Benzinga·2026-01-15 17:12Core Viewpoint - The semiconductor sector is expected to continue its growth despite concerns about an AI bubble, driven by strong hyperscale capital spending for the next 18 to 24 months amid competition for AI leadership [1][2]. Semiconductor Market Outlook - Analyst Srini Pajjuri emphasizes that AI monetization is improving, and the largest hyperscalers' balance sheets remain stable despite infrastructure bottlenecks and project delays [2]. - A gradual slowdown in spending is anticipated, advising investors to maintain balanced exposure to AI-focused semiconductor stocks [2]. GPU and Compute Leaders - Graphics processing units (GPUs) are central to AI development, with Nvidia Corp maintaining its dominance despite competition from custom Application-Specific Integrated Circuits and other GPU rivals [3]. - Hyperscaler spending is expected to support Nvidia's order visibility, with current valuations reflecting some slowdown risk [3]. - Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. is viewed as a credible secondary GPU supplier following its deal with OpenAI, although its valuation may limit upside until later product cycles [4]. HBM and Memory Beneficiaries - High-bandwidth memory (HBM) is identified as a transformative driver that will reduce cyclicality in the memory market, projected to account for about 25% of DRAM industry revenue and grow at a CAGR of over 40% through 2028 [5]. - Tight supply conditions are expected to keep memory demand ahead of supply until 2027, benefiting Micron Technology Inc significantly [5]. - GenAI workloads are becoming more memory-intensive, which supports demand for HBM, although higher memory prices may pose challenges for PCs and smartphones [6]. WFE and Semiconductor Equipment - Wafer fab equipment (WFE) spending is expected to maintain an upward trend over the next two years, despite some slowdown in China [7]. - Memory-related WFE spending is projected to outpace logic spending due to extremely tight supply conditions [7]. - Key beneficiaries in this space include Lam Research Corp, Applied Materials Inc, and ASML Holding NV [8]. Other AI and Infrastructure Plays - Marvell Technology Inc is highlighted as a standout in networking and connectivity, while Astera Labs Inc benefits from AI system interconnect trends [9]. - Arm Holdings Plc's expanding data center footprint and pricing power support long-term growth, despite challenges in smartphone demand due to memory-related pressures [9]. Market Dynamics - The AI boom has created a divide in the semiconductor sector, categorizing companies into "haves and have-nots," making selectivity crucial as valuations are above historical averages [10]. - Any slowdown in hyperscale spending could significantly impact stock prices [10].