Coherent (COHR): A Strategic Buy Amid AI-Driven Growth and Strong Order Flow Signals

In the rapidly evolving landscape of AI infrastructure and optical technology, Coherent Corporation (COHR) has emerged as a standout performer, combining robust institutional support with groundbreaking demand in high-speed networking. For investors seeking undervalued entry points, COHR presents a compelling case, driven by real-time order flow analytics, AI tailwinds, and a valuation that remains attractive despite recent gains.

Order Flow Signals and Institutional Accumulation: A Bullish Foundation

Recent data underscores COHR's strong investor demand, with MoneyFlows reporting unusual buy pressure and institutional inflow signals in late 2025. Notably, Q3 2025 saw 362 institutional investors add shares, including FMR LLC (+16.1%) and Wellington Management Group LLP (+29.0%). While some major institutions like BlackRock reduced holdings, the broader trend reveals a net increase in institutional ownership, reaching 93.4% of the company as of September 2025. This accumulation is further reinforced by COHR's financial performance: a 17% year-over-year revenue growth in Q1 FY 2026 and a projected 26.6% EPS growth for the year.

The stock's 48% year-to-date price surge and 252% total return since its 2020 MoneyFlows Outlier recognition highlight its momentum. However, institutional buying in Q4 2025-led by Penserra Capital Management LLC (+59.6%) and Thrivent Financial for Lutherans (+23.3%)-suggests that key players view COHR as a long-term strategic holding.

AI Infrastructure: A Catalyst for Sustained Growth

COHR's Networking division is at the forefront of the AI infrastructure boom, with 2025 revenue projected to grow 48% year-on-year. This surge is fueled by demand for 800G and 400G optical transceivers, critical components for hyperscalers upgrading networks to handle AI workloads. In Q3 FY 2025, the segment reported a 45% year-on-year revenue increase, driven by shipments of 1.6T transceivers and advancements in silicon photonics and co-packaged optics (CPO).

The company's vertically integrated approach-spanning materials science to advanced packaging-provides a strategic edge in a competitive market according to market analysis. Additionally, COHR's expansion into a 300 mm silicon carbide (SiC) platform addresses thermal efficiency challenges in AI data centers according to company announcements. Analysts anticipate this innovation will sustain demand as AI models grow in complexity, positioning COHR as a foundational infrastructure provider.

Valuation Metrics: Undervalued Despite Momentum

Despite a 62% year-to-date gain, COHR remains undervalued relative to its growth trajectory. The stock trades at a P/E ratio of 258.2x according to analyst estimates, significantly higher than the Semiconductor Equipment & Materials industry average of 37.46 according to stock analysis. However, this premium is justified by COHR's projected 14% CAGR in revenue over the next three years and its leadership in high-margin optical components.

Analyst price targets further support this thesis. The average 12-month target across 19 estimates stands at $156.92, with a high of $215.00 according to market forecasts. At current levels, COHR offers a margin of safety, particularly given its P/S ratio of 2.76–4.37 according to market data, which appears reasonable for a company with accelerating revenue growth.

Conclusion: A Strategic Buy for AI-Driven Growth

Coherent's confluence of strong order flow signals, institutional accumulation, and AI infrastructure demand creates a rare investment opportunity. While valuation metrics may seem elevated, they are warranted by the company's market-leading position and long-term growth prospects. For investors leveraging real-time analytics to identify undervalued entry points, COHR represents a strategic buy, poised to capitalize on the AI revolution while delivering outsized returns.