Semiconductor sector continues rally in 2026, SOX index up 10.14% YTD. Analyst expects AMD to beat Q4 with EPS of $1.24.

Unusual Whales
2026.02.03 10:12
In 2026, semiconductor stocks saw a continuous surge, with the PHLX Semiconductor Sector index rising 10.14% year-to-date. Cantor Fitzgerald's Semiconductor analyst C.J. Muse highlighted the sector as a must-own, evaluating top chip stocks like Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), Qualcomm, and Microchip Technology. AMD is predicted to surpass Q4 expectations and increase March-quarter guidance due to Intel Corp's wafer transition issues. Growth is anticipated from data center CPUs and GPUs, backed by AI, server demand, and MI 400-series launches. Despite potential supply constraints on client unit volumes, higher average selling prices are expected to bolster performance. AMD's quarterly earnings are awaited, with analysts projecting an EPS of $1.24 after previous outperformance. Benzinga's Edge Rankings position AMD favorably for momentum and quality, underscoring its robust performance compared to peers.