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Clearfield (CLFD)
NASDAQ:CLFD
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Clearfield (CLFD) AI Stock Analysis

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CLFD

Clearfield

(NASDAQ:CLFD)

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Neutral 56 (OpenAI - 4o)
Rating:56Neutral
Price Target:
$36.00
▲(1.98% Upside)
Clearfield's overall stock score is driven by mixed financial performance and high valuation concerns. The earnings call provided some positive insights, particularly in the Clearfield segment, but technical analysis remains neutral. The high P/E ratio significantly impacts the overall score.
Positive Factors
Revenue Growth
The 15% YoY growth in the Clearfield segment indicates strong market demand and effective sales strategies, enhancing long-term revenue prospects.
Gross Margin Improvement
Improved gross margins reflect better cost management and operational efficiency, which can lead to sustained profitability over time.
Product Innovation
The success of innovative products like Home Deployment Kits positions Clearfield for future growth by meeting evolving customer needs efficiently.
Negative Factors
Operational Challenges
Declining revenue in the Nestor segment highlights operational challenges that could affect overall financial performance if not addressed.
Regulatory Uncertainty
Regulatory uncertainties can delay projects and revenue, impacting Clearfield's ability to capitalize on market opportunities in the broadband sector.
Supply Chain Issues
Ongoing supply chain challenges can disrupt operations and increase costs, potentially affecting Clearfield's ability to meet customer demand efficiently.

Clearfield (CLFD) vs. SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY)

Clearfield Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionClearfield, Inc. manufactures, markets, and sells standard and custom passive connectivity products to the fiber-to-the-premises, enterprises, and original equipment manufacturers markets in the United States and internationally. The company offers FieldSmart, a series of panels, cabinets, wall boxes, and other enclosures. It also provides WaveSmart, which are optical components integrated for signal coupling, splitting, termination, multiplexing, demultiplexing, and attenuation for integration within its fiber management platform; and outdoor cabinet and fiber active cabinet products. The company offers StreetSmart, a portfolio of fiber management products; FieldShield, a fiber pathway and protection method for reducing the cost of broadband deployment; and YOURx platform that consists of hardened terminals, test access points, and various drop cable options for portions of the access network across various fiber drop cable media. It also provides CraftSmart, a line of optical protection field enclosures, including CraftSmart Fiber Protection Pedestals and CraftSmart Fiber Protection Vaults integrated solutions optimized to house FieldSmart products at the last mile access point of the network in above-grade or below-grade installations. The company offers fiber and copper assemblies with an industry-standard or customer-specified configuration; and designs and manufactures custom solutions for in-the-box and network connectivity assemblies specific to that customer's product line. It provides its fiber to anywhere platform for various incumbent local exchange carriers, competitive local exchange carriers, wireless operators, and multiple systems operators and cable TV companies, as well as the utility/municipality, enterprise, and data center markets. The company was formerly known as APA Enterprises, Inc. and changed its name to Clearfield, Inc. in January 2008. Clearfield, Inc. was founded in 1979 and is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
How the Company Makes MoneyClearfield generates revenue primarily through the sales of its fiber management and connectivity products. The company's revenue model is built on selling a wide range of hardware and accessories, including optical network terminals, fiber distribution panels, and various enclosures designed for network installations. Key revenue streams include direct sales to telecommunications service providers, utilities, and other organizations involved in building out fiber networks. Additionally, Clearfield benefits from partnerships with major telecommunications companies, which often involve joint projects and collaborations that can lead to significant contract revenues. The increasing demand for high-speed internet and the ongoing expansion of fiber optic networks, driven by advancements in technology and the need for reliable communication infrastructure, further contribute to Clearfield's earnings.

