Nova .(NVMI)2025-05-08 13:32Financial 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]