| Valuation method | Value, ¥ | Upside, % |
|---|---|---|
| Artificial intelligence (AI) | 6399.69 | -23 |
| Intrinsic value (DCF) | 3261.38 | -61 |
| Graham-Dodd Method | 4067.13 | -51 |
| Graham Formula | 1522.86 | -82 |
ULVAC, Inc. is a leading Japanese manufacturer of vacuum equipment, components, and materials, serving high-tech industries globally. Founded in 1929 and headquartered in Chigasaki, Japan, ULVAC specializes in vacuum technology solutions critical for semiconductors, displays, solar cells, and advanced electronics. The company’s product portfolio includes sputtering systems, chemical vapor deposition (CVD) equipment, vacuum pumps, and precision components essential for thin-film deposition, etching, and surface treatment processes. ULVAC’s innovations support next-generation semiconductor manufacturing, power devices (SiC/Si), and emerging applications in electric vehicles, pharmaceuticals, and food processing. With a strong presence in Japan and international markets, ULVAC combines R&D expertise with customer-centric technical support, positioning itself as a key enabler of industrial and scientific advancements. Its diversified clientele spans automotive, chemical, and academic research sectors, reinforcing its role in cutting-edge technology ecosystems.
ULVAC presents a compelling investment case due to its niche leadership in vacuum technology, a critical enabler for semiconductor and display manufacturing. With a market cap of ¥243 billion and steady revenue (¥261 billion in FY2024), the company benefits from long-term growth drivers like semiconductor miniaturization and renewable energy demand. However, its moderate net income (¥20.2 billion) and high capex (¥19.9 billion) reflect cyclical exposure to capital equipment spending. The dividend yield (~1.5%) is modest, but its strong cash position (¥96.3 billion) and manageable debt (¥50.7 billion) provide stability. Risks include reliance on cyclical industries and competition from global peers. Investors should weigh its technological moat against macroeconomic sensitivity.
ULVAC’s competitive advantage lies in its vertically integrated vacuum technology solutions, spanning equipment, components, and materials. Unlike pure-play semiconductor toolmakers, ULVAC’s broad portfolio—from sputtering targets to vacuum pumps—allows cross-selling and system-level optimization, appealing to cost-conscious manufacturers. Its focus on Japan and Asia provides proximity to key clients like TSMC and Samsung, but it faces stiff competition from larger global players in EUV lithography and advanced deposition. ULVAC’s R&D in SiC/Si power devices and roll-to-roll coating for displays differentiates it, though scalability outside Asia remains a challenge. The company’s beta of 1.023 mirrors industry volatility, and its mid-tier size limits bargaining power against suppliers like Applied Materials. Strengths include decades of vacuum expertise and a diversified industrial customer base, but reliance on cyclical capex spending in semiconductors and solar could pressure margins during downturns.