CRDO vs. MRVL: Which AI-focused Semiconductor Stock is the Better Buy?

Core Viewpoint - The data center market is experiencing rapid growth driven by digital transformation and the increasing demand for AI and ML technologies, benefiting companies like Credo Technology Group and Marvell Technology [2][3]. Group 1: Company Overview - Credo Technology Group specializes in high-speed connectivity solutions, particularly in Ethernet and Active Electrical Cables (AECs), which are gaining traction in data centers [4][5]. - Marvell Technology is a major player in the data center market, providing essential solutions such as PAM chips and digital signal processors that support AI infrastructure [9][10]. Group 2: Market Trends and Growth - The global data center market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.2% from 2025 to 2030, indicating strong demand for innovative data processing and storage solutions [2]. - Credo's AEC products have seen triple-digit sequential growth, highlighting their increasing adoption in data centers [4]. - Marvell's data center revenues reached $1.37 billion, marking a 78% year-over-year increase, with the segment accounting for 75% of total revenues [10]. Group 3: Product Innovations - Credo is expanding its product portfolio to include PCIe solutions, which are expected to significantly increase its total addressable market [5]. - Marvell's advanced optical interconnects and Co-Packaged Optics technology are enhancing data center efficiency and scalability [12]. Group 4: Financial Performance - For the third quarter of fiscal 2025, Credo reported a 154% year-over-year revenue growth, driven by demand from its largest hyperscale customer [8]. - Marvell's Electro-Optics products and Teralynx Ethernet switches have shown double-digit sequential growth, indicating strong market demand [11]. Group 5: Valuation and Estimates - CRDO is trading at a forward Price/Sales ratio of 10.30X, while MRVL is at 5.39X, suggesting a higher valuation for Credo [15]. - Analysts have significantly revised earnings estimates upwards for Credo, while Marvell's revisions have been more subdued [18][20]. Group 6: Investment Outlook - Both companies are well-positioned to benefit from the growing data center market, with Credo currently holding a Zacks Rank 1 (Strong Buy) and Marvell a Zacks Rank 2 (Buy) [21].