Renishaw Rides the AI Chip Boom to Record Results

Renishaw, a Gloucestershire-based engineering group, has reported record results for the year ending June, signaling a bright future in the AI chip boom. The company's revenue increased by 14% to £815.8 million, slightly above analysts' expectations of £810 million. Adjusted operating profit climbed 36% to £152.9 million, and adjusted pretax profit rose 32% to £168 million, both exceeding expectations.

The year's performance was propelled by record sales and growing demand for Renishaw's ultra-precise measurement technology in semiconductor manufacturing. Position Measurement, the standout division, saw revenue jump 26% to £260.9 million and adjusted operating profit increase 53% to £71.5 million, with a margin expanding to 27.4% from 22.5%.

Specialised Technologies also grew rapidly, with revenue up 43% to £107.5 million, turning a £9.9 million adjusted operating loss into a £4.7 million profit. Industrial Metrology, the largest part of the group, grew more slowly at 4%, but still managed a 5% increase in dividend to 82p per share and a special 70p interim dividend.

The company's strong cash position, with cash and deposits at £291 million, supports its growth and dividend plans. Investors are watching to see if Renishaw's exceptional growth in Position Measurement and Specialised Technologies can be sustained and if the company can maintain operating margins above 20% as they aim to capitalize on the AI spending boom.