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Qualcomm

Qualcomm develops and licenses wireless technology and designs chips for smartphones. The company's key patents revolve around CDMA and OFDMA technologies, which are standards in wireless communications that are the backbone of all 3G, 4G, and 5G networks. Qualcomm's IP is licensed by virtually all wireless device makers. The firm is also the world's largest wireless chip vendor, supplying nearly every premier handset maker with leading-edge processors. Qualcomm also sells RF-front end modules into smartphones, as well as chips into automotive and Internet of Things markets.

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Las acciones de Nvidia, AMD, Qualcomm y más suben tras los resultados de Taiwan Semiconductor, a pesar de las nuevas restricciones de EE.UU.

Acciones de chips de IA suben tras informe optimista de Taiwan Semiconductor

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Apple logra reducir costos en el iPhone 16 Pro Max, impulsando márgenes y ahorrando 3.700 millones, según BofA.

Apple (AAPL) mejora márgenes con menores costos en el iPhone 16 Pro, según Bank of America

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Intel prioriza resolver problemas en fabricación de CPU, ambiciones en inteligencia artificial y la designación de un nuevo CEO para 2025.

Intel enfrenta desafíos en CPU y IA mientras busca nuevo CEO para 2025

Qualcomm Inc

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders will search for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges heavily from its normal worth. High amounts of trading activity could push option prices to exaggerated or underestimated levels. 
Here's the list of options activity happening in today's session: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>AAPL</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$230.00</td>
<td>$30.6K</td>
<td>36.3K</td>
<td>91.5K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NVDA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$138.00</td>
<td>$43.8K</td>
<td>19.8K</td>
<td>52.2K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AVGO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$235.00</td>
<td>$33.7K</td>
<td>14.6K</td>
<td>15.7K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>IONQ</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/24/25</td>
<td>$40.00</td>
<td>$58.4K</td>
<td>620</td>
<td>3.7K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MSTR</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$450.00</td>
<td>$25.7K</td>
<td>6.4K</td>
<td>596</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$180.00</td>
<td>$43.2K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
<td>339</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$165.00</td>
<td>$91.0K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
<td>193</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TSM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$175.00</td>
<td>$57.4K</td>
<td>4.5K</td>
<td>155</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SNOW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$200.00</td>
<td>$208.6K</td>
<td>5.0K</td>
<td>111</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ADBE</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$500.00</td>
<td>$98.1K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
<td>90</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These bullet-by-bullet explanations have been constructed using the accompanying table. 
• For AAPL (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bearish, is expiring today. Parties traded 312 contract(s) at a $230.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 13 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $30.6K, with a price of $98.0 per contract. There were 36326 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 91512 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For NVDA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be neutral, is expiring today. Parties traded 750 contract(s) at a $138.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 7 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $43.8K, with a price of $59.0 per contract. There were 19862 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 52275 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For AVGO (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bearish, is expiring today. Parties traded 268 contract(s) at a $235.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 17 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $33.7K, with a price of $126.0 per contract. There were 14613 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 15797 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding IONQ (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IONQ#NYSE">IONQ</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 7 day(s) on January 24, 2025. Parties traded 200 contract(s) at a $40.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 5 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $58.4K, with a price of $292.0 per contract. There were 620 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 3760 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For MSTR (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSTR#NASDAQ">MSTR</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 35 day(s) on February 21, 2025. This event was a transfer of 7 contract(s) at a $450.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $25.7K, with a price of $3684.0 per contract. There were 6472 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 596 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For PANW (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 63 day(s) on March 21, 2025. This event was a transfer of 41 contract(s) at a $180.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $43.2K, with a price of $1055.0 per contract. There were 1004 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 339 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For QCOM (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>), we notice a put option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 63 day(s) on March 21, 2025. This event was a transfer of 100 contract(s) at a $165.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $91.0K, with a price of $910.0 per contract. There were 1033 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 193 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For TSM (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bearish, is expiring today. Parties traded 15 contract(s) at a $175.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 3 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $57.4K, with a price of $3830.0 per contract. There were 4567 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 155 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding SNOW (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SNOW#NYSE">SNOW</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 364 day(s) on January 16, 2026. Parties traded 87 contract(s) at a $200.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 3 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $208.6K, with a price of $2395.0 per contract. There were 5028 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 111 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For ADBE (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ADBE#NASDAQ">ADBE</a>), we notice a put option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 364 day(s) on January 16, 2026. This event was a transfer of 11 contract(s) at a $500.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $98.1K, with a price of $8925.0 per contract. There were 1084 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 90 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more news on unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Options

ADBE

IONQ

MSTR

PANW

SNOW

10 Information Technology Stocks With Whale Alerts In Today's Session

Barclays analyst Tom O'Malley maintains Qualcomm (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>) with a Overweight and lowers the price target from $200 to $185.

Price Target

Barclays Maintains Overweight on Qualcomm, Lowers Price Target to $185

<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/ai-chips" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Artificial intelligence chip stocks</a> including Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), Broadcom Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>), Marvell Technology, Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRVL#NASDAQ">MRVL</a>), Advanced Micro Devices, Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>), Qualcomm Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>), Arm Holdings (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARM#NASDAQ">ARM</a>), and Micron Technology, Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MU#NASDAQ">MU</a>), are trading higher Thursday in sympathy with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/01/43022654/taiwan-semiconductor-q4-earnings-3nm-and-5nm-nodes-lead-topline-growth-expands-margins-issues-strong-q1-outlook" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">upbeat quarterly print</a>.
Taiwan Semiconductor is the key contract chipmaker behind Nvidia&#8217;s graphics processing units&nbsp;(GPU) and Apple Inc.&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) smartphones.
However, on Wednesday, the Biden administration announced its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/42897081/nvidia-and-ai-chip-stocks-brace-for-impact-as-biden-administration-considers-new-china-export-ban-report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">latest semiconductor regulations</a>, including extended licensing requirements on companies like Taiwan Semiconductor, which manufactures chips, and packaging companies, citing national security threats.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/01/42981814/apple-and-nvidia-supplier-taiwan-semiconductor-leads-semiconductor-market-with-64-share" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apple And Nvidia Supplier Taiwan Semiconductor Leads Semiconductor Market with 64% Share</a>
Chipmakers like Taiwan Semiconductor and&nbsp;Samsung Electronics (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNLF#OTC">SSNLF</a>) must <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43003008/taiwan-semi-samsung-intel-may-face-stricter-us-rules-on-chip-exports-to-china-over-security-concerns" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ramp up due diligence</a> especially with China-based firms.
Washington imposed sanctions on 16 Chinese companies, including Sophgo Technologies, for building their country&#8217;s chip industry, Bloomberg <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-01-15/us-unveils-new-rules-to-restrict-flow-of-advanced-chips-to-china?srnd=phx-technology&amp;sref=TBDibEcD" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cites</a> the Commerce Department.
On Monday, the U.S. disclosed sanctions on the sale of AI chips by Nvidia and other advanced makers to data centers in most countries.
The rules for AI chips follow&nbsp;controls&nbsp;announced in December that aim to block Beijing&#8217;s access to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/08/40198085/huawei-and-baidu-increase-samsung-hbm-purchases-as-us-curbs-loom" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">high-bandwidth memory</a> chips from Micron.
Semiconductor chip stocks enjoyed a massive upside in 2024, backed by the AI boom.
A third of the top ten global companies with valuations above $1 trillion in 2024 came from the chip industry.
Investors can gain exposure to stocks of companies that manufacture semiconductors through ProShares Ultra Semiconductors (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/USD#NYSE">USD</a>) and Invesco PHLX Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOXQ#NASDAQ">SOXQ</a>).
Also Read:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/01/43008511/broadcoms-latest-san-switch-offers-scalable-energy-efficient-solution-for-growing-storage-demands" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Broadcom&#8217;s Latest SAN Switch Offers Scalable, Energy-Efficient Solution for Growing Storage Demands</a></li>
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Photo via Shutterstock

