KLA Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the design, manufacture, and marketing of process control, process-enabling, and yield management solutions for the semiconductor and related electronics industries worldwide. It operates through three segments: Semiconductor Process Control; Specialty Semiconductor Process; and PCB and Component Inspection. The company offers inspection and review tools to identify, locate, characterize, review, and analyze defects on various surfaces of patterned and unpatterned wafers; metrology systems that are used to measure pattern dimensions, film thickness, film stress, layer-to-layer alignment, pattern placement, surface topography, and electro-optical properties for wafers; chemical process control equipment; wired and wireless sensor wafers and reticles; wafer defect inspection, review, and metrology systems; reticle inspection and metrology systems; and semiconductor software solutions that provide run-time process control, defect excursion identification, process corrections, and defect classification to accelerate yield learning rates and reduce production risk. It also provides etch, plasma dicing, deposition, and other wafer processing technologies and solutions for the semiconductor and microelectronics industry. In addition, the company offers direct imaging, inspection, optical shaping, inkjet and additive printing, UV laser drilling, and computer-aided manufacturing and engineering solutions for the PCB market; inspection and electrical testing systems to identify and classify defects, as well as systems to repair defects for the display market; and inspection and metrology systems for quality control and yield improvement in advanced and traditional semiconductor packaging markets. The company was formerly known as KLA-Tencor Corporation and changed its name to KLA Corporation in July 2019. KLA Corporation was incorporated in 1975 and is headquartered in Milpitas, California.

KLA Corporation

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is down up +0.05%, the Dow Jones Industrials Index ($DOWI) (DIA) is up by +1.25%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is down by -0.52%.
Stock indexes are mixed today, with the Nasdaq 100 falling to a 1-week low and the Dow Jones Industrials climbing to a new all-time high. The broader market is under pressure today after Oracle's earnings, viewed as a bellwether of the AI investment boom, came in worse than expected, fueling concerns about the vast spending tied to artificial intelligence. Shares of Oracle are down more than -12% to lead AI stocks lower after it reported Q2 cloud sales that missed estimates and raised its 2026 capital spending outlook by $15 billion to $50 billion. Oracle’s results reignited worries about tech valuations and whether the capital outlays on AI infrastructure will pay off.
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Stocks have underlying support from a jump in weekly jobless claims to a 3-month high, which knocked bond yields lower. The 10-year T-note yield is down -4 bp to 4.11%. Also, a +3% rally in Visa shares today is boosting the Dow Jones Industrial Average.
US weekly initial unemployment claims rose by +44,000 to a 3-month high of 236,000, showing a weaker labor market than expectations of 220,000.
The US Sep trade deficit unexpectedly shrank to -$52.8 billion versus expectations of a widening to -$63.1 billion and the smallest deficit in 5.25 years.
The markets are discounting a 24% chance that the FOMC will cut the fed funds target range by 25 bp at the January 27-28 FOMC meeting.
Q3 corporate earnings season is drawing to a close as 495 of the 500 S&P companies have released results. According to Bloomberg Intelligence, 83% of reporting S&P 500 companies exceeded forecasts, on course for the best quarter since 2021. Q3 earnings rose +14.6%, more than doubling expectations of +7.2% y/y.
Overseas stock markets are mixed today. The Euro Stoxx 50 rallied to a 4-weekhigh and is up +1.07%. China’s Shanghai Composite closed down -0.70%. Japan’s Nikkei Stock 225 closed down -0.90%.
Interest Rates
March 10-year T-notes (ZNH6) today are up by +13 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield is down -3.1 bp to 4.116%. T-notes are climbing today as weakness in stocks has prompted some safe-haven buying of government debt. T-notes also have carryover support from Wednesday when the FOMC cut its 2025 and 2026 US core PCE price estimates, and Fed Chair Powell said that he doesn't think a rate hike is anybody's base case for the Fed's next policy move. T-notes held their gains after weekly jobless claims unexpectedly rose to a 3-month high, a dovish factor for Fed policy. Supply pressures may limit further upside in T-notes ahead of the Treasury’s $22 billion auction of 30-year T-bonds later today.
European government bond yields are moving lower today. The 10-year German bund yield is down by -0.6 bp to 2.845%. The 10-year UK gilt yield is down by -3.4 bp to 4.472%.
Swaps are discounting a 1% chance for a -25 bp rate cut by the ECB at its next policy meeting on December 18.
US Stock Movers
Oracle (ORCL) is down more than -12% to lead the S&P 500 losers, and AI-infrastructure stocks are lower today after reporting Q2 adjusted revenue of $16.06 billion, below the consensus of $16.21 billion, and raising its 2026 capital spending outlook by $15 billion to $50 billion. CoreWeave (CRWV) is down more than -7%, and Nebius Group NV (NBIS) is down more than -4% on the news.
Chip makers are sliding today, weighing on the broader market. ARM Holdings Plc (ARM) and Marvell Technology (MRVL) are down more than -4%. Also, Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), Nvidia (NVDA), and Broadcom (AVGO) are down more than -3%. In addition, Intel (INTC), Applied Materials (AMAT), GlobalFoundries (GFS), KLA Corp (KLAC), Micron Technology (MU), and Lam Research (LRCX) are down more than -2%.
Cryptocurrency-exposed stocks are under pressure today with Bitcoin (^BTCUSD) down more than -2%. Strategy (MSTR) is down more than -6% to lead losers in the Nasdaq 100. Also, Riot Platforms (RIOT) and MARA Holdings (MARA) are down more than -5%, Coinbase Global (COIN) is down more than -4%, and Galaxy Digital Holdings (GLXY) is down more than -3%.
Fertilizer stocks are moving higher today after Ukraine said its drones attacked two fertilizer plants in western Russia. Mosaic (MOS) is up more than +6% to lead gainers in the S&P 500. Also, Intrepid Potash (IPI) is up more than +4%, and CF Industries Holdings (CF) and FMC Corp (FMC) are up more than +3%.
Oxford Industries (OXM) is down more than -22% after cutting its 2026 adjusted EPS forecast to $2.20-$2.40 from a previous estimate of $2.80-$3.20, well below the consensus of $2.91.
Lovesac Co (LOVE) is down more than -13% after cutting its 2026 net sales forecast to $685 million-$705 million from a previous forecast of $710 million-$740 million, weaker than the consensus of $713.7 million.
Stellantis NV (STLA) is down more than -3% after BNP Paribas Exane downgraded the stock to underperform from neutral.
Intuitive Surgical (ISRG) is down more than -1% after Citigroup downgraded the stock to neutral from buy.
Gemini Space Station Inc (GEMI) is up more than +17% after the company’s application for a derivatives exchange was approved by the Commodity Futures Exchange Commission.
Ciena Corp (CIEN) is up more than +6% after reporting Q4 revenue of $1.35 billion, better than the consensus of $1.29 billion.
Visa (V) is up more than +3% to lead gainers in the Dow Jones Industrials after Bank of America Global Research upgraded the stock to buy from neutral with a price target of $382.
Unity Software (U) is up more than +2% after Piper Sandler upgraded the stock to overweight from neutral with a price target of $59.
JB Hunt Transport Services (JBHT) is up more than +2% after Deutsche Bank upgraded the stock to buy from hold with a price target of $227.
West Pharmaceutical Services (WST) is up more than +1% after Nephron Research LLC upgraded the stock to buy from hold with a price target of $367.
Earnings Reports(12/11/2025)
Broadcom Inc (AVGO), Ciena Corp (CIEN), Costco Wholesale Corp (COST), Lululemon Athletica Inc (LULU), RH (RH).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Dow Jumps to New Highs as Fed Cut, Oracle Miss Fuel Shift from Tech to Value Stocks

