achieve the 132% increase in earnings that analysts are expecting from the company this year. Don't be surprised to see this strong growth leading to more upside in this tech stock, making it an ideal investment for growth-oriented investors. ## Dell Technologies is stepping on the gas AI has proven to be a strong catalyst for Dell Technologies, a company traditionally associated with computers, peripherals, and server systems. The booming demand for Dell's AI-optimized servers led to a 39% increase in the company's revenue in fiscal 2026's Q4 to a record \$33.4 billion. That was well above Dell's 19% annual revenue growth, which set a record at \$113.5 billion. DELL Today's Change (3.14%) \$5.15 Current Price \$169.28 The company received \$46.1 billion in orders for its AI servers last year. It shipped \$25.2 billion worth of AI servers in fiscal 2026, a number that it expects to double this year. Dell can easily hit the \$50 billion in revenue it expects from AI products in fiscal 2027, given that it ended last year with a \$43 billion order backlog. As a result, don't be surprised to see Dell exceed its fiscal 2027 revenue guidance of \$140 billion and earnings growth expectation of 25%. Dell was the largest player in the AI server market in 2024, with a 20% share. Its AI revenue growth rate suggests it is easily outpacing the 34% annual growth that the overall AI server market is poised to clock through 2030. As this AI stock trades at an attractive 17 times earnings, buying it looks like a no-brainer given its immense growth potential.
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