An under-the-radar AI stock just delivered the best quarter of the chip sector

An important development from the financial markets: Qnity Electronics delivered "the single best quarter that I have seen from the semiconductors" on Thursday, Jim Cramer said. Given the beats across the board and a sunnier outlook, it's a take that's hard to argue with. Revenue in the first quarter increased 17.

6% from a year ago to $1. 32 billion, outpacing the $1. 27 billion expected by LSEG.

Economic Details

Earnings per share (EPS) jumped 33. 3% year over year to $1. 08, also outpacing the consensus estimate of 92 cents, according to LSEG.

Q 1Y mountain Qnity 1-year return Shares popped on the release but drifted lower with the overall market. By late afternoon, however, they were looking to close at a new all-time high. Bottom line This was Qnity's second quarter since spinning off from DuPont in November, and it was another remarkable one.

Along with beating on sales and earnings in each of its two operating segments, the company's operating earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) margins also came in better than forecast. It was another win for this red-hot beneficiary of the artificial intelligence boom. The management team also raised its full-year guidance for the top and bottom lines above the quarterly results.

Analyst Views

That's notable because it means management isn't simply passing through the first-quarter strength, but expects results in each future quarter to beat estimates. In other words, the stock is cheaper than previously thought on an earnings basis, and estimates are set to move higher. What's driving all the success for this somewhat under-the-radar player?

Qnity plays an essential role in the data center buildout by providing chemicals and other specialized materials used to manufacture semiconductors and to package them in increasingly complex ways. The company's two operating segments work hand in glove to generate growth. The Semiconductor Technologies segment helps its customers build computer chips and electronic devices, while Interconnect Solutions addresses performance challenges, including power efficiency, heat management, signal integrity, and long-term reliability.

Key customers include leading chip manufacturers TSMC , Samsung, and SK Hynix. Why we own it Qnity is a key supplier of chemicals and materials used in semiconductor and electronics manufacturing. The more chips and electronic devices are built, the greater the demand for Qnity's products.

Financial markets are tracking the development closely as investors assess the likely impact.