Stocks

Nvidia vs. Intel: The Battle for a Spot in the Dow Jones Industrial Average

Published March 18, 2024

Nvidia Corporation NVDA, known for its cutting-edge graphics processing units (GPUs) for gaming and professional markets, and system on chip units (SoCs) for mobile and automotive industries, has shown remarkable performance in its data center business. This surge raises the question of whether NVDA could replace Intel Corporation INTC, the long-standing semiconductor leader, in the prestigious Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA).

The Growth of Nvidia's Data Center Business

Nvidia's data center segment has seen substantial growth, fueled by the increasing demand for powerful computing in areas such as artificial intelligence, deep learning, and cloud computing. The significant revenue increase from this segment suggests NVDA is expanding beyond its traditional gaming niche into new, high-growth markets. However, this explosive growth prompts investors and analysts to wonder if this success is sustainable or just a temporary industry trend.

Intel's Position in the DJIA

On the other side, INTC, the giant behind the x86 series of microprocessors found in most PCs, has been a key player in the semiconductor industry for decades. Intel's long history of consistent performance and its pivotal role in the development of computer technology secure its place in the DJIA. INTC's size and stability make it a standard bearer in the index, representing the broader technology and manufacturing sectors of the economy.

What it Takes to Join the DJIA

To become a part of the DJIA, a company must demonstrate not only exceptional present performance but also show potential for sustained success. NVDA needs to prove that its achievements in the data center market are not a flash in the pan but part of a longer-term trend. While Nvidia's recent performance is impressive, joining the DJIA will require time to establish the durability and reliability of its growth, much like INTC has over the years.

Conclusion

While NVDA is a formidable contender, it is still premature to envisage it replacing INTC in the DJIA. Nvidia must first validate that its data center business can maintain its growth trajectory and that its success is not merely a passing phenomenon. Only time will tell if Nvidia can mirror Intel's consistency and solidify its place as a mainstay in one of the world's most famous stock indices.

Nvidia, Intel, DowJones