Corning(US:GLW) EBSCN·2026-03-13 11:12Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for the industry, indicating an expected investment return exceeding the market benchmark index by over 15% in the next 6-12 months [9]. Core Insights - The price of optical fibers and cables has significantly increased since early 2026, driven by rising demand from AI data centers, a shortage of raw materials, and the growing need for fiber in drone applications [2][3]. - The demand for optical fibers in AI data centers is projected to be 36 times higher than traditional data centers, with global demand expected to reach 69.6 million core kilometers by 2025 and 127.6 million core kilometers by 2030 [2]. - Major companies in the optical fiber and cable industry, such as Corning and Sumitomo Electric, have seen substantial stock price increases, reflecting positive market signals and order growth [3]. Summary by Sections Optical Fiber and Cable Market - The price of G.652.D single-mode fiber has risen from 18 yuan/km to 85-120 yuan/km, while G.657.A2 prices increased from 35 yuan/km to 210-230 yuan/km [1]. - The competitive bidding for optical fiber projects has been affected by rising prices, leading to some projects failing to secure bids [1]. AI and Data Center Demand - The demand for optical fibers is being driven by the need for high-speed data transmission in AI data centers, which require significantly more fiber than traditional setups [2]. - The production of optical fiber preform rods is constrained, with a long expansion cycle of 1.5 to 2 years, contributing to sustained high prices [2]. Company Performance and Recommendations - Companies like Longi Green Energy are expected to benefit from the ongoing price increases in optical fibers, with recommendations to monitor key players such as Corning, Furukawa Electric, and Sumitomo Electric [4]. - The report highlights the stability and cost control capabilities of companies like Kingboard Laminates, which are positioned to benefit from the rising prices of copper-clad laminates [6].