Intel and Sanmina, two U.S.-based semiconductor firms, are positioned differently in the AI and data center markets. Intel focuses on semiconductor design and manufacturing with strong AI PC momentum and Xeon portfolio growth, but faces China export restrictions and GPU competition. Sanmina specializes in electronics manufacturing services with end-to-end AI data center solutions and advanced 42Q connected manufacturing technology. While Sanmina projects higher sales growth (74.2% vs. 17.8%), Intel shows stronger EPS growth (257.1% vs. 100.5%) and superior stock performance (184.4% vs. 70.3% over one year). Both carry Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), with Intel appearing slightly better positioned despite trading at a premium valuation.

Jabil Inc. is expanding its automotive portfolio to capitalize on the growing adoption of electric vehicles, advanced driver-assistance systems, and connected mobility solutions. The company offers services spanning ADAS, infotainment, battery management, charging equipment, and LiDAR technologies. Jabil has outperformed its industry peers with a 53.2% gain over the past year and trades at a lower valuation than competitors, with earnings estimates rising for 2027 and 2028.

Celestica (CLS) is benefiting from AI infrastructure demand and 800G/1.6T networking growth, with expected CCS revenue growth of ~85% in 2026. However, high customer concentration (top 10 customers = 79% of revenue), intense competition, and cyclical exposure present significant risks. The stock trades at a premium valuation and carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) rating.

Celestica Inc. is expanding its communications portfolio with high-speed networking solutions including the DS6000 series offering 1.6TbE connectivity and 102.4Tbps switching capacity for AI and data centers. The company is also advancing optical communication offerings for enterprise applications. Celestica faces competition from Jabil and Sanmina in the communications market.

Sanmina (SANM) has surged 69.3% over the past year, outperforming peers like Jabil and Celestica, driven by its vertically integrated manufacturing, 42Q connected manufacturing technology, and the ZT Systems acquisition that strengthens AI and cloud capabilities. However, supply-chain disruptions, intense competition, high R&D costs, tariff pressures, and significant China exposure pose headwinds. The stock carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) rating.

Jabil delivered strong Q4 results with revenue surging 29% and adjusted EPS up 34%, driven by booming AI infrastructure demand. The company projects fiscal 2027 revenue growth of 24% and EPS growth of 34%. However, with the stock already up 30% year-to-date and trading at a reasonable 19X forward earnings, Zacks rates it a Hold, suggesting better buying opportunities may still be ahead.

TTM Technologies has completed its $1.1 billion acquisition of Epiq Solutions, expanding its defense, intelligence, and space technology capabilities. The deal adds software-defined radios, RF systems, and radiation-tolerant computing to TTMI's portfolio, enabling more integrated solutions across land, air, sea, and space applications. While the acquisition is expected to immediately strengthen adjusted EBITDA, it will be moderately dilutive to EPS in 2027 before becoming accretive in 2028.

Recent economic data shows PCE inflation came in softer than expected while Q2 GDP exceeded expectations. Market attention is now focused on the upcoming Friday employment report, which could significantly impact economic outlook and investment decisions.

Zacks Value Trader podcast episode highlights three undervalued stocks with strong buy ratings: ADM (agricultural supply chain manager with 52.2% expected earnings growth and 94-year dividend history), Delek US Holdings (downstream energy company with 139.8% expected earnings growth and forward P/E of 5.3), and Sanmina (manufacturing solutions company capturing AI data center spending with 100% expected earnings growth). All three stocks maintain Zacks Rank #1 status despite recent gains.

The Value Investor Podcast highlights three Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) undervalued stocks: ADM with expected 52% earnings growth and 0.5 P/S ratio, Delek US Holdings with 139.8% earnings growth and 5.3 forward P/E, and Sanmina with 100% earnings growth and 0.8 P/S ratio. All three stocks are identified as quality value investments despite recent year-to-date gains.

TTM Technologies (TTMI) is ramping up N+M technology production to capitalize on surging AI-driven data center demand, expecting approximately $600 million in N+M business in the second half of 2026. Data Center and Networking sales jumped 91% year-over-year, with better-than-expected yields supporting margin expansion. However, TTMI faces competitive pressure from Amphenol and Sanmina in advanced electronics and PCB capabilities.

Celestica Inc. is positioned to benefit from the expanding HealthTech market through its advanced manufacturing, engineering and supply chain solutions for medical devices. The company's portfolio spans imaging systems, surgical equipment, diabetes care and diagnostic products. With a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) rating, earnings estimates for 2026 and 2027 have increased significantly, though shares have underperformed the industry over the past year.