Applied Materials slips as investors seek faster growth after stellar run

Applied Materials shares fell about 5% in premarket trading on Friday, as the ‌chip equipment maker's upbeat outlook failed to ‌soothe investors worried about the threat from intensifying competition. The muted reaction ​illustrates the high bar chip stocks have to clear and suggests that investors have little tolerance for any hint that a company may be falling behind peers. After a ‌sharp rally that ⁠has more than doubled Applied's shares this year, investors want clearer signals that the ⁠company's growth is outpacing rivals in the wafer-fab-equipment market.