Why Super Micro Computer Rallied Over 60% in the First Half of the Year

Core Viewpoint - Super Micro Computer experienced a significant stock rally of 60.8% in the first half of the year, recovering from challenges faced in the latter half of 2024, including a short-seller attack and auditor resignation [1][2]. Financial Validation and Stock Performance - In February, Super Micro's new auditor, BDO, approved the company's financials for the previous three years, which helped restore investor confidence despite an adverse opinion on internal controls [2][3]. - Following the auditor's validation, Super Micro's stock surged to over $66 per share in early February, reflecting optimism in the AI sector [3]. Market Challenges - The stock rally was short-lived due to the impact of the Trump Administration's tariff war, which affected Super Micro's international supply chain [4]. - The company reported disappointing earnings in the December and March quarters, with revenue growth of 54.9% and 19.5%, respectively, falling short of expectations [5]. Management Insights and Future Outlook - Management attributed the revenue misses to delays in the release of Nvidia's Blackwell chips, which began production in late 2024, and forecasted a 30% sequential revenue increase for the June quarter [7]. - A significant multi-year, $20 billion deal with Saudi Arabian data center operator Datavolt provided a positive boost to Super Micro's stock following its announcement [8]. Valuation and Investor Sentiment - Despite the first-half rally, Super Micro's stock remains below its 2024 highs, trading at 16 times next year's earnings estimates, which is considered reasonable for a high-powered AI stock [9]. - Concerns over uneven growth, margin questions, and lingering investor hesitance from the previous year's short-seller attack have limited the company's valuation [9].