As the artificial intelligence sector continues its rapid expansion, a new analysis highlights nine exchange-traded companies positioned to capitalize on critical infrastructure bottlenecks in power, high-bandwidth memory, advanced chip packaging, data movement, and liquid cooling. These companies, ranging from chip foundries to utility providers and natural gas transporters, represent key components in the buildout required to support the next generation of AI.
The investment thesis, which gained prominence in July 2026, centers on the documented constraints within the AI ecosystem. Power generation, particularly from natural gas, is currently the most prevalent source for AI data centers, though nuclear power is noted for its potential long-term advantage due to consistent electricity generation compared to intermittent solar and wind options. The demand for specialized memory, advanced chip packaging, and efficient cooling systems is also creating significant opportunities.
Taiwan Semiconductor (TSM), the world’s largest chip foundry, stands out with reported revenues of $120.34 billion and an adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $10.39. The company, trading at a 32.64 price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio, is projected to see EPS growth of 48.0%. Its advanced-packaging capacity, particularly its CoWoS technology, is largely allocated to Nvidia, underscoring its pivotal role in high-performance computing.
Micron Technology (MU) is another key player in the memory sector, with a stock price of $1,060.45 and revenues of $37.40 billion. The company reported an adjusted EPS of $8.29, with a P/E ratio of 46.18, and is expected to achieve remarkable EPS growth of 621.6%. Micron, alongside competitors SK Hynix and Samsung, has committed its high-bandwidth memory (HBM) capacity through 2026, reflecting intense demand. Micron’s share price has seen a substantial increase, rising more than 746% over the preceding 12 months.
Intel (INTC) is also positioning itself in the advanced packaging space, offering its EMIB and Foveros platforms as alternatives to CoWoS. The company, which reported $52.90 billion in revenue and an adjusted EPS of $0.42, did not have an applicable P/E ratio due to a GAAP loss per share in fiscal 2025. However, it anticipates an EPS growth of 160.0%. Intel reportedly secured a significant order from Google for 3 million tensor processing units by 2028, while SK Hynix and Nvidia were testing Intel’s technologies, signaling its potential resurgence in key areas.
In the critical power sector, NextEra Energy (NEE) operates the largest electric utility in the United States. With revenues of $27.40 billion and an adjusted EPS of $3.71, NextEra maintains a P/E ratio of 21.84 and projects an 8.4% EPS growth. The company is actively investing in nuclear power and has clean-energy agreements with tech giants Google and Meta. Its announced intention to acquire Dominion Energy, if approved by regulators, would further solidify its position in the energy landscape.
Vertiv Holdings (VRT) addresses the crucial need for data center cooling and power infrastructure. The company reported revenues of $10.23 billion and an adjusted EPS of $4.20, with a P/E ratio of 79.85. Vertiv expects a 54.5% EPS growth and announced a substantial $15 billion backlog in February. In June, it introduced a digital-twin capability for its SmartRun product, enhancing its offerings for efficient data center management.
Williams Companies (WMB) plays a vital role in natural gas infrastructure, processing and transporting approximately 30% of U.S. natural gas usage. The company posted revenues of $11.95 billion and an adjusted EPS of $2.10, with a P/E ratio of 31.61, and projects 13.4% EPS growth. Williams has secured long-term data-center-related contracts, including one with Meta and a 10-year agreement with an undisclosed investment-grade company, highlighting the demand for reliable energy delivery to data centers.
Cameco Corporation (CCJ), a key player in nuclear fuel, reported revenues of $3.48 billion and an adjusted EPS of $1.44. With a P/E ratio of 99.85, it anticipates a 9.9% EPS growth. Cameco’s partnership with Brookfield Asset Management and the U.S. government to deploy Westinghouse reactors is valued at a minimum of $80 billion, positioning it for long-term growth as nuclear power gains traction for consistent energy supply.
Astera Labs (ALAB) focuses on data center connectivity. The company recorded $852.53 million in revenue and an adjusted EPS of $1.84, with a P/E ratio of 251.79. Astera Labs projects a 63.2% EPS growth, having seen its first-quarter 2026 revenue rise 93% year over year to $308.4 million. One customer, presumed to be Amazon, accounted for 70% of its 2025 revenue, indicating strong reliance on its solutions.
Credo Technology (CRDO) also contributes to data movement and connectivity within AI infrastructure. The company reported $1.34 billion in revenue and an adjusted EPS of $3.46, with a P/E ratio of 98.67. Credo Technology expects a 75.4% EPS growth, with its latest-quarter revenue surging 157% year over year to $437 million. Four customers collectively represented 87% of its revenue, underscoring its specialized market position.
The broader market context suggests continued strength, with Morgan Stanley projecting a 12% gain for the S&P 500 over the next 12 months. Fidelity’s Jurrien Timmer also anticipates strong stock prices in the second half of 2026. However, these outlooks are tempered by ongoing inflation risk and potential long-term effects stemming from the Iran conflict. The global data-center liquid-cooling market alone is projected to expand significantly, from $5.7 billion in 2026 to $29.2 billion by 2033, further illustrating the scale of infrastructure investment.
Why it matters in Rock Hill
The burgeoning investment in artificial intelligence infrastructure, as evidenced by the performance and strategic positioning of these nine companies, holds significant implications for the economic landscape of Rock Hill and York County. Local institutions like Comporium Inc., a major telecommunications provider in Rock Hill, are directly impacted by advancements in data movement and connectivity, as they continually upgrade their own infrastructure to meet growing demands from businesses and residents. Similarly, Piedmont Medical Center relies on robust and efficient data systems for patient care and operational management, making the reliability and innovation in AI infrastructure a critical factor. The trends in power generation and advanced computing also influence the broader economic development strategies of the City of Rock Hill, as it seeks to attract and retain businesses that depend on cutting-edge technology and reliable energy. Understanding these national investment currents provides a lens through which to view the evolving technological demands that shape local commerce and services.
