On Jun 9, 2018, Microchip Technology MCHPwas upgraded to a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). The upgrade reflects positive earnings estimate revisions as well as the completion of the Microsemi acquisition, following which the company raised guidance.
Notably, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for fiscal 2019 earnings increased 11.
Moreover, Microchip Technology beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings and revenues in each of the trailing four quarters.
Microsemi Acquisition: Key Catalyst
We believe the Microsemi acquisition significantly expands Microchip’s product portfolio, particularly in Communications and Aerospace & Defense verticals.
Following the acquisition, Microchip revised its non-GAAP net sales and earnings guidance for first-quarter fiscal 2019.
Non-GAAP net sales are now expected to be in the range of $1.172-$1.242 billion compared with the earlier guided range of $1.012-$1.062 billion. Earnings are expected to be in the range of $1.41- $1.55 per share compared with the earlier guided range of $1.39-$1.49 per share.
Microchip is benefiting from robust demand for 8-bit, 16-bit and 32-bit microcontrollers. We believe that the company's expanding product portfolio driven by new launches as well as acquisitions will continue to boost its customer base.
Additionally, the company expanded collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to support AWS offerings as well as develop secure cloud system.