Core Insights - Sono-Tek Corporation reported its fifth consecutive quarter of revenue exceeding $5 million, driven by a significant order completion in the advanced solar market valued at $2.95 million [1][2][3] - The company achieved a gross margin of 52%, an increase from 49% in the previous year, and operating income rose by 103% year-over-year [1][7] - Despite strong performance in the first half of FY 2026, the company maintains a cautious full-year revenue outlook due to uncertainties surrounding governmental clean energy incentives and tariff policies [2][5] Financial Performance - Net sales for the first quarter of FY 2026 reached $5.13 million, a 2% increase from $5.03 million in the same quarter of FY 2025 [7] - Gross profit increased to $2.7 million, up 9% from $2.5 million year-over-year, contributing to a gross margin expansion [7] - Operating income rose to $483 thousand, a 103% increase compared to $238 thousand in the first quarter of FY 2025 [7] - Net income for the quarter was $485 thousand, reflecting a 47% increase from $331 thousand in the prior year [7] Market and Product Insights - Sales in the Alternative/Clean Energy market increased by 42% year-over-year, driven by production-scale system shipments, including a high ASP order of $2.95 million [9] - Integrated Coating Systems sales surged by 309% to $3.05 million, primarily due to a repeat order for high ASP systems [8] - Multi-Axis Coating Systems sales declined by 75% to $677,000, attributed to reduced R&D funding in the clean energy sector following government policy shifts [8] Guidance and Outlook - The company expects continued revenue growth and strong profitability in the first half of FY 2026, supported by a backlog of $7.5 million [5][6] - Full-year revenue growth is anticipated to be relatively flat due to market adjustments in response to recent governmental policy changes [5][6] - The company remains focused on high ASP orders and is well-positioned to navigate potential short-term demand shifts [3][5] Balance Sheet Overview - As of May 31, 2025, Sono-Tek reported cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities totaling $10.9 million, with no debt on its balance sheet [16] - Stockholders' equity stood at $18.3 million, reflecting a healthy financial position [16]