I: “Good morning ChatGPT; what are your top 5 FTSE100 shares to buy in March 2026 (and why)?”
ChatGPT:

• Data and analytics leader RELAX – Growing recurring revenues and a diversified global customer base
• Global growth of data and analytics resources Experiment – Strong organic growth, particularly in North America
• Global bank HSBC – Strong capital base and global market breadth
• Pharmaceutical giant GSK – Competitive pricing and pipeline growth potential
• Oil major BP (LSE: BP.) – Repositioning following strategic write-downs and unfavorable changes in energy prices

That’s what the computer chips say, but what about the human touch? For my money, there are two turkeys on this list and three with potential, including one that I think is worth considering today.

Ignoring problems

Let’s tackle two bad choices first: RELX and Experian. These two data companies may be worth taking a look at, but my digital friend completely missed the most crucial story here – AI is threatening to eat their lunch!

RELX lost 40% last year and Experian lost 35%, largely due to concerns that their convoluted services could be replaced by sufficiently advanced artificial intelligence models. However, we are not there yet and this may prove to be a great time to purchase both of them at low tide. Still, I’m a little offended that this issue wasn’t included in the ChatGPT analysis.

However, two other stocks on the list aroused my curiosity. Perhaps after years of over-promising and under-delivering, GSK has finally gotten its act together. New strategic changes (including greater investment in the drug pipeline) seem to be working wonders, with the company’s shares up 57% over the last 12 months. I’m also bullish on banking at the moment, and HSBC offers an fascinating option to gain exposure to China’s rapidly growing economy.

Strong stuff

The last company on the list is one that investors may want to consider today: oil giant BP. The company has lagged behind its US peers and Shell in the UK for years. However, considering the return, it may be a budget-friendly purchase.

What are the reasons for optimism? Well, the modern CEO focused on the profitable side of the company on the one hand, and on the discovery of the largest oil field in 25 years (off the coast of Brazil) on the other.

Perhaps the most crucial reason is that our up-to-date world is based on oil, and it appears that any change will take longer than first thought. Warren Buffett and the behind schedule Charlie Munger say it will be needed for at least the next 200 years.

This also creates an ethical conundrum for those who do not want to invest in companies that produce products that pollute the environment. There is also a risk that advances in green technologies will also reduce BP’s revenues.

However, I believe that BP is one of the potential FTSE 100 candidates to make a great turnaround in the coming years.

As for ChatGPT, its suggestions are too mixed for me. I will continue my own research.