Micron Technology, Inc. designs, develops, manufactures, and sells memory and storage products worldwide. The company operates through four segments: Compute and Networking Business Unit, Mobile Business Unit, Embedded Business Unit, and Storage Business Unit. It provides memory and storage technologies comprising dynamic random access memory semiconductor devices with low latency that provide high-speed data retrieval; non-volatile and re-writeable semiconductor storage devices; and non-volatile re-writable semiconductor memory devices that provide fast read speeds under the Micron and Crucial brands, as well as through private labels. The company offers memory products for the cloud server, enterprise, client, graphics, networking, industrial, and automotive markets, as well as for smartphone and other mobile-device markets; SSDs and component-level solutions for the enterprise and cloud, client, and consumer storage markets; discrete storage products in component and wafers; and memory and storage products for the automotive, industrial, and consumer markets. It markets its products through its direct sales force, independent sales representatives, distributors, and retailers; and web-based customer direct sales channel, as well as through channel and distribution partners. Micron Technology, Inc. was founded in 1978 and is headquartered in Boise, Idaho.

Micron Technology, Inc.

Key Points
BigBear.ai's share price performance has been impressive, but its falling sales and lack of profitability are red flags.
AI-driven demand for Micron's memory chips is off the charts and fueling impressive earnings growth.
Alphabet's Gemini model is gaining widespread adoption.
BigBear.ai (NYSE: BBAI) has attracted a lot of attention on Wall Street over the past few years for its AI data analytics platform. The company sells its services to the U.S. government and private companies, and some investors hope it could be the next Palantir.
Excitement about AI in general and BigBear.ai's prospects specifically have helped push its share price up by an impressive 152% over the past three years. But there are some warning flags flying, among them the company's 20% revenue decline in the third quarter, the fact that it isn't profitable, and that its losses are widening.
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On top of all of this, BigBear.ai's stock is pricey, with a price-to-sales ratio of nearly 13 right now compared to the tech sector's average P/S ratio of less than 9. With so many reasons to worry about BigBear.ai's investment thesis, retail investors would do better to look elsewhere. With that in mind, here are two great AI stock alternatives to buy now.
AI memory demand is through the roof
If a fast-growing AI company with lots of upside potential is what you're looking for, look no further than memory maker Micron Technology (NASDAQ: MU). The company's NAND flash and dynamic random-access memory (DRAM) products are in high demand as tech companies rush to build AI data centers.
How in demand, exactly? Well, Chief Business Officer Sumit Sadana told investors on Micron's earnings call last month that the company was "more than sold out" at the end of its most recent fiscal quarter. This makes it a classic pick-and-shovel investment in the midst of an AI gold rush. And with an estimated $3 trillion to $4 trillion estimated to be spent on AI infrastructure by 2030, there are likely plenty of picks and shovels still to be purchased.
And, unlike BigBear.ai, Micron's sales are rising, and the company is profitable. Revenue rose 57% to $13.6 billion in the first quarter of its fiscal 2026, and non-GAAP (adjusted) earnings per share increased 167% to $4.78.
The emerging AI leader is hiding in plain sight
I know Alphabet (NASDAQ: GOOG) (NASDAQ: GOOGL) isn't as exciting as some other AI stocks out there, unless you find an expanding position in AI, massive sales, and a profitable business to be exciting (which you should).
Alphabet's AI play comes mainly from its Gemini chatbot, which now has 650 million monthly active users, up from 400 million about eight months ago. Alphabet is about to expand Gemini's reach as well. Apple recently selected it to be the underlying AI model for a new version of Siri that will debut later this year. Aside from putting Gemini in more hands, Alphabet will receive an estimated $1 billion from Apple annually.
In Alphabet's third quarter, its total sales rose 16% to $102 billion, and its earnings jumped 35% to $2.87 per share. While previously, there were concerns that the growing use of AI could erode Alphabet's dominance in its core search market, the company is now well positioned to benefit from artificial intelligence with its Gemini chatbot at the center of its AI strategy.
Both Micron and Alphabet are clear leaders in their respective AI niches right now, and with demand rising for each of their products in the space, it's likely they could maintain their dominant positions for years to come. Just remember that tech stocks have been volatile lately, so some short-term share price fluctuations are to be expected.
Should you buy stock in Micron Technology right now?
Before you buy stock in Micron Technology, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Micron Technology wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $456,457!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,174,057!*
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Chris Neiger has positions in Apple. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Alphabet, Apple, Micron Technology, and Palantir Technologies. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Should You Forget BigBear.ai and Buy These 2 Artificial Intelligence (AI) Stocks Instead?

Avnet, Inc. AVT shares jumped 13.8% on Wednesday after the company reported better-than-expected second-quarter fiscal 2026 results. The company’s second-quarter adjusted earnings of $1.05 per share surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 10.53%. Moreover, the bottom line surged 20.7% on a year-over-year basis.
Net sales increased 11.6% year over year to $6.32 billion and outpaced the consensus mark by 5.28%. The year-over-year growth was primarily driven by strong sales across the company’s operating segments.
Avnet’s Q2 Details
The Electronic Components segment’s revenues were up 10.8% year over year and 7.1% sequentially to $5.89 billion. Our estimate for the Electronic Components segment’s revenues was pegged at $5.6 billion.
Farnell sales soared 23.6% year over year and 7.1% sequentially to $427.1 million. Our estimate for the Farnell segment’s revenues was pegged at $400.8 million.
Avnet, Inc. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
From a regional perspective, on a year-over-year basis, sales increased 16.9% in Asia to $3.17 billion and 4.9% in the Americas to $1.44 billion. Sales in the EMEA jumped 8.3% to $1.71 billion.
The adjusted operating income came in at $171.7 million, which increased 7.7% year over year. The operating income for the Electronic Components segment rose 3% to $187.1 million, while that for Farnell’s jumped fivefold to $20 million from $3.5 million in the year-ago quarter.
Avnet’s adjusted operating margin shrank 10 basis points (bps) to 2.7% from the year-ago quarter. Electronic Components’ operating margin contracted 20 bps to 3.2%, while Farnell’s improved 370 bps to 4.7%.
Balance Sheet & Cash Flow of Avnet
As of Dec. 27, 2025, AVT had cash and cash equivalents of $286.5 million compared with $175.5 million reported as of Sept. 27, 2025.
The long-term debt was $2.47 billion as of Dec. 27, 2025, lower than $2.79 billion at the end of the previous quarter.
Avnet generated operating cash flow of $208 million in the second quarter and $63.7 million in the first half of fiscal 2026. In the second quarter, the company did not repurchase its shares but paid $28 million in dividends to shareholders. In the first half of fiscal 2026, it repurchased shares worth $138.3 million and paid $56.9 million in dividends.
Avnet Initiates Q3 Guidance
For the third quarter of fiscal 2026, Avnet anticipates revenues in the range of $6.2-$6.5 billion (midpoint of $6.35 billion). The Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenues is pegged at $5.8 billion, suggesting a year-over-year increase of 9.1%.
AVT expects non-GAAP earnings between $1.20 and $1.30 per share. The consensus mark for the bottom line is pinned at $1.22, suggesting a year-over-year increase of 45.2%.
Avnet’s Zacks Rank & Stocks to Consider
Currently, AVT carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Amphenol APH, Micron Technology MU and Analog Devices ADI are some better-ranked stocks that investors can consider in the Zacks Computer and Technology sector. Amphenol and Micron Technology each sport a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) at present, while Analog Devices carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Amphenol’s 2026 earnings has been revised upward by 10 cents over the past seven days to $4.26 per share, calling for an increase of 28.7% year over year. Amphenol shares have surged 103.7% in the trailing 12 months.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Micron Technology’s fiscal 2026 earnings has moved southward by 7 cents in the past seven days to $33.01 per share, implying 298.2% year-over-year growth. Micron Technology shares have soared 370.6% over the past year.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Analog Devices’ fiscal 2026 earnings is pegged at $10.01 per share, revised upward by 22 cents over the past 30 days and suggests a year-over-year increase of 28.5%. Analog Devices’ shares have rallied 49.6% over the past year.
Beyond Nvidia: AI's Second Wave Is Here
The AI revolution has already minted millionaires. But the stocks everyone knows about aren't likely to keep delivering the biggest profits. Little-known AI firms tackling the world's biggest problems may be more lucrative in the coming months and years.
See
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Avnet Stock Rallies 14% as Q2 Earnings and Revenues Beat Estimates

