Jabil vs. Corning: Which Tech Manufacturing Stock Is the Better Buy?

Core Insights - Jabil Inc. (JBL) and Corning Incorporated (GLW) are prominent players in the technology manufacturing sector, with Jabil focusing on electronics manufacturing services and Corning specializing in glass substrates and optical solutions [1][2][3]. Jabil Inc. (JBL) - Jabil operates in 100 locations across 30 countries, benefiting from strong margins and cash flow dynamics, along with extensive end-market experience and technical capabilities [4][6]. - The company has a centralized procurement process and a connected factory network that enhances production scalability [5]. - Jabil's revenue is expected to grow due to demand in AI data centers, capital equipment, and warehouse automation, alongside the adoption of 5G and cloud computing [7]. - However, Jabil faces competition from various electronic manufacturers and geopolitical tensions, which may impact its margins [8]. - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Jabil's 2025 sales and EPS indicates year-over-year increases of 0.9% and 10.6%, respectively, with EPS estimates trending upward [13]. Corning Incorporated (GLW) - Corning is experiencing improved demand driven by its innovations, particularly in fiber optic solutions, which are crucial for mobile devices and cloud computing [9][10]. - The company has reorganized its operating structure into five Market-Access Platforms to enhance efficiency and unlock synergies [11]. - Despite its strengths, Corning's revenue is heavily reliant on the Display and Optical segments, which are sensitive to consumer spending [12]. - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Corning's 2025 sales and EPS suggests year-over-year increases of 11% and 25.5%, respectively, with EPS estimates also trending upward [15]. Comparative Analysis - Over the past year, Jabil's stock has increased by 105.8%, while Corning's has risen by 75.3% [16]. - Jabil's price/earnings ratio is 18.84, which is lower than Corning's 26.4, making Jabil appear more attractive from a valuation perspective [16]. - Both companies are expected to see improvements in sales and profits in 2025, but Corning's growth expectations are significantly higher [20].