AI Chip Stocks Gain Momentum On Taiwan Semiconductor Performance;  Biden's Semiconductor Sanctions Kick In

Apple Inc.&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) manufacturing costs for its latest iPhone lineup show promising trends for margins, according to a new Bank of America analysis.
The teardown study reveals significant cost reductions in Pro models while highlighting the company&#8217;s strategic pricing approach across its product range.
The Apple Analyst: Bank of America analyst Wamsi Mohan maintains a &#8220;Buy&#8221; rating on Apple with a price target of $256, implying an upside of nearly 8% from Wednesday&#8217;s closing price.
The Apple Thesis: BofA&#8217;s teardown analysis reveals significant manufacturing cost improvements for iPhone 16 Pro models, while base models see increased costs.
The analyst highlights that the iPhone 16 Pro Max&#8217;s manufacturing costs are 5% lower than its predecessor, contributing approximately 320 basis points to gross margins. When adjusting for memory costs, the year-over-year savings increase to 8%.
&#8220;At Apple&#8217;s scale, these add up to meaningful savings of $3.7bn for 250mn iPhones that can be a tailwind of &gt;100 bps of product GMs when fully ramped,&#8221; noted the analysis.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43019833/elon-musk-buying-tiktok-could-hurt-tesla-warns-gary-black-but-dan-ives-thinks-it-makes-sense">Elon Musk Buying TikTok Could Hurt Tesla Stock, Warns Gary Black — But Wedbush&#8217;s Dan Ives Thinks It Makes Sense</a>
Key Findings:
<ul>
<li>Main electronic assemblies make up 50% of iPhone 16 Pro Max manufacturing costs, up from 47% in the iPhone 15 Pro Max.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Base iPhone 16 shows a 10% increase in manufacturing costs compared to iPhone 15, primarily due to AI processing and camera improvements. When adjusted for memory costs, this increase narrows to 6%.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Potential savings of at least $10 per iPhone from insourcing the baseband modem from Qualcomm Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Vertical integration efforts could drive further margin improvements. The company spends approximately $250 on integrated circuits per iPhone 16 Pro Max, creating opportunities for cost savings through component insourcing.</li>
</ul>
Why It Matters: The findings support BofA&#8217;s broader thesis on Apple&#8217;s margin resilience. The bank expects strong iPhone upgrade cycles in fiscal 2025 and 2026, driven by hardware requirements for generative AI features.
Apple&#8217;s gross margins have been trending higher in the last several years, supported by both services mix and iPhone margin stability despite increased functionality.
Trading at $237.87, Apple shares have gained nearly 30% over the past year. Apple is set to announce its first-quarter 2025 earnings on Jan. 30. In October last year, the company reported fiscal <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/10/41666494/apple-q4-earnings-revenue-beat-eps-beat-installed-base-hits-new-highs-iphone-sales-rise-as-apple-in">fourth-quarter revenue</a> of $94.9 billion, surpassing analysts&#8217; expectations of $94.56 billion.
Price Action: Apple&#8217;s stock gained 1.97% on Wednesday, closing at $237.87. In after-hours trading, it edged up another 0.31%, reaching $238.60, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro data</a>.
Apple&#8217;s consensus price target stands at $245.17, based on evaluations from 30 analysts, with Wedbush setting the highest target of $325 on Dec. 26. The latest ratings from MoffettNathanson, Bernstein, and BofA Securities point to an average target of $234.67, implying a potential downside of 1.65%.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AAPL/analyst-ratings"><img decoding="async" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/16002414/Screenshot-2025-01-16-at-10.54.09%E2%80%AFAM-1024x376.png" alt="" class="wp-image-735922" /></a></figure>
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43018848/those-are-air-bubbles-the-time-steve-jobs-rejected-the-first-ipod-prototype-and-pushed-apple-engineers-to-think-smaller" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Steve Jobs Dropped The First iPod Prototype In A Fish Tank And It Wasn't To Test If It Was Waterproof</a></li>
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Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a>&nbsp;and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Apple Stock Has Moved Up 4.2% Since iPhone 16 Launched, Analyst Says It Has Another 8% Upside As Manufacturing Cost Decline Bolsters Cupertino's Margins

WIIM

AEHR

ALAB

AMAT

ATOM

CRDO

HIMX

INDI

KLAC

NVTS

SMTC

SYNA

WOLF

Shares of semiconductor companies are trading higher amid overall market strength after CPI data was in line with estimates and core CPI rose by less than expected.

Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) is finalizing the verification of its <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/semiconductors" rel="noreferrer noopener">&#8220;made in America&#8221;</a> processor chips from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>) plant in Arizona.
The first batch of commercial chips will likely by this quarter, Nikkei Asia <a target="_blank" href="https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Tech/Semiconductors/Apple-in-final-stages-of-verifying-TSMC-s-Made-in-USA-chips" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a>.
The 2020 pandemic prompted countries including the U.S., Europe, and Japan to consolidate their semiconductor position by tapping chipmakers like Taiwan Semiconductor, Intel Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>), Samsung Electronics Co (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNLF#OTC">SSNLF</a>), thereby reducing their dependence on China.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/42947562/taiwan-semiconductor-begins-4nm-chip-production-in-arizona-eyes-11-4-billion-q4-profit" rel="noreferrer noopener">Taiwan Semiconductor Begins 4nm Chip Production in Arizona, Eyes $11.4 Billion Q4 Profit</a>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="750" height="650" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/14050746/newplot-4.png" alt="" class="wp-image-732034" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/14050746/newplot-4.png 750w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/14050746/newplot-4-300x260.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" /></figure>
Additionally, the U.S. started restricting China&#8217;s access to advanced semiconductor technology, which Washington alleged China utilized to boost its military warfare position.
Washington also restricted China&#8217;s access to sophisticated Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) and Taiwan Semiconductor&#8217;s artificial intelligence chips.
The country also canvassed its allies, including Taiwan and the Netherlands (home to chip equipment maker ASML Holding (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/asml#NASDAQ">ASML</a>), to restrict semiconductor trade with China.
Meanwhile, Taiwan Semiconductor bagged a 64% share of the global foundry business in the third quarter of 2024, up from 62% in the second quarter, Taipei Times <a target="_blank" href="https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/biz/archives/2025/01/14/2003830149" rel="noreferrer noopener">cites</a> Counterpoint Research.
Last November, Counterpoint said Taiwan Semiconductor owed its moat to high utilization rates in its 5nm and 3nm processes, artificial intelligence (AI) accelerator demand, and smartphone sales.
Samsung came second with a 12% share backed by its 4nm and 5nm processes, Taipei Times cites Counterpoint.
China&#8217;s Semiconductor Manufacturing International came third after it secured 6%, backed by its 28nm process, Taipei Times cites Counterpoint.
United Microelectronics Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UMC#NYSE">UMC</a>) tied with GlobalFoundries Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GFS#NASDAQ">GFS</a>) with a 5% share backed by demand in the Internet of Things and communications infrastructure markets.
The 3nm process scored a second position in the third quarter, bagging a 13% share, on the back of the full utilization of Taiwan Semiconductor&#8217;s production capacity, as production by Apple, Qualcomm Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>), Intel gained momentum.
The 5 and 4nm processes bagged the numero uno position, securing 24% of the market in the third quarter, courtesy of demand for Nvidia&#8217;s Blackwell graphics processing units.
Taiwan Semiconductor plans to start producing its 2nm process at its fab in Hsinchu County&#8217;s Baoshan Township in 2025.
Goldman Sachs <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42825523/taiwan-semi-likely-for-upside-backed-by-ai-demand-and-advanced-node-pricing-analyst-says" rel="noreferrer noopener">expressed optimism over</a> Taiwan Semiconductor&#8217;s prospects, citing AI demand and advanced node growth. Taiwan Semiconductor&#8217;s price hikes for 3 and 5nm nodes in 2025 (while Intel and Samsung struggle to develop their AI technology moat) could boost its margins to over 59%.
Taiwan Semiconductor stock surged over 98% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain exposure to the stocks of companies that manufacture semiconductors through VanEck Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMH#NASDAQ">SMH</a>) and iShares Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOXX#NASDAQ">SOXX</a>).
Price Action: TSM stock is down 0.65% at $200.05 at the last check on Tuesday.
Also Read:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/42897081/nvidia-and-ai-chip-stocks-brace-for-impact-as-biden-administration-considers-new-china-export-ban-report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nvidia and AI Chip Stocks Brace for Impact as Biden Administration Considers New China Export Ban: Report</a></li>
</ul>
Image via Shutterstock