Key Points
Nvidia continues to dominate the AI training and inference markets worldwide.
Micron is benefiting from the AI-powered surge in demand for memory.
TSMC is manufacturing the majority of the chips powering the AI infrastructure build-out.
Gen Z investors are increasingly opting for a long-term, growth-first mindset and are investing earlier than any generation before them.
According to the World Economic Forum, 30% of Gen Z begin investing as university students or in early adulthood, far higher than 15% of millennials and 9% of Gen X. Motley Fool's Generational Investing Trends Survey also found that 45% of Gen Z investors prefer growth stocks, while nearly 22% are likely to be invested in artificial intelligence (AI) stocks.
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Against this backdrop, here are three stocks that could be well suited for Gen Z-style investment portfolios focused on AI-driven growth.
1. Nvidia
Nvidia's (NASDAQ: NVDA) chips have been increasingly powering Gen Z's digital life, as its graphics processing units (GPUs) and networking platforms continue to be the backbone of modern AI training and inference (deployment in real-time environments).
Nvidia has been exceptionally successful in monetizing this demand. Analysts expect fiscal 2026 (ended Jan. 26, 2026) revenue of about $213.3 billion, up roughly 63.5% year over year. They also project the fiscal 2026 average earnings-per-share (EPS) estimate of $4.69, representing 56.8% year-over-year growth. Nvidia also enjoys more than $500 billion worth of revenue visibility for its Blackwell and Rubin systems from the start of 2025 through 2026.
The company's business momentum can further accelerate, as Chinese authorities have reportedly told Chinese technology giants Alibaba, Tencent, and ByteDance that they can "prepare" orders for Nvidia's H200 AI chips. If Beijing approves imports of these AI chips, it could open an annual market opportunity worth more than $50 billion for the company, according to CEO Jensen Huang.
It is also reported that Chinese technology companies have already ordered more than 2 million H200 chips, far higher than Nvidia's available inventory of just 700,000 units. With demand significantly exceeding available supply, Nvidia will continue to enjoy strong pricing power.
Nvidia has also developed the next-generation Vera Rubin platform, a six-chip system integrating a central processing unit (CPU), GPU, networking hardware, and data center infrastructure. Designed to offer dramatically higher performance at significantly lower cost than the prior Blackwell system, Rubin can further extend the company's dominance in the AI data center space.
All these factors make Nvidia an unmatched opportunity for Gen Z investors in 2026.
2. Micron
Micron's (NASDAQ: MU) memory chips are also playing a crucial role in the ongoing AI boom. In the first quarter of fiscal 2026 (ended Nov. 27, 2025), the company's revenues were up nearly 57% year over year to $13.6 billion, while EPS jumped 167% year over year to $4.78. Free cash flow also reached a record $3.9 billion.
Management said its high-bandwidth memory (HBM, a type of DRAM kept close to GPUs for efficiently running AI workloads) was "effectively sold out" through calendar year 2026. With DRAM and NAND demand also far surpassing available supply, memory prices have soared by nearly 50% in the last quarter of 2025 and are expected to surge another 40% to 50% by the end of the first quarter of 2026. Since only three companies, SK Hynix, Samsung, and Micron, together make more than 90% of the global memory supply, these companies will continue to enjoy premium pricing power.
To capitalize on the growing opportunity, Micron is investing around $200 billion to build incremental production capacity in the U.S. While the company is investing $100 billion in a leading-edge memory facility in New York comprised of four fabrication plants, the remaining amount will be spent on two fabrication plants in Idaho, the expansion of a manufacturing plant in Virginia, and on HBM packaging capabilities.
Micron has also signed a letter of intent to buy Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing's P5 fabrication plant in Taiwan for $1.8 billion in cash. This deal is expected to close in 2026 and contribute meaningful DRAM wafer output starting in the second half of calendar year 2027. This move has further strengthened Micron's long-term memory-manufacturing footprint and can support the next wave of AI-driven memory demand.
3. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing
Gen Z investors who do not want to guess which AI app or device will win can consider buying Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (NYSE: TSM), the company that makes advanced chips powering almost all of them. Hence, TSMC is a significant beneficiary of the rising demand for AI data centers, smartphones, and next-generation computing hardware.
In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025 (ended Dec. 31, 2025), revenues were up 25.5% year over year to $33.7 billion, while operating margin was a solid 54%, and net income margin was 48.3%. This shows that the company has maintained profitability despite being supply constrained. Management expects revenues to be in the range of $34.6 billion to $35.8 billion and operating margins in the range of 54% to 56% in fiscal 2026's Q1. The robust outlook underscores continued confidence in the AI market's growth potential.
TSMC is aggressively expanding capacity to fuel growth in the coming years. The company plans to invest $52 billion to $56 billion in capital expenditures in 2026, with 70% to 80% allotted to advanced process technologies, 10% to specialty technologies, and the remaining 10% to 20% to advanced packaging, testing, and mask making. All this infrastructure is crucial for making AI chips. The company plans to expand capacity in Taiwan and Arizona, while optimizing production across its leading-edge nodes to maximize output.
AI accelerator (chips) revenues accounted for a high-teens percentage of total revenues in 2025. The company now expects AI accelerator revenues to grow annually at a mid -to-high 50% compounded average growth rate (CAGR) from 2024 to 2029.
With TSMC rapidly expanding its AI chip-manufacturing potential, the company can prove to be a solid addition to a Gen Z portfolio.
Should you buy stock in Nvidia right now?
Before you buy stock in Nvidia, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Nvidia wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $461,527!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,155,666!*
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*Stock Advisor returns as of January 29, 2026.
Manali Pradhan, CFA has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Micron Technology, Nvidia, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing, and Tencent. The Motley Fool recommends Alibaba Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

