What's Driving ACM Research Inc's Surprising 30% Stock Rally?

ACM Research Inc (ACMR, Financial) has experienced a notable fluctuation in its stock price recently. With a current market capitalization of $1.76 billion, the stock is trading at $28.88, reflecting a 5.03% loss over the past week. However, looking at a broader timeframe, ACMR has seen a significant 30.43% gain over the past three months. According to GuruFocus's valuation metrics, the stock is currently modestly undervalued with a GF Value of $32.23, compared to a past GF Value of $33.78. This shift from a previous valuation suggesting investors to think twice, as it was considered a possible value trap, to a current modest undervaluation indicates a positive change in investor sentiment towards ACMR.

Understanding ACM Research Inc

ACM Research Inc, operating within the dynamic semiconductors industry, specializes in the development, manufacturing, and sale of single-wafer wet cleaning equipment. This equipment is crucial for semiconductor manufacturers, as it is used in various manufacturing steps to remove particles and contaminants, thereby improving the yield of integrated circuits or chips. ACMR's innovative technologies, such as space alternated phase shift and Timely Energized Bubble Oscillation, provide microscopic level cleaning that is both effective and damage-free, catering to the needs of conventional two and three-dimensional patterned wafers. 1783136652475133952.png

Profitability Insights

ACMR's financial health is reflected in its impressive Profitability Rank of 8/10. The company's operating margin stands at 17.18%, outperforming 80.79% of 984 companies in the industry. Additionally, ACMR's return on equity (ROE) is 10.88%, higher than 72.11% of its peers, while its return on assets (ROA) at 5.72% and return on invested capital (ROIC) at 9.51% also surpass industry medians. These figures not only demonstrate ACMR's ability to generate profits but also its efficiency in utilizing its equity, assets, and invested capital. The company has maintained profitability for 8 out of the past 10 years, further solidifying its financial stability. 1783136670279954432.png

Growth Trajectory

ACMR's growth prospects are equally robust, as evidenced by its perfect Growth Rank of 10/10. The company has achieved a staggering 51.70% 3-year revenue growth rate per share, surpassing 93.98% of 913 companies in the same industry. Its 5-year revenue growth rate per share is also impressive at 45.20%. Looking ahead, ACMR's total revenue growth rate is estimated at 26.53% for the next 3 to 5 years, indicating a strong future trajectory. The company's earnings per share (EPS) growth rates are equally remarkable, with a 118.60% growth over the past three years and a 59.50% growth over the past five years. These growth metrics underscore ACMR's potential for continued expansion and profitability. 1783136688277712896.png

Investor Holdings

Notable investors have taken an interest in ACMR, with John Hussman (Trades, Portfolio) holding 157,000 shares, representing 0.26% of the company, and Steven Cohen (Trades, Portfolio) holding 32,528 shares, accounting for 0.05%. The involvement of these investors could signal confidence in ACMR's market position and future prospects.

Competitive Landscape

ACMR operates in a competitive environment, with key players such as Indie Semiconductor Inc (INDI, Financial) with a market cap of $908.298 million, Ichor Holdings Ltd (ICHR, Financial) valued at $1.26 billion, and Aehr Test Systems (AEHR, Financial) at $315.460 million. ACMR's market cap positions it as a significant player within this landscape, reflecting its competitive edge and market share.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ACM Research Inc's recent stock performance, characterized by a substantial three-month gain, is underpinned by its strong profitability and exceptional growth rates. The company's market position is solid when compared to its competitors, and its stock is currently seen as modestly undervalued according to GuruFocus's GF Value. With significant holders like John Hussman (Trades, Portfolio) and Steven Cohen (Trades, Portfolio) backing the stock, ACMR presents an intriguing opportunity for value investors looking for growth potential in the semiconductor industry.

This article, generated by GuruFocus, is designed to provide general insights and is not tailored financial advice. Our commentary is rooted in historical data and analyst projections, utilizing an impartial methodology, and is not intended to serve as specific investment guidance. It does not formulate a recommendation to purchase or divest any stock and does not consider individual investment objectives or financial circumstances. Our objective is to deliver long-term, fundamental data-driven analysis. Be aware that our analysis might not incorporate the most recent, price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative information. GuruFocus holds no position in the stocks mentioned herein.

Disclosures

I/We may personally own shares in some of the companies mentioned above. However, those positions are not material to either the company or to my/our portfolios.