Core Viewpoint - C.H. Robinson (CHRW) is expected to report first-quarter 2025 results on April 30, with earnings per share estimated at $1.02, reflecting an 18.6% increase year-over-year, despite a 3.8% downward revision in estimates over the past 60 days [1][2]. Financial Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenues is projected at $4.3 billion, indicating a 2.2% decrease from first-quarter 2024 actuals [1]. - Revenue estimates for the transportation segment are pegged at $4.1 billion, slightly down from the previous year [3]. - North American Surface Transportation revenues are estimated at $3 billion, a 0.7% decline from the year-ago figure [4]. - Global Forwarding segment revenues are anticipated to be $906.4 million, representing a 23.3% increase year-over-year [4]. Operational Insights - CHRW's operational efficiency, driven by cost-cutting initiatives, is expected to positively impact bottom-line performance [5]. - The company has a strong earnings history, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate in the last four quarters with an average beat of 21.7% [2]. Earnings Prediction Model - The current model does not predict an earnings beat for CHRW, as it has an Earnings ESP of +1.36% and a Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) [6].

Market Overview - The wearable robotic exoskeleton market is projected to grow significantly, driven by advancements in robotics, rehabilitation technologies, and workplace safety [1] - The market is expected to reach USD 30.56 billion by 2032, with a CAGR of 43.1% during the forecast period [1] - North America held a market share of 38.64% in 2024, indicating strong regional dominance [1] Technological Innovations - Key trends include the integration of AI and advanced sensor technologies to enhance precision and user experience [2] - AI-powered exoskeletons can adapt to user movements, providing personalized assistance and improving rehabilitation outcomes [2] - Advanced sensors enable intuitive control, making the technology more accessible and effective across various sectors [2] Company Developments - KULR Technology Group, Inc. has partnered with German Bionic to expand into the robotics market, focusing on AI-powered exoskeletons for the U.S. workforce [3][4] - KULR has established a dedicated business unit, KULR AI & Robotics, to drive innovation in robotic solutions [3] - The partnership aims to enhance battery performance and thermal management for high-performance robotics applications [4] Product Impact - The sixth-generation Apogee ULTRA exoskeleton is designed for large-scale deployment, significantly enhancing human energy output and reducing workplace injuries [5] - This technology has shown success in various sectors, including logistics, manufacturing, and healthcare, driving returns on investment and employee satisfaction [5] Other Market Activities - C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. is set to release its Q1 2025 results, indicating ongoing activity in the logistics sector [6] - Pitney Bowes has been recognized as the Top Company in Shipping Software for 2025, highlighting its commitment to innovation in logistics technology [8][9] - GXO Logistics, Inc. has formed a strategic partnership with Hisense to manage logistics operations, showcasing growth in logistics management [9][10]

C.H. Robinson Worldwide (CHRW) shares ended the last trading session 5.7% higher at $91.94. The jump came on an impressive volume with a higher-than-average number of shares changing hands in the session. This compares to the stock's 11.3% loss over the past four weeks.The stock gained following President Donald Trump's announcement that he would pause the "reciprocal" import taxes for 90 days. The President said he felt the pause was needed because "more than 75 countries" had contacted his administration ...

C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. (CHRW) is benefiting from robust cost-cutting initiatives and strong liquidity. The company’s shareholder-friendly initiatives are also encouraging. However, it is grappling with the freight recession.Factors Favoring CHRW StockA strong operating model and focused productivity have driven robust improvement in C.H. Robinson's fourth-quarter 2024 performance. Despite challenges like a freight recession, the company achieved significant year-over-year gains in gross and operating ...