3 Top AI Stocks for Gen Z Investors to Consider Buying Now

For Immediate Release
Chicago, IL – January 29, 2026 – Stocks in this week’s article are Micron Technology, Inc. MU and NVIDIA Corp. NVDA.
Up 30%+ in 2025, 2 Profitable Semiconductor Stocks to Buy in 2026
Now that 2026 is underway, investors should focus on companies that generate solid returns after covering all operating and non-operating expenses. As a result, profitable businesses tend to be more attractive than the money-losing ones. To assess profitability, investors should rely on accounting ratios that focus on the most widely used measure of a company’s bottom-line performance.
With that in mind, two semiconductor stocks emerged as the top profitable picks, backed by robust net income ratios and significant upside potential. Incidentally, they are Micron Technology, Inc. and NVIDIA Corp., whose shares have soared 239.1% and 38.8%, respectively, last year.
Net Income Ratio Explained
The net income ratio indicates a company's exact profitability level. It reflects the percentage of net income to total sales revenues. Using the net income ratio, one can determine a firm’s effectiveness in meeting operating and non-operating expenses from revenues. A higher net income ratio usually implies a company’s ability to generate sufficient revenues and manage all business functions effectively.
These few parameters have narrowed the universe of more than 7,685 stocks to only seven.
Here are two of the seven stocks that qualified for the screening:
Micron Technology
Micron Technology is a provider of memory and storage products globally. The 12-month net profit margin of MU is 28.2% (read more: Micron at 11.7 P/E: One of 2026's Best Buying Opportunities).
NVIDIA
NVIDIA is a global computing infrastructure company offering graphics, compute and networking solutions. The 12-month net profit margin of NVDA is 53% (read more: Micron vs. NVIDIA: One AI Chip Stock is Poised to Win Big in 2026).
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Beyond Nvidia: AI's Second Wave Is Here
The AI revolution has already minted millionaires. But the stocks everyone knows about aren't likely to keep delivering the biggest profits. Little-known AI firms tackling the world's biggest problems may be more lucrative in the coming months and years.
See
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
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Zacks.com featured highlights include Micron and NVIDIA

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) on Wednesday closed down -0.01%, the Dow Jones Industrials Index ($DOWI) (DIA) closed up +0.02%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) closed up +0.32%. March E-mini S&P futures (ESH26) fell -0.01%, and March E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQH26) rose +0.32%.
Stock indexes settled mixed on Wednesday, with the S&P 500 falling from a new all-time high and the Nasdaq 100 posting a 3-month high. Strength in chipmakers and AI infrastructure stocks led the broader market higher on Wednesday after a sharp increase in orders at ASML Holding NV added fresh optimism to the sustainability of artificial intelligence spending. ASML Holding NV, the only producer of lithography machines that are needed to make advanced semiconductors, reported today that Q4 bookings were a record 13.2 billion euros, well above the consensus of 6.85 billion euros. Also, better-than-expected earnings results from Seagate Technology Holdings NV and Texas Instruments added to the bullish market sentiment.
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Stocks fell from their best levels and turned mixed on Wednesday after the FOMC, as expected, kept interest rates unchanged and Fed Chair Powell refrained from signaling any imminent rate cuts amid a solid economy.
The dollar index (DXY00) finished higher on Wednesday, recovering some of Tuesday’s plunge to a nearly 4-year low. The dollar sank on Tuesday after President Trump said that he's comfortable with the recent weakness in the dollar. Meanwhile, Mr. Trump’s comments pushed gold prices (GCG26) up more than +3% on Wednesday to a new all-time high.
WTI crude oil (CLH26) climbed to a 4-month high today after President Trump said in a social media post that he wants Iran to come to the table and negotiate a “fair and equitable deal with No Nuclear Weapons.” He warned Iran that time is running out to make a deal with the US, noting that a fleet of US warships entering the region is ready to complete their mission “with speed and violence.”
US MBA mortgage applications fell -8.5% in the week ended January 23, with the purchase mortgage sub-index down -0.4% and the refinancing mortgage sub-index down 15.7%. The average 30-year fixed rate mortgage rose +8 bp to 6.24% from 6.16% in the prior week.
As expected, the FOMC voted 10-2 to keep the fed funds target range unchanged at 3.50%-3.75%. The post-FOMC statement said economic activity has been expanding at a solid pace and inflation remains somewhat elevated. The FOMC also said, "job gains have remained low, and the unemployment rate has shown some signs of stabilization," and dropped language from the prior meeting that said downside risks to employment have increased.
Fed Chair Powell said the Fed is well-positioned and can afford to wait for incoming data before making its next move on interest rates. He added that the economy has once again surprised us with its strength, and there's been a disconnect between surveys and spending.
Threats to stocks and the dollar remain. President Trump has threatened new 100% tariffs on US imports from Canada, the possibility of a US government shutdown over ICE funding, and lingering concerns about Greenland. In addition, there is the risk of another partial government shutdown. Senate Democrats threatened to block a government funding deal over Department of Homeland Security/ICE funding after the ICE shooting of an ICU nurse in Minnesota on Saturday. There could be a partial government shutdown when the current stopgap funding measure expires this Friday.
