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Micron Technology, Inc. (MU)

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March 14, 2025Undervalued
Compared to:

Intel Corp. (INTC) | Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI) | Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK)

Key takeaways
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Micron appears moderately undervalued based on its strong financial performance, improving market position, and growth prospects in the data center and AI markets. The company's valuation multiples (EV/EBITDA and EV/Sales) are significantly below industry averages, which is not fully justified by the risks it faces. While industry cyclicality and geopolitical factors present challenges, Micron's technological advancements and strategic investments position it well for future growth.

  • Micron's revenue has increased significantly, from $5.824 billion in the quarter ending February 29, 2024, to $8.709 billion in the quarter ending November 30, 2024, driven by strong demand in the data center market.
  • Gross profit margin has improved from 18.53% to 38.44% over the same period, indicating improved profitability and operational efficiency.
  • Micron's Return on Average Assets (ROA) has increased from -5.70% to 5.74%, significantly outperforming the industry average of -11.78%.
  • The company is strategically expanding its production capacity, particularly in the U.S., leveraging government incentives like the CHIPS Act, with direct funding agreements up to $6.1 billion.
  • Micron is aggressively ramping up its HBM (High Bandwidth Memory) production, aiming for a market share comparable to its DRAM share in the second half of calendar 2025.
  • Micron's Enterprise Value to EBITDA is 9.49, which is significantly lower than the industry average of 123.56, suggesting that the company may be undervalued relative to its earnings.
  • Year-to-date, MU has significantly outperformed XLK with a 8.65% return compared to XLK's -10.48%.
  • Key risks include volatility in average selling prices for memory and storage products and geopolitical risks associated with international operations.
  • Management expects mid-teens growth in DRAM bit demand and low double-digit growth in NAND bit demand for the full year.
  • Micron presents a higher-risk, higher-reward investment profile, with significant growth potential balanced against inherent industry risks and competitive pressures.
Evaluation summary
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  1. Company Overview:

    • Micron Technology, Inc. (MU) is a global leader in innovative memory and storage solutions, offering a portfolio of high-performance DRAM, NAND, and NOR memory and storage products under the Micron and Crucial brands. These products cater to various markets, including data centers, client PCs, mobile devices, automotive, and industrial applications.
    • The company operates through four segments: Compute and Networking Business Unit (CNBU), Mobile Business Unit (MBU), Embedded Business Unit (EBU), and Storage Business Unit (SBU). CNBU focuses on memory products for client, cloud server, enterprise, graphics, and networking markets. MBU involves memory and storage products for smartphones and other mobile devices. EBU focuses on automotive, industrial, and consumer markets. SBU consists of SSDs and component-level solutions for enterprise, cloud, client, and consumer storage markets.
    • For comparative analysis, the company's performance is benchmarked against the Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK) and evaluated against industry peers such as Intel Corp. (INTC) and Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI).
  2. Financial Performance:

    • Micron's financial performance has shown significant improvement throughout 2024. Revenue increased from $5.824 billion in the quarter ending February 29, 2024, to $8.709 billion in the quarter ending November 30, 2024.
    • Net income has also seen a substantial increase, rising from $793 million in the quarter ending February 29, 2024, to $1.870 billion in the quarter ending November 30, 2024.
    • Gross profit margin has improved from 18.53% in the quarter ending February 29, 2024, to 38.44% in the quarter ending November 30, 2024.
    • Net profit margin has also increased, from 13.62% to 21.47% over the same period.
    • Micron's Return on Average Assets (ROA) has increased from -5.70% to 5.74%, Return on Average Total Equity (ROE) from -8.27% to 8.66%, and Return on Average Total Capital from -7.08% to 7.39%. These figures are significantly better than the industry averages of -11.78%, -23.80%, and -11.26%, respectively, indicating strong operational efficiency compared to its peers.
  3. Operational Efficiency:

    • Micron's total assets have increased from $65.718 billion as of February 29, 2024, to $71.461 billion as of November 30, 2024, indicating growth in the company's asset base.
    • Total liabilities have also increased, from $21.848 billion to $24.664 billion over the same period.
    • Working capital has fluctuated but remains strong, standing at $15.478 billion as of November 30, 2024.
    • Net operating cash flow has increased significantly, from $1.219 billion in the quarter ending February 29, 2024, to $3.244 billion in the quarter ending November 30, 2024.
    • Free cash flow margin was 0.00% for the quarter ending November 30, 2024.
    • Total capital expenditure increased from $1.384 billion to $3.206 billion, reflecting investments in capacity expansion.
    • The company's debt-to-equity ratio is 30.86% as of November 30, 2024, which is lower than the industry average of 69.91%, indicating a more conservative financial leverage strategy.
    • The current ratio is 2.72, lower than the industry average of 4.37, suggesting a slightly lower level of liquidity compared to its peers.
  4. Growth Opportunities:

