Core Viewpoint - The memory industry is entering a historic upcycle driven by artificial intelligence (AI), with companies like Micron Technology (MU.US) and Sandisk (SNDK.US) expected to benefit significantly from this trend [1][2]. Group 1: Market Trends - Consumer-grade DRAM and NAND TLC spot prices increased by 408% and 165% year-over-year in November, indicating a strong upward trend in pricing [1]. - The average selling price (ASP) of DRAM is projected to rise by 35% quarter-over-quarter in Q4, with a further 10% increase expected in Q1 2026 [1]. - NAND prices are also expected to rise by 15% in Q4 and 7% in the following quarter, driven by ongoing supply constraints [1]. Group 2: Historical Context - Historically, DRAM upcycles last about 8 months with an average price increase of 53%, while NAND upcycles last around 6 months with a 40% average price increase [2]. - Currently, the DRAM upcycle is in its 5th month with prices up 55% from the trough, and the NAND upcycle is in its 4th month with prices up 51% [2]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape - Major players like Samsung and SK Hynix, which control approximately 70% of the global DRAM market, are shifting focus towards high-end chips, planning to cease DDR4 production by late 2025 to early 2026 [3]. - Tech giants such as Google, Amazon, Meta, and Microsoft are expected to invest $400 billion in AI infrastructure this year, further intensifying demand for memory chips [3]. Group 4: Supply Dynamics - The memory chip industry is entering what analysts refer to as a "super cycle," with manufacturers aggressively stockpiling memory chips due to surging demand [4]. - Semiconductor distributors report a significant increase in demand over the past couple of months, with customers adopting double or triple ordering strategies reminiscent of previous shortages [4].