The market’s focus this week will be on new tariff news and the prospects for a continued resolution (CR) to fund the government. On Thursday, initial weekly unemployment claims are expected to increase by 5,000 to 205,000. Also, Q3 nonfarm productivity is expected to be unrevised at 4.9%. In addition, the Nov trade deficit is expected to widen to -$44.10 billion. Finally, Nov factory offers are expected to increase by +1.6% m/m. On Friday, Dec PPI final demand is expected to ease to +2.8% y/y from +3.0% y/y in Nov, and Dec PPI ex-food and energy is expected to ease to +2.9% y/y from +3.0% y/y in Nov. Also, the Jan MNI Chicago PMI is expected to climb by +0.8 to 43.5.
Q4 earnings season is in full swing, with 102 of the S&P 500 companies scheduled to report earnings this week. Microsoft, Meta Platforms, and Tesla report earnings results after today’s close, and Apple reports after the close on Thursday. Earnings have been a positive factor for stocks, with 81% of the 106 S&P 500 companies that have reported beating expectations. According to Bloomberg Intelligence, S&P earnings growth is expected to climb by +8.6% in Q4. Excluding the Magnificent Seven megacap technology stocks, Q4 earnings are expected to increase by +4.6%.
The markets are discounting a 13% chance for a -25 bp rate cut at the next policy meeting on March 17-18.
Overseas stock markets settled mixed on Wednesday. The Euro Stoxx 50 fell from a 1.5-week high and closed down by -1.02%. China’s Shanghai Composite rose to a 2-week high and closed up +0.27%. Japan’s Nikkei Stock 225 closed up +0.05%.
Interest Rates
March 10-year T-notes (ZNH6) on Wednesday closed down by -5 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield rose +1.4 bp to 4.247%. Wednesday’s rally in WTI crude oil to a 4-month high boosted inflation expectations and undercut T-note prices. T-notes maintained their losses after the FOMC kept interest rates unchanged and said economic activity has been expanding at a solid pace, and inflation remains somewhat elevated.
European government bond yields were mixed on Wednesday. The 10-year German bund yield fell -1.7 bp to 2.857%. The 10-year UK gilt yield rose to a 5-week high of 4.547% and finished up by +1.9 bp at 4.544%.
The German Feb GfK consumer confidence index rose by +2.8 to -24.1, stronger than expectations of -25.5.
Austrian central bank governor Kocher said the ECB would need to consider another interest rate cut if further increases in the euro's value were large enough to lower inflation projections.
Swaps are discounting a 0% chance of a +25 bp rate hike by the ECB at its next policy meeting on February 5.
US Stock Movers
Chip makers and AI infrastructure stocks rallied on Wednesday after positive earnings results from ASML Holding NV, Seagate Technology Holdings Plc, and Texas Instruments, signaling continued strong AI spending. Seagate Technology Holdings Plc (STX) closed up more than +19% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq 100. Also, Intel (INTC) and Western Digital (WDC) closed up more than +10%, and Texas Instruments (TXN) and Sandisk (SNDK) closed up more than +9%. In addition, Microchip Technology (MCHP) and Micron Technology (MU) closed up more than +6%, and NXP Semiconductors NV (NXPI) and Analog Devices (ADI) closed up more than +4%.
F5 Inc. (FFIV) closed up more than +8% after reporting Q4 net revenue of $822.5 million, well above the consensus of $758.8 million, and raised its full-year revenue forecast to +5% to +6% from a previous estimate of 0% to +4%.
Elevance Health (ELV) closed up more than +5% after it said it will allocate $2.3 billion to share repurchases this year.
MSCI Inc. (MSCI) closed up more than +5% after reporting Q4 total recurring subscriptions of $2.45 billion, better than the consensus of $2.44 billion.
AT&T (T) closed up more than +4% after reporting Q4 revenue of $33.5 billion, stronger than the consensus of $32.83 billion.
Newmont (NEM) closed up more than +3% to lead gold mining stocks higher after gold prices jumped more than +3% to a new all-time high.
PPG Industries (PPG) closed up more than +3% after reporting Q4 net sales of $3.91 billion, above the consensus of $3.78 billion.
GE Vernova (GEV) closed up more than +2% after reporting Q4 revenue of $10.96 billion, above the consensus of $10.27 billion.
Carvana (CVNA) closed down more than -14% to lead losers in the S&P 500 after short seller Gotham City Research said the company overstated earnings with the help of close ties to businesses controlled by the family of CEO Garcia.
Amphenol (APH) closed down more than -12% after Bloomberg Intelligence said the company’s sales forecast “underwhelms,” and after a robust Q4 beat, which suggests potential demand pull-forward.
Textron (TXT) closed down more than -7% after forecasting 2026 adjusted EPS of $6.40 to $6.60, below the consensus of $6.86.
Qorvo (QRVO) closed down more than -6% after forecasting Q4 adjusted EPS of $1.05 to $1.35, weaker than the consensus of $1.37.
Danaher (DHR) closed down more than -4% after forecasting full-year adjusted EPS of $8.35 to $8.50, the midpoint below the consensus of $8.46.
Otis Worldwide (OTIS) closed down more than -2% after reporting Q4 net sales of $3.80 billion, below the consensus of $3.87 billion.
PayPal Holdings (PYPL) closed down more than -2% after Rothschild & Co Redburn downgraded the stock to sell from neutral with a price target of $50.
Earnings Reports(1/29/2026)
A O Smith Corp (AOS), Altria Group Inc (MO), Ameriprise Financial Inc (AMP), Apple Inc (AAPL), Arthur J Gallagher & Co (AJG), Blackstone Inc (BX), Caterpillar Inc (CAT), Comcast Corp (CMCSA), Deckers Outdoor Corp (DECK), Dover Corp (DOV), Dow Inc (DOW), Hartford Insurance Group Inc/The (HIG), Hologic Inc (HOLX), Honeywell International Inc (HON), International Paper Co (IP), KLA Corp (KLAC), L3Harris Technologies Inc (LHX), Lockheed Martin Corp (LMT), Marsh & McLennan Cos Inc (MRSH), Mastercard Inc (MA), Nasdaq Inc (NDAQ), Norfolk Southern Corp (NSC), Parker-Hannifin Corp (PH), PulteGroup Inc (PHM), ResMed Inc (RMD), Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd (RCL), Sandisk Corp/DE (SNDK), Sherwin-Williams Co/The (SHW), Southwest Airlines Co (LUV), Stryker Corp (SYK), Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc (TMO), Tractor Supply Co (TSCO), Trane Technologies PLC (TT), Valero Energy Corp (VLO), Visa Inc (V), Western Digital Corp (WDC), Weyerhaeuser Co (WY).
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.

