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AI demand drives memory price increases for DRAM and SSDs
The memory market is experiencing a price surge driven by high demand for AI infrastructure. According to TrendForce, general DRAM contract prices are projected to increase by 10% to 15% in the fourth quarter of 2026, while NAND Flash contract prices are expected to rise by 15% to 20%.
Enterprise SSDs are identified as the category with the most significant price acceleration. This is fueled by cloud service providers expanding AI inference capabilities, with enterprise SSD bit demand expected to grow by over 80% annually in 2026. The shift from large language model training to actual AI deployment and the rise of Agentic AI are increasing the need for real-time data retrieval and caching.
While the boom continues, some analysts note signs of investor caution. Valuations for major memory manufacturers have declined; for instance, Micron's trading multiple has dropped from twelve to seven times expected earnings, and SK Hynix has seen a similar reduction in its valuation ratio. This suggests growing skepticism regarding how long the AI-driven trend can sustain the current market cycle.
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What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 2 SOURCES] General DRAM contract prices are expected to increase by 10% to 15% in the fourth quarter of 2026. gadgets.cnmo.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] AI server demand is the primary driver for the price increases in the memory market. gadgets.cnmo.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Micron is currently trading at approximately seven times its expected earnings. www.elektronikpraxis.de
- [● 2 SOURCES] Enterprise SSD bit demand is expected to grow by more than 80% annually in 2026. gadgets.cnmo.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] NAND Flash contract prices are projected to rise by 15% to 20% in the fourth quarter of 2026. gadgets.cnmo.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] SK Hynix's valuation ratio has decreased from approximately eight times to four times. www.elektronikpraxis.de