Amphenol's Q4 2024: Record Sales Surge and Operating Margin Triumph Amid AI Demand

Record Financial Performance and Orders:
- Amphenol Corporation reported record sales of $4.318 billion in Q4 2024, up 30% in US dollars and local currencies, and by 20% organically compared to Q4 2023.
- The company recorded a strong book-to-bill ratio of 1.16 to 1, with orders reaching a record $5.14 billion, up 58% compared to the prior year.
- The growth was driven by robust demand for data center applications, particularly in AI investments by key customers.

Operating Margin and Profitability:
- Amphenol achieved record operating margin of 22.4% in Q4 2024, with adjusted operating income reaching $966 million.
- This increase was driven by strong operating leverage on higher sales volumes and improved margin conversion on the higher sales levels, partially offset by the dilutive impact of acquisitions.

Market Trends and Segment Performance:
- The IT datacom market sales grew by a strong 76% in US dollars and 27% of overall sales, driven by accelerating demand for AI applications.
- The Communication Solutions segment saw sales increase by 43% in US dollars, with a 26% operating margin, driven by strong growth in the IT datacom market and mobile devices.

Defense and Industrial Market Dynamics:
- Defense market sales grew by 16% in US dollars, with 9% organic growth, driven by broad-based strength across defense applications and increased spending in Europe.
- The industrial market sales increased by 26% in US dollars, with 6% organic growth, showing particular strength in rail mass transit, alternative energy, and medical applications, despite moderation in Europe.