Stocks Finish Mixed as Fed Keeps Interest Rates Steady

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is down -0.06%, the Dow Jones Industrials Index ($DOWI) (DIA) is down -0.11%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is up +0.19%.
Stock indexes are mixed today, after the S&P 500 posting a new all-time high earlier in the day and the Nasdaq 100 posting a 3-month high. Strength in chipmakers and AI infrastructure stocks is buoying market today after a sharp increase in orders at ASML Holding NV added fresh optimism to the sustainability of artificial intelligence spending. ASML Holding NV, the only producer of lithography machines that are needed to make advanced semiconductors, reported today that Q4 bookings were a record 13.2 billion euros, well above the consensus of 6.85 billion euros. Also, Seagate Technology Holdings NV and Texas Instruments reported better-than-expected earnings results from.
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However, stocks fell back from their best levels after the Federal Reserve announced it would halt its series of interest rate reductions, choosing to keep the benchmark rate steady between 3.5% and 3.75%. This decision met broad market expectations and ended a period of three consecutive quarter-point cuts that were designed to protect the labor market from potential weakness.
The dollar index (DXY00) is moving higher today, recovering some of Tuesday’s plunge to a nearly 4-year low. The dollar sank on Tuesday after President Trump said that he's comfortable with the recent weakness in the dollar. Meanwhile, Mr. Trump’s comments have pushed gold prices (GCG26) up more than +3% today to a new all-time high.
WTI crude oil (CLH26) climbed to a 4-month high today after President Trump said in a social media post that he wants Iran to come to the table and negotiate a “fair and equitable deal with No Nuclear Weapons.” He warned Iran that time is running out to make a deal with the US, noting that a fleet of US warships entering the region is ready to complete their mission “with speed and violence.”
US MBA mortgage applications fell -8.5% in the week ended January 23, with the purchase mortgage sub-index down -0.4% and the refinancing mortgage sub-index down 15.7%. The average 30-year fixed rate mortgage rose +8 bp to 6.24% from 6.16% in the prior week.
Threats to stocks and the dollar remain. President Trump has threatened new 100% tariffs on US imports from Canada, the possibility of a US government shutdown over ICE funding, and lingering concerns about Greenland. In addition, there is political uncertainty about the Fed, as the FOMC is expected to leave rates unchanged at today’s meeting, potentially drawing new threats from Mr. Trump for refusing to cut rates further.
The risk of another partial government shutdown is negative for stocks. Senate Democrats threatened to block a government funding deal over Department of Homeland Security/ICE funding after the ICE shooting of an ICU nurse in Minnesota on Saturday. There could be a partial government shutdown when the current stopgap funding measure expires this Friday.
The market’s focus this week will be on new tariff news and the prospects for a continued resolution (CR) to fund the government. Later today, the FOMC is expected to keep the fed funds target range unchanged at 3.50%-3.75%. Post-FOMC-meeting comments from Fed Chair Powell will also be scrutinized for clues about the future of Fed policy. On Thursday, initial weekly unemployment claims are expected to increase by 5,000 to 205,000. Also, Q3 nonfarm productivity is expected to be unrevised at 4.9%. In addition, the Nov trade deficit is expected to widen to -$44.10 billion. Finally, Nov factory offers are expected to increase by +1.6% m/m. On Friday, Dec PPI final demand is expected to ease to +2.8% y/y from +3.0% y/y in Nov, and Dec PPI ex-food and energy is expected to ease to +2.9% y/y from +3.0% y/y in Nov. Also, the Jan MNI Chicago PMI is expected to climb by +0.8 to 43.5.
Q4 earnings season is in full swing, with 102 of the S&P 500 companies scheduled to report earnings this week. Microsoft, Meta Platforms, and Tesla report earnings results after today’s close, and Apple reports after the close on Thursday. Earnings have been a positive factor for stocks, with 81% of the 83 S&P 500 companies that have reported beating expectations. According to Bloomberg Intelligence, S&P earnings growth is expected to climb by +8.4% in Q4. Excluding the Magnificent Seven megacap technology stocks, Q4 earnings are expected to increase by +4.6%.
The markets are discounting a 3% chance of a -25 bp rate cut at the conclusion of today’s FOMC meeting.
Overseas stock markets are mixed today. The Euro Stoxx 50 fell from a 1.5-week high and is down by -0.83%. China’s Shanghai Composite rose to a 2-week high and closed up +0.27%. Japan’s Nikkei Stock 225 closed up +0.05%.
Interest Rates
March 10-year T-notes (ZNH6) today are down by -4 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield is up +2.2 bp to 4.255%. Today’s rally in the S&P 500 to a new record high is curbing safe-haven demand for T-notes. Also, long liquidation and position squaring are weighing on T-notes ahead of the FOMC decision later today.
European government bond yields are mixed today. The 10-year German bund yield is down -1.3 bp to 2.862%. The 10-year UK gilt yield rose to a 5-week high of 4.546% and is up by +1.9 bp at 4.544%.
The German Feb GfK consumer confidence index rose by +2.8 to -24.1, stronger than expectations of -25.5.
Austrian central bank governor Kocher said the ECB would need to consider another interest rate cut if further increases in the euro's value were large enough to lower inflation projections.
Swaps are discounting a 0% chance of a +25 bp rate hike by the ECB at its next policy meeting on February 5.
US Stock Movers
Chip makers and AI infrastructure stocks are rallying today after positive earnings results from ASML Holding NV, Seagate Technology Holdings Plc, and Texas Instruments, signaling continued strong AI spending. Seagate Technology Holdings Plc (STX) is up more than +17% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq 100. Also, Intel (INTC), Western Digital (WDC), and Texas Instruments (TXN) are up more than +8%. In addition, Microchip Technology (MCHP) is up more than +6%, and Sandisk (SNDK) and Micron Technology (MU) are up more than +5%. Finally, NXP Semiconductors NV (NXPI) and ON Semiconductor Corp (ON) are up more than +4%, and Analog Devices (ADI) is up more than +3%.
F5 Inc. (FFIV) is up more than +7% after reporting Q4 net revenue of $822.5 million, well above the consensus of $758.8 million, and raised its full-year revenue forecast to +5% to +6% from a previous estimate of 0% to +4%.
Elevance Health (ELV) is up more than +5% after it said it will allocate $2.3 billion to share repurchases this year.
AT&T (T) is up more than +3% after reporting Q4 revenue of $33.5 billion, stronger than the consensus of $32.83 billion.
PPG Industries (PPG) is up more than +3% after reporting Q4 net sales of $3.91 billion, above the consensus of $3.78 billion.
MSCI Inc. (MSCI) is up more than +2% after reporting Q4 total recurring subscriptions of $2.45 billion, better than the consensus of $2.44 billion.
Starbucks (SBUX) is up more than +2% after reporting Q1 US comparable same-store sales rose +4%, stronger than the consensus of +1.88%, and forecasting full-year comparable sales of at least +3%, above the consensus of +2.83%.
Amphenol (APH) is down more than -13% to lead losers in the S&P 500 after Bloomberg Intelligence said the company’s sales forecast “underwhelms,” and after a robust Q4 beat, which suggests potential demand pull-forward.
Textron (TXT) is down more than -9% after forecasting 2026 adjusted EPS of $6.40 to $6.60, below the consensus of $6.86.
Qorvo (QRVO) is down more than -5% after forecasting Q4 adjusted EPS of $1.05 to $1.35, weaker than the consensus of $1.37.
Otis Worldwide (OTIS) is down more than -3% after reporting Q4 net sales of $3.80 billion, below the consensus of $3.87 billion.
Danaher (DHR) is down more than -2% after forecasting full-year adjusted EPS of $8.35 to $8.50, the midpoint below the consensus of $8.46.
PayPal Holdings (PYPL) is down more than -1% after Rothschild & Co Redburn downgraded the stock to sell from neutral with a price target of $50.
Earnings Reports(1/28/2026)
Amphenol Corp (APH), ASML Holding NV (ASML), AT&T Inc (T), Automatic Data Processing Inc (ADP), CH Robinson Worldwide Inc (CHRW), Corning Inc (GLW), Danaher Corp (DHR), Elevance Health Inc (ELV), Fair Isaac Corp (FICO), GE Vernova Inc (GEV), General Dynamics Corp (GD), International Business Machine (IBM), Lam Research Corp (LRCX), Las Vegas Sands Corp (LVS), Lennox International Inc (LII), Meta Platforms Inc (META), Microsoft Corp (MSFT), MSCI Inc (MSCI), NVR Inc (NVR), Otis Worldwide Corp (OTIS), Raymond James Financial Inc (RJF), ServiceNow Inc (NOW), Southwest Airlines Co (LUV), Starbucks Corp (SBUX), Tesla Inc (TSLA), Textron Inc (TXT), United Rentals Inc (URI), Waste Management Inc (WM).
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.

