Intel (INTC) Stock Plummets as Memory Supply Crunch Hits, Benefits Component Makers

Intel's shares fell over 16% on Friday following a weaker-than-expected outlook tied to a memory supply crunch that has driven up prices. The chipmaker warned of ongoing supply shortages and rising costs that could weigh on results in the coming months. Executives attributed the pressure to "intense demand" for components supporting AI infrastructure expansion. CFO David Zinsner noted that component pricing remains a closely monitored dynamic, particularly in the client market, where it may limit revenue opportunities this year. Meanwhile, Intel supplier Micron Technology (MU) has seen its stock climb nearly 40% since年初, with analysts expecting tighter memory supply and higher prices this year. Competitors like Western Digital (WDC) and SanDisk (SNDK) have also gained significantly, benefiting from bottlenecks in data center buildouts. Analysts at Citi maintain a "buy" rating on Micron, projecting price surges of 40%-50% this quarter and around 20% next quarter, according to Counterpoint Research. Wall Street broadly favors Micron, WDC, and SNDK, with most analysts issuing "buy" ratings and recent gains exceeding expectations.