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ChatGPT and Stock Picking: Hype or a Hedge Fund Secret Weapon?

  • Writer: Alpesh Patel
    Alpesh Patel
  • Jun 11
  • 4 min read

What if you could use artificial intelligence to help pick stocks—just like a hedge fund manager?

That’s exactly what I did.

In a recent Yahoo Finance interview on The Crypto Mile, I explained how I’ve been testing ChatGPT—the AI tool that has taken the world by storm—as a virtual stock analyst. The results? Impressive, if used right.


In this blog, I’ll break down exactly how I use ChatGPT to pick stocks, what the data shows, and how you can begin exploring this approach yourself—even if you’ve never invested before.


Why Use ChatGPT for Stock Picking?

At Campaign for a Million, our goal is simple: help one million people become better investors. That means cutting through the noise and using every tool available to find the best opportunities in the stock market.

ChatGPT isn’t magic. But it can act like a super-efficient research assistant—sifting through data, identifying trends, and offering structured insights.

Here’s What We Found (And Why It Matters to You)

When we used ChatGPT to pick stocks from a universe of NYSE and Nasdaq companies—based on solid financial data and clear investment principles—we got some surprising results.

Strong Returns

Our AI-generated portfolio delivered a return of 23.2%. That’s more than the 20.5% return from a traditional, human-curated portfolio I managed using my usual methods.

Better for Medium- to Long-Term Investors

ChatGPT isn’t built for daily trading or short-term speculation. It shines when used to identify strong businesses over a 6–12 month horizon—something ideal for most retail investors.

You Still Need Human Oversight

AI can generate great picks—but you still need to double-check the numbers, understand the company, and stay informed about market shifts. It’s a co-pilot, not a captain.

So, How Do You Actually Use ChatGPT to Pick Stocks?

Here’s a simple version of the process I use—one you can try at home:

Step 1: Choose Your Stock Universe

Start with a manageable list: the S&P 500, FTSE 100, or companies you already know and use.

Step 2: Craft a Good Prompt

AI is only as smart as the question you ask. Here’s an example:

“You are a value investor like Warren Buffett. Based on this data (revenue, debt, growth, margins, price-to-earnings), recommend your top 10 stocks for the next 12 months with reasons.”

Step 3: Provide Clean, Reliable Data

You can give ChatGPT financial summaries, earnings reports, or even ask it to summarise a company’s news headlines.

Step 4: Analyse and Verify

Don’t blindly follow the recommendations. Research the companies, understand their business model, and review their financials.

Step 5: Track and Learn

Backtest your AI-assisted picks against other portfolios. You’ll learn fast what works and what doesn’t.

What the Research Says

This isn’t just my experiment. Researchers around the world are now testing how AI performs in the real world of investing:

  • University of Chicago found that ChatGPT-based models outperformed human analysts in stock prediction accuracy.

  • Chinese researchers showed that ChatGPT’s interpretation of news sentiment led to better economic forecasts.

  • Hedge funds mimicking ChatGPT’s insights from earnings calls earned 3–5% higher returns.

Caution: Don’t Treat It Like a Crystal Ball

Let me be clear: ChatGPT is not an all-knowing investment oracle.

Markets are driven by real-world events—wars, elections, company scandals—that can’t be predicted from data alone. Use ChatGPT to support your decisions, not make them for you.

Who Is This For?

Beginner Investors – If you’re overwhelmed by jargon, ChatGPT can explain terms, simplify reports, and highlight key metrics. Pension Holders – Looking to make more from your SIPP? AI tools can help you understand your options. DIY Traders – Use ChatGPT to generate ideas, review company updates, and cross-check valuations. Busy Professionals – Think of it as a smart intern that can do hours of research in minutes.

The Future Is Here, But You’re Still in Charge

AI will never replace good judgment—but it can amplify it.

At Campaign for a Million, we’re constantly testing tools that level the playing field. Whether you’re managing your pension, building wealth for your family, or just curious about investing—this is your time.

Let ChatGPT help you—but stay in the driver’s seat.


Want Help With Your Portfolio? Book a free call with our team. Let’s see how we can help you get started.

RISK WARNING: All investing is risky. Returns at not guaranteed. Past performance and case studies are no guarantee of future results.


Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The opinions expressed here are the author's own and do not reflect the views of any associated companies. Investing in financial markets involves risk, including the potential loss of your invested capital. Past performance is not indicative of future results. 


You should not invest money that you cannot afford to lose. Mentions of specific securities, investment strategies, or financial products do not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. The author may hold positions in the securities discussed, but these should not be viewed as personalised investment advice. 


Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research and seek professional advice before acting on any information provided in this blog. The author is not responsible for any investment decisions made based on the content of this blog.


Alpesh Patel OBE


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