Applied Digital: AI Data Center Hype or Real Value?

Core Insights - Applied Digital Inc. has shifted its focus from cryptocurrency mining hosting to artificial intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing (HPC) workloads, reflecting a strategic pivot in its business model [1][11] - The company is currently constructing its first AI data center in Ellendale, North Dakota, with plans for additional facilities, aiming to meet the growing demand for AI data center capacity [7][8] - Applied Digital's stock has experienced volatility, with a significant drop in value despite the hype surrounding AI data centers, raising questions about the company's execution and ability to secure major clients [2][11] Company Performance - For fiscal Q3 2025, Applied Digital reported an earnings per share (EPS) loss of $0.08, which was better than consensus estimates by$0.02, while revenues grew 22.1% year-over-year to $52.92 million, falling short of the expected$64.82 million [9][10] - The Data Center Hosting business generated $35.2 million, down 7$17.8 million, although this segment is planned for sale [10] Industry Context - The demand for AI data centers is being driven by major hyperscalers like Meta, Microsoft, Amazon, Alphabet, and Oracle, all of which are investing heavily in expanding their AI data center capabilities [6][5] - AI data centers require specialized infrastructure to handle higher electrical capacities and advanced cooling solutions, differentiating them from traditional data centers [4][3] Future Outlook - Macquarie Asset Management plans to invest $5 billion to support Applied Digital's AI data center initiatives, which will help build up to 2 GW of capacity [4] - Analysts have set a 12-month stock price forecast for Applied Digital at$10.67, indicating a potential upside of 170.73% from the current price of $3.94 [9]