Summary of Nova (NasdaqGS:NVMI) FY Conference Call - January 14, 2026 Company Overview - **Company**: Nova (NasdaqGS:NVMI) - **Event**: 28th Annual Needham Growth Conference - **Key Speaker**: Guy Kizner, CFO Industry Insights - **Semiconductor Industry Growth**: The semiconductor industry is expected to reach $1 trillion in revenues by 2026, driven by demand from AI, data centers, automotive, and industrial sectors [4][5] - **Investment Trends**: Customers are making long-term capacity investments, particularly in advanced nodes and memory, with a focus on DRAM and advanced packaging [3][5] Financial Performance and Projections - **2026 Outlook**: Nova anticipates a growth year in 2026, with a second-half weighting due to project timing rather than demand [3][5] - **Revenue Target**: The company is on track to meet its $500 million cumulative revenue target from Gate-All-Around technology by 2026 [8] - **Advanced Packaging Growth**: Advanced packaging revenue is projected to grow from 10% in 2023 to around 20% in 2026, driven by both inorganic acquisitions and organic product adjustments [12][14] Market Segments - **Leading Edge Logic**: The transition from FinFET to Gate-All-Around is enhancing Nova's position in metrology, with significant growth expected from major players like TSMC, Intel, Samsung, and Rapidus [7][9] - **Memory Market**: DRAM is a key growth driver, with Nova well-positioned among top spenders. However, the NAND market is currently focused on upgrades rather than capacity expansions [15][16][17] - **China Market**: Nova's exposure to China is expected to decrease percentage-wise but increase in dollar terms. The company does not view China as a growth market for 2026 [18][19] Competitive Landscape - **Market Position**: Nova holds over 70% market share in integrated metrology and is growing in the optical CD standalone segment, competing with Onto and KLA [22][24] - **Chemical Metrology**: Nova has a strong presence in the backend of the process, while KLA dominates the front end [25] - **Chinese Competitors**: Local Chinese players are emerging, but Nova maintains a technological edge [26][27] M&A Strategy - **Capital Allocation**: Nova raised $750 million through convertible notes to fund M&A opportunities, focusing on companies that align with their financial model and offer clear synergies [29][30][31] - **Target Criteria**: The company seeks acquisitions that are accretive to EPS within 12 months and fit their operational and financial criteria [30][31] Long-term Goals - **Revenue Target for 2027**: Nova aims to achieve $1 billion in revenue by 2027, with a commitment to organic growth supplemented by potential acquisitions [32][33] - **Growth Trajectory**: The company plans to double revenues every five years, with a focus on maintaining long-term targets rather than adjusting based on short-term performance [35][36] Conclusion - Nova is positioned for significant growth in the semiconductor industry, with a strong focus on advanced technologies and strategic investments. The company is committed to achieving its long-term revenue targets while navigating competitive and market dynamics effectively.

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Jan. 05, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Wave Life Sciences Ltd. (Nasdaq: WVE), a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on unlocking the broad potential of RNA medicines to transform human health, today announced that Paul Bolno, MD, MBA, President and Chief Executive Officer, is scheduled to present at the 44th Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference in San Francisco, CA on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at 2:15 p.m. PT / 5:15 p.m. ET. A live webcast of the presentation can be accessed by vis ...

