I consider Coherent Corp. ( COHR ) stock a Strong Buy. My rating is not just based on the 34% Y/Y growth in its Datacenter & Communications segment. My reasoning focuses on the structural gross margin decoupling backedAnalyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other ...

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Core Insights - By 2026, global computing infrastructure will enter a "connection is king" era, driven by the limitations of traditional copper cables and the necessity for optical solutions to meet the demands of AI clusters [3][5][6] - Companies like LITE, COHR, and AAOI are leveraging vertical integration and strategic focus to transition from component pricing to system premium, aiming to eliminate energy consumption and latency [3][6][20] - Unlike the supply bubble of 2000, the 2026 infrastructure is driven by demand, with a shift in investment logic focusing on connection efficiency rather than raw computing power [3][28] Group 1: Physical Limits and Optical Solutions - The physical limitations of copper cables become apparent as signal rates reach 1.6T, leading to significant energy loss and heat accumulation in large AI clusters [9][10] - Optical technology is no longer an option but a necessity, with AI architects prioritizing connection density over raw computing power [11][12] - The share of connection components in total capital expenditure for data centers has surged from 15% to over 30% in three years [12] Group 2: Key Technologies and Innovations - Silicon photonics has crossed the 50% market share threshold in optical transceivers, becoming a critical weapon for cost reduction and production efficiency [14][15] - CPO technology aims to reduce energy demands by integrating optical engines directly with GPU or switch chips, potentially lowering energy needs by 50%-65% [16][17] - LPO technology offers a transitional solution for companies seeking cost-effective options without immediately switching to expensive CPO systems [18][19] Group 3: Competitive Landscape - LITE has transformed from a component supplier to a system provider, with 60% of its revenue linked to AI infrastructure and a revenue growth rate of 65% [23] - COHR is focusing on dual development in AI communication and power semiconductors, having divested non-core assets to concentrate on AI data centers [24] - AAOI, benefiting from deep ties with Microsoft and a flexible LPO approach, is positioned as a strong competitor in the mid-market segment [25] Group 4: Historical Context and Future Outlook - The current market dynamics differ fundamentally from the 2000 bubble, as the 2026 scenario is characterized by demand-driven infrastructure rather than supply chasing demand [28] - Investment focus is shifting from who has the strongest computing power to who can connect the most computing power with the least energy consumption [30]

Group 1 - The article highlights Uttam as a growth-oriented investment analyst focusing on the technology sector, particularly in semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and cloud software [1] - Uttam's research also encompasses other sectors such as MedTech, Defense Tech, and Renewable Energy, indicating a broad analytical scope [1] - The Pragmatic Optimist Newsletter, co-authored by Uttam and Amrita Roy, is recognized and cited by major publications like the Wall Street Journal and Forbes, showcasing its influence in the investment community [1] Group 2 - Prior to his research career, Uttam gained experience in Silicon Valley, leading teams at major technology firms including Apple and Google, which adds credibility to his insights [1]

Investment Rating - The report assigns a strong buy rating for Coherent, anticipating a performance that will exceed the benchmark index by more than 20% in the next six months [44]. Core Insights - Coherent achieved record revenue of $1.69 billion in FY2026Q2, with a quarter-over-quarter growth of 7% and a year-over-year growth of 17%. The Non-GAAP gross margin improved to 39%, with a Non-GAAP diluted EPS of $1.29, reflecting an 11% quarter-over-quarter increase and a 35% year-over-year increase [3][7]. - The data center and communication segment accounts for over 70% of total revenue, with a year-over-year growth of 34% in Q2. The data center business saw a 36% increase, driven by strong demand for 800G and 1.6T transceivers [8][9]. - The company expects FY2026Q3 revenue to be between $1.7 billion and $1.84 billion, with a Non-GAAP gross margin forecasted between 38.5% and 40.5% [10]. Summary by Sections FY2026Q2 Performance Overview - Coherent reported a strong performance in FY2026Q2 with total revenue reaching a record $1.69 billion, a 7% increase from the previous quarter and a 17% increase year-over-year. Excluding revenue from the recently divested aerospace and defense business, revenue growth was 9% quarter-over-quarter and 22% year-over-year. The Non-GAAP gross margin was 39%, with a Non-GAAP operating margin of 19.9% and a diluted EPS of $1.29 [3][7]. Business Segment Performance 1. **Data Center and Communication Segment** - This segment is the core growth driver, contributing over 70% of total revenue. In Q2, revenue grew 34% year-over-year, with the data center business growing 36% due to strong demand for 800G and 1.6T transceivers. The communication business also performed well, with a 44% year-over-year increase [8][9]. 2. **Industrial Segment** - After excluding the recently divested aerospace and defense business, the industrial segment saw a 4% quarter-over-quarter growth and remained flat year-over-year. The semiconductor industry orders significantly increased in Q2, indicating potential for growth in the upcoming quarters [9]. FY2026Q3 Guidance - Coherent anticipates FY2026Q3 revenue between $1.7 billion and $1.84 billion, including $5 million from the Munich product division before its sale. The Non-GAAP gross margin is expected to be between 38.5% and 40.5%, with total operating expenses projected between $320 million and $340 million [10].