    • Micron is strategically expanding its production capacity, particularly in the U.S., leveraging government incentives like the CHIPS Act. This includes direct funding agreements with the U.S. Department of Commerce for up to $6.1 billion.
    • The company is aggressively ramping up its HBM (High Bandwidth Memory) production, aiming for a market share comparable to its DRAM share in the second half of calendar 2025.
    • Micron is also focusing on its data center business, driven by strong demand for high-margin products like HBM and high-capacity DIMMs.
    • The company is making significant investments in R&D to develop new competitive technologies and products.
  5. Recent Developments and Market Sentiment:

    • Recent news highlights Micron's strong data center revenue growth, driven by demand for HBM and high-capacity DIMMs.
    • The company is taking decisive actions to address challenges in the NAND market, including reducing wafer starts to align supply with demand.
    • Market sentiment appears cautiously optimistic, with analysts focusing on gross margin guidance, data center SSD growth, and HBM ramp-up.
    • Micron's management expressed confidence in the long-term growth trajectory of the data center market and Micron's strong position within it.
  6. Risks and Threats:

    • Key risks include volatility in average selling prices for memory and storage products, which are inherent to the cyclical nature of the industry.
    • Geopolitical risks associated with international operations, including trade tensions and export restrictions, pose a threat.
    • Intense competition from companies like Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix remains a significant challenge.
    • The company faces ongoing patent infringement lawsuits, including a $445 million jury verdict against Micron that the company plans to appeal.
    • Compliance with government incentive programs and associated requirements is also a risk factor.
  7. Valuation Analysis:

    • Micron's Enterprise Value to EBITDA is 9.49, which is significantly lower than the industry average of 123.56, suggesting that the company may be undervalued relative to its earnings.
    • The Enterprise Value to Sales ratio is 4.02, also lower than the industry average of 12.58, indicating a more favorable valuation relative to its sales.
  8. Price Performance:

    • Micron's stock price has shown volatility in early 2025, with fluctuations between $87.08 and $109.38.
    • Year-to-date, MU has significantly outperformed XLK with a 8.65% return compared to XLK's -10.48%. Over the past week, month, and six months, MU has also outperformed XLK. However, over a 3-year period, MU has underperformed XLK, with returns of 39.32% and 50.62%, respectively.
    • Compared to peers, Micron has outperformed Intel Corp. (INTC) but has shown mixed performance compared to Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI).
  9. Future Outlook:

    • Management expects DRAM bit shipments to be down in fiscal Q2, with a more significant decline in NAND.
    • The company anticipates sequential volume increases in both DRAM and NAND starting in fiscal Q3.
    • For the full year, Micron expects mid-teens growth in DRAM bit demand and low double-digit growth in NAND bit demand.
    • The company aims to maintain stable bit share in both DRAM and NAND throughout calendar years 2024 and 2025.
  10. Summary:

