First Solar Stock: Is FSLR Outperforming the Technology Sector?

Core Viewpoint - First Solar, Inc. has demonstrated strong financial performance and growth in the solar energy sector, with significant increases in revenue and stock performance, positioning itself as a leader in the industry [5][6]. Company Overview - First Solar, Inc. is based in Tempe, Arizona, and operates as a solar technology company providing photovoltaic (PV) solar energy solutions, with a market cap of $22.6 billion [1]. - The company is categorized as a large-cap stock, reflecting its substantial size and influence in the solar industry [2]. Stock Performance - FSLR stock reached a 52-week high of $281.55 on November 5 and is currently trading 8.5% below that peak, having increased 25.6% over the past three months, outperforming the Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund's (XLK) 11.5% gains [3]. - Year-to-date, FSLR stock has surged 46.2%, and over the past 52 weeks, it has increased by 30.2%, compared to XLK's 26.1% and 22.2% gains respectively [4]. Financial Results - Following the release of impressive Q3 results on October 30, FSLR stock prices soared 14.3%. The company sold a record 5.3 GW of energy during the quarter, leading to a 45.4% year-over-year revenue increase to $1.6 billion [5]. - Earnings per share (EPS) grew 33.3% year-over-year to $4.24, and operating cash flows increased by 100.3% year-over-year to $815.2 million. As of September 30, First Solar had a contracted sales backlog of 53.7 GW, valued at $16.4 billion [5]. Analyst Ratings - Among the 32 analysts covering FSLR stock, the consensus rating is a "Strong Buy," with a mean price target of $268.51, suggesting a modest 4.2% upside potential [6].