14 Best Mid-Cap Dividend Stocks to Buy Now

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3. Cognex Corporation (NASDAQ:CGNX)

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 43

Market Cap: $6.8 Billion

On January 12, Barclays trimmed its price target on Cognex Corporation (NASDAQ:CGNX) to $54 from $56, while keeping an Overweight rating on the stock. The move came as part of the firm’s broader 2026 outlook for industrial technology and distribution names. Even with the small cut, Barclays said it remains constructive on the group overall, pointing to strong demand trends in key end markets such as data centers, factory and warehouse automation, electronics, test and measurement, and semiconductors.

Separately, back in October, Cognex announced it was rolling out its first lineup of Solutions Experience (SLX™) devices. These are application-specific tools designed to make it easier for customers to solve common, high-priority challenges across major industrial verticals.

The first batch of SLX devices is focused on logistics. Cognex positioned them as a practical entry point for facilities just beginning to automate, while also serving as a simple add-on option for companies that already have automated systems in place. The logistics portfolio is designed to be easy to deploy, with dependable barcode reading and AI-powered item detection built in.

Going forward, Cognex plans to broaden its SLX lineup with more AI-driven and user-friendly devices aimed at specific automation needs across multiple industries. The goal is to help customers lower the total cost of ownership (TCO) while improving overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).

Cognex Corporation (NASDAQ:CGNX) develops and sells machine vision products and solutions used to improve quality and efficiency in manufacturing and distribution environments worldwide.

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