The Motley Fool·2026-01-28 01:14Core Insights - The artificial intelligence (AI) boom is driving significant demand for optical fiber and connectivity products, leading to a major partnership between Corning and Meta Platforms [1][2] - Corning's stock surged by over 15% following the announcement of a $6 billion deal with Meta, reflecting strong market confidence in the company's growth potential [1][3] Company Developments - Under the agreement, Corning will supply advanced optical fiber and connectivity products to Meta, facilitating the rapid construction of AI data centers [2][4] - Corning plans to expand its manufacturing operations in North Carolina, with Meta as the anchor client for a new capacity buildout at its optical cable facility in Hickory, which will become the largest of its kind [4][5] Financial Performance - Corning's optical communications revenue increased by 58% year over year in the third quarter, driven by heightened interest in its AI-focused solutions [5]