Clearfield Earnings Call Summary

Earnings Call Date:Aug 06, 2025
(Q3-2025)
|
% Change Since: |
Next Earnings Date:Nov 06, 2025
Earnings Call Sentiment Neutral
The earnings call reflects a strong performance by the Clearfield segment with notable sales growth and gross margin improvements. However, challenges in the Nestor segment and uncertainties related to the BEAD program and supply chain present concerns. The company remains optimistic about future opportunities, particularly in the data center market.
Q3-2025 Updates
Positive Updates
Clearfield Segment Net Sales Growth
Clearfield segment net sales increased by 15% year-over-year, demonstrating strong performance and market share gains.
Gross Margin Improvement
Gross margin improved from 21.9% to 30.5%, driven by better overhead absorption and optimized capacity at North American facilities.
Home Deployment Kits Success
The Home Deployment Kits, combining innovative fiber deploy reels, are gaining recognition for labor-saving opportunities and are expected to contribute significantly to future revenue growth.
Positive Outlook for Clearfield Segment
Clearfield segment is expected to align with or exceed industry growth, with anticipated net sales for fiscal 2025 between $180 million to $184 million.
Data Center Market Opportunities
Clearfield is positioning to benefit from the growing demand for fiber in data centers and edge networks, driven by AI and cloud provider needs.
Negative Updates
Nestor Segment Performance
The Nestor segment experienced a decline in revenue, negatively impacting total revenues despite a modest improvement in gross profit margin.
BEAD Program Uncertainty
Uncertainty surrounding the BEAD program affected smaller carrier builds, leading to delayed revenues and frustrations in the community broadband market.
Supply Chain Challenges
Tight supply in battery backup and rectifiers for active cabinets due to tariff issues continues to impact lead times and operational efficiency.
Company Guidance
During Clearfield's fiscal third quarter 2025 conference call, the company provided several key metrics and guidance indicating positive performance and future outlook. Net sales for the quarter reached $49.9 million, marking a 2% increase compared to the same period last year, with the Clearfield segment seeing a robust 15% year-over-year growth. Gross margin showed significant improvement, rising from 21.9% to 30.5%, attributed to better overhead absorption and inventory management. Net income per share was reported at $0.11, surpassing the guidance range. Looking ahead, Clearfield raised its fiscal 2025 net sales outlook to a range of $180 million to $184 million, with fourth-quarter net sales expected between $47 million and $51 million and net income per share projected between $0.03 and $0.11. The company highlighted strong demand in the Clearfield segment, particularly from large regional and MSO businesses, and emphasized the ongoing success of new products such as the TetherSmart MFT and Home Deployment Kits, which are anticipated to contribute significantly to future revenue growth.

Clearfield Financial Statement Overview

Summary
Clearfield's financial performance is mixed. The income statement shows strong revenue growth but negative profitability metrics, indicating operational challenges. The balance sheet is strong with low leverage, but declining returns on equity suggest inefficiencies. Cash flow is inconsistent, reflecting issues in converting income into cash.
Income Statement
45
Neutral
Clearfield's income statement shows significant volatility. The TTM data indicates a massive revenue growth rate, but profitability metrics such as EBIT and net profit margins are negative, suggesting operational challenges. Historical data shows fluctuating revenue growth and declining margins, indicating instability in revenue generation and cost management.
Balance Sheet
60
Neutral
The balance sheet reflects a strong equity position with a low debt-to-equity ratio, indicating financial stability and low leverage. However, the return on equity has been declining, suggesting inefficiencies in generating returns from equity. The equity ratio remains healthy, supporting a stable financial structure.
Cash Flow
55
Neutral
Cash flow analysis reveals moderate growth in free cash flow, but the operating cash flow to net income ratio is inconsistent, indicating potential issues in converting income into cash. The free cash flow to net income ratio is positive, yet fluctuating, reflecting challenges in maintaining consistent cash flow generation.
BreakdownTTMDec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021Dec 2020
Income Statement
Total Revenue179.32M166.71M268.72M270.88M140.76M93.07M
Gross Profit48.28M28.89M85.28M112.95M61.18M37.91M
EBITDA9.21M-8.34M43.34M67.23M28.04M11.58M
Net Income200.00K-12.45M32.53M49.36M20.33M7.29M
Balance Sheet
Total Assets314.71M315.27M355.52M229.13M125.91M95.30M
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments117.23M130.99M168.11M22.45M23.59M27.03M
Total Debt21.67M18.36M16.48M36.85M2.53M2.79M
Total Liabilities50.23M39.51M40.35M81.55M22.09M12.54M
Stockholders Equity264.48M275.76M315.16M147.58M103.82M82.75M
Cash Flow
Free Cash Flow22.70M12.66M11.63M-8.15M8.86M4.85M
Operating Cash Flow31.88M22.22M20.01M1.00M10.90M6.66M
Investing Cash Flow-7.16M-6.90M-112.25M-8.20M-13.60M-41.13K
Financing Cash Flow-16.23M-36.91M113.42M10.65M-536.00K-246.73K

Clearfield Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Negative
Last Price35.30
Price Trends
50DMA
34.44
Positive
100DMA
37.31
Negative
200DMA
35.12
Positive
Market Momentum
MACD
0.32
Positive
RSI
48.80
Neutral
STOCH
62.92
Neutral
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For CLFD, the sentiment is Negative. The current price of 35.3 is below the 20-day moving average (MA) of 35.80, above the 50-day MA of 34.44, and above the 200-day MA of 35.12, indicating a neutral trend. The MACD of 0.32 indicates Positive momentum. The RSI at 48.80 is Neutral, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 62.92 is Neutral, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Negative sentiment for CLFD.

