The AI Boom Isn’t Just About Chips. These 3 Overlooked Stocks Keep Data Centers Running
Comfort Systems USA (FIX) reported $3.27B revenue, $14.06B backlog, 50.3% YoY growth, driven by hyperscaler data center demand. Vertiv (VRT) saw $3.27B sales, 24% YoY growth, raised 2026 guidance 60%. Sterling Infrastructure (STRL) delivered $1.17B revenue, 90% YoY growth, 116% backlog surge, fueled by long-term hyperscaler projects.
How this was made
The 30-second read
Why it matters
Strong earnings and guidance lifts suggest continued upside, but execution risks remain.
Market read
These firms are key beneficiaries of the AI‑driven data‑center boom, making their earnings and guidance material for traders.
What to watch
Potential slowdown in hyperscaler CapEx or supply‑chain disruptions could curb backlog conversion.
Background
The article reviews Q2 FY2026 earnings and guidance updates for three U.S. listed infrastructure firms serving AI data centers.
Ticker impact
Q2 FY2026 earnings beat and record $14.06B backlog disclosed, with guidance raise and 53% YTD share gain.
Potential further upside if guidance holds, target +15% over next 3 months.
Revenue +50% YoY, EPS beat, and sizable backlog indicate durable growth.
Q2 FY2026 results with 24% sales growth, 60% EPS guidance raise and 43% YTD share gain.
Expect price to test recent highs, possible +12% move in the near term.
Guidance increase of 60% and S&P 500 inclusion reinforce growth narrative.
Q2 FY2026 earnings beat, 90% revenue growth, backlog up 116% and raised FY2026 guidance.
Potential upside of 20% if growth sustains into FY2026.
Backlog expansion and guidance raise signal strong demand for data‑center infrastructure.
Market effects
Highlights accelerating AI‑driven data‑center build‑out, benefiting the broader infrastructure sector.
U.S. infrastructure and construction markets see increased demand, boosting related equities.
AI data‑center expansion is a global trend, supporting worldwide infrastructure suppliers.
Counterpoint
Margin compression risk from fixed‑price contracts and labor shortages could pressure earnings.
Key entities
- CompanyComfort Systems USA
Mechanical contractor for data‑center construction (ticker FIX).
- CompanyVertiv Holdings
Provider of power and cooling equipment for data centers (ticker VRT).
- CompanySterling Infrastructure
Site development and electrical work for data‑center campuses (ticker STRL).
