Photronics Inc Reports Third Quarter Fiscal 2024 Results

authorIntellectia.AI Updated: 2024-08-29
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PLAB.O
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Photronics, Inc. Reports Third Quarter Fiscal 2024 Results

Photronics, Inc. (NASDAQ: PLAB), a global leader in photomask technologies and solutions, announced its financial results for the third quarter of fiscal year 2024, which ended on July 28, 2024.

Key Financial Metrics

Metric Q3 FY2024 Q2 FY2024 Q3 FY2023 YoY Change QoQ Change Consensus Estimate Comparison to Estimate
Total Revenue $211.0M $217.3M $224.5M -6% -3% $225M Below Estimate
GAAP EPS $0.55 $0.58 $0.44 +25% -5% $0.56 Below Estimate
Non-GAAP EPS $0.51 $0.46 $0.51 0% +11% - -

Interpretation: Photronics reported a decrease in total revenue both year-over-year and quarter-over-quarter. The GAAP EPS saw an impressive YoY increase of 25%, but a minor QoQ decline. Non-GAAP EPS remained flat compared to last year but improved 11% sequentially. The reported revenue and GAAP EPS were slightly below the consensus estimates.

Segmented Revenue Performance

Segment Q3 FY2024 Revenue Q2 FY2024 Revenue Q3 FY2023 Revenue YoY Change QoQ Change
IC Revenue $155.9M $160.8M $162.4M -4% -3%
FPD Revenue $55.1M $56.5M $61.2M -10% -2%

Interpretation: Segment performance showed a decrease in IC and FPD revenue both on a year-over-year and sequential basis. The IC segment saw a 4% decline YoY and 3% QoQ, while the FPD segment experienced a steeper decline of 10% YoY and 2% QoQ.

Key Developments and Operational Highlights

  • Cash Flow and Investments: Generated $75.1 million from operating activities and invested $24.4 million in organic growth through capital expenditures.
  • Balance Sheet: Ended the quarter with $606.4 million in cash and short-term investments, and $20.1 million in debt.
  • Share Repurchase Program: Increased the existing share repurchase program from $31.7 million remaining to a total of $100 million.

Management Commentary

CEO Frank Lee commented:

  • Market Softness: The company experienced market softness in some segments, particularly impacting photomask demand which reduced both IC and FPD revenue.
  • Strategic Adjustments: Adjustments to mix and sales strategy helped optimize margins.
  • Long-Term Outlook: Remains optimistic about long-term prospects driven by megatrends like AI, supply chain regionalization, and edge computing.
  • Shareholder Value: Emphasized commitment to enhancing shareholder returns through strategic investments and share repurchase programs.

Dividends and Share Repurchase Program

  • Share Repurchase Program: The Board authorized an increase from $31.7 million remaining to a total of $100 million.

Forward Guidance

For the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024, Photronics expects: - Revenue: Between $213 million and $221 million. - Non-GAAP Net Income per Share: Between $0.48 and $0.54.

Stock Price Movement

After the earnings release, Photronics' stock price decreased by approximately 0.0374%.

In summary, Photronics, Inc. faced challenging market conditions in Q3 FY2024 but remains focused on optimizing margins and positioning for long-term growth. The company strategically capitalizes on emerging trends and maintains a strong balance sheet to drive shareholder value.