Applied Materials Upgraded to Buy at Summit Insights

Analysts cite strong performance and positive outlook for semiconductor equipment maker.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Applied Materials (NASDAQ:AMAT), a leading supplier of semiconductor manufacturing equipment, was upgraded from 'hold' to 'buy' by analysts at Summit Insights. The upgrade comes as several other brokerages have also issued positive reports on the company, with KGI Securities, DZ Bank, and Jefferies Financial Group all raising their ratings and price targets for Applied Materials in recent weeks.

Why it matters

The upgrade from Summit Insights and positive sentiment from other analysts signal growing confidence in Applied Materials' business outlook. As a key supplier of capital equipment used in semiconductor fabrication, the company's performance is seen as an important indicator of broader trends in the tech industry.

The details

Summit Insights cited Applied Materials' strong financial performance and positive outlook in upgrading the stock to a 'buy' rating. The company reported better-than-expected earnings in its most recent quarter, with revenue of $7.01 billion and earnings per share of $2.38. Applied Materials also provided upbeat guidance for its current fiscal quarter.

  • Applied Materials reported its latest quarterly results on February 12, 2026.
  • The Summit Insights upgrade was issued on February 13, 2026.

The players

Applied Materials

A U.S.-based supplier of equipment, services and software used to manufacture semiconductor chips, flat panel displays and other advanced materials. Headquartered in Santa Clara, California.

Summit Insights

An equity research firm that upgraded Applied Materials from 'hold' to 'buy' rating.

KGI Securities

A brokerage firm that raised its rating on Applied Materials to 'outperform' and set a $425 price target.

DZ Bank

A brokerage firm that upgraded Applied Materials from a 'strong sell' rating to a 'hold' rating.

Jefferies Financial Group

A brokerage firm that increased its price target on Applied Materials from $260 to $360 and maintained a 'buy' rating.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The positive analyst sentiment around Applied Materials reflects the company's strong position as a critical supplier to the semiconductor industry, which continues to see robust demand. The upgrade and price target increases suggest Wall Street sees further upside potential in the stock.