On September 17, 2025, the U.S. Federal Reserve delivered its first interest rate cut in nine months, lowering the federal funds rate by 25 basis points to a new target range of 4.00%–4.25%. This was a response to clear signs of a cooling labor market—slower job growth, shorter workweeks, and rising unemployment in several cohorts. Although inflation remains above the Fed’s 2% target, policymakers signaled that two more cuts are likely before the year’s end. This changing policy environment directly influences the Stock Trends signals observed in the week ending September 19.

The uncertain interest rate environment is evident in a number of sectors, and the stock market is always reflecting both the trend of the cost of capital and the anticipation of changes in it. The technology sector is especially sensitive to interest rates and generally feeds off the risk-on investor appetite supported by lower interest rates or expectations of relatively lower rates. But all technology stocks are not the same. The Stock Trends data shows how the hardware and software segments of the sector are showing distinct trend and momentum indicators, ST-IM forward return estimates, as well as relative valuation measures.

In the August 15, 2025 update of  Stock Trends Weekly Reporter, a deeper analysis of the North American equity universe reveals a narrow cohort of stocks that, while still classified in bullish trend categories, may be showing signs of structural weakness. This analysis builds upon — and adds context to — our previous article, Stock Trends Insights: Market Breadth Across Sectors and Exchanges, which emphasized broadening strength across sectors. Here, we shift our attention to vulnerable elements within that strength.

Cybersecurity is now a pillar of the global digital economy. From securing AI workloads to defending Web3 infrastructure, companies that protect digital systems are essential players in the technology landscape. For investors, the cybersecurity sector is no longer speculative—it’s strategic.

This week’s Stock Trends indicator analysis affirms a decisive shift toward bullish momentum among leading cybersecurity names. Investors looking to align with the structural demand trends in AI, blockchain, and cloud computing are seeing validation through Stock Trends’ unique trend classification system.

Four quality software technology companies that have the management and strategy to deliver shareholder value.