Why Advanced Micro Devices Shares Popped

Although we don't believe in timing the market or panicking over market movements, we do like to keep an eye on big changes -- just in case they're material to our investing thesis.

What: Shares of Advanced Micro Devices popped today by as much as 13% on a Bloomberg report that Microsoft's next Xbox gaming console will use AMD chips.

So what: Codenamed "Jaguar," AMD's chips are reportedly set to power the software giant's next-generation Xbox gaming console, which is expected to be unveiled next month. AMD chips are also powering Sony's upcoming PlayStation 4, displacing graphics rival NVIDIA.

Now what: The move will mark a transition to x86 architecture, replacing the Power PC architecture currently in use. Rumors of seeing AMD in the next Xbox aren't exactly new, but having a high-profile outlet like Bloomberg reporting it adds to the credibility. CEO Rory Read has been trying to diversify away from the stagnant PC market, and while the console gaming market offers less volume than PCs, it would still be an incremental gain for the chip maker.

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The article Why Advanced Micro Devices Shares Popped originally appeared on Fool.com.

Fool contributor Evan Niu, CFA, has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends NVIDIA and owns shares of Microsoft. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools don't all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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