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is down by -0.34%, the Dow Jones Industrials Index ($DOWI) (DIA) is up by +0.59%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is down by -0.89%. December E-mini S&P futures (ESZ25) are down -0.34%, and December E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQZ25) are down -0.92%.
Stock indexes are mixed today, with the Nasdaq 100 falling to a 1-week low and the Dow Jones Industrials climbing to a 4-week high. The broader market is under pressure today after Oracle's earnings, viewed as a bellwether of the AI investment boom, came in worse than expected, fueling concerns about the vast spending tied to artificial intelligence. Shares of Oracle are down more than -14% to lead AI stocks lower after it reported Q2 cloud sales that missed estimates and raised its 2026 capital spending outlook by $15 billion to $50 billion. Oracle’s results reignited worries about tech valuations and whether the capital outlays on AI infrastructure will pay off.
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Stocks have underlying support from a jump in weekly jobless claims to a 3-month high, which knocked bond yields lower. The 10-year T-note yield is down -4 bp to 4.11%.
US weekly initial unemployment claims rose by +44,000 to a 3-month high of 236,000, showing a weaker labor market than expectations of 220,000.
The US Sep trade deficit unexpectedly shrank to -$52.8 billion versus expectations of a widening to -$63.1 billion and the smallest deficit in 5.25 years.
The markets are discounting a 22% chance that the FOMC will cut the fed funds target range by 25 bp at the January 27-28 FOMC meeting.
Q3 corporate earnings season is drawing to a close as 495 of the 500 S&P companies have released results. According to Bloomberg Intelligence, 83% of reporting S&P 500 companies exceeded forecasts, on course for the best quarter since 2021. Q3 earnings rose +14.6%, more than doubling expectations of +7.2% y/y.
Overseas stock markets are mixed today. The Euro Stoxx 50 is up +0.52%. China’s Shanghai Composite closed down -0.70%. Japan’s Nikkei Stock 225 closed down -0.90%.
Interest Rates
March 10-year T-notes (ZNH6) today are up by +14 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield is down -4.1 bp to 4.106%. T-notes are climbing today as weakness in stocks has prompted some safe-haven buying of government debt. T-notes also have carryover support from Wednesday when the FOMC cut its 2025 and 2026 US core PCE price estimates, and Fed Chair Powell said that he doesn't think a rate hike is anybody's base case for the Fed's next policy move. T-notes held their gains after weekly jobless claims unexpectedly rose to a 3-month high, a dovish factor for Fed policy. Supply pressures may limit further upside in T-notes ahead of the Treasury’s $22 billion auction of 30-year T-bonds later today.
European government bond yields are moving lower today. The 10-year German bund yield is down by -0.2 bp to 2.849%. The 10-year UK gilt yield is down by -2.6 bp to 4.480%.
Swaps are discounting a 1% chance for a -25 bp rate cut by the ECB at its next policy meeting on December 18.
US Stock Movers
Oracle (ORCL) is down more than -13% to lead the S&P 500 losers, and AI-infrastructure stocks are lower today after reporting Q2 adjusted revenue of $16.06 billion, below the consensus of $16.21 billion, and raising its 2026 capital spending outlook by $15 billion to $50 billion. CoreWeave (CRWV) is down more than -7%, and Nebius Group NV (NBIS) is down more than -6% on the news.
Chip makers are sliding today, weighing on the broader market. ARM Holdings Plc (ARM) is down more than -3% to lead losers in the Nasdaq 100, and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) is down more than -3%. Also, Nvidia (NVDA) is down more than -2% to lead losers in the Dow Jones Industrials, and Broadcom (AVGO), Applied Materials (AMAT), and Lam Research (LRCX) are down more than -2%. In addition, GlobalFoundries (GFS), Marvell Technology (MRVL), Micron Technology (MU), and KLA Corp (KLAC) are down more than -1%.
Cryptocurrency-exposed stocks are under pressure today with Bitcoin (^BTCUSD) down more than -2%. Galaxy Digital Holdings (GLXY), Riot Platforms (RIOT), Strategy (MSTR), MARA Holdings (MARA), and Coinbase Global (COIN) are down more than -2%.
Oxford Industries (OXM) is down more than -15% after cutting its 2026 adjusted EPS forecast to $2.20-$2.40 from a previous estimate of $2.80-$3.20, well below the consensus of $2.91.
Lovesac Co (LOVE) is down more than -8% after cutting its 2026 net sales forecast to $685 million-$705 million from a previous forecast of $710 million-$740 million, weaker than the consensus of $713.7 million.
Stellantis NV (STLA) is down more than -3% after BNP Paribas Exane downgraded the stock to underperform from neutral.
Coherent (COHR) is down more than -2% after Bain Capital unloaded $987.3 million of its Coherent holdings via an unregistered block trade.
Gemini Space Station Inc (GEMI) is up more than +6% after the company’s application for a derivatives exchange was approved by the Commodity Futures Exchange Commission.
Ciena Corp (CIEN) is up more than +4% after reporting Q4 revenue of $1.35 billion, better than the consensus of $1.29 billion.
Unity Software (U) is up more than +4% after Piper Sandler upgraded the stock to overweight from neutral with a price target of $59.
Adobe (ADBE) is up more than +2% to lead gainers in the Nasdaq 100 after forecasting Q1 adjusted EPS of $5.85 to $5.90, stronger than the consensus of $5.66.
West Pharmaceutical Services (WST) is up more than +1% after Nephron Research LLC upgraded the stock to buy from hold with a price target of $367.
JB Hunt Transport Services (JBHT) is up more than +1% after Deutsche Bank upgraded the stock to buy from hold with a price target of $227.
Earnings Reports(12/11/2025)
Broadcom Inc (AVGO), Ciena Corp (CIEN), Costco Wholesale Corp (COST), Lululemon Athletica Inc (LULU), RH (RH).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
More news from Barchart
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Stocks Mixed as a Plunge in Oracle Weighs on Tech Stocks