ASML

iShares PHLX SOX Semiconductor Sector Index Fund

SOXX

Apple And Nvidia Supplier Taiwan Semiconductor Leads Semiconductor Market with 64% Share

British chip design firm Arm Holdings (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARM#NYSE">ARM</a>) is developing plans to increase prices by up to 300% and has discussed manufacturing its own chips, marking a significant shift in strategy that could reshape its relationship with major customers like Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) and Qualcomm Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>).
What Happened: The SoftBank-controlled company aims to boost annual smartphone revenue by approximately $1 billion over a decade through its &#8220;Picasso&#8221; initiative, according to court documents revealed during a recent trial with Qualcomm, Reuters reported. The strategy, dating back to 2019, centers on increasing royalty rates for its latest Armv9 computing architecture.
Arm CEO Rene Haas has explored expanding beyond the company&#8217;s traditional role of selling chip-design blueprints to potentially producing complete chips or chipsets. This move could position Arm as a direct competitor to its current customers, particularly as the company seeks growth beyond its relatively modest $3.23 billion revenue in fiscal 2024.
Internal communications revealed during the trial showed Haas&#8217;s confidence in competing against customers if Arm entered chip production. &#8220;Rest are hosed,&#8221; Haas wrote in a December 2021 message regarding potential competition with companies like Qualcomm.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/01/42965139/tesla-soars-over-2-after-hours-on-morgan-stanleys-430-target-upgrade-and-breakthrough-fsd-advancements-says-gary-black">Tesla Shares Rise Over 2% After Hours On Morgan Stanley&#8217;s Price Target Hike, FSD Breakthroughs: Gary Black Highlights Key Drivers</a>
Why It Matters: The strategy <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/01/42890464/softbank-owned-arm-eyes-acquisition-of-oracle-backed-chip-designer-ampere-computing-amid-nvidias-dominance-report">shift comes as Arm explores acquiring</a> Ampere Computing LLC, an Oracle Corp.-backed chip designer which was valued at $8 billion in 2021. This potential acquisition could accelerate Arm&#8217;s evolution from a technology licensor to a complete chipmaker, particularly in the server market.
Industry analysts express concern about the implications. &#8220;It should send a chill down the spine of their customers,&#8221; said Tantra Analyst founder Prakash Sangam, noting the unexpected nature of Arm&#8217;s chip-making aspirations.
Price Action: Arm Holdings PLC&#8217;s ADR closed at $137.07 on Tuesday, down 2.43% for the day. In after-hours trading, the stock gained 1.26%. Over the past year, the stock has surged by an impressive 100.16%, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">data from Benzinga Pro</a>.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/42965859/ray-dalio-warns-us-could-go-broke-as-debt-soars-urges-action-to-avert-crisis">Ray Dalio Warns US Could &#8216;Go Broke&#8217; As Debt Soars, Urges Action To Avert Crisis</a></li>
</ul>
Image Via Shutterstok 
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Equities

SoftBank-Backed Arm Plans Major Price Hike: Apple, Qualcomm Supplier Explores Chip Development

Financial giants have made a conspicuous bearish move on Qualcomm. Our analysis of options history for Qualcomm (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>) revealed 31 unusual trades.
Delving into the details, we found 29% of traders were bullish, while 45% showed bearish tendencies. Out of all the trades we spotted, 14 were puts, with a value of $951,965, and 17 were calls, valued at $1,247,474.
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $105.0 to $170.0 for Qualcomm during the past quarter. 
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is a powerful move while trading options. This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Qualcomm's options for a given strike price. Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of Qualcomm's whale trades within a strike price range from $105.0 to $170.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Qualcomm Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1736797533_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Biggest Options Spotted:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$7.8</td>
<td>$7.7</td>
<td>$7.7</td>
<td>$140.00</td>
<td>$295.6K</td>
<td>1.8K</td>
<td align="right">384</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$3.7</td>
<td>$3.55</td>
<td>$3.65</td>
<td>$105.00</td>
<td>$164.2K</td>
<td>2.8K</td>
<td align="right">472</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$27.3</td>
<td>$27.2</td>
<td>$27.2</td>
<td>$150.00</td>
<td>$147.0K</td>
<td>1.4K</td>
<td align="right">130</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$32.95</td>
<td>$31.8</td>
<td>$31.8</td>
<td>$135.00</td>
<td>$146.2K</td>
<td>33</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$38.85</td>
<td>$38.6</td>
<td>$38.6</td>
<td>$130.00</td>
<td>$131.2K</td>
<td>677</td>
<td align="right">62</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Qualcomm</h3>
Qualcomm develops and licenses wireless technology and designs chips for smartphones. The company's key patents revolve around CDMA and OFDMA technologies, which are standards in wireless communications that are the backbone of all 3G, 4G, and 5G networks. Qualcomm's IP is licensed by virtually all wireless device makers. The firm is also the world's largest wireless chip vendor, supplying nearly every premier handset maker with leading-edge processors. Qualcomm also sells RF-front end modules into smartphones, as well as chips into automotive and Internet of Things markets.
After a thorough review of the options trading surrounding Qualcomm, we move to examine the company in more detail. This includes an assessment of its current market status and performance.
<h3>Current Position of Qualcomm</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 2,864,603, with QCOM's price down by -0.13%, positioned at $156.78.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 16 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Professional Analyst Ratings for Qualcomm</h3>
In the last month, 1 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $215.0.
Turn $1000 into $1270 in just 20 days?
20-year pro options trader reveals his one-line chart technique that shows when to buy and sell. Copy his trades, which have had averaged a 27% profit every 20 days. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/options-moneyline-2/?t=Moop1arja3be22op14&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Mizuho keeps a Outperform rating on Qualcomm with a target price of $215. 
Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.
If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for Qualcomm, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Behind the Scenes of Qualcomm's Latest Options Trends

LEDS

LRCX

LSCC

MCHP

NXPI

RMBS

Shares of semiconductor stocks are trading lower amid a push by US President Biden to curb AI chip exports to China.

