Seagate, Western Digital stocks are falling again on Tuesday: here’s why

Seagate Technology and Toshiba are reportedly competing to acquire TDK's hard-disk-drive magnetic-head business, which is crucial for AI data-center storage.

Seagate (STX) shares fell 9.5% due to concerns over a multibillion-dollar acquisition contest with Toshiba, potential balance sheet strain, and high valuation. Toshiba's planned 2027 capacity ramp and insider selling also contributed. STX is up 180% YTD but 26.4% below its 52-week high.

Western Digital (WDC) shares fell 6.78% to $411.69 on Tuesday. The decline follows reports that Seagate (STX) and Toshiba (TSHTY) are competing to acquire TDK's magnetic heads business, which supplies all three major hard drive makers. Investors worry about increased competition and thinner margins for Western Digital. Last week, Toshiba announced plans to double its hard drive output for AI data centers by 2027, further pressuring WDC and STX shares.

Western Digital (WDC) shares fell 7.28% as investors reacted to Toshiba's plan to increase hard drive capacity for AI data centers by 2027, raising concerns about future supply and price competition. The decline was exacerbated by broader tech weakness and rising Treasury yields. Despite this, WDC may benefit from long-term AI and cloud storage growth, though its earnings are cyclical and vulnerable to market swings.

Seagate (STX) and Western Digital (WDC) are competing in the AI-driven hard drive market. Toshiba plans to invest $380M to double HDD production, aiming for 30% market share. Both STX and WDC stocks fell 10% initially but rebounded as analysts noted continued undersupply. Seagate and WDC are developing high-capacity drives, with Seagate using HAMR technology. Toshiba and Seagate may acquire TDK’s magnetic-head business, crucial for the industry.

Western Digital (WDC) and Seagate (STX) stocks fell 7% and 8% respectively after a Bloomberg report indicated both are competing to acquire TDK’s magnetic-head operation. Investors fear increased competition and potential supply changes in the HDD market. Analysts maintain a Strong Buy consensus for both, with significant upside targets. TDK’s ownership could impact all three companies' supply chains.