Summary of Conference Call on Optical Networking Industry Industry Overview - The optical networking industry is expected to experience a super upcycle driven by the adoption of ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit) and SiPh (Silicon Photonics) technologies, with significant demand growth anticipated for 800G and 1.6T transceivers in 2026, projected at 45 million and 8 million units respectively [1][2][13]. Key Companies Discussed 1. **Innolight (300308.SZ)** - Top pick in the sector due to strong market share and margin upside from technology upgrades [1][4]. - Expected gross/net margin could reach approximately 45% due to BOM (Bill of Materials) optimization and lower costs associated with SiPh technology [39][41]. - Revised earnings estimates for FY25-27E show an increase of 25%-85% due to higher shipment numbers and margin improvements [41][43]. 2. **Eoptolink (300502.SZ)** - Anticipated to gain market share with a significant shift towards SiPh technology, expected to reach a mix of ~40% in 2026 [32][69]. - Target price raised to Rmb321 based on a 20x FY26E PE, reflecting strong growth in 800G and 1.6T segments [33][70]. - Earnings estimates for FY25-27E increased by 5-25% due to higher revenue and margin assumptions [33][43]. 3. **Suzhou TFC Optical Communication (300394.SZ)** - Focus on acquiring new customers for passive optical components and optical engines, with a target price raised to Rmb140 [46]. - Earnings estimates for FY25-27E increased by 6-42% based on stronger demand for 1.6T optical engines [46][48]. Core Insights and Arguments - The ASIC uptrend is expected to solidify the demand for optical transceivers, particularly with the increasing attach rate per AI accelerators [2][11]. - The market has underappreciated the gross/net margin upside from SiPh migration, which is projected to drive sector EPS revisions and re-ratings [2][3][11]. - Despite concerns about AI capex peaking, the inference AI capex is viewed as more sustainable, supporting ongoing growth in the optical networking sector [3][28]. - Customer preference remains strong for Tier-1 suppliers like Innolight and Eoptolink, which is expected to enhance their market positions [40][30]. Additional Important Points - The anticipated adoption of LPO (Linear-drive Pluggable Optics) for scaling up ASICs could represent an upside risk for long-term demand [12]. - The actual mass adoption of co-packaged optics (CPO) is not expected until 2029-2030, allowing for continued strength in the 800G market in 2026 [30]. - The gross margin for 800G/1.6T SiPh transceivers is expected to reach 45-50%, driven by ongoing technology upgrades and increased industry penetration [30][31]. Conclusion - The optical networking industry is poised for significant growth driven by technological advancements in ASIC and SiPh, with leading companies like Innolight and Eoptolink positioned to capitalize on these trends. The market's current valuation may not fully reflect the potential earnings growth, presenting a favorable investment opportunity.