Intel Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>) discussed its priorities for 2025 with Citi Research analyst Christopher Danely, which includes the company&#8217;s AI ambitions, solving CPU manufacturing issues, and the appointment of a new CEO.
What Happened: David Zinsner and Michelle Johnston Holthaus were named as the interim co-CEOs of Intel on Dec. 2, 2024, while the company searched for a permanent replacement. Former CEO Pat Gelsinger retired and stepped down from the board after over 40 years with the company.
Citi Research, in its research note dated Jan. 9, 2025, highlighted how it plans to work on the most pressing matters in the new year. This includes fixing the product roadmap, fixing CPU manufacturing, and establishing a meaningful foothold in the AI market.
The note also stated that the company will streamline its operations with a goal to gain market share in the CPU market in 2025. Citi reiterated its beliefs in Intel&#8217;s priorities.
Talking about the search for a new CEO, the research note added &#8220;We believe Intel could announce a new CEO within a couple of months and reiterate our Neutral rating.&#8221; The price target remained unchanged at $22 per share, assigned on Nov. 26, 2024.
See Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/12/42378342/intel-stock-is-where-it-was-27-years-ago-how-the-worlds-leading-chipmaker-lost-the-plot-thrice"> Intel Stock Is Where It Was 27 Years Ago: How The World&#8217;s Leading Chipmaker Lost The Plot, Thrice</a> 
Why It Matters: Intel&#8217;s market capitalization has significantly lagged behind its competitors.
While Intel&#8217;s value stands at $85.7 billion, Qualcomm Inc.&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>) market cap stands at $176.7 billion. Advanced Micro Devices Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>), a key rival, boasts a market capitalization that is more than double of Intel&#8217;s at $197.7 billion.
Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) towers above them all with a staggering market capitalization of $3.43 trillion, highlighting the significant gap in valuation within the semiconductor industry.
Additionally, Intel&#8217;s 13th and 14th-generation processors were plagued by persistent performance issues. In August 2024, the chip maker announced plans to cut 15% of its workforce, or about <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/08/40230583/intels-8-5b-government-windfall-fails-to-stop-15-000-layoffs-at-chipmaker">15,000 jobs</a>, despite receiving $8.5 billion in grants from the U.S. government.
Price Action: Intel&#8217;s stock was down 0.4% in premarket on Friday. The stock has declined by 42.99% over the last six months and by 58.12% over a year. Whereas, the Nasdaq 100 has outperformed with gains of 2.45% in the last six months and 26.13% over a year.
About 31 analysts <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/INTC/analyst-ratings">tracked </a>by Benzinga have a consensus rating of &#8220;sell&#8221; with an average target price of $30.23 on Intel stock. BofA Securities, Northland Capital Markets, and Mizuho are among the three most recent analyst ratings, and their average price target stands at $24, implying a 20.85% upside.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/INTC/analyst-ratings"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="942" height="355" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/10045014/INTC-ANR.png" alt="" class="wp-image-727565" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/10045014/INTC-ANR.png 942w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/10045014/INTC-ANR-300x113.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/10045014/INTC-ANR-768x289.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 942px) 100vw, 942px" /></a></figure>
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/01/42906089/california-wildfires-ignite-concerns-for-insurance-stocks-here-are-some-insurance-etfs-which-could-be-impacted">California Wildfires Ignite Concerns For Insurance Stocks: Here Are Some Insurance ETFs Which Could Be Impacted </a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Intel Stock Has Fallen Over 58% In 1 Year, But Citi Maintains 'Neutral' Rating On Expected Replacement Of Pat Gelsinger In A 'Couple Of Months'

Arm Holdings PLC &#8211; ADR (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARM#NASDAQ">ARM</a>) is exploring the potential acquisition of semiconductor designer Ampere Computing LLC, signaling further consolidation in the artificial intelligence chip sector.
What Happened: Ampere, which designs data center processors using Arm&#8217;s technology and is backed by Oracle Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ORCL#NYSE">ORCL</a>), has been fielding takeover interest while working with financial advisers to explore strategic options, according to people familiar with the matter <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-01-09/chip-designer-arm-considers-acquiring-ampere-computing">cited</a> by Bloomberg on Wednesday. 
The company was previously valued at $8 billion in a proposed SoftBank Group Corp. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBY#OTC">SFTBY</a>) minority investment in 2021.
The potential deal emerges as Ampere faces intensifying competition in the AI chip market. In May, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/05/38892874/nvidia-faces-new-competition-as-qualcomm-and-ampere-launch-ai-focused-server">the company partnered</a> with Qualcomm Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>) to launch an AI-focused server combining Ampere&#8217;s CPUs with Qualcomm&#8217;s Cloud AI 100 Ultra chips for inference tasks. This collaboration aims to establish a stronger foothold in the data center market currently dominated by NVIDIA Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>).
Arm Holdings and Ampere Computing did not immediately respond to <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga</a>'s request for comment.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/01/42888800/goldman-sachs-flags-market-correction-risk-as-inflation-trump-policies-stir-uncertainty">Goldman Sachs Flags Market Correction Risk As Inflation, Trump Policies Stir Uncertainty</a>
Why It Matters: Oracle currently holds a 29% stake in Ampere with options to gain control. The startup, which had confidentially filed for an IPO in April 2022, is led by CEO Renee James, a former Intel Corp. executive. 
In May, the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/05/38892874/nvidia-faces-new-competition-as-qualcomm-and-ampere-launch-ai-focused-server">company announced plans</a> for next-generation CPUs featuring 256 processing cores, manufactured using Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co.&#8216;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>) 3-nanometer process.
For Arm, acquiring Ampere could accelerate its evolution from a technology licensor to a more complete chipmaker, potentially leveraging Ampere&#8217;s engineering expertise in the server market. The discussions, however, remain fluid and could fall through, according to the report.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/01/42890014/jim-cramer-warns-on-quantum-stories-as-stocks-plunge-we-need-you-out-before-the-froth-goes-away">Jim Cramer Warns On &#8216;Quantum Stories&#8217; As Stocks Plunge: &#8216;We Need You Out Before The Froth Goes Away&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Image Via Shutterstock

ORCL

SFTBY

SoftBank-Owned Arm Eyes Acquisition Of Oracle-Backed Chip Designer Ampere Computing Amid Nvidia's Dominance: Report

Whales with a lot of money to spend have taken a noticeably bullish stance on Qualcomm.
Looking at options history for Qualcomm (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>) we detected 11 trades.
If we consider the specifics of each trade, it is accurate to state that 36% of the investors opened trades with bullish expectations and 27% with bearish.
From the overall spotted trades, 5 are puts, for a total amount of $256,157 and 6, calls, for a total amount of $664,565.
<h3>Predicted Price Range</h3>
Based on the trading activity, it appears that the significant investors are aiming for a price territory stretching from $80.0 to $175.0 for Qualcomm over the recent three months. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is a powerful move while trading options. This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Qualcomm's options for a given strike price. Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of Qualcomm's whale trades within a strike price range from $80.0 to $175.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Qualcomm Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1736364659_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Significant Options Trades Detected:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$15.55</td>
<td>$15.15</td>
<td>$15.4</td>
<td>$160.00</td>
<td>$154.0K</td>
<td>1.2K</td>
<td align="right">109</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$84.6</td>
<td>$81.4</td>
<td>$83.15</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
<td>$141.3K</td>
<td>30</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$84.45</td>
<td>$81.5</td>
<td>$83.0</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
<td>$141.1K</td>
<td>30</td>
<td align="right">34</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$9.65</td>
<td>$9.65</td>
<td>$9.65</td>
<td>$175.00</td>
<td>$96.5K</td>
<td>798</td>
<td align="right">100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>QCOM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$3.7</td>
<td>$3.45</td>
<td>$3.5</td>
<td>$157.50</td>
<td>$87.5K</td>
<td>2.0K</td>
<td align="right">253</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Qualcomm</h3>
Qualcomm develops and licenses wireless technology and designs chips for smartphones. The company's key patents revolve around CDMA and OFDMA technologies, which are standards in wireless communications that are the backbone of all 3G, 4G, and 5G networks. Qualcomm's IP is licensed by virtually all wireless device makers. The firm is also the world's largest wireless chip vendor, supplying nearly every premier handset maker with leading-edge processors. Qualcomm also sells RF-front end modules into smartphones, as well as chips into automotive and Internet of Things markets.
In light of the recent options history for Qualcomm, it's now appropriate to focus on the company itself. We aim to explore its current performance.
<h3>Where Is Qualcomm Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 2,808,029, with QCOM's price down by -0.51%, positioned at $159.7.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 21 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Professional Analyst Ratings for Qualcomm</h3>
A total of 1 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $215.0.
Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move
Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=Be8be9arja3be22bz20&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Mizuho continues to hold a Outperform rating for Qualcomm, targeting a price of $215. 
Trading options involves greater risks but also offers the potential for higher profits. Savvy traders mitigate these risks through ongoing education, strategic trade adjustments, utilizing various indicators, and staying attuned to market dynamics. Keep up with the latest options trades for Qualcomm with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.

