Zhong Guo Ji Jin Bao·2026-01-31 23:42Core Viewpoint - The storage chip market is experiencing a "super cycle" driven by AI, leading to significant price increases and improved profitability for storage companies, while terminal manufacturers face pressure to raise prices or reduce specifications [1][3][7]. Group 1: Market Dynamics - The storage market is emerging from a low point, with many companies reporting substantial profit increases due to stabilizing prices driven by AI demand [1][2]. - As of January 29, 2026, 52 storage-related companies in the A-share market have issued performance forecasts for 2025, with 25 companies expecting profit increases, and 31 companies reporting year-on-year net profit growth [1][2]. - Notable profit increases include Bawei Storage with a projected growth of 520.22%, Shangluo Electronics at 344.92%, and Jiangbolong at 210.82% [2]. Group 2: Price Trends - Market research indicates that storage prices are expected to rise by 40% to 50% in Q1 2026 and by approximately 20% in Q2 2026, surpassing historical highs [3][4]. - Companies like Jiangbolong attribute their recovery to the stabilization of storage prices and increased demand from AI servers, leading to a supply-demand imbalance [2][5]. Group 3: Competitive Positioning - Storage manufacturers are shifting focus from consumer markets to enterprise-level markets, such as data centers and AI servers, where profit margins are higher due to lower price sensitivity [5][6]. - Companies are investing in technology and production capabilities to enhance their competitive edge, with Jiangbolong planning to raise 3.7 billion yuan for technology development and production expansion [6]. Group 4: Impact on Terminal Manufacturers - Terminal manufacturers are facing significant cost pressures due to rising component prices, leading to a projected 14.8% decrease in global laptop shipments in Q1 2026 [7][8]. - Major brands like Lenovo and Dell have begun raising prices on their products, with Lenovo increasing prices by 500 to 1500 yuan on mid-to-high-end models [8][9]. - The rising costs of memory components are impacting the profitability of smartphone manufacturers, with companies like Transsion Holdings reporting a 54.11% decline in net profit due to increased supply chain costs [9].