Clearfield Risk Analysis

Clearfield disclosed 25 risk factors in its most recent earnings report. Clearfield reported the most risks in the "Finance & Corporate" category.
Finance & Corporate - Financial and accounting risks. Risks related to the execution of corporate activity and strategy
Latest Risks Added 0 New Risks

Clearfield Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (61)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
$278.94M24.3739.51%4.63%328.61%
$931.06M36.957.49%19.67%12.32%
$230.98M16.978.61%5.06%29.66%
$37.18B12.37-10.20%1.83%8.50%-7.62%
$487.35M1,961.110.07%5.72%
$319.54M274.290.52%6.50%-88.62%
$74.06M-30.53%58.04%21.09%
* Technology Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
CLFD
Clearfield
35.30
-0.20
-0.56%
AVNW
Aviat Networks
24.96
4.84
24.06%
CRNT
Ceragon Networks
2.60
0.18
7.44%
GILT
Gilat
14.49
9.23
175.48%
BKTI
BK Technologies
74.71
48.51
185.15%
AMPG
AmpliTech Group
3.60
2.61
263.64%

Clearfield Corporate Events

Business Operations and StrategyExecutive/Board Changes
Clearfield Appoints New Board Members for Growth
Positive
Oct 29, 2025

On October 28, 2025, Clearfield, Inc. announced the appointment of Rebecca B. Seidel and Kathleen S. Skarvan to its Board of Directors, effective December 10, 2025. This strategic move aims to enhance the board’s collective strength and support Clearfield’s long-term growth. Both appointees bring extensive experience in their respective fields, with Ms. Seidel having a strong background in MedTech and Ms. Skarvan in high technology and strategic leadership. Their appointments coincide with the retirement of current directors Charles N. Hayssen and Donald R. Hayward, who will step down at the 2026 annual meeting of shareholders. This transition is expected to bolster Clearfield’s strategic direction and operational excellence, potentially impacting stakeholders positively by driving growth and innovation.

The most recent analyst rating on (CLFD) stock is a Buy with a $52.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Clearfield stock, see the CLFD Stock Forecast page.

Clearfield’s Earnings Call Highlights Growth Amid Challenges
Aug 8, 2025

The recent earnings call for Clearfield painted a picture of robust growth and strategic innovation, tempered by some ongoing challenges. The company reported strong performance in its Clearfield segment, significant improvements in gross margins, and successful product innovations. However, it also acknowledged hurdles in the Nestor segment, delays in BEAD funding, and persistent supply chain issues.

Clearfield Reports Strong Q3 2025 Financial Results
Aug 7, 2025

Clearfield, Inc. is a company specializing in the design, manufacture, and distribution of fiber optic management, protection, and delivery products, primarily serving the communications networks sector. In its third quarter fiscal 2025 earnings report, Clearfield reported a revenue of $49.9 million, marking a 15% year-over-year growth in its Clearfield Segment, and a net income per share of $0.11, which exceeded the top end of its guidance range. The company also announced an increase in its full-year revenue guidance to a range of $180 million to $184 million.

Glossary
BuyA stock rated as a "Buy" is expected to perform better than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock is likely to deliver higher returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
HoldA stock rated as a "Hold" is expected to perform in line with the overall market or a specific benchmark. This rating indicates that the stock is neither particularly compelling nor unfavorable for investment. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
SellA stock rated as a "Sell" is expected to perform worse than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock may deliver lower returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.

Disclaimer

This AI Analyst Stock Report is automatically generated by our AI systems using advanced algorithms and publicly available financial, technical, and market data. While the information provided aims to be accurate and insightful, it is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Any content created by an AI (Artificial Intelligence) system may contain inaccuracies and/or contain errors. Investing in stocks carries inherent risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results. This report does not account for your personal financial circumstances, objectives, or risk tolerance. Always conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The analysis and recommendations provided are based on historical and current data and may not fully reflect future market conditions or unexpected developments. Neither the creators of this report nor its affiliated entities guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. Use this report at your own discretion and risk.Date of analysis: Nov 01, 2025