Looking At Qualcomm's Recent Unusual Options Activity

16 analysts have shared their evaluations of Qualcomm (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>) during the recent three months, expressing a mix of bullish and bearish perspectives.
The table below provides a snapshot of their recent ratings, showcasing how sentiments have evolved over the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th align="right">Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Indifferent</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th align="right">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">6</td>
<td align="right">8</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">4</td>
<td align="right">5</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
The 12-month price targets, analyzed by analysts, offer insights with an average target of $196.12, a high estimate of $240.00, and a low estimate of $160.00. This current average has decreased by 3.39% from the previous average price target of $203.00. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1736287219_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Deciphering Analyst Ratings: An In-Depth Analysis</h2>
The perception of Qualcomm by financial experts is analyzed through recent analyst actions. The following summary presents key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Vijay Rakesh</td>
<td>Mizuho</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$215.00</td>
<td>$245.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ben Reitzes</td>
<td>Melius Research</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$180.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Christopher Rolland</td>
<td>Susquehanna</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Positive</td>
<td>$210.00</td>
<td>$230.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>C J Muse</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$160.00</td>
<td>$160.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Gary Mobley</td>
<td>Loop Capital</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$180.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Joseph Moore</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$204.00</td>
<td>$207.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Stacy Rasgon</td>
<td>Bernstein</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$215.00</td>
<td>$200.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Samik Chatterjee</td>
<td>JP Morgan</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$200.00</td>
<td>$195.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Timothy Arcuri</td>
<td>UBS</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$190.00</td>
<td>$185.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Aaron Rakers</td>
<td>Wells Fargo</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Underweight</td>
<td>$175.00</td>
<td>$170.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>C J Muse</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$160.00</td>
<td>$160.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mark Lipacis</td>
<td>Evercore ISI Group</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>In-Line</td>
<td>$199.00</td>
<td>$190.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cody Acree</td>
<td>Benchmark</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$240.00</td>
<td>$240.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Samik Chatterjee</td>
<td>JP Morgan</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$195.00</td>
<td>$210.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Christopher Rolland</td>
<td>Susquehanna</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Positive</td>
<td>$230.00</td>
<td>$250.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Christopher Danely</td>
<td>Citigroup</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$185.00</td>
<td>$200.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: In response to dynamic market conditions and company performance, analysts update their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise', or 'Lower' their stance, it signifies their reaction to recent developments related to Qualcomm. This insight gives a snapshot of analysts' perspectives on the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Analyzing trends, analysts offer qualitative evaluations, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey expectations for the relative performance of Qualcomm compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts set price targets as an estimate of a stock's future value. Comparing the current and prior price targets provides insight into how analysts' expectations have changed over time. This information can be valuable for investors seeking to understand consensus views on the stock's potential future performance.</li>
</ul>
Navigating through these analyst evaluations alongside other financial indicators can contribute to a holistic understanding of Qualcomm's market standing. Stay informed and make data-driven decisions with our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/QCOM/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Qualcomm analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>About Qualcomm</h2>
Qualcomm develops and licenses wireless technology and designs chips for smartphones. The company's key patents revolve around CDMA and OFDMA technologies, which are standards in wireless communications that are the backbone of all 3G, 4G, and 5G networks. Qualcomm's IP is licensed by virtually all wireless device makers. The firm is also the world's largest wireless chip vendor, supplying nearly every premier handset maker with leading-edge processors. Qualcomm also sells RF-front end modules into smartphones, as well as chips into automotive and Internet of Things markets.
<h3>A Deep Dive into Qualcomm's Financials</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: The company exhibits a lower market capitalization profile, positioning itself below industry averages. This suggests a smaller scale relative to peers.
Positive Revenue Trend: Examining Qualcomm's financials over 3 months reveals a positive narrative. The company achieved a noteworthy revenue growth rate of 18.69% as of 30 September, 2024, showcasing a substantial increase in top-line earnings. When compared to others in the Information Technology sector, the company excelled with a growth rate higher than the average among peers.
Net Margin: Qualcomm's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional net margin, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable net margin of 28.5%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost management.
Return on Equity (ROE): Qualcomm's ROE excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 11.46%. This signifies robust financial management and efficient use of shareholder equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): The company's ROA is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROA of 5.41%, the company showcases effective utilization of assets.
Debt Management: Qualcomm's debt-to-equity ratio is notably higher than the industry average. With a ratio of 0.56, the company relies more heavily on borrowed funds, indicating a higher level of financial risk.
<h2>How Are Analyst Ratings Determined?</h2>
Benzinga tracks 150 analyst firms and reports on their stock expectations. Analysts typically arrive at their conclusions by predicting how much money a company will make in the future, usually the upcoming five years, and how risky or predictable that company's revenue streams are.
Analysts attend company conference calls and meetings, research company financial statements, and communicate with insiders to publish their ratings on stocks. Analysts typically rate each stock once per quarter or whenever the company has a major update.
Some analysts also offer predictions for helpful metrics such as earnings, revenue, and growth estimates to provide further guidance as to what to do with certain tickers. It is important to keep in mind that while stock and sector analysts are specialists, they are also human and can only forecast their beliefs to traders.
Which Stocks Are Analysts Recommending Now?
Benzinga Edge gives you instant access to all major analyst upgrades, downgrades, and price targets. Sort by accuracy, upside potential, and more. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=be8be9arja3be22bz21&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here to stay ahead of the market</a>.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

A Glimpse Into The Expert Outlook On Qualcomm Through 16 Analysts

Mizuho analyst Vijay Rakesh maintains Qualcomm (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>) with a Outperform and lowers the price target from $245 to $215.