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) on Wednesday closed up by +0.67%, the Dow Jones Industrials Index ($DOWI) (DIA) closed up by +1.05%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) closed up by +0.42%. December E-mini S&P futures (ESZ25) rose +0.66%, and December E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQZ25) rose +0.44%.
Stock indexes shook off early weakness on Wednesday and settled higher, with the S&P 500 posting a 6-week high, the Nasdaq 100 a 5-week high, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average a 3.5-week high. Stocks rallied on Wednesday after the Fed cut interest rates by 25 bp and Fed Chair Powell took a less hawkish tone than anticipated. Stocks also found support after the Fed raised its US 2025 GDP forecast and lowered its core PCE price forecast. In addition, the Fed boosted market liquidity by saying it will purchase $40 billion of T-bills per month to rebuild reserves.
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Stocks found some support today amid signs of easing wage pressures, which are dovish for Fed policy, after the US Q3 employment cost index rose by +0.8% q/q, slightly weaker than the +0.9% q/q expected.
US MBA mortgage applications rose +4.8% in the week ended December 5, with the purchase mortgage sub-index down -2.4% and the refinancing mortgage sub-index up +14.3%. The average 30-year fixed rate mortgage rose +1 bp to 6.33% from 6.32% in the prior week.
The FOMC, as expected, cut the fed funds target range by 25 bp to 3.50%-3.75% in a 9-3 vote and said it will consider "the extent and timing of additional adjustments" to interest rates. The FOMC noted that "job gains have slowed this year" and "downside risks to employment rose in recent months." Also, "inflation has moved up since earlier in the year and remains somewhat elevated."
The Fed's "dot plot" of interest rate projections shows the median forecast for the fed funds rate is 3.375% for the end of 2026, implying one 25 bp rate cut next year, unchanged from September.
The FOMC raised its 2025 GDP estimate to 1.7% from 1.6% in September and raised its 2026 GDP estimate to 2.3% from 1.8% in September. The FOMC cut its 2025 core PCE price estimate to 3.0% from 3.1% in September and cut its 2026 core PCE price estimate to 2.5% from 2.6% in September.
The Fed said it will begin buying $40 billion of Treasury bills per month starting December 12 to rebuild reserves in the financial system, which shrank as it tightened its balance sheet.
Fed Chair Powell signaled the Fed may now pause its interest rate cutting campaign when he said the Fed is now "within a range of plausible estimates of neutral and leave us well positioned to determine the extent and timing of additional adjustments" to rates. He added that he doesn't think a rate hike is anybody's base case for the Fed's next policy move.
The markets this week will focus on Thursday’s weekly initial unemployment claims, expected to increase by +29,000 to 220,000.
The markets are discounting a 22% chance that the FOMC will cut the fed funds target range by 25 bp at the January 27-28 FOMC meeting.
Q3 corporate earnings season is drawing to a close as 495 of the 500 S&P companies have released results. According to Bloomberg Intelligence, 83% of reporting S&P 500 companies exceeded forecasts, on course for the best quarter since 2021. Q3 earnings rose +14.6%, more than doubling expectations of +7.2% y/y.
Overseas stock markets settled lower on Wednesday. The Euro Stoxx 50 closed down -0.18%. China’s Shanghai Composite closed down -0.23%. Japan’s Nikkei Stock 225 fell from a 3.5-week high and closed down -0.10%.
Interest Rates
March 10-year T-notes (ZNH6) on Wednesday closed up +4 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield fell -4.1 bp to 4.147%. Mar T-note futures rebounded from a 3-month low on Wednesday and moved higher, and the 10-year T-note yield fell from a 3-month high of 4.207%. T-notes found support after the US Q3 employment index rose less than expected, a dovish factor for Fed policy. T-notes added to their gains after the FOMC cut its 2025 and 2026 US core PCE price estimates and after Fed Chair Powell said that he doesn't think a rate hike is anybody's base case for the Fed's next policy move.
T-notes were initially under pressure early Wednesday amid concerns that a divided FOMC will signal a hawkish rate cut of -25 bp, but then signal policy will remain on hold for an extended period. T-notes also saw some negative carryover from hawkish ECB comments on Wednesday, which pushed the German 10-year bund yield to an 8.75-month high.
European government bond yields are moving higher today. The 10-year German bund yield climbed to an 8.75-month high of 2.895% and finished up by +0.1 bp to 2.851%. The 10-year UK gilt yield rose to a 2.5-week high of 4.554% and is up by +0.1 bp to 4.506%.
ECB President Lagarde said the ECB will likely raise its economic growth forecasts at next week's policy meeting, reflecting a more optimistic outlook.
ECB Governing Council member Simkus said, "We have an inflation rate that is more or less close to the 2% target in the medium term, which suggests no need for a change in interest rates, not only at the next ECB meeting in December but also in further meetings."
Swaps are discounting a 1% chance for a -25 bp rate cut by the ECB at its next policy meeting on December 18.
US Stock Movers
Chip makers rallied on Wednesday, helping lift the broader market. Micron Technology (MU) and Marvell Technology (MRVL) closed up more than +4%, and Applied Materials (AMAT) and Qualcomm (QCOM) closed up more than +3%. Also, Analog Devices (ADI), Broadcom (AVGO), GlobalFoundries (GFS), Lam Research (LRCX), Microchip Technology (MCHP), NXP Semiconductors NV (NXPI), KLA Corp (KLAC), and Texas Instruments (TXN) closed up more than +1%.
Mobile grocery delivery service companies retreated on Wednesday after Amazon.com said it has expanded same-day delivery for perishable groceries to over 2,300 cities and towns, with more coming next year. Maplebear (CART) closed down more than -6% and Uber Technologies (UBER) closed down more than -5% to lead losers in the S&P 500. Also, DoorDash (DASH) closed down more than -4%.
Photronics (PLAB) closed up more than +45% after reporting Q4 adjusted EPS of 60 cents, well above the consensus of 45 cents, and forecasting Q1 adjusted EPS of 51 cents to 59 cents, better than the consensus of 46 cents.
GE Vernova (GEV) closed up more than +15% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 after boosting its stock buyback program to $10 billion and doubling its quarterly dividend to 50 cents.
EchoStar (SATS) closed up more than +10% after Morgan Stanley upgraded the stock to overweight from equal weight with a price target of $110.
Middleby Corp. (MIDD) closed up more than +9% after Jeffries upgraded the stock to buy from hold with a price target of $175.
American International Group (AIG) closed up more than +6% after Insurance Inside reported that Chubb made an informal takeover offer for the company.
PepsiCo (PEP) closed up more than +3% after JPMorgan Chase upgraded the stock to overweight from neutral with a price target of $164.
Waters Corp. (WAT) closed up more than +2% after Wolfe Research upgraded the stock to outperform from peer perform with a price target of $480.
AeroVironment (AVAV) closed down -13% after cutting its 2026 adjusted EPS forecast to $3.40-$3.55 from a previous forecast of $3.60-$3.70, below the consensus of $3.63.
Netflix (NFLX) closed down more than -4% after Paramount said in a letter to Warner Bros. Discovery holders that its offer of $30 per share is superior to Netflix’s offer.
GameStop (GME) closed down more than -4% after reporting Q3 net sales fell -4.6% y/y to $821.0 million.
Noble Corp Plc (NE) closed down more than -2% after JPMorgan Chase downgraded the stock to neutral from overweight.
T Rowe Price Group (TROW) closed down more than 1% after reporting that assets under management in Nov fell -0.2% m/m to $1.79 trillion.
Earnings Reports(12/11/2025)
Broadcom Inc (AVGO), Ciena Corp (CIEN), Costco Wholesale Corp (COST), Lululemon Athletica Inc (LULU), RH (RH).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
More news from Barchart
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Stocks Rally as Fed Cuts Interest Rates and Boosts Liquidity