[Table_Title] 研究报告 Research Report 6 Feb 2026 中国电子 China (Overseas) Technology FY4Q25 全球科技业绩快报：Coherent FY4Q25 Global Technology Earnings Snapshot: Coherent 姚书桥 Barney Yao barney.sq.yao@htisec.com [Table_yemei1] 热点速评 Flash Analysis 风险 1）产能扩张不及预期风险 2）技术迭代与市场竞争风险 3）客户依赖与需求波动风险 [Table_yejiao1] 本研究报告由海通国际分销，海通国际是由海通国际研究有限公司，海通证券印度私人有限公司，海通国际株式会社和海通国 际证券集团其他各成员单位的证券研究团队所组成的全球品牌，海通国际证券集团各成员分别在其许可的司法管辖区内从事证 券活动。关于海通国际的分析师证明，重要披露声明和免责声明，请参阅附录。(Please see appendix for English translation of the disclaimer) [Table_su ...

Investment Rating - The report assigns a positive investment rating to Coherent, indicating an expectation of outperforming the market in the next 12-18 months [19]. Core Insights - Coherent delivered an outstanding performance in FY2Q26, achieving revenue of $1.69 billion, surpassing the consensus estimate of $1.64 billion, and setting a new record high. Non-GAAP EPS reached $1.29, exceeding the market expectation of $1.20. The non-GAAP gross margin climbed to 39%, reflecting strong profitability driven by lower raw material costs and improved operational efficiency [1][8]. Summary by Relevant Sections Financial Performance - In FY2Q26, Coherent's revenue was $1.69 billion, exceeding expectations and marking a historical high. Non-GAAP EPS was $1.29, above the anticipated $1.20. The gross margin increased to 39%, benefiting from reduced raw material costs and enhanced production efficiency [1][8]. Business Segments - The data center and communications business segment accounted for over 70% of total revenue, with a revenue increase of 14% quarter-over-quarter and 36% year-over-year, driven by strong demand for 800G and 1.6T optical modules [2][9]. Order Demand - The order-to-shipment ratio for the data center business exceeded 4:1, with demand visibility at an all-time high. Orders are scheduled through the end of 2026, with significant long-term demand forecasts from major customers extending into 2028 [3][10]. Capacity Expansion - Coherent aims to double its internal InP production capacity by Q4 2026, currently achieving 80% of this target ahead of schedule. The 6-inch InP production line shows significant advantages, including a fourfold increase in chip output compared to 3-inch wafers [4][11]. Future Outlook - For FY3Q26, Coherent expects revenue between $1.7 billion and $1.84 billion, in line with market consensus. The non-GAAP gross margin is projected to be between 38.5% and 40.5%, maintaining profitability advantages. Non-GAAP EPS is anticipated to reach $1.28 to $1.48, exceeding the consensus of $1.40 [5][12].

Key Takeaways Coherent delivered a record Q2 FY26 results with $1.7B in revenues, up 17.5% YoY, and EPS of $1.29.Datacenter & communications grew 33.5% YoY, reaching 72% of sales, driven by 800 gig and 1.6T demand.Margins expanded as operating income rose, cash reached $863.7M and debt leverage fell to 1.7X.Coherent Corp. (COHR) hit a new peak, delivering $1.7 billion in revenues during the second quarter of fiscal 2026, topping the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 3%. The top line appreciated 17.5% from the yea ...