Jesse Chen, serving as a director at AXT Inc. (NASDAQ: AXTI), has completed two distinct transactions involving the disposal of the firm's common equity last week. These sales collectively netted approximately $2.04 million for the executive. The timing of these divestments coincides with a period of intense price appreciation for the semiconductor materials manufacturer, which has seen its shares climb dramatically over the trailing twelve months.
On June 11, 2026, Chen offloaded 9,000 shares of AXT common stock. The weighted average price achieved across this block was $88.5481 per share. The specific execution prices for these individual lots varied, ranging from a low of $87.38 to a high of $89.50. The aggregate value generated from this initial transaction stood at roughly $796,933.
Just one day later, on June 12, 2026, Chen proceeded to sell an additional 13,000 shares. This second block was disposed of at a higher weighted average price of $95.7738 per share. The price range for this transaction was broader, extending from $88.70 up to $103.33. The total proceeds from this second sale amounted to approximately $1,245,059.
When combining both transactions, the total value realized by Chen reached $2,041,992. The weighted average prices received across these sales spanned from $88.5481 to $95.7738. Following the completion of these divestments, Chen's direct ownership stake in AXT common stock stands at 56,447 shares.
These insider sales occur against a backdrop of extraordinary stock performance. AXTI shares have delivered a remarkable 4,399% return over the past year. As of the latest reporting, the stock was trading at $115.43. According to data from InvestingPro, the current market price appears overvalued relative to the company's Fair Value estimate. This valuation metric places AXTI among a list of companies identified as Most Overvalued. InvestingPro provides additional analytical tips for AXTI, including insights into profitability expectations and historical volatility patterns.
In other recent developments, AXT Inc. reported notable operational performance for its first quarter of 2026. The company exceeded analyst expectations significantly. AXT posted an earnings per share (EPS) of -$0.01. This figure represented a considerable improvement over the anticipated loss of -$0.05, marking an 80% positive surprise. Additionally, AXT Inc.'s revenue reached $26.9 million, surpassing the forecasted $26.75 million. This earnings release highlighted the company's strong revenue growth trajectory. The positive earnings surprise and robust revenue results contributed to a favorable investor reaction. These developments reflect AXT Inc.'s ability to perform above analysts' projections, indicating potential operational strength.
The semiconductor materials sector continues to face scrutiny as valuations stretch. Investors are closely monitoring whether the recent price appreciation is supported by sustained fundamental growth or driven by short-term momentum. The divergence between the stock's market price and its estimated fair value suggests that market participants are pricing in significant future growth expectations. However, the executive's decision to sell shares may signal a desire to lock in gains after a period of extreme volatility and price expansion.