    • Micron Technology, Inc. (MU) has demonstrated strong financial performance and growth potential, driven by increasing demand for memory and storage solutions, particularly in the data center market.
    • Strengths: Strong data center growth, improving profitability, and strategic investments in capacity expansion.
    • Weaknesses: Cyclical industry, potential NAND market weakness, and ongoing legal challenges.
    • Opportunities: Leveraging government incentives, ramping up HBM production, and expanding market share in data center SSDs.
    • Threats: Volatility in average selling prices, geopolitical risks, and intense competition.
    • Micron's financial health is improving, with increasing revenues, margins, and cash flow.
    • Critical factors for future performance include effectively managing risks, executing strategic initiatives, and capitalizing on growth opportunities in the memory and storage market.
    • Areas requiring further monitoring include NAND market conditions, competitive landscape, and progress on capacity expansion projects.
    • Overall, Micron presents a higher-risk, higher-reward investment profile, with significant growth potential balanced against inherent industry risks and competitive pressures.
Price history
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Fundamentals
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Insights
  • Micron is experiencing strong revenue growth, driven by increasing demand for memory and storage solutions across various end markets, particularly in the data center segment.
  • The company's profitability is improving significantly, driven by higher average selling prices, manufacturing cost reductions, and effective expense control.
  • Micron's liquidity position is healthy, but the company is actively deploying capital, which is reflected in the decreasing trend in cash and short-term investments.
  • The company's solvency appears strong, with a low debt-to-equity ratio and a healthy debt-to-EBITDA ratio. However, the increasing debt levels indicate that Micron is leveraging its balance sheet to fund its growth initiatives.
  • Micron's operational efficiency is improving, as evidenced by the increasing return on assets and return on equity ratios.
  • The company's cash flows from operations are increasing significantly, driven by strong revenue growth and improved profitability.
  • Micron's free cash flow is robust, providing financial flexibility for future investments and debt repayment.
  • The company's future outlook is positive, driven by strong revenue growth, improving profitability, and a robust cash flow generation.
  • Micron faces several risk factors, including volatility in average selling prices, geopolitical risks, and competition.
  • The company's investments in capacity expansion projects and new technologies are expected to drive future growth.
  • Micron's financial flexibility is expected to remain strong, providing the company with the resources to navigate potential challenges and capitalize on growth opportunities.
Analysis
  • Revenue - Micron's revenue is experiencing strong growth, driven by increasing demand for memory and storage solutions across various end markets, particularly in the data center segment. - The company's revenue growth is outpacing the industry average, indicating a strong competitive position and market share gains. - The company's revenue growth is expected to continue, driven by the continued growth of the data center market and Micron's strong position within it.
    • Profitability
      • Micron's profitability is improving significantly, driven by higher average selling prices, manufacturing cost reductions, and effective expense control.
      • The company's profitability metrics, including gross margin, operating margin, and net profit margin, are all significantly higher than the industry average, indicating a strong competitive advantage.
      • The company's profitability is expected to continue to improve, driven by continued data center growth, favorable product mix, and improved NAND market conditions.
    • Liquidity
      • Micron's liquidity position is healthy, with a current ratio greater than 1. However, the decreasing trend in cash and short-term investments suggests that the company is actively deploying capital.
      • The company's quick ratio is lower than the industry average, indicating a lower level of liquidity than its peers.
      • Micron's liquidity position is expected to remain strong, given its healthy cash flow generation and access to capital markets.
    • Solvency
      • Micron's solvency appears strong, with a low debt-to-equity ratio and a healthy debt-to-EBITDA ratio. However, the increasing debt levels indicate that Micron is leveraging its balance sheet to fund its growth initiatives.
      • The company's debt levels are lower than the industry average, indicating a more conservative financial leverage strategy.
      • Micron's solvency is expected to remain strong, given its robust free cash flow generation and manageable debt burden.
    • Operational Efficiency
      • Micron's operational efficiency is improving, as evidenced by the increasing return on assets and return on equity ratios.
      • The company's enterprise value-to-EBITDA and enterprise value-to-sales ratios are significantly lower than the industry average, indicating that Micron is valued more favorably by the market relative to its earnings and sales.
      • Micron's operational efficiency is expected to continue to improve, driven by investments in new technologies and capacity expansion projects.
    • Cash Flow Analysis
      • Micron's cash flows from operations are increasing significantly, driven by strong revenue growth and improved profitability.
      • The company's capital expenditures are increasing, reflecting its commitment to expanding its production capacity.
      • Micron's free cash flow is robust, providing financial flexibility for future investments and debt repayment.
      • The company's cash flow generation is expected to continue to grow, driven by strong revenue growth and improved profitability.
    • Risk Factors
      • Volatility in average selling prices for memory and storage products: The memory and storage industry is cyclical, and Micron's financial performance can be significantly impacted by fluctuations in average selling prices.
      • Factors that may adversely affect gross margins: Micron's gross margins can be affected by factors such as manufacturing costs, product mix, and competition.
      • Geopolitical and other risks associated with international operations: Micron operates in a global market and faces geopolitical risks, including trade tensions, export restrictions, and tariffs.
      • Ability to develop and produce new competitive technologies and products: The memory and storage industry is characterized by rapid technological advancements, and Micron must continue to innovate to remain competitive.
      • Achieving expected returns from capacity expansion projects: Micron's investments in capacity expansion projects are significant, and the company must achieve expected returns on these investments to justify the capital expenditure.
      • Compliance with government incentive programs and associated requirements: Micron is leveraging government incentives, such as the CHIPS Act, to fund its expansion plans, and it must comply with the associated requirements.
      • Availability and quality of materials, supplies, and capital equipment: Micron's operations are dependent on the availability and quality of materials, supplies, and capital equipment, which can be subject to disruptions.
      • Disruptions to manufacturing operations from operational issues or natural disasters: Micron's manufacturing operations are susceptible to disruptions from operational issues, such as equipment failures, or natural disasters.
      • Dependency on key customers and end markets: Micron's revenue is concentrated in a few key customers and end markets, making it vulnerable to changes in demand from these customers.
      • Cybersecurity breaches and product defects: Cybersecurity breaches and product defects can damage Micron's reputation and financial performance.
      • Attraction and retention of highly skilled employees: Micron's success depends on attracting and retaining highly skilled employees, which can be challenging in a competitive labor market.
      • Compliance with environmental, social, and governance regulations: Micron must comply with environmental, social, and governance regulations, which can be costly and complex.
      • Intellectual property protection and litigation risks: Micron faces intellectual property protection and litigation risks, which can be costly and time-consuming.
    • Future Outlook
      • Micron's future outlook is positive, driven by strong revenue growth, improving profitability, and a robust cash flow generation.
      • The company's investments in capacity expansion projects and new technologies are expected to drive future growth.
      • Micron's financial flexibility is expected to remain strong, providing the company with the resources to navigate potential challenges and capitalize on growth opportunities.
Financial statements
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Public filings
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  • Micron is a leading global provider of memory and storage solutions, with a diverse portfolio of DRAM, NAND, and NOR products serving a wide range of end markets.
  • The company navigated a challenging industry environment in 2023 characterized by weak demand and pricing pressure, but has seen substantial improvements in 2024 as market conditions have recovered.
  • Micron is making significant investments to expand its production capacity, particularly in the U.S., leveraging government incentives like the CHIPS Act, which could position it well for future growth.
  • However, the company faces intense competition, geopolitical risks, and operational challenges that could impact its financial performance and ability to execute on its strategic initiatives.
  • Key risks include volatility in pricing and margins, reliance on international operations, ability to develop new technologies, compliance with government programs, supply chain disruptions, and intellectual property litigation.
  • Overall, Micron appears to be navigating the industry landscape effectively, but will need to carefully manage the various operational, financial, and legal risks it faces to sustain its competitive position.

