AI Memory Crunch Narrowly Rewards MU and SK Hynix as Key Stock Plays
IDC expects AI data centers to absorb about 70% of global memory-chip production in 2026, squeezing supplies for phones, PCs, and other devices. The two primary U.S.-listed plays are Micron Technology (MU) and SK Hynix (A000660), which dominate high-bandwidth memory (HBM4) used by Nvidia and hyperscalers; Micron reports its HBM production is sold out under multiyear contracts and has seen DRAM/NAND price increases, while SK Hynix commands a large share of HBM4 volume and is co-developing next-gen memory with Nvidia. Bank of America sees robust growth for the HBM market (potentially $54.6B in 2026). SK Hynix is preparing to list ADRs in the Nasdaq, adding accessibility for U.S. investors. The piece frames MU and SK Hynix as the standout long-term AI infrastructure plays, with a suggested dollar-cost averaging approach, though it notes Motley Fool Stock Advisor did not currently name MU among its top picks.






