智通财经网·2025-08-14 23:20Core Viewpoint - Applied Materials (AMAT.US), the largest semiconductor manufacturing equipment producer in the U.S., provided disappointing sales and earnings forecasts, raising concerns about demand suppression due to U.S.-China trade tensions [1][3]. Financial Performance - For Q3 FY2025, Applied Materials reported a revenue of $7.302 billion, an 8% increase from $6.778 billion in Q3 FY2024, exceeding analyst expectations of $7.21 billion [2]. - The adjusted net income for the same period was $1.989 billion, a 13% increase year-over-year, with adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $2.48, surpassing the expected $2.36 [2]. - The company forecasts Q4 FY2025 revenue to be approximately $6.7 billion, below analyst expectations of $7.32 billion, and adjusted EPS is expected to be around $2.11, also below the anticipated $2.38 [3]. Market Dynamics - Applied Materials' customer base includes major semiconductor manufacturers like TSMC, Samsung, and Intel, making its performance guidance a key indicator of future demand [3]. - The CEO, Gary Dickerson, indicated a decline in demand from Chinese customers and delays in technology export approvals to China, contributing to uncertainty in procurement plans [3][4]. - Competitor Lam Research (LRCX.US) also projected lower revenue for the upcoming quarter, citing reduced spending from Chinese clients following a previous surge in orders [3]. Long-term Outlook - Despite current challenges, the long-term demand for computing power remains strong, with Chinese customers having significantly increased their purchases in recent years, currently in a phase of inventory digestion [4]. Strategic Initiatives - Recently, Applied Materials announced plans to invest over $200 million in a factory in Arizona as part of Apple's expansion of manufacturing in the U.S., reinforcing its position as a key supplier for advanced semiconductor manufacturing [5]. - The company is optimistic about the U.S. government's focus on enhancing domestic semiconductor supply chains [5].