AI Compute as the Primary Growth Driver in 2H 2025
Demand in AI compute, especially in SOC and Memory, is strengthening and expected to be the dominant driver of Teradyne's semi test business in the second half of 2025.
The company sees broadening opportunities, with UltraFLEXplus systems gaining consideration in new areas.
Management is optimistic about new program ramps and test insertions, despite lumpy order patterns.
Strategic Focus on AI-Driven Product Portfolio and Intelligent System Design
Cadence's ongoing execution of its intelligent system design strategy initiated in 2018, emphasizing unified EDA, IP, 3D-IC, PCB, and system analysis.
Strong demand driven by AI super cycle, including AI infrastructure, physical AI, and sciences AI.
Introduction of Millennium M2000 AI supercomputer with NVIDIA Blackwell, delivering up to 80x performance and 20x lower power, endorsed by customers like Ascendance, MediaTek, and Treeline Biosciences.
The move away from bulk hardware sales is part of a broader effort to align revenue with customer buying cycles, which should benefit revenue predictability starting in 2026.
This transition has caused a temporary decline in hardware margins but is expected to improve overall margin profile as SaaS and recurring revenues grow.
The company booked over 24,000 new units in Q2, the highest in over a year, indicating early positive traction from the new sales approach.