After months of consolidation, the semiconductor sector looks poised for a significant breakout, reigniting investor interest in this recent market-leading industry. Following a strong run in 2023 and the first half of 2024, semiconductors faced challenges midyear. A sharp selloff in July, triggered by growing expectations of Federal Reserve rate cuts, saw a rotation out of growth sectors like semiconductors into more defensive areas such as Utilities and Industrials.
The VanEck Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ: SMH), a sector benchmark, plunged from an all-time high above $280 to test crucial support near $200. This steep drop fueled fears of a prolonged downturn.
