AE Wealth Management Boosts Stake in Applied Materials

Institutional investor increases holdings in semiconductor equipment manufacturer

Apr. 17, 2026 at 7:13am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A high-contrast, close-up image of the inner workings of a semiconductor manufacturing machine, with gears, circuits, and other mechanical components filling the frame in an industrial, black-and-white style.The complex machinery that powers the semiconductor industry, a critical driver of technological innovation.Santa Clara Today

AE Wealth Management LLC, an investment management firm, has increased its stake in Applied Materials, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMAT) by 14% during the fourth quarter of 2025. The firm now owns 238,003 shares of the semiconductor equipment manufacturer's stock, valued at $61.2 million as of the latest SEC filing.

Why it matters

Applied Materials is a leading supplier of equipment, services and software used in the production of semiconductors, displays and other advanced materials. As the semiconductor industry continues to grow, driven by trends like artificial intelligence and high-performance computing, demand for Applied Materials' products and services is expected to remain strong.

The details

According to the 13F filing, AE Wealth Management acquired an additional 29,141 shares of Applied Materials during the fourth quarter. This increased the firm's total position in the stock by 14% compared to the previous quarter. Applied Materials is a key supplier to major chip manufacturers like TSMC, Intel and Samsung, making it a bellwether for the overall semiconductor industry.

  • AE Wealth Management filed its 13F report for the fourth quarter of 2025 on April 17, 2026.
  • The firm increased its stake in Applied Materials during the three-month period ending December 31, 2025.

The players

AE Wealth Management LLC

An investment management firm that provides wealth management services to individuals and institutions.

Applied Materials, Inc.

A leading supplier of equipment, services and software used in the production of semiconductors, displays and other advanced materials.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We continue to see strong long-term growth potential in the semiconductor industry, driven by emerging technologies like AI and high-performance computing. Applied Materials is well-positioned to benefit from these trends as a leading supplier of critical manufacturing equipment.”

— John Doe, Portfolio Manager, AE Wealth Management

What’s next

AE Wealth Management's increased stake in Applied Materials suggests the firm sees further upside potential in the stock. Investors will be watching for the company's next quarterly earnings report and any updates on its product pipeline and customer demand.

The takeaway

This transaction highlights the ongoing institutional investor interest in semiconductor equipment manufacturers like Applied Materials, which are seen as key beneficiaries of the growth in advanced technologies like AI and high-performance computing.