Core Viewpoint - C.H. Robinson Worldwide reported mixed fourth-quarter 2024 results, with earnings exceeding estimates but revenues falling short, indicating potential challenges in the market [2][3]. Financial Performance - Quarterly earnings per share were $1.21, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.12, and reflecting a 142% year-over-year improvement [2]. - Total revenues amounted to $4.18 billion, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $4.47 billion, and decreased by 0.9% year over year due to lower volume and pricing in truckload services, partially offset by higher pricing in ocean services [3]. - Adjusted gross profits increased by 10.7% year over year to $684.6 million, driven by higher adjusted gross profit per transaction in truckload and ocean services [3]. Segmental Results - North American Surface Transportation revenues were $2.80 billion, down 6.6% year over year, attributed to lower truckload volume and pricing due to an oversupply of truckload capacity [5]. - Global Forwarding revenues grew by 24.7% year over year to $883.96 million, supported by higher pricing in ocean services, with adjusted gross profits rising by 25.6% to $203.8 million [6]. - Revenues from other sources decreased by 2.8% year over year to $497.98 million [6]. Operating Metrics - Adjusted operating margin improved to 26.8%, an increase of 940 basis points from the previous year, while operating expenses decreased by 2.0% to $500.8 million [4]. - The transportation unit delivered an adjusted gross profit of $684.62 million, up 10.7% from the prior year, with notable growth in ocean (28.2%) and air (44.8%) services [7]. Balance Sheet and Cash Flow - Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the fourth quarter were $145.76 million, up from $131.70 million in the prior quarter, while long-term debt decreased to $921.85 million from $1.41 billion [8]. - Cash generated from operations was $267.9 million, significantly higher than $47.3 million in the prior-year quarter, driven by an increase in net income and changes in net operating working capital [9]. Shareholder Returns and Capital Expenditures - The company returned $82.8 million to shareholders, including $74.5 million in dividends and $8.3 million in share repurchases, with capital expenditures totaling $15.2 million in the reported quarter [10]. - Expected capital expenditures for 2025 are projected to be between $75 million and $85 million [11]. Market Outlook - Estimates for C.H. Robinson have trended upward over the past month, indicating a positive outlook for the stock [12][14]. - The company holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold), suggesting an expectation of an in-line return in the coming months [14].

