Key statistics

Is LASR a good stock to buy in 2026?

nLIGHT, Inc. (LASR) presents a mixed bag for investors in 2026. While a strong 92.3% analyst “Buy” rating and a positive revenue growth signal confidence, its valuation metrics raise concerns. The P/E ratio of -243.21x, significantly below the sector average of 60.3x, coupled with a negative DCF fair value of $-6.01, suggests the stock is currently overvalued based on profitability metrics, despite the growth.

2026 LASR price scenarios

Based on analyst consensus of $69.75 from 13 analysts. Not a prediction by Alert Invest.

About nLIGHT, Inc. (LASR)

nLIGHT, Inc. designs, manufactures, and sells semiconductor and fiber lasers for industrial, microfabrication, and aerospace and defense applications. It operates in two segments, Laser Products and Advanced Development.

Led by CEO Scott H. Keeney, nLIGHT, Inc. is a technology company specializing in high-power semiconductor and fiber lasers. With approximately 800 employees, the company distinguishes itself through its vertically integrated manufacturing model and proprietary fiber technology, enabling it to deliver high-performance and reliable laser solutions across demanding applications in industrial, microfabrication, and aerospace and defense sectors.

LASR competitive moat and business analysis

nLIGHT, Inc. operates in a highly specialized and competitive segment of the semiconductor industry, offering advanced laser solutions. While its gross margin stands at 31.28%, the company currently faces profitability challenges, evidenced by a net margin of -5.08% and unavailable ROE or ROIC data. This indicates that while they command a decent gross profit, operational efficiencies and overhead need significant improvement to translate into bottom-line profitability and a clear competitive advantage on financial returns.

nLIGHT’s revenue streams are broadly categorized into Laser Products and Advanced Development, serving diverse end markets. While specific granular breakdowns for fiscal year 2025 are not yet publicly available, their core business centers on delivering high-power lasers for industrial cutting and welding, precise microfabrication, and mission-critical aerospace and defense systems. Geographically, nLIGHT aims for a global presence, though specific regional revenue distribution for 2025 has not been detailed in current reports.

Despite current profitability concerns, LASR stock demonstrates strong top-line momentum with a robust 31.6% year-over-year revenue growth. This acceleration indicates growing demand for its advanced laser technologies and successful penetration into its target markets. While no specific transcript quote is immediately available, this revenue trajectory suggests that nLIGHT is effectively capturing opportunities in the evolving laser market, which could eventually bolster its long-term competitive moat through scale and technological leadership.

When evaluating LASR stock against its peers, it’s important to consider their specific niches within the broader technology sector. For a detailed comparison of nLIGHT, Inc.’s valuation, growth prospects, and analyst sentiment against these competitors, investors can explore side-by-side analyses such as LASR vs AAOI, LASR vs HIMX, and LASR vs JAMF.

nLIGHT, Inc. analyst rating

Based on 13 analysts. 92.3% rate LASR Buy or Strong Buy.

With an impressive 92.3% of analysts rating LASR stock as a ‘Buy’ or ‘Strong Buy’, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive for nLIGHT, Inc. This strong analyst conviction signals a belief in the company’s long-term potential, despite some current financial challenges.

Is LASR undervalued or overvalued?

When assessing LASR valuation, the P/E ratio stands out significantly at -243.21x, which is vastly different from the Semiconductors sector average of 60.3x. This negative P/E is typically indicative of a company that is currently unprofitable, meaning its earnings are negative. While a negative P/E cannot be directly compared as “cheap” in the traditional sense, it highlights that the market is valuing LASR stock based on future growth prospects rather than current earnings.

Further complicating LASR valuation is a Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) fair value of $-6.01, implying a substantial -109.1% overvaluation relative to its current price. This suggests that based on expected future cash flows, the stock’s intrinsic value is considerably lower than its trading price. Coupled with P/B of 8.35x and P/S of 12.74x, both indicating a premium to many peers, investors evaluating LASR stock must weigh its growth potential against its current elevated multiples.

LASR financial health & key metrics

For value investors, nLIGHT, Inc. presents a complex financial picture. The company demonstrates excellent financial strength with a remarkably low debt-to-equity ratio of 0.08x and a healthy current ratio of 7.07x, indicating strong liquidity. However, profitability remains a challenge, with negative net and EBITDA margins and an N/A ROE. While revenue growth at 31.6% is compelling, the negative P/E and deeply negative DCF fair value suggest that LASR stock is currently priced for aggressive future growth that has yet to translate into sustainable profits or intrinsic value, making it a higher-risk proposition for pure value plays.

nLIGHT, Inc. earnings history & next report

nLIGHT, Inc. reported EPS of $0.2, beating estimates by 150.0%. Next earnings: 2026-08-06 with EPS estimate of $0.07.

Investors should pay close attention to nLIGHT’s next earnings report scheduled for 2026-08-06. The consensus EPS estimate is $0.07, and exceeding this target would be a critical indicator of the company’s progress towards sustainable profitability and operational efficiency. Commentary on new product pipelines, market expansion, and efforts to improve net margins will be key in shaping future sentiment for LASR stock.

LASR daily short volume

Short volume data from FINRA CNMS Consolidated — shares sold short in the most recent US trading session. A high short ratio can signal bearish conviction or a potential short squeeze. Updated every trading day.

LASR insider trading activity

Corporate insiders must report trades to the SEC within two business days.

Source: SEC Form 4 via EDGAR · Data: Financial Modeling Prep · Not investment advice

Recent LASR analyst rating changes

nLIGHT, Inc. stock news today

How does LASR compare to its peers?

For investors considering LASR stock, examining its performance and business model against key competitors in the technology and semiconductor space can provide valuable context. While nLIGHT specializes in advanced lasers, other companies offer complementary or competing solutions that may appeal to different investment strategies.

FAQ — nLIGHT, Inc. (LASR) stock