1 Soaring Growth Stock to Buy Hand Over Fist Before It Is Too Late

Core Insights - Applied Materials' share prices have increased by 31% from their 52-week lows, reflecting a broader rally in the tech sector, particularly the Nasdaq Composite index, which gained 25% during the same period [1][2] Financial Performance - The company reported a year-over-year revenue growth of 7% and a non-GAAP earnings per share (EPS) increase of 14% for the fiscal 2025 second quarter, despite a slightly lighter top line than expected [2][5] - In comparison, the previous year's quarter saw flat top-line growth and a slower adjusted earnings increase of 5%, indicating a significant improvement in performance [6] Market Dynamics - Applied Materials is experiencing growth despite reduced dependence on the Chinese market, where revenue from semiconductor manufacturing equipment sales has decreased from 43% to 25% year-over-year [5][6] - The global demand for semiconductors is being driven by factors such as artificial intelligence (AI), with predictions of improved demand for advanced chips in the latter half of 2025 and into the following year [7] Industry Trends - Major investments in AI infrastructure, such as the $500 billion Stargate project, are prompting foundries and chipmakers to enhance manufacturing capacities, with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) planning a 38% increase in capital expenditures to $40 billion in 2025 [9][10] - TSMC's focus on advanced process nodes, which account for a significant portion of its revenue, is expected to contribute to a 2% increase in global semiconductor equipment spending this year, with a stronger 18% increase anticipated in 2026 [11] Future Outlook - Analysts forecast a 10% increase in Applied Materials' earnings to $9.49 per share for the current fiscal year, with expectations of continued growth in subsequent years [12] - If the company meets consensus earnings expectations, its stock price could potentially rise to $329, representing an 88% gain from current levels, as it trades at a discount compared to the Nasdaq-100 index [14][15]