Broadcom's (NASDAQ: AVGO) stock rallied nearly 600% over the past five years. Most of that growth was driven by its aggressive acquisitions and its brisk sales of AI chips. Let's see why it could still be one of the best stocks to buy in 2026 as the AI market continues to expand. Why is Broadcom growing so rapidly? From fiscal 2020 to fiscal 2025 (which ended last November), Broadcom's revenue grew at a 22% CAGR from $23.9 billion to $63.9 billion. Its adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciatio ...

Core Insights - Nvidia has experienced significant changes in demand due to the rise of AI, particularly with the launch of ChatGPT, leading to a shift in its customer base from PC gamers to data centers that require high computing power [2][4] - The pricing of Nvidia's chips has surged, with the latest GB200 Blackwell Superchip priced at up to $70,000, resulting in operating margins increasing to 62% from pre-ChatGPT levels [3][5] - Analysts project Nvidia's profits could triple by 2028, potentially increasing its justified share value to around $250 [5] Nvidia's Market Position - Nvidia's stock has risen dramatically, but it is considered expensive with only a 32% upside to fair value from current levels [5] - The company has a history of volatility, having fallen at least 50% in 13 of the 26 years since going public [2] Competitors and Alternatives - Broadcom is recognized as a leader in custom AI accelerator chips, but its stock has also risen significantly, limiting future gains [7][8] - Marvell Technology is highlighted as a competitor with substantial upside potential, trading at a lower price-to-sales ratio compared to Broadcom, with projections of a 76% upside [9][10] Semiconductor Industry Dynamics - Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) is a key player in the semiconductor industry, producing advanced chips for major companies like Nvidia and Apple [14] - TSMC has a monopoly on 4-nanometer chip production, achieving high yields compared to competitors like Samsung [16][17] - TSMC's revenue is expected to grow in the mid-20% range annually, with AI revenues projected to increase by 50% annually [18] Government Investment and Future Trends - The U.S. government is heavily investing in semiconductor technology, with TSMC receiving significant grants and loans for domestic chip manufacturing [21] - There is a focus on six core sectors for future government funding, including semiconductors, as part of a broader strategy to maintain technological leadership [22][24]