Core Thesis - Wave Life Sciences Ltd. is positioned for significant growth with its RNA-based therapies, particularly WVE-006 and WVE-007, which could reshape its valuation and market profile [2][5][8] Pipeline and Clinical Developments - The near-term focus is on WVE-006, an RNA editing therapy for Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (AATD), which has shown promising results in Phase 1b/2a trials, indicating it may become a best-in-class therapy [3][4] - WVE-007, targeting obesity through siRNA therapy, shows potential for transformative treatment, with preclinical data indicating selective fat loss while preserving lean muscle [5][6] Financial Implications - WVE-006 is partnered with GSK, allowing Wave to earn up to $525 million in milestones and high-teens royalties, which will alleviate financing pressure and support further R&D investments [4] - Successful validation of WVE-007 could lead to a stock appreciation of 40% or more, highlighting the company's potential as a rare RNA-based biotech with multiple high-value opportunities [7][8] Market Position and Growth Potential - Additional pipeline candidates, including therapies for Duchenne muscular dystrophy and Huntington's disease, enhance the company's growth prospects, with early-stage data supporting their potential [6] - The combined assets of Wave Life Sciences present a compelling risk/reward profile, with near-term catalysts expected to drive stock appreciation by 10-20% [7]

Exchange Performance - Paradex claims to be the fastest exchange for limit-order fills across both centralized (CEX) and decentralized exchanges (DEX) [1] - Paradex's lightning-fast execution is powered by PRISM [1] Technology - PRISM technology enables the speed and efficiency of Paradex [1]

Core Insights - Core Laboratories Inc. (CLB) has experienced a significant decline in share price, dropping 21.6% over the past six months, which is worse than the broader oil and energy sector's 1.7% loss and the 13.1% drop in the oil and gas field services sub-industry [1][7] - The company's recent performance indicates internal challenges, as evidenced by a 4.4% sequential and 5% year-over-year revenue decline in Q1 2025, alongside a 25% sequential and 21% year-over-year drop in operating income [4][17] - Geopolitical sanctions and operational inefficiencies have disrupted CLB's operations, particularly affecting product deliveries and crude assay services in Eastern Europe and the Middle East [5][17] Financial Performance - CLB's Q1 2025 results showed a decline in revenues and earnings, driven by sanctions, seasonal slowdowns, and weak U.S. activity [7][17] - The company's Reservoir Description segment experienced a 7% sequential revenue drop, raising concerns about future profitability [4][17] - Despite a slight decrease in net debt by $4.9 million, CLB's leverage ratio remains high at 1.31x, limiting financial flexibility [13][17] Market Conditions - The U.S. onshore market outlook is weak, with peers projecting a 10-15% decline in 2025, which could pressure CLB's Production Enhancement segment [9][17] - Ongoing geopolitical conflicts, particularly in Russia-Ukraine and the Middle East, may lead to further disruptions in international revenue streams [8][17] - CLB's exposure to crude oil price volatility poses additional risks, as recent OPEC+ production increases and U.S. tariffs have pressured oil prices [11][17] Operational Challenges - Margin compression is evident, with Reservoir Description margins falling 670 basis points sequentially to 10% due to revenue declines and fixed-cost absorption [10][17] - The company faces competitive and technological risks, relying on proprietary technologies that require sustained R&D investment [16][17] - Operational inefficiencies and cost challenges persist, with management indicating that restructuring costs may recur [15][17] Growth Prospects - CLB's near-term growth relies on uncertain international projects in regions like Africa and the Middle East, with revenue guidance for Q2 2025 suggesting only modest sequential improvement [12][17] - Limited growth catalysts and a focus on debt reduction over shareholder returns reduce the appeal for income investors [14][17]

Core Insights - Wave Life Sciences Ltd. has appointed Dr. Christopher Wright as Chief Medical Officer to lead the clinical development of its RNA medicines pipeline [1][2] - Dr. Wright brings extensive experience in global development, having worked with regulatory agencies in both the US and EU, and has a strong track record in drug development for various diseases [2][3] - The company has a robust therapeutic pipeline and has delivered positive clinical datasets over the past year, indicating the potential of its RNA medicines [4] Company Overview - Wave Life Sciences is a biotechnology company focused on RNA medicines, utilizing its PRISM platform to address both rare and common disorders [5] - The company's RNA-targeting modalities include editing, splicing, RNA interference, and antisense silencing, providing a comprehensive toolkit for disease treatment [5] - Wave's pipeline includes clinical programs for Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Huntington's disease, and obesity, along with several preclinical programs [5] Leadership Background - Dr. Wright has held significant roles in various biotechnology companies, including CMO at Ring Therapeutics and AavantiBio, and has experience in leading global development functions [2][3] - He has a strong academic background, having served as a board-certified neurologist and Associate Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School [3] Equity Grant - In connection with his appointment, Dr. Wright received a share option to purchase 300,000 ordinary shares of Wave, with an exercise price of $5.94 per share, vesting over four years [4]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Nova achieved record revenues of $213 million in Q1 2025, reflecting a 50% year-over-year growth and a 10% quarter-over-quarter increase [17][18] - Non-GAAP EPS increased by 56% year-over-year, reaching $2.18 per diluted share, while GAAP EPS was $2.03 per diluted share [19] - Blended gross margins