Applied Materials initiated with a Buy at Goldman Sachs

Goldman Sachs initiated coverage of Applied Materials (AMAT) with a Buy rating and $225 price target The firm initiated on the U.S. semiconductor capital equipment, storage, and foundry sectors with a balanced view. The he semiconductor capital equipment industry is in mid-cycle, with both headwinds and tailwinds creating relatively stable revenue dynamics across the sector, the analyst tells investors in a research note. Goldman sees more downside than upside risks, and thinks stable revenue through 2026 is the most likely outcome. It believes China represents more opportunity than threat for companies. Upside remains in the hard-disk-drive cycle with a recovery in NAND, Goldman contends. The analyst says NAND is due for a rebound into 2026.