This Artificial Intelligence (AI) Cloud Stock Has Crushed Amazon, Microsoft, and Google in 2026. It Can Continue Skyrocketing After 184% Gains

DigitalOcean (DOCN) has soared 184% in 2026, crushing returns from Amazon, Microsoft, and Google as the cloud provider captures AI workload demand from small and medium-sized businesses. The company's AI-focused annual recurring revenue jumped 221% year-over-year, while its inference services—which handle real-time AI model predictions—exploded 487%.

DigitalOcean is carving out a differentiated position by offering simplified, cost-effective AI cloud solutions tailored to SMBs rather than competing head-to-head with hyperscalers for enterprise accounts. Management projects 26% revenue growth for full-year 2026 and over 50% growth in 2027, indicating the company expects its AI momentum to accelerate rather than plateau.

The triple-digit gains have pushed the stock to a premium valuation, but the growth trajectory in high-margin AI services suggests room for multiple expansion if the company delivers on its 2027 guidance.