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Applied Materials' Q3 Revenue and Profit Soar on AI Demand
Strong Demand for Artificial Intelligence Drives Growth
Applied Materials (AMAT), a leading semiconductor equipment manufacturer, reported impressive financial results for its fiscal third quarter, fueled by surging demand for artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.
Key Financial Highlights:
– Revenue increased by 11% year-over-year to $6.75 billion – Net income rose by 15% to $1.96 billion – Adjusted earnings per share came in at $2.08
Semiconductor Systems Unit Drives Revenue Growth
The company's semiconductor systems unit, which produces equipment used to manufacture semiconductors, was a major contributor to the overall revenue growth.
This unit posted a 53% increase in revenue to $4.92 billion, driven by strong demand for AI-related chip production.
Strong Fourth-Quarter Forecast
Applied Materials provided an optimistic outlook for the fourth quarter:
– Forecast revenue of between $6.65 billion and $6.71 billion – Estimate adjusted earnings per share between $2.00 and $2.36
Positive Stock Market Reaction
Investors responded positively to the company's performance, sending its shares up by 17% in early trading on Friday.
Key Takeaways:
– Applied Materials benefits from increased demand for AI-related chip production – Semiconductor systems unit saw significant revenue growth – Company expects strong performance to continue in the fourth quarter