KLA (KLAC) closed the most recent trading day at $1,238.91, moving +1.09% from the previous trading session. This move outpaced the S&P 500's daily gain of 0.68%. Meanwhile, the Dow experienced a rise of 1.05%, and the technology-dominated Nasdaq saw an increase of 0.33%.
Heading into today, shares of the maker of equipment for manufacturing semiconductors had gained 2.91% over the past month, lagging the Computer and Technology sector's gain of 4.45% and outpacing the S&P 500's gain of 1.8%.
Investors will be eagerly watching for the performance of KLA in its upcoming earnings disclosure. The company is predicted to post an EPS of $8.75, indicating a 6.71% growth compared to the equivalent quarter last year. Our most recent consensus estimate is calling for quarterly revenue of $3.24 billion, up 5.39% from the year-ago period.
For the full year, the Zacks Consensus Estimates project earnings of $35.42 per share and a revenue of $13.04 billion, demonstrating changes of +6.43% and +7.24%, respectively, from the preceding year.
Investors should also note any recent changes to analyst estimates for KLA. Such recent modifications usually signify the changing landscape of near-term business trends. Therefore, positive revisions in estimates convey analysts' confidence in the business performance and profit potential.
Our research suggests that these changes in estimates have a direct relationship with upcoming stock price performance. To exploit this, we've formed the Zacks Rank, a quantitative model that includes these estimate changes and presents a viable rating system.
The Zacks Rank system, running from #1 (Strong Buy) to #5 (Strong Sell), holds an admirable track record of superior performance, independently audited, with #1 stocks contributing an average annual return of +25% since 1988. Over the past month, there's been a 0.04% rise in the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate. Currently, KLA is carrying a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold).
In the context of valuation, KLA is at present trading with a Forward P/E ratio of 34.61. This denotes a premium relative to the industry average Forward P/E of 23.05.
We can additionally observe that KLAC currently boasts a PEG ratio of 3.33. The PEG ratio is akin to the commonly utilized P/E ratio, but this measure also incorporates the company's anticipated earnings growth rate. Electronics - Miscellaneous Products stocks are, on average, holding a PEG ratio of 1.83 based on yesterday's closing prices.
The Electronics - Miscellaneous Products industry is part of the Computer and Technology sector. At present, this industry carries a Zacks Industry Rank of 50, placing it within the top 21% of over 250 industries.
The Zacks Industry Rank is ordered from best to worst in terms of the average Zacks Rank of the individual companies within each of these sectors. Our research shows that the top 50% rated industries outperform the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1.
You can find more information on all of these metrics, and much more, on Zacks.com.
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KLA Corporation (KLAC) : Free Stock Analysis Report
This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com).
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

KLA (KLAC) Rises Higher Than Market: Key Facts

Applied Materials AMAT shares have gained 56.1% in the past year, outperforming the Zacks Computer and Technology sector’s growth of 24.8%. This rise in share price raises a question: Should investors buy, hold or sell the stock? Let’s discuss the fundamentals in detail.
AMAT One-Year Performance Chart
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
AMAT Experiences Traction Across Logic, DRAM & Packaging
Applied Materials is benefiting from rising demand for AI infrastructure as the global data center, cloud and technology space moves toward AI integration, raising the demand for fabrication, patterning and advanced packaging systems. To capitalize on this trend, AMAT has introduced three new semiconductor manufacturing systems, including Kinex Bonding System, Centura Xtera Epi System and PROVision 10 eBeam Metrology System.
In Logic, AMAT’s revenues are driven by the shift from FinFET to Gate-All-Around transistors and backside power delivery. AMAT is also experiencing a strong wave of momentum in the DRAM segment. AMAT’s profits are growing due to traction in high-margin logic foundry solutions, Sym3 Magnum etch system, Cold Field Emission eBeam technology used in the manufacturing of AI and high performance computing chips.
AMAT expects its leading-edge foundry, logic, dynamic random access memory and high bandwidth memory to be the fastest-growing wafer fabrication equipment businesses in 2026. AMAT’s advanced packaging business, which is currently valued at $1.5 billion, is still on track to double to $3 billion over the next few years, driven by HBM demand and next-generation packaging architectures.
AMAT restructured its pricing program, and it is expected to contribute most of the 120-bps gross margin expansion in the coming fiscal year. This cost restructuring will further provide AMAT with enough headroom to ramp up its R&D investments. AMAT is setting up the Equipment and Process Innovation and Commercialization center for research, which is expected to be operational by 2026. These developments in AMAT’s growth story have instilled confidence among investors, which has translated into a surge in stock price.
AMAT’s 50-Day and 200-Day SMA Show Bullish Trend
This surge in the stock price has led AMAT’s shares to trade above the 200-day and 50-day moving averages, indicating a bullish trend.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Macroeconomic and Competitive Pressures Weigh on AMAT
A major headwind for Applied Materials is increasing U.S.-China tensions and export restrictions on semiconductor manufacturing equipment. China remains a crucial market for Applied Materials, accounting for a significant portion of total revenues. However, U.S. government restrictions on selling advanced semiconductor equipment to Chinese manufacturers are hurting Applied Materials’ sales and growth outlook.
Moreover, the broader semiconductor market is recovering, but memory markets, including DRAM and NAND, remain weak. The company expects only a gradual recovery in memory-related semiconductor demand in 2025, which could weigh on Applied Materials’ revenue growth in the near term. Furthermore, the competition from players like KLA Corp. KLAC, Lam Research LRCX and ASML Holding ASML in the semiconductor supply chain market is also a concern for AMAT.
Lam Research’s memory segment, accounting for both Dynamic Random Access Memory and Non-Volatile Memory divisions, is gaining traction on the back of AI. Lam Research’s memory and Non-Volatile Memory division’s sales are gaining traction. The rising demand for AI chips is also ramping up the demand for advanced process control and process-enabling solutions provided by KLA Corp.
KLAC’s advanced packaging solutions are also experiencing robust traction on the back of AI and high-performance computing. ASML Holding’s DRAM and logic customers are driving the demand for its products. These customers are ramping up leading-edge nodes using ASML’s NXE:3800E EUV systems. Additionally, ASML noted that multiple DRAM customers are adopting EUV lithography, which helps in shortening cycle time and lowering costs.
AMAT Stock is Overvalued at Present
Applied Materials shares are trading at a forward price-to-sales ratio of 7.28X, higher than the industry’s average of 6.79X.
AMAT Forward 12 Month (P/S) Valuation Chart
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Conclusion: Hold AMAT Stock Now
Applied Materials enjoys powerful AI-driven momentum across logic, DRAM and advanced packaging, supported by expanding margins and rising investor confidence. Yet export restrictions, competitive pressure and a stretched valuation limit near-term upside. Considering these factors, we suggest that investors should retain this Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) stock at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 (Strong Buy) Rank stocks here.
Zacks Naming Top 10 Stocks for 2026
Want to be tipped off early to our 10 top picks for the entirety of 2026? History suggests their performance could be sensational.
From 2012 (when our Director of Research Sheraz Mian assumed responsibility for the portfolio) through November, 2025, the Zacks Top 10 Stocks gained +2,530.8%, more than QUADRUPLING the S&P 500’s +570.3%.
Now Sheraz is combing through 4,400 companies to handpick the best 10 tickers to buy and hold in 2026. Don’t miss your chance to get in on these stocks when they’re released on January 5.
Be First to New Top 10 Stocks >>
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

