Applied Digital (NASDAQ: APLD) is a digital infrastructure firm specializing in the design, construction, and operation of AI-first data centers and high-performance computing (HPC) facilities. On Friday, February 6, 2026, APLD stock skyrocketed over 25% after the revelation of $50 million in senior secured financing allocated for the construction of the Polaris Forge 2 data center.
Artificial intelligence data centers could see $7 trillion in investment by 2030, according to a new McKinsey report. Applied Digital's debt has exploded as it attempts to capitalize on the enormous opportunity.
Applied Digital was one of the top stocks of 2025, returning some 221%. It has surged another 41% through the first month of 2026.
The shares of AI data center giant Applied Digital Corp (NASDAQ:APLD) are down 8.3% to trade at $28.91 at last check, a dismal outlook from semiconductor giant Qualcomm (QCOM) and increased AI spending at Alphabet (GOOGL) spooking traders.
Applied Digital delivered Q2 '26 results exceeding expectations, with revenue up 250% YoY and losses narrowing, reinforcing my Buy rating. APLD's valuation remains elevated at 28x forward sales, driven by AI sector momentum and long-term hyperscaler contracts, but speculative elements persist. Expansion is accelerating with the Delta Forge 1 campus, targeting 900 MW total capacity and aiming for $1B in NOI by 2031, supported by ample liquidity.
Iren announced a deal with Microsoft worth $9.7 billion recently. Applied Digital's backlog grew to $16 billion.
Applied Digital (APLD) stock has greatly surpassed its competitors over the last year. However, a closer examination of this data center and cryptocurrency infrastructure company indicates substantial revenue growth but ongoing unprofitability, marked by severely negative operating and free cash flow margins.
Applied Digital ( NASDAQ:APLD ) has posted strong gains in 2026, rising nearly 68% year-to-date.
Applied Digital is a rapidly growing AI data center operator with a strong North American footprint and growing hyperscaler partnerships. The company's infrastructure logistics strategy leverages low-cost siting, reliable power and climate advantages to attract potential customers. Major contracts include $16 billion in prospective lease revenue from 600 megawatts of capacity, with robust financial backing and proactive debt management.
SNDK's technology advantage and improving profitability contrast with Applied Digital's capital-intensive model. Storage leader benefits from the AI infrastructure wave.
APLD invests in advanced cooling and dedicated power to ease AI data center constraints as hosting revenues rise and capacity ramps.
APLD shares spike after Q2 revenues soar 250%, underscoring strong execution while leaving questions around valuation and losses.