Flex(US:FLEX) ZACKS·2025-12-10 14:20Core Insights - Flex Ltd. (FLEX) has experienced a significant stock surge of 79.9% over the past year, reaching a 52-week high of $70.37 before closing at $68.50, driven by strong execution and a shift towards higher-value, technology-intensive businesses [1][4][8] Price Performance - FLEX's performance outpaces the Zacks Electronics - Miscellaneous Products industry, the Zacks Computer and Technology sector, and the S&P 500 composite, which grew by 24.3%, 24.8%, and 14.6% respectively [4] Growth Drivers - Flex's revenue for the second quarter of fiscal 2026 increased by 4% year-over-year to $6.8 billion, with the data center business identified as the primary growth engine [5][6] - The company is leveraging AI to drive infrastructure build-outs, enhancing its product portfolio with advanced manufacturing capabilities [6][8] - A new AI infrastructure platform has been introduced, allowing data center operators to deploy systems up to 30% faster while reducing execution risk [8] Partnerships and Innovations - Flex has partnered with NVIDIA on next-gen 800-volt DC AI factories, improving energy efficiency and reliability [9] - A collaboration with LG Electronics aims to develop integrated modular cooling systems to address thermal challenges in AI-driven data centers [9] Financial Performance - Flex's non-GAAP gross margin expanded by 80 basis points to 9.3%, and non-GAAP operating margin increased by 55 basis points to 6% [13] - The company reported a record $1.1 billion in free cash flow for fiscal 2025 and $305 million in adjusted free cash flow for the second quarter of fiscal 2026 [14] - Flex has repurchased $1.3 billion in stock in fiscal 2025 and $297 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2026 [16] Guidance and Outlook - Flex revised its fiscal 2026 revenue guidance to $26.7-$27.3 billion, expecting an adjusted operating margin of 6.2% to 6.3% and adjusted EPS of $3.09 to $3.17 [17][18] - Despite challenges such as tariffs and unfavorable forex movements, the company maintains a positive growth outlook [18] Valuation - FLEX trades at a forward 12-month price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 20.35, which is below the industry average of 24.99 [20] - Compared to peers like Jabil, Sanmina, and Celestica, FLEX's valuation appears attractive [22] Investment Opportunity - With strong cash flow, disciplined execution, and expanding margins, Flex presents an appealing investment opportunity even after its substantial stock appreciation [23]