The global memory chip market is undergoing a structural shift as AI infrastructure demand outpaces supply of conventional DRAM and NAND components. Prices have climbed sharply, supply remains constrained, and major manufacturers are reallocating capacity toward high-performance AI-oriented memory, reshaping industry economics. This analysis examines why standard RAM costs are rising so dramatically, how the memory shortage could persist through 2026, and which companies are positioned to profit from this transition.

What's happening?

Major manufacturers of these memories such as Samsung $BC94.L, SK Hynix $HY9H.FMicron $MU are now facing decisions to allocate their production lines. The prioritization of high-margin and essential memory for AI platforms means that traditional DDR5 modules for PCs and servers are increasingly being suppressed. And one of those companies, has made that dreaded move. It has cut back very significantly on traditional memory production and is focusing mainly…