AMAT

AI Research

15% dividend hike + 20%+ equipment growth guidance → up 138% past year

Applied Materials' board approved a 15% increase in its quarterly cash dividend, and management reiterated guidance for more than 20% growth in equipment sales in 2026, driven by AI fab equipment demand and strong positioning in 2nm and GAA innovation. The stock climbed 138% between March 2025 and March 2026, though a 15% recent pullback signals caution after margin pressure concerns emerged. Q1 2026 EPS of $2.38 beat estimates of $2.20 by 8.2%, and the company has a strategic partnership with SK Hynix to accelerate advanced DRAM development.