Core Insights - The Department of Energy (DOE) is implementing the Fusion Science and Technology Roadmap (FS&T Roadmap) to transition fusion energy from laboratory research to commercial viability by the mid-2030s [1][5] - The roadmap outlines a phased approach: near-term focus on digitalization and infrastructure, mid-term on prototype integration, and long-term on grid delivery and scale-up [2][3] Near-Term Actions - Emphasis on digitalization and infrastructure preparation to support fusion technology development [1] - Launch of the AI-Fusion Digital Convergence Platform to enhance materials discovery and plasma behavior prediction [4] Mid-Term Actions - Integration of prototypes to test and refine fusion technologies [2] - Construction of small-to-medium test facilities and design completion for large-scale "First-of-a-Kind" (FOAK) facilities [4] Long-Term Goals - Delivery of power to the grid from the first fleet of pilot plants [4] - Expansion of public infrastructure to support a global fusion market, aiming to lower the levelized cost of energy [4] Core Technical Challenges - The DOE has identified six core technical challenge areas to address gaps in fusion technology [3] - Key areas include structural materials, plasma-facing components, confinement systems, fuel cycle and tritium processing, blankets, and plant engineering [4][10] Material Development - Development of Reduced Activation Ferritic Martensitic (RAFM) steels and vanadium alloys to withstand neutron bombardment and minimize radioactive waste [11] - Focus on tungsten for plasma-facing components to handle extreme heat without contamination [12] Fusion Confinement Methods - The FS&T Roadmap pursues both Magnetic Confinement Fusion and Inertial Confinement Fusion [14] - Magnetic confinement utilizes High-Temperature Superconducting (HTS) magnets to stabilize plasma, with Tokamaks and Stellarators as primary architectures [15][18] Inertial Confinement Fusion - This method employs high-energy lasers to compress fuel pellets, igniting plasma through micro-explosions [19] - Companies involved in producing optical components and high-power diodes are critical to this approach [20] Tritium Breeding and Fuel Cycle - The DOE aims for a closed-loop fuel cycle to breed tritium using lithium-containing blankets, ensuring domestic supply and minimizing reliance on international sources [21] - Companies like Oklo and BWXT are involved in tritium production and breeding technologies [24][25] Blanket Technology - The blanket in fusion reactors is essential for energy conversion, tritium breeding, and radiation shielding [29] - The DOE is aligning advanced fission research and development with fusion technology to create a unified supply chain [30] Plant Engineering and Systems Integration - Focus on the Balance of Plant (BOP) to ensure reliability and efficiency in converting fusion energy to electricity [31] - Innovations such as Supercritical CO2 turbines are being prioritized for their efficiency and smaller footprint [32]

Core Insights - Coherent Corp. has launched a new electro-optic modulator (EOM) for high-speed switching of CO₂ lasers in via drilling applications, providing a germanium-free solution capable of sub-microsecond pulse generation at laser powers up to 300W [1][4] Product Features - The new EOM is the only germanium-free ultra-fast switching solution on the market that can produce pulses shorter than 1µs with sub-200ns rise and fall times, setting a new standard for precision laser modulation in via drilling [2][3] - The EOM's germanium-free architecture offers higher power handling, shorter pulse capability, and faster switching performance compared to traditional acousto-optic modulators (AOMs), which are becoming increasingly scarce and expensive [3] Market Context - Via drilling is a critical segment of semiconductor manufacturing, and the scarcity of germanium has made sourcing traditional AOMs challenging, highlighting the importance of Coherent's EOM in addressing supply chain constraints [3] - The launch of the EOM comes at a time when supply security is crucial, as it eliminates dependence on scarce materials while providing a more accessible price point for the market [4] Company Background - Coherent has over 50 years of experience in developing electro-optic modulators and aims to enhance the via drilling market with this new EOM, which features improved reliability and ease of use compared to previous generations [4] - The company operates globally, providing technology solutions across various industries, including datacenters, communications, and industrial markets [5]

SAXONBURG, Pa., Jan. 16, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Coherent Corp. (NYSE: COHR), a global leader in photonics, today announced the launch of AxioView™ imaging fiber assemblies, designed for optical coherence tomography (OCT), near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), and multimodal catheter-based imaging systems. AxioView™ will debut this month at Photonics West. Engineered for cardiovascular, neurovascular, and gastrointestinal applications, AxioView™ imaging fiber assemblies enable high-resolution, minimally invas ...

