Keysight Technologies(KEYS) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Keysight reported a revenue increase of 11% year over year to $1.4 billion and earnings per share of $1.72, exceeding guidance [6][21] - Orders increased by 7%, with growth across both the Communication Solutions Group (CSG) and Electronic Industrial Solutions Group (EISG) segments [6][21] - Gross margin was reported at 64%, with operating expenses of $526 million and an operating margin of 25%, reflecting a 60 basis point increase year over year [21] Business Segment Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Communication Solutions Group generated revenue of $940 million, up 11% year over year, with commercial communications revenue of $644 million, also up 13% [23] - The Electronic Industrial Solutions Group reported revenue of $412 million, an increase of 11% year over year, with growth across automotive, energy, semiconductor, and general electronics [23] - Software and services accounted for approximately 36% of total revenue, with annual recurring revenue at 28% [24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The aerospace, defense, and government sectors showed robust demand due to elevated defense spending globally, particularly in the U.S. and Europe [11][12] - The wireless business remained stable, with momentum in non-terrestrial networks and continued R&D activity in 5G Advanced contributing to steady demand [10] - The semiconductor business experienced double-digit growth, driven by demand for wafer test solutions and advanced node technologies [17][92] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Keysight is capitalizing on opportunities in the AI ecosystem, focusing on advanced physical layer solutions and silicon photonics capabilities to enhance R&D workflows [8][9] - The company is engaged in early 6G research and shaping standards for its implementation, collaborating with industry leaders to drive innovation [11][86] - Keysight's strategy includes mitigating tariff impacts through supply chain optimization and pricing actions, while maintaining operational flexibility to invest and adapt [22][26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the demand environment, noting that orders have accelerated and are slightly better than initial expectations [30][31] - The company anticipates continued growth in the aerospace and defense sectors, supported by robust backlogs and government budgets [55] - Despite challenges in the automotive sector, management remains optimistic about long-term growth driven by AI and other technological advancements [32][44] Other Important Information - Keysight generated cash flow from operations of $322 million and free cash flow of $291 million in Q3, with year-to-date free cash flow at $1.1 billion [25] - The company repurchased approximately 300,000 shares at an average price of $164, totaling $50 million [25] - The pending acquisition of Spirent is expected to close in the fiscal fourth quarter, with regulatory reviews progressing [25][80] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you help investors understand your view of the end markets now? - Management noted strong order growth and positive customer activity despite geopolitical challenges, with AI and aerospace defense showing momentum [30][31] Question: What is supporting the revenue outlook into Q4? - Management indicated that timing of large deals impacted Q3 performance, but they expect more normal sequential seasonality in Q4 [34][35] Question: How should we think about the long-term growth rate? - Management suggested that while they initially expected low-end growth, recent performance has been better than expected, indicating bullish sentiment for fiscal 2026 [39][40] Question: What is the impact of tariffs on your business? - Management confirmed that tariffs are being mitigated through various strategies, and they expect to fully address the tariff impacts in the coming quarters [52][53] Question: Can you provide insights on the aerospace and defense market? - Management expressed confidence in ongoing programs and robust backlogs, with expectations for continued growth driven by government budgets [54][55] Question: What is the outlook for the semiconductor business? - Management highlighted strong demand for wafer test solutions and advanced technologies, indicating favorable growth prospects [92] Question: How is the mix between R&D and production testing evolving? - Management noted a shift towards more manufacturing exposure while still maintaining a strong R&D focus, benefiting from supply chain improvements [93][96]