Mizuho Maintains Outperform on Qualcomm, Lowers Price Target to $215

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Software IP Licensor Ceva Says Its NeuPro-Nano Embedded AI NPUs Gain Traction In AIoT And MCU Markets

Ambarella Launches N1-655 edge GenAI System-On-Chip (SoC) To Support Large-Language Models

<a href="https://www.qualcomm.com/news/releases/2025/01/qualcomm-launches-on-prem-ai-appliance-solution-and-inference-su" title="https://www.qualcomm.com/news/releases/2025/01/qualcomm-launches-on-prem-ai-appliance-solution-and-inference-su">https://www.qualcomm.com/news/releases/2025/01/qualcomm-launches-on-prem-ai-appliance-solution-and-inference-su</a>

Highlights:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Qualcomm AI On-Prem Appliance Solution is designed for generative AI inference and computer vision workloads on dedicated on-premises hardware &ndash; allowing sensitive customer data, fine-tuned models, and inference loads to remain on premises.</li>
<li>Qualcomm AI Inference Suite provides ready-to-use AI applications and agents, tools and libraries for operationalizing AI from computer vision to generative AI &ndash; spanning across on-premises solutions and cloud deployments.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
<li>Aetina, Honeywell, and IBM are amongst the first wave of industry leaders supporting the AI On-Prem Appliance and AI Inference Suite.</li>
</ul>
At CES 2025, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., today announced <a href="https://www.qualcomm.com/products/technology/artificial-intelligence/edge-ai-box">Qualcomm&reg; AI On-Prem Appliance Solution</a>, an on-premises desktop or wall-mounted hardware solution, and <a href="https://www.qualcomm.com/products/technology/processors/cloud-artificial-intelligence">Qualcomm&reg; AI Inference Suite</a>, a set of software and services for AI inferencing spanning from near-edge to cloud. The combination of these new offerings allows for small and medium businesses, enterprises and industrial organizations to run custom and off-the-shelf AI applications on their premises, including generative workloads. Running AI inference on premises can deliver significant savings in operational costs and overall total cost of ownership (TCO), compared to the cost of renting third-party AI infrastructure.
Using the AI On-Prem Appliance Solution in concert with the AI Inference Suite, customers can now use generative AI leveraging their proprietary data, fine-tuned models, and technology infrastructure to automate human and machine processes and applications in virtually any end environment, such as retail stores, quick service restaurants, shopping outlets, dealerships, hospitals, factories and shop floors &ndash; where the workflow is well established, repeatable and ready for automation.

Qualcomm Launches On-Prem AI Appliance Solution And Inference Suite To Step-Up AI Inference Privacy, Flexibility And Costs Savings Across Enterprise And Industrial Verticals

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Shares of semiconductor and AI stocks are trading higher in possible reaction to Microsoft's plan to invest approximately $80 billion into AI data center development in fiscal 2025.

<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/semiconductors" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Semiconductor chips stocks</a>, including Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), Advanced Micro Devices, Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>), Broadcom Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>), Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>), STMicroelectronics (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/STM#NYSE">STM</a>), Marvell Technology, Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRVL#NASDAQ">MRVL</a>), Micron Technology, Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MU#NASDAQ">MU</a>), Arm Holdings plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARM#NASDAQ">ARM</a>), Qualcomm Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>), Super Micro Computer, Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMCI#NASDAQ">SMCI</a>) surged during premarket trading on Monday ahead of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas on Tuesday.
The investor enthusiasm also reflects Big Tech giant Microsoft Corp&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) plans to commit <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42804813/microsofts-80-billion-investment-outlay-musks-battle-with-openai-and-nvidias-billion-dollar-bet-this-week-in-artificial-intelligence" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">$80 billion to</a> developing AI data centers in fiscal 2025. 
Additionally, Foxconn, also known as Hon Hai Technology, reported robust revenue in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/01/42808796/foxconn-posts-record-revenue-rides-high-on-ai-server-demand-and-nvidia-partnership" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the fourth quarter</a>, backed by cloud and networking products revenue and AI server demand.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42793170/alibaba-cloud-joins-forces-with-ex-google-execs-unicorn-to-boost-ai-models" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alibaba Cloud Joins Forces With Ex-Google Exec&#8217;s Unicorn To Boost AI Models</a>
The Taiwanese Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) and Nvidia supplier&#8217;s revenue grew by over 15%, reaching $64.8 billion. December revenue grew by over 42% to $19.9 billion.
Investors expect Nvidia to offer positive pointers at CES, as Focus Taiwan <a href="https://focustaiwan.tw/business/202501060009" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cites</a> MasterLink Securities analyst Tom Tang alluding to Nvidia chief Jenseng Huang&#8216;s keynote speech at the event.
The semiconductor chip stocks had a remarkable run in 2024, backed by the AI frenzy, pivotal to the S&amp;P 500 and Nasdaq index&#8217;s&nbsp;gains of 23%—29% in 2024.
Last year, a third of the 10 global companies worth over $1 trillion valuation were from the chip industry.
Notably, Nvidia&#8217;s valuation <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42793394/nvidias-2-trillion-ai-rally-fueled-by-chips-startups-and-robotics" rel="noreferrer noopener">surged by over</a> $2 trillion in 2024, breaching the $3 trillion mark. This was backed by its GPUs, which initially targeted video games but ended up being critical hardware for developing AI models. Broadcom joined the&nbsp;trillion-dollar club&nbsp;in 2024, supported by demand for its custom chips.
Contract chipmaker Taiwan Semiconductor <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42784508/taiwan-semiconductors-2nm-progress-fuels-taiwan-index-musk-highlights-talent-pool" rel="noreferrer noopener">remains on track</a> to produce 2nm chips&nbsp;in Taiwan and commercialize 4nm chips at its Arizona fab. It is a key supplier to companies such as Apple, Nvidia, AMD, and more.
Dan Ives of Wedbush expects tech stocks to post a 25% gain in 2025, backed by favorable policies from President-elect Donald Trump and Big Tech spending.
Investors can gain exposure to semiconductor stocks through ProShares Ultra Semiconductors (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/USD#NYSE">USD</a>) and Invesco PHLX Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOXQ#NASDAQ">SOXQ</a>).
Also Read:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42772915/li-auto-rerated-on-new-model-pipeline-and-autonomous-driving-advances-analyst" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goldman Sachs Sees Strong Upside In Li Auto on New Model Pipeline and Autonomous Driving Advances</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

AI Chip Stocks Nvidia, Broadcom, AMD, Taiwan Semi, Micron, Super Micro Surge Premarket: Whats Going On?