Core Business and Operations:

  • Micron Technology, Inc. is an industry leader in innovative memory and storage solutions, delivering a portfolio of high-performance DRAM, NAND, and NOR memory and storage products through its Micron and Crucial brands
  • The company manufactures its products at wholly-owned facilities globally and utilizes subcontractors for certain manufacturing processes
  • Micron's products are sold into various markets, including data center, client PC, graphics, networking, mobile devices, automotive, industrial, and consumer embedded applications
  • Key competitors include Kioxia Holdings Corporation, Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., SK hynix Inc., and Western Digital Corporation

Industry and Market Trends:

  • The memory and storage industry experienced substantial improvements in pricing and margins throughout 2024, driven by increasing demand growth and industry-wide supply discipline
  • However, the industry faced significant declines in average selling prices and bit shipments during 2023 due to weak demand and customer inventory reductions
  • Micron faces intense competition, including from state-backed competitors in China, and risks from government actions such as export restrictions, tariffs, and trade regulations
  • The company is making significant investments to expand production capacity, particularly in the U.S., leveraging government incentives like the CHIPS Act

Recent Events:

  • In December 2024, Micron entered into direct funding agreements with the U.S. Department of Commerce for up to $6.1 billion in CHIPS Act funding for new fab facilities in the U.S.
  • The company is advancing its global back-end assembly and test network, including expansions in China and India, to support its product portfolio and customer demand

Risk Factors:

  • Volatility in average selling prices for memory and storage products
  • Factors that may adversely affect gross margins, including manufacturing costs and product mix
  • Geopolitical and other risks associated with international operations
  • Ability to develop and produce new competitive technologies and products
  • Achieving expected returns from capacity expansion projects
  • Compliance with government incentive programs and associated requirements
  • Availability and quality of materials, supplies, and capital equipment
  • Disruptions to manufacturing operations from operational issues or natural disasters
  • Dependency on key customers and end markets
  • Cybersecurity breaches and product defects
  • Attraction and retention of highly skilled employees
  • Compliance with environmental, social, and governance regulations
  • Intellectual property protection and litigation risks

Legal Matters:

  • Ongoing patent infringement lawsuits, including a $445 million jury verdict against Micron that the company plans to appeal
  • Antitrust investigation by China's State Administration for Market Regulation regarding potential collusion by DRAM suppliers

Management's Discussion and Analysis:

  • Total revenue increased 62% in 2024 compared to 2023, driven by higher DRAM and NAND sales
  • Consolidated gross margin improved to 22% in 2024 from negative 9% in 2023, aided by higher average selling prices and manufacturing cost reductions
  • Cash and investments totaled $9.15 billion as of August 29, 2024, with $2.70 billion held by foreign subsidiaries
  • Capital expenditures are estimated around $14 billion in 2025, net of government incentives, to support capacity expansion projects
  • The company expects its cash, investments, operations cash flow, and available financing to be sufficient to meet requirements for the foreseeable future
Earnings calls
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Earnings Report 2025Q1 (2024-12-18)