Stocks Mixed After the Fed Pauses Rate Cuts

Now that 2026 is underway, investors should focus on companies that generate solid returns after covering all operating and non-operating expenses. As a result, profitable businesses tend to be more attractive than the money-losing ones. To assess profitability, investors should rely on accounting ratios that focus on the most widely used measure of a company’s bottom-line performance.
With that in mind, two semiconductor stocks emerged as the top profitable picks, backed by robust net income ratios and significant upside potential. Incidentally, they are Micron Technology, Inc. MU and NVIDIA Corporation NVDA, whose shares have soared 239.1% and 38.8%, respectively, last year.
Net Income Ratio Explained
The net income ratio indicates a company's exact profitability level. It reflects the percentage of net income to total sales revenues. Using the net income ratio, one can determine a firm’s effectiveness in meeting operating and non-operating expenses from revenues. A higher net income ratio usually implies a company’s ability to generate sufficient revenues and manage all business functions effectively.
Screening Parameters Using Research Wizard:
The net income ratio is not the only indicator of future winners. So, we have added a few more criteria to arrive at a winning strategy.
Zacks Rank Equal to #1: Whether the market is good or bad, stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) have a proven history of outperformance. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Trailing 12-Month Sales and Net Income Growth Higher than X Industry: Stocks that have witnessed higher-than-industry sales and net income growth in the past 12 months are positioned to perform well.
Trailing 12-Month Net Income Ratio Higher than X Industry: A high net income ratio indicates a company’s solid profitability.
Percentage Rating Strong Buy greater than 70: This indicates that 70% of the current broker recommendations for the stock are Strong Buy.
These few parameters have narrowed the universe of more than 7,685 stocks to only seven.
Here are two of the seven stocks that qualified for the screening:
Micron Technology
Micron Technology is a provider of memory and storage products globally. The 12-month net profit margin of MU is 28.2% (read more: Micron at 11.7 P/E: One of 2026's Best Buying Opportunities).
NVIDIA
NVIDIA is a global computing infrastructure company offering graphics, compute and networking solutions. The 12-month net profit margin of NVDA is 53% (read more: Micron vs. NVIDIA: One AI Chip Stock is Poised to Win Big in 2026).
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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.

Up 30%+ in 2025 - 2 Profitable Semiconductor Stocks to Buy in 2026

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is up +0.03%, the Dow Jones Industrials Index ($DOWI) (DIA) is up +0.02%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is up +0.43%. March E-mini S&P futures (ESH26) are up +0.02%, and March E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQH26) are up +0.38%.
Stock indexes are moving higher today, with the S&P 500 posting a new all-time high and the Nasdaq 100 posting a 3-month high. Strength in chipmakers and AI infrastructure stocks is leading the overall market higher today after a sharp increase in orders at ASML Holding NV added fresh optimism to the sustainability of artificial intelligence spending. ASML Holding NV, the only producer of lithography machines that are needed to make advanced semiconductors, reported today that Q4 bookings were a record 13.2 billion euros, well above the consensus of 6.85 billion euros. Also, better-than-expected earnings results from Seagate Technology Holdings NV and Texas Instruments added to the bullish market sentiment.
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However, stocks fell back from their best levels amid long liquidation and position squaring ahead of today’s FOMC meeting results and remarks from Fed Chair Powell. The markets are expecting the FOMC to keep the fed funds target range unchanged at 3.50% to 3.75%.
The dollar index (DXY00) is moving higher today, recovering some of Tuesday’s plunge to a nearly 4-year low. The dollar sank on Tuesday after President Trump said that he's comfortable with the recent weakness in the dollar. Meanwhile, Mr. Trump’s comments have pushed gold prices (GCG26) up more than +3% today to a new all-time high.
WTI crude oil (CLH26) climbed to a 4-month high today after President Trump said in a social media post that he wants Iran to come to the table and negotiate a “fair and equitable deal with No Nuclear Weapons.” He warned Iran that time is running out to make a deal with the US, noting that a fleet of US warships entering the region is ready to complete their mission “with speed and violence.”
US MBA mortgage applications fell -8.5% in the week ended January 23, with the purchase mortgage sub-index down -0.4% and the refinancing mortgage sub-index down 15.7%. The average 30-year fixed rate mortgage rose +8 bp to 6.24% from 6.16% in the prior week.
Threats to stocks and the dollar remain. President Trump has threatened new 100% tariffs on US imports from Canada, the possibility of a US government shutdown over ICE funding, and lingering concerns about Greenland. In addition, there is political uncertainty about the Fed, as the FOMC is expected to leave rates unchanged at today’s meeting, potentially drawing new threats from Mr. Trump for refusing to cut rates further.
The risk of another partial government shutdown is negative for stocks. Senate Democrats threatened to block a government funding deal over Department of Homeland Security/ICE funding after the ICE shooting of an ICU nurse in Minnesota on Saturday. There could be a partial government shutdown when the current stopgap funding measure expires this Friday.
The market’s focus this week will be on new tariff news and the prospects for a continued resolution (CR) to fund the government. Later today, the FOMC is expected to keep the fed funds target range unchanged at 3.50%-3.75%. Post-FOMC-meeting comments from Fed Chair Powell will also be scrutinized for clues about the future of Fed policy. On Thursday, initial weekly unemployment claims are expected to increase by 5,000 to 205,000. Also, Q3 nonfarm productivity is expected to be unrevised at 4.9%. In addition, the Nov trade deficit is expected to widen to -$44.10 billion. Finally, Nov factory offers are expected to increase by +1.6% m/m. On Friday, Dec PPI final demand is expected to ease to +2.8% y/y from +3.0% y/y in Nov, and Dec PPI ex-food and energy is expected to ease to +2.9% y/y from +3.0% y/y in Nov. Also, the Jan MNI Chicago PMI is expected to climb by +0.8 to 43.5.
Q4 earnings season is in full swing, with 102 of the S&P 500 companies scheduled to report earnings this week. Microsoft, Meta Platforms, and Tesla report earnings results after today’s close, and Apple reports after the close on Thursday. Earnings have been a positive factor for stocks, with 81% of the 83 S&P 500 companies that have reported beating expectations. According to Bloomberg Intelligence, S&P earnings growth is expected to climb by +8.4% in Q4. Excluding the Magnificent Seven megacap technology stocks, Q4 earnings are expected to increase by +4.6%.
The markets are discounting a 3% chance of a -25 bp rate cut at the conclusion of today’s FOMC meeting.
Overseas stock markets are mixed today. The Euro Stoxx 50 fell from a 1.5-week high and is down by -0.83%. China’s Shanghai Composite rose to a 2-week high and closed up +0.27%. Japan’s Nikkei Stock 225 closed up +0.05%.
Interest Rates
March 10-year T-notes (ZNH6) today are down by -4 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield is up +2.2 bp to 4.255%. Today’s rally in the S&P 500 to a new record high is curbing safe-haven demand for T-notes. Also, long liquidation and position squaring are weighing on T-notes ahead of the FOMC decision later today.
European government bond yields are mixed today. The 10-year German bund yield is down -1.3 bp to 2.862%. The 10-year UK gilt yield rose to a 5-week high of 4.546% and is up by +1.9 bp at 4.544%.
The German Feb GfK consumer confidence index rose by +2.8 to -24.1, stronger than expectations of -25.5.
Austrian central bank governor Kocher said the ECB would need to consider another interest rate cut if further increases in the euro's value were large enough to lower inflation projections.
Swaps are discounting a 0% chance of a +25 bp rate hike by the ECB at its next policy meeting on February 5.
US Stock Movers
Chip makers and AI infrastructure stocks are rallying today after positive earnings results from ASML Holding NV, Seagate Technology Holdings Plc, and Texas Instruments, signaling continued strong AI spending. Seagate Technology Holdings Plc (STX) is up more than +17% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq 100. Also, Intel (INTC), Western Digital (WDC), and Texas Instruments (TXN) are up more than +8%. In addition, Microchip Technology (MCHP) is up more than +6%, and Sandisk (SNDK) and Micron Technology (MU) are up more than +5%. Finally, NXP Semiconductors NV (NXPI) and ON Semiconductor Corp (ON) are up more than +4%, and Analog Devices (ADI) is up more than +3%.
F5 Inc. (FFIV) is up more than +7% after reporting Q4 net revenue of $822.5 million, well above the consensus of $758.8 million, and raised its full-year revenue forecast to +5% to +6% from a previous estimate of 0% to +4%.
Elevance Health (ELV) is up more than +5% after it said it will allocate $2.3 billion to share repurchases this year.
AT&T (T) is up more than +3% after reporting Q4 revenue of $33.5 billion, stronger than the consensus of $32.83 billion.
PPG Industries (PPG) is up more than +3% after reporting Q4 net sales of $3.91 billion, above the consensus of $3.78 billion.
MSCI Inc. (MSCI) is up more than +2% after reporting Q4 total recurring subscriptions of $2.45 billion, better than the consensus of $2.44 billion.
Starbucks (SBUX) is up more than +2% after reporting Q1 US comparable same-store sales rose +4%, stronger than the consensus of +1.88%, and forecasting full-year comparable sales of at least +3%, above the consensus of +2.83%.
Amphenol (APH) is down more than -13% to lead losers in the S&P 500 after Bloomberg Intelligence said the company’s sales forecast “underwhelms,” and after a robust Q4 beat, which suggests potential demand pull-forward.
Textron (TXT) is down more than -9% after forecasting 2026 adjusted EPS of $6.40 to $6.60, below the consensus of $6.86.
Qorvo (QRVO) is down more than -5% after forecasting Q4 adjusted EPS of $1.05 to $1.35, weaker than the consensus of $1.37.
Otis Worldwide (OTIS) is down more than -3% after reporting Q4 net sales of $3.80 billion, below the consensus of $3.87 billion.
Danaher (DHR) is down more than -2% after forecasting full-year adjusted EPS of $8.35 to $8.50, the midpoint below the consensus of $8.46.
PayPal Holdings (PYPL) is down more than -1% after Rothschild & Co Redburn downgraded the stock to sell from neutral with a price target of $50.
Earnings Reports(1/28/2026)
Amphenol Corp (APH), ASML Holding NV (ASML), AT&T Inc (T), Automatic Data Processing Inc (ADP), CH Robinson Worldwide Inc (CHRW), Corning Inc (GLW), Danaher Corp (DHR), Elevance Health Inc (ELV), Fair Isaac Corp (FICO), GE Vernova Inc (GEV), General Dynamics Corp (GD), International Business Machine (IBM), Lam Research Corp (LRCX), Las Vegas Sands Corp (LVS), Lennox International Inc (LII), Meta Platforms Inc (META), Microsoft Corp (MSFT), MSCI Inc (MSCI), NVR Inc (NVR), Otis Worldwide Corp (OTIS), Raymond James Financial Inc (RJF), ServiceNow Inc (NOW), Southwest Airlines Co (LUV), Starbucks Corp (SBUX), Tesla Inc (TSLA), Textron Inc (TXT), United Rentals Inc (URI), Waste Management Inc (WM).
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.