<h1 class="wp-block-heading">New On The Block</h1>
Vera Bradley Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRA#NASDAQ">VRA</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42439021/vera-bradley-reports-30-sales-drop-in-q3-amid-business-model-transition-stock-slips">sales are down</a>. 
The handbag brand&#8217;s largest shareholder, Fund 1 Investments LLC, isn&#8217;t happy about it. A Dec. 30 <a href="https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241230656224/en/Fund-1-Sends-Letter-to-Vera-Bradley%E2%80%99s-Board-of-Directors-Highlighting-the-Opportunity-for-Value-Enhancing-Strategic-Alternatives">letter</a> to the board referred to co-founder Barbara Bradley Baekgaard&#8216;s designs as &#8220;iconic&#8221; and &#8220;synonymous with innovation and disruption for decades." 
But after the compliments came the critique: Fund 1 takes issue with Vera Bradley&#8217;s questionable capital allocation, poor operational performance and a failed brand turnaround, all compounded by tough macroeconomic conditions for fashion brands. What's the solution, according to Fund 1? A "strategic alternatives process" to explore selling the company to a larger organization or taking it private.
Also for sale, as of this week:
<ul>
<li>Imagination Technologies Group Limited, a British semiconductor and software design company owned by private equity firm Canyon Bridge Capital Partners, is up for sale. Lazard is shopping it around, according to <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-01-03/chipmaker-imagination-s-owners-tap-lazard-to-search-for-buyer?srnd=phx-deals">Bloomberg</a>. </li>
<li>Skin care startup Minimalist is considering a $350 million deal, TechCrunch <a href="https://techcrunch.com/2025/01/03/hindustan-unilever-minimalist-acquisition/?guccounter=1">reported</a>. On the buy side is Hindustan Unilever Ltd., which recently purchased Oziva and Wellbeing Nutrition. Hindustan Unilever's skincare offerings include Dove and Pond's. Jaipur-based Minimalist reported an 89% revenue growth to $40.8 million in fiscal year 2024.</li>
</ul>
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Off The Block</h1>
SouthState Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSB#NYSE">SSB</a>) has finalized its $2 billion stock acquisition of Texas-based Independent Bank Group, potentially signaling a wave of regional bank mergers. Key drivers include regional bank stock price growth, lower interest rates improving deposit profitability, and anticipated deregulation under Trump&#8217;s administration.
Hookipa Pharma (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HOOK#NASDAQ">HOOK</a>) is acquiring Poolbeg Pharma in an all-stock deal. Hookipa shareholders retain rights to milestone payments from Gilead&#8217;s hepatitis B partnership and proceeds from the HB-200 program. 
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42726550/stanley-druckenmiller-loaded-up-on-regional-banks-ahead-of-trumps-election-win">Stanley Druckenmiller Loaded Up On Regional Banks Ahead Of Trump&#8217;s Win</a>
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Bankruptcy Block</h1>
Mitch Modell, the ex-CEO of the Modell's sporting goods chain, wants to revive bankrupt retailers Party City and Big Lots. He plans to raise $1 billion and keep 33,000 jobs afloat. He also wishes to name his 20-something sons, Matthew and Maxwell, as co-presidents, according to the <a href="https://nypost.com/2024/12/30/business/former-modells-owner-wants-to-save-bankrupt-retailers-party-city-big-lots-our-goal-is-to-save-33k-jobs/">New York Post</a>.
Modell, known for the catchy "Gotta go to Mo's" jingle, had his eureka moment at none other than Mar-a-Lago, where he decided the struggling chains needed a sporting goods flair. His vision includes ditching Big Lots' bulky furniture and sprucing up Party City with sportswear and footwear — because nothing says "Happy Birthday" like a new pair of sneakers.
To keep prices low, Modell plans to tap factories in China, Mexico and India, courtesy of Source One Global. He's also enlisted other former CEOs, such as Larry Meyer (Forever 21) and Demos Parneros (Barnes &amp; Noble) to help evaluate the deal.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Notes From The Block</h1>
In 2025, the incoming Trump administration is expected to be friendlier to media conglomerates looking to conduct mergers, compared to the Biden administration. "The overwhelming mood is positive from an M&amp;A perspective," Christopher Vollmer, managing director at MediaLink, told <a href="https://variety.com/2025/biz/news/media-mergers-acquisitions-2025-deals-1236263982/">Variety</a>. "People are looking to kick off M&amp;A activity in the first quarter of 2025."
But people forget that Trump wasn&#8217;t exactly cordial to dealmakers the last time he was in office. The previous&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;administration, from 2016 to 2020, blocked and sued or threatened to block a lot of big deals. 
If you recall:
<ul>
<li>AT&amp;T (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/T#NYSE">T</a>) and Time Warner <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/17/11/10748659/at-t-resists-doj-order-to-divest-time-warners-cnn-for-merger-approval">failed to ink a deal</a>. Regulators argued that it could increase prices for consumers and disadvantage rival distributors.</li>
<li>Sinclair Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SBGI#NASDAQ">SBGI</a>) and Tribune Media faced resistance due to concerns about consolidation in the broadcast industry. Sinclair <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/m-a/24/11/41805370/jim-cramer-hopes-m-a-to-come-back-bigly-under-trump-administration">paid a hefty fee</a> for whiffing.</li>
<li>Broadcom Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>) and Qualcomm Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>), had they merged, could have affected U.S. national security, a federal <a href="https://www.investors.com/news/technology/broadcom-buyout-of-qualcomm-looking-doubtful-after-federal-probe/">probe</a> showed.</li>
<li>DraftKings Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DKNG#NASDAQ">DKNG</a>) and FanDuel: A merger of the two largest daily fantasy sports platforms was blocked to preserve competition in the industry.</li>
</ul>
The Department of Justice also mandated divestitures in major transactions. For example:
<ul>
<li>Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BMY#NYSE">BMY</a>) had to divest Celgene&#8217;s Otezla treatment to resolve concerns about reduced competition in the market for psoriasis drugs.</li>
<li>Harris Corp. was required to sell parts of its military communications business to proceed with its merger with L3 Technologies, creating the company L3Harris Technologies Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LHX#NYSE">LHX</a>)</li>
</ul>
These interventions reflected the DOJ's focus on preventing market dominance. Should M&amp;A volume under Trump be comparable to the last four years, deal pros can&#8217;t blame anyone but themselves. 
Now Read:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/12/42746253/bring-it-on-angry-birds-producer-namit-malhotra-ready-for-cinema-ai-era">&#8216;Bring It On&#8217;: Angry Birds Producer Namit Malhotra Is Ready For The AI Era Of Cinema</a></li>
</ul>

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Deal Dispatch: Vera Bradley Is A Mixed Bag, Modell's Ex-CEO Explores Party City

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Qualcomm: Riding The AI Wave

Barclays Remains a Buy on Qualcomm (QCOM)

Barclays analyst Tom O'Malley lowered the firm's price target on Qualcomm (QCOM) to $185 from $200 and keeps an Overweight rating on the shares as ...

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Intel gains amid takeover speculation; Musk mentioned (update)