Key takeaways
  1. Data Center Remains Key Driver: Despite near-term headwinds, Micron's data center business continues to be a significant growth engine, driven by strong demand for high-margin products like HBM and high-capacity DIMMs.
  2. NAND Market Weakness is a Short-Term Issue: While the NAND market is currently challenging, management views this as a temporary situation, expecting improvement in the coming quarters.
  3. Inventory Management is Crucial: Micron's ability to effectively manage its own inventory and that of its customers will be critical to its financial performance in the near term.
  4. HBM is a Major Growth Opportunity: Micron's aggressive ramp-up of HBM production positions it well to capitalize on the rapidly expanding market for high-bandwidth memory.
  5. Cautious Optimism: Management's overall tone suggests a cautious optimism, acknowledging short-term challenges while maintaining confidence in the long-term growth prospects.
Focus of management’s prepared remarks
  • Strong Data Center Growth: Fiscal Q1 2025 saw significant data center revenue growth (40% sequentially, 400% year-over-year), exceeding 50% of total revenue. This growth is attributed to strong demand for HBM, high-capacity DIMMs, and LPDRAM.
  • Market Share Gains: Micron highlighted substantial progress in enterprise and data center SSD market share, reaching 10-12% exiting last year and continuing to grow.
  • Decisive Actions in NAND: The company is taking decisive actions to address the challenging NAND market conditions, including reducing wafer starts to align supply with demand.
  • HBM Ramp-up: Micron is aggressively ramping up its HBM production, aiming for a market share comparable to its DRAM share in the second half of calendar 2025.
  • Long-Term Outlook: Management expressed confidence in the long-term growth trajectory of the data center market and Micron's strong position within it.
Focus of the analyst Q&A
  • Gross Margin Guidance and Constraints: Analysts sought clarification on the expected gross margin decline in fiscal Q2 and Q3, specifically questioning the magnitude of the impact from underload charges and the potential for positive drivers to offset these headwinds.
  • Data Center SSD Growth: Analysts inquired about the expected reacceleration of data center SSD growth in fiscal Q3 and beyond, given the strong AI demand pull.
  • LPDDR5X and Blackwell Ramp: Analysts asked about Micron's view on the ramp of LPDDR5X and its share position within the related data center opportunity.
  • Reasons for Cautious Outlook: Analysts sought to understand the factors contributing to the more cautious outlook, specifically questioning whether it was due to higher-than-expected customer inventories or weaker demand.
  • DRAM vs. NAND Bit Demand: Analysts pressed for clarification on the breakdown of bit demand between DRAM and NAND, particularly concerning the impact on the mid-teens DRAM growth forecast for the year.
  • HBM Capacity and Conventional DRAM Reduction: Analysts sought to understand the relationship between Micron's increasing HBM capacity and the potential reduction in conventional DRAM capacity. They also inquired about the split of CapEx between HBM, conventional DRAM, and NAND.
  • NAND Supply Reduction by Competitors: Analysts asked about the likelihood of other NAND suppliers following Micron's actions to reduce wafer starts.
  • DRAM Production Mix: Analysts questioned whether Micron's DRAM shipment mix accurately reflects its internal production mix, specifically regarding the high proportion of DDR5 shipments.
  • NAND Inventory Levels: Analysts sought to quantify the remaining inventory levels, particularly in the consumer-facing business, and understand the timeline for inventory reduction.
  • DRAM and NAND Shipment Guidance: Analysts sought clarification on Micron's full-year shipment guidance for DRAM and NAND, specifically whether the company would under-ship the market demand.
  • HBM Ramp Trajectory and Constraints: Analysts inquired about the quarterly trajectory of HBM revenue growth, potential constraints (space, TSP capacity), and the timing of capacity increases. They also asked about the cancelability of HBM volume and pricing agreements.
Summary
  1. Financial Performance

Micron's fiscal Q1 2025 results showed strong data center revenue growth (40% sequentially, 400% year-over-year), exceeding 50% of total revenue. However, the company anticipates a sequential revenue decline in fiscal Q2, primarily driven by a weaker NAND market and lower-than-expected PC refresh cycle. Gross margin is expected to decline by approximately 100 basis points in Q2 due to NAND-related issues (pricing, lower shipments, and mix). Specific financial figures beyond these qualitative descriptions were not provided in the transcript. The call did not explicitly compare performance to analyst expectations.