Stocks Supported by Solid Tech Earnings

Key Points
Memory storage is a critical part of AI infrastructure, and Micron is one of the top beneficiaries.
Micron's strong Q1 FY26 results show substantial, durable growth.
The company's low valuation compared to other AI stocks makes it a bargain.
The artificial intelligence (AI) hype is warranted, but between giants like Nvidia and rising stars like Iren, many promising stocks can slip under investors' radars.
Micron Technology (NASDAQ: MU) is one of those companies. It's far from small, with a $437 billion market cap, but its recent quarterly results, strong outlook, and bargain-basement valuation make it compelling. It's silently crushed the stock market over the past year, and is already starting 2026 strong with a 36% year-to-date gain. Even with those successes, Micron is an underrated AI stock that hasn't received as much hype as companies with similar stock gains.
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More people are paying attention to energy storage
AI chips and energy have received plenty of attention as two components of the AI bottleneck. However, memory storage is just as important, since it enables chips to perform at their best. Micron provides memory solutions for Nvidia, Advanced Micro Devices, and other AI chipmakers.
Each time a tech giant buys a chip, Micron makes a little extra revenue. For Micron, it doesn't matter if Nvidia, Advanced Micro Devices, Broadcom, or another chipmaker comes out on top. Micron benefits each time any of these chips is sold. Even for other AI chipmakers that Micron doesn't serve directly, higher AI chip sales will boost demand for memory storage solutions.
Micron's financial results paint the full picture. Revenue increased by 57% year over year in first-quarter fiscal year 2026, with net income almost tripling.
It's hard to find an AI stock with Micron's valuation
Micron's high revenue growth and rising profit margins are a good combination that can support long-term gains. The company has also established itself as a leader in the memory storage industry. However, its valuation makes the stock look like one of the best in the entire market.
Micron trades at an 11.5 forward price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio. Meanwhile, Nvidia, Advanced Micro Devices, and Broadcom have forward P/E ratios of 23, 37, and 33, respectively. If Micron had a valuation that more closely resembled these three AI chipmakers', it would already be worth more than $1 trillion.
This revenue surge isn't a one-time thing. Micron increased revenue by 49% year over year in fiscal 2025, and the company provided exceptional guidance for the second quarter of 2026. Micron is an AI enabler that is a critical part of the bottleneck. Despite posting strong gains, it hasn't received as much spotlight as the trillion-dollar AI stocks and the rising stars. Micron's valuation offers an attractive margin of safety while giving investors exposure to the hottest industry.
Should you buy stock in Micron Technology right now?
Before you buy stock in Micron Technology, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Micron Technology wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
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Marc Guberti has positions in Broadcom and Iren. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Advanced Micro Devices, Micron Technology, and Nvidia. The Motley Fool recommends Broadcom. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Forget the Hype: This Stock Could Offer Better Long-Term Returns

