Huan Qiu Wang·2026-01-02 02:47Group 1 - The core performance of data storage companies, including Western Digital, Micron Technology, and Seagate Technology, is highlighted, with annual gains exceeding 200% in the S&P 500 index for 2025 [2][3] - Major cloud service providers like Microsoft, Amazon, Google, and Meta are driving significant infrastructure investments, committing over $440 billion in the next 12 months to build AI infrastructure, leading to a surge in demand for high-capacity, low-cost storage solutions [3] - SanDisk, spun off from Western Digital, achieved an impressive annual gain of approximately 559% in 2025, marking a standout performance in the storage sector [3] Group 2 - The AI investment landscape is described as entering a "race for infrastructure," with market leadership shifting from chips and model platforms to supporting elements like data, storage, power, and cooling [3] - In contrast, traditional consumer and defensive sectors faced significant declines in 2025 due to economic uncertainties, inflation, and tariff concerns [3] - Consumer stocks experienced severe downturns, with Trade Desk's stock plummeting nearly 70%, and other brands like Chipotle Mexican Grill and Deckers Outdoor seeing declines of approximately 40% and 50%, respectively [4]