虎嗅APP·2026-01-05 10:14Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes that AI computing power remains a key investment theme in 2026, driven by strong growth in infrastructure and technology advancements, particularly in GPU, liquid cooling, optical modules, and PCB sectors [2][5][44]. AI Computing Power - The AI computing power index has seen a significant increase of 46.67% since 2025, outperforming other AI-related indices [3]. - The article identifies that the excess returns in AI computing power stem from its certainty and continuous outperformance, supported by capital investments from major tech companies and policy-driven domestic GPU replacements [4][5]. Market Growth Projections - The article outlines the market size and compound annual growth rates (CAGR) for various AI computing segments from 2024 to 2029, highlighting that the Chinese intelligent computing GPU market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 56.47% [6][7]. - Liquid cooling technology is projected to see a penetration rate increase from 14% in 2024 to 31% in 2026, indicating a strong growth trajectory [19]. Investment Opportunities - The article suggests that liquid cooling is one of the highest growth segments in AI computing, transitioning from an optional to a necessary technology due to the limitations of traditional air cooling [18]. - Companies involved in liquid cooling that secure contracts with major clients like Google and NVIDIA are expected to see valuation increases [20][24]. GPU Market Dynamics - NVIDIA continues to dominate the GPU market, but domestic manufacturers are rising due to policies favoring local replacements [8][10]. - The profitability of domestic GPU companies like Cambricon is anticipated to improve significantly, with projected net profits of 48.72 billion and 79.91 billion yuan for 2026 and 2027, respectively [12]. Optical Modules and PCB - The optical module sector has experienced substantial growth, with companies like NewEase and Zhongji Xuchuang seeing stock price increases of 450% and 422% since 2025 [27]. - The article notes that the PCB market is also expected to grow significantly, with AI-related PCBs projected to have a CAGR of 20.6% from 2024 to 2029 [34]. Investment Ranking - The article ranks various AI segments based on investment certainty: liquid cooling is rated highest, followed by optical chips, GPUs, PCBs, and optical modules, while AI applications and end products are considered less certain [42][43]. Macro Environment - The anticipated loosening of macroeconomic conditions, including potential interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, is expected to enhance liquidity in the market, benefiting high-growth sectors like AI computing power [44].