COMM vs. CLS: Which Networking Equipment Stock Has More Upside Ahead?

Core Insights - CommScope Holding Company, Inc. (COMM) and Celestica Inc. (CLS) are key players in the communications and networking hardware sector, with CommScope focusing on solutions for wireline and wireless network convergence essential for 5G technology [2] - Celestica is a major firm in the electronics manufacturing services (EMS) industry, providing a wide range of manufacturing and supply-chain solutions to various sectors [3] CommScope Overview - CommScope is implementing stringent cost-cutting measures and focusing on core operations, including the divestiture of its Home Networks business and the acquisition of Casa Systems' Cable Business assets to enhance its market position [5][6] - The company has launched the HX6-611-6WH/B antenna, which offers a high-capacity microwave backhaul solution, ensuring reliable connectivity for mobile network operators [7] - Despite its strategic moves, CommScope faces intense competition from companies like Amphenol Corporation and Corning Incorporated, along with challenges from trade tensions and raw material price volatility [8] Celestica Overview - Celestica is benefiting from AI-driven demand and has a diverse customer base across high-value industries, with projected sales and EPS growth of 20.6% and 43% respectively for 2025 [10][14] - The company focuses on product diversification and has a strong R&D foundation, allowing it to produce both high-volume and complex technology infrastructure products [12] - However, Celestica is experiencing margin pressures due to high R&D costs and faces competition from firms like Foxconn and Flex [13] Financial Performance - The Zacks Consensus Estimate indicates that CommScope's 2025 sales and EPS are expected to grow by 11.2% and 4,400% respectively, while Celestica's growth estimates are significantly higher [14][16] - Over the past year, CommScope's stock has increased by 170.4%, while Celestica's has surged by 324.1% [17] - From a valuation perspective, CommScope's shares trade at a forward P/E ratio of 10.04, which is lower than Celestica's 38.01, making CommScope appear more attractive [19] Investment Outlook - CommScope holds a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold), while Celestica has a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy), indicating a more favorable investment outlook for Celestica [21] - Both companies anticipate improvements in sales and profits for 2025, but Celestica's consistent revenue and EPS growth, along with its better performance metrics, suggest it may be a superior investment option at this time [22]