What's Driving Viavi Solutions Inc's Surprising 14% Stock Rally?

Viavi Solutions Inc (VIAV, Financial), a company specializing in network test, monitoring, and assurance solutions, has experienced a notable fluctuation in its stock price recently. With a current market capitalization of $2.26 billion, the stock is trading at $10.18. Over the past week, VIAV has seen a 6.11% loss, yet over the past three months, the stock has gained an impressive 14.23%. According to GuruFocus's valuation metrics, the stock is currently modestly undervalued with a GF Value of $12.02, compared to a past GF Value of $13.62. This shift from a previous valuation suggesting investors to think twice, as it might have been a possible value trap, to a current modest undervaluation indicates a positive change in investor sentiment towards the company.

Introduction to Viavi Solutions Inc

Viavi Solutions Inc operates within the hardware industry, providing essential technology for communications, military, and avionics markets. The company's portfolio includes network enablement, service enablement, and optical security and performance products. With a significant portion of its revenue generated in the United States, Viavi Solutions has established itself as a key player in its sector, offering innovative solutions that address the evolving needs of its diverse clientele. 1757061521088868352.png

Assessing Viavi's Profitability

Viavi Solutions Inc's Profitability Rank stands at 6/10, indicating a moderate level of profitability. The company's operating margin of 5.85% is better than 60.47% of its peers in the industry. When it comes to return on equity (ROE), Viavi has a rate of 0.72%, surpassing 36.9% of companies in the same space. Additionally, the return on assets (ROA) at 0.27% and return on invested capital (ROIC) at 0.75% both exceed the performance of over 37% of industry competitors. Viavi has also maintained profitability for 6 out of the past 10 years, which is more consistent than 37.9% of companies. These figures suggest that Viavi Solutions is maintaining a competitive edge in terms of profitability within its industry. 1757061538918854656.png

Growth Trajectory of Viavi Solutions

The company's Growth Rank is 5/10, reflecting an average growth trajectory. Viavi's 3-year revenue growth rate per share stands at 0.30%, which is better than 37.18% of companies. The 5-year revenue growth rate per share is more robust at 4.50%, outperforming 55.78% of its peers. Notably, the 3-year EPS without NRI growth rate is an impressive 36.80%, which is higher than 75.8% of companies. These growth metrics indicate that Viavi Solutions is making steady progress, albeit at a moderate pace, in expanding its financial performance. 1757061557122134016.png

Notable Shareholders in Viavi Solutions

Viavi Solutions Inc's shareholder roster includes some notable names. Ken Fisher (Trades, Portfolio) is the top holder with 935,542 shares, representing a 0.42% share percentage. Following him is First Eagle Investment (Trades, Portfolio), holding 639,437 shares or 0.29% of the company. Steven Cohen (Trades, Portfolio) also has a significant stake with 465,100 shares, equating to 0.21% ownership. The investments by these prominent figures underscore a vote of confidence in Viavi's market position and future prospects.

Competitive Landscape

When compared to its competitors, Viavi Solutions Inc holds its ground with a market cap of $2.26 billion. Extreme Networks Inc (EXTR, Financial) has a smaller market cap of $1.61 billion, while Impinj Inc (PI, Financial) and Viasat Inc (VSAT, Financial) have larger market caps of $2.9 billion and $2.56 billion, respectively. This positioning reflects Viavi's solid standing within the competitive landscape of the hardware industry.

Conclusion

In summary, Viavi Solutions Inc's recent stock performance has been a mixed bag with a short-term loss but a significant gain over the past three months. The company's current valuation suggests it is modestly undervalued, presenting a potential opportunity for investors. Viavi's profitability and growth metrics, while not industry-leading, show a company that is holding its own against competitors. The confidence shown by major holders like Ken Fisher (Trades, Portfolio), First Eagle Investment (Trades, Portfolio), and Steven Cohen (Trades, Portfolio) may also serve as a positive indicator for potential investors. When juxtaposed with its competitors, Viavi's market cap suggests a company that is competitive and resilient in its market segment.

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.