were 57% on a GAAP basis and 59.6% on a non-GAAP basis, within the target range of 57% to 60% [18][19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Significant revenue growth was noted in Gate All Around and Advanced Packaging Solutions, with record sales from the Prism platform and integrated metrology solutions [9][10] - The software business also achieved record performance, driven by strong sales targeting high-value applications [11] - Service revenues grew more than 30% year-over-year, indicating robust demand across various segments [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Nova's market share in the thin film and CD metrology segment increased, solidifying its position as the second-largest vendor in this market [6] - Demand for semiconductor manufacturing capacity is driven by AI applications, with stable demand for mature nodes [7][15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on operational excellence and adapting to market dynamics, with a strong emphasis on R&D and sales to support future growth [5][19] - Nova completed the acquisition of Centronics, which is expected to significantly contribute to business growth in Q2 2025 [13][20] - The company is committed to sustainability, as highlighted in its 2025 Sustainability Insights Report, which includes updated KPIs and goals [14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the ability to outperform in 2025, despite macroeconomic uncertainties and potential impacts from international trade dynamics [16][22] - The company anticipates continued strong demand patterns in Q2 2025, with revenues expected between $210 million and $220 million [22] Other Important Information - The effective tax rate for Q1 2025 was approximately 15%, and operating expenses increased to $59 million on a GAAP basis [19][20] - The company ended Q1 2025 with $812 million in cash and marketable securities, having deployed $20 million in share buybacks [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you talk about where you are in the gate all around ramp? - Management indicated a strong ramp in the first half of the year, with expectations to meet growth plans, though market conditions may affect the second half outlook [26][27] Question: Can you discuss the size of the opportunity between R&D and high volume manufacturing? - Management noted that initial investments are reflecting pilot lines, with expectations for growth as the business transitions to high volume manufacturing [28] Question: Can you elaborate on the moving pieces for gross margin? - Management explained that gross margin should be viewed on an annual basis, with expected impacts from tariffs and product mix affecting Q2 margins [29] Question: Did you see any revenue impact in China from tariffs? - Management confirmed no significant revenue impact in China, with the main tariff impact being on gross margins [34] Question: What is the margin profile of your backlog? - Management stated that the margin profile of the backlog is similar to recent reported margins [50] Question: What is the outlook for the China business going into the second half? - Management expects nominal value from the China business to remain flat or slightly decline, with a good backlog for upcoming quarters [55]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Lockheed Martin reported a 4% year-over-year increase in sales for Q1 2025, reaching $15.5 billion, with a GAAP earnings per share of $7.28, reflecting a 14% increase [7][29] - The company generated $955 million in free cash flow after investing nearly $850 million in R&D and capital expenditures [30] - The segment operating margin was reported at 11.6%, with all four business areas generating double-digit returns [28][29] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Aeronautics sales increased by 3% year-over-year to $7.1 billion, primarily due to higher volumes on F-35 production contracts [32] - Missiles and Fire Control (MFC) sales rose by 13% from the prior year, driven by higher volumes on multiple tactical and strike missile programs, with segment operating profit improving by 50% [34] - Rotary and Mission Systems (RMS) sales increased by 6% to $4.3 billion, with operating profit up 21% year-over-year [38] - Space sales decreased by 2% year-over-year, primarily due to lower volume at national security space, but operating profit increased by 17% [39] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The backlog remains healthy at approximately $173 billion, with significant awards in Q1 coming from MFC and RMS [29] - The company anticipates between 170 to 190 F-35 deliveries for the year, with a backlog of approximately 360 jets at the end of Q1 [45] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Lockheed Martin's strategy focuses on integrating existing and new technologies to enhance capabilities, particularly in missile systems and air dominance [11][17] - The company is committed to operational execution, driving cost competitiveness, quality, and schedule adherence, with a focus on delivering on time and on budget [22] - The management emphasizes the importance of digital technologies and AI in enhancing operational capabilities and customer value [20][131] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving full-year guidance of mid-single-digit sales growth and double-digit growth in free cash flow, despite known tariff headwinds [8][44] - The company is optimistic about the impact of recent executive orders aimed at reducing bureaucratic red tape in defense procurement, which could enhance operational efficiency [62][64] Other Important Information - Lockheed Martin's advanced air and missile systems secured several large missile program awards in Q1, comprising up to $10 billion in future work [11] - The company is actively engaged in the Golden Dome initiative, which aims to enhance national defense capabilities through integrated systems [91][94] Q&A Session Summary Question: Feedback on NGAD decision and potential protest - Management received a classified debrief from the U.S. Air Force regarding the NGAD decision and has decided not to protest it, focusing instead on applying developed