NVTS Shifts to 8-Inch GaN: Will it Help Return to Growth Trajectory?

Core Insights - Navitas Semiconductor is transitioning its gallium nitride (GaN) chip production from 6-inch to 8-inch wafers in collaboration with Powerchip, aiming to increase chip output by approximately 80% while maintaining production costs [1][10] - The new 8-inch wafers will support mid-voltage (80-200 volts) and high-voltage (800 volts) GaN chips, which are essential for next-generation AI data centers [2][10] - Despite a 29% year-over-year revenue decline in Q2 2025, the partnership with Powerchip is expected to enhance cost efficiency and improve margins over time [4] Production and Strategy - The transition to 8-inch wafers is part of Navitas's strategy to focus on higher-performance, higher-margin products, moving away from lower-margin mobile and consumer products [3][10] - Current supplier TSMC will continue providing 6-inch wafers until mid-2027, allowing a smooth transition to Powerchip [3] - Larger production of the new chips is planned to begin in 2026, with initial samples expected to be sent later this year [2] Financial Performance - The Zacks Consensus Estimate indicates a projected revenue decline of 35% for NVTS in 2025, followed by a recovery with an estimated growth of 23.2% in 2026 [5] - The forward price-to-sales ratio for Navitas is 26.71X, significantly higher than the industry average of 9.51X, indicating a premium valuation [11] Competitive Landscape - Navitas faces competition from Wolfspeed and ON Semiconductor in supplying high-voltage solutions for AI data centers [6] - Wolfspeed is investing in a $3 billion fab to enhance its SiC supply for high-voltage applications, while ON Semiconductor is expanding its SiC portfolio and collaborating with NVIDIA for next-generation power systems [7]