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is up +0.28%, the Dow Jones Industrials Index ($DOWI) (DIA) is up +0.04%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is up +0.81%. March E-mini S&P futures (ESH26) are up +0.25%, and March E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQH26) are up +0.79%.
Stock indexes are moving higher today, with the S&P 500 posting a new all-time high and the Nasdaq 100 posting a 3-month high. Strength in chipmakers and AI infrastructure stocks is leading the overall market higher today after a sharp increase in orders at ASML Holding NV added fresh optimism to the sustainability of artificial intelligence spending. ASML Holding NV, the only producer of lithography machines that are needed to make advanced semiconductors, reported today that Q4 bookings were a record 13.2 billion euros, well above the consensus of 6.85 billion euros. Also, better-than-expected earnings results from Seagate Technology Holdings NV and Texas Instruments added to the bullish market sentiment.
Join 200K+ Subscribers: Find out why the midday Barchart Brief newsletter is a must-read for thousands daily.
The dollar index (DXY00) is slightly higher today, recovering some of Tuesday’s plunge to a nearly 4-year low. The dollar sank on Tuesday after President Trump said that he's comfortable with the recent weakness in the dollar. Meanwhile, Mr. Trump’s comments have pushed gold prices (GCG26) up more than +3% today to a new all-time high.
WTI crude oil (CLH26) climbed to a 4-month high today after President Trump said in a social media post that he wants Iran to come to the table and negotiate a “fair and equitable deal with No Nuclear Weapons.” He warned Iran that time is running out to make a deal with the US, noting that a fleet of US warships entering the region is ready to complete their mission “with speed and violence.”
US MBA mortgage applications fell -8.5% in the week ended January 23, with the purchase mortgage sub-index down -0.4% and the refinancing mortgage sub-index down 15.7%. The average 30-year fixed rate mortgage rose +8 bp to 6.24% from 6.16% in the prior week.
Threats to stocks and the dollar remain. President Trump has threatened new 100% tariffs on US imports from Canada, the possibility of a US government shutdown over ICE funding, and lingering concerns about Greenland. In addition, there is political uncertainty about the Fed, as the FOMC is expected to leave rates unchanged at today’s meeting, potentially drawing new threats from Mr. Trump for refusing to cut rates further.
The risk of another partial government shutdown is negative for stocks. Senate Democrats threatened to block a government funding deal over Department of Homeland Security/ICE funding after the ICE shooting of an ICU nurse in Minnesota on Saturday. There could be a partial government shutdown when the current stopgap funding measure expires this Friday.
The market’s focus this week will be on new tariff news and the prospects for a continued resolution (CR) to fund the government. Later today, the FOMC is expected to keep the fed funds target range unchanged at 3.50%-3.75%. Post-meeting comments from Fed Chair Powell on Wednesday will also be scrutinized for clues about the future of Fed policy. On Thursday, initial weekly unemployment claims are expected to increase by 5,000 to 205,000. Also, Q3 nonfarm productivity is expected to be unrevised at 4.9%. In addition, the Nov trade deficit is expected to widen to -$44.10 billion. Finally, Nov factory offers are expected to increase by +1.6% m/m. On Friday, Dec PPI final demand is expected to ease to +2.8% y/y from +3.0% y/y in Nov, and Dec PPI ex-food and energy is expected to ease to +2.9% y/y from +3.0% y/y in Nov. Also, the Jan MNI Chicago PMI is expected to climb by +0.8 to 43.5.
Q4 earnings season is in full swing, with 102 of the S&P 500 companies scheduled to report earnings this week. Microsoft, Meta Platforms, and Tesla report earnings results after today’s close, and Apple reports after the close on Thursday. Earnings have been a positive factor for stocks, with 81% of the 83 S&P 500 companies that have reported beating expectations. According to Bloomberg Intelligence, S&P earnings growth is expected to climb by +8.4% in Q4. Excluding the Magnificent Seven megacap technology stocks, Q4 earnings are expected to increase by +4.6%.
The markets are discounting a 3% chance of a -25 bp rate cut at the conclusion of today’s FOMC meeting.
Overseas stock markets are mixed today. The Euro Stoxx 50 fell from a 1.5-week high and is down -0.52%. China’s Shanghai Composite rose to a 2-week high and closed up +0.27%. Japan’s Nikkei Stock 225 closed up +0.05%.
Interest Rates
March 10-year T-notes (ZNH6) today are down by -2 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield is up +1.2 bp to 4.245%. Today’s rally in the S&P 500 to a new record high is curbing safe-haven demand for T-notes. Also, long liquidation and position squaring are weighing on T-notes ahead of the FOMC decision later today.
European government bond yields are mixed today. The 10-year German bund yield is down -2.5 bp to 2.849%. The 10-year UK gilt yield rose to a 5-week high of 4.540% and is up by +0.4 bp at 4.529%.
The German Feb GfK consumer confidence index rose by +2.8 to -24.1, stronger than expectations of -25.5.
Austrian central bank governor Kocher said the ECB would need to consider another interest rate cut if further increases in the euro's value were large enough to lower inflation projections.
Swaps are discounting a 0% chance of a +25 bp rate hike by the ECB at its next policy meeting on February 5.
US Stock Movers
Chip makers and AI infrastructure stocks are rallying today after positive earnings results from ASML Holding NV, Seagate Technology Holdings Plc, and Texas Instruments, signaling continued strong AI spending. Seagate Technology Holdings Plc (STX) is up more than +17% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq 100. Also, Intel (INTC) and Sandisk (SNDK) are up more than +8%, and Western Digital (WDC), Microchip Technology (MCHP), and Texas Instruments (TXN) are up more than +6%. In addition, Micron Technology (MU) and NXP Semiconductors NV (NXPI) are up more than +3%, and Analog Devices (ADI) and Marvell Technology (MRVL) are up more than +2%.
F5 Inc. (FFIV) is up more than +8% after reporting Q4 net revenue of $822.5 million, well above the consensus of $758.8 million, and raised its full-year revenue forecast to +5% to +6% from a previous estimate of 0% to +4%.
Starbucks (SBUX) is up more than +4% after reporting Q1 US comparable same-store sales rose +4%, stronger than the consensus of +1.88%, and forecasting full-year comparable sales of at least +3%, above the consensus of +2.83%.
Brinker International (EAT) is up more than +3% after reporting Q2 adjusted EPS of $2.87, stronger than the consensus of $2.62.
AT&T (T) is up more than +2% after reporting Q4 revenue of $33.5 billion, stronger than the consensus of $32.83 billion.
GE Vernova (GEV) is up more than +2% after raising its 2026 revenue forecast to $44 billion-$45 billion from a previous forecast of $41 billion-$42 billion.
Corning (GLW) is up more than +2% after reporting Q4 core sales of $4.41 billion, greater than the consensus of $4.36 billion.
Amphenol (APH) is down more than -13% to lead losers in the S&P 500 after Bloomberg Intelligence said the company’s sales forecast “underwhelms,” and after a robust Q4 beat, which suggests potential demand pull-forward.
Textron (TXT) is down more than -7% after forecasting 2026 adjusted EPS of $6.40 to $6.60, below the consensus of $6.86.
Qorvo (QRVO) is down more than -6% after forecasting Q4 adjusted EPS of $1.05 to $1.35, weaker than the consensus of $1.37.
Otis Worldwide (OTIS) is down more than -5% after reporting Q4 net sales of $3.80 billion, below the consensus of $3.87 billion.
Danaher (DHR) is down more than -1% after forecasting full-year adjusted EPS of $8.35 to $8.50, the midpoint below the consensus of $8.46
Earnings Reports(1/28/2026)
Amphenol Corp (APH), ASML Holding NV (ASML), AT&T Inc (T), Automatic Data Processing Inc (ADP), CH Robinson Worldwide Inc (CHRW), Corning Inc (GLW), Danaher Corp (DHR), Elevance Health Inc (ELV), Fair Isaac Corp (FICO), GE Vernova Inc (GEV), General Dynamics Corp (GD), International Business Machine (IBM), Lam Research Corp (LRCX), Las Vegas Sands Corp (LVS), Lennox International Inc (LII), Meta Platforms Inc (META), Microsoft Corp (MSFT), MSCI Inc (MSCI), NVR Inc (NVR), Otis Worldwide Corp (OTIS), Raymond James Financial Inc (RJF), ServiceNow Inc (NOW), Southwest Airlines Co (LUV), Starbucks Corp (SBUX), Tesla Inc (TSLA), Textron Inc (TXT), United Rentals Inc (URI), Waste Management Inc (WM).
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.

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