German semiconductor equipment maker Aixtron reported surprisingly robust Q2 earnings, with revenue rising 4% to €137.4 million and operating profit surging 83% to €23.6 million, beating analyst expectations. The company credited cost-cutting measures and reduced investments for improved margins. However, new orders plummeted 33% to €118.5 million, reflecting customer caution in key markets. While optoelectronics demand grows from AI data centers, the SiC and GaN power electronics segments—particularly chips for EV fast-charging—face persistent weakness. The stock initially gained but closed 1.8% lower at €14.80 as investors weighed these contrasting signals against April’s multiyear lows.
Uncertain Road Ahead
Management maintained its 2025 forecast of €530-600 million revenue (down from €633 million) with an 18-22% operating margin. Analysts remain cautious, noting recovery in core markets appears distant. The order backlog of €284.6 million provides near-term stability, but the broader semiconductor downturn—mirrored by competitors—may persist until 2027. Despite operational outperformance, Aixtron’s shares continue navigating volatile terrain between sector headwinds and internal efficiency gains.
