Core Insights - Corning Incorporated has signed a long-term deal worth up to $6 billion with Meta Platforms to support U.S. data center expansion, creating high-quality jobs and boosting local economies while reinforcing the U.S. position in the global AI race [1] Group 1: Deal and Expansion - Corning will supply Meta with advanced optical fiber, cable, and connectivity products necessary for high-speed AI data centers, increasing production at its North Carolina manufacturing facility, particularly at the Hickory plant, with Meta as the anchor customer [2] - The investment is expected to increase Corning's workforce in North Carolina, supporting a large and highly skilled workforce, strengthening U.S. supply chains, and supporting American-made technology for next-generation data centers [3] Group 2: Partnerships and Innovation - Corning has partnered with Ensurge to apply its materials science expertise to advance solid-state micro battery technology and teamed up with GlobalFoundries to provide glass, optical fiber, and connectivity solutions for developing detachable fiber connector technology [4] - These collaborations will help Corning strengthen its business through steady revenues, expanded domestic manufacturing, job creation, and stronger leadership in optical solutions for AI data centers [5] Group 3: Competitive Landscape - Corning faces competition from Amphenol Corporation and Ciena Corporation, with Amphenol expanding its fiber optic and connectivity capabilities through the acquisition of CommScope's Connectivity and Cable Solutions business, experiencing strong growth in data communications and AI infrastructure markets [6] - Ciena is upgrading its fiber network to enhance regional connectivity and future capacity, introducing advanced fiber solutions to meet the growing demand for high-speed networks for AI and broadband [7] Group 4: Financial Performance and Estimates - Corning's shares have rallied 106.7% over the past year compared to the industry's growth of 125.7% [8] - The company's shares currently trade at 33.64 forward 12-month earnings, lower than the industry average of 36.76 [10] - Earnings estimates for Corning for 2026 have increased by 1% to $3.03, while estimates for 2027 have increased by 0.3% to $3.44 over the past 60 days [11]