Core Viewpoint - Sandisk is emerging as a significant player in the data center memory market, having recently joined the S&P 500 after a remarkable stock performance of 512% since its split from Western Digital, compared to an 11% gain for the S&P 500 [1][2]. Company Background - Sandisk went public in 1995 and was acquired by Western Digital in 2015, but faced challenges leading to a split in 2023 to enhance shareholder value [3][4]. Financial Performance - In Q1 of fiscal 2026, Sandisk reported revenue of $2.3 billion, a 23% year-over-year increase, while adjusted EPS was $1.22, down 33% due to start-up and separation costs [5]. - Despite a 10% year-over-year decline in data center revenue, sequential growth was 26%, with management forecasting revenue of $2.6 billion and adjusted EPS of $3.20 [7]. Market Position and Analyst Sentiment - Sandisk has a market cap of $32 billion and is currently trading at approximately 3 times forward sales, indicating an attractive valuation for a top player in the NAND market [8][11]. - Wall Street analysts are optimistic, with 12 out of 18 recommending a buy or strong buy, and an average price target of $258, suggesting a 17% upside [9][10]. Growth Strategy - The company is focusing on long-term agreements with data center operators, positioning this segment as its largest market, amid tightening NAND supply [10].
The Newest Stock in the S&P 500 Has Soared 512% in 2025, and It's a Buy Right Now, According to Wall Street