Applied Materials Stock Plummets Following Disappointing Forecast

Shares of Applied Materials Inc. (AMAT) took a significant dive in premarket trading Friday, dropping to $162.50 after falling 13.67% from Thursday’s close of $188.24. The semiconductor equipment giant is facing pressure following its disappointing fourth-quarter guidance that cited weakening demand from China and delays in export license approvals. This has led to investor concerns about the company’s exposure to geopolitical tensions and uncertain market dynamics.