Applied Materials Stock Down 3.1% - Time to Sell?

Shares of semiconductor equipment maker Applied Materials fell over 3% on Thursday, leading some to question if it's time to sell.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Shares of Applied Materials, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMAT) fell 3.1% during mid-day trading on Thursday, with the stock trading as low as $336.30. The company's stock has had a strong run-up over the past year, gaining over 40%, but the latest dip has some investors wondering if it's time to sell. Applied Materials is a major supplier of equipment, services and software used in semiconductor chip, flat panel display and advanced materials manufacturing.

Why it matters

Applied Materials is a bellwether for the semiconductor industry, so its stock performance is closely watched as an indicator of broader trends in the tech sector. The company's equipment and software are essential for the production of the chips that power everything from smartphones to data centers, making it a key player in the global technology supply chain.

The details

The 3.1% drop in Applied Materials' stock price on Thursday came on trading volume that was 28% lower than the company's average. Several Wall Street analysts have issued reports on the stock recently, with most maintaining a 'Buy' rating and raising their price targets. Bank of America, for example, raised its price target from $300 to $350 and reiterated a 'Buy' rating earlier this year.

  • Shares of Applied Materials fell 3.1% during mid-day trading on Thursday, March 5, 2026.

The players

Applied Materials, Inc.

An American company that supplies equipment, services and software used to manufacture semiconductor chips, flat panel displays and other advanced materials.

Bank of America

A major U.S. bank that has issued a 'Buy' rating and raised its price target for Applied Materials' stock.

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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)

The takeaway

The drop in Applied Materials' stock price is likely a short-term fluctuation, as the company remains a leader in the semiconductor equipment industry and its long-term outlook appears strong. Investors will be watching to see if the stock can regain its momentum in the coming weeks and months.