Release Date: April 23, 2025
For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.
Positive Points
- MaxLinear Inc (MXL, Financial) exceeded the midpoint of its guidance with $95.9 million in revenue for Q1 2025.
- The company achieved a non-GAAP gross margin of 59.1% and reduced operating expenses significantly.
- MaxLinear Inc (MXL) anticipates being profitable on a non-GAAP basis and generating positive free cash flow in Q2 2025.
- Strong progress was made with new product wins in high-speed data center interconnects, WiFi, and Ethernet.
- The company is seeing meaningful improvement in customer order rates and backlog, indicating potential growth in 2025 and 2026.
Negative Points
- The semiconductor market faces substantial risks and uncertainties, including geopolitical dynamics and tariffs.
- GAAP operating expenses were high at $99.9 million, with significant costs related to stock-based compensation and restructuring.
- Cash flow used in operating activities was approximately $11.4 million in Q1 2025.
- The industrial multi-market revenue was relatively low at $8 million, indicating potential weakness in this segment.
- The company is navigating a challenging trade environment, which could impact demand and supply chain dynamics.
Q & A Highlights
Q: Can you discuss the potential risks in your supply chain, especially concerning tariffs and manufacturing in China?
A: Steven Litchfield, CFO, explained that while MaxLinear doesn't face direct tariffs on semiconductors, they are monitoring customer demand and how tariffs might affect it. He noted that most broadband equipment manufacturing has moved out of China, reducing risk. CEO Kishore Seendripu added that none of their broadband customer premises equipment (CPE) is made in China, and they are seeing strong bookings, indicating a recovery in demand.
Q: Could you provide an update on the design wins for the Keystone DSP and the expected ramp over the next 6 to 12 months?
A: Kishore Seendripu, CEO, highlighted that they showcased 20 designs at the Optical Fiber Conference, all based on Keystone. They expect to double their revenue from last year, indicating strong design quality and customer caliber. The focus is on Keystone for revenue growth, with Rushmore expected to contribute in the longer term.
Q: How do you see the growth prospects for your broadband and connectivity segments, particularly with the new North American Tier 1 customer?
A: Kishore Seendripu, CEO, expressed excitement about being selected by a major North American Tier 1 operator for high-end boxes. They expect to ship some quantities this year, with a significant ramp next year, potentially doubling their PON revenue.
Q: Can you rank the growth contributions from your key markets as you look towards 2026?
A: Kishore Seendripu, CEO, stated that infrastructure is a strategic focus due to its differentiation and margin improvement potential. Broadband is expected to see strong growth from recovery and new product cycles, while wireless infrastructure will benefit from new product introductions.
Q: How are you approaching guidance given the current tariff uncertainties?
A: Steven Litchfield, CFO, mentioned that their guidance considers the current tariff environment, with revenue expected between $95 million and $115 million for Q2 2025. They are monitoring the situation closely but have based their guidance on the information available.
For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.
