$PLAB is the next $INTC and here's why:
1. The "Pure-Play" Stencil Maker: makes the chips and the masks; Photronics is the only independent US giant that focuses 100% on the masks. As AI designs get more complex, every chipmaker needs these masks, making PLAB the "neutral" winner.
2. Massive US Expansion: PLAB is doubling down on American soil, nearly doubling its 2026 investment to $330 million for new US and Korea facilities. Just like Intel is the face of US chip making, PLAB is becoming the face of the US "blueprint" supply chain.
3. Record Revenue from AI: While other sectors fluctuate, PLAB just hit record-breaking sales for the high-end masks used specifically for AI chips. They aren't just making masks; they are making the most expensive masks required for the AI boom.
4. The "Silent Partner" to Giants: PLAB is a direct beneficiary of massive AI deals, such as Tesla's $16.5 billion chip contract with Samsung (PLAB's second-largest customer). When the biggest companies build AI in Texas, they rely on PLAB's tech to get it done.
My price target for PLAB is first $100+ from here then if thesis plays out $400+
This is more like 1995 than we think, actually 2025 was.
The Nasdaq broke above the 400% Fibonacci extension level back in 1995 and then smashed through two more levels during the dot-com bubble.
Exactly 30 years later, price is now breaking above the 800% level.
If this is the next dot-com bubble, Nasdaq 83,000 could be possible as it breaks through two more levels, just like last time.
Nobody knows where this roller coaster will stop its ascent, but at least we can enjoy the ride a bit longer.
$IXIC $NDX
https://t.co/yD2m3UAs6k
When price is at All Time Highs, the most recent months are the ones that matter. If and when price reverses previous levels will then come into play. In VPA what we are always checking is whether the move has enough 'fuel' (volume). If the effort isn't there to support the result - it's a red flag.