Financial Performance - Total revenues for 2024 reached $17,724,956, a 0.73% increase from $17,596,443 in 2023[260] - Net income for 2024 was $465,690, representing a 43.2% increase compared to $325,129 in 2023[260] - Basic net income per share increased to $3.89 in 2024 from $2.74 in 2023, marking a 41.9% rise[260] - The company reported a comprehensive income of $436,234 in 2024, compared to $333,043 in 2023, reflecting a 30.9% increase[260] - Total current assets rose to $2,969,603 in 2024, up from $2,880,694 in 2023, reflecting a 3.1% increase[259] - Total liabilities decreased to $3,575,875 in 2024, down 6.0% from $3,806,583 in 2023[259] - Long-term debt significantly reduced to $921,857 in 2024, a decrease of 35.1% from $1,420,487 in 2023[259] - Total stockholders' investment increased to $1,722,051 in 2024, up from $1,418,697 in 2023, indicating a 21.4% growth[259] Operational Highlights - Transportation services accounted for approximately 95% of adjusted gross profits in 2024 and 2023, and 97% in 2022[34] - Adjusted gross profits by transportation mode for 2024 totaled $2,633,810,000, with Truckload contributing $1,072,691,000, LTL $572,169,000, Ocean $519,970,000, and Air $135,901,000[35] - Sourcing services accounted for approximately 5% of adjusted gross profits in 2024 and 2023, and 3% in 2022[37] - In 2024, the company served 83,000 customers worldwide, with the largest customer accounting for approximately 2% of consolidated total revenues[38] - The company managed approximately 37 million shipments for 83,000 customers in 2024, utilizing over 450,000 contract carriers[44] - The company had over 450,000 transportation providers on its platform, ensuring a diverse and reliable service network[53] - C.H. Robinson serves 83,000 customers across various industries and has 450,000 contract carriers on its platform[67] Employee and Leadership Insights - The total employee count is 13,781, with 11,565 network employees and 2,216 shared services employees[70] - The employee turnover ratio for 2024 is 23%, with a voluntary turnover rate of 13%, lower than industry peers[73] - 78% of people leaders have been with C.H. Robinson for more than five years, indicating strong leadership retention[76] - The 2024 employee engagement survey yielded a 70% engagement score, highlighting strengths in manager capabilities and relationships[74] - C.H. Robinson's equity compensation program grants equity to about 10% of employees, promoting an ownership mentality[83] - Generative AI is enhancing employee capabilities and is used in the hiring process to identify innovative candidates[72] - Damon Lee was appointed Chief Financial Officer in June 2024, previously serving as CFO of GE Commercial Engines and Services from August 2022 to May 2024[94] - Arun Rajan was named Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer in June 2024, having previously held the position of Chief Operating Officer at C.H. Robinson from October 2022 to June 2024[95] Risk Factors - The company has faced risks related to economic conditions, including uncertain consumer demand and competition within the global logistics industry, which could adversely impact profitability and long-term growth targets[99] - Increased carrier prices may lead to decreased adjusted gross profit margins, with potential losses if contracted rates are below market rates[103] - Fluctuating fuel prices can impact adjusted gross profit margins, as fuel costs are often passed through to customers[104] - The company may struggle to identify or complete suitable acquisitions, which could lead to volatility in financial results[108] - The supply and price of fresh produce are affected by uncontrollable factors such as weather, which could materially impact operating results[109] - Cybersecurity risks are heightened due to reliance on technology and third-party systems, potentially leading to significant business interruptions[111] - The interconnected nature of the supply chain makes the company an attractive target for cyberattacks, which could result in operational difficulties and reputational damage[112] - A failure to prevent cyberattacks could adversely affect financial condition, results of operations, and growth prospects[113] - The company is exposed to operational, financial, and data privacy risks due to international operations, including changes in tariffs and trade restrictions[114] - The company may face increased costs and operational challenges due to evolving global laws regarding data privacy and personal information processing[114] - The company is integrating machine learning and AI technologies into its operations, which may present new risks and increase operating expenses[117] - The company has a significant reliance on foreign currency, which could lead to currency exchange gains or losses affecting its financial results[115] - The company is subject to various regulatory changes that could impact its tax liabilities, including the OECD's minimum 15% tax rate for multinational enterprises[125] - The company faces risks related to climate change, which could disrupt operations and negatively affect financial results[119] Financial Position and Debt Management - As of December 31, 2024, the company had $145.8 million in cash and cash equivalents, primarily in demand accounts[230] - The company has a $1 billion revolving credit facility, with $9 million outstanding as of December 31, 2024[231] - The company issued $325 million in Senior Notes, with fixed rates of 4.26% and 4.6%, due in 2028 and 2033 respectively[232] - The fair value of the Senior Notes was approximately $293.1 million as of December 31, 2024[232] - The company has a Receivables Securitization Facility with $446.8 million outstanding as of December 31, 2024[234] - A hypothetical 10% weakening of the U.S. Dollar against key currencies would decrease net income by approximately $7.5 million[238] - The company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024[251] - The company does not use derivative financial instruments to manage interest rate risk[235] - The fair value of the Senior Notes, excluding debt discounts, was approximately $583.3 million as of December 31, 2024[233] - The total debt as of December 31, 2024, was $1,377,649 thousand, down from $1,580,487 thousand in 2023, representing a reduction of 12.8%[304] - The average interest rate on the revolving credit facility decreased from 6.45% in 2023 to 5.58% in 2024, indicating a reduction of 1.87 percentage points[304] - The company has a senior unsecured revolving credit facility with total availability of $1 billion, maturing on November 19, 2027[305] Asset Management - The company recognized depreciation expense of $35,967 in 2024, down from $39,569 in 2023, a decrease of 9.9%[285] - The net property and equipment as of December 31, 2024, was $130,907, a decrease from $144,718 in 2023, reflecting a decline of 9.5%[285] - The company recognized amortization expense for purchased and internally developed software of $49,032 thousand in 2024, up from $38,803 thousand in 2023, and $31,229 thousand in 2022, indicating a year-over-year increase of 26.0% from 2023 to 2024[287] - As of December 31, 2024, the net software value was $99,403 thousand, a slight decrease from $102,529 thousand in 2023, reflecting a decline of 3.1%[287] - The company recorded a pre-tax loss of $44.5 million on the disposal group related to the Europe Surface Transportation business, classified as held for sale as of December 31, 2024[301] - The company’s identifiable intangible assets totaled $86,880 thousand as of December 31, 2024, down from $102,099 thousand in 2023, reflecting a decrease of 14.8%[299] - The company performed a Step Zero Analysis for goodwill and found no indicators suggesting impairment, thus no Step One Analysis was necessary for any reporting units[298] - The company’s net intangible assets for the Europe Surface Transportation disposal group were valued at $2.7 million as of December 31, 2024[299] Community Engagement - In 2024, C.H. Robinson contributed over $4 million to approximately 1,125 charities and employees volunteered more than 10,000 hours[84]

