Micron Technology Is Ramping Up Production of High-Bandwidth Memory. Here's Why That Could Send the Stock to New Heights This Year

Micron Technology (NASDAQ:MU) has been one of the hottest stocks to own this year, with its value rising by more than 240% heading into trading this week. At over $1 trillion in market cap, it has joined the illustrious trillion-dollar club this year and become one of the most valuable companies in the world.

And yet, investors remain bullish that it can continue to soar higher due to the impressive growth it's been generating, as tech giants continue to invest heavily in artificial intelligence (AI).

Micron recently announced plans to increase production of high-bandwidth memory (HBM), which could result in even better financial results. Here's why.

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Demand is strong for HBM and margins are high

Micron has been thriving this year as demand for its memory and storage products remains through the roof. Due to a shortage, it's been able to raise prices, which has given its financials a boost from both rising prices and skyrocketing demand. It has gone from generating gross margins of around 40% to now more than 70%. A stronger gross margin enables more of the incremental revenue it generates to flow through to the bottom line and increases profits. Thus, as revenue is rising at a fast rate, earnings are also climbing fast.

According to reports, Micron could further bolster its margins in the future as it's planning to significantly increase HBM production this year. By the end of 2026, it is aiming to be able to produce 100,000 wafers per month, up from around 40,000 to 50,000 that it's been averaging over the past year.

HBM is more efficient and suitable for AI purposes, and it's not only in high demand, but companies can charge more for it as well. For Micron, ramping up production of HBM can enable its financial results, as strong as they already are, to look even better in the near future.

Micron's stock could be heading even higher

On Sept. 30, Micron is set to release its fourth-quarter results, which will likely be a huge day for the stock. Not only will the results highlight how much growth the business has generated over the past three months, but because it's also the fiscal year-end, there may be valuable insights into Micron's guidance for the year ahead -- which should factor in its outlook for HBM.

Strong guidance will be essential for Micron's stock to continue rising. And with the company ramping up production of HBM, it looks highly likely that the guidance will indeed be strong, which is why I think Micron's stock will reach new heights before the end of 2026.

David Jagielski, CPA has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Micron Technology. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.