AMAT Rises 56% in a Year: Should You Buy, Sell or Hold the Stock?

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is down by -0.02%, the Dow Jones Industrials Index ($DOWI) (DIA) is down by -0.25%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is up by +0.33%. December E-mini S&P futures (ESZ25) are down -0.03%, and December E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQZ25) are up +0.30%.
Stock indexes are mixed today. Higher bond yields are negative for stocks, as the 10-year T-note yield climbed to a 2-week high today of 4.16% and is currently up +1 bp. However, stocks have support on expectations that the Fed will cut interest rates following the 2-day FOMC meeting that ends on Wednesday. Market seasonals are also supportive of stocks, as December is typically a bullish month. Strength in chip stocks today is providing a bullish backdrop to the overall market.
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M&A activity and positive corporate news are also helping to push stocks higher. Confluent is up more than +27% after IBM acquired the company for about $11 billion, including debt. Also, Carvana is up more than +7% after S&P Dow Jones Indices said the company will replace LKQ Corp in the S&P 500 before trading begins on Monday, December 22.
The markets this week will focus on government reports and the FOMC meeting. On Tuesday, Oct JOLTS job openings are expected to increase by 7,150. On Wednesday, the Q3 employment cost index is expected to climb by +0.9%. The results of the Tue/Wed FOMC meeting are expected to show a 25 bp cut in the fed funds target range to 3.50%-3.75%. The markets will also look to post-meeting comments from Fed Chair Powell on the future direction of interest rates. On Thursday, weekly initial unemployment claims are expected to increase by +29,000 to 220,000.
Today’s Chinese trade report was mixed as China’s Nov exports rose +5.9% y/y, stronger than expectations of +4.0% y/y. However, Nov imports rose by only +1.9% y/y, weaker than expectations of +3.0% y/y.
President Trump said last Tuesday that he will announce his selection for the new Fed Chair in early 2026. Bloomberg reported last week that National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett is seen as the likely choice to succeed Powell. The Fed’s independence would come into question, as Hassett supports President Trump’s approach to cutting interest rates at the Fed.
The markets are discounting a 100% chance of another -25 bp rate cut at the conclusion of the 2-day FOMC meeting on Wednesday.
Q3 corporate earnings season is drawing to a close as 495 of the 500 S&P companies have released results. According to Bloomberg Intelligence, 83% of reporting S&P 500 companies exceeded forecasts, on course for the best quarter since 2021. Q3 earnings rose +14.6%, more than doubling expectations of +7.2% y/y.
Overseas stock markets are higher today. The Euro Stoxx 50 is up +0.03%. China’s Shanghai Composite rallied to a 2-week high and closed up +0.54%. Japan’s Nikkei Stock 225 closed up +0.18%.
Interest Rates
March 10-year T-notes (ZNH6) today are down -3 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield is up +1.2 bp to 4.147%. Mar T-note futures slid to a 2-week low today, and the 10-year T-note yield rose to a 2-week high of 4.159%. Today's strength in stocks is weighing on T-note prices. Also, supply pressures are undercutting T-note prices as the Treasury will auction $119 billion of T-notes and T-bonds this week, beginning with today’s $58 billion auction of 3-year T-notes. In addition, T-notes were weighed down by negative carryover from a fall in Japanese 10-year JGB bond prices to an 18-year low today, amid prospects for a BOJ rate hike later this month.
European government bond yields are moving higher today. The 10-year German bund yield climbed to an 8.5-month high of 2.846% and is up by +4.1 bp to 2.839%. The 10-year UK gilt yield rose to a 1.5-week high of 4.524% and is up by +2.0 bp to 4.496%.
The Eurozone Dec Sentix investor confidence index rose by +1.2 -6.2, stronger than expectations of -6.3.
German Oct industrial production rose +1.8% m/m, stronger than expectations of +0.3% m/m and the biggest increase in 7 months.
ECB Executive Board member Isabel Schnabel said risks to the Eurozone economy and inflation are tilted to the upside, and she's "rather comfortable" with market expectations that the ECB's next interest rate move will be an increase.
Swaps are discounting a 1% chance for a -25 bp rate cut by the ECB at its next policy meeting on December 18.
US Stock Movers
Chip makers are moving higher today and are supporting gains in the broader market. Micron Technology (MU) is up more than +4% and Broadcom (AVGO) is up more than +3%. Also, Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), Lam Research (LRCX), and ASML Holding NV (ASML) are up more than +2%. In addition, Nvidia (NVDA), ON Semiconductor (ON), KLA Corp (KLAC), and Microchip Technology (MCHP) are up more than +1%.
Cryptocurrency-exposed stocks are climbing today, with Bitcoin (^BTCUSD) up more than +3%. Strategy (MSTR), Coinbase Global (COIN), and MARA Holdings (MARA) are up more than +2%. Also, Galaxy Digital Holdings (GLXY) and Riot Platforms (RIOT) are up more than +1%.
Kymers Therapeutics (KYMR) is up more than +41% after reporting positive clinical results from its BroADen Phase 1b trial of KT-621, an oral STAT6 degrader, in patients with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis.
Confluent (CFLT) is up more than +27% after International Business Machines acquired the company for about $11 billion, or about $31 a share.
Warner Bros Discovery (WBD) is up more than +6% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 11 after Paramount Skydance offered $30 a share for the company, above Netflix’s offer of $27.75 a share.
Carvana (CVNA) is up more than +7% after S&P Dow Jones Indices said the company will replace LKQ Corp in the S&P 500 before trading begins on Monday, December 22.
CRH Plc (CRH) is up more than +5% after S&P Dow Jones Indices said the company will replace Solstice Advanced Materials in the S&P 500 before trading begins on Monday, December 22.
Compass Inc (COMP) is up more than +4% after Barclays upgraded the stock to overweight from equal weight with a price target of $13.
Inspire Medical Systems (INSP) is up more than +1% after Oppenheimer & Co upgraded the stock to outperform from market perform with a price target of $175.
Marvell Technology (MRVL) is down more than -8% to lead losers in the Nasdaq 100 after Benchmark Company LLC downgraded the stock to hold from buy.
CoreWeave (CRWV) is down more than -5% after announcing it intends to offer $2 billion convertible senior notes due 2031 in a private offering.
Range Resources (RRC) is down more than -2% after JPMorgan Chase downgraded the stock to underweight from neutral with a price target of $39.
Rivian Automotive (RIVN) is down more than -2% after Morgan Stanley downgraded the stock to underweight from equal weight with a price target of $12.
Lennar (LEN) is down more than -2% after Barclays downgraded the stock to underweight from equal weight with a price target of $98.
Tesla (TSLA) is down more than -2% after Morgan Stanley downgraded the stock to equal weight from overweight.
Earnings Reports(12/8/2025)
Barnes & Noble Education Inc (BNED), Compass Minerals International (CMP), Mama's Creations Inc (MAMA), Oil-Dri Corp of America (ODC), Ooma Inc (OOMA), Phreesia Inc (PHR), Rezolve AI PLC (RZLV), Toll Brothers Inc (TOL).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Stocks Mixed as Bond Yields Rise

