According to CNBC, Linde's revenue growth rate is set to rise to at least 8% as artificial intelligence-related semiconductor manufacturing drives demand for industrial gases, supported by a record $11.1 billion project backlog and major supply agreements near chip fabs. The company said about 30% of its gas revenue comes from on-site facilities protected by 15- to 20-year take-or-pay contracts with energy cost pass-throughs, while operating margins are moving toward 31% and adjusted earnings per share are projected to grow 13% to 14% annually. Linde shares closed Monday at $464.41, and the stock has fallen more than 3% over the past year.