Core Insights - Vertiv (VRT) and Super Micro Computer (SMCI) are key players in the data center market, particularly in AI data center infrastructure and liquid cooling solutions [1][2] - The global data center market is projected to grow from $269.79 billion in 2025 to $584.86 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate of 11.7% [2] Vertiv (VRT) Overview - Vertiv is experiencing significant growth due to the rising demand for data center infrastructure driven by AI adoption, with a 43% organic sales growth in the Americas and 21% in APAC in Q3 2025 [3][4] - The company reported a 21% growth in organic orders and a book-to-bill ratio of 1.4 times for Q3 2025, with a backlog of $9.5 billion, reflecting strong demand [4] - Vertiv's diverse product portfolio includes thermal systems, liquid cooling, UPS, switchgear, busbar, and modular solutions, bolstered by strategic acquisitions [5] - A partnership with Caterpillar aims to enhance energy efficiency and accelerate data center deployment through integrated power and cooling solutions [6] Super Micro Computer (SMCI) Overview - SMCI is capitalizing on the increasing deployment of AI and high-performance computing (HPC) workloads, with rising demand for its energy-efficient servers [7] - The company leads in liquid cooling technologies, which can reduce power and water usage by up to 40%, essential for large-scale AI deployments [8] - SMCI's Data Center Building Block Solution (DCBBS) provides a comprehensive, plug-and-play solution for AI-ready data centers, optimizing performance and reducing power consumption [9][10] Performance Comparison - In the last six months, VRT shares increased by 56%, while SMCI shares decreased by 21.5%, attributed to VRT's extensive product offerings [11] - SMCI's revenue and earnings declined by 15.5% and 56% respectively in fiscal Q1 2026, contributing to its share price drop [12] - Valuation metrics indicate VRT shares are overvalued with a Price/Sales ratio of 5.59X, while SMCI shares are considered cheap at 0.51X [15] Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for VRT's 2025 earnings is $4.11 per share, reflecting a 44.21% year-over-year increase, while SMCI's estimate for fiscal 2026 is $2.16 per share, indicating a 4.85% increase [19] - VRT has consistently beaten earnings estimates with an average surprise of 14.89%, compared to SMCI's average surprise of 5.80% [20] Conclusion - Both companies are benefiting from the growing data center infrastructure market, but VRT shows greater upside potential due to its strong portfolio and earnings momentum [21] - SMCI faces challenges from trade restrictions and competition, along with lingering concerns from past accounting issues [21][22]