The following are the top rated Information Technology stocks according to Validea's Patient Investor model based on the published strategy of Warren Buffett. This strategy seeks out firms with long-term, predictable profitability and low debt that trade at reasonable valuations.
APPLIED MATERIALS INC (AMAT) is a large-cap growth stock in the Semiconductors industry. The rating according to our strategy based on Warren Buffett is 100% based on the firm’s underlying fundamentals and the stock’s valuation. A score of 80% or above typically indicates that the strategy has some interest in the stock and a score above 90% typically indicates strong interest.
Company Description: Applied Materials, Inc. is a materials engineering solution company. The Company provides equipment, services and software to the semiconductor, display, and related industries. It operates in three segments: Semiconductor Systems, Applied Global Services (AGS), and Display. The Semiconductor systems segment designs, develops, manufactures and sells a range of primarily 300 mm equipment used to fabricate semiconductor chips, also referred to as integrated circuits (ICs). The AGS segment provides services, spares and factory automation software to customer fabrication plants globally. The AGS segment also manufactures and sells 200mm and other equipment. The Display segment is comprised primarily of products for manufacturing liquid crystal displays (LCDs), organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), and other display technologies for televisions, monitors, laptops, personal computers (PCs), tablets, smartphones, and other consumer-oriented devices.
The following table summarizes whether the stock meets each of this strategy's tests. Not all criteria in the below table receive equal weighting or are independent, but the table provides a brief overview of the strong and weak points of the security in the context of the strategy's criteria.
Detailed Analysis of APPLIED MATERIALS INC
ASML HOLDING NV (ADR) (ASML) is a large-cap growth stock in the Semiconductors industry. The rating according to our strategy based on Warren Buffett is 86% based on the firm’s underlying fundamentals and the stock’s valuation. A score of 80% or above typically indicates that the strategy has some interest in the stock and a score above 90% typically indicates strong interest.
Company Description: ASML Holding N.V. is a holding company based in the Netherlands. The Company operates through its subsidiaries in the Netherlands, the United States, Italy, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Belgium, South Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia and Israel. The Company operates through one business segment which is engage in development, production, marketing, sales, upgrading and servicing of advanced semiconductor equipment systems, consisting of lithography, metrology and inspection systems. The Company offers TWINSCAN systems, equipped with lithography system with a mercury lamp as light source (i-line), Krypton Fluoride (KrF) and Argon Fluoride (ArF) light sources for processing wafers for manufacturing environments for which imaging at a small resolution is required. TWINSCAN systems also include immersion lithography systems (TWINSCAN immersion systems).
The following table summarizes whether the stock meets each of this strategy's tests. Not all criteria in the below table receive equal weighting or are independent, but the table provides a brief overview of the strong and weak points of the security in the context of the strategy's criteria.
Detailed Analysis of ASML HOLDING NV (ADR)
KLA CORP (KLAC) is a large-cap growth stock in the Semiconductors industry. The rating according to our strategy based on Warren Buffett is 86% based on the firm’s underlying fundamentals and the stock’s valuation. A score of 80% or above typically indicates that the strategy has some interest in the stock and a score above 90% typically indicates strong interest.
Company Description: KLA Corporation is a supplier of process control and yield management solutions and services for the semiconductor and related electronics industries. The Company offers a portfolio of inspection and metrology products, and related services, software and other offerings, supports research and development (R&D) and manufacturing of integrated circuits (ICs), wafers and reticles. Its segments include Semiconductor Process Control, Specialty Semiconductor Process, and PCB and Component Inspection. Semiconductor Process Control segment provides comprehensive portfolio of inspection, metrology and software products, as well as related services, helping IC, wafer, reticle/mask and chemical/materials manufacturers achieve target yields throughout the entire fabrication process, from R&D to final volume production. The Specialty Semiconductor Process segment develops and sells advanced vacuum deposition and etch process tools, which are used by a range of specialty semiconductor customers.
The following table summarizes whether the stock meets each of this strategy's tests. Not all criteria in the below table receive equal weighting or are independent, but the table provides a brief overview of the strong and weak points of the security in the context of the strategy's criteria.
Detailed Analysis of KLA CORP
MICROSOFT CORP (MSFT) is a large-cap growth stock in the Software & Programming industry. The rating according to our strategy based on Warren Buffett is 86% based on the firm’s underlying fundamentals and the stock’s valuation. A score of 80% or above typically indicates that the strategy has some interest in the stock and a score above 90% typically indicates strong interest.
Company Description: Microsoft Corporation is a technology company. The Company develops and supports software, services, devices, and solutions. The Companys segments include Productivity and Business Processes, Intelligent Cloud, and More Personal Computing. The Productivity and Business Processes segment consists of products and services in its portfolio of productivity, communication, and information services. This segment primarily comprises: Office Commercial, Office Consumer, LinkedIn, and Dynamics business solutions. The Intelligent Cloud segment consists of server products and cloud services, including Azure and other cloud services, SQL Server, Windows Server, Visual Studio, System Center, and related Client Access Licenses (CALs), and Nuance and GitHub; and Enterprise Services, including enterprise support services, industry solutions and Nuance professional services. The More Personal Computing segment primarily comprises Windows, Devices, Gaming, and search and news advertising.
The following table summarizes whether the stock meets each of this strategy's tests. Not all criteria in the below table receive equal weighting or are independent, but the table provides a brief overview of the strong and weak points of the security in the context of the strategy's criteria.
Detailed Analysis of MICROSOFT CORP
LAM RESEARCH CORP (LRCX) is a large-cap growth stock in the Semiconductors industry. The rating according to our strategy based on Warren Buffett is 86% based on the firm’s underlying fundamentals and the stock’s valuation. A score of 80% or above typically indicates that the strategy has some interest in the stock and a score above 90% typically indicates strong interest.
Company Description: Lam Research Corporation is a global supplier of wafer fabrication equipment and services to the semiconductor industry. The Company designs, manufactures, markets, refurbishes, and services semiconductor processing equipment used in the fabrication of integrated circuits. Its products and services are designed to help its customers build devices that are used in a variety of electronic products, including mobile phones, personal computers, servers, wearables, automotive vehicles, and data storage devices. Its product families include ALTUS, SABRE, SPEED, Striker, VECTOR, Flex, Vantex, Kiyo, Versys Metal, Syndion, Coronus, and DV-Prime, Da Vinci, EOS, and SP Series. Its customer base includes semiconductor memory, foundries, and integrated device manufacturers that make products such as non-volatile memory, dynamic random-access memory, and logic devices. It offers services in areas, such as nanoscale applications enablement, chemistry, plasma and fluidics, and others.
The following table summarizes whether the stock meets each of this strategy's tests. Not all criteria in the below table receive equal weighting or are independent, but the table provides a brief overview of the strong and weak points of the security in the context of the strategy's criteria.
Detailed Analysis of LAM RESEARCH CORP
About Warren Buffett: Warren Buffett is considered by many to be the greatest investor of all time. As the chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, Buffett has consistently outperformed the S&P 500 for decades, and in the process has become one of the world's richest men. (Forbes puts his net worth at $37 billion.) Despite his fortune, Buffett is known for living a modest lifestyle, by billionaire standards. His primary residence remains the gray stucco Nebraska home he purchased for $31,500 nearly 50 years ago, according to Forbes, and his folksy Midwestern manner and penchant for simple pleasures -- a cherry Coke, a good burger, and a good book are all near the top of the list -- have been well-documented.
About Validea: Validea is aninvestment researchservice that follows the published strategies of investment legends. Validea offers both stock analysis and model portfolios based on gurus who have outperformed the market over the long-term, including Warren Buffett, Benjamin Graham, Peter Lynch and Martin Zweig. For more information about Validea, click here
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Validea's Top Information Technology Stocks Based On Warren Buffett - 12/8/2025