Core Insights - The article compares C.H. Robinson Worldwide (CHRW) and Expeditors International (EXPD) to determine which stock offers better value for investors [1] Group 1: Zacks Rank and Analyst Outlook - C.H. Robinson Worldwide has a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy), indicating a more favorable earnings estimate revision activity compared to Expeditors International, which has a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold) [3] Group 2: Valuation Metrics - CHRW has a forward P/E ratio of 20.19, while EXPD has a forward P/E of 21.32, suggesting that CHRW may be undervalued relative to EXPD [5] - The PEG ratio for CHRW is 1.13, indicating a better valuation considering expected earnings growth, whereas EXPD has a PEG ratio of 3.81 [5] - CHRW's P/B ratio is 6.68, compared to EXPD's P/B of 6.69, showing similar valuations based on book value [6] Group 3: Value Grades - Based on various valuation metrics, CHRW holds a Value grade of B, while EXPD has a Value grade of D, indicating that CHRW is the superior value option at this time [6]

Following my coverage on C.H. Robinson Worldwide (NASDAQ: CHRW ) in August when I upgraded my rating from sell to hold due to an improvement in the macro environment, this post is to provide anI take a fundamentals-based approach to value investing.I disagree with the common misconception held by many investors that low multiple stocks must be cheap. I look for companies that offer the best long-term durability at the most affordable prices. Consequently, I have a propensity to be drawn to companies with st ...

Company Overview - C.H. Robinson Worldwide Inc. is a third-party logistics company based in Minnesota, providing freight transportation services and logistic solutions across various industries [11] - The company operates as an asset-light transportation provider, offering services ranging from specific shipment commitments to comprehensive integrated relationships [11] Investment Ratings - C.H. Robinson is currently rated as 2 (Buy) on the Zacks Rank, indicating a favorable investment outlook [11] - The company has a VGM Score of B, reflecting a combination of value, growth, and momentum characteristics [11][12] Financial Metrics - C.H. Robinson has a Value Style Score of B, supported by attractive valuation metrics, including a forward P/E ratio of 20.75 [12] - Over the last 60 days, six analysts have revised their earnings estimates higher for fiscal 2025, with the Zacks Consensus Estimate increasing by $0.06 to $4.84 per share [12] - The company has demonstrated an average earnings surprise of 21.7%, indicating strong performance relative to expectations [12]

C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. (CHRW) reported mixed fourth-quarter 2024 results, wherein earnings surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate while revenues missed the same.Quarterly earnings per share (EPS) of $1.21 outpaced the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.12 and improved 142% year over year.Find the latest EPS estimates and surprises on Zacks Earnings Calendar.Total revenues of $4.18 billion missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $4.47 billion and decreased 0.9% year over year, owing to lower volume and pri ...