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The technology sector is primed for extraordinary growth, driven by the increasing demand for tech-based solutions. Amid this backdrop, it could be wise to buy tech stocks, such as Salesforce (CRM), Adobe (ADBE), and QUALCOMM (QCOM), with analyst-approved upsides. Continue reading… The technology sector is experiencing unparalleled growth, with innovations unfolding rapidly. This dynamic environment offers investors a wide range of opportunities. To successfully navigate it, it's essential to pinpoint tech stocks that demonstrate potential and align with analyst forecasts.
Thus, investors could consider adding fundamentally sound tech stocks, such as Salesforce, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/CRM/">CRM</a>), Adobe Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/ADBE/">ADBE</a>), and QUALCOMM Incorporated (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/QCOM/">QCOM</a>).
The application development software market is amid robust expansion, propelled by the growing appetite for software solutions across diverse sectors. As organizations continue to advance their <a href="https://www.precedenceresearch.com/application-development-software-market">digital transformation</a> endeavors, the imperative demand for efficient and scalable application development software becomes increasingly apparent.
Fueled by the increasing development of infrastructure, global IT spending is projected to experience a significant rise in 2025. According to the latest forecast by Gartner, Inc., worldwide IT spending is expected to total <a href="https://www.gartner.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2024-10-23-gartner-forecasts-worldwide-it-spending-to-grow-nine-point-three-percent-in-2025">$5.74 trillion in 2025</a>, indicating an increase of 9.3% from 2024. 
Considering these factors, let's take a look at the fundamentals of the three tech stock picks.
Salesforce, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/CRM/">CRM</a>)
CRM provides Customer Relationship Management (CRM) technology that brings companies and customers together worldwide. The company's service includes sales to store data, monitor leads and progress, forecast opportunities, gain insights through analytics and artificial intelligence, and deliver quotes, contracts, and invoices; and service that enables companies to deliver trusted and highly personalized customer support at scale. 
On December 17, CRM announced Agentforce 2.0: the newest version of Agentforce, the first digital labor platform for enterprises. It is a complete AI system for augmenting teams with trusted, autonomous AI agents in the flow of work. The new advances will allow entities to scale their workforce with customized agents capable of handling complex with even more precision and accuracy.
On November 20, CRM introduced agentic lifecycle management tools to automate Agentforce testing, prototype agents in secure Sandbox environments, and transparently manage usage at scale. The new Agentforce Testing Center will help companies roll out trusted AI agents with no-code tools for testing, deploying, and monitoring in a secure, repeatable way.
During the third quarter, which ended October 31, 2024, CRM's total revenues grew 8.3% from the year-ago value to $9.44 billion. The company's non-GAAP income from operations of $3.12 billion reflects a 14.9% increase from the previous year period. Also, its non-GAAP <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/n/netincome.asp">net income</a> came in at $2.32 billion or $2.41 per share, up 12.2% and 14.2% year-over-year, respectively.
As per the company's guidance, CRM expects revenue in the range of $9.90 billion and $10.10 billion, up 7% - 9% year-over-year in the fourth quarter.
Also, for the fiscal year 2025, the company raised its low-end revenue guidance to $37.8 billion to $38 billion, up 8% - 9% from the prior year. It has also raised its operating cash flow growth to a range of 24% to 26%.
Analysts expect CRM's revenue and EPS for the fourth quarter (ending January 2025) to increase 8.1% and 14.2% year-over-year to $10.04 billion and $2.61, respectively. Moreover, the company topped the consensus revenue and EPS estimates in three of the trailing four quarters.
CRM's stock has gained 26.7% over the past six months and 28.8% over the past year to close the last trading session at $330.53.
Based on 41 Wall Street analysts offering 12-month price targets for CRM in the last three months, <a href="https://www.tipranks.com/stocks/crm/forecast">the average target price is $395.69</a>, indicating a 19.7% change from the last price, with a high forecast of $450 and a low forecast of $247.
CRM's <a href="https://stocknews.com/powr-ratings/">POWR Ratings</a> reflect its robust outlook. The stock has an overall rating of B, which translates to a Buy in our proprietary rating system. The POWR Ratings are calculated by considering 118 different factors, with each factor weighted to an optimal degree.
CRM has a B grade for Quality and Momentum. It is ranked #22 out of 127 stocks in the B-rated <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/software-application/">Software - Application</a> industry.
Beyond what is stated above, we've also rated CRM for Stability, Growth, Sentiment, and Value. Get all CRM ratings <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/CRM/">here</a>.
Adobe Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/ADBE/">ADBE</a>)
ADBE operates as an international diversified software company. The company operates through three segments: Digital Media; Digital Experience; and Publishing and Advertising. The company offers products, services, and solutions that allow individuals, teams, and enterprises to create, publish, and promote content.
On December 10, ADBE and Box, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/BOX/">BOX</a>), the leading Intelligent Content Management platform, announced a partnership to redefine how digital media is managed, created, and shared in the enterprise. With Adobe Express as the default image editor in Box, customers can easily create more engaging content without leaving Box's secure platform.
Adobe Express brings the best of Adobe's industry-leading creative tools into an app everyone can use. Powered by Firefly AI and built with easy features, the solution is designed to be commercially safe so enterprises can use it confidently.
On December 3, ADBE and Amazon's Amazon Web Services (AWS) expanded their strategic partnership to make Adobe Experience Platform (AEP) available on AWS, which empowers brands to deepen customer relationships through precise personalization. AEP delivers an actionable view of customers across every channel, with AI-driven insights ensuring timely and relevant customer experiences.
In the fourth quarter that ended on November 29, 2024, ADBE's total revenue rose 11.1% from the prior year's quarter to $5.61 billion, and its gross profit increased 13% year-over-year to $4.99 billion. The company's non-GAAP operating income of $2.60 billion indicates growth of 10.8% over the previous year.
Furthermore, the company's non-GAAP net income grew 8.8% and 12.6% from the year-ago value to $2.13 billion and $4.81 per share, respectively.
For the fiscal year 2025, ADBE projects total revenue between $23.30 billion and $23.55 billion. Its Digital Media segment revenue is expected to be between $17.25 billion and $17.40 billion, and its Digital Experience segment revenue is expected to be between $5.80 billion and $5.90 billion. Also, the company's non-GAAP EPS is set to be between $20.20 and $20.50.
Further, for the first quarter of fiscal year 2025, the company expects total revenue of $5.63 billion - $5.68 billion, and its non-GAAP EPS is expected to range from $4.95 to $5.00.
Street expects ADBE's revenue and EPS for the first quarter (ending February 2025) to increase 9.3% and 11% year-over-year to $5.66 billion and $4.97, respectively. Moreover, the company has surpassed the consensus EPS and revenue estimates in all four trailing quarters, which is impressive.
ADBE's stock has increased marginally intraday to close the last trading session at $431.18.
Based on 26 Wall Street analysts offering 12-month price targets for ADBE in the last three months, <a href="https://www.tipranks.com/stocks/ADBE/forecast">the average target price is $602.15</a>, indicating a 39.7% change from the last price, with a high forecast of $703 and a low forecast of $450.
ADBE's robust fundamentals are reflected in its POWR Ratings. It has an overall rating of A, which equates to a Strong Buy in our proprietary rating system.
The stock has an A grade for Quality and a B for Growth and Momentum. ADBE is ranked #11 out of 127 stocks in the Software - Application industry.
<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/ADBE/">Click here</a> to access the additional ADBE ratings (Sentiment, Value, and Stability).
QUALCOMM Incorporated (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/QCOM/">QCOM</a>)
QCOM engages in the development and commercialization of foundational technologies for the wireless industry worldwide. It operates through three segments: Qualcomm CDMA Technologies (QCT); Qualcomm Technology Licensing (QTL); and Qualcomm Strategic Initiatives (QSI).
QCOM's revenues for the fourth quarter (ended September 29, 2024) increased 18.7% year-over-year to $10.24 billion. The company reported a non-GAAP operating income of $3.51 billion, indicating a 31.4% growth from the prior year's quarter. QCOM's non-GAAP net income came in at $3.04 billion, up 33.3% year-over-year, while its net income per share grew 33.2% from the prior-year quarter to $2.69.
Street expects QCOM's revenue for the fiscal first quarter (ended December 2024) to increase 10.4% year-over-year to $10.96 billion. Moreover, its EPS estimate of $2.95 for the same period indicates a 7.4% year-over-year growth. In addition, it surpassed the consensus revenue and EPS estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, which is excellent.
The stock gained 14% over the past month, closing the last trading session at $159.85.
Based on 22 Wall Street analysts offering 12-month price targets for QCOM in the last three months, <a href="https://www.tipranks.com/stocks/qcom/forecast">the average target price is $199.88</a>, indicating a 25% change from the last price, with a high forecast of $250 and a low forecast of $160.
QCOM's POWR Ratings reflect bright prospects. The stock has an overall rating of B, which equates to a Buy in our proprietary rating system.
The stock has an A grade for Quality and a B for Value. QCOM is ranked first out of 90 stocks in the <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/semiconductor-wireless-chip/">Semiconductor &amp; Wireless Chip</a> industry.
In addition to the POWR Ratings highlighted above, one can access QCOM's ratings (Growth, Momentum, Stability, and Sentiment) <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/QCOM/">here</a>. 
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<hr />
CRM shares were trading at $325.86 per share on Tuesday afternoon, down $4.67 (-1.41%). Year-to-date, CRM has declined -2.53%, versus a 0.76% rise in the benchmark S&amp;P 500 index during the same period.
<hr><div style="clear:both;"></div> <h2>About the Author: Nidhi Agarwal</h2> <img src='https:/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Nidhi-Agarwal_Headshot-3.jpg' style="float:left; padding:5px;width:125px;">Nidhi is passionate about the capital market and wealth management, which led her to pursue a career as an investment analyst. She holds a bachelor's degree in finance and marketing and is pursuing the CFA program.

Her fundamental approach to analyzing stocks helps investors identify the best investment opportunities.<a href="https://stocknews.com/authors/?author=nidhi-agarwal">More...</a>The post <a href=https://stocknews.com/news/crm-adbe-qcom-box-3-tech-stocks-with-analyst-approved-upside/>3 Tech Stocks With Analyst-Approved Upside</a> appeared first on <a href=https://stocknews.com/>StockNews.com</a>

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