technologies to existing platforms like the F-35 [54][56] Question: Impact of executive orders from the White House - Management welcomed the executive orders aimed at reducing red tape, which could speed up acquisition processes and enhance opportunities for both traditional and new defense contractors [62][66] Question: Tariff risks and CFO priorities - Management acknowledged certain protections in the defense industry against tariffs and expressed confidence in mitigating impacts, with a focus on maintaining momentum in operational initiatives [70][76] Question: F-35 Lot 19 timing and international demand - The company is looking at the second half of the year for Lot 19 and is confident in maintaining production rates due to strong international demand [81][82] Question: Discussion on Golden Dome funding and production ramp - Management outlined a three-segment approach for the Golden Dome initiative, emphasizing readiness to deploy existing systems and integrate new technologies [88][94] Question: Availability impact of new tariff regime on rare earth metals - Management confirmed that they are constrained from using Chinese inputs and have alternative sources for materials, ensuring that supply chain disruptions will not impact current delivery commitments [104][108] Question: Production increase plans in missiles and fire control - Management highlighted strong domestic and international demand for MFC products, with several programs ramping up production [111][112] Question: Integration of NGAD technologies into F-35 - Management clarified that the integration of NGAD technologies into the F-35 will involve co-investment from the U.S. government and Lockheed Martin, aiming for significant enhancements at reduced costs [123][130]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Lockheed Martin reported a 4% year-over-year increase in sales for Q1 2025, reaching $15.5 billion, with a GAAP earnings per share of $7.28, reflecting a 14% increase [7][29] - The company generated $955 million in free cash flow after investing nearly $850 million in R&D and capital expenditures [30] - The segment operating margin was reported at 11.6%, with all four business areas generating double-digit returns [28][29] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Aeronautics sales increased by 3% year-over-year to $7.1 billion, primarily due to higher volumes on F-35 production contracts [32] - Missiles and Fire Control (MFC) sales rose by 13% from the prior year, driven by higher volumes on multiple tactical and strike missile programs, with segment operating profit improving by 50% [34] - Rotary and Mission Systems (RMS) sales increased by 6% to $4.3 billion, with operating profit up 21% year-over-year [38] - Space sales decreased by 2% year-over-year, primarily due to lower volume at national security space, but operating profit increased by 17% [39] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The backlog remains healthy at approximately $173 billion, with significant awards in Q1 coming from MFC and RMS [29] - The company anticipates between 170 to 190 F-35 deliveries for the year, with a backlog of approximately 360 jets at the end of Q1 [45] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Lockheed Martin's strategy focuses on integrating existing and new technologies to enhance capabilities, particularly in missile systems and air dominance [11][17] - The company is committed to operational execution, driving cost competitiveness, quality, and schedule adherence, with a focus on delivering on time and on budget [22] - The management emphasizes the importance of digital technology and AI in enhancing defense capabilities and operational efficiency [20][21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving full-year guidance of mid-single-digit sales growth and double-digit growth in free cash flow, despite known tariff headwinds [8][44] - The company is optimistic about the impact of recent executive orders aimed at reducing bureaucratic red tape in defense procurement [62][64] - Management highlighted the importance of maintaining momentum in operational initiatives and delivering shareholder value [76] Other Important Information - Lockheed Martin's advanced air and missile systems secured several large missile program awards in Q1, comprising up to $10 billion in future work [11] - The company is actively engaged in the Golden Dome initiative, which aims to enhance national defense capabilities through integrated systems [10][94] Q&A Session Summary Question: Feedback on NGAD decision and potential protest - Management received a classified debrief from the U.S. Air Force regarding the NGAD decision and has decided not to protest it, focusing instead on applying developed technologies to existing platforms [54][56] Question: Impact of executive orders from the White House - Management welcomed the executive orders aimed at reducing red tape, which are expected to speed up acquisition processes and enhance opportunities for defense contractors [62][64] Question: Risks of tariffs and priorities for the new CFO - The company feels insulated from tariff impacts due to protections in the supply chain and mechanisms to recover costs, with a focus on maintaining momentum in operational initiatives [70][76] Question: Timing for F-35 Lot 19 and international demand - Lot 19 is expected in the second half of the year, with strong international demand allowing for potential absorption of any U.S. production cutbacks [81][82] Question: Discussion on Golden Dome funding and production ramp - Management outlined a three-segment approach for Golden Dome, emphasizing readiness to deploy existing systems and integrate new technologies [87][94] Question: Availability impact of new export controls on rare earth metals - Management confirmed that they are constrained from using Chinese inputs and have alternate sources for materials, ensuring sufficient supply for current commitments [104][108] Question: Production increase plans for missiles and fire control - Strong demand for MFC products is expected to continue, with several programs ramping up production in response to backlog and budget demands [111][112]