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Micron Slides as SK Hynix Eyes $10B U.S. Listing

Bloomberg Markets •
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Micron Technology Inc. has slipped sharply after a robust January surge, losing more than 20% from a peak three weeks ago. The memory‑chip maker, the world’s third‑largest DRAM producer, faces a double‑whammy of sector‑wide volatility and geopolitical risk as fighting in Iran rattles markets. Investors now weigh how a broader risk‑off stance may dampen demand for high‑performance memory used in AI and data centers.

South Korean rival SK Hynix Inc. plans a U.S. listing of its ADRs that could raise $10 billion, the largest foreign debut on the New York exchange. The move would end Micron’s status as the only U.S.‑listed DRAM supplier and give investors another route into the memory boom. Analysts note SK Hynix currently controls 57% of global high‑bandwidth memory revenue, more than twice Micron’s share.

Despite trailing SK Hynix in market share, Micron trades at a slight premium, both stocks sitting around four times forward earnings—well below the S&P 500’s 20‑fold multiple. Hedge funds see the ADRs as a new long‑short pair, while some investors may trim Micron holdings for diversification amid a risk‑off mood.

Over the long haul, analysts predict Micron could regain momentum as demand for high‑bandwidth memory explodes. With a faster earnings trajectory, the U.S. chipmaker may outperform SK Hynix once the initial listing shock fades. For now, the ADR debut will likely tighten valuation gaps but leave core fundamentals unchanged.