IQE H1 Revenue Jumps 43% to £64.6M on AI and Wireless Growth

IQE posted a 43% increase in first-half revenue to £64.6 million for 2026, driven by surging demand across data center and wireless markets. The performance marks a sharp rebound from the £45.3 million reported in the first half of 2025.

"I am pleased to report a strong first half performance, with more than 40% revenue growth year-on-year across our core markets driving profitability," commented Chief Executive Officer Jutta Meier in a statement regarding the results.

Divisional Breakdown and Profitability

The revenue expansion translated into improved bottom-line metrics for the semiconductor wafer manufacturer. According to the interim results press release, IQE's adjusted EBITDA swung to a positive £6.0 million, recovering from a £400,000 loss in the prior-year period.

Growth was distributed across the company's two primary operating segments:

• Photonics: Revenue rose 45% year-on-year to £38.5 million, supported by optical component demand tied to artificial intelligence infrastructure.
• Wireless: Revenue increased 40% to £26.0 million, reflecting broader stabilization in mobile and RF device supply chains.

Balance Sheet Restructuring and Net Cash

The financial turnaround was accompanied by a strengthening of the company's capital structure. Following a strategic review and equity fundraising, IQE transitioned from an adjusted net debt position of £23.5 million to an adjusted net cash position of £30.2 million.

This liquidity shift reduces debt-servicing obligations as the firm invests in compound semiconductor manufacturing capacity to meet data center and optical networking requirements.

Timeline for London Stock Exchange Main Market Move

Alongside the financial figures, a report from ADVFN noted that IQE announced plans to transition its shares from London's Alternative Investment Market (AIM) to the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange by 2027.

The proposed migration aims to broaden the company's institutional shareholder base and align its listing venue with its operational scale as a major supplier of advanced semiconductor materials.