Fanuc raises outlook to record highs following first half profit jump

Fanuc Corp on Friday raised its annual outlook after reporting a substantial jump higher first-half net income and sales, supported by strong demand across its factory automation and robotics businesses.

The Japanese robotics firm said net income for the six months ended September 30 rose 41% to JPY114.74 billion, around USD731.5 million, from JPY81.35 billion a year earlier, while net sales climbed 16% to JPY473.71 billion from JPY407.57 billion.

Growth accelerated in the second quarter, with net income rising 47% to JPY61.6 billion from JPY42.0 billion. Net sales increased 15% to JPY242.7 billion from JPY211.2 billion.

Discussing its factory automation division, which accounted for 26% of consolidated sales in the second quarter, Fanuc said: "Demand remains strong, led by China, where AI data centres, semiconductors, humanoid robot components, and [new energy vehicles] are driving growth. Japan, Korea, and Taiwan also see solid demand from AI data centres, semiconductors, and aerospace. India continues to see strong demand from the automotive and infrastructure sectors. The Americas are doing favourably in the aerospace market, while Europe is gradually recovering."

On the subject of its robot division, Fanus said "Automation investment, including AI-related demand, is increasing sharply, especially in the Americas and China. Automotiverelated investment in the Americas is starting to gain momentum."

Fanuc declared an interim dividend of JPY72.54 per share, up 41% from JPY51.33 a year earlier.

Looking ahead, Fanuc forecast net sales of JPY1.01 trillion for 2026, up from its previous forecast of JPY948.10 billion. It expects net income of JPY228.30 billion, compared with its previous forecast of JPY198.00 billion.

"Based on the latest business trend, the performance forecast has been revised up," Fanuc said. "Sales are expected to exceed 1 trillion yen for the first time, surpassing the previous record high achieved in full-year 2025."

Fanuc shares closed down 0.7% to JPY5,587.00 on Friday in Tokyo.

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