MRVL vs. NVDA: Which AI Infrastructure Stock is the Better Buy Now?

Core Insights - Marvell Technology (MRVL) and NVIDIA (NVDA) are positioned as key players in the AI infrastructure sector, with MRVL focusing on custom silicon and data center connectivity, while NVDA specializes in GPUs and AI accelerators [1][2] Marvell Technology (MRVL) - MRVL's custom AI silicon chips are gaining significant traction among hyperscalers, leading to a 69.2% year-over-year revenue growth in its data center segment for Q2 of fiscal 2026 [4][6] - The company aims to expand its customer base by attracting more hyperscalers seeking to optimize their AI infrastructure [4] - MRVL has introduced a 2.5D advanced packaging platform to meet demand for custom XPUs, although manufacturing these chips incurs higher costs [5] - The non-GAAP gross margin for MRVL declined by 250 basis points year-over-year to 59.4% in Q2 of fiscal 2026, reflecting the lower margins in the AI-focused custom silicon business [6] - Zacks Consensus Estimates indicate a year-over-year earnings surge of 78.4% for fiscal 2026, with EPS estimates of $2.80 for the current year and $3.34 for the next year [7] NVIDIA (NVDA) - NVIDIA leads the AI computing market with powerful GPU platforms like Hopper 200 and Blackwell, resulting in a 56% year-over-year increase in data center revenues to $41.1 billion [8][9] - The company's overall revenues and non-GAAP EPS also rose by 56% and 54%, respectively, showcasing strong business performance [9] - NVIDIA's recent approval to sell H20 chips in China is expected to enhance revenue and solidify its AI leadership, with a revenue growth estimate of 55.5% for fiscal 2026 [10][11] - Zacks Consensus Estimates project a year-over-year earnings increase of 48.8% for fiscal 2026, with EPS estimates of $4.45 for the current year and $6.20 for the next year [12] Stock Performance and Valuation - Year-to-date, MRVL shares have decreased by 20.1%, while NVDA shares have increased by 35.4% [13] - MRVL is trading at a forward sales multiple of 8.43X, above its median of 7.40X, whereas NVDA's forward sales multiple is 17.58X, slightly below its median of 17.66X [14] Investment Recommendation - Given NVIDIA's strong market position, innovative technology, and robust financials, it is considered a more favorable investment compared to Marvell Technology [15][16]