$ARM vs $KLAC: Contrasting Two Semiconductor Value Chain Plays ARM licenses energy-efficient chip designs and earns royalties, while KLAC sells process-control equipment used to manufacture semiconductors — two very different links in the chip supply chain. ARM has faced renewed selling pressure from high-profile analyst downgrades and concerns about its majority owner's leverage, despite strong revenue growth. KLAC has ridden a powerful momentum wave, supported by multiple analyst upgrades tied to artificial intelligence (AI) capital spending and advanced chip packaging.