  1. Revenue Drivers

Data center revenue was the primary driver of growth in fiscal Q1 2025, fueled by strong demand for HBM, high-capacity DIMMs, and LPDRAM. Micron highlighted significant gains in enterprise and data center SSD market share, reaching 10-12% exiting last year and growing sequentially. The company expects continued growth in data center SSDs in fiscal Q3 and beyond, driven by AI demand. Conversely, a delayed PC refresh cycle and higher-than-anticipated customer inventories negatively impacted near-term outlook, particularly in consumer-oriented segments.

  1. Profit Margins and Cost Management

Micron anticipates a 100 basis point decline in gross margin in fiscal Q2 2025, primarily due to NAND market challenges. Underload charges are expected to further constrain gross margins in fiscal Q3, with an estimated impact of around 100 basis points. Management expects margin expansion beyond Q3, driven by continued data center growth, favorable product mix (HBM, high-capacity DIMMs), and improved NAND market conditions. The company plans to reduce inventories throughout the year.

  1. Guidance and Outlook

Micron expects DRAM bit shipments to be down in fiscal Q2, with a more significant decline in NAND. The company anticipates sequential volume increases in both DRAM and NAND starting in fiscal Q3. For the full year, Micron expects mid-teens growth in DRAM bit demand and low double-digit growth in NAND bit demand. The company aims to maintain stable bit share in both DRAM and NAND throughout calendar years 2024 and 2025. Risks include the delayed PC refresh cycle, near-term NAND market weakness, and potential customer inventory adjustments. Opportunities lie in the continued growth of the data center market, particularly in AI-related applications, and the company's strong position in high-margin products like HBM and high-capacity DIMMs.

  1. Strategic Initiatives

Micron is focused on its data center business, highlighting its strong product portfolio (including industry-leading SSDs and HBM) and significant market share gains. The company is aggressively ramping up HBM production, aiming to reach a market share comparable to its DRAM share in the second half of calendar 2025. Micron is also emphasizing its leadership in LPDDR5X for data center applications. The company is taking decisive actions to align its NAND supply with demand, including reducing wafer starts.

  1. Management Commentary

Management expressed confidence in the long-term growth trajectory of the data center market and Micron's position within it. They acknowledged near-term headwinds related to the PC refresh cycle and NAND market conditions but emphasized that these are temporary. The overall tone was cautiously optimistic, balancing concerns about short-term challenges with confidence in the company's long-term strategy and market position.

  1. Industry and Market Conditions

Micron views the overall DRAM market as relatively healthy, with tight supply and strong demand for high-margin products like HBM. The NAND market is currently facing challenges, with lower pricing and reduced shipments. The company expects the PC refresh cycle to eventually occur, driving future demand. Management anticipates that inventory levels at customers will improve by spring, leading to a resumption of shipment growth.

Comparative analysis
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Benchmarks (as of 2025-03-13)
Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK)
  • Performance Comparison:

    • Micron Technology, Inc. (MU) has shown mixed performance compared to the Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK). Year-to-date, MU has significantly outperformed XLK with a 8.65% return compared to XLK's -10.48%. Over the past week, month, and six months, MU has also outperformed XLK. However, over a 3-year period, MU has underperformed XLK, with returns of 39.32% and 50.62%, respectively. This suggests that while MU has shown strong recent performance, its longer-term performance has been less consistent.
  • Risk and Return Analysis:

    • The annualized returns show that MU has outperformed XLK over the 1-year and 2-year periods. However, over the 3-year period, MU's annualized return of 11.69% is lower than XLK's 14.63%.
    • MU's annualized volatility has been consistently higher than XLK's, indicating that MU is a riskier investment. For example, in early 2022, MU's volatility was around 63-70%, while XLK's was approximately 33-35%.
    • The maximum drawdown for MU was -49.63% on 2022-09-26, significantly larger than XLK's maximum drawdown of -33.56% on 2022-10-12. This indicates that MU is subject to greater potential losses from peak to trough.
  • Risk-Adjusted Performance:

    • The Sharpe ratios for XLK are generally higher than those for MU, indicating that XLK has offered better risk-adjusted returns. For example, in Q4 2024, MU's Sharpe ratio was 0.24, while XLK's was 0.99.
    • MU's beta is consistently higher than XLK's, indicating that MU is more sensitive to market movements. As of Q1 2025, MU's beta is 2.35, while XLK's beta is 1.6. This suggests that MU's price is likely to fluctuate more than the overall technology sector.
  • Overall Assessment:

    • Micron Technology, Inc. (MU) is a higher-risk, higher-reward investment compared to the Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK). While MU has shown strong recent performance and has the potential for higher returns, it also exhibits greater volatility and larger drawdowns. The higher beta indicates that MU is more sensitive to market movements, which can amplify both gains and losses. Investors should carefully consider their risk tolerance and investment horizon when deciding whether to invest in MU versus XLK.
Peers Price History(as of 2025-03-13)
  • Performance Comparison:
    • Micron Technology (MU) has shown mixed performance compared to its peer companies. Over the past year, Micron Technology (MU) outperformed Intel Corp. (INTC) significantly, with returns of 4.22% compared to Intel Corp. (INTC)'s -43.98%. However, it underperformed Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI), which had returns of 6.56%. Over a longer two-year period, Micron Technology (MU) significantly outperformed both Intel Corp. (INTC) and Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI), with returns of 76.79% compared to Intel Corp. (INTC)'s -13.31% and Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI)'s 13.16%. More recently, in the last three months, Micron Technology (MU) has underperformed both Intel Corp. (INTC) and Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI).
  • Risk and Return Analysis:
    • The annualized returns reflect a similar pattern. Over a one-year period, Micron Technology (MU) had an annualized return of 4.22%, outperforming Intel Corp. (INTC) but underperforming Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI). Over a two-year period, Micron Technology (MU) had a significantly higher annualized return of 32.96% compared to Intel Corp. (INTC)'s -6.89% and Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI)'s 6.38%.
    • Micron Technology (MU) generally exhibited higher annualized volatility compared to Intel Corp. (INTC) and Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI) for most of the periods. For example, in early 2025, Micron Technology (MU) had volatility as high as 81.95%. Intel Corp. (INTC) had volatility ranging up to 85.36%, while Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI) showed lower volatility, ranging up to 47.5%.
    • Micron Technology (MU) experienced a maximum drawdown of -49.63% on 2022-09-26, which is less than Intel Corp. (INTC)'s maximum drawdown of -69.57% on 2024-09-06, but significantly more than Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI)'s maximum drawdown of -26.25% on 2022-10-14. This suggests that Micron Technology (MU) carries a higher risk profile than Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI) but less than Intel Corp. (INTC).
  • Risk-Adjusted Performance:
    • Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI) generally exhibited higher Sharpe Ratios compared to Micron Technology (MU) and Intel Corp. (INTC) throughout the analyzed period, indicating better risk-adjusted returns. Intel Corp. (INTC) often had negative Sharpe Ratios, particularly in 2022 and early 2023, suggesting poor risk-adjusted performance.
    • The Beta values for Micron Technology (MU), Intel Corp. (INTC), and Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI) were consistently above 1 throughout the analyzed period, indicating that these stocks are more volatile than the market.
  • Overall Assessment:
    • Micron Technology (MU) has demonstrated strong performance over the past two to three years, significantly outperforming Intel Corp. (INTC) and Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI). However, more recent performance has been mixed, with underperformance in the last three months compared to Intel Corp. (INTC) and Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI). Micron Technology (MU) exhibits higher volatility and a larger maximum drawdown compared to Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI), indicating a higher risk profile. The Sharpe Ratio suggests that Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI) has offered better risk-adjusted returns. The Beta values indicate that all three stocks are more volatile than the market.
    • A key trend is the recent underperformance of Micron Technology (MU) compared to its peers, coupled with its higher volatility. This suggests that while Micron Technology (MU) has the potential for high returns, it also carries significant risk.
Peers Fundamentals(as of 2024-11-30)
  1. Market Position and Size:

    • Micron Technology (MU) has a market capitalization of $105712.45 million, making it one of the larger companies in its peer group, exceeding both Intel Corp. (INTC) and Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI).
    • While MU's revenue for the most recent quarter is $29094 million, which is less than Intel's $53101 million, its EBITDA of $12264 million is greater than Intel's $6919 million, indicating strong operational efficiency. MU's Net Income of $3882 million is also significantly greater than Intel's -$18756 million.
    • MU holds a strong market position with a market cap exceeding its peers. While its revenue is lower than Intel, its superior EBITDA and Net Income suggest effective operational management.
  2. Profitability and Efficiency:

    • Micron Technology's Gross Profit Margin is 30.92%, which is less than Analog Devices' 49.09%. However, it is significantly greater than the industry average of -46.37%.
    • MU's EBITDA Margin is 42.15%, which is less than Analog Devices' 44.01% but significantly greater than Intel's 13.03%. It is also substantially greater than the industry average of -2268.54%.
    • The Net Profit Margin for MU is 13.34%, which is less than Analog Devices' 16.75% but significantly greater than Intel's -35.32%. It also outperforms the industry average of -2169.83%.
    • MU demonstrates strong profitability relative to its peers and the industry, particularly in EBITDA and Net Profit Margins, despite having a slightly lower Gross Profit Margin than its peers.
  3. Financial Health and Stability:

