- IQE
- 12 January 2026 10:00:33
Source: Sharecast
The maker of advance compound semiconductor wafers said it had seen “strong” trading momentum during the second half, on the back of faster-than-expected funding releases for various US military and defence programmes.
It also saw higher-than-forecast demand for photonics during the period, supported by the surge in demand for artificial intelligence and data centres.
As a result, it now expects revenues in the year to December end to come in at the upper end of its forecast range, at around £97m.
Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation is expected to be “at least” £2m as it swings into profit.
It had previously guided for revenues between £90m and £100m, and an adjusted EBITDA position of between a £5m loss and £2m profit.
In addition, IQE, which is carrying out a strategic review, pointed to solid current trading – noting a “strong” first-quarter order book and improved demand visibility – and flagged considerable buyer interest.
It noted: “The board is negotiating non-binding offers for the group as a whole in addition to separate bids for certain other group assets, with a view to maximising shareholder value.
“The board is encouraged by the level of interest received and the recognition of the intrinsic value of the group and its component parts.”
As at 0930 GMT, the stock had put on 26% at 9.24p.
Jutta Meier, chief executive, said: “I am pleased to report a positive second half of trading. Coupled with a strong first quarter order book and sustained demand across our key end markets, the company is well-positioned to enter 2026.
“We continue to advance our strategic review and I am encouraged by the progress we are making.”