Xin Lang Cai Jing·2025-12-28 00:04Core Insights - The A-share market's AI narrative is clearly defined by a "hardware-first" approach, with exponential growth in computing power driving significant revenue increases in hardware sectors like CPO, AI servers, and storage chips [1] - The focus is shifting from hardware to applications as the AI industry matures, with expectations for a dual explosion in performance and valuation for AI application companies in 2026 [1][2] - The advertising sector is leading the commercialization of AI applications, particularly in digital advertising, where companies are leveraging AI for operational efficiency and new revenue streams [1][2] Hardware Sector Performance - Industrial Fulian (601138.SH) reported a fivefold year-on-year revenue increase in AI server-related business, while Zhongji Xuchuang (300308.SZ) saw significant growth in optical module revenue [1] - The hardware infrastructure is expected to provide the necessary support for application layers, with several brokerages indicating a shift in investment opportunities from hardware to application sides in 2026 [1] Advertising Sector Developments - Applovin (APP.US) exemplifies the success of AI in advertising, with a stock price increase of up to 56 times since the launch of ChatGPT, and a 71% year-on-year revenue growth in Q1 2025 [2] - BlueFocus (300058.SZ) and Leo Group (002131.SZ) have also begun to realize AI advertising business revenue, benefiting from large existing businesses and rich data resources [2][3] Vertical Industry Applications - Companies in vertical industries such as industrial AI, tax services, and office automation are achieving significant revenue growth through AI integration [5][6] - Nengke Technology (603859.SH) reported AI business revenue of 335 million yuan, accounting for 30.79% of total revenue, driven by its AI Agent products [5] - TaxFriend (603171.SH) achieved a 42.33% year-on-year increase in net profit, attributed to AI-driven revenue growth and efficiency improvements [6] 3D Printing Innovations - The release of Google's Nano Banana Pro is expected to revolutionize the 3D printing industry by significantly reducing design cycles and costs, thus driving demand for raw materials [8] - Companies like Changjiang Materials (001296.SZ) and Yinbang Co. (300337.SZ) are positioned to benefit from the anticipated growth in the 3D printing sector [9][10] Future Outlook - The A-share AI investment landscape is expected to transition from hardware speculation to application performance validation in 2026, with companies that have deep industry knowledge and data barriers likely to see significant profit growth [10] - The common traits among successful AI application companies include strong industry expertise, focus on vertical scenarios, and clear monetization strategies [7][10]