    • Micron Technology's Current Ratio is 2.72, which is greater than Intel's 1.33 and Analog Devices' 1.93, but less than the industry average of 4.36.
    • MU's Quick Ratio is 1.75, which is greater than Intel's 0.98 and Analog Devices' 1.43, but less than the industry average of 3.55.
    • The Total Debt to Total Equity Ratio for MU is 30.86, which is less than Intel's 50.84 and the industry average of 62.8, but greater than Analog Devices' 21.58.
    • MU's Debt / EBITDA is 1.12, which is less than Intel's 7.23, Analog Devices' 1.84 and the industry average of 13.64.
    • MU demonstrates strong liquidity and solvency, with a manageable debt level compared to its EBITDA and equity, indicating a stable financial position.
  4. Valuation and Market Perception:

    • Micron Technology's Enterprise Value To Sales is 4.02, which is greater than Intel's 2.29, but less than the industry average of 11.49.
    • MU's Enterprise Value To EBITDA is 9.49, which is less than Intel's 17.54 and the industry average of 257.24.
    • The Price To Earnings for MU is 27.4, which is less than Analog Devices' 64.99 and the industry average of 65.47.
    • MU's Price to Book Ratio is 2.26, which is greater than Intel's 1.03, but less than Analog Devices' 2.88 and the industry average of 5.97.
    • MU's Price To Sales Ratio is 3.66, which is greater than Intel's 1.91, but less than Analog Devices' 10.88 and the industry average of 13.6.
    • MU appears undervalued compared to its peers and industry averages, particularly in terms of Enterprise Value To EBITDA and Price To Earnings, suggesting potential for market appreciation.
  5. Cash Flow and Capital Management:

    • Micron Technology's Net Operating Cash Flow is $10350 million, which is greater than Intel's $8288 million and Analog Devices' $3840.51 million.
    • MU's Total Capital Expenditure is $9796 million, which is less than Intel's $23944 million but greater than Analog Devices' $656.46 million.
    • The Free Cash Flow for MU is $554 million, which is less than Analog Devices' $3184.04 million but greater than Intel's -$15656 million.
    • MU exhibits strong cash flow generation, with a substantial Net Operating Cash Flow, although its Free Cash Flow is lower than Analog Devices, it is still positive, unlike Intel.
  6. Growth and Future Prospect:

    • MU shows consistently higher growth in Sales/Revenue and EBITDA compared to the peer group average in the most recent year.
    • MU's year-over-year growth rates exhibit significant fluctuations, as indicated by the standard deviations.
    • MU's 3-year CAGR is lower than its 5-year CAGR for Sales/Revenue, EBITDA, Net Income, Basic Earnings per Share, Free Cash Flow, Free Cash Flow Margin, and EBIT Margin. This indicates a deceleration in growth over the most recent three years compared to the previous five years.
    • MU's growth rates have been highly volatile over the 5-year period, as indicated by the high standard deviations.
    • MU's most recent year-over-year growth rates are significantly higher than its 5-year CAGRs for Sales/Revenue and EBITDA, indicating an acceleration in growth in these areas. However, Net Income and Basic Earnings per Share show a deceleration trend.
    • MU's growth is concentrated in Sales/Revenue and EBITDA, with other metrics showing slower or negative growth.
    • The negative growth in Net Income and Basic Earnings per Share, despite revenue growth, could be a potential red flag, indicating issues with profitability or cost management.
  7. Potential for Investment:

    • From an investment perspective, Micron Technology presents an attractive opportunity due to its strong profitability, efficient returns, and manageable debt.
    • Its lower valuation metrics compared to peers and industry averages suggest potential for market appreciation.
    • While there are areas where MU underperforms, its overall financial health and competitive positioning make it a compelling investment choice within the semiconductor industry.
  8. Key Risks and Considerations:

    • MU's Gross Profit Margin of 30.92% is less than Analog Devices' 49.09%.
    • MU's Price to Book Ratio is 2.26, which is less than Analog Devices' 2.88 and the industry average of 5.97, suggesting it may be undervalued by the market.
    • MU's Free Cash Flow Margin of 0.02 is less than Analog Devices' 0.34.
    • The negative growth in Net Income and Basic Earnings per Share, despite revenue growth, could be a potential red flag, indicating issues with profitability or cost management.
  9. Overall Assessment:

    • Micron Technology exhibits strong financial health, characterized by robust profitability metrics, efficient returns on assets and equity, and a manageable debt level.
    • While its gross profit margin is slightly lower than some peers, its superior EBITDA and net profit margins, combined with strong cash flow generation, position it favorably within the industry.
    • The company's lower valuation metrics suggest potential for market appreciation, making it an attractive investment opportunity.
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