Broadcom's Analysis: Is the Chipmaker Ready for a Comeback?

3 Sep

Key Takeaways:
- Broadcom (AVGO) shares have reclaimed their 50-day moving average after a steep correction but face volatility ahead of the upcoming Q3 earnings report.
- Investors are focusing on Broadcom's AI chip sales growth and its full-year outlook amid rising AI demand.
- Key technical levels suggest potential volatility, with both downside and upside price targets in play.

Broadcom’s Resurgence and Challenges
Broadcom (AVGO), one of the leading chipmakers, is preparing to release its fiscal Q3 earnings report, with investors keenly watching its AI sales growth and forward-looking guidance. Recent quarters have seen Broadcom (AVGO) benefit from increased demand for its custom AI chips, a trend that has bolstered its financial performance. However, after peaking in mid-June, Broadcom shares faced a significant sell-off, falling as much as 31% before mounting a recovery.

The stock managed to reclaim its 50-day moving average by the end of August, signaling a potential shift in momentum. Despite this recovery, it's crucial to note that the buying activity occurred on declining volumes, which often points to a lack of strong institutional support. This situation sets the stage for heightened volatility as the company approaches its earnings announcement.

Technical Analysis: Key Levels to Watch
1. Decreasing Volume and Recent Recovery:
The recent bounce in Broadcom (AVGO) shares is noteworthy, as it reclaimed the 50-day moving average—a critical technical indicator suggesting near-term strength. However, the recovery on declining volume is a cautionary signal. Institutional investors typically drive strong moves, and a lack of their involvement could suggest that the current recovery lacks conviction.

2. Lower Price Levels to Monitor:
- $157 Level: This support zone, approximately 4% below the recent close, aligns with previous swing lows from June and August. If Broadcom's stock falls below this level, it could signal further downside pressure.

- $141 Level: Should the $157 level fail to hold, $141 becomes the next critical area to watch. This level represents a prior consolidation zone where the stock traded sideways between March and June. Investors may see this as a potential buying opportunity if the stock reaches this area.

3. Higher Price Levels to Watch:
- $168 Resistance: A move higher could propel the stock to $168, where it may encounter resistance. This zone corresponds to several gap trading levels formed in June and July, as well as the highs from August.

- $195 Target Above All-Time High (ATH): For those looking beyond the immediate resistance, Broadcom could target $195. This level is calculated by projecting the stock’s previous trending move from December to March and repositioning it from the August swing low. This upside target would place Broadcom about 5% above its all-time high, indicating significant potential for a breakout.

AI Growth as a Catalyst
Broadcom’s fundamentals remain strong, with AI chip sales serving as a primary growth driver. The company’s custom chips are in high demand as industries increasingly rely on artificial intelligence, a sector expected to continue expanding in the coming years. Investors will be closely examining the company's guidance during its Q3 report, looking for signs of sustained momentum.

However, Broadcom (AVGO) is not without its challenges. The broader tech sell-off and profit-taking after the company's 10-for-1 stock split in July have weighed on share prices. Despite this, analysts maintain a "Strong Buy" rating, citing the company’s leading market position and the growing importance of its AI chips.


Technical Outlook: Mixed Signals
As of now, Broadcom shares are down 4.54% in Tuesday's trading, with an RSI of 46. The RSI nearing the oversold region suggests that the stock could be positioning itself for a potential bounce. However, given the declining volumes and lack of institutional activity, investors should remain cautious and closely watch the aforementioned technical levels.

Broadcom’s stock trading above key moving averages offers a glimmer of hope, yet the market’s reaction to the upcoming earnings report will be pivotal. Any positive surprise in AI sales growth or forward guidance could provide the necessary catalyst for Broadcom to reclaim its highs and potentially push towards the $195 target.

Conclusion: A Critical Juncture for Broadcom
Broadcom’s journey back to its highs is fraught with both opportunities and challenges. The technical setup suggests a stock on the rebound, but with caution flags raised due to the lack of volume support. Fundamentally, the chipmaker’s focus on AI positions it well for future growth, but investors will need to see continued execution and positive guidance in the upcoming earnings report.

For now, AVGO remains a stock to watch closely, with key support and resistance levels defining its near-term path. Investors should be prepared for heightened volatility but also recognize the potential upside if Broadcom’s earnings and outlook exceed expectations.