Core Insights - Coherent Corp.'s AI initiatives are driving significant revenue growth, with a 51% year-over-year increase in the data center and communications market for fiscal 2025, and a 61% increase specifically in the data center segment [2] - The company reported a 17.3% year-over-year rise in its top line in the first quarter of fiscal 2026, with datacenter revenues growing by 23%, indicating strong demand for AI solutions [3][9] - Coherent's operating margin expanded by 1,081 basis points year-over-year, suggesting scalability in its operations, which is crucial for growth in the AI market [3] Product Pipeline and Market Opportunities - The swift adoption of the 1.6T transceiver and higher yields from the 6-inch Indium Phosphide (InP) are expected to support further growth in 2026 [4][9] - The Optical Circuit Switch market is valued at over $2 billion, presenting a significant growth opportunity for the company [5][9] - The divestiture of the Aerospace and Defense business allows Coherent to focus on high-margin AI demand, streamlining its product portfolio [5] Market Outlook - The global AI datacenter market is projected to reach $13.6 billion, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 28.3% through 2030, indicating a favorable environment for Coherent's growth [6] - Coherent's stock has increased by 99.4% over the past year, outperforming the industry average growth of 13.9% [7] Valuation Metrics - Coherent trades at a 12-month forward price-to-earnings ratio of 33.89X, which is a premium compared to GigaCloud Technology's 11.79X but lower than AppLovin's 39.62X [11] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Coherent's earnings for fiscal 2026 and 2027 has seen increases of 1.2% and 1.1%, respectively, over the past 60 days [13]

Core Insights - Coherent Corp. has been recognized in Forbes 2026 America's Best Companies list, highlighting its excellence in financial performance, employee sentiment, and corporate reputation [1][2][3] Company Overview - Coherent is a global leader in photonics, providing technology solutions for datacenter, communications, and industrial markets [4] - The company was founded in 1971 and operates in over 20 countries, offering a broad technology stack and strong supply chain resilience [5] Recognition and Culture - The recognition by Forbes is attributed to the company's commitment to fostering an inclusive and high-performance culture, where employees are supported and empowered [3] - The CEO emphasized the importance of innovation and strong execution in maintaining the company's competitive edge [3]

FIELDMAX TOUCH Coherent announced the launch of FieldMax Touch and FieldMax Touch Pro, a new family of compact, rugged laser power and energy meters designed to bring lab-grade performance into production and field service environments. SAXONBURG, Pa., Jan. 15, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Coherent Corp. (NYSE: COHR), a global leader in photonics, today announced the launch of FieldMax Touch and FieldMax Touch Pro, a new family of compact, rugged laser power and energy meters designed to bring lab-grade pe ...

Core Insights - The presentation outlines the top 10 stock picks for 2026, emphasizing strong performance in previous years and the potential for continued growth in the current market environment [10][99]. Market Overview - The financial markets experienced significant volatility in 2025, with technology stocks rising by 25% and communication services by 22%, while consumer staples finished in the red [13][12]. - The S&P 500 saw a decline of nearly 20% at one point, with the top stocks for 2025 down more than 20% before rebounding to finish up close to 45% [14][23]. - Gold reached historic highs during this period, driven by global economic uncertainties and increased central bank purchases [15]. AI and Technology Sector - The AI sector played a crucial role in market dynamics, with the "Mag 7" stocks trading at a forward P/E of 31x compared to the S&P 493 at 22x, indicating a significant premium for AI-driven companies [16][17]. - Hyperscalers like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft have increased their capital expenditures on AI infrastructure, raising concerns about the return on investment for these projects [18]. Stock Performance and Recommendations - Micron Technology (MU) is highlighted as a top pick with a market cap of $355 billion, showing a 254% increase over the past year and strong growth metrics [40][41]. - Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) has a market cap of $363 billion and a one-year return of 70%, with improved valuation metrics [52][53]. - Ciena Corporation (CIEN) has a market cap of $34 billion and a one-year return of 166%, with strong analyst revisions indicating positive sentiment [58][59]. - Celestica (CLS) and Coherent (COHR) are also noted for their strong growth and profitability metrics, with significant year-over-year returns [65][69]. Financial Sector Insights - Allstate Corporation (ALL) has a market cap of $53 billion and is focusing on AI underwriting, showing strong EPS growth of 99% year-over-year compared to the financial sector's 14% [72][76]. - Incyte Corporation (INCY) is recognized for its positive earnings and diverse pipeline in biotechnology, with a market cap of $19 billion [81][84]. Mining and Industrial Sector - Barrick Mining Corporation (B) has a market cap of $16 billion and is diversifying into copper, with a forward EPS growth rate of 46% [86][90]. - Willdan Group (WLDN) has a market cap of $1.57 billion and shows strong growth metrics, with a 61% EPS diluted growth rate [91][94]. - ATI has a market cap of $16 billion and is noted for its profitability improvements and strong analyst revisions [95][98].