For new and old investors, taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals. Zacks Premium provides lots of different ways to do both.
The popular research service can help you become a smarter, more self-assured investor, giving you access to daily updates of the Zacks Rank and Zacks Industry Rank, the Zacks #1 Rank List, Equity Research reports, and Premium stock screens.
It also includes access to the Zacks Style Scores.
What are the Zacks Style Scores?
The Zacks Style Scores is a unique set of guidelines that rates stocks based on three popular investing types, and were developed as complementary indicators for the Zacks Rank. This combination helps investors choose securities with the highest chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.
Each stock is assigned a rating of A, B, C, D, or F based on their value, growth, and momentum characteristics. Just like in school, an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on -- that means the better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform.
The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:
Value Score
Value investors love finding good stocks at good prices, especially before the broader market catches on to a stock's true value. Utilizing ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and many other multiples, the Value Style Score identifies the most attractive and most discounted stocks.
Growth Score
Growth investors are more concerned with a stock's future prospects, and the overall financial health and strength of a company. Thus, the Growth Style Score analyzes characteristics like projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow to find stocks that will see sustainable growth over time.
Momentum Score
Momentum investors, who live by the saying "the trend is your friend," are most interested in taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook. Utilizing one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates, among other factors, the Momentum Style Score can help determine favorable times to buy high-momentum stocks.
VGM Score
If you want a combination of all three Style Scores, then the VGM Score will be your friend. It rates each stock on their combined weighted styles, helping you find the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum. It's also one of the best indicators to use with the Zacks Rank.
How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank
A proprietary stock-rating model, the Zacks Rank utilizes the power of earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings outlook, to help investors create a successful portfolio.
It's highly successful, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +23.93% average annual return since 1988. That's more than double the S&P 500. But because of the large number of stocks we rate, there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.
This totals more than 800 top-rated stocks, and it can be overwhelming to try and pick the best stocks for you and your portfolio.
That's where the Style Scores come in.
To maximize your returns, you want to buy stocks with the highest probability of success. This means picking stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B. If you find yourself looking at stocks with a #3 (Hold) rank, make sure they have Scores of A or B as well to ensure as much upside potential as possible.
As mentioned above, the Scores are designed to work with the Zacks Rank, so any change to a company's earnings outlook should be a deciding factor when picking which stocks to buy.
A stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, for instance, even one with Scores of A and B, will still have a declining earnings forecast, and a greater chance its share price will fall too.
Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.
Stock to Watch: KLA (KLAC)
San Jose, CA-based KLA Corporation is an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) of process diagnostics and control (PDC) equipment and yield management solutions required for the fabrication of semiconductor integrated circuits (ICs) or chips. The company has a comprehensive portfolio of products addressing each major PDC subsegment—photomask (reticle) inspection, wafer inspection/defect review and metrology.
KLAC is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of B.
Additionally, the company could be a top pick for growth investors. KLAC has a Growth Style Score of B, forecasting year-over-year earnings growth of 6.4% for the current fiscal year.
Five analysts revised their earnings estimate higher in the last 60 days for fiscal 2026, while the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.51 to $35.40 per share. KLAC also boasts an average earnings surprise of +5.9%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Growth and VGM Style Scores, KLAC should be on investors' short list.
Research Chief Names "Single Best Pick to Double"
From thousands of stocks, 5 Zacks experts each have chosen their favorite to skyrocket +100% or more in months to come. From those 5, Director of Research Sheraz Mian hand-picks one to have the most explosive upside of all.
This company targets millennial and Gen Z audiences, generating nearly $1 billion in revenue last quarter alone. A recent pullback makes now an ideal time to jump aboard. Of course, all our elite picks aren’t winners but this one could far surpass earlier Zacks’ Stocks Set to Double like Nano-X Imaging which shot up +129.6% in little more than 9 months.
Free: See Our Top Stock And 4 Runners Up
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
KLA Corporation (KLAC) : Free Stock Analysis Report
This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com).
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Here's Why KLA (KLAC) is a Strong Growth Stock

Looking today at week-over-week shares outstanding changes among the universe of ETFs covered at ETF Channel, one standout is the First Trust Nasdaq Semiconductor ETF (Symbol: FTXL) where we have detected an approximate $203.3 million dollar inflow -- that's a 19.9% increase week over week in outstanding units (from 8,550,002 to 10,250,002). Among the largest underlying components of FTXL, in trading today KLA Corp (Symbol: KLAC) is trading flat, Amkor Technology Inc. (Symbol: AMKR) is up about 1.9%, and Skyworks Solutions Inc (Symbol: SWKS) is up by about 1.7%. For a complete list of holdings, visit the FTXL Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of FTXL, versus its 200 day moving average:
Looking at the chart above, FTXL's low point in its 52 week range is $59.72 per share, with $129.89 as the 52 week high point — that compares with a last trade of $121.03. Comparing the most recent share price to the 200 day moving average can also be a useful technical analysis technique -- learn more about the 200 day moving average ».
Free Report: Top 8%+ Dividends (paid monthly)
Exchange traded funds (ETFs) trade just like stocks, but instead of ''shares'' investors are actually buying and selling ''units''. These ''units'' can be traded back and forth just like stocks, but can also be created or destroyed to accommodate investor demand. Each week we monitor the week-over-week change in shares outstanding data, to keep a lookout for those ETFs experiencing notable inflows (many new units created) or outflows (many old units destroyed). Creation of new units will mean the underlying holdings of the ETF need to be purchased, while destruction of units involves selling underlying holdings, so large flows can also impact the individual components held within ETFs.
Also see:
CHUX Insider Buying
Institutional Holders of BFRA
PLAB Historical Stock Prices
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

FTXL, KLAC, AMKR, SWKS: ETF Inflow Alert

Investors in KLA Corp (Symbol: KLAC) saw new options begin trading today, for the May 2026 expiration. One of the key inputs that goes into the price an option buyer is willing to pay, is the time value, so with 170 days until expiration the newly trading contracts represent a possible opportunity for sellers of puts or calls to achieve a higher premium than would be available for the contracts with a closer expiration. At Stock Options Channel, our YieldBoost formula has looked up and down the KLAC options chain for the new May 2026 contracts and identified one put and one call contract of particular interest.
The put contract at the $1140.00 strike price has a current bid of $122.70. If an investor was to sell-to-open that put contract, they are committing to purchase the stock at $1140.00, but will also collect the premium, putting the cost basis of the shares at $1017.30 (before broker commissions). To an investor already interested in purchasing shares of KLAC, that could represent an attractive alternative to paying $1146.12/share today.
Because the $1140.00 strike represents an approximate 1% discount to the current trading price of the stock (in other words it is out-of-the-money by that percentage), there is also the possibility that the put contract would expire worthless. The current analytical data (including greeks and implied greeks) suggest the current odds of that happening are 59%. Stock Options Channel will track those odds over time to see how they change, publishing a chart of those numbers on our website under the contract detail page for this contract. Should the contract expire worthless, the premium would represent a 10.76% return on the cash commitment, or 23.11% annualized — at Stock Options Channel we call this the YieldBoost.
Below is a chart showing the trailing twelve month trading history for KLA Corp, and highlighting in green where the $1140.00 strike is located relative to that history:
Turning to the calls side of the option chain, the call contract at the $1190.00 strike price has a current bid of $132.30. If an investor was to purchase shares of KLAC stock at the current price level of $1146.12/share, and then sell-to-open that call contract as a "covered call," they are committing to sell the stock at $1190.00. Considering the call seller will also collect the premium, that would drive a total return (excluding dividends, if any) of 15.37% if the stock gets called away at the May 2026 expiration (before broker commissions). Of course, a lot of upside could potentially be left on the table if KLAC shares really soar, which is why looking at the trailing twelve month trading history for KLA Corp, as well as studying the business fundamentals becomes important. Below is a chart showing KLAC's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $1190.00 strike highlighted in red:
Considering the fact that the $1190.00 strike represents an approximate 4% premium to the current trading price of the stock (in other words it is out-of-the-money by that percentage), there is also the possibility that the covered call contract would expire worthless, in which case the investor would keep both their shares of stock and the premium collected. The current analytical data (including greeks and implied greeks) suggest the current odds of that happening are 46%. On our website under the contract detail page for this contract, Stock Options Channel will track those odds over time to see how they change and publish a chart of those numbers (the trading history of the option contract will also be charted). Should the covered call contract expire worthless, the premium would represent a 11.54% boost of extra return to the investor, or 24.79% annualized, which we refer to as the YieldBoost.
The implied volatility in the put contract example is 45%, while the implied volatility in the call contract example is 47%.
Meanwhile, we calculate the actual trailing twelve month volatility (considering the last 250 trading day closing values as well as today's price of $1146.12) to be 43%. For more put and call options contract ideas worth looking at, visit StockOptionsChannel.com.
Also see:
Funds Holding IACA
HEXO Options Chain
Institutional Holders of PLTG
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

KLA Corporation

Price history and volume

Shares 360

Investment risk — low

Investment potential — high

Price drivers

Quantum Computing

stagflation

Labor Costs

Internet of Things

United States - China Relations

Self-driving Cars

Japanese Economy

Inflation

Cloud Computing

Generative AI

USD Average Exchange Rate

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