SMCI's AI Backlog Shines, Margin Woes Could Damp Upside

Super Micro Computer (SMCI) sees strong AI‑driven demand with a $13B+ backlog, but ten straight quarters of margin decline — gross margin was 9.3% in Q1 2026 — keep investors cautious that its best days may be behind it. An investor warns that further margin weakness into Q3 could crater the stock, saltier due to competition, while revenue growth and Nvidia collaborations remain. The Street's consensus is Hold with a $44 12‑month target, implying roughly 50% upside if margins stabilize or the stock pulls back.