Core Insights - The presentation outlines the top 10 stock picks for 2026, emphasizing strong performance in previous years and the potential for continued growth in the current market environment [10][99]. Market Overview - The financial markets experienced significant volatility in 2025, with technology stocks rising by 25% and communication services by 22%, while consumer staples finished in the red [13][12]. - A notable correction occurred from February to April 2025, where top stocks were down more than 20% at one point but rebounded to finish up close to 45% for the year [14][23]. - Gold reached historic highs during this period, indicating a safe haven for investors amid market corrections [15]. AI and Technology Sector - The AI frenzy significantly influenced market dynamics, with the "Mag 7" stocks trading at a forward P/E of 31x compared to the S&P 493 at 22x, indicating a premium for AI-driven companies [16][17]. - Hyperscalers like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft have increased their capital expenditures on AI infrastructure, raising concerns about the return on investment [18]. - The market saw a sharp decline in late January 2025 due to fears of overvaluation in AI stocks, leading to significant drops in major indices [22][29]. Stock Performance - The top 10 stocks for 2025 achieved a 45.68% return, significantly outperforming the S&P 500, which was up 17.6% [37]. - Historical performance shows that holding the top stocks from 2023 to 2025 would have yielded a 187% return compared to the S&P 500's 85% [39]. Top Stock Picks for 2026 - **Micron Technology (MU)**: Market cap of $355 billion, ranked 1 in the IT sector, with a one-year return of 254% and strong growth metrics [40][41]. - **Advanced Micro Devices (AMD)**: Market cap of $363 billion, ranked 17 in IT, with a one-year return of 70% and improving valuation metrics [52][53]. - **Ciena Corporation (CIEN)**: Market cap of $34 billion, ranked 3 in IT, with a one-year return of 166% and strong analyst revisions [58][59]. - **Celestica (CLS)**: Market cap of $34 billion, ranked 5 in IT, with a one-year return of 191% and strong growth indicators [65][66]. - **Coherent (COHR)**: Market cap of $33 billion, ranked 8 in IT, with strong growth metrics and a history of consistent earnings beats [69][70]. - **Allstate Corporation (ALL)**: Market cap of $53 billion, ranked 15 in financials, with strong EPS growth and undervalued compared to the sector [72][75]. - **Incyte Corporation (INCY)**: Market cap of $19 billion, ranked 19 in healthcare, with a one-year return of 42% and strong growth potential [81][84]. - **Barrick Mining Corporation (B)**: Market cap of $X billion, ranked 4 in materials, with a one-year return of 186% and strong cash flow [86][90]. - **Willdan Group (WLDN)**: Market cap of $1.57 billion, ranked 5 in industrials, with a one-year return of 190% and strong growth metrics [91][94]. - **ATI (ATI)**: Market cap of $16 billion, ranked 4 in industrials, with a one-year return of 114% and improving profitability [95][98]. Growth Metrics - The average forward revenue growth rate for the top 10 stocks is 20%, with an average EPS growth rate of 73%, significantly higher than the S&P 500's 6% revenue growth and 10% EPS growth [100].

SAPPHIRE XT: COHERENT’S NEW COMPACT 1W VISIBLE LASER PLATFORM SETS A NEW STANDARD FOR LIFE SCIENCE AND SEMICONDUCTOR INNOVATIONS Coherent announced the launch of the Sapphire XT, a new mid-power visible laser platform based on the company’s proven Optically Pumped Semiconductor (OPS) technology. SAXONBURG, Pa., Jan. 15, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Coherent Corp. (NYSE: COHR), a global leader in photonics, today announced the launch of the Sapphire XT, a new mid-power visible laser platform based on the com ...

SAXONBURG, Pa., Jan. 14, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Coherent Corp. (NYSE: COHR), a global leader in photonics, today announced that its Chief Marketing Officer, Dr. Sanjai Parthasarathi, along with other Coherent experts, will participate in key thought leadership sessions at SPIE BiOS and SPIE Photonics West 2026, to be held January 17–22, 2026, at the Moscone Center in San Francisco, California. “Photonics West is the world’s foremost event for advancing photonics technologies and connecting with leaders ac ...