FormFactor, Inc. (FORM) SEC Filing Report – 10-K for Fiscal Year Ended December 28, 2024
Executive Summary
This report analyzes FormFactor, Inc.’s 10-K filing for the fiscal year ended December 28, 2024. Key findings include revenue growth driven by increased demand for HBM chips used in AI applications, a decrease in Systems segment revenue due to the sale of the FRT Metrology business, and a complex risk profile including cyclicality in the semiconductor industry and increasing trade tensions. The company’s financial performance shows improved gross margins due to higher revenues, but also highlights risks related to customer concentration and reliance on sole-source suppliers. Overall, the company appears to be navigating a dynamic market with both opportunities and challenges.
Company Overview
FormFactor, Inc. is a leading provider of electrical and optical test and measurement technologies for the semiconductor industry. The company operates in two segments: Probe Cards and Systems. Its products are used in various stages of semiconductor manufacturing, from research and development to high-volume production. The company’s customers include semiconductor manufacturers, universities, and research institutions.
Detailed Analysis
Management’s Discussion and Analysis (MD&A)
Management highlights the strengthening momentum driven by HBM demand for AI applications. The sale of China operations and the FRT Metrology business are discussed, impacting revenue and profitability. The MD&A emphasizes the importance of innovation and collaboration with customers to meet evolving industry demands.
Financial Statement Analysis
Revenue
Total revenue increased by 15.2% from $663.1 million in fiscal 2023 to $763.6 million in fiscal 2024.
Probe Cards revenue increased by 25.7% from $497.9 million to $626.0 million.
Systems revenue decreased by 16.7% from $165.2 million to $137.6 million, primarily due to the FRT Metrology business sale.
Segment |
Fiscal 2024 (USD Millions) |
Fiscal 2023 (USD Millions) |
Change (%) |
Probe Cards |
626.0 |
497.9 |
25.7 |
Systems |
137.6 |
165.2 |
-16.7 |
Total |
763.6 |
663.1 |
15.2 |
Gross Profit and Margin
Gross profit increased from $258.6 million in fiscal 2023 to $307.9 million in fiscal 2024.
Gross margin increased from 39.0% in fiscal 2023 to 40.3% in fiscal 2024.
The increase in gross margin was primarily due to higher revenues and more favorable absorption of costs on higher production volumes.
Segment |
Fiscal 2024 (USD Millions) |
Fiscal 2023 (USD Millions) |
Probe Cards Gross Profit |
259.0 |
185.4 |
Probe Cards Gross Margin |
41.4% |
37.2% |
Systems Gross Profit |
59.5 |
84.7 |
Systems Gross Margin |
43.2% |
51.3% |
Total Gross Profit |
307.9 |
258.6 |
Total Gross Margin |
40.3% |
39.0% |
Operating Expenses
Research and development expenses increased by 5.3% from $115.8 million in fiscal 2023 to $121.9 million in fiscal 2024.
Selling, general, and administrative expenses increased by 6.6% from $133.0 million in fiscal 2023 to $141.8 million in fiscal 2024.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
The company’s cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities totaled $360.0 million at December 28, 2024, compared to $328.3 million at December 30, 2023.
The company expects its cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities on hand, and the cash it expects to generate from operations, will be sufficient to fund its liquidity requirements for at least the next 12 months.
Risk Factors
The filing outlines several key risk factors, including:
Competition: Increased competition in the semiconductor test equipment market.
Technological Change: The need to innovate and keep pace with technological developments in the semiconductor industry.
Customer Concentration: A substantial portion of revenues is derived from a small number of customers.
Cyclicality: The semiconductor industry is cyclical and subject to wide fluctuations in product supply and demand.
Supply Chain: Reliance on sole-source or limited-source suppliers for components and materials.
International Operations: Operational, economic, financial, and political risks associated with conducting business internationally.
Cybersecurity: Risks related to disruptions, security breaches, or compromises of electronic data systems.
Climate Change: Potential negative effects of climate change and related regulations on the business.
Uncommon Metrics
The filing does not explicitly highlight uncommon metrics. However, the discussion of revenue concentration by customer and geographic region provides valuable insights into the company’s market dependencies.
Conclusion and Actionable Insights
FormFactor, Inc. demonstrates solid financial performance with revenue growth and improved gross margins. However, the company faces significant risks, including cyclicality in the semiconductor industry, customer concentration, and reliance on sole-source suppliers.
Overall Assessment
The company’s strategic focus on high-growth areas like HBM for AI applications positions it well for future growth. However, investors should carefully consider the risk factors outlined in the filing.
Recommendations
Monitor customer concentration and diversification efforts.
Track developments in the semiconductor industry and the company’s ability to innovate.
Assess the impact of international trade tensions and export regulations on the company’s operations.
Evaluate the company’s